Similar to dressing up costumes,toy puppets allow kids to experiment with different personas and to produce highly imaginative stories and scenarios through their interaction with 'make believe' characters. These toy puppets usually take the form of either finger or hand versions for smaller children, and they can then progress onto string puppets, otherwise known as marionettes. The most well known versions of this type of toy puppet are the original Pelham Puppets, which are now being made again in Devon.
Almost everyone will have been amused by a Punch and Judy show, which is a great example of a hand or glove toy puppet in use. Body puppets are used to great effect in stage shows, where a person will be operating the controls from within the animal or person outfit. Sometimes as in the case of a horse, two people will be inside one costume which requires a huge degree of control and trust.
The element of performance and theatre is something that can be hard to replicate with other kinds of toys, and our selection of toy puppet shops below exemplifies the choice that is on offer in this ever-popular market.
This Warrington-based online puppet shop specialises in toys that help to encourage imagination and creative play.
A truly eclectic range of unusual toys, gifts, gadgets and curiosities that appeal to all ages and tastes.
Shop online for today's bestselling brands with the UK's largest independent toy retailer.
A wide range of handmade jewellery and accessories.
Specialises in a wide range of doll styles from many leading makers.
Sells leading brands of toys majoring on popular character toys.