1. Children love nursery rhymes, songs and lullabies, so why not do what is natural and add poetry to your shared reading time?
2. Poetry books are liberating for less keen readers as they don't have to be read from beginning to end - they're just great to dip into, and enjoying one poem will lead children on to read another.
3. Children often get into poetry when they realise that poets play games with words as well as being very concise. Introduce them to short poems that contain wonderful words that ring in the ear.
4. Poetry can be read in many ways - aloud to an audience, aloud to oneself or silently. Alternatively read verses in turn with family or friends.
5. Children love modern rhythms; they enjoy reading rap poetry aloud because you have to dance as you read. Introduce them to Benjamin Zephaniah and they will want to read, listen and perform!
6. A good song is like a poem. Encourage children to listen to the words and to try and write their own song lyrics.
7. Try a poem a day as part of bedtime reading - there are great books offering a poem for every day of the year. Soon your child will be choosing a poem too.
Find out from Michael Rosen about how to make a poetry-friendly classroom at the Children's Laureate site.
