How to Write a Bedtime Story for Children

Tired of Dr. Seuss and Winnie the Pooh at bedtime? Or maybe you want to break into the children's literature market? Whatever you reasons may be, writing your own bedtime stories is not as difficult as you might think.

Instructions

1. Choose your topic. Brainstorm ideas and write them all down. They may not look as good on paper as they sounded in your head, but that not-so-good idea may lead to a great one. Think of things children are interested in, such as animals, magic and talking cars.

2. Write an outline. It doesn’t have to be like the ones you did in high-school English class. Just write out your major plots points. Make it as simple as: “The first thing that happened was …” and “Then, after the little girl …” This is just a broad sketch of the plot that is forming in your head. Don’t worry too much about how it looks now. You can polish it up later.

3. Make a list of characters. Give them names, hair and eye colors, and personality traits such as “gets into trouble” or “always listens.” This should be as specific as possible. Children love characters they can relate to. Decide if these characters are going to be human, animals, plants or invented creatures.

4. Choose your setting. “Far, far away” has been done to death. Try “Not to far from here lived …” Children also love places they can relate to. Put the action in an area they are familiar with, such as a park, preschool or house.

5. Start writing. Look over your outline, characters and setting notes and start typing or writing away. Let the words flow. Don’t worry if you are following the outline exactly. Just as with life, thing change in a story. Use lots of descriptive imagery.

6. Keep your words and sentences simple. Make your language as natural-sounding as possible. There is no need to use a thesaurus. Use language children will understand and enjoy.

7. Read your story aloud to yourself. If you like it, get a focus group together. For example, you could read the story to your own children or loan your copy to friends and family who have children. Ask them for feedback. Make any changes you think are necessary.