Parent Guide > My Lost Youth

by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow 1858

Welcome to the parent guide for this text! Read below to find out about what your child is reading in class and how you can support him/her at home.

This week in class, we’re reading "My Lost Youth" by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1807-1882) was an American poet and educator. In his poem "My Lost Youth," the narrator reflects upon his boyhood near the sea, recalling it with nostalgia and painting a picture of beauty.

As we read, we will be discussing the theme of Growing Up as it relates to the text. We are trying to answer this big question :

"Why should we value our youth?"

Ways to support your child:

  • Ask your child about this poem at home:
    • What was "My Lost Youth" about?
    • What did you learn about Growing Up?
  • Watch My Lost Youth at home with your child.