Building Skills Through Thanksgiving Fun!
Thanksgiving provides endless natural opportunities for developmental growth — from fine motor and sensory skills to social participation and self-confidence. Keep it playful, flexible, and connection-focused. Every stir, snip, and smile counts toward your child’s independence and joy!
Kitchen Helpers
Invite your child into the kitchen for small, manageable jobs:
Tearing lettuce for salad or washing fruit
Stirring batter or mashing potatoes
Transferring ingredients with measuring cups
Setting the table (napkins, utensils, placemats)
OT Focus: These tasks build fine motor strength, bilateral coordination, and sequencing — plus confidence in doing “grown-up” work!
Keep Bodies Regulated During Big Gatherings
Large family meals, new foods, and unpredictable schedules can be a lot for kids. Support regulation with:
Movement breaks: animal walks, carrying serving dishes, or outdoor play before mealtime.
Calm corners: a cozy spot with headphones, a favorite fidget, or a book for quiet time.
Predictability: review the plan for the day and use visuals (“first we cook, then we eat, then we play”).
OT Focus: Sensory breaks and structured routines help kids stay calm, focused, and flexible during busy family events.
Fine Motor Thanksgiving Crafts
Add skill-building to your holiday décor!
Trace your child’s hand to make a “Thankful Turkey.” Write one thing they’re grateful for on each feather.
Cut out leaves or pumpkins to decorate a gratitude tree.
Make “place cards” for the table by writing or stamping names.
OT Focus: Cutting, writing, gluing, and coloring strengthen hand skills and support bilateral coordination while fostering gratitude and creativity.
Mindful Moments of Gratitude
Model mindfulness by naming what you’re thankful for out loud. Encourage your child to share theirs, draw it, or add it to a “Thankful Jar.”
OT Focus: Building emotional awareness and reflection helps children connect to positive routines and self-regulation.
At Creating Connections OT, we’re here to help your child thrive—emotionally, physically, and socially. If this post resonated with you and you're wondering what the next step looks like, our New Client Page has everything you need. From what to expect in your first session to how we support your child’s unique goals, it’s all just a click away.