Stories about things that children are familiar with are always popular. The first day at nursery, a visit from grandparents, going shopping, playing in the garden, bath-time, can all be subjects for stories that will appeal to children. Write stories about the people in children's lives; Mum and Dad, brothers and sisters, grandparents and child-minders, baby-sitters and the mailman, shop assistants and neighbors.
Examples: "My Naughty Little Sister"; Dorothy Edwards
"Alfie"; Shirley Hughes
"The Snowy Day"; Ezra Jack Keats
Animals are always popular in children stories. Cats, dogs, elephants, owls, rabbits, giraffes and many other creatures all feature in children's stories. Not only do children enjoy them, but using an animal as a main character allows the writer to deal with more sensitive or difficult subjects without it being too disturbing for the child. "Badger's Parting Gifts" by Susan Varley deals with Badger's approaching death with frankness but sensitivity. Martin Waddell's "Owl Babies" is about separation from the mother and the baby's anxieties until she returns.Stories about animals can be used to help a child overcome difficulties and deal with situations that they come across.
Examples: Any books by Beatrix Potter
"Willy and Hugh"; Anthony Browne
"Spot"; Eric Hill
To children, all things are possible. Animals and toys can talk, children can fly, witches, dragons and fairies are real as is Santa Claus and aliens. Fairy tales, nursery rhymes and other traditional tales tell of fantastic creatures and events and children love them because they are just that, stories. A writer can tap into this very rich store of ideas, retelling old tales in a new and vibrant way or inventing new ones.
Examples: "Where the Wild Things Are"; Maurice Sendak
Dr. Seuss books
"Dr. Xargle's Book of Earthlets"; Jeanne Willis
Whatever topic a writer chooses, writing for children often involves humor . Children enjoy a funny story especially if the humor is aimed at their level. They may not understand sophisticated humor but prefer simple visual jokes and slapstick, especially if the joke is on the adults. They also have a preference for anything faintly rude so books like "Aliens Love Underpants" by Claire Freedman and Ben Cort are popular.
Examples: "Paddington Bear"; Michael Bond
"Clarice Bean, That's Me!"; Lauren Child
"Mister Magnolia"; Quentin Blake
For young children, these three ingredients are essential in stories. Think of nursery rhymes; how they bounce along in a definite rhythm, just perfect for dandling a young child on a knee. And how often a child wants them again and again and again.
Examples: "Each, Peach, Pear, Plum"; Janet and Allan Ahlberg
"The Gruffalo"; Julia Donaldson
Any book of nursery rhymes