~ June, 2004 ~
by Winona Rasheed
Managing Editor
www.author-me.com
So, you have your pencil in hand and writing tablet ready. What do you write about?
How do you begin? Where do your ideas come from? What audience do you write for?
Writing for children is exciting, rewarding and challenging. You can find great
ideas in everything to enlighten a child and brighten their spirit.
From nature that surrounds us, to the environment we live in, there is a fascinating
story to be told that can delight a reader, or a listener. From writing stories
using information from our own experiences, or by jotting down ideas from our own
imagination, all plays a vital role in writing for children. It is a fact; books are
an important faction in a child's life. Starting from an early age. Books teach
skills that are important to a child's mental and social development. Skills such as,
reading, thinking, communicating, and listening.
When you write a story, you are giving them a chance to escape this not so perfect
adult world that is already mind-boggling and chaotic to the mind of a child.
That's what writing for children is all about, giving them something that they can
relate to and identify with, and telling it in a humorous way. The story you write,
rather it is a fantasy, fairy tale, or informative nonfiction, could influence a
child's life in a positive manner. Giving children, characters and situations that
they can look-up to and benefit from. Stories that teach, and not give a preachy tone
of voice. Where the main character is the hero and in the same age bracket as the
reading/listening audience. Characters learning to solve problems, interacting with
others, learning right from wrong. All can be told in an enriching, humorous,
educational story. Making reading and learning, exciting and fun.
There are different types of books to write for in the children's genre. There are
picture books, early readers, chapter books, middle grade books, and books for young
adults. As the child grows, so does the content of a good storybook.
From word length, to descriptive writing in the plotting and theme, all are very
creative and challenging for the writer. From concept books, to intriguing fairytales
and fantasies and informative nonfiction, a delightful story can be written that the
reader/listener can relish for a lifetime. I enjoy writing for children. I'm sure if
you give it a try, you will love writing for this genre too. Need more information?
Here are some useful sites to help you get started.
1. For the beginning children's writer, by Teraisa J. Goldman
2. Cory Green Story Tips, by Stefi
3. Recipe for Writing a Story
4. What Makes A Good Story, by Aaron Sheppard
5. Information on all aspects of writing for children