Our Educational Approach

Why does Kids on the Block use puppetry to teach kids? Simply put: puppetry is a dynamic, interactive art form. It is also a highly effective medium, used successfully throughout the world to tackle difficult issues with children (as well as adults).

Because puppets are characters, and not people, they are an ideal tool for discussing sensitive topics. Kids on the Block uses an adaptation of the Japanese style of puppetry called Bunraku (Boon-rah-koo). As in the Bunraku puppet theatre, our skilled puppeteers become shadows during the performance, almost invisible to the children in the audience. Sets are simple in order to keep the focus on the puppets’ dialogue.

During a Kids on the Block performance, the child-size puppets share their personal stories, fears, concerns, and questions in a simple, non-threatening way that is developmentally appropriate for young audiences.

Kids are then challenged to share what they’ve learned through a puppet-led question and answer time. As our puppets come to life, children identify with them and open up to them. Because the puppets honestly express worries about being different or not having all the answers, but still model effective problem solving, kids feel comfortable asking their own questions and looking at ways to solve the problems presented during the show. For many kids, the puppets are like a trusted friend, who shows them how to make smart decisions, or how to ask for help. (Please note that Kids on the Block works with school counselors and administrators to make sure appropriate follow-up is available should a show trigger a call for help.) 

We at Kids on the Block of Portland are committed to excellence in all that we do. Kids on the Block performances look deceptively simple, but our puppeteers go through at least 20 hours of professional training before ever going on stage. Most programs we offer were developed and tested by a panel of experts for the Kids on the Block national office. We’re also developing our own line of "Powerful Puppetry" programs that will allow us to produce shows with the same high standards, but from a local perspective, with the help of local educators and advisors.

We believe that kids need to hear educational messages over and over in order to truly grasp their meaning - and to hopefully make positive changes that last a lifetime.

In this spirit, we give kids a chance to think about the shows long after a performance happens. They can learn from the take-home materials, or they can write to the puppets with any questions or feelings that come up after we’re gone. Our staff and partners give kids appropriate answers, and make sure they connect with other resources when needed. Our kids’ page is another fun way for students to continue learning. Please check Kids on the Block topics for more information.

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