Book Bears’ goal is to promote literacy for kids, one very important form of literacy is poetry. Poetry is especially beneficial to children for a few reasons: rhyming and sounds found in poetry builds literacy skills, it helps develop memory, and it builds creativity in children as well.
In poetry, rhyme, rhythm, and sound are emphasized. Learning such things from a young age will help them with English and with comprehension. They will be familiar with the things they’ll learn in class, because even if they don’t know what a rhyme is, they’ll be able to recognize when two words sound similar. Literacy skills will be built, and more than that, they’ll be made fun!
There are studies that show how poetry can develop memory. In such studies, like the Exeter study, certain brain areas light up when you read. And when you read poetry specifically, the memory regions of your brain show more activity. Memory is an essential thing to train in children. It builds concentration skills and if memory skills are poor then it can affect the way they comprehend information in school. It can be difficult to grasp certain subjects. Just by reading a simple poem to children before their bedtime can make a lasting and beneficial impact.
Poetry is an art form that inspires children to experiment with their own words. By hearing the way words can move around and sound put together, children can get creative with their own ideas. They’ll start to wonder what they could create with words. More than that, poetry is immersive, and oftentimes short and sweet so it does not require a lengthy attention span.
Poetry is sometimes thought of as something very complex and analytical. Poets are serious and thoughtful, and that is reflected in their work. This isn’t necessarily true. Poetry can be short and sweet, straight to the point, and fun! Google defines poetry as, “literary work in which special intensity is given to the expression of feelings and ideas by the use of distinctive style and rhythm; poems collectively or as a genre of literature.” Basically poetry emphasizes rhythm and emotions. It doesn’t have to be complicated. Ever heard of Dr. Suess? Poetry can be fun, and something kids will enjoy reading. Shel Silverstein has many books full of poems for children, and any authors like Dr. Suess or A. A. Milne have countless options as well. If you're looking for a way to get a child excited about reading, then I encourage you to explore the world of poetry for kids!
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