The well of ideas for writing children's stories, books and articles is bottomless. The ideas flow forth freely and never run dry. This is one of the many joys of writing for children. The beauty of children is their insatiable curiosity and intrinsic love of learning. A writer can find something meaningful to write about in almost any area.
Children love humor. There is perhaps no joy greater than making a child laugh. Personal anecdotes can be turned into a humorous story for children. Of course, the old adage, "write what you know," applies here. Family photos may also spark a creative fuse and become fodder for the idea mill.
Observation is critical to finding new ideas. Learn to view the world through the eyes of a writer. Learn to see everyday occurrences of life as interesting story ideas.
Take cues from nature for fiction and non-fiction works.
Teachers are always looking for trade books to supplement and compliment their curriculum.
Study works by other successful children's writers and use these ideas as springboards to completely new and different approaches. Newspapers, magazines and human interest stories are another useful source to mine for ideas. Develop the habit of "idea mining" when you read the morning paper.
Another tried-and-true method for ideas is creating a "word web." Begin by writing down a central word (any word). Write other words around it that are prompted by your central word. Choose several of these words you've written down and develop a plotline or perhaps a character for a story.
Most important, learn to carry a notebook at all times. As you learn to observe and go about your day, you will be able to jot down any ideas that come to mind. Keep a notebook in the glove compartment of your car and when you're waiting in traffic you can use this time to gather ideas.
Once you start writing for children, you will find the well of ideas is never empty!
Go To Page: 1
