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October Half Term and Halloween in Devon 2024

Updated 21/10/2024

Summer might be over – but there’s loads to love about autumn…

Autumn brings with it an amazing array of colours and contrasts, so whatever your plans are, step outdoors and make the most of this awesome season…

 

 

Full Devon event listings

 

 

 

 

Message from NHS Devon - Increase in childhood infections prompts vaccine call

Childhood infections like measles and whooping cough are rising, with outbreaks across the country.

Such infections can have a huge impact on your child’s life. They can miss out on school due to time spent unwell, be hospitalised, and even experience life-long complications and disability.

If your child isn’t vaccinated, they’re not protected.

It is important for parents to take up the offer of the NHS’ free childhood immunisation programme as soon as they are offered ensure your child has the best protection.

However, if you or your child have missed a vaccine, it is never too late to check if you can catch up.

Check your child’s Red Book to see if they have missed any vaccines or check with your GP if you are unsure.

Visit www.nhs.uk/childhoodvaccinations

 

Kids back at school? Now is the time to get that qualification

Learn Devon offer a range of qualifications and courses for adult learners, helping to boost your skills at home and in the workplace. Join a course with Devon County Council's adult education provider, Learn Devon.

They offer courses in English, maths, digital skills & IT, alongside a selection of qualifications for the workplace, including GCSEs and Functional Skills. Their groups are small and welcoming. Their tutors are friendly, patient and passionate about helping our learners.

Find out more about their courses on our website: www.learndevon.co.uk/courses

 

Villains Unleashed!

It’s time for the princesses to step aside as the Villains are unleashed!

This devilishly fun show brings together all your favourite Villains for the ultimate Halloween party.

Losing their magic powers as the screams of Halloween fade away, the Villains plan the perfect Halloween party. Join them as they plot and scheme to conjure up a magical event, guaranteed to make everyone celebrate the most haunting time of year.

 

Prepare to be spellbound with this hour-long show of spine-tingling songs, chilling choreography, and devilish party dances guaranteed to get you trembling in your seats.  Dress up in your favourite Halloween costume and if you dare… join the Villains themselves for a FREE meet and greet after the show. Book now, it’s going to be a scream!

Find out more and book at www.hotrockgroup.co.uk

 

Halloween at The Beehive Theatre!

Visit The Beehive in Honiton for Halloween and join in the spooky fun with their interactive family shows! On Friday 25th October - The Canterville Ghost! Enjoy comedy and chills in this original adaptation of the Oscar Wilde’s tale, written especially for children. On Wednesday 30th October they are looking for all witches & Wizards to go in their fancy dress to learn about magical tricks and try sorcery for themselves with The Silverdrake Academy for Witches and Wizards! Includes craft activity, drink and snack. Child’s ticket from £9. Family (x4) ticket just £35!

Find out more/ Book now: Beehivehoniton.co.uk Box Office: 01404 384050

 

It’s a Spooktacular Autumn at Occombe Farm

Occombe Farm is the perfect destination for a fun-filled family adventure this Autumn. There’s Spooktacular fun at the Kids Halloween Discos, on selected dates during October half-term. Treat your little ones to the popular Spooky Scarecrow Afternoon Tea, complete with mini sandwiches, cakes, and colourful sweets. Plus, the famous Scarecrows return to the farm for even more seasonal excitement. Whether it’s dancing at our discos, interacting with the animals or indulging in delicious treats, Occombe Farm has something magical for everyone this Autumn!

Find out more at  www.occombe.co.uk

 

Trot along to The Donkey Sanctuary this October

Join in at The Donkey Sanctuary for our newest spooky adventure. Trot along the pathways and find the pumpkins that have popped up this October. Combine family fun, exercise and brainpower for just £5 per trail, including a treat on completion. Plus, with a new play park, daily talks, scenic walks, engaging exhibits, hedge maze and lots of friendly donkeys, there’s so much to explore! Open daily from 9am, general admission and parking are free. Dogs welcome on a lead.

Find out more at www.thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk/sidmouth

 

This October Half Term, Affinity Devon is brewing up a cauldron full of fang-tastic fun for the whole family!

Join in for the popular slime making workshop, spooktacular face painting plus bewitching potion making workshops. They’re also inviting all families to get creative and take part in their Pumpkin Carving Contest. Carve your pumpkin masterpiece at home or join in for a mess-free carving experience on selected dates. Enter your creation for a chance to win a prize, plus a whopping £250 for your school! All the amazing pumpkins will be displayed in the Amphitheatre.

Find out more at affinitydevon.com.

 

Want family savings all year round? Download our Warrens Rewards App!

Enjoy exclusive deals on your favourite baked goods, from promotions on pasties to discounts on doughnuts. Sign up today and receive a freebie on us - a treat to get you started! Scan the QR code and download the app for year-round savings for you and your family. Accumulate Warrens points to spend in-store, win prizes when you make purchases, collect stamps on your digital loyalty card and treat your family to delicious perks!

Find out more at https://warrensbakery.co.uk/

 

Beauty and The Beast Invite you to Be Their Guest at Queen's Theatre Barnstaple!

It is nearly that time of year again when the Queen’s Theatre, Barnstaple brings you another magical pantomime and this year it is the Enchanted tale of:
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

Barnstaple’s biggest and brightest pantomime is back in 2024 as The Queen’s Theatre brings you a tale as old as time! Book early to be part of the magic! All tickets for Gala Night on Friday 13th December at 6.30pm are just £19, but be quick because they’re nearly gone!

Box Office: 01271 316523 or online queenstheatre-barnstaple.com

 

Cinderella returns to Exmouth Pavilion

The family tradition that is Christmas Pantomime is back bigger and better than ever this year with the rags-to-riches tale of Cinderella at Exmouth Pavilion. Back for their tenth year, with an all-star cast including Coronation Street’s and Doctors Scott Wright as Prince Charming, Brittany Feeney from Miss Great Britain as Cinderella and Exmouth’s own Amy Blackwell as the Fairy Godmother.

 This year they will also be introducing the fabulous Joseph Michael as an Ugly Sister and the truly wicked Chelsey Thorley Earp as Baroness Von Hardup. Plus the ever-popular Stuart Earp and Jordan Bateman return alongside two adorable Shetland ponies in every performance!
Performances run from Saturday 21 December through to Wednesday 1 January.
Adult ticket prices are £19 and Children £16. Family tickets are also available with two adults and two children at £66 and one adult and three children £62. Tickets are available to book on the website at www.exmouthpavilion.co.uk or call the Box Office on 01395 222477

 

Halloween at The Bear Trail
Enter if you dare! Between Saturday 26th October and Sunday 3rd November, The Bear Trail will be getting a Halloween makeover. With 30 obstacles and unlimited mud! All children can collect a small sweet treat and a Halloween certificate upon completing the trail. Visitors can choose from a 10am – 1pm or 2pm – 5pm, three-hour session. Visit www.thebeartrail.co.uk for more information and to book.

 

Halloween at Bear Town
Join us between Thursday 24th October and Sunday 3rd November for a spooktacular visit to Bear Town! Alongside a fang-tastic two-hour play session all children will be invited to take part in a Halloween hunt around the Town, to locate the missing bats, in exchange for a sweet treat or a Halloween sticker if preferred. Bear Town is an award-winning indoor role play venue for children aged 1-7 years.
Children Eat Free - Children can eat for free during a term time afternoon session, 3pm – 5pm for just £7.95 per child. Upon arrival, all paid children will choose from the delicious dinner menu, which will be served with unlimited water or squash.
Visit www.beartown.co.uk for more information and to book.

 

The Outdoors Group
Don’t forget that Forest School isn’t just for the kids – as well as helping you on your outdoor education journey, their Forest School Leader Training is a fantastically fun hands-on course that lets you get to grips with all things Forest School and learn through doing! Their 2025 training programme is now confirmed so get in touch to find out more. And for the kids…their October Half Term Holiday Clubs are now open for booking for autumnal outdoorsy fun at Exmouth, Escot, Okehampton and Totnes Forest School. Use the discount code for 10% off and they’ll see you in the woods!
Find out more at https://www.outdoorsgroup.co.uk

 

Halloween Half-Term Fun at World of Country Life Exmouth: Monday 28th October to Friday 1st November

Something magical happens on the park during the October Half Term even the staff turn into friendly witches and cast a spell of fun and laughter.

There will be spooky Halloween activities including pumpkin carving, a fangtastic Halloween Trail AND the ‘Goatbusters: Frozen Empire’ mini show is hilarious family fun, not to be missed!

‘Goatbusters: Frozen Empire’ mini show will be on at approx 2pm on Tuesday 29th, Wednesday 30th & Thursday 31st October just before ferret racing (Show length approx 5 minutes) in the Barnyard Theatre.

Pumpkin Carving is on Tuesday 29th, Wednesday 30th and Thursday 31st – a free pumpkin for every family!

From Monday 28th October to Friday 1st November you can take part in the Halloween Trail – can you spot all the hidden items?

Of course, as it’s Halloween, go along in your Halloween fancy dress, they can’t wait to see you! Plus they’ll have all the usual daily activities – walk a goat, ride the deer train safari and hand feed the red deer and llama, bottle feed calves, small animal handling and the awesome Hawkridge birds of prey flying display.

Enjoy a spooktacular day out, whatever the weather, this October half-term holiday. There will be lots going on in the park.
For more information visit: www.worldofcountrylife.co.uk

 

Celebrate Christmas at Kents Cavern with two enchanting events!

Immerse yourself in "Carols in the Cave". A unique, underground Christmas concert! Experience the magic of singing carols by candlelight as you explore the stunning caves, finishing with mulled drinks, hot chocolate, and festive treats.

Step into "Santa in the Cave" throughout December, where an interactive pantomime adventure awaits. Journey through the decorated caves, enjoy festive storytelling and sing-alongs, and meet Santa in the grand finale. All adults will receive refreshments plus a free cave tour in January!

Book online today at kents-cavern.co.uk

 

Spooks For The Whole Family This October at Crealy Theme Park & Resort

Frights, thrills and chills await this spooky season and what better way to join the scares than at Spook-Fest this October Half Term at Crealy Theme Park & Resort! With THREE NEW attractions for 2024 and the return of your favourite scare mazes, get ready for the most spine-tingling Spook-Fest yet as well as all the rides Crealy has to offer.

Book tickets now at www.crealy.co.uk

Torre Abbey After Dark

This half term step into the haunting world of The Abbey After Dark, where ghosts, ghouls, and creatures of the night lie in wait. A creepy atmosphere awaits, as nightfall descends, daring visitors venture into the unknown, encountering terrors, horrors, and surprises at every twist and turn. Prepare for spine-tingling encounters with ghostly figures, interactive scares, illuminations, and hair-raising special effects.

Starting October 30, Torre Abbey’s gardens transform into a bone-chilling Halloween spectacle. History, mystery, and horror converge to create an evening filled with frights and delights.

30th October - 2nd November: 4:30pm - 8pm

*Our earlier sessions 16:30 & 17:00 are best suited to under 5's or those who maybe more wary. These times enable you to undertake the trail before it gets too dark.

Find out more at www.torre-abbey.org.uk

 

Oldway Gardens Halloween Quest

This year the Oldway Halloween Trail is even more ambitious.  The aim is to find all the ingredients for the OLDWAY SPOOKY SOUP. Dotted around the Oldway Gardens will be friendly Witches waiting to help. Using lots of spooky imagination, the completed list of ingredients can be put into the cauldron at the end of the Quest for a prize draw at the end of half term. There will also be a picture trail for younger children to follow.
The Quest sheet can be collected from the Tea Hut – look for the witch guarding her cauldron.

Find out more at www.oldwaygardens.co.uk

Greendale Farm Shop
Greendale have so much coming up this Autumn/Winter at Greendale Farm Shop. From Halloween crafts with Chloe, their Greendale Halloween trail; to their popular kids' movie nights - their can't wait to have you all here for some Autumn fun! – They’ve even got Santa booked in for a visit! - keep an eye on their socials for more info coming soon.
Head to greendale.com/events to book your tickets!

 

Have a wicked half term with your little monsters at RHS Rosemoor from  26 October – 3 November

Follow the garden trail to find ingredients for a witch’s potion, learn about carnivorous plants and freaky fungi. Then join in the spooky craft activities making magic wands, Halloween lanterns, spider headbands, and monster stress squeezers, decorate a pumpkin or create your own spooky plant friend to take home with Exmoor Zoo.

Or, if you’d prefer to be entertained, enjoy a weird and wonderful family magic show performed by the strikingly unique Professor Strange or join Witch Hazel for a spooky interactive storytelling session.

Full details online at https://www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/rosemoor/whats-on/half-term-family-fun-at-rosemoor

 

Escape The Game are opening their Christmas escape room from the 4th November - 5th January.

Each year has a new story and mission. This year the story for Santa Escape is 'Santa's Christmas Star'

Santa's Christmas tree won't light up! It is rumoured that the reason why is because some of the elves stopped believing in the magic of Christmas! Can you and your team help restore their belief (and therefore illuminate the lights), so that Santa's star can shine bright and save the wonder of Christmas?!

Suitable for adults and children aged 7+

To book call 01626 833250, or book online at www.escapethegame.co.uk

 

 

 

Little Acorns Tutoring for 11+ success.

If you are looking for 11+ tuition, Tracey from Little Acorns Tutoring is an experienced primary school teacher and literacy lead with over 24 years of experience. She offers bespoke tutoring in Maths and/or English, including preparing for 11+ and SATs exams.

The 11+ involves more than just excelling in Maths and English, it also requires a solid grasp of Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning. Mock exams are essential for familiarising students with the test's format, identifying their strengths and weaknesses, and honing their test-taking strategies. Tracey teaches children to achieve their best, equipping them with effective tips and tricks crucial for optimising their scores and ensuring that no points are left on the table.

All tutoring sessions are online via Zoom with a resource-sharing portal to refer back to; it is very much as if you are in the same room and the opportunities for using technology are invaluable.

Why not try a short trial session? Contact Tracey by phone on 07532 194151 or email littleacornstutoring27@gmail.com.

 

Kids Go Free at Paignton Zoo this October half term!

From 19 October to 3 November, Paignton Zoo is offering an unbeatable deal for your family: for every adult ticket purchased, two kids go free! Take the whole family along for a day of wild adventure without breaking the bank.

Join in for a Halloween-themed extravaganza, with spooky activities that will delight children of all ages. From pumpkin carving to a haunted trail, there’s something for everyone. Plus, the miniature train is returning and will be chugging along throughout the entire break, offering nostalgic rides along the lakeside.

Don’t miss out on this fantastic offer. Book your tickets online in advance for the best prices.

Go to www.paigntonzoo.org.uk

 

New charity shop in Cranbrook

Children’s Hospice South West is opening a charity shop in Cranbrook, Exeter, selling good quality donated ladies and men’s fashion, children’s toys and clothing, accessories, books and much more. So, if you are having a clear out of the wardrobe, toy box or loft, then why not donate them!
Take your donations into the shop and they can be sold, helping to raise vital funds to run CHSW's 3 children's hospices and support local families.

The shop is also looking for volunteers, if you could spare a few hours each week, pop in and speak to one of the team.

 

Jack and the Beanstalk at Princess Theatre – 13th December to 4th January

Join Jack, Dame Trott, and the lovable Clarabelle the Cow for an unforgettable escapade filled with FE-FI-FO-FUN! This spectacular production will transport you to a world of magic beans, a majestic castle in the clouds, and a walking, talking, and rather bad-tempered Giant. It’ll be the STALK of the town, and you won't want to miss a moment of this magical extravaganza!

Whether you’re young or young at heart, this unforgettable holiday treat will blow you away with live music, vibrant costumes, stunning sets, breathtaking special effects, and heaps of panto merriment and laughter!

Get a MOO-VE ON and secure your tickets today to ensure you're part of the whimsical tale that promises thrills and laughter for the whole family, UDDER-wise you'll regret missing out on this fantastic experience!

There is a relaxed performance of Jack and the Beanstalk on Thu 2 Jan

Find out more and book at www.atgtickets.com/shows/jack-and-the-beanstalk/princess-theatre-torquay

 

Indoor Family Fun for October Half Term

If you’re looking for a family day out over October half term, then why not go along to the Aztec Bistro, part of the Aztec Leisure complex at TLH Leisure Resort in Torquay.

The Dip ‘n’ Dine package offers family fun at its best – activity to wear them out and good food to fill them up! It’s great value at only £17 per adult and £9.50 per child and includes a swim in the amazing 25 metre Aztec indoor pool and £9 per adult and £6 per child towards a meal afterwards in the Bistro. Plus, FREE soft play for the under 10s in Aztec Games is included in the price. And, there’s no need to book!

Win a Dip n Dine package for 2 adults and up to 3 children in our competition exclusively with Primary Times!

Find out more about what Aztec and TLH Leisure Resort offers families at www.tlh.co.uk/aztec-leisure

 

Witches and Workshops at Thelma Hulbert Gallery – 26th October

 

Join Thelma Hulbert Gallery (THG) in Honiton for a family-friendly Halloween party to celebrate THG’s exhibition ‘The Witchcraft Series’ exploring historic witch trials including the trials of Devon and Somerset witches. Families can drop in between 11am and 3pm to explore fun art activities and workshops including creating an apple monster to take home. There will be apple pressing in the courtyard, bring your own apples and containers too. Families can also enjoy face painting and a fancy-dress competition, cookies and mulled apple juice and dance in the gallery to a spooky music mix.

Free admission, donations welcome.

Find out more at www.thelmahulbert.com

 

Update from Theatre Alibi, Exeter

“At Theatre Alibi we’re transforming our building into a bustling arts venue for young people with programmed events from theatre to opera to comedy. This October half term the small people in your life can enjoy a guided cardboard crafting workshop where they can make their very own costume out of cardboard. And at the end of the week, follow this up by watching the incredible show, Boxville, an interactive cardboard adventure by designer Sam Wilde and Director Ian Nicholson (I Want My Hat Back Trilogy).”

Visit www.theatrealibi.co.uk to find out more

 

Halloween Half-Term Fun at World of Country Life Exmouth: Monday 28th October to Friday 1st November

Something magical happens on the park during the October Half Term even the staff turn into friendly witches and cast a spell of fun and laughter.  There will be spooky Halloween activities including pumpkin carving, a fangtastic Halloween Trail AND the ‘Goatbusters: Frozen Empire’ mini show is hilarious family fun, not to be missed!

‘Goatbusters: Frozen Empire’ mini show will be on at approx 2pm on Tuesday 29th, Wednesday 30th & Thursday 31st October just before ferret racing (Show length approx 5 minutes) in the Barnyard Theatre.

Pumpkin Carving is on Tuesday 29th, Wednesday 30th and Thursday 31st – a free pumpkin for every family!

From Monday 28th October to Friday 1st November you can take part in their Halloween Trail – can you spot all the hidden items?

Of course, as it’s Halloween, go along in your Halloween fancy dress, we can’t wait to see you!

Plus they’ll have all the usual daily activities – walk a goat, ride the deer train safari and hand feed the red deer and llama, bottle feed calves, small animal handling and the awesome Hawkridge birds of prey flying display.

Enjoy a spooktacular day out, whatever the weather, this October half-term holiday. There will be lots going on in the park.

Check it out at www.worldofcountrylife.co.uk

 

The Esplanade Hotel, Newquay, Cornwall

This October half term, from 19th October to 2nd November, enjoy a memorable family break at The Esplanade Hotel in Cornwall from £90pppn for a family room. Overlooking the iconic Fistral Beach in Newquay, the hotel offers more than just a place to stay—it's the perfect spot for quality family time. With a packed schedule of FREE bat-tastic activities, there's something to keep everyone entertained. From beachside fun to indoor adventures, The Esplanade ensures a fun-filled experience for all ages. Enjoy an exciting family getaway while soaking in the stunning coastal views.

Find out more at www./esplanadehotelnewquay.co.uk/ or @esplanadehotel or 01637 873333

 

Autumn and half term fun at Killerton

Apple production on the Killerton estate has left a legacy of heritage orchards. Learn how the Killerton team are managing them and planting new ones to create havens for nature and wildlife. Follow a trail to one of the orchards to harvest apples for pressing or pick your own to take home. Enjoy the apple activities around the house, garden and grounds. 10 October – 3 November. For some half term fun, follow a trail of pumpkins around the garden to take part in seasonal games and activities. For more information visit: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/devon/killerton/events

 

Step into an adventure at Jurassic Discovery!

 Explore the incredible animatronic dinosaur exhibition, The Last Day of the Dinosaurs, where life-sized, roaring dinosaurs bring history to life. Kids will love the exciting soft play area, perfect for burning off energy while parents relax in the café with a hot drink and tasty treat. Open daily (except Christmas Day and Boxing Day), it’s the perfect day out for the whole family, rain or shine. Whether you're discovering the past or enjoying the present, Jurassic Discovery is where fun and learning go hand in hand! Join your tickets with Seaton Tramway too.

Find out more at www.jurasscidiscovery.co.uk

 

Join us this Halloween for a spooktacular family adventure on Seaton Tramway’s Trick or Treat Tram!

 Hop aboard for a fun-filled journey through an enchanting world of pumpkins, friendly ghouls, and spooky surprises. Meet Jack O’Lantern and hear the tale of his magical transformation by the mischievous witch, Grizelda! Little witches and wizards will love interactive storytelling and a meet-and-greet with Grizelda herself at Colyton. Plus, every child receives a special goody bag! This family-friendly event is perfect for all ages.. Join your ticket to Seaton Tramway with a visit to Jurassic Discovery.

Find out more at www.tram.co.uk

 

 

Want family savings all year round? Download the Warrens Rewards App!

“Enjoy exclusive deals on your favourite baked goods, from promotions on pasties to discounts on doughnuts. Sign up today and receive a freebie on us - a treat to get you started! Scan the QR code and download the app for year-round savings for you and your family. Accumulate Warrens points to spend in-store, win prizes when you make purchases, collect stamps on your digital loyalty card and treat your family to delicious perks!”

Find out more at https://warrensbakery.co.uk/

 

The Cornish Maize Maze and Fun Farm

The Cornish Maize Maze and Fun Farm near Saltash will once again have thousands and thousands of pumpkins of all shapes sizes and colours to pick at Smeaton Farm during October. There will also be a Halloween themed maize maze which will all be included in the entrance price along with all the usual farm animals and farm activities. Lurking in the field there will be some creepy things going on! Let’s talk giant spiders, skeletons, and lots of photo opportunities. The farm is open every weekend in October and every day during half term. Check out their website at www.cornishmaze.co.uk for more details.

 

Halloween at Heligan 26th October – 3rd November

The Autumn half term will see the return of outdoor family activities at Heligan that celebrate Harvest, with traditional Corn Dolly workshops where the skills and traditions of this ancient craft will be shared.
Find out more at www.heligan.com/events/events-at-heligan/halloween-at-heligan/

 

Kids Go Free at Paignton Zoo this October half term!

From 19 October to 3 November, Paignton Zoo is offering an unbeatable deal for your family: for every adult ticket purchased, two kids go free! Take the whole family along for a day of wild adventure without breaking the bank.

Join in for a Halloween-themed extravaganza, with spooky activities that will delight children of all ages. From pumpkin carving to a haunted trail, there’s something for everyone. Plus, the miniature train is returning and will be chugging along throughout the entire break, offering nostalgic rides along the lakeside.

Don’t miss out on this fantastic offer. Book your tickets online in advance for the best prices.

Go to www.paigntonzoo.org.uk

 

The Box Plymouth

There’s an amazing autumn coming up at The Box with lots for families and younger visitors to enjoy. Try a fun printing activity with real fern leaves, make paper stars and listen to fabulous folk tales inspired by the sea in their free, drop-in half term workshops on Tuesday 29, Wednesday 30 and Thursday 31 October. Things are set to get spooky later in the day on 31 October with a special Halloween event called ‘Double, Double Toil and Trouble’. Explore The Box’s galleries after hours, enjoy some creative activities, make magic, dance to spooky tracks, and don't forget to wear your best Halloween outfit!

Find out more at www.theboxplymouth.com

 

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs coming to the Theatre Royal, Plymouth

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs features amazing special effects, stunning sets and dazzling costumes direct from The London Palladium. The show, packed with comedy and enchanting song and dance numbers, comes to Plymouth 13 Dec – 11 Jan.

The Artist’s Briana Craig will star in this year’s charming family-friendly pantomime as Snow White and is joined by fellow pantomime co-stars Birds of a Feather’s Lesley Joseph as The Wicked Queen, broadcaster and barrister Rob Rinder as The Man In The Mirror, comedian Andy Ford as Muddles and West End stars Samuel Holmes and Scott Maurice as The Governess and The Prince.

Visit theatreroyal.com

 

 

 

Sparkler Safety

Each year, over half of all firework injuries are suffered by children. Adult supervision is essential when children are using sparklers:

• Sparklers get five times hotter than cooking oil, so should never be given to a child under five.
• Make sure everyone handling sparklers wears gloves
• Hold sparklers at arm’s length while being lit
• Don’t wave sparklers about close to other people
• Never hold a baby in your arms while you are holding a sparkler
• When the sparkler has finished put it in a bucket of cold water

For the Firework Code and other safety tips see www.saferfireworks.com or www.rospa.com/home-safety/advice/fireworks-safety/

 

 

It’s National Libraries Week: 3 to 9th October 2022

Children are always welcome in Devon's libraries, and no-one is too young to join!

Youngsters can borrow books, find out information and use library computers - all for free. Devon’s libraries also offer free activities for children throughout the year, including Bounce and Rhyme for babies and toddlers, and The Secret Book Quest and the Summer Reading Challenge for older children. Joining the library is free and you can even join online from home. Discover what is happening at your local library during Libraries Week, from 3rd to 9th October - visit www.devon.gov.uk/libraries and www.librariesunlimited.org.uk

 

 

Autumnal Art: Leaf Rubbings 

Liven Up Leaves

Whilst out walking along a trail or footpath, be sure to keep an eye on the trees as their leaves turn from green to red to brown – the changes can be spectacular. Deciduous trees lose their leaves to conserve energy over the winter months and it helps them to cope with windy conditions. With all the leaves on the ground, look out for leaf skeletons as they can be really beautiful! Collect some leaves and transform them into a fabulous artistic autumnal creation! Here’s how:

 

You’ll need:

• A Saucepan
• Soda Crystals (Sodium Carbonate) from supermarkets
• Tweezers
• Paintbrush

 

Instructions:

• Collect some leaves whilst out walking. You’ll want large leaves that have not yet dried out but don’t pull them from the tree, there should be plenty on the ground!
• Pour 30g of soda crystals into the saucepan and dissolve in 500ml of water.
• With help from an adult, bring the mixture near to the boil then take it off the heat. Place the leaves you have selected into the pan and let them soak for 30 minutes.
• Remove each leaf from the pan with tweezers, then gently wash the leaves with cool water.
• Use a paintbrush to lift away the small bits of leaf cell remaining around the skeleton.
• If you’re careful, you’ll see the network of veins inside the leaf.
• You can colour it with paint, or maybe use the skeletons to decorate your own cards!

 

How to … at Halloween 

 

How to… make a Halloween mask:

Make a beastly mask using a paper plate, elastic, a glue stick, pens and plenty of imagination. English Heritage have an amazing number of free templates, designed to help children create their own mask – just search the web for ‘English Heritage – Beast Mask Activity Pack’

 

 

 

 

How to… carve pumpkins:

Perch your pumpkin on your doorstep with pride by following our carving tricks and tips... 

By carving pumpkins children are able to challenge their creative skills and often feel elated when their sculpted masterpieces are perched on the doorstep for all to admire.

These days there are loads of gorgeous stencils of owls, Halloween cats and various spooky scenes that can be etched onto the side of the pumpkin, adding a degree of inventiveness.

Pumpkins have a tendency to rot rather rapidly once they have been carved so the best time to carve any mini masterpiece will be no more than two days before Halloween.

 

 

You will need...

A pumpkin!

A design template if using one

A pen

A candle

A special pumpkin carving saw or a sharp, straight edged knife

A spoon to scoop out the inside of the pumpkin

A bowl to place the ‘fruit’

 

How to Carve a Pumpkin

• Begin by drawing a design onto the pumpkin. Be as creative as possible or use a stencil.
• Cut out a lid from the top of the pumpkin. Cut at a slight angle to make sure the lid doesn’t fall into the pumpkin. Scrape off the flesh from the lid.
• Scoop out the flesh and seeds using a large metal spoon and place in a bowl. Make sure the walls of the pumpkin are least 2 cm thick
• Next, with adult supervision, start carving the pumpkin using motions that direct the knife away from you. Use a slow, sawing motion to carve the design. Avoid any jerking motions by keeping a part of the blade in the pumpkin when sawing.
• To sculpt, it will be better to start working on the centre of your design first.
• To add shapes, you may wish to use other utensils such as an apple corer to make circles
• Remove all carved sections of the pumpkin
• Make a flat spot on the base of the pumpkin for the candle. Use a tea light candle.
• Finally, place your mini orange masterpiece on your doorstep for all passers-by to admire!

 

 

Looking after your pumpkin:

Pumpkins deteriorate quickly once cut, so always leave the lid off when the candle is in to prevent it shrinking and when it does start to shrivel dunk your gourd in a bucket of water for a few hours to rehydrate.

 

 

 

 

 

How to....make Halloween food...

Pumpkin Peppers

These Pumpkin Peppers look super scary and are so easy to make. Buy a selection of yellow, red and if you can get them, orange peppers.

Top the pepper, de-seed and carve a traditional Jack-O-Lantern face onto the side of the pepper. Fill with salad leaves and croutons.

 

 

 

Banana Ghosts and Mandarin Pumpkins

These Banana Ghosts and Mandarin Pumpkins will go down a treat and so are easy to create.

For the Banana Ghosts, blob a couple of mini chocolate chips as eyes and a coffee bean for the mouth.

Alternatively, and especially to avoid any chance of choking on the coffee bean, you may wish to use currents for the mouth.

For the pumpkins, peel the mandarins and use a thin piece of the herb Angelica as the stalk.

Alternatively,  use small slices of apple candy cables as the stalk

 

 

Scary Apple Teeth

These scary apple teeth are sure to get the children chattering! Slice a rosy-looking apple into quarters and de-pip.

Then gently cut a slice out of the apple quarter and fill with flaked almonds for teeth. Be sure to check for any nut allergies before serving these.