Words Can Fly: A Poetry Reading Guide for Young Readers
By Hay House | Published: 2026-11-02
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to read poetry with children using Words Can Fly, with read-aloud tips, a simple routine, and ways to help kids enjoy poetry without pressure.
Quick answer
Read one short poem aloud, pause, and ask one open question—then let the child choose whether to continue. Keep sessions to five or ten minutes and return to favorites often.
Why short, repeated readings work better than full sittings
Poetry for young readers rewards familiarity. A child who hears the same poem three times notices rhythm, rhyme, and wordplay that a single pass would miss. Short sessions lower the pressure to 'finish the book' and leave room for conversation.
This is also why collections work well: you can dip in, choose a poem that matches the mood, and stop without losing a plot. If your child prefers stories, try verse novels or narrative poems as a bridge.
When to read aloud and when to hand over the book
Read aloud when the poem's language is playful or emotionally rich—your voice carries the rhythm. Hand the book over when the child wants to revisit a favorite or read independently. For shared reading, sit side by side so both of you can see the illustrations.
Avoid turning every poem into a comprehension quiz. The goal is enjoyment first; discussion works best when it grows out of the child's own reaction.
A five-step poetry reading routine
- Choose one poem together: Let the child flip through and pick a poem by title or illustration. Read only that poem first. Checkpoint: if the child hesitates, choose for them and offer to switch after one reading.
- Read it aloud slowly: Read at about half your normal speed, pausing at line breaks. Don't explain meanings yet. Common mistake: rushing to finish the poem before the child has heard the rhythm.
- Ask one open question: Try 'What did you picture?' or 'Which line did you like?' Accept any answer without correcting it. Checkpoint: if the child shrugs, share your own answer first.
- Read it a second time: Reread the same poem, inviting the child to join on a repeated phrase or sound. Common mistake: moving to a new poem before the first one feels familiar.
- Let the child close the session: Ask whether to stop or read one more. Ending on the child's choice keeps poetry associated with control and pleasure. Checkpoint: note which poems get requested again—those are your read-aloud anchors.
Product facts
- Words Can Fly: A poetry collection by #1 Sunday Times best-selling author Donna Ashworth, described as a compassionate guide through childhood. The warm, reassuring tone makes it a natural choice for bedtime or quiet shared reading.
Words Can Fly - Words Can Fly: Presented as a beautifully illustrated keepsake for parents and children to read together. The gift-ready format suits a shared family copy rather than a solo reader's paperback.
