Thanksgiving: Finding Gratitude in the Chaos
Thanksgiving is a beautiful time to gather with family, reflect on our blessings, and indulge in festive foods. But for parents, it can also be a time of stress; balancing family traditions, planning meals, and keeping the kids entertained can be overwhelming. This year, I want us all to take a step back and focus on what truly matters: gratitude, connection, and making memories with our kids.
Here are 8 simple ways parents can embrace the spirit of Thanksgiving while navigating the holiday chaos:
1. Involve the Kids in the Preparation
Getting kids involved in the Thanksgiving prep can help them feel included while easing your workload. Depending on their age, they can assist with simple tasks like setting the table, decorating, or helping stir ingredients. Make it fun by turning on some music or playing a Thanksgiving-themed game as you work together.
Pro Tip: Encourage your kids to write down one thing they’re thankful for to share at the dinner table. It’s a great way to set the tone for the day!
2. Simplify Your Menu
While it’s tempting to go all out with a lavish spread, simplicity can make the day more enjoyable and less stressful. Focus on a few key dishes that everyone loves and consider having a potluck-style meal where family members bring their favorite dishes. This not only shares the workload, but it also allows everyone to contribute to the celebration.
Pro Tip: Choose one new recipe to try each year while keeping the classics. This adds a bit of excitement to your meal without overwhelming you. I’m personally trying this one this year!
3. Create Family Traditions
Thanksgiving is a perfect opportunity to establish or continue family traditions. Whether it’s watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, playing a game, or going for a walk after dinner to start burning some calories, traditions create lasting memories. Discuss with your family what they enjoy doing and make it a point to incorporate those activities each year. Make it a priority to include your kids ideas and opinions.
Pro Tip: Consider starting a gratitude jar where family members can drop in notes throughout the day about what they are thankful for, then read them aloud after your festive meal.
4. Practice Basic Mindfulness
The holiday hustle can often lead to stress and forgetfulness about the meaning of Thanksgiving. Take a moment to simply breathe. Encourage your family to reflect on what they are thankful for and to share their thoughts during dinner. This creates a more profound connection and appreciation for the day.
Pro Tip: Set a timer for a few minutes during dinner for everyone to share their thoughts without interruptions. It can lead to heartfelt discussions and deeper connections.
5. Embrace Imperfection
It’s likely that not everything will go perfectly, and that’s okay! Embrace the chaos that often comes with family gatherings. Whether it’s a burnt dish, a spilled drink, or the kids are running around like wild turkey’s, remember that these moments will turn into the funniest stories to share in the future.
Pro Tip: Capture the moments on your phone and create a Thanksgiving photo album to look back on with your family. You might find that the imperfections make the best memories. I have personally started creating separate folders and albums in my phone for each of my kids, and it’s so nice being able to easily find their milestones and memories.
6. Get Outside
This definitely is hit or miss in Wisconsin, but if the weather permits, consider taking the family outside for some fall (or winter-like LOL) fresh air. A walk, a friendly game of football, or a scavenger hunt can help everyone burn off some of that turkey and pie while also bonding as a family.
Pro Tip: Create a Thanksgiving-themed scavenger hunt with items commonly associated with the holiday (e.g., acorns, pine cones, or leaves). It can be a fun way to get everyone moving.
7. Reflect on Gratitude as a Family
After the feasting, take some time as a family to reflect on your blessings. Share stories, discuss what being grateful even means, discuss the things you’re grateful for, and encourage your kids to express their thoughts. This practice can help cultivate a sense of gratitude that extends beyond the holiday.
Pro Tip: Consider incorporating a gratitude ritual into your family’s daily routine leading up to Thanksgiving, perhaps starting in early November. It could be as simple as sharing one thing each person is thankful for at dinner each night. This year, I plan on posting a sticky note or something on each of my kids’ bedroom doors with one thing about them I’m grateful for.
8. Plan for Self-Care
In the midst of holiday chaos, it’s essential for parents to prioritize self-care. Set aside time to recharge, whether that means enjoying a quiet cup of coffee in the morning, taking a walk, or even sneaking away for a few moments of peace. When you care for yourself, you’ll be better equipped to enjoy the holiday and be present for your family.
Pro Tip: Schedule a few moments during the day just for you; whether it’s to journal, meditate, or simply breathe. It can make all the difference in your mood.
Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to celebrate with family and reflect on what we’re thankful for. By involving your kids in the preparations, embracing imperfection, and focusing on gratitude, you can create a memorable holiday that brings your family closer together. Remember, the goal is not to achieve perfection, but to enjoy the moment and appreciate the time spent together.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Oh, and with the arrival of the winter holiday season, I thought you might also like a FREE guide on simple steps to make your holiday season stress-free.
