Develop names and personalities for the different puppets. The personalities should set an example of behavior and expectations for your students while also being fun. For example, have some of the puppets be shy or outgoing, sporty, artistic or creative.
Introduce one or two puppets to the art class and let your students ask them questions. This will help them get used to the idea of the role of the puppet in the classroom.
Explain the art lesson plan and its objectives to the children through the puppet(s). Keep the students motivated for the duration of the project by making a miniature version of the project and acting as if the puppet created it.
Encourage and praise the students with the puppets while they work on the art project to make them more comfortable with their projects.