Learning about emotions is vital to a person’s mental health. Puppetry is a medium that allows individuals who may or may not have great art skills to express themselves in a non-threatening and meaningful way. Puppets can facilitate discussions around expression, empathy, and conflict resolution. Individuals can project their feelings onto puppets, leading to deeper exploration and understanding of emotions, both their own and others. Shy or hesitant individuals may find it easier to express themselves through puppets because it is more removed from social situations. Finally, puppetry creates an alternative space for interaction, allowing greater freedom in communication. Ms Numsen and Dr. Dietrich-Eisler will demonstrate how people of all ages can use puppet-making to enhance social-emotional learning and self-regulation. Ms Numsen and Dr. Eisler will teach a variety of puppet-making techniques that individuals can use to create their unique puppet. The instructors will show individuals how they can use puppets for self-regulation and enhanced conflict resolution.