Have you ever thought about how the words you use affect other people? Perhaps you’ve made someone’s day by giving them a compliment (saying something nice)? Or perhaps you’ve said something that’s a bit unkind? Words are much more important in our everyday lives than you might think!

The challenge

We’re challenging readers to write their own poems about the power of words. How do different words make you feel? Perhaps certain words said by adults help you feel confident and happy? Perhaps others make you feel hurt, down or isolated.

We want you to put pen to paper this summer and share your poems with us to win some fantastic prizes.

How to enter

Simply send your poems to us at [email protected], with ‘Words Matter’ in the subject line. Please remember to include a parent or guardian’s name, along with a telephone number or email address so that we can contact you if you win.

The closing date is Friday 19 September 2025. Please be aware that we would like to share the winning poems on the First News and Words Matter social media platforms and websites.

The prizes

1st place: £200 Amazon voucher

2nd place: £100 Amazon voucher

3rd place: £50 Amazon voucher

Plus five runners-up will win a £10 book token each! You’ll also get the chance to feature in First News.

The judges

Your entries will be judged by a fantastic panel, including:

• First News’ Editor in Chief, Nicky Cox
• Words Matter founder Jessica Bondy
• Poet Tally Gilbert
• Hollywood star Will Poulter (pictured above)

ENTER NOW at [email protected]