No-Carve Pumpkin Decorating
While jack-o-lanterns may be a classic Halloween icon, carving a pumpkin is not the most kid-friendly activity. The good news is, there are plenty of alternative techniques for decorating a pumpkin that you can use with your child—and that do not involve sharp, pointy objects.
The round, bumpy, three-dimensional surface of a pumpkin provides a unique canvas for children to experiment with art materials and create masterpieces. It’s important to emphasize process over product. All of the activities listed below are open-ended and allow young children to have fun—without being interrupted by adult ideas of what the finished pumpkins should look like.
Tape: Washi tape is all the rage in the arts-and-crafts and DIY world. The fun colors and cool patterns will dress up any project.
Chalk: Use chalkboard paint to cover the entire pumpkin. (My suggestion would be to have an adult paint the pumpkin first and leave the decorating to the children.) Then use chalk to draw whatever you like.
Markers & Stickers: Use washable markers to draw all over your pumpkin. Apply Halloween stickers (or any stickers of your choice) to add some extra flair.
Paint: Use washable tempera paint and large brushes to paint all over your pumpkin. Wash the paint off and do it again. You can paint something new on your pumpkin every day!
Try washable finger paint for an extra sensory experience (finger painting with tempera paint has been known to happen…).
Tacky Glue: Set out an assortment of crafts materials, from sequins to buttons, for your child to choose from. Make a face using felt triangles and feathers for hair. Mix it up and see what happens! (Probably best for older children!)
Want to make it sparkle? Combine tempera paint with glue and add glitter for fun.
Share your pumpkin creations with us on Facebook! Happy Halloween!
SHARED By: Maxine Stadnik, Director of Art at Gymtime, Early Learning Foundations and York Avenue Preschool