1.'A little and often' will show that you really value poetry. You can slip a poem in almost anywhere by linking it with other themes, such as the weather or festivals. And if you can't find a poem to fit, contact me and I'll write one for you!

Better still, write one yourself. Yes you can!

2.Have a good, and changing, selection of poetry books and recordings, and allow time for the children to explore them.

3.Make your own poetry recordings, and encourage the children (and parents) to do the same.

4.Read a new poem to your class each day, maybe in the ten minutes before lunch.

5.Sometimes, read narrative poetry at story time.

6.Display a 'Poem of the Week'. If it's a reasonably short one, each child could copy it into a special book, along with their own favourites, to create a personal anthology. This is copying with a purpose.

7.Create class anthologies... with each child choosing a favourite.

8.Encourage and reward the learning of poetry by heart, and its performance.

8. It used to be called 'Choral Speaking', but how about introducing the idea of a 'Poetry Choir' into your school?

9.Use poetry for handwriting practice.

10.Use all your display skills to show off children's own poetry in exciting ways. Publication of their work is vital.

BONUS - Lead by example... write poems yourself, and share them with your children. The worst poem you write is better than the best one you didn't write.