Last year, I was volunteering at a summer camp for kindergarten-age children. For the opening day, we had to put on a demonstration on safety. It’s difficult to catch the attention of 5 and 6 year olds, so I asked my dad, a magician, on what would work. He suggested I put on a puppet show.
Purchasing a hand puppet from an online store, I put on quite a show and it was so popular that the kids wanted me to bring back Harry Bearie at the end of the camp. Having the puppet was a great way for me to break the ice with the kids and I’m more than certain that good ol’ Harry Bearie is coming back this summer.
One of my favorite childhood memories is when my parents would read me my bedtime story. I could never fall asleep without at least a short tale, but it seems like this time-tested tradition is falling to the wayside. Today kids are content on going to sleep to the glow of their Game Boy or the sounds of their iPod.
Reading to your child is important, as it lays the groundwork for a lifelong devotion to literature and education in general. If your child is resistant to sitting down to listen to a story, try to make it more engaging for them. Read the characters’ voices in a different tone, or try bringing the story to life through the use of hand puppets.
It seems that children have the most fleeting attention spans in the world, and it’s hard to keep any child entertained by one object or activity for long. That’s why every parent and babysitter needs an arsenal of toys and activities to have on hand at all times to prevent boredom. Especially on rainy days when outside play is impossible, kids need constant stimulation. It’s a good idea to have imagination-inspiring toys and activities prepared in addition to regular toys.
Crafts are always a good way to go, but kids can have endless fun putting on a puppet show using hand puppets. Let each child choose a hand puppet and devise characters, a plot, dialogue and props. Have them practice their show, and then organize the rest of the family to watch the final show. Serve snacks and drinks for a refreshing treat afterward! Encourage the kids to come up with different stories every week to keep their imaginations running.