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You can teach your preschooler all about Thanksgiving whether you consider yourself well-versed in the history surrounding this beloved holiday or not. Start by exploring the story of the first Thanksgiving through the pages of a good picture book, and then make the story come alive with imaginative play. You and your child will have fun learning and making memories together!
The Thanksgiving Story
In the early 17th century, settlers (the Pilgrims) in the Cape Cod area gathered food to celebrate the fall harvest. They had experienced a challenging first year in North America. Members of the nearby Wampanoag people (Native Americans) helped the settlers to prepare for the celebration. For three days, the Wampanoag and the English enjoyed a feast together that included roast meats, shellfish, corn, and other vegetables.
Teaching Preschoolers about the Thanksgiving Story
Picture books and imaginative play can bring the Thanksgiving story to life for you and your preschooler!
Read a Book
The book “Pilgrim Cat” (2004), by Carol Antoinette Peacock, relates the story of a cat named Pounce who stowed away on the Mayflower, endured the hard winter faced by the settlers, and celebrated the first Thanksgiving holiday with the Wampanoag. Take time to process with your preschooler any thoughts, feelings, or observations that come up during the story!
Engage in Play
Use imaginative play to help your preschooler explore what the first Thanksgiving celebration was like. Begin by tracing the route of the Mayflower ship on a globe or world map, and then chart your own voyage through your house or backyard. Once you and your little one arrive at an agreed upon destination, then head to the kitchen to mix up cornbread, talking together about what it would have been like to prepare that first Thanksgiving meal. Finally, celebrate your hard work by sharing a hearty slice of fresh-baked cornbread topped with honey!
If you enjoyed this blog and want to read more, click below for our blog from last month!
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