This downloadable activity pack accompanies the video story of Grand Old Oak and the Birthday Ball.
The activities are designed for children in Early Years and Years 1 and 2. They support shared reading at home, in classrooms or in nursery settings.
Grand Old Oak and the Birthday Ball is a magical poetry book by Rachel Piercey, illustrated by Freya Hartas, and published by Magic Cat Publishing. It’s part of the Brown Bear Wood series.
These activities encourage children to explore, talk and respond creatively.
Why it works
The pack supports reading for fun and shared storytelling. Children explore the story through hands-on activities, drawing, and outdoor play.
The activities also help children connect the story to nature, observation, and creativity.
What’s included
The pack includes two main activities inspired by Grand Old Oak and the Birthday Ball. They are flexible and easy to use at home or in the classroom.
Children can watch the video story together, pause to talk about what is happening, and then try the activities.
Making Natural Decorations
Children collect fallen flowers, leaves, pine cones and branches to create bunting or a mini forest in a jar. Optional: add fairy lights for extra magic.
Tree Bark Rubbing
Children use crayons or pencils to capture the texture of oak bark in a local park or garden.
Related resources
- Watch the Grand Old Oak and the Birthday Ball video story
- Explore more video stories
- Discover this year’s books, dressing-up ideas and activity packs
Use of World Book Day resources
These resources are free to use for schools, early years settings, libraries, charities, and community groups celebrating World Book Day. Commercial organisations must have a partnership or licence agreement in place before using World Book Day assets. If you are interested in working with us, please contact [email protected].