Writing A Good Children's story
The Struggle
Even an experienced writer often finds it difficult to switch their audiences. By far the hardest switch is to children's literature. It is definitely by far the most difficult genre to master.
The struggle in this is that a good, well written, long lasting children's story is one that appeals to both children and their parents or other adults that will be reading with them. If a story is too annoying and tedious and simple, then the adults will become disinterested and possibly aggravated at having to read the story.
The Adult audience always has to be kept in mind. A good children's story stays with its reader throughout their life. It often becomes one of the first stories they share with their own kids.
Fairytales are quite possibly the most popular and long lasting "children's literature" out there. This is because originally they were not created just for children. The Real true stories (not the Disney ones), the originals , like the Grimms brothers', Hans Christian Anderson, and Charles Perrault's are much deeper and more powerful and memorable then the censored Disney versions because they focus on appeal to the most human, innate fears and urges. This makes them universal among ages and different lands.
Helpful Tips:
- Keep the topics universal. Hook in to ideas that deal with love of all kinds, fears (like darkness, fear of the unknown) and growing up.
- Us plenty of symbols. This way you can convey deeper meaning to your older audience while keeping it simple for your younger.
- Always keep both audiences in mind.
- Important Rule: Read it yourself over and over again. If YOU wouldn't read it over and over with your child, younger sibling, little cousin, niece, nephew, etc. Then how do you expect others to want to read it to the children around them.
- Read the original fairy tales. Like I previously stated they are the stories that have the longest life, they never go away. A writer learns how to right better by reading superior or strong writing.
- Access your inner child in whatever way you can.
- Spend time with the audience you are most unconnected too. Which for most will be children
- Kids are honest about what they like and don't. So try to get a group of kids to run your ideas by
- HAVE FUN!!!! If you don't enjoy writing it, no one is going to enjoy reading it.
Just for Fun and maybe some inspiration answer these questions in the comments section:
What is your favorite Children's story? What story has stuck with you through all your life? Why do you like this story so much? What is so good about it?
Your experience
Don't be afraid to comment.
Share tips you have learned.
Ask questions.
Let me know if there is something else your interested in knowing.
