Thanksgiving Gratitude Journal for Kids (Free Printable)

This Thanksgiving gratitude journal for kids is a simple way to help children reflect on what they're thankful for and think about ways they can spread kindness to others. 

This worksheet gives kids a chance to slow down, think about what matters to them, and consider how their words and actions can brighten someone else's day. I love being able to find activities that teach gratitude, we do this thankful tree and make this Thanksgiving blessing snack mix every year and this printable is a perfect addition to our Thanksgiving activity list.

Printable Thanksgiving gratitude journal on table with green marker next to it on table.

Quick Look: Thanksgiving Gratitude Journal

  • 🍂 Activity: Thanksgiving gratitude and kindness worksheet
  • ✏️ Materials: Free printable worksheet and pencil or crayons
  • 👧 Ages: Kids of all ages
  • ⏱️ Prep Time: Just a few minutes to print
  • 💛 Learning: Gratitude, kindness and emotional awareness
  • 🏡 Where to Use: At home, in the classroom, or during a Thanksgiving celebration

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Thanksgiving is a natural time to talk with kids about gratitude and this Thanksgiving gratitude journal makes those conversations a little easier. Instead of simply asking children what they're thankful for, the worksheet offers several prompts to help them think about gratitude from different angles.

It's an easy activity to use at home, during a classroom discussion, or as part of your family's Thanksgiving traditions. If you are looking for something simpler for younger kids this I am thankful turkey is perfect for preschoolers and we love tucking these Thanksgiving dot marker pages away for a quiet morning activity!

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What's Included in this Thanksgiving Gratitude Journal?

This Thanksgiving gratitude worksheet includes four writing prompts including:

  • I'm grateful for... Children can think about the people, places, experiences, and little things they appreciate.
  • I can make someone feel special this Thanksgiving by... This prompt encourages kids to think about thoughtful actions they can take during the holiday.
  • Ways I can spread kindness... Children can brainstorm simple ways to help, encourage, or care for others.
  • People who make me feel happy... This gives children a chance to recognize the people who bring joy and support into their lives.
  • Draw a picture of yourself... Kids can finish the worksheet with a self-portrait to make the page their own.

Children can write their answers independently or work through the prompts with an adult. For younger kids, talking through their ideas before writing can help them get started.

Gratitude Journal on table with green marker next to it.

Simple Ways Kids Can Spread Kindness at Thanksgiving

Sometimes children need a little help thinking of ways to show kindness. The thing I love about this activity is that the child's answers don't need to involve elaborate plans or special supplies. They can be very simple ideas that you can work on helping them complete throughout the month of November.

Here are a few ideas to talk about together:

  • Help a family member with a task without being asked.
  • Make a place card or picture for someone at the Thanksgiving table.
  • Invite a sibling or friend to join in a game.
  • Give someone a compliment.
  • Help prepare part of the Thanksgiving meal.
  • Call or visit someone who might appreciate some company.
  • Thank someone for something kind they've done.
  • Share toys, supplies, or space with someone else.
  • Draw a picture or write a note for someone special.
  • Notice when someone needs help and offer to lend a hand.

You can also encourage your child to choose just one idea to try. Gratitude and kindness become more meaningful when children have opportunities to put their thoughts into practice. If your child enjoys this activity be sure to check out this acts of kindness advent calendar for the Christmas season!

Teaching kids gratitude helps build resilience and empathy. As they learn to recognize the things they're thankful for, they begin to see the good even when things feel hard and find small glimpses of positivity when things don't go as planned.

Your Free Printable Thanksgiving Gratitude Journal

Complete the box above with your email address and name and an email will be sent to you with a link to this Thanksgiving gratitude journal which is a PDF file. Please note that this email may take up to 15 minutes get to you and sometimes is filtered to junk and spam, so don't forget to check there if it doesn't land in your inbox. This free printable is intended for classroom use or personal use only.

Thanksgiving Gratitude Journal FAQs

What age is the Thanksgiving gratitude journal for?

This printable works well for kids of all ages. Younger kids may need help talking through their answers or may need an adult to write down their answers for them, while older children can complete the prompts independently.

How do you teach young children about gratitude?

Start with familiar, concrete examples. Talk about people who help them, activities they enjoy and little things that make their day better. Asking open-ended questions and modeling gratitude in everyday life can help children begin to recognize what they appreciate.

Can I use this gratitude worksheet in a classroom?

Yes! It's a great activity for preschool and elementary classrooms, homeschool lessons, or a Thanksgiving unit. Children can complete it individually or you could do it in a group setting too.

Other Fun Thanksgiving Activities For Kids

Looking for other activities like this? Here are some your kids will love!

If you tried this Thanksgiving gratitude journal or any other activity or craft on our blog please let us know how it went in the 📝 comments below. Thanks for visiting!

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