Thanksgiving is a time to gather with loved ones, share gratitude, and enjoy the cozy warmth of fall. But it’s also a wonderful opportunity to let kids get creative with hands-on projects that celebrate the season. From colorful turkeys to leaf art and gratitude jars, these Thanksgiving crafts will keep little hands busy and hearts full.
1. Handprint Turkey Art
Trace your child’s hand on construction paper and let them decorate each finger as a colorful turkey feather. Add googly eyes and a beak for extra fun.
This classic Thanksgiving craft is perfect for preschoolers and makes a great keepsake for parents.
2. Thankful Tree
Cut out paper leaves in autumn colors and write something you’re thankful for on each one. Tape or glue them onto a tree trunk made from brown paper.
A meaningful craft that helps children express gratitude in a visual way.
3. Paper Plate Turkey
Transform a paper plate into a turkey by adding colorful paper feathers, a beak, and googly eyes. Kids can paint or color the plate to make it their own.
An easy and cheerful decoration for your Thanksgiving table.
4. Pinecone Turkeys
Collect pinecones from outside and use them as turkey bodies. Add paper feathers, eyes, and a small felt beak.
A fun way to mix nature with creativity — perfect for outdoor-loving kids.
5. Gratitude Jar
Decorate a mason jar with ribbons, stickers, and labels. Have each family member write what they’re thankful for on slips of paper and place them inside.
A beautiful family tradition to read together after Thanksgiving dinner.
6. Leaf Print Art
Gather fallen leaves, dip them in paint, and press them onto paper to create colorful leaf prints.
This simple craft doubles as both art and a nature activity.
7. Corn Husk Dolls
Use dried corn husks to create traditional dolls, decorating them with ribbons, twine, and small scraps of fabric.
A timeless Thanksgiving craft that teaches kids about history and heritage.
8. Thanksgiving Wreath
Make a festive wreath using cut-out paper leaves, mini pumpkins, and ribbon. Kids can write words like “family,” “love,” or “thankful” on each leaf.
A lovely decoration for doors or walls.
9. Popsicle Stick Scarecrows
Glue popsicle sticks together, paint them in warm fall colors, and add small fabric hats or straw hair.
An adorable craft that’s great for decorating the classroom or home.
10. Paper Bag Puppets
Turn plain paper lunch bags into Thanksgiving characters — turkeys, pilgrims, or pumpkins — using colored paper, glue, and markers.
A creative storytelling craft that encourages imaginative play.
Final Thoughts
Thanksgiving crafts are a wonderful way to help kids understand gratitude while having fun. These projects encourage creativity, family bonding, and appreciation for the simple joys of the season. Whether you’re making handprint turkeys or gratitude jars, each craft adds a little more heart to your holiday celebration.
