Finger puppets

What you need

• One or two soft finger puppets
• Zippered wet bag (lap stage)
• Board book (optional prop)

Missing something? See the full shopping list.

How to play

1. 1You: Puppet on your thumb first — "I’m waiting too." Pause. They: Grab the second puppet from the bag or watch your mouth move.
2. 2You: Mirror their sounds. If they hide the puppet under the napkin, the napkin is a cave — follow, don’t correct. They: Invent dialogue, peek-a-boo, or silence.
3. 3You: At 15–24 months, one puppet and peek-a-boo behind the menu is enough. They: One character, one hiding spot.
4. 4You: Puppets go back in the bag when you stand — preview before the check or nurse calls your name. They: Help tuck puppets in if they want closure.

If it flops

Throws the puppet? "The puppet needs a rest in the bag." Zip halfway — reset beats a lecture in public.

More plays from this guide

• Sticker activity →

  Lap board out, one sticker sheet — you peel the first two; they place the rest on the scene or their sleeve.

• Pipe cleaner build →

  One stem, one bead — twist a loop, thread, show a "snake." Older toddlers add a second stem without a blueprint.