Although it’s hard to believe that Thanksgiving is already fast approaching, I feel more excited than ever to celebrate the flavors of autumn with friends and family. There’s no better time to gather ’round loved ones, and for growing families like mine, Thanksgiving is made extra special when we’re able to share its traditions with young children.

The kids’ table at a Thanksgiving dinner tends to be an afterthought, prioritized long after the menu and the “grownups’” table. But why not use it as an opportunity to get crafty with kids and create some whimsical, colorful table elements? These ideas are simple enough to still allow this year’s host plenty of time to put the finishing touches on the Thanksgiving feast, but special enough to make the kids feel excited and amused.

A great trick to keeping the children entertained and well-behaved is providing them with an activity as soon as they step through the door. We created an Autumn Leaf Necklace activity that’s a breeze to set up and fun for children of any age. Arrange all the materials on the butcher-paper-covered kids’ table, and let the children create their own seasonal accessory while adults mix and mingle over spiced cider or mulled wine.

Next, think about clever ways to present food for the kids once the meal begins. What child doesn’t love popcorn? I know my daughter certainly does, so with her in mind I designed a playful popcorn pouch that’s perfect for packaging dessert and controlling portion sizes. Set the pouches out in a basket at the end of the meal, and watch the kids delight in breaking them open and crunching on delicious caramel corn.

Get more Thanksgiving kids’ table ideas, and enjoy crafting with and for your kids at this year’s feast!