National programs such as Young American Poetry Digest's National Schools Project and Creative Communication run poetry contests for K-12 students through schools; teachers of winning students can also receive prizes (see References 1, 2). Children's publications such as Time for Kids hold contests open to children regardless of school affiliation (see Reference 3). Some poetry contests, such as the Barbara Mandigo Kelly Peace Poetry Awards, have separate categories for young kids, older kids and adults (see Reference 4).
Searching online for "poetry contests for children" will bring mixed results. Some "contests" are scams (see "Warning" section). Learn about legitimate contests from the child's teacher, the local library, children's magazines and books such as Writer's Digest's Poet's Market, which list reputable contests' and journals' policies regarding submissions from children (see References 5).
Note whether the contest has different categories by age or grade, and label your child's submission with its appropriate category. Read guidelines carefully to see whether your child should submit multiple copies of his poem or single- or double-space the text. Also note the contest's deadline and notification schedule, as well as any entry fees and forms or supplemental information the contest requires.
Before your child enters a poetry contest for children, she should read her poem aloud several times to be sure it is at its best. Double-check the poem's spelling. If it is a rhyming poem, be sure that all of the right lines rhyme. The poem should be titled, and if possible, typed, so that the judges can read it clearly. Congratulate your child for entering, and make sure he doesn't give up if he doesn't win.
Some contests have small entry fees to support publication, the use of a judge or other contest expenses. This is a legitimate practice, but the entry fee should result in a free issue of the magazine, a subscription or a cash award to contest winners. If you or a child is sent a congratulatory letter that a poem has won a free contest, but the organization charges money to send a copy of the winning anthology, do not send money. This is a scam. See Resources for a list of contests to avoid.