Thanksgiving is often filled with familiar traditions: the smell of a favorite family recipe, laughter around the dinner table, football playing in the background and the joy of gathering with the people we love.
But for some children and families, the holidays can look a little different.
For children in foster care, those who have experienced adoption and families navigating changes in their lives, the holidays can bring a mixture of emotions. While this season is full of opportunities for connection, it can also bring reminders of change, loss and the traditions or people a child may be missing.
That’s why this Thanksgiving, we’re encouraging everyone to think about what it truly means to make room at the table.
Belonging Is About More Than an Empty Chair
Making room for someone isn’t simply about adding another place setting. It’s about making sure they feel welcomed, valued and included.
For children and youth in foster care, a sense of belonging can be especially meaningful. New environments, unfamiliar traditions and changes in routine can make the holiday season feel overwhelming.
Sometimes, the most meaningful things a caregiver can offer are also the simplest:
- Ask a child what holiday traditions are important to them.
- Make space for familiar foods, music and celebrations.
- Allow children to participate at their own comfort level.
- Create new traditions while honoring the ones they already have.
- Remind every child that they are wanted, valued and an important part of the family.
Belonging doesn’t require a perfect holiday. It requires people who are willing to show up with patience, compassion and an open heart.
Making Space for Every Family’s Story
Every family has a story and not every Thanksgiving looks the same.
For some, the holiday may be spent with extended relatives. For others, it may be the first Thanksgiving in a new home, the first holiday after an adoption or a season of navigating difficult family circumstances.
It’s important to remember that children can experience more than one emotion at a time. A child can be grateful for a loving foster family while missing their biological family. An adopted child can feel secure and loved while still having questions about their story and identity.
Giving children permission to experience those feelings without judgment is one of the greatest gifts we can offer.
Instead of focusing on making the holiday perfect, focus on making it safe, meaningful and welcoming.
You Don’t Have to Foster or Adopt to Make a Difference
Making room at the table is something everyone can do.
You can support foster and adoptive families by offering a helping hand, providing a meal, donating needed supplies or simply checking in during what can be a busy and emotional season.
You can also help spread awareness about the need for safe and supportive homes for children and encourage others to learn more about foster care and adoption.
Sometimes, making a difference starts with something as simple as extending an invitation, listening without judgment or reminding someone that they aren’t alone.
This Thanksgiving, Let’s Make Room for Belonging
At TFI, we believe every child deserves to feel safe, supported and connected. The holidays remind us that family is about more than a shared last name or a familiar tradition. It’s about the people who make room for us, stand beside us and remind us that we matter.
This Thanksgiving, as you gather around your table, consider how you can make room for someone else.
Because there’s always room for kindness. There’s always room for connection. And there’s always room for one more person to feel like they belong.
Happy Thanksgiving from TFI!
