Thanksgiving Made Simple: Outfits, Hosting Essentials & Kids’ Activities

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays — cozy sweaters, comfort food, and family time all wrapped into one perfect day. But as moms, we all know that “perfect” doesn’t happen without a plan (and a little help from Amazon Prime).

If you’re like me and love things to feel special without the stress, this post is for you. I’ve rounded up the best Amazon Thanksgiving dresses and sweaters, easy hosting essentials, and fun kids’ activities to keep things simple, easy, joyful, and beautiful this season.

Thanksgiving Reminders for Moms (and Kids!)

Before Thanksgiving Day, it helps to set expectations for our kids — and ourselves. Holidays are full of excitement, family, and lots of changes in routine, so a little preparation goes a long way.

Here are a few things to remind your kids before the big day:

• “Hey Susie, at Thanksgiving dinner, Grandma likes it to feel a little calm and special. We’ll get our wiggles out before we eat, and then we’ll use our best table manners while we sit.”

• “If you think something on your plate looks yucky, you can say, ‘No thank you,’ or try one bite. If you don’t like it, that’s okay — we just leave it and eat what we do like.”

And for us moms — grace is key.
Kids might be hungry and waiting longer than usual for food. Nap schedules might be off. Kids might be in a house that’s not exactly kid-proof and hearing, “Don’t touch that!” all morning. Maybe they’ve had extra sugar or less sleep. It’s okay.

Remember: your relationship with your kids matters more than keeping every adult happy.

If your child needs a breather, step outside and take a walk. Stick to your own parenting style, even if it looks different from others. Don’t change your tone or discipline approach just to please extended family — that can confuse or scare your child.

Lead by example, keep the main things the main things, and let Thanksgiving be full of connection, laughter, and grace — not perfection.

An Easy Thanksgiving Tradition to Start This Year

One of my favorite simple Thanksgiving traditions is something my mom started when I was growing up — and now I do it with my kids! We call it the “I’m thankful for you because…” game.

Here’s how it works: while driving in the car, sitting around the dinner table, or even at breakfast the week of Thanksgiving, one person is “it.” Everyone else takes turns saying why they’re thankful for that person. It’s such a sweet way to slow down, connect, and remind each other how loved we are.

You’ll be amazed at what your kids come up with — and how special it makes everyone feel. It’s an easy family tradition to start this year, and one that gets to the true heart of Thanksgiving.

How to Make Thanksgiving Dinner Easy 

No Dishes This Year - Cute, Sturdy, & Disposable Plates

Bamboo Charcuterie Board with Lid

Extra-Large Warming Mat for Serving

Velvet Ruffle Table Cloth

Serving Utensils

Thanksgiving Leftover To-Go Containers

Classy and Simple Thanksgiving Decor 2025

Easy Thanksgiving Outfits for Women

Thanksgiving Kids Books

Thanksgiving Activities for Kids

Coloring Tablecloth / Banner

Make Your Own Turkey Sticker Activity - 24 Sets

Keeping a Grateful Heart Through the Holidays (and All Year)

As the busy holiday season approaches, it’s easy to get caught up in the details — the meals, the outfits, the gifts, the schedules. But underneath it all, Thanksgiving is about the posture of our hearts. The Bible reminds us again and again to “give thanks in all circumstances” and to keep gratitude both in our hearts and on our lips.

Let’s carry that spirit beyond Thanksgiving Day — into December, into the new year, and into our daily routines as mothers. May we continue thanking God for every good gift He’s given, especially for sending His Son so that we may live.

Let’s let that deep, joyful gratitude overflow into our homes — into how we love, how we parent, and how we serve. When we model thankfulness, we help our children see God’s goodness all around them. May we be a source of His light and peace to our families in every season.

Let’s Keep The Main Things The Main Things This Year on Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be chaotic or complicated. With a few systems, some thoughtful prep, and a cozy outfit you love, it can truly feel peaceful and meaningful.

Follow along on Instagram @ElevateMotherhood  for more easy seasonal tips, home hacks, and outfit inspiration to simplify your holidays.

Affiliate Disclaimer

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission — at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my content and helping me continue to share simple ideas for moms!

Until next time, let’s Elevate Motherhood!
— Courtney