How to write for children
When you start baking, it’s important to know what kind of cake or pie you’re going to make, so you can pick the right pan. Well, it’s the same when you want to write for children. You’re going to think about the writing style, but more importantly, you’re going to think hard about what you want the secret ingredients to be that will make the story a masterpiece.
1) Be very specific
Children’s literature is an extremely broad field. It ranges from first reading to young adult literature. That’s why children’s publishing is not only divided into genres, but also into age groups. And each age group will have a different reading level.
2) Don’t be afraid to be long
If you like to write and develop, you can start writing a short story. You need to start with a sudden, unique and unexpected revelation, and then embroider everything around it. Draw on your own experiences, incorporate an emotional dimension for the reader. That’s what makes a story effective – it generates feelings in the reader.
3) Mind the vocabulary when writing for children
It should be understandable for toddlers and may be more complex for older children of reading age. However, if you read children’s books, you will notice that the vocabulary used can be quite extensive. Children enjoy learning new words!
4) Let your imagination grow
Be as creative as possible. Unlike adults, children are much less likely to think “this doesn’t make sense”. So you can let your imagination run wild and come up with some crazy or even dreamy scenarios. Try to remember your own childhood: what was your favorite book? What fascinated you?
5) Remember the parents when you write for children
Your book should appeal not only to children but also to parents. They are often the ones who will spend time reading the book to their young children or who will offer it to their elders. The parents’ seduction process can be done mostly through humor.
With this advice on how to write for children, you are about to embark on an incredible adventure. Because beyond these “constraints”, this literary genre allows you immense freedom.