Poems Aloud: questions to ask and activities to try
Poems are made to be read out loud! Poems Aloud is a witty anthology from Joseph Coelho, with tips for performing each poem with confidence.
What age is it for? Poems Aloud is best for ages 5–8. Good for: Poems made to be read out loud.
Poems Aloud (Joseph Coelho and Daniel Gray-Barnett)
- Age
- 5-8
- Best for
- Poems made to be read out loud
Pick one poem a day and try the performance tip with it. Let your child perform for the family.
What it helps with
- Reading aloud with confidence
- Rhythm, voice and expression
- Enjoying poetry
- Speaking in front of others
Comprehension and discussion questions
Pick two or three, not all of them. “I don’t know” is a fine answer, and you can always come back to it another day.
- “Which poem did you like most?”
- “What was the performance tip?”
- “How did you use your voice?”
- “Which needs actions?”
- “Who could you perform to?”
- “What would your poem be about?”
5-minute activities to try together
Poetry show
Hold a family poetry show with one poem each.
Voice play
Read one line whispered, then shouted, then sung.
Free printables: Poems Aloud worksheet and activity pack
This book’s one-page worksheet with the questions and activities above, plus our activity pack: printable scenario cards, three 5-minute activities and a “What could I try?” page for practising everyday skills together. Enter your email and download them straight away.
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If your child liked this, try
Smile Out Loud (Joseph Coelho and Daniel Gray-Barnett)
- Best for
- Poems to read aloud for confidence and happiness
- Age
- 5-8
Zim Zam Zoom! (James Carter and Nicola Colton)
- Best for
- Poems to read out loud and act out
- Age
- 3-7
SSSSNAP! Mister Shark (Neal Zetter and Chris White)
- Best for
- Joining in with a poem out loud
- Age
- 3-7
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By the Growing Wise team · Last reviewed: 10 October 2026
Growing Wise offers educational ideas for parents and carers. It is not a substitute for professional medical, developmental or mental-health advice. As an Amazon Associate, Growing Wise earns from qualifying purchases.