Writing for kids

[Xydarc]

Two years ago, I commissioned a friend of mine to paint my nieces (one redhead, one blond) as fairies as a Christmas present. I also wrote a quick little one page story for each painting. This turned out to be a big hit, and even now, my nieces mention their fairy stories to me.

This year, I had another friend draw and color my nieces as mermaids, again as a Christmas present. I want to write stories again for them this year; however, since my nieces are in Kindergarten and 1st grade, I was thinking to write them a story that they could read themselves. I find myself at a loss on how to do this. Any suggestions?

[Generation ABXY]

Since, from the sound of it, you’re not aiming for publication, a lot of the usual advice is kind of pointless here. However, one of the big things to keep in mind is simplicity. Now, I’m not talking about just avoiding “big words” (in fact, I’m known to use a few when it feels appropriate), but also structure. You want to keep the thoughts bite sized. So, if you have a sentence that’s, say, broken by a comma, you should consider making it into two sentences. Also, if you’re going to have a conflict, you may want to avoid having anything too involved. The problem should be pretty straightforward, as should the solution; given the age group, I’d even stress making it something relevant to your audience’s own lives (so themes like sharing, for example).

Of course, this is coming from someone whose own books are still on submission, so take that as you will. :o

[pomeroy]

The kiddos in question are emergent readers, so repeated words/phrases and common words are your best bet. Matching the text to pictures can also help.

[Xydarc]

Thank you for the advice, guys. I will let you know how it turns out.

[civil]

I was going to suggest you contact pomeroy. Looks like the kid is on it.

[Serapth]

I, apparently, am a shitty uncle.

[pomeroy]

I was going to suggest you contact pomeroy.

Thanks, guy.

Xydarc, I'd also recommend using rhyming words in your story (for multiple reasons).

Have I mentioned how cool this is for these kids?