Who doesn’t LOVE pumpkin carving and pumpkin decorating ideas?? I look forward to it every year, and I am in search of the most excellent jack-o-lantern ideas to make with my boys.

Fun Facts about Pumpkin Carving
Before diving into these fantastic ideas, I thought it would be fun to let you in on a bit of jack-o-lantern history. There is excellent folklore around jack-o-lanterns.
I encourage you to research the stories! In the meantime, here are a few fun facts about jack-o-lanterns:
- Originated in Ireland
- First, used turnips and potatoes rather than pumpkins
- The name “jack-o-lantern” came in the 17th century and referred to a man carrying a lantern or a night watchman.
- The tradition came to the United States with Irish immigrants in the 19th century
- They were known to ward off evil spirits
Related Read: Montessori Halloween Activities

Jack-O-Lantern Designs for Kids
For some kids ‘carving,’ a pumpkin is just too tricky, especially for our littlest ones! That’s why I love this one! Making a hedgehog is the perfect jack-o-lantern activity for toddlers and preschoolers!
Pumpkin With Braces
Creative pumpkin ideas are so fun to browse through! I loved this pumpkin with braces! A few sequins and a sparkly string are all it takes to make a pumpkin with braces!

Baby’s First Jack-O-Lantern
For your itty bitties- here is the cutest idea to make a jack-o-lantern that welcomes your newborn into the world!
I’ve also seen pictures of newborns inside a carved pumpkin, so if you get a big enough pumpkin, you can start with some adorable photos! :)

Carrot Nose Pumpkins
Frosty has a carrot nose, so why not do the same for a pumpkin?! I thought these carrots made the perfect witch nose! They would be such a cute decoration on your front porch!

This jack-o-lantern is so pretty! And such a perfect way to introduce a lesson on astronomy!
Clock Pumpkin
How very Montessori is this adorable time-telling pumpkin?!

Finding Nemo Pumpkin
I thought this was way too perfect! This is probably one of the most adorable pumpkins I have seen!

More Halloween Posts:
- 10 Surefire Halloween Montessori Activities
- Animal Science- Study of Spiders and Exploring Webs
- Super Awesome Skeleton Activities for Preschoolers
- Halloween Sensory Tub
- Halloween Sensory Bottle
- October Printables Pack