Writing Contests for Kids

If your kids have aptitude for or interest in writing, why not encourage them to enter a writing contest? Of course, the emphasis doesn’t have to be on your kids winning the writing contest, but rather on the process: starting with an idea and seeing it through until it’s the best it can be. Writing contests also offer kids an experience with deadlines and writing within certain parameters (like specific word count) which can be beneficial. Writing contests for kids also offer prizes sometimes which can give your kids extra motivation and, if they win, a chance to have their work recognized, something that doesn’t happen to young writers very often compared to kids who excel at other skills like sports and music. Here’s a list of some writing contests you and your kids may want to explore. Remember: writing can be fun! 

GENERAL CONTESTS

Scholastic’s Kids Are Authors Contest (http://teacher.scholastic.com/activities/kaa/)
Held annually, this contest is open to kids K-8 in accredited public or private schools and offers the great prize of publishing the winning book for distribution at book fairs. Kids are asked to three or more students to write and illustrate a book. They must have a project coordinator (teacher, etc.). There are separate categories for fiction and non-fiction. Check the website for complete details.