One of our favorite fall traditions is taking the girls pumpkin picking at a local farm. There's just something about picking out the perfect pumpkin, enjoying all the fall activities, and making memories together.
But once we get those pumpkins home, the big question is: Now what?!
Pumpkin carving is fun, but let's be real. Between the mess, the sharp tools, and cleaning up all those pumpkin guts, sometimes mama just isn't in the mood! Some years, we skip carving altogether.
If you're looking for fun, easy fall activities to do with your kids, here are five ways to put those pumpkins to good use!
This is one of the easiest alternatives to pumpkin carving, especially for younger kids!
Grab some washable paint, brushes, and a few pumpkins, and let the kids get creative. They can paint silly faces, colorful patterns, or their favorite characters.
Mom tip: Put down an old tablecloth or newspaper first. Cleanup will be so much easier!
If you're not feeling super crafty, I get it! Stores like Michaels often have fun seasonal pumpkin decorating supplies and kits that make decorating simple.
How cute would this be?!
Have everyone in the family decorate a pumpkin to look like themselves. You can use paint, yarn for hair, felt, or whatever craft supplies you already have at home.
Line them up on the porch and take a family photo with your pumpkin creations. It's such a fun way to make a memory and something you can turn into a yearly tradition!
If you do decide to carve your pumpkins, don't toss those seeds!
Roasting pumpkin seeds is a simple activity you can do together, and the kids get a yummy snack afterward.
Easy Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Rinse the seeds and remove the pumpkin pulp.
Pat them dry really well.
Toss with a little olive oil, salt, and your favorite seasoning.
Spread them on a baking sheet.
Bake at 325°F for about 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and crisp.
Let them cool before enjoying! Adults should handle the oven, and whole pumpkin seeds aren't suitable for very young children because of choking risk.
At the end of the day, it doesn't matter whether your pumpkins are perfectly painted, beautifully carved, or covered in googly eyes.
What matters is spending time together, laughing, getting a little messy, and creating memories your kids will remember.
So grab those pumpkins, put on some music, and make an afternoon out of it. Happy fall, mamas! 🍂
Looking for more fun ways to make memories with your little ones? Join Memory Makers, our email list for moms who love creating meaningful moments with their families.
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Amber Bowie
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