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October 18, 2008 ( PowerHomeBiz
) - Ireland --
Puppets can mean many things to preschool children. Puppet play can lead to
increased self expression and creativity. It can instill a love of
dramatics, encourage speech from otherwise reluctant orators and greatly
improve communication between teachers and children. Home made puppets are
best especially when children can assist in their creation. Generally,
puppets fall into four different categories.
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Hand puppets - are somewhat like a three fingered glove comprising a
fabric body with a hole for each arm and one for the head. Simply trace
around a child's hand for size and use a small, light ball, foam or
polystyrene ball for the head. Cut a hole in the ball to accommodate fingers
and encase the ball in fabric so you can stitch or draw a face and hair. You
can go wild with the fabrics you use for the body and have detachable
features so that one puppet can be many characters.
Stick puppets – A stick puppet is easily made using a piece of wood with
a head stuck on top. Painted or detachable features can again be used on the
simple wooden ball otherwise known as the head. A piece of fabric, with
holes for arms, can quickly be transformed into a magnificent cloak. A
wooden spoon enveloped in just such a cloak can often double for a stick
puppet should you be against the clock.
Animal puppets – Attaching obvious animal features to an old sock is an
easy way to make animal puppets so, whiskers and beady eyes makes something
rodent like, felt ears and a trunk generally denotes an elephant (let your
imagination run wild!). Cut the head off old vinyl toys or remove the
stuffing from a beat up stuffed animal and hey presto – recycled animal
puppets.
Finger puppets – Stretchy fabric covering a small bead or piece of foam
will suffice for these puppets. A pipe cleaner running through the sleeves
serve as arms under a cape style tunic. The fabric of the head should be
securely stitched to the cape. Elaborate accessories and tiny features
combine to make finger puppets very detailed and special in their small way.
Use an arch on top of a table or the window of a play house, complete
with curtains, as a theatre or stage upon which your puppet ensemble can
strut its stuff. Enjoy the show!
As a daycare owner and parent Fiona Lohrenz has
extensive knowledge of childminding which she writes about on her
child care website. She has also used this knowledge to produce a
'Start a Daycare Business' DVD guide: How To Start A Daycare You
can find her at her Day Care
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