Metaphors bring poems to life! They compare two unlike things, making surprising and fun connections. Instead of saying something is like something else (which is a simile), a metaphor says one thing is another. This helps us see the world in new and imaginative ways. Let’s explore some Metaphor Poems For Kids and learn how to write our own!
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Fun Metaphor Poems
Here are a few original metaphor poems, perfect for introducing young readers to the magic of metaphorical language:
The Sleepy Cloud
A fluffy cloud drifts by,
A sheep lost in the blue,
Its wool so white and high,
Dreaming dreams of dew.
The Grumpy Pencil
My pencil is a grumpy gnome,
Its lead a pointed hat,
It scribbles words and makes its home
Inside my backpack flat.
The Dancing Flowers
The flowers in the garden sway,
Colorful ballerinas in the breeze,
Twirling all the day,
Beneath the whispering trees.
Classic Metaphor Poems for Kids
Many classic children’s poems use metaphors. Here are a few examples:
- “I Know All the Sounds That the Animals Make” by Jack Prelutsky: This poem uses metaphor to compare animal sounds to human actions, like a pig “oinking” as it “plays a pink trombone.”
- “Fog” by Carl Sandburg: This poem uses a simple but powerful metaphor, comparing fog to a cat, “The fog comes on little cat feet.”
- Shel Silverstein’s poems: Silverstein’s poems are filled with playful metaphors that engage young readers, often comparing ordinary objects to fantastical creatures or situations. Look for poems like “Sick” or “Where the Sidewalk Ends” for great examples.
A child reading a book of poems
Writing Your Own Metaphor Poems
Writing metaphors can be a fun activity for kids. Here’s a simple way to get started:
- Choose a Topic: Pick something you want to write about, like an animal, an object, or a feeling.
- Brainstorm Comparisons: Think about what your topic reminds you of. Don’t be afraid to get creative! For example, if your topic is a cat, you might think of it as a fluffy shadow, a purring machine, or a tiny tiger.
- Write Your Metaphor: Use the word “is” to connect your topic and your comparison. For example, “My cat is a fluffy shadow.”
- Expand Your Poem: Add more details and metaphors to build your poem. Think about how your comparison looks, sounds, and feels. For example:
My cat is a fluffy shadow,
Slinking through the night,
Its eyes are glowing embers,
Burning ever so bright.
Metaphors Make Poetry Special
Metaphors add depth and imagination to poetry, making it more engaging and memorable. By comparing seemingly unrelated things, metaphors help us see the world with fresh eyes and appreciate the beauty of language. So, encourage children to explore the world of metaphors and create their own poetic masterpieces!
Children looking at penguins