FULL REFERENCE: Karaolis, O. and Little, C. (2021). Through the eyes of the puppet: Using puppetry to foster children’s sense of wellbeing and belonging. NZ International Research in Early Childhood Education Journal, 23(2), 52 – 62.
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ABSTRACT: In studies of health, wellbeing and children with diverse abilities, the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child is often referenced due to its emphasis on the entitlement of all children to receipt of a “full and decent life” (United Nations, 1989, p. 7). The Convention argues that all children have the right to an education that celebrates their culture and identity, maximises individual ability and which recognises the rights of children as autonomous participants in decisions about their lives. Early childhood programmes serve a pivotal role in establishing a child’s sense of wellbeing, supporting a sense of belonging by communicating the message that all children and their families are valued members of the learning community. This article tells the research story of how puppetry was used as a tool to support educators in facilitating the engagement of children in their early childhood classrooms. It illustrates, how puppetry can actively support young children’s wellbeing by encouraging positive interactions, facilitating friendships, and providing opportunities for educators to express the value of every child.
Key words: Puppetry, puppets, wellbeing, belonging, inclusion, professional learning.
