The Preschooler

Puppet Shows

Kids can usually pretend that just about any inanimate object has become something totally different that exists within their imaginations.  They will carry on entire conversations with a block and a ball which, to them, have become a robot and a superhero.  Although they are certainly learning as they play in this manner by themselves or with a friend, you can help harness their creativity and propel their learning forward through the use of puppet shows.

When children use make believe characters to tell a story to an audience, they become more focused on creating a story like those they have heard told to them by adults or in books.  Without even realizing they are doing it, they will begin to form a solid beginning, middle and end to the story.  And with puppet shows, it is easy for you to demonstrate storytelling by picking up a puppet yourself.  When you become involved in the show, you can guide the story by using your own character to ask questions or create integral story parts such as the problem/conflict and the resolution.  You can take turns with your child putting on shows or you can be part of the show for a pretend or real audience.  You can also help your child make the characters and scenery which are also important elements of a story.  Although your child will likely supply most of the imagination, you will have just as much fun slipping on a puppet and go to that wonderful world of make-believe.

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Written by BRWI Staff on May 29, 2009