How To:
Set a Great Kids' Table for Thanksgiving
The celebration of Thanksgiving almost always centers on a delectable dinner — but what makes it special is the time spent with family and other loved ones. Find ways to remind little ones of the significance of the holiday, as well as how much they have to be thankful for. Set a kids' table they'll love to call their own by mixing classic themes like turkeys and autumn leaves with playful reminders of Thanksgiving's origins, like pilgrims and old-fashioned ships. The stage will be set for a fun, memorable family feast that makes the spirit of the holiday come alive.
Scale it to their size. The best way to keep kids seated and enjoying their food is to make sure they're comfortable. Choose a kids' table and chairs that allow them to easily reach the tabletop.
Make it feel like a party. A small gift at each place setting—like our caramel corn favors—will get kids in a festive mood. Our homemade turkey pencil holder can also serve as a keepsake to help them remember their Thanksgiving celebration. Or, before the big meal, gather little ones and head outside for an autumn-leaf hunt. Have each child pick their own special leaf that will decorate their place at the table.
Choose table settings that are both fun and kid-friendly. Save the fine china for the adults' table – let kids relax by setting their table with shatter-proof plates in a Thanksgiving theme, plus crafty placemats that incorporate a touch of whimsy. To get them excited to find their seat, decorate each setting with leaf place cards or our patterned party poppers. Or, let them create their own decorations at a coloring station—it's easy to set up and will keep kids entertained before and after the meal.
Create a playful centerpiece. Turkey table toppers crafted from colorful paper and delicious loaves of bread give the center of the table a fun, seasonal twist. Add a nature-inspired autumnal element with our acorn ornaments, which can be strung around the table and throughout the home. For a creative way to hold utensils, have kids make their own chevron utensil pockets that they can customize with their name and favorite color.
Encourage the theme of giving thanks. From table linens and plates to decorations throughout the home, incorporate the spirit of giving thanks into your decor. Give them a way to share what they're most thankful for with our easy-to-make thankful tree—and don't forget to invite parents to get in on the fun! On Thanksgiving, go around the table and have everyone share their list.
Add a few celebratory items to your menu. Kids will feel special sipping our tasty Apple-Cranberry Medley, while our Stuffing on a Stick turns a favorite side dish into a delicious treat. Finish the meal with healthy sweets like our Fruit Turkey, or celebrate tasty tradition with individual Pumpkin Tarts or Spiced Honey Popcorn.