A common tip for a new children’s writer is don’t talk down to readers. While it may be true that kids don’t want to be treated like babies, they also expect to understand what they read. But finding the right vocabulary to use when writing for children can be as difficult as it is important. Because every kid is different, it’s often hard to determine what words will work for all children in any given age group. Luckily, there are some basic guidelines to follow when it comes to word choices for kids, as well as writing resources available for searching out age-appropriate vocabulary.
Word Choices Should be Familiar and Challenging
Remember that kids understand more than they let on. In other words, their vocabulary doesn’t always reflect their scope of knowledge. Challenging words are okay to use, then, as long as they can be understood in their context and aren’t excessive. To avoid reader frustration and keep the story flowing, however, word choices that are familiar to kids and cater to their age should make up the bulk of the writing.
Use Words That Reflect the Tone
A children’s writer should also strive to use words that set tone. For example, a successful humor article will be rife with words that are funny, whether on their own or arranged in sentences that evoke humor. The same concept applies to historical books, mysteries, and other types of children’s writing. What happens if a story suddenly shifts tone, say from a happy scene to sad one? As the tone changes, so should the words. Choosing words that communicate to readers what the writer wants them to feel is an important goal when writing for children.
Engage the Reader With Descriptive Vocabulary
Besides using words that set tone, a children’s writer can engage the reader with a vocabulary that’s rich in description. Words that promote visualization are better than words that fall flat. “Sarah walked across the room,” for example, doesn’t offer much to a young reader. Better word choices for this sentence might be “Sarah marched to the window” — the reader can now visualize how Sarah moved and where exactly she went.
Avoid Wordiness and Lengthy Sentences
Words and sentences that are too long and cluttered will bore readers, especially young ones. Sentences for beginning readers should be ten words or less and, while older readers can handle more, wordiness should always be avoided. Wordiness not only includes redundant words and phrases, such as “red blood” and “sit down,” but also overuse of words like very, so, and suddenly and clauses that don’t serve a purpose.
Consult a Writing Resource for Word Choices
Finding words that kids will connect with is easier if a writing resource (or two) is consulted. A dictionary compiled for children or teens is an excellent resource, as is a thesaurus. These books will include vocabulary words that kids are familiar with — including slang and colloquialisms — as well as words that challenge. School textbooks can also serve as a good writing resource for vocabulary for kids. Another option is reading through material written by other children's writers, including books, magazine articles, stories, and even quizzes. Finally, listening to kids speak, whether in person or on TV, is the most authentic writing resource available to a children’s writer.
While “don’t talk down” is good advice when it comes to writing for children, so is be particular about word choices. Finding the right balance of words might seem tricky, but it can be accomplished by following the above tips and techniques. The payoff? A children’s writer who chooses words carefully will succeed in holding the attention of readers — and getting them to come back for more.
Susie Yakowicz - Susie Yakowicz is a Minnesota freelance writer whose work has appeared in dozens of publications for children and adults.
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