If you’ve left the costume to the last-minute, you’re going to be up against the clock anyway, but Emma reassures this is a good thing.
Emma said: “Setting a time limit means you have to be realistic and get things done.
“If you want to turn the costume into a craft activity with your child, set aside an hour or two and make clear you have to finish within that timeframe.”
If you’re short of ideas, try one of these four costumes based on the most popular children’s book characters – with the help of Emma’s expertise.
Paddington Bear
Paddington has always been one of Britain’s best-loved bears, but since the Peruvian bear got a reboot in recent films, his star has been on the rise.
Emma said: “Paddington’s blue coat and red hat are instantly recognisable, so if you’ve got those at home, or can borrow them or pick up cheap ones at a charity shop you’re halfway there.
“Using cardboard, you or your child can make Paddington’s ‘Please look after this bear’ label.
“For the full look, you could quite easily craft a suitcase using an old shoebox and some brown paper.
“Add the finishing touches with some bear face paint – it doesn’t have to be too complicated.”
If you have any old teddy bears, you could even perform an ear transplant and stick them onto the red hat for extra effect – but you may want to do this out of view of the kids!
