How to Set a Children's Thanksgiving Table

Use pumpkins for centerpieces and place cards on a children's Thanksgiving table.

If you designate a children's Thanksgiving table, the least you can do is decorate it nicely. Children's Thanksgiving tables are often miniature versions of the table for adults. However, if you are looking for a fun way to spruce up the table, a few ideas are available. Adding a cute tablecloth or centerpiece to the table can make the table festive and possibly keep the kids behaved and entertained until the pumpkin pie is served.

Things You'll Need

• Fabric
• Fabric markets
• Puffy paint
• Glitter
• Sequins
• Votive candle holders
• Candy corns
• Plastic plates, utensils and glasses
• Napkins
• Pumpkins

Instructions

1. Create a handprint table cloth. Enlist the help of the youngsters to make this easy and festive craft. Spread a light-colored piece of fabric that is large enough to cover your table on the floor. Collect fabric markers, puffy paint, glitter, sequins and similar materials together. Have the children trace their hands using the markers and then decorate each handprint with the embellishments. The children can turn their handprints into turkeys, or embellish them however they desire. Have the children sign their names for a Thanksgiving memento that is usable each year.

2. Fill votive candle holders with candy corns for easy to create table decorations. These festive table-toppers can fill in empty gaps in the table setting and can also be used to keep the table cloth in place. To keep the kids occupied, ask each to guess the amount of candy used in the votives. Reward the closest participant with a festive prize, such as an extra slice of pumpkin pie.

3. Set the table with plastic or paper plates, instead of your fine china. Although most kids appreciate an adult element to their table, they may not be able to keep your dishes in tact. Therefore, choose disposable glasses and plates that mimic formal dishes. Place a plate in front of each chair and then place the disposable utensils on each side. The fork typically goes on the left side and the knife on the right. Fold a napkin under the knife or place it on top of the plate.

4. Place a centerpiece in the middle of the table that is low and won't block the children's view of each other. Set several small pumpkins of different sizes in the center of the table, either directly on the table or in a long tray. Sprinkle real or artificial leaves around the pumpkin to add a touch of fall.

Tips & Warnings

• Make the children feel special by creating original place cards for each. Obtain pictures of each child and a small pumpkin for each. Glue the picture to one end of a craft stick, or a thin, wooden stick, and insert the other end into the top of the pumpkin. Push the stick down far enough so that little of the stick shows. Tie a ribbon around the center of the pumpkin.

References

• Families: Decorating Tips for the Children's Thanksgiving Table