Summer is nearly here, and my first thought is: Where am I taking my daughter for vacation? Followed by: I need to register for summer camps! As an educator, I firmly believe that there are opportunities to learn in every environment.
Quality time with the little ones and family is one of the perfect opportunities to build vocabulary and express creativity.
Haikus are a form of poetry that doesn’t require rhyming and has a 5-7-5 syllable pattern. The first and third lines have five syllables each, and the second line has seven syllables.
The benefits of writing haikus are endless. These writing activities enhance creativity and critical thinking skills. Critical thinking skills will develop due to the structure of the poem. Kids will express their thoughts within 17 syllables. Vocabulary retention will increase due to using synonyms and imagery to stay within the 17 syllables. As a family, you can create fun themes like favorite vacations or foods.
Let’s practice with three popular topics: ice cream, family, and recess. Haikus express a singular thought. Start with a sentence or two and break it down into syllables.
Ice Cream
I want ice cream now
Chocolate, vanilla, yum
I need a big spoon!
Family
Spending time with you,
Makes my heart skip with joy.
I’m thankful for you.
Recess
Running and screaming
Laughing and filled with glee
With all my school friends.
Haikus are a wonderful addition to creating captions for family scrapbooks. As a family, sharing and capturing memories in a quirky and fun manner will bring smiles to everyone’s faces.
