Thanksgiving Gratitude
Gratitude Activities to Share This Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is a special time for families to gather, share a meal, and reflect on what they’re thankful for. While young children may be more excited about the turkey or pumpkin pie, it’s also the perfect opportunity to introduce them to the concept of gratitude in a way that’s meaningful and fun. With a little mindfulness and creativity, we can help preschoolers begin to understand the joy of being thankful.
1. Gratitude Tree
Create a simple tree from construction paper or branches placed in a vase. Cut out paper leaves and invite your preschooler to draw or dictate something they’re thankful for on each leaf. Add a new leaf every day leading up to Thanksgiving, watching your gratitude tree grow!
2. Thankful Circle Time
During circle time (or at the dinner table), encourage each child to share one thing they’re thankful for. For little ones who may be shy, they can hold a special “thankful object” while they share, helping them feel included and secure.
3. Gratitude Stones
Collect smooth stones and let your preschooler decorate them with paint, markers, or stickers. Each stone represents something they are thankful for. Keep the stones in a jar and revisit them throughout the year when you need a reminder of life’s blessings.
4. Kindness Cards
Help your child create simple cards with drawings or scribbles to give to family, friends, or neighbors. These small acts of giving teach children that gratitude is not just about saying “thank you,” but also about spreading kindness. Check out our FREE kindness cards. Just print and have fun giving them away! We recommend printing on cardstock or laminating them.
5. Thankful Breathing
Combine mindfulness with gratitude by trying a simple breathing exercise: breathe in slowly while thinking of something you are thankful for, and breathe out while saying “thank you.” This calming activity helps children connect gratitude with inner peace.
Practicing gratitude with preschoolers doesn’t have to be complicated. These activities make thankfulness playful, hands-on, and heartwarming. By weaving gratitude into your Thanksgiving traditions, you’re giving your child a gift that lasts long beyond the holiday—a grateful heart and a mindful spirit.
At Books by Rimes, we love helping families and educators find meaningful ways to nurture both learning and emotional growth. This Thanksgiving, may your celebrations be filled with joy, gratitude, and cherished memories.
