Posted on November 9th, 2023

Thanksgiving is a time for families to come together, express gratitude, and create lasting memories.

As mothers with preschoolers, you have the unique opportunity to instill meaningful traditions that your little ones will cherish for years to come.

In this blog post, we'll explore the history of Thanksgiving, the importance of Thanksgiving traditions, and delve into nine heartwarming family traditions that you can start with your children.

The History of Thanksgiving

The origins of Thanksgiving trace back to the early 17th century when English Pilgrims seeking religious freedom arrived on the Mayflower in Plymouth, Massachusetts, in 1620. They faced harsh conditions and a devastating winter that claimed many lives. In the spring of 1621, the Pilgrims met Squanto, a Native American who assisted them in farming and building relationships with the Wampanoag tribe. With their help, the Pilgrims had a successful harvest that fall.

A Symbol of Unity, Gratitude, and Strength

To celebrate their bountiful harvest and newfound friendships, the Pilgrims organized a three-day feast, now recognized as the first Thanksgiving. It symbolized unity, cooperation, and gratitude between different backgrounds.

Throughout its history, Thanksgiving has emphasized gratitude, unity, and the strength to overcome adversity. It encourages reflection on blessings and the importance of family and community.

Thanksgiving's Evolution

Thanksgiving became an annual tradition in some colonies, but it wasn't until President Abraham Lincoln's proclamation in 1863 that it became a national holiday celebrated on the last Thursday in November. Today, Thanksgiving remains a cherished occasion for families to express gratitude, create memories, and celebrate unity. It serves as a reminder of the enduring spirit of thankfulness that has shaped this holiday for centuries.

The Importance of Thanksgiving Traditions

Thanksgiving traditions hold a special place in the hearts of families across the United States. They are not just rituals but powerful tools for teaching valuable life lessons, fostering family bonds, and instilling gratitude in children. Here's why these traditions matter and what they teach:

Fostering Family Unity

Thanksgiving traditions provide an opportunity for family members to come together, setting aside their busy lives and schedules. They reinforce the importance of family bonds and spending quality time with loved ones.

Expressing Gratitude

Thanksgiving is all about giving thanks for the blessings in our lives. Traditions like going around the table to express gratitude for what each person is thankful for teach children the importance of recognizing and appreciating the positives in life.

Teaching Generosity

Many families engage in acts of kindness during Thanksgiving, whether it's donating to a food drive, volunteering at a shelter, or inviting guests who may not have a place to celebrate. These actions demonstrate the spirit of giving and generosity to children.

Encouraging Reflection

Thanksgiving traditions often include moments of reflection, such as prayer or a moment of silence. These practices encourage children to think about their lives, the people they care about, and the things they are grateful for.

Passing Down Heritage

For many families, Thanksgiving traditions are an opportunity to pass down cultural and family heritage. Whether it's a cherished recipe, a specific way of setting the table, or telling stories from the past, these customs connect generations.

Promoting Resilience

Thanksgiving is an excellent time to acknowledge the challenges and difficulties faced throughout the year. Families can discuss how they overcame adversity, teaching children the value of resilience and the ability to bounce back from setbacks.

Emphasizing the Joy of Giving

Traditions that involve making Thanksgiving crafts, baking pies, or preparing meals together highlight the joy of giving and creating something special for others. Children learn that giving can be as rewarding as receiving.

Now, let's see ten Thanksgiving traditions you can start with your family.

9 Thanksgiving Traditions to Start with Your Family

As Thanksgiving approaches, it's the perfect time to create lasting memories and traditions with your family. These meaningful customs not only enhance the holiday experience but also provide valuable lessons for children. Whether you're a seasoned Thanksgiving enthusiast or new to celebrating, here are ten wonderful traditions to start with your family that will make this holiday truly special.

1. Gratitude Jar

Create a gratitude jar and encourage family members to write down something they are thankful for each day leading up to Thanksgiving. Read these notes aloud on the big day.

2. Thanksgiving Storytime

Gather your little ones for a special Thanksgiving-themed storytime. Consider including "Story Time with Grandpa Ken" where Grandpa Ken shares delightful stories that will captivate young imaginations.

3. Nature Walk

Take a family nature walk to appreciate the beauty of the fall season. Collect colorful leaves, pinecones, or acorns to use in craft activities later.

4. Thanksgiving Crafts

Engage in creative activities like making handprint turkeys, decorating placemats, or crafting a thankful tree where each family member can hang leaves with their expressions of gratitude.

5. Volunteer Together

Teach your children the value of giving back by volunteering as a family at a local shelter or food bank.

6. Thanksgiving Feast

Involve your little ones in meal preparation. Let them assist with age-appropriate tasks like mixing ingredients, setting the table, or decorating place cards.

7. Family Games

Organize a friendly competition with board games or outdoor activities like touch football. It's a great way to bond and create fun memories.

8. Thankful Circle

Sit in a circle and take turns sharing what you're thankful for. This heartfelt tradition reinforces gratitude and helps children express their feelings.

9. Memory Book

Create a Thanksgiving memory book with photos, drawings, and notes from each year's celebration. It's a beautiful keepsake to revisit in the future.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving is a time to come together, express gratitude, and build lasting connections with your loved ones. As mothers or father of young kids, you have the incredible opportunity to start meaningful traditions that will shape your family's Thanksgiving for generations to come.

Don't forget to incorporate "Story Time with Grandpa Ken" into your holiday routine, where your little ones can enjoy captivating tales that inspire their imaginations.

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For inquiries or to share your family's Thanksgiving traditions, feel free to get in touch with us at (602) 775-0151 or [email protected]. Wishing you and your family a warm and joy-filled Thanksgiving celebration!