Is writing poetry difficult? Where do you start? How do you come up with a poem idea? Writing poetry doesn't have to be painful, especially for kids whose creative spirits love to be unleashed! Nevertheless, poetry prompts are a boon for those writers staring at a blank page and wondering where to begin. These poem ideas that focus on poetry forms and topics are good writing prompts for kids (and adults!) who need a creative jump start.
By the way, April is National Poetry Month and I always make a big deal of it. Any excuse for more poetry! When we first started the Poetry Reading Challenge, my 5 year old memorized Lewis Carroll's Jabberwocky simply by hearing me recite it over and over again.
After spending time learning how to read verse, it was time to sit down and write some of our own so we spent a month reveling in poetry writing! And poetry is not all serious looks and contemplative frowns. Laugh yourself silly while joining in this Poetry Writing Challenge to learn to write poetry the easy way; it can be done anytime of the year. Since I don't want my kids to grow up thinking of creative writing as a chore, I've gathered together some simple, low-pressure poem ideas and prompt to start you out.
(Note: This post contains affiliate links.)
Poem Ideas and Starters
Write a spine poem using the books on your shelves.
Write a color poem. This is a good easy poem writing idea for younger kids. (via The Measured Mom)
Write a "never" poem. (via The Write Shop)
Some poetry writing ideas can be more challenging than others, but don't shy away. You'll be surprised how your kids rise to the occasion. Write a reverso poem (via Mama Smiles, inspired by Marilyn Singer's Mirror Mirror)
How to write haiku, an article by Bob Raczka, poet and author of one of my favorite haiku books, GUYKU: A Year of Haiku for Boys. Via Imagination Soup)
Write a riddle poem. (via Imagination Soup)
Ditch the pen and paper and compose poetry using magnetic words. We have a set of really big magnetic poetry words and the boys love them. It also helps take the pressure off writing to have a limited selection of words to chose from.
Write a concrete poem. Who knew poems could have such interesting shapes? (via Poetry 4 Kids)
Need a poem starter kids will love? Give them a topic they boosts self-esteem. Write an "I'm so smart" poem. I think my kid might like this idea a little too much. (via Let's Explore)
Write an acrostic poem. Acrostics are often the first poems kids learn how to write in school. (This post also teaches about similes)
Write a limerick to make everyone laugh! (via Power Poetry)
Write a poem using the 5 senses. This is another good easy poem idea for kids. (via This Reading Mama)
Create a rhyme using word families. (via This Reading Mama)
Write a diamante poem. (via Write Shop)
Poetry books for inspiration:
- Haiku poetry books
- Diverse poetry books
- Non-boring poetry books to make you love poetry
- Funny poems for kids
Need more convincing?
Kim Kautzer says
Thank you for linking to our "Never" Poem!
Erica MomandKiddo says
My pleasure! It's a wonderful idea.