The traditional Thanksgiving dinner planning is typically an adults only venture. Although kids may not be able to help with many aspects of the meal, they can create unique art projects to be used as dinner decorations. Help your pint sized Picasso contribute to this family holiday celebration by designing a colorful thanksgiving placemat.
Materials Needed to Create the Thanksgiving Placemat
Parents should help children to gather the materials needed for this project prior to beginning the art making process. Always choose age appropriate materials that are non-toxic. Most materials can either be found around the home or purchased at an arts and crafts supply store.
- large sheet of card stock (at least 11 x 17 inches)
- markers or crayons
- clear drying, non-toxic glue
- scissors
- clear acetate
- plastic wrap
- tape
- optional: craft feathers or glitter
Steps to Create Kids’ Holiday Art Project
This art activity can be done with toddlers to teens. Adapt the steps, and materials, to match the child’s age.
- Discuss Thanksgiving with your child. Try reading a book about the holiday from the local library.
- Choose a theme. Brainstorm ideas such as Pilgrims, turkeys, or a cornucopia.
- Have your child draw her idea onto the card stock with markers or crayons. Ask her to use the entire sheet of paper. For example, if she is designing a cornucopia make sure that it takes up more than just a small corner of the card stock.
- Optional: Add embellishments to the design with glitter and glue or craft feathers. Glitter lines can add flare to the drawing and feathers can be attached to a turkey drawing for a textured effect.
- Cut a piece of clear acetate to fit the card stock. Younger children may need a parent or other adult to do this step for them.
- Draw thin glue lines near the edge of the card stock. Place the acetate sheet over top. Press down along the glue lines, and allow time to dry.
- For added protection, cover the entire placemat with a sheet of plastic wrap. Secure onto the back with small pieces of tape.
Caring for the Thanksgiving Art Placemat
This very special child made placemat may not stand up to a long Thanksgiving dinner in the same way that a store bought mat would. If possible, avoid spilling liquids (especially hot liquids) onto the surface. If the placemat does get dirty, try wiping it with a clean towel or remove the outer layer of plastic wrap and add a new one.
This festive holiday activity will help children from young to old get into the Thanksgiving spirit. Choose your own theme and create a unique design that reflects the holiday. Make one special mat or design an entire dining set for all of the guests to use.
Erica Loop - I am a mother and a professional Arts Educator, teaching visual arts programs to children ages three and up in both museum and school ...
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