Many children like to make costumes to dress up to go tricking
and treating and to Hallowe’en parties. Begin by discussing
the origins of Hallowe’en and the symbolism of the different
characters and customs.

• Who do you want to be for Hallowe’en?
• How will people recognise who you are?
• How do you think you should decorate your costume?
• Remember the simplest ideas are the best!

[It’s a good idea to make a sketch design before beginning on the actual costume. This will allow the children to see if their
ideas can be put into practice and to think about what other materials they might use.]

• Think about the best way to carry out your design. What are you going to need? How are you going to do it?

The effect of the costume can be enhanced by making headgear or masks from paper and card. The children can also
think about other accessories they might have or could borrow to complete the costume - a witch’s broomstick, hats,
scarves and so on. Children will enjoy carving a pumpkin head to hold a candle. The idea of this frightening face is to scare
away evil spirits. Koloron^TM fabric could be used for designing, making and decorating personalised bags for collecting treats!

Meeting curriculum requirements:

The children will be designing for a particular purpose, planning ahead and organising their own work. Craft skills will
be developed. They will be using their imaginations, understanding celebrations and symbolism and sharing in a
traditional event.

Tips for Painting:

To realise the full learning potential of this activity, emphasise the importance of designing the costume thoroughly
before decorating on the garment. It might also be helpful if the children use a pencil to mark out their designs on the
garment before beginning to paint it so that they get a realistic idea of placement and scale.

Useful Reference:

Books, videos and CDs to do with celebrations and particularly stories, rhymes, music and games aabout Hallowe’en.

What you will need:

Tabards, Playsuits, Tops, or Flats, paints, brushes, water jars, paper towels and rags. Water-based markers. Shiny
paper, water-based glue and accessories. If possible, a safe mirror.
Note: Water-based paints and markers may run if worn outdoors in the rain!

Activity 0007 Hide and seek
Activity 0025 Be safe, be seen