November is the perfect time for students to reflect on the things they’re thankful for, while adding a bit of seasonal creativity to the classroom. This simple Thanksgiving Turkey craft will encourage students to think about what they are grateful for.
Materials:
Thanksgiving Turkey Pattern from Super Teacher Worksheets (one for each student)
coloring utensils
scissors
glue
construction paper
book about thankfulness (suggestions found below)
Step 1: Start with a Story
Before beginning the craft, gather your students for a read-aloud lesson about thankfulness. No matter what grade level, picture books can be a valuable tool to encourage meaningful discussions! Even older students can connect with the themes, illustrations, and messages found in these stories.
Below are some links to stories that will spark conversations about gratitude, kindness, and empathy.
Book Suggestions for K - 2nd Grades
Thankful, by Eileen Spinelli
I Am Thankful: A Thanksgiving Book for Kids, by Sheri Wall
Bear Says Thanks, by Karma Wilson
The Gratitude Jar, by Katrina Liu
Gratitude is my Superpower, by Alicia Ortego
Book Suggestions for 3rd - 5th Grades
Uncle Willie and the Soup Kitchen, by DyAnne DiSalvo-Ryan
We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga, by Traci Sorell
Those Shoes, by Maribeth Boelts
After reading, have a short discussion with your class:
What does “being thankful” mean to you?
What are some ways we can show thankfulness in our classroom or at home?
What are some things you’re thankful for?
Step 2: Complete the Craft
Pass out the Thanksgiving Turkey Pattern to each kid. First, have your students fill in the feathers with things they are thankful for. For younger students, encourage simple, one to two word answers. You may wish to write some ideas on the board for students to look at. Older students may be able to write complete sentences on their feathers.
Once students write what they are thankful for, it is time to color! Next, cut out the colorful turkey and feathers. Glue the turkey down to a colored sheet of construction paper. Arrange and glue the feathers around the turkey.
Step 3: Share!
Invite students to share their Thanksgiving turkeys with each other. Encourage them to discuss what they are thankful for. These colorful turkeys will make a beautiful display in the hallway or in your classroom. Seeing a wall full of bright feathers and kind words reminds everyone—students, teachers, and visitors—of the joy that gratitude brings.
Check out the Thanksgiving page on Super Teacher Worksheets for more fun Thanksgiving themed activities.
