Thanksgiving Kids Table Activities – 10 Free Printable Coloring Pages
Thanksgiving is one of the most cherished holidays of the year, filled with gratitude, laughter, and of course, a feast that brings everyone together. But if you’re hosting family and friends with little ones, you already know that keeping kids entertained at a long dinner table can be a challenge. That’s where the Thanksgiving Kids Table comes in—a festive, kid-friendly space designed to let children feel included while also giving them their own fun, creative celebration.
Planning a kids table takes more than just putting a few extra chairs at the end of the dining room setup. It’s an opportunity to spark joy, inspire creativity, and keep the holiday atmosphere lighthearted for all ages. This guide will walk you through everything from table décor and menu ideas to activities, seating arrangements, and thoughtful traditions. By the end, you’ll have all the tools to create a Thanksgiving kids table that’s just as memorable as the adult one.
Free Download – I Am Grateful Worksheet
Why Have a Kids Table?
The kids table is more than just a practical solution to fitting everyone into the dining room. It serves several important purposes:
- Kid-sized fun: Children get to enjoy a table decorated just for them, making the holiday feel special.
- Stress-free dining: Parents can relax and enjoy their meal knowing the kids are entertained.
- Encourages independence: Older kids love the freedom of having their own table where they can talk, play, and eat at their own pace.
- Memories in the making: Many adults look back fondly at their years at the kids table before graduating to the adult table.
When thoughtfully planned, the kids table becomes one of the highlights of Thanksgiving.
Free Download – Gratitude Jar Worksheet
Choosing the Location
The first step in planning your Thanksgiving kids table is deciding where it will go. Think about the flow of your home and how the table fits into the holiday atmosphere.
- Close to the adults: Younger children will feel more secure if the kids table is near the adults.
- Side room or playroom: If the kids are older, consider setting up the table in a nearby room where they can be a little louder and sillier.
- Outdoor option: In warmer climates, an outdoor kids table is fun for messier activities like crafts or dessert decorating.
The key is balance: close enough for supervision, but with enough independence for kids to feel it’s their own space.
Free Download – My Gratitude Jars
Setting the Scene: Table and Seating
The table itself should be functional, safe, and easy to clean. Here are some ideas:
- Kid-sized tables: Folding tables or play tables are perfect for little chairs and short legs.
- Bench seating: Benches or long cushions make it easier to fit multiple kids without fussing with lots of chairs.
- Durable tablecloths: Skip the fancy linens. Opt for kraft paper or washable fabric that doubles as a coloring surface.
Tip: If you don’t have a kid-sized table, don’t worry. Even a card table can become festive with the right décor.
Free Download – Thanksgiving Coloring Page
Thanksgiving Kids Table Decor
Decorating the kids table is where the fun really begins. Unlike the adult table, where you might aim for elegance, the kids table is all about playful, colorful, and interactive elements.
Tablecloths and Runners
- Brown kraft paper: Kids can draw on it with crayons or markers.
- Seasonal prints: Choose a fall-themed plastic tablecloth with pumpkins, turkeys, or leaves.
- DIY placemats: Let kids decorate their own placemats ahead of time as a craft project.
Centerpieces
- Mini pumpkins: Provide markers for kids to decorate their own pumpkins while waiting for food.
- Thankful tree: Place a small branch in a vase and let kids hang paper leaves with what they’re thankful for.
- Edible décor: Bowls of popcorn, candy corn, or fruit make tasty decorations.
Name Tags and Seating Cards
Personalize the experience with name cards shaped like turkeys, pilgrims, or leaves. This helps kids feel included and adds to the festive atmosphere.
Free Download – Thanksgiving Coloring Page
Fun and Kid-Friendly Place Settings
The key to the kids table is mixing practicality with whimsy.
- Durable dishes: Use melamine, bamboo, or festive paper plates that won’t break.
- Colorful cups: Reusable cups with lids help prevent spills.
- Fun utensils: Add turkey-shaped napkin rings or utensils wrapped in festive paper.
- Interactive extras: Include a small box of crayons, stickers, or a mini toy at each place setting.
For a special touch, tuck in a small note of gratitude with each child’s name.
Free Download – Thanksgiving Spelling Page
Activities to Keep Kids Entertained
Kids won’t sit still for a long meal without something fun to do. Keep boredom at bay with interactive activities right at the table.
Coloring and Crafts
- Thanksgiving coloring pages or placemats
- DIY turkey crafts using paper bags or pinecones
- Sticker sheets with autumn themes
Games
- Turkey bingo cards
- Mini scavenger hunts (find the pumpkin, count the leaves)
- Thanksgiving trivia for older kids
Quiet Play
- Small puzzles
- Lego or building blocks at the table
- Thanksgiving storybooks
Having a mix of activities ensures there’s something for every age and interest.
Free Download – Thanksgiving Coloring Page
Food Ideas for the Kids Table
Let’s face it—kids can be picky eaters. Instead of expecting them to love every Thanksgiving dish, create a menu that’s approachable and fun.
Kid-Friendly Versions of Thanksgiving Classics
- Turkey nuggets instead of carved turkey
- Mini stuffing muffins
- Mac and cheese cups
- Sweet potato fries instead of casserole
Fun Sides
- Fruit kabobs with fall fruits
- Carrot sticks with ranch or hummus
- Applesauce or pumpkin-shaped cookies
Dessert
- DIY cookie decorating station with plain sugar cookies, frosting, and sprinkles
- Rice Krispies treats shaped like pumpkins or turkeys
- Mini pumpkin pies or pudding cups
Tip: Serve everything in smaller portions and finger-food style when possible.
Free Download – Thanksgiving Coloring Page
Keeping the Table Organized
A successful kids table isn’t just fun—it’s also manageable for parents.
- Thanksgiving activity kits: Give each child their own crayons, stickers, and crafts to prevent squabbles.
- Snack bowls: Place small bowls of kid-friendly snacks in the middle so little ones can grab food easily.
- Trash station: Keep a small bin or bag nearby to collect wrappers, napkins, or broken crayons.
- Wipes and napkins: Make cleanup quick with plenty of wipes on hand.
When things are organized, it helps kids stay engaged and minimizes stress for adults.
Free Download – Thanksgiving Coloring Page
Adding Traditions to the Kids Table
Thanksgiving is about creating traditions, and the kids table can play a big role in that.
- Thankful notes: Provide slips of paper where kids write what they’re thankful for, then share them aloud.
- Kids toast: Let the kids clink juice boxes or cups for their own Thanksgiving toast.
- Memory book: Encourage kids to draw a picture of their favorite part of Thanksgiving each year. Save the pages in a scrapbook to look back on later.
- “Graduation” to adult table: Make a big deal when kids get old enough to move from the kids table to the grown-up table.
These small traditions make the kids table part of the family’s legacy.
Managing Different Ages at the Table
If you’re hosting toddlers, preschoolers, and tweens all at once, you may need a flexible setup.
- Toddlers: High chairs or booster seats close to the table. Provide soft toys, finger foods, and lots of supervision.
- Preschoolers: Keep activities simple—coloring sheets, stickers, and finger foods work best.
- School-age kids: They love crafts, trivia games, and having more independence.
- Tweens: Involve them as helpers—passing out snacks, leading games, or helping younger kids with crafts.
Grouping kids by age helps everyone enjoy themselves without frustration.
Budget-Friendly Tips
You don’t need to spend a fortune to create an amazing kids table.
- Use free printable coloring sheets from the internet. Like the ones I have included for free in this blog post! 🙂
- Repurpose Halloween pumpkins as Thanksgiving décor.
- Buy bulk craft supplies at dollar stores.
- Serve kid-friendly foods with fun presentation rather than expensive ingredients.
With a little creativity, you can design a magical kids table without breaking the bank.
Safety Considerations
Safety should always come first, especially with younger children.
- Avoid small choking hazards in crafts or food.
- Skip candles at the kids table. Use battery-operated tea lights instead.
- Secure the table and chairs so they won’t tip over easily.
- Make sure an adult can see or hear the kids at all times.
A safe setup ensures everyone can relax and enjoy the day.
Wrapping Up: Making Memories at the Kids Table
The Thanksgiving kids table is more than just a seating arrangement. It’s an opportunity to make children feel included, celebrated, and part of the holiday traditions. With the right décor, fun activities, kid-friendly food, and thoughtful touches, you can create a table that kids look forward to year after year.
As you plan your holiday gathering, remember that the kids table isn’t just about keeping kids busy. It’s about creating a joyful space where memories are made, friendships are deepened, and gratitude is learned in ways that will last long beyond Thanksgiving Day.
