A Poem for Every Day of the Year
#1 of 2 in A day without a smile is a day wasted Series
What’s inside...
A Poem For Every Day of the Year is a magnificent collection of 366 poems compiled by Allie Esiri, one to share on every day of the year. Reflecting the changing seasons and linking to events on key dates - funny for April Fool's Day, festive for Christmas - these poems are thoughtful, inspiring, and expressive, providing a poetic journey through the year that is perfect for poetry enthusiasts of all ages. The collection includes works by notable poets like T.S. Eliot, John Betjeman, Lewis Carroll, William Shakespeare, and Christina Rossetti, as well as contemporary poets like Seamus Heaney, Ted Hughes, Carol Ann Duffy, and Kate Tempest. It is an ideal book for reading aloud and sharing with family, filled with both familiar favourites and exciting new discoveries, making it a soul-enhancing companion for every day of your life.
Discussion points
Which poem did you enjoy the most today and why?
How did the poem make you feel?
Can you think of a different ending or another scenario for the poem?
Did the poem remind you of anything or anyone in your life?
What would you ask the author if you could?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, give a brief introduction about the poet or the background of the poem to build interest.
Discuss the meanings of difficult words in the poem to enhance vocabulary and understanding.
Encourage your child to visualize the scenes described in the poem and describe what they see.
Link themes from the poem to personal experiences or current events to make connections.
After reading, ask your child to draw or write their feelings or thoughts about the poem to foster creativity.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Appreciation of poetry and language
Explanation: Each day offers a new poem, introducing children to a wide range of poetic styles, themes, and historical periods.
Real-World Application: Children can develop a richer vocabulary and a deeper appreciation of language, enhancing their communication skills.
Example Lesson: Cultural and historical awareness
Explanation: The book includes works from a diverse array of poets, covering various cultures and historical contexts.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate diverse perspectives and understand the historical significance of different eras, fostering inclusivity and empathy.
Example Lesson: Consistency and routine building
Explanation: By engaging with a poem daily, children adopt a consistent reading habit.
Real-World Application: This routine not only improves literacy but also helps in structuring their daily activities, enhancing focus and time management skills.
Example Lesson: Emotional intelligence
Explanation: Poems evoke a range of emotions and themes, allowing children to explore and express their feelings.
Real-World Application: This can lead to better emotional self-awareness and healthier ways of dealing with feelings, crucial for personal and social development.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking and interpretation
Explanation: Discussing and analyzing poems enhances comprehension and critical thinking skills.
Real-World Application: Children learn to think critically about texts, an important skill for academic success and informed decision-making.