Halloween has come and gone and Christmas decorations are already lining the shelves! Before we start to think about that holiday, remember Thanksgiving is right around the corner. Preparing the annual family feast is quite the undertaking as traditional family holidays have become more inclusive of friends and their families. But with no presents involved, how do we keep the little ones entertained and engaged?
Start with an attractive centerpiece like the one above from Woo Home. It features a hilarious and healthy turkey made entirely out of fruit. Wanting something more traditional? The equally attractive simple “Give Thanks” sign is large enough to grab even a three year old’s attention as shown below from Home Ideas.
Design Tip #1: Create surprises within the centerpiece. Wrap little treats or toys in paper that tells the story of the first Thanksgiving and put them inside the centerpiece or around it.
Next fill the place setting with fun and thoughtful décor. The table setting from Giggles Galore features dressed up drinkware and wood pieces to elevate the different design elements. Also, providing your little ones with a craft is always a great idea. Packaging these elements with little sweet treats will certainly capture their attention. Furthermore, if you wanted to avoid just plain coloring, provide a giving tree in the center of the table like the one from Frog Prince Paperie and have your little guests write on leaves what they are thankful for and hang them on the tree.
Design Tip #2: Since the table is for children, why not use actual paper as a tablecloth. Kids can draw on the tablecloth and you can even write the menu on it with little check boxes next to each item for them to check off. It is simple, cost efficient and clean!
Design Tip #3: Have older kids? Try out this printable Thanksgiving Mad Libs
If you wanted to add even more pizazz to your setting, use actual table cards like in the Project Nursery picture above. However, if you are looking for a more untraditional seating card, try creating the cookie turkey with name tag as a placecard like the one from Our Best Bites.
For more child friendly table settings, check out our Thanksgiving Tablescapes for the Kids! digital inspiration board – B. Lee Events Pinterest Board.
Happy Thanksgiving!