Carving pumpkins into jack-o-lanterns is a brilliant Halloween tradition. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

1. Let each kid pick a pumpkin with personality.

2. Cut a cap by carving a big circle around the stem on top of the pumpkin. Scrape all of the pulp away from the inside of the cap.

3. Give kids big spoons to scoop out all of the pulp and seeds (or have them use their hands). Then help them scrape the insides clean–the cleaner and drier the pumpkin, the longer it will last. Set seeds aside for roasting.

4. Let kids draw a face on the pumpkin with a permanent marker. An adult or older child can then help cut the eyes, nose and mouth holes. Or get fancy with patterns like these.

5. Set a lit votive candle carefully inside and place the jack-o-lantern in a window or front garden.

Some stores sell pumpkin carving kits, like this one at Waitrose, but you don’t need them. Just a sharp knife, big spoons, a permanent marker and some clothes that can get a bit messy will do you just fine!