Writing for Children's Web Sites

Here are some tips to keep in mind when writing content for children's Web sites:

• Keep sentences short, and limit each sentence to one thought.
• Paragraphs should also be short and limited to one concept or idea.
• Verify that the text is written to the site's target age group.
• If you use a difficult word, explain what it means in the text or include it in such a way that the reader will understand its meaning by the context.
• Avoid scrolling pages. Younger kids, especially those under 7, have a difficult time keeping their places on the screen as they scroll.
• Keep columns narrow. It is easier for a child to read text if there aren't too many words on a line. For the youngest readers, about five words per line is recommended.
• Connect images to the text as much as possible. For example, by adding images such as arrows to on-screen selections, you'll make it clear to your young audience what those selections do.
• Use larger type sizes for sites designed for beginning readers.
• Readers often scan text on a Web page, so it can be helpful to highlight keywords within the text.