With Thanksgiving just around the corner, families across Westlake Forest are getting ready for a well-deserved break. As school lets out and kids enjoy their freedom, it's the perfect time for residents to be a little extra mindful, both on the roads and around the neighborhood.

Watch for Kids at Play

Whether they're riding scooters, biking to a friend's house, or zipping around in golf carts, kids will be out and about more often during the holiday break. It’s an important time to slow down while driving through the neighborhood and keep a lookout for young pedestrians who may not always be paying attention.

For parents, now’s a good opportunity to have a quick chat with your children—remind them to stay aware of their surroundings, be respectful of neighbors’ property, and follow safety rules when biking or driving golf carts. And for teens behind the wheel of a golf cart, please be sure they understand how to operate them responsibly.

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Fun at Home During Thanksgiving Week

Beyond safety, the week off school can be a perfect time for making memories at home. Whether you're staying in town or hosting visitors, here are a few Thanksgiving-themed ideas to keep kids happy, active, and engaged:

• Get Crafty: Pull out the construction paper and glue for DIY Thanksgiving crafts like handprint turkeys, gratitude jars, or fall wreaths. Check out dozens of craft ideas for Thanksgiving on Pinterest.

• Timeless Movies: Cozy up on the couch with family-friendly holiday classics like A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving, Free Birds, or Miracle on 34th Street.

• Kitchen Helpers: Involve kids in preparing side dishes or decorating desserts. Little ones can mash potatoes or arrange napkins, while older kids might try a simple pie recipe. Check out these simple recipes on the Food Network.

• Start Decorating for Christmas: Break out the holiday lights and ornaments and get the whole family involved in prepping for the next big celebration.

• Community Outreach: Take time to give back—make cards for seniors, collect canned goods for a local food bank, or donate gently used toys ahead of the gift-giving season. See coverage on Thanksgiving donation drives at My Neighborhood News!

• Game Night Fun: Host a family game night with board games, bingo, or even Thanksgiving-themed trivia. Check out these fun Thanksgiving game ideas to enjoy with the whole family.

This season is a wonderful reminder of the strength and warmth of community. A little extra awareness and a lot of family connection go a long way in making Thanksgiving week safe and special for everyone in Westlake Forest.

Wishing all residents a joyful and peaceful Thanksgiving!

By Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News 

Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.