This week I'm delighted to welcome Lynette Creswell to my blog. Lynette has written in various genres, inlcuding children's books - and today she is here to share her advice on how to tackle the writing of a children's book.
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Writing for Young Hearts: Creating Stories for KS1 Readers
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Writing for Key Stage 1 children is one of the greatest joys of my creative life. There is something magical about the way young readers experience stories. They step into each tale with wonder, curiosity and complete openness. When I write, I always remind myself that children of this age are not simply learning to read. At this stage, stories are felt rather than just read. Friendship unfolds, kindness blooms and imagination sparkles around every corner.
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For me, the Hoglets series began with that understanding. Primrose and Prickles aren’t just adorable woodland characters. They’re friends who care for one another, even when it isn’t easy. They learn through mistakes, explore new ideas and find joy in small things. This emotional journey is what truly anchors a KS1 story.
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So, how do we write for children in this age group in a way that nurtures both the reading experience and the child behind the book? Here are some guiding principles I follow.
1. Keep language clear, but not empty
KS1 readers are developing confidence, so clarity is important. However, simple language does not mean plain storytelling. Rhythm, repetition and gentle playfulness make words enjoyable to speak and hear. I often read my drafts aloud to hear how they sound. If a sentence feels awkward or heavy, I reshape it until it flows.
2. Focus on feelings
Plot matters, but feelings are what children remember. A hedgehog who feels nervous about making friends or proud of helping someone will resonate more deeply than a complicated adventure. The emotional core makes the story meaningful. I always ask myself: what is the heart of this story? What is the feeling the child will carry after the last page?
3. Let illustrations take your hand
I don’t create my own artwork. I have the pleasure of working with a wonderful Italian illustrator whose style is warm, expressive and full of gentle detail. The illustrations bring Primrose and Prickles to life in a way that children immediately understand and feel drawn to. For young readers, illustrations are more than decoration. They guide understanding, build confidence and create a visual world that supports the text. A soft expression, a woodland clearing or a tiny paw reaching out can speak straight to the heart.
4. Let the world feel safe, even when challenges appear
Children need to feel secure in a story. This doesn’t mean avoiding all problems or conflict, but rather ensuring that care, love and friendship guide the outcome. In Hoglets’ Christmas Magic, worries arise and misunderstandings happen, yet comfort and kindness always lead the way back. KS1 stories are a gentle place to learn about emotions with a safety net in place.
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5. Step back and read with a child’s eyes
Before I finish any story, I picture myself at five or six years old. Would I feel curious? Would I smile? Would I want to turn the page? Children are the greatest truth-tellers. They respond to stories that feel real, warm and alive.
Writing for KS1 is not writing “down.” It’s writing with clarity, heart and deep respect. When we create stories for young children, we are shaping early ideas of love, friendship and belonging. That is a responsibility I treasure every day.
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Book Links:
Hoglets’ Great Egg Hunt : https://mybook.to/HogletEggHuntpaperback
Hoglets’ Christmas Magic: https://mybook.to/HogletsChristmasPB
Hoglets’ Birthday Surprise: https://mybook.to/HogletsBirthdayPB
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Short Biography
Lynette Creswell is a multi-genre author who has written four fantasy books, two romance novels and three children’s stories. Lynette’s passion for short story writing has accredited her several writing awards, including SWWJ (Society for Women Writers and Journalists), Hammond House Publishing, Leicester Writes and Shooter Literary Magazine.
Her work spans over two decades, reflecting her lifelong love of storytelling. Lynette lives in Lincolnshire with her husband and their Dachshund, Albi, and treasures time with her grandchildren, who inspire her creativity.
Link to Amazon Author Page: https://urli.info/1e7pb
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