Publishing a children’s cardboard book, often called a board book, can be an incredibly rewarding process. Not only does it allow you to tap into your creativity, but you also get to provide young readers with a sturdy, interactive book crafted just for them. However, bringing a board book from initial idea to printed children’s book requires careful planning and attention to detail.
This comprehensive guide outlines key steps and best practices to help you publish a high-quality children’s cardboard book that captures young imaginations while meeting industry standards.
Understand Your Goals and Target Audience
Before diving into the publishing process, take time to be clear on your motivations and target readers. Ask yourself:
- Why do I want to publish this book? What purpose will it serve?
- Who is my intended audience? What developmental age range would benefit most from my book?
- What learning or developmental needs can my book fulfill for young readers?
Keeping the unique abilities and interests of young children at the forefront ensures you craft appropriate, engaging content and choose durable, safety-tested materials. Board books typically target infants through preschoolers.
Research the Children’s Book Market
Understanding trends in children’s publishing provides insights into what sells well and resonates with your readers. Consider analyzing:
- Popular themes and concepts
- Desired interactive features like textures or lift-the-flaps
- Average page length and dimensions
- Cover design styles
- Price point norms
This market research will help you position your book competitively while meeting audience expectations.
Craft Captivating Yet Simple Content
The key to excellent children’s writing is simplicity. Follow these tips when drafting your manuscript:
Focus on Relatable Concepts
Explore themes like first experiences, animals, vehicles, shapes, colors, numbers, etc. Root your narrative in concreteness while sparking curiosity.
Use Repetitive Text
Short sentences structured repetitively build familiarity. For example, “See the dog! See the cat!”
Minimize Word Count
Stick to 100-300 words total to accommodate short attention spans. Allow your vibrant illustrations to supplement the narrative visually.
Add Interactive Elements
Incorporate textures, die-cut shapes, or sturdy flaps to foster engagement and fine motor skills. Ensure any detachable parts meet safety guidelines.
Select a Skilled Illustrator
While compelling writing is key, vivid illustrations truly make a board book come alive for young audiences. When hiring an illustrator:
- Review portfolios to assess experience with children’s book art and board book formats
- Ensure their style resonates with your target age range
- Align on a visually engaging yet defined art style for consistency
- Establish clear expectations around timeline and deliverables
Design With Safety Top of Mind
A toddler’s safety should drive every design choice, from durable construction to child-safe adhesives.
Choose Quality Cardboard
Opt for thick, tear-resistant paperboard between 14-16 pt., like printers such as GoBookPrinting use.
Incorporate Rounded Corners
Sharp corners pose eye and mouth injury risks for kids. Rounded edges reduce hazards.
Verify Non-Toxic Materials
Inks, laminates, and glues must meet standards like FSC and ISO 8124. Reputable printers provide certificates of compliance.
Following strict safety protocol ensures your book nurtures, not harms, its special audience.
Select the Right Printer
Not all printing companies are optimized to produce board books. Seek printers offering:
Specialization
Many standard trade book printers lack knowledge of pediatric safety standards or don’t offer thicker paper types. Choose printers dedicated specifically to board books and children’s titles.
Compliance Certification
Verify your potential printer complies with key children’s safety regulations like CPSIA or ASTM F963 in the regions you will distribute.
Sample Review
Always request a physical proof before full printing to carefully inspect paper quality, binding, lamination, and overall durability.
Taking time to vet printer qualifications results in a higher-caliber, safer end product.
Budget for Production Costs
Realistically assess how print runs of different quantities affect overall publishing investment. For reference, printing 1,000 board books generally ranges from $6,000-$8,000. Building in buffer for potential reprints or returns helps offset financial risks.
Distribute and Market Strategically
The most captivating board book requires strategic promotion to succeed. Some effective marketing techniques include:
- Gifting advance copies to parent bloggers and educators in exchange for reviews
- Developing a robust online presence through social media and a dedicated website
- Securing shelf placement in brick-and-mortar bookstores as well as online retailers
- Attending book fairs or children’s festivals to introduce your book directly to parents and young readers
- Soliciting bulk orders from preschools, doctor offices, and other establishments serving your target demographic
With persistence and creativity, your carefully constructed board book can educate and delight children for years to come. Stay true to serving your young readers’ needs, and your work is bound to have an impact.