Lost Tooth Poem

Children will relate to this poem about a missing tooth!

My Tooth   — anonymous

My tooth fell out and left a space
(pantomime tooth falling out)
So big my tongue can touch my face
(spread arms out wide)
And every time I smile I show
(make a big smile)
The place where something used to grow.
(point to “empty” space in mouth)
I miss my tooth as you can guess
(make a sad face)
But now I have to brush one less!
(smile and pretend to brush teeth)

How to do this group activity:

1. Read the poem to the class, pointing to each word as you read. Read it again, with the class echoing each line. Then read it as a class without the echoes.
2. Brainstorm actions for each line, or use the examples above.
3. Read the poem again as a group, incorporating the actions.

Tip for Success:

• Help children engage with the poem by asking questions, such as “What kinds of feelings do you have about losing a tooth?” and “Why do you think a poet might want to make us giggle about losing a tooth?”

Skills: word recognition, reading poetry, rhyming, keeping a steady beat

Variations:

• Read and act out other “lost tooth” poems, such as “Wiggly Tooth” and “My Wobbly Tooth.” (You can find these online.)
• Assign partners or small groups a line from the poem to read and act out.