10 Fun and Easy Thanksgiving Activities for Toddlers: Keep Them Entertained & Engaged!
Thanksgiving is a wonderful time for family and creating lasting memories. But as any mom knows, keeping a toddler entertained while you prep the feast can be a challenge. Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! In this post, I’ll share 10 fun and easy Thanksgiving activities that will keep your little one busy and engaged while you focus on the holiday. Plus, I’ll recommend a few must-have items that make setting up these activities a breeze. Get ready for stress-free fun and special moments with your toddler this Thanksgiving!
1. DIY Thanksgiving Handprint Turkeys
There’s nothing cuter than a tiny handprint turned into a turkey! All you need are some craft supplies like paint and construction paper, and let your toddler create their masterpiece. This activity also makes a great keepsake for years to come!
2. Thanksgiving Storytime with Books
Storytime is a great way to bond and teach toddlers about the spirit of Thanksgiving. Gather a few Thanksgiving-themed books and snuggle up for a cozy reading session.
3. Make Your Own Fall Sensory Bins
Create a simple sensory bin filled with fall-themed items like dried corn, mini pumpkins, leaves, and acorns. Toddlers love to explore textures, and sensory play helps develop their fine motor skills.
4. Pumpkin Painting
Skip the carving knives and opt for painting mini pumpkins instead! This activity lets your toddler express their creativity without the mess of carving. Use child-safe, washable paints and let them go wild!
5. Turkey Headbands Craft
Turn your toddler into the cutest little turkey with a DIY headband craft! Grab some colored paper, feathers, glue, and let your child create their own turkey headband. They’ll love wearing it around the house on Thanksgiving day!
6. Thanksgiving-Themed Play Dough Fun
Make some homemade play dough and add scents like cinnamon or pumpkin spice for a Thanksgiving twist! Toddlers will love using cookie cutters to create their own Thanksgiving shapes like turkeys and leaves.
7. Thanksgiving Parade Dance Party
While you’re busy in the kitchen, turn on the Thanksgiving Day Parade and have a mini dance party! Toddlers love dancing to the music, and it’s a great way to keep them entertained while you cook.
8. Create a Thankful Tree
Teach your toddler about gratitude by creating a “Thankful Tree.” Cut out leaf shapes from colored paper, and each day leading up to Thanksgiving, help your toddler write or draw something they’re thankful for. Attach the leaves to a small branch or stick to display.
9. Turkey Feather Counting Game
Turn counting into a fun Thanksgiving game! Draw a simple turkey on paper and add numbered circles where the feathers should go. Let your toddler stick paper feathers or real feathers on the turkey, matching the correct number.
10. Thanksgiving Snack Creation Station
Set up a snack station where your toddler can create their own “Thanksgiving turkeys” with healthy snacks. Use apple slices, raisins, peanut butter, and pretzels to make edible turkey snacks that are both fun and nutritious.
Thanksgiving is a busy time, but that doesn’t mean your toddler can’t join in the fun! These easy, hands-on activities will keep your little one entertained and engaged while creating cherished memories together. Don’t forget to check out the recommended products that make setting up these activities easier and more enjoyable for both you and your toddler!
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