We’ve hand-picked our favorite 2nd grade appropriate poems for your little learners to get lost in; evoking their senses through words. Obviously some famous names like Kenn Nesbit and Shel Silverstein made the list, but there’s an opportunity for you to introduce some new poets to your kids. So without further adieu- take a peek at our collection and choose which poems you’ll reveal to your kiddies next!
1. Good Morning Dear Students By: Kenn Nesbit
Let Kenn Nesbit show your students how an ordinary greeting can become extraordinary. A poem that dances with joy and fun, “Good Morning Dear Students” takes you into a world where everyday classroom greetings are more than just words. It’s a place where learning is a party and every rhyme brings the room alive.
Learn More: Poetry 4 Kids
2. Nicknames By: Kenn Nesbitt
Have you ever wondered about the origins of a nickname? Kenn Nesbitt delves into this whimsical world; weaving a story that’s both amusing and enlightening. Through humorous verse, your students will uncover the mysteries of identity, friendships, and the beauty of acceptance.
Learn More: Poetry 4 Kids
3. Bedtime By: Eleanor Farjeon
Slumber’s embrace finds poetic expression in “Bedtime” by Eleanor Farjeon. This gentle lullaby will beckon your young minds to dreamland with its soothing images and calming rhythms.
Learn More: ACSI
4. Hug O’ War By: Shel Silverstein
In a world where competition reigns, Silverstein’s “Hug O’ War” is a tender call for unity and kindness. With his usual grace, he crafts a metaphor that teaches your young readers that empathy and love always win.
Learn More: Pinterest
5. The Storm By: Dorothy Aldies
Here is a must-read to explore nature’s formidable beauty. Aldies’ “The Storm” is a thunderous journey through the wild and wondrous world of weather. The imagery crashes and roars- something that will effortlessly ignite your learners’ imagination with its vivid descriptions.
Learn More: Lower School Poetry Archive
6. Seashell By: James Berry
“Seashell” by James Berry is a magical excursion into a seashell; a place where observation meets wonder. Engaging and eloquent, it’s an exploration that’ll undoubtedly enchant your readers.
Learn More: Lower School Poetry Archive
7. We Bought a Lot of Candy Bars By: Kenn Nesbitt
Nesbitt’s humorous piece on candy bars will create a feast of laughter in your classroom. A lively parade of words, it portrays the irresistible allure of confection by delivering it with an energetic, almost musical rhythm.
Learn More: Poetry 4 Kids
8. Books Fall Open By: David McCord
Inspire your students to embrace literature as McCord unlocks the enchanting realms within books through his poem, “Books Fall Open”. It’s a tribute to reading and the magical journey that will lead your kiddos to explore infinite worlds.
Learn More: ACSI
9. Your Best By: Barbara Vance
Barbara Vance’s, “Your Best” is a heartening piece that encourages personal growth and striving for excellence. With gentle encouragement rather than forceful preaching, the poem resonates with readers of all ages. It will serve as a reminder to your children that putting in our best effort is what truly matters, regardless of the outcome.
Learn More: Barbara Vance
10. Things to Do if You Are a Subway By: Bobbi Katz
What if you were a subway? Katz’s quirky, inventive poem propels children into this fascinating perspective. With its unique premise, it fosters creativity and will encourage your kiddos to think outside the usual tracks.
Learn More: Lower School Poetry Archive
11. Eletelophony By: Laura E. Richards
Are you looking for a light-hearted classroom read? “Eletelephony” will capture your readers’ attention with a whimsical phone call from an elephant! The rhythm and rhyme woven throughout this playful poem will surely delight your children.
Learn More: ACSI
12. Rain Sounds By: Lillian Morrison
Rain, sweet rain. Morrison’s poem is like a gentle shower on a tin roof. Ask your students to close their eyes, and they will undoubtedly hear it in her words– a soothing symphony of weather.
Learn More: Lower School Poetry Archive
13. Dirt on My Shirt By: Harper Collins
Outdoor play is fun, and this joyful poem highlights just that! With a lively rhythm and fun imagery, Collins’ “Dirt on My Shirt!” will encourage your kiddos to get their hands dirty!
Learn More: Harper Collins Children’s
14. The Elf and the Dormouse By: Oliver Herford
In the land of make-believe resides an elf and a dormouse; characters in Herford’s fantastical poem. Take your students on a charming adventure through creative rhymes and enchanting imagery that will surely stir their imaginations.
Learn More: ACSI
15. Tiger By: Valerie Worth
Worth’s “Tiger” is ferocious and a grand account of the wild captured in verses. Detailed imagery paints a vivid portrait of the majestic big cat. Educators, use this piece to teach the power and beauty of words to your classes.
Learn More: Lower School Poetry Archive
16. Zoom Gloom By: Kenn Nesbitt
Digital age, digital problems. Nesbitt’s “Zoom Gloom” humorously explores the challenges of online classes. Relatable, contemporary, and a bit bold, it’s a reflection of modern life that your young students will adore.
Learn More: Poetry 4 Kids
17. River Winding By: Charlotte Zolotow
Here’s a poem to invite calm into your classroom. Zolotow’s serene poem of a winding river is a meditation in words. Gentle rhythm and soothing imagery offer a mindful lesson in appreciating nature’s elegance.
Learn More: Lower School Poetry Archive
18. Galoshes By: Rhoda Bacmeister
Rain, puddles, galoshes- the perfect read for a rainy day! Bacmeister’s poem is a cheerful jamboree of rainy-day play. Upbeat and lively, it’ll resonate with your children’s love for splashing about!
Learn More: ACSI
19. Open A Book By: Anonymous
We know that book are doors to endless worlds. Baskwill’s poem, “Open a Book” captures the essence of reading’s magic. We hope it will inspire your students to let their imaginations run wild through the pages of their next storybook.
Learn More: Joyful Learning In KC
20. The Gingerbread Man By: Rowena Bennett
Gather ’round for Bennett’s rhythmic retelling of “The Gingerbread Man!” Here’s a classic folk tale that’s been reinvented in verse. With its exciting narrative and catchy lines, its a perfect read-aloud to engage your students in the chase!
Learn More: ACSI
21. Fog By: Carl Sandberg
Unusual and appealing, Sandburg’s “Fog” is a study in simplicity. The fog as a cat? Your kiddos will read through an interesting perspective that enhances their observation and imagination.
Learn More: Lower School Poetry Archive
22. Our Magic Toilet By: Kenn Nesbitt
Are you looking for a dose of fun to introduce to your readers? “Our Magic Toilet” is bathroom-humor, elevated! In Nesbitt’s world, a common household item becomes magical. Whimsical and imaginative, and is sure to entertain your younger readers.
Learn More: Poetry 4 Kids
23. A Good Play By: Robert Louis Stevenson
Child’s play is a beautiful thing, isn’t it? Stevenson’s poem is a sweet homage to the simple joy of playing. You can celebrate childhood in your classroom by exploring themes of imagination, creativity, and freedom with “A Good Play.”
Learn More: ACSI
24. Sing a Song of People By: Lois Lenski
City life, through Lenski’s eyes, is a bustling tapestry of diversity. People, buildings and cars create the complexity of living in an urban city. Teach your children about the beauty of city living with this insightful poem.
Learn More: Lower School Poetry Archive
25. Raindrop By: Anonymous
In this poetic adventure your students will explore the journey of a raindrop- eloquently penned by Margret Foulger. Lyrical lines and vibrant imagery will create a sense of wonder in your children.
Learn More: Pinterest
26. The Crocodile by Lewis Carroll
Behold- A fearsome creature lurks within Carroll’s verses! With rhythmic lines, your children will be introduced to the intrigue and awe of the crocodile. This poem is a journey into the wild; an exploration through imagery and rhythm.
Learn More: Poets
27. Little Things by Julia A. F. Carney
Teachers, guide your students to explore empathy through these heartwarming lines. With grace and sensitivity, Carney’s verse unfolds the magic in the mundane. The smallest acts of kindness will inspire your children to recognize the power of compassion.
Learn More: All Poetry
28. The Land of Counterpane by Robert Louis Stevenson
Here, Stevenson captures the resilience of youthful creativity. It’s a beautiful exploration of imaginative play, even when the narrator is confined to a sickbed. Let this poem teach your children to never lose their wondrous spark, despite difficult times.
Learn More: Instar
29. My Puppy Punched Me in the Eye by Kenn Nesbitt
A poem that will definitely spark some laughter in the classroom- “My Puppy Punched Me in the Eye”. Nesbitt’s verses tumble and play, much like a spirited puppy. Humorous and lively, this poem is a delight for children and a testament to the joys of playful language.
Learn More: Poetry 4 Kids
30. Who Has Seen the Wind? by Christina Rossetti
Rossetti’s words will have your classroom in contemplation after reading “Who Has Seen the Wind?”This question extends to the unseen, abstract, and mysterious- an excellent discussion starter for your inquisitive young minds.
Learn More: Poetry Foundation
31. Clouds by Christina Rossetti
Gently, softly, Rossetti paints the sky with her calming words about the clouds. Share this dreamy pick with your students and inspire them to observe nature’s fleeting art.
Learn More: Rainy Day Poems
32. The Pasture by Robert Frost
It’s a breath of fresh air for your reading sessions as your classroom steps into Frost’s tranquil poem, “The Pasture.” The vivid imagery and gentle rhythm will invite your students into a peaceful landscape; nurturing an appreciation for rural life.
Learn More: Poem Analysis
33. The Eagle by Alfred Lord Tennyson
Majestic and powerful, Tennyson’s eagle soars through these verses. Your learners will surely marvel at the imagery and learn to appreciate the splendor of this mighty bird as they read. We suggest using this piece to explore vivid description and metaphorical language.
Learn More: Poetry Foundation
34. A Bird Came Down the Walk by Emily Dickinson
With delicate attention to detail, Emily Dickinson writes about her observation of a bird. Her words will guide your students to contemplate the beauty and subtlety of nature, and the art of mindfulness.
Learn More: Poets
35. My Shadow by Robert Louis Stevenson
This playful poem by Stevenson will spark your childrens’ curiosity about something that’s always with them; their shadows! Your class will giggle as the narrator discovers his shadow and it follows him throughout the day.
Learn More: Scottish Poetry Library
36. Dust of Snow by Robert Frost
A fleeting moment, captured by Frost’s keen eye is what this piece is all about. Robert Frost will teach your children about the transformative power of nature by drawing their attention to even the smallest details.
Learn More: Poetry Foundation
37. The Owl and the Pussycat by Edward Lear
Here’s a treasure trove for the classroom! “The Owl and the Pussycat” weaves a delightful narrative of friendship as the pair sail away on a grand adventure. You’ll be able to captivate your young readers with its rhythm and imagery.
Learn More: Poetry By Heart
38. The Tyger by William Blake
Fierce and haunting, Blake’s depiction of the tiger is a piece of literary art to explore with your students. Rich metaphors and symbols create a poem that will certainly expand their understanding of language.
Learn More: Poetry Out Loud
39. Magic Box by Kit Wright
In this masterpiece, your students will enter the fantastical world of Wright’s “Magic Box.” It’s a delightful reading journey that touches on culture and fosters a sense of wonder; an absolute must read!
Learn More: Limpsfield School
40. Noise Day by Shel Silverstein
Shel Silverstein does it again with his lively and humorous words. This verse is perfect for engaging your young readers in both sound and play. Prepare for a noisy classroom that’s full of laughter!
Learn More: Poetry Files
41. The Voice by Shel Silverstein
The importance of listening to one’s inner voice resonates in these simple, yet profound lines. A thoughtful reflection for young readers; Silverstein speaks to the soul with his gentle wisdom.
Learn More: All Poetry
42. Mine by Lilian Moore
“Mine” is a poetic dialogue between a child and the sea. This rhyming poem will teach your students about ownership in a humorous way, while using repetition to get the point across.
Learn More: Poetry Foundation
43. Try Again by William Hickson
We love a poem about determination, and your kids will too! Hickson’s words resonate with encouragement and resilience- a chance to teach your children the value of perseverance through his powerful lines.
Learn More: Discover Poetry
44. The Swing by Robert Louis Stevenson
Stevenson captures the feeling of flying with his poem, “The Swing”. Your students will read a beautiful example of how words have the power to connect them with their senses. They will be surprised when they can feel the wind and joy of swinging through Stevenson’s evocative verses.
Learn More: Scottish Poetry Library
45. Keep a Poem in Your Pocket by Beatrice Schenk de Regniers
Allow your kiddos to embrace the magic of poetry with this inspiring verse, “Keep a Poem in Your Pocket”. Its uplifting tone will encourage them to explore the joy of reading and the transformative power of words.
Learn More: CUSD
46. The Road Not Taken by Robert Frost
Challenge your young readers to think critically about their paths and to value their unique journeys with Frost’s renowned poem- “The Road Not Taken”. It’s an enriching reading experience that will help them explore themes of choices and individuality.
Learn More: Poets
47. Night Journey by Theodore Roethke
Buckle up, for an exciting literary ride awaits! Roethke’s “Night Journey” is an enchanting adventure through darkness. Its rhythmic language and vivid imagery will easily transport your children into a thrilling world of discovery.
Learn More: All Poetry
Closing Thoughts
Poetry for kids is very important for social-emotional as well as educational development. With this collection of popular poems, teachers will be able to easily incorporate a poetry activity into their classrooms. Poems enable a supportive classroom environment teaching children how to voice feelings they may not be able to put into words. They are able to build vocabulary and ask questions with teacher guidance.
Poems are a great addition to English Language activities throughout grades but serve a special purpose in 2nd grade. Enjoy this collection of poems in the coming days of school!
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