Cut card into a simple figure shape if the child will not be cutting independently. Have tape or glue ready.
How to make it
1Draw a character on the card — a person, animal, or imaginary creature.
2Colour the character.
3Cut out the shape (adult helps for younger children).
4Tape a stick or straw to the back of the figure.
5Add optional details: fabric clothes, yarn hair.
6Use the puppet to tell a story.
Creative variation
Make a cast of characters for a complete puppet show. Create puppets based on characters from a favourite book.
Display or reuse: Use in a puppet show. Store in a bag with other puppets.
You will need
Thick paper or card
Crayons or non-toxic felt-tip pens
A wooden lolly stick or straw
Tape
Optional extras
Fabric scraps for clothing
Yarn for hair
SCP
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Safety note
Adult handles cutting. Ensure sticks do not have sharp or splintered ends. Use non-toxic materials. Check that small attached pieces are securely glued for younger children.
Cleanup
Store puppets in a bag or container. Wash hands after using glue or paint.
Check paper bags are clean and dry. Prepare paper scraps for features if the child will need them pre-cut.
How to make it
1Hold the bag with the folded base at the top — this will be the face.
2Draw or glue on eyes, a nose, and a mouth across the fold and the bag below it.
3Add hair, ears, or other features.
4Put a hand inside the bag, with fingers in the folded flap and thumb below — the mouth opens when moved.
5Use the puppet in a story.
Creative variation
Make an animal rather than a person. Make two puppets and perform a short conversation.
Display or reuse: Use in a puppet show. Store flat inside one another.
You will need
A small paper bag (lunch bag size)
Crayons, pens, or paint
Paper scraps for features
Optional extras
Yarn for hair
Buttons for eyes (not suitable for children under 3)
PBP
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Safety note
Check that paper bags do not have handles that could catch around fingers. Do not allow young children to place bags near their faces. Keep plastic bags entirely away from children of all ages. Avoid using small detachable parts with children under 3.
Cleanup
Store flat. Paper bags are compostable or recyclable.
If tubes are not available, roll two pieces of card into tubes and tape. Punch two small holes at the outer edge of each tube for attaching the strap — adult handles hole-making.
How to make it
1Decorate the outside of both tubes with crayons or paint. Allow to dry.
2Tape the two tubes firmly side by side.
3Thread string through the outer holes and tie securely at both ends to create a neck strap.
4The binoculars are ready to use in an outdoor nature walk or imaginative adventure.
Creative variation
Add a small circle of coloured cellophane across one end for a coloured view. Write a name or mission on the side.
Display or reuse: Use in outdoor play, nature walks, or imaginative spy or explorer games.
You will need
Two cardboard tubes (toilet roll tubes)
Tape
Crayons or non-toxic paint
A piece of string or yarn (about 50 cm)
Optional extras
Stickers for decoration
PB
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Safety note
Ensure the strap is not so long that it could catch or present a strangulation hazard. The strap should sit safely around the neck at a comfortable length. Adult supervises strap attachment. Do not allow children to pull the strap tight.
Cut eye holes in advance — this must be done by an adult and checked carefully for position before cutting. If using elastic, attach it securely.
How to make it
1Decide on the animal.
2Colour and decorate the mask surface.
3Glue on paper ear shapes.
4Add any other features — whiskers made from strips of card, a paper beak, horns.
5Adult attaches elastic or a holding stick.
Creative variation
Make masks for all players and use them in a short animal story.
Display or reuse: Wear in imaginative play. Display on a wall.
You will need
A paper plate or a large oval of card
Crayons or non-toxic paint
Scissors (adult-handled)
Elastic or a stick to hold the mask
Optional: paper scraps for ears and features
Optional extras
Yarn for fur or mane effect
PAM
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Safety note
Adult must cut eye holes and ensure they are properly positioned before the mask is worn. The mask should not restrict breathing. Elastic should not be tight. Do not leave children unattended while wearing a mask. Do not use plastic bags or non-breathable materials as masks under any circumstances.