Being Me: Poems About Thoughts, Worries and Feelings
What’s inside...
Three gifted poets have collaborated on a collection of poems that address worries and anxieties, and offer ways to foster empathy and mindfulness. The anthology of 45 poems encourages readers to explore the Land of Blue where it's acceptable to feel sad, discover methods to manage worries, and learn to slow down a busy mind. The poems inspire readers to take time to relax, find calm in chaos, and recognize kindness in themselves and others, ultimately helping them realize their inner strength and reassurance that 'You've got this!' This collection provides understanding, support, and motivation, resonating with the thoughts and concerns of children.
Age
7-9
Length
96 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What thoughts or feelings did you relate to the most in the poems?
How do you think the characters manage their worries and what can we learn from them?
Can you think of a time when you felt similar to any of the characters in the book? What happened?
Which poem was your favorite and why?
How do you think talking about our feelings can help us feel better?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, explain that the book contains poems about feelings and thoughts, setting a comfortable atmosphere where expressing emotions is encouraged.
Allow your child to choose which poems to read, providing them control and making them more invested in the discussion.
After reading a poem, pause to ask your child how it made them feel, rather than jumping straight into another one. This ensures they have time to reflect and connect with the material.
Share your own feelings and experiences related to the themes in the book. This shows vulnerability and trust, encouraging your child to open up.
End your reading sessions by emphasizing that it's okay to have different feelings and that they can always talk about them with you.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding and expressing emotions
Explanation: Through engaging poems, 'Being Me' encourages children to explore and articulate their thoughts, worries, and feelings.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to identify their emotions and communicate them effectively, promoting emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills.
Example Lesson: Empathy and compassion
Explanation: The poems provide insights into diverse perspectives and experiences, fostering empathy and understanding towards others.
Real-World Application: Children can apply empathy in their interactions with peers, understanding different emotional states and offering support.
Example Lesson: Resilience and coping with anxiety
Explanation: The book addresses common fears and anxieties, offering poetic narratives that help children see the universality of such feelings.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to develop coping mechanisms and resilience in the face of their own worries and fears.
Example Lesson: Self-acceptance
Explanation: Many poems in the book promote self-love and acceptance, encouraging children to embrace their unique qualities.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and accept themselves as they are, boosting their self-confidence and self-esteem.
Example Lesson: The power of words
Explanation: The book illustrates how poetry can be a powerful tool for expression, helping children articulate deep or complex feelings.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of words and enables them to use creative expression as a form of emotional release and personal reflection.