How to write a children’s book in just a few steps…

Research and determine your age group and category.

Browse the bookstore for books with the category and ages you wish to write for. Buy some of these books to have on hand. Make sure you write for the appropriate age group you have chosen. Decide on a genre:

Brainstorm topics and themes. Think about length and plot complexity for the age group you chose.

Choose memorable characters.

Children will become fascinated with the characters you create so focus heavily on the characters. Use easily relatable characters. Be creative with the characters’ names.

Write an engaging story.

Write a story that is relevant to the age group you chose. Make sure the subject is simple and the theme is impactful. You must use age-appropriate vocabulary. If you write a picture book, you will need simple and easy-to-understand words to go with your pictures.

When it comes to your vocabulary, remember your target audience and the use of rhymes.

Get illustrations.

This is what sets children’s books apart. A good illustration. A picture book should have bright, colorful images to attract attention. A good illustrator can make all the difference.

Ask for a simple illustration of your main character from at least 2 different illustrators. Choose the illustrator that creates the character you pictured in your mind.

Create your title.

Your title needs to be creative and unique. Let your title be outstanding and playful. It must also be informative, revealing some information about the story.

Brainstorm and come up with a title you like. You can use a title generator if you get stuck as this will help you narrow your thinking. Test your title by asking for other’s opinions and feedback.

Edit and proofread.

This is a must for any book – editing. And it is especially important for children’s books. Not only do you need to make sure there are no grammatical errors, but you also need to make sure your book reads to the correct grade level. If you wrote a book targeting 2nd grade children, then it needs to read on a second-grade level. Having your book leveled by an editor makes all the difference.

Proofreading the finished book with illustrations is also vital. The editor will make sure the placement of illustrations works with the story and they’ll find any looked over errors.

Now you have the steps needed to begin that first children’s book. It won’t be an easy task and you’ll need lots of patience and perception. Ask yourself why you’re writing a book and what you want your book to teach children.

Answer these questions truthfully and you’ll be able to write a book that is honest and real.