Bring the characters of Think and Be Me to Life in the classroom, small group or home setting Puppets open doors to conversations children might not have the words for yet. With the Think and Be Me characters — Cool Cat, Worry Watchdog, and Angry Dragon, children can notice, name, and navigate big feelings in ways that are playful, safe, and deeply effective. Why do children love puppets? Safety through play: Puppets create emotional distance — the feeling belongs to the puppet, not the child. This lowers stress and allows honest expression. Voice and projection: Puppets give tamariki “permission” to say things they might not otherwise. It can be easier to talk to or through a puppet than to an adult. Imagination and engagement: Puppets capture attention and spark curiosity, helping children stay engaged while learning emotional skills. Social rehearsal: Through puppets, children practise conversations, problem‑solving, and brave behaviours before trying them in real life. Where can we use puppets? In the classroom (whole group):Use puppets in mat time or circle time to introduce emotions, model regulation strategies, or spark class discussions. Small groups:Puppets can guide group activities, helping peers problem‑solve together, share feelings, and practise fairness or turn‑taking. One‑on‑one:Puppets can be trusted “companions” in quiet conversations with an educator or parent, allowing tamariki to share worries or frustrations safely. Free play:Leave puppets in dramatic play corners or wellbeing spaces. Observe how children naturally use them — often mirroring what they’ve learned. At home:Families can use puppets at bedtime or mealtimes as gentle conversation starters: “Cool Cat had a big day — how about you? This Puppet Set includes: Worry Watchdog, Angry Dragon & Cool Cat hand puppets. Downloadable Puppet Play Toolkit (Cool Cat, Worry Watchdog, Angry Dragon)
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