Tea time is not specifically laid out in a Charlotte Mason education, so don't feel like it a necessity - but it's totally worth it and a wonderful memory and tradition to build with your kids. It's the perfect time to introduce some poetry - when their handsand mouths are occupied - and it can be as short or long as you'd like, though Miss Mason says even 5 minutes a day is enough to engage our children in the delightful world of prose. If your kids aren't the tea-drinking type, then skip it and sub some juice or cocoa. Have a special snack or allow them to make a treat for tea time, set aside a special place and time and allow them to plan to set up. Top it off with special cups or mugs and they'll actually be begging for tea and poetry - even your boys - remember - food is their love language at this age! Here are our favorite poetry resources -
If you're wondering where to start, check out Ambleside's amazing poetry list. Free printables are available as well by following their links. Poetry For Young People (we LOVE this series!)
Sing A Song of Popcorn
Read Aloud Rhymes for the Very Young
A Child's Garden of Verses
101 Famous Poems
Stay tuned for updates and check back as I continually add to my list!
If you have a recommendation, please contact me so I can check it out!