Thanksgiving Meal Made By Kids For Kids

Thanksgiving is the ultimate family holiday. We all picture our Thanksgiving table surrounded by family and friends. But what about before the actual meal? You may want to add some kid friendly items to your menu that the kids themselves can help prepare. As an added bonus you may find that finicky kid eaters may be much more willing to eat what they have helped prepare. If you would like to involve your kids (or any of your younger guests in the meal preparation) here are some recipes to try that are both easy and fun. And best of all the recipes are proven kid-pleasers!

Beverage-Here's a punch recipe that kids love to make and drink. Kids especially love the fact that they can color the drink with food coloring. It’s so good you may find this is what all your guests will want to drink.

Cinderella Punch

1 can of orange juice (mix as directed)
1 can of pineapple juice (mix as directed)
A few drops of red food coloring
Ginger Ale
Orange slices
Lime slices
Maraschino Cherries

Mix equal parts of orange juice, pineapple juice, and ginger ale.
Add desired amount of food coloring for a pink color to punch or leave with natural colors.
You can float the orange and lime slices and cherries in your punch or garnish glass with them.

Appetizer-While this may not seem like a traditional Thanksgiving appetizer just remember most kids love chips and dip and being able to make this will make it even more special for your younger guests. Be sure and surround the dip with lots of chips and crackers for dipping.

Tortilla Chip Dip

1 8oz. package cream cheese
1 15oz. can of chili (with or without beans)
Shredded cheddar cheese
Lots of chips for dipping

Spread the cream cheese out evenly in the bottom of a glass pie plate.
Spread the chili on top of that.
Then, sprinkle lots of cheddar cheese.
Microwave until cheese is melted and ingredients are nice and hot.