Here are 7 fun and easy Thanksgiving Day activities for kids

Fall and all that it brings! Fall brings with it changes in the leaves, cooler temperatures, pumpkins and pumpkin-spiced foods. Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays due to the FOOD, family time and, of course, football. It's a great time to reflect on all the blessings in your life and express gratitude as the year ends.

Most adults enjoy a relaxing time after a big Thanksgiving feast. Everyone except the children. It seems like they have a lot of energy. We've put together some easy and fun Thanksgiving Day Activities that kids will love.

1. Thanksgiving Mazes, Word Searches, and More!

These printable Thanksgiving placemats serve two functions: 1. To make your Thanksgiving table extra festive and beautiful; 2. to entertain your little ones for at most 15 minutes while you finish decorating your Thanksgiving dinner.

2. Thanksgiving 'I am Thankful Worksheets

These will be a hit with the big kids in your family. These are one way to instill gratitude in your children and perhaps some adults in your household. They can also be used as coloring sheets and we love a double-fer!

3. Thanksgiving Gratitude Tree

Another great way to encourage gratitude is through this activity. It is a tangible reminder that there are many things to be grateful for.

Materials required: Vase, jar, branches; twine, ribbon, hole puncher; markers or pens; scissors. If your branches are very heavy, you might need to put rocks or rice in your vase's bottom. This will keep it from tipping.

Instructions

-Start with a vase, some branches and a few leaves.

-Grab some ribbon or twine, whatever you have.

-Next, remove some leaves from cardstock or construction paper.

-Use a hole puncher for punching holes in the leaves

-You can all talk together about gratitude and what it means to practice gratitude.

-Write down your answers on the leaves, and hang them from the tree.

-Display near your dining table during Thanksgiving dinner or dessert.

4. Enjoy a walk in the woods

Fall is a wonderful time to be outside. Nature is full of so many textures and colors. After the big meal, everyone in the family will be able to take a walk.

5. Tell a Thanksgiving story!

Light some candles, prepare pumpkin-spice soup, and gather the family for a Thanksgiving story. This story is full of beautiful traditions and vivid illustrations that the whole family will enjoy.

6. Thanksgiving Craft

Craft time is a favorite pastime for kids of all ages, including Thanksgiving Day. Once the table is cleared, give the children some craft materials and let them have fun. This "Cheerio corn on the cob" craft can be done by DIY-ers. It is simple to prepare and requires very few supplies. You can also use corn kernels and beans if you don't have any cheerios.

This Mini Turkey Banner Kit from Oriental Trading is for you if you're more of a "please send me a complete kit" type of person. This kit will provide enough supplies to feed 12 children!

7. Thanksgiving Coloring Pages

Finally, get some crayons or markers and make these Thanksgiving Color by Numer Pages. Coloring is a great way to release stress, especially after a meal.

We wish you a season full of happiness, health, and gratitude. Happy Thanksgiving.