Read children's books. Visit the local library or bookstore and examine best-sellers, award winners and little-known published pieces in the children's book genre. While reading will spark the imagination, it will also teach a writer about children's book plots, characters and accessibility. Study the current children's market, publishing houses, trends, and children's book authors and illustrators. Ask teachers, librarians and booksellers which books are most requested (and the ones they recommend!). Additionally, read books and blogs about writing for children, the publishing industry and developing your craft.
Decide the type of children's book you would like to write. Children's publishing is highly competitive and oversaturated with writers and illustrators; therefore, educating yourself on the children's genre will benefit your writing. There are many different types of children's books: picture books, easy readers, transition books, middle grade and young adult. Read books of each type and study writers guidelines to determine an appropriate book topic and word count. Additionally, learn about your audience's age group, emotional development, topics of interest, vocabulary and reading level before beginning to write a children's book manuscript.
Brainstorm children's book ideas. While many authors do not begin with an outline, first-time writers may find a brainstorm session helpful. Examine your personal experiences, hobbies, skills and interests to create imagery and plot for a compelling children's book. Let your imagination, creativity and originality soar.
Begin the writing process. Try to dedicate some time each day to writing your children's book manuscript. Consider essential story-telling components while writing: plot, character, conflict, dialogue and setting. Hook your reader in the first few pages. Develop your story through vivid scenes. Build realistic characters' traits through actions and dialogue. Establish believable conflict and investigate resolutions. Describe the world through all the senses. Complete your first draft manuscript, as established by the genre's guidelines.
Edit your children's book manuscript. Reread and revise the story. Proofread for spelling, grammar and punctuation errors. Take out any words or scenes that are not essential to the meat of the story. Add in details that will enhance a character or further develop the story's plot.
Join a children's book writing critique group if you can. Share your work with other dedicated children's book writers, and receive constructive criticism on your story. After sharing your children's book with several people and getting feedback, evaluate the quality of your manuscript and make revisions. Continue to edit and polish the draft. Consider joining the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) for access to helpful writing resources such as critique groups, writing conferences, publishing tips and networking opportunities.
Submit your completed children's book manuscript to publishers and agents. Once you have completed a high-quality manuscript, research the publishers, editors and agents in the industry. Purchase the current year's Children's Writer's and Illustrator's Market as an in-depth resource about publishers' needs, guidelines and restrictions. Follow all submission guidelines and continue to write, read and learn while waiting for a response.