Thanksgiving is all about family, food, and togetherness, but keeping little ones busy while the feast comes together can be its own adventure. Crafts are an easy way to keep kids entertained and connected to the holiday while they wait for the turkey to hit the table. Here are five simple, festive Thanksgiving crafting ideas kids can enjoy while the kitchen magic happens.
Decorate with leaves
Faux autumn leaves are perfect for adding a touch of fall to any space. Kids can use them to decorate the Thanksgiving table, make festive wall or fireplace displays, or add color to door frames and party setups. They’re also great for wreaths, fall flower arrangements, and tons of other creative craft projects. If you’re looking for easy, kid-friendly supplies for a fall-themed activity, these leaves are a perfect fit.
Need to purchase some leaves for decoration? Amazon has you covered.
Paint some pumpkins
Who says pumpkins are just for Halloween? This classic fall staple works all season long, and decorating them is a fun project for kids of all ages. Pick up a few mini pumpkins, real ones from a local farm or small artificial ones from the store, and let the kids paint sweet Thanksgiving themes on them. It’s simple, creative, and makes the perfect holiday tabletop decor.
Purchase the entire paint kit here.
Pinecone Turkey
This is one that has survived generations and is still a hit with the kids. Using natural materials like pinecones, kids can create adorable little turkeys. Simply collect pinecones, then attach colorful feathers (real or craft feathers), a googly eye, and a small piece of orange paper for a beak. This simple craft incorporates elements of nature and can be a great way for kids to explore textures and colors.
Need a pinecone turkey kid for the kids? Click here for 80-pieces of fun!
Toilet Paper Roll Turkey
Hold onto those empty paper rolls—they’re perfect for a quick Thanksgiving craft. Kids can trace their hands on colorful construction paper, cut them out, and glue the handprints around the roll to create a cute, personalized turkey.
This is one that you don’t need to go to a store or order online for materials!
Family Thankful Jar
This is a craft that keeps on giving. Kids can decorate the jar however they like, and the whole family can join in by adding notes about what they’re thankful for all season long. Just grab an empty jar and print the free templates to make this meaningful project come to life.
Want some instruction and printables that you can use to put your jars together? Click here.
Didn’t see anything on our list for your kids? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at more options from the experts at Good Housekeeping.
From our family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving!
