Our trip last week to the Sintra Toy Museum was very educational. The children were able to see traditional and modern toys on display. Our field trip, this week, to the Puppet Museum was truly engaging. We learned about traditional rod puppets, string puppets and glove puppets. We learned about changes over time and viewed shadow puppets from countries such Indonesia, Turkey, and China. Did you know that these puppets were originally made out of buffalo, camel and donkey skins? The children were also able to learn about the connections between puppetry, modern cartoon designs and film making. ( Unfortunately, on this day we were not able to take pictures of the puppets inside the museum.)The day ended with each child making a shadow puppet!! Next week, the children will be paired to create a toy! Materials will be given to them but they may also bring in materials which will enhance their creations! You may help your child by discussing changes in toys and games over time, materials used and the function of toys/games over time. Each child will need to work cooperatively with a partner and make decisions together.