Valentine Hearts: Holiday Poetry (I Can Read Book 2)
#2 of 37 in I Can Read Book 2 Series
What’s inside...
Lee Bennett Hopkins curates a collection of children's poetry celebrating Valentine's Day in this beginning reader's book. The anthology features poems about heart-shaped sandwiches, homemade cards, and sweetheart candies, capturing the spirit of the holiday. The book includes contributions from various poets, each offering their unique take on Valentine's themes.
Discussion points
What feelings do you think the different characters in the poems are experiencing?
Which poem was your favorite and why?
How do some of the poems show love and kindness?
Can you think of your own short poem about someone or something you care about?
How does reading these poems make you feel about the Valentine's Day holiday?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by reading the poems together with your child, letting them follow along with the words. Emphasize the rhyme and rhythm of the poems to make it fun and engaging. After reading, ask your child about their thoughts on the poems and discuss the emotions conveyed within them. Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts about the holiday and relate the themes of love and kindness to their own life experiences. You might also inspire them to create their own simple poem, fostering creativity and a personal connection to the theme.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Appreciation of Poetry
Explanation: This book introduces children to the beauty and structure of poetry through engaging holiday-themed verses.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to enjoy and interpret poetry, which enhances their language skills and encourages creative expression.
Example Lesson: Understanding Emotions
Explanation: The poems discuss various feelings associated with Valentine's Day, helping children understand and articulate their own emotions.
Real-World Application: Children learn to express their feelings more clearly and gain empathy by understanding others' emotions.
Example Lesson: Cultural Awareness
Explanation: The book touches on aspects of celebrating Valentine's Day, giving insights into how different cultures might perceive and celebrate love and affection.
Real-World Application: Children gain a broader understanding of cultural practices and develop respect for various traditions and perspectives.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Expression
Explanation: By reading poetry that plays with language, children are inspired to think creatively and express themselves in new ways.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to explore writing or other forms of artistic expression, enriching their personal and academic growth.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Relationships
Explanation: The poems explore themes of friendship and caring, highlighting the importance of nurturing relationships.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of maintaining positive relationships with family and peers, which is crucial for social development.