The big day of Thanksgiving is just around the corner. Oh, we can already smell the turkey roasting in the oven, the freshly baked pies, and all those yummy sides. As adults, we tend to focus on the wonderful meal we’ll serve and the table upon which we’ll serve, but we also need to think about what we can do to keep the kids entertained throughout the day.

Here are 5 ideas that are fun and easy and will keep them engaged and entertained with the rest of the family.

Thanksgiving Bingo

So much fun and easy to create (or download a set). You’ll need 9 x 12 pieces of construction paper and ink stamps- Thanksgiving-themed. Simply create a bingo board with the stamps. Then create a set of cards with the stamps to be used to call out the spaces (just like the bingo numbers). Use pumpkin candy as the bingo pieces and an older child or adult call out the stamp cards. To make it more fun, purchase a few small gifts ahead of time to give as prizes.

Placeholders for your guests- Turkey Treats

A little crafty project to have the kids feel included in the table setting is making placeholders for your guests. Make some Turkey Treats. You’ll need the following:

  • 9” round tulle circles (the dollar store is great)
  • M & M’s or Reece’s Pieces in Fall colors
  • Pipe Cleaners (yellow, orange, brown, or red)
  • Google eyes
  • Quick grip glue
  • Small, clear hair elastics

Get the full tutorial here.

Kids Tablecloth

Instead of purchasing a tablecloth this year, roll out a large piece of craft paper to cover your table. Create white spaces for the kids to write ‘thankful’ words, then give them crayons and markers (age dependent of course) and allow them to create the Thanksgiving tablecloth. The pride you’ll see when they see their creation front and center on the table is something to behold.

Create a Gratitude Turkey

Teaching gratitude is something we can never start too early. This easy and simple DIY project is fun and shares with our children a fundamental value that will carry on through their lives. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Small paper plate
  • Small dixie cup
  • Empty toilet paper tube
  • Paint- orange, black and brown
  • Glue
  • Scissors
  • Googly eyes
  • Assorted colors of construction paper
  • Black markers

The complete tutorial is here.

Pumpkin Toss Game

Who is the most competitive in your family? This game is easy to make (Mom & Dad you’ll be making the game) and so much fun to play! Here’s what you’ll need for supplies.

  • 3 DecoArt Americana Acrylic Paints- orange colors of your choice
  • Foam brush
  • 3D Poster Board
  • X-Acto knife
  • Pencil
  • Ping-Pong Balls

How to complete- Tutorial here.

How do you keep the kids entertained on Thanksgiving Day? What traditions do they love to participate in? We’d love for you to share on our Facebook page.