Objective

By the end of this 3-day unit, the first grade homeschool student will have a better understanding of the real story behind Thanksgiving, as well as engage in fun activities such as baking, crafting, and exploring nature.

Materials and Prep

• Storybook about the history of Thanksgiving
• Ingredients for baking (e.g., flour, sugar, butter)
• Craft supplies (e.g., construction paper, scissors, glue)
• Nature exploration kit (e.g., magnifying glass, binoculars, small containers)
• Access to outdoor space or a nearby park

Activities

• Day 1: Storytime and Baking

Read the storybook about the history of Thanksgiving together. Discuss the main characters and events. Afterward, engage in a baking activity where the student can help measure and mix ingredients to make a Thanksgiving-themed treat, such as cookies or muffins.



• Day 2: Crafting

Introduce the concept of gratitude and discuss why it is important. Encourage the student to think about what they are thankful for. Provide craft supplies and guide them in creating a gratitude craft, such as a thankful tree or a gratitude jar.



• Day 3: Nature Exploration

Take the student outdoors or to a nearby park for a nature exploration activity. Provide them with a nature exploration kit and encourage them to observe and collect different natural objects, such as leaves, rocks, or flowers. Discuss the importance of nature and how it relates to Thanksgiving.

First Grade Talking Points

• "Thanksgiving is a holiday that celebrates when the Pilgrims and Native Americans came together to share a meal."
• "The Pilgrims were people who sailed on a ship called the Mayflower and came to America from England a long time ago."
• "The Native Americans were the people who were already living in America when the Pilgrims arrived."
• "The Pilgrims and Native Americans helped each other and became friends."
• "Thanksgiving is a time when we think about what we are thankful for and show gratitude."
• "Baking and cooking special foods is a tradition during Thanksgiving. We can make delicious treats together!"
• "Crafting is a fun way to express our gratitude and create something special."
• "Exploring nature helps us appreciate the beauty of the world around us, just like the Pilgrims did."