Oh, don't worry, not all kids are comfortable when they find themselves face-to-face with a puppet. Some visibly struggle with the dilemma of whether they're going to be thrilled or freak out. I usually stand the puppet on the floor a few feet away and let 'em decide whether they want to approach. Once the puppet is shorter than them, it's a lot easier to deal with. However, there are always a few holdouts, like this kid. As long as they don't actually get upset, it's fine.
Nice chilled-out look, Newsie! I like it when women just look like themselves, no fancying-up for the camera. It seems much more real to me.
And here's something I did in response to someone else's cartoon...
Skeeter Socks Janken: in case anyone wants to know the story behind this picture.