Finger Puppet Storytelling
To develop early narrative engagement and joint attention through finger puppet stories.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Literacy
- Learning area: Literacy
- Level: EYFS Birth-2
Objectives
- Watches puppet with sustained attention
- Reaches for puppet
- Anticipates puppet appearance
- Shows pleasure through vocalisation
Materials
- Finger puppets (animals, people)
- Soft mat or cushions
- Simple board books matching puppets
- Puppet basket at child level
Instructions
Select two or three finger puppets that match characters from a familiar board book. 'The Very Hungry Caterpillar' with a caterpillar puppet, 'Dear Zoo' with animal puppets.
Begin the story using an animated voice: 'Hello! I'm Caterpillar! I'm sooo hungry! What shall I eat?' Move the puppet expressively — hide it behind your back, make it peek out.
Watch the baby's gaze and respond. If they reach for the puppet, pause and let them touch it: 'You found Caterpillar! Stroke him gently. He's soft!' Then continue the story.
Keep puppet stories very short — two to three minutes maximum. End warmly: 'Caterpillar is sleepy now. Night night Caterpillar!' Tuck the puppet away. Babies love the closing ritual.
Leave puppet baskets accessible so babies can explore independently. This is not random play — it's early narrative rehearsal.
Over time, watch for babies anticipating story actions — leaning forward before the puppet appears, laughing before the funny part. This anticipation shows comprehension developing.