A Fun Way to Begin the Thanksgiving Dinner

A simple story goes a long way and it is a great way to incorporate everyone at the Thanksgiving table, no matter their age!

Picture books. Who doesn’t love them?

From the youngest child to the oldest adult (and everyone in between), the simple stories and creative illustrations in a picture book can bring everyone together for a shared experience. 

This year, consider starting your Thanksgiving meal by reading a short heartwarming story that focuses on gratitude. Here are a few suggestions from some of the MecKidz staff along with questions to get the whole family talking!

God Gave Us Thankful Hearts by Lisa Tawn Bergen

“I think the trick to having a thankful heart is thinking about the things that make us happy, rather than the things that don’t.”

Lil Pup learns that even when something fun comes to an end; his heart can be thankful when he sets his mind on the best things in his life. As Mama and Lil Pup explore, she reminds him that God is the giver of all good things. Lil Pup learns that even when something fun comes to an end; his heart can be thankful when he sets his mind on the best things in his life.

Family Discussion Questions:
What are some "little things" you are thankful for today?
Which do you tend to turn to first—worry or gratitude?
How can we be thankful even in difficult times?

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The World is Awake: A Celebration of Everyday Blessings by Linsey Davis

Inspire children to be thankful for all of God’s blessings with this joyful celebration of the simple pleasures all around us. The World Is Awake gives children (and their parents) a sense of awe and wonder at the world around them. From blooming flowers in the backyard to the roaring animals at the zoo to the breeze in the evening trees … the world is awake!

Family Discussion Questions:
What are some things you do in your daily routine that you are grateful for?
What are some things you notice outside your window when you first wake up?
What is your favorite part of the day?
How can we take care of the world God gave to us?

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Being Thankful by Mercer Mayer

In Being Thankful, Little Critter isn't getting anything he wants. But on a trip to the farm, Grandma and Grandpa shows Little Critter why thankfulness is so important and helps make any situation seem so much happier even when you don’t get everything you want.
Based on Psalm 107:1, this book will show children what gratitude is and why we should be thankful for all of the blessings God has given us.

Family Discussion Questions:
What patterns do you see in Little Critter and his sister?
Have you ever been like Little Critter before? Always wanting more? Tell us it!
Who is someone that you can help make happy to remind yourself to be grateful?
Try it!! Go find a thankful rock and take it with you all day to remind yourself of what you are grateful for!
What are you most grateful for that God gave you?

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I Thank God for This Day! by Phil Vischer

This musical VeggieTales board book teaches young children to thank God for His daily blessings and features a sound button for singing along.
The Veggies know that it is fun and important to thank God for the good things he gives us. Follow along as Junior Asparagus, Laura Carrot, and the rest of the Veggies enjoy a sunny day at the park and express gratitude for the things that make them glad.

Family Discussion Questions:
What’s one thing from today that you’re thankful God gave you?
What’s one way you felt God’s love today?
Who helped you today when you needed it? Can we thank God for them together?
What’s something you think makes God smile about you?

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A Very Thankful Prayer by Bonnie Rickner Jensen

Help your little one grow gratitude as you join adorable animals thanking God for everyday blessings with this sweet fall-themed board book.

Family Discussion Questions:
Did something today make you smile or laugh? Let’s thank God for that moment!
Is there a person you want to thank God for today? Why are you thankful for them?
What part of God’s creation do you love the most? Why?
What’s a kind thing you have done—or want to do—for someone else?

 

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