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

We are continuing the T-Rex theme with a list of books that we thought would be interesting and fun to pair with a T-Rex 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 the T-Rex

Duck Duck Dinosaur by Kallie George and Illustrated by Oriol Vidal was a huge hit with the preschoolers that I read to.  The teacher loved it also because of the underlying message of love.  The story is about a mother duck who loves all of her just hatched children, even if one does turn out to be a dinosaur.  For ages 4-8, preschool to 3rd grade.

We Don’t Eat Our Classmates by Ryan T. Higgins is about Penelope Rex who is so excited to start school.  Problem is, she keeps trying to eat the classmates because they are so tasty.  After she has a taste of her own medicine, she realizes that it’s not any fun if someone tries to eat you.  This book is not only fun but is a good way to introduce and talk about boundaries for preschoolers.  For ages 4-7, preschool to kindergarten.

Dinosaur vs. Bedtime is a Dinosaur vs. Book by Bob Shea.  Parents will definitely see their little ones in the star of this book as the dinosaur (could be girl or boy) roars their way through the day.  Until bedtime and sleep catches up with them.  For ages 2-5, preschool to kindergarten.

The National Geographic Kids’ Little Kids First Big Book of Dinosaurs written by Catherine D. Hughes and Illustrated by Franco Tempesta is packed with dinosaurs.  For ages 4-8, preschool to 3rd grade.  It has age appropriate information with simple to read text and colorful illustrations.  I especially appreciated the easy guide on how to pronounce the names!

Free Download of a T-Rex felt Hand Puppet pattern

Don’t have the time to sew a puppet?  Need a puppet fast?  We have a free download for a T-Rex 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 T-Rex 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 T-Rex 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!”