WRITING

CRICKET magazine accepts writing and drawing submissions year-round from writers of all levels (including students)!  This magazine is published for readers between 9 and 14 years old. CRICKET does not distribute theme lists for upcoming issues. However, they have particular interests in stories that explore themes of identity (gender, race and ethnicity, neighborhoods, beliefs and traditions); citizenship and global cultures; scientific and technological exploration; and the creative spirit.

Scholastic Book Clubs sponsors a handful of writing and drawing contests throughout the year.  Click the picture above to see past and current contest topics and upcoming deadlines for submissions.  Check back often for new contests being posted throughout the school year.  Good luck and happy writing!

TIME for Kids is a weekly non-fiction news magazine for classrooms. Many of the articles are written by TFK’s Kid Reporters, a job for which the magazine opens a talent search each year in March—the TFK Kid Reporter Contest. Entrants must be under 15 years old and write a compelling news story about a school or community event. 

Though technically not a contest, Stone Soup magazine publishes stories (2,500 words or less), poetry, and book reviews by kids 13 and younger. The great thing about Stone Soup is that kids can submit work as often as they want, regardless of previous rejection or acceptance for publication.  Check out the Stone Soup archives online for a sense of the writing editors prefer. 

Young Writers offers opportunities for elementary students to become published authors with submissions of stories 100 words or less. The site offers free resources and engaging themes to inspire children and young adults to get writing. 

EngineerGirl sponsors an essay contest with topics centered on the impact of engineering and its impact on our world.  The topic and detailed instructions for the contest are posted in September with a deadline for submissions on February 1st of the following year. Winners are announced in the summer and can win up to $500 in prize money.