Thanksgiving is that special time of year when families everywhere come together to eat, eat some more, and eat even more. But, it is also a time to remember what we are thankful for. It is easy to forget, even as adults, how blessed we are. Thanksgiving songs can be something to do together as a family and to show our gratitude.
If you are looking for something to do besides eating, watching football, and taking a nap, here are three songs that are easy to learn. I believe the songs will make great conversation starters, can be fun to learn together, or will fit in great with a Thanksgiving unit being taught.
1. “We Are Thankful”
The four things this song mentions being thankful for are: what we have, who we are, what we do, and who we’ll be. I attached the song so you can listen and follow along. You can easily come up with other things you are thankful for and add them into new verses at the end. This is an echo song that can be divided by teacher/students, parents/child(ren), brothers/sisters, or whatever other combination you can think of.
2. “A Turkey Named Bert”
This was one my student’s favorite songs to learn each November. As you listen, you will hear all of the different motions Bert is doing. Why don’t you try to do the motions you hear that Bert is doing right along with him? This song is supposed to be fun and lighthearted and a way for families to get a good laugh. You could flap your wings and shake your tail feathers during the beginning of the song before any motions are mentioned. After the song is finished, see what other motions Bert can do. For example instead of “side close, side close”, you could say “backwards, forwards” and instead of “flap your wings and touch your toes”, you could say “kick your legs and turn in a circle.” Basically…the objective of this song is to HAVE FUN!
3. “Share Your Goodwill”
If you are wanting to have a great conversation about how blessed we are and how to show others kindness, than this is the perfect song to lead into that. In “Share Your Goodwill”, the ways everyone is different, poor, hungry, or homeless are mentioned. This is such a great song to teach to kids because it is easy to learn, they will enjoy singing it, and it has a good meaning.
I hope you all have a great Thanksgiving and enjoy being with those you love! What’s your favorite part of this holiday?
Thank you! I’m so excited your kids will be excited! That’s a lot of excited ha!
I love this! I don’t think I could name a single Thanksgiving song! My kids will be excited!
Nice selections! I am thinking about how we can incorporate music.
Thank you!