A Fun DIY Fall Tradition for Kids
Photos by Jamie Plain
As the leaves change colors and the air turns crisp, fall is the perfect time to start new family traditions that bring everyone together. This DIY “Thankful Tree” craft not only keeps little hands busy but also encourages kids to reflect on the things they’re grateful for. It’s a simple and meaningful way to prepare for Thanksgiving while creating a beautiful seasonal decoration for your home. Here’s how to make this tradition an annual fall favorite!
Materials Needed
›› Assorted colored construction paper (reds, oranges, yellows, and browns work best)
›› Scissors
›› Markers or crayons
›› Glue stick or craft glue
›› A small vase or jar
›› Twine or string (optional)
›› Branches collected from the yard
›› Hole punch (optional)
Instructions
›› Collect the Branches: Take a family walk around your yard or neighborhood to collect a few small branches. Look for branches that have lots of twigs for attaching your paper leaves. This is a great opportunity for kids to enjoy some outdoor time and maybe even jump in a leaf pile or two!
›› Prepare the Leaves: Cut out leaf shapes from the construction paper. You can draw the outlines of different leaf shapes (maple, oak, etc.) for kids to cut out, or use a leaf template for a quick start. Make sure you have plenty of leaves so each family member can write multiple things they are thankful for.
›› Write Your Thanks: Once the leaves are cut out, have your kids think about what they are thankful for. It can be anything from family and friends to their favorite toy or pet. Use markers or crayons to write one thing they’re thankful for on each leaf. Encourage them to add doodles or decorations to personalize their leaves.
›› Attach the Leaves to the Branches: There are a few ways to attach the leaves to the branches:
Glue Method: Use a glue stick or craft glue to attach the leaves directly to the branches.
String Method: Punch a small hole at the top of each leaf, thread a piece of twine or string through, and tie them to the branches. This method adds a cute, rustic touch.
›› Arrange the Branches: Place the branches in a small vase or jar. You might need to adjust the branches or trim them slightly so they stand up nicely and don’t topple over. You can even add some rocks or pebbles to the bottom of the vase for extra stability.
›› Display and Enjoy: Set your Thankful Tree in a prominent spot in your home where everyone can see it, like the dining table or a mantle. As Thanksgiving approaches, your family can continue to add leaves, watching your tree grow fuller with thankfulness.
Making It a Tradition
Turn this simple craft into an annual family tradition! Here’s how to keep the tradition going each fall:
›› Set a Date: Choose a special day in early November to make your Thankful Tree each year. Make it a fun event with apple cider, pumpkin cookies, or your favorite fall treats.
›› Reflect and Share: As you add leaves, take time as a family to read them aloud. It’s a wonderful way to start conversations about gratitude and share happy memories.
›› Preserve the Memories: Keep the leaves from each year in a scrapbook or memory box. It’s heartwarming to look back at past years and see how your children’s handwriting and thoughts of gratitude have grown and changed over time.
This Thankful Tree craft is a beautiful reminder of the blessings in our lives and a wonderful way to connect as a family during the fall season. Happy crafting, and may your home be filled with gratitude and joy this Thanksgiving!
