Looking for something fun that the whole family can do together this Thanksgiving (besides all the eating, of course)? Whether you’re in search of some ways to keep your little ones entertained before the main meal or hope to find some kid-friendly ways to keep the festivities going after you're finished feasting, this round-up offers some terrific ideas for all age groups:
6 Ideas for Thanksgiving Fun
- Participate in a charity walk: Ruth, a member of our online community, shared that every Thanksgiving her family laces up their sneakers for a morning fundraising walk for The American Red Cross. She says, “It gets everybody going early and it’s so much fun to be with other people from our community.”
- Cook something together: Get the whole family involved in meal prep. Children as young as two can help scrub vegetables and pour and stir, while preschoolers can help break eggs and spread butters or toppings. You might also enlist your kids to help with dessert - these Acorn Cookies are a festive recipe to try that isn't overly complicated to make.
- Share what you’re thankful for: Have everyone in the family jot down what they’re thankful for on these adorable printable leaf cutouts, which (as an added bonus) can also double as table decorations.
- Have the kids help decorate: In past years, one of the ways Media Mom has gotten her kids involved in Thanksgiving Day prep is by having her children make place cards. “If I give them index cards, markers, crayons and stickers...my daughter can write the names, inventive spelling while my son decorates with stickers. The key here,” she shares, “is no expectation for any Pinterest-worthy outcome.”
- Host a scavenger hunt: This fun list of Turkey-Day themed items from blogger The Taylor House can be found around your house and neighborhood. The last treasure on her list? Another great way to teach kids about gratitude.
- Create a new game: As The Family Room blogger, Lisa suggests, the holidays can be a great time to start a new tradition, like putting together a game that everyone can enjoy. For example, you might quiz each other about Thanksgiving Day facts or make up a trivia game that includes questions about your family history.
