Easy Thanksgiving crafts for kids include a handprint turkey, simple place cards, and a small gratitude tree made from a branch and paper leaves. Cover the table, set out construction paper, glue sticks, kid-safe scissors, and washable markers, and let children make one or two things they can actually use at dinner. See the Thanksgiving guide and Thanksgiving table, drinks and activities for more table activities, including coloring pages.
Make a handprint turkey
Trace a child’s hand on brown paper or let them press a painted palm onto the page, then cut or glue on colorful paper feathers for the fingers. Add a beak and feet with marker or scraps. Let the paint dry completely before hanging the turkey on a cabinet or using it as a placemat. Washable paint and a disposable tablecloth will save the table. Toddlers need an adult next to them; older kids can cut their own feathers.
Make place cards and a gratitude tree
Fold small rectangles of card stock, and let kids decorate each card with a leaf, a turkey, or a drawing. An adult can add the guest’s name if the child is still learning to write. For a gratitude tree, stand a clean, dry branch in a jar, cut leaf shapes from paper, and punch a hole so each person can tie on one thing they are thankful for. If you want a larger version for the main table, see how to make a Thanksgiving gratitude tree. These crafts also work at the kids’ Thanksgiving table.
Keep the mess and the time short
Limit the project to 20 or 30 minutes so kids are not exhausted before dinner. Pre-cut shapes for younger children, and put a wet cloth and a trash bag within reach. Skip glitter if you do not want to vacuum it off the gravy boat. Finished crafts can sit out as decorations and then go home with guests, which is an easy favor that did not require a store-bought bag.
Frequently asked questions
What are easy Thanksgiving crafts for kids?
A handprint turkey, folded place cards, and a small gratitude tree made from a branch and paper leaves are simple, and children can use them at the table.
What supplies do I need?
Construction paper, kid-safe scissors, glue sticks, washable markers or paint, and a tablecloth to protect the surface are enough for all three crafts.
How do I keep a Thanksgiving craft from taking over the day?
Cover the table, pre-cut shapes for little kids, and stop after one or two projects. Twenty to 30 minutes is plenty before a meal.
Helpful extras
- Crayola Art Kit with Swirl and Pastel Art Supplies — Crayons, markers, colored pencils, and paper cover most of a simple Thanksgiving craft table.
- Pyrex Deep 9×13-Inch Glass Baking Dish with Lid — A sturdy dish can hold glue sticks, scissors, and crayons so supplies stay together.
- Stasher Silicone Reusable Food Storage Bags, 4-Pack — Useful for sending finished crafts home with guests.
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