While the cooking might start the night before or the morning of Thanksgiving, children search for ways to get in on the action anytime they can. However, the idea of giving them something to cut or measure can be scary or maybe even too hard for their age group. Instead, encourage your little ones to take part in the festivities with one of these mini Thanksgiving projects.
CHOOSING THE SPREAD
Kids are picky eaters, but they’re more likely to try foods they had a hand in picking. So, try letting your little one choose a few of their favorites to go on the Thanksgiving table. Or offer a couple of options for them to pick from.
MAKING A SHOPPING LIST
After the meal has been decided on, you’ll probably need to run to the grocery store. Use this moment to teach your kids about making a shopping list by going through each recipe together and having them check the cabinets and fridge to see what needs to be added. They can continue the fun by checking off each newly acquired item while you’re at the store.
STIRRING BATTER & ROLLIN DOUGH
Kids love to do this on any homemade meal day, but Thanksgiving is especially exciting because they can brag about their work to family members who try the dish. Make sure your little ones wash their hands, give them a roller or a spoon and watch their faces light up as the dough comes together in the bowl or flattens out under the rolling pin. These are just a few of the meal prep activities that are kid-friendly and devoid of sharp, hot, or sensitive items.
WATCHING THE TIMER
Thanksgiving meal preparation can be a hectic time. There are a lot of foods cooking at once, and multiple timers are set for each. To make this process easier, write down which food is cooking on a sheet of paper and set a timer on top of it. As each timer goes off, have your little one report which ding goes with which food. This will help you stay on top of each meal and give your little one the sense of responsibility they crave.
MAKING THANKSGIVING DECORATIONS
Handprint turkeys are incredibly popular in classrooms, but there are so many other fun children-friendly crafts and DIY activities that can liven up your house. Scroll through some decor ideas with them and let your kids choose DIY projects that will lighten everyone’s spirits. Or check out one of the previous blog posts for some crafty inspiration.
PICKING NEW KIDS’ GAMES
Friends, aunts, uncles, and cousins will bring their kids over to enjoy the holiday, and you’ll need something to keep them busy. During your trip to the store, have your kids pick out a few games for the younger ones to play with after dinner. Or encourage them to think of a few theater games they have learned in their Drama Kids classes. Have them be a leader by teaching their cousins how to get dramatic!
Holidays can be stressful, especially if you are hosting with little ones in the house. But enjoy the quality time you spend with your family but encourage everyone to get involved in the preparations!
Drama Kids International wishes you a Happy Holidays! Many locations offer camp days to assist in keeping those little ones busy when there is a break from school. Contact your local DK today for more information.