Why we study Poetry in Speech Arts and Schools

The study of poetry is an important aspect of a well-rounded education for children. Not only does poetry provide a way for children to explore the world and express their emotions, it also helps to develop critical thinking skills and improve language proficiency. Here are a few ways that poetry can benefit children, and resources to help improve the study of poetry in the classroom or at home.

1. Encourages creativity and self-expression:

Poetry provides a unique outlet for children to express their thoughts and feelings, and to explore the world in new and creative ways. By encouraging children to write their own poems, or to explore the poems of others, they can develop their own creative voice and expand their imagination.

1. Improves language and literacy skills:

The study of poetry can help children to develop their language and literacy skills in a number of ways. For example, poems often use figurative language and imagery, which can help children to develop their understanding of language and to think more critically about the words they use. Additionally, reading and writing poetry can help children to develop their reading comprehension and writing skills.

1. Promotes empathy and understanding:

Poetry often explores the complexities of human emotions and experiences, and can provide a way for children to develop empathy and understanding for others. By exposing children to the experiences and perspectives of others, poetry can help them to broaden their view of the world and to develop a more compassionate and empathetic approach to life.

To help improve the study of poetry for children, consider the following resources:

1. Poetry books for children:

There are many poetry books specifically designed for children, with poems that are written in a language and style that is accessible and engaging for young readers. These books can provide a great starting point for exploring the world of poetry and can help to introduce children to a range of different poets and styles. Some great examples of poetry books include “Random House Book of Poetry for Children”, “Bill Martin Jr. Big Book of Poetry”, and “20th Century Children’s Poetry Treasury”, to name a few.

1. Poetry writing workshops:

Workshops that focus specifically on writing poetry can be a great way to help children develop their writing skills and to explore their creativity. These workshops can also provide an opportunity for children to share their poems with others, and to receive feedback and encouragement from their peers.

1. Poetry recitation and performance:

Encouraging children to recite and perform poems can be a fun and interactive way to help them develop their language and public speaking skills. This can be done in the classroom, at home, or as part of a larger poetry performance event. The group classes Vita Artes offers are a fun way of practicing and include a recital at the end of each term to help build confidence through practice, and our private classes are great for students who really want to build upon their skills as a performer. You can find out more information about our classes and camps here: Our classes

The study of poetry is an important aspect of a well-rounded education for children. Not only does it provide a way for children to express their thoughts and feelings, it also helps to develop critical thinking skills and improve language proficiency. By using resources such as poetry books, writing workshops, and recitation and performance opportunities, we can help to make the study of poetry more accessible and engaging for children, and to provide them with the tools they need to explore the world and to develop a lifelong appreciation for poetry.

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