Creative Ways to Advertise and Market Your Children's Picture Book

 

My more popular children's picture book is about hot dogs.  YES, hot dogs. "Five Little Hot Dogs" to be exact.  It is a fun food, but I never thought the book would take off.  Since it did, I figured I needed to keep the momentum going and just published "How to Dress a Dog."   It is a rhyming story about dressing hot dogs, of course, but to accentuate the play on words, I do include many dressed up furry dogs.  

I've been puzzled how to advertise the book.  I do social media, but what else can I do?  Something new and different.  Something unique.  And then my daughter says "Why not advertise in a Coney shop?"   I never thought of restaurant advertising!  That was it - I was off and running with this new idea.

Promoting children's picture books can be an adventure in creativity! Why not think outside the box, or  the bookstore? Picture this: instead of the usual shelves, try placing your books in family-friendly cafes or trendy coffee shops where parents often hang out. Add a little reading nook with comfy chairs and maybe even a small chalkboard for kids to draw their own pictures inspired by your stories. Local libraries and community centers are great, but have you thought about partnering with pediatrician offices or dental clinics? Kids (and their parents) spend time in waiting rooms, and having your books there can be a great distraction.

Take it up a notch by getting involved in local farmers' markets or craft fairs. Set up a vibrant, eye-catching booth with fun activities related to your book's theme. You could even host storytime sessions or craft workshops. Another quirky idea is to collaborate with local theaters or cinemas that host children's movies or shows. A small display of your books in the lobby or a short reading before the show can catch the attention of both kids and parents.

Don't overlook social media, but give it a twist. How about creating short, animated clips or quirky, engaging posts featuring characters from your book? Host virtual reading sessions or contests where kids can draw their favorite scenes or come up with their own story endings. You can even explore influencer partnerships with parenting bloggers or popular kids' YouTube channels to spread the word.

Lastly, think about places where families spend a lot of time together. Zoos, aquariums, and children's museums are perfect spots. Maybe you could arrange for a special event day where your book's characters 'visit' the zoo or aquarium, tying in with a fun scavenger hunt or interactive story trail. By placing your children's picture books in these unusual and engaging places, you're not just advertising, but creating memorable experiences for families to connect with your stories.