Thanksgiving is fast approaching which means it is time to start preparing for the big gathering. It is a perfect time to get the kids involved. After all, Thanksgiving is a time for family and showing gratitude for the wonderful things you have in your life. What better way for kids to get in the spirit then having them take part in the preparations.
So here are some easy ways to involve your kids on Thanksgiving.
#1 Thanksgiving Meal Planning
I love the idea of getting the kids involved in planning out the food for the day. I know many of us have to deal with a picky eater in the family. So why not include the kids in the meal planning. Let them suggest some foods they want to eat, and if you’re lucky they may not complain too much about the food. At least there will be ONE thing on the menu they are willing to eat. Hopefully, it isn’t just dessert.
My son is very picky when it comes to vegetables. He won’t eat potatoes, squash, or green beans. We make sure we have corn as an option for him. On the other hand, my daughter loves green bean casserole, along with her father and grandfather, so we make sure to include that for them. I know there is a least one vegetable on the table someone will eat.
My kids are always full of ideas on what to make for dessert. My son is quick to request pumpkin pie. It is the only time I will make it. Although, I’m not sure if he really likes pumpkin pie or he loves all the whipped cream on top.
One year the kids wanted to make Pilgrim Hat cookies. So we had that as an extra treat. It was good because it was simple enough for the kids to make, and it was a no-bake option.
#2 Thanksgiving Place Cards
My daughter has made place cards for the past couple of Thanksgivings. Unfortunately, I am not always good about remembering to use them. The first year we found them after Thanksgiving. She is much better at remembering them now.
The fun thing with place cards is you can make it as easy or as advanced as you want. You can write each person’s name and have the kids color or draw pictures on them. The kids can make Thanksgiving designs with beads and other craft items, too. For the kid that likes to use the computer, they can learn how to size the place cards, input images, and use fonts to make them. Any age can participate in
Here are some ideas you can give a try:
Adorable Thanksgiving Place Cards Kids Can Make– Here is a super cute idea. All you need is some paper, paint, and your little one’s finger to make a cute turkey. Check it out.
Thanksgiving Turkey Place Cards– These handprint turkey place cards are simple for kids to make. Kids can work on tracing and cutting skills while doing this project.
Paper Turkey Leg– Your kids will think this is a funny place card. You make paper bag turkey legs and put people’s names on them. Simple and fun.
Plastic Cup Pilgrim Hats– The Pilgrim hat place cards are easy enough to make even if you have a large family. You only need black cups, construction paper, and glue.
Homemade place cards are such a nice touch people will appreciate when they sit down at the table. Little ones will love showing off their artwork. Plus, it is a fun art class for November.
#3 Thanksgiving Napkin Rings
Napkin rings are another fun project your kids can do to help get ready for Thanksgiving. You can make them with paper or with beads. You can use wooden rings and paint them. Whatever you choose, it is a nice touch your kids can add to the day to make it more personal and meaningful.
Here are 3 cute napkin ring ideas:
Kid Craft: Thanksgiving Napkin Rings– I think these are beautiful! All you need is toilet paper tubes, some kind of material like cloth, felt, ribbon and such. Find some pretty items to decorate with like fake leaves, beads, and buttons. Now you are ready to make some pretty fall napkin rings.
Turkey Napkin Rings– All you need for these cute napkin rings is some pipe cleaners, construction paper, and googly eyes. Little kids will enjoy making these.
Beaded Napkin Rings– For this project, you need glass beads, wire, and wire cutters to make a simple and pretty napkin ring.
#4 Thanksgiving Table Runner
We had so much fun making a Thanksgiving table runner. I cut a long strip art paper to fit the length of our table. Then I took out paints and markers and let the kids have fun decorating it. I found the inspiration for this table runner here.
We had fun making this together. Now that they are older, they come up with their own ideas to make this easy table runner.
#5 Cooking the Meal Together
My favorite way to include kids in Thanksgiving preparation is cooking together. Cooking not only teaches so many skills, but it is also a great
Little ones can help mash potatoes, add and stir the ingredients for a yummy dessert, or make some easy no-bake treats to share. They will love helping with this special meal.
Older kids can take a more active role. Maybe they can learn how to make the pumpkin pie, season the turkey, or make one of the side dishes. It is a great opportunity for older kids to show off their culinary skills and feel a sense of accomplishment when serving the food they made.
These are just a few easy ways your kids can help to prepare for Thanksgiving. No matter how you choose to involve your kids in Thanksgiving, the important thing is you are building memories they will talk about with their children someday. They may even include them in their Thanksgiving festivities when they grow up.
How do you involve your kids in Thanksgiving?
Happy Homeschooling!
