simple pumpkin crafts for preschoolers

Simple Pumpkin Crafts for Preschoolers

By Olivia RobinsonNovember 18, 2025

Autumn is here, and with it comes the vibrant colors, crisp air, and the beloved pumpkin season. For preschoolers, this is an exciting time filled with opportunities to learn, create, and have fun. Simple pumpkin crafts are not only enjoyable but also help develop fine motor skills, creativity, and understanding of the world around them. Let's dive into some easy and engaging pumpkin craft ideas perfect for your little ones.

Before we start, remember that safety is paramount. Ensure all materials are age-appropriate, and always supervise young children during craft activities. Now, let's get those creative juices flowing!

Pumpkin Crafts Using Real Pumpkins

Real pumpkins are a classic choice for autumn crafts. They're versatile, and their scent can be a fun sensory experience for preschoolers.

Torn Paper Pumpkin Craft {Free Printable}

paper plate pumpkin craft for kids to make with the words easy and quick on it

Before you begin, make sure to choose pumpkins that are small and have a flat base for stability. Also, consider using a pumpkin carving tool designed for kids, which has a safer, rounded edge.

Painted Pumpkins

This no-carve option is perfect for younger children. You'll need acrylic paint, paintbrushes, and some imagination. Let your preschoolers paint their pumpkins with bright colors, patterns, or even turn them into a cute animal or character.

four paper pumpkins with faces cut out to look like they have teeth and mouths

For added fun, you can also create a "pumpkin spa" by mixing some water with a few drops of paint to make "paint water." This allows children to "wash" their painted pumpkins, mimicking a real spa experience.

Pom-Pom Pumpkins

Transform your pumpkins into adorable pom-pom pumpkins with a little help from some hot glue and colorful pom-poms. Draw a face on the pumpkin with a marker, then glue on the pom-poms for the nose, eyes, and mouth. You can also add a green pipe cleaner stem for a touch of realism.

This craft encourages fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Plus, it's a great way to reuse those leftover pom-poms from other craft projects!

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two pumpkins with arms and legs made out of paper

two paper pumpkins with faces cut out of them on top of a wooden table

a printable pumpkin cut out with the words build a jack - o'lantern

Pumpkin Crafts Using Paper and Cardstock

Paper pumpkin crafts are a great alternative when real pumpkins aren't available. They're also perfect for year-round use and can be stored for future crafting sessions.

Here are some simple paper pumpkin craft ideas that your preschoolers will love:

Paper Plate Pumpkins

Paper plates are an excellent base for creating pumpkins. Cut out a stem shape from orange construction paper, then glue it onto a paper plate. Let your child decorate their pumpkin with markers, paint, or stickers. They can also cut out and glue on additional shapes to create a unique design.

paper plate pumpkin handprint craft for toddlers with the words, little pumpkin handprint card

beaded pipe cleaner pumpkins made from orange beads and green caps with the words beaded pipe cleaner pumpkins on them

The 20-Minute Pumpkin Craft That Works for the Whole Class

Unleash Your Creativity with Toilet Paper Roll Pumpkins

paper strips pumpkin craft for kids to make

Pumpkin Paper Plate Craft For Kids (Free PDF Template)

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a child's handprinted pumpkin on top of a paper plate

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some paper pumpkins are sitting on the table next to scissors and glue stickers

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For a more challenging activity, you can help your child cut out a pumpkin shape from the paper plate, then decorate it as desired.

Paper Bag Pumpkins

Brown paper lunch bags can be transformed into cute little pumpkins with just a few supplies. Draw a pumpkin face on the bag, then cut out a stem shape from orange construction paper and glue it on. For added fun, you can also fill the bag with small treats or toys to create a "pumpkin piñata."

This craft is not only fun but also helps children understand the concept of recycling and reusing materials.

Paper Pumpkin Puppets

Create simple pumpkin puppets using paper, markers, and craft sticks. Draw a pumpkin shape on orange paper, then cut it out and glue it onto a craft stick. Let your child decorate their pumpkin with markers or other embellishments. Once dry, they can use their puppets to put on a puppet show, encouraging creativity and storytelling skills.

For an added challenge, you can help your child create additional characters for their puppet show, such as a witch, a cat, or a friendly ghost.

Encourage your preschoolers to explore their creativity and have fun with these simple pumpkin crafts. Happy crafting, and enjoy the beautiful autumn season!