There’s something about pumpkin pie that says fall is officially here. The scent, the color, the cozy slice after dinner—it’s a seasonal icon. And even though toddlers probably care more about splashing in crunchy leaves than nibbling spiced desserts, they can still join in the pumpkin pie fun—with their hands, of course.
This craft is as cute as it is squishy. It uses simple shapes, warm autumn colors, and a little whipped cream magic (cotton balls, obviously) to create a pumpkin pie slice that’s equal parts sensory and sweet. Whether you’re a parent hunting for a fun November afternoon activity or a preschool teacher building a Thanksgiving bulletin board, this is one pie that’s easy to make and hard not to smile at.
And yes—it’s totally okay if it ends up slightly sticky.
Why Toddlers Love This Pumpkin Pie Craft
Toddlers are all about the process. They love to press, smear, stick, and explore textures—so this project is perfect. It’s easy to prep, low on mess (well, mostly), and doesn’t require any perfect cutting or fancy tools.
The pie slice shape gives just enough structure for little ones to feel like they’re “making something,” while the tactile elements (like glued-on pom-poms, cotton, or torn paper) keep little hands busy. Plus, the color palette—orange, beige, brown, and white—is pure Thanksgiving.
What You’ll Need
This craft works with both paper and felt materials. Here’s a simple supply list:
- Orange construction paper or cardstock (for the pie filling)
- Light brown or tan paper (for the crust)
- Cotton balls or white pom-poms (for the “whipped cream”)
- Glue stick or school glue
- Scissors (adult use or toddler-safe)
- Optional: Paper plate base, glitter for spice, paintbrushes
How to Make a Pumpkin Pie Craft Slice
- Cut the shapesPre-cut triangle shapes from orange paper for the “pie” filling. For the crust, cut a slightly larger triangle from light brown paper and glue the orange triangle on top, leaving the crust visible.
- Add textureToddlers can crumple small bits of tissue paper or dab orange paint onto the pie shape for a textured look. You can even add some cinnamon powder to the glue to give it a scent!
- Stick on the whipped creamLet kids glue a fluffy cotton ball or pom-pom to the top point of the triangle. One is cute—three is a party.
- Decorate (optional)Let kids sprinkle glitter “spices” or press fingerprint dots onto the pie using brown paint. You can also help them glue the finished pie slice to a paper plate for extra realism.
Adaptations by Age
- Infants: Try a footprint version! Dip the baby’s foot in orange paint and stamp it onto cardstock, then add a brown paper “crust” and a cotton ball to turn it into a keepsake pie print.
- Toddlers: Focus on gluing and pressing—big chunky shapes are best. You can also encourage them to help tear the crust or filling paper for a fine motor moment.
- Preschoolers: Let them help cut the triangles, apply glue, or build a whole pie slice collage. You can even turn this into a counting activity—“How many dollops of cream do you want?”
Display Ideas
- Thanksgiving Table Decor: Tape a few finished pies to mini paper plates and use them as name cards for dinner.
- Classroom Bulletin Board: Create a “Sweet as Pumpkin Pie” board with each child’s craft and name.
- Fridge Gallery: Nothing says “fall” like a toddler-made pie slice next to your weekly grocery list.
Final Thoughts
Pumpkin pie crafts aren’t just about looking cute on the fridge—they’re about giving toddlers a chance to connect with the season in their own squishy, gluey, hands-on way. The results may not be symmetrical (or dry by dinner), but they willbe full of character—and a few cotton balls too.
Happy crafting, and pass the whipped cream!