Dress Up Poem: Kendall’s World of Make-Believe
Updated: Sep 29
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. The Dress Up poem invites you into Kendall’s world of make-believe.
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.
Where to Go From Here
Poems like this one are meant to be felt, shared, and talked about. At Surviving Life Lessons, we believe in life survivors helping life strugglers. Our Love and Healing group can help you care for your heart, and our Journaling & Writing for Healing Group is a place to write and share with others who understand. You can also browse our Community Groups Catalog to find every group that fits where you are right now.
Next, read Why I Believe in SMART Goals or Choose a Memory Poem – Taking Control of What You Hold On To. Find more poems like this one in Kid Moments.
Your Story Matters
We need your nice comments below! Your thoughts, experiences, and lessons learned might be exactly what someone else needs to hear today.
Drop a comment, Say Hello, and join the conversation.
Need More Personalized Support?
Everyone's journey is unique. If you're looking for personalized guidance, encouragement, or one-on-one support, explore our services to find the option that's right for you. We're here to help you take your next step with confidence and hope.
Helpful Resources for Your Journey
Explore our collection of books, journals, coloring books, and printable PDFs designed to encourage, inspire, and support you every step of the way.
More poems to enjoy: Fun Poems for Children
References
Kid Moments: Poems for Early Readers. Deborah Ann Martin, 2025.
Deborah Ann Martin Amazon Author Central Page: https://www.amazon.com/author/deborahamartin
About the Author:
Deborah Ann Martin is the founder of Surviving Life Lessons, a published author, poet, speaker, and trainer with over 20 years of management experience across multiple industries. An MBA graduate, U.S. veteran, single mother, and rare cancer survivor, Deborah brings both professional expertise and lived experience to her writing on resilience, leadership, personal growth, and overcoming adversity. Her mission is to empower others with practical wisdom and real-life insight to navigate life’s challenges with strength and purpose.
.png){kind=small}
Comments