Turkey Day Tidbits: 15 Thanksgiving Facts for Kindergarteners

Introduction:

Thanksgiving is a beloved holiday celebrated in the United States and Canada, filled with delicious food, family gatherings, and gratitude. It’s a special time of year where we give thanks for all the blessings in our lives. For kindergarteners, Thanksgiving can be a fun and exciting holiday to learn about. To help educate and entertain these young learners, here are 15 Thanksgiving facts specifically tailored for kindergarteners.

Fact 1: The Mayflower

The Mayflower was the ship that brought the Pilgrims to America in 1620. Kindergarteners can imagine what it would be like to sail across the ocean on a big wooden ship.

Fact 2: The Pilgrims

The Pilgrims were the first English settlers in America. They celebrated the first Thanksgiving with the Native Americans in 1621, sharing food and friendship.

Fact 3: Harvest Festival

Thanksgiving is sometimes called a Harvest Festival because it celebrates the end of the harvest season when farmers gather their crops.

Fact 4: Turkey

One of the most popular Thanksgiving traditions is eating turkey. Kindergarteners can learn all about this big bird and why it’s the star of the holiday.

Fact 5: Pumpkin Pie

Another favorite Thanksgiving treat is pumpkin pie. Kindergarteners can discover how pumpkins are grown and how they are turned into a delicious dessert.

Fact 6: Cranberries

Cranberries are a tart berry that is often eaten at Thanksgiving. Kindergarteners can explore how these little berries grow in bogs.

Fact 7: Parade

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a famous tradition in New York City. Kindergarteners can be amazed by the giant balloons and floats that make their way down the parade route.

Fact 8: Gratitude

Thanksgiving is a time to give thanks for all the good things in our lives. Kindergarteners can learn about the importance of saying thank you and showing gratitude.

Fact 9: Cornucopia

A cornucopia is a horn-shaped basket filled with fruits and vegetables. Kindergarteners can create their own paper cornucopia to decorate for Thanksgiving.

Fact 10: Pilgrim Hats

Pilgrim hats are a traditional Thanksgiving craft. Kindergarteners can make their own pilgrim hat out of paper or felt to wear on the holiday.

Fact 11: Wampanoag Tribe

The Wampanoag Tribe were the Native Americans who helped the Pilgrims survive in America. Kindergarteners can learn about their culture and traditions.

Fact 12: Football

Watching football is a popular Thanksgiving pastime for many families. Kindergarteners can cheer on their favorite team and learn about this American sport.

Fact 13: Wishbone

After the turkey is cooked, there is a tradition of breaking the wishbone for good luck. Kindergarteners can make a wish and pull the turkey bone to see who gets the larger piece.

Fact 14: Leftovers

One of the best parts of Thanksgiving is enjoying leftovers the next day. Kindergarteners can try turkey sandwiches and pumpkin pie for another meal.

Fact 15: Giving Back

Thanksgiving is a time to give back to those in need. Kindergarteners can help pack food baskets for families or donate toys to children in need during the holiday season.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving is a wonderful holiday filled with family, food, and fun. By sharing these 15 Thanksgiving facts with kindergarteners, we can help them learn and appreciate the traditions and history behind this special day. Let’s continue to educate our young learners about the importance of giving thanks and showing gratitude during this festive time of year.