Pilgrim Activities for Preschoolers
When I started putting together this list of Pilgrim Activities for Preschoolers, I wanted to find simple, hands-on ways to introduce early learners to Thanksgiving history. It’s a time when we talk about gratitude and community, and I love sharing stories that bring those ideas to life for younger kids.
Check out my list of fun Thanksgiving Activities for Kids, where I mix crafts, printables, and learning ideas. These pilgrim-themed ideas are a fun addition to that list and can easily fit into your lessons this season.
I’m sharing easy, engaging ideas that preschoolers can enjoy while learning about early settlers and gratitude. Keep reading to see how these creative activities can make Thanksgiving lessons meaningful and memorable.
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Why Do Kids Need to Learn About the Pilgrims?
Understanding the story of the pilgrims gives kids context for Thanksgiving and helps them appreciate cooperation and gratitude.
- Build Historical Awareness: It’s never too early to help children recognize important moments from the past in simple ways.
- Encourage Gratitude: Learning why the pilgrims gave thanks helps children understand appreciation in their own lives.
- Develop Empathy: The pilgrims’ challenges remind kids to value comfort and community.
- Connect to Tradition: Knowing the history behind Thanksgiving gives the holiday deeper meaning for families.
Recommended Books About the Pilgrims
Reading picture books is an easy way to introduce young children to the pilgrims’ story. I always start with books that use engaging illustrations and simple language to make history relatable.
The First Thanksgiving: A Lift-the-Flap BookOne Little, Two Little, Three Little Pilgrims (Picture Puffin Books)Pete the Cat: The First Thanksgiving: A Thanksgiving Lift-the-Flap Book for KidsThe Itsy Bitsy PilgrimThe Story of the Pilgrims (Pictureback)The Pilgrims’ First Thanksgiving
Skills Kids Will Learn from These Pilgrim-Themed Projects
These activities don’t just keep kids busy; they help them build important early learning skills while exploring history.
- Fine Motor Practice: Cutting, gluing, and coloring strengthen hand coordination.
- Listening and Following Directions: Crafts and printables teach patience and focus.
- Creativity: Making pilgrim hats or Mayflower crafts encourages imagination.
- Cognitive Skills: Matching, sorting, and sequencing activities reinforce early learning foundations.
Recommended Fall Printable Packs
If you want ready-to-go learning materials, I recommend my fall printable packs. These sets make planning lessons simple and fun.
Why Did the Pilgrims Celebrate the First Thanksgiving?
The first Thanksgiving was about gratitude and community after a difficult year. The pilgrims had survived harsh conditions and wanted to celebrate their first successful harvest with the Wampanoag people, who had helped them learn to farm and fish.
When I shared this story with my kids when they were younger, we talked about how working together made that first celebration possible. It’s a beautiful reminder of friendship, teamwork, and thankfulness.
Thanksgiving Toys I Recommend
Hands-on play helps kids remember what they learn. I like using Thanksgiving-themed toys that encourage pretend play, storytelling, and creativity around the season.
How to Extend the Activity
If your kids want more after finishing these projects, there are plenty of ways to expand the learning.
- Thanksgiving Games for Preschoolers: Try these fun games to keep kids active while learning about the holiday.
- Thanksgiving Coloring Pages: Print these coloring sheets for quiet time or morning work.
- Storytelling Time: After crafting, encourage kids to tell their own version of the pilgrims’ journey. It helps with sequencing and imagination.
- Family Gratitude Jar: Have everyone add notes about what they’re thankful for each day leading up to Thanksgiving.
More Thanksgiving Activities to Try
Here are even more Thanksgiving ideas your kids will love exploring together.
- Thanksgiving Picture Books and Chapter Books for Kids
- Thanksgiving Coloring Pages for Elementary Students
- Thanksgiving Books for Kids
- 30 Fun and Simple Thanksgiving Art Projects by Simple Everyday Mom
- Free Printable Thanksgiving Worksheets for Kindergarten by Darcy and Brian
Teaching kids about pilgrims through crafts and play helps make Thanksgiving lessons meaningful. These pilgrim crafts and learning ideas for preschoolers are simple, educational, and fun ways to celebrate the season together while connecting history with creativity.