Children’s poetry can take many forms, but should use understandable vocabulary and vivid language. Popular types include narrative, humor, and short forms like limericks. Rhyme, relatable subjects, and rhythmic structure are important features. Reading aloud and encouraging participation can enhance the experience.
There are many types of children’s poetry, and nearly any poetic form can be enjoyed by children as long as the topic is age-appropriate. Some particularly popular types include narrative poetry, humor, and short forms such as limericks. When sharing poems with children, it’s a good idea to choose poems with vivid language and understandable vocabulary. Many of the best poems for children often rhyme, deal with topics they can relate to, and have a rhythmic structure. Whenever possible, poetry should be read aloud, as many rely on the sound of language for its beauty.
Some poets specialize in children’s poems, but children can appreciate poems written by anyone, even those who usually write for an older audience. The best poems to share with children use language to vividly “paint a picture” or to tell a story. It is important that the vocabulary is not too sophisticated and difficult, as it is difficult to truly enjoy a poem if you don’t understand the words.
The types of children’s poetry that are often popular include narrative pieces, humor, and short rhyming poems such as couplets and limericks. A narrative poem tells a story in verse and often rhymes, although rhyme is not required. Humorous poems can use any format and the main purpose is to make the reader laugh. Many poets who write specifically for children use humor that children can relate to, with some classic examples being the works of Jack Prelutsky and Shel Silverstein. Many children are initially drawn to poetry by these humorous works that make them laugh.
Short forms are another great example of children’s poetry, which can be entertaining or provide a simple, clear idea that appeals to children’s imaginations. The couplet is the shortest form, with only two rhyming lines. Limericks are a little longer with five lines written in one metrical verse and usually tell a very short and humorous story. Nonsense verse is also popular, with words that are made up or have double meanings and can be of any length with widely varying subject matter.
There are some other features that a large amount of children’s poetry shares. Much of it rhymes, and many children prefer rhyming poems to free verse. Another important feature of good children’s poetry is that it deals with a subject that the child can relate to and understand, and it should be age appropriate. Many children’s poems also have a rhythmic structure, so that when read aloud, they have rhythm.
When sharing poems with children, it’s best to read aloud whenever the situation allows. Much poetry is meant to be said, and much of its appeal comes from the sound of the words spoken. It can be a great idea to re-read the poems many times and to encourage children to participate in a practice known as choral reading. Children can also be encouraged to memorize the poems for recitation or try writing poems on their own.
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