Dress Up Poem– Imagination and Make-Believe
- Deborah Ann Martin
- Dec 13
- 3 min read
Updated: 23 hours ago
Kendall’s Closet of Magic
This poem, Dress Up, is another tribute to my beautiful great niece Kendall. She’s joyful, imaginative, and full of life. One of my favorite memories is watching her play dress-up — not just during Halloween, but any day of the year.
When her parents had to work or travel, her Nana stepped in, creating a warm, loving home where imagination could run wild. I had so much fun helping spark that creativity by giving her boxes of dress-up clothes — princess gowns, capes, doctor coats, and even silly costumes from clearance Halloween sales.
Kendall’s delight in becoming someone new each hour reminded me of something we all need: a little permission to play.
As adults, we still love dressing up for themed parties, for holidays, for spirit weeks, and for those moments when we need to laugh or feel magical. This poem is for every child (or grown-up) who ever put on a cape or tiara and felt different in the best way.
Dress Up
Kendall was a beautiful queen
With a tiara and ballroom dress in green
Standing by the mirror, she stood
Kendall is Little Red Riding Hood.
Dressed as a ballerina, angel, fairy, and rocker in cleats
A puckered lip to look charming and sweet
Tomorrow, the dress will be a zombie, devil, pirate, or witch
No more beauty; it's time for an evil switch.
A puppy who gives a yelp
A superhero, doctor, or nurse who can help.
Adventure can be found in a whirl
As Kendall changes into an Indian or cowgirl.
From the rising of the sun,
Kendall's day has begun.
Whatever her fantasy,
That is what Kendall will be.
From Kid Moments: Poems for Early Readers
Part of the Life Moments Series
© 2025 Deborah Ann Martin. All rights reserved.
Reflection on My Dress Up Poem
This poem celebrates the freedom that comes with make-believe. Kendall changes costumes with every new idea, stepping into characters that let her play, express, and explore.
Imagination like this isn’t just for kids. As adults, we still “dress up” in different ways through hobbies, events, creativity, or even just in how we show up in life. The joy of becoming someone else, even for a moment, gives us power and perspective.
Whether you’re dressing up for a party or helping your child put on a cape, let this poem be a reminder that joy is found in play. And sometimes, the best version of ourselves is the one that isn’t afraid to pretend.
The Style Behind the Words
Poetry Style Name: Narrative Rhyming Poem
Structure and Form: 6 quatrains (24 lines), AABB rhyme scheme
Tone: Playful, imaginative, vibrant
Poetic Devices:
Rhyme & Rhythm: Smooth AABB pattern is great for early readers
Imagery: Detailed visuals of costume characters and transformations
Repetition & Variation: Showcases how quickly identity shifts in children’s play
Theme: Imagination, identity, role-play, joy, childhood expression
Reading Level: Ideal for read-aloud, early learners, family discussions
Explore More Kid Moments
If Dress Up reminded you of a child you love or your own playful side, there’s more where that came from in Kid Moments: Poetry for Early Readers.
About the Life Moments Series
Kid Moments is part of the Life Moments Series, a poetry collection that celebrates real life — from giggles and games to the lessons we learn along the way. These are perfect for bedtime, classrooms, and family reading time.
Discover Loving Moments, Love and Heartache Moments, and Kid Moments — collections filled with poems written from the heart, for every stage of life.
References
Kid Moments: Poems for Early Readers. Deborah Ann Martin, 2025.
Deborah Ann Martin Amazon Author Central Page: https://www.amazon.com/author/deborahamartin
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