Finger Puppet Fun is a gentle and engaging way to introduce babies to imaginative play and social interaction.
Using a set of finger puppets — or even socks with faces drawn on — you can create a playful little world where characters pop up, talk, and interact in fun and silly ways.
This kind of play supports early communication skills, emotional connection and curiosity. It also gives babies a chance to practise reaching, grabbing and following movement — all important for early development.
Materials Needed
- Finger puppets; shop-bought or homemade (video below)
- Optional: clean socks with drawn-on or sewn faces
- Blanket or soft toy stage (optional for added fun)
Tools Needed
- None
Steps
- Pick Your Puppets
Choose one or two finger puppets — animals, people, or made-up creatures work well. - Say Hello
Use different voices and gentle movements to bring the puppets to life. Introduce them to your baby — “Hello! I’m Bunny!” - Encourage Interaction
Let your baby watch, reach for, or gently grab the puppets. Respond to their movements with playful reactions. - Tell a Mini Story
Create a short, simple interaction — like two puppets singing, hiding behind your hands, or giving cuddles. - Follow Baby’s Lead
If your baby wants to hold the puppet or explore it with their mouth, that’s part of the fun too!
Variations
- DIY Puppet Craft: Make your own using socks, felt, or card cut-outs glued to pegs or fingers.
- Mirror Play: Let your baby watch the puppets (and themselves) in a mirror for added engagement.
- Sing Along: Use puppets to act out nursery rhymes or songs like “Old MacDonald” or “Twinkle Twinkle.”
- Storytime Companion: Let a puppet ‘read’ a book or react to storytime moments with your child.
Safety Tips
- Supervise closely, especially if your baby mouths the puppets.
- Make sure any homemade puppets are securely made — avoid small parts that could come loose.
- Keep the play gentle and go at your baby’s pace. Stop if they seem overstimulated or need a break.
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