Kenning Poem For Kids KS2. Use Hyphens to Join Nouns and Verbs

Click for the kenning poem for kids: Cheerleaders

Kenning Poem For Kids KS2: Cheerleaders

As the poet behind Cheerleaders, I wanted to explore how language can lift, loop and echo encouragement. Writing this kenning poem for kids, I played with paired phrases that name people by what they do rather than what they’re called: joy-feeders, hate-swatters, dream-catchers. The repetition of “be” is a gentle call to action, while the mirrored ending brings us full circle, reminding us that kindness feeds itself. I love how kenning poetry lets children feel clever and powerful with words, turning abstract ideas like hope and love into playful, memorable images. It’s one of the reasons Kenning Poems KS2 work so well in the classroom: the structure is clear, but the imagination can run wild.

This poem also reflects my belief that poetry for children should be inclusive, rhythmic, and easy to join in with. Each line is short, punchy, and chant-like; perfect for shared reading or performance. As a kenning poem for kids, Cheerleaders invites young readers to spot patterns, hear the music of language, and try their own versions without fear of “getting it wrong”. That accessibility is key; kenning poetry opens the door to confident writing, especially for children who might otherwise feel unsure about poetry.

Kenning poetry is a brilliant form for inspiring children to write vivid, joyful poems because it blends structure with freedom. I’ve used this approach in class to spark fantastic writing—most memorably when I used the kenning form to inspire a class of children to write kenning poems based on what they remember about being babies. The results were funny, tender, and full of surprising insight. From milk-gulpers to night-wakers, the children discovered that poetry can come from their own lives, memories, and identities. That’s why Kenning Poems KS2 are such a powerful tool: they help children realise they already have everything they need to be poets.

Cheerleaders

be cheer-leaders

      joy-feeders

be smile-spreaders

      friend-threaders

be star-spotters

      hate-swatters

be hope-tinkers

     gloom-shrinkers

be dream-catchers

      awe-hatchers

be fate-shapers

      cape-drapers

be hand-holders

      love-soldiers

be joy-feeders

      cheer-leaders

Mark Bird

Writing a Kenning Poem for Kids KS2: Poetry Worksheet for Teachers

Kenning Poetry Worksheet.docx

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