Writing Picture Books for Young Children September 2025

Writing Picture Books for Young Children will suit talented applicants at all levels, from those completing their first story drafts to those who have gained an MA in Creative Writing.

With a strong industry focus, we examine the craft of picture book storytelling in depth, including modules on character, structure, developing your storyline, visual narrative, writing style and voice, and meeting the needs of the young child audience in today’s market.


Your Instructor


Jo Collins
Jo Collins

Jo was previously Senior Editor at Little Tiger Press, where she worked for 7 years, commissioning and developing picture books with a host of talented and acclaimed authors, amongst others, Claire Freedman, Tracey Corderoy, Sue Mongredien and Steve Smallman.

Jo now is also a published writer of children’s short stories, novelty picture books, and gift books for adults.


Course Curriculum


  online session recordings
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  Term 1 - Module 1: Get to Know Your Audience
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  Module 2: Get to Know Your Characters
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  Module 3: Building Your Story
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  Module 4: Opening Your Story
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  Module 5: Setting the Tone
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  Module 6: Character Arcs
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  Module 7: Theme and the Heart of Your Story
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  Module 8: Picture Book Story Endings
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  Term 2 - Module 1: Structure and Story Arcs
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  Module 2: Building Tension
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  Module 3: Narrative Pace
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  Module 4: The Relationship Between Words and Pictures
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  Module 5: The Visual Scope of Your Stories
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  Module 6: Dialogue
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  Module 7: Writing in Verse
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  Module 8: Narrative Voice and Perspective
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  Term 3 - Module 1: Humour
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  Module 2: Playful Writing in Picture Books
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  Module 3: Simple, Playful Story Forms
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  Module 4: Captivating Titles
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  Module 5: Bringing Your Story to Life
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  Module 6: The Author and the Publishing World
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  Module 7: Creating a Picture Book
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  Module 8: Sending Your Portfolio to Agents and Publishers
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Frequently Asked Questions


When does the course start and finish?
The course starts in January 2024 and runs for twelve months.
How long do I have access to the course?
How does lifetime access sound? After enrolling, you have unlimited access to this course for as long as you like - across any and all devices you own.
What if I am unhappy with the course?
We would never want you to be unhappy! If you are unsatisfied with your purchase, contact us at [email protected] to discuss.

This course is closed for enrollment.