Of the many things parenting has taught me, one is to always be prepared with games and crafts in case creativity strikes, or we’re in the throes of cold winter days when leaving the house for some outdoor activity is the last thing I want to do.
In each issue of jingkids, our Maker’s Corner column asks a teacher from one of Beijing’s international schools to give our readers step-by-step instructions for making one of their favorite crafts. Most can be made with common household supplies, meaning Maker’s Corner is one of the greatest resources a parent can keep on the back burner for a rainy day.
This month, Ms. Malu Villafane from the International School of Beijing and her Early Years 4 students Phillip P., Adelie N., and Janessa J. show us how to make paper puppets.
Here’s what you’ll need：
1. Brown paper bag
2. Glue
3. Scissors
4. Stick on eyes (can be found on Taobao by searching 手工眼睛 shǒu gōng yǎn jīng)
5. Yarn or crinkled colored paper (for the hair)
6. Thin red ribbon (for the tongue)
7. Markers for decoration *optional
Here’s how to build your paper puppet：
Step 1:
Take your paper bag and glue your puppet’s eyes on. Be sure not to add too much glue!
Step 2:
Add your puppet’s hair. Make it long or short!
Step 3:
Cut a piece of ribbon to add a tongue!
Step 4:
Make it your own! Draw some clothes, glue on extra eyes, add stickers, customize your puppet however you like – let those creative juices flow!
This article appeared in the jingkids 2021 November-December issue
