Ep.88 – Putting the “wee” in Halloween Pt.2 – Crafts!
In the second part of the “Putting the ‘wee’ In Halloween” series titled “Crafts!” on the Empowering Choices Parenting podcast, hosts Joshua, Lucas, and Erik dive into the joys of Halloween crafts and decorations, emphasizing affordability and family fun over commercial extravagance. The episode begins with a lighthearted banter among the hosts, quickly transitioning into a discussion about the value of simple, homemade Halloween activities. Erik shares, “Parenting can be extremely fun…and some of the fondest memories I have around different holidays is when my mom would bring out the crafting things.” The hosts discuss the high cost of commercial holiday experiences like Disney’s Halloween events, advocating instead for creating lasting memories through affordable crafts at home. Lucas highlights the importance of such activities, noting, “Your kid’s going to remember coloring at the kitchen table probably more than Disneyland, especially if the only thing you ever did with them was just Disneyland.” This conversation underscores the theme of simplicity and personal touch in celebrating Halloween. The episode also touches on the practical aspects of Halloween crafts. Erik encourages listeners not to strive for perfection but to enjoy the process with their children, saying, “It’s the parents… It’s us as the adults that sometimes think… we didn’t do much crafts in high school. But then I’m, I’m doing adult. I should be able to just get this done and do it.” This segues into a broader discussion about using Halloween as an opportunity for children to explore their creativity and manual skills, which are often overshadowed by today’s technology-driven entertainment. Safety during Halloween is another crucial topic covered. Lucas brings up the innovative idea of allergy-friendly trick-or-treating, mentioning a turquoise-colored pumpkin sign that indicates non-food treats suitable for children with allergies. This practical tip serves as a reminder of the inclusivity that should accompany holiday festivities. Concluding the episode, the hosts reflect on the multifaceted benefits of engaging in hands-on Halloween activities, from developing fine motor skills to fostering creativity and problem-solving. Erik sums up the spirit of the episode by encouraging hobbies and personal projects: “They are extremely good for humans… It’s amazing the effect that working with our hands and working with our brain has on the human body itself.” The episode wraps up with reminders for the audience to subscribe and follow their social media for more craft ideas and tips, ensuring listeners are well-prepared to enjoy a creatively fulfilling Halloween.
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