The Dirigible Balloon
Poetry for Children

An English Lesson

I’m meant to write a poem,
But I don’t know what to do,
The teacher tells us that we should be quick.

I just can’t think of anything,
The clock is ticking by,
I’m the only one not writing, I feel sick!

The other kids can do it,
Why am I the odd one out?
They make it seem so effortless, so easy.

But every word’s a jumble,
Even though I try so hard –
That’s why I’m sat here feeling pretty queasy.

It’s the same in every lesson,
I’m the slowest in the class.
I wouldn’t come here if I had my choice.

But my teacher says that poetry
Is never ‘right’ or ‘wrong’,
And whoever has a go can find their voice.

The words don’t have to rhyme
Or fit a neat and tidy box.
You and poetry can have a little deal:

Just write down what you care about,
The good things and the bad,
And your poetry will make your readers feel.

About the Writer


Kellett Rice Holt

Kellett works with reports and spreadsheets by day, but her heart belongs to the land of fairytales and make-believe. She loves writing children’s poetry, and wants to encourage everyone to find childlike joy in the world around them. You can find her searching for dragons in the clouds above Yorkshire.