The Kids on the Block Puppets Return to Millburn

Local parents and volunteers are bringing the famous Kids on the Block puppets back to Millburn to present their annual puppet show.

The puppets are part of a national organization called The Kids on the Block, Inc., a group who develops programs that address various disabilities, social issues and medical differences. The organization assists individuals and various organizations who would like to form their own puppet troupe by providing script materials, puppets and other items for the shows.

The puppet shows are intended to raise awareness and encourage children and adults to ask questions about various issues.

A troupe of volunteer puppeteers consisting of parents of children in the Millburn local schools come together every year to put on a show with puppets Mark Riley, Melody James, Mandy Puccini, Brenda Dubrowski, Jennifer Hauser, Jimmy Randolph and Anna Perry.

Throughout the tour in Millburn, third graders are exposed to five different skits addressing deafness, learning disabilities, and cerebral palsy.  By the end, the troupe will have visited St. Rose of Lima, and the five public elementary schools -- Hartshorn, Glenwood, Deerfield, Wyoming, and South Mountain.

The puppet show is part of The Caring Kids Program whose mission is to help children grow into compassionate, positive, and empowered members of society through character education, social activities, and parent support.