Birthday traditions are looking a little different this year as people continue to follow social distancing guidelines to protect themselves from COVID-19.

Gone are the days of inviting the whole class to your birthday party, and even blowing out the candles on your cake. But, families can find ways to make birthdays extra special with new birthday traditions — like Happy the Birthday Bird.

This gift set includes an adorable, 15-inch plush bird; a 4-inch plush balloon; and a 36-page illustrated book that tells a birthday story and spreads a positive message about overcoming obstacles. Kids can collect birthday memories in the accompanying book each year by filling out the memory pages and using the special pocket to hold annual cards and photographs. Happy also has a backpack that parents can hide small birthday surprises in.

Related: Celebrate Virtual Birthdays on ‘The Birthday Show’

Families can create an annual ritual by starting the week before the special day and using the book to countdown to the birthday. Then, continue the fun online with Happy the Birthday Bird’s multimedia extensions, including two original birthday songs, a dance, fun animations, digital versions of the memory pages, and online downloads, such as party invitations, coloring pages, and a cookie recipe.

The set is available here for $39.99, or you can purchase the book or plush toys on their own.

About the author

Jackie Cucco

Jackie Cucco

Jackie Cucco was a Senior Editor of The Toy Book, The Toy Insider, and The Pop Insider. She covered toy trends, pop culture, and entertainment news, and made appearances on national and regional outlets, including CBS, WPIX, News 12, and more. Jackie spends her time watching horror movies and working her way through every Stephen King novel out there.

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