Thanksgiving is a holiday centered on gratitude, family and shared traditions. For children in foster care, these traditions can play a powerful role in helping them feel included, valued and part of something lasting. When families make intentional space for children to participate in celebrations, they are offering more than a holiday meal. They are building trust and belonging!
Simple Ways to Celebrate Together
- Cook as a family: Invite children to help prepare favorite dishes, set the table or bake desserts. Even small tasks allow kids to feel involved and proud of their contributions.
- Practice gratitude: Before the meal, encourage everyone at the table to share something they are thankful for. This simple practice helps children focus on the positives in their lives and shows them the value of reflection.
- Create family activities: Whether it’s a walk in the crisp fall air, a football game in the backyard or a board game after dinner, shared activities create memories that children will carry with them.
Why Traditions Matter
Children in foster care may not have had the opportunity to experience consistent family traditions before. Creating those moments at Thanksgiving sends a powerful message: you belong here. Small acts like carving a pumpkin pie together, saying grace as a family or simply saving a special seat at the table, demonstrate that they are part of something permanent and meaningful.
This Thanksgiving, let’s celebrate more than food on the table. Let’s celebrate connection, gratitude and belonging. For children in foster care, those traditions become reminders that they are loved and valued, not just during the holidays, but every day.
