Breaking from our usual programming is this fun, holiday special

With Halloween festivities around the corner, this is a perfect time for you, and children of all ages, to incorporate science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM) into your celebrations. From picking out unique costumes to carving pumpkins, there are plenty of STEAM opportunities.

Need a last minute costume idea? Have you prepped your pumpkin?

The carving of vegetables including large turnips, beets and potatoes, has been commonplace throughout the world for hundreds of years dating as far back as the 17th century. Although the tradition has been adapted to pumpkins, seeing glowing jack-o’-lanterns decorate front steps is common throughout America.

This is the perfect opportunity to show your love for the environment (and saving energy) by recreating these fun, STEAM-friendly images on a pumpkin using markers or even by carving them out as a family. Whether your children are 4 or 14 years old, be safe when carving and hollowing out your pumpkin.

This is the perfect time of year to show your love for the environment (and saving energy) by sending in pictures of your finished product!