Do you read poetry to your children? I must admit I’m not a huge poetry fan, I enjoy reading and we do have a few rhyming books which I like. I’ve been inspired by my Disney pack which included poetry sheets which I’ve passed onto Erin. I was interested to read that two thirds of children read poetry which seems like a very healthy figure with all the other entertainment options available to children. Apparently Stephen Fry and Joanna Lumley are the most popular poetry and story readers, no doubt that’s down to their very expressive styles.
Disney have provided me with some great fact sheets on bringing poetry alive for children. Here are some of the tips;
1. Introduce your child to your favourite poem. Emphasise rhyming words and sounds.
2. Act out the words. Live the words drammatically and visually.
3. Illustrate poetry with physical actions.
4. Preschoolers will enjoy clapping, stamping, dancing and jumping to help them feel the rhythm.
5. Search for poems that are on the same topic of your child’s current interests.
6. Visit your local library to discover poetry books for children.
You can watch a selection of programmes about poetry at www.DisneyJunior.co.uk
I have never really thought about reading poetry to my children, I’m going to do some research. x
Great ideas for helping little ones to really enjoy poetry! I love reading poetry to my grandkids, but it seems harder to get them interested that it was with my own kids (their moms). I think it’s because they are usually excited to be visiting and the way I read the poetry required a calm child. These ideas should work even with prescoolers in a lively mood!