877-632-9123Boys Town Experts Help Families Navigate the Thanksgiving Table with Grace and Gratitude
As families gather for the holidays, Boys Town reminds us that connection—not perfection—is what matters most.
BOYS TOWN, Neb. (Nov. 17, 2025) — For many families, Thanksgiving is a time to reconnect, share a meal, and celebrate gratitude. But it can also bring together a mix of personalities, opinions, and emotions that sometimes make the holiday table feel more tense than thankful.
Boys Town behavioral experts say that when families approach the day with grace and gratitude rather than expectations of perfection, they can turn potential conflict into connection.
“We all come to the table with different experiences, beliefs, and feelings,” said Dr. Zach Myers, Boys Town behavioral health expert. “The key is to remember that Thanksgiving isn’t about winning arguments or revisiting old disagreements. It’s about creating space for everyone to feel seen, heard, and appreciated.”
Experts recommend focusing on shared values rather than differences, setting healthy boundaries around sensitive topics, and modeling respectful conversation for children. Even small gestures like offering a genuine compliment, asking about someone’s year, or choosing to listen rather than react, can help create a more peaceful and meaningful holiday.
For some youth, including those in foster care or residential programs, “family” may look different during the holidays. Boys Town encourages communities to think inclusively like inviting neighbors, volunteers, or alumni who may not have family nearby to join in their celebrations.
“The holidays can be complicated for many of the young people we serve,” added Robby Simard, Boys Town Executive Vice President of Youth Care. “But when we lead with gratitude and grace, it reminds everyone that family is not just defined by blood, it’s defined by love and belonging.”
Boys Town experts are available to speak with media about how families can navigate differing personalities, opinions, and sensitive topics at the holiday table with more grace; how to help children and teens feel included, supported, and heard during gatherings; and how simple gratitude practices can strengthen family connections throughout the Thanksgiving season. For interview requests or additional information, please contact Jordan Weinandt at Jordan.Weinandt@boystown.org or 531-355-1273.
About Boys Town
For over a century, Boys Town has been a beacon of hope, transforming the lives of America's children and families through innovative youth, research, and healthcare programs. Boys Town provides compassionate, research-proven education, prevention, training, and treatment for behavioral and physical problems in multiple locations throughout the United States, with a comprehensive array of resources and services. In 2024, more than 3.5 million children and families across the United States were impacted by Boys Town programs. You can find more information about Boys Town online at www.boystown.org.
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