Best Side Hustles for Writing Children’s Books
Writing children’s books can be a rewarding and lucrative side hustle, especially for those with a passion for storytelling and creativity.
Whether you want to write picture books, early readers, or middle-grade novels, there are many opportunities in the Canadian market for aspiring authors. In this blog post, we will explore the best side hustles for writing children's books in Canada, highlighting income potential, tools, resources, and links to help you get started.
1. Self-Publishing Children’s Books
Description: Self-publishing has become a popular route for authors of all genres, including children's books. Platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) and IngramSpark allow authors to publish their books digitally or in print. By doing so, you have full control over the content, pricing, and marketing of your book.
Income Potential: The income potential for self-publishing varies depending on your book's popularity, the niche, and your marketing efforts. On average, self-published children’s books can earn anywhere from $100 to $10,000 per month. Some top-selling children’s books make much more, especially if they go viral or are part of a series.
Tools and Resources:
- Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP): The most popular platform for self-publishing eBooks and print books. Amazon KDP
- IngramSpark: Another platform that offers print-on-demand services. IngramSpark
- Canva: Design your book covers and illustrations. Canva
- Scrivener: Writing software to organize and draft your stories. Scrivener
2. Freelance Writing for Children’s Magazines
Description: Many children’s magazines, both print and online, are always on the lookout for fresh, engaging content. Freelance writing for these publications can be an excellent side hustle, offering a steady stream of work and the opportunity to showcase your storytelling skills to a broader audience.
Income Potential: Freelance writing rates for children’s magazines can range from $50 to $1,500 per article, depending on the publication's reach and your experience. With regular assignments, you can earn a steady income on the side while building your portfolio.
Tools and Resources:
- Freelance Websites (Upwork, Fiverr, etc.): These platforms can connect you with clients who need children's content. Upwork Fiverr
- The Writers' Union of Canada: A great resource for freelance writers in Canada. Writers' Union of Canada
3. Write for Children’s Book Publishers
Description: Many established publishers in Canada focus on children’s literature. As a freelance writer, you can submit manuscripts to these publishers and receive royalties for your books if they are accepted. Some well-known Canadian children’s book publishers include Kids Can Press, Groundwood Books, and Orca Book Publishers.
Income Potential: Typically, traditional publishers pay advances (ranging from $1,000 to $10,000) and royalties (around 8% to 15%) on each book sold. The potential income will depend on how successful your book is in the market.
Tools and Resources:
- Canadian Children's Book Centre (CCBC): A valuable resource for writers looking to break into the Canadian children's publishing scene. Canadian Children's Book Centre
- Submission Guidelines: Check individual publisher websites for submission guidelines and submission windows.
4. Create an Online Course for Aspiring Children’s Writers
Description: If you have expertise in writing children's books, you can create an online course to teach others. Platforms like Udemy, Teachable, or Skillshare allow you to create and sell courses. This side hustle lets you leverage your knowledge while helping other aspiring writers.
Income Potential: Online courses can provide passive income. A well-marketed course on writing children's books can earn anywhere from $500 to $10,000 a month, depending on how many students enroll.
Tools and Resources:
- Teachable: A platform that allows you to create and sell online courses. Teachable
- Skillshare: An online platform for creative courses, including writing. Skillshare
- Udemy: A popular course platform with millions of learners. Udemy
- Canva: Design course materials and promotional images. Canva
5. Illustrate Children’s Books
Description: If you are also an illustrator or willing to collaborate with illustrators, illustrating children’s books can be a profitable side hustle. Many self-published authors and small publishers are looking for talented illustrators to bring their stories to life.
Income Potential: Freelance illustrators for children's books can charge anywhere from $500 to $10,000 per project, depending on the complexity of the illustrations and your experience.
Tools and Resources:
- Adobe Illustrator: Industry-standard software for digital illustrations. Adobe Illustrator
- Procreate: A powerful illustration app for iPad. Procreate
- Upwork and Fiverr: Platforms to find freelance work. Upwork Fiverr
6. Create an Audio Version of Your Children’s Book
Description: Audiobooks are growing in popularity, and children's books are no exception. If you write children's books, consider recording an audio version. Platforms like Audible and Storytel make it easy for authors to publish audiobooks and reach a global audience.
Income Potential: Audiobook royalties are usually around 25% of the sales price, with the potential to earn passive income as long as your book sells.
Tools and Resources:
- Audible's ACX: A platform for publishing and distributing audiobooks. ACX
- Audacity: A free, open-source audio editing software. Audacity
Final Thoughts
Writing children's books can be a fulfilling and profitable side hustle for those passionate about storytelling. By exploring self-publishing, freelance writing, traditional publishing, creating courses, and more, you can turn your love for children's literature into a thriving business. With the right tools and resources, there’s no limit to the success you can achieve. Whether you’re writing, illustrating, or creating audio versions of your books, Canada offers plenty of opportunities to get started in the children's book industry.
Resources for Further Reading: