Everyone eats together at Eloise Goldman's house in Golden's Bridge, New York. "There's no kids table at my Thanksgiving," says the 38-year-old public-relations director for the Mitchell Gold Co., a furniture manufacturer. Her holiday table is designed to engage the imagination of her children — Benjamin, nine; Grant, six; and Chase, three — while still appealing to her husband Jon's sense of occasion. "We don't want anyone to feel left out of the fun," she says.

The Centerpiece

Think inside the box. Look into the toy box (or sewing box or toolbox) for items that can be used to decorate the table. Here, a classic Lincoln Log fort (no plastic roof!) is a playful nod to American history.

The Place Cards

Dish towels do double duty as napkins and seat assignments after the application of collegiate iron-on letters with each guest's initials. (Plus, they put everyone in the mood for watching football after the meal.) "Towels are so much easier than linen napkins, which need to be pressed," Eloise says.

The China and the Flatware

The white platinum-banded dinner plates seem less grand when set upon tartan chargers with a country feel. The antique sterling-silver flatware was a wedding gift from Jon's great-aunt.

The Linens

If it's machine-washable, it works. This buffalo-plaid wool blanket (wash cold; line-dry) is at home at tailgate parties and on the dining-room table. "I love the colors, the bold pattern, and the fact that spills won't show," says Eloise.

The Glassware

Stemware and kids don't mix. These sturdy glasses should stand their ground around rambunctious boys and busy adults.