The Fat Controller Says

Children will have fun playing this version of "Simon Says." The birthday child can start this game by being The Fat Controller while the others can pretend to be Thomas, Percy, or another favourite character. Only when your child shouts "The Fat Controller says," do the children follow the command. For example, "The Fat Controller says, bend your knees," "The Fat Controller says, put your hands on a friend's shoulders," "The Fat Controller says, pretend you're an engine." If they don't hear "The Fat Controller says," no one should move. The game should be all about having fun, not winning!

Twenty Questions

One player is The Fat Controller and has to pick an engine on the Island of Sodor. All the children can ask 20 questions of The Fat Controller , all of which must be answered by 'yes' or 'no'. Go around in a circle so each child get a chance to ask a question. The child who guesses the correct engine gets to become The Fat Controller at and the game begins again.

8 Weeks Prior

• Pick your date and time. Be sure all travelling- or nearby- relatives save-the-date!
• Write out your guest list; keep a column for RSVP and one for gift information, so the thank you process goes smoothly!
• Purchase or make invitations and thank you cards; send or hand out the invites!

2-4 Weeks Prior

• Purchase plates, napkins, cups, utensils, decorations and candles.
• Plan your activities and assign adult volunteers to help at each stop: Thomas' Ticket to Ride or the Thomas Frame!
• Purchase all your craft supplies for planned activities.
• Plan your food and drink menu and make a shopping list. Remember to be allergy-aware!

1 Week Prior

• Make your goody bags!
• Shop for non-perishable foods, including hand wipes which is a simpler solution than sending a group of kids to the sink before cake time!

Day Before/Day

• Set tables and Activity Stations with all required supplies.
• Make sure menu is prepared & food orders are placed if you are having the party during mealtime.
• Pick up or inflate Thomas balloons.
• Pick-up or make cake.

Post Party

• When sending thank you notes, if your child cannot write his own name, be sure to have him draw a picture or do a scribble - it personalises the card and instils in your child the importance of gracious gift receiving!

Print & download this checklist

Add More Colour and Creativity

Print out copies of Thomas' birthday card. All your guests can colour their own birthday card.

Ticket to Ride

All Aboard! At Thomas' Birthday Party Express, there are lots of stations for fun and adventure. Give each party guest a Ticket to Ride and send them off to Great Destinations!

Thomas Frame

Photographs are a special way to remember events. What better activity at a Thomas party than a Thomas photo frame? Photos of the birthday boy with his friends are a wonderful and personal addition to a thank you note...or rather, a TANK YOU note!

Click here to download.