Are you ready to carve out some family fun this fall? We love the idea of carving pumpkins as a family unit, but we can agree that it can be a challenge. Here’s our take on how to make this family activity safe, friendly, and fun! Tip #1 Be safe. Carving a pumpkin requires knives, and not all kiddos are ready for that. If your child isn’t ready for a sharp knife, why not consider an alternative to carving? We love the idea of using large, sticky googly eyes and Sharpie pens to draw silly faces on pumpkins. Nothing needs to be cut but you can still be just as creative! Here’s a great rundown of no-carve pumpkin decorating ideas from Parents Magazine. Tip #2 Size Matters. When choosing your pumpkins, be sure to consider shape and size. Larger isn’t always better, especially if it means that you need to move the pumpkin more during the carving process. This year, play with shape and size as a cohesive unit to create a family story. Have the kids choose pumpkins that correlate with their size (or age) in the family. Encourage everyone to decorate their pumpkin in a way that showcases who they are in the family. The end result is a family of pumpkins that is eerily like your own family! Tip #3 No More Faces. We love the idea of incorporating letters, not just eyes and smiles, into your carvings in 2018. Using a quick stencil printed right from your home computer to make pumpkins upscale and fancy festive! As a family, consider spelling out your surname. It gives everyone a singular goal that comes together as a family project. Tip #4 Go Geometric! Another unique idea for fall 2018 is to carve shapes out of your pumpkin. Especially consider stars! Crescent moons, trees, and lightning bolts are easily carved and completely original. You’ll be the only house on the block with these unique carvings. Tip #5 Tabletop Tea Lights. Here’s our last creative spin! Purchase smaller pumpkins for this one – think pie or ornamental size. You’ll take the top off and remove the seeds, but then you can scallop the top edge, and use smaller votive candles inside. Since they’re smaller pumpkins, you’ll be able to use them as centerpieces on a formal table. Delicate carvings add to the feminine touch these pumpkins offer. Do you have a favorite tip for making your pumpkins fall ready? We’d love to see them! Just be sure to tag us @QALO when you share your photos!