How to Select Sweet Sixteen Poems

For many families, their daughters' Sweet Sixteen parties are a bit like weddings--minus the grooms. The evening's events may include a poetry reading along with ceremonial dances with the girl's father and other important moments. But even the most informal Sweet Sixteen party need not be without sentiment. Select a poem for your daughter's Sweet Sixteen to be read or printed on party favors to let her know how much she means to you.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Poetry books
• Pencil
• Paper

Select Sweet Sixteen Poems

1. Find out if your daughter has a favorite poet. From Shakespeare to Maya Angelou, American teens have been exposed to a variety of poetry by the time they are 16. You may be surprised at what your teen can tell you about what she likes in poetry.

2. Look online at websites such as Poets.org, which is produced by the Academy of American Poets and features current and well-loved poems by some of America's greatest poets (see Resources below). You may find a new favorite writer or use the search engine to find the poem that comes to mind when you think of your daughter.

3. Browse through your local library's collection of poetry books. From old classics about coming of age to contemporary poetry, you can select from a wide collection of written resources. Ask your librarian for assistance.

4. Sit down and compose a poem of your own to your daughter. Remember that poems don't have to rhyme and can be created a variety of styles from the subtly complex haiku to Shakespeare's iambic pentameter. Brush up on your poetry skills by checking out a book on poetry styles.

5. Read a poem in thanks to your parents if you are the Sweet Sixteen being honored by this party. By taking a little time to thank the people who have brought you to this point in your life, you will bring joy to those who have worked so hard to give you a life full of love and happiness.

Tips & Warnings

• Since this is a day that is truly all about your daughter, make sure she is okay with this emotional element being added to the party's festivities. Though you may choke up at the thought of your little girl growing up into a nice young lady, she may be mortified at your sharing this with all of her friends. Keep her feelings in mind when planning all parts of her Sweet Sixteen celebration.

Resources

• Poetry at Poets.org