Making the Thanksgiving Kids' Table Fun

Thanksgiving is a great time to reconnect with distant family members but we may sometimes forget that the children are not as content as we are to simply sit around and socialize. Their little minds are always active and they need an outlet. The best way to help this be a peaceful day is to provide plenty of activities for little ones.

One great way to do this is to set up an activity table. Provide the children with age appropriate supplies such as crayons, markers, construction paper and coloring sheets. You could even purchase some crafts kits that come with all the needed supplies to create several projects.

When it comes time to sit down to eat the children may be a little too antsy to sit still for an entire meal. It may be easier to seat them at their own table and provide kid friendly cuisine. Perhaps some turkey roll-ups made with lunchmeat and cheese slices, some apple wedges and french fries. If the food is fun they will be more likely to sit down and eat it.

If the children involved are not quite kids anymore but still not adults, it may be a better idea to set up a game and movie area. Provide a gaming system, some age appropriate movies, maybe even a board game or two, sodas and snacks.

During the teen years kids mostly just want to be left to themselves. It would probably work best if they were given their own room, away from the adults. Provide them with a stereo and some games and they won't be heard from much of the day. During dinner they could most likely be seated with the adults. You don't want them to feel like outcasts or like they are young children.

If you don't have the space to seat everyone comfortably maybe you should think about renting a hall to have your Thanksgiving meal. The children would be able to play outside and they may even have a playground.

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