Two Not-So-Spooky Crafts Your Kids Will Love

I've never been a huge Halloween fan, for a few reasons: I don't really like dressing up; sweets don't really do it for me; I don't like to be scared; and I don't like walking around in the dark and cold asking strangers for candy. Is that enough pessimism for you? I do, however, love the fall. I love the changing leaves, the break from the heat, fall decor, using my crockpot again and cozy sweaters.

I always feel a little craftier when there's a chill in the air and we're spending more time indoors. I've came up with two cute Halloween projects that are fun to make and kid approved!

Haunted Clam Shell Matching Game

Here's what you need:

• Eight (or more) clamshells;

• acrylic Paint; and

• small brushes and toothpicks.

Start by cleaning your shells in equal parts bleach and water, for at least an hour. Rinse and let dry completely before continuing.

Paint your background colors and let dry. The good thing about acrylic paint is they dry pretty fast.

Paint your designs - two of each kind. We chose pumpkins, ghosts, bats and leaves.

Let dry and play!

Ghosts & Pumpkins Checkers

Here's what you need:

• A sturdy surface (such as strong cardboard or wood) cut into a square;

• 24 acorn caps (12 for each team)

• painter's tape

• acrylic paints (orange, white, green and black)

• small paintbrushes and toothpicks

Paint your square (or game board) white and let dry.

Cut painter's tape into squares and stick in a checkerboard pattern on your board. Paint orange and let dry.

Remove tape and touch up spots with toothpicks dipped in paint.

Meanwhile, paint 12 acorn caps white and 12 acorn caps orange. Let dry.

Paint green stems for the pumpkins and black eyes for the ghosts.

When all parts are dry, brush up on your checkers skills and play! I'll admit, I was a bit rusty, but it was still fun and a cute version of the original.

Happy crafting!