How to Self-Publish a Children’s Book in 2025

Do you dream of seeing your children’s story in the hands of young readers? In 2025, self-publishing has made it easier than ever to turn your imaginative tales into beautifully printed books or digital experiences. Whether you’re writing a bedtime story, a colorful adventure, or an educational tale, you don’t need a big publishing house to make it happen.

This detailed guide will walk you through each step of self-publishing a children’s book — from writing and illustration to publishing and promotion — all while staying beginner-friendly.

Why Self-Publish a Children’s Book?

Gone are the days when traditional publishing was the only way to get a book into readers’ hands. Self-publishing is now a legitimate, profitable, and creative option — especially for children’s books. Here’s why:

• Creative control: You decide the tone, style, illustrations, and marketing.
• Faster publishing process: No long waits for agent responses.
• Higher royalty rates: Self-publishing platforms often offer up to 70% royalties.
• Access to global marketplaces like Amazon, Apple Books, and others.

If you’ve got a great idea and a passion for storytelling, self-publishing is the perfect way to bring your children’s book to life.

Steps to Self-Publish a Children’s Book

Self-publishing a children’s book may feel overwhelming at first, but breaking it down into clear steps makes the journey easier. From understanding your audience to promoting your published book, each stage is essential to your success. Follow these practical steps to bring your story from idea to bookshelf.

Step 1: Know Your Audience

Children’s books vary widely by age group. Understanding your target reader is the foundation for everything else, from writing tone to illustration style.

Age categories:

• Infants & toddlers (0–3 years): Board books with simple words and strong visuals.
• Preschoolers (3–5 years): Picture books with short, rhythmic stories.
• Early readers (5–7 years): Stories with simple sentences and supportive images.
• Middle-grade readers (8–12 years): Longer texts, chapter books, fewer illustrations.

Decide who you’re writing for, and let that guide every creative decision ahead.

Step 2: Write a Story That Sticks

Writing for children may seem easy, but it requires clarity, creativity, and structure. Kids are tough critics — your story needs to grab attention fast and leave a lasting impact.

Writing tips:

• Keep language simple and age-appropriate.
• Use vivid descriptions and relatable characters.
• Include a lesson or message without being preachy.
• Read your story aloud — children’s books should sound good when spoken.

Once your first draft is done, take time to edit and revise. Consider hiring a professional editor who specializes in children’s literature or sharing the draft with parents and kids for feedback.

Step 3: Plan for Illustrations

In a children’s book, illustrations are just as important as words. They set the tone, carry the story, and engage young readers visually.

Your illustration options:

• Hire a freelance illustrator (via Fiverr, Upwork, or Reedsy).
• Partner with an artist you know.
• Use your art if you’re a skilled illustrator.

When hiring, check for:

• A portfolio that matches your vision.
• A clear contract detailing deadlines, rights, and fees.
• Open collaboration so the artwork complements the story.

Step 4: Design and Layout

Design is the structure behind your story’s presentation. It’s how text and images are arranged on each page — and it can make or break a children’s book.

What to consider:

• Page size and format (square or landscape often works well).
• Text placement that doesn’t overshadow illustrations.
• Readable fonts are appropriate for your audience.
• Front and back matter, including a title page, dedication, and author bio.

Use tools like Adobe InDesign, Canva, or Book Bolt to format your book professionally. If you’re unsure, you can also hire a book layout designer.

Step 5: Choose Your Publishing Platform

Once your book is written, illustrated, and designed, you’re ready to publish. The platform you choose will depend on your goals, whether you’re targeting online sales, print, or distribution to libraries and schools.

Popular self-publishing platforms:

• Amazon KDP: Easy and free, great for both print and Kindle versions.
• IngramSpark: Offers wider bookstore and library distribution.
• Blurb: Ideal for high-quality visual books and photo books.
• Lulu: Great for both print-on-demand and bulk printing.

Each platform has specific file formats and size requirements, so double-check the guidelines before uploading your final files.

Step 6: Price Your Book & Get an ISBN

Pricing your book is more than picking a random number — it’s about understanding your audience, competitors, and printing costs.

Things to keep in mind:

• Check what similar books cost in your category.
• For paperbacks, the price typically ranges between $7.99 $12.99.
• For eBooks, children’s books usually go for $2.99 to $5.99.

You’ll also need an ISBN (International Standard Book Number). You can:

• Get a free ISBN from Amazon KDP.
• Or buy your own from Bowker (for U.S. authors), which gives you publishing flexibility across platforms.

Step 7: Publish and Launch Your Book

With everything in place — story, images, layout, ISBN, and pricing — it’s time to hit publish! Once your book goes live, your job isn’t done — it’s time to promote.

Promotion strategies:

• Create a website or landing page.
• Post regularly on social media platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook.
• Run Amazon ads or Facebook promotions.
• Host virtual Storytime events.
• Send out advance review copies to parent bloggers or book reviewers.
• Reach out to schools and libraries with sample copies.

Make your launch feel special — consider a giveaway or a digital event to build excitement.

Step 8: Consider Print Options

You have two primary print options when self-publishing:

Print-on-Demand (POD):

• Print copies only when someone orders.
• Minimal upfront investment.
• Great for Amazon and online bookstores.

Bulk printing:

• Print a large number of copies at once.
• Lower per-book cost.
• Ideal for book fairs, author events, or school distribution.

Choose what fits your goals and budget. You can even combine both methods depending on your strategy.

Step 9: Build Your Author Brand

Self-publishing one book is just the beginning. If you want long-term success, start thinking about yourself as a children’s author brand.

Ways to grow:

• Write a book series or more stories with similar themes.
• Offer printable coloring pages or activity sheets on your website.
• Start an email newsletter for updates, freebies, or parenting tips.
• Create a YouTube channel or podcast with read-alouds or writing advice.
• Attend local book fairs or school reading sessions.

The more value you provide to your readers and their families, the more loyal your following becomes.

FAQs: Self-Publishing a Children’s Book

Q: Can I self-publish a children’s book for free?
Yes, you can publish for free using platforms like Amazon KDP — but professional editing, illustration, and design may involve some investment.

Q: Do I need to copyright my book?
Your book is automatically copyrighted once it’s written, but registering it with the U.S. Copyright Office adds legal protection.

Q: Should I hire an editor or proofreader?
Absolutely. Children’s books are short, but every word counts. A professional editor can improve readability and flow.

Q: How long should a children’s book be?
It depends on the age group. Picture books typically range from 300 to 1000 words. Chapter books may be 5,000 to 15,000 words.

Q: Can I make money from a children’s book?
Yes, but success often comes from consistent marketing, writing multiple books, and building your audience over time.

Final Thoughts: Your Story Matters

Publishing a children’s book is more than printing words on paper — it’s about inspiring imaginations, comforting hearts, and shaping minds. In 2025, you don’t need anyone’s permission to share your voice with the world.

With the right story, a thoughtful plan, and a little persistence, you can turn your idea into a beautiful book — and maybe even a lasting legacy.

So pick up your pen, dream big, and take that first step toward becoming a published children’s book author.