Kids can Make their own pumpkin puzzle with a paper plate and craft paint. Puzzles are a great option for exploring shapes with preschoolers. This puzzle is fun to take apart and put together over and over again!

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Puzzles are not only lots of fun for kids, they support early development skills in many ways. When kids match puzzle pieces they use fine motor skills, problem solving and hand-eye coordination. All these benefits while kids are simple enjoying the fun of working and playing together to complete a puzzle.

A simple homemade puzzle like this paper plate pumpkin is a great option for toddlers and preschoolers. Kids interact with just a few large pieces that quickly reveal the pumpkin's smile when put together.

Pumpkin puzzle craft

Homemade puzzles can be as simple as matching two halves together to make a whole. Painting wood blocks to make puzzles illustrates this simple way to provide a puzzle activity.

Cutting a paper plate into four or more pieces is another way to support simple math and cognitive thinking skills.

Puzzles for early learners should be age appropriate. Too many pieces can be frustrating, and small pieces often go missing! Older kids need a challenge, but they also want to see the picture take shape, and be able to complete the puzzle.

Kids can help make the puzzle by coloring a paper plate and drawing the face on the pumpkin.

Supplies

• paper plate
• orange paint
• black paint or marker
• scissors

Instructions

1. Paint a paper plate orange. 

2. Paint features with black paint, or use markers or crayons to draw eyes, nose and mouth.

3. Cut the plate into four or more pieces, depending on the age and skill level of your child. Draw lines beforehand on the paper plate with a straight edge. This will provide a guide for cutting out the pieces.

Kids will love making this pumpkin puzzle with a paper plate. Add this puzzle-making activity to your daily schedule during the Halloween season.

Halloween Pinterest board.