Draw a large tree trunk with branches approximately 15 inches tall on brown craft paper using a pencil.
Cut out the tree trunk, and staple it to a bulletin board, or use double-sided tape to attach it to a wall.
Instruct the children to trace their hands on red, yellow or green construction paper with pencils and cut them out with scissors. Younger children can use safety scissors.
Ask each child to write what they are thankful for, such as having loving parents or owning the best dog in the world. Younger children may need an adult to help write their message. Collect the leaves from the children.
Staple or use double-sided tap to attach the handprint leaves to the braches of the tree. Spread the hands across the tree branches with the fingers facing upwards. Be sure the writing is facing outwards and not hidden by other hand leaves.