Puppet Conversations
To encourage speaking confidence and conversational skills through puppet play.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Communication & Language
- Learning area: Communication and Language
- Level: EYFS 2-3
Objectives
- Engages in back-and-forth exchanges
- Asks simple questions
- Uses language to share ideas
- Develops confidence in speaking
Materials
- Selection of hand puppets and finger puppets
- Puppet theatre or screen
- Props for puppet scenarios
Instructions
Bring out your puppet with ceremony and a sense of occasion. Give it a name and personality: 'This is Barnaby Bear. He's a bit shy, but he really wants to make friends. Can you say hello to Barnaby?' Have the puppet 'whisper' in your ear as if sharing secrets.
Use a different voice for the puppet—perhaps slightly higher, or with a gentle lisp, or very slow and soft. This helps children understand they're talking to a character. Make the puppet move when it speaks and be still when listening, just as we do in real conversations.
Create scenarios where the puppet needs help: 'Barnaby can't find his favourite book. It's a red book about trains. Have you seen it?' Or: 'Barnaby is feeling sad because he fell over. What could we say to make him feel better?'
Model the puppet asking questions: 'What's your name?' 'What do you like to play with?' Then encourage children to ask questions back. If they seem hesitant, suggest: 'Shall we ask Barnaby what he had for breakfast?'
The puppet can make 'mistakes' that children love to correct: 'Barnaby says shoes go on your ears! Is that right? Where do shoes really go?' This builds confidence as children become the expert helping their puppet friend.
Once children are comfortable, offer them a puppet to use. At first they may just hold it, then they might make it move, and eventually some will give it a voice. Welcome all levels of engagement—there's no rush.
Puppets are particularly valuable for discussing feelings or challenges. Try: 'Barnaby feels worried about starting nursery. He doesn't know anyone. What could help Barnaby feel braver?' Children often share their own feelings through the safety of discussing the puppet's experience.
End the session properly: 'Barnaby needs to go to sleep now, but he says thank you for playing and he can't wait to see you tomorrow!' This builds anticipation and a sense of ongoing relationship.