rhyming poem about the homework

• Children's Poems About Homework: Embracing Learning with Rhyme

Homework can often be seen as a chore by children, but what if we could make it more enjoyable and engaging? Poetry has the power to transform mundane tasks into something fun and exciting. In this article, we will explore some delightful children's poems about homework that can inspire young minds to embrace their academic journey with a smile.

1. "The Homework Monster" by Lily Smith

2. "ode to the pencil" by max johnson, 3. "the homework dance" by emily thompson.

The Homework Monster is a whimsical poem that brings to life the struggle many children face when tackling their assignments. Through a playful narrative, Lily Smith captures the frustration and creativity required to conquer the homework beast. Here's an excerpt:

The Homework Monster crept up my bed, With papers and textbooks, filling my head. It growled and it grumbled, challenging me, But I'll slay this creature, just wait and see!

The poem encourages children to view homework as a challenge to overcome, fostering a positive attitude towards their academic responsibilities.

In Ode to the Pencil , Max Johnson celebrates the humble pencil as a tool for homework success. This delightful poem highlights the significance of this small writing instrument that holds the power to transform thoughts into words. Here's a snippet:

Oh, pencil dear, you're always near, Guiding my hand with words so clear. You help me solve equations and spell with grace, With each stroke of lead, a smile I embrace!

By personifying the pencil and expressing gratitude for its role in completing homework, Max Johnson encourages children to appreciate the tools that assist them in their learning journey.

Emily Thompson's The Homework Dance infuses rhythm and movement into the task of completing assignments. This energetic poem encourages children to incorporate physical activity while working on their homework. Here's an excerpt:

Jump to the left, do a twirl and a sway, Tap your feet, keep the boredom at bay. Dance with your pencil, let your mind roam, With each step and groove, homework becomes home!

By transforming homework into a dance, this poem invites children to find joy and creativity in their academic endeavors.

Children's poems about homework have the power to transform a mundane task into an exciting adventure. Through imaginative storytelling, playful personification, and rhythmic expressions, these poems help children develop a positive attitude towards their academic responsibilities. Whether it's slaying the homework monster, celebrating the pencil, or dancing through assignments, these poems remind children that learning can be a delightful journey. So, let's inspire the young minds with the magic of poetry and make homework a joyful experience!

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All My Great Excuses

From the book Revenge of the Lunch Ladies

I started on my homework but my pen ran out of ink. My hamster ate my homework. My computer’s on the blink.

I accidentally dropped it in the soup my mom was cooking. My brother flushed it down the toilet when I wasn’t looking.

My mother ran my homework through the washer and the dryer. An airplane crashed into our house. My homework caught on fire.

Tornadoes blew my notes away. Volcanoes struck our town. My notes were taken hostage by an evil killer clown.

Some aliens abducted me. I had a shark attack. A pirate swiped my homework and refused to give it back.

I worked on these excuses so darned long my teacher said, “I think you’ll find it’s easier to do the work instead.”

 — Kenn Nesbitt

Copyright © 2007. All Rights Reserved.

Reading Level: Grade 3 Topics: Imaginary Poems , School Poems Poetic Techniques: Hyperbole , Irony , List Poems , Narrative Poems Word Count: 131

Click here for a printable worksheet for this poem

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41 Splendid Poems That Capture The Essence Of School Days

August 3, 2023 //  by  Kellie Tanner

School experiences differ for each person. When some learners think about school, they have feelings of joy and happiness while others may experience feelings of fear and dread. Regardless of one’s feelings, they can be captured in the words of poetry. Poetry can also be utilized to turn those feelings of dread and fear into peace and calmness. There’s nothing quite like a great poem to influence your students and lead class discussions! This is why we’ve rounded up 41 splendid choices to get you going!  

1. Homework! Oh, Homework! by Jack Prelutsky

This poem masterfully amplifies the common lament of students drowning in homework. Through exaggerated humor and clever rhymes, Prelutsky channels the universal dread of homework into a humorous and relatable piece.

Learn More: YouTube

2. The First Day of School by Roger McGough

A wonderful blend of apprehension and excitement, McGough’s poem paints an immersive and authentic picture of a child’s first day at school. His carefully chosen words transport us into the mind of a child embarking on a grand new adventure; making this an awesome poem to read on the first day of school!

Learn More: Twitter

3. The Road Not Taken by Robert Frost

A deeply metaphorical masterpiece, Frost’s poem is frequently analyzed for its contemplative view of life and decision-making. The depiction of a path in the woods presents a universal symbol of choice; encouraging readers to embrace their individual journeys both in and out of school.

Learn More: Literary English

4. In School-Days by John Greenleaf Whittier

Here, Whittier evokes a potent sense of nostalgia for the innocence and friendships of our school days. His descriptive language beautifully captures the bittersweet sentiment of looking back at those times; serving as a heartfelt tribute to our formative years.

5. Sick by Shel Silverstein

Sick presents an engaging and humorous take on a child’s attempt to avoid school by feigning sickness. Silverstein’s imaginative and witty verse perfectly captures the child’s playful exaggerations; making this an all-round delightful read! 

Learn More: Pinterest

6. A Boy at School by Tom Brown

Depicting an introspective journey into the soul of a schoolboy, this poem delves deep into the inner emotions endured at school. Brown’s vivid description of the boy’s internal monologue allows readers to experience both his contemplations and struggles firsthand.

Learn More: WikiSource

7. The Lesson by Roger McGough

If you’re keen on a piece of satirical reflection on classroom dynamics, with a hint of dark humor, The Lesson is the poem for you! In its exaggerated account of a teacher’s frustrations, this poem perfectly encapsulates the challenges of managing a classroom and pushes readers to question traditional teaching methods.

8. To a Daughter Leaving Home by Linda Pastan

Pastan has penned a poignant piece that captures the bittersweet emotions of a child maturing and stepping into the wider world. She masterfully balances the joy of growth and the pang of separation; making this poem a touching ode to all school-leavers.

Learn More: Slide Player

9. Theme for English B by Langston Hughes

Theme for English B is an introspective poem that delves into themes of identity, race, and self-discovery. Through the lens of a college student’s assignment, Hughes invites readers to question societal norms and prejudices. 

Learn More: SlideServe

10. Mid-Term Break by Seamus Heaney

Mid-Term is a deeply moving poem that captures the raw experience of grief amidst the bustle of a school term. Heaney’s authentic portrayal of loss and sorrow leaves a profound impact on readers as he successfully showcases the depth of emotion that poetry can evoke.

11. Books, not Bullets by Malala Yousafzai

Inspired by the Nobel Laureate’s speech, this powerful piece underscores the critical role of education in society. It’s a compelling narrative and passionate advocacy makes it a memorable testament to the transformative power of learning.

Learn More: Quote Fancy

12. The First Book by Rita Dove

This poem is a joyful celebration of the enchanting world of books and their significant influence on a student’s life. Dove’s evocative language and vivid imagery transport readers into the magical realms that books can unlock; making this poem a charming tribute to literature and a must for any teacher looking to stir up a love for reading in their students.

13. Teacher by Langston Hughes

This moving ode epitomizes the immense influence that teachers have in shaping students’ lives. Through his heartfelt words, Hughes underscores the profound responsibility and impact of educators; making this poem a touching acknowledgment of their role.

14. To Sir, With Love by E. R. Braithwaite

To Sir is a heartfelt expression of deep respect and admiration for teachers; capturing the genuine affection and gratitude that students often feel for their mentors. Braithwaite’s poignant words are sure to resonate with all readers; making this piece a touching homage to the enduring impact of educators.

Learn More: Goodreads

15. First Day at School by Aileen Fisher

This touching poem uses inviting imagery to encapsulate the mixed emotions of a child’s first day of school. Fisher artfully uses simple language and vivid metaphors to portray the anticipation, fear, and excitement that many children experience.

Learn More: YouTube  

16. Homework by Allan Ahlberg

Allan Ahlberg’s “Homework” is a playful poem that captures the frustration children often feel toward their homework. Through humorous imagery and lighthearted verse, he brings to life a world where homework takes on a life of its own- creating both chaos and comedy! 

Learn More: Poem Analysis

17. The Swing by R.L Stevenson

In “The Swing”, Stevenson employs vivid imagery to recreate the simple joy of swinging and the sensation of flight it imparts. This poem, filled with excitement and freedom, evokes the carefree days of childhood when a simple swing could bring unparalleled joy.

18. What Teachers Make by Taylor Mali

This thought-provoking poem challenges societal views on the value and impact that teachers have. With its powerful, assertive tone and impassioned argument, Mali’s piece is an important reminder of the profound influence that teachers have on their students’ lives.

19. A School Song by Rudyard Kipling

Kipling’s piece is a spirited anthem that celebrates the lessons learned during school days. The poem’s invigorating rhythm and lively language instill a sense of camaraderie and resilience and, in doing so, make it a timeless ode to the transformative power of education.

20. Welcome Back To School by Kenn Nesbitt

This poem typically takes on a positive and encouraging tone- aimed at creating an atmosphere of enthusiasm and anticipation for the new academic year. It employs a rhyming structure that will get all learners excited for the holiday that lies ahead! 

21. The Last Lesson by Alphonse Daudet

Daudet’s poignant poem delves into the value of cultural heritage and the significance of one’s native language. With its emotive language and profound themes, this piece is a powerful exploration of the role that education plays in preserving and encouraging youngsters to appreciate cultural identity.

22. I Don’t Want To Go Into School by Colin McNaughton

This humorous poem addresses the common dread of school from a child’s perspective. McNaughton employs a playful and lighthearted tone to express a student’s reluctance to return to school; successfully capturing the common struggles and fears related to school life.

Learn More: Doc Player

23. The Library by Barbara A. Huff

Here, Huff pays homage to the school library as a serene haven of knowledge. Her evocative descriptions celebrate the library’s role in fostering a love for learning and exploration.

24. When the Teacher Isn’t Looking by Kenn Nesbitt

Nesbitt’s poem is a playful portrayal of the mischievous antics students get up to when the teacher is not watching. His energetic verse and humorous scenarios make this piece a favorite among children.

25. I’m Late For School by Gareth Lancaster

I’m Late For School by Gareth Lancaster encapsulates the frantic energy of a student who has overslept and is rushing to make it to school on time. The use of rhythmic verses creates a sense of urgency and panic that echoes the student’s predicament.

Learn More: Fizzy Funny Fuzzy

26. All the World’s a Stage by William Shakespeare

This famous monologue from “As You Like It” is a profound exploration of the stages of human life. His verse is often studied in literature classrooms for its timeless wisdom and eloquent language.

27. School Lunch by Douglas Florian

Cafeteria food, noisy chatter, and food fights all find their place in Florian’s humorous depiction of this essential school area. Dive right in for a whirlwind of a read!  

Learn More: Cluster C

28. The Hand That Signed the Paper by Dylan Thomas

This thought-provoking poem examines the weighty impact of political decisions and war. Thomas’s incisive critique of authority is frequently studied in schools for its powerful commentary on the human cost of conflict.

Learn More: Poem Hunter

29. Homework Machine by Shel Silverstein

Homework Machine can be described as a fun, imaginative poem that presents a fantastical device that completes homework for students. His playful verse and creative scenario make this poem an enjoyable read for children grappling with after-school work.

30. What is Red? by Mary O’Neill

O’Neill’s poem explores the concept of color in a way that sparks creativity and wonder. Often taught in schools, it encourages children to engage with the world around them in a thoughtful and imaginative way.

31. The Listeners by Walter De La Mare

De La Mare weaves a tale of mystery and curiosity in this poem. It’s an invitation to ponder about the unseen aspects of life; stimulating interpretive thinking.

Learn More: Twinkl

32. The School Boy by William Blake

Blake paints a grim image of his contemporary education system, likening it to a caged bird. With his captivating verse, he invites readers to question and scrutinize the systems in place.

33. Lost Generation by Jonathan Reed

Reed’s poetic palindrome is a clever exploration of generational perspectives. Read one way, and then the other, it provokes thought about society and its evolution.

34. If by Rudyard Kipling

Kipling’s If is more than a poem; it’s a roadmap for character and a guide on virtues. Instilling timeless wisdom in its readers, it’s a must for learners starting high school! 

Learn More: Empty Mirror

35. The Goops by Gelett Burgess

Light-hearted and catchy, Burgess’ poem is a creative approach to teaching manners. It carefully uses humor to embed its lessons in the minds of young readers.

Learn More: Internet Poem

36. Books by Eleanor Farjeon

Books explores the theme of imagination and adventure made possible by books. Farjeon’s rhythmic verses and engaging use of metaphor invite readers into the vivid worlds hidden within the pages of books- thus endorsing the value of reading in school and life.

Learn More: All Poetry

37. First Grade by William Stafford

Stafford’s First Grade is comprised of a nostalgic look at the fear and excitement of stepping into first grade. The poem’s theme revolves around the growing pains and thrills of childhood; using evocative imagery such as small desks and big letters on the blackboard. 

Learn More: Theoria

38. In School-Days by John Greenleaf Whittier

In School-Days is a poignant, sentimental poem that reflects on the bittersweet memories of childhood schooling. Whittier uses the school setting to explore themes of innocence, lost youth, and the power of memory. The poem’s vivid imagery, mixed with its tender, nostalgic tone, paints a rich picture of school days that have long passed.

Learn More: Poetry Foundation

39. The School Boy by William Blake

The School Boy is a critical commentary on the restrictive nature of formal education. Through the metaphor of a young boy longing for the freedom of summer, Blake expresses his belief that children learn best when their spirits are free and their minds are inspired. In turn, the poem uses natural imagery to contrast the joy and creativity of childhood with the rigidity of schooling.

Learn More: Tweet Speak Poetry

40. The Lost Words by Robert Macfarlane and Jackie Morris

This beautiful collection of “spell-poems” pays homage to the wonders of the natural world and aims to reconnect children with nature in an increasingly digital age. It can be seen as a subtle critique of a school curriculum that may not place enough emphasis on outdoor learning and environmental awareness.

Learn More: Penguin Random House Publishers

41. If I Had My Child to Raise Over Again by Diane Loomans

Loomans’ poem, although not exclusively about school, serves as a poignant reminder to parents and educators about the importance of fostering creativity, imagination, and happiness in children. The verses evoke powerful images of joy, freedom, and curiosity; emphasizing the value of such qualities over traditional academic achievement. 

Learn More: United Families

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• Poems for Children

School Poems For Kids

Poetry about school helps kids deal with their school experience. Poems about School covers important topics such as the teacher student relationship, friendships, bullying and social interactions with peers. These poems often have themes related to school life, such as going to school, making new friends, and learning new subjects. Children can learn about different poetic forms, such as rhyme and meter, and develop an appreciation for the beauty and power of words. Poems for kids can be a great tool for encouraging young readers to explore the world of poetry and discover the joy of reading and writing.

15 Child-Friendly Poems about School Life

1 - 15 of 15

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1. Homework Stew

Famous Poem

• By Kenn Nesbitt

I cooked my math book in a broth and stirred it to a steaming froth. I threw in papers—pencils, too— to make a pot of homework stew.

Read Complete Poem

• Shares 1776
• Fav orited 10
• Rating 4.35

I loved this poem because I loved how it said "I sprinkled up my book report". When at the end the teacher said "Your quite a chef but you get a F, I did not say homework stew, I said...

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2. I Can't Wait For Summer

I can’t wait for summer, when school days are done, to spend the days playing outside in the sun. I won’t have to study. No homework, no tests. Just afternoons spent on adventures and quests.

• Fav orited 0
• Rating 4.26

3. Let Me Out Of The Class

(sing to the tune of "Take Me Out to the Ball Game") Let me out of the classroom. Let me out of the school.

• Fav orited 1
• Rating 4.13

4. Cleaning House In My Brain

• By Kalli Dakos
• Published by Family Friend Poems May 2020 with permission of the Author.

I'm cleaning house In my brain, It's BACK TO SCHOOL Time again.

• Shares 1643
• Fav orited 9
• Rating 4.43

5. I'm Sick

• Published by Family Friend Poems May 2014 with permission of the Author.

"I cannot go to school today," Said little Peggy Ann Makey. "My glasses broke. I think I'm going to choke.

• Shares 1306
• Fav orited 36
• Rating 4.15

I thought it was such a good poem. It goes to show children will be children through the years. I had to laugh. It made me think of my own children and myself growing up, how miraculously...

• By Sanya Tandon
• Published by Family Friend Poems October 2011 with permission of the Author.

My best friend is a book that doesn't give me a weird look. It is like a golden door that takes me to the land where I have never been before.

• Shares 11056
• Fav orited 32

One of my best friends are books. Thanks for this poem, you are a really good poet.

• By Coral Rumble
• Published by Family Friend Poems October 2021 with permission of the Author.

When teams are picked, for playground games, I never seem to hear my name. I stand and watch the choices made And, one by one, my hopes all fade.

• Fav orited 5
• Rating 4.62

8. Homework Limerick

• By Alyssa Tyler Ashely Lily Skylar Emily
• Published by Family Friend Poems May 2015 with permission of the Author.

Why do we have homework after school? This is so uncool. I so want to cry I want to deny

• Shares 4456
• Fav orited 8
• Rating 3.89

This is very funny and true. Nice poem. Keep it up!

I’d like to be popular, just for a term, To stand with the in-crowd, be given a turn, To be called smart and help others to learn, But I can’t see it happening to me.

• Fav orited 4
• Rating 4.53

10. Friday Feeling

At school you must be good And never get there late, But when it comes to Friday The children think it’s great

• Fav orited 3
• Rating 4.42

11. Sleepyhead

• By Paul L. Kennedy
• Published by Family Friend Poems January 2020 with permission of the Author.

Oh, please let me have another half hour in bed. It feels like the pillow is stuck to my head. I'm cozy and I'm warm and my dreams are all nice.

• Shares 1359
• Fav orited 14
• Rating 4.29

How many times have we all woken in the morning and felt that lovely warm cosy feeling of being snuggled up safely in our bed, and rather not get up and face the cold harsh real world?

12. Hard Work

• By Brianna D. Anderson
• Published by Family Friend Poems April 2017 with permission of the Author.

They're all staring at me, Right through me they can see. I bet they are judging, They know I'm not focusing.

• Shares 1261
• Rating 4.11

13. School Lunches

• Published by Family Friend Poems August 2016 with permission of the Author.

Our school lunches are so, so bad. Eating this just makes me sad. None of this weird food is delicious, And all the lunch ladies are malicious!

• Shares 1515
• Fav orited 17

14. Do Your Homework Now

I've told you once, mom's told you twice. Forgetting homework just isn't nice. Homework is like getting dressed; got to do it to be your best.

• Shares 2709
• Fav orited 13
• Rating 3.92

15. Summer And School

• Published by Family Friend Poems May 2009 with permission of the Author.

It's the last day of school! Let's go to the pool! Put on your bathing suit And grab some yummy juicy fruit!

• Shares 1020
• Rating 3.88

This is a poem about what a child in school is planning for his or her summer vacation. I know the excitement because I am also a student.

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Homework! Oh, Homework!

 By Jack Prelutsky

Homework! Oh, Homework! I hate you! You stink! I wish I could wash you away in the sink, if only a bomb would explode you to bits. Homework! Oh, homework! You’re giving me fits. I’d rather take baths with a man-eating shark, or wrestle a lion alone in the dark, eat spinach and liver, pet ten porcupines, than tackle the homework, my teacher assigns. Homework! Oh, homework! You’re last on my list, I simply can’t see why you even exist, if you just disappeared it would tickle me pink. Homework! Oh, homework! I hate you! You stink!

 Summary of Homework! Oh, Homework!

• Popularity of “Homework! Oh, Homework!”: The poem ‘Homework! Oh, Homework!’ was written by Jack Prelutsky, a well-known children’s poet. Its first publication dates back to 1999, and it is acclaimed for its exceptional composition that underscores the triviality of homework. The poem speaks about how mad homework can make students. The funny tone of the poem illustrates the speaker’s disgust, hatred, and revulsion for homework. The poem gained immense popularity on account of its universal appeal. The exasperated yet humorous mood added further to its rhythm and melody.
• “Homework! Oh, Homework!” As a Representative of Hatred : This poem is written from a child’s perspective who expresses his feelings related to homework. It begins when the speaker shows extreme hatred for homework and wishes to wash it away in the sink or to explode it into pieces. He dislikes homework so much that in the poem, he’d prefer to take a bath with a man-eating shark or wrestle a lion in the dark instead.. He further informs his readers that homework is the last on his list. He would rather be happy if it gets disappeared from his to-do list.
• Major Themes in “Homework! Oh, Homework!” Hatred, student life, and homework revulsion are the major themes of the poem. The poem centers on the feelings of a student who has gone mad because of the study workload. Knowing it is a compulsion and the demand of his education, he desires to get rid of it. He hates homework so much that he would instead perform some insane and crazy actions rather than doing his homework. It is through this funny poetic piece, the poet sheds light on the problems students face during their student life.

Analysis of Literary Devices Used in Homework! Oh, Homework!

Literary devices allow the writers to bring variety and color to their simple poetic pieces. Jack Prelutsky also made this poem worth read with the excessive use of these devices. The analysis used in this poem is analyzed below.

• Assonance: Assonance is the repetition of vowel sounds in the same line, such as the sound of /o/ in “Homework! Oh, homework” and the sound of /oo/ in “would explode you to bits.”
• Alliteration: Alliteration is the repetition of consonant sounds in the same line, such as the sound of /h/ in “Homework! Oh, homework” and /p/ sound in “pet ten porcupines.”
• Apostrophe: An apostrophe is a device used to call somebody or something from afar. Here, the poet has used apostrophe to call homework a disgusting thing such as,

“Homework! Oh, Homework! I hate you! You stink.”

• Consonance: Consonance is the repetition of consonant sounds in the same line, such as the sound of /k/ in “than tackle the homework,” and the sound of /sh/ in “I wish I could wash you away in the sink.”
• Enjambment: It is defined as a thought in verse that does not come to an end at a line break; rather, it rolls over to the next line. For example,

“I simply can’t see why you even exist, if you just disappeared it would tickle me pink.”

• Hyperbole: Hyperbole is a device used to exaggerate any statement for the sake of emphasis. The writer used this device by comparing the homework more difficult even than wrestling with a lion or man eating shark.
• Irony: Irony is a figure of speech in which words are used in such a way that their intended meaning differs from the actual meaning. The writer has used this device in the opening stanza of the poem while talking about the self-recognition, such as,

“ Homework! Oh, Homework! I hate you! You stink.”

• Imagery: Imagery is used to make readers perceive things involving their five senses. For example, “You’re last on my list”, “I wish I could wash you away in the sink” and “eat spinach and liver.”
• Metaphor: It is a figure of speech in which an implied comparison is made between the objects that are different. The poem shows the use of extended metaphors of homework, comparing it with several things that he hates the most in life.
• Personification: The poem shows the use of personification as the poet has personified homework, showing it having life and emotions of its own.
• Symbolism: Symbolism is using symbols to signify ideas and qualities, giving them symbolic meanings that are different from literal meanings. The poem shows the use of the symbols of “stink” and “giving me fits” as signs of anger and hatred.

Analysis of Poetic Devices Used in Homework! Oh, Homework!

Poetic and literary devices are the same, but a few are used only in poetry. Here is the analysis of some of the poetic devices used in this poem.

• Diction: The poem shows descriptive diction having metaphors, symbols, and hyperbole.
• Rhyme Scheme: The poem follows an ABCD rhyme scheme, and this pattern continues until the end.
• Repetition: There is a repetition of the verses “Homework! Oh, homework! /I hate you! You stink!” which have created a musical quality in the poem.
• Refrain: The lines occurring repeatedly at some distance in a poem are called a refrain. The verses, “Homework! Oh, homework! /I hate you! You stink!” are, therefore, a refrain.
• Stanza: A stanza is a poetic form of some lines. There are three stanzas in this poem, with each comprising a different number of verses.

Quotes to be Used

These lines are useful while talking about the things that one does not want to do intentionally.

“ You’re last on my list, I simply can’t see why you even exist, if you just disappeared it would tickle me pink.”

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40 Best Short Poems To Share With Kids

Serve up some poetry!

Most adults probably remember reading Shel Silverstein and the joy his book A Light in the Attic brought us. Reading poetry with children fosters creativity and important literacy skills like rhyming. Short poems for kids can also help develop memory skills because students usually can’t wait to share what they learned with family and friends. Since long poems may seem intimidating to younger readers or even those who are just new to poetry, we gathered some of the best short poems for kids. While some are silly and include nonsense words and funny names, others are more serious and tackle important social issues. Check out our complete list of short poems for kids below.

1. The Homework Machine by Shel Silverstein

“Just put in your homework, then drop in a dime.”

2. This Is Just to Say by William Carlos Williams

“I have eaten

that were in

the icebox”

3. There Was a Young Lady of Clare by Edward Lear

“When she found she was tired, she abruptly expired,

That unfortunate Lady of Clare.”

4. Happy Thought by Robert Louis Stevenson

“The world is so full of a number of things

I’m sure we should all be as happy as kings.” ADVERTISEMENT

5. The Stars Are Blinking by Annette Wynne

“The stars are blinking in the skies;

They see some sights that hurt their eyes.”

6. Tiny Little Snowflakes by Lucy Larcom

“Robed so white and spotless,

Flying like a dove.”

7. The Crocodile by Lewis Carroll

“How cheerfully he seems to grin …”

8. How Do I Love Thee? by Elizabeth Barrett Browning

“How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.”

9. The Cry of the Cicada by Matsuo Basho

“The cry of the cicada

Gives us no sign

That presently it will die.”

10. I’m Nobody! Who Are You? by Emily Dickinson

“I’m Nobody! Who are you?

Are you – Nobody – too?”

11. Sonnet by James Weldon Johnson

“Tho’ thick the battle and tho’ fierce the fight,

There is a power making for the right.”

12. My Missing Shoe by Kate Miller Wilson

“My mother is calling me, and I’m calling you,

Where have you gone, my missing shoe?”

13. I Ate a Chili Pepper by Barbara Vance

“I ate a chili pepper

On a lunch-time dare …”

14. My Long-Eared Dog by Denise Rodgers

“My long-eared dog is very sweet.

He loves to lick my stinky feet.”

15. Poetry Is My Underwear by April Halprin Wayland

“Doesn’t she know

she’s waving my underwear?”

16. On Quiet Feet by Nikki Grimes

“I might even

his heart beat—

17. My Rock by Pat Mora

“I sit on my desert rock, listen

to the world’s hum.”

18. Cat by Marilyn Singer

“No cat I remember

dislikes December

19. A Blank White Page by Francisco X. Alarcón

“is a meadow

after a snowfall”

20. The Promise by Jane Hirshfield

“Stay, I said to my loves.

Each answered,

21. Mr. McGallimagoo by James McDonald

“Refer to me by my proper name,

Which is Mr. Hullibajiss.”

22. Dust by P.A. Ropes

“The grey dust runs on the ground like a mouse …”

23. My Griffin by Laura E. Richards

“I keep my Griffin in the barn;

I keep him busy winding yarn.”

24. Fun by Leroy F. Jackson

“I love to hear a lobster laugh,

Or see a turtle wiggle …”

25. A Baby Sardine by Spike Milligan

“’Oh come, come, come,’

Said the sardine’s mum.

‘It’s only a tin full of people.'”

26. Oh, Fly by Jane Yolen

“For oh, you are

a lovely fly.

and multiply.”

27. Stronger Together by Rupi Kaur

“more women in the arena means

more room for all of us to rise.”

28. Humming Birds by Betty Sage

“I think it is a funny thing

That some birds whistle, others sing.”

29. A Wee Little Worm by James Whitcomb Riley

“A wee little worm in a hickory-nut

Sang, happy as he could be …”

30. Snowball by Shel Silverstein

“I made myself a snowball

As perfect as could be.”

31. The Purple Cow by Gelett Burgess

“I never saw a purple cow.

I never hope to see one.”

32. At the Zoo by William Makepeace Thackeray

“Then I saw the elephant a-waving of his trunk;

Then I saw the monkeys—mercy, how unpleasantly they smelt!”

33. Jack and Jill by Mother Goose

“Jack and Jill went up the hill

To fetch a pail of water …”

34. Star Light, Star Bright by Anonymous

“Star light, star bright,

First star I see tonight,

I wish I may, I wish I might,

Have this wish I wish tonight.”

35. My Cat Is Fat by James McDonald

“I’ve a cat named Vesters,

And he eats all day.

He always lays around,

And never wants to play.”

36. There Was an Old Person Whose Habits by Edward Lear

“There was an Old Person whose habits,

Induced him to feed upon rabbits;

When he’d eaten eighteen,

He turned perfectly green,

Upon which he relinquished those habits.”

37. What Are Heavy by Christina Rossetti

“What are heavy? sea-sand and sorrow:

What are brief? today and tomorrow:

What are frail? spring blossoms and youth:

What are deep? the ocean and truth.”

38. Tommy by Gwendolyn Brooks

“I put my seed into the ground

And said, ‘I’ll watch it grow.’

I watered it and cared for it

As well as I could know.”

39. The Parent by Ogden Nash

“Children aren’t happy with nothing to ignore,

And that’s what parents were created for.”

40. Way Down South by Anonymous

“Way down South where bananas grow,

A grasshopper stepped on an elephant’s toe.”

If you liked these short poems for kids, check out these poems about teaching .

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