HALLOWEEN is still over a week away, but it's never too early to start planning those costumes and decorations for trick or treating.
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This year has had its own dose of scariness, so why not add some cheer to Halloween this year with some colourful craft ideas with fun themes and bright colours.
Shannon Wong-Nizic, a craft expert and owner of 'ohcreativeday', an online parenting resource, said that little children often find Halloween symbols and imagery frightening, so lightning it up with fun colours and getting immersed in non-spooky craft can help ease fears.
"Craft can be so much fun for little ones, and you don't have to go crazy buying up half a craft shop - just a few simple materials are all you need," she said.
"I really love Pilot's Pintor Paint Markers; they have 24 amazing colours, including metallics and pastels so that you can get even more creative.
"I have used them this Halloween to develop a Bat Mask, Trick or Treat Bag and a colourful Ghosty Mask."
Here are Shannon's top tips for colourful and fun Halloween crafting:
- Process not product - When children get creative, it's powerful to let them have ownership over their project. Try to avoid micro-managing the process and let them create as they please.
- Get stuck in - Roll up your sleeves and have a go along-side your children. Just create what is in your mind and let them make what's in theirs. It can be incredibly bonding, and it's a great way to have fun and connect with your kids.
- Comfort zone - If the thought of craft sends shivers up your spine, then stick to the basics. Forget multiple fabrics, glitter and textiles - go with the low mess option. Colours, glue, scissors and card are really all you need.
- Boost confidence - If your littlies ask for help, try and use open-ended questions such as: "How can I help you?" or, "Where would you like me to cut/glue/stick?" Even though you are helping with parts of the project, they still have full control over the process.
For more crafting ideas, check out Shannon's Instagram page, ohcreativeday, or her website: ohcreativeday.com.
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