Writing for Kids and the Parents Who Buy Your Books
Writing for children might seem simple on the surface: a few short sentences, bright illustrations, and a dash of imagination. But anyone who’s tried it knows that crafting stories for young readers is a sophisticated art—and one that extends far beyond the child sitting in front of the page. After all, children’s books have two audiences: the kids who will turn the pages, and the adults who will buy them. Understanding both is key to creating stories that resonate, sell, and leave a lasting impression.
Why Adults Are as Important as Kids
While children may be the primary readers, parents, grandparents, teachers, and caregivers are the gatekeepers. They decide which books make it into the shopping cart, library bag, or classroom. This means your story has to appeal to both senses of curiosity:
For kids: fun, adventure, humor, relatable characters, and a story that sparks imagination.
For adults: quality writing, educational value, safety, appropriateness, and sometimes nostalgia.
Ignoring the adult audience is a common mistake. Even the most creative or playful story can be passed over if it doesn’t signal that it’s a good, safe, or meaningful choice.
Crafting Stories That Resonate With Kids
Writing for kids requires precision and playfulness. Here’s what to consider:
1. Language Matters
Use age-appropriate vocabulary, but don’t underestimate children’s ability to learn new words.
Rhythm and sound count—repetition, alliteration, and rhyme can make text memorable.
2. Character Connection
Characters should be relatable or aspirational.
Kids love characters that show emotion, curiosity, or courage, but they also enjoy humour and whimsy.
3. Story Structure
Keep plots clear, linear, and satisfying.
Children respond well to repetition, patterns, and predictable outcomes, which help build comprehension.
Introduce small stakes rather than overwhelming conflict.
4. Visual Imagination
In picture books, illustrations do half the storytelling.
Ensure your text leaves room for the art to shine, creating a partnership between words and visuals.
Appealing to the Adult Buyer
When writing, remember that the adult audience is reading between the lines—and evaluating your story as much for its purchase-worthiness as for its narrative quality.
1. Trustworthiness and Appropriateness
Parents want to feel confident the book is suitable. Avoid excessive violence, inappropriate language, or content that could raise eyebrows.
Humor should be family-friendly, clever, or subtly layered so adults enjoy it too.
2. Educational Value
Even subtle lessons—empathy, problem-solving, curiosity—can make a book more attractive.
Adults often appreciate books that spark conversation or teach life skills.
3. Emotional Connection
Adults are drawn to stories that evoke warmth, nostalgia, or joy.
Heartfelt themes like family, friendship, courage, and kindness resonate across generations.
4. Design and Presentation
The cover, typography, and layout influence adult perception.
A polished book signals professionalism and care, which increases the likelihood of purchase.
Writing With Dual Audiences in Mind
Balancing two audiences can be tricky, but here are some strategies:
1. Layer Your Content
Primary layer: the child’s journey—fun, accessible, and immersive.
Secondary layer: adult appeal—clever wordplay, nostalgia, or subtle messaging.
Example: In Where the Wild Things Are, children enjoy the adventure, while adults appreciate the emotional depth and artistry.
2. Use Humor Wisely
Kids respond to physical or silly humor.
Adults enjoy puns, clever turns of phrase, or cultural references that fly over children’s heads.
3. Keep It Concise but Impactful
Children’s attention spans are short; every word counts.
Adults notice tight storytelling, wit, and pacing, so polish your text carefully.
4. Test With Both Groups
Read drafts aloud to children for engagement and comprehension.
Ask parents or teachers for feedback on appropriateness, clarity, and buyability.
YES!
Writing for children isn’t just about talking to kids—it’s about speaking to both the little ones and the adults who care for them. Success lies in creating stories that are playful, meaningful, and memorable while simultaneously reassuring parents that their purchase is worthwhile.
By considering language, character, visuals, and adult appeal, authors can create books that enchant readers of all ages—and become treasured classics on bookshelves and in hearts alike.
I am always keen to learn more about writing and excited to one day get my own authorstrator books out there!
Want to improve your children’s writing craft? Check out my resources for authors, or subscribe to my newsletter for tips on connecting with both kids and the adults who buy your books.
Hey, there! I’m Jasmine Berry, a freelance illustrator based in sunny Perth, Western Australia. Most days you’ll find me sketching away on my iPad or surrounded by pencils and cats, chasing new ideas. I like to think of myself as eternally optimistic—always seeing the fun, the colour, and the possibility in every project I take on. Send me a message if you would like to collaborate on a project.