I've got a fun one to send you this week... keep scrolling!
You're half way though August. How's it going? Everyone losing their mind at the lack of routine and out-of-control snack schedule?
I have something here to fill at least a couple of hours next time you are clutching at straws...
Poetry.
NO, DON'T CLICK OUT.
Yes, you may 'know' that just hearing that word will make your kid leg it faster than the waving of your nit comb. But I have a trick for you. After working with plenty of kids who'd shut off at the mere mention of this literary form, I know how to keep them with me.
A pal told me the other day her family have started having poetry tea parties at home. They have tea and cake and all pick a poem to share.
This struck me as being totally delightful.
Then I remembered reading some research last year from The National Literacy Trust about a study around the impact of poetry on children's wellbeing. I really liked this line: 'Poetry doesn't have to be perfect. It can provide new freedom to begin writing for pleasure and creating without rules - there's no "doing it wrong"'.
That makes poetry pretty great for getting kids to try new things without stressing out about perfection. I loved teaching it in school, and I'm sharing here my favourite tools for reeling in the kids.
And if all this chat about poetry is bringing up memories of long, boring poems you couldn't understand or stay awake to, know that there is a lot out there that is short, fun and funny.
So this week:
- Find a book of poems at the library (that's another hour or two filled) or watch the brilliant performances of Michael Rosen's poems. Rosen's poem videos have always been my trick for hooking in poetry-sceptics, adults and children alike.
- Lay the table all fancy and bring out the cake and tea. Read or perform your favourite poems to each other.
If you're looking for a poetry book, Michael Rosen's A Great Big Cuddle is always my first recommendation. Even my little Year 1s were able to memorise and recite some of the shorter poems from here - and they loved them.
Have fun! And please tell me if you have a poetry tea party - I'd love to know!
Love,
Becca x