This area can be a separate center or combined with activities at the art center. Working with clay and playdough is important for the development of the small muscles in a child's hands and fingers. Soft, pliable playdough is great for pounding out frustrations and angry feelings, so it provides a soothing activity for a child who is upset. This area also promotes creativity and self-expression. This center is extremely fun, imaginative, and a great place to foster oral language and expression of ideas and feelings.
Puppets are especially helpful for children who feel unsure of themselves.
Talking through a puppet can help children say things that are hard to say face to face. Children can act out favorite stories, make up puppet plays of their own, and work through all kinds of problems and concerns.