21+ Thanksgiving Crafts for Kids & November Craft Ideas to Spark Creativity in 2025

There’s something magical about the cozy days of November—crunchy leaves outside, warm cocoa in hand, and kids brimming with excitement for Thanksgiving. If you’re looking for fun ways to channel that energy, these Thanksgiving crafts for kids are the perfect seasonal activity.

Whether your little ones love painting, gluing, or cutting out colorful paper turkeys, these November crafts for kids will spark creativity and gratitude in every corner of your home.

From DIY Thanksgiving crafts made with recycled materials to easy Thanksgiving crafts for kids that double as table décor, this guide brings together the best mix of fun, learning, and family bonding. You’ll find ideas perfect for classrooms, family gatherings, or cozy weekends indoors.

Let’s dive into a world of creativity where imagination meets tradition—because crafting together makes the Thanksgiving season even more meaningful.

Paper-Based Thanksgiving Crafts

When it comes to Thanksgiving crafts for kids, paper projects are always a winner. They’re budget-friendly, simple to set up, and open endless creative possibilities. Whether your kids are preschoolers or tweens, these paper Thanksgiving crafts turn a few sheets of colored paper into heartwarming holiday memories.

🦃 1. Handprint Turkeys

If there’s one craft that perfectly captures the spirit of childhood Thanksgiving, it’s the handprint turkey. This adorable project transforms tiny hands into colorful turkeys that will melt your heart year after year.

How to make it:

1. Trace your child’s hand on a sheet of construction paper — brown or tan works best for the body.
   
2. Each finger becomes a feather! Cut out the shape and have your child decorate the “feathers” with markers, paint, or patterned paper.
   
3. Glue on googly eyes and a small triangle of orange paper for the beak. Add a red wattle from scrap paper.
   
4. On the palm area, write “I’m thankful for…” and let your child fill in their answer — family, pets, favorite snacks, or anything that makes them smile!

Pro Tip:

Use multiple shades of fall-colored paper — think deep orange, red, yellow, and golden brown — to make the feathers pop. Hang them on the fridge or create a “Turkey Wall” where the whole family can display their gratitude birds.

Why it’s great:

This project isn’t just cute — it’s meaningful. Kids learn to express thankfulness while strengthening fine motor skills through tracing, cutting, and gluing.

🌳 2. Gratitude Trees

A Gratitude Tree combines creativity with mindfulness — a wonderful way to help kids reflect on what Thanksgiving truly means.

How to make it:

1. Cut out a tree trunk and branches from brown construction paper and glue them onto a poster board or cardboard base.
   
2. Next, cut out leaf shapes from colorful paper — red, orange, yellow, or even metallic shades for a festive touch.
   
3. Have each child write or draw something they’re thankful for on a leaf (you can help little ones write theirs).
   
4. Tape or glue the leaves onto the branches, filling your “tree” with gratitude.

Why it’s special:

It’s not just an art project — it’s an interactive family reflection activity. Over the week leading up to Thanksgiving, add new leaves daily to see your gratitude tree “grow.”

Pro Tip:

Use real twigs arranged in a vase for a 3D version! Punch holes in the paper leaves and tie them on with string or ribbon. It makes a beautiful centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table.

🎃 3. Pumpkin Paper Chains

Paper chains never go out of style — and this Thanksgiving twist is both fun and decorative! These pumpkin paper chains make for easy Thanksgiving crafts for kids that double as festive garlands.

How to make it:

1. Cut orange construction paper into 1-inch strips.
   
2. Create the first loop and tape or glue it closed. Thread another strip through it to make the next loop, continuing until you have your desired length.
   
3. For a pumpkin look, draw small jack-o’-lantern faces on each loop using black marker.
   
4. Add a few green paper leaves or curly “vines” every few links for an extra seasonal touch.

Pro Tip:

Make the chain as long as you want — it’s great for decorating classroom walls, doorways, or even the mantel.

Teaching moment:

Talk about the concept of “togetherness” as each loop connects to another — just like family and friends coming together for the holiday.

Related Articles:  Thanksgiving Sensory Bin Ideas for Kids, Thanksgiving Crafts for Toddlers, Thanksgiving Traditions Heartwarming Ideas

Recycled & Eco-Friendly Thanksgiving Crafts

Crafting is even more rewarding when it’s kind to the planet. These eco-friendly Thanksgiving crafts show kids that creativity doesn’t require new materials — just a bit of imagination and resourcefulness. Perfect for parents and teachers who love sustainable fun!

🦃 4. Toilet Paper Roll Turkeys

Don’t toss those cardboard rolls — transform them into adorable turkeys! This DIY Thanksgiving craft is simple, sustainable, and always a hit with young kids.

How to make it:

1. Wrap an empty toilet paper roll with brown or patterned paper.
   
2. Glue on feathers — you can use craft feathers or cut them from colored paper.
   
3. Add googly eyes, a beak, and a wattle (a small red paper strip).
   
4. Write your child’s name or a gratitude message on the turkey’s belly.

Teaching moment:

Use this craft to introduce the idea of recycling and repurposing. Kids love knowing they’re turning “trash into treasure” — and you’re subtly teaching them sustainability.

Pro Tip:

Turn these little turkeys into place cards for Thanksgiving dinner! Just write guests’ names on each one and set them on the table.

🥣 5. Cereal Box Cornucopias

Transform an empty cereal box into a cornucopia, the classic Thanksgiving symbol of abundance and gratitude. This project combines creativity, learning, and upcycling all in one fun activity.

How to make it:

1. Cut one corner of a cereal box to form a cone shape (the “horn” of plenty).
   
2. Cover it with brown craft paper or paint it using warm fall tones.
   
3. Fill it with paper fruits, vegetables, and leaves — kids can draw and cut them out themselves.
   
4. Arrange your finished cornucopia as a table centerpiece or shelf decoration.

Why it’s a hit:

It’s visually stunning and gives kids a sense of accomplishment. Plus, it’s a creative way to talk about harvest traditions and gratitude.

Pro Tip:

If you’re working with toddlers, skip the cone shape and simply let them color or sticker-decorate flat “cornucopia” templates.

🎨 6. Bottle Cap Pumpkins

Got a collection of bottle caps lying around? Turn them into miniature pumpkins! This craft is quick, creative, and eco-friendly — a perfect November craft for kids that also helps clean up the planet.

How to make it:

1. Gather a handful of bottle caps (metal or plastic).
   
2. Paint them orange using acrylic or spray paint. Let them dry completely.
   
3. Arrange and glue the caps in a circle to form the shape of a pumpkin.
   
4. Add a small piece of green felt or paper at the top as a stem and leaf.

Why kids love it:

It’s hands-on and satisfying — they’ll enjoy watching everyday objects turn into cheerful little pumpkins.

Pro Tip:

Glue a magnet on the back to create festive fridge decorations, or attach a string to make pumpkin ornaments for a Thanksgiving tree.

Thanksgiving Crafts for Classroom Fun

Thanksgiving offers a wonderful opportunity for teachers to combine creativity with character-building lessons. Classroom crafts are more than just fun — they teach kids about gratitude, teamwork, sharing, and kindness, while giving them the joy of creating something tangible. These November crafts for kids are classroom-perfect because they’re easy to organize, budget-friendly, and filled with meaning.

🪶 7. Thankful Feathers Bulletin Board

Every classroom can use a touch of color and heart during the Thanksgiving season — and this project delivers both!

How to make it:

1. Cut out large feather shapes from colored construction paper — reds, oranges, yellows, and browns work beautifully.
   
2. Give each student one or two feathers. Ask them to write something (or someone) they’re thankful for.
   
3. Encourage creativity — they can use markers, glitter, stickers, or drawings to personalize their feathers.
   
4. On a bulletin board, display a large turkey cutout (either printed or handmade) and attach all the feathers to create its tail.

Why it’s meaningful:

This project transforms a simple board into a wall of gratitude. It helps students express appreciation, promotes positive thinking, and gives them a sense of ownership in the classroom décor.

Teacher tip:

Keep the board up throughout November. Each day, invite a few students to share what they wrote on their feathers during circle time — it sparks great discussions about thankfulness!

🍿 8. Classroom Table Centerpieces

Who says table décor is just for home? Transform classroom desks into festive spaces that radiate Thanksgiving cheer.

How to make it:

1. Give each child a paper cup or small paper pot.
   
2. Have them decorate it using crayons, fall-themed stickers, or paper cutouts shaped like pilgrim hats, pumpkins, or turkeys.
   
3. Once decorated, fill the cups with popcorn, candy corn, or mini paper “gratitude notes.”
   
4. Arrange the finished creations on a shared table to create a colorful, edible centerpiece.

Why it’s fun:

It blends art, sensory play, and sharing — kids love showing off their creativity and then enjoying a little treat together afterward.

Classroom idea:

If you’re hosting a mini class Thanksgiving party, these centerpieces can double as personalized snack holders or party favors for students to take home.

💛 9. DIY Gratitude Bracelets

Crafting gratitude bracelets is a simple yet powerful way to remind kids that thankfulness isn’t just for one day — it’s something to wear and carry year-round.

How to make it:

1. Provide each student with colorful beads, elastic string, and a few letter beads.
   
2. Let them spell out words like “THANKFUL,” “LOVE,” “FAMILY,” or “KINDNESS.”
   
3. Encourage kids to choose bead colors that represent what they’re thankful for (e.g., green for nature, red for love, yellow for happiness).
   
4. Once complete, help tie or knot the bracelets securely.

Why it matters:

Kids take home a wearable reminder of gratitude — something they made with their own hands. It’s an excellent mindfulness activity, especially for younger students learning to reflect on their emotions.

Bonus idea:

Create a classroom “Gratitude Tree” and have kids hang their bracelets on it before taking them home for Thanksgiving break.

Easy Thanksgiving Crafts for Preschoolers

When it comes to preschoolers, the key is keeping crafts simple, colorful, and hands-on. These easy Thanksgiving crafts for kids are designed to boost fine motor skills, sensory exploration, and early learning — all while celebrating the season’s charm.

🍁 10. Leaf Rubbings

Perfect for teaching little ones about the beauty of fall, leaf rubbings combine art with a touch of science and discovery.

How to do it:

1. Head outside for a mini “leaf hunt” — let kids gather leaves of different shapes and sizes.
   
2. Place a leaf (vein side up) under a sheet of white paper.
   
3. Use the side of a crayon to gently rub across the paper until the leaf’s texture appears.

Learning benefits:

• Introduces kids to nature’s patterns and textures.
  
• Strengthens hand coordination and grip.
  
• Encourages curiosity about different trees and seasons.

Teacher tip:

Turn the finished rubbings into a classroom “Leaf Book” — label each page with the tree type and child’s name for a keepsake parents will love.

🌽 11. Corn Painting

A delightfully messy, sensory craft that doubles as a mini art experiment!

How to do it:

1. Pour different fall-colored paints (orange, yellow, brown, red) onto paper plates.
   
2. Give each child a corn cob (fresh or dried).
   
3. Have them roll the cob across the paint, then onto a large sheet of paper to create textured prints.

Why it’s great:

The unique patterns mimic fall fields and add tactile fun to art time. It’s also a playful way to connect kids to where their food comes from.

Pro tip:

Use butcher paper or old wrapping paper for larger canvases — kids can create a group “harvest mural” for the classroom wall.

🦃 12. Paper Plate Turkeys

This classic never goes out of style — and for good reason! It’s cheerful, inexpensive, and perfect for little hands.

How to make it:

1. Cut paper plates in half and have kids paint them in warm fall shades (brown, orange, yellow).
   
2. While the paint dries, cut out feather shapes from construction paper.
   
3. Glue the feathers along the curved edge of the plate.
   
4. Add googly eyes, a beak, and a red wattle for that turkey flair.

Learning benefits:

• Enhances creativity and hand-eye coordination.
  
• Encourages color recognition and shape cutting skills.
  
• Provides an easy introduction to Thanksgiving symbols.

Display idea:

Hang the finished turkeys around the classroom or line them up along a window sill for a festive, heartwarming touch that celebrates every child’s contribution.

Thanksgiving Table Décor Kids Can Help Create

Thanksgiving dinner feels even more special when the little ones get to take part in setting the table. Turning craft time into decorating time gives kids a sense of pride and adds a handmade warmth to your holiday celebration. These easy Thanksgiving crafts for kids not only engage creativity but also make your dining space more personal and festive.

13. DIY Name Cards

There’s nothing sweeter than finding a place card made by tiny hands waiting at your seat. Give your kids cardstock, markers, and a collection of fall-themed stickers—think pumpkins, acorns, or golden leaves. Have them write each guest’s name in their own handwriting (or trace it if they’re little).

You can punch a small hole in one corner and tie a bit of twine or ribbon for a rustic touch. To make it even more interactive, let kids add a “thankful for” note under each name, so every guest feels appreciated before dinner begins.

Pro Tip: If you’re hosting a big dinner, make this a two-day project. Kids can make 5–6 name cards each day and feel proud when everyone compliments their effort at the table.

14. Mason Jar Candle Holders

Few things bring the cozy Thanksgiving glow like candlelight. These DIY Thanksgiving crafts turn simple mason jars into beautiful fall luminaries.

Start with clean jars (any size works). Have your kids tear colorful tissue paper—reds, oranges, yellows, and browns—into small pieces. Using a paintbrush, coat the jar with Mod Podge or glue and layer the tissue pieces to create a stained-glass effect.

Once dry, slip a battery-operated tea light inside (for safety) and place them down the center of your table or on your porch. The flickering light through the tissue paper gives off a warm, magical vibe that feels straight out of an autumn storybook.

Optional Upgrade: Wrap a small burlap ribbon or jute twine around the jar’s neck and tie on a mini tag with words like “Grateful,” “Blessed,” or “Thankful.”

15. Pinecone Centerpieces

Nature’s décor is always the most charming—and free! A walk outside can supply everything you need for these kid-friendly Thanksgiving centerpieces.

Ask your kids to collect pinecones of different sizes, then lay down some newspaper and let them paint the tips gold, copper, or orange. Once dry, place them in a wooden bowl or a clear glass vase, add a few mini pumpkins, and sprinkle faux leaves or acorns around.

Idea Variation: If your kids love sparkle, have them brush a little glue on the pinecone tips and dust them with gold glitter. It adds just the right amount of shimmer without overdoing it.

This nature-inspired display works perfectly for dining tables, entryways, or mantels and lasts all season long.

Creative Thanksgiving Storytelling Crafts

Thanksgiving is all about stories—of gratitude, family, and tradition. These crafts combine art and imagination, allowing kids to express what the holiday means to them in their own creative way.

16. “Thankful Story Stones”

Gather smooth stones from outside or buy a bag of craft stones. Using paint pens or acrylics, help your kids decorate each stone with simple Thanksgiving symbols—like hearts, leaves, turkeys, pumpkins, or plates of food.

Once dry, place all the stones in a basket. During dinner or family time, each person can pick one and share a story or memory related to that symbol.

Why it’s wonderful: This activity encourages storytelling, gratitude, and meaningful connection—perfect for both classrooms and family gatherings. Plus, these stones make adorable keepsakes for next year’s Thanksgiving.

17. Puppet Parade

Turn the living room into a mini theater! Have kids use paper lunch bags or socks to make pilgrim, turkey, or pumpkin puppets. Provide construction paper, googly eyes, markers, and glue for decorating.

Once the puppets are ready, let kids put on a Thanksgiving puppet show—they can act out what they’re thankful for or retell the story of the first Thanksgiving in a fun, kid-friendly way.

Bonus Tip: Record their performance on your phone—it’ll become a heartwarming family tradition to rewatch each year.

18. Thanksgiving Memory Book

Capture the magic of the season with a handmade Thanksgiving memory book. Fold or staple together several sheets of paper to create a little booklet. Each page can hold drawings, family photos, or short “I’m thankful for…” notes.

Encourage kids to include ticket stubs, leaf rubbings, or even pressed fall leaves. The result is part scrapbook, part gratitude journal, and a treasure to look back on for years to come.

Parent Tip: Start this tradition every year—over time, your family will have a beautiful collection of Thanksgiving memories told through your children’s eyes.

November Crafts Beyond Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving might be the highlight of November, but the whole month is filled with cozy, creative potential. These November crafts for kids extend the joy long after the turkey is gone, making every chilly afternoon feel a little warmer.

19. Autumn Leaf Crowns

Bring a bit of nature indoors with DIY leaf crowns. Head outside for a mini adventure to collect fallen leaves of different shapes and colors. Once home, glue or tape them onto a paper strip that fits around your child’s head.

For a sturdier version, laminate the leaves or use faux ones from the dollar store. Once dry, kids can wear their crowns proudly while playing or helping with fall chores.

Perfect For: School spirit days, nature-themed parties, or simply celebrating the beauty of autumn.

20. Cozy Cocoa Mug Painting

Few things say “November” like a warm mug of cocoa. Turn plain white mugs into personalized masterpieces with acrylic paint pens. Kids can draw pumpkins, falling leaves, or write words like “Grateful” and “Cozy Vibes.”

After painting, bake the mugs in the oven (if paint instructions allow) to set the design. These mugs make thoughtful handmade gifts for grandparents, teachers, or neighbors.

Creative Twist: Add a packet of hot cocoa mix, mini marshmallows, and a candy cane—wrap in cellophane for an adorable gift bundle!

21. Pinecone Bird Feeders

Help kids connect with nature while giving back to the wildlife in your backyard. To make these, have them roll pinecones in peanut butter (or sunflower butter for allergies) and then coat them with birdseed.

Tie a string around the top and hang them from tree branches outside. Watching birds visit throughout the month becomes an exciting daily event for little ones.

Eco Bonus: This simple craft teaches children kindness toward animals and the importance of caring for our environment during colder months.

Tips for Successful Thanksgiving Crafting

Thanksgiving crafts are meant to be joyful, not stressful! With a little planning and creativity, your crafting time can become one of the most memorable parts of the holiday season. Here are some practical and heartwarming tips to make your Thanksgiving crafts for kids fun, mess-free, and meaningful.

1. Keep It Simple

You don’t need expensive supplies or Pinterest-perfect setups to make beautiful crafts. Everyday materials like paper plates, construction paper, glue, paint, and old magazines work perfectly. Kids love the process more than the result—so embrace imperfections!
Pro tip: Set out limited supplies for each project to help children focus and reduce overwhelm.

2. Set Up a “Craft Zone”

Before diving in, pick a dedicated area—like the dining table, kitchen counter, or even an outdoor patio. Cover the surface with newspaper, an old tablecloth, or craft paper to make cleanup quick and easy.
Have a small bin nearby for scraps, a damp cloth for sticky hands, and aprons or old T-shirts for protection. When kids know where they can get creative, the whole process feels more organized and relaxed.

3. Involve All Ages

Thanksgiving crafts are even more special when everyone participates—toddlers, older siblings, and even grandparents! Assign tasks based on age:

• Toddlers can glue or color.
  
• Elementary kids can cut, trace, or write.
  
• Teens and adults can help with assembly or decoration.
  This teamwork builds connection and gives kids a sense of pride and responsibility. Plus, older children love the feeling of helping younger ones—it’s a beautiful way to encourage cooperation and patience.

4. Add Learning Moments

Crafting isn’t just art—it’s an opportunity to talk about gratitude, sharing, and family traditions. While kids are cutting paper turkeys or writing thankful notes, ask questions like:

• “What’s something you’re thankful for today?”
  
• “Who’s someone you’d like to make a craft for?”
  These simple conversations help children reflect on the true meaning of Thanksgiving while keeping the mood light and loving.

5. Display Proudly

When the crafts are done, show them off! Hang the paper turkeys on the fridge, display gratitude trees in the living room, or place painted jars and pinecone centerpieces on the Thanksgiving table.
Displaying kids’ artwork gives them a sense of accomplishment and reminds them that their creativity brings joy to the family. You can even take photos and create a “Thanksgiving Craft Album” to look back on each year—a sweet new family tradition!

Why Crafting Matters During Thanksgiving

Beyond the fun and glitter, Thanksgiving crafts for kids hold a deeper purpose. They help children connect with the spirit of gratitude, creativity, and family togetherness in ways that screens or store-bought decorations can’t.

When children cut, color, and glue, they’re developing essential life skills—fine motor coordination, problem-solving, and patience. But more importantly, they’re learning emotional expression. Through art, they can communicate what they’re thankful for, who they love, and what makes the holiday special to them.

Crafting also reinforces family bonding. Sitting together at the table, sharing supplies, and laughing over glue mishaps creates real moments of connection. These are the memories kids carry with them long after the turkey leftovers are gone.

Finally, creating DIY Thanksgiving crafts teaches mindfulness. Kids slow down, focus on the present moment, and discover joy in simple materials. And as their little hands make something beautiful, they’re reminded that the best parts of Thanksgiving aren’t about perfection—they’re about presence, gratitude, and love.

Final Thoughts,

Crafting during Thanksgiving isn’t just about making cute decorations—it’s about creating memories, laughter, and gratitude with your little ones. These Thanksgiving crafts for kids prove that fun doesn’t need to be fancy or expensive. With simple supplies and a sprinkle of imagination, you can bring warmth and creativity into any home or classroom.

So grab your glue sticks, colored paper, and a thankful heart—it’s time to make this November extra special with hands-on DIY Thanksgiving crafts and easy Thanksgiving crafts for kids to make.

Ready to start? Browse through the craft ideas ahead and pick your favorites to enjoy together this holiday season!