November has a way of slowing us down. The leaves are falling, Thanksgiving is on the way and there is a cup of something warm within reach. This weekend, try a simple activity that fits the season perfectly: a fall gratitude list you fill in together. It takes about fifteen minutes, needs only a pencil, and almost always leads to stories you have not heard before.
Your free printable
Print one copy for each person, or share a single sheet and take turns. There are six short prompts with plenty of room to write, in large, easy-to-read print.
How to fill it in together
- Pick a cozy spot. A kitchen table with good light works best. Set out pencils, the printable and a snack.
- Take turns reading each prompt aloud. Grandkids love being the reader, and it keeps everyone involved.
- Answer in a word or two. Short answers keep it easy. “Aunt June.” “Sweet potato pie.” “The lake.”
- Then ask one follow-up question. “What did Aunt June do that made you smile?” This is where the stories come out.
- Compare lists at the end. Did anyone pick the same food or place? Circle the answers you share.
Story starters for each prompt
If someone gets stuck, these gentle follow-ups can help the memories along:
- A favorite fall food: Who made it? What did the kitchen smell like?
- A place I love: What could you hear there? Who went with you?
- A happy memory: How old were you? What were you wearing?
- Something I can do: Who taught you? Could you teach it to someone here?
Try this: Save your finished lists and bring them to the Thanksgiving table. Read one answer from each person before the meal, and let everyone guess who wrote it.
Keep the conversation going
Caregivers and adult children often find that a simple prompt opens the door to a long, happy conversation. There are no wrong answers, and if a question does not spark anything today, just skip it and come back another time. If you enjoyed this, the Thanksgiving Memory & Recall Activity Book, Gentle Edition is full of relaxed, one-per-page activities, including picture searches, match games and nostalgic photos, that are easy to share over the holiday.
From Thomas Gable Activity & Memory Books, an imprint of Ripplebound Publishing
This post is for general interest and isn’t medical advice. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
