A Kids’ Friendsgiving

When my kids went to Montessori school, they had this wonderful tradition — a little Friendsgiving. The children, just three to five years old, would cook together with their teachers and then sit at long tables with friends, proudly sharing a meal they had helped to make.

It was very cute to see photos of the kids at the table and preparing meals. And it was about more than food — it was about connection. I’m forever grateful that my kids experienced this. It showed them that food isn’t just something we eat; it’s something that brings friends together.

Why Friendsgiving Matters for Kids

I’ve always loved Friendsgiving. It’s a celebration of friendship — and for young kids, the world truly revolves around their friends. Every holiday season is so busy, so full of grown-up schedules and big dinners, but Friendsgiving slows things down.

It gives kids a chance to host, to share, and to express gratitude in their own way. Not just by showing up to a playdate where parents do all the cooking — but by actually making the food themselves.

I want my kids to have this tradition every year — where they gather with their friends, laugh in the kitchen, and make something delicious with their own little hands.

Cooking Together: The Joy Is in the Making

My favorite part of gathering with friends has always been the cooking, not just the eating. It’s the laughter while sipping the wine, talking, tasting.

Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated — especially for kids. It can be simple, colorful, and full of imagination. And when kids get to be the chefs, they feel proud, capable, and connected.

Here are a few Friendsgiving ideas for your little chefs to make on their own (with a little help):

🍊 Cranberry-Orange Mocktail

A bright, festive drink kids can stir themselves — made with fresh orange juice, sparkling water, and a spoonful of cranberry sauce. Garnish with an orange slice!

Ingredients:

• ½ cup cranberry juice

• ½ cup sparkling water

• A few fresh cranberries

• 1 orange slice

• Optional: tiny rosemary sprig for garnish

Instructions:

1. Pour cranberry juice and sparkling water into a glass.

2. Add ice cubes, cranberries, and an orange slice.

3. Stir gently — cheers to friendship!

🍪 Sugar Cookies to Decorate

Set up a simple table with plain cookies, frosting, and fun toppings. Kids love creating edible art (and tasting it too).

Ingredients:

• 1 stick butter, softened

• ½ cup sugar

• 1 egg

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1½ cups flour

• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.

2. Cream butter and sugar until fluffy.

3. Add egg and vanilla, then mix in flour and salt.

4. Roll out dough, cut with fun shapes, and bake 8–10 minutes.

5. Once cool, let kids decorate with colorful icing and sprinkles!

🍎 Homemade Applesauce (Low Sugar, Ready in 20 Minutes!)

A cozy classic — just apples, cinnamon, and a bit of love. Let kids mash, stir, and watch it bubble on the stove.

Ingredients:

• 4 large apples (Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji work best)

• ¼ cup water

• ½ tsp cinnamon (optional but cozy!)

• 1–2 tsp maple syrup only if needed — apples are naturally sweet

• A tiny squeeze of lemon (optional, keeps the flavor bright)

Instructions:

1. Peel and chop the apples into small cubes.

2. Add apples, water, and cinnamon to a small pot.

3. Cover and cook over medium heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. When apples are soft, mash with a fork for a chunky texture or blend for smooth.

5. Taste — add 1 tsp of maple syrup only if your apples need a little sweetness.

6. Cook uncovered for 5 more minutes to thicken.

Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: ~4 kids

Kid-Friendly Tip:
Let kids sprinkle cinnamon, mash the apples, or scoop the sauce into little bowls for serving!

🦃 Crispy Turkey Nuggets with Sweet Potato Dip

Tender, oven-baked turkey nuggets coated in golden panko crumbs — crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and perfect for little hands to roll and dip. Kids can help shape the nuggets and mix up a simple dipping sauce with mashed sweet potatoes and a hint of maple.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground turkey

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

• 1 egg

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Olive oil spray

For the Sweet Potato Dip:

• 1 small sweet potato (cooked & mashed)

• 2 tbsp Greek yogurt

• 1 tsp maple syrup

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.

2. Mix ground turkey with egg, breadcrumbs, and spices.

3. Shape into bite-sized nuggets.

4. Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden and cooked through.

5. Blend sweet potato, yogurt, and maple syrup until smooth.

6. Serve warm and let the dipping begin!

The Magic Touch: Setting the Scene

Keep the decorations light and playful. A few mini pumpkins, a roll of brown paper as a table runner, and kid-made name cards are all you need. We love using Meri Meri décor for a touch of whimsy — it instantly turns the table into a celebration.

Let’s make this a tradition — one where our young foodies learn that the best part of any feast is the friends you make it with.

Happy Friendsgiving, from Feeding Young Foodies!