Halloween is coming… and many of us are looking for some inspiration for our pumpkins. Here we show you how to make your own hedgehog pumpkin.

Thanks to Lynda, from Troon in Scotland, for sending in this great hedgehog pumpkin idea. Let’s take a look at it…

What did you do?

Alex (age 3) loves collecting sticks when we are out walking, so we thought this would be a great way to use some for Halloween!

We chose a pumpkin with a flat side, drew eyes on it, and then got out the battery-powered drill. He drilled lots of holes, and then stuck twigs in them. It really is that simple!!

Although I was nervous about my three-year old using a power tool, he absolutely loved it. We explained how important it is to follow instructions because he could hurt himself or someone else (like me holding his pumpkin still) and he really took ownership of the situation. I loved watching him do this project because he enjoyed it so much.

a photo of a pumpkin with sticks sticking out of it - like a hedgehog. eyes coloured on in.

Do you have any other projects planned?

We are planning to try and make snowmen and possibly even a reindeer from sticks and fallen logs we found in the woods.

Tell the Housebound With Kids community a bit about yourself…

I am Lynda, mum to two boys aged 7 and 3. We live in Troon Scotland. Both boys love the outdoors, wandering in the woods with Mummy and Daddy or splashing around at the beach.

Do you have any tips for other parents?

During lockdown, I tried to set out one fun task to do with the boys each day. I find that it helps make it feel like even though we may not be able to go far, we can still do something fun together.

What are your family’s favourite board game(s)/card game(s)?

We love playing UNO and Orchard Toys board games, especially “Shopping List”

What are your children’s favourite books?

We are big fans of Julia Donaldson books, especially Room on the Broom. My eldest enjoys reading Star Wars stories and my youngest love all of the “Thats not my…” Usborne book series.

What toys would you recommend to other parents?

Empty boxes, toilet roll and kitchen roll tubes! Duplo blocks provide endless creative possibilities too.

Has this website and community helped you?

It’s been a great support forum and full of good ideas.

A photo of a boy smiling.  in the background there is a pumpkin with sticks in