Children are not only readers, but they are writers in many cases. When children show an interest in creative writing, there is no better way to encourage them to develop this interest than helping them succeed by publishing a book. Publishing is a challenge for writers at any age, but there are ways to make this goal a reality by taking appropriate steps to get their work in print for others to enjoy.

Start Small

Writing a book often begins with creating shorter pieces that may be better suited for magazine or online publication. Just like adult writers, children can get a foot in the door of the publishing business by submitting stories to these markets. Get your young author some exposure and a feeling of success by submitting his manuscript to children's markets such as Children's Voice, the Young Writer On-Line edition or other publishers that specialize in publishing content created by kids, advises Rutgers University. These markets publish work from children as young as kindergarten age though the teen years.

Market Guide

Buy a current copy of "The Children's Writer's and Illustrator's Market" book. This guide will act as a reference on where to submit your child's manuscript for publication. This book and other writing resources like the ones found online at WritersMarket.com, which has a specific children's section, are full of listings that are updated regularly so that you may find the right place for publishing the book.

A Trip To The Bookstore

Look at a bookstore for books that are similar to the one your child has written. Find several books that you believe would appeal to a similar audience and are of a similar length, and find out who the publisher is. Make a list of the publishers that you now know are publishing this type of material and reference the market listings in guides to find out their submission requirements.

Submit Manuscripts

Even if the author of a book is a child, the manuscript should still be submitted in a professional way consistent with industry standards. Edit for grammar and spelling, and type the manuscript properly with double-spacing for editorial comments and corrections, according to PublishingCentral.com. Place the author's name and address at the top of the first page of the manuscript. Always include a self-addressed stamped envelope for the response and a cover letter that states clearly what the book is about, why you think this publisher is a good fit and who will want to read it. You may also include any other writing that has been published previously as part of your brief biographical information.

Self-Publishing Options

Options for self-publishing exist that will get your child's book into print with complete editorial control, often for no up-front expense. Look into print-on-demand publishers that allow you to upload manuscripts and artwork online for publication. You will often be able to control the look and price of the book as well as the content. Publish an eBook for download by consumers as another way of publishing your child's book when traditional publishing attempts do not work out.

Source:

Rutgers University: Children Writing and Publishing

Publishing Central: Submitting Manuscripts and Stories

More Information:

The Children's Writer's & Illustator's Market: Official Site

The Writer's Market: Official Site