Keep the kids' table happy. Our Thanksgiving craft kits, coloring books, and activities give little guests something to do with their hands while the turkey roasts and the grown-ups catch up.
Thanksgiving is a long day, and the stretch between arriving and eating is the hardest part for anyone under ten. This collection gathers Thanksgiving craft kits, coloring books, and activities that give kids a job: hands-on projects to work through at the kids' table, plus a game or two for after the meal when everyone is gathered.
Set a craft kit or coloring book at each child's place before guests arrive, so the table is already doing something the moment they sit down. Save the games for after the plates are cleared. Pair these with our Thanksgiving crackers and party favors to finish the kids' table.
Give each child something to work on before the food arrives: a craft kit, a coloring book, or a simple activity set at their place. It turns the waiting into part of the day rather than something to get through. Save any game that needs a group for after the meal, when the table has emptied and everyone has time.
Easy options include a thankful tree or gratitude cards, handprint turkeys, paper place cards kids decorate, and simple fall-themed kits. Set them up at the kids' table on a wipeable surface so little ones stay busy while the meal comes together. The finished crafts often double as table decorations.
Give kids their own table with a craft or activity, a simple game, and a coloring placemat. Rotate between a quiet craft and an active game to balance their energy, especially during the long stretch before the meal. A gratitude activity also gets them involved in the spirit of the day.