Not So Scary Mary: Fun Activity Ideas

Encourage your child to dream up their perfect costume ideas on paper. Discussion Tip: Ask your child, If you could be anything for Halloween, what would it be and why?

Instructions:

1. Read the book together to spark inspiration for costume ideas.

2. Provide blank paper and coloring supplies to your child.

3. Ask them to draw their dream costume, even if it is silly or impossible.

4. Have them name their costume and describe what special powers it might have.

You will need:

• Book and read along

• Crayola crayons and colored pencils

• White construction paper

Have your child sort through old clothes and accessories to create a makeshift costume. Discussion Tip: Ask, How does changing your outfit change how you feel or act?

Instructions:

1. Gather various items like hats, scarves, and oversized shirts in a trunk or bin.

2. Challenge your child to pick three random items and combine them into a creative look.

3. Help them layer the items to create a unique character.

4. Take a photo of the completed look to celebrate their creativity.

You will need:

• Book and read along

• Old hats, scarves, and accessories

• Cardboard box for the trunk

Use recyclables to craft a custom mask. Discussion Tip: Ask your child, What emotion does your mask show, and why did you choose that?

Instructions:

1. Cut a face shape out of a flat piece of thin cardboard.

2. Cut out eye holes carefully.

3. Use markers and leftover scraps to decorate the mask with unique features.

4. Attach a string or a handle to the back so your child can hold it up.

You will need:

• Book and read along

• Empty cereal boxes or thin cardboard

• Child-safe scissors

• Non-toxic markers

Practice problem-solving by changing a plan halfway through. Discussion Tip: Ask, When things don't go as planned, how can we keep having fun?

Instructions:

1. Start building a specific structure with blocks, like a tower.

2. Halfway through, change the goal to something else, like a bridge.

3. Talk about why it is okay to change the plan.

4. Continue building and adjust the blocks to fit the new idea together.

You will need:

• Book and read along

• Building blocks or Lego set

Use costumes to act out a short story about trying something new. Discussion Tip: Ask, If Mary were your friend, what advice would you give her when she felt stuck?

Instructions:

1. Read the story and pause to discuss how Mary felt when things went wrong.

2. Pick a simple prop or piece of clothing to represent a character.

3. Create a short skit about a time you tried something and it turned out differently than expected.

4. Encourage your child to improvise the ending of the skit.

You will need:

• Book and read along

• Various household craft supplies