The little ones always need to have a special place for Thanksgiving.
It is really hard for them to sit still at the big table with all of us and more importantly they LOVE something created just for them!
We designed just the printable collection for them! Our table is perfect for the littlest at heart and will keep them busy enough to let you eat your meal.
Kind of important don’t you think? Here are a few simple tips to create this special spot.
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Quick Glance
- A dedicated kids’ table sized for little ones makes Thanksgiving far more enjoyable for children and adults alike.
- Butcher paper as a tablecloth doubles as a coloring surface and activity area, keeping kids busy without extra setup.
- Seasonal items like mini pumpkins and gourds make beautiful, child-friendly decor that doubles as a play prop.
- Special treat baskets filled with small sweets give kids something exciting that feels just for them.
- Printable activity collections designed specifically for kids remove the guesswork from planning the kids’ table.
- Decorating chair backs with festive touches makes kids feel like the space was created especially for them.
Use the kids craft table with little chairs just the right size for them. Decorate the backs of the chairs to make them look festive and fun.
Use butcher paper and wrap it around the top of the table. Draw where their plates and cups belong. Kids love match up shapes.
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Use pumpkins, pears or other kinds of season gourds and fruits and tie a cut name tag on it. My daughter loves playing with these mini pumpkins in her kitchen at this time of year.
Color away! I used a old cheese box and mason jars to display color blocked crayons. Perfect for coloring pictures right on the top of the table.
Special treat baskets just for them. I used berry baskets from the $1 section at Michaels and filled with chocolate balls and yogurt covered pretzels. Tied with a cute tag and you’re done!
So let them get messy, color everywhere and have a ball! They will have just the place to do it.
Things to Know
- Mini pumpkins and gourds from the dollar section of craft stores or local farm stands are among the most cost-effective seasonal decor options available.
- Butcher paper rolls are inexpensive and widely available at craft stores and online, and a single roll is enough for multiple years of holiday setups.
- Color-blocking crayons by shade in separate jars or compartments makes the display look intentional and also helps kids find colors quickly without digging through a box.
- Child-sized furniture is not required but makes a noticeable difference in how comfortable and settled kids feel during a long meal.
- Printable activity sheets are worth having even as a backup, since even well-entertained kids will want something new to do after 30 to 45 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age group is a dedicated kids’ Thanksgiving table most suitable for?
A dedicated kids’ table works best for children roughly ages 2 through 10, though this varies by family. Younger children enjoy the freedom and activities, while older kids may still appreciate a fun setup with engaging activities.
How do you keep the kids’ table from getting completely out of hand?
Setting clear, simple expectations before kids sit down helps significantly more than intervening after the fact. Let kids know they can color and play freely while keeping food on their plates, with occasional adult check-ins for gentle oversight.
Are printable Thanksgiving activity sheets worth buying or are free options enough?
Paid printable collections are often worth the small cost because they are designed as cohesive sets with consistent themes and age-appropriate content. Free options work too, but a ready-made collection saves time and makes creating a polished kids’ table easier.
What are good food options to put in kids’ treat baskets beyond candy?
Yogurt-covered pretzels, dried fruit, crackers, and small cheese rounds are all crowd-pleasing options that feel special without being pure sugar. Offer a variety of individually portioned snacks so every child has something to enjoy throughout the celebration.
How far in advance should you set up the kids’ Thanksgiving table?
Setting up the table the evening before Thanksgiving removes one task from an already busy holiday morning. Arrange the decorations, crayons, treat baskets, and activity sheets ahead of time, then add any final details shortly before the meal.
Color blocking the crayons is a great idea. Very cute!
This is so cute! Love it!