Hello-I am contracted to host a childrens' puppet workshop next month over two days-childrens' ages range from 5-12yrs; I have to get them to develop a story to perform and make puppets for it, and then a short performance at the end of two hours!Really big ask-but I am just starting to do these workshops to add value to my product range-(biz speak) ie I need the money-and wonder if anyone has ideas for REALLY quick puppet making-papier mache is my usual method,but there's no time for it here!This client has really high expectations...I can manage the story development side, but would appreciate ideas for puppets...thanks-ZERO

I would suggest going to the library and getting Puppet Mania! and/or Puppet Planet.

Both were written by John Kennedy and they're full of good ideas.

Also check out the Puppet Building  or Projects area here at P&S.  There have been some great ideas of recent for workshop puppets.   Patti just did a really cool rod puppet workshop for 80 + 80 + 80 kids all in one day.... I think I have that number right.

Yes, the paper clip puppet was rather boss.

http://swazzle.com/swazzleworkshop0.html
Swazzle has some really easy ones like the toilet paper roll robot, etc. and this site also gives video instructions on how to do them, so it may give you some ideas on how to present the contruction as well.

I realize this is years too late to help the OP, but paper bags, especially the smaller sizes are great.  All the details can be made out of construction paper and paste.