Sunflakes: Poems for Children
What’s inside...
A collection of poems about universal childhood experiences. Poems by Jack Prelutsky, Jane Yolen, Shel Silverstein, Margaret Wise Brown, and other noted poets highlight an entertaining anthology of eighty-two poems, arranged into thematic sections. Contributors include John Ciardi, David McCord, Eloise Greenfield, Eve Merriam, Frank Asch, Jane Yolen, and others.
Age
5-12
Length
96 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What feelings do you experience while reading the poems about nature in 'Sunflakes'? Can you describe them?
Which poem in 'Sunflakes' was your favorite and why?
If you could create your own poem inspired by 'Sunflakes', what would you write about?
How do the illustrations in the book make you feel? Do they help you imagine the scenes more vividly?
Can you think of a time when you felt a connection to nature like the ones described in these poems?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about each poem, fostering a deeper understanding.
Discuss the imagery used in the poems and ask your child to draw a scene inspired by their favorite poem.
Relate the poems to personal experiences or family outings in nature to make the content more relatable and memorable.
Create a cozy reading environment that mimics a natural setting to enhance the thematic experience of the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Appreciation of Nature
Explanation: The poems in 'Sunflakes: Poems for Children' invite young readers to observe and cherish the natural world.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to notice the beauty in their environment, fostering a lifelong respect and care for nature.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: Through engaging, playful language, the book stimulates creative thinking and imagination.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to express themselves through poems, stories, or drawings, enhancing their creative skills in everyday activities.
Example Lesson: Emotional Expression
Explanation: The poems explore a range of emotions, allowing children to connect and articulate their feelings.
Real-World Application: This can help children express their emotions more effectively at home or in school, promoting emotional well-being.
Example Lesson: Language Skills
Explanation: The diverse vocabulary and rhyming patterns throughout the book enhance language development.
Real-World Application: Engaging with the text can improve verbal skills and phonemic awareness, aiding in communication and academic success.