Plants in Pumpkins Activity
Introduce your autistic child to nature and sensory play with our “Plants in Pumpkins” activity, perfect for building fine motor skills, emotional growth, and creativity!
Ice cream scoop or spoon (for scooping seeds)
Watering can or spray bottle
Small plastic plate (for each pumpkin to act as a saucer)
- Small pumpkins
- Plants of your choice (eg. sage, pansies, mums etc.)
- Potting soil
- Vaseline (optional - to coat the inside of the pumpkin and slow decomposition)
- Paper towels
Prepare the Pumpkin: Cut off the top and scoop out the seeds and stringy flesh. Use paper towels to dry the inside, and apply a thin layer of Vaseline on the inner surface to slow down decomposition.
Add Soil: Using the ice cream scoop, fill the pumpkin about halfway with pre-moistened potting soil.
Plant the Plants: Let your child place three plants in the pumpkin, arranging them as they like. Help them add more soil around the plants, gently pressing it down.
Water and Display: Give the flowers a gentle watering, then place the pumpkin planter on a small plate. Find a sunny spot where your child can admire their work!
Tips for Success with Sensory-Sensitive Children
- Use Different Textures: Offer gloves for children sensitive to textures or allow them to handle only specific parts of the activity, like planting the flowers.
- Create a Calm Environment: Play soft music or keep the area quiet to avoid sensory overload.
- Encourage Self-Pacing: Let children move through each step at their own pace, celebrating each part of the process.