Thanksgiving is almost here… and it offers a perfect opportunity to reflect on all that we have to be thankful for. Here, we offer 3 ideas that will inspire kids to celebrate the wonderful diversity and traditions in our communities and our world.
Celebrate with Multicultural Foods
As Thanksgiving approaches, there’s one thing on every kid’s mind: Food! Little ones will love learning about traditional holiday foods from around the world, and you may find yourself inspired to add a new multicultural dish to your Thanksgiving meal, too!
The bilingual children’s book Food, Food, Fabulous Food introduces young readers to multicultural foods from all around the world. Children will love learning about growing, shopping for, and preparing a variety of food.
Multicultural Arts and Crafts
If you’re looking for fun, easy activities to keep little hands busy (and eager minds learning!) this Thanksgiving, try a multicultural harvest craft, like this mid-autumn festival lantern.
Or, step up the spirit of celebration with musical crafts from around the world. A homemade Chinese Bo Lang Gu is fun to make and even more fun to play!
An Attitude of Gratitude
Research has shown that higher levels of gratitude are associated with happier, healthier lives. And luckily, gratitude is a skill that can be practiced and improved upon.
Have the kids in your classroom or family fill out a gratitude journal, where they reflect on things they are thankful for. Each entry can be short – even one sentence a day can uplift an attitude and spirit.
This colorful poster with “Thank You” written in many languages is a nice reminder to be grateful for the kindness shared with the people in our lives.
Free Thanksgiving Lesson Plan
Language Lizard also offers a free multicultural lesson plan that helps students reflect on their own Thanksgiving traditions, and think about how they compare to other cultural holidays around the world.
How does your classroom or family celebrate the spirit of Thanksgiving? Comment below and let us know!