Thanksgiving Day is a wonderful time to introduce young children to gratitude. At Udayan Kidz, we focus on helping preschoolers understand the values of kindness, appreciation, and community. Through simple discussions, interactive stories, and engaging activities, children can learn to express gratitude for the little things that make them happy. Thanksgiving Day in Preschool is a perfect opportunity to nurture these values.
About Udayan Kidz
What is Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving is a holiday celebrated in many countries, including America and Canada, where families and friends gather to enjoy a big meal and share what they are thankful for. It’s a day to remember the blessings in our lives—like family, friends, and good food. At Udayan Kidz, Thanksgiving Circle Time allows children to understand and practice thankfulness, making Thanksgiving Day in Preschool an important and educational celebration.
Aims and Objectives of Thanksgiving Circle Time
- Learning About Gratitude: Help children recognize and express things they feel grateful for, especially during Thanksgiving Day in Preschool.
- Building Kindness: Teach preschoolers to show kindness by sharing and helping others.
- Encouraging Verbal Skills: Promote expression through discussions about Thanksgiving.
- Developing Positive Relationships: Foster bonds among peers by celebrating together.
- Understanding Cultural Traditions: Introduce children to the Thanksgiving tradition.
Know more circle time activities for Preschoolers
Thanksgiving Circle Time Plan for Teachers
1. Introduction:
- Teacher: “Good morning, friends! Today, we’re going to talk about a special holiday called Thanksgiving Day! Has anyone heard of it?” Thanksgiving Day in Preschool is so much fun!
- Discussion Prompt: “Thanksgiving is a day where we give thanks for all the good things we have. What are some things you feel thankful for?”
2. Discussion Questions:
- What is Thanksgiving Day?
- Explain that Thanksgiving is a day when people come together, enjoy food, and say thank you for what makes them happy.
- Why Do We Celebrate?
- Share that even though we might not grow our own food today, it’s still nice to thank everyone who helps us and brings joy into our lives.
3. Interactive Activity: Sharing Thankfulness
- Have each child take a turn sharing something they feel thankful for, whether it’s their favorite toy, a friend, or something that made them smile during Thanksgiving Day in Preschool.
Engaging Thanksgiving Day Activities
1. Story Time: “Bear Says Thanks” by Karma Wilson
- Story Summary: Bear wants to share a feast with his friends but has nothing to offer. His friends bring food, showing that gratitude and togetherness matter more than the feast itself.
- Discussion: After reading, ask children what Bear and his friends learned about friendship and gratitude.
2. Thankfulness Songs and Rhymes
- Sing “Thank You, Friends” to the tune of “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” to help children celebrate friendship and appreciation.
3. Thanksgiving Crafts: Handprint Turkeys
- Encourage children to create handprint turkeys, writing or drawing things they feel thankful for on each feather. This craft promotes creativity and reflection, especially about their experiences on Thanksgiving Day in Preschool.
4. Food Sharing: Mini Thanksgiving Feast
- Organize a small snack-sharing session where children bring healthy treats to share, learning the importance of giving and community.
5. Gratitude Letters for Family and Friends
- Provide simple materials to make thank-you cards, teaching children to express appreciation to those who support them daily.
Learning Outcomes
- Expressing Gratitude: Children will understand the concept of gratitude and express it meaningfully, particularly on Thanksgiving Day in Preschool.
- Positive Social Interaction: Through sharing and discussions, children will build communication and listening skills.
- Creative Development: Crafts and storytelling allow children to reflect creatively on what they feel thankful for.
- Developing Empathy: Role-playing and group activities encourage empathy and kindness toward others.
Thanksgiving Rhyme: “Thank You, Friends”
Thank you, friends, for all you do,
For laughter, smiles, and being true.
Thank you for the fun we share,
For every hug and showing care.
So let’s all cheer, both big and small,
For our helpers who care for us all!
Thanksgiving Day Circle Time introduces preschoolers to gratitude in a fun, memorable way. With engaging stories, crafts, and a community feast, children experience the joy of sharing and being part of a supportive group. The result is a heartwarming day of learning, laughter, and thankfulness—making Thanksgiving Day in Preschool a cherished event!
One thought on “Thanksgiving Day Circle Time: Teaching Preschoolers Gratitude and Togetherness”