It will be important to have puppets with various kinds of handicaps that can take regular roles in whatever presentations a class gives. Consider the following times and ways a puppet might be used.
1. A puppet with an ordinary vision problem wears glasses and takes a regular part in a play.
2. A puppet with very limited vision uses a white cane, a Seeing Eye dog or other mechanical assistance to improve vision. The puppet talks about related feelings and experiences.
3. Someone with an injured limb is represented by a puppet in a wheelchair, on crutches or with an arm in a cast. The individual tells about what the situation is like or could show what difficulties are encountered by the way a part is played.
4. A puppet with a strawberry birthmark talks about feelings related to it and possible new laser treatments available for it.
5. A puppet is used to show where various sounds are made in the mouth and throat. Feelings about difficulty with production of words or sounds could be discussed.
6. General feelings about lack of ability to do certain kinds of mental or physical tasks as well as being seen by others as too competent could be discussed.
7. A number of individuals go through life without being aware that they have a handicap. When they finally are diagnosed their world view changes. Puppets could talk about these kinds of experiences.
8. Extremes in height or weight can cause physical, emotional and social handicaps. Puppets of this type can take regular parts in plays or can discuss related feelings.
9. Puppets can discuss age-related stereotypes and the labels connected to them.
10. Limited knowledge of a language or dialect can be a handicap. Characters who move from one life situation to another can talk about benefits and problems.
11. Group related handicaps can be identified and portrayed by puppets. Lacking experience or a common background can be discussed.
12. Having too much or too little time can be a handicap for individuals who want to participate in events. Conflicting life situations can be discussed.