Show-How Guides: Pumpkin Carving
#1 of 12 in Show-How Guides Series
What’s inside...
SHOW-HOW GUIDES: PUMPKIN CARVING is a primer for curious minds with a clear, fun graphic style that invites any kid to get started designing their pumpkins. This pocket-sized 101 includes a curated collection of 18 essential cutting and carving techniques. Every step is illustrated, allowing kids to easily master the basics, regardless of how they learn. Readers will learn to cut, scoop, and spook with pumpkins in both classic and unique styles. SHOW-HOW GUIDES offers visual, step-by-step introductions to skills that every kid should know—from hair braiding and paper airplanes, to drawing animals, pumpkin carving, gingerbread houses, and more! Whether you’re a second grader learning to make friendship bracelets for the first time or an adult looking to master the art of knots, these comics will give you the skills you’ll treasure through childhood and beyond.
Discussion points
What was your favorite pumpkin face from the book, and why did it stand out to you?
How do you think carving a pumpkin can help us get ready for Halloween?
If you were to create your own pumpkin design, what would it look like and what tools would you use?
What feelings do the different pumpkin faces in the book make you feel?
Why do you think people enjoy carving pumpkins during Halloween?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to describe the pumpkin faces and designs in detail, helping them expand their vocabulary and expression.
Discuss the step-by-step instructions and ask your child if they would change or add any steps to make pumpkin carving easier or more fun.
Help your child draw their pumpkin design ideas on paper before carving, enabling a hands-on approach to planning and creativity.
Use the book's images to discuss emotions associated with different facial expressions, deepening emotional intelligence.
Highlight the importance of following safety instructions while using carving tools, emphasizing responsibility.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: Through the process of designing and carving pumpkins, children are encouraged to tap into their creative abilities and imagine new possibilities.
Real-World Application: Children can apply their creativity to other forms of art and problem-solving tasks in school and at home, fostering an innovative mindset.
Example Lesson: Following Instructions
Explanation: The guide provides step-by-step instructions that children need to follow in order to achieve the desired outcome in pumpkin carving.
Real-World Application: Children learn to pay attention to detail and follow sequences, which is a valuable skill in academic settings and in following daily routines.
Example Lesson: Patience and Perseverance
Explanation: Carving a pumpkin requires patience and the ability to persevere through mistakes or unexpected challenges during the process.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of patience and perseverance in achieving their goals, whether it's completing a project or learning a new skill.
Example Lesson: Safety Awareness
Explanation: The book emphasizes the importance of safety measures when using carving tools through guided precautions.
Real-World Application: Children learn to incorporate safety measures in various aspects of their lives, understanding the importance of being cautious and responsible.