Okay, let’s talk Thanksgiving—more specifically, keeping your little ones entertained while you’re knee-deep in mashed potatoes and turkey prep. I get it: there’s a lot going on, and the last thing you need is a mini-meltdown over “what can I do now?”
Lucky for you, I’ve got 10 super simple, fun Thanksgiving craft ideas that’ll keep the kiddos happily occupied, all while adding a little festive flair to your home. These aren’t just any crafts—they’re easy, mess-free (for the most part), and most importantly, they won’t require you to make a mad dash to the craft store.
1. Paper Plate Turkeys:
Get out the paper plates, construction paper, and glue, and let your kids make their very own turkey! A perfect activity to do while you’re checking the turkey’s temperature. Add some googly eyes for that extra “aww” factor.
2. Thankful Tree:
Grab a branch (don’t worry, it’s easy to find one), stick it in a vase, and let the kids make little leaves out of construction paper. Each leaf can hold something they’re thankful for this year. Bonus points for getting them to write it out themselves!
3. Handprint Pumpkins:
Hands down one of the cutest crafts out there. Help your kids trace their hands, then cut them out and turn them into pumpkin shapes. Add a stem with a green pipe cleaner and voilà, instant cuteness overload.
4. Leaf Prints:
Take a quick walk outside, gather some fallen leaves, and let the kids press them into paint and stamp them onto paper. They’ll love seeing the texture and shape of the leaves come to life.
5. Pom-Pom Pilgrims:
Yes, you read that right. Turn little pom-poms into pilgrims by adding felt hats and tiny, hand-drawn faces. It’s adorable, easy, and will give your kids something fun to play with after they’re done crafting.
6. Pumpkin Decorating:
Skip the mess of carving and grab some foam pumpkins. Let your little ones go wild with paint, stickers, and glitter (if you’re feeling brave). Trust me, the mess is worth it for those creative masterpieces.
7. Paper Roll Turkeys:
Save those empty toilet paper rolls! With some paint, feathers, and googly eyes, they transform into the cutest turkeys around. It’s an easy craft that’ll keep the kids engaged for hours.
8. Gratitude Jars:
This one is a great pre-Thanksgiving dinner activity. Have the kids write down what they’re thankful for, then place their notes in a jar to read aloud at the dinner table. It’ll bring out the warm fuzzies for sure.
9. Fall Sensory Bottles:
Fill clear plastic bottles with rice, small beads, or even fall-colored confetti. Let your kids shake, stir, and explore as you prep. It’s a great sensory activity that doubles as decoration!
10. DIY Thankful Banner:
Set up a mini crafting station where the kids can decorate pennant flags with things they’re grateful for. String them together for a festive and personal addition to your Thanksgiving decor.
There you have it—10 easy crafts to keep your kids busy and help them get in the holiday spirit. You’ll have them making memories, while you make dinner. Happy crafting!
