We are continuing the reindeer theme with a list of books that we thought would be interesting and fun to pair with a reindeer puppet.  We even have a free pattern to make a simple reindeer felt hand puppet!

WHY USE A PUPPET WHILE READING?

When I was a volunteer reader for a local preschool, I noticed that kids became more engaged during reading when any type of puppet is used to help bring a book alive.

• 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 Reindeer

Reindeer by Dee Phillips is for ages 7-9.  It can also be read to preschool ages.  The photographs are clear, the information is age appropriate and is written with younger kids in mind.  There also is a simple science lab at the back of the book along with a glossary.  I really enjoyed reading it myself.

Nicola Killen has written and illustrated a sweet understated Christmas story in The Little Reindeer.  The story is for preschool ages up to three.  The story takes place at night so the illustrations are mostly black and white but very creative.  It was very creative the way cut outs, color and glitter were used.  The story encourages kids to use their imagination.

 

Tiny Reindeer by Chris Naylor-Ballesteros is a cute story written for ages 3-7.  I feel that the book is geared more for the older kids.  Again this story encourages kids to use their imagination.  The illustrations were expressive and was enjoyable to look at.  The story illustrates that even if someone is tiny (like kids) they can do important jobs.  The book had a subtle sense of humor. 

What makes this book so much fun to read and hold is the use of cut aways.  Last Stop on the Reindeer Express written by Maudie Powell-Tuck and illustrated by Karl James Mountford is for ages 2 to 7 years.  The text is simple and short so young ones won’t lose interest and the illustrations are bright and colorful and interesting to keep their interest.  The story is about a young girl’s concern as to whether her card will get to her grandfather in time. 

Free Download of a Reindeer Felt Hand Puppet Pattern

Don’t have the time to sew a puppet?  Need a puppet fast?  We have a free download for a reindeer 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 Reindeer 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 reindeer 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!”