Poetry Contests With Money Prizes for Kids

Young poets and lyrists sit with paper and pen or keyboard and mouse and create their wondrous works. And while the accolades of mommy and daddy may do for some, one of the best forms of encouragement for these future artists is a more public forum for their successes. A tangible translation of their success can be the cold, hard cash earned in prize-awarding contest. Poetry contests that offer prizes, cash and even scholarships are available to the would-be poet in local, regional and national venues.

Start at School

Often the first real exposure a young poet has to a larger audience is within his school community. Annual contests that celebrate holidays and national observances are often sponsored by schools. Contact the school your child attends and ask for a calendar of events with an eye to the would-be poet. Rewards can include gift certificates, schools supplies, bonds, cash and scholarships.

Community Contests

Check out poetry contests run by your community and state. The National Federation of State Poetry Societies, Inc. offers insight to the world of poetry, including links to state poetry societies, upcoming events in the world of poetry and state-sponsored contests (see References).

Club Magazines

Look at the clubs with which your child already has an affiliation. Organizations like the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts of America have magazines that sponsor various contests throughout the year.

Literary Magazines

Look Online

Although you need to pay particular care when allowing your child to enter any contest online, there are reputable organizations that offer money for poetry in contests (see References). Beware of exorbitant entrance fees and do your own research before allowing your child to submit.

References

• The Writer's Market
• The National Federation of State Poetry Societies, Inc
• Online Poetry