Explore big ideas through poetry.
Whether they are playful or introspective, poems offers a unique perspective on the world around us. Challenge kids - and yourself - to discover poetry that speaks to you. Then share it with others in magic mail designed to spread cheer and comfort.
Conversation Starters
What is poetry?
After reading a book of poetry, which poem was your favorite? Why?
Which poem did you find confusing? Let's see if we can make sense of it together.
Look for a poem that evokes a strong emotion in your child. Notice together how simple words in a relatively short poem can have such a strong impact.
Together find a poem you would enjoy sharing with someone who could use some comfort. Create a greeting card featuring this poem and share it.
Featured Title
Dictionary for a Better World: Poems, Quotes, and Anecdotes from A to Z by Irene Latham and Charles Waters
This collection of poetry overflows with opportunities to launch big-hearted conversations. Beginning with Acceptance and Ally and moving through the alphabet to conclude with Xenial and Zest, each entry in this unique dictionary features a poem, a short note on the poetic device used, a relevant quote, a thoughtful anecdote from one of the authors, and an invitation to TRY IT - or put each idea to work in your family’s life. This book is one to savor!
More DGT Favorites
A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood: The Poetry of Mister Rogers by Fred Rogers and Luke Flowers
This compilation features 75 songs from the beloved television re-envisioned as poetry. Heart-warming and hilarious, these poems are imbued with the kind, earnest essence that we love so well.
A Light in the Attic and essentially everything written by Shel Silverstein.
Nothing else compares to the always silly, sometimes icky, and often deeper-than-they-appear poems by the incomparable Shel Silverstein.
All the Wild Wonders by Wendy Cooling
This collection of poetry features poets all around the world. It's designed to help students think critically about issues facing the environment and to encourage them to work toward a brighter future.
A Poke in the I, A Kick in the Head, and A Foot in the Mouth, all by Paul B. Jeneczko
All three of these books explore poetry in unique ways. Even better, they subtlety call attention to important social issues or big-hearted ideas that are sure to spark creative conversations with your family.
Feathers by Eileen Spinelli
This collection is as lyrical and charming as its subject matter. Explore the bird world with creative, funny, and beautiful poems that just might inspire your to burst into song!
Food Fight: Poets Join the Fight Against Hunger with Poems to Favorite Food edited and illustrated by Michael J. Rosen
Thirty-three children’s poets contribute to the fight against hunger by penning poems about food. Read odes to pies, pizzas, and matzo ball soup.
If Not for the Cat by Jack Prelutsky
This haiku collection is one part calming meditation, one part poetic gymnastics. This is a family favorite for our blogger!
Joyful Noise: Poems for Two Voices by Joel Fleishman and Eric Beddows
This award-winning collection is especially fun with a proud new reader. Celebrate the boisterous cacophony of the natural world through poetry together.Lend a Hand
Lend a Hand: Poems about Giving by John Frank.
So much good is captured in the pages of this book. Kind acts of children are captured in the thoughtful, observant way only poetry can accomplish.
Mirror, Mirror: A Book of Reverso Poems by Marilyn Singer
Fairy tale scenes are re-imagined from two perspectives with a unique technique that you'll have to read to believe.
Old Elm Speaks: Tree Poems by Kristine O'Connell George.
This inspiring collection of tree poems is one part meditation and one part playful exploration of our stately neighbors.
Peace is an Offering by Annette LeBox
A group of neighborhood kids discover peace in the beautiful world around them. This poetic book will open your eyes to the world around you.
The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein
Yes, Silverstein is such a giant in children's poetry, he deserves at least two shout outs. This classic tale doubles as a poem, perfect for igniting big conversations about selflessness versus selfishness, feelings, phases of life, and what makes us feel content.
The Tree that Time Built: A Celebration of Nature, Science, and Imagination (A Poetry Speaks Experience) by Linda Winston, Mary Ann Hoberman, and Barbara Fortin.
This anthology of nature inspired poems is sure to inspire and engage your child with the outdoors in unexpected ways.
Winter Bees & Other Poems of the Cold by Joyce Sidman
Take a poetic romp through the snow as you discover how creatures cope with the cold. This sweet celebration of nature is sure to inspire future environmentalists.
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