Celebrate rhyme with Bookstart this National Poetry Day

It’s National Poetry Day on 4 October and this year the theme is stars.

We love poetry and rhymes at Booktrust – not only do they help children learn to read, they're also fun for everyone to join in. That's why we include a rhyme poster in every Bookstart Baby Pack and support libraries to hold fun, free Rhymetime events for families everywhere.

Why make time for rhyme?

• Help your child learn and develop – rhymes are often repetitive, making the words easier to learn.
• Support social skills  – your child will naturally learn about taking turns and joining in
• Gets your child ready for school  – Rhyme, rhythm and repetition help to develop reading skills
• They’re fun for all – everyone can join having fun with rhymes, with no special skills required!

Have fun with Bookstart's rhyming activities

Bookstart Rhymesheets

Enjoy rhymes at home with these beautifully-illustrated Bookstart Rhymetimes sheets. Includes 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Star', 'The Grand Old Duke of York' and many more favourites!

Find Rhymesheets to download

Fun with Rhymes

Listen or readalong to some of your favourite rhymes, including 'Humpty Dumpty' and 'This Little Piggy'.

Play the Fun With Rhymes game

And if you love these, there are more fun rhyming games you can play by joining the free online Bookstart Bear Club.

Find out more

Visit the National Poetry Day website for more information about what's on, including events near you