A Simple Start with Poetry

There are many forms of written and spoken communication that we have created over time as human beings. Today I want to highlight poetry, which has so much to offer young children (and their adults!) when approached with the right spirit.

In a poem, we can offer a child an impression - of experiences and the emotions they evoke, of the lyrical appeal of words, of style, of the wonders made possible through the sharing of language.

One of my favorite books overall for young children is actually a book of poems - When Green Becomes Tomatoes, written by Julie Fogliano and illustrated by Julie Morstad.

I’m recommending it today because it features some lovely poems about spring that seem to perfectly capture specific, transient spring experiences worth evoking with your child. All of these are illustrated with subtle charm and care.

I am choosing to share just this book of poetry at the moment - though I do encourage you to read any thoughtful choices with your child.

Why just this one book?

Reading poetry is one of those things that sounds good to adults. But few parents actually implement the idea with their children.

Instead of getting lost by grabbing an overwhelming and uneven children’s anthology, or by trying to make a more heavy-handed ‘A Child’s First Book of Poetry - Robert Frost’ come to life, or always reverting to A Child’s Garden of Verses, I would encourage you to start here.

Keep this book close, return to it often, and simply experience each poem as a moment of shared connection and delight with your child.

It’s an ideal choice for the stages of spring and the unfolding joys of summer ahead (as well as fall, and winter - keep it close year-round!).

I hope you enjoy this treasure as much I do, and the many children who have experienced it with me.