The Kids on the Block are a troupe of puppets that teach about disabilities, educational differences, social concerns, medical differences, and safety issues. They are a special bunch of kids and a very special group of puppets. They dress and act like real children.

Like real children, each one has definite likes and dislikes, hopes and fear, talents and limitations. And, like real children, some have differences like mental, physical or emotional disabilities, and some have lives touched by abuse, drugs or divorce. Together, the Kids on the Block form the core of a unique and exciting education program.

The program is designed for elementary school-age children. We are located in San Jose, California and can travel the Bay Area. We do ask for a minimum donation of $100.00 per performance and mileage if outside of Santa Clara County. The shows can be performed for limited groups in a classroom or as a large assembly program. The puppet performance is about 20 minutes in length and then with the question and answer period we recommend a 45 minute block of time. After the puppets perform, they ask the children for questions they might have that relate to the program, or the puppets might call on students to answer questions.

To schedule a performance at a school or community event, you must first choose the program you are interesting in seeing!

The following scripts are currently available (click here to read more about them):

• AIDs and HIV
• Alcohol, Tobacco & Other Drugs
• Autism
• Bullies and School Safety
• Cerebral Palsy
• Child of Divorced Parents
• Children's Mental Health/ADHD/Problem Solving
• Deafness
• Diabetes
• Down Syndrome
• Emotional and Behavioral Disorder
• Epilepsy
• Fire Safety
• Gang Violence & Prejudice
• Learning Disabilities
• Multiculturalism
• Pediatric Hospice (cancer and bereavement)
• Severe Burns
• Sexual Abuse
• Siblings with Disabilities
• Visual Impairment
• The Kids on the Block Early Learning Series Video (for preschool)

Once you have chosen a program, you then e-mail Carol Gallegos, Kids on the Block Coordinator, with at least 3 dates and times that will work for you. Carol will then contact the puppeteers that perform that script, and let you know the date that works best for them. It is that easy!
We have an easy and very flexible volunteer opportunity (English and/or Spanish) to work with the puppets in doing the shows for elementary school children. No experience necessary, training on your schedule. Contact Carol.