50+ Halloween Activities for Toddlers: Fun, Simple, and Spooky-Sweet Ideas Parents Love (2025 Edition)

Halloween with toddlers can feel like a magical mix of giggles, costumes, and just the right amount of spookiness. 🎃 Whether your little one is under 2 or already toddling around, you’re probably looking for Halloween activities for toddlers that are simple, safe, and filled with fun. After all, tiny pumpkins don’t need scary thrills—they need activities that spark imagination and keep those busy little hands engaged.

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In this post, you’ll find a collection of toddler-friendly ideas designed for every family setup—from no-mess crafts to playful Halloween games for toddlers, and even a few gentle Halloween activities for babies who are just starting to explore the world. Think of it as your go-to list for celebrating the season without the stress, with ideas you can set up in minutes using things you already have at home.

So grab your little pumpkin, and let’s dive into playful, creative, and memory-making activities perfect for this spooky-sweet season.

🎃 Why Halloween Activities for Toddlers Matter

Halloween is one of the most exciting holidays for kids, but for toddlers—especially little ones under 2—the experience needs to be gentle, safe, and age-appropriate. Activities at this stage are less about scares and more about sensory play, imagination, and bonding with family.

When you focus on toddler-friendly fun, you create memories without the overwhelm. These activities can be done at home, in a classroom, or even during family parties—proving that Halloween doesn’t need to be complicated to be magical.

🖍️ Halloween Crafts for Toddlers

Crafting is one of the best ways to engage toddlers in Halloween fun. It’s hands-on, boosts creativity, and can be as simple or as involved as you like. These craft ideas are easy to prep and make for adorable keepsakes parents will cherish.

1. Pumpkin Handprint Art

Setup Instructions:

• Gather washable orange and green paints, a sheet of paper or canvas, and paintbrushes.
  
• Dip your toddler’s hand in orange paint and press it onto the paper.
  
• Once dry, add green stems and vines with a brush or marker.

Parent Tips:

• Keep wet wipes or a damp cloth nearby for quick cleanup.
  
• If your child is under 2, guide their hand to avoid frustration.
  
• Frame or date the artwork for a special keepsake.
  

Why It Works:
This combines sensory play with fine motor skills while capturing a sweet memory of your toddler’s tiny handprint.

2. Paper Plate Pumpkins

Setup Instructions:

• Provide paper plates, orange paint or tissue paper, glue, and markers.
  
• Have your toddler paint or cover the plate with tissue paper.
  
• Add faces with cut-out shapes, stickers, or markers.
  

Parent Tips:

• Pre-cut face shapes for little ones to glue.
  
• Cover the table with newspaper for easy cleanup.
  
• Encourage creativity—let toddlers make silly or happy faces.
  

Why It Works:
This activity strengthens creativity and hand-eye coordination, while also offering a safe introduction to Halloween “pumpkin carving.”

3. Ghost Footprint Keepsakes

Setup Instructions:

• Use black construction paper as the background.
  
• Dip your toddler’s foot in white washable paint and stamp it onto the paper.
  
• Once dry, add googly eyes and a smile with a marker.
  

Parent Tips:

• Do the stamping near a sink for quick washing.
  
• Babies under 2 can sit in a highchair while parents press their feet onto the paper.
  
• Create a series each year to track growth.
  

Why It Works:
A fun sensory experience that doubles as a meaningful keepsake, perfect for memory boxes or scrapbooks.

4. Sticker Collage Pumpkins

Setup Instructions:

• Cut out large pumpkin shapes from orange cardstock.
  
• Provide Halloween stickers, foam shapes, or washi tape.
  
• Let toddlers decorate however they like.
  

Parent Tips:

• This is great for toddlers under 2, since peeling and sticking improves finger strength.
  
• Supervise closely if using small stickers.
  
• Use reusable window stickers for an easy cleanup option.
  

Why It Works:
Peeling and placing stickers builds fine motor skills while giving toddlers a sense of independence.

5. DIY Halloween Crowns

Setup Instructions:

• Cut strips of cardstock or construction paper to fit around a toddler’s head.
  
• Tape or staple ends to create a crown.
  
• Offer markers, stickers, and glitter glue for decoration.
  

Parent Tips:

• Let toddlers choose their crown theme (pumpkins, ghosts, bats).
  
• Use tape instead of staples for extra safety.
  
• Snap photos once the crowns are complete for lasting memories.
  

Why It Works:
Encourages self-expression while promoting pretend play, helping toddlers explore imagination.

Related Article: 27 Halloween Crafts for Kids: Fun, Spooky & Simple DIY Ideas They’ll Love

🕹️ Halloween Games for Toddlers

Games keep little ones entertained and moving—without overstimulation. These Halloween games for toddlers are designed for safety, laughter, and simple setup.

6. Pumpkin Bowling

Setup Instructions:

• Collect six empty plastic bottles and fill them with a little rice or water for stability.
  
• Decorate bottles with Halloween stickers or faces.
  
• Use a small pumpkin as the “bowling ball.”
  

Parent Tips:

• Show toddlers how to roll, not throw, the pumpkin.
  
• Use lightweight bottles for younger toddlers under 2.
  
• Play on carpet or grass for softer impact.
  

Why It Works:
Develops gross motor skills, coordination, and patience—all disguised as playful fun.

7. Monster Freeze Dance

Setup Instructions:

• Play fun Halloween songs (like “Monster Mash” or themed kid versions).
  
• Have toddlers dance around, then freeze when the music stops.
  

Parent Tips:

• Encourage silly monster moves (stomping, growling, flapping arms).
  
• Use short music bursts to keep toddlers engaged.
  
• Great for indoor parties with limited space.
  

Why It Works:
Promotes active play, listening skills, and self-regulation in a joyful way.

8. Spider Web Obstacle Course

Setup Instructions:

• Tape yarn or crepe paper across a hallway in zig-zag patterns.
  
• Create a “web” for toddlers to crawl under, over, or through.
  

Parent Tips:

• Supervise closely so toddlers don’t trip.
  
• For younger ones, keep the web low and simple.
  
• Add stuffed spiders or paper cutouts for extra fun.
  

Why It Works:
Encourages problem-solving, balance, and spatial awareness while turning a hallway into an adventure zone.

9. Pumpkin Toss

Setup Instructions:

• Set up buckets, baskets, or Halloween cauldrons at varying distances.
  
• Use beanbags, soft balls, or rolled-up socks as the “pumpkins.”
  
• Toddlers take turns tossing into the buckets.
  

Parent Tips:

• Adjust distances for age—closer for toddlers under 2, farther for preschoolers.
  
• Cheer for every attempt to build confidence.
  
• Use lightweight containers to avoid tipping hazards.
  

Why It Works:
Improves hand-eye coordination and teaches toddlers about aiming and taking turns.

10. Ghost Balloon Chase

Setup Instructions:

• Blow up white balloons and draw ghost faces with a marker.
  
• Release them into the room and let toddlers chase.
  

Parent Tips:

• Supervise balloon play closely to prevent popping hazards.
  
• For toddlers under 2, tape balloons to the wall for safe batting.
  
• Add glow sticks inside balloons for a magical glow-in-the-dark effect.
  

Why It Works:
Encourages active movement while keeping toddlers giggling and entertained with simple play.

🎨 Simple Activities for Toddlers

Sometimes the best activities are quick, easy, and mess-free. These Halloween-inspired options are perfect for busy families who want festive fun without a big cleanup.

11. Halloween Sensory Bin

Setup Instructions:

• Fill a shallow plastic bin with dried pasta, beans, or rice as the base.
  
• Add toddler-safe Halloween items: mini pumpkins, plastic spiders, scoops, and cups.
  
• Place the bin on a mat or towel to catch spills.
  

Parent Tips:

• Always supervise sensory play to prevent mouthing small objects.
  
• For toddlers under 2, use larger items like fabric pumpkins or big spoons.
  
• Switch out fillers (like cotton balls or shredded paper) to keep it fresh.
  

Why It Works:
Encourages sensory exploration, fine motor development, and imaginative play.

12. Glow-in-the-Dark Bath

Setup Instructions:

• Add several glow sticks (sealed and intact) into the bathwater.
  
• Turn off the bathroom lights for a glowing effect.
  
• Optional: add plastic Halloween toys (ghosts, bats, pumpkins).
  

Parent Tips:

• Supervise at all times during bath play.
  
• Choose non-toxic glow sticks and check for leaks before use.
  
• Keep bath time short and fun to avoid overstimulation.
  

Why It Works:
Transforms a nightly routine into a magical sensory experience while promoting relaxation before bedtime.

13. Pumpkin Stamping

Setup Instructions:

• Cut apples or potatoes in half and carve simple pumpkin shapes on the flat side.
  
• Dip into orange paint and stamp onto paper.
  
• Add stems or faces with markers once dry.
  

Parent Tips:

• Use washable paint to minimize mess.
  
• Tape the paper down to prevent slipping.
  
• Toddlers can also finger-paint stems if they’re too young for markers.
  

Why It Works:
Builds hand strength and creativity while introducing toddlers to festive art.

14. Halloween Color Hunt

Setup Instructions:

• Gather orange, black, green, and purple objects from around the house (blocks, toys, cups).
  
• Hide them in a room or basket.
  
• Give toddlers a small bucket to collect the items.
  

Parent Tips:

• For toddlers under 2, keep items visible to make the game easier.
  
• Turn it into a learning game by naming colors as they’re found.
  
• Play outdoors for added fun.
  

Why It Works:
Reinforces color recognition, problem-solving, and gross motor skills.

15. Playdough Monsters

Setup Instructions:

• Provide homemade or store-bought playdough in Halloween colors (orange, purple, green).
  
• Add googly eyes, pipe cleaners, and buttons as monster features.
  
• Let toddlers build silly, non-scary creatures.
  

Parent Tips:

• Supervise with small pieces like googly eyes (choking hazard).
  
• For toddlers under 2, use large, chunky decorations instead.
  
• Store playdough in airtight containers to reuse.
  

Why It Works:
Enhances creativity, hand strength, and open-ended play while introducing fun Halloween themes.

Related Article: 25+ Halloween Sensory Activities Kids 

🍼 Halloween Activities for Babies (Under 2)

Babies can join in the Halloween fun too! These gentle ideas are sensory-based, safe, and designed for the tiniest pumpkins.

16. Baby Pumpkin Exploration

Setup Instructions:

• Place baby-safe mini pumpkins (smooth and lightweight) on a blanket or playmat.
  
• Let babies touch, roll, or crawl toward them.
  
• Use plush pumpkins for even softer play.
  

Parent Tips:

• Always supervise—babies may mouth the stems.
  
• Keep play short to match baby’s attention span.
  
• Snap photos—this makes a perfect “first Halloween” memory.
  

Why It Works:
Encourages sensory exploration, crawling practice, and curiosity about textures.

17. Sensory Bag with Halloween Fillers

Setup Instructions:

• Fill a heavy-duty ziplock bag with hair gel, glitter, and plastic Halloween confetti.
  
• Seal tightly and tape edges with duct tape for safety.
  
• Place bag on the floor or highchair tray for squishing.
  

Parent Tips:

• Test the bag for leaks before giving it to baby.
  
• Use large fillers (like foam pumpkins) for extra safety.
  
• Swap out themes (leaves, snowflakes) for year-round fun.
  

Why It Works:
Provides tactile play without the mess, helping babies build early sensory skills.

18. Black & White Halloween Cards

Setup Instructions:

• Print or draw high-contrast Halloween shapes (ghosts, bats, pumpkins).
  
• Mount on sturdy cardstock or laminate for durability.
  
• Place in baby’s play space or use during tummy time.
  

Parent Tips:

• Keep designs simple and bold.
  
• Use during quiet moments like diaper changes or bedtime wind-down.
  
• Rotate cards weekly to keep baby interested.
  

Why It Works:
Supports newborn visual development and early focus skills.

19. Pumpkin Patch Crawl

Setup Instructions:

• Place several soft pumpkins (real mini ones or plush toys) around the room.
  
• Encourage baby to crawl or scoot toward them.
  
• Make it more engaging by adding a basket for collection.
  

Parent Tips:

• Clear the play area to keep crawling safe.
  
• For babies who aren’t mobile yet, place pumpkins just within reach.
  
• Use different sizes for variety in touch and feel.
  

Why It Works:
Strengthens gross motor skills while making crawling fun and purposeful.

20. Halloween Storytime

Setup Instructions:

• Choose gentle, toddler-approved Halloween books (with friendly pumpkins, ghosts, or animals).
  
• Create a cozy corner with pillows and blankets.
  
• Read aloud with expressive voices and motions.
  

Parent Tips:

• Keep sessions short for wiggly babies.
  
• Let babies hold or mouth board books for hands-on exploration.
  
• Make it part of a bedtime routine during October.
  

Why It Works:
Builds early literacy, strengthens bonding, and introduces Halloween in a comforting way.

🥳 Group Halloween Activities for Toddlers

If you’re hosting a playdate, party, or classroom event, these activities are perfect for groups of little ones. They’re fun, simple to organize, and create adorable photo opportunities while keeping toddlers busy.

21. Trick-or-Treat Parade

Setup Instructions:

• Have toddlers dress up in costumes.
  
• Set up small “stations” around the room or yard with bowls of toddler-friendly snacks or toys.
  
• Lead the children around in a short parade as they collect goodies.
  

Parent Tips:

• Keep treats simple: stickers, bubbles, or animal crackers.
  
• Avoid candy with choking hazards for younger toddlers.
  
• Play upbeat Halloween music to add energy to the parade.
  

Why It Works:
This lets toddlers practice trick-or-treating in a safe, controlled environment, building social skills and confidence.

22. Pumpkin Ring Toss

Setup Instructions:

• Place a medium or large pumpkin with a tall stem on the ground.
  
• Use glow stick necklaces or rings as the “toss” items.
  
• Toddlers take turns tossing rings over the stem.
  

Parent Tips:

• If your pumpkin has a short stem, tape a cardboard tube in the center to serve as a target.
  
• Keep the tossing distance close for under-2 toddlers.
  
• Cheer for every attempt, not just the successful tosses.
  

Why It Works:
Improves hand-eye coordination while offering a festive group challenge.

23. Musical Pumpkins

Setup Instructions:

• Cut out large pumpkin shapes from orange construction paper.
  
• Tape them to the floor in a circle.
  
• Play music as toddlers walk around and stop when it pauses.
  

Parent Tips:

• Unlike musical chairs, ensure every child has a pumpkin so no one feels left out.
  
• Switch out pumpkins for bats or ghosts for variety.
  
• Keep rounds short to match toddlers’ attention spans.
  

Why It Works:
Encourages listening skills, movement, and cooperation in a group setting.

24. Witch Hat Toss

Setup Instructions:

• Create a witch hat from construction paper or buy a cone-shaped party hat.
  
• Place it on the floor or table.
  
• Toddlers toss rings, beanbags, or rolled socks to land on the hat.
  

Parent Tips:

• Use lightweight, soft objects to avoid frustration.
  
• Give each child a few turns to keep the game moving quickly.
  
• For toddlers under 2, let them place the rings instead of tossing.
  

Why It Works:
Builds motor control, turn-taking, and festive fun with minimal prep.

25. Pass the Pumpkin

Setup Instructions:

• Use a plush pumpkin or lightweight ball.
  
• Have toddlers sit in a circle.
  
• Play music and pass the pumpkin around—when the music stops, the child holding it gets a cheer or small prize.
  

Parent Tips:

• Keep the pace slow and playful so no one feels pressured.
  
• Replace “elimination” with encouragement so all toddlers stay included.
  
• Switch pumpkins for other soft Halloween toys to change things up.
  

Why It Works:
Teaches sharing, patience, and group participation in a non-competitive way.

Related Article: 50+ Fun Halloween Party Games for All Ages: Perfect for Kids, Teens, and Adults

🍪 Halloween Treat-Making with Toddlers

Food is always a hit—and with no-bake recipes, toddlers can help decorate and prepare snacks without the risks of sharp tools or hot ovens.

26. Monster Rice Krispie Treats

Setup Instructions:

• Prepare Rice Krispie squares or buy pre-made ones.
  
• Set out candy eyes, colorful sprinkles, and icing pens.
  
• Toddlers decorate to turn the treats into silly “monsters.”
  

Parent Tips:

• Use a tray or mat to contain sprinkles and icing.
  
• Give toddlers just a few toppings at a time to prevent overwhelm.
  
• Allow for messy creativity—monsters don’t have to look perfect.
  

Why It Works:
Boosts creativity, fine motor skills, and independence while producing a festive snack.

27. Ghost Bananas

Setup Instructions:

• Cut bananas in half.
  
• Use chocolate chips or raisins for “eyes” and a “mouth.”
  
• Serve immediately or freeze for a cool treat.
  

Parent Tips:

• For under-2 toddlers, cut bananas into small, safe pieces.
  
• Let toddlers place the chocolate chips themselves for hands-on fun.
  
• Freeze for teething-friendly baby snacks.
  

Why It Works:
Encourages healthy eating while letting toddlers be part of the prep process.

28. Pumpkin Mandarin Oranges

Setup Instructions:

• Use whole mandarin oranges.
  
• With a food-safe marker, draw jack-o’-lantern faces on the peel.
  
• Arrange in a bowl for a festive display.
  

Parent Tips:

• Toddlers can help peel the mandarins, strengthening fine motor skills.
  
• Great for daycare or preschool parties where candy is limited.
  
• For babies, offer peeled segments without designs.
  

Why It Works:
A healthy, festive snack that adds Halloween cheer without added sugar.

29. Spider Crackers

Setup Instructions:

• Spread cream cheese or nut-free butter between two round crackers.
  
• Insert pretzel sticks as “legs.”
  
• Add raisin or olive slice “eyes” on top.
  

Parent Tips:

• Offer nut-free spreads for allergy-safe options.
  
• Pre-break pretzels for toddlers under 2 to avoid sharp ends.
  
• Toddlers can assemble legs with guidance.
  

Why It Works:
Combines snack-making with fine motor practice and imaginative food play.

30. Witches’ Hat Cookies

Setup Instructions:

• Place chocolate kisses upside down on round cookies using frosting as glue.
  
• Decorate with sprinkles or icing “bands.”
  
• Let toddlers personalize with colors and shapes.
  

Parent Tips:

• Use soft cookies for younger toddlers.
  
• Have pre-assembled bases ready so toddlers only decorate.
  
• Store extras in an airtight container for later.
  

Why It Works:
Promotes creativity and independence, while producing a fun and shareable holiday treat.

🌱 Outdoor Halloween Activities for Toddlers

For families who love fresh air, these outdoor activities mix festive fun with active play. They’re easy to set up, great for small or large yards, and ideal for neighborhood fun.

31. Mini Pumpkin Hunt

Setup Instructions:

• Hide mini pumpkins (real or plastic) around the yard or garden.
  
• Give toddlers small baskets or bags to collect them.
  
• Add stickers or treats inside plastic pumpkins for extra surprise.
  

Parent Tips:

• For toddlers under 2, keep pumpkins visible and easy to reach.
  
• Use lightweight plastic pumpkins for little hands.
  
• Play multiple rounds by re-hiding pumpkins.
  

Why It Works:
Encourages exploration, gross motor skills, and the excitement of discovery, similar to an Easter egg hunt but with a fall twist.

32. Sidewalk Chalk Monsters

Setup Instructions:

• Provide sidewalk chalk in Halloween colors (orange, purple, green, black).
  
• Encourage toddlers to draw monsters, pumpkins, or ghostly faces on pavement.
  
• Add outlines for little ones to color in.
  

Parent Tips:

• Dress toddlers in play clothes since chalk can get messy.
  
• Use large chunky chalk sticks for younger toddlers.
  
• Turn it into a group activity by creating a “monster mural.”
  

Why It Works:
Boosts creativity, hand-eye coordination, and outdoor play in a mess-free way.

33. Costume Parade Walk

Setup Instructions:

• Have toddlers wear their costumes and take a stroll around the block, playground, or backyard.
  
• Add fun by bringing along bubbles, music, or noisemakers.
  
• Take group photos along the way.
  

Parent Tips:

• Choose comfortable, weather-appropriate costumes.
  
• Keep the walk short and toddler-paced.
  
• Bring water and snacks if walking with a group.
  

Why It Works:
Builds confidence, social skills, and creates adorable memories in a low-stress setting.

34. Leaf & Pumpkin Collage

Setup Instructions:

• Go on a short nature walk to collect colorful fall leaves.
  
• Provide paper pumpkin cutouts and glue sticks.
  
• Toddlers stick leaves onto pumpkins to create textured art.
  

Parent Tips:

• Supervise glue use—non-toxic sticks are safest.
  
• Flatten leaves inside a book beforehand for easier sticking.
  
• Encourage toddlers to talk about the colors and textures.
  

Why It Works:
Combines outdoor exploration with crafting, while teaching color recognition and textures.

35. Halloween Bubble Play

Setup Instructions:

• Blow bubbles outdoors, calling them “ghost bubbles.”
  
• Let toddlers chase, pop, and stomp them.
  
• Use a bubble machine for larger groups.
  

Parent Tips:

• Choose a safe, non-slippery area for bubble play.
  
• Add glow sticks to bubble solution for dusk play (with supervision).
  
• For babies under 2, blow bubbles slowly so they can watch in wonder.
  

Why It Works:
Supports gross motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and pure joyful movement.

📚 Halloween Storytelling & Quiet Time

Not every Halloween moment needs to be loud and active. These calm, cozy activities help toddlers wind down while still celebrating the season.

36. Story Corner with Pillows

Setup Instructions:

• Create a cozy reading nook with soft pillows, blankets, and Halloween books.
  
• Add plush pumpkins, bats, or stuffed animals for cuddly companions.
  
• Dim the lights for a calming effect.
  

Parent Tips:

• Choose toddler-friendly books with happy, not scary, themes.
  
• Rotate books to keep interest fresh.
  
• Perfect for nap or bedtime transitions.
  

Why It Works:
Encourages bonding, early literacy, and provides a comforting break from excitement.

37. Shadow Puppet Show

Setup Instructions:

• Cut out simple Halloween shapes (bats, pumpkins, ghosts) from cardstock.
  
• Tape them to craft sticks or straws.
  
• Shine a flashlight on a wall and let the shadows dance.
  

Parent Tips:

• Keep shapes simple and recognizable.
  
• Encourage toddlers to move puppets and create their own stories.
  
• Use a white sheet as a backdrop for a bigger show.
  

Why It Works:
Stimulates imagination, storytelling, and visual focus in a magical way.

38. Halloween Felt Board

Setup Instructions:

• Cover a piece of cardboard with felt or use a purchased felt board.
  
• Provide cut-out Halloween shapes (pumpkins, hats, ghosts, cats).
  
• Toddlers stick and re-stick to make their own scenes.
  

Parent Tips:

• Use large, simple shapes for toddlers under 2.
  
• Store cutouts in a labeled bag for easy reuse.
  
• Encourage toddlers to narrate what they create.
  

Why It Works:
Supports storytelling, creativity, and fine motor development through hands-on play.

39. Gentle Halloween Songs

Setup Instructions:

• Sing simple Halloween-themed nursery rhymes (like “Five Little Pumpkins”).
  
• Add hand motions, clapping, or gentle stomping.
  
• Use a tambourine or shaker egg for rhythm.
  

Parent Tips:

• Keep songs short and repetitive for easy following.
  
• Encourage toddlers to make up their own silly verses.
  
• Great for circle time or bedtime wind-down.
  

Why It Works:
Promotes language development, rhythm, and bonding in a soothing format.

40. Pumpkin Matching Cards

Setup Instructions:

• Print or draw pumpkins with different faces or colors.
  
• Laminate for durability.
  
• Place cards face down for a simple memory game.
  

Parent Tips:

• For toddlers under 2, play as a matching game (face up).
  
• Use fewer pairs to make it easier for young players.
  
• Praise effort over accuracy to keep it fun.
  

Why It Works:
Builds memory, focus, and problem-solving skills while keeping the Halloween theme gentle and engaging.

🎭 Dress-Up and Pretend Play

Toddlers love costumes and role-playing—Halloween is the perfect excuse to let their imaginations shine.

41. Dress-Up Corner

Setup Instructions:

• Fill a basket with hats, capes, masks, and scarves.
  
• Add safe costume props like wands or plush pumpkins.
  
• Set up a mirror so toddlers can admire themselves.
  

Parent Tips:

• Use soft, comfy fabrics toddlers can easily put on and take off.
  
• Avoid costumes with small detachable pieces.
  
• Rotate costume pieces to keep play fresh.
  

Why It Works:
Encourages creativity, independence, and self-expression while boosting confidence.

42. Pumpkin Patch Pretend Play

Setup Instructions:

• Gather plush pumpkins, paper cutouts, or plastic toy pumpkins.
  
• Spread them around a “patch” (living room floor or yard).
  
• Give toddlers baskets to “harvest” or set up a pretend pumpkin shop.
  

Parent Tips:

• Add labels with prices or numbers for older toddlers to practice counting.
  
• Use stuffed animals as “customers” for added fun.
  
• Keep pumpkins soft for safe play indoors.
  

Why It Works:
Combines pretend play with problem-solving and social skills in a fun seasonal setting.

43. Witch’s Potion Station

Setup Instructions:

• Fill plastic cups or bowls with colored water (use food coloring).
  
• Add spoons, ladles, and scoops for mixing.
  
• Provide safe mix-ins like pom-poms, glitter, or plastic spiders.
  

Parent Tips:

• Place towels under the station for easy cleanup.
  
• Supervise closely to ensure nothing goes in mouths.
  
• Encourage toddlers to narrate their “spells.”
  

Why It Works:
Boosts sensory play, language skills, and imagination while offering hands-on fun.

44. Monster Role-Play

Setup Instructions:

• Encourage toddlers to act like “friendly monsters.”
  
• Add simple props: fuzzy ears, monster masks, or colored scarves.
  
• Play music and let them stomp, roar, and wiggle.
  

Parent Tips:

• Emphasize “silly” not “scary” to avoid overwhelming toddlers.
  
• Join in the fun—toddlers love when parents play along.
  
• Use it as an energy-burning activity before nap or bedtime.
  

Why It Works:
Encourages movement, emotional expression, and dramatic play.

45. Trick-or-Treat Practice

Setup Instructions:

• Set up a few doors (real or pretend) with baskets of toddler-safe goodies.
  
• Toddlers knock, say “trick or treat,” and receive a small item.
  
• Rotate roles so they can also hand out treats.
  

Parent Tips:

• Use small toys, stickers, or snacks instead of candy.
  
• Practice manners like “thank you.”
  
• Perfect way to prep shy toddlers for the big night.
  

Why It Works:
Builds social confidence, manners, and helps toddlers feel comfortable with Halloween traditions.

🧩 Learning Through Halloween Play

Halloween fun can also double as an early learning opportunity—perfect for parents who want playful education.

46. Pumpkin Counting Game

Setup Instructions:

• Write numbers on mini pumpkins or paper cutouts.
  
• Lay them out and encourage toddlers to place them in order.
  
• Add a basket for “collecting” the pumpkins.
  

Parent Tips:

• For toddlers under 2, focus on counting out loud instead of ordering.
  
• Mix in different sizes for an extra sorting challenge.
  
• Celebrate every attempt to keep it positive.
  

Why It Works:
Supports early math skills and number recognition through hands-on play.

47. Color Sorting with Candy Corn

Setup Instructions:

• Use toy candy corn, printable versions, or felt pieces in orange, yellow, and white.
  
• Provide small bowls for sorting by color.
  
• Encourage toddlers to group or stack by shade.
  

Parent Tips:

• Skip real candy for toddlers under 2 (choking hazard).
  
• Add other seasonal colors like green and purple for variety.
  
• Turn it into a game: “Can you find all the orange ones?”
  

Why It Works:
Promotes color recognition, fine motor skills, and categorization.

48. Halloween Shape Hunt

Setup Instructions:

• Hide Halloween shapes around the room (bats = triangles, pumpkins = circles, ghosts = ovals).
  
• Give toddlers a basket or bag to collect them.
  
• Call out shapes as they search.
  

Parent Tips:

• Use laminated or cardstock cutouts for durability.
  
• Keep shapes large and easy to spot for toddlers under 2.
  
• Add simple prizes for participation (stickers, stamps).
  

Why It Works:
Combines movement with shape recognition, making learning active and exciting.

49. Sensory Letter Tracing

Setup Instructions:

• Fill a tray with orange rice, sand, or cornmeal.
  
• Write letters on flashcards for toddlers to copy by tracing.
  
• Encourage drawing Halloween shapes too (pumpkins, ghosts).
  

Parent Tips:

• Start with the first letter of your toddler’s name.
  
• Use fingers, paintbrushes, or popsicle sticks for tracing.
  
• Supervise younger toddlers to avoid messes.
  

Why It Works:
Strengthens pre-writing skills and introduces letters in a playful sensory way.

50. Halloween Puzzle Time

Setup Instructions:

• Provide chunky wooden puzzles with Halloween themes (pumpkins, cats, bats).
  
• Mix pieces in a basket and let toddlers match them.
  
• For DIY, print seasonal images and glue onto cardboard.
  

Parent Tips:

• Choose large, easy-to-hold pieces for under-2 toddlers.
  
• Work alongside toddlers to model problem-solving.
  
• Rotate puzzles to keep interest high.
  

Why It Works:
Enhances problem-solving, spatial awareness, and focus through fun seasonal play.

Related Articles: Learning Activities for Toddlers, Fine Motor Activities for Toddlers

🕯️ DIY Halloween Decorations with Toddlers

Decorating together makes Halloween feel magical for little ones—and safe DIY crafts mean they can really participate.

51. Pumpkin Garland

Setup Instructions:

• Cut pumpkin shapes from orange cardstock.
  
• Let toddlers decorate with stickers, crayons, or tissue paper.
  
• Punch holes and string them together as garland.
  

Parent Tips:

• Use yarn with taped ends for easy threading.
  
• Make it a group project—every pumpkin is unique.
  
• Hang at toddler eye level so they feel proud of their work.
  

Why It Works:
Builds fine motor skills and gives toddlers ownership in holiday decorating.

52. Ghost Window Clings

Setup Instructions:

• Use puffy paint on plastic sheets to create ghost shapes.
  
• Let them dry overnight.
  
• Peel off and stick to windows for reusable decorations.
  

Parent Tips:

• Have extra sheets ready for mistakes.
  
• Toddlers can add googly eyes or glitter for flair.
  
• Supervise closely—puffy paint can be messy.
  

Why It Works:
Enhances creativity and produces decorations toddlers can proudly display.

53. Handprint Spider Wall Art

Setup Instructions:

• Paint toddlers’ hands with washable black paint.
  
• Stamp onto paper with fingers spread (two handprints overlap for spider legs).
  
• Add googly eyes once dry.
  

Parent Tips:

• Use smocks or old t-shirts for painting.
  
• Create a “spider family” with multiple handprints.
  
• Save as keepsakes for years to come.
  

Why It Works:
Creates adorable seasonal art while capturing toddler handprints as a memory.

54. Candy Corn Banner

Setup Instructions:

• Cut triangles from cardstock.
  
• Paint or color them in candy corn stripes (white, orange, yellow).
  
• String together for a festive banner.
  

Parent Tips:

• Pre-cut shapes for younger toddlers.
  
• Use markers or crayons instead of paint for a quick mess-free option.
  
• Display across doorways, mantels, or playrooms.
  

Why It Works:
Combines crafting with color recognition, creating cheerful homemade décor.

55. Toddler-Friendly Jack-O-Lantern

Setup Instructions:

• Provide a pumpkin and a variety of stickers (faces, eyes, shapes).
  
• Toddlers decorate instead of carving.
  
• Add a flameless LED candle for glow.
  

Parent Tips:

• For extra fun, paint pumpkins white or green before decorating.
  
• Re-decorate daily with removable stickers.
  
• Great group activity for playdates or classrooms.
  

Why It Works:
Safe, mess-free pumpkin decorating that lets toddlers feel included in the classic tradition.

💡 Tips for Stress-Free Toddler Halloween Activities

• Keep it simple: Toddlers don’t need elaborate setups—short and sweet is best.
  
• Prioritize safety: Choose non-toxic, baby-safe supplies.
  
• Expect mess: Activities under 2 especially may get messy—embrace it.
  
• Follow their lead: If your child isn’t interested, try something else.
  
• Make it family-focused: It’s less about perfection and more about memories.

Final Thoughts,

Celebrating Halloween with toddlers doesn’t need to be complicated—or expensive. With a little creativity, these simple activities for toddlers turn the season into a joyful mix of play, discovery, and sweet traditions.

Whether you’re planning baby’s first pumpkin exploration or setting up fun Halloween games for toddlers, there’s something here for every stage and space.

Remember, it’s less about perfect crafts or elaborate setups and more about creating moments your little one will remember (and you’ll treasure). From toddler activities under 2 to exciting group play ideas, these Halloween activities for toddlers are designed to bring families together with laughter and love.

So gather your supplies, embrace the mess, and let the magic of Halloween shine—one tiny ghost, pumpkin, or giggle at a time. Happy haunting! 🎃