Print the 5 Little Turkeys Poem (download it HERE). Read the poem to the children several times. Once the poem is more familiar, the children will begin repeating the words on their own.
To make the Wikki Stix Turkeys:
Set out assorted colors of Wikki Stix on a tray or table. Invite the children to create the five turkeys. There is no wrong or right way to craft with Wikki Stix. For younger children, it may be helpful to make an example of a turkey that the children might copy for their own crafts.
The turkeys in the photo were made with brown Wikki Stix spirals and assorted Wikki Stix ovals for the feathers. Older children may wish to create the eyes, nose, wattle, and/or feet for their turkey crafts.
Discussion Activity:
Ask the children what it means to be thankful and grateful. Most young children have an idea of what those words mean, but they have difficulty explaining it. Children will often express thankfulness for toys, but help the children expand ideas by brainstorming other possibilities (examples: home, family, friends, church, school, food, clothes, activities, teachers, coaches, etc.)
Remind the children that using manners to show thankfulness and gratitude to others is always a great idea. Use the phrase “an attitude of gratitude” frequently when giving or receiving kindnesses. The children will catch on quickly and learn that an attitude of thankfulness and gratitude brings joy!
About the Author: Darla is founder of The Preschool Toolbox Blog, an Educator, and Family Childcare Owner/Advocate. She has been a director of a group licensed childcare/preschool home for the past 29 years. She writes about teaching resources, parenting tips, and activities for children ages 2-7 primarily via The Preschool Toolbox Blog, Squidoo, Wikki Stix, and Sixty Second Parent. __________________________________________________________________
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