Thanksgiving is here!!!! If you’re anything like most teachers, you’re juggling excited students, last-minute tasks, and the overwhelming need for a break. Let’s face it—this time of year can be chaotic, y’all. The good news? There’s a simple way to take some of the pressure off: Thanksgiving-themed YouTube videos to the rescue!
Whether you need a few minutes to catch your breath, wrap up grading, or just survive until the break, these videos are what ya need, teacher friend. They’ll keep your students engaged, entertained, and learning, so you can have the mental space to actually enjoy the season. #teacherselfcare
Thanksgiving Read-Alouds for Quiet Moments
These Thanksgiving read-alouds are a great way to settle your class down when things get a little too wild:
- “Turkey Trouble” by Wendi Silvano: Follow a clever turkey trying to escape the dinner table. Watch here
- “Bear Says Thanks” by Karma Wilson: A sweet story about gratitude and sharing. Watch here
- “The Night Before Thanksgiving” by Natasha Wing: A festive take on a holiday classic. Watch here
Pro tip: After reading “Turkey Trouble” – complete this fun Turkey Writing Craft & use it to display in your classroom! These really help students enjoy writing and they look so so good as a hallway or classroom display!
Thanksgiving Brain Break Videos to Burn Off Energy
When your students need to move, these brain breaks are lifesavers:
- “The Turkey Freeze Dance”: A Thanksgiving twist on the classic freeze game. Watch here
- “Thanksgiving Dance Party” by The Kiboomu Kids: An easy, upbeat dance song for younger kids to follow along. Watch here
- “Go Noodle: Gobble Gobble Song”: Fun “repeat after me” dance about Thanksgiving food! Watch here
- “Cosmic Kids Yoga: Betsy the Banana”: Not Thanksgiving-themed, but perfect for calming down high-energy students. Watch here
Thanksgiving Videos That Sneak in Learning
Keep students engaged while adding a little education to the mix with these fun teaching videos:
- “The History of Thanksgiving” by Homeschool Pop: A kid-friendly explanation of the holiday’s origins. Watch here
- “Thanksgiving for Kids” by Twinkl USA: An educational video exploring the history and traditions of Thanksgiving. Watch here
- “Thanksgiving Facts for Kids” by Hey! Guess What: A fun and informative video sharing interesting facts about Thanksgiving. Watch here
How to Use These Thanksgiving Videos
Schedule them for high-energy times (like after lunch) or when you need a moment to regroup. Set expectations for how students should watch, then let the videos do the work while you take a much-needed breather.
This Thanksgiving, give yourself permission to take a break. These Thanksgiving videos for kids are the perfect way to keep your classroom running smoothly without adding to your plate.
You’ve got this, teacher friend!! —Happy Thanksgiving!
