{"product_id":"bala-hand-puppet","title":"Bala Hand Puppet","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMeet Bala – Your Torres Strait Islander Hand Puppet!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBala is a 46cm boy hand puppet from the Torres Strait Islands, ready to bring stories to life! With his black hair, brown embroidered eyes, and vibrant island clothing, Bala is more than just a puppet—he’s a cultural companion for play and learning.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCrafted for Interactive Fun \u0026amp; Learning\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMade from soft velour fabric, Bala is detailed and easy to manipulate, allowing for interactive movement of her head, mouth, and arms. Simply slip your hand inside to bring him to life—make him talk, gesture, and engage in storytelling!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHandmade with Love\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBala's traditional dress and carry bag are handmade in Ingham by Marisa, who carefully stitches and designs each outfit using vibrant, Island-inspired fabrics that celebrate the beauty of Torres Strait Islander culture. Every puppet is unique, with stunning colors and patterns that reflect the rich heritage of the Torres Strait.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore Than a Puppet – A Powerful Learning Tool!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBala isn’t just for play—she’s a wonderful educational resource that supports:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e✅ Public speaking \u0026amp; confidence – Encourages self-expression through role-playing and storytelling.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e✅ Social skills \u0026amp; emotional development – Helps children explore emotions, practice socializing, and engage in imaginative play.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e✅ Fine motor skills – Dressing and undressing Sissy enhances coordination and dexterity.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e✅ Language \u0026amp; creativity – Puppet play boosts vocabulary, memory, and teamwork through storytelling and group activities.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDesigned for Children Aged 3 \u0026amp; Up\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBala is quality-tested to meet international standards, making him safe, durable, and perfect for young learners. Whether in the classroom, at home, or as part of a cultural learning experience, Bala offers hours of fun, storytelling, and connection to Torres Strait Islander heritage.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBring Bala into your home or classroom today and let the storytelling begin!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Flat Friends","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50163610288351,"sku":null,"price":100.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0617\/3913\/9295\/files\/ACE47139-584A-404D-A42E-1EA30E4B2D83.jpg?v=1781759620","url":"https:\/\/connectingthedotsthroughplay.com.au\/products\/bala-hand-puppet","provider":"Connecting The Dots Through Play","version":"1.0","type":"link"}