Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to come together as a family, reflect on our blessings, and express gratitude. Engaging in crafts with kids during this festive season not only fosters creativity but also teaches them the value of thankfulness. From classic handprint turkeys to unique DIY decorations, there are countless Thanksgiving crafts that children can enjoy. In this guide, we’ll explore a variety of fun and educational craft ideas that will keep kids entertained while they learn about the spirit of Thanksgiving, brought to you by The Kids Point.
Handprint Turkeys
Handprint turkeys are a classic Thanksgiving craft that kids of all ages enjoy making. To create these adorable decorations, you’ll need some construction paper in fall colors like brown, orange, red, and yellow, as well as washable paint in the same colors. Start by having the child dip their hand in the paint and make a handprint on the paper. Once the paint is dry, they can add googly eyes, a beak, and a wattle to turn the handprint into a turkey. This craft not only allows kids to get messy and have fun with paint but also serves as a keepsake to cherish for years to come.
Gratitude Journals
Encouraging children to reflect on what they’re thankful for is an important part of Thanksgiving. A gratitude journal is a wonderful craft that helps kids express their appreciation for the people and things in their lives. Provide each child with a blank notebook or journal, along with art supplies like markers, stickers, and colored pencils. Encourage them to decorate the cover of their journal with images and words that represent gratitude. Throughout the holiday season, encourage them to write or draw something they’re thankful for each day. This simple activity can help cultivate a sense of mindfulness and appreciation in children.
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Pinecone Turkeys
Pinecone turkeys are a delightful craft that combines nature with creativity. Start by collecting pinecones from outdoors or purchasing them from a craft store. Then, using construction paper, cut out turkey feathers, a beak, and a wattle. Glue these pieces onto the pinecone to transform it into a turkey. Kids can add googly eyes and other embellishments to give their turkey character. These charming decorations can be displayed on the dinner table or used to adorn the mantel, bringing a touch of nature indoors during the Thanksgiving season.
Cornucopia Centerpieces
A cornucopia is a symbol of abundance and harvest, making it the perfect centerpiece for a Thanksgiving table. Kids can create their own miniature cornucopias using simple materials like construction paper and cardboard cones. Start by cutting the construction paper into strips and curling them to mimic the shape of fruits and vegetables. Then, glue the strips onto the cardboard cone to create a bountiful display. Kids can get creative with their designs, adding everything from apples and pumpkins to grapes and carrots. Once complete, these homemade cornucopias make charming decorations that celebrate the abundance of the season.
Thankful Tree
A thankful tree is a beautiful way to visually represent the things we’re grateful for. Start by collecting branches from outdoors or using artificial branches from a craft store. Place the branches in a vase or container filled with stones or sand to hold them upright. Then, cut out leaf shapes from construction paper in fall colors like red, orange, and yellow. Encourage children to write something they’re thankful for on each leaf and then attach the leaves to the branches using string or tape. As the tree fills up with leaves, it becomes a tangible reminder of the many blessings in our lives.
Pilgrim Hat Treat Holders
Pilgrim hat treat holders are a fun and practical craft that kids can make to hold candies or other small treats. Start by cutting out circles from black construction paper to make the brim of the hat. Then, cut out rectangles from black paper to create the top of the hat. Glue the rectangle onto the center of the brim to complete the hat shape. Kids can then decorate the hat with a yellow buckle made from construction paper or adhesive foam. Once the hat is assembled, fill it with treats and place it on the Thanksgiving table for guests to enjoy.
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Turkey Wreath
A turkey wreath is a festive decoration that kids can make to add a touch of whimsy to their home. Start by cutting out a large circle from cardboard to serve as the base of the wreath. Then, cut out turkey feathers from construction paper in various colors and glue them around the edge of the circle to create the wreath’s body. Next, cut out a turkey body shape from brown construction paper and glue it to the center of the wreath. Finally, add googly eyes, a beak, and a wattle to complete the turkey’s face. Hang the wreath on the front door or in a prominent place indoors to welcome guests and celebrate the season.
Crafting is a wonderful way for children to express their creativity and learn about the traditions and values associated with Thanksgiving. Whether they’re making handprint turkeys, gratitude journals, or turkey wreaths, these crafts provide opportunities for kids to reflect on what they’re thankful for and express their appreciation in meaningful ways. By engaging in these activities, children can deepen their understanding of gratitude and create lasting memories with their families during the holiday season, with The Kids Point.
