Writing a Children’s Picture Book Course

Have you ever wanted to write your very own kids book? Join me on this course as I teach you how to bring that idea you’ve dreamed up to life on the page as we create stories, characters and worlds that capture the imaginations of young readers.

In this 6 week course, we’ll learn how to craft a picture book from concept to print in an intimate, friendly online group environment. Many courses run by publishers only offer video tutorials (and are still quite expensive), in my course I will be with you live, each week to guide you through the tutorials, exercises and techniques, offering feedback during the sessions.

I will teach you all I know (sharing the Don’ts aswell as the Dos) so you will be confident to leave the course in a position to go and get that children’s picture book that you’ve created published and into the hands of your favourite little person.

What does the course offer?

  • Personal Feedback: Each week I will review your work, offering guidance to help you refine your ideas and story.

  • Market Insight: Learn what makes a picture book appealing in today’s market, and receive advice on getting published or how to go it alone and self publish.

  • Creative Techniques: Explore ideas generation, character development, narrative structure, and much more to bring your ideas to life.

  • A Complete Storyboard: By the end of the course, you’ll have roughed out a storyboard which you can either turn into your very own book or take to approach publishers and agents.

  • Self Promotion: How to get your book out there and into the hands of the little people it’s designed for.

How will the course work?

  • Live Classes: Interactive 90 minutes sessions every Tuesday evening with exercises, demos, and group discussions.

  • Weekly Assignments: Complete homework tasks (up to an hour) per week, with resources and printable handouts. 

  • Peer & Tutor Support: Share your work in our private supportive Facebook group, receiving feedback from both peers and me.

  • Recorded Lessons: All classes are recorded and available for two weeks after each session.

Who is this course for?:

Whether you have a story idea that’s been keeping you up for months and the children of the world must read it, you’ve always wanted to write for kids but are starting from scratch or you just want to create a personal story for your own favourite little person, this course is for beginners who are keen to write picture books for children aged 3-6.

Course Content:

Week 1- Discovery

Learn to read as a writer as we explore our favourite picture books.

Week 2- Inspiration and Ideas

How to find inspiration and generate and develop ideas for your picture book.

Week 3- Character and Worlds

We will create memorable characters and settings for your story.

Week 4- Writing Technique

With a word count of 500-800 words in a picture book, every word is crucial. We will learn writing styles, literary devices, narrative structures and how text and illustrations work together.

Week 5- Planning and Editing

Plan your story and storyboard, focusing on layout, pace and how to rewrite.

Week 6- Next steps and Marketing

In this week we will discuss Publishing vs Self Publishing. You will also learn how to get your very own book printed if you opt for self publishing, marketing and self promotion.

Materials Needed:

  • Notebook, pencils, sketchpad

  • A computer or tablet for Zoom meetings

Course Dates & Timings:

  • When: Tues Evenings, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM GMT

  • Duration: January 7, 2025 - Feb 18, 2025 (No class on January 21st)

Course Price: £150

  • Please note: Fees are non-refundable. In the case of course cancellation, a refund will be given.

FAQ

How many students will attend the course?  Up to 15 people.

Do I have to have Facebook? Facebook groups is a great way for you to share your ideas and work, but I also encourage groups to start a what’s app.

Can I spread the fee payments? Yes, please contact me so we can discuss a plan to spread the cost of the course to make it suitable for you.

Will you run the course again? Yes, hopefully. If it is successful then I will do another one in later in the year.

Can you advise us where to get our books printed? Yes!

I really want to write a book but can’t illustrate. Can I still do this course? Absolutely. I will advise on how to approach illustrators.