16mo–2.2y12 minStory timeFamily timeSocial play
Puppet Stories: Kind and Different
A gentle puppet-and-doll story routine that helps your child notice differences, name feelings, and practice empathy through simple, stereotype-free stories about everyday diverse experiences.
What you'll need
Essentials
- 2 dolls, puppets, or soft toys
Nice to have
- a small blanket or scarf
- a small cup/plate or toy food
- a hat or piece of clothing to use as a simple prop
Movement level: low
What you'll do
The 4-step guide, with what to look for at each step, is for signed-in parents.
What this develops
- MilestoneLearns that they have similarities and differences that connect them to, and distinguish them from, others.Heart· 16mo–2.2y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneResponds with adult supportHeart· 10mo–18mo· core· Step 2
- MilestoneShows concernHeart· 18mo–4y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneNotices another's distressHeart· 22mo–3y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneCoordinates gesture with another signalMind· 9mo–2.5y· stretch· Step 3
- MilestoneCopies sounds or wordsMind· 10mo–20mo· stretch· Step 1
- MilestoneCopies heard wordsMind· 8mo–20mo· stretch· Step 1
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Support children’s understanding of difference and of empathy by using props such as puppets and dolls to tell stories about diverse experiences, ensuring that negative stereotyping is avoided.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)