In ancient times, so long ago,
When civilizations began to grow,
People tamed animals they'd meet,
And thus, the first pets were complete!

These domesticated creatures, oh so mild,
Would soon become essential, like a child.
They'd help with work, and provide some fun,
Their friendship and loyalty, second to none.

As culture and economy began to thrive,
Historians recorded tales to keep alive,
They chronicled the times of yore,
And how people lived in days of yore.

Utensils were crafted with such care,
To aid in cooking, eating and to share.
From chopsticks to forks and spoons,
These tools helped us enjoy our food.

And then came Mandarin, a language so grand,
It spread across the land and sea, across the land.
A language so diverse and rich in sound,
It truly does make the world go round.

Porcelain, a treasure of ancient art,
Is a treasure that will never depart,
Its beauty and elegance so fine,
It makes us marvel every time.

So let us cherish these wonders of old,
As we appreciate the stories they hold,
For they help us learn about our past,
And keep our traditions everlast!

Reflections

Here are a few questions that can help kids think about the themes in the poem:

1. What are some of the ways that people in ancient times used domesticated animals?
2. Why do you think it's important for historians to record stories about the past?
3. Can you think of any utensils that are important for cooking and eating in your family or culture?
4. How many languages do you think there are in the world, and what are some reasons why it's important to learn about different languages and cultures?
5. Why do you think porcelain is considered a treasure of ancient art, and what are some other examples of art from the past that are still admired today?