Halloween is a magical time for toddlers, full of costumes, treats, and fun activities. But as a parent, finding the perfect balance between creativity and simplicity can be tricky. That’s why we’ve put together a list of five quick and easy Halloween activities that both you and your little ones will love.
1. Craft Your Own Witch’s Hat
What You Need: Black card, printable witch hat template (search Pinterest for a variety of options), black elastic, adhesive tape or glue, ribbon, and other decorations (like glitter, stickers, or sequins).
What to do: Start by finding a printable template online to create your basic hat shape. Pinterest is a goldmine for easy templates and more detailed instructions! Once you’ve cut out the template on black card, glue the pieces together. Thread elastic through small holes on either side of the hat to secure it around their head (not too tight!). Then, let their imagination run wild with decorating! Add some glittery ribbons, spooky stickers, or even some glow-in-the-dark stars. For the full effect, pair it with a simple outfit in purple or black, and don’t forget those silver rubber sole shoes for an easy witchy look!
2. Star-Themed Headband
What You Need: Silver card or EVA foam sheet (I used Silver Hologram EVA Foam Sheet from Hobbycraft), large star cookie cutter (or star template), scissors, and adhesive tape.
What to do: Begin by placing the star cookie cutter on the back of your foam sheet and tracing it. Carefully cut out the star shape. Then, cut a strip about 1 inch wide from the foam sheet’s longest side. Measure it to fit your toddler’s head circumference, securing the strip’s ends with tape to form the band. Finally, attach the star to the headband using adhesive tape or glue. Your toddler’s new starry crown is ready to wear! For a complete look, team it up with grey star suede slippers for a shining Halloween outfit.
For a complete look, team it up with grey star suede slippers for a shining Halloween outfit.
3. Ghost Stress Balls
What You Need: White balloons, rice, black permanent marker pen, funnel.
How to Make: Let’s be honest—Halloween can be a bit overwhelming, especially when your little ones are bouncing off the walls from all the sugary treats. That’s where these Ghost Stress Balls come in! Not only are they a fun craft to do, but they also double as a handy stress reliever for you. To make them, you’ll find the full instructions here at momgenerations.com. I used helium-grade balloons as they’re sturdier and less likely to split (and it was all I could find in Hobbycraft). Keep these around for those moments when you need to squeeze out a little tension after all the Halloween excitement! (N.B. the permanent marker does smudge off slightly, so you can skip this part, especially if kids are likely to get hold of them).
4. Easy Peeler Pumpkins and Mummies
What You Need: Easy peelers (or bananas), black permanent marker pen, out-of-date bandages (or fabric strips).
How to Make: This simple activity is all about giving your everyday snacks a Halloween makeover! For pumpkins, draw fun or spooky faces on the easy peelers using a marker pen. For mummies, take the bandages and wrap them loosely around the easy peelers or bananas, leaving space for the eyes! These treats are not only fun but also healthy alternatives to sweets. A perfect for a Halloween snack!
5. Dinosaur Spike Headband
What You Need: Green card, ruler, adhesive tape or glue.
How to Make: If your toddler loves dinosaurs, this DIY dinosaur spike headband will be a roaring success. Paper and Glue has really good guide for making this, so head there for full instructions! You’ll be cutting out triangular spikes and attaching them to a simple headband base. Your little one can even help choose the colours of the spikes to match their favourite dinosaur. Once finished, pair the headband with a dinosaur-themed outfit and complete the look with Jurassic Jake dinosaur soft sole shoes. Watch them stomp around with joy as their inner dinosaur comes to life!
If your toddler loves dinosaurs, this DIY dinosaur spike headband will be a roaring success.
These five quick and easy Halloween activities are sure to get both you and your toddler into the spooky spirit without taking up too much time or effort. They offer the perfect opportunity for bonding, creative play, and festive fun. Whether it’s crafting a witch’s hat, making ghostly stress balls, or munching on pumpkin-themed snacks, these activities are great for keeping little hands and imaginations busy this Halloween… without too much effort!
Happy Halloween crafting! 🎃
The Dotty Fish Team
Safety Disclaimer: Please remember that some of these activities involve materials like permanent markers, scissors, and glue. Always supervise toddlers closely when handling these items, and take appropriate safety measures to avoid accidents. Keep scissors and Sharpies out of reach of young children when not in use, and choose non-toxic, child-friendly glue. When working with decorations or small materials, be cautious of potential choking hazards. Happy crafting, and stay safe!