In our previous blog article we listed a few links to craft projects featuring lions that we found around the web. We also had a free download of a lion paper bag puppet pattern.

We are continuing the lion theme with a list of books that we thought would be interesting and fun to pair with a lion puppet.  We’ve noticed that kids become more engaged during reading when a puppet is used to help bring a book alive.

WHY USE A PUPPET WHILE READING?

• • Kids love puppets.
  • Puppets boost creativity and stimulate kids’ imaginations
  • Sometimes kids feel more comfortable reading to a puppet rather than to an adult
  • A puppet can be used as an impartial character allowing kids to express their true emotions.
  • A puppet made from our patterns is perfect for story time because it is soft and pliable.  It can be stuffed into a small place ready to pop out to engage the kids.  And it is easy to wash!

Books Featuring Lions

You Are A Lion has yoga for kids!  With simple instructions and fun illustrations kids are invited to pretend they are their favorite animal.  I’ve used this with the preschool I read to and the kids had so much fun!  Me too!

The preschoolers that I read to enjoyed Caring For Your Lion as much as I did.  Written by Tammi Sauer and illustrated by Troy Cummings.  When a little boy receives a lion in the mail rather than the kitten he ordered, he does his best to follow the tongue in cheek instructions.  For ages 3 and up, preschool to grade 2.

How to Be a Lion by Ed Vere is for ages 3-7, preschool to 2nd grade.  A great book showing children the importance of being who they are, regardless of what anyone else may say.  It is an empowering tale of choosing kindness over bullying and how angry words can be overcome with inner courage and empathy.  There is an alternative to the tough guy image.  As Leonard the Lion says, “Let nobody say/just one way is true.”

Using beautiful photos and engaging text, kids will learn about these large cats.  The facts are accurate, simple and easy to remember.  National Geographic Readers: Lions is for ages 4-6, preschool to 1st grade.  

Free Download of a lion felt Hand Puppet pattern

Don’t have the time to sew a puppet?  Need a puppet fast?  We have a free download for an lion hand puppet pattern using felt squares available from craft stores.  The puppet can be made without sewing – all you need is a hot glue gun.

Need a puppet with a moving mouth and make expressions?  We’ve got the pattern!

Need a puppet that can talk and make facial expressions?  You can sew one with our Lion Puppet Sewing Pattern.  The pattern is available as a digital download so you can start sewing immediately. We recommend using fleece and felt fabrics because they are inexpensive, readily available from craft stores, washable and easy to sew.  Customers tell us how easy our step by step patterns (with lots of pictures) are to follow especially after watching the video tutorials.  In fact you can watch our free video tutorial on how to sew the lion puppet right now!  

what our customers are saying: 

“Very detailed step-by-step instructions with color photos. Can’t wait to get all the supplies and make this puppet.”

“The puppets turn out really well and are a joy to use!”