There's something magical about combining classic literature with the art of handwriting. Today, I'm sharing a beautiful vintage treasure that has become part of my mindfulness practice and cursive teaching journey.
A Small Child's Book of Verse: A Window to the Past
Recently, I acquired a beautiful poetry collection – "A Small Child's Book of Verse" published by Oxford University Press in 1948. This mint-green hardcover treasure contains some of the most delightful children's poems from renowned poets like William Blake, Alfred Tennyson, and others whose work has stood the test of time.
I was struck by how perfectly these short verses complement my approach to teaching cursive through The Cursive Connection curriculum. These poems, with their vivid imagery and accessible language, create the perfect content for mindful handwriting practice.
The Mindfulness Connection
Both poetry and handwriting offer something increasingly rare – an invitation to slow down. When I practice my cursive by copying these vintage poems, I experience a unique form of mindfulness:
- The rhythmic motion of forming each letter connects me to generations of writers before me
- The poems about nature (like "Poplars" by Edward Bliss Reed or "April" by Evelyn Stockman) bring awareness to the changing seasons
- The physical act of writing becomes a meditation, allowing my mind to absorb the beauty of the words
This combination of traditional cursive methods with classic literature creates a restorative practice that I'm passionate about sharing with you.
Perfect for Cursive Practice
The poems in this collection are ideal for handwriting practice because:
- They're short enough to complete in one sitting (perfect for busy homeschool parents or students)
- They contain rich vocabulary that expands language skills while practicing penmanship
- The nature themes create seasonal connections throughout the year
- The beautiful illustrations inspire creativity alongside handwriting development
Free Download: Spring Poetry Collection
To celebrate the arrival of spring and give you a taste of this beautiful book, I've created a special PDF download featuring selected spring poems from "A Small Child's Book of Verse."
Download: A Small Child's Book of Verse Sneak Peek
This collection includes poems like "Apple Blossoms," "April," and "Sing-Time" – perfect for practicing your cursive as the world blooms around us.
Watch the Full Video
For a closer look at how I'm incorporating this vintage poetry into my handwriting practice, check out my latest video. I share my approach to mindful cursive writing and demonstrate some of the traditional methods that inspire The Cursive Connection curriculum.
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The Cursive Connection Curriculum
If you're inspired to begin your own journey with traditional cursive, The Cursive Connection curriculum draws from classic methods like The Palmer Method and combines them with modern teaching approaches to make beautiful handwriting accessible to everyone.
Explore The Cursive Connection Collection
Your Turn: Mindful Writing Practice
I'd love to see how you incorporate poetry into your handwriting practice! Download the free spring poetry collection and share your cursive practice with me on social media @simplyletteredstudio.
What's your favorite poem to write in your most beautiful handwriting? Let me know in the comments!