elementary+pumpkin+projects

During the fall season, pumpkins can provide a multitude of curriculum options. I recommend the following book:

 KIDS PUMPKIN PROJECTS Planting and Harvesting Fun  By: Deanna F.Cook

This book offers craft ideas, snack ideas, and planting tips for pumpkin lovers of all ages! Many of these projects could be used in a library or classroom setting, but a few are best left for one on one interactions between parent and child. The recipes below both come from this book.

Pumpkin Trail Mix 2 Cups raw sunflower seeds 2 Cups pumpkin seeds 1 Cup raisins 1 Cup sweetened dried cranberries

Measure the ingredients into a paper bag, fold over the top of the bag, and shake to mix. Store the mixture in an airtight plastic bag or container. Makes 6 servings.

Pumpkin Soup

1 Medium size pumpkin 4 Cups chicken broth 1/2 Cup maple syrup 1 TBSP butter 1/2 TSP cinnamon 1/2 TSP nutmeg 1/2 TSP salt

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cut the pumpkin in half and scoop out the seeds. Place the halves cut side down on a buttered cookie sheet. Bake for 1 hour. Use a big metal spoon to scoop off the pumpkin flesh. Then, mash the flesh with a potato masher. In a heavy saucepan, combine the pumpkin with the rest of the ingredients. Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally. Makes 6 small servings.

Pumpkin Carving

One of my favorite fall activities for children is pumpkin carving. With adult assistance, children can learn spatial relations, planning and plotting, and increase their fine motor skills while creating a fun project. Here are some pictures of my favorite creations.



Halloween 2002 presented a unique challenge for me. We were stationed in Germany, and I struggled to find pumpkins big enough to carve. From L to R are my husband Kyle, and his demon pumpkin, my American flag pumpkin, my girlfriend Aubrey, and her funny face pumpkin, and Aubrey's husband, Jared and his cool creation!

Halloween 2004. This pumpkin is my all time favorite. It features the unit crest from HHC 61st ORD out of Aberdeen, Maryland. My husband was stationed there at the time.

My husband and his 6 year old cousin, Noah created this pumpkin and this "scary" picture. 2005.

Halloween of 2006 was a family affair! My mom and stepdad joined my husband and I to create these beautiful jack-o-lanterns.

[|Crafting Ideas]