Spin a soft Black song;: Poems for children
What’s inside...
A poetry collection titled 'Spin a Soft Black Song' which recounts the feelings and experiences of Black children about their neighborhoods, American society, and themselves, giving a voice to their unique perspectives. A favorite collection of thirty-five poems for and about black children celebrates the energy and joy of life.
Age
8-12
Length
64 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you feel after reading these poems? Can you relate to any of the feelings or stories described?
Which poem was your favorite and why? What message did you take away from it?
Nikki Giovanni wrote these poems to share stories and emotions. If you could write a poem, what would it be about?
The poems often talk about experiences and dreams. What are some dreams you have for yourself?
How can sharing your feelings and experiences through words help you and others understand each other better?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by reading a poem together, then let your child express their initial thoughts or emotions about it. It encourages them to think independently and feel comfortable sharing.
Draw connections between the themes of the poems and your child's own experiences. It makes the discussion more relatable and insightful.
Encouraging your child to pick their favorite poem and explain why can give you insight into their thoughts and preferences.
Discuss the importance of dreams and expressing oneself, as depicted in the poems, to inspire your child to articulate their own dreams and ambitions.
End the discussion by asking your child if they would like to write a poem, offering to write one together. It's a creative way to deepen understanding and bond.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Celebration of Cultural Diversity
Explanation: Nikki Giovanni's poems in 'Spin a Soft Black Song' vividly depict the experiences and voices of African American children, providing a platform for cultural expression and awareness.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect different cultures in their community, promoting inclusivity and understanding in their interactions with peers.
Example Lesson: Expression of Emotions
Explanation: The book encourages children to express their feelings through art, as the poems explore a range of emotions from joy to sadness.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to talk about their feelings or channel them through creative activities such as writing or drawing, aiding emotional development.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family and Community
Explanation: Several poems highlight the significance of family bonds and community support, reflecting the collective identity within the culture.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value their family ties and community connections, fostering a sense of belonging and support.
Example Lesson: Power of Imagination
Explanation: Giovanni's poetry often utilizes imaginative and vivid imagery to convey messages, sparking creativity in young readers.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to use their imagination to solve problems and create new ideas, enhancing creative thinking skills.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Hope
Explanation: Despite challenges portrayed in some poems, there is a strong undercurrent of hope and resilience, teaching children to persevere.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children develop a positive mindset and resilience in facing personal challenges in school or at home.