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Gathering around the table for a feast and around the TV for some football? Yes, the adults have it all scoped out between the kitchen and the family room, but what about the kids? What are they up to not only on Thanksgiving day itself, but the entire long weekend that they are around the house looking for something to do? Time to think outside of the box and have some simple and easy fun.
If it is a beautiful day outdoors, enjoy an autumn scavenger hunt. Have the kids find simple items that match the season: an acorn, red leaf, pine cone, hickory nut, yellow leaf, bird feather, etc. The kids will enjoy the pleasure of being out in fresh air scouting the landscape for natural treasures.
Have a few Thanksgiving craft books and on hand so they can choose their own projects. Just be sure to stock up on craft essentials like glue, construction paper, scissors, etc. Amazon has a good selection of Thanksgiving craft books and even some cute Thanksgiving craft kits that have all of the supplies included.
Have them give thanks with kernels of corn. Place three kernels of corn at each place setting and when the meal is ending, pass a basket and each person must state something he is grateful for. The basket gets passed around the table three times so everyone has to think of three things!
Kids can shake cream to make butter … another old-fashioned idea!
Remember too that Thanksgiving is a great time to teach kids how to set a table. It may seem like a chore to you, but kids will have fun learning how to set a place and make the table special. This is a great opportunity and will give you one less thing to do. Start with an orange or yellow solid-color table cover and let the kids get creative!
Some additional ideas:
Here is a round-up of other great sites for activities that are thematic and fun:
- Birthday in a Box has a list of Thanksgiving games and activities to keep kids entertained.
- AmazingMoms.com has a great list of themed games that are fun for the kids in your family, and if you decide to have friends over too.
- FamilyFun.com has great ideas from Thanksgiving crafts to food and beyond. It’s a great resource.
- Kaboose.com has lots of fun ideas.
- FamilyCorner.com features activities for all ages. (Check out this Popcorn Ball Turkey.)
- Check out other Thanksgiving party ideas.
