I remember studying Shakespeare in high school (kind of) and I thought it was boring. Little embarrassed to say that because now I totally get his brilliance. Remember I hated reading all the way until I became an adult and read Anne Of Green Gables for the first time.
Typically all American children learn about Shakespeare in high school. But I think it’s actually better to start off reading his plays much younger. The curriculum we use had us starting Shakespeare in Year 1. I’m so thankful, I see my children have a love for Shakespeare’s stories because they can easily understand them as they are still filled with wonder, it actually comes easier to them than me. While the old English is perplexing if you’re not use to it, there are really well written books specifically written for children to enjoy Shakespeare.
If you’re looking for some fun ideas on how to study Shakespeare with children of all ages and adding in a bit of whimsy then you’re in the right place. Here are some fun ways to bring Shakespeare stories more to life for your family!
My favorite Shakespeare puppets can be found here and here both ladies are part of the homeschool community and do a wonderful job making their puppets. Puppets featured in this post can be found here.
A visit from “The Bard” himself, in cookie form of course. This cookie mold is my absolute favorite. I used the recipe from Under a Tin Roof and not only did the cookies turn out so well but they tasted fancy like something you’d have during Shakespeare’s time. I got my cookie mold here from etsy.
Picture Books written about Shakespeare! Never underestimate a good picture book! My list of my favorite picture books is coming soon but I highly Read Aloud Revival’s list which has a wonderful booklist.
Not just Picture Books either should be on your to read list. Well written books specifically written for children to enjoy Shakespeare’s works. Normally we stay away from abridged books but these are not so much abridged as they are retold in a more modern voice without changing much. I’ve used Charles Lamb and Mary Lamb’s version & Edith Nesbit’s version, both are well done but I prefer Nesbit’s version. Here are some other great resources with Ambleside Online.
A good set of Shakespeare’s full works for yourself. That’s right, start diving into his works yourself and your passion will show up when you teach your children. I found mine at a library sale and if you go regularly to sales you’ll find one easily in no time.
How do you add a little extra whimsy to your Shakespeare studies?
