Thanksgiving Craft Gratitude Chain

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This Thanksgiving craft is for “kids” of all ages and is soooo simple. But even though it is somewhat basic, it can be something that you may truly cherish this holiday. You may even want to make creating this gratitude chain a holiday tradition. It really is the little things that make all the difference. Just think of your childhood…what stands out most? Is the first thing that comes to mind the big gestures or those little things that sometimes even go unnoticed? Take time this Thanksgiving to write down what you are grateful for and then sharing it in this creative way with the entire family.

I think that I speak for parents everywhere when I say that we are all thankful for our sweet little ones (whether they be 2 or 20). But kids tend not to hear that you are grateful for them or proud of them. They tune out the positive and key into the negative. Help them hear you by presenting it in a different way. Check out this free printable list of ways to tell your kiddo “Good Job!”

SUPPLIES FROM THE BAG

Construction paper in fall colors
Scissors
Markers
Stapler with staples

Let me make your life easier…I know that crafting with your kids can be time consuming and messy. And because of that, it often keeps us from creating with our kids. But it is so important and so much fun! So, I have a way to make it easier for you. (That’s what I’m here for!) Learn all about it HERE! You will never be sorry that you spent time your kids making something…trust me!

Step 1

Cut strips of paper, approximately 1-2″ long
They do not need to be exact

This is a great activity for kiddos who are just learning to cut paper. If you have a child who is learning to use scissors, give them a nice bold line to follow when cutting across the paper and help them only as much as they absolutely need. It does not have to be perfect. Check things like how they are holding the scissors and body position. If you can help them get these things, the actual cutting becomes so much easier.

Step 2

Pass the strips of paper, along with markers, out to your family members and friends as they gather to celebrate Thanksgiving
Instruct them to write what they are thankful for, one thing on each strip of paper. Each person can use as many chain links as they want.

Step 3

Gather up all of the strips of paper.
Make a chain and secure each link with a staple
Use the finished chain to decorate your Thanksgiving table, put it down the middle like a table runner. Or hang it in the room to add a touch of color. Once everyone is seated, share the items on the chain. (This is the kind of thing that makes my lovable softy dad cry. Priceless.)