Friendsgiving is a wonderful way to celebrate gratitude and even the youngest of friendships during the fall season. A special toddler 'Friendsgiving' themed playdate is the perfect opportunity for your toddler to share and have fun with their friends while enjoying simple and age-appropriate holiday activities! 

Plan the Perfect Toddler 'Freindsgiving'

Keep the Guest List Small and Manageable

When it comes to planning a toddler playdate, less is more. Toddlers can easily become overwhelmed in large groups, so aim to invite just a few close friends and their parent(s). This creates a warm, cozy atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable, and it’s easier for the little ones to interact and play together. Plus, a smaller group allows you to manage activities, meals, and any potential toddler meltdowns with ease!

Plan a Simple, Toddler-Friendly Menu

Food is at the heart of any Friendsgiving celebration, but for toddlers, simplicity is key. Create a menu with easy-to-eat, nutritious options that cater to young palates. Think finger foods and bite-sized treats that are healthy and festive. Some great options include:

• Turkey and Cheese Roll-Ups: Cut whole wheat tortillas into small pinwheels filled with turkey and cheese.
• Veggie and Dip Platter: Slice up colorful veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers and serve with a yogurt-based dip.
• Fruit Kabobs: Skewer small pieces of toddler-friendly fruits like grapes (halved for safety), apple slices, and strawberries.
• Pumpkin Muffins or Cookies: Bake a batch of mini pumpkin muffins or cookies that are low in sugar for a sweet but healthy treat.

Keep allergies in mind when planning your menu, and check with other parents in advance to ensure the food is safe for everyone.

Create a Cozy and Festive Atmosphere

Set the scene with cozy fall decorations that are toddler-friendly and safe. Lay down a colorful blanket or tablecloth as the base for a picnic-style setup where toddlers can sit and enjoy their food together. Add some mini pumpkins, leaf garlands, or plush autumn animals for a seasonal touch.

Incorporate soft cushions or bean bags for seating, so little ones can comfortably gather around. Keep everything low to the ground and accessible to toddlers, making it easy for them to move around freely.

Organize Easy and Engaging Activities

Toddlers have short attention spans, so plan a few simple activities that are fun, engaging, and low-pressure. Some ideas include:

• Thanksgiving Craft Station: Set up a table with construction paper, stickers, crayons, and glue sticks so toddlers can make their own Thanksgiving-themed art. Handprint turkeys or leaf collages are easy and adorable crafts that even young toddlers can enjoy.
• Storytime Circle: Gather the kids in a cozy corner for a Thanksgiving-themed story. Books like “Llama Llama Gives Thanks” or “Bear Says Thanks” are perfect for toddlers and emphasize gratitude in a fun way.
• Pumpkin Toss Game: Create a simple game where toddlers toss bean bags into decorated pumpkin buckets. It’s an easy way to get them moving while having fun!

Keep each activity short and sweet to maintain their interest, and have a few backup options ready in case the toddlers lose interest or need a change of pace.

Focus on Sharing and Friendship

A Friendsgiving playdate is a wonderful opportunity to reinforce the values of sharing, gratitude, and friendship with your toddler. Throughout the playdate, encourage the little ones to share toys, take turns during games, and help each other with activities.

During snack time, you can lead a simple “Thankful Time” where each toddler and caregiver (with some help if needed) shares something they are thankful for. It could be as simple as a favorite toy or a loved pet—whatever makes their little hearts happy!

End with a Special 'Thank You' Gift

To make the playdate extra memorable, send each child home with a small “thank you” gift. A festive goodie bag filled with toddler-safe snacks, a small Thanksgiving-themed book, or a mini pumpkin they can decorate at home will leave a lasting impression. It’s a sweet way to show appreciation for their friendship and participation.

Keep the Playdate Short and Sweet

Toddlers can get tired quickly, so plan your Friendsgiving playdate for around 2 hours. This is enough time for the little ones to eat, play, and enjoy each other’s company without getting overwhelmed or overtired.

Take plenty of pictures, and don't forget wine for the grown-ups!