Puppet Play - Toddler (18 months – 3 years)
Where Big Imaginations Build Even Bigger Brains!
Toddlers are tiny explorers on a mission to understand how the world works. But sometimes, being a toddler is hard! Our Toddler Puppet Play Class uses the power of play to help your little one navigate big emotions, solve complex puzzles, and find their "big kid" voice.
18 Months – 3 Years: Symbolic Thinking
You will guide your child through "mirroring" daily routines with puppets, a key step in developing cognitive flexibility and executive function. Together, we move from literal play to the abstract thinking necessary for complex problem-solving and imaginative growth.
This is the dawn of abstract thought, where your child begins to use their imagination to represent real-life experiences, allowing them to process the world through "pretend" and symbolic play.
Developmental and Educational Focus Include:
Symbolic Play: Beginning to understand that a puppet can represent a "real" person or animal.
Cognitive Flexibility: Using puppets to act out and process daily transitions like nap time or mealtime.
Emergent Vocabulary: Moving from single words to short phrases through "conversations" with puppets.
FAQs
How long are the sessions?
1
Each session is 45 minutes of high-engagement play, including a welcome ritual, interactive activities, and a calming goodbye.
Does my child need their own puppet?
2
We provide a curated library of high-contrast, tactile, and specialty puppets for use during class. We’ll even help you choose the "best friend" that matches your child's personality each week!
Do parents have to perform?
3
Not at all! We use the puppet as a "social shield." You’ll find that when you’re looking at the puppet and talking to your child, the rest of the room disappears. It’s about your bond, not a Broadway performance.
My toddler is very active and won't sit still. Is this for us?
4
Yes! We move from "Big Body" gross motor play to "Small Focus" fine motor play specifically to help active toddlers learn to regulate their energy. Moving is part of the learning!
Can I join midway through the term?
5
Our curriculum is a "spiral," meaning we repeat and build on skills. While starting at the beginning of the term is recommended, our "Welcome" ritual helps new families jump right in at any time