Alconbury Kindergarteners Bring Thanksgiving Parade to Life with AI Creations

Joann Fuller / Jason Lawor

Dec 02, 2025

Students at Alconbury Elementary proudly display their hand-drawn Thanksgiving parade balloon designs after listening to a read-aloud of Balloons Over Broadway. The activity launched the school’s “Kindergarten Thanksgiving Day Parade” project.

ALCONBURY, United Kingdom — In the Alconbury Elementary School library, kindergarten students kicked off the holiday season by exploring the history and magic of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. After listening to a read-aloud of Balloons Over Broadway: The True Story of the Puppeteer of Macy’s Parade by Melissa Sweet, students returned to their classrooms inspired and excited to create.

During writing time, each child designed and illustrated their own imaginative parade balloon. With the support of librarian Joann Fuller—and a little creative help from Adobe Express—students transformed their hand-drawn ideas into vibrant digital creations using AI technology. Kindergarteners were delighted to see their artwork reimagined on-screen and enjoyed admiring the colorful, creative balloons designed by their classmates.

To spread the excitement, the full “Kindergarten Thanksgiving Day Parade” is now on display in the school cafeteria for all students, staff and families to enjoy.

“I truly enjoyed collaborating with Mrs. Vossler and Mrs. Jasmine to extend this activity beyond the library and into the classroom,” Fuller said.

Students shared their own enthusiasm for the project as well.

“It was fun and turned out pretty nice,” said Grayson, kindergarten.

“I liked getting to make the animal whatever color I wanted,” added Josslyn, first grade.

The project blended literacy, creativity and emerging technology to help young learners bring their ideas to life—just in time for the Thanksgiving season.