Reading Poetry to Children
Poet Lee Bennett Hopkins provides the following guidelines for reading poetry to children, whether you are a parent, teacher, or librarian:
1. Before reading a poem to an audience, read it aloud several times to get the feel of the words and the rhythm. Mark the words and phrases that you would like to emphasize.
2. Read the poem naturally, following its rhythm. Allow the physical appearance of the poem to dictate the rhythm and mood of the words. Some poems are meant to be read softly and slowly; others must be read at a more rapid pace.
3. Make pauses that are logical and that please you.
4. When reading a poem aloud, speak in a natural voice. Read a poem as though you are interested in the subject.
1. Before reading a poem to an audience, read it aloud several times to get the feel of the words and the rhythm. Mark the words and phrases that you would like to emphasize.
2. Read the poem naturally, following its rhythm. Allow the physical appearance of the poem to dictate the rhythm and mood of the words. Some poems are meant to be read softly and slowly; others must be read at a more rapid pace.
3. Make pauses that are logical and that please you.
4. When reading a poem aloud, speak in a natural voice. Read a poem as though you are interested in the subject.