Summary
Build a rod-and-string puppet of Stellaluna the bat, inspired by the picture book. Kids assemble the bat and use rods and strings so she can flap and hang upside down.
Viewer safety
All ages
Uses child-safe craft supplies (paper, scissors, glue/tape). A grown-up can help with cutting.
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Teaching resources
Discussion questions
Puppet talk
- How is controlling a string puppet different from a hand or rod puppet?
- Which string makes which part of your puppet move?
- What is the trickiest move to make your marionette do?
Book link: Stellaluna is the fruit bat from Janell Cannon's picture book *Stellaluna*. Read (or reread) the story together, then use your puppet to retell your favorite part.
Quick work-a-long
Try it: Lift and lower the control bar to make your puppet walk, then take a slow bow. Practice one smooth move.