The Kids on the Block are a troupe of disabled and non-disabled puppets designed to teach children what it's like to have a disability and what they can do to help a person with a disability.  The puppets also show children that asking questions is a normal and natural thing, that children with disabilities welcome questions and that an understanding of differences builds friendships.  In addition, they enable children to understand how people with disabilities may feel.  The puppets with disabilities and discussions include mental retardation, deaf, blind, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, autism and epilepsy.

The Kids on the Block puppets were created by a special education teacher, Barbara Aiello.  They are known nation-wide.  Our troupe of puppets were purchased through funds provided by the Region VII Developmental Disabilities Council, the Rolla Regional Office and donations from various groups and individuals.   The puppeteers are Rolla Regional Office staff.

The Kids on the Block are available for performance for children, kindergarten through sixth grade.  They are also available for older groups and adult groups on special request.

The performance of four of the puppets with disabilities takes approximately one hour.  This includes time for questions and discussions.  We prefer to limit the group size to 50 people for any one performance.  Performances should be scheduled at least four to eight weeks in advance. 

For more information or scheduling, contact: 

Nancy Fields, Rolla Regional Office 573-368-2522

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