Cautionary Tales

Many years ago, I regularly wrote poetry. Mainly haikus, to be honest, but sometimes I ventured into full verse territory inspired by the work of Hillaire Belloc (such as Matilda Who Told Such Dreadful Lies). I used to read such cautionary tales when teaching young children as they led into sensible discussions about life’s morals, dangers and other warnings. The patterns Belloc used might prompt you to write a cautionary poem of your own. Topics might include:

• • eating correctly
  • cleaning teeth properly
  • doing homework
  • reading practice
  • helping around the home
  • getting your sleep
  • outdoor exercising