The Young Country Diary project is inviting submissions once more! Every quarter, as the UK transitions into a new season, we welcome articles penned by children aged 8 to 14.
We’re looking for stories about a recent experience with the natural world-whether it’s spotting a ladybird on a leaf, witnessing a deer in rut, or observing a bird in the garden.
It’s important to note that prior knowledge of nature isn’t necessary. We especially encourage teachers to inspire their students to explore outdoors and observe wildlife. Plus, children whose articles are published will receive payment!
Submissions close at 10pm on Sunday, 2 November.
Four standout entries will be selected for publication in The Guardian-two in October and two in November. The submission window will reopen on Monday, 1 December for winter-themed pieces.
Early entries have a chance to appear in the October edition, so don’t delay!
How your child can participate
We’re seeking contributions from children aged 8 to 14, so parental or guardian consent is required. Here’s the process:
Step 1 – Encourage your child to spend time outdoors in a natural setting. This could be a nearby forest, a beach, their backyard, a farm, or a local park.
Step 2 – Have them write a short article of 200-250 words describing what they observed and what took place.
Step 3 – Submit the article through the form below. We ask that parents or guardians complete the submission on behalf of the child.
Images or artwork are welcome (preferably horizontal), but not mandatory. If you have any, please mention them in the “additional information” section, as the form does not support attachments.
Young diarist Athira exploring a coastal area in Dumfries and Galloway.
Tips for aspiring Young Country Diary contributors
If your child is unsure where to begin, here are some helpful suggestions:
- Engage the senses-what did they see, hear, smell, or feel? Taking notes during their outdoor adventure can help capture these details.
- Describe the events-what unfolded during their encounter? Did it bring any memories or thoughts to mind?
- Research is encouraged! If they spot an unusual insect, for example, they might look up its species, lifespan, or interesting facts to enrich their story.
- They can choose to paint a broad picture of the environment-the sky, landscape, or horizon-or zoom in on small details like the patterns on a butterfly’s wings or the texture of a beetle’s shell.
- Reflect on the experience-how did it make them feel? What thoughts did it inspire?
Remember, the deadline for entries is 10pm on Sunday, 2 November. Submissions are open to children aged 8 to 14 living in the UK. Parents or guardians will be contacted if their child’s article is selected, and payment will be made accordingly.
For some inspiration, here are a few recent diary entries from young writers:
- Jamie, 14, on exploring a family compost heap
- Issy, 11, recounting a sighting of a brown hare
- Joscelyn, 10, describing emerald butterflies
Wishing all young nature enthusiasts the best of luck!
Paul Fleckney, Editor of Young Country Diary and Country Diary
Share your experience
You can submit your child’s diary entry using the form below.
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