Writing a kids book is a dream for many authors, but the process involves more than just telling a fun story. Children are discerning readers, and if your book misses the mark, it might not capture their interest—or the interest of parents and educators.
Whether you’re a beginner or refining your skills, understanding the mistakes to avoid can help you write a better, more impactful book for young readers.
Ignoring the Age Group of Your Audience
One of the biggest mistakes new children’s book authors make is failing to tailor their story to a specific age group. A picture book for toddlers requires a different tone and structure than a chapter book for 9-year-olds.
Each age range has developmental milestones that affect comprehension, vocabulary, and attention span. When writing a kids book, clearly define your target age group before writing your first word. Explore self-publishing vs traditional publishing to find the best path for kids’ authors
Using Overly Complex or Adult Language
Another common error is using language that’s too advanced for children. Writing tips for kids’ books always emphasize the importance of simplicity. Avoid adult idioms, sarcasm, or abstract concepts that kids may not grasp. Short sentences and familiar words work best for young readers. This helps them stay engaged and makes the reading experience enjoyable.
Weak or Flat Characters
Flat characters can turn even the most imaginative story into a forgettable one. Many common children’s book writing errors involve characters who lack personality, motivation, or purpose.
Children want to see themselves or someone exciting reflected in the story. Give your characters unique voices, clear goals, and emotional depth to make your book memorable.
Telling Instead of Showing
“Show, don’t tell” is especially important when writing a children’s book. Describing a character as “sad” doesn’t resonate the same way as showing them with downcast eyes, hunched shoulders, and a trembling voice.
Using actions and dialogue helps young readers feel what the character feels. It’s one of the top beginner tips for writing children’s books that can instantly elevate your storytelling.
Also Read:How to Write a Kids Book
Unrealistic or Boring Dialogue
Dialogue that doesn’t sound natural is one of the most overlooked mistakes. Kids recognize phony conversations. Avoid making every character speak the same way or like a robot.
Realistic, engaging dialogue reflects how children’s books bring characters to life. Read your dialogue aloud—it should flow like real people talk, adjusted for age and tone.
Pacing Issues: Too Slow or Too Fast
Picture book writing advice often warns about pacing. Some authors spend too much time on background or description, while others rush through important plot points.
Children have short attention spans. Keep the story moving, introduce conflict early, and balance action with moments of reflection. Good pacing keeps young readers hooked.
Overloading the Story with Morals
Yes, stories can teach lessons—but don’t make the message so obvious that it overshadows the plot. One of the most repeated writing tips for kids’ books is to focus on the story first.Children learn best when the moral is woven naturally into the narrative. Avoid being preachy or turning your book into a lecture.
Lack of Conflict or Stakes
Stories without conflict tend to fall flat. A mistake new children’s book authors make is thinking kids need only happy, problem-free stories. In reality, children’s books benefit from tension whether it’s a lost toy, a new school, or a magical challenge. Introduce stakes that feel big to the child, and let your characters grow through resolution.
Inconsistent Tone or Structure
Switching from silly to serious without warning can confuse your readers. When writing a kids book, your tone should match your story’s purpose and remain consistent throughout.
If you’re writing a lighthearted picture book, keep the voice playful. If it’s a heartfelt story, maintain emotional depth from start to finish.
Skipping Professional Editing or Illustration
Even in self-publishing, quality matters. One of the more costly common children’s book writing errors is skipping the editing and design process.
Typos, confusing layouts, or amateur illustrations can ruin a great story. Invest in professionals who understand children’s books, especially if you’re aiming for bookstores or school libraries.
Conclusion:
Every author makes missteps, especially in the early stages. The key is to learn and grow. By avoiding these pitfalls, you increase your chances of creating something that resonates with young readers and stands out in a crowded market.
At The Rainbow Stories, we believe writing a kids’ book may be challenging, but it’s also one of the most rewarding forms of storytelling. With care, feedback, and persistence, your story can become a treasured part of a child’s bookshelf.