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If you have kids home from school this week you may be looking for ways to keep them entertained so you can prepare for the Thanksgiving Meal. Kristy shared some simple Thanksgiving crafts last week and I have a few more for you this week.

Simple Thanksgiving Crafts
This is a simple craft that will become a family tradition from now on. I saw this thankful tree on Pinterest and knew I wanted to do it! Since I had almost everything on hand it was cheap too!

We got the branches from a neighbor who was cutting down a tree. I used die-cut letters and leaves I had on hand from scrap-booking as well as a scrap of ribbon. I also cut some leaves out of scrapbook paper.
Everyone has been adding things to the tree since I put it up. I also added some cinnamon scented pine cones to the jar to hold the branches up better and keep the house smelling cozy. Admittedly this is more a “mom” project than a kid project. However, if you have older kids who are good with scissors they could make the leaves themselves. You can also have the kids scavenge your yard for the twigs and branches you use.
While your kids are outside hunting for sticks why not have them find some leaves for a turkey placemat too?

We made this one 4 years ago when my son was 2. It could become wall art or a placemat. He went on the hunt for leaves, and I drew a simple body shape on a large piece of construction paper. He was able to glue them down himself (we helped with arrangement). We used clear contact paper to cover it. Believe it or not, we have actually used this as a placemat, and it has been spilled on several times! You could also do this using cut out hand-prints in shades of red, orange, and yellow.
If you are cutting out handprints you could also make these cute little turkey’s:

These are made with multiple hands cut out and stapled to an additional piece of construction paper. They would make great place cards for a kid’s table! If you braver another fun handprint project involves paint:

These can be used on cards, invites, or as decorations. I have one from each of my kids on a piece of burlap that is framed and we hang up every year. It’s fun for them to see how much they have grown.
Looking for more? Check out our Little Thanksgiving board on Pinterest.

What a great post and great blog! I love the tree idea, it’s just wonderful and I love that everyone has added to it! I found you on the SITS Thanksgiving link up and now I’m following you!
Love these great ideas for Thanksgiving crafts. Happy Thanksgiving!
Handprint turkeys are one of my favorite traditions/crafts to do with my kids! Great ideas 🙂
Great ideas! I think we will try one tomorrow at our feast.