10-Day Young Author Support Challenge for Kids, Teens, and Families 📖✨

10-Day Young Author Support Challenge: Day 1 & Day 2 - Can Help young writers turn ideas into stories, one simple step at a time.

Every great book begins with one idea, one sentence, one dream, and one encouraging voice saying, “You can do this."

The 10-Day Young Author Support Challenge is designed to help parents, guardians, teachers, and mentors encourage young writers as they prepare for the 7th Annual Awesome Young Authors’ Awards Book Contest, open July 1–31, 2026 for young authors ages 5–20.

Whether your child already has a book idea or is just beginning to imagine one, these first two days are all about building confidence, creativity, and momentum.

Day 1: Ask About Their Story Idea

Today’s Action: Ask about their story idea

Day 1 starts with a simple but powerful question:

“What kind of story do you want to tell?”

This question can open the door to imagination, creativity, and confidence. Some young authors may already have a full story in their mind. Others may only have a character, a place, a problem, or even just a feeling. That is okay. Every story starts somewhere.

Parents and mentors can help by listening first. Let the child explain their idea without correcting it right away. The goal is not perfection. The goal is to help them feel heard, supported, and excited to keep going.

Try asking questions like:

What is your story about? Who is the main character? Where does the story take place? What problem does the character need to solve? What makes your story exciting, funny, inspiring, or meaningful? What message do you want readers to remember?

When young writers feel that their ideas matter, they are more likely to keep writing.

Encouragement words for Day 1: Your idea is worth exploring. Your imagination is powerful. Your voice matters. Your story can inspire someone. Keep going, this is just the beginning.

Day 2: Establish a Writing Goal

Today’s Action: Establish a writing goal

Once a young author has talked about their story idea, the next step is creating a simple writing goal.

A writing goal helps turn a dream into a plan. It gives the young author something clear to work toward without making the process feel overwhelming.

The goal does not have to be big. In fact, small goals are often the best place to start.

Simple writing goals can include:

Write one paragraph today. Create the main character’s name and personality. Write the beginning of the story. Draw or describe the setting. Write for 10 minutes. Finish one page by the end of the week. Make a list of chapter ideas. Create a book title.

The purpose of Day 2 is to help young authors see progress. Even a few sentences count. Even one idea written down is a step forward.

Parents and mentors can say:

“Let’s choose one small goal for today.”

This helps the child focus and makes writing feel possible.

Why These First Two Days Matter

Day 1 helps young authors believe their ideas are important. Day 2 helps them take action.

Together, these two steps build the foundation for a strong writing journey. A child who feels supported is more likely to write with confidence. A child who has a simple goal is more likely to keep moving forward.

Writing is not just about finishing a book. It is also about building creativity, discipline, communication skills, confidence, and courage.

Every young author needs encouragement. Every story needs a starting point. Every child deserves to know:

Your story matters.

Family Engagement Challenge

Today, take 10–15 minutes to sit with your young author and ask about their story idea. Then help them choose one small writing goal for the week.

You can make it fun by creating a “Young Author Writing Time” with a notebook, pencil, snack, timer, and encouraging words.

Celebrate every step. Celebrate the idea. Celebrate the effort. Celebrate the progress.

Share With Us

We want to cheer on young authors everywhere.

Comment below and share:

What is your young author writing about? What writing goal did they choose for Day 2?

Use these words to encourage them today:

Imagine. Write. Create. Believe. Achieve. Inspire.

The Awesome Young Authors’ Awards Book Contest is open July 1–31, 2026.

Visit theayaawards.org for contest details, rules, and resources.

Your child’s story matters.