Pick a favorite book, preferably for which a movie and play exist- The Lion King, Annie, The Little Mermaid, Mary Poppins, etc. Use your JTB box or other puppet theater to make your own production of the story play.
1- Start by reading the book with your child. There is no rush, so you could take a few weeks if this is a longer book. Don’t fear reading chapter books with your child. But go with their pace, and make it fun. Use different voices for different characters. Find versions of the book with illustrations.
2- Watch the DVD. Did I say watch tv with your kid? Well, yes, quality time with parent and child so you can talk about the story that unfolds, and how it seems similar or different from the book version.
3- If you are lucky enough to do it, see the play. Many cities offer local venues for performances of known storybooks, classics or not. Check your local theaters and choose books for which plays coincide.
4- Create your own version of the story using your own puppets, or puppets you make yourself. Be sure to break it into easy-to-digest scenes and include musical numbers in your selections. Kids love that part most.
5- Make a CD of you and your little one singing favorite songs from the movie or play. Use your own soundtrack to accompany your puppet show or play.