MITCHELL, SD (Mitchell Now) — Halloween fun can begin before the costumes go on, with simple craft projects that turn household supplies and fallen leaves into seasonal decorations.
For Mitchell families, crafting offers children an opportunity to use their imaginations, take a break from screens and help decorate their homes. Here are four ideas to try with adult supervision as needed.
Jack-o’-Lantern Slime Jars
Give a small container a pumpkin personality by attaching black construction paper or felt eyes and a toothy grin to the outside. Fill it with orange craft slime for a decoration children can also play with. A clear plastic container offers an alternative to glass for younger children.
Pinecone Spiders
Collect fallen pinecones during a family walk, where permitted. Cut four pipe cleaners in half to create eight legs, then glue them to each pinecone. Add googly eyes to finish the spider. Adults should handle hot glue if used, and small pieces should stay away from young children who might swallow them.
Cardboard Monster Treat Holders
Turn empty paper towel tubes into colorful monsters. Cut them into shorter sections, cover one end with masking tape and decorate the outside with paint or colored paper. Add faces using markers or paper cutouts, then fill with individually wrapped treats. Tissue paper tucked into the top adds a finishing touch.
Ghostly Leaves
Paint large, dry fallen leaves white and let them dry completely. Add black eyes and mouths to create miniature ghosts. Arrange them on a table or attach them to windows and doors with removable tape.
Families can adapt each project to their children’s ages, using washable supplies and letting younger crafters focus on painting and decorating.