The upcoming months bring excitement for children and adults alike, for it is the season of traditions and holidays. A great way to encourage understanding in children and to help them connect with the world around them is to promote “universality” of beliefs and traditions. Many festivals, traditions and holidays have parallels elsewhere. Thanksgiving can be compared to many Harvest Festivals throughout Europe and to the Indian festival known as Diwali.

In America, we remember the first Thanksgiving Meal that took place between the Native Americans and the arriving Pilgrim Fathers at Plymouth Rock in modern Massachusetts. Many towns and cities will have a Thanksgiving Day Parade and mark it as the opening of the festive season that will lead us all the way to Christmas.

We teach the history of the first Thanksgiving through reading, creating maps and timelines. These are all activities you can also do at home. This is also an excellent opportunity to also explore and understand the meaning behind this traditional holiday as we share stories and experiences within our own families. Consider discussing:

• When and where did your family immigrate from?

• What family traditions do you continue to practice?

• Do you have religious or faith-based beliefs that tie into this holiday?

• What other holidays are you aware of that friends and neighbors celebrate that reflect the thanksgiving spirit?

Being intentional to set aside time from the hustle and bustle of the festivities to help your child connect to the holiday in a meaningful and personal way, will not only make the season educational, but create long-lasting memories as well.

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