Hello, Super Parents! As we all know, Thanksgiving is just around the corner. This holiday isn’t just about food and family gatherings – it’s also a great opportunity to teach our little ones about gratitude, history, and tradition. But how can you keep your preschoolers engaged in something that doesn’t involve screen time? No worries! We’ve got you covered with some fun and educational Thanksgiving activities for your kiddos!
**Drumroll please** Here we go.
1. Turkey Handprints
We’re starting off with a classic activity – handprint turkeys! All you need are some colored construction paper, glue, scissors, googly eyes (optional), and of course, tiny hands.
Here’s how:
- Trace your child’s hand on different colored construction papers.
- Cut out each traced hand.
- Glue them together such that the thumb serves as the turkey’s head and the fingers as its feathers.
- Add googly eyes or draw them on, followed by a beak and feet.
Trust me; this keepsake is going to make you smile when they’re all grown up!
2. Gratitude Jar
Let’s instill the essence of gratitude this season. A ‘Gratitude Jar’ allows your preschooler to express what they’re thankful for in their own words.
Here’s how:
- Find an empty jar and decorate it with ribbons or stickers.
- Each day leading up to Thanksgiving (or beyond!), ask your child what they’re thankful for.
- Write down their responses on small slips of paper and put them into the jar.
On Thanksgiving Day, read these aloud during dinner. It will surely melt hearts around the table!
3. Pilgrim Hat Cookies
Little chefs at work here! These pilgrim hat cookies are simple and fun to make, and they’re delicious too!
Here’s how:
- You’ll need fudge-striped shortbread cookies, marshmallows, and melted chocolate.
- Place a marshmallow on the chocolate covered side of the cookie.
- Dip the marshmallow into the melted chocolate to make it look like a hat.
- Let them cool.
Voila, your cute little Pilgrim hats are ready!
4. Thanksgiving Storytelling
Weaving stories about Thanksgiving Day can help children understand why we celebrate this holiday.
Here’s how:
- Gather some children’s books about Thanksgiving. Some options include “A Turkey for Thanksgiving” by Eve Bunting or “The First Thanksgiving” by Nancy Davis.
- Make reading these books an everyday bedtime activity leading up to the big day.
This not only improves their listening skills but also enhances knowledge about cultural history.
5. Feather Hunt
Who doesn’t love a good treasure hunt? A feather hunt is just as exciting!
Here’s how:
- Hide craft feathers around your house or backyard.
- Give your preschoolers small baskets and have them go on a feather hunt!
They will absolutely adore you for this fun-filled adventure!
And there you have it! Five engaging activities that combine fun with learning – perfect for keeping your preschooler occupied during this festive season. Remember, at their age, it’s not just about understanding what we’re celebrating but more importantly – enjoying how we’re celebrating!
So let those tiny hands get messy making turkeys and cookies, let their innocent minds explore through storytelling and hunts, and allow their pure hearts express gratitude in ways only children can! Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
