Forget making nice with your in-laws - the hardest thing about the holidays is getting the kids to sit still at a family meal. Here, engaging ideas we'd like to put on the table.
Courtesy of Pottery Barn Kids
Crayons and paper tablecloths do the trick in restaurants. This Thanksgiving, try it at home. A 40-inch craft paper runner is printed with owls, turkeys, and leaves just waiting for little hands to fill them in.
Available at potterybarnkids.com, $15.
33 Holiday Cards to Put in the Post
Courtesy of Nova Natural
Everything is illuminated thanks to a set of six red, pastel, or rainbow DIY beeswax sheets and wicks. Kiddos roll the professional-looking pillar candles; you use them to light the meal.
Available at novanatural.com, $19.
Courtesy of Ellen Giggenbach
Your elves want to help, but the last thing you need before company arrives is a mess. Set them up with artist Ellen Giggenbach's paper sculpture kits. Bright, beautiful, and easy to assemble, the finished product doubles as a centerpiece or buffet table decoration.
Available at etsy.com, $12-$15.
Courtesy of My Sweet Muffin
If they devour their food before you've finished the salad course, set kiddie spots with paper placemats that double as an activity. The 25-sheet pad offers a variety of soon-to-be disguises that kids color in and pop out - while you enjoy your croutons.
Available at mysweetmuffin.com, $28
Courtesy of Fairy Folk
A DIY felting wool acorn kit adds a whimsical touch to your Turkey Day table. Place one acorn on each plate or collect them in a glass bowl for an eye-catching centerpiece.
Available at etsy.com, $20.
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