The fun does not have to end at midnight on October 31st. There are many enjoyable things to do with a pumpkin after Halloween. Pumpkins can be upcycled whether they have been carved or not.
Feed the Animals
Carved pumpkins tend to mold and rot as they sit outside in the sun. They are not good for human consumption, but animals are still able to eat them. You and your preschooler could donate your pumpkin to a local farm, zoo, or sanctuary. It will be a fun treat for the animals. Another option would be to discard it in your local woods for wildlife. Squirrels, deer, and birds are just a few wild animals that like to snack on pumpkins. It is possible some of the seeds will end up buried and more pumpkins will grow in that area for next year!
Feed the Plants
Carved pumpkins can be composted allowing them to be used as fertilizer. If your preschooler loves science or gardening, he may enjoy watching the pumpkin decay and decompose over time as well as using it in his soil come spring. Pumpkins contain lots of wonderful nutrients for soil.
Feed Your Family
There are many delicious options for pumpkins that have not been carved. Your preschooler may enjoy making some tasty goodies with you. Some recipes will be easier than others, but there is always something a preschooler can do to help.
Many preschoolers will enjoy scooping out the guts and seeds. As an adult, you will need to remove the pulp after softening the pumpkin in the oven. The pulp can be used to make pumpkin bread, pie, marshmallows, and even fries. Your preschooler can help by adding ingredients and mixing. She could even help choose what to make with the pulp.
There are different ways to upcycle your pumpkin after Halloween regardless of whether it is carved or not. Just because Halloween is over does not mean the fun is over and the pumpkins are destined for the dump. Take some time and make the celebration last a little longer with your preschooler.
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