As a homeschooling family, it can get pretty chaotic around here. When things get chaotic, it can seem like the day just unravels beyond a point of return. Luckily, I’ve recently discovered the “Poetry Tea Time” movement – and it’s really helped me bring a sense of peace and relaxation into our homeschool.
Recently a good friend of mine introduced me to Julie Bogart’s “Brave Writer” homeschooling method and curriculum. I’ve been trying to find ways to incorporate more fun and relaxation into my homeschool, and put away some of the workbooks. When I learned about Poetry Tea Time, I was really excited to give it a try. I mean, what girls don’t love to have a real tea party? I knew that even my not-so-girly-girls would love this idea!
What is Poetry Tea Time?
Poetry Tea Time is a time to sit with your children in a relaxing environment, pour yourselves a cup of hot tea with a yummy treat, and sink into the world of poetry together.
Often times children develop a sense of anxiety when it comes to poetry, simply because they find it difficult to understand. With Poetry Tea Time your kids are gently introduced to the concept of poetry, where all they have to do is simply enjoy the readings.
What You Need For a Successful Tea Time Experience
The main thing to remember when participating in Poetry Tea Time with your children, is to keep the environment relaxing, warm, and inviting.
Some tips for setting up your own Poetry Tea Time environment can include:
- Fine China on a nicely-set table (Or something “nice” that your kids will think are fancy)
- Hot tea or beverage of choice
- Yummy Treat of choice
- Candle-lit room to set the mood (or maybe go outdoors for a picnic!)
- Poetry books
You could also incorporate dolls or stuffed animals, themed parties, and even dress the part to make your tea time experience feel more authentic.
How Poetry Tea Time Brings Peace to Our Homeschool
We have only been having our tea times for a couple of weeks, but already I can see a difference in our day when we have them. It can be the most chaotic and stressful day, but as soon as the tea and candles come out there is a sense of calm and togetherness as we gather around the table to read.
My girls are definitely not the girly-girl types, but they will never turn down an opportunity to have a tea party, and when mom takes a break from her busy day and sits down to join them they get even more excited. What little girls don’t love a good tea party with mom?
Tweet ThisIf you haven’t tried it yet already, I highly recommend you do! I’ve grown to love our tea times and the quality bonding time it brings me with my girls (plus it motivates me to bake a little more than I normally do). I also love the exposure to different kinds of poetry my kids are getting and I can see their enjoyment as we read (or maybe it’s the “Can we please read one more poem mom?”).
At the end of March, Poetry Tea Time launched a brand new website complete with information on the movement, poetry tips and inspiration, and stories shared from other “par-TEA-ers” as well. Click on the image below to check it out!
Do you participate in Poetry Tea Time? If so I’d love for you to share your thoughts about your own experiences in the comments below !
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Amy says
April 4, 2016 at 12:40 pmHurray for Poetry Teatime! So glad the you & our girls are enjoying this wonderful opportunity:) The Poetry Teatime community has been so supportive & encouraging, don’t you think?
Ana Willis - They Call Me Blessed says
April 17, 2016 at 7:54 amWe are loving Poetry Teatime her too! My son is the first one to, ask for it almost everyday. Last night after dinner, the kids decided to do a poetry hop, taking turns reciting their own made up poems while the little one was reciting Mother Goose! So cute! They are really developing a love for poetry and I love it! 🙂
Crystal@WhatTreasuresAwait says
April 17, 2016 at 9:58 pmThis sounds like such a sweet idea that I’m sure the kids really enjoy! So glad you shared at Welcome Home Wednesdays!
Erin @ Nourishing My Scholar says
April 25, 2016 at 7:40 amWe love poetry tea time too! Who knew poetry could be so fun and enjoyable with little kids! ?
Erin @ Nourishing My Scholar recently posted…Celebrating Earth Day in the Rain
Mistie says
May 5, 2016 at 10:52 pmI don’t homeschool, but I can so obviously see the many benefits of this. What a great peaceful environment, and such a special moment of the day to look forward to. Thanks for sharing!
Jeanetta Roberts says
May 11, 2016 at 1:25 pmyes it’s been a big help in calming the chaos in our homeschool! It would be fun to do even if you don’t homeschool! Thanks for stopping by 🙂
Jeni G says
August 16, 2016 at 1:51 pmWe also enjoy poetry teatime. It provides a calm, refreshing atmosphere no matter what else the day brings!