Why Do We Celebrate Poetry? National Poetry Day 2020

Why Do We Celebrate Poetry?

Did you know that today is National Poetry Day!? It is an annual event held on the first Thursday of October every year! That means that National Poetry Day this year landed on Thursday 1st October! What a fantastic way to start this beautiful Autumnal month.

The day is a celebration of poetry and the power it has to unite people, bringing us together. You can find out more about National Poetry Day on their website.

At Jaques of London, we are firm believers in the power of literature, including poetry. We believe strongly in the power of education. Our toys and games are lovingly designed and developed by former UK teachers to ensure that your little ones are receiving toys packed full of benefits.

To mark National Poetry Day 2020, we have decided to share with you our favourite children's poem books!

1) When We Were Very Young by A.A. Milne

- This poetry book, published in 1924, is simply timeless. Best known for the creation of Winnie the Pooh and his friends, A.A. Milne produced this wonderful poetry book prior to the much loved Winnie the Pooh books. The collection of poetry opens with an introduction called 'Just Before We Begin'. This introduction encourages readers to imagine who they think the narrator of the poems is. Later in the book, we are introduced to the poem entitled 'Teddy Bear'. This teddy bear first appeared in the press in 1924 and was the first appearance of Winnie the Pooh! He was originally named Mr Edward Bear. A charming set of poetry which will appeal to all fans of Winnie the Pooh!

2) Being Brave at Night by Edgar Guest

This poem was inspired by the problem that many children face; anxiety about going to sleep and dreaming of monsters! The poem centres around imaginary battles with all kinds of creatures before the child narrator crawls in to the safety of his parents bed. A very real and emotive poem which demonstrates the security and comfort that parents and guardians provide for their children.

3) The Owl and the Pussycat by Edward Lear

The poetic story of the Owl and the Pussycat has been retold for generations! It is a poem that never ages and has stood the test of time. It tells a fantastic story of love and the union between two very different creatures. This poem is perfect for inspiring the imagination and creativity within our little ones!

4) Jabberwocky by Lewis Carroll

The only word to describe this poem is nonsensical! But, pure brilliance! This bizarre and unique poem will tantalise your kid's imaginations. It is completely open to personal interpretation. We strongly believe that there is no right or wrong way to interpret this piece of art.

5) From a Railway Carriage by Robert Louis Stevenson

Anyone remember the rush of excitement they felt when travelling on a steam train (or electric train!) for the first time as a child? It is certainly a strange experience watching the world flash by as you glide through towns and countryside inside a cosy carriage. This poem by Robert Louis Stevenson encapsulates the excitement and emotions experienced when travelling on the train for the first time as a little one!

We LOVE learning and would love to see your child's poetry! Share it with us over on Facebook or on Instagram @jaquesoflondon

In the meantime, check out our range of educational toys which will help your child's development in all areas!

Kate Luke

Head Of Brand

After graduating with a 2.1 Music degree, Kate pursued a career in the Music Industry, becoming a professional West End vocalist and a fully qualified Music Teacher, School Choir Leader and Songwriter. As one of Jaques of London’s Creative Editors, her specialism surrounds building confidence and expression through music & play—drawing upon her qualifications in Music Psychology & Child Development. As well as this, she is an accomplished blog writer and published journalist who enjoys promoting the importance of Montessori learning for all ages.

Ben Williamson

Creative Writer

Ben is passionate about Montessori learning for children and has written for many parenting publications to bring the magic of real play to families in the UK. After graduating in 2009, his career has enabled him to work in areas such as Child Development and Psychology. As a great believer that learning starts at home, he combines his experience with his own parenting style to help bring other families together.

Jess Casson

Marketing Assistant

Jess graduated from the University of York in 2022 with a degree in Sociology and Criminology; kickstarting her career in the creative marketing industry through content creation and social media management. One of these roles involved creating content for a children's holiday camp, which alongside a knowledge of Montessori Teaching, formed an interest in childhood development. Utilising her expertise in both these fields has allowed her to promote and share her passions with the online community while exploring her talent for writing and establishing collaborations.

Laura Henderson

Interior Designer

Interior Designer, Laura Henderson, lives in Surrey with her husband and two daughters. Taking a timeless approach to her designs and drawing on her love of colour, antiques, art, modernist furniture and photography she delivers luxurious compositions and peaceful sanctuaries within every space. Her previous experience in furniture design plays an integral role in the development of each of her projects, as does the time she spends getting to know her clients. She uses this to achieve beautiful, practical, reimagined layouts, resulting in projects that enhance a client’s lifestyle, reflecting their individual passions. To learn more see her website www.laurahendersoninteriordesign.com.