13 Nov HOSTING THANKSGIVING WITH KIDS AT THE TABLE
While the holiday season is a favorite of many, playing host can be stressful. If you have volunteered (or been nominated) to host a large Thanksgiving meal this year – our hats are off to you! And our friends at Parents.com are here to help with a few tricks to make for a more kid-friendly and host-friendly holiday.
Skip appetizers.
“We stopped doing them because there is always so much main-meal food.” Ayn-Monique Klahre from Raleigh, NC
Serve greens you can prep ahead.
“I make a sturdy salad in the morning, and the flavor improves by sitting around all day.” Allison Graham from Denver, CO
Host potluck-style.
“Last year, when I had a toddler and a newborn, someone else even cooked and brought the turkey!” Kate Bennecker from Carnation, WA
Ask guests with special dietary requirements to bring a dish.
“My vegan friend Jeni always brings a mushroom Wellington.” Dora Stone from San Antonio, TX
Ask guests to bring whatever they need to make it “Thanksgiving” for them.
“For instance, my dad has to have canned, sliced cranberry sauce.” Allison Graham from Denver, CO
Have the kids make something that can be refrigerated the day before.
“It can be something simple like a marshmallow fruit salad. They’ll feel like they helped make the meal.” Dora Stone from San Antonio, TX
Don’t be afraid to cheat.
“I buy Trader Joe’s frozen mashed potatoes and doctor them up with butter and cream. They’re a huge hit.” Joanna Borner from Westport, CT
Appoint the kids the official greeters.
“They can welcome the guests with a tiny party favor or special drawing.” Dora Stone from San Antonio, TX
Enlist the kids to make place cards for the table.
“It keeps them busy, and when I set the table I can then be sure everyone has the right glassware. Plus, when we sit down, no one is waiting for me to tell them where to go.” Allison Graham from Denver, CO