Puppet Teaches Social Distancing in NY Elementary School

With everything unexpected and disruptive this year, it was natural for schools and teachers to feel uncertain about reopening. Especially when it comes to smaller students, worrying about their social distancing, mask and sanitizing habits is understandable.

But also smaller-grad kids can be told things in a fun and engaging way that stays with them. Puppetry, for example, has proved to be one of the most well-received methods so far as ideas and lessons coming from puppets are easier for children to remember and follow. 

One such school that used puppetry is Cayuga Heights Elementary in Depew, New York. On reopening, they brought in ‘Chef Hugo’ (an adorable puppet character), who talks to children about social distancing, mask habits and even zoom etiquettes!

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The videos are played for the students in their smart classrooms, Chef Hugo is also joined by one of the teachers in the video.

"Quite honestly, we were a little nervous about how the year was going to be, we didn't know how the kids were going to be with wearing their masks and staying away from each other," Assistant Principal, Rebecca Fatta, told 2 On Your Side.

According to her, the children adapted well and are liking Chef Hugo, the puppet. She said, "They love Hugo. They will often say in the hallway when I see them, 'Mrs. Fatta, we saw you on TV,' which their smartboard in their classroom, but to them, that's a big deal."

It is clear in child psychology that messages from such whimsical figures stick with the children more than anything told to them in a stern and strict voice. Also, we cannot expect children to understand the dangers of exposure immediately. Hence, using such a wonderful way of entertaining and learning is kind of inspiring. 

"I think it really does unify us, to all be hearing that same message, and to understand what's important in our schools in our school family," Mrs. Fatta added.

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