Preschoolers and Poetry

For many preschoolers, poetry can be a bore—and for so many parents, introducing their preschoolers to poetry can be a chore. However, opening your child’s mind to the understanding and appreciation of poetry can make your youngsters into more intellectual and well-versed kids.

Of course, with April being National Poetry Month, there’s no better time for your child to be reading verse, be it in daycare, preschool, or at home. Here’s a few quick ways to bring poetry into the conversation:

Keep It Simple

There are plenty of well-known, classic poets out there to share with your preschooler, but save Shakespeare for the more advanced readers. A good starting point is an accomplished poet with short, engaging works. Many parents jump straight to Dr. Seuss—a solid choice. But here’s a pro tip: check out the works of Shel Silverstein. Instead of owning a number of short books by Seuss, why not try working your way through a larger book of Silverstein’s collected poems, a few pages at a time? The poems are just as easy to read and understand, and they’re illustrated, as well.

Keep It Fun

Repeat after me: if you aren’t having fun, neither are your kids. Lewis Carroll is an oft-overlooked classic poet. He’s most well-known for his longer works in the Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland series, but he also composed some grade-A short poetry for young readers. Once you’ve introduced your preschooler to shorter-form, simple poetry like that of Silverstein, throw a nonsense poem into the mix like Jabberwocky. This poem has an adventurous plot, silly and nonsensical words, and remains a fun brain-teaser for the kiddos.

Keep It Interesting

Here’s where you have to trust in the intellect of your preschooler. Childcare specialists know that to have a well-rounded, well-maintained preschool education (in class and at home), you’ve got to look at more than just the fluff pieces. Mary Had a Little Lamb is fun the first time, but don’t patronize your child. Parents are always so surprised by how well their kids handle heavier works. Give Emily Dickinson’s Will There Really Be a Morning? a try. The language is simple enough for young readers but remains an emotionally compelling work. BONUS: After reading the original poem, invite your child to listen to it performed as a musical adaptation by Grammy Award-winning composer Craig Hella Johnson and Conspirare on YouTube!

(Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aa9Zx_3K0DA)

Additional Resources

Introducing your child to poetry is easier than ever! The Academy of American Poets celebrates April as National Poetry Month every year, and has a huge catalog of poems fit for your preschooler at poets.org.

Want to learn more about Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Highland Glen located in Pearland, Texas? Our mission is to provide secure, nurturing, and educational environments for children ages 6 weeks – 12 years. We help children to bloom into responsible, considerate, and contributing members of society. For more information, give us a call or stop by for a tour! We’d love to get to know you and your family.