Tips For Introducing Kids To Poetry

Children’s poet Helen Ross provides some useful tips for introducing kids to poetry.

Poetry is a wonderful way for children to understand other people and their dreams, thoughts, uniqueness and experiences (good, bad and different). It can offer them an insight into the way others view the world, and help them develop confidence and resilience, as they are encouraged to share their opinions and express themselves in their own unique style. It teaches that it’s okay to take risks and make mistakes – that is how they grow.

Poetry For Kids

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Children’s poet Helen Ross shares a little insight into her work and the inspiration behind her ideas with her poetry for kids.

How did you first get into writing poetry?
It all began with a gorilla named Lulu. In my twenties, I spent three years studying drama. As part of an assignment I had to perform a piece about a gorilla, so I penned a poem called Lulu, the Gorgeous Gorilla. I bought a special art exercise book (no lined pages) and wrote one verse per page, accompanied with my own pencil illustrations. I still have it tucked away in my ideas box. Since then I have been hooked on writing poetry.

Tips For Introducing Kids To Pets

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We chat with the RSPCA and get some tips for introducing kids to pets – or the other way around!

Studies have shown that having a pet while growing up not only increases self-esteem, but can also increase physical activity, reduce the possibility of allergies, teach responsibility and encourage overall mental development. Animals are non-judgemental. As your child grows up and their bond with their pet grows stronger, you may find they confide in and talk to their pets, allowing for an outlet for your children. One of the sad realities of growing up with pets is that they do pass away, so in their final moments our pets can aid in teaching our children the life lessons of loss and mourning.

Christmas Picture Book

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After a great Christmas picture book that has a lesson to share to your kids during this gift-giving season? This is one you should definitely check out.

Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house not a creature is stirring….well no creature that is, except for Pig the Pug, dressed as an Elf, waiting for Santa to arrive and deliver him all of the 100s of gifts on his Christmas list. When Santa does arrive, however, he leaves Pig a measly five presents, and an outraged Pig takes it into his own paws to give Santa a piece of his mind.

6 Family Christmas Activities

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Zara Lewis shares these 6 fabulous family Christmas activities that will get you in the festive spirit this holiday season.

Christmas is one of the most beloved holidays throughout the year for many different reasons. One of the appealing and most gratifying Christmas experiences is undoubtedly spending some quality time with your family. Of course, preparing for this joyous occasion comes with numerous engaging activities that tie the whole family together. If you’re short on ideas this year, keep on reading – there are some great ways to make this magical time even more entertaining for your kids.

Three Year Old Milestones

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Tracey Montgomery shares with us exactly what being the mum of a three year old entails and shares some of those three year old milestones.

Charlie was just six weeks old when someone said to me that the days are long but the years are short. I was a new mum and truly and madly in love with my son, but I also had this weird anxiety about everything, so any snippet of wisdom offered to me I grabbed much the same way as I would grab a wagon wheel and a glass of wine. Preferably consumed together. I remember being clouded in self-doubt, and during those dusky days, this was the one thought that most resonated with me.