6 adorable and easy turkey crafts for toddlers and preschoolers to make for Thanksgiving.
Autumn is here, and we’ve been busy making Thanksgiving crafts. Below are six favourite turkey projects that are simple enough for toddlers and preschoolers, yet fun for older kids too. These ideas are perfect to try this week as you prepare for the holiday weekend.
You may also like our Thanksgiving “Thankful Tree” craft.
These are some of the sweet turkeys we’ve created in my daycare over the years. They use basic supplies, encourage creativity, and make cheerful decorations for your home or table.
If you’re in the U.S. and waiting until November, pin these ideas now so you’ll have them ready when Thanksgiving arrives. Or start crafting today so your decorations are done ahead of time.
Related: Check out our cute Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream craft.
6 Turkey Crafts for Kids to Make
Put smooth beach rocks to good use by painting them as little turkeys. These painted turkey rocks are sturdy enough to use as paperweights or charming place settings at your Thanksgiving table.
These “Thankful Turkeys” are both easy and meaningful. Kids glue paper feathers onto a plate and write or say things they’re grateful for — a colorful way to celebrate gratitude with little ones.
One of my favourites this season is the painted paper plate turkey. Paper plates are a classic base for kid-made crafts, and the process of creating bright, painted feathers is entertaining and sensory-rich for toddlers and preschoolers.
Save wine corks and turn them into tiny turkey decorations. While you finish preparing the real turkey, kids can glue corks, paint them, and add little details to create these sweet cork turkeys.
Footprint crafts are always a hit, and this one adds a playful twist: trace a child’s foot to form the turkey body, then decorate the feathers by blowing colorful bubbles or dabbing paint. It’s messy, creative, and perfect for little hands.
Another favorite is the toilet-roll turkey. With an empty cardboard roll and a few paint chip samples or scrap paper, toddlers can assemble simple, bright turkeys to sit on the table or line a mantel.
These projects are quick to prepare and encourage imaginative play, fine motor practice, and family conversation about thankfulness. Happy Thanksgiving and happy crafting!
More Thanksgiving crafts for your kids to enjoy:
- Thankful Tree with 2-Ingredient Clay Leaves
- Fall Leaf Napkin Rings
- Tissue Paper Fall Wreath
A simple, thoughtful way to welcome guests is to set out printable turkey table toppers as a small favor for each place setting.
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Enjoy crafting with your little ones and have a joyful Thanksgiving celebration!