As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s the perfect time to engage children in crafts that celebrate the beauty of nature and the spirit of gratitude.
Step away from traditional art supplies and venture outdoors to collect treasures that will inspire unique and heartfelt creations.
These nature-inspired Thanksgiving craft ideas will keep little hands busy and foster a sense of appreciation for the natural world.
1. Leafy Gratitude Tree:
What you need for this craft:
- Large branch or small tree limb
- Construction paper in fall colors
- Crayons or Markers
- String or yarn
Instructions:
Collect fallen leaves in various shapes and sizes. Then cut leaf shapes from construction paper in fall hues. Have the kids write what they are thankful for on each leaf (or help write down their ideas). Attach the leaves to the branch using string or yarn, creating a beautiful gratitude tree you can add to all season long!
2. Pinecone Turkeys:
What you need for this craft:
- Large pinecones
- Construction paper in fall colors
- Googly eyes
- Glue
- Feathers (or Leaves)
Instructions:
Attach googly eyes to the top of the pinecone. Cut out a small beak and wattle from construction paper and glue them onto the pinecone. Attach feathers to the back of the pinecone, creating the turkey’s tail. Or use leaves to form the tail!
3. Nature Print Placemats:
What you’ll need for this craft:
- Construction paper
- Fallen leaves
- Paint in fall colors
- Paintbrushes
- Laminating sheets (optional)
Instructions:
Collect a variety of leaves with interesting shapes. Dip the leaves in paint and press them onto construction paper. Create a collage of leaf prints on the paper. Once dry, laminate the placemats for a durable and festive addition to your Thanksgiving table.
4. Acorn Napkin Rings:
What you’ll need for this craft:
- Acorns
- Craft paint
- Paintbrushes
- Twine
Instructions:
Paint the tops of acorns with fall colors. Once dry, tie a small piece of twine around each acorn. Use the acorn napkin rings to add a touch of nature to your Thanksgiving table setting.
5. Corn Husk Dolls:
What you’ll need for this craft:
- Corn husks
- String
- Scissors
- Markers or small pieces of fabric for faces (optional)
Instructions:
First, soak corn husks in water to make them pliable. Tie a piece of string around a small bundle of husks to form the doll’s head. Use additional husks to create the doll’s body and clothing, securing with string. Add faces using markers or small fabric pieces to make them as detailed as you want!
6. Thanksgiving Nature Collage:
What you’ll need for this craft:
- Poster board or large paper
- Glue
- Leaves, acorns, twigs, and other natural items
Instructions:
Go on a nature walk and collect various natural items like leaves, pinecones, acorns and sticks. Arrange the items on the poster board to create a Thanksgiving-themed collage. Glue the items in place and let the collage dry.
7. Harvest Scarecrows:
What you’ll need for this craft:
- Craft sticks or twigs
- Scrap fabric or felt
- Glue
- Permanent markers
Instructions:
Create a scarecrow shape using craft sticks or twigs. Cut fabric or felt pieces for the scarecrow’s clothing and glue them in place. Use permanent markers to add facial features and details.
These nature-inspired Thanksgiving crafts offer a super fun way for kids to connect with the season and express gratitude.
Encourage them to appreciate the beauty of the outdoors as they create unique decorations for your Thanksgiving celebration.
Not only will these crafts enhance your holiday decor in a way that directly involves your kids, but they will also become cherished keepsakes that reflect the warmth and thankfulness of the season. Happy crafting and Happy Thanksgiving!
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