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Poems For Elementary Students (Grades 3-6)

Poems For Elementary Students (Grades 3-6)

Published: October 2017

Using poetry is a great way to convey important messages to children in an engaging way. Many poems in this collection can read like fables, giving children a lesson to think about at the end. These poems are great to use with elementary students to teach skills such as critical thinking, communication, and fluency. They also feature poetry techniques such as rhyming schemes and descriptive language. In addition to educational benefits, poetry also encourages creativity and self-expression. Some of these poems have been written by famous poets such as Robert Louis Stevenson, Edgar Guest, and A.A. Milne. This collection includes fun forms such as concrete poems, ABC poems, and limericks that are perfect for elementary students.

42 Poems To Use With Students In Grades 3-6

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The Mountain And The Squirrel
- By Ralph Waldo Emerson
Famous Poem

Ralph Waldo Emerson was a licensed minister who resigned from the clergy when his first wife passed away a couple years into their marriage. In this poem, a squirrel and a mountain have a quarrel because the mountain feels as though it is more important. Each person has his or her own individual talents, and everyone/everything has its purpose in this world, none greater or less than another.

in Famous Children Poems

The mountain and the squirrel
Had a quarrel,
And the former called the latter
"Little prig."

The mountain and the squirrel
Had a quarrel,
And the former called the latter
"Little prig."
Bun replied,
"You are doubtless very big;
But all sorts of things and weather
Must be taken in together
To make up a year
And a sphere.
And I think it no disgrace
To occupy my place.
If I'm not so large as you,
You are not so small as I,
And not half so spry:
I'll not deny you make
A very pretty squirrel track.
Talents differ; all is well and wisely put;
If I cannot carry forests on my back,
Neither can you crack a nut."
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I read this poem in 1965 when I carried a paperback book of poems in my backpack when an infantry soldier in Vietnam. We, the infantry group in which I served, were such a collection of...

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Messy Room
- By Shel Silverstein
Famous Poem

Shel Silverstein had a broad creative skill set that led him to be a well-known poet and children's author during the mid to late 1900s. He drew cartoons for magazines and became a song composer before focusing a lot of attention on writing many humorous poems. In this poem, the narrator is appalled by the mess in a room, and he finds the room to be all too familiar.

in Famous Funny Poems

Whosever room this is should be ashamed!
His underwear is hanging on the lamp.
His raincoat is there in the overstuffed chair,
And the chair is becoming quite mucky and damp.

Whosever room this is should be ashamed!
His underwear is hanging on the lamp.
His raincoat is there in the overstuffed chair,
And the chair is becoming quite mucky and damp.
His workbook is wedged in the window,
His sweater's been thrown on the floor.
His scarf and one ski are beneath the TV,
And his pants have been carelessly hung on the door.
His books are all jammed in the closet,
His vest has been left in the hall.
A lizard named Ed is asleep in his bed,
And his smelly old sock has been stuck to the wall.
Whosever room this is should be ashamed!
Donald or Robert or Willie or--
Huh? You say it's mine? Oh, dear,
I knew it looked familiar!
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Being Brave At Night
- By Edgar A. Guest
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During the day children are busy and don't have time to waste worrying about silly monsters, but children lying in bed at night waiting to fall asleep have lots of time to worry about invading giants, ghosts or elephants. To a child's mind, sticking close to an all powerful parent is actually a really sensible survival strategy.
Being Brave At Night is published in the book Rhymes Of Childhood (1924), a collection of poems by Edgar A. Guest about home, childhood and family.

in Famous Children Poems

The other night 'bout two o'clock, or maybe it was three,
An elephant with shining tusks came chasing after me.
His trunk was wavin' in the air an' spoutin' jets of steam
An' he was out to eat me up, but still I didn't scream

The other night 'bout two o'clock, or maybe it was three,
An elephant with shining tusks came chasing after me.
His trunk was wavin' in the air an' spoutin' jets of steam
An' he was out to eat me up, but still I didn't scream
Or let him see that I was scared - a better thought I had,
I just escaped from where I was and crawled in bed with Dad.

One time there was a giant who was horrible to see,
He had three heads and twenty arms, an' he came after me
And red hot fire came from his mouths and every hand was red
And he declared he'd grind my bones and make them into bread.
But I was just too smart for him, I fooled him mighty bad,
Before his hands could collar me I crawled in bed with Dad.

I ain't scared of nothin' that comes pesterin' me at night.
Once I was chased by forty ghosts all shimmery an' white.
An' I just raced 'em round the room an' let 'em think maybe
I'd have to stop an' rest awhile, when they could capture me.
Then when they leapt onto my bed, Oh Gee! But they were mad
To find that I had slipped away an' crawled in bed with Dad.

No giants, ghosts or elephants have dared to come in there
'Coz if they did he'd beat 'em up and chase 'em to their lair.
They just hang 'round the children's rooms
an' snap an' snarl an' bite
An' laugh if they can make 'em yell
for help with all their might.
But I don't ever yell out loud. I'm not that sort of lad,
I slip from out the covers and I crawl in bed with Dad.
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This is truly a great poem describing the vivid imagination of children, and it does seem that children have an even deeper imagination when it comes to bedtime! I think this is a great poem...

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Life Doesn't Frighten Me
- By Maya Angelou
Famous Poem

Maya Angelou, an inspirational American poet, crafted a poem from a child’s perspective about all the frightening things in her world. Although this poem showcases many things that frighten a child, the greater theme in this poem is that no matter the obstacles we face in life, we can overcome them. The repetition of “life doesn’t frighten me at all” reinforces that theme.

in Famous Children Poems

Shadows on the wall
Noises down the hall
Life doesn't frighten me at all

Shadows on the wall
Noises down the hall
Life doesn't frighten me at all

Bad dogs barking loud
Big ghosts in a cloud
Life doesn't frighten me at all

Mean old Mother Goose
Lions on the loose
They don't frighten me at all

Dragons breathing flame
On my counterpane
That doesn't frighten me at all.

I go boo
Make them shoo
I make fun
Way they run
I won't cry
So they fly
I just smile
They go wild

Life doesn't frighten me at all.

Tough guys fight
All alone at night
Life doesn't frighten me at all.

Panthers in the park
Strangers in the dark
No, they don't frighten me at all.

That new classroom where
Boys all pull my hair
(Kissy little girls
With their hair in curls)
They don't frighten me at all.

Don't show me frogs and snakes
And listen for my scream,
If I'm afraid at all
It's only in my dreams.

I've got a magic charm
That I keep up my sleeve
I can walk the ocean floor
And never have to breathe.

Life doesn't frighten me at all
Not at all
Not at all.

Life doesn't frighten me at all.
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I think this is a really good poem because it teaches kids not to give up and hide in the shadows and actually express themselves.

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The Moon
- By Robert Louis Stevenson
Famous Poem

This poem makes the moon seem like a living thing, and Robert Louis Stevenson shares all that it does while shining each night. It acts as a protector of the night, watching over people, animals, and places.

in Famous Children Poems

The moon has a face like the clock in the hall;
She shines on thieves on the garden wall,
On streets and fields and harbour quays,
And birdies asleep in the forks of the trees.

The moon has a face like the clock in the hall;
She shines on thieves on the garden wall,
On streets and fields and harbour quays,
And birdies asleep in the forks of the trees.

The squalling cat and the squeaking mouse,
The howling dog by the door of the house,
The bat that lies in bed at noon,
All love to be out by the light of the moon.

But all of the things that belong to the day
Cuddle to sleep to be out of her way;
And flowers and children close their eyes
Till up in the morning the sun shall arise.
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Really nice. There's not a much more spectacular site than a full moon, especially on a snow covered landscape.

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The Spider And The Fly
- By Mary Howitt
Famous Poem

"The Spider and the Fly" is a poem by Mary Howitt (1799-1888), published in 1828. The story tells of a cunning Spider who ensnares a Fly through the use of seduction and flattery. The poem teaches children to be wary against those who use flattery and charm to disguise their true evil intentions. The gruesome ending in this cautionary tale is used to reinforce the important life lesson being taught.

in Famous Children Poems

"Will you walk into my parlor?" said the spider to the fly;
"'Tis the prettiest little parlor that ever you may spy.
The way into my parlor is up a winding stair,
And I have many curious things to show when you are there."

"Will you walk into my parlor?" said the spider to the fly;
"'Tis the prettiest little parlor that ever you may spy.
The way into my parlor is up a winding stair,
And I have many curious things to show when you are there."
"Oh no, no," said the little fly; "to ask me is in vain,
For who goes up your winding stair can ne'er come down again."

"I'm sure you must be weary, dear, with soaring up so high.
Well you rest upon my little bed?" said the spider to the fly.
"There are pretty curtains drawn around; the sheets are fine and thin,
And if you like to rest a while, I'll snugly tuck you in!"
"Oh no, no," said the little fly, "for I've often heard it said,
They never, never wake again who sleep upon your bed!"

Said the cunning spider to the fly: "Dear friend, what can I do
To prove the warm affection I've always felt for you?
I have within my pantry good store of all that's nice;
I'm sure you're very welcome - will you please to take a slice?"
"Oh no, no," said the little fly; "kind sir, that cannot be:
I've heard what's in your pantry, and I do not wish to see!"

"Sweet creature!" said the spider, "you're witty and you're wise;
How handsome are your gauzy wings; how brilliant are your eyes!
I have a little looking-glass upon my parlor shelf;
If you'd step in one moment, dear, you shall behold yourself."
"I thank you, gentle sir," she said, "for what you're pleased to say,
And, bidding you good morning now, I'll call another day."

The spider turned him round about, and went into his den,
For well he knew the silly fly would soon come back again:
So he wove a subtle web in a little corner sly,
And set his table ready to dine upon the fly;
Then came out to his door again and merrily did sing:
"Come hither, hither, pretty fly, with pearl and silver wing;
Your robes are green and purple; there's a crest upon your head;
Your eyes are like diamond bright, but mine are dull as lead!"

Alas, alas! how very soon this silly little fly,
Hearing his wily, flattering words, came slowly flitting by;
With buzzing wings she hung aloft, then near and nearer grew,
Thinking only of her brilliant eyes and green and purple hue,
Thinking only of her crested head. Poor, foolish thing! at last
Up jumped the cunning spider, and fiercely held her fast;
He dragged her up his winding stair, into the dismal den -
Within his little parlor - but she ne'er came out again!

And now, dear little children, who may this story read,
To idle, silly flattering words I pray you ne'er give heed;
Unto an evil counselor close heart and ear and eye,
And take a lesson from this tale of the spider and the fly.
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This is a beautiful poem, very beautiful! It can as well be a warning to school girls who are prone to dating those men out there. Symbolically, the spider in the poem is a male and the fly...

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God The Artist
- By Angela Morgan
Famous Poem

Angela Morgan was an American writer who formed a musical quartet with her three sisters, and her brother was their manager. This was one way she earned a living. In this poem, the narrator reflects on the marvels of God. How did He come up with all the ideas and intricacies we see in nature?

in Famous Nature Poems

God, when you thought of a pine tree,
How did you think of a star?
How did you dream of the Milky Way
To guide us from afar.

God, when you thought of a pine tree,
How did you think of a star?
How did you dream of the Milky Way
To guide us from afar.
How did you think of a clean brown pool
Where flecks of shadows are?

God, when you thought of a cobweb,
How did you think of dew?
How did you know a spider's house
Had shingles bright and new?
How did you know the human folk
Would love them like they do?

God, when you patterned a bird song,
Flung on a silver string,
How did you know the ecstasy
That crystal call would bring?
How did you think of a bubbling throat
And a darling speckled wing?

God, when you chiseled a raindrop,
How did you think of a stem,
Bearing a lovely satin leaf
To hold the tiny gem?
How did you know a million drops
Would deck the morning's hem?

Why did you mate the moonlit night
With the honeysuckle vines?
How did you know Madeira bloom
Distilled ecstatic wines?
How did you weave the velvet disk
Where tangled perfumes are?
God, when you thought of a pine tree,
How did you think of a star?
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Teddy Bear
- By A. A. Milne
Famous Poem

"Teddy Bear" was first published in When We Were Very Young, a book of poetry by A. A. Milne.
The teddy bear in this poem would later become the famous Winnie-the-Pooh from A. A. Milne's famous book series.

in Famous Children Poems

A bear, however hard he tries,
Grows tubby without exercise.
Our Teddy Bear is short and fat,
Which is not to be wondered at;

A bear, however hard he tries,
Grows tubby without exercise.
Our Teddy Bear is short and fat,
Which is not to be wondered at;
He gets what exercise he can
By falling off the ottoman,
But generally seems to lack
The energy to clamber back.

Now tubbiness is just the thing
Which gets a fellow wondering;
And Teddy worried lots about
The fact that he was rather stout.
He thought: "If only I were thin!
But how does anyone begin?"
He thought: "It really isn't fair
To grudge me exercise and air."

For many weeks he pressed in vain
His nose against the window-pane,
And envied those who walked about
Reducing their unwanted stout.
None of the people he could see
"Is quite" (he said) "as fat as me!"
Then with a still more moving sigh,
"I mean" (he said) "as fat as I!"

Now Teddy, as was only right,
Slept in the ottoman at night,
And with him crowded in as well
More animals than I can tell;
Not only these, but books and things,
Such as a kind relation brings -
Old tales of "Once upon a time",
And history retold in rhyme.

One night it happened that he took
A peep at an old picture-book,
Wherein he came across by chance
The picture of a King of France
(A stoutish man) and, down below,
These words: "King Louis So and So,
Nicknamed 'The Handsome!' " There he sat,
And (think of it) the man was fat!

Our bear rejoiced like anything
To read about this famous King,
Nicknamed the "Handsome." Not a doubt
The man was definitely stout.
Why then, a bear (for all his tub)
Might yet be named "The Handsome Cub!"

"Might yet be named." Or did he mean
That years ago he "might have been"?
For now he felt a slight misgiving:
"Is Louis So and So still living?
Fashions in beauty have a way
Of altering from day to day.
Is 'Handsome Louis' with us yet?
Unfortunately I forget."

Next morning (nose to window-pane)
The doubt occurred to him again.
One question hammered in his head:
"Is he alive or is he dead?"
Thus, nose to pane, he pondered; but
The lattice window, loosely shut,
Swung open. With one startled "Oh!"
Our Teddy disappeared below.

There happened to be passing by
A plump man with a twinkling eye,
Who, seeing Teddy in the street,
Raised him politely on his feet,
And murmured kindly in his ear
Soft words of comfort and of cheer:
"Well, well!" "Allow me!" "Not at all."
"Tut-tut!" A very nasty fall."

Our Teddy answered not a word;
It's doubtful if he even heard.
Our bear could only look and look:
The stout man in the picture-book!
That "handsome" King - could this be he,
This man of adiposity?
"Impossible," he thought. "But still,
No harm in asking. Yes, I will!"

"Are you," he said, "by any chance
His Majesty the King of France?"
The other answered, "I am that,"
Bowed stiffly, and removed his hat;
Then said, "Excuse me," with an air
"But is it Mr. Edward Bear?"
And Teddy, bending very low,
Replied politely, "Even so!"

They stood beneath the window there,
The King and Mr. Edward Bear,
And, handsome, if a trifle fat,
Talked carelessly of this and that ...
Then said His Majesty, "Well, well,
I must get on," and rang the bell.
"Your bear, I think," he smiled. "Good-day!"
And turned, and went upon his way.

A bear, however hard he tries,
Grows tubby without exercise.
Our Teddy Bear is short and fat,
Which is not to be wondered at.
But do you think it worries him
To know that he is far from slim?
No, just the other way about -
He's proud of being short and stout.
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When I was 3 or 4, I recited this poem to the Bayridge Business and Professional Women's bridge club. My aunt and godmother, Margaret Desmond, was hosting them at my grandparents' house in...

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Story Telling
- By Edgar A. Guest
Famous Poem

Children love to be told bedtime stories. The more the storyteller acts out, the more captivating the tale. This is an enjoyable poem about a father telling his children stories before bed. While the mother doesn’t fully understand why he makes such a scene, the children can’t get enough of their father’s made-up stories.

in Famous Children Poems

Most every night when they're in bed,
And both their little prayers have said,
They shout for me to come upstairs
And tell them tales of gypsies bold,

Most every night when they're in bed,
And both their little prayers have said,
They shout for me to come upstairs
And tell them tales of gypsies bold,
And eagles with the claws that hold
A baby's weight, and fairy sprites
That roam the woods on starry nights.

And I must illustrate these tales,
Must imitate the northern gales
That toss the native man's canoe,
And show the way he paddles, too.
If in the story comes a bear,
I have to pause and sniff the air
And show the way he climbs the trees
To steal the honey from the bees.

And then I buzz like angry bees
And sting him on his nose and knees
And howl in pain, till mother cries:
"That pair will never shut their eyes,
While all that noise up there you make;
You're simply keeping them awake."
And then they whisper: "Just one more,"
And once again I'm forced to roar.

New stories every night they ask.
And that is not an easy task;
I have to be so many things,
The frog that croaks, the lark that sings,
The cunning fox, the frightened hen;
But just last night they stumped me, when
They wanted me to twist and squirm
And imitate an angle worm.

At last they tumble off to sleep,
And softly from their room I creep
And brush and comb the shock of hair
I tossed about to be a bear.
Then mother says: "Well, I should say
You're just as much a child as they."
But you can bet I'll not resign
That story telling job of mine.
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Grandpa sat with cigar at his side (rarely in his mouth), his bushy gray eyebrows and mustache crouched in intense concentration, a chess piece or book in hand in most of my memories. But...

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The Good Little Boy
- By Edgar A. Guest
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In this charming poem by Edgar Guest (1881-1959), the speaker shares about a young boy who never did anything wrong. Edgar Guest had a way of writing uplifting poems, and he wrote prolifically, publishing one poem a day for 30 years. The dialect in this poem contributes to its laid-back nature.

in Famous Children Poems

Once there was a boy who never
Tore his clothes, or hardly ever,
Never made his sister mad,
Never whipped fer bein' bad,

Once there was a boy who never
Tore his clothes, or hardly ever,
Never made his sister mad,
Never whipped fer bein' bad,
Never scolded by his Ma,
Never frowned at by his Pa,
Always fit fer folks to see,
Always good as good could be.

This good little boy from Heaven,
So I'm told, was only seven,
Yet he never shed real tears
When his mother scrubbed his ears,
An' at times when he was dressed
Fer a party, in his best,
He was careful of his shirt
Not to get it smeared with dirt.

Used to study late at night,
Learnin' how to read an' write;
When he played a baseball game,
Right away he always came
When his mother called him in.
An' he never made a din
But was quiet as a mouse
when they'd comp'ny in the house.

Liked to wash his hands an' face,
Liked to work around the place;
Never, when he'd tired of play,
Left his wagon in the way,
Or his bat an' ball around--
Put 'em where they could be found;
An' that good boy married Ma,
An' to-day he is my Pa.
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Puppy And I
- By A. A. Milne
Famous Poem

Looking for the perfect friend always ready to play? A puppy is the perfect playmate always ready to have fun!
This poem by A.A. Milne, author of Winnie-the-Pooh, praises the qualities of the playful puppy.

in Famous Children Poems

I met a Man as I went walking:
We got talking,
Man and I.
"Where are you going to, Man?" I said

I met a Man as I went walking:
We got talking,
Man and I.
"Where are you going to, Man?" I said
(I said to the Man as he went by).
"Down to the village, to get some bread.
Will you come with me?" "No, not I."

I met a horse as I went walking;
We got talking,
Horse and I.
"Where are you going to, Horse, today?"
(I said to the Horse as he went by).
"Down to the village to get some hay.
Will you come with me?" "No, not I."

I met a Woman as I went walking;
We got talking,
Woman and I.
"Where are you going to, Woman, so early?"
(I said to the Woman as she went by).
"Down to the village to get some barley.
Will you come with me?" "No, not I."

I met some Rabbits as I went walking;
We got talking,
Rabbits and I.
"Where are you going in your brown fur coats?"
(I said to the Rabbits as they went by).
"Down to the village to get some oats.
Will you come with us?" "No, not I."

I met a Puppy as I went walking;
We got talking,
Puppy and I.
"Where are you going this nice fine day?"
(I said to the Puppy as he went by).
"Up to the hills to roll and play."
"I'll come with you, Puppy," said I.
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From A Railway Carriage
- By Robert Louis Stevenson
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Published in the 1885 A Child’s Garden of Verses, this poem mimics the steady movement of a train through the use of rhythm and rhymes. It engages the senses through sights and sounds and will entice children with its excitement and energy.

in Famous Children Poems

Faster than fairies, faster than witches,
Bridges and houses, hedges and ditches;
And charging along like troops in a battle
All through the meadows the horses and cattle:

Faster than fairies, faster than witches,
Bridges and houses, hedges and ditches;
And charging along like troops in a battle
All through the meadows the horses and cattle:
All of the sights of the hill and the plain
Fly as thick as driving rain;
And ever again, in the wink of an eye,
Painted stations whistle by.
Here is a child who clambers and scrambles,
All by himself and gathering brambles;
Here is a tramp who stands and gazes;
And here is the green for stringing the daisies!
Here is a cart runaway in the road
Lumping along with man and load;
And here is a mill, and there is a river:
Each a glimpse and gone forever!
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Theme In Yellow
- By Carl Sandburg
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Carl Sandburg was an American poet who lived from 1878-1967. This poem captures the beauty and fun of fall from the perspective of a pumpkin. Halloween can be a spooky holiday, but this poem brings attention to the harmless activity of searching for the right pumpkin with children and then carving a funny face on it for Halloween night.

in Famous Children Poems

I spot the hills
With yellow balls in autumn.
I light the prairie cornfields
Orange and tawny gold clusters

I spot the hills
With yellow balls in autumn.
I light the prairie cornfields
Orange and tawny gold clusters
And I am called pumpkins.
On the last of October
When dusk is fallen
Children join hands
And circle round me
Singing ghost songs
And love to the harvest moon;
I am a jack-o’-lantern
With terrible teeth
And the children know
I am fooling.
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The Littlest Christmas Tree
- By Amy Peterson
- Published by Family Friend Poems April 2009 with permission of the Author.
Hello everyone. I was raised in Wisconsin among many cold winters and driven to writing by two great, wonderful parents whose imagination left all of their children wide-eyed with excitement during the holidays. I was told by my father that the pines talk when the wind blows....and if you listen...you can hear them. I hope this story will leave your family with an adventure into the woods to hear the pines talking.

A Christmas Story For Children

in Christmas Poems

The littlest Christmas tree
lived in a meadow of green
among a family
of tall evergreens.

The littlest Christmas tree
lived in a meadow of green
among a family
of tall evergreens.
He learned how to whisper
the evergreen song
with the slightest of wind
that came gently along.

He watched as the birds
made a home out of twigs
and couldn't wait till
he, too, was big.
For all of the trees
offered a home,
the maple, the pine, and the oak,
who's so strong.

"I hate being little,"
the little tree said,
"I can't even turn colors
like the maple turns red.
I can't help the animals
like the mighty old oak.
He shelters them all
in his wide mighty cloak."

The older tree said,
"Why, little tree, you don't know?
The story of a mighty king
from the land with no snow?"
Little tree questioned,
"A land with no snow?"
"Yes!" said old tree,
"A very old story,
from so long ago."

"A star appeared,
giving great light
over a manger
on long winter's night.
A baby was born,
a king of all kings,
and with him comes love
over all things."

"He lived in a country
all covered in sand,
and laid down his life
to save all of man."

Little tree thought of the gift
given by him,
then the big tree said with the
happiest grin,
"We're not just trees,
but a reminder of that day.
There's a much bigger part
of a role that we play!"

"For on Christmas Eve,
my life I'll lay down,
in exchange for a happier,
loving ground.
And as I stand dying,
they'll adorn me in trim.
This all will be done
in memory of him."

"Among a warm fire,
with family and friends,
in the sweet songs of Christmas,
I'll find my great end.
Then ever so gently,
He'll come down to see
and take me to heaven,
Jesus and me."

"So you see, little tree,
we are not like the oak
who shelters all things
beneath his great cloak.
Nor are we like the maple
in fall,
whose colors leave many
standing in awe."

"The gift that we give
is ourselves, limb for limb,
the greatest of honor,
in memory of him."

The little tree bowed
his head down and cried
and thought of the king
who willingly died.
For what kind of gift
can anyone give
than to lay down your life
when you wanted to live?

A swelling of pride
came over the tree.
Can all of this happen
Because of just me?
Can I really bring honor?
By adorning a home?
By reminding mankind
that he's never alone?

With this thought, little tree
began singing with glee.
Happy and proud
to be a true Christmas tree.

You can still hear them singing
even the smallest in height,
singing of Christmas
and that one holy night.
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This poem touched my heart and the story of your beautiful parents behind it... I have only come across it searching online. I will most certainly be reading up on all your other inspiring...

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Message From Nature
- By Kshma Lal
- Published by Family Friend Poems August 2020 with permission of the Author.
I am a finance professional. I used to write poems/stories in school and started writing poems again about a year back when I couldn't find anything suitable for my son to recite at his school. This is one of the recent poems I've written about some learnings from nature ... in simple language for 6-7-year-olds to understand and recite.

Lessons Learned From Nature Poem

in Inspiring Poems for Kids

The mountains tell me, hold your head high.
Whatever be the problem, look it in the eye.

The rivers tell me, don't look behind.

The mountains tell me, hold your head high.
Whatever be the problem, look it in the eye.

The rivers tell me, don't look behind.
March on ahead, till your goal you find.

The sea tells me, have depth of character.
The waves call out, don't forget your laughter!

The trees tell me, do good to one and all.
Let go of the past, like I let my leaves fall.

The sun tells me, you must go on shining.
In every dark cloud, be the silver lining.

Have a look at nature, and you will see,
There's so much to learn, just like me!
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The Dolly
- By Jeanette Cheal
- Published by Family Friend Poems May 2017 with permission of the Author.
I love writing poetry for children. I love to see their faces light up when I read my poetry to them. The dolly I wrote about had a great response from both young and old. My father read it before anyone, and he sat and cried. He thought it was lovely.

in Inspiring Poems for Kids

The dolly sat upon the shelf
in the toy maker's shop all by herself.
The dolly only had one eye,
so all the children passed her by.

The dolly sat upon the shelf
in the toy maker's shop all by herself.
The dolly only had one eye,
so all the children passed her by.

They scoffed at the dolly;
they weren't very kind
Then a child came in
with a dolly in mind.

Her mother led her around the shop.
At the shelf with the dolly her mother did stop.

The child reached out and felt for the dolly.
The toy maker shouted, "Dear child, I'm so sorry,
this dolly is blind; she only has one eye.
I've a dolly right here you might like to buy."

"No, this is the one," the child said to her mother.
"If I can't have her, I don't want any other."
So off dolly went with the child who was kind,
and just like the dolly, this child was blind.

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Wow what a beautiful poem with an even greater message! Representation matters! Our differences make us unique!

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I Will Soar
- By Annette R. Hershey
- Published by Family Friend Poems June 2018 with permission of the Author.
If kids are encouraged to believe in themselves, they will have confidence to make it. I believe they should be taught respect for others and oneself, honesty, kindness, tolerance, and manners to flourish. Be true to yourself, spread happiness, and live generously. Soar! My poem uses symbolism.

Believe In Yourself, You Can Soar!

in Inspiring Poems for Kids

If I were a birdie,
I'd head up to the sky.
I'd spread my wings like sunshine.
I know I could fly mighty high!

If I were a birdie,
I'd head up to the sky.
I'd spread my wings like sunshine.
I know I could fly mighty high!

If I were a birdie,
My feathers would be bright.
Every color would be striking.
I'd soar and reach new heights.

If I were a birdie,
I'd sing a lovely song.
Everyone would stop and listen;
They would begin to sing along.

If I were a birdie,
I'd follow all my dreams.
Small streams to vast oceans,
Under golden bright sunbeams.

If I were a birdie,
I'd flit about from tree to tree
With many different flocks of birdies.
We would be free to be free.

If I were a birdie,
I'd head up to the sky.
I'd spread my wings like sunshine.
I know I could fly mighty high!
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I love this poem! Very inspiring message! We all can do whatever we set our minds to.

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Always Love Your Pet, No Matter How Old They Get
- By Lesley M. Patterson
- Published by Family Friend Poems August 2018 with permission of the Author.
I wrote this poem because animals are very special to me. I am an animal advocate. Our family has 4 of our own little fur-babies. my dog (Kali) and 3 cats (The Haunt, Schiz, and Dudette). All of our pets are older (from 5-14 years old) All but the two brother kitties were rescued animals. I have a deep love for my animals, and I wanted to write this poem especially for children because they need to be taught to always be loving and kind to their pets, no matter how old they get.

in Animal Poems for Kids

Pets are people, too, just like me and you.
They need food in their tummies and lots of beefy yummies.

They are little, but their hearts are BIG.

Pets are people, too, just like me and you.
They need food in their tummies and lots of beefy yummies.

They are little, but their hearts are BIG.
They like to go outside, get fresh air, and dig.

From big to small, they give their all,
And you can play with them with a toy or with a ball.

To the special bond between human and pet,
always by your side, forever, I'll bet.

Your faithful pet depends on you
and all the special things for them that you do.

Pets help teach us nature's true compassion.
They do not withhold love, nor with it do they ration.

And with our pets, I have no doubt,
that we are lucky not to have to live without.

A furry friend that's always happy to see you,
from life's ups and downs and all that people do.

It's quite a sight for sore eyes to behold,
because that bond is as special as gold.

Always show them love and good measure,
and reap each day a true friend to treasure.

Children, remember to be good to your pet
Be loving to them, no matter how old they get.

Never abandon them or leave them out in the cold or heat,
and you'll have a pet that's super neat!

Always treat them with kindness and love,
for they are truly a gift from above!

Be understanding and patient with them, because they will be for you.
And never, ever forget this, my friend, for pets are people, too.
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This poem delivers a right message about the relationship between man and nature. These pets teach us love, compassion, and empathy without expectation. But one bitter reality l must admit...

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Summer Camp Souvenirs
- By Richard Thomas
- Published by Family Friend Poems June 2019 with permission of the Author.
An exaggerated description of the perils of attending summer camp as a boy. I wrote this over forty years ago for my students. After all the years, it remains my personal favorite.

A Humorous Tale Of Attending Summer Camp

in Funny Poems for Kids

When I got home from camp today,
My parents almost died.
They asked me how I got this way,
And here's what I replied:

When I got home from camp today,
My parents almost died.
They asked me how I got this way,
And here's what I replied:

This little cast from heel to hip
Is nothing much at all.
Some broken shingles made me slip
From off the dining hall.

The poison ivy's not too bad.
It missed my back and chest.
Of course, I guess I oughta add
Mosquitoes got the rest.

I tried to eat some hick'ry nuts
And cracked a tooth or two.
And all these bruises, scabs, and cuts?
I haven't got a clue.

I got the lump that's on my head
From diving in the lake.
I should've watched for rocks instead
Of grabbing for the snake.

That leaves this bandage on my chin
And these three finger sprains,
Along with lots of sunburned skin
And sniffles from the rains.

I also got a muscle cramp
And very nearly drowned.
It's some terrific summer camp,
The coolest one around.
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It is really a beautiful poem which blends childhood imagination, narration, and joyful experiences. "It is some terrific summer camp, The coolest one around."

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The Blade And The Ax
- By Abimbola T. Alabi
- Published by Family Friend Poems June 2019 with permission of the Author.
I wrote this for leisure. It's a bit of an allegory. If children can find it amusing and derive one or two lessons from it, that will make it more worthwhile. Thanks and hope you enjoy reading.

Respecting One Another

in Inspiring Poems for Kids

On a bench, in Joe's little shed,
lying not too far apart,
were his ax and his switchblade,
having a quiet heart-to-heart.

On a bench, in Joe's little shed,
lying not too far apart,
were his ax and his switchblade,
having a quiet heart-to-heart.

"How small and weak you look,"
said the ax to the blade.
"You will never be able to do
those deeds for which I'm made."

"For it's me that Joe will use
to cut the boughs of trees.
You should see me at work sometime,
how I split a log with ease."

"A great help you are around
performing these hefty tasks,
but stuff I do for Joe, you can't,"
replied the blade to the ax.

"Would he ever count on you
to cut or strip a wire bare?
Try slicing open packages too.
I'd love to see just how you'd fare."

"We're designed in unique ways;
you're not superior as you claim."
The mighty ax and the nifty blade
needed by Joe all the same.

In the end, they both agreed
about their weaknesses and strengths.
Neither of them, they could see,
was truly a hundred percent.

From then on, they became pals,
got along and learned to relax.
Never again was there pride or strife
between the blade and the ax.
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The conversation between a blade and an ax is interesting, and it teaches a lesson. Nobody should be proud because of one's usefulness; everybody is needed but in a different way!

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1 - 20 of 42

Poems For Elementary Students (Grades 3-6)

42 Poems To Use With Students In Grades 3-6

This poem makes the moon seem like a living thing, and Robert Louis Stevenson shares all that it does while shining each night. It acts as a protector of the night, watching over people, animals, and places.

Angela Morgan was an American writer who formed a musical quartet with her three sisters, and her brother was their manager. This was one way she earned a living. In this poem, the narrator reflects on the marvels of God. How did He come up with all the ideas and intricacies we see in nature?

"Teddy Bear" was first published in When We Were Very Young, a book of poetry by A. A. Milne. The teddy bear in this poem would later become the famous Winnie-the-Pooh from A. A. Milne's famous book series.

In this charming poem by Edgar Guest (1881-1959), the speaker shares about a young boy who never did anything wrong. Edgar Guest had a way of writing uplifting poems, and he wrote prolifically, publishing one poem a day for 30 years. The dialect in this poem contributes to its laid-back nature.

Looking for the perfect friend always ready to play? A puppy is the perfect playmate always ready to have fun! This poem by A.A. Milne, author of Winnie-the-Pooh, praises the qualities of the playful puppy.

Published in the 1885 A Child’s Garden of Verses, this poem mimics the steady movement of a train through the use of rhythm and rhymes. It engages the senses through sights and sounds and will entice children with its excitement and energy.

I love writing poetry for children. I love to see their faces light up when I read my poetry to them. The dolly I wrote about had a great response from both young and old. My father read it before anyone, and he sat and cried. He thought it was lovely.

If kids are encouraged to believe in themselves, they will have confidence to make it. I believe they should be taught respect for others and oneself, honesty, kindness, tolerance, and manners to flourish. Be true to yourself, spread happiness, and live generously. Soar! My poem uses symbolism.

An exaggerated description of the perils of attending summer camp as a boy. I wrote this over forty years ago for my students. After all the years, it remains my personal favorite.

I wrote this for leisure. It's a bit of an allegory. If children can find it amusing and derive one or two lessons from it, that will make it more worthwhile. Thanks and hope you enjoy reading.

"Teddy Bear" was first published in When We Were Very Young, a book of poetry by A. A. Milne.
The teddy bear in this poem would later become the famous Winnie-the-Pooh from A. A. Milne's famous book series.

Looking for the perfect friend always ready to play? A puppy is the perfect playmate always ready to have fun!
This poem by A.A. Milne, author of Winnie-the-Pooh, praises the qualities of the playful puppy.