How to Write a Narrative Story for Young Children
Children love listening to stories. Writing for children is a chance to step back into childhood and see the world through young eyes again. It's a wonderful way to stretch the imagination and hone your creative skills. Get it right and your book can become a timeless classic.
Instructions
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Collate your ideas. The hardest part of writing a children's book is the initial idea to get started with. Consider what you found fascinating as a child and what you didn't understand. Key themes are also good prompts, such as visiting the doctor or starting school.
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Brainstorm. Decide what elements you want your story to be built of and how you want it to progress. This will also help to keep you on track when you start writing.
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Develop some characters. Who do you need in the book? Try to avoid having a story full of stereotypes. Give each character a background and a dream.
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Start to put the ideas together in more detail. How will you introduce each character? When will they identify the problem? How will they sort it out?
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Add illustrations. These are important in a child's book as they have to keep the child's attention and help them to understand what is happening.
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Proofread. Is the story missing anything? Is it too boring, or too serious? Does it have a message?
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Test the story on some young children if you can, and see what they think of your story.
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Tips & Warnings
Most children's stories should have some sort of happy ending. If yours does not, ensure the child can still enjoy it.
Keep the book simple. If children struggle to follow the storyline, they will lose interest fast.
Remember children's books do not have to be realistic.
Avoid using long words or slang that the children might not understand, and make sure all events are age appropriate for your audience.
Avoid scary ideas for young readers.
References
- Photo Credit Books image by JenJen from Fotolia.com
