These fierce creatures are unlikely but very popular sources of children's entertainment.
Puppet and cartoon bears, and teddy bears, are very popular with people. Many children's writers feature bears in their stories. These are usually anthropomorphic creatures, bears with human characteristics. This, of course, is part of the appeal of puppet bears. Real bears are potentially fearsome, but their fictionalized counterparts are often polite, endearing, charming and cuddly.
Goldilocks
The story of Goldilocks and the three bears is the obvious choice for a story to tell with bear puppets. There are various versions, including the 1837 story by British author and poet Robert Southey, which is the source of the modern version, according to folklore writer Graham Seal. In the modern version, Goldilocks enters a house she believes is empty, eats porridge, accidentally breaks a chair and has a nap until the three bears come home and find her there.
Gummi Bears
There were almost 100 episodes of Disney's "Adventures of the Gummi Bears" shown on television, and some are still available on DVD. Some have stories that contain useful lessons for children. For example, in one episode, Tummi makes friends with Trina, a blind shepherdess, and discovers the handicapped are not always in need of assistance. Many of the stories convey a sense of medieval chivalry which can be a good way of developing children's historical awareness.
Paddington Bear
Any of the many stories of Paddington Bear are good stories to tell with bear puppets, such as "Paddington on Top." However, you might have to use your sewing skills to modify one of the puppets to make it look like Paddington. Children are very quick to point out your mistake if you use a puppet that is incorrect. Dressing your bear puppet in an old hat and duffle coat will also aid authenticity, as will providing Paddington with the familiar battered suitcase.
Other
Virtually any children's story can be retold using bear puppets. Just because a story was originally written about cats, for example, doesn't mean it can't be retold featuring bears. Further, you can even adapt great stories featuring people. Choose a children's story that you like and change it as necessary to make it work for bears. Don't forget that you can make up your own bear stories too. Children are natural storytellers and together, you can create a story that has logical flow and narrative purpose.
