5 Ways to create a Memorable Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is here! This month, we’ve given you ideas for raising a thankful child, showing thankfulness in your home, and now we have ideas for creating memorable Thanksgiving traditions! Check out our ideas for creating memorable family traditions and consider ways you can create a memorable Thanksgiving for you and your family:

1. Get Active:  One of the things we often take for granted is our health and ability to engage in physical activity. Being active together as a family is a great way to create a memorable time together. You know you’re going to watch football at some point – consider getting outside and tossing the pigskin around at halftime to be little more active this year.
2. Get Creative:  We’ve heard of families having their kids made handmade place cards for every person at the table or letting your kids act out a skit to say thanks to those who made the meal. The point is to get the whole family involved. Consider having everyone draw a picture of the things they're thankful for, and post them in a high-traffic location. Save the pictures each year and make it an annual tradition to look back and remember previous years.
3. Get Alone:  Yes, even if it’s only a few minutes, take time to reflect on what is truly important. Seriously consider the question: What do I have to be thankful for this year? Perhaps it’s your family’s tradition to spend a few minutes before or during the Thanksgiving meal to take turns sharing what you are thankful for that year or to express thanks for a specific person at the table. No matter your tradition, be sure you take time during all the busy schedules to make time to reflect and simply be thankful!
4. Get REALLY Traditional:  There is no need to reinvent the wheel during the holidays. You can learn a lot from your parents about traditions! Keep some favorite traditions from your childhood in play to make the holiday memorable. Continuing traditions from the past is a great way to help connect your children with previous traditions that your kids may not have experienced. 
5. Get Your Mind Off Yourself:  There’s no greater time than the holidays to consider ways you can serve and help others. Whether you spend time buying gifts or serving food, find a cause or opportunity to serve with your whole family. Serving as a family can make for a very memorable family tradition.

Whether it's the classic American celebration of food, football and movies, or something unique that is special for your family, establishing traditions and creating memories are a great way to make the Thanksgiving holiday meaningful for you and your children.

The most important part of the holidays is that you spend time together as a family.  That's what will make the holidays memorable and special for your kids - time with you!

Visit our "Thanks, Dad!" page for more on how you can connect with your family and other dads just like you!

photo credit: rustiqueart