Drama and Puppetry

Drama/Puppetry and Creativity
Drama and Puppetry provide children with an engaging way to explore stories, emotions and ideas by using their voices, actions, and creativity (AGDE, 2022). Young children benefit from these activities by improving their ability to communicate, gain a better understanding of emotions, and gain the courage to try new things (Howard & Mayesky, 2022). Drama in early childhood is more about exploring and having fun than about performing for other people (ACECQA, 2020). Puppets add a hands-on element that enhances storytelling. As a result of these experiences, children gain better self-expression ability, team work, and problem solving skills (Howard & Mayesky, 2022). These methods also support the Early Years Learning Framework’s focus on building children’s self-esteem and communication abilities (AGDE, 2022).

Theories and Perspectives
Drama and Puppetry aligns well with several number of key theories about how children learn. According to Vygotsky theory, children learn bets when they engage in social play and interaction, which is something that drama and puppetry promotes (Anders, 2021). According to Dewey’s learning theory, children learn by doing and reflecting, and drama offers this experiential learning (Howard & Mayesky, 2022). Gardner’s multiple intelligences theory states that, children learn in various ways, including through speaking and social skills, both of which are developed in drama activities (Howard & Mayesky, 2022). These ideas guide educators to use drama and puppetry to foster children’s creativity and social confidence, in keeping with the National Quality Standard’s goal for intentional teaching (ACECQA, 2020).

Resources for Different Age Groups (0-8 years):

Every resources should encourage children to explore their creativity while still being safe and accessible (Howard & Mayesky, 2022; ECA, 2023).