The Hip Mom's Guide to Thanksgiving

How do we teach our kids to be thankful? How do we focus on our blessings while we are running around basting turkeys and mashing potatoes? How can we keep the focus off of food and football and on thanking God for all of our blessings? Well, here are a few suggestions that I have.... I think it would be nice to have a station set up for the kids on Thanksgiving Day with paper, scissors, markers, crayons, stickers, etc.. Each child can make a list of what they are thankful for (parents can help the little ones). Then, they can decorate their lists and share them with the family. As the family sits down to dinner, I think it's nice to go around the table and have each guest name one thing that they are thankful for. Finally, I think it's important to take the time to discuss the first thanksgiving and the sacrifices that were made so many years ago for the freedom that we enjoy today. Of course, it's easy to plan all of these things if you are hosting the party. If you are a guest, you could bring the craft for the kids and start up positive discussion at the table! What ideas do you have? How does your family celebrate Thanksgiving? - Barbie Schowalter