How to Begin Sharing Poetry with Young People

How do we begin sharing poetry with young people, especially if we’re new to poetry? We can learn from motivated readers about what is important in encouraging reading in any genre. Typically we are fairly diligent about using these strategies for promoting fiction reading, by reading aloud, displaying books, sharing booklists, and developing activities and programs. How often do we apply this same “full court press” to promoting poetry for children? What would happen if we gave poetry this same “royal” treatment?

The list begins:

1. Be an adult who reads poetry for young people.

2. Make poems and poetry books accessible (at arm’s length, if possible).

3. Put poetry books and poems on the agenda every day.

4. Model joy and enthusiasm for poems and poetry.

5. Begin where the children are, with their interests, concerns, and experiences.

For more details, get your copy of The Poetry Teacher’s Book of Lists.

And if you already have the book and would like to offer additions, corrections, or other input, please do so in the COMMENTS area. Thanks!