Fall Fun: Pumpkin Bean Bags

A bit of festive fun to get active!

This post was featured on The Crafty Crow’s round-up of ideas with pumpkins!  Check them out for more ideas for Fall!

 http://www.thecraftycrow.net/2014/10/7-great-pumpkin-crafts-for-kids.html

Materials

• Felt
• Sewing materials (you can sew these by hand or by machine)
• Fabric scissors
• Plastic pebbles (Polyfil type material.  You can by these at craft and dollar stores.)
• Funnel
• Plastic zip bag

Directions

• Cut out two copies of each of your pumpkin shapes. (Depending on your child’s age and abilities you may need to use a fabric marker or sewing marker to draw this out beforehand or have them draw a template out on paper, cut it out and pin it to the felt, cutting the pumpkins for them.  He or she may need to cut out the fabric pieces one at a time as well, rather than layering them as we have done.)

• Sew around the edges, leaving a gap that would be big enough to fit your funnel.  We suggest a thicker stitch to withstand all the tossing!

• Slip your funnel into the gap in the bean bag sewing and fill your bean bags with plastic pebbles inside a clear plastic bag so you can see what you are doing and so that the pebbles stay contained.  You may want to use a scoop or spoon or some children will enjoy the sensory experience of using their hands to fill the funnel.  (You may also want to have a vacuum on hand!)

• Carefully sew up the gap.  (Move the beads to the other side of the bean bag to avoid breaking your sewing machine needle.)

• Cut out a stem and leaf for each of your pumpkins.  Sew or glue them on the top of your pumpkin.

• Have fun tossing your beanbags to each other or to a target.

Purpose

• Make props to promote activity.

Safety Notes

• Be sure to keep plastic pellets away from small children (0-3 years) to prevent consumption.
• A sewing machine is recommended for adult use or based on your child’s age and abilities, with direct supervision.