How to Keep Your Kids Occupied on Thanksgiving (Without Sticking Them in Front of a Screen)

If you're hosting Thanksgiving this year, planning your menu might be the main thing on your mind right now. While you’re busy cooking and cleaning, however, don’t forget to plan out some activities that will entertain your kids throughout the day so they don’t end up squabbling and causing havoc throughout the house while the adults are trying to have fun in the kitchen and dining room. That’s why we put together these five great ways to keep your kids occupied on Thanksgiving without sticking them in front of a screen all day long!

Set up a kids' table

While families often set up a table for kids at Thanksgiving, here are some tips to make it fun and interactive.

-Games: Bring a few board games along to play with the kiddos. This will not only keep them occupied but also help them get to know their cousins better.

-Dinner: Make sure the kids get their own plates and utensils so they can help prepare dinner or at least participate by having their own food to eat.

Give them simple tasks to help with

-If you're not cooking the turkey, put your kids in charge of stuffing and tying up the skin.

-If you're hosting, give your kids tasks for making place settings or setting the table.

-Make a list before hand with tasks for kids so they know what's expected and can't say I don't know when it's their turn!

Put together a Thanksgving-themed activity pack

Kids love getting together with their family and celebrating the season. They also love having a little something to do while they're waiting for dinner. To make this Thanksgving memorable for the littlest members of your family, put together a Thanksgiving-themed activity pack that includes coloring pages, crayons, stickers and construction paper. Include a few age-appropriate games like I-Spy or Spot It as well as a couple treats like holiday-themed cookies or popcorn balls.

Set up a craft table

Kids love crafts, and they're a great way for parents to keep their kids occupied. Here's how you can set up a craft table at your next thanksgiving dinner. The first thing that you need is the craft! Pick something from Pinterest or other sources that have free printable directions. Decorate the table with lots of crayons, markers, glitter pens and other supplies. Set out plenty of paper so everyone has enough room to work. The final step is setting out some cups with hot chocolate mix in them so everyone can stay warm as they create!

Get them involved in cooking

Thanksgiving is the perfect time to get your kids involved in cooking. They can help with chopping veggies, stirring a pot or kneading dough. And if they're interested in how food is prepared, they can help with cooking up an ingredient for the table. Plus, it'll be easier for you because it'll give you more hands on deck!