i need some help next week i am going to teach 5-6 graders how to use puppets. i know what to teach them but how should i? please help me!!!!!!!!

I think you should do both give them a simple to follow outline and show them examples of building and operating a puppet.

Billy D.

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That's awesome! We're doing the same theme for VBS next week. I'm in charge of set design and scenery. (Not too difficult since Group does a real good job of providing info)  I also Direct the puppet team at our church. I teach them the basics first.  Posture, eye contact, lip sync, entrances and exits. I think Billy's suggestion is a good one though.  Depending on how much time you have you could possibly have them make some simple puppets out of household stuff at the beginning of the week and do a skit at the end.  Just try to make it fun! Anyhow good luck!  I'm sure you'll do a great job!

We are doing that VBS too, but not until the end of July.

Are you making the puppets or just learning to work ready made puppets?

Either way I say start with example!

I agre with Billy. The first class I did (with adults, but people who'd never done puppetry before) really liked my intro to puppets where I'd explain a little and then bring out an example. Everyone loved being able to play with the different types; then we sat down and made a couple of the simpler ones.

The good thing with examples is that it not only shows something visually, but it also gets people inspired or excited to get started on making their own.

The good thing with examples is that it not only shows something visually, but it also gets people inspired or excited to get started on making their own.

This also opens the door for future classes whether it VBS or opportunities for a puppet ministry.

Billy D.

Well, depending on how much time you have to practice with them I would start with game, something to get their energy out, but also to get those creative juices going.  It also helps to break the ice.  At that age they can be very uncomfortable at first being silly/creative with each other.

If you only have a few practices until VBS then I would focus on entrances and exits based on the song/skit they will be doing.  Keep in mind if they are a fish they will enter differently than a squid, person etc.  Also, remind them to move around behind the stage as the operate their puppet.  If they become their puppet they will be more relaxed and their performance will be more believable even if their skills are perfect.

Then I would work on their lip sync.  If you had a lot of time to practice before VBS then I would have them work on lips sync for a few weeks before the other.  It would be great if they could have a simple puppet head to take home to practice with, but you should give them an actual assignment like homework.  The puppet should operate and feel like the ones they will be using because it can be frustrating for a newbie to use an easy puppet to practice with then have a more difficult one for the performance.  Remember their arm strength will probably only allow for a 2-3 min. song or skit, maybe less.

Don't forget to take another "play" break if your practice goes longer than 45min - 1hr.  Use games that build team work, but are totally silly. 

Hope this helps.

Julie