3 Boredom-Busting Thanksgiving Activities for Kids (no screens involved!)
If you’re like me, your kids are just about to head into Thanksgiving break from school. And in a year that’s already had a LOT of extra at-home time, you need something new! To switch things up during Thanksgiving break, here are 3 thanksgiving activities for kids to help keep them occupied while mama makes turkey!
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I know it’s tempting when they’re at home all day to let them sit in front of a screen—whether it be a TV screen, tablet or phone. But we all know those things really aren’t very healthy.
And we want them to have a fun time during their week off from school. (Even in your kids aren’t in school, or are homeschooled, they can have a good time during holiday weeks!)
Thanksgiving sometimes gets lost in the Christmas season, as people seem to start celebrating earlier every year. But it’s a very important holiday, both historically and spiritually.
Thanksgiving is a great time to talk to kids about how America was founded, as we talk about the first Thanksgiving. It’s a great time for Family Thanksgiving traditions. But it’s also an important time to help them understand Who we give thanks too, and why.
What can kids do when bored on Thanksgiving?
The meal is done, the adults are stuffed, and are now experiencing a turkey coma. But the kids aren’t tired. Nope, they’re full of energy. And they’re bored.
That’s when you need to pull out the stops and incorporate some fun Thanksgiving activities.
These Thanksgiving Activities for kids are great for all ages! Since I have family that visits during the week of Thanksgiving, I’ve made sure these activities are enjoyable and easy enough that several kids can participate.
Thanksgiving Activities for Kids #1: Make a Turkey Craft.
I have to admit, I’m kind of obsessed with hand turkeys! We used to make them in school, and I loved them. We just traced our hand on a piece of paper, then drew lines on our fingers and between them to make feathers.
I am not a crafty person. But a quick Pinterest search lead me to some really fun turkey crafts for kids. Personally, I hate messy crafts, so I looked specifically for crafts that won’t lead you cleaning up the table for an hour afterwards!
Here are some ideas:
- Paper Plate Shape Turkey from Toddler Approved
- Toilet Paper Roll Turkey from Mom Brite
- Pine Cone Turkey from Mom, Wife. Happy Life
- Paper Bag Turkey Craft from Journey to SAHM
If you’re not the crafty type, or your kids are still too young for something like this, look for some Thanksgiving themed coloring sheets. Just find something that gives you the opportunity to let your kids know a special day is coming.
Thanksgiving Activity for Kids #2: Read some Thanksgiving books.
I love reading, but I also work to inspire to a love of reading in my boys. A great way to teach your kids about Thanksgiving (or any holiday) is to go to your local library and check out some books.
Most of the time around a holiday they’ll have a special display of books about that topic. This is a great way to teach your kids the history of the day, as well as talk about Who we’re thanking.
One side note—double-check your kids’ books before reading to them. There are a lot of crazy ideas in the world, and sometimes they hide behind innocent-looking book covers!
Thanksgiving Activity for Kids #3: Write a “What I’m Thankful For” list.
This is one that applies to kids and adults. Don’t let Thanksgiving pass without giving your kids a chance to say what they’re thankful for. If they’re too young to write, let them draw a picture, or dictate to someone else.
Jaxon made a list of things he was thankful for several years ago in his PeeWee Club class at church. It was so special to me! I rarely keep any papers, but I kept that one, and hung it on our wall until we moved.
Let your kids know that God is the Giver of all things, and we should be thankful. You might be surprised at what your kids are thankful for. And definitely tell them what you’re thankful for, too.
