Paper Jack-O'-Lantern Puppet

Level ★★☆☆☆ (Simple craft) 

This cheerful Jack-o'-lantern puppet is a great way to introduce children to Halloween crafting. It’s easy to make and can be customised with different facial expressions or even turned into other characters like ghosts or cats! This is perfect for younger children and can be adapted to suit any Halloween theme. 

What you’ll need: 

• Orange thick paper
• Black paper
• Green paper  
• Scissors
• Pen or marker
• Glue 

Instructions:  

1. Fold the orange rectangular board paper in half lengthwise.
2. Fold each side outward to make a mountain shape – this gives a place to hold.
3. Draw the outline of a pumpkin shape on the outer edges of the folded paper.
4. Cut out the pumpkin shape.
5. Glue the black paper inside the orange paper.
6. Draw the Jack-O'-Lantern face on the front using a pen or marker.
7. Cut and attach a green stem to the top behind the pumpkin’s face.
8. Add the handles to the back using tape or glue.  

Watch the video on how to make it here! 

Paper Stars

Level ★★★☆☆ (Pay attention to the instructions!) 

These origami stars are a magical addition to any Halloween setup. Hang them around the house, use them as table decorations, or string them together to make a garland. This craft is perfect for developing fine motor skills as well as patience, and the results are beautiful! 

What you’ll need: 

• 2 x sheets of origami paper (coloured square paper)  

Instructions:  

Watch the video instruction here.

Tips: Fold the second rectangle in the opposite direction from the first rectangle. (First rectangle folds the bottom right corner up and the top left corner down. The second one folds top right to bottom and bottom left to top.) 

Stained-Glass Wings

Level ★★★★☆ (Adult supervision required)  

Looking for a crafty Halloween costume? These butterfly wings could be the perfect pick! These colourful wings are extra magical when the sun is shining.  

What you’ll need: 

• Cardboard
• Box cutter (adults do this part!)
• Pen
• Painting set
• Coloured cellophane
• Double sided tape
• Scissors
• Screwdriver (for making holes)
• Ribbons or string (for the straps)

Instructions:  

1. Draw an outline of the wings on the cardboard and cut them out carefully.
2. Cut out small sections in the wings.
3. Paint the wings with your favourite colours and patterns.
4. Cover the holes with coloured cellophane to create a stained-glass effect.
5. Use the screwdriver to make holes for the ribbon straps.
6. Attach the ribbons so the wings can be worn like a backpack.

Watch the video on how to make it here.

Crafting is a wonderful way to get excited for Halloween while encouraging creativity and developing fine motor skills, patience, and spatial awareness. These fun activities are sure to bring smiles, add a little spooky magic to your day and get the young ones thinking creatively! Happy Halloween to all who celebrate!