This music therapy video with a child with special needs illustrates the following:
Using hand puppets can take the pressure off a child who is struggling with a therapeutic goal
When possible, have the child teach the puppet the correct answer
Music allows lots of repetition without the monotony
Nice set of small animal hand puppets http://www.amazon.com/dp/B002AK5EUY/ref=pe_175190_21431760_M2T1_SC_dp_1
Nice set of animal finger puppets http://www.amazon.com/dp/B001E3B9J8/ref=pe_175190_21431760_M2T1_SC_dp_2
For high quality hand puppets search for Melissa and Doug Hand Puppets
For a cheap set of hand puppets try http://www.orientaltrading.com/plush-happy-kids-hand-puppets-a2-58_1007.fltr