Writing poetry as an activity with your child can instantly bring you closer together. The very creative quality of this genre encourages the sharing of deep, personal thoughts between parent and child. There are few activities that truly demand your undivided attention and imagination.

Poetry Encourages Open Dialogue

The subjects discussed with your child while writing a poem together may include family issues or memories. This is a good way to encourage open dialogue about things that concern your child. Many problems can be solved in this manner. Your child will feel safe to share his ideas through writing.

Working on a poem with your child provides a sense of accomplishment for both of you. The poem will always be there for you to look back on and discuss. You can also share it with the rest of your family. An activity that has a tangible end result will give you something to be proud of and to treasure.

Writing Poetry Together Shows That You Care

Taking the time out of a busy schedule to write a poem shows a level of caring that your child will respect. Writing a poem takes a certain amount of concentration and undivided attention. This time spent together is precious and full of collective creative energy.
Sharing and exchanging creative juices with your child allows both of you to see a different side of each other. You will be witness to the inner-workings of your child’s mind and your child will be happy to hear your ideas as well. Writing poetry encourages a new way of looking at everyday things and it asks that you dig deep down inside for these ideas. As you and your child take risks together, you will naturally become closer and gain a new understanding of each other.

Writing poetry is a fun and interesting way to interact with your child. The discussions, quality time, creativity and end result will inevitably bring you closer together. Not only will you and your child have a closer relationship, you will also have a beautiful poem to show for it!

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Jen received her master's degree in Literacy Education in 2003 and since then has worked on helping to grow awareness about children's literacy and writing. Jen has 16 post(s) at Free Writing Center