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300 Fun Writing Prompts for Kids: Story Starters, Journal Prompts & Ideas

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Are you a parent or teacher? Here are 300 fun and creative writing prompts for kids to spark the imagination of young writers everywhere. Use these kids writing ideas as journaling prompts, story starters or just for fun!

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It’s never too early to start writing, and so we’ve created this fun list of 300 creative kids writing prompts for teacher and parents to use.

You’ll love these fun ideas for kids writing prompts to use as creative sparks to get young imaginations writing in no time!

writing prompts for kids

These are perfect to use as kids journal writing prompts, as short story writing prompts, or just for exercises to help students and children of all ages tap into their creativity. Maybe your kids will write an essay, maybe a poem, or maybe even a whole book!

Whether you are a teacher or parent looking to inspire your kids to write, or maybe even an adult who would like to practice writing with a more playful and young-hearted approach, I hope you find these creative writing prompts inspiring!

Buy the Printable Cards!  We will always have this list of 300 kids writing prompts available for free, but I’m very excited to now also offer an  ad-free printable version of these prompts  in my online Etsy shop. Thank you for your support!

The Ultimate List of 300 Fun & Creative Writing Prompts for Kids

#1. Imagine a giant box is delivered to your front doorstep with your name on it. What’s inside and what happens when you open it?

#2. Write a short story about what it might be like if you woke up one morning with a mermaid tail.

#3. Which is better, winter or summer? Write about the reasons why you think winter or summer is better.

#4. Write about what would it be like if you had an alligator as a pet.

#5. If you had $1,000, what would you buy and why?

#6. Write a story using these 5 words: apple, train, elephant, paper, banjo

#7. What do you want be when you grow up and why?

#8. Who is your favorite person on the planet? What do you like most about that person?

#9. If you could have any secret super power, what would you want it to be and why?

#10. Write about 3 places you would like to travel someday. What do these three places have in common?

#11. Write about a time you felt really happy. What happened? What made you feel happy?

#12. Imagine what would happen if someone shrunk you down to be only 1″ tall. How would your life change?

#13. If you were in charge of the whole world, what would you do to make the world a happier place?

#14. Write a story about what it would be like to climb to the very top of the highest mountain in the world.

#15. If you were in charge of planning the school lunch menu, what foods would you serve each day?

#16. What are some of your favorite animals? What do you like about them?

writing prompt card for kids example

#17. Imagine that dogs take over the world. What do they make the humans do?

#18. Write a story about flying to outer space and discovering a new planet.

#19. You are a mad scientist and have invented a new vegetable. What is it called? What does it look like? What does it taste like? Most importantly: Is it safe to eat?

#20. You go to school one morning to discover your best friend has been turned into a frog by an evil witch! How do you help your friend?

#21. Describe what it is like when trees lose all of their leaves in the autumn season.

#22. Write about your favorite sport and why you like it so much.

#23. Imagine what it might be like to live on a boat all the time and write about it.

#24. If you had one wish, what would it be?

#25. Write about what you might do if you have the super power to become invisible.

#26. You are walking through the forest when one of the trees starts talking to you. What does it say? What do you do?

#27. The weather forecast is calling for a blizzard in the middle of the summer. What do you do?

#28. What types of transportation will people have in the future?

#29. What were some of your favorite toys when you very little? Do you still enjoy playing with them?

#30. What would a day in your life be like if you were a movie star?

#31. Imagine you’ve invented a time machine! What year do you travel to?

#32. What are your favorite things to do over summer vacation?

#33. What is your favorite holiday and why?

#34. If you could meet any fictional character from a book, who would it be?

#35. You are writing a travel guide for kids visiting your city. What places do you think they should visit?

#36. What is a food you hate? Write about it!

#37. Imagine what it would be like if there was no electricity. What would be different in your daily routine?

#38. You are building a new city! What types of things do you think your city needs? How will you convince people to move to your new city?

#39. What is your favorite movie? Write your review of the movie and why you think people should watch it.

magic sweater writing prompt for kids

#40. Imagine you get a magic sweater for your birthday. What happens when you wear the sweater? What do you do with these new found magical powers?

#41. You are the security guard at the zoo and someone has stolen a rhinoceros! How do you track down the thief?

#42. You have been invited to have lunch with the queen. What foods do you eat and what topics do you and the queen discuss?

#43. If you could design a school uniform, what types of clothes would you suggest? What colors would they be?

#44. Imagine you are a reporter interviewing a celebrity about their life. What questions do you ask?

#45. You are running a lemonade stand. Describe the steps for how you make lemonade and the types of customers you see during the day.

#46. Write a story about being the ruler of an underwater world.

#47. Write an acrostic poem for the word “treehouse”.

#48. You decide to grow a sunflower, but the sunflower grows so tall it reaches up to the sky! Write about what happens when you decide to climb to the top. What do you discover?

#49. Imagine you look out the window and it is raining popsicles from the sky! Write a story about the experience.

#50. If you could be any animal, which one would you be and why?

#51. If you were on a spaceship, what would you be most excited about seeing?

#52. Do you have any pets at home? Write an essay about how you take care of your pets. If you do not have a pet, what type of pet might you like?

writing prompts for pets

#53. Imagine you are opening a store that only sells items which are blue. What types of items do you sell?

#54. Have you ever lost something that is important to you? Were you able to find it?

#55. Write a story about a kid who is moving to a new school. How do you think they might feel?

#56. Rewrite the ending of your favorite fairy tale. For example, what would have happened if Cinderella never went to the ball?

#57. Have you ever forgotten to do your homework? What happened?

#58. Do you have a favorite song? Write about the type of music you like to listen to.

#59. Imagine your parents wake you up one morning to tell you they will take you to do anything you want to do for the whole day – you don’t even have to go to school or do your chores. What would you choose to do and why?

#60. Do you like amusement parks? What are some of your favorite rides?

#61. Write a story using these three words: detective, piano, and pizza.

#62. Have you ever been to the beach? Write about your favorite things to do. If you have never been to the beach, what would you like to do the first time you visit?

#63. Is there a favorite tv show you like to watch? Write about your favorite character and why they are your favorite.

#64. Write a poem using onomatopoeia , where the words you use are pronounced similar to the sound they make. For example, buzz, bark, sizzle, slam and pop.

#65. Have you ever had to stand in line to wait a long time for something? What did you do while you waited? How did you feel while waiting? How did you feel once the wait was over?

#66. Is it a good idea to keep ALL secrets a secret? Write about examples of when it is okay to spill a secret – and when it isn’t.

#67. Is there something you are good at doing? Write about your best strengths.

#68. What historical time period and location would you go back to live in if you could? Write about it!

#69. Write about 5 things you can do that are important for you to stay healthy and safe.

#70. Do you think thunderstorms are scary? Why or why not?

#71. What would you most like to learn over the next year? Think about things that interest you or questions you might have about the world and make a list!

#72. You are going on a trip to a jungle safari! What items do you pack in your suitcase?

creative writing topics for preschoolers

#73. Imagine you are sitting at home one day and you hear someone shrieking in the living room they see a mouse in the house! Write a story about what might happen next.

#74. You are writing a letter to someone who is having a hard time making new friends at school. What do you write? What advice do you give them?

#75. Imagine you just met a magician – but their beloved rabbit who they pull out of a hat for all the tricks has been kidnapped! How do you help find the rabbit?

#76. Do you hear what I hear? Set a timer for 5 minutes and write about all of the sounds you hear in those 5 minutes.

#77. Imagine you go to get a haircut and they accidentally shave your head! How do you feel about that and what would you do?

#78. Do you find it easy to talk to people you don’t know? What are some ways you can start up a conversation with someone you have never met before?

#79. Are there any chores you have to do at home? What are they? What do you like – and not like – about each one?

#80. Open up a random book to any page. Write for 5 minutes about the first word you read.

#81. Pretend you are a writer for your city’s newspaper. Who would you like to interview for a news story and why?

#82. There are many fictional characters who live in unusual houses, such as the old woman who lived in a shoe. What kind of unusual house would you like to live in? Write about what it would be like to live in an unusual house!

#83. Write a list of 10 things you can do to practice kindness to others.

#84. Is there a homework subject you dread? Why do you not like getting homework in that subject?

#85. What is your favorite month of the year? Write about why you like it and some of your favorite things to do during that month.

#86. Imagine you are planning a surprise birthday party for someone. How do you keep it a surprise?

#87. Pretend you walked outside to find a sleeping dragon in the grass! Why is the dragon there? Is it a friendly dragon? What do you do? Write about it!

#88. What are you grateful for today and why?

#89. You were on your way to a very important event when you fell into a puddle. Now what?

#90. Have you ever watched a movie and didn’t like how it ended? Write what you think should happen instead.

#91. Can you answer this riddle from Alice in Wonderland ? How is a raven like a writing desk?

#92. Imagine you are the captain of a pirate ship. Write a diary entry for what your day was like.

#93. If you could start any type of business, what kind of business would you start? What types of products or services would you provide?

#94. Write a sequel to one of your favorite fairy tales. For example, what was Goldilocks’s next adventure after she left the bears?

#95. What is something you are afraid of? What helps you to feel less afraid of something? What would you say to a friend who feels scared to help them feel less afraid?

#96. Write a letter to your future self in 20 years.

kids writing prompts and ideas

#97. In addition to basic survival needs such as food, water, air and shelter, what are 3 things you would you need to be happy?

#98. If you could invent a robot of any type who could do anything you imagine, what types of things would you would have the robot to do?

#99. Which do like better? Apples or Oranges? How are they alike? How are they different?

#100. Why did the chicken cross the road? You are a detective and are assigned to the case. How do solve the mystery?

#101. Write instructions for how to make your favorite snack. Be sure you add your favorite tips and suggestions for how to select the best ingredients!

#102. Imagine you borrowed a friend’s favorite lucky pencil to help you pass a math test – but then it snapped in half! How will you ever tell the news to your friend?

#103. Look around the current room you are sitting in and choose 3 random objects that are nearby. Now write a story or poem that includes those three items!

#104. Write a letter to the author of a book you recently read and tell them what you liked most about the book.

#105. Ernest Hemingway is famous for writing a six word story. Can you write a story in just 6 words?

#106. What do you think will be the future for cell phones? Will people still use them in 25 years or will something else take its place?

#107. Do you want to go to college? Why or why not?

#108. Write a story or poem about a kitten who wanders off and gets lost. How does the kitten find its way home?

#109. Currently, it is required by law that kids go to school. Do you think this is a good or bad idea?

#110. If you could invent a new board game, what would it be called? How is it played? What are the rules? What makes it fun to play? Write about it!

#111. Imagine you come home to discover your entire bedroom is covered in ketchup! What on earth happened? What is your reaction? How do you clean everything up?

#112. What is something you learned today?

#113. Would you rather have a goldfish or shark as a pet?

#114. From A-Z: make a list of something for every letter of the alphabet.

#115. Have you ever gone fishing? If you have, did you like it? Why or why not? If you haven’t, do you think you might want to?

#116. What is one of the most important things you do each and every day?

#117. Write a story about Gretchen the Grouch, a girl who is always angry! Will she ever be happy? Why is she so grumpy all of the time?

#118. How do you feel when someone takes something of yours without asking? What is a good way to deal with it when that happens?

#119. Write a poem that starts with the word “if”.

#120. Write a story about a family of rabbits who live in the woods. What are some of the challenges they face?

#121. What clothes do you think are the most comfortable? What kind of clothes do you like to wear the most? What clothes do you NOT like to wear?

#122. Imagine there are no grocery stores and you must get your own food. What are some of the ways you find food? What types of things do you eat?

#123. What are 3 things you can do that are good for the environment?

#124. If you could meet any famous person today, who would you want to meet and why? What questions might you ask them?

#125. A tongue twister is a quick poem where many of the words start with the same letter and are similar in sound. For example, “Peter picked a peck of pickled peppers.” Try writing your own with this fun kids writing prompt!

#126. What is the first thing you think of when you hear or see the word green?

#127. A hero is someone who is admired for their courage and achievements. What do you think makes someone a hero? Who are some of your heroes?

#128. What did you do during summer vacation last year? What do you want to do for summer vacation this year?

#129. Write a story about a super hero dog who saves the day! Who does the dog help and why?

kids journal prompts

#130. Would you rather live somewhere that is always cold, or somewhere that is always hot? Write about which one you would rather choose.

#131. Have you ever volunteered to help a charity? If so, write about the experience! If not, what are some charities you think you might like to volunteer for?

#132. What does the word courage mean to you?

#133. What makes you unique? What are some things about you that make you an individual?

#134. Have you ever been to a museum? What is your favorite thing to look at on display?

#135. What can you do to set a good example for others to be kind?

#136. A Tall Tale is a story that exaggerates something that actually happened. Write a tall tale about something that recently happened to you.

#137. What is one of your favorite toys that you think you might still want to have and play with when you are 22 years old?

#138. Oh no! Everyone around you is sick with a nasty cold! Write a silly poem about how you try to avoid catching their germs!

#139. Personification is when a non-living object takes on human characteristics. Write a story where you personify a common electronic gadget in your house, such as the Television or toaster.

#140. Write a poem using similes, which is when you say an object is like something else. Here is an example of a simile: “Her eyes were as blue as the sky.”

#141. Have you ever read a book written by Dr. Suess? Write your own “Suess-style” story, complete with rhymes and made up words.

#142. Do you have any siblings? Think about what it might mean to be a good brother or sister and write about it!

#143. Make a list of questions to interview your parents or grandparents about what it was like when they were growing up as a kid. Then, ask them the questions and write about their answers!

#144. You are in charge of writing a new radio show just for kids! What topics will you talk about? What music do you play?

#145. What do you usually eat for breakfast every day? What, in your opinion, is the greatest breakfast food ever created? What makes it so great?

#146. Write a 12 line poem where every line is about a different month of the year.

#147. What is something you look forward to doing the most when you are an adult?

Use these prompts in your classroom!  Get the  ad-free printable version of these prompts  to inspire your students to write! Thank you for your support!

#148. Do you like to try new things? What is something new you have tried recently or would like to try?

#149. Imagine what it might be like to be alive in Egypt when the pyramids were built. Write about what it was like.

#150. A credo is a statement of personal beliefs. Try writing your own credo for things that you believe in and feel are important.

#151. The circus has come to town but they have no place to perform! How do you help the ringmaster find a place to put on a show?

circus lion

#152. Do you like to act? What are some of your favorite actors or actresses? What do you think makes someone a good actor or actress?

#153. “Practice makes perfect” is a popular saying. What is something you like to practice so you can become better at it? A sport? A musical instrument? A special skill? Do you like to practice?

#154. Write about what it might be like to be water drops freezing and turning into ice.

#155. Do you think it is important to keep your room clean? What do you like about having a clean room?

#156. Imagine your parents are sending you away for a two week summer camp trip. Would you be excited? Why or why not?

#157. What are you currently learning about in history class? Write a fictional story about someone from the past you are learning about.

#158. Many wars have been fought in the past. Instead of going to war, what do you think countries could do to resolve their differences peacefully?

#159. Every year over 8 billion plastic bottles and cans are thrown away. What are some things you can do to help encourage your family and friends to recycle?

#160. Imagine if you were the principal of the school. What might you do differently? What things would you do that are the same? Write about it!

#161. Pretend that one day you are at your neighbor’s house and you notice a strange noise coming from the basement. You go downstairs to investigate to see a large machine running with many lights and buttons. Why is it there?

#162. Write an essay that starts with the line, “Tomorrow, I hope…”

#163. If you could give one thing to every child in the world, what would you want to give them?

#164. Do you have a piggy bank at home? How do you earn money to add to your savings?

writing ideas for kids

#165. What qualities make a house a home? What are 3 things you think every house should have?

#166. Would you rather go scuba diving or rock climbing? Write about which one you think you would like to do more and why.

#167. Do you think it is a good idea for kids to write a daily journal? What are some of the benefits of writing every day?

#168. Do you like watching fireworks or are they too noisy? Write about a time when you saw fireworks in the sky.

#169. Oh no! Your friend has turned into a statue! How did this happen? What do you do? Does your friend ever turn back into a person again?

#170. If you could be any movie character, who would you be and why?

#171. A mysterious message appears in code on your computer screen. What could it mean?

#172. If you could go to work with one of your parents for a day, what do you think the day would be like? What types of things do your parents do at work all day long?

#173. Imagine you are the President and you are creating a new national holiday. What is your holiday about? How is it celebrated? What day of the year do you celebrate? Write about it!

#174. You won a never-ending lifetime supply of spaghetti noodles! What will you do with all of these noodles?

#175. Would you rather be a bunny rabbit or a hawk? Why did you choose the one you chose?

#176. Your teacher has been acting mysterious lately. After school one day, you notice a weird green light shining through underneath the door of your classroom. What do you do? What is happening with your teacher?

#177. Write an article about tips for how kids can be more organized and study well for tests.

#178. Look at any product in your house and read the ingredients labels. Research what each ingredient is. Do you think these ingredients are good or bad for people?

#179. If you were a doctor, what do you think would be the most important part of your job every day?

#180. The school librarian needs your help! A truck just arrived with 2,000 books and she can’t fit all the books onto the shelves! What do you do? How do you find a place to put all these books?

#181. Do you think it would be fun to plant a garden? What types of plants would you want to grow? Write about your garden ideas.

#182. What is a sport or activity you would like to try playing for the first time?

#183. Do you think kids should be allowed to do the same things as adults? What things do you think kids should be able to do that only grown-ups can?

#184. Imagine you and your parents switch places for a day. Your parents are the kids and you are now in charge! What would you do?

#185. Write a get-well letter to someone who has been sick. What can you say to make them feel better?

#186. If you could visit any planet in the solar system, which planet would you like to visit the most and why? Write about what it might be like.

#187. Have you ever been to a farm? What did you like about it? If you haven’t been to a farm, do you think you might like to visit one? Why or why not?

#188. The mayor of the city has a big problem and needs your help! What is the problem and how will you solve it?

#189. Pretend your little sister ate carrots for dinner and the next morning woke up with rabbit ears!  How did this happen? What do you do? Will she be a rabbit forever?

#190. Imagine you wake up in the morning to find out you get to relive any day of your life again for the whole day. What day would you want to experience again and why?

#191. Do you think you might like to be a firefighter? Why or why not?

fire fighter writing prompt

#192. You are a lawyer and your client has been accused of stealing a car. How do you convince the jury your client is innocent?

#193. Think of the four elements: fire, air, earth, and water. Which of these four elements do you like the best?

#194. What would you do if you could be invisible for a whole day? Do you think you would enjoy it or be glad to be back to normal the next day? Write about it!

#195. Imagine you are a meteorologist and people are starting to get angry that your weather predictions are always wrong. What do you do?

#196. If you could create any law, what would it be? Why do you think the law is an important one to have?

#197. You are going incognito and need to hide to your identity so you aren’t recognized or discovered while you walk through the city. What type of disguise do you wear?

#198. Write a persuasive letter to your parents explaining why you should get a new pet. Make sure you provide a convincing argument they won’t be able to refuse!

#199. Your friend wants to do something dangerous. What should you do?

#200. How do you think the world would be different if there were no oceans?

#201. What do you do when someone disagrees with your opinions? Is there a better way to handle conflicting opinions?

#202. What do you think you as a kid could do to help encourage more people to read?

#203. Do you have a good luck charm? What makes this item lucky? When do you use it? How do you use it?

#204. What is at the end of a rainbow? Imagine you follow a rainbow to the end. What do you discover? Is it a pot of gold, or something else?

Use these prompts in your classroom!  Get the  ad-free printable version of these prompts  to inspire your students to write! Thank you for your support!

#205. What do you think the consequences should be for someone who is caught cheating on a test at school?

#206. Imagine you are riding your bike one day when you encounter an older kid who wants to steal your bike. What do you do?

#207. You are the lead singer and star of a famous rock and roll band, but there is one problem – your drummer is jealous of your fame! How do you solve this situation?

#208. If you could help a group of kids in any part of the world, what kids would you want to help the most and why? What are some things you think would help these kids?

#209. Everyone knows the house on the end of the street is haunted. What are some of the strange things that happen there? Why is the house haunted?

#210. You notice at school one day there is a door to a secret passage next to the janitor’s closet and decide to explore. Where does it lead? Why is it there? Do you go alone or bring a friend along?

#211. A bucket list is a list of things you want to accomplish in your lifetime. What are 5 things on your bucket list?

#212. Imagine the perfect treehouse or clubhouse for you and all of your friends as a place to hang out. Describe what it is like inside.

#213. Do you get bored easily? Make a list of things you can do whenever you feel like you are bored and there is nothing fun to do!

#214. Now vs. Then: Think about how today is different from one year ago. How have you changed? What things in your life are different?

#215. Write your autobiography about your life.

#216. It’s a heat wave! What do you do when the weather is hot? What are some of your favorite ways to stay cool?

#217. What are three important safety tips every kid should know to stay safe?

#218. What genre of books do you like to read the most? Write about the characteristics of the genre and list some of your favorite books as examples.

#219. Holiday Traditions: How does your family celebrate the different holidays and events? What are some traditions you do each and every year?

#220. Imagine one day in science class a science experiment goes terribly wrong and now you and all of your classmates have superpowers! What are your superpowers and what do you do with them?

superheroes writing prompts for kids

#221. Who is favorite teacher? Why are they your favorite?

#222. You are baking a cake, but you accidentally put salt in the cake instead of sugar. Nobody will eat it! How do you feel? What will you do next time?

#223. Do you think it is important to have good table manners? What do you think some good manners to practice might be?

#224. Many schools no longer teach cursive handwriting. Do you think this is a good or bad thing? Do you know how to write cursive handwriting? Would you like to learn if you haven’t?

#225. If you were the owner of a theme park, what types of rides and attractions would have? Describe what they would be like and why people would want to visit your park.

#226. Your parents give you $100 to spend at the grocery store. What do you buy and why?

#227. Some people who are alive today grew up without computers or video games. What would you do if you didn’t have a computer or video games? How would life be different?

#228. You walk into your living room and discover there is a giant elephant standing there. How did the elephant get there? What do you do about it? How do you explain the elephant in the living room to your parents?

#229. Have you ever had a weird dream? What happened in the dream? What do you think it means?

#230. Do you like to draw or paint? Write a story inspired by a painting, doodle, or sketch.

#231. You are being sent on a mission to outer space to live in a space station for 5 years. What supplies do you pack and why?

#232. What is the scariest creature alive on earth? Describe in detail what makes it so horrifying.

#233. What do you think your pet might say if they could talk to you?

#234. Imagine your school is putting on a talent show. What act will you perform? What other acts will be in the show?

#235. If you could breathe under water, what would you do?

#236. What time of day do you think school should start? Write a convincing argument on why or why not the time of day school starts should change.

#237. If you were to start your own YouTube video channel, what would the videos on your channel be about?

#238. Do you like to cook? What are some things you like to make and eat?

#239. Your school is having a field day and you are in charge of planning the activities and games. What types of activities and games would you plan for the event?

#240. If you had a remote control drone that takes video of everything it sees from the sky and you could take it anywhere, what would you film? For example, the inside of a volcano or soar it over the plains of Africa.

#241. The Bermuda Triangle is an area of the ocean where many ships and planes have gone missing. Why do you think this could be? Write a story about what it might be like to travel there.

#242. There are 7 great wonders of the world – which one do you think is the most wonderful?

#243. If you could speak any foreign language fluently, which one would you like to speak and why?

#244. You are inventing a new flavor of ice cream! What is the new flavor called and what ingredients do you need to make it?

#245. Would you rather go to a baseball game or read a good book? What reasons do you have for your choice?

#246. You walk outside to get your mail and your mailbox starts talking to you! What does your mailbox have to say?

#247. Imagine you are a famous person. What are you most famous for? What is it like to be famous?

#248. What do you think would be the most fun job in the world to have? Give examples of why you think it would be a fun job to have.

#249. Write a poem about an object that is shiny and dazzling.

#250. Do you like to watch the Olympics? Why or why not? If yes, what is your favorite Olympic sport?

#251. What kind of car do you want to drive when you are older? Do you think learning to drive will be easy or hard?

#252. What do you think would make for a great gift to give someone on their birthday?

#253. Describe a time when you needed help and someone helped you. What did they help you with and how did it make you feel?

#254. If you could be any type of fruit or vegetable, what would you be and why?

Love these prompts?  Get the  ad-free printable version of these prompts  to use at home or in the classroom!

#255. Do you think it is more important to have a good imagination or have all the facts proven?

#256. Do you have a favorite aunt, uncle, or another relative? Write a story about their life and why you like to be with them.

#257. Think of a time you laughed really, really hard. What was so funny? Why were you laughing? Write about it!

#258. Write a poem about an emotion. For example: happy, sad, angry, embarrassed, guilty.

#259. Do you ever have a hard time falling asleep? What are some things that help you feel sleepy?

#260. If you could drive a car, where would you drive and why?

#261. Imagine you are trading places with your friend for a day. What will it be like to be at their house? What will your friend think while they are at your house? Write about it!

#262. If you could break a world record, what would it be? What do you think would be necessary to be able to break the world record?

#263. Imagine you live in Colonial times. What would it be like to grow up as a kid in Colonial America?

#264. You are building a new city. What is the name of your city? What is the weather like? What buildings will you build?

#265. What do you think it would be like to work as a sailor on big ship in the ocean each day?

ocean writing prompt

#266. Imagine you are the teacher for the day. What types of activities do you make the students in the class do?

#267. How would you feel if your parents told you that you would be getting a new baby brother or sister? Write about it!

#268. Do you know any good jokes? What are some of your favorite jokes? What makes them funny? Do you think you could write your own?

#269. Imagine you are floating down a river on a raft. What types of things can you see from the river that you normally wouldn’t see from the land?

#270. You want to start a new hobby collecting something. What kinds of things would you collect and why?

#271. Your mom announces she is having a yard sale. Would you let her sell any of your things? Why or why not?

#272. Imagine you walk out your front door one morning and it is raining popcorn! What do you do?

#273.  You are camping in the woods one night and hear a scary noise. What do you do? What might be the cause?

#274. What do you think might make kids really happy to go to school? What are some things you think schools should do so that it could be more fun?

#275. Today’s lunch at the cafeteria was unusually horrible. You are a detective on the case to investigate. What do you think is the cause?

#276. If you had a tree that grows money, what would you do?

#277. What would you do if you had a unicorn as a pet?

#278. Would you rather go to the zoo or go to the aviary? Which one would you pick and why?

#279. What are some safety tips you should follow when riding a bike?

#280. You are designing the cover of a magazine. What are some of the headlines on the cover?

#281. Are you afraid of the dark? Why or why not?

#282. If you could learn to play any type of musical instrument, which one would you like to learn how to play and why?

#283. Imagine you are playing a sport that involves a ball, such as soccer, baseball or kickball. What would it be like if the ball could talk?

#284. You come home to discover a friendly alien has been living in your closet. What do you do? Why is there an alien in your closet?

#285. Is there something you are afraid of that you wish you weren’t afraid of? Write about it.

#286. Write about the best party you’ve ever been to. What made the day fun and special?

#287. What makes you feel loved and cared about? What are some ways people can show you that they love and care about you?

#288. There is a kite flying competition coming up and you are going to design your own kite. What will your kite look like? What colors will it be? Will it have any certain shape?

#289. You are given the challenge to drop an egg on the floor – without it breaking! What are some things you might try to make sure the egg won’t break?

#290. What are some of the things you can do every day to stay healthy?

#291. Do you think grown-ups are boring? Why do you think they are so boring all of the time? What is something fun that boring grown-ups could do instead of being so boring?

#292. Write a lyrical poem or song about what kids do while they are at school all day long.

#293. What are the first things you like to do when you are done with school each day? What are some of the activities you like when you are not at school?

#294. Imagine dinosaurs were still alive today. How do you think our lives would be different?

#295. Would you rather visit a volcano or a desert? Which one would you choose and why?

#296. Is there a sound you think is annoying? What types of sounds drive you crazy? Write about them!

#297. What do you think it would be like to be the size of an ant for a day? What types of things would you do?

Writing Prompt: What would it be like if your teddy bear came to life?

#298. Imagine one of your stuffed animals comes to life and starts talking to you. What types of things will you talk about? What will you do?

#299. What makes you feel happiest? Write about the things in life that make you feel happy!

#300. Imagine there is no gravity. What kind of things would you do you for fun? How would some of the things you already do for fun be different?

Buy the Printable Cards!  We will always have this list of 300 kids writing prompts available for free, but I’m very excited to now also offer an  ad-free printable version of these prompts  in my online Etsy shop. Thank you for your support!

Parents and teachers, I hope you enjoyed these 300 writing prompts for kids and that you will use them to inspire your children’s creative imaginations.

These prompts of course can be used in a number of different ways and can be adapted for a variety of different styles of writing !

What do you think? Do you think these are good conversation and story starters for kids? Do you have any ideas for writing prompts you would like to share?

And of course, if you’d like to make it super fun and easy to use these prompts at home or in your classroom, be sure to get our ad-free printable version of these kids writing prompt cards now available in my Etsy shop.

We’d love to hear your thoughts on different creative writing ideas and topics for kids to write about! Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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Chelle Stein wrote her first embarrassingly bad novel at the age of 14 and hasn't stopped writing since. As the founder of ThinkWritten, she enjoys encouraging writers and creatives of all types.

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48 comments.

These are awesome! I feel like answering the questions myself! Thanks a million!

Thanks! Glad you enjoyed them! 🙂

Lovely and amazing help

I wrote all 300! but my fingers hurt badly now. :l But i got to admit these are exellent questions!

Hi. Thanks for this list. So many great ideas. I will definitely use some of them for my Language Arts class.

hi people THIS WAS SO LONG but so worth it for my class thx mate

This was great for homework

Thank you for the topics. It was really helpful

Your writing prompts are awesome

These are amazing! Thank you so much for sharing. I will definitely be using it with my kids.

Thank you! I hope they enjoy the writing prompts!

I love these, they are awesome and very helpful too. Thank you very much.

these questions hooked me on easily thanks your the best!

They are all good prompts

This is always good and improves the brain.

These are very useful and very enjoyable topics, i enjoy by giving these to my students , their creations are marvelous

It’s was very long but worth it

This is good. I love it. It helps me in my studies. I share it with my friends children that likes the writing. We love it. Please, think of another writing.

Thanks! Worth printing and providing for my middle school students as a first week of the year activity. Must have taken you ages to come up with all 300 of these!

I’m glad to hear you can use them for your students! It did take some time, but it’s well worth it knowing it might inspire kids to write! 🙂

You need a printable version of this!!

Hi Katelyn, we have one! https://gumroad.com/UBnsO Hope you enjoy!

The link doesn’t seem to be working for me… Could you send me a copy of the list, please?

Hi Tori, the printable version of this post is available as an ad-free paid upgrade – you can purchase it through my Gumroad store: https://gum.co/UBnsO

I quite liked your ideas, I’ll try a few, surely!

How long did it take for you guys to make 300 ideas?

Definitely took some time Vilenti, but it was definitely worth writing all of them! Our prompts reach over a million people a year and are used in literacy, poverty, and mental health programs worldwide. 🙂

These were awesome, thanks a TON

i have school work and this is one thing i do.

i do this for school work to

i do this for school work

Hello Chelle, thanks a lot for this. During these tough Covid times, I find your list to be a great idea to engage kids. Have got them started on some today. Hopefully this will be a long term engagement for them.

The prompts are grrrreat

This was really helpful i have looked for a lot of these, that have a lot of topics and only found one other good one and finished it all, i got to 17 and was like are they all this good! And they all are so thanks!

Glad you enjoyed them!

These are awesome

These are amazing! Thank you so much for sharing.

I loved looking at these prompts!! They were very helpful. I am loving writing and supporting my claims with these prompts. You should post more ideas!! Thanks for sharing the prompts.

Do you have any more?

This really was think written

I’d like to use a few of your questions in a journal for adults that I am creating for sale. I will absolutely credit you at the beginning of the book. Is that okay with you or not? I don’t want to infringe on any copyright laws. I think I used about ten of them.

Hi Kristen, you cannot use these prompts for products for sale, that would definitely be an infringement on copyright. These prompts can only be used for non-commercial use.

this is the greatest app ever

I like all the questions

thank you for all the ideas they are so good

OMG These are all very good and many questions i like all these Thankyou soooooooooooo much for these

I’m in class doing this and it is so fun yes every body is doing this

I LOVE these! My daughter and I stumbled across a post full of fun writing prompts on another website but they were more geared for adults. This list is HUGE and perfect for us to tackle together. Thank you! ❤️

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52 Creative Writing Prompts for Kids to Let Their Imagination Fly

  • November 9, 2022

Creative writing has many benefits for kids. They learn to appreciate how stories work, they hear the wonderful way sounds can match with rhymes, and their love of reading grows as they become writers. Some children may be so inspired that they dream of being authors when they grow up! Creative writing helps children develop :

  • Imagination and creativity
  • Self-expression
  • Self-confidence
  • Communication and persuasion skills

Also, it’s just plain fun!

What exactly is creative writing? It’s writing where you can just let your imagination fly. Your child can make up a story, a poem, or a song to explore their feelings or to simply tell a good story.

Here are 52 of the best creative and fiction writing prompts for children. These creative writing prompts are one way to help your child dream up something new every time they pick up a pencil. Encourage your child to write the story they would want to read.

52 of the Best Fiction Writing Prompts for Kids

Your children can use these ideas as creative inspiration as they practice writing words and sentences. PreK and early elementary-aged children who haven’t learned to write yet might enjoy drawing pictures to tell their stories, or they could tell a story out loud to their family.

Creative Writing Prompts for PreK Children

1. Young readers can use these Rusty and Rosy printable coloring pages to create their own stories by filling in the blanks.

creative writing topics for preschoolers

2. Use this sentence starter activity as a prompt for beginning writers to craft their own sentences.

3. Imagine it snowed overnight. How would you spend the next day having fun in the snow?

4. Write a poem about your family. What are some words to describe your loved ones?

5. You wake up with the ability to talk to animals. What do the birds outside your window have to say?

6. There’s a dolphin in your bathtub. How did it get there and how will you get it back home to the ocean?

7. You’re president for a day. What do you do?

8. You’re a veterinarian for a dragon who has a sore throat. How will you help them?

Creative Writing Prompts For Elementary-Aged Children

9. Suddenly you’re nocturnal and stay awake all night long. What happens late at night that’s different from daytime?

10. Write a superhero story where the villain wants to become good. How do they convince the superheroes to trust them?

11. It’s the first day of school for robots. What do you learn at robot school?

12. You get to make a new national holiday. What is it about and how do you celebrate?

13. You get $100 but you have to spend it by the end of the day. What do you do with it?

14. You are an inventor whose job is to create the best toys. What will you make?

15. Suddenly ducks don’t like you. They quack at you and chase you away at the park. How do you get them to like you again?

16. Oh, no! Suddenly ducks love you and won’t leave you alone! How do you get them to let you be?

creative writing topics for preschoolers

17. You go back in time and meet your parents when they were your age. What do you tell them?

18. You’ve just won the world championship. What did you win it in? Describe the competition.

19. You’re the world’s greatest detective. Describe your favorite unusual case. Did you solve it or is it still a mystery?

20. Write a story about a superhero who loses their powers but still has to find a way to be a hero.

21. You trade places with your parents for a day. What would you do?

22. Rewrite the ending of your favorite book. Will it be happy or sad?

23. One morning, the world doesn’t have electricity any more. What are your days like now?

24. Space aliens land and it’s your lucky job to show them around. Where will you take them?

25. The chicken finally tells you why it crossed the road. What is the secret?

26. You’re the mayor. What will you do to make your community better?

27. Tonight you cook dinner for your family. What interesting food is on the menu that will surprise them?

28. You wake up stuck in the last movie you watched. What is it, and what do you do?

29. Write about the best magic trick you can imagine.

student

31. Write a letter to your favorite author telling them what you like about their books! Use this free printable template .

32. There’s a light switch in your home but nobody knows what it’s for. One day, you discover the secret. What does it light up?

33. You have a pet dinosaur. What’s your dinosaur’s name? What’s your day together like?

34. You can fly like a bird. What kind of fun would you have soaring in the clouds?

35. Describe yourself with rhyming words!

36. Your family takes a big road trip that goes wrong in the funniest way possible. What happens?

37. You discover an island no one has ever seen before. Describe what it’s like.

38. Rewrite the ending of your favorite movie the way you want it to be.

39. You show up to the first day of school and discover that your new teacher is a wizard or a witch. What will they teach in class?

40. You find a mysterious treasure map. How would you start your treasure hunt?

41. You’re a paleontologist and find a new type of dinosaur. What did it look like, and what did it do back in the past?

42. Your favorite superhero needs your help! What can you do to save the day?

43. You’re the world’s youngest astronaut and get to fly to the moon. Describe your space trip.

creative writing topics for preschoolers

45. One night, you discover that garden gnomes come to life until the sun rises. What fun do they have all night long?

46. Practice writing letters with this printout . Imagine you’re living on a moon base. Write a letter to your cousin on Earth describing how things are going.

47. You get to go shopping at a magical grocery store with your family. What special treats would you buy?

48. You have a magic wand. What spells will you cast?

49. What does your shadow do when you’re not around?

50. You can have the powers of any animal in the world. What animal is it? What would your powers be?

51. Write a journal entry from the point of view of a time traveler who visits 100 years into the future. What surprises them in that different world?

52. You get to spend the night in a museum. What kind of museum? How will you have fun?

Creative writing is just one kind of writing exercise. You can also find a great list of journal prompts for kids , one for each week of the year, to help kids practice writing while learning to express their ideas and opinions.

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Hundreds of Awesome Creative Writing Topics for kids

Creative writing is a great way for children to express themselves using imagination. At Kids Play and Create, we value young writers, and we are constantly updating our list to bring you new, fun, and imaginative writing prompts for kids.

We have story starters, icebreakers, fiction writing prompts, and fun topics to inspire kids through writing. From young students to middle school students and even high school, we have great writing prompts for all writing styles and even the most reluctant writers.

We started out with 50 creative writing topics for kids but have added many more. Check back regularly for newly added writing topics. 

                Check the end of the article for updated Creative Writing Topics for Teens. Are you looking for Creative Writing topics for 1st grade and 2nd grade with free printables? We have that too!

Creative Writing prompts for kids

What is Creative Writing?

Creative writing can be used to explain many types of writing. It is a writing style that lets the writer express themselves.  Some forms of creative writing entertain the reader, while others are therapeutic.  Creative writing lets the writer use their imagination and takes the reader on a journey into their thoughts.

Is Creative Writing Important?

Creative writing is a great way to learn more about the children you work with.  You can find out things about what they like and don’t like.  Depending on the topic you choose, you can also find out things about their personality, what kind of friends they are, how they feel about themselves, and if they set goals and more.  

There are many benefits to writing. Creative writing helps build critical thinking skills and writing skills. These writing prompts will build a child’s confidence to write their own stories.

How do you get kids to want to write without complaining?  Give them fun topics that they will learn about themselves while writing.  On this list, you will find various good topics for both younger and older children.

Creative Writing is fun for All Ages.

Creative writing isn’t just for older children. It can be for the little ones too. Young students as early as Preschool or Kindergarten may not have the ability to write but can express themselves through drawing.

Have young students concentrate less on the writing and more on drawing a picture that goes with the topic. Children are great at expressing themselves through art.

hundreds of writing prompts for kids

Awesome Creative Writing Prompts for Elementary Students

1. Have the children write on top of the page:  I Am Special Because… This is a good topic to help children express themselves.

Have the children think about why they are special and ask themselves questions, here are some examples: what am I good at? Who have they helped? How have I made a difference? What special talent do I have?

2. If I was a superhero, what kind of superhero would I be, and what powers would I have? (This can also be done using villains)

 Examples of powers they can write about: are flying, super speed, eye lasers, walking through walls, shooting ice, shooting fire, changing the weather, camouflage, shapeshifting (changing shape), and turning invisible. 

Activity:  Keep track of who chose a superhero or a villain. Do not let the children know that another activity will follow after the writing activity. When the writing activity is over, split the children into two teams, the superhero team and the villain team.  Have them vs. each other in a game of tag.  Who will champion the superheroes or the villains? 

3. What do I want to be when I grow up and why? This a great way to get to know children.  By asking what they want to be when they grow up, you can find out what the children like.  It’s also a great way for children to start thinking about the future.

4. If you were given three wishes, what would they be and why? This is a fun topic.  Children can think about having anything in the world.  Will they pick something like peace on earth or go the million-dollar route?  

5. If I could invent a new animal, what animal would it be?  Have the children ask themselves the following questions: What does the animal look like (what color, is it big or small, is it a combination of two animals)?  What sounds does the animal make?  What does it eat?  Where does it live?  Describe the animal’s habitat.

Creative Writing Topics for kids

Creative Writing Topics for Kids

6. If I could invent a new toy, what kind of toy would I create and why? Or, If I could improve a toy, which toy would I improve, and how would I make it better?  You can talk to the children about the creative process:  First, you come up with an idea, then you have to get it made.  You can talk to the children about manufacturing toys.  Here are some questions you can ask the children about improving a toy.  How do you want to make the toy better?  Do you want to make the remote control car faster?  Is the game challenging enough?  Do you want your doll to have more features or do more?  These are all questions you can ask the children to get their brains thinking.

7. If I could make something disappear in my life, what would it be and why? Ask the children if there is something in your life that makes them unhappy.  Is there a problem you are having?  

8. All About me essay. Some sample questions the children can ask are:  What are my likes and dislikes? What is my favorite subject in school? What do I want to be when I group up?  Who is their favorite actress/actor?  Where do they want to visit? They can name the people in their family, talk about any extracurricular activities they do, etc.

In what ways do I help my family? Have children write about the ways they help their families.  Do you have chores?  If so, what are they?  Do you help your mom or dad cook?  Do you talk out the garbage? Do you take care of your siblings?  Do you have a job to help pay bills?  

10. How can I be a better friend?  Have children think about what type of friends they are.  Are they good listeners?  Are you kind?  Do you talk about your friends to other people?  Have them think about how they would like to be treated by a friend, do they treat their friends the way they want to be treated?

The Best Creative Writing Topics for 4th and 5th grade

11. If you could be invisible, what would you do and why? Have the children think about what it would be like to be invisible.  Would they use this new power for good or would they try to do something bad?

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12. What do you think about bullies and why? Have the children define what a bully is to them in their paper.  Do they think they are a bully?  Do they think bullying is wrong?  Remember, these are things the children are feeling, there are no wrong answers.

13. Why is it important to be honest and not lie?  To them, the children with their writing ask them the following questions. What does it mean to be honest?  Have you ever told a lie that turned into another lie?

14. What would you do if you won a million dollars?  This question is usually a favorite topic with the children.  Ask them if they think one million dollars is a lot of money.  Depending on where you live, it might be just enough to buy a small house and a car.  What are some things you would buy?  Would you save some or spend it all?

15. If you could change the world, what would you do and why? This is a good question for older children.  Would they change things, such as ending hate and violence in the world? Would they change things such as making gas or food free for everyone? You will get various answers, making this a fun and interesting topic.

Little Boy Writing

Fun Writing Prompts Ideas

16. If you were a king/queen, what would you do and why? This is a fun topic for both younger and older children.  Activity: Have the children draw their kingdom and a picture of them as king or queen

17. If you could invent a video game, what kind of game would you create and why? This topic is also great for older children and young er children.  Children love playing video games, they may not realize that they can make video games for a living.  Talk to the children about video game developers and the process of creating video games.  Have them brainstorm ideas for games, and find out what they can come up with.

18. Write about a time when you had to be brave, what did you do, and how did it feel?  Ask the children if they have ever been afraid. What were they afraid of? Did something scary happen to them?  What did they do to get through it?

19. Write about a trip to the moon, how did you get there, what did you see, it was fun or scary?

20. Write about something you are good at?

21. Write about one thing you want to learn about?

22. Write about a time when you worked hard to get something. This can be a thing or an accomplishment, like making a team, finally getting that cartwheel, or passing a test.

23. Write about five things you could be better at if you worked hard and gave more effort.  There is always room for improvement.  Talk to the children about the importance of trying hard and working towards a goal.

24. If you had to give away $1,000, what would you do with it, who would you give it to? This is a great question when talking to children about being kind and helping others.  

Journal Prompts or Kids

25. What is the best thing someone has ever given to you?

26. What is the nicest thing someone has ever done for you?

27. Write about what you can teach others. Everyone is good at something.  This question helps children think about what they’re good at and how they can help others.

28. Did you ever get into an argument with a friend or family member? How did that make you feel?  

29. Did you ever hurt someone’s feelings?  Explain what happened and how it made you feel.  

30. Did someone ever hurt your feelings? How did it make you feel? Did you talk to that person about it?

31. Is there anyone you would like to switch places with? who and why?

32. What does it mean to be loyal?

33. When was a time you were loyal to a friend or a friend who was loyal to you?

34. What famous person would you like to meet? Write about a day spent with a famous person.

Self-Esteem Writing Topics

34. Has a friend ever betrayed you? How did it make you feel? What do you think your friend should have done differently?

35. Have you ever been friends with someone who was unpopular or not part of the group?  This is a great question to ask children when teaching them about acceptance and how it feels not to be part of a group.

36. When was a time you felt you were treated unfairly? How did it make you feel?

37. Is it fair to give someone a head start in a race?  When is it fair? When is it not fair?

38. Write about a time when you had a strong opinion about something? Why did you feel so strongly about it?

39. Write about a time you made a big mistake.  How did you fix it?  Everyone makes mistakes.  This writing topic helps children understand that mistakes are part of the learning experience.

40. Write about a time when you were very angry.  What happened? How did being angry make you feel? I find that many times children will feel sad when they are angry.  Did I make a good choice when I was angry? This is a great writing topic when discussing feelings with children.  It is important for them to understand that anger isn’t wrong, and you are allowed to feel angry.

41. If you heard a rumor about a friend you knew wasn’t true, what would you do? How would it make you feel?

42. Write about a time when you cheered someone up. What did you do? How did it make you feel? How did it make that person feel?

43. Write about a time you used your inner strength to get through a tough situation.

44. Write about three things that are hard for you and why.

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45. When was the last time you were afraid? What scared you? How did you react?

46. What is the bravest thing you’ve ever done?

47. Who is your hero, and why?

48. What do you think risk-taking is?  Have you ever taken a risk?

49. Write about your best friend. Who are they, how long have you known them, and why are they your best friend?

50. What does it mean to have good character? Do you think you have good character, why?

Short Story Writing Topics for Kids

51. Think about something you are not allowed to do but wish you could.  Write about why you want to do it and why you should be allowed to do it.

52. If you could be on a t.v show, which one would it be and why?  

53. If you had to choose to be one age for the rest of your life which age would you want to be?  Why?

54.  If you could pick the perfect job, what would it be?

55. You just found a treasure map, write about what you would do next.  Do you decide to look for the treasure?  Who is going to help you?  What supplies do you need? Did the map lead you to the treasure, or was it fake?  If you found the treasure, what was it?  What did you do with it?

56. You just built a time machine.  Where in time would you go?  What did you do?  What did you see?  Would you want to stay there or come back to the present time?

57.  You just discovered a new land.  What are you going to call your land?  What kind of animals live there?  Have you discovered anything on your land?  What are you going to build on your new land?

58. Challenge the kids to write a scary story.

59. If you are working with younger children, instead of having them write, you can have them draw and answer questions about their drawing.  Try some of these topics.

1  Create a monster.  Your monster can be silly, scary, funny, big, little, colorful, etc..  What is your monster’s name?  What does your monster eat?  Where does your monster live?  Is your monster nice or mean?  You can write the answers to the questions on the paper for the child or have them come up and share their drawing, while they are showing their picture, ask them questions about their monster.

2.  Create an animal.  This is the same as the monster but just an animal instead.

3. Create new food. What kind of food is it?  Is it a dessert, is it something spicy, is it a combination of both?  Have the children draw a picture of their new food.

Group Writing Prompts for kids

Group Writing Prompts for Kids

I’ve been working with kids on group writing and art projects.  The kids enjoyed these topics the best.

58. Create a fairy tale. have each group member write one part of the story. Then have each member of the group draw one part of the story. When the children are finished writing, have them come up in front of the class and retell their story.   

59.  Create an amusement park.  Discuss as a group the name of the park.  Have each member of the group write about the parts of the park. 

A. What is the theme of your park?  Adventure, thrill rides, water rides, safari, etc.

B.  Write about the type of rides in the park.  Are there shows in the park?

C. Describe places to eat at the park and what type of food they serve.

D. Do they have a gift shop?  What do they sell at your park?

Art Project:  On a large poster board, have each group member draw a park map.  List of attractions, games, food, restrooms, gift shops, shows, etc..

 60. Create a planet – Your group has just discovered a new planet.  Have a group discussion about the planet.  What is the name?  Do anyone live on the planet? Is there water on the planet? Did you find fossils, aliens, or animals?  Is there oxygen? Are there plants, trees, or water?  Have each member of the group write something about the planet.

Art Project: Make a planet out of paper mache.  Once dry, paint, and decorate the planet.

Newly Added Creative Writing Prompts

61. Create a new food/or meal and make a recipe to teach others how to make it.  Have the kids draw a picture of the new food/meal.

62. Create a new game and describe how to play.  This writing topic lets children use their imaginations.  Have the children draw out the game on paper.  If creating a  board game, have the children turn the paper into a board game.

63. Write about a time you lost a game, didn’t do well on a test, or made a mistake, what lesson did you learn? This is a great writing topic to use when teaching children about losing.  Everyone loses sometimes.  losing actually makes you better.  Without losing, sometimes, you won’t strive to become better.

64.  Your video just went viral on Youtube.  What did you do in your video? These days children spend so much time looking at videos on Youtube.  Have them imagine what it would be like to become famous overnight with a viral video.

Fabulous Creative Writing Prompts for Kids

65.  Pretend you had an evil twin.  Write about some things your evil twin does.

66. What is the grossest lunch you have ever been served?  Write about this gross meal.  Remember to add many details about what the food looked and tasted like.

67. What is your sorcerer’s name?  What kind of sorcerer would you be?  Would you be evil or nice?  What kind of powers would you have?  What is something that you did as a sorcerer?

68. What are your personal superpowers?  Are you a great friend, are you smart, do you have a hidden talent?  Write about the superpowers that you already have.

See also   Black History Month Writing Prompts for Students .

69. Write about a time when you were proud of your work and did your best.  How did that make you feel?  Do you always try your best?  Why or why not

70. You have been working hard on your schoolwork/project all for a while, and your mind and body are tired, and you need a break.  What are some ways that you like to take a break?  Do you like to color, take deep breaths, play your favorite game, nap, or have a snack?  Tell us about how you like to take a break.

  • Invent a new holiday. What would you call your holiday? When is it celebrated? How is it celebrated?
  • You became a movie star overnight, what movie were you in? What character did you play?
  • Write about your favorite sport. Why is it your favorite? Give directions on how to play.
  • What is your favorite thing? Describe it and tell why it is your favorite.
  • Who is your favorite teacher? Explain why they are your favorite.

Creative Writing Topics for teens

The Best Creative Writing Prompts and Topics for Teens

  • Have you ever seen somebody being treated unfairly?  If so, did you do anything about it, or did you ignore it and walk away?
  • Do you talk to people the same way in person as you do on social media?
  • How do you think social media has changed or is changing the world?
  • What kind of America do you want to live in?
  • What are your plans after high school?
  • What do you think college life is like?
  • Do you think it is important to save money at your age?  If so, how do you save money?  Why do you think it is important?
  •  Do you know what it means to have good credit?  Do you think it is important to have good credit?  Why?
  • Would you ever join the military?  Why?
  • Who is your idol, and why?
  • What is your favorite childhood memory?

New Creative Writing Prompts for Middle School and High School Students

  • If you could take a trip anywhere in the world, where would you go?
  • Write about something you would love to try and why
  • Write about something you did but then felt guilty about it later.  How did you handle the situation?
  • What is the hardest experience you have ever been through?  How did you handle it?
  • Have you ever been to a job interview?  Where are you prepared?  Did you get the job? Would you say something different if you could do it over? Would you be better prepared next time?
  • How do you think the world will be 50 years from now? How do you think people will treat each other?  How do you think the internet/social media has changed the world?  What kind of cars do you think we will be driving?  Will we still be using gas?
  • Write about your dream home.  Would you live in a house or an apartment in the city?  Do you want a big house or something small?  What kind of fun features would your dream home have?
  • If you were a parent, would you let your child have a social media account?  Why or why not?
  • Would you rather work in a team on a project or alone?
  • Write about your favorite song, why is it your favorite?  What is your favorite verse?  How do you feel when listening to it?
  • If you were a clothing designer, what kind of clothes would you design?
  • You have to spend one year stranded on a deserted island, you can bring five things or people with you, what do you bring?
  • You are a superhero, you have to use your powers to make a positive change in the world.  What powers do you have?
  • You are given the power to change one thing you don’t like about yourself, would you change anything?  If yes, what would you change and why?
  • Write about your future self. What is your life like?

Updated Creative Writing Topics for Middle School and High School

  • You are creating a new amusement park.  What kind of park would it be?  What kind of rides does it have?
  • Write about the best Christmas gift you have ever received. Explain what it was, why it was your favorite, who gave it to you, do you still have it.  
  • You were given 1 million dollars, but you must give it away.  Who would you give it to?  would you give it to one person or a couple of different people?  Would you donate it to an organization? 
  • Name 5 of the most important things in your life ( house, family, health, etc..); now you just lost all of them.  How would you feel, what would you do?
  • You just became a YouTube sensation.  What did you do that made you famous?  How does it feel to be recognized by people on the street?
  • A friend of yours has been depressed and said that they told you they don’t want to live anymore.  What do you do and why?
  • How would people describe you and why?
  • Do you think that violent video games make people violent?  Do you think there should be age restrictions on video games?
  • You have a choice of giving up social media or hanging out with your friends for a week, which one do you choose and why?
  • Do you think what you learn in school can help you in the real world?  What topics do you think you should be learning and why?

The Best Creative Writing Prompts for Teens Continued 

  • Do you think that money can buy happiness, why or why not?
  • Do you think you need higher education to become successful?
  • How important is your cell phone with you? I rather give up….blank…. than my cell phone (explain).
  •  Describe the perfect day. What would you do?
  • Have you ever been faced with discrimination?  Were you the one being discriminated against, or were you a witness to discrimination, How did you feel?
  • If you were given the opportunity to meet anyone in the world, living or dead, who would you want to meet and why?
  • Why do you think we pay taxes?  Do you believe taxes are necessary?  What do you think our tax money is used for?

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Fantastic Fun & Learning

Fun learning activities and things to do with kids

Preschool and Kindergarten Writing Prompts for Kids

Teaching writing to young kids can be a little intimidating at first. Once kids know the basics of sounding out words and can begin to put together simple sentences, we can help them practice writing by providing creative writing ideas and giving them ample time to engage in free writing.  Without a doubt the best way to help young children develop writing skills is to have regular exposure to engaging creative writing activities. If kids have writing tools available and write regularly they will naturally experiment with print making and beginning writing.

There is also a difference between learning to write letters (handwriting) and learning to write. Letter formation and handwriting develop as part of phonics instruction and fine motor skill development .  Learning to write has more to do with learning to share ideas in pictures and words, Children learn writing skills through freewriting, writers workshop, and instruction in the writing process.

To help children learn to write and share ideas we recommend providing various opportunities for writing practice. Try things like:

  • Modeled writing where you as an adult write and think aloud as you share what you are writing with input from students
  • Shared writing where adults assist in recording information and invite children to share the writing tool as they add information (pictures, letters, or words)
  • A lot of unstructured, independent free writing through pretend play opportunities and informal writing that students choose
  • Authentic writing activities like making cards, writing letters, making shopping lists, etc
  • Ideas for writing journal prompts that are part of a weekly or daily writing routine

Another helpful resource is this article from Days with Grey about helping preschoolers develop early writing skills.

WHAT ARE WRITING PROMPTS?

Let’s take a closer look at the concept of writing journal prompts. Writing journal prompts are questions or topics that give kids an idea to write about. They can be on a  wide variety of topics, and they often include different types of writing. Writing prompt ideas should include opportunities to experiment with narrative, expository, and argumentative (opinion) writing. They can also be descriptive writing that helps a child expand on stories and thoughts. 

It is helpful if writing prompts are broad enough and related to a topic of interest that allows kids to easily respond and come up with ideas to write about.

Writing prompts for kids-Tips for using writing prompts with beginning writers

BENEFITS OF USING REGULAR WRITING PROMPTS

While some kids are naturally inclined to write often on their own, others are not as drawn to regular writing activities. This is where variouus writing lessons can come into play. By incorporating creative writing prompts into your daily or weekly routine, kids will get the chance to do meaningful writing more regularly. This can help develop confidence in their writing abilities and lead them to want to write more on their own.

Writing prompts also expose kids to a wide variety of topics to write about. Journal writing can be an excellent way to discuss new vocabulary and encourage kids to then use vivid word choices in their writing. The more that they practice writing, the more comfortable they will get. 

By using writing prompts you can also get kids participating in different types of writing . In our writing journal prompts we’ve included informational non-fiction (expository) writing prompts, narrative writing prompts, and persuasive (argumentative) writing prompts. Throughout each set kids will have the chance to write factual or procedural responses, tell or make up their own stories, and share their own opinions on various topics.

Writing sentences helps with the fluency of spelling, punctuation, thinking skills, and imaginary writing strategies as well. 

VIDEO GUIDE 

This training video includes:

  • Helpful tips for strengthening fine motor skills needed for handwriting
  • A quick introduction to the stages of writing development
  • Meaningful ways to provide beginning writers with engaging opportunities to write
  • Tips for beginning writing workshop and using writing prompts in preschool and kindergarten

TIPS FOR USING THE WRITING JOURNALS

Be mindful of your students’ stages of writing and be sure that the approach you use is developmentally appropriate for their needs.

For younger preschoolers modeled writing or shared writing are terrific ways to start using writing journal prompts. Start by sharing the writing prompt. Discuss the prompt with kids and help brainstorm some possible responses. Then model drawing a detailed picture to go along with the prompt on chart paper or dry erase board. As kids are ready use the unlined writing prompt pages and have kids draw their own pictures to respond to the prompts. Later in previous writing sessions as kids are ready move on to labeling the items in the picture or writing a sentence on your modeled writing.

If you have kids with a wide range of writing abilities, remember that writing instruction can be done in small groups to allow for more differentiation.  You might do a whole group modeled writing on a topic. Then in small groups work with kids at their level. Pre-writers can use the unlined prompt pages to draw detailed pictures that share their ideas. Beginning writers can also use the unlined prompt pages but in addition to the detailed picture they can add labels to the objects in their picture or write a phonetically spelled sentence to go along with the picture. As kids learn to phonetically spell a simple sentence on their own and use some basic sight words, you can switch to using the lined writing prompt response pages.

As you incorporate writing journals into your routine, consider how you’d like to present your journals. For some kids it is easiest to provide one page at a time and then compile into a journal after pages are completed. Other options include:

  • stapling small sets of prompts into a weekly or monthly journal for each student
  • adding hold-punched pages to individual binders (best for homeschool or individual use)
  • using a binding machine to create spiral bound monthly journals

Remember to focus on quality writing over quantity. We’ve included many options in each of our writing journal prompt sets so that you have a lot of choices, but we do not recommend that you use  every prompt. In the beginning you could focus on really modeling the steps taken to respond to a prompt–brainstorming ideas to respond, drawing a detailed picture, then labeling objects or writing–over the course of a few days or a week. Then move to individual responses as kids are familiar with the process.

Writing should be fun, not a chore. Most kids will enjoy the variety of topics included in the writing prompt sets. However, some might do better if they are able to choose between different prompts when responding. If that is the case for your child or group, consider offering the option between choosing two different prompts to respond to. This little change to your routine can help increase student motivation.

Once the kids start following prompts, this will just help to reinforce various writing strategies and also help with storytelling. They’ll actually have fun when they practice writing because it allows them to think about what to write and then they’re able to put those ideas for writing on paper. Creative prompts and creative writing exercises are a fun way for the kids to write something that they’ve wanted to while working on grammar as well. 

Use these free printable writing checklists to help students review their writing and focus on key developmental writing skills.

Writing Checklist Freebie-Writers Checklist for PreK Kindergarten and First Grade

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING ABOUT OUR WRITING PROMPT SETS

“Amazing product!! I always struggle with writing prompts- great ideas!! Can’t wait to see December’s prompts– glad I got the bundle!!”

“This is such a great deal! We have some advanced Pre-Kindergarteners who needed something more they could do! So we printed these in a booklet form and they LOVE them! They get to keep them in their cubby and any time they want to do something a little harder than the tracing letters, counting up items, etc., they can get their “journal” and have the teacher explain the prompt for them to follow. We let them do it in any order. It’s been great so far. I also love that they are in monthly folders with MULTIPLE front pages! Genius!”

“It is great to have many monthly journal prompts in one spot. I will be purchasing the other months too.”

SEE THE WRITING PROMPTS IN ACTION

Throughout the Writing Journal Prompts series we’re sharing a quick glimpse into what is inside each new set. Below is a quick summary of the themes included in each set and the links for more details.

If you love them all, grab the complete growing bundle . You can get it at the current price which includes all sets below, and you’ll get any new versions we add in the future. Score!

Writing Journal Prompts for Preschool, Kindergarten, and First Grade. Writing prompts for a wide variety of topics that are engaging for young writers

AUGUST JOURNAL PROMPTS

In addition to some general prompts this set also includes prompts for the following themes: End of Summer, Back to School, All about Me, and Family.

Learn more about the August prompts .

Get the complete set .

SEPTEMBER JOURNAL PROMPTS

In addition to some general prompts this set also includes prompts for the following themes: 5 Senses, Fall, Apple, Leaf, and Pumpkin themes.

Learn more about the September prompts .

OCTOBER JOURNAL PROMPTS

In addition to some general prompts this set also includes prompts for the following themes: Community Helper, Spider, Bat, Monster, and Halloween themes.

Learn more about the October prompts .

NOVEMBER JOURNAL PROMPTS

In addition to some general prompts this set also includes prompts for the following themes: Farm, Kindness, Food, Gratitude, and Thanksgiving themes.

Learn more about the November prompts.

DECEMBER JOURNAL PROMPTS

creative writing topics for preschoolers

In addition to some general prompts this set also includes prompts for the following themes: Gingerbread, Winter, Holidays and Space themes.

Learn more about the December prompts.

JANUARY JOURNAL PROMPTS

In addition to some general prompts this set also includes prompts for the following themes: Snow, Robots, Balls, and Bird themes.

creative writing topics for preschoolers

Learn more about the January prompts.

FEBRUARY JOURNAL PROMPTS

In addition to some general prompts this set also includes prompts for the following themes: Dental Health, Valentine’s Day, Friendship, and Habitat themes.

February Writing Journal Prompts for Kids-Square

Learn more about the February prompts.

MARCH JOURNAL PROMPTS

In addition to some general prompts this set also includes prompts for the following themes: Rocks Worms & Mud, St. Patrick’s Day, Spring, and Seed themes.

St. Patrick's Day Writing Prompts for Kids

Learn more about the March prompts.

APRIL JOURNAL PROMPTS

In addition to some general prompts this set also includes prompts for the following themes: Eggs, Insects, Butterflies, Trees & Earth themes.

creative writing topics for preschoolers

Learn more about the April prompts.

MAY JOURNAL PROMPTS

In addition to some general prompts this set also includes prompts for the following themes:  Flower, Zoo, Ocean and Fish themes.

creative writing topics for preschoolers

Learn more about the May prompts.

JUNE JOURNAL PROMPTS

In addition to some general prompts this set also includes prompts for the following themes:  Beach, Pirate, Ice Cream, and Super Hero themes.

Kindergarten Writing Prompts for June

Learn more about the June prompts.

JULY JOURNAL PROMPTS

In addition to some general prompts this set also includes prompts for the following themes:  America/Fourth of July, Camping, Watermelon, and Bubble themes.

Camping Theme Journal Prompts for Kids

Learn more about the July prompts.

TRY A WEEK FOR FREE

creative writing topics for preschoolers

Want to try out a few writing prompts? Get a whole week of prompt ideas for free! In this 19-page free printable we’ve included 2 journal covers and 5 journal prompts. Each journal prompt is presented in all three formats (without lines, with lines, and label only) that are offered in each monthly journal set.

SAVE WITH THE WRITING PROMPT BUNDLE

Get kids writing often with regular journal writing prompts. This 800+ page writing journal BUNDLE includes simple writing prompts on a wide variety of topics with different purposes for writing for the ENTIRE YEAR. Kids will grow in their writing abilities and confidence in them through consistent opportunities to write.

Because we know kids are at all different stages in the writing process each writing prompt set includes both unlined and lined journal response pages.

If you already have pre-made journals use the mini prompts and glue them directly into your existing journals.

All Writing Journal Prompt Sets Include :

1) Tips for and a quick overview of Writer’s Workshop

2) Multiple Journal Cover Page Options

3) Journal Pages with Writing Prompt Idea (with lines and without lines)

4) Extended Page with Lines (for advanced writers)

5) Mini Journal Prompts (to be cut and glued into notebooks or writing journals)

creative writing topics for preschoolers

Get the Growing Bundle Set on Teachers Pay Teachers

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 57 fun creative writing prompts for kids.

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General Education

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With many kids learning from home due to Covid-19, easy-to-organize educational activities for students are more important than ever. Writing helps improve students' creativity, communication skills, and ability to focus, among other benefits.

Whether you're a teacher, a parent now homeschooling, or a student looking for something new and interesting to write about, these writing prompts are for you. We've collected 57 writing prompts for students of various ages, from elementary school through high school. From spooky story writing prompts to debating how to improve schools, this article has writing prompts that will appeal to all students.

Tips for Using These Writing Prompts

What's the best way to use these creative writing prompts for kids? It depends on a lot of factors, including the student's age, current schooling structure, and their own interests and abilities. Here are some suggestions:

Use as a daily writing prompts exercise. You can assign one of these prompts at the beginning or end of the school day, as a way to prepare for the rest of the day or unwind after schoolwork.

Set up a quiet space to write. Many people have a hard enough time writing even with no distractions, and it can be nearly impossible to respond thoughtfully to a prompt if there's a television on, people talking, etc. Having a distraction-free space can help your student focus on the work at hand and produce their best writing.

Suggest an estimated writing length. Most of these journal writing prompts are designed to be answered both briefly or much more in depth. By giving a number of words/pages to aim for, you'll give your student a better idea of how detailed their response should be.

Consider having students handwrite their responses. Writing by hand can help students be more thoughtful about their responses because they'll typically write slower than they can type. It can also help students improve their handwriting skills.

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57 Fun Writing Prompts for Kids

Below are over 50 journal topics for kids, organized into three categories: narrative writing prompts, fiction/creative writing prompts, and argumentative writing prompts for kids.

Narrative Writing Prompts for Kids

#1: What is your favorite holiday or holiday tradition?

#2: If you could go back in time for one day, which time period would you choose?

#3: If you could learn one thing about your future, what would it be? Or, if you prefer not to know anything, why would you make that choice?

#4: Pretend you're writing an autobiography and need to create a table of contents. What would you name each chapter?

#5: What is your earliest memory? Write every detail you can remember about it.

#6: If you had the power to change one thing about school, what would you change and why?

#7: Describe three goals you have for yourself.

#8: Imagine you are creating your dream restaurant. What kind of food would you serve, what would the menu look like, and how would the restaurant be decorated?

#9: If you could build your dream house, what would it look like? What rooms would it have? What would the yard be like?

#10: What is the bravest thing you've done in your life? Why did you make the choice you did? How did you feel during and after the situation?

#11: What is the funniest thing you've ever seen?

#12: What is your dream job?

#13: What is one thing you're really good at?

#14: Pretend you are a professional reviewer and write a review of a book you recently read or a TV show/movie you recently watched. How many stars would you give it? What did you like about it, and what didn't you like?

#15: Write about a time you did something kind for someone else. What did you do, how did it make you feel, and how did it make the person you helped feel?

#16: Imagine your life in ten years. What do you think you will be like? What will you be doing?

#17: Write about the craziest dream you've ever had.

#18: What would your perfect weekend look like? What things would you do? Who would you see? What would you eat?

#19: Do you like your name? If so, why? If not, what would you change it to?

#20: Make a list of your favorite activities for each season.

#21: Write about your least favorite chore. What don't you like about it? What would you invent to make the chore easier?   

#22: What three pieces of advice would you give to your younger self?

#23: If you could be famous for anything, what would it be? 

#24: If you could create a new law, what would it be? Do you think it would be hard to enforce?

#25: Write about a time you think one or both of your parents made a mistake. What did they do, and what do you think they should have done? Did they admit their mistake?

#26: How would your best friend describe you? How would you describe your best friend? (You can also have your friend do this prompt and read each other's responses.)

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Fiction and Creative Writing Prompts for Kids

#27: Write a story about a character taking a submarine ride under the sea. What sort of things do you think they would see there? Would they be afraid or excited?

#28: Write a new chapter for your favorite book or new scene for your favorite movie. Which characters would be there, and what would they be doing?

#29: Invent a new pet. What would it look like, and what would you call it? What would it eat, and how would you care for it?

#30: Start a story with a lyric from a song.

#31: Pick something nearby (toy, pet, flower, etc.) and write a haiku about it. Bonus points if it rhymes!

#32: Write a story about a character who gets lost in the woods and discovers a mysterious person there.

#33: Write your own silly internet quiz.

#34: Choose an object in the house and describe it in as much detail as you can without saying what it is. Then, have a parent or sibling try to guess what you described.

#35: Write a scary story that includes: a spooky pumpkin patch, a vampire afraid of garlic, and a black cat.

#36: Do some people watching out your window. Write a story using one or more of them as the characters. Make up backstories and imagine what they're doing.

#37: Write a story about what you think your parents were like when they were younger.

#38: Your character survives a shipwreck and washes up on a mysterious island. What is on the island and how does (s)he get back home?

#39: Imagine you can choose to be any animal for a day. Which animal would you choose? What would you do?

#40: Write a poem about your favorite season.

#41: Imagine you are chosen for the first mission to Mars. What would you bring with you, and what do you think exploring the planet would be like?

#42: Write a sympathetic story from the point of view of the "bad guy." (Think fractured fairy tales like Wicked or The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs! , although the story doesn't have to be a fairy tale.)

#43: Imagine your pet gets a day to roam free before returning home. Where would it go, and what would it see?

#44: If you could have dinner with any three people (real or fictional), who would you choose and what would you talk about? What would you eat?

#45: Look through photographs, drawings, and paintings. Choose one and write a story about it, imagining where it is and the types of people/things there.

#46: Imagine aliens landed on earth. What would they look like, and how would they act? Would they be friendly or not?

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Argumentative Writing Prompts for Kids

#47: Are there dangers of teenagers spending too much time on social media?

#48: Does homework actually help students learn?

#49: Should students doing e-learning this year get letter grades, pass/fail, or no grades?

#50: At what age should children get their own cell phone?

#51: Which is best: ebooks, audiobooks, or traditional print books?

#52: What's more important, PE classes or art classes?

#53: Which celebrity is the best role model for kids? Which is the worst?

#54: Should parents or teachers be able to ban certain books from schools?

#55: Which season is the best?

#56: Should students recite the Pledge of Allegiance in school?

#57: Should students go to school year-round and have shorter breaks throughout the year rather than one long summer vacation?

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What's Next?

Also looking for science activities for kids?  Check out our 37 science experiments for kids that you can do at home!

Want to make some slime? We tell you how to make slimes without borax and without glue as well as how to craft the ultimate super slime .

Pipe cleaners can provide endless craft ideas. Read our guide for simple instructions for 31 fun pipe cleaner crafts for kids.

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Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

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  • Writing Prompts

300+ Writing Prompts for Kids (+ Free Printable)

This is the ultimate bank of over 300 writing prompts for kids. From creative writing prompts to journal ideas and even quick poetry prompts . Whenever you’re bored or need a little inspiration, here are some fun ideas for kids writing prompts that can be used over and over again.

This list of creative writing prompts for kids includes a mixture of writing exercises, short story ideas, creative prompts and image prompts . All perfect for beating writer’s block and even for helping you write a whole story . If this list is too difficult to read through, you can use the writing prompts generator below to get some quick random ideas. And there’s even a free PDF version of this post available right at the end of this list – Just keep on reading!

Random Writing Prompts Generator

We put some of our favourite writing prompts in a video for quick viewing:

Over 300 Writing Prompts for Kids

  • “Ready or not, here I come!” shouted Millie in the distance.
  • 2 million years ago, one curious caveman makes an interesting discovery, which takes him to a city in the year 2020. Here’s a video for more inspiration on this prompt.
  • A box is delivered to your house. You open it and find…What’s inside the box? Continue this story.
  • A girl at your school has been hiding her true identity for years. Until one day it’s revealed that she is an alien from outer space with mysterious powers.
  • A group of young puppies are separated at birth. One of them becomes a circus performer. The other, a well-pampered house pet and the final one a stray dog.
  • A kind princess gets locked in a tower which once belonged to a powerful wizard. Instead of waiting for a prince or knight to save her, she creates her own spells to get out. Soon the spells start taking over and turn her into an evil witch.
  • A man obsessed with comic books starts thinking that he is actually a supervillain from one of his favourite comic books. And now he is plotting world domination.
  • A mastermind supervillain is tired of people always booing him and wishing him to disappear. He decides to become a good guy or a superhero and tries to get people to like him.
  • A monkey at the zoo wants to run away from the zoo to join a circus.
  • A mouse believes that he can talk to cheese. The other mice think he’s crazy – but is he?
  • A new magic shop has just opened in town. You decide to get your brother a magic playset for his birthday from this shop. Instead of just playful magic, the magic set turns your brother into a warlock capable of turning humans into frogs and more
  • A physics professor at a top university creates a gadget that can turn back time. He starts using it for his own personal gain, such as winning the lottery. Then he realises that he has created multiple timelines, where multiple versions of himself have been created.
  • A superhero who catches the bad guy, but actually helps the “real” bad guy escape.
  • A vegetarian shark explains how he feels like an outsider and doesn’t fit in anywhere. 
  • A witch kidnaps you and locks you up in a tower. How will you escape? Why have you been kidnapped?
  • A young Prince has locked himself in his castle to avoid eye contact with any human person. One look could turn them to stone.
  • A young witch turns her three older sisters into dolls and plays with them every day. How will the three older witches become real again?
  • A zombie who wants to become a vegetarian.
  • After 30 years in prison, the big bad wolf is finally out. Write a short story about the big bad wolf’s life after prison. You can watch this video for further inspiration and clues.
  • After a thunderstorm, you find a mysterious egg in your backyard. It starts to hatch and out comes a baby dragon! What do you do next? For help take a look at our dragon invasion video prompt .
  • After eating a strange-looking vegetable, your pet bunny becomes a disgusting zombie bunny.
  • After reading a magical book, you gain some magical powers. However, it turns out that you always had these magical abilities inside of you.
  • After the accident, Nelson never felt safe again.
  • Aliens are coming to invade Earth! Send them a letter to convince them to stop invading Earth.
  • All humans eventually get a superpower. However, David is the only kid at school with no superpowers at all.
  • All your life you knew your best friend. But one day you find out that your real best friend passed away years ago and was replaced by a robot.
  • An adventurer discovers a glowing cube inside a dark cave in South America. But when they try to leave the cave, the cube summons a secret league of assassins.
  • An everyday boy walks up from a coma to discover the world has been taken over by aliens – But is this all a dream?
  • An evil conman (or any other type of villain) turns out to be your hero’s only saviour.
  • An expedition in the Amazon rainforest gets deadly when you and your team encounter a group of warriors protecting the rainforest from outsiders.
  • Another tea party, another game.
  • Blinded by a bright light outside his window, Jake jumped up in horror.
  • Bridget has been best friends with Charlie since elementary school. Everything changes when a new girl Chrissy becomes Charlie’s other best friend.
  • Can you help Freddie the ninja cat write up a game plan to rescue his best friend and save the day? Here’s a video for more inspiration on this prompt.
  • Can you write a how-to guide on how to make friends at a new school? Watch this video prompt for more inspiration.
  • Can you write a short fantasy story about a strange key that opens up portals to new worlds? Here is a video to help you out with this creative prompt.
  • Can you write a short story about a group of forest animals working together to save their home from deforestation? You can watch this video to inspire you further with this prompt.
  • Can you write down at least 10 ways to show love to someone you care about, such as friends and family? You can use this video to help you out with this prompt.
  • Describe the city of the future. In 100 years time, what will the world look like?
  • Do you have a favourite magazine that you read? Write a letter to your favourite publication telling them how good their recent issue was.
  • During a family camping trip, you find a backpack containing a strange-looking map, compass and a solid gold snake ring. What do you do next
  • During the night, your house gets robbed. Now you’re on a mission to find the stolen items and punish the robber.
  • Every night the same whispers. Every night the same cries. Who could this be and what do they want?
  • Everything he touches turns to bananas that must be the worst superpower ever. When will it ever come in handy?
  • Everything will be automated in the future. Humans won’t even need to walk or get up. The robots can do that for them. In fact, humans don’t do anything, apart from just exist in the world. This gives aliens from a nearby planet, the perfect opportunity to invade and take over planet Earth (see our planet name generator for more inspiration).
  • Finish this sentence: For lunch today, I…
  • Finish this sentence: If I could change one thing about myself, it would be…
  • For years you have had breathing problems and suffered from asthma. You also had an extreme phobia of the ocean and deep water. Then one day, someone from your school invites you to a beach party. At the party, you learn that you’re a mermaid.
  • For years you have played the role of a good superhero. Always saving lives and watching the people you love disappear. Now you had enough, it’s time to be the bad guy, it’s time to play the villain.
  • Gavin was always getting the best presents. For once I wish I could be like him.
  • Having a superpower was cool until Mindy started losing control of her power. It was like the darkness was taking over her whole body. She is now a danger to everyone, including herself.
  • How was the very first superhuman or human with superpowers created?
  • If dogs could speak, then Spike would be thanking Chris right now.
  • Imagine if animals could write. Choose an animal of your choice and write a letter to them.
  • Imagine that you are a fork. What would your life be like as a fork that humans use for eating with? As a talking fork, what would you say?
  • In a futuristic world, humans are fighting against robots to keep their race alive. However, it turns out that everyone is a robot anyway and the true human race died out years ago.
  • In a war between humans and aliens, you lose your best friend. However, he/she is really alive and working with the aliens.
  • In the damp streets of Manhattan, there lived a fierce little cat.
  • In the story of Hansel and Gretal, write from the perspective of the witch that lives in the Gingerbread house. 
  • Is your family wealthy or short on money? Money can be a strong motivator and a source of conflict for many people. How does money make you feel?
  • It’s ‘Bring a Parent to School Day’. But your main character’s parents are so busy that they can’t make it, so they bring their much older brother to school instead.
  • It’s the 1930s and you are making your first debut as a circus clown. However, on the first night of the circus opening, things end very badly.
  • It’s the annual snail racing championships. Pretend that you are a commentator for a snail race.
  • It’s the year 2070 and crime is at an all-time high. To combat crime, one town has completely replaced its police officers with robot officers. However, the robot police officers malfunction and start thinking that all humans are criminals.
  • Legend says that if you breathe in and out ten times in front of a mirror something strange happens.
  • Life is good, life is perfect until you realise everything is a hologram and the real world is a dark and broken place.
  • Life wasn’t great at all for Mr Pea. It wasn’t even mildly good.
  • Loneliness is a strong emotion. Write about a time when you felt alone and what did you do to cheer yourself up.
  • Look through some old family photos and pick one at random. Use this photo as inspiration for your next story.
  • Make a bucket list of all the places you want to visit.
  • Meeting a group of talking monkeys in the jungle.
  • Mother has always warned me about not eating too much cheese before bedtime and now I know why! Cheese makes your nightmares come true!
  • On her 13th birthday, Cassie was cursed to never speak again. She was such a loud, outgoing girl, now she’s almost invisible.
  • One day, you notice that cats keep following you home from school. You eventually find out that you’re slowly turning into a cat yourself. How will you stop this from happening?
  • People ran inside their homes, as the alarm rang.
  • Pick a fairytale character of your choice and write a letter to them.
  • Pick an inspirational quote and design a whole page around it in your journal.
  • Robbie the robin thinks that he is the best singer in the world. But all the other birds think he sounds like a broken flute.
  • Sitting alone in the dark, Jesse feared the outside world. She just wants to be alone.
  • Sitting at his computer, Martin noticed something odd about his favourite computer game.
  • Some say the number 7 is unlucky, but to me, it wasn’t.
  • Superman, Wonder Woman, Captain America, Spiderman – Whoever your favourite superhero is, write an imaginary letter to them.
  • Tabitha the house cat knows there’s a mouse hiding in the kitchen. Write a monologue scene of Tabitha dreaming about catching the mouse.
  • Talk about the struggles of being the most popular girl or boy in school. Think about the peer pressure you face daily.
  • The desert-like sun burned his skin as he lay scorching in the sand.
  • The room was a dump, as Jack frantically searched every corner.
  • The same words over and over again scattered all over the floor.
  • The sun shone brightly on the Oakland farm, but not all was bright.
  • The world’s longest game of tic-tac-toe – For some reason, it just never seems to end.
  • There’s an old ancient belief that the ocean is alive. When pirates pollute it with rubbish and hurt the sea creatures it makes the ocean angry. Write a short story from the perspective of the ocean.
  • Think about a difficult decision you had to make recently. For example, did you have to choose between going to your best friend’s birthday party or visiting your dad in another country?
  • Think about how your self-image has changed over the past few years. Has your confidence grown or withered away? Use this as your inspiration for your next short story.
  • Think about the first time you met your friend. Write a letter to them reminding them of this time.
  • Think about the funniest thing that happened in your life and use it as an inspiration for your next short story.
  • This Halloween you decide to go as a simple ghost. What you didn’t realise is that by wearing the costume, you actually became a ghost. And your best friend dressed up as a vampire, is now actually a vampire!
  • Thomas Saint designed the first-ever sewing machine. Write a story from the perspective of Thomas and how he came up with the idea.
  • Three brothers are fighting with each other to be the next king of their kingdom – who will win?
  • Tick… tock… tick… tock… time was going so slow.
  • To make some extra money on the side, a farmer decides to open a knock-off version of Disneyland.
  • Weather is a common theme in poems. Pick any weather of your choice, such as rain, snow, a sunny day and then write a poem about it.
  • What do you think the world will be like in 10, 50 or even 100 years time?
  • What hobby do you enjoy the most and how did you get into it?
  • Write a biography of your life, as the child of an infamous pirate living out at sea. You can view this video for more inspiration.
  • Write a day in the life story of a talking ice-cream family. You can watch this video prompt for further inspiration.
  • Write a fairytale about a young prince cursed with the power of darkness. Take a look at this video for more inspiration.
  • Write a letter to a company that you want to work for in the future. Tell them why you would make a good worker and why they should hire you.
  • Write a letter to cheer someone up who is sad. You could include a funny story or joke in this letter.
  • Write a letter to your favourite celebrity.
  • Write a script of a conversation between you and a talking tree. You can view this video for more inspiration.
  • Write a short story about a dog travelling across America to find his mother.
  • Write a short story about being turned into a rat. You can use the clues and questions in this video to help you with your story.
  • Write a short story about the life of being a husky dog working in Alaska to help pull equipment and people around in the snowy landscape.
  • Write a short story titled, Raining Doughnuts. You can use the information in this video to help you out with this prompt.
  • Write a story about a young boy or girl, who leaves their home to find that everyone is gone. Their friends, family, neighbours, pets – Everyone is gone. Watch this video prompt for more inspiration.
  • Write a story dedicated to the best teacher or mentor you ever had so far in your life.
  • Write about a nightmare you recently had.
  • Write about a recent achievement or goal you accomplished. 
  • Write at least 7 journal entries about being lost on a deserted island . You can use this video prompt to help you out.
  • Write out a simple storyline for a new video game. Think about the year your game will be set in, who the enemies will be and how the game will start and end? Watch this video for more clues on what to include in your video game.
  • You and your friends finally find the courage to enter the haunted house in your neighbourhood. But what exactly lurks inside the house?
  • You are a master chef at a top restaurant. To keep the restaurant going, you need to come up with a new recipe or dish to include on the menu. Can you invent a new dish or menu item? Watch this video for more inspiration.
  • You are going to visit your grandma. It’s a two-hour car drive to get and the traffic is extra busy today. While stuck in the traffic you have some funny, yet strange encounters with other drivers.
  • You are researching your family tree for a school project. You thought your family was small until you stumbled upon some old family photos All those aunts, uncles, cousins that you never saw your whole life. Why keep them a secret?
  • You are the best dark assassin in the kingdom. The king’s son has hired you to kill the king in secret. What do you do?
  • You are the most famous superhero of all time. But what you don’t know is that your father is actually a supervillain which you’ll have to take down.
  • You become the very first superhuman in the whole world after discovering that you can move objects with just your mind. You decide to keep it a secret and only ever use it when you’re really desperate. But this all changes one day
  • You finally solve a Rubix cube to get trapped inside a life-size cube. Where you have to solve many cube-like puzzles to get released.
  • You get an unknown phone call from someone. The person tells you that someone will knock at your door very soon and that you should not open it. You hear a knock at the door – What do you do?
  • You just landed on a new planet. Describe this new planet to the other people on your spaceship. Watch this video for some clues and ideas to help you with this prompt.
  • You’re the son of a mad scientist who rides a snail to school every day.
  • You’re leaving a long adventure and you don’t know when you’ll be back. Write a goodbye letter to your loved ones and friends.
  • Your best friend and you sneak into the school cafeteria after school to steal some food. But as soon as you open the door you hear the dinner ladies chanting some spell over something that looks like a smoking cauldron.
  • Your long, lost sister who you thought was dead knocks at your door.
  • Your main character is a poor farmer’s boy. One day his fortune turns around when he finds a magician’s spellbook deep in the forest.
  • Your main character is a street thief and a shapeshifter. They can change into any human or animal. As the lowest ranking member of society, your main character is tired of being treated like dirt, so they decide to impersonate the king and take over the kingdom.
  • Your main character is a werewolf hunter, but it turns out that he himself is a werewolf.
  • Your main character is plotting the greatest revenge in history in their own mind.
  • Your best friend died years ago and was replaced by a cyborg. And you only just found out recently.
  • After going through some old stuff in the attic, you learn that your great grandfather was a war hero.
  • Earth’s weather system has dramatically changed in the future. Now the weather forecast talks about balls of fire falling from the sky and tornadoes made of water flooding random towns.
  • Everyone looked up to Lava Knight until he accidentally hurt someone with his superpowers. Now all humans are protesting against superheroes. They demand that all superheroes are stripped off their superpowers.
  • On your 12th birthday, you’ll be old enough to join any of the four clans: Steel Warriors, Earth Souls, The Healers or the Wise Ones. But a secret group living underground called the Dark Assassins want to recruit you. What will happen next? (If you like cats and warriors, take a look at the Imagine Forest Warrior Cat name generator .)
  • Your character has a big confession to make to the world.
  • Your family is hiding a big, dark secret and they’ll do anything to keep it a secret from your other relatives.
  • Alone sitting at a dinner party fit for 20 people, the main character explains how they lost it all for nothing.
  • Have you ever felt pressured to do something? Write about this peer pressure from the perspective of your future self in 5 years time.
  • Write a short story from the perspective of an alien living on Mars. You can use the following sentence as inspiration, “Humans are real! We are not alone! Humans are real” Chanted the crowd.
  • Every year your family goes on a family vacation. But this year, the annual family vacation has been cancelled.
  • “Master Jewel Thief Caught And Locked Up!” – That’s what the newspaper headline read on Saturday morning. It’s now Wednesday morning and another diamond robbery took place last night.
  • During a cruise ship holiday, the ship starts sinking. You end up stranded on an island, where you have to survive until someone rescues you.
  • You and your best friend find a beautiful sports car parked outside your home. The keys are inside and the door has been left open.
  • Write a short story about a mad scientist who has found a way to combine human DNA with animal DNA to create superhumans.
  • As an orphan child, Cassie always felt alone. Until she joined an art club and met her two best friends, Edwin and Miranda. Now she found a family that she never thought she’ll have.
  • Each snowflake is unique and delicate. With only a few seconds before you melt, write a short monologue from the perspective of a snowflake falling from the sky.
  • A cure for a rare disease mutates humans into flesh-eating zombies.
  • Who raised you the most when growing up? What lessons did they teach you? How do they inspire you?
  • There are many benefits to being a middle child. You don’t have the responsibility of being the eldest and you aren’t treated like a baby like the youngest. But still, you always feel misunderstood by your family and are always on the outside.
  • Earth was created as a prison for all badly behaved humans. And now that the prison sentence is over, everyone can finally go home to their real planet.
  • Your main character follows a street cat and ends up in a world where cats rule the planet and humans are their pets.
  • The lights turn off, as your master goes to sleep. One dog sits by the bed of his master – What is he wondering about?
  • You find an old pen in a magic shop. Every time you write something down using that pen it becomes true.
  • A hard-working lawyer decides to leave the city life behind to start a new life in the country. As he ventures off to the country he realises that country life is not as calm or as relaxing as he thought it would be.
  • Your main character is a spy in the year 1570. They have been hired to protect the queen from a secret league of assassins.
  • It’s the year 2135, every household has their own robot servant. After years of learning from human behaviour, the robot servants develop a mind of their own and start to attack humans.
  • For two whole years, you thought Catelyn was your best friend. So many secrets shared. So many moments shared. But she was just a fake friend – She was never there when you really needed her.
  • One by one students from your class are going missing. It’s up to you to find out what happened to them.
  • Everyone thinks that you’re this big, tough guy, but really you’re struggling on the inside. In a monologue, talk about your struggles and the judgement, you face every day.
  • Write about something that brings you great joy in your life.
  • Jerome the chameleon hates people staring at him, so he always camouflages. One day he sees a human and wants her to adopt him. But she never sees him. From that moment, Jerome doesn’t want to hide away anymore.
  • It’s the 1930s and you are making your first debut as a circus clown. However on the first night of the circus opening things end very badly.
  • Sarah can move objects with her mind, but her power is super weak. Until she connects with a group of girls from another high school. Together their bond forms the greatest power that anyone has seen.
  • In the future, there has been a serious drop in the human population. After viruses, war and human nature have killed the majority of Earth’s population. Now humans are considered an endangered species.
  • How was the first-ever newspaper or media company started? Your main character in this story is the first-ever reporter.
  • Your little sister is always bugging you to play with her dolls, but you’re too old to play with dolls. Until one day you actually become a doll. Your parents think you ran away, but really you are in your sister’s bedroom on a shelf with all the other dolls.
  • After years of horrific weather conditions and natural disasters, humans have learned to adapt to the various environmental changes.
  • Not everything is rainbows and cotton candy on the planet of unicorns. Something deadly lurks underground.
  • On a bus ride to an important college interview, your character goes through many self-doubts.
  • An alpha wolf is kicked out of his pack for playing around with humans. Will he ever become alpha again?
  • It has always been you and you mom. Until one day your mom introduces you to a lady and tells you that they are getting married.
  • Mysterious symbols are appearing all over town. It is up to your main character to decipher the code and find out the meaning of these symbols.
  • It’s the year 2,075 and scientists have discovered a way to make humans immortal. But only the rich and important people are offered this treatment.
  • Write a monologue scene from the point of view of one of the ugly step-sisters in Cinderella. The scene can be set right after Cinderella’s wedding.
  • During a football game, the ball falls into the forest behind your school. When you go to find the ball, you discover small fairy-like creatures in the forest. No-one believes you when you try telling them, but you know the truth.
  • Your main character hasn’t seen their father in over 10 years. Suddenly out of the blue their father turns up asking for a place to stay.
  • For centuries humans have evolved. From apes to modern-day men and women. This evolution has not stopped. In the year, 2200, some humans have special abilities or superpowers, such as mind-reading powers or the ability to fly. This has caused great destruction on Earth.
  • After a huge argument, you learn your parents are getting a divorce. Your mom wants you to stay with her, while your dad wants you to come with him. What will you do?
  • Write a short story about a magpie with a stealing problem. No matter what this magpie does he/she just can’t help stealing shiny things.
  • Dragons are at war with humans. While foraging for food near the mountains you find a small ice dragon that helps hunt for food. Together you end the war between dragons and humans.
  • Scientists invent a teleportation machine which allows people to travel all over the world within a few seconds. However, the machine goes bust and starts sending people into different dimensions.
  • Complete the following story starter: The music stops, everyone turns around and they see…
  • After the death of your uncle, you inherit his magical sword. When held in a fighting position, the sword turns you into a legendary superhero, called the crimson knight.
  • A family camping trip gets dangerous when a pack of wolves start circling your tents in the middle of the night.
  • Cats and dogs rule the world and humans are their pets.
  • Little Red Riding meets the wolf in the forest. Instead of being scared of him, they become close friends.
  • It’s Halloween night and you just finished carving a pumpkin with your parents. Later that night when you are alone in the house, the pumpkins start talking to you with the mouth you carved on them.
  • After years of getting all the attention from your parents. Your parents bring home a baby boy and now it seems like no-one even notices you anymore. It’s all about your baby brother now.
  • Known as the Floral Slayer, there is a serial killer on the loose. They are going around town destroying all flowers in public places, people’s gardens and front yards. Why are they doing this and who can stop them?
  • When the world is about to end, a superhero and supervillain must work together to save it.
  • A poem dedicated to your mother.
  • Going to Paris on holiday.
  • Dedication poem to your favourite celebrity.
  • The creepy shadows in your room remind you of… 
  • What is life like on a fluffy white cloud?
  • Being on stage with everyone looking at you.
  • Can you think of some common stereotypes that people have of women? Why are these stereotypes wrong? For example, some people think women should stay at home and not work – do you agree or disagree with this statement?
  • Think about something your mom is always saying and write down how you can help out.
  • You’re on the beach collecting seashells. You then hear a calm whisper from one of the seashells. It whispers, “Come, find me…” What do you do next?
  • We all heard the legend of mermaids and the loch ness monster. But can you write your own legend about a mysterious sea creature? 
  • Write a limerick about the summer sun.
  • Write one journal entry into your nature journal about the great outdoors. 
  • Your favourite celebrity is about to give a talk on violence against pets. Can you help them by writing a powerful speech for their talk?
  • Your new pet dog has superpowers! Create a comic strip about this super dog’s adventures. Who’s the villain? What are its powers?
  • Write a short story which must include the following items: Vanilla Ice-Cream, Jam Sandwiches and a monkey. 
  • You are the manager of your favourite football team. Create a game plan on how they can win their next game.
  • Crystal was one of the most powerful witches of all-time. She defeated many evil warlocks and villains. But now she’s locked up in a mental institution. Is she really a witch or is she just crazy?
  • After reading a forbidden book, the most horrific and disgusting creatures from hell crossover to Earth.
  • A boy helps out an old lady, in return, he is given magical powers. Instead of using his powers for good, he uses it to destroy the world.
  • Scientists accidentally create a vaccine which gives humans super strength, along with other traits.
  • A hurricane destroyed a whole city. Write a story about a search and rescue dog.
  • You find out that your cat is actually the king of a secret kingdom of cats.

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  • Write a short story including the following elements: An elephant, a balloon, pyjamas and a watermelon.

creative writing topics for preschoolers

  • How do rabbits celebrate a holiday like Easter?

creative writing topics for preschoolers

  • Complete the following story starter: The moon’s light reflected on the ocean. Maisie sat with her toes deep in the sand, thinking about her future. What would happen next? Now that everyone knows her secret.
  • Complete the following story starter: Soon I will be powerful enough to beat them all!
  • Write a story including the following elements: A lobster, two pairs of socks and a party balloon.
  • Use a good memory from your life as inspiration for your next story.
  • Use a bad memory from your life as inspiration for your next story.
  • Complete the following story starter: The nightmares never ended for Clara.
  • Write a story including the following elements: Your favourite celebrity, a hobby you enjoy doing and your dream holiday destination.
  • Rewrite your favourite fairytale .
  • Rewrite the lyrics of your favourite song. But this time make it all about food!
  • Write a scary story about an evil prince who collects bugs.
  • Write a short biography of a beautiful lady who ages 10 years in one day.
  • Describe to your friend a brainy rockstar who hates school.
  • Describe a day in the life of an old owl who tries to get into the Guinness Book of World.
  • Write a rhyming story about an old movie star who collects bugs.
  • Make up a conversation you might have with a nerdy alien who lives on a faraway planet.
  • Describe the personality of a self-conscious fox who wants to win a dance contest.
  • Write a short biography of an evil dragon who won a million pounds.
  • Write a funny story about an ugly knight who tries to get into the Guinness Book of World.
  • Make up a conversation you might have with a self-conscious ogre who discovers they have superpowers.
  • Write a travel log for a devious dentist who is lost on an island.
  • Describe the appearance of a smelly alien who gets lost in the Amazon rainforest.
  • Write a detective story about a million-year-old zombie who is always getting into trouble with their parents.
  • Describe to your friend a devious pirate who discovers a talking frog.
  • Write a rhyming story about a smelly prince who has to save the world.
  • Describe a very unusual day for a nerdy witch who has to save the world.
  • Write a scary story about a million-year-old cat who ages 10 years in one day.
  • Write a scary story about a nerdy rockstar who is lost on an island.
  • Write a travel log for a devious dog who rides a giant snail to school.
  • Write a story including the following elements: A magical pencil, a dog and a mischievous eraser.
  • Complete the following story starter: Darren sat on the bus watching the rain pour down.

Free 150 Writing Prompts For Kids PDF

Now it times to Download your free printable writing prompts for kids PDF ! This printable pdf contains 150 writing prompts for kids, which you can print-out and use as inspiration for your next story! For more fun writing prompts, take a look at our dedicated writing prompts section .

Writing prompts for kids pdf printable

This collection of writing prompts for kids are great for both young writers and experienced writers. We guarantee that you’ll feel more inspired and ready to beat writer’s block with these creative writing prompts. Share your writing prompts and tips in the comments below.

Writing Prompts for Kids by imagine forest

Marty the wizard is the master of Imagine Forest. When he's not reading a ton of books or writing some of his own tales, he loves to be surrounded by the magical creatures that live in Imagine Forest. While living in his tree house he has devoted his time to helping children around the world with their writing skills and creativity.

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Home » Blog » 140 Creative Writing Prompts for Kids

140 Creative Writing Prompts for Kids

creative writing topics for preschoolers

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Creative writing is an important skill for young students to start learning. Not every child will grow up to be a professional writer, but there are many benefits to having children write. Here we have some useful and effective creative writing prompts for kids to get you started.

These are most suited for a teacher with a class of students. However, parents are welcome to use them as well, to get your kids writing at home.

The Benefits of Writing Prompts for Kids

Aside from creating a published masterpiece someday, there are many benefits to teaching kids to write. This can be done in part by stimulating their minds with some good writing prompts for kids.

Teaching them how to become a better writer will give them advantages in other areas of life.

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Animal Themed Writing Prompts for Kids

Most kids love animals. Even if they don’t, personifying and thinking about animals can spark wonderful creativity in kids. It can help kids learn how to become a better writer.

  • Jack is a dachshund and stands out among his border collie siblings who bully him for being different. He is determined to prove that he can herd sheep just as well as them.
  • 10-year-old Kaitlyn has the unique ability to communicate with all animals. She goes around helping trainers, vets, and researchers.
  • Write a story about a family of rabbits living in the woods. What is their life like?
  • Imagine you are a big, majestic lion living in a zoo. How do you feel being surrounded by people all the time?
  • Do you have a pet? What do you like to do with them? If not, what pet would you love to have?
  • What would you do if you had an elephant for a pet?
  • If you could be any animal, what would you choose?
  • Your cat gets stuck on the roof. How do you get him down?
  • A baby wolf gets lost in the forest. How does he find his family again?
  • Write about a school of fish who live deep in the ocean.
  • How do you think it would feel to fly like a bird?
  • What would you and your pet talk about, if they could talk?
  • What does a naughty puppy get up to while its owners are asleep?
  • Imagine everyone had a horse to ride instead of a car to drive. What would life be like?

Fiction Writing Prompts for Kids

Though they might not understand the complex workings of character and plot development, kids can still start creating fiction. Their minds are capable of telling stories. Starting with short pieces of fiction can teach them how to become a better writer .

Writing longer pieces of fiction at a young age can be more difficult. Using a book writing template might help if they really want to try.

Whatever type of story you encourage them to write, use these simple but imaginative writing prompts for kids.

  • Look out the window for 30 seconds. Write a story about what you see and hear in those 30 seconds.
  • Write a story about a trip you would like to take with your family.
  • You and your friends build a treehouse. But, anyone who enters needs to follow some rules. What are they?
  • You are trapped in the mall for the night. What do you do in there?
  • Write a story about a magical pair of shoes.
  • Write about what would happen if you met your favorite character in person.
  • You find a time machine. Where do you go and why?
  • Write a story about your parents as teenagers.
  • Write a story about a tiny person.
  • What does a typical day look like for a mermaid?
  • Write about an astronaut who flies to space and discovers a new planet.
  • Write a story about a day in the life of the president of the United States.
  • A young girl finds a teleportation device abandoned across the street from her house. She soon figures out how to use it.
  • Someone your age sneaks onto a space ship going into space. What happens? Do they get caught?
  • Try to write a poem or a story in the style of Dr. Seuss.
  • You have an assistant for one week who will do whatever you want. What do you ask them to do?
  • Write about something you and your best friend would do if you lived in the same house.
  • Tell a story about a kid who gets to go for a ride on Santa’s sleigh.
  • A kid gets to be invisible for one day. What happens?
  • Write a story using these three words: Train, Hat, Saturday.
  • A clown shows up at your door one day. What do you do?
  • Write about a day where your teacher forgot to wear shoes.
  • Write a story about your evil twin.
  • You find a treasure chest buried in your backyard. What’s inside?
  • Imagine you get to be the opposite gender for one day. What do you do?
  • Write a story about an imaginary sport. How does it work? What are the rules?
  • You have been asked to create a new holiday. What should the world celebrate?
  • Write a story where you get stuck inside your favorite video game or TV show.
  • A child has traveled back in time from 1000 years in the future. What do they tell you about their life?
  • Start a story with a character saying “I won’t do it, and you can’t make me!”
  • Two friends send secret notes to each other through a hiding place no one else knows about. What happens when a new note appears from someone else?
  • A family is camping and doesn’t have cell phone service. What do they do when someone gets sick?
  • Write a story about a kid who doesn’t have any homework to do on the weekend.
  • A kid and their dog are on an adventure in the forest. What happens?
  • Write about a kid who loves to play in the rain.
  • A family is going together to pick out the perfect Christmas tree.
  • What happens when a spaceship lands in your backyard?
  • A girl finds a magic door in her closet. What happens when she walks through?
  • You are stuck inside your school overnight. What do you do?
  • Write a story about a vampire who just wants to fit in with his friends.
  • A superhero wants to save the world, but he’s not very good at using his powers.
  • Your toys have come to life for one night only. What do you do with them?
  • A boy is walking down a deserted road. What does he see?
  • An older sibling is babysitting a younger sibling. The older sibling gets locked in a cupboard. What happens next?
  • Imagine you live in a world where humans don’t need to sleep. What do you do every night?
  • An old lady owns a costume shop. Everyone who buys or rents a costume has an adventure while wearing it. Write about one of these adventures.
  • Your character is the only survivor of a shipwreck. She is floating around on a raft. She finally finds an island. What’s on the island?
  • The sun decides not to go down for one night. What does everyone do overnight when it’s not dark?
  • Write about what you would do if you could read minds for one day.
  • You are able to spy on your friends and family for one day and they don’t know you’re there. What do you think you’d see?
  • Your grandma tells you a shocking secret and you’re not allowed to tell anybody else! How do you react to this crazy secret?
  • You are given one dart to throw at a wall map. Wherever it lands, you have to go there tomorrow. Where do you go? What happens?
  • Three kids climb a tree and find a whole new world at the top.
  • Write a story about someone who is working hard to keep his grades up so he will be allowed to participate in the annual principal-for-a-day event.
  • What would you do if you and your teacher switched places for a day?

Historical Writing Prompts for Kids

Writing stories about history can be a fun way for kids to learn some basic historical facts and events. Use these writing prompts to walk them through time in a way they can enjoy.

A book writing template may come in handy here as well. History can be complicated and confusing. It might be beneficial to have some information laid out in a structured way.

  • Imagine everything in a historical museum comes to life one night. What happens?
  • If you could have a conversation with one person from the past, who would it be?
  • Imagine your family ruled over an ancient kingdom. What would life be like as a prince or princess?
  • Write a story about the life of a child before TV was invented.
  • Write a story about a family traveling a far distance by horse and carriage – before cars were invented.
  • Imagine you were alive when the pyramids in Egypt were being built. What are they like in person?
  • What do you think would have happened if humans were alive at the same time as dinosaurs?
  • How do you think people in the past celebrated holidays?
  • If you could travel backward in time to before you were alive, where would you go and why?
  • If you could change any part of history, what would it be?
  • Many years ago, all the grades of a school would be in a class together. Would you like this? Why or why not?
  • Write about a building that no one has lived in for 100 years. What is left in the building? Who used to live there?
  • What do you think the worst thing is about being a king or queen?
  • Write about what kids did for fun in the old days.

Stimulating Writing Prompts for Kids

In addition to writing stories, many kids will benefit from other forms of mental stimulation. These can be done in a journal or essay writing exercise.

Use these prompts and questions to get them thinking. Encourage them to answer all questions with as much detail as possible.

  • Write a detailed description of your favorite toy.
  • How would you describe the color green to someone who is blind?
  • Where is your favorite place to hide during hide and seek? Why?
  • Write a letter to your grown-up self.
  • Imagine you are the first person to ever walk on the moon. Write a letter to your family about what it’s like up there.
  • Write about something you want to learn more about.
  • If the sky could rain any food for one day, which food would you want and why?
  • Someone has never heard of magic. Explain it to them.
  • A genie is going to grant you one wish. What is it?
  • You are in charge of your school for a whole week. What do you do?
  • What is the worst possible superpower someone can have?
  • If you had $1,000 what would you buy for yourself?
  • Which animal is your favorite? What do you like about it?
  • What would your life be like if you were a movie star?
  • Write about what life would be like without electricity.
  • If you could go anywhere for a school trip where would it be and why?
  • What do you want to do once you turn 16?
  • If you could ask your teacher one question and get an honest answer, what would it be and why?
  • Write about the weirdest dream you ever had.
  • Describe the happiest day of your life so far.
  • If you were in the circus, what would you do?
  • If you won an award, what would it be?
  • What is your favorite holiday and why?
  • If you could have one extra limb, what would it be and why?
  • What is your favorite season and why?
  • Write about what life would be like if you got your dream job as an adult.
  • If you could create a new animal, what would it look like?
  • What is your favorite day of the week and why?
  • Write about the person you admire the most.
  • What is the best joke you ever heard? Why did it make you laugh so hard?
  • You are in charge of inventing a new sandwich. What are you putting on it?
  • Write about three things you are good at.
  • If you could make anything grow on trees, what would it be and why?
  • What is your most unusual talent?
  • What’s the best book you’ve ever read? Describe the book to someone without spoiling the story.
  • What one thing would make your life easier?
  • Imagine you are 16 and your parents have bought you a car. What does it look like?
  • What one thing would make school more fun?
  • Describe what happens on the absolute best day you can think of.
  • What is your favorite thing to do for fun?
  • You are given $1,000 but you can’t spend it on yourself. What do you buy and for who?
  • You are creating the perfect town for you and your family to live in. What does the town have?
  • What is one talent you wished you had but don’t?
  • Write about your favorite music.
  • Describe your favorite movie without mentioning the title or the characters names. Can anyone guess the movie?
  • If you could control your own dreams, what would you choose to dream about tonight?
  • You can ask the government one question and they have to answer you honestly. What do you ask and why?
  • Do you think you could go a whole day without talking? What would be difficult about this?
  • If you could stop anyone else from talking for one day, who would it be and why?
  • If the world was going to end in one hour, what would you want to do?
  • What accomplishment in your life are you most proud of?
  • Do you have any toys right now that you think you will still play with when you are 20? Why or why not?
  • What would you do if you were the last person on earth?
  • Write about something you believed as a small child, but it turned out to be wrong. What was it? How did you find out?
  • What would you do if you suddenly woke up in another country and no one could understand you?

Writing Tools for Older Kids

As kids get a little bit older, they can start being introduced to some tools and programs that will help their writing. As they age, they will start to get a sense of how to write properly and they will develop a voice and style of their own.

Those who are serious about writing and/or show some real promise might benefit from the use of some writing software to help them become an even better writer.

We have created a list of 20 excellent tools for writers and gone over them in detail. But, a good place to start is with Squibler and Grammarly .

Squibler will help them figure out how to organize a book. It offers a place to take notes and record research. It then encourages the writer to break down their chapters and scenes for easy organization and editing.

writing prompts for kids

Squibler also offers a series of templates that might be helpful to kids as they learn about story structure and character development. These templates will walk them through the writing of a book and offer guidelines and suggestions to make the story as effective as possible.

There are several style and genre options, but a good place to start is with the general fiction template:

General Fiction Template

Second, is Grammarly . Kids will often struggle with grammar and punctuation for a while. Grammarly is designed to help all types of writers fix and polish up their work from a grammatical standpoint.

It is largely intended for professional writers who do it for a living, or students who need to hand in perfect written pieces. But, that doesn’t mean kids can’t benefit.

As they go through their work in Grammarly and find their errors, they will learn from them. If they see the same thing pop up numerous times, they will learn not to do it anymore.

Get Kids Thinking With These Writing Prompts

The kids are the next generation of writers , authors , and creators. Start their skills early and encourage them to expand and improve. Teach them how to craft their words. Teach them how to paint a picture in someone else’s mind.

From writing descriptions to organizing thoughts and emotions, and even creating interesting characters – kids should be flexing their creativity muscles whenever possible.

Whether they go free form or you use a book writing template , encourage them to let their imaginations loose on a regular basis.

These writing prompts for kids will get them started, but if you’re looking for more, try using the scholastic website. They have a writing prompt generator with lots of variety. It also has a fun design if you’re using it with your kids.

This will give you an endless source of fun prompts for the kids to enjoy.

creative writing topics for preschoolers

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The Write Practice

100+ Fun Creative Writing Prompts for Kids (and Kids at Heart!)

by Sue Weems | 0 comments

One of the best ways you can foster a love of reading and writing in children is to offer lots of low-stakes opportunities to practice. These writing prompts can be used with any group of kids you're working with: elementary school, middle school, or high school writers.

kids writing prompts

Prompts can help kids break through creative writing idea blocks or boredom. Whether in a slump or starting a new project, try a prompt a day and see what happens.

Keep it as simple as possible: one notebook or document, one location, the same(-ish) time each day, and a timer set for 5, 10, or 15 minutes.

Don’t let yourself edit, reread, or rework anything. Just write. Keep the pen moving across the page. There’s no wrong way to play.

Plus, there's a great note for you, whether you're a parent or teacher or both, at the end.

Give these fun creative writing prompts a try and watch how consistent practice contributes to ideas, confidence, and yes, even stronger writing skills !

20 Journal Writing Prompts

Journal prompts are fun writing prompts that are great for recording your everyday life. It's like taking a snapshot. It's fun to look back in a month, a season, or a year to see how you've grown or changed.

One additional thought that is important to keep in mind when writing a journal writing prompt is that it encourages kids to explore answers beyond one word or sentence. The best way to get them to write more is to ask why  they answered a prompt the way they did.

Asking the question why not only encourages children to consider their beliefs, wants, and values, but also pushes them to really explore their voice through creative writing ideas .

Recommended time for each: 5-7 minutes

1. What is your earliest memory? Describe this memory.

2. What is the best part of your week and why?

3. What is your favorite thing to do after school? Why?

4. What is (or was) your favorite toy? Why?

5. Describe your favorite animal or pet. Why is this your favorite? (Fun variation: Describe your favorite pet or animal's perspective of you.)

6. Describe your typical morning as if you are your bathroom mirror or a door in your home.

7. What is your favorite food? If you could choose anything, what would you pick to eat for breakfast? For lunch? For dinner?

8. Describe your last birthday party or celebration. Why is this your favorite?

9. Describe your favorite game or video game as if you are a character in the game. Walk us through it.

10. Who is your favorite person? Describe how you spend your favorite holiday with them.

11. What is your favorite character from a TV show or book and why?

12. If your life was a fairy tale, which one would it most resemble and why?

13. What is your favorite movie and why? Favorite TV show?

14. What was your favorite book to read when you were younger? What is your favorite book now? Why do you love it?

15. What is something grown-ups or family members ask you about? How does it make you feel?

16. What is one thing you are grateful for this week? Why?

17. What would your dream job be? Why?

18. What do you know a lot about that you could talk (or write) about for days?

19. What is your favorite season and why?

20. What is your favorite sport or hobby and why?

Bonus  journal prompts !

21. What kind of ice cream or dessert do you love best? Why?

22. What do you hope to accomplish before you grow into an older kid or adult?

23. If you got to spend a whole day with one famous person, who would it be and what would you do?

20 Letter Writing Prompts

Letter writing may feel like a lost art, but it's a terrific way to help kids practice writing skills because it requires an audience and purpose. Letters can be written to send to real family members or best friends. And every person has a different writing style when they write a letter, which makes them unique!

Letters can also be creatively designed to be a part of a story. Or they can just be practice for writing with a fun writing prompt.

Whether or not you use letter writing prompts for students or as a meaningful exercise to strengthen writing skills with your kids at home, or as a method for creative writing practice in school, letters themselves are a timeless art and method of connecting with others.

Letters can also inspire writers to take up a diary. Who knows, maybe they'll even want to use some of these writing prompts for their next diary entry, just for continued practice.

Give these creative writing prompts a try!

Recommended time for each: 10+ minutes

24. Write a letter to the most used piece of furniture in your home.

25. Write a letter to a best friend or good friend about a wild adventure you'd like to take together.

26. Write a letter to your favorite movie star.

27. Write a letter to your favorite wild animal (or your least favorite!) in a zoo or aquarium.

28. Write a letter to a family member about something you learned on your first day of school.

29. Write a letter to your favorite TV show character about what they should do in a future episode.

30. Write a letter to an alien explaining how you do an everyday task like eating or playing.

31. Imagine you can send mail through a time machine. Write a letter to your past or future self.

32. Write a letter to the inventor of your favorite food, toy, or game. Tell them what you love about it.

33. Write a letter to a historical figure you admire.

34. Write a letter to your favorite athlete or musician explaining why you love to see them perform.

35. Write a letter to an inventor of a household object with ideas for its improvement.

36. Write a letter to a parent, teacher, or other grown up to thank them.

37. Write a letter to a person, school, or organization about something that needs to be changed.

38. Write a letter to your favorite childhood cartoon.

39. Write a letter to your favorite author.

40. Write a letter to a pet you wish you had. (This could be a wild animal or a magical creature!)

41. Write a letter to a grandparent, aunt, uncle or other grownup about the best thing they cook or bake for you.

42. Write a letter to a sibling or friend full of as many jokes as you can think of.

43. Write a letter to the sidewalk explaining why everyone walks on them.

Bonus letter writing prompts: postcards!

Postcards require you to condense your message into as few words as possible. Try these!

44. Write about a winter or summer vacation memory.

45. Tell a friend about your last school year.

20 Story Writing Prompts

If you have a little more time, you can try these prompts to write a short story. Sometimes the hardest part about writing a story is coming up with a story idea that can get you or your students and kids started.

This article is here to help everyone get over that slump. It doesn't have to be the funniest story or best story in the world to be a great story. Every writer only gets better with practice.

Don't feel like you have to take any of these upcoming story ideas too seriously. Writing a short story is not a life or death situation. It is something that you can use  to explore yourself, your beliefs, and big, unanswered questions—all of which you get to explore through the eyes of a fictional character you create!

Most stories feature a main character who wants something, but conflict gets in the way. And the conflict forces them to make a crucial decision.

How will your hero pursue their goal? Figure this out by writing out your story idea!

Recommended time for each: 15+ minutes

46. Write a new ending or a next chapter for your favorite or a well-known fairy tale.

47. You get a call from your best friend that their favorite item is missing. Write a story where you work together to find it.

48. Imagine your bus or car suddenly turns into a spaceship with a course charted for outer space. What happens next?

49. A classmate or sibling calls for help and disappears before you can react. How will you find out what happened to them?

50. You're watching your favorite TV show when the screen flickers and you're transported into the show. What happens next?

51. A magical bird flies into a house and won't leave. What happens next?

52. A character finds a diary on their way home from school, and it's full of clues to a well-known lost treasure. Follow the clues.

53. You build a robot that is able to solve the world's most pressing problem, but you've lost control of it. What will you do?

54. Rewrite an historical event from the perspective of a kid your age living through it.

55. A character wakes up as the star player for their favorite sports team. The only problem is that they didn't get the skills to match. They have to go to practice to fake it until they find a way to change back.

56. A character discovers that their friend group is having a bash on the beach without them, but they know their family will be in the same area that day. What do they do?

57. A character's parent needs life-saving medicine but they can't afford it. How will the character get help?

58. In the middle of an acting class, an actor gets carried away and admits a life-changing secret. What happens next?

59. Send a dog and an armadillo on an adventure together to save another animal. (Challenge: no animals die.)

60. A first-time thief accidentally breaks into the wrong house and chaos ensues. What happens?

61. A character takes a wrong turn in a basement and gets lost in a series of underground tunnels where they find . . . finish the story.

62. Rewrite your favorite superhero scene or battle from the viewpoint of the villain.

63. A character inadvertently swaps backpacks with someone who is clearly a spy. What happens next?

64. A bookworm gets locked in a haunted library and can only find the way out by solving a ghost's riddles. How will they do it?

65. A couple kids are fishing from their canoe when a whirlpool opens and . . . what happens?

20 Story Setting Prompts

One element that can make or break a short story is the setting. You can have the most exciting story idea in the world, but if the setting falls short, the story probably will, too.

Use these creative writing prompts to play with imaginative settings that you can combine with story idea starters or character conflict that can amaze your friends and family.

Recommended time for each: 5 minutes

66. Describe a drive to town. (Challenge: Before cars were invented.)

67. Describe an underground tunnel in a forest.

68. You've just moved into your dream house when disaster strikes. Describe the scene.

69. Describe standing in the middle of a rushing stream or river.

70. Describe a new planet where an astronaut landed when they took a wrong turn in space.

71. Describe an abandoned skate park or playground.

72. Describe experiencing a storm from inside a car or bus.

73. Describe a world where everyone forgets something all the time.

74. Describe what it feels like in the top bunk of a cabin in the woods at midnight with no electricity.

75. Describe what it feels like to dangle your feet in the water from the edge of a dock.

76. Describe a restaurant with over-the-top decor.

77. Describe climbing through the branches of a tree. (Challenge: a bear is chasing you)

78. Describe how it feels to play hide-and-seek from your favorite real or imagined hiding spot.

79. Describe a fashion show. (Challenge: for puppy clothes)

80. Describe a summer hike on a challenging mountain trail.

81. Describe sitting in the bleachers during a packed event.

82. Describe a classroom or living room with too much stuff in it.

83. Describe getting stuck on a boat in the middle of a large lake or the ocean.

84. Describe the control room of a space ship or space station. (Challenge: add an emergency alarm buzzing)

85. Describe a supervillain's lair. (Challenge: add a stuffed bunny and make us believe it)

20 Character Conflict Writing Prompts

Conflict is what keeps a character from getting what they want. It can be another person (like a villain) or bad luck, a fear or flaw.

As you use this set of writing prompts, focus on making your character act in the face of conflict.

86. You receive a letter that you've been admitted to a high school that builds treehouses, but on the first day, you realize you're afraid of heights. What will you do?

87. You discover you have a superpower only to realize that you can only use it in one small confined space. What will you do?

88. A character spent a month and a lot of money decorating and preparing for an outdoor party when a freak snow storm hits. What will they do?

89. In the middle of a talent show, a performer begins reciting a poem that someone else wrote and had never shared with anyone. Write the confrontation scene.

90. A wilderness guide wanders off track losing a group of kids who have to survive on their wits and teamwork. How will they do it?

91. A singer joins a reality TV show contest when their twin sibling shows up one stage and says they are singing the same song. What happens next?

92. A scientist finds a rare rock formation that opens into another world, but his arch enemy appears as they're inspecting it. What will they do?

93. A bully gets trapped inside their favorite social media app and has to figure out how to make amends with those they have hurt to find their way out. How will they do it?

94. A family who often argues gets snowed into a cabin together one winter. How will they survive the storm and each other?

95. A character's cat goes missing and a week later, they see a grumpy neighbor feeding it on the back porch. How will they get it back?

96. A gamer stumbles into a chat room where other users are planning to shut down the network, and he has to find a way to stop them before it's too late.

97. A character is quietly finishing his work at school when there's a knock at the door and he gets called into the hallway where the frowning principal and another student wait. What happens next?

98. A knight is captured and told they will fight the fiercest creature in the land to the death. When they enter the arena, what do they see and how do they defeat it?

99. A spy on a top secret mission enters an enemy camp and sees their brother who is clearly part of the organization they're spying on. What do they do?

100. An assassin accidentally bumps into their arch enemy . . . at a children’s carnival where they’ve both taken their kids for an outing. What do they do?

101. A dancer gets a job on a video shoot for their favorite band of all time, but when rehearsal begins, they realize something isn't right. What happens and what will they do?

102. A tree crashes down destroying a hiker's only known bridge on the path back to their car, and their cell phone has no service. What will they do?

103. A soccer star is headed into the championship game, but they have been in a scoring slump for the entire series. What will they do to get out of their head and lead their team to victory?

104. Last year's art show winner is given the opportunity to judge this year's contest. They weren't supposed to see any of the entries before the competition, but they accidentally see a small section of the school bully's painting as they dragged it down the hall to display. When the judge arrives to view the show, they realize that the bully's work is really good, but the bully has been so mean to them and their friends. What will they do?

105. A student newspaper editor is stuck and doesn't know what to write, but their story deadline is tomorrow and they were just assigned a book report too! How will they finish on time?

A Special Note for Teachers and Parents of Kid Writers

Teaching kids to write can feel overwhelming, especially if you don’t feel confident as a writer yourself. I work from three principles that help me encourage writers:

  • Writing is hard work whether you are a beginner or a professional. Honor the process and write alongside your kids. It’s magic.
  • Build on strengths and state explicitly what is working, what is clear, and what is unique about the writer’s voice and work.
  • Beginning and developing writers cannot address everything at once. Invest in a cycle of deliberate practice, feedback , and application. Repeat.

Overall, writing is an amazing way to empower students by teaching them to use their voice and imaginations. Sometimes all they need is a little help getting started.

These writing prompts are designed for kids of all ages. Pull one or several and use as a great activator for a class—or a fun writing session in general!

It's important to teach children to use their voices, and to stretch their imaginations. Starting with these creative writing prompts for kids might be just what they need to get started, and gain confidence in exploring and sharing their ideas.

What are some of your favorite kids writing prompts?   Let us know in the comments .

It's time to use some of these creative writing prompts for kids to practice!

Depending on how much time you'd like to write, choose one of the writing prompts from this article's list. Set a timer for fifteen minutes , or ten or five. Then, write!

Don't worry about editing. Just press start and go for it! When you're done, take it one step further and share what you—or your students—come up with together.

If you're an adult/ kid-at-heart who wrote to a prompt, please share your practice in the Pro Practice Workshop here . And once you've shared, be sure to leave feedback for someone else who has shared their writing!

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Sue Weems is a writer, teacher, and traveler with an advanced degree in (mostly fictional) revenge. When she’s not rationalizing her love for parentheses (and dramatic asides), she follows a sailor around the globe with their four children, two dogs, and an impossibly tall stack of books to read. You can read more of her writing tips on her website .

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Join (probably?) the world's largest writing contest. Flex those creative muscles with weekly writing prompts.

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Fabulism with shaelin bishop, set your story on the eve of the first day back at school., write about a school trip that takes a turn for the unexpected., write a fable inspired by a relatable life experience (explaining the moral before or after the story, if you’d like)., write a story told from the point of view of an animal., where is your dream house write a story based on that..

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The best writing prompts for kids

For a child, a couple of pillows can become a magical fort. The very floor beneath them can turn into lava. A cardbox box can become a great voyageur on the choppy seas. The sky is the limit when it comes to the adventures a day might hold — and for that reason, there’s no better time to start writing stories than childhood. If you’re a parent or a teacher looking to help inspire children or students to write, look no further than our list of imaginative writing prompts for kids. Hey, even if you’re an adult simply looking to reconnect with your former sense of childlike wonder or your own history, these writing prompts for kids will be right up your alley.

The creative writing prompts range from ideas that will spark a child’s ability to think outside the box, as well as prompts that will help them self-reflect. Each one is sure to inspire their curiosity and lead to an adventure of the imagination. Not only will these prompts provide fun, but they can also be helpful teaching exercises! Want to help your child practice their grammar, spelling, vocabulary, and sentence structure? Creative writing is the answer.

To get you started, here are our top ten writing prompts for kids.

  • Imagine you owned a pet monkey for a day. What would you do with it?
  • If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
  • If you found a time machine, would you use it to travel to the past or future? Why?
  • You and your family are going on a trip together. Where do you go? What do you do there?
  • Imagine what your parents' lives were like as teenagers. Write a story about it.
  • Imagine you and your best friend hanging out ten years from now. What has changed? What hasn't changed?
  • Write about your favorite birthday present. Why is it your favorite?
  • What is your dream job? Write a story based on that.

If you’re an adult writing for kids, check out this free resource:

  • Children’s Books Writing 101: Writing for the Right Age Group (free course) — Our ten day course for writing for young readers, including tips and tricks for publishing and marketing your book if you want to release your work to the world!

Want more help learning how to write a short story for kids? Check out How to Write a Short Story That Gets Published — a free, ten day course by Laura Mae Isaacman, a full-time editor who runs a book editing company in Brooklyn.

Ready to start writing? Check out Reedsy’s weekly short story contest , for the chance of winning $250! You can also check out our list of writing contests or our directory of literary magazines for more opportunities to submit your story.

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Fun Writing Prompts To Entertain Your Kids (And Keep You Sane)

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Carina Pereira

Carina Pereira, born in ‘87, in Portugal. Moved to Belgium in 2011, and to Rotterdam, The Netherlands, in 2019. Avid reader, changing interests as the mods strikes. Whiles away the time by improvising stand-up routines she’ll never get to perform. Books are a life-long affair, audiobooks a life-changing discovery of adulthood. Selling books by day, writer by night. Contact

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If most people have trouble dealing with staying inside, imagine having to stay home with bored kids, complaining that they have nothing to do the whole day, and dismissing any attempt to be entertained! Books are, of course, a great way to spend the time, but there are only so many books a kid can read before wanting to actually do something . If you’re a parent whose kids would gladly write stories, but you don’t have the mental energy to come up with writing prompts, Book Riot has got your back! Here are 20 writing prompts for kids that will keep your children entertained for hours in their own made-up world! You can thank us later (just enjoy your extra time, for now)!

*The rule of the code is as follows: for each letter, you skip two letters (A becomes C, B becomes D, etc. Book Riot would become Dqqm Tkqv). Fun!

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Want to help your kids improve their writing? Here are a few children’s books about writing that will definitely help!

Amelia’s Notebooks by Marissa Moss

Many adults who have read these books as children vouch for them as a legit learning tool for writing.

The books are fun, and they are written as real journals, by the pen of Amelia, who describes her thoughts and all the things that happen in her life.

There are various volumes, directed to elementary and middle school.

Just Write: Here’s How by Walter Dean Myers

Myers is well known for his children’s books, and in this volume he teaches the reader to write both fiction and non-fiction.

It includes notes from his own notebooks, and questions and answers regarding outline, characters, and length.

It also questions the reader on what makes them want to become a writer, which might be a very interesting exercise to start off with.

Share Your Smile: Raina’s Guide To  Telling Your Own Story by Raina Telgemeier

This book is a mix of a journal, a ‘make your own comic’, and scrapbook, because in its pages the little writer is encouraged both to write, draw, and glue things.

For this alone, I think it will be very interesting for kids. It’s not only about writing, but a little bit about crafting, and we all know how kids love getting creative, even when there are guidelines.

Q&A A Day For Kids by Betsy Franco

This a sort of interactive book. Each page contains a question, and all the kids have to do is write an answer.

It’s less a book of prompts and more an easy writing exercise, where kids don’t need to think too much to put something on the paper. It will also help create a habit of writing, as it’s supposed to be an-answer-a-day exercise.

It is great fun to do together with the parents or siblings, and compare answers.

Writing Magic: Creating Stories That Fly by Gail Carson Levine

This is a great one to motivate kids to write and to make them believe that they, too, can become great writers.

Not only does Levine explain how to create great stories – including dialogues, and how to come up with memorable characters – the book also contains writing exercises, to put to test what is taught across its pages.

A wonderful mix of fun and learning.

Another writing book by Levine that is worth adding to this list is Writer To Writer: From Think To Ink .

The Write Thing: Kwame Alexander Engages Students In Writing Workshop by Kwame Alexander

Written by a Newberry medal winner, this book is pretty much a way to help teachers and parents guide kids in their writing endeavours, in a fun way.

A bit of a step-by-step on how to go from creating a plot, developing interesting characters, drafting, and more.

It dares to go beyond the private writing, teaching you how to print a book, or how to present a text.

It’s like having all the material you need to create a story from start to finish, allowing you to help younger ones create them too.

If You Have Older Kids In The House, You May Also Like These Books For YA Readers

Find your voice: a guided journal for writing your truth by angie thomas.

This book includes writing prompts and craft tips, and it is said to be a perfect book for homeschooling, so definitely a good choice for times like these.

Thomas is well-known among young readers for her up-to-date and woke stories. She writes about young people with empathy, making them shine in her stories.

It also includes tips on how to write a ‘zero draft’, maybe the most important tip ever.

It was later in life that I found out you’re not supposed to write a good story the first time around – I was shocked, but thankful, to learn that – so this book would have been a treasure in my teens, and I’m sure many kids who enjoy writing, and want to keep enjoying it even as it becomes more challenging, will appreciate it.

Write Yourself A Lantern: A Journal Inspired By The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo

More than a guide, this book is a journal, and what makes us better writers than writing everyday? For ourselves alone and with no expectations?

With lines from Acevedo’s The Poet X  adorning its pages, this wonderful book is ready to be filled in by a writer who is not afraid to make mistakes. It’s supposed to help us find our voice, and make us accept that it may take a while for that to happen.

As consumers of books, it’s impossible not to be inspired by those we read. This journal becomes an invitation to draw inspiration from Acevedo’s writing and, with it, find our own.

We hope these prompts – and books – manage to provide hours of fun for kids, and some peace and quiet for all parents out there!

Stay creative, wash your hands, stay safe (and sane)!

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25 Creative Writing Prompts for Kids

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Writing helps children develop their communication, emotional intelligence, self-expression, and confidence. We know this skill doesn't always come naturally to children, so we're here to make it easy and fun to learn!

Here are 25 fantastically fun writing prompts for you to try, whether you’re homeschooling , or simply looking for an educational activity to do at the weekend:

  • You find a door in the school that you have never seen before. You peer through the large keyhole and see something that resembles a time machine… What happens next? Do you try to open the door?
  • Write a story about a Monster that shows up at your birthday party.
  • Write a story about a magical ring that can grant all your favorite things. Until…
  • You are the main character in your favorite video game. What happens?
  • Story starter: You’re watching your favorite movie when suddenly, you get pulled into the screen! After a moment of confusion, you discover that you’ve replaced the main character... What happens next?
  • You’re building your dream treehouse, but first you need to get all the materials you need to complete it! Can you write a list of everything you need to build your treehouse?
  • Your best friend gives you their favorite book, and you find out it has magical powers! What are its magical powers? How will you use them?
  • Once upon a time, in Fairy Tale Land, there lived a sad, sad princess. She was always teased by her family members, so she set off on an adventure…
  • Time for an adventure story: you wake up in a spaceship and a fellow astronaut tells you that you’re there to explore outer space. What happens? Do you discover a new planet? Who do you meet?
  • What is your favorite animal, and what is the funniest thing about them? Write a report on this and include as many fun facts as you can!
  • A package arrives. It is shaking violently.The worst part is you didn’t order anything. Write a short story about what happens when you open the package.
  • Can you describe your favorite food? Is it ice cream? A burger? Pasta? Tell us all about it!
  • You’re walking through the park when you spot a group of older kids playing your favorite sport. As you approach them to ask if you can join them, you spot a very shiny object by a tree. As you get closer, you can’t believe what you’ve discovered... What is it? And what happens next?
  • You find yourself stranded on a desert island. As you search for other people and food, you find a cell phone that seems to be giving you directions to a mysterious location. Are you accepting the quest? What challenges do you face? Do you find a treasure, or something more dangerous? Write an exciting adventure story based on your quest to solve this mystery.
  • Write an acrostic poem about your favorite season.
  • You discover an animal that you’ve never seen before and it bestows some magical powers on you that change your life! Write a letter to a good friend explaining this.
  • If I Found One Million Dollars… Write an adventure story that starts when you discover a bag containing one million dollars. Do you spend it, or save it? Do you buy all your favorite toys, or do you pretend you never found anything?
  • Pretend that you are a “grown-up” who is 70 or 80 years old. Write a complaint about what is wrong with “kids these days”!
  • If your favorite holiday is Christmas, we’ve got a secret mission for you: write a story persuading Santa that you could be his very best elf.
  • Chindōgu (珍道具) is the Japanese art of inventing useless gadgets. Design a useless gadget and persuade people to buy it!
  • What superpower would you NOT want and why?
  • If you could create the perfect TV show, what would it be? What would happen?
  • Write a story about what you think it’d be like to visit another planet for the first time.
  • Can you invent your own company and write about what it would do?
  • Journal writing prompt: What are your favorite things about yourself? Write a list of all the things that make you unique and special.

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More Writing Resources for Kids

We hope you’ve enjoyed this collection of creative writing prompts for kids! For more creative writing ideas and prompts, check these out:

  • Elementary Writing Prompts
  • Picture Writing Prompts
  • Writing Activities For Kids

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174 Fun Kindergarten Writing Prompts

174 Fun Kindergarten Writing Prompts

How Can Writing Prompts Help Kindergarteners?

40 creative journal prompts for kindergarteners, tips for using kindergarten writing prompts, how to implement writing prompts for kindergarten.

Your kindergartener has just started to read and write! The ability to write is a crucial part of children’s school years and professional life. Therefore, it is essential that your little one starts practicing creative writing from his early formative years.  These formative years will become the solid base of learning throughout his life, and developing strong writing skills from an early age will surely benefit him.

Contrary to general perception, learning how to write creatively doesn’t necessarily mean that a child is preparing to become a writer. As kids progress in their school and life, they will need good writing skills to express their views. Therefore, being able to write well is a skill that is essential and useful for various stages of life and career.

Creative writing also improves and expands vocabulary, comprehension, communication , and imagination. As kindergarteners may not know how to start writing creatively, suggesting fun writing prompts will help them to kick-start their imagination, and get their little fingers moving across pages! So get ready to explore some fun kindergarten writing prompts along with exciting kindergarten journal prompts. 

Writing prompts are helpful as guidelines for children. Kindergarteners have just started reading and writing, so their thinking ability is still not fully developed. They may not be able to think of things to write about by themselves. Hence, they need some narrative writing prompts. As they keep writing as per the prompts, they broaden their thoughts and imagination.

Diverse preschool journal prompts need words for expression, so kids are also able to expand their vocabulary.  Thus, as they start practicing creative writing, their imagination is stimulated, their vocabulary increases, their grammar improves, their writing skills develop, they express themselves more vividly, their retained memory improves, and their oral communication develops. Thus, writing prompts are useful not just to develop their creative writing, but also for their overall development!

Journal prompts are helpful for kindergarteners to assist them in getting into the habit of writing. With the help of creative journal prompts, children can use their imagination to write. These prompts are immensely helpful to give them a starting point to write. So, make full use of writing prompts to inspire young kids to start writing during vacations and spare time!

Popular creative writing prompts for kindergarteners are:

1. Name your favourite movie. Tell us about the movie. 2. Name the colour you like the most. Write about three things in that colour. 3. Write about your best friend. Why is this person your best friend? 4. What do you like to do in school? 5. Write about a dream you had. 6. Write about your favourite animal. Why is it your favourite animal? 7. Write about one thing which you love to do with your family. 8. Write about the things your father has taught you. 9. What is your favorite fairytale? What is it about? 10. If you are asked to make dinner for your parents, what would you make? 11. What will I become when I finish school…? 12. If you could be any animal, what would you be? Why? 13. Do you have any hobbies? Write about a favorite hobby. 14. If you were a superhero, what would be your superpower? 15. If you are given three wishes by a genie, what would you ask for? 16. If you could keep any animal as a pet, which one would you choose? Why? 17. Write about your home. 18. If you could change one thing about your school, what would you change? 19. Write about your favorite indoor game. 20. If you could eat just one thing the whole day, what would you eat? Why? 21. What do you like to do on a rainy day? 22. You are going for a picnic on the moon. Write about it. 23. Write about your best birthday party. What did you do at the party? 24. Which is your favorite season, and why? 25. Tell us about an interesting place you have visited. 26. You are made the teacher of your class. What would you teach? 27. Write about your last picnic with your parents. 28. Did you learn something new during this summer vacation? What was it? How did you learn it? 29. Did you ever have an argument with your best friend? What was the reason for the argument? 30. Were you ever punished by your parents? Why did they punish you? 31. What do you like to do on your holiday? 32. If you could be a movie character, who you would be? Why? 33. Do you like to play outside? What do you play? 34. Do you have grandparents? What do you like to do with them? 35. What is your favorite toy? Tell us about it. 36. If summers changed to winters, what would your day be like? 37. Do you help your parents? What do you do? 38. If you could get anything for your birthday, what would you want? Why? 39. Make a list of three things you like to do with your friends. 40. If you could meet Santa, what would you ask or do?

Popular Creative Writing Prompts

Family and home writing prompts.

1. Imagine your family is going on a camping trip! Describe what you will pack, where you will go, and what kind of fun activities you will do together. 2. Your family is hosting a big party at home! What kind of decorations will you put up? What games will you play? What kind of food will you serve? 3. Your family is getting a new pet! What kind of pet do you want and why? What will you name your new furry friend? 4. Your family is redecorating your home! What colours and themes do you want to use? What kind of furniture will you buy? 5. Your family is going on a road trip! Where will you go and what kind of car games will you play? Who gets to control the music? 6. Your family is having a movie night at home! What movie will you watch and what snacks will you eat? Will you build a fort or snuggle up on the couch? 7. Your family is having a bake-off! What kind of dessert will you make? Will you work alone or team up with someone? 8. Your family is creating a garden! What kind of plants and flowers will you grow? Will you make a scarecrow to protect your garden? 9. Your family is building a treehouse! What kind of tree will you use and what kind of cool features will your treehouse have? 10. Your family is having a game night! What kind of games will you play and who will win? Will you have prizes for the winners?

Hobbies, Likes And Interests Writing Prompts

1. What is your favorite hobby and why do you enjoy it? Write a short story or draw a picture of yourself doing your hobby. 2. Imagine you could have any superpower related to your hobby! What would it be and how would you use it? 3. If you could meet any famous person who shares your hobby or interest, who would it be and what would you ask them? 4. What is the most challenging thing about your hobby or interest? How do you overcome that challenge? 5. Create a fun quiz about your hobby or interest, and challenge your family or friends to take it! 6. Write a poem or song about your favorite hobby or interest. Bonus points if you can perform it for someone! 7. If your hobby or interest was a creature, what would it look like? Draw a picture or describe it in words. 8. Make a list of all the things you’ve learned or accomplished through your hobby or interest. What are you most proud of? 9. Imagine you could travel anywhere in the world to practice your hobby or interest. Where would you go and why? 10. Create a video tutorial or demo of your hobby or interest to share with others. You never know who you might inspire!

Seasonal And Holiday Writing Prompts

1. If you could design your own holiday, what would it be called and what traditions would you create for it? 2. Imagine you wake up one morning and it’s already the first day of winter! Describe what you see outside and what fun activities you’ll do in the snow. 3. Write a letter to Santa Claus, telling him what you want for Christmas and why you deserve it. Don’t forget to leave him some milk and cookies! 4. Imagine you could travel to any country to celebrate a holiday. Where would you go and why? 5. If you could create your own Halloween costume, what would it be and why? 6. Write a short story or draw a picture of your favorite Thanksgiving memory. What are you thankful for this year? 7. If you could have a New Year’s resolution for the whole world, what would it be and why? 8. Imagine you’re stuck at home on a rainy spring day. What kind of indoor activities will you do to pass the time? 9. Create a fun recipe for a summertime treat, like a smoothie or popsicle! What ingredients will you use and how will you make it? 10. If you could celebrate your birthday in any season, which one would you choose and why? What kind of party would you have?\

‘Would You’ Writing Prompts

1. Would you rather live on a spaceship or on a deserted island? Why? 2. If you could have any animal as a pet, would you choose a dragon or a unicorn? Why? 3. Would you rather have the power of flight or the power of invisibility? What would you do with your power? 4. If you could travel back in time, would you visit the dinosaurs or the ancient Egyptians? Why? 5. Would you rather have the ability to speak every language in the world or have the power to talk to animals? Why? 6. If you could be any character from a book or movie, who would you be and why? 7. Would you rather have a magic wand or a lightsaber? What kind of spells or tricks would you perform with your wand? 8. If you could eat only one type of food for the rest of your life, would you choose pizza or ice cream? Why? 9. Would you rather be able to breathe underwater or have the ability to fly underwater like a mermaid or a fish? Why? 10. If you could switch places with any person for a day, who would you choose and why? What would you do in their shoes?

‘If I’ Writing Prompts

1. If I could be any animal for a day, I would choose to be a ________ because… 2. If I could go on a trip anywhere in the world, I would go to ________ because… 3. If I could have any job in the world, I would be a ________ because… 4. If I could have any superpower, I would choose ________ because… 5. If I could have any three wishes granted, I would wish for ________ because… 6. If I could change one thing about the world, I would change ________ because… 7. If I could live in any time period, I would choose to live during ________ because… 8. If I could be any character from a book or movie, I would be ________ because… 9. If I could have any talent, I would choose to be able to ________ because… 10. If I could have any pet, I would choose to have a ________ because…

Writing Prompt About Zoo And Adventure

1. Imagine you woke up one morning and found a zoo in your backyard! What animals would you like to see there and what adventures would you have? 2. If you could be any animal in the zoo for a day, which one would you choose and why? What would you do during your day as that animal? 3. Write a story about a group of animals who go on a wild adventure outside of their zoo enclosure. What obstacles do they face and how do they overcome them? 4. Create your own imaginary animal and write a story about it exploring a zoo. What would your animal look like and what special abilities would it have? 5. If you could visit any zoo in the world, which one would you choose and why? What animals would you be most excited to see? 6. Write a letter to a zookeeper, asking them questions about their job and the animals they care for. What would you like to know about the zoo? 7. Imagine you were given the task of designing a brand new exhibit at the zoo. What kind of animals would you feature and what would the exhibit look like? 8. Write a story about a group of friends who sneak into the zoo at night and have an adventure with the animals. What do they discover and how do they get out before getting caught? 9. If you could adopt any zoo animal as a pet, which one would you choose and why? How would you take care of it? 10. Imagine you were a zookeeper for a day. What animals would you take care of and what tasks would you need to complete?

Writing Prompt About Birthday And Friends

1. It’s your birthday and your friends have planned a surprise party for you! Write about what happens when you arrive and how you feel. 2. Write a story about a group of friends who plan the perfect birthday celebration for their friend. What do they do and how do they make it special? 3. If you could have any kind of birthday party, what would it be and why? Who would you invite and what activities would you do? 4. Write about a time when you gave a friend a really special birthday gift. What was it and how did they react? 5. Imagine you are throwing a surprise party for your best friend. What kind of decorations, food, and activities would you plan to make it the best birthday ever? 6. Write a story about a friend who forgets your birthday. How do you feel and what do they do to make it up to you? 7. If you could celebrate your birthday in any country or city in the world, where would you go and why? What would you do there? 8. Write a letter to a friend, thanking them for being there for you on your birthday. What did they do that made the day special? 9. If you could have any celebrity come to your birthday party, who would it be and why? What would you do with them at the party? 10. Imagine you are the birthday party planner for your friend’s party. What kind of theme would you choose and what activities would you plan to make it unforgettable?

Writing Prompts About Growing Things

1. Imagine you had a magical garden where anything you planted would grow instantly! What would you plant and why? 2. Write a story about a tiny seed that grows into a giant plant. What adventures does it have as it grows and what obstacles does it face? 3. If you could have any kind of plant in your bedroom, which one would you choose and why? What would it look like and how would you take care of it? 4. Write about a time when you helped someone grow a plant, whether it was a friend, family member, or even a stranger. What did you do to help and how did it feel to see the plant grow? 5. Imagine you could talk to plants and they could talk back to you! What would you ask them and what do you think they would say in response?

Writing Prompt About Friends

  • Write a story about a new friend you made and the adventures you have together. What makes them a great friend and what do you like to do with them?
  • Imagine you had a superhero friend who could help you with anything. What powers would they have and how would they help you out in different situations?
  • Write about a time when you and your friends went on a fun outing, like a trip to the beach or a picnic in the park. What did you do and what made it so special?
  • If you could have any kind of animal as a friend, which one would you choose and why? What would you do together and how would you take care of them?
  • Write a letter to a friend you haven’t seen in a while, telling them all about what you’ve been up to and asking about what’s new with them. What do you miss about them and what are you looking forward to doing together when you see them next?

‘Have You Ever’ Writing Prompts

  • Have you ever tried a food that you thought you wouldn’t like, but ended up loving it? What was it and why did you think you wouldn’t like it?
  • Have you ever had a dream that felt so real, it was hard to tell if it actually happened or not? What was the dream about and how did you feel when you woke up?
  • Have you ever tried to do something that you thought was too hard, but ended up succeeding? What was it and how did you feel afterwards?
  • Have you ever had a really embarrassing moment in front of your friends or family? What happened and how did you react? Did you laugh it off or feel embarrassed?

Writing Prompts About Reading Books

  • Imagine you could enter the world of your favourite book and meet the characters. Which book would you choose and who would you want to meet? What adventures would you have with them?
  • Write a book review of a book you recently read. What did you like about it and why would you recommend it to others?
  • If you could have any superpower that would help you with reading, what would it be and why? Would you want to read faster, remember everything you read, or something else?
  • Write a story about a character who loves to read and gets transported into a book. What happens to them and how do they get back to the real world?
  • Imagine you could write your own book. What kind of story would it be and who would be the main character? What would happen in the story and why would people love reading it?

Writing Prompts About Space

  • Imagine you could travel to any planet in the solar system. Which planet would you choose and why? What would you want to see and explore there?
  • Write a story about an alien who comes to Earth for the first time. What do they see and experience, and how do they react to the things they encounter?
  • If you could design your own spaceship, what features would it have and where would you go in it? What adventures would you have and who would you take with you?
  • Write about a time when you looked up at the stars and felt small compared to the vastness of space. What did you think about and how did it make you feel?
  • Imagine you could be any character from a space movie or TV show. Who would you choose and why? What do you like about that character and what adventures would you have in their universe?

1. Take your time

It’s important to take your time and think about what you want to write before you start. Spend a few minutes brainstorming ideas and making a plan.

2. Use your imagination

Don’t be afraid to use your imagination and come up with creative ideas. Think outside the box and have fun with it!

3. Ask for help

If you’re feeling stuck or don’t know how to start, ask your teacher or a parent for help. They can give you ideas and help you get started.

4. Practice, practice, practice

The more you practice writing, the better you’ll get at it. Try writing a little bit every day and challenge yourself to try new things.

1. Choose age-appropriate prompts

When selecting writing prompts for kindergarten students, make sure they are age-appropriate and match their writing level. Look for prompts that are simple and easy to understand.

2. Make it fun

Writing should be enjoyable, so make sure to choose prompts that are engaging and interesting. Use colourful pictures or props to spark their imagination and get them excited to write.

3. Provide support 

Kindergarten students may need extra support and guidance when completing writing prompts. Offer help when needed, give clear instructions, and provide examples to help them understand what is expected.

Creative writing prompts are a great way to encourage kindergarteners to practice creative writing. The writing prompts function as an instructional guide for the kids to write a story. Using the advantage given by writing prompts, they can capture their imagination in their words, and delve into their creative side. Therefore, use some or all of these fun writing prompts for your kindergartener, and help him enhance his writing skills!

Creative Writing Prompts Ideas for Children Tips to Improve the Writing Speed of a Child Benefits of Journaling for Children

creative writing topics for preschoolers

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100 Free Creative Writing Prompts for Kindergarten

Writing is an essential skill that children learn from an early age. Kindergarten is a crucial time for children as it is their first experience with formal education.

Therefore, it is important to provide them with the right tools and resources to develop their writing skills. One of the best ways to do this is by using writing prompts.

We will explore some 50+ creative writing prompts for kindergarten children.

Creative Writing Prompts for Kindergarten

What are Writing Prompts?

Writing prompts are prompts or cues that inspire children to write.

They are often used in classrooms to encourage children to write creatively and expressively. Writing prompts can be in the form of a picture, a sentence, or a question.

They are designed to spark children’s imaginations and encourage them to write about topics that interest them.

Related: How to Teach a 3 year old to Write?

Why use Writing Prompts in Kindergarten?

Related: 20 Fun Letter N Activities for Preschool

Using writing prompts in kindergarten is an effective way to help children develop their writing skills.

Writing prompts provide children with a starting point for their writing, making it easier for them to get started.

They also encourage children to use their imagination and creativity to write about a variety of topics.

Writing prompts can also help children to:

  • Develop their vocabulary
  • Improve their sentence structure
  • Practice their handwriting
  • Express their thoughts and ideas

Related: 20 Delightful Letter O Activities for Preschool

100 Journal Writing Prompts for Kindergarten

  • Imagine you are a superhero. What would your superpower be?
  • If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?
  • Write a story about a talking animal.
  • If you could design your own robot, what would it do?
  • Write a story about a magical fairy who grants wishes.
  • What would you do if you found a treasure chest?
  • Write a story about a friendly monster.
  • If you could be any character from a book, who would you be?
  • What would you do if you were the only person on a deserted island?
  • Write a story about a time-traveling adventure.
  • If you could have any pet in the world, what would it be?
  • Write a story about a brave knight who saves a princess.
  • What would you do if you had a magic wand?
  • Write a story about a magical forest.
  • If you could be any animal, what would you be?
  • Write a story about a mermaid who lives in the ocean.
  • If you could meet any famous person, who would it be?
  • Write a story about a lost treasure.
  • If you could be any character from a movie, who would you be?
  • Write a story about a dinosaur adventure.
  • If you could go back in time, what era would you visit?
  • Write a story about a talking plant.
  • If you could have any job in the world, what would it be?
  • Write a story about a day at the circus.
  • If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
  • Write a story about a magical unicorn.
  • If you could invent a new game, what would it be?
  • Write a story about a pirate adventure.
  • If you could visit any planet, which one would you go to?
  • Write a story about a robot who becomes your friend.
  • If you could have any food for breakfast, what would it be?
  • Write a story about a trip to the moon.
  • If you could have any animal as a pet, what would it be?
  • Write a story about a fairy tale adventure.
  • If you could have any vehicle, what would it be?
  • Write a story about a journey through space.
  • If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
  • Write a story about a visit to a magical kingdom.
  • If you could have any dessert, what would it be?
  • Write a story about a trip to the jungle.
  • If you could have any job in the world, what would it be and why?
  • Write a story about a visit to a magical castle.
  • If you could have any animal as a friend, what would it be and why?
  • Write a story about a trip to the desert.
  • If you could have any robot as a friend, what would it be and why?
  • Write a story about a trip to a haunted house.
  • If you could have any dinosaur as a friend, what would it be and why?
  • Write a story about a visit to a circus.
  • If you could have any magical power, what would it be and why?
  • Write a story about a visit to a magical forest.
  • Write about your favorite animal.
  • Describe your favorite toy and why you love it.
  • Draw and write about your family.
  • Write a story about going on a magical adventure.
  • Describe your favorite food and how it tastes.
  • Write about a time you helped someone.
  • Imagine you can fly—where would you go?
  • Describe your favorite season and what you like to do during that time.
  • Write a letter to your best friend.
  • Describe a day at the beach.
  • Draw and write about a make-believe creature.
  • Write about something you are grateful for.
  • Describe a fun day at the park.
  • Write about your favorite book and why you like it.
  • Imagine you are a superhero—what would your superpower be?
  • Write about a time you felt proud of yourself.
  • Describe your dream vacation.
  • Describe your favorite outdoor activity.
  • Write about a time you learned something new.
  • Imagine you are a teacher—what would you teach your classmates?
  • Write about a time you lost a tooth.
  • Describe your favorite bedtime routine.
  • Write a letter to your favorite character from a book or movie.
  • Imagine you can talk to animals—what would you ask them?
  • Write about a special day you spent with your family.
  • Describe your dream treehouse.
  • Write a story about a magical object.
  • Imagine you can travel back in time—where would you go and what would you do?
  • Write about a time you felt scared and how you overcame it.
  • Describe your favorite game to play with friends.
  • Write about a time you visited a farm.
  • Imagine you are a famous singer—what would your song be about?
  • Write a letter to your future self.
  • Describe your favorite outdoor adventure.
  • Write about a time you made a new friend.
  • Imagine you found a treasure chest—what would be inside?
  • Write a story about a talking tree.
  • Describe your dream birthday party.
  • Write about a time you had a picnic with your family.
  • Imagine you can invent something amazing—what would it be?
  • Write a letter to your favorite animal at the zoo.
  • Describe your favorite place to read or relax.
  • Write about a time you helped take care of a pet.
  • Imagine you are a chef—what would you cook for your friends?
  • Write a story about a magical rainbow.
  • Describe your favorite color and why you like it.
  • Write about a time you went on a nature walk.
  • Imagine you are a detective—what mystery would you solve?

References:

  • Graham, S., & Perin, D. (2007) . Writing next: Effective strategies to improve writing of adolescents in middle and high schools. Alliance for Excellent Education.
  • Troia, G. A., & Graham, S. (2003) . Effective writing instruction across the grades: What every educational consultant should know. Journal of Educational and Psychological Consultation, 14(1), 75-89.
  • Teaching writing in kindergarten: A structured approach to daily writing that helps every child become a confident, capable writer. Randee Bergen .

Recommended:

  • 20 Fun Sharing Activities for Preschoolers
  • 22 Number 3 Activities for Preschoolers
  • 23 Cool Clay Activities for Preschoolers

creative writing topics for preschoolers

Sohaib Hasan Shah

Sohaib's journey includes 10+ years of teaching and counseling experience at BCSS School in elementary and middle schools, coupled with a BBA (Hons) with a minor in Educational Psychology from Curtin University (Australia) . In his free time, he cherishes quality moments with his family, reveling in the joys and challenges of parenthood. His three daughters have not only enriched his personal life but also deepened his understanding of the importance of effective education and communication, spurring him to make a meaningful impact in the world of education.

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creative writing topics for preschoolers

130 Kindergarten Journal Prompts

Language Arts

creative writing topics for preschoolers

Table of Contents

  • 1 Learning to Read and Write
  • 2 Family and Home Related Journal Prompts
  • 3 What is Your Favorite… Kindergarten Journal Prompts
  • 4 Hobbies, Likes, and Interests
  • 5 Seasonal/Holiday Journal Prompts
  • 6 Have You Ever… Writing Journal Prompts
  • 7 Would you… Creative Journal Prompts
  • 8 If I… Kindergarten Journal Prompts
  • 9 Miscellaneous, Make-You-Think Writing Prompts
  • 10 Daily Math Journals

If you need free kindergarten journal prompts to keep writing fun, you’ve come to the right place. Not only is this article, there are more helpful posts all throughout the blog.  After reading this, simply search the tags on the right (or scroll to the very bottom if on your phone). 

creative writing topics for preschoolers

When young children begin grade school, they are most likely a new writer. The year of kindergarten is a year of many firsts for young students.

Some students spend the entire year, getting used to being at school every day. It can be a massive adjustment for many children and their family members. Much of the day is spent in the beginning phases of learning math, science, reading, and history.

All of these foundational components of this first school year are vital to children making the rest of their way through grade school.

Some kindergarteners may feel overwhelmed by the structure. This is why structured free time or time where they get to be creative is incredibly helpful. Writing is an easy way to implement a little structured freedom into a kindergarten student’s day.

Learning to Read and Write

Writing is essential to becoming a fluent reader. Reading fluency is essential to becoming a well-developed writer. Both writing and reading are an essential component of that first year of school.

Writing may technically be a structured assignment, but it is a great way to give students time to think on their own. This is why many teachers implement daily journals into the schedule.

Some teachers have these journal prompts as morning work, to use as a break in the middle of the day, or to close up the day. It is an extremely beneficial activity and a fun way for students to get a little creative.

All that being said, if teachers do a journal prompt every day, that is a lot of prompts to come up with.

If you are in need of some daily writing prompts or new kindergarten writing prompts, check out this list! Please share on your favorite social media platform so more parents and teachers can help their kids with writing.  

creative writing topics for preschoolers

Family and Home Related Journal Prompts

Students love talking about their lives. They will love getting to talk about what happens outside of school.

Your young writers will love answering these questions or prompts in their writing journals. Since these are intended for kindergarten, all of these can be answered in either a single or a couple of sentences. Some may ask for an explanation and some may just ask for a simple answer.

Use these journal prompts or Question of the Day as a great way to get to know your students.

  •  How do you get to school today? 
  •  My favorite breakfast is…
  •  Who is in your family?
  • Does your family have any pets? What are their names?
  • When I am home, I like to…
  • My house is…
  • My family likes to go to…
  • I like to watch…
  • My bedroom is…
  • At bedtime, I …

What is Your Favorite… Kindergarten Journal Prompts

Another perfect way to find out more about who is in your classroom everyday.

While most of these questions require a straightforward answer, your students will enjoy them. The answers to these questions may even help you do something special for their birthday or a special occasion!

The more you know about your students, the more you can connect. The more you can connect, the more likely they are to be receptive to classroom material.

  • My favorite food is…
  • My favorite sport is…
  • My favorite book is…
  • My favorite game to play is….
  • My favorite song is…
  • What is your favorite movie? Why?
  • My favorite superhero is…
  • My favorite color is…because…
  • My favorite toy is…
  • My favorite part of school is……because……
  • What is your favorite place in the world? Why?
  • My favorite book character is…
  • My favorite desert is…
  • My favorite store is…

question-of-the-day-cover

Hobbies, Likes, and Interests

While the last section was also about their interests, it was mostly centered around their favorite of things.

This next section of question will continue to open up your eyes to the little ones in your room. These are more broad based questions about things that they like and different parts of their life.

These questions are easily answered in a single sentence or multiple if you want a little more explanation.

  • I like to play _____ on the computer/tablet.
  • Do you like sleeping over at your friend’s houses?
  • I am good at….
  • My best friend is…..because……
  • I met my best friend at….
  • At recess, I like to……
  • My three wishes are….
  • If I could be an animal, I would be…..
  • I love our classroom because…..
  • Would you rather play inside or outside on the weekend?
  • What is your favorite game to play outside?
  • When I grow up, I want to be….
  • When I am sad, I like to….
  • I want to go on vacation to….
  • On the weekends, I like to…
  • Do you like playing video games? What is your favorite?

creative writing topics for preschoolers

Seasonal/Holiday Journal Prompts

Students love getting to celebrate holidays and seasons at school. It can break up something that can often feel monotonous. So, since you will likely be implementing holiday decorations and celebrations, here are some holiday themed journal prompts!

  • What is your favorite Halloween costume?
  • What is your favorite Halloween candy?
  • I like Halloween because…. / I do not like Halloween because….
  • What is your favorite part about trick-or-treating?
  • My favorite holiday is….because….
  • I like when the weather is….
  • My dream birthday party would be…
  • My favorite birthday cake is….
  • The best present I’ve ever gotten is…
  • Have you been ice skating? Did you like it?
  • Have you ever been in a snowball fight?
  • Building a snowman is….
  • Do you celebrate Christmas? What is your favorite part?
  • What is the best Christmas present you have ever gotten?
  • I like Christmas because…
  • Have you ever set out cookies for Santa? What kind?
  • Would you rather eat cinnamon rolls or pancakes on Christmas morning?
  • Have you ever seen a leprechaun?
  • If I found a pot of gold, I would…
  • Does your family celebrate Easter? What do you do?
  • Do you like hunting for eggs on Easter?
  • ” ……is my favorite season because……
  • What is your favorite part about summer vacation?
  • Over Summer vacation, I want to…
  • My favorite Thanksgiving food is….
  • I am thankful for…..
  • On the 4th of July, I want to….

Have You Ever… Writing Journal Prompts

While these are still based on your students’ lives, these are a little more creative and will have them telling a story. If you only need a brief answer, these prompts are appropriate. If you would like a little more elaboration, you can request that and they will still fit well.

  • Have you ever been to a movie theatre? What movie did you see?
  • Have you ever played in the rain? What did you do?
  • Have you ever been to the dentist? Did you like it?
  • Have you ever been on a treasure hunt? What would you do? 

Would you… Creative Journal Prompts

These are creative writing prompts and narrative writing prompts perfect for elementary school. They will give you a little insight into the likes and dislikes of the young kids lives. They are also great prompts to help young students use their imagination and tell a story.  You can find these, and many others in this Question of the Day printable and digital resource .  

creative writing topics for preschoolers

  • Would you want to be a giant?
  • Would you let Goldilocks into your house?
  • Would you cross a bridge if a troll lived under it?
  • Would you ever climb a beanstalk into the sky?
  • Would you want to live in a giant castle by yourself?
  • Would you eat green eggs and ham?
  • Would you rather go to the beach or the mountains? Why?
  • Would you want to talk to an animal? Which animal would you want to talk to?
  • Would you change your name if you could? What would you change it to?
  • Would you ever want to be a movie character? Which one?
  • Would you ever want to be a book character? Which one?
  • Would you ever want to trade places for a day with one of your friends? Why that friend?
  • Would you ever want to live in another country? Which one?
  • Would you ever want to live in another state or city? Which one?
  • Would you ever want to be a snowflake? Why or why not? 

If I… Kindergarten Journal Prompts

These prompts allow them to picture themselves in an imaginary scenario. We want our students to become better creative writers. With the help of creative journal prompts like these, you’re encouraging students to share their thoughts in a creative way. For example, kindergarten, first grade , and 2nd grade kids will think about scenarios they may never have thought of before. Even the youngest writers are able to respond to these free writing prompts with a drawing or simple sentences. The best thing is journal writing will become fun!

  • If I could change one thing about the world, I would change….
  • If I could fly to the moon, I would….
  • If I were ten feet tall, I would…..
  • If I owned a big boat, I would…..
  • If I found $1000 on the road, I would….
  • If I could live in a fairy tale for a day, I would be….
  • If I could be a celebrity for a day, I would be….
  • If I could be my mom or dad for a day, I would….
  • If I could be president for a day, I would….
  • If I could be my teacher for a day, I would….
  • If I could be my favorite animal for a day, I would be…
  • If I could only eat one fruit for the rest of my life, I would eat…
  • If I could go back in time, I would go….
  • If I could hang out with older kids for a day, I would want to…
  • If I could create a perfect day, I would want to….
  • If I could be invisible for a day, I would….
  • If I were stuck in the middle of a lake, I would…
  • If I could fly for a day, I would…
  • If I could go on my dream vacation, I would go to….
  • If I had to save the world, I would…

Miscellaneous, Make-You-Think Writing Prompts

Younger kids that need challenged are going to love these fun writing prompts. Some of these questions may require a more thoughtful answer. They will have your students thinking, and may require a discussion before they begin writing. They are the best way to broaden your student’s mind and have them think abstractly.

Towards the bottom of this list, there are some questions about emotions. Journaling is a great way to talk about how you feel while getting writing practice. Kindergarten is new and can be scary for some students. These prompts are a great way for them to learn how to put their feelings into words.

  • What have you learned in school this year?
  • Why do kids have to go to school?
  • Have you ever had to wait for something you wanted? What did that feel like?
  • If you could be in charge of school for a day, what would you do?
  • Write about a time where you worked really hard.
  • How do you solve an argument with a friend?
  • Write about the best memory that you have.
  • Why do you think the leaves change in the fall?
  • Why do you think the sky is blue?
  • What makes the earth round?
  • Why do we need to learn math?
  • What do you think it is like to be a parent?
  • After school, my teacher…
  • Would you want to be the last person on earth? Why or why not?
  • If you found a long ribbon, what would you use it for?
  • What would you eat if you were stuck on an island?
  • What could you see if you were a mountain?
  • When I am angry, I feel….
  • Do you like your name? Why or why not?
  • I am proud of myself when…
  • Write about a time that you were disappointed.
  • I get scared when…
  • What is your favorite thing about your parents? 

Daily Math Journals

If you are looking for great inspiration for kindergarten math journals, you will love Daily Math Talks . These monthly, seasonal, math talks come in printable cards and digital slides to help you teach math concepts in a fun way!

Check out the video below, or grab yours in the Little Learning Corner store, HERE .

Before you go, here are a few posts you’ll enjoy:

70 Fun Math Questions for Kids

75 Yes or Not Questions Kids Love

185 Fun Question of the Day 

22 Best Educational Apps for Kids

Kindergarten Journal Prompts

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100 Best & Fun Kindergarten Writing Prompts for Kids

Kid completing writing prompts

  • Narrative Writing Prompts
  • Essay Writing Prompts
  • Research Prompts
  • Funny Writing Prompts
  • Poetry Prompts
  • Fiction-Themed Writing Prompts
  • Animal Journal Prompts!
  • Deep Emotions Prompts
  • Journal Writing Prompts
  • Descriptive Writing Prompts

The best kindergarten writing prompts are the ones that are thought-provoking, funny, and interesting. They encourage your children to think in different ways by answering questions that are unconventional and engaging.

Your kids can also learn to improve their writing construction, grammar, and understanding of tenses and verbs with the right prompts. They can improve their writing abilities, innate comprehension, and pattern detection when making the right answers to prompts.

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Here are more educational resources for your preschooler to master writing!

10 Narrative Writing Prompts

Child completing a writing prompt homework

Narrative writing prompts are highly popular among kindergarten kids because it helps them understand how to think deeper about a topic. They can improve their writing and reading abilities while simultaneously collecting their thoughts when they get the right kindergarten narrative writing prompts. You can also get a sense of their innate creative abilities with the right opinion writing prompts kindergarten questions. 

1. If you could get one ability in the whole wide world, what would it be?   

2. If you were asked to make up a new flavor of chocolate, what would it be?    

3. Your mom and dad ask you to plan your next vacation. Where do you go?    

4. Do you have a sibling? Do you love spending time with your sibling?    

5. Do you have a hobby? Why do you enjoy it?    

6. At recess, I like to _.     

7. What’s your favorite subject at school? Why do you like it?

8. Have you ever had a dream that felt real? Describe it.

9. What’s your favorite song? Why do you love that song?   

10. What is your least favorite activity at school? Why do you not like it?

10 Essay Writing Prompts

Children doing essay writing prompts

You can use the right informative kindergarten writing prompts to encourage your kids to write essays that are highly detailed. It’s important to help them write coherently and with purpose when they share their thoughts and opinions within the essay style. 

1. Write about your collection of educational toys . Why do you love your toys? Do you like sharing your toys?     

2. What’s the best way to apologize to someone? When do you say sorry to someone?  

3. Where was your last vacation? What things did you see there?

4. Have you tried a new food that you liked? How did you feel?

5. Why do kids go to school? What do kids learn at school?

6. Is there something new you learned in math ? What was it?

7. Talk about the importance of learning to read better.

8. Do you have a pet? What do you love about your pet?

9. If you could meet Santa, what would you ask him? What presents would you want your friends to get?

10. If you could be a teacher for a day, what would you teach your class?    

10 Research Prompts

Child researching to complete writing prompt kindergarten

You can make the process of improving your kids’ writing by having them research subjects that they love. You can make them research topics such as biology, history, and math, with interesting prompts that get them thinking. The best research-driven kindergarten writing prompts can show your kids the importance of continuous learning. 

1. What’s the largest animal in the world? Why did it become that big? 

2. What is the role of collaboration in our society?

3. Why do we get sick, and how can we prevent it?   

4. Write about the states of matter.

5. What happens when it rains? Where does the water go?

6. Research your family’s history. Where were they from?     

7. What does your family do when you’re at school?   

8. What are the steps that go into making clothes?

9. What is snow? Why does it snow in the winter?

10. How does an animal hibernate?      

10 Funny Writing Prompts

Child working on funny writing prompts

You can pick out the funniest kindergarten writing prompts and have your kids laugh and write at the same time. You can make them chuckle as they write and help them unlock their inner comedian. Funny prompts also alleviate the stress of learning how to write in kindergarten, as it is a more casual writing exercise.

1. Imagine every vegetable you dislike is served to you for dinner. What would be your reaction?

2. What would you do if you were the President of your own country? What would be your first act as President?

3. What if your house was suddenly transformed into a Lego block house? What funny things would you experience?  

4. Write a funny short story about a unicorn and a tiger.  

5. Can you come up with funny, made-up words? What would they sound like?

6. A dolphin swam into the deep ocean and met a shark. What would their conversation be like?

7. Write a funny poem about your favorite cartoon.

8. Write a story about the journey of a talking carrot.

9. Imagine that you walk into a toy store, and every toy has a different accent. What would they talk about?

10. Write a funny story about the adventures of a flying dog.

10 Poetry Prompts

Children doing poem writing prompt

Poetry is an excellent form of self-expression, especially when kids love to rhyme silly words and things. If your kids love singing and dancing, then having them write poetry can be a fruitful endeavor. Poetic kindergarten writing prompts can be great tools to improve grammar, sentence construction, and pattern recognition. 

1. Make a poem about the sun and the stars.  

2. Write about your day in the form of a poem.

3. Write a poem about your favorite color.      

4. Make up a poem in a completely new language. Try and make it rhyme.

5. Write a poem about a frog singing in the water.

6. Can you write a poem about ordering off the kid’s menu?

7. Write a poem about words that rhyme with cow.

8. Create a poem about your favorite breakfast foods.

9. Make up a poem about running in the yard.    

10. Write a poem about your city, talking about its landmarks, history, and fun places to explore. 

10 Fiction-Themed Writing Prompts

Child working on fiction themed writing prompt

Introducing fiction-themed fun writing prompts for kindergarten kids can be helpful in driving more secondary processing writing. They can prepare a range of nuanced answers based on prompts that are specially designed to make them think outside their normal stimuli. 

1. You’re a part of the Peppa Pig universe, and you can talk to Peppa. What would you say to Peppa?

2. You can take a magical vacation anywhere in the world. Where would you go and how would you get there?

3. You’re sitting on a magical boat that can fly across the skies. You suddenly stop at the moon. What do you see? What happens next?

4. You’re in the school bus and stopped at a red light. Suddenly you find that the tires have turned into Swiss cheese. What happens next?   

5. You’ve brought two sandwiches for lunch but your friend forgot to carry his lunchbox. What do you do next?

6. Imagine that you’re a historian and have found the first material of the earth. What do you do?   

7. You’re learning how to swim, and suddenly, the water turns into green jelly. What do you do? Do you continue swimming?   

8. Imagine that you get to design a school from scratch. What new things would you add?   

9. You need to make a completely new flavor of ice-cream. What would it be?   

10. You’re riding a unicorn when suddenly you meet a rabbit. The rabbit asks for a ride to the market. What happens next? 

10 Animal Journal Prompts!

Parent guiding child on animal writing prompts

Animal-themed creative writing prompts kindergarten assignments can help your child excel in the domain of imaginative writing. They can also apply many of the grammatical rules they’ve learned when writing about their favorite animals. These prompts are also excellent if your child loves animals naturally. 

1. Why do you love your pet? What are some of its qualities that you love?

2. Imagine that you can now talk to fish. What would you ask them?

3. A caterpillar takes a trip to the mall. What does it see?

4. You spot a cat walking on the edge of a tall building. What does it do next?

5. Is there a cartoon animal that you love? Write about them.  

6. My favorite farm animals are _.

7. A monkey escaped the zoo. Oh no! What happens next?

8. You are riding on top of an elephant in your city. What do you see?

9. Your guinea pig can now fly. Where does it go?

10. Write a story about a tiger losing its stripes. What does it do next? How does it find its stripes? 

10 Deep Emotions Prompts

Child tapping into emotions for writing prompts

You can start talking about the emotional complexities of relationships and friendships with the right writing prompts for kindergarten kids. These can also help them focus on their inner thought process when it comes to dealing with emotions.

1. How do you feel when you talk to your friends? Do you feel appreciated?

2. How do you feel when you pet your cat?

3. What are some of the things that make you happy?    

4. How do you feel when you see your friend hurt?  

5. What was your last dream about? How did you feel?

6. What’s your favorite part about being at home?   

7. How do you feel when you are surrounded by your friends?    

8. Talk about the last time you felt sad. What made you feel sad?    

9. Write a letter to someone who made you feel bad. Talk about how they made you feel.

10. What are five things that you are thankful for? Talk about them in detail.     

10 Journal Writing Prompts

Child doing journal writing prompts

The right kindergarten journal prompts can help your little ones excel in improving their writing skills. You can provide the right kindergarten writing prompts and have your kids talk about their thoughts and feelings. The best kindergarten journal prompts are the ones that ask your child to go deeper into their processing side. 

1. What’s your favorite stuffed toy? Talk about your favorite teddy bear.  

2. What do you feel when you get a hug from your parents?

3. Have you made someone feel special? What did you do?

4. I love my family because _.

5. I can make the world a better place by _.  

6. My daily routine involves _.

7. I plan on taking a vacation to _.  

8. I love my dog because _.  

9. When do you feel appreciated by others?

0. Why do you love animals? Talk about how animals make you feel.   

10 Descriptive Writing Prompts

Kids completing writing prompt in school

The best part about descriptive writing topics for kindergarteners is that kids can fully express themselves without limitations. They can process complex information from the prompt and write out their thoughts in a cohesive way. Descriptive writing ideas for kindergarten kids also help them organize their sentences better.

1. Describe an interesting place you visited after school.  

2. What is your favorite hobby? Describe it in detail.

3. How do you want the world to be? Talk about what changes you’d like to see.

4. Describe your favorite meal. Why do you love it?

5. Describe your city’s layout. What are the major landmarks?

6. Talk about the things that you are good at.    

7. Why do you love your classroom? Describe the details of the classroom.

8. Talk about where you’d like to go on vacation next. Describe everything you want to see.  

9. Who is your favorite cartoon character? Why do you love them?    

10. What is your favorite holiday? Why do you love that holiday?    

Help Your Kindergartener Become A Better Writer

Children improving writing ability

The most important thing to remember when improving your kindergartener’s writing skills is to help them through different tasks. You can provide them right prompts, worksheets and lessons, but you also need to be there next to them helping them complete these materials.

You can also focus on writing letters, summaries, stories, poems for kids to keep your young ones engaged. You can pick out some interesting kindergarten journal topics and have your kids work on the ones that they love.

You can teach your kids to visualize what they’re about to write prior to starting. They can picture the kindergarten journal prompts in their minds and form a structured approach to completing the question. This can help them introduce more nuanced elements within a formalized framework. 

Conclusion: Let Your Kindergartner Explore All Sides of Their Writing Abilities

The best writing prompts help your kindergartener flourish in the domains of grammar, handwriting, pattern detection, and reading comprehension. You can encourage them to become better at writing different types of answers and responses, which makes them more confident in the English language.Get started today with the 100 kindergarten writing prompts!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do i select the right writing prompts for my kindergarten child.

You can focus on prompts that your child finds interesting.

How do I encourage my child to write prompts regularly?

It’s best to reward them initially and help them get used to writing daily to improve their skills.

How many writing prompts should I have my kindergartener do?

You should start with 5-10 writing prompts that are of different types and genres.

How can my kindergartener improve their handwriting?

You can have your kindergartener practice their writing skills with worksheets, prompts, and journals.

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22 Pre-Writing Activities for Preschoolers

Help your preschoolers build skills that will help them learn how to write and having fun while doing it!

main image preschool prewriting skills

Pre-writing activities for preschoolers not only help our youngest learners learn the shape and structure of the letters in the alphabet, but they also serve a number of other functions as well. According to education blogger Lisette, from Where Imagination Grows , pre-writing practice teaches directionality in writing, encourages fine muscle development and coordination, and also helps students process sensory information critical to the writing process.

Here are 22 super fun, easy-to-make activities that your preschoolers will love!

1. Squishy Bags

Resealable plastic bags filled with colorful slime for kids to use for writing practice

Source: Learning4kids

All you need to make these awesome sensory bags is resealable zipper storage bags, flour, water, and food coloring. Kids can use cotton swabs or their fingers to draw shapes, lines, and letters on the bag.

2. Bubble Wrap

A child tracing the letters of his name written on bubble wrap

Source: Coffee Cups and Crayons

What a great way to recycle all that leftover bubble wrap! Simply write letters on sheets of bubble wrap with a Sharpie and let kids pop their way to letter recognition.

3. Play-Doh Snakes

A letter card with yellow playdoh used to fill in the outline

Source: In My World

Kids can’t resist the sensory lure of Play-Doh! For this activity, kids can roll small balls of dough into long snakes and form letters by bending and joining the snakes together.

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4. Play-Doh and Drinking Straws

Blue playdoh with the letter P scraped into it. Colorful straw segments stuck into the the outline of the letter and on the table next to it.

Source:   KidActivitiesBlog

Flatten out a medium-size piece of Play-Doh on a flat surface. Then use a sharp object to draw a letter on the flattened area. (Make sure that the letter is large enough to be easily recognizable when filled with straws.) Cut plastic straws into one-inch segments. Let kids “trace” the letters with the colorful straw segments.

5. Dot Markers

A child using a dot marker to fill in a squiggly line

Source: 3 Dinosaurs

Students use dot markers to practice the mechanics of writing and get used to the angles and curves of letters. Click on the link above to download 12 free pages of pre-writing dot marker worksheets.

6. Cotton Swabs and Paint

A child using a q-tip dipped in paint to draw a squiggly blue line

Source: Lessons Learnt Journal

This is a fun activity to help kids work on their fine motor skills and get the hang of the all-important pencil grip.

7. LEGO Blocks

Using lego blocks to create letters on letter cards

Source:   Wildflower Ramblings

Blocks! Young kids can’t get enough of building and creating with them. Put their creative energy to good work with these free printable letter cards.

8. Shaving Cream

A tray of shaving cream with the word

Source: Mess for Less

This classic activity is a great starting place for pre-writers. All you need is a tray and a can of shaving cream.

9. Glitter Glue

Strips of paper with straight and curvy lines outlined with glitter glue

Source: Growing Hands-On Kids

Pre-writing lines are important building blocks for any preschooler to master before learning letter formations. Download this glitter glue pre-writing line practice for preschoolers activity.

Activity card for preschoolers to use beads to trace different shaped lines

Source: Artsy Momma

Just like the one above, this activity builds fine motor skills that your young students need to begin writing. Instead of using glitter glue, though, students use inexpensive pony beads (found at any craft store) to follow the lines.

11. Sand Tray

A child using a dowel to write in a tray filled with flour

 Source: Our Little House in the Country

One of the simplest activities to put together for your students to practice pre-writing is a sand tray. Kids can use their fingers or an unsharpened pencil to practice writing. As an alternative to sand, you can fill your tray with salt, flour, cornmeal, or rice.

12. Squeeze Bottle

A child using a squeeze bottle of salt to trace words written on a card

Source:: Playdough to Plato

Fill a plastic squeeze bottle with salt or sugar and let students trace letters on cards.

13. Rainbow Tray

A rainbow colored tray of sand for children to practice writing skills on

 Source: Where Imagination Grows

This resource is so simple to make, and kids love it! Simply tape colored tissue paper in a rainbow pattern to the bottom of a clear plastic tray. Fill it with sand, and as the kids trace lines and letters, the colors below are revealed. The image above shows the tray on top of a light table, which adds another dimension of fun to the activity!

14. Masking Tape

a colorful green letter E taped on a mirror

Source: And Next Comes L

A roll of colored masking tape and a clear surface make this a fun center activity at writing time.

15. Magnet Board

The letter W taped with masking tape onto a metal board

Source: Days with Gray

Tape letters onto a magnet board and let your little ones trace them with magnets. In the example above, the teacher made the letters into roads, and the students drove their car magnets along them.

16. Lacing Cards

A preschooler laces a cord through holes in a lacing card

Source: Teaching Mama

Grasping a string between tiny fingers and threading the end through the holes in a lacing card is great fine motor practice for preschoolers. It also begins to build muscle memory for holding a pencil properly.

17. Buttons

Children placing colorful buttons on predrawn lines to practice writing skills

Source: Learning4Kids

Preschoolers will have so much fun creating patterns, swirls, squiggles, and zig-zags with colorful buttons. And they’ll be building skills while they’re at it!

18. Sticker Line Up

Child placing colorful stickers along a printed line

Source: Busy Toddler

Preschoolers need to use a pinching motion, which builds fine motor skills, to peel sticker dots off the page. Then, they use hand-eye coordination to place each sticker on the drawn line. This activity would be perfect for a writing or free time station.

19. Fingerprint Writing

Child practicing writing letters by dipping fingertip in ink then pressing letters onto poster paper

Source: Happy Toddler Playtime

Some kids may not like to get their fingers this messy, but others will adore it! For this activity, you will need poster paper and a palette of washable ink. Draw letters, shapes, and lines on a clean piece of paper. Then, show kids how to dip their pointer finger onto the ink pad, then follow the lines dot by dot.

20. Clothespin Clipping

A child clips a clothespin onto a number line

Using a clothespin takes a lot of grip strength. This image shows a student using a clothespin to choose the correct answer to a number problem, but any activity that involves clipping will help them build the fine motor skills required for writing.

21. Cutting

A child uses scissors to cut through play dough

Source: Play of the Wild

Cutting and snipping activities with scissors are excellent ways for children to practice fine motor skills and control. Give your students lots of opportunities to practice their cutting skills with paper, string, card stock, even Play-Doh!

22. Scrunching Paper

A child wads up a piece of paper

Source: Gympanzees

Scrunching paper into a ball is great for building hand strength. Let your students use computer paper, newspaper, tissue paper, or wrapping paper. Then play a game of paper ball tag!

What are your favorite pre-writing activities for preschoolers? Share in the comments below.

Plus, check out these amazing sensory table activities..

22 Pre-Writing Activities for Preschoolers

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10 Creative Writing Prompts for Preschoolers to Boost Their Learning

creative writing topics for preschoolers

As parents and educators, we are always looking for ways to help our little ones learn and grow. One essential skill that preschoolers need to develop is writing. It can be challenging to engage preschoolers in writing, but with some creative writing prompts, it can be a fun and exciting activity for them. Here are 10 preschool writing activities that can help boost your child’s learning experience.

  • Draw and Write: Encourage your child to draw a picture of something they like and ask them to write a few words about it. For example, if they draw a picture of a flower, they could write the word “flower” or “garden.”
  • Letter Tracing: Give your child a sheet of paper with a letter or word on it and ask them to trace it with a pencil or crayon. This activity can help improve their letter recognition and writing skills.
  • Story Time: Read a story to your child and ask them to draw a picture of their favorite part. Then, ask them to write a sentence or two about the picture they drew.
  • Picture Prompts: Show your child a picture and ask them to write a story about it. You can also ask them to describe the picture using a few words.
  • Play Pretend: Encourage your child to pretend they are someone else and ask them to write a few sentences about their imaginary character. For example, if they pretend to be a superhero, they could write about their superpowers.
  • Labeling: Ask your child to label objects around the house. For example, they can label their bed, toys, or even their own name.
  • Alphabet Hunt: Ask your child to find objects around the house that start with each letter of the alphabet. Then, ask them to write the name of the object next to the corresponding letter.
  • Family Tree: Encourage your child to draw a family tree and write the names of their family members next to each branch.
  • Postcard Writing: Ask your child to write a postcard to a family member or friend. Encourage them to draw a picture on the front and write a few sentences about what they did that day.
  • Journaling: Encourage your child to keep a journal and write a few sentences about their day. This activity can help improve their writing skills and encourage self-reflection.

In conclusion, these preschool writing activities are an excellent way to boost your child’s learning experience. By incorporating these fun and creative writing prompts, your child can improve their writing skills and develop a love for writing that will last a lifetime.

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225 Fun & Free Creative Writing Prompts for Kids in All Grade Levels

Two students sit at a desk together working on writing prompts for kids.

Written by Maria Kampen

Prodigy English is here! Get your students playing — and learning — today.

  • Teacher Resources
  • Elementary school writing prompts

Middle school writing prompts

High school writing prompts.

  • Social emotional learning jounal prompts
  • Math writing prompts

Writing prompts are meant to unlock creativity. They’re story starters designed to inspire creative thinking. They can take you to places you’ve been or recall an important time in your life. 

But mostly, they’re useful tools for teachers to inspire writing growth in students from grade school to high school.

“Once upon a time, in a land far, far away…”

It’s amazing how one simple sentence can send you on a journey to places you’ve never been, filled with untold possibilities. 

Reading is great, but you know what’s even better? Giving your students the power to write stories for themselves. 

Writing prompts for kids help students:

  • Express themselves and their creativity
  • Grasp lifelong literacy skills and concepts
  • Tell their own stories and build self-confidence
  • Develop a growth mindset when it comes to their writing skills

Writing is like a muscle — it takes practice to build up skills. Luckily, we put together a list of over 200 writing prompts to help your students get started. We’ve also organized them by middle school, high school and elementary school to help teachers decide whether these prompts are age-appropriate for their students.

Grade school writing prompts

Grade schoolers can definitely begin to address complex ideas when it comes to story writing — but you should seek to keep the prompts simple and straightforward. 

Reluctant writers might be intimidated by complicated writing ideas — and this is an age where we should be encouraging creativity.

Creative writing prompts for elementary schoolers

Young child sits at a desk with a notebook and pencil, writing in the notebook.

Whether it’s exploring the furthest reaches of outer space, traveling across the Sahara desert or sticking a little closer to home, these creative writing prompts will have students imagining endless possibilities for their writing.

  • Write about what your life would be like if you turned into a squirrel. What would you do every day?
  • A strange spaceship just crashed and landed in your backyard. What happens next?
  • Make up a story about where thunder comes from.
  • You find an old notebook hidden in an attic. What does it say? Who did it belong to?
  • You have a magic garden. What magical plants do you grow? How do you take care of them?
  • Write a story about running away with the circus when it comes to town.
  • Rewrite “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” from the perspective of one of the dwarfs (Happy, Sleepy, Dopey, Doc, Grumpy, Sneezy and Bashful).
  • There once was a little boy who ate nothing but oranges. What happened to him?
  • Write a story about a magical hat. Where is it from? What does it do? What does it look like?
  • You’re exploring the rainforest and come across a flower that no one’s ever seen before. Describe it!
  • Tell me a story about a dinosaur living a long, long time ago.
  • Tell me a story about an astronaut visiting another planet. Where are they going? How do they get there? What do they take with them?
  • You discover a magic portal in the park. Where does it lead to?
  • Pick a partner and write a story together! Start by writing the first sentence, then pass it to your partner to write the second sentence.
  • You find buried treasure in the park, hidden in a big wooden chest. What kind of treasure is it? Who left it there?
  • Write a story about a family that can travel in time. 
  • Write a story without using the letter “E”.
  • Write the funniest story you can think of. 
  • There’s a kangaroo in your classroom. How did it get there? What happens when you find it?
  • Write a story about an explorer who keeps getting lost. Where are they trying to go? What do they find along the way?
  • Write a story about a wooden door, a can of soda and a blue shoe.
  • If there was a magical portal in the back of your closet, where would it lead to? 
  • Finish this story: There was a knock on the door. I opened it to find a dog sitting there, and…
  • You come home and find that everything in your house is upside down. What happened?
  • Describe the color “red” without using the word “red”.
  • There’s an old, abandoned house at the end of your street that’s been empty for years. One day, someone moves in.
  • Rewrite the story of Cinderella from the perspective of the stepsisters.  
  • Write a backstory for Ed, the orange Prodigy mascot. 
  • You wake up one morning and find a mermaid in your bathtub. How did they get there? What do you do?
  • Write a story about a monster looking for some friends. 
  • Oh no — your balloon blew away! Write about what happens from the balloon’s perspective. 
  • You and your friends are out for a walk when, out of nowhere, your friends start disappearing! What’s going on?
  • Once upon a time, an old inventor built a weather machine. It sat undiscovered for years — until you found it. What happens next?
  • You just ate a cookie that turned you 15 feet tall. What do you do next?

Fun writing prompts for grade schoolers

Young child sits at a table in front of a window while writing on a sheet of paper.

Everyday life is full of great inspiration for writing! Get students thinking with these easy and fun writing prompts.Write about something you are good at. 

  • If you could write a book about anything, what would you write about?
  • If you could have any animal as a pet, what would it be and why?
  • Do you have a favorite animal? Tell me all about it! Why do you like it?
  • What would you do if you woke up one morning and everything was pink — including you?
  • What food can you not live without? Why?
  • If you could add any class to your school schedule, what would it be?
  • Invent a new day of the week. What is it called? When is it? What do people usually do on that day of the week?
  • If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you live? 
  • If you could spend a Saturday doing anything you wanted, what adventures would you get up to?
  • If you could have any wild animal as a pet, what would you choose? Why?
  • What's your favorite, wacky food?
  • Where is your favorite place to read? Why?
  • What was the coolest day of school for you? What made it exciting?
  • Which of your toys do you wish could talk? What would they say?
  • If you could only wear one outfit for the rest of your life, what would it look like?
  • Invent a machine to do a chore for you. What does the machine do? What does it look like?
  • What's your favorite season? What makes it the best?
  • What is your favorite math game and why?
  • Describe your real-life superpower.
  • Finish the story: When I'm older I want to be an expert in…
  • If pets could talk to each other, what would they say?
  • If you were the captain of a ship, what would you call your ship? What would it look like? Where would you go?
  • If your pet could talk to you, what do you think it would say?
  • If you were the only person on earth for one day, what would you do?
  • Plan the perfect birthday party for yourself. 
  • What is your favorite thing to do over summer break?
  • Describe your ideal birthday cake. 
  • If you could add any type of room to your house, what would it be?
  • What’s your favorite movie and why?

Persuasive writing prompts for elementary school

Top-down photograph of a girl with braids sitting at a desk next to another student and writing in a notebook.

Are your students’ opinions up for debate? Ask them to flex their critical thinking skills with these persuasive writing prompts. Once they’re done, get class discussion flowing with a spirited debate!

  • Write a letter convincing your parents to let you get a pet dog. What arguments do you use to persuade them?
  • Convince your teacher that you should be allowed an extra 15 minutes of recess.
  • Convince your best friend to read your favorite book.
  • How would you convince someone to do your chores for you?
  • Write a commercial for your favorite breakfast food. What would convince someone else to try it?
  • What flavor of chips is the best? Why?
  • What would make a better pet — a monkey or a peacock?
  • Do you think children should be allowed to stay up as late as they want?
  • What’s your favorite holiday and why should it be everyone’s favorite? 
  • Convince us that your favorite food should be a staple in everyone’s diet.

As students enter middle school, they’re starting to feel like bigger, older kids. They can start writing original short stories and abstract persuasive essays. 

It’s best to inspire creativity at this age and encourage them to explore their own voice and different writing styles. These prompts will definitely go a long way in inspiring that.

Creative Writing Prompts for Middle Schoolers

  • Invent a new type of transportation for the future. Who uses it? Where does it go?
  • If you had a time machine, where would you visit first — the past or the future? Why?
  • You get on the bus and find a four-piece jazz band giving a concert. What do you do?
  • Design and name your own Prodigy pet . What element are they? What’s their special power?
  • Finish this story: “Something just touched my foot,” they shouted, swimming frantically towards the shore. 
  • Write a silly or scary story to tell around a campfire. 
  • Finish this story: Everything was going so well today — until I tripped and fell, right in front of…
  • Throughout your adventures as a pirate on the high seas, you’ve seen lots of strange and magical creatures. Which one was the most interesting?
  • Deep in the heart of a dark and mysterious cave, there lies a magic stone. Write about your quest to find it. 
  • Write an acrostic poem using the word “strawberry.”
  • There was an old woman who lived in a shoe. She knit and she baked, but what else did she do?
  • Finish this story: “One thing I’ll never do again,” she said, “Is go on vacation with an alpaca.”
  • Make up a new planet and describe it. 
  • Write a story about a family of penguins living on an iceberg.
  • Write a story about a girl who can walk through walls. 
  • You’ve been invited to a ball at the Queen’s palace! What is it like?
  • Imagine you’re exploring the Amazon jungle. Write a diary entry about your day.
  • If you could invent a TV show, what would it be about?
  • You discovered an underwater kingdom! What is it like there?
  • A lonely trumpet player makes friends with the dancer who lives next door. What happens next?
  • You go to the park to fly a kite, but get carried away by the wind! What happens next?
  • Write a story about a volcano that’s about to erupt.
  • Write a story about visiting an old lady who lives deep in the woods.
  • Boom, you’re a superhero! Give yourself an origin story, describe your superpowers and plan what you’ll do to make the world a better place. 
  • Write a story using these six words: calendar, headphones, lipstick, mug, bear.
  • You wake up to find you’re invisible. How did it happen? What do you do?
  • There’s been a robbery at the bank, and you’re in charge of finding the culprit. How do you solve the case?
  • Finish the story: Once upon a time, there was a dragon...
  • You just joined a super-secret spy organization. What’s your first mission?
  • Write a story about being cold without using the word “cold.”
  • You’re a scientist and you’ve just discovered a new type of bug. Describe what it looks like, where it’s from and what you’re going to call it. 
  • Imagine a world where all the birds can talk. What would they say?
  • Write about what happens after the end of your favorite book or movie.
  • Finish the story: She sprinted down the driveway to the mailbox. The package was here!
  • You’re on a hike and a bird starts talking to you. What do you do? What does it say?
  • Write a story using these five words: bubblegum, stapler, spoon, lightbulb, strawberry.
  • You ate a magical carrot and your skin turned orange! What happens next?
  • Write about what it would be like if you had an elephant for a pet.

Fun Writing Prompts for Middle Schoolers

  • If you were in charge of the classroom for a day, what would your class do?
  • Tell me about the last dream you had.
  • You’re trapped on a desert island. What three things did you bring with you and why?
  • What mythical creature would you like to have as a pet? Why?
  • Invent a new type of pasta. What does it look like? What does it taste like?
  • If you could go on vacation anywhere in the world, where would you go? Make a plan and tell the story of your dream vacation.
  • Plan the perfect picnic. Where would it be? What food would you have?
  • If you could decorate your bedroom any way you wanted, what would it look like?
  • Write a story that sounds loud, using onomatopoeia (words that sound like their meaning, like crash, snort, bang and boom.)
  • Invent a new type of cookie. What does it taste like?
  • Invent a new sport. What is it called? What are the rules?
  • How would you disguise yourself to blend in with a forest?
  • You just won a special award from the president. What did you do to earn that award?
  • Do you collect anything? What is it and why? If not, what would you like to collect?
  • You just found a genie in a bottle. What three things would you wish for? (Remember, no wishing for extra wishes!
  • Explain how to play your favorite sport or do your favorite hobby. Make it as exciting as possible!
  • Describe the most beautiful sunrise or sunset you’ve ever seen.
  • If you could live in any book or movie, which one would you choose and why?
  • Imagine that you’re going on a camping trip. What do you pack to make sure the trip is fun?
  • If you could invent a robot to do any chore, what chore would it be? How would the robot do it?
  • Would you rather it was always raining, or always snowing?
  • Imagine you’re a toy inventor. What will you create?
  • Would you rather climb to the top of a mountain or go scuba diving?
  • Interview a family member about their childhood, then write it as a story.
  • What was your favorite toy growing up — why was it so special to you?

Persuasive Writing Prompts for Middle School

  • If you could change one thing about your school, what would it be and why?
  • Is it better to read the book before you watch the movie, or watch the movie before you read the book?
  • Persuade someone to try out your favorite hobby or sport.
  • What’s the best way to try and persuade a friend to do what you want to do?
  • When is peer pressure good? When is peer pressure bad?
  • Is it better to have lots of friends, or just a few really good friends?
  • Should students be in charge of what they learn in school?

High school students can either be tasked with more complex writing prompts or breathe nuance into simple story ideas. Students can drive these prompts in a million different ways.

So while not necessarily more complicated than middle school, these prompts can be tweaked, either by the student or teacher, to encourage thought-provoking output.

Creative Writing Prompts for High Schoolers

  • Write a story about someone your age who lives on the other side of the world. 
  • Pick up the nearest book and turn to page 7. Close your eyes and point to a random word on the page, then write a story about that word.
  • Write a story in ten words or less.
  • You fell asleep for 100 years. What does the world look like when you wake up?
  • Finish the story: “This isn’t what I hoped would happen,” she said….
  • You’re walking down the street when you see someone who looks exactly like you.
  • Write a story where the main character learns something new about themselves.
  • Write a story that takes place in the desert. 
  • Write a story about a day where everything seems to go wrong. 
  • Write a poem about the color blue.
  • How would your life be different if you didn’t have access to a computer, video games or your phone?

Fun writing prompts for high schoolers

  • You win a million dollars, but there’s a catch — you have to spend it all in 24 hours, or you lose all the money. What do you do?
  • Write about something you or your family does from the perspective of someone from another country.
  • If you could make up a new holiday, when would it be and what would it celebrate?
  • Go out on a nature walk and find a tree. Write the story of that tree, from the time it was a seed until now.
  • What’s the most boring superpower you can think of? How would it be useful?
  • If you could pass any law, what would it be?
  • You meet yourself in the future, as a grown-up at age 35 — what do you talk about? 
  • If you had to show aliens the most important/best things in the world, what would you show them?
  • Who is your hero and why?
  • Write about the best surprise you ever got. 
  • What are three good things you can do for the environment? How can you encourage the people around you to do good things for the environment?
  • What is your earliest memory? Write down as many details as you can remember.
  • If you could take two people – real or fictional – on a cross-country road trip, who would you take? Where would you go?
  • If you could have any job in the world tomorrow, what would you do?
  • What is the best thing about living in your city or neighbourhood?
  • Write a letter to your 30-year-old self. What do you think you’ll accomplish by then?
  • Teach me how to make your favorite recipe.
  • Describe the sound of your favorite song using descriptive words.

Persuasive writing prompts for high school

  • Should kids be allowed to use social media unsupervised? Why or why not?
  • Persuade someone to start a healthy habit, or get rid of a bad one.
  • Should all single-use plastics be outlawed? Why or why not?
  • Should our school have a dress code? Why or why not?
  • Is it more important to be right or to not hurt someone else’s feelings?
  • What important historical figure do you think belongs on the ten-dollar bill?
  • Do you think you’re born with your personality traits, or do you gain them as you grow up?
  • Should mobile apps be responsible for protecting your privacy — why or why not?

Social emotional learning journal prompts

Two students sit outside against a brick wall, working in notebooks.

School is about more than just books and quizzes — it’s about preparing students for the rest of their lives. Social emotional learning teaches them how to build good relationships with peers, understand and control their emotions and make healthy life decisions.

Journaling is a great way for students to reflect on their feelings in a safe, private space. Use these journaling prompts as thought starters for more social emotional learning!

Check out our list of the 25 best social emotional learning activities for students here. 

  • Tell me about a tradition you have with your family or friends. 
  • What’s the best gift you’ve ever received?
  • Have you ever found something that you lost? How did you feel when you found it?
  • What is something you haven’t learned this school year that you’re still wondering about?
  • What do you do when you’re angry? Write about three ways you calm yourself down.
  • Where do you feel the safest? Why do you feel safe there?
  • Write a poem to make a friend happy.
  • When was the last time you were kind to someone? How can you be kind to someone today?
  • How are you feeling today? Are you happy, sad, excited or anxious?
  • If you could give your best friend a present, what would it be?
  • What are the qualities you look for in a friend? Why is it important to be a good friend?
  • What does responsibility mean to you?
  • Who do you talk to when you’re worried about something? How do they make you feel better?
  • If you could make a card for anyone in your life, who would it be for and what would it say?
  • What’s your favorite thing about yourself?
  • Write about a time you had to make a hard decision. How did you make your decision?
  • What do you do to make yourself happy when you’re sad?
  • Write about a time you were disappointed. 
  • What are three things that make your best friend awesome?
  • What do you think empathy means? Why is it important?
  • How can you cheer up a friend who is sad?
  • What makes you a good friend? How can you be a better friend?
  • What’s the best piece of advice a friend, parent or teacher has ever given you?
  • Write three goals for the rest of the school year. How are you going to accomplish them?
  • What does responsibility mean to you? What are you responsible for at school and at home?
  • What person in your life makes you feel confident?
  • What scares you? How can you overcome your fears?
  • Tell me about a time when you tried something new. How did it feel? Did you do it again?

Math writing prompts for kids

A student holds an orange with an equation written on it while working on a math writing prompt.

Whether it’s tackling word problems or explaining a new concept, writing is a surprisingly good tool for the math classroom. 

A math journal can help you understand what students already know, while giving them space to work through tricky concepts on their own. Use these writing prompts to promote literacy in every subject — and help students avoid math anxiety .

  • Tell me everything you know about ________.
  • Explain, in words, how to solve this problem.
  • What is and isn’t true about this situation?
  • What is _______?
  • Explain two different ways to solve this problem. Which one is better?
  • What did you get correct in this problem?
  • What mistakes did you make while solving this problem?
  • What do you not understand about _____?
  • Write a word problem using the concept we’re learning about. 
  • What did you learn today?
  • How do you use math in your everyday life?
  • What is the easiest/hardest part of math class?
  • What discoveries did you make in math class today?

Final thoughts on writing prompts for kids

Writing prompts aren’t the end of the story — they’re just the beginning. Encourage your students to build a regular writing practice, and soon you’ll see the benefits in every class. 

Where will your students’ imaginations take them?

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On the campus princeton student struck by train was creative writing director’s son.

creative writing topics for preschoolers

Editor’s note: If you or someone you know may have suicidal thoughts, you can call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or chat online at  988lifeline.org .

The freshman who was struck and killed by the Dinky train on Feb. 16 is the son of Yiyun Li, according to  a statement from the University . She joined the Princeton faculty in 2017 and is currently director of the Program in Creative Writing.

James Li ’27 was a Princeton High School graduate. His father is Dapeng Li, the statement said. New Jersey Transit is investigating and has not released the cause of death.

A lauded writer and novelist, Yiyun Li has  written about  her journey through depression and grief after her older son, Vincent Li, died by suicide when he was struck by a train in 2017. In 2022,  The New York Times  wrote  that Yiyun Li had become “something of a beacon to those suffering beneath unbearable weight.”

James Li is the second freshman to die this academic year; Sophia Jones ’27  died by suicide on Nov. 29 . Seven Princeton students have died from various causes since May 2022.

The University statement listed resources that can help students right now, offered through  Counseling and Psychological Services , the  Office of Religious Life , the residential colleges, and the Graduate College. In an interview with PAW, CPS director Calvin Chin said: “I think for everyone in the University community, it’s really important right now to focus on whatever you can to take care of yourself. 

“For some people it might mean reaching out to others for support. For other people it might mean distraction. For others it might mean journaling. And for still others it might mean reaching out to a professional counselor,” Chin said. “Really any means toward giving yourself some sense of peace and relief during this challenging time is absolutely appropriate and the right way to go.”

He also urged people to reach out to each other, both to get support and to offer it to others. “One thing that can be helpful when a tragedy like this happens is to just lean into the emotional support that you can get from other members of the community,” Chin said. “Finding ways to reach out to people who you either are concerned about or who you feel could benefit from a supportive talk or a supportive meeting is always a good thing.”

Students who want to talk to a professional counselor can walk into the McCosh Health Center from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, or they can call the  CPS Cares Line  around the clock at 609-258-3141. Faculty and staff can use  Carebridge  around the clock.

Chin said residential colleges and other groups on campus are planning events for people to gather and support each other, so students should watch for those announcements in their email over the coming days.

Right now, he said, “honor what it is that you need to take care of yourself, and reach out for help and resources when you need it.”

IMAGES

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  1. 300 Creative Writing Prompts for Kids

    Creative Writing Prompts 300 Fun Writing Prompts for Kids: Story Starters, Journal Prompts & Ideas Chelle Stein February 17, 2023 Are you a parent or teacher? Here are 300 fun and creative writing prompts for kids to spark the imagination of young writers everywhere.

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    Resources 52 Creative Writing Prompts for Kids to Let Their Imagination Fly November 9, 2022 Creative writing has many benefits for kids. They learn to appreciate how stories work, they hear the wonderful way sounds can match with rhymes, and their love of reading grows as they become writers.

  3. Hundreds of Awesome Creative Writing Topics for kids

    1. Have the children write on top of the page: I Am Special Because… This is a good topic to help children express themselves. Have the children think about why they are special and ask themselves questions, here are some examples: what am I good at? Who have they helped? How have I made a difference? What special talent do I have?

  4. Preschool and Kindergarten Writing Prompts for Kids

    Writing prompt ideas should include opportunities to experiment with narrative, expository, and argumentative (opinion) writing. They can also be descriptive writing that helps a child expand on stories and thoughts.

  5. 251 Creative Writing Prompts for Kids » JournalBuddies.com

    List #1 - 47 Creative Writing Prompts for Kids If you could build a dream house, what rooms would it have? Write a story about going on an adventure with your best friend. Who has the best job in the world? Where do you get your best ideas? Do women today have equal rights with men? Have you ever volunteered to help someone?

  6. 57 Fun Creative Writing Prompts for Kids

    General Education With many kids learning from home due to Covid-19, easy-to-organize educational activities for students are more important than ever. Writing helps improve students' creativity, communication skills, and ability to focus, among other benefits.

  7. 300+ Writing Prompts for Kids (+ Free Printable)

    300+ Writing Prompts for Kids (+ Free Printable) August 11, 2020. This is the ultimate bank of over 300 writing prompts for kids. From creative writing prompts to journal ideas and even quick poetry prompts. Whenever you're bored or need a little inspiration, here are some fun ideas for kids writing prompts that can be used over and over again.

  8. 140 Creative Writing Prompts for Kids

    Stimulating Writing Prompts for Kids. In addition to writing stories, many kids will benefit from other forms of mental stimulation. These can be done in a journal or essay writing exercise. Use these prompts and questions to get them thinking. Encourage them to answer all questions with as much detail as possible.

  9. 100+ Fun Creative Writing Prompts for Kids (and Kids at Heart!)

    1. What is your earliest memory? Describe this memory. 2. What is the best part of your week and why? 3. What is your favorite thing to do after school? Why? 4. What is (or was) your favorite toy? Why? 5. Describe your favorite animal or pet. Why is this your favorite? (Fun variation: Describe your favorite pet or animal's perspective of you.) 6.

  10. Best Kids Writing Prompts of 2023

    The creative writing prompts range from ideas that will spark a child's ability to think outside the box, as well as prompts that will help them self-reflect. Each one is sure to inspire their curiosity and lead to an adventure of the imagination. ... Children's Books Writing 101: Writing for the Right Age Group (free course) — Our ten ...

  11. 150 Best Creative Writing Prompts for Kids

    Here are some insightful tips to make creative writing entertaining for kids. 1. MentalUP Learning Platform. MentalUP offers a range of fun and interactive games and exercises that help kids enhance their critical thinking, vocabulary, and imagination. By regularly engaging in these activities, kids can learn to think creatively, construct ...

  12. 20 Great Writing Prompts for Kids, and Kids' Books About Writing

    Share Your Smile: Raina's Guide To Telling Your Own Story by Raina Telgemeier. This book is a mix of a journal, a 'make your own comic', and scrapbook, because in its pages the little writer is encouraged both to write, draw, and glue things. For this alone, I think it will be very interesting for kids.

  13. 25 Creative Writing Prompts for Kids

    Make Reading & Writing Fantastically Fun. Award-winning reading & writing program for kids. Improves spelling, grammar, punctuation & vocabulary. Over 1,000 different learning games and activities. Writing, Activities. Writing helps children develop their communication, emotional intelligence, self-expression, and confidence. We know this skill ...

  14. 25 Fun Kindergarten Writing & Storytelling Prompts (Free Printable!)

    1. Tell about your favorite stuffy. 2. Make a list of 3 things you like and 3 things you don't like. 3. What is your favorite thing to do on a rainy day? 4. I'm really good at … 5. If I could fly … 6. Describe an interesting place you've visited. 7. Something I like to do that makes me happy is … 8. Do you prefer to play inside or outside?

  15. Story Starters: Creative Writing Prompts for Kids

    Choose a Story Starters theme: ADVENTURE. FANTASY. SCI-FI. SCRAMBLER. Scholastic's Story Starters kids' writing activity generates creative writing prompts, from general fiction to adventure, fantasy, and science fiction.

  16. 174 Creative Writing Activities for Preschool Kids

    So, make full use of writing prompts to inspire young kids to start writing during vacations and spare time! Popular creative writing prompts for kindergarteners are: 1. Name your favourite movie. Tell us about the movie. 2. Name the colour you like the most. Write about three things in that colour. 3.

  17. 100 Free Creative Writing Prompts for Kindergarten

    100 Free Creative Writing Prompts for Kindergarten December 2, 2023 by Sohaib Hasan Shah Writing is an essential skill that children learn from an early age. Kindergarten is a crucial time for children as it is their first experience with formal education.

  18. 130 Kindergarten Journal Prompts

    Creative Journal Prompts. These are creative writing prompts and narrative writing prompts perfect for elementary school. They will give you a little insight into the likes and dislikes of the young kids lives. They are also great prompts to help young students use their imagination and tell a story.

  19. 100 Best & Fun Kindergarten Writing Prompts for Kids

    2. If you were asked to make up a new flavor of chocolate, what would it be? 3. Your mom and dad ask you to plan your next vacation. Where do you go? 4. Do you have a sibling? Do you love spending time with your sibling? 5. Do you have a hobby? Why do you enjoy it?

  20. 35 Excellent Kindergarten Writing Prompts » JournalBuddies.com

    The Favorites List of Easy Writing Prompts Writing Fun at Any Age (Kindergarteners Included!) With our list of fun writing prompts for Kindergarteners, students will reflect on their relationships with their friends and parents and imagine what it would be like to be in charge of the school. Plus…

  21. Pre-Writing Activities for Preschoolers

    PreK 22 Pre-Writing Activities for Preschoolers Help your preschoolers build skills that will help them learn how to write and having fun while doing it! By Elizabeth Mulvahill Jun 4, 2021

  22. Preschool Writing Activities: 10 Creative Writing Prompts for Preschoolers

    10 Creative Writing Prompts for Preschoolers to Boost Their Learning. As parents and educators, we are always looking for ways to help our little ones learn and grow. One essential skill that preschoolers need to develop is writing. It can be challenging to engage preschoolers in writing, but with some creative writing prompts, it can be a fun ...

  23. 225 Fun & Free Creative Writing Prompts for Kids in All Grade Levels

    Prodigy English Contents Writing prompts are meant to unlock creativity. They're story starters designed to inspire creative thinking. They can take you to places you've been or recall an important time in your life. But mostly, they're useful tools for teachers to inspire writing growth in students from grade school to high school.

  24. Princeton Student Struck by Train Was Creative Writing Director's Son

    Editor's note: If you or someone you know may have suicidal thoughts, you can call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or chat online at 988lifeline.org.. The freshman who was struck and killed by the Dinky train on Feb. 16 is the son of Yiyun Li, according to a statement from the University.She joined the Princeton faculty in 2017 and is currently director of the Program in Creative Writing.