By Gulf Coast Moms Blog
You’ve ordered the turkey, your guest list is set and you even know what you’re making for dessert — but have you thought about what will keep the kids occupied (besides eating) during the Thanksgiving break?
No need to worry! Gulf Coast Moms Blog has a list of creative, easy and engaging activities, and a few will inspire them to show gratitude.
HELPING HANDS
As the family is gathered around the kitchen prepping for the big meal, have your children participate. It’s never too early to teach kids how to lend a hand. They may not be ready to assist with the turkey, but they can still be hands-on in the prep leading to the Thanksgiving feast. They can help with these simple tasks:
Fruit kabobs: This super-easy recipe only requires skewers and fruit. Separate strawberries, blueberries, pineapple and grapes, and let them figure out a pattern for the kabobs.
Set the Table: Print out table setting instructions, then have children set the table. They can make a craft for the children’s table or nametags for the adults.
NEW ORLEANS DAY TRIP
Louisiana Children’s Museum opened in August in the beautiful New Orleans City Park. The Play with Me area is designed for infants and toddlers and includes the coolest sensory lagoon. The Dig into Nature exhibit offers a sedimentation table, storytelling nest and nature caring station. There’s also an interactive, 100-foot water display. Enjoy the beautiful outdoor space for a picnic or order food at Acorn NOLA, the family-friendly cafe owned by Dickie Brennan & Co.
THE GREAT PUMPKIN HUNT
This is a great activity for toddlers and older children. Hide mini-pumpkins indoors or outside, and let the kids find them! It’s like Easter with an autumn twist.
SHOW GRATITUDE
Purchase a pumpkin from a local patch. Every day, have your child use permanent marker to write what they are thankful for on the pumpkin. This is a great activity to spark family conversation around the dinner table.
There are a number of ways to give thanks. It may be a simple meal for someone in need, or a chance to tell your family members how much you appreciate them as you’re gathered around the dinner table. Always give thanks.
HELP THOSE IN NEED
Holidays are not a happy time for everyone. Give back to your community. The Gulf Coast Public Safety Feed the Needy Program delivers meals to those less fortunate on Thanksgiving Day. If you would like to donate, and/or deliver meals and other items, contact the Gulfport Police Department at (228) 868-5703.
INDOOR FUN
Board games: Board games provide family-friendly competition. Some games we highly recommend include Sequence, Scattergories and the just-for-adults Cards Against Humanity.
Relax: Watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade, movies and college football. This is a time to relax and enjoy family. We give you permission to Netflix and chill, so break out the popcorn and stay in those jammies.
TROT FOR A CAUSE
Turkey Trot 5K and One-Mile Fun Run
Thursday, Nov. 28, from 8-11 a.m.
L&N Historic Train Depot, Bay St. Louis
What better way to say thanks than by giving back to our loveable furry friends in need? All proceeds benefit the animal shelter in Hancock County. Bring pet food, treats or toys as part of the race entry. Register at BSLraces.com.
PREPARE FOR THE HOLIDAYS
At the stroke of midnight on Thanksgiving, many moms turn into little elves ready to start their holiday prep. Listen to festive music and start decorating the house — out with the pumpkins, in with the lights.