Looking for fun and engaging activities to spark your preschooler's creativity? This collection is all about hands-on projects that are perfect for little hands and curious minds.
We've gathered a variety of crafts and games that encourage learning through play, from festive holiday themes to exploring nature's wonders.
Get ready to discover delightful ways to keep your preschoolers entertained and learning!.
Table of Contents
Thanksgiving Emergent Reader Book
This adorable printable book, 'Look at the Turkey,' is a fantastic way to boost early literacy skills for preschoolers.
Kids get to illustrate their own Thanksgiving book, practice reading left to right, and learn sight and color words.
It's a simple, engaging activity that celebrates the holiday while reinforcing key learning concepts..
Pro Tip: After coloring, encourage your child to tell you the story in their own words for extra speaking practice.
See the full tutorial: Thanksgiving Emergent Reader Book
Catch the Turkey Number Identification Game
Get ready for some gobble-ful fun with this 'Catch the Turkey' game! Designed for preschoolers, it’s a playful way to practice number recognition and counting.
Kids will love acting like silly turkeys while building essential early math skills.
The game is adaptable for different learning levels, making it a versatile addition to your activity list..
Pro Tip: For a more challenging version, mix number cards with blank cards and have the child draw a number or a 'gobble' action.
See the full tutorial: Catch the Turkey Number Identification Game
Foam Turkey Craft
This foam turkey craft is a wonderfully simple Thanksgiving activity that minimizes mess.
Using foam sheets, kids can easily create a cute turkey figure.
It's a great way to develop fine motor skills through tracing, cutting, and gluing, and you can even substitute markers for paint for an even cleaner crafting experience..
Pro Tip: Add googly eyes for an extra touch of personality and dimension to your turkey.
See the full tutorial: Foam Turkey Craft
Autumn Tree Painting Ideas
Spark your preschooler's creativity with these delightful autumn tree painting ideas.
Using a free tree template, kids can explore different printing techniques like pom-poms, finger painting, and sponge printing to create vibrant fall foliage.
It's a fantastic way to experiment with colors and textures while celebrating the season..
Pro Tip: Use a variety of autumn colors like reds, oranges, yellows, and browns to create a more realistic and beautiful fall tree.
See the full tutorial: Autumn Tree Painting Ideas
Sponge Painted Thanksgiving Turkey Craft
This Thanksgiving turkey craft utilizes a fun sponge painting technique on paper plates, making it a hit with preschoolers.
Kids can dab sponges into various paint colors to create the turkey's vibrant feathers.
It's an engaging way to practice color mixing and create a textured, artistic turkey..
Pro Tip: Cut sponges into different shapes or use clothespins to hold them for varied painting experiences.
See the full tutorial: Sponge Painted Thanksgiving Turkey Craft
Turkey Bowling Game
Keep little ones entertained with this fun Turkey Bowling game! It's an easy and active way for preschoolers to have Thanksgiving fun while getting their energy out.
You can create the turkey pins with simple supplies, and use mini pumpkins or balls as bowling 'balls' for a festive twist..
Pro Tip: Use smaller, lighter balls or pumpkins for younger children to make it easier to roll and knock over the pins.
See the full tutorial: Turkey Bowling Game
Autumn Leaf Suncatchers
These easy autumn leaf suncatchers are a beautiful craft for preschoolers, combining colorful cellophane with clear contact paper.
Kids can help cut the cellophane and arrange it within leaf shapes, creating a vibrant stained-glass effect.
They're a lovely way to bring the colors of fall indoors..
Pro Tip: Experiment with different shades of cellophane within the same leaf shape to create a beautiful ombre or blended effect.
See the full tutorial: Autumn Leaf Suncatchers
Scarecrow Headband Craft
Celebrate the fall season with this adorable scarecrow headband craft! Preschoolers can assemble their own scarecrow face by cutting, gluing, and decorating.
It's a charming activity that encourages creativity and fine motor skills, resulting in a fun wearable craft perfect for autumn pretend play..
Pro Tip: Let your child choose different colored paper for the straw hair and hat to personalize their scarecrow.
See the full tutorial: Scarecrow Headband Craft
Pine Cone Turkey Thanksgiving Craft
Turn nature's little treasures into adorable Thanksgiving decorations with this pine cone turkey craft.
Preschoolers can glue feathers, felt pieces, and pipe cleaner legs onto a pine cone to create a charming turkey.
It's a tactile and creative way to connect with nature during the holiday season..
Pro Tip: Secure the googly eyes and beak with a low-temperature hot glue gun for a more durable hold.
See the full tutorial: Pine Cone Turkey Thanksgiving Craft
Coffee Filter Turkeys
These coffee filter turkeys are a delightful Thanksgiving craft for kids of all ages.
By tie-dyeing coffee filters with washable markers and water, preschoolers can create unique, colorful feathers.
They then assemble the feathers onto a painted clothespin body for a cute and festive turkey decoration..
Pro Tip: Once the coffee filters are dry, you can cut a scalloped edge on them to give the feathers more definition.
See the full tutorial: Coffee Filter Turkeys
Thanksgiving 5 Senses Easy Reader
This Thanksgiving-themed printable helps preschoolers explore gratitude by connecting the five senses to things they are thankful for.
It's a fantastic way to integrate science and thinking skills into your holiday activities.
The easy-to-prep booklet allows children to draw and write their ideas, creating a memorable keepsake..
Pro Tip: Brainstorm ideas as a group on an anchor chart before children start filling out their individual pages to encourage sharing and diverse ideas.
See the full tutorial: Thanksgiving 5 Senses Easy Reader
Smoky Witch Cauldrons Art Project
This magical art project turns ordinary watercolor paper into spooky witch cauldrons with wispy smoke.
Using watercolors, cotton balls, and acrylic paints, preschoolers can create hauntingly beautiful artwork perfect for Halloween.
You can even use free printable templates to guide the design, making it accessible for various skill levels..
Pro Tip: Experiment with different backgrounds by sprinkling salt on wet watercolors for a speckled effect or using colored sand for extra sparkle.
See the full tutorial: Smoky Witch Cauldrons Art Project
Fine Motor Turkey Math Dice Game
Get ready for some Thanksgiving fun with this engaging fine motor turkey math game! Using playdough, dice, and craft feathers, preschoolers can practice counting and one-to-one correspondence.
It's a simple yet effective way to build both number sense and essential fine motor skills..
Pro Tip: Introduce number identification by using dice with numerals instead of dots, or add a subtraction element by having kids remove feathers.
See the full tutorial: Fine Motor Turkey Math Dice Game
Paper Bag Scarecrow Puppet Craft
Bring a friendly scarecrow to life with this adorable paper bag puppet craft! Using basic supplies like paper bags, cardstock, and markers, preschoolers can create their own charming scarecrow.
It’s a fantastic way to develop fine motor skills while making a fun character to play with after crafting..
Pro Tip: Consider reading a book about scarecrows before or after the craft to enhance the theme and spark imaginative play.
See the full tutorial: Paper Bag Scarecrow Puppet Craft
Paper Plate Pumpkin Pie Slice Craft
This calorie-free craft transforms a simple paper plate into a delicious-looking slice of pumpkin pie! Preschoolers can paint, cut, and glue their way to a festive fall treat.
It’s a delightful way to celebrate Thanksgiving and practice creative expression with easy-to-find materials..
Pro Tip: Get creative by using orange tissue paper instead of paint for the pie filling, or switch up the paint colors to make apple or key lime pie slices.
See the full tutorial: Paper Plate Pumpkin Pie Slice Craft
Popsicle Stick Owls for Fall
These charming popsicle stick owls are a wonderful fall craft for preschoolers! By gluing popsicle sticks together and decorating them with paint, cardstock, and googly eyes, kids can create adorable little owls.
They're perfect for seasonal decor or even as fridge magnets..
Pro Tip: Add decorative leaves or craft feathers to the sides of the owl for extra texture and fall flair, or change the colors to make owls for different seasons.
See the full tutorial: Popsicle Stick Owls for Fall
Thanksgiving Coloring Pages for Preschoolers
Spark your preschooler's creativity with these free Thanksgiving coloring pages! Featuring festive images like pilgrims, turkeys, and pumpkins, these printables are perfect for developing fine motor skills and color recognition.
They offer a relaxing and enjoyable way to celebrate the holiday..
Pro Tip: Encourage children to add their own details to the coloring pages, such as drawing extra leaves around the turkey or adding patterns to the pumpkins.
See the full tutorial: Thanksgiving Coloring Pages for Preschoolers
Easy Tree Painting with Broccoli
Discover a fun and unique way to paint trees using broccoli florets! This simple art project allows preschoolers to create beautiful fall foliage by stamping paint.
It's a fantastic sensory experience that encourages experimentation with colors and textures, and it's surprisingly low-mess..
Pro Tip: Dab the broccoli floret on a separate part of the paper plate to remove excess paint before stamping onto the tree for finer leaf details.
See the full tutorial: Easy Tree Painting with Broccoli
Rolling for Turkeys Thanksgiving Game
Need a quick and easy game for Thanksgiving? This 'Rolling for Turkeys' printable dice game is perfect for preschoolers! They'll have fun rolling dice, counting, and coloring feathers to create their own turkey.
It's a fantastic way to practice number recognition and turn-taking..
Pro Tip: Use different colored crayons or markers for each number to make the turkey more vibrant and visually engaging.
See the full tutorial: Rolling for Turkeys Thanksgiving Game
Preschool Thanksgiving Circle Time Turkey Activities
Enhance your Thanksgiving circle time with these printable turkey props! These resources are perfect for engaging preschoolers during songs and stories.
You can create turkey puppet sticks for interactive recitations or use numbered turkey cutouts for counting activities, making learning a festive adventure..
Pro Tip: Laminate the numbered turkey printables and add velcro dots to use them effectively on a flannel board during story time or counting games.
See the full tutorial: Preschool Thanksgiving Circle Time Turkey Activities
Popsicle Stick Pumpkin Pie Craft
Celebrate Thanksgiving with this adorable pumpkin pie craft using popsicle sticks! Children can assemble the sticks to create a pie shape, then decorate it with orange paper and a fluffy cotton ball 'whipped topping.' It's a simple and sweet way for preschoolers to engage with a favorite holiday treat..
Pro Tip: Read the book 'There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Pie' alongside this craft to extend the learning and fun.
See the full tutorial: Popsicle Stick Pumpkin Pie Craft
Leaf Suncatcher Craft
Brighten up your windows with these beautiful leaf suncatchers! This project uses simple materials like contact paper and colorful tissue paper to create stained-glass-like art.
It's a wonderful way for preschoolers to explore colors and textures while making something pretty for your home..
Pro Tip: Use pre-cut tissue paper squares for younger preschoolers to make handling easier.
See the full tutorial: Leaf Suncatcher Craft
Cardboard Thankful Turkey Craft
Celebrate gratitude with this adorable thankful turkey craft! Using cardboard and colorful construction paper for feathers, kids can write what they're thankful for on each feather.
It's a heartwarming activity that combines creativity with a meaningful message, perfect for Thanksgiving or any time of year..
Pro Tip: Consider pre-cutting the turkey body and feather shapes for an easier assembly for younger children.
See the full tutorial: Cardboard Thankful Turkey Craft
Thanksgiving Counting Mats
Make learning numbers fun with these Thanksgiving-themed counting mats! Preschoolers can use various small objects like acorns or buttons to practice counting and one-to-one correspondence.
These printable mats are a great way to incorporate math skills into holiday play..
Pro Tip: Use natural items found outdoors, like leaves or small pebbles, as counters for an added sensory element.
See the full tutorial: Thanksgiving Counting Mats
Acorn Craft with Pipe Cleaner Arms and Legs
This charming acorn craft brings a cute character to life using paper and pipe cleaners for arms and legs.
It's a delightful way for preschoolers to practice cutting, gluing, and a bit of imaginative play, resulting in a sweet little autumn friend..
Pro Tip: Encourage children to decorate their acorn with markers after assembly, adding unique expressions or patterns.
See the full tutorial: Acorn Craft with Pipe Cleaner Arms and Legs
Quirky Turkey I Spy Game
Engage your little ones with this simple and colorful Turkey I Spy printable game.
It's designed for beginners to practice counting and number recognition by spotting and counting different turkey designs.
This no-prep activity is perfect for quiet playtime or a quick learning session..
Pro Tip: Make it a scavenger hunt by hiding the printed page around the room for an extra element of fun.
See the full tutorial: Quirky Turkey I Spy Game
Thanksgiving Letter Find Printables
Help your preschoolers with letter identification using these festive Thanksgiving letter find printables.
They can use dot markers or small manipulatives to mark the letters, making it a hands-on way to learn the alphabet while celebrating the holiday theme..
Pro Tip: Try using small Thanksgiving-themed erasers or mini pumpkins as counters for a fun tactile experience.
See the full tutorial: Thanksgiving Letter Find Printables
Broccoli Stamped Fall Tree Craft
Discover a unique stamping technique with this broccoli-stamped fall tree craft! Using broccoli florets dipped in paint, preschoolers can create textured 'leaves' for a tree trunk.
It's a creative and inexpensive way to explore art and nature's patterns..
Pro Tip: Experiment with different fall colors of paint on the broccoli to create a more vibrant and varied tree.
See the full tutorial: Broccoli Stamped Fall Tree Craft
Tissue Paper Fall Tree Craft
This colorful tissue paper fall tree craft is perfect for little hands! By gluing small squares of tissue paper onto a tree template, children can create a beautiful mosaic effect.
It's a wonderful activity for developing fine motor skills and appreciating the warm colors of autumn..
Pro Tip: Use a glue stick for easier application for preschoolers, ensuring less mess and easier handling of the tissue paper squares.
See the full tutorial: Tissue Paper Fall Tree Craft
Paper Bag Turkey Puppet
Bring Thanksgiving stories to life with this charming paper bag turkey puppet! By using real leaves or construction paper for feathers, preschoolers can create their own festive character.
It's a fantastic way to combine crafting with imaginative play and storytelling..
Pro Tip: Add googly eyes or draw a face on the bag before attaching the feathers for extra personality.
See the full tutorial: Paper Bag Turkey Puppet
Pin the Beak on the Turkey Game
Add a fun, classic game to your Thanksgiving festivities with this 'Pin the Beak on the Turkey' printable.
It’s a playful activity that helps children with coordination and understanding spatial concepts, all while enjoying a familiar holiday theme..
Pro Tip: Blindfold the children using a colorful scarf or a piece of fabric for added fun and challenge.
See the full tutorial: Pin the Beak on the Turkey Game
Edible Cranberry Fluffy Slime
Get ready for a delicious sensory experience with this edible cranberry fluffy slime! Made with simple pantry ingredients, it’s a safe and fun way for preschoolers to explore textures and develop their senses.
Plus, it has a lovely festive scent!.
Pro Tip: Serve with small spoons or cookie cutters for added play possibilities during sensory time.
See the full tutorial: Edible Cranberry Fluffy Slime
Thanksgiving Sensory Soup
Create a captivating sensory experience with this Thanksgiving-themed sensory soup! Children can explore real or substitute Thanksgiving items like cranberries and mini pumpkins in water, engaging their senses and practicing scooping and counting skills in a playful way..
Pro Tip: Add some kid-safe essential oils like cinnamon or orange for a delightful autumn aroma to the water.
See the full tutorial: Thanksgiving Sensory Soup
Thanksgiving Matching Game
Boost memory skills with this free printable Thanksgiving matching game! Preschoolers can have fun identifying and pairing festive Thanksgiving images, making it a great activity for quiet time or a gentle introduction to memory games..
Pro Tip: Start with just a few pairs of cards for younger children and gradually increase the number as their confidence grows.
See the full tutorial: Thanksgiving Matching Game
Thanksgiving Turkey Sensory Bottles
These adorable turkey sensory bottles are a fantastic way to introduce preschoolers to calming sensory play.
Fill clear plastic bottles with water, glitter, sequins, and craft foam pieces to create a mesmerizing visual experience.
Decorate the outside to resemble a turkey, and your little ones will love shaking them to watch the colors and shapes swirl and settle.
It’s a delightful, hands-on activity that’s both entertaining and soothing..
Pro Tip: Adding a bit of glycerin to the water can help the glitter and sequins fall more slowly, extending the visual appeal.
See the full tutorial: Thanksgiving Turkey Sensory Bottles
Thanksgiving Sensory Bin
Create an exciting tactile experience with a Thanksgiving-themed sensory bin.
Fill a container with a base material like popcorn kernels or dried beans, and add a variety of autumnal objects such as mini pumpkins, gourds, leaves, and pinecones.
This activity encourages exploration and imaginative play as children scoop, pour, and discover different textures and shapes.
It’s a wonderful way to engage their senses and foster fine motor skills..
Pro Tip: Consider adding a scented element, like a cinnamon stick or a caramel-scented candle, to engage another sense.
See the full tutorial: Thanksgiving Sensory Bin