The term “puppet” has many meanings, but it commonly refers to a figure primarily intended for children’s play. Puppeteering is an art which encompasses numerous expressions (painting, music, theatre, dance, and literature) and offers many possibilities for creation, for children and adults alike. There are many types of puppets, such as hand puppets (Guignols and yawning puppets), shadow puppets and rod puppets (Javanese puppets and marionettes). Puppets can be made from various materials, as well as combinations of materials, making sure to choose a material appropriate for the type of puppet, its personality and the character it represents. Hand puppets are the number one choice for children because they are easily used, placed on one’s hand like a glove and controlled simply by moving one’s fingers. Within the process of socialisation children learn, form their own opinions, acquire social skills and social sensitivity, all of which enables them to become a part of a society and adapt their behaviour to that particular society. There are several ways to define social competence, but most often it refers to the ability to effectively handle interactions with one’s peers, including cooperation, joining a certain group, initiating play, as well as various prosocial behaviours such as friendship, joy, acceptance of norms, and clear communication. A child is considered socially competent if it has acquired prosocial behaviours such as sharing, helping, and cooperation, as well as if it has acquired certain skills which can help it understand its environment and handle everyday situations. Pre-school education is a period of intensive development and socialisation of children, where puppets can play an important role. They are a part of every child’s life, and puppeteering encompasses all disciplines crucial for a child’s development: perception, understanding, movement, coordination, interaction with its surroundings, speech, story-telling. Puppets encourage imagination and creation; they help in the development of metaphorical thinking and expression. The “Vrtuljak” kindergarten in Zaprešić carried out a project called “Ježić u Točkicama” (“Hedgehog in Dots”), aimed at encouraging socialisation and homogeneity of the group, creating a positive self-image in children, stimulating and developing speech, introducing warmth and positivity into the collective life. The puppet became a part of the group and it was included in all everyday activities. It played a very important role when it comes to a boy who was extremely shy, insecure and quiet, boosting his confidence, encouraging him to communicate and interact with his peers, as well as to trust them.