Category: Creativity

Creating an engaging children’s book requires you to articulate thoughts and stories coherently and fascinatingly. Not only do you need to draw attention, but you cannot afford to make mistakes when editing. If you author children’s books, you already value the power of captivating young minds. Yet, you must be careful when you edit it so that you do not lose the creative passion in your initial writing.

Working on such a book requires maintaining your voice and ensuring appropriate language. Hence, the balance is delicate. Refrain from being one of the authors who makes some common mistakes related to the editing process, as it will hinder the success of your book. Learn how to polish your book while maintaining the original intent in your writing that engages readers.

Using Best Services to Edit Children’s Books

Sometimes, if you have the time or the writing techniques to polish off your book, you might need help to put the book together. This is a primary reason why many writers enlist help from professionals who specialize in bringing your work to market. One of these services is to gain access to children’s book editors available through PenFellow.  They also meet the needs of those seeking ghostwriting services, assistance with business plans, and even writing biographies.

For our purposes in this article related to book editing, seeking help will obviously save you time and effort. If you have never edited a book before, it can be more complicated than expected. And most certainly, it’s more tedious.  Editing a book requires factchecking research, planning, and meticulously ensuring the content is completely free of mistakes. It’s a special skill from someone administratively minded that is dedicated to every little detail.

5 Common Editing Mistakes When Editing Children’s Books

Making a children’s book is similar to crafting a piece of art. A great one is not about the greater picture; it all boils down to collecting all the integral parts. Editing a good children’s book should involve creating simple sentences while sparking creativity and curiosity.

However, many neglect the full attention to detail of the editing process. Editing can include revising and refining your work. Generally, you aim to improve the clarity and coherence of your book.

Here are the top common mistakes to avoid.

Common mistake #1: Avoiding the developmental editing process

Developmental editing is the most crucial final touch your work needs. It focuses on reviewing the structure, pacing, and plot of your writing. At this point, the editor will work closely with your author to review and evaluate the book. This includes identifying strengths and weaknesses, fixing plot holes, and ensuring no character inconsistencies.

Common mistake #2: Spending too much time editing spelling and grammar mistakes

Grammar and spelling mistakes in books are essential elements that all editors want to avoid. However, you do not wish to over-correct your sentences to make them less coherent or not as engaging. Hence, consider focusing more on the flow and structure of the book while editing. Refrain from over simplifying phrasing while reviewing simple mistakes.

Common mistake #3: Being too heavy-handed with changes

As an editor, it might be tempting to make all these unnecessary adjustments while editing, writing, and illustrating children’s books. However, the more heavy-handed alterations you make, the more likely you lose the writer’s unique voice. Good editors have a good understanding of writing techniques to tread lightly and avoid a disjointed result.

Common mistake #4: Ignoring consistency

Another vital element to making children’s books is the overall format, style, and wording. While the writer focuses on addressing the target audience, the editor must ensure everything flows smoothly. The review process should include having the same approach, overall format, and style.

Common mistake #5: Failing to factcheck

If your book is fictional, you already know that many elements will be imaginary. However, a children’s book might be about a real-life, non-fiction story. If that is the case, throughout your editing process, you should aim to address any factual information and double-check its validity.

Conclusion

Overall, it is easy for editors to overlook some common editing mistakes inadvertently. However, neglecting to review your book thoroughly after completion will hinder the process necessary for a successful book for children to enjoy. Moreover, the sales and popularity of your work will dwindle if everything is not handled properly from the original idea, to writing, to editing, to the final result of a high-quality children’s book that is coherent and enthralls readers.

Author’s Bio
David Santana: David has an undying passion for storytelling and literature. He loves to share his creativity and knowledge by writing well-crafted articles about tips and common mistakes to avoid when writing and editing. With David’s effective techniques, one can learn to engage any person’s imagination!

Read how to choose the right book marketing company for your genre.

Every little girl waits for her birthday like a miracle. Bright emotions, fulfilled dreams, dear guests, and gifts are what every happy event consists of. As a rule, the parents’ task is to make the most vivid holiday that their child would remember every birthday with a smile even years later. Let’s look at some ideas on how to make a bright holiday.

Colorful Balloons

Before decorating a child’s room with balloons, find an original option that will surprise and delight the child. Do not skimp on the quality of balloons so that the children do not suffocate from a specific smell. How to use balloons for decor? For example:

• Fill the entire room with balloons;
• Tie strings of wishes hanging from helium balloons;
• Make 3D figures, sculptures, or an arch out of balloons;
• Fill balloons with confetti or LED lights;
• Fill balloons with sweets or small surprises;
• Decorate the center of the table with a hello kitty balloon.

Available Tools

Holiday decorations can be made with your own hands from improvised materials. Use balloons, colored paper, confetti, and garlands. Something should be made in advance:

• Prepare bright masks and caps;
• Find beautiful napkins for the plates;
• Think up decorations for glasses and straws;
• Decorate pockets for cutlery;
• Add themed decorations to walls and tables;
• Make original name cards for guests.

Garlands

Light decorations and electric garlands will adorn a children’s party. It is better to choose from battery-powered wireless devices. You can also make garlands of paper flags. Or use an electric garland with multicolored lights to lay out the name of the birthday girl. This way, you can decorate the wall in the room where the party will be held. Flowers are a great way to make any kid’s birthday party colorful. This is why you should call this online flower store today for the freshest bloom.

Sweet Treats

Kids are waiting for a miracle and sweets. Therefore, take note of ideas that will help to solve both problems at once:

• Miniature candy and gum vending machines;
• Flasks with sweets;
• Chocolate fountain;
• Homemade cotton candy and popcorn machines.

Table Decorations

Who says kids ignore table decor? Quite the opposite! They may be as attracted to the treats as to the holiday table decorations. If the table is beautifully decorated, children may even try a dish they don’t eat in their usual lives. The center of the table can be decorated with flowers, balloons, gifts, fruit arrangements, and candy topiaries.

Colorful Tableware

What should the tableware for a child’s birthday party be? First of all, safe and bright. The ideal option ― ready holiday sets made of plastic or thick paper, designed specifically for children’s parties.

Entertainment

Think out an entertainment program so you don’t have to improvise “on the fly.”

• Art contest. You can make easels with your own hands and buy canvases on stretchers in an art store. There should be no losers in the competition ― prepare prizes for all;
• A paper tablecloth instead of a canvas. After a celebratory lunch, children can paint a tablecloth, which then remains to you as a keepsake;
• Twister will involve your little guests for at least an hour and a half. Colored circles can be made on a sheet or the grass if the party is at the cottage.

Additional Reads:

Explore creative ideas to make a boys balloon themed birthday.
Deleted: Learn Strategies for hosting an inclusive kids birthday party.

In today’s world, where everyone is obsessed with consumerism, it is maybe time to take a step back and curate a few thoughtful gifts for your children. The Australian Toy and Gaming industry is $586 million in 2022 and has grown faster than the country’s economy, reports Ibis Research.

So as a concerned parent, it is time to think about how you can make sure your gifts to your children help in their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Here, we have suggested six gift ideas for your kids which take care of them, help them grow their imagination, and also let them enjoy.

1. A Gaming Chair

For our children, video games are an important part of life. As parents, it is natural to feel apprehensive about the long hours they spend on the console.  On the other hand, the gamer in your child will probably want video games or gaming accessories for Christmas. Try gifting them a gaming chair to ensure they are not plagued with back or neck pain from spending long hours playing games.

Australians have spent nearly AUD 4 billion playing video games in 2021 alone. Mobile games accounted for AUD 1.51 Billion, the rest being on a console or PC.  Like your fellow Aussies, if your child spends close to 90 minutes playing a video game, you should be very careful about the gaming chair you buy.

We suggest you go through online reviews to find the best gaming chair for your child. Choose one based on ergonomics. Check the color and style preferences of your child so that it is used by them.

2. An Outdoor Experience

Children got tired of staying indoors all the time, especially during the Covid-19 lockdowns. In a study by the Australian Bureau of Statistics in 2021, 22% of Australians felt their mental health was taking a turn for the “worse” during the lockdowns.

If it is possible for you, try to treat your child to a short trip somewhere in Australia. You can opt for a beach stay or choose to take your child camping. You may also choose to spend a couple of days exploring the zoo and other interesting places in your community. What matters to your child is the time you spend with them and the quality of the same.

3. An Aquarium or Terrarium

Terrariums and aquariums are great gift ideas. They’re beautiful and easy to care for. They will give your child the opportunity to create their little ecosystem without needing too much room.

As a low-maintenance gift idea, terrariums are a great for anyone who loves plants. They’re also a great way to get your kids interested in gardening. Because they’re enclosed, they don’t need much maintenance. They’re an ideal gift for your child if they would like to have a slice of nature in their rooms.

You can give your child the gift of seeing their favorite animal in real life. An aquarium lets you do that, and it looks great on any shelf or table. You can spend some time every day with your child feeding the fish and watching them feed. It is a ritual that will engage your child and help you both witness something soothing and magical without spending time in front of a screen.

4. Battery-Powered Ride-On Car

For a truly extraordinary gift for your child, one that will certainly wow them, battery-powered Ride-On Cars are becoming increasingly popular for kids. It’s not uncommon to see these miniature toy cars cruise the sidewalks throughout neighborhoods. Sure to ignite any child’s imagination and unleash a world of fun-filled adventures, these units come in a variety of captivating designs and are equipped with kid-friendly features.

Whether your child dreams of racing through imaginary landscapes or emulating their favorite grown-up drivers, this mini vehicle idea provides a safe and thrilling experience. They also promote outdoor play. As kids zoom around the neighborhood or backyard, their sense of independence and confidence grows.

And let’s face it, someday they will be driving their own real-life cars. So, why not allow them to learn safe driving habits in a Battery-Powered Ride-On Car?  It’s not just a toy; it’s a thoughtful gift that sparks a sense of exploration in young hearts.

5. Books

Books are a great gift for kids because they help develop intellectual curiosity and help kids build their vocabularies. They also provide an opportunity for children to learn about themselves and the world around them, and they can be a source of comfort in times of stress or anxiety.

You can buy board books for babies who haven’t learned to read yet. These books have thick pages that are easy to turn, and they usually feature bright colors and simple pictures that can help entertain your little ones while they’re learning how to use their hands properly.

For older children who are just starting school, you might want to look into chapter books or storybooks that are aimed at their age group. These types of books tend to have more complex storylines than those designed for younger children, which makes them more engaging for older kids who are trying to get used to reading on their own for the first time.

We hope this article helps you choose a thoughtful gift that is both useful and fun for your child and suits your budget. We understand that you may have budget constraints at this point and may not be able to shop for all the presents on your child’s wishlist. What truly matters to your child is that you invested your time and effort in giving them something this festive season.

6. DIY Craft and Hobby Kits

DIY craft kits are excellent gifts for kids of all ages. They’re fun. Kids love to create things and put their spin on them. They enjoy the process of creating, which is something that they can’t get from just buying something at the store.

They’re educational. DIY craft kits teach children how to work with their hands and enjoyably use their imaginations.

They encourage creativity and problem-solving skills. By giving your child a DIY craft kit as a gift, you’re encouraging them to think outside the box and come up with creative solutions for completing their projects.

Make sure you spend an optimum amount and don’t divert funds from other important activities for your child, like dance or music lessons.

7. eBike

Electric bikes have been all the rage for adults.  Now smaller versions for kids are set to provide children with the same experience.  While ebikes provide electric assistance, they still require pedaling. This helps kids engage in physical activity and develop a healthier lifestyle.

With the electric assistance, kids can cover longer distances without getting as tired. This makes it easier for them to explore new areas or go on longer family bike rides.

Ebikes also promote reduced sedentary time.  With the growing prevalence of screen time and sedentary activities, e-bikes provide an enjoyable way for kids to spend time outdoors, reducing the time spent in front of screens.  E-bikes can be a great option for kids with varying levels of physical fitness or abilities.

8. Dinosaur Slippers

Some kids love clothing related gifts. Others think they are boring. However, when you combine practicality with fun the gift can be truly unique and thoughtful. Slippers offer cozy comfort for little feet. But slippers designed to look like your own personal pet dinosaurs add fun to every step your child takes.

At night when they slip out of their dinosaur slippers and crawl into bed, this new pair of dino friends become trusted companions who watch over the room while your little one sleeps. And when morning arrives, jumping out of bed will be that much more enticing with protection from the cold floor that awaits.

9 Lightsaber

Lightsabers have become as ubiquitous as droids in a galaxy far, far away, capturing the hearts and imaginations of fans young and old. These glowing wonders have skyrocketed in popularity faster than the Millennium Falcon making the Kessel Run. From epic duels in the backyard to impromptu Jedi training sessions in the living room, lightsaber toys have become the ultimate accessory for aspiring Padawans and seasoned Jedi Masters alike.

With a rainbow of colors to choose from, enthusiasts can embrace their inner Sith Lord or channel their inner Rey, creating a dazzling spectacle that’s more entertaining than a cantina band on Tatooine. Whether you’re battling the dark side or simply spicing up a dull Tuesday afternoon, the force is strong with these luminous playthings, making them a must-have for anyone looking to add a dash of intergalactic excitement to their daily adventures.

May the fun be with you!

If preparing for a boy’s birthday is on your agenda, this article is for you.  Much different than planning activities for adults, being engaged in the organization of a child’s birthday takes a different mindset.  This is especially true when it comes to decorating, entertainment programs, children’s menu, and more.

Today we will talk about how to decorate a boys’ birthday with balloons. A huge batman balloon is a nice idea, but are there other options? There are plenty!

Ceiling

Launching helium balloons up to the ceiling is the easiest way to decorate a room with your own hands, which does not require special design skills. Depending on the size of the room, you may need two to three dozen balloons for this purpose. You can buy one-color or multi-colored balloons with helium to decorate the room. A combination of any two colors looks good. The balls can also be used for gaming competitions. A budget option is to decorate the room with ordinary rubber balloons inflated with air. With the help of threads or ribbons, they can be hung throughout the apartment: on windows, chandeliers, furniture, and cornices.

Balloons on the floor

Another idea on how to decorate a child’s birthday: balloons inflated with air can be randomly laid out on the floor and furniture. This will undoubtedly please children very much and will encourage them to play.

Compositions

A more complex option is to use various figures and compositions from balls. The decorated wall looks very nice. In order to decorate the wall, you must first consider the motif of the picture. It can be a flower meadow, a congratulatory inscription, or a fragment from a fairy tale. Then you can make design elements (flowers, sun, clouds, fairy-tale characters) and attach them to the wall with adhesive tape. This task is not an easy one. It is better, of course, to seek help from specialists, but if you wish, you can do everything yourself.

Bouquets of balloons

Coming up with truly unique birthday party ideas can be a lot fun for parents.  Balloon flower bouquets are another great idea to add some fun to a boy’s birthday party. They can be placed in vases or fixed with tape in any place you like.

Numbers

Children, unlike adults, are happy that they are getting older every year, so you can amuse the child’s pride and order a balloon number to decorate the room. The easiest option is to buy a foil balloon in the shape of a number and fix it on the wall. A more expensive but effective way is to order a free-standing figure in the form of a figure that displays the age of the child.

Letters

Every young boy will feel amazed when seeing his name made of balloons! This option is simple but impressive. Moreover, such a solution is a great area for taking photos.

Figures of fairy tale characters

A helium-filled foil balloon in a cartoon character shape can become not only a holiday decoration but also a true friend for a boy. He can play with it, dance, and participate in competitions. The walking balloon figures have weights placed in the lower part, therefore they do not fly up to the ceiling but seem to walk on the floor, driven by air currents from children running past. Such figures are very popular with children and give them real delight.

Arches, columns, garlands, fountains, and figures

It is pretty difficult to make arches, columns, garlands, fountains, and figures from balls with your own hands, so it is better to order those in an aero design studio. But all your expenses associated with their purchase will pay off when you see the sparkling eyes of the birthday boy.

Theme party

With the help of balloons, you can arrange some kind of theme party. For example, if you want to have a Hawaiian-style birthday party, you can order palm trees. If the topic is Batman, you can order a huge Batman figure, etc.

Surprise balloon

You can decorate a child’s birthday by ordering a surprise balloon. Before hanging the ball from the ceiling, it is filled with small balls, confetti, sweets, tinsel, and small toys. Up to a certain point, it plays the role of decoration, but then it is blown up. This causes a wild delight in children. At first, the children admire the explosion, and then they rush to collect scattered candies and toys. You can even triple a small competition – who will collect the most trophies. Inside the ball, you can hide a gift for the birthday boy. He will definitely be surprised!

Now let’s look at fun ideas to decorate girl birthday party.