Representing the first break in the autumn school term, the October half-term is a great opportunity to do fun things with your children to reward them for all their hard work. Plus, with Halloween often falling during or around this short break, it’s the perfect opportunity to get together with family and friends for some spooktacular activities. Here are some frightfully good ideas to get you started…
It wouldn’t be Halloween without a carved pumpkin - and this is a great, traditional, sometimes messy activity your little ones will love to get stuck into. Kids and adults alike can compete in a creative contest to see who can carve the spookiest face on their pumpkin! Once they’re done, don’t forget to position your creepy creations outside and pop a candle inside to see them lit from within. And if you’re feeling particularly brave, why not share the designs on social media and ask your loved ones to vote for their favourites?
Spooky films are a Halloween tradition enjoyed by many. Whether you prefer something scary for older children and adults or a comforting classic for all the family, what better way is there to spend Halloween night than cuddling up with your loved ones and a great movie? Change into your snuggly PJs and slippers and create a den in the living room with pillows and blankets from the bedroom. Some of our family favourites to watch include Hocus Pocus, Goosebumps and Casper. Don’t forget your popcorn!
Enjoy an afternoon of baking (great for rainy days too!) Try monster cupcakes, spider cookies or Halloween cake pops. You could even save some of the baked treats to enjoy on your family movie night. Plus, as well as trying new food recipes, why not make some spooktacular smoothies, too? Take a look at the Cooking with my Kids blog for recipe ideas.
Organise a hair-raising family quiz night with Halloween-themed rounds. You can often find great quizzes all set out for you online, or if you prefer, you could design a quiz yourself! It’s perfect for bringing out your family’s competitive side. Don’t forget to stock up on creepy treats to last the night, especially if you’re inviting family or friends around to join in the fun!
Host a party for family and friends and ask everyone to dress up in their scariest outfits. You could even have a competition and vote on whose outfit is the best. As for the rest of the party, lay out some spooky food for one and all to enjoy and play some Halloween-themed games - apple bobbing is always a favourite! You can also play some frightful music to set the mood - everyone loves a classic like The Monster Mash!
Top tip! Many of the preparations for a Halloween party can double as activities for your little ones. From picking out their costumes to putting together a playlist, there’s lots to do!
Whether you’re looking for a low-cost Halloween costume or you want to decorate the house with your children’s creativity, spending some time at the craft table is an excellent way to keep your little ones engaged during the lead-up to Halloween. The best part about this activity is that you can use things you already have lying around the house or in your children’s crafts box - no need to buy in extra supplies. Head over to The Best Ideas for Kids for lots of spooky ideas.
Put your kids’ creativity to the test and ask them to transform their rooms into the land of the walking dead or whatever creepy landscape their hearts desire! Hand over a box of decorations and set them off - you may need to stay on hand to help out with the process, but let them choose what goes where. Let their imaginations run wild! The spookiest room wins a treat.
Trick or treating is a Halloween classic for a reason. It’s a great way to get your little ones out of the house and exploring the neighbourhood, with the added excitement of dressing up in their spookiest fancy dress and seeing friends and neighbours do the same. And don’t forget to see who can collect the most sweets!
Author: Stacey, published 02-10-2023.
