We notice not only what is said but how it is said. Sometimes poetry makes us giggle. Sometimes it makes us cry. Regardless of our response, we appreciate what words can do. Poetry is the voice of the individual, and as such is just as important a writing exercise as journalistic or report writing.
Children are a natural audience for tongue twisters although their appeal varies at different ages.
When they are just beginning to read, they delight in the repetition of sounds. When they are more proficient language users, they recognize the humor in clever double meanings. When they become sophisticated readers, they marvel at delicious word play. I believe that poetry begins in childhood and that a poet who can remember his own childhood exactly can, and should, communicate to children. As an editor and practicing teacher, I want to see many cultural groups portrayed in books.