Let kids make their own cornucopia

November 03, 2009

A cornucopia is as old school as a Thanksgiving turkey, but let kids put their own spin on the traditional Horn of Plenty for a craft that they'll be proud of.

The cornucopia typically represents a plentiful harvest and dates back to the days of the ancient Greeks. The base is typically a curved or horn-shaped basket, and if can be filled with seasonal produce like apples, gourds, dried corn or berries as well as more modern treats like individually wrapped chocolates.

Custom-made cornucopia's will make great table centerpieces or party decorations for your Thanksgiving meal.

To get kids in the Thanksgiving spirit, start with the basic basket and let them put their own spin on it. They could take it outside and spray paint it their favorite color, or decorate the sides with Thanksgiving stickers.

Cornucopias are typically lined with dried grass or leaves. To make the project more colorful and unique, let kids pick a small block of fabric or even a sheet of fancy wrapping paper to serve as the lining.

When the horn is ready to be filled, let them choose some of their favorite fruits, like apples and bananas, as well as a few treats like trail mix (or left over Halloween candy). You could even let them pick out a small toy or book to put in the basket, which they can have on the big day.