By Lynne Spina

FCC hosted a filled-to-capacity rod puppet workshop when Oregon's Dragon Art Studio performed at Worldways Children's museum during the Chinese New Year season. Twenty four FCC children learned from Dragon Art Studio about the ancient art of Chinese puppetry and how to actually make a puppet. This was no ordinary puppet like those children have made countless times before. Using lunch sized paper bags, rods, a paper tube and yarn, 24 unique rod puppets were crafted. Children were taught to make a center support hand grip from a paper tube and arms made from small rods and yarn which could be moved by the puppeteer to give the puppet expression. After the finishing touches such as a face and hair were put on these puppets, the puppets were brought to life by the children as they practiced maneuvering the rods. 

For one hour, 24 girls and boys-- normally very active and social--remained in their seats working intently on their puppets. As a mother of one of the young puppeteers in attendance, I can honestly say there are not many instances I can recall where my daughter's full concentration was captured for an entire hour! I have a hunch that many parents who were there at the workshop would agree.

This workshop was one of many cultural events throughout the year offered to children of FCC families. FCC welcomes partnerships like this one with Chinese organizations. Such programs enable families who have adopted Chinese children to further enrich their cultural experiences.