Finding the best puppet for you, how do you do that? I was the founder and owner of the largest hand puppet webshop in the Netherlands for 15 years, starting in 2004. As a teacher who incorporated puppets from the outset of my career, I experienced firsthand the incredible interactions and activities they facilitated with children. My colleagues often sought my advice and resources, regularly asking, “Where can I buy a puppet?” The search for quality puppets was challenging; the market was limited, and finding replacements for worn or damaged puppets was difficult.
This led me to begin selling puppets myself, starting with a selection of 20 from a single brand and expanding over the years. By the time I sold the webshop in 2019, the collection boasted 750 items. Having tested numerous puppets, familiarized myself with various brands, and understood the nuances of my collection—from the materials used to each puppet’s strengths and weaknesses—I knew which were the best purchases in every category.
Puppets can be effectively paired with educational materials to engage children further. In this blog category, I’ll share the puppets and materials that excite me the most. These are items I consider essential, and I’ll explain why they stand out and where you can find them.
I’m no longer in the business of selling puppets, nor do I wish to be a brand agent. My role has evolved into that of a puppet coach, drawing on extensive experience to guide you. My aim is to help you find a puppet that resonates with you, sharing my top picks and providing links for purchase. The decision to buy is yours.
How do you recognize your best puppet?
Over years in the puppet trade, I learned there isn’t a “best” puppet but rather one that best suits you, sparking more joy than others. It’s about the connection you feel, a pull towards a particular puppet despite any logical reasons to consider others. It’s similar to falling for a dress that isn’t in your usual color palette or style—you’re drawn to it, even if it doesn’t seem like the practical choice.
With puppets, it’s the same. Your rational mind may offer one perspective, but your heart knows what it wants. If you’ve ever felt torn between logic and emotion, you’ll understand. My consistent advice? Follow your heart; it knows which puppet is meant for you.
I’m launching my puppet showcase today and will continue to add new finds if I see them. Stay updated by joining my newsletter, where you’ll receive all the latest additions directly to your inbox. You can sign up here.
See you soon,
With love,
