Create a Thankful Tree {Fun Kid/Holiday Activity!}
November 14, 2012
Posted By: Shaunescy
First off, I will admit, this idea is not solely my own (I saw it on Better Homes and Gardens) but when I saw it, I thought, "I am creating that for my holiday table." So I did. A tree to adorn your Thanksgiving day table where each of the attendees writes what they are most Thankful for this year.
This is a terrific project for FAMILIES to do together prior to Thanksgiving, allowing time together and discussing all the reasons we have to be thankful and have gratitude this holiday.
How to Create a Thankful Tree
The first part- creating the paper leaves was done with my CAP - Child Advancement Project - Pal at Irving School. {I am with the same CAP Pal now for a second school year, and I visit with her once a week for one hour. Such a short time, but I always try to discover new fun projects we can do together. For more details on this super program, visit THRIVE'S website .}
Step 1:
Hunting and Gathering
Engage your children in this activity with you. Take a "nature walk" together as you collect as many different shaped leaves as possible. While you're out, also collect several branches to use as the base of the tree.
Ask: What tree produced each leaf?
Step 2:
Tracing and Cutting
If leaves are wet, be sure to dry them carefully, then gently place leaf on double-sided scrap-booking paper - or construction paper - and trace the outline. Once all the leaves are traced - enough for at least ONE leaf per Thanksgiving day guest (I made several extras just in case my guests are extra thankful!) then cut shape with scissors, punch a single-hole in the leaf, and tie a piece of string to the leaf.
Step 3:
Painting the Tree
You can use spray paint in white, gold or silver. I actually painted my branches with Glimmer Modge Podge. They have a lovely iridescent glow! Allow time to dry completely.
Step 4:
Putting It All Together
You'll need a vase or pot to hold the branches, I used two narrow-throated vases. Have pens - preferably gold or silver - and the leaf's in a pile so guests can select a leaf and pledge what they are thankful for this Thanksgiving. You can read them all prior to sharing your meal together.
I encourage you to create you own Thankful Tree - and please post the images to our Facebook page. I'd love to see what you create!
Mother of three, Katie Walters is the author of An Authentic Life , a member of BlogHer.com and is proudly invited to share weekly within the pages of Montana Parent Magazine's website.
