A new school year is just around the corner

Although the summer holidays are still in full swing, many teachers, SNAs, therapists and early-years settings are already beginning to think about September.

One of the things that surprises me over the years is just how many different ways puppets are used in schools. Some are brought out for circle time, others become part of storytelling sessions, while some help children develop confidence and communication skills.

At Puppets Ireland, I regularly hear from teachers looking for something that will capture a child's imagination from the moment they walk into the room.

Sockette puppets: colourful classroom favourites

One range that teachers return to again and again is the Sockette knitted hand puppet collection.

Bright, funny and full of personality, these puppets are ideal for introducing new topics, encouraging conversation or simply bringing a little fun to the classroom.

Children quickly begin to invent stories and voices for them, which is perhaps why they remain one of the most popular classroom choices.

Storytelling made easy

Stories and puppets have always gone hand in hand.

For teachers, the puppet story sets are a simple way to bring familiar tales to life. Whether it is nursery rhymes, traditional stories or classroom favourites, having the characters ready to go can make storytelling more interactive and engaging.

Libraries, preschools and primary classrooms often use these sets as part of group activities, helping children join in and retell stories in their own words.

Puppets that encourage communication

Another popular category is the collection of storytelling hand puppets.

Over the years, I have supplied these puppets to schools, therapists and childcare settings throughout Ireland. They are often used to encourage participation, model social situations and create a relaxed environment where children feel comfortable speaking and asking questions.

What I particularly like about puppets is that there is no single “right” way to use them. One child may use a puppet to tell stories, while another simply enjoys having a familiar character beside them.

Getting ready for September

Every classroom is different, and every teacher develops their own style. But if there is one thing I have learned after twenty years in business, it is that puppets continue to earn their place in schools because they encourage something that matters in every setting: interaction.

As schools prepare for the new term, it is always interesting to see which characters children will connect with next.

Browse the full collections of Sockette puppets, story sets and storytelling puppets to find the right companion for the new school year.

Myriam Doyle - August 2026

My name is Myriam and I have created Puppets Ireland. Puppets Ireland is an Irish specialist supplier of quality puppets for teachers, therapists, libraries, early-years professionals and families. Alongside a carefully curated puppet collection, I share practical ideas, real-life case studies and free resources to inspire learning, communication, emotional expression and imaginative play.