Children aged 8 to 14 across the UK are invited to showcase their love for nature by submitting articles to the Young Country Diary series, a popular initiative from The Guardian. This quarterly submission opportunity encourages young writers to document their recent encounters with the natural world, whether it be a winter flower, a curious creature in a pond, or an intriguing insect.
The deadline for winter submissions is set for noon on February 2, 2024. Out of all entries received, four articles will be selected for publication—two in January and two in February. The series is designed to inspire young minds and promote outdoor exploration, especially among teachers who wish to engage their students in nature-based writing.
To participate, parents or guardians must grant permission for their children to submit. The process is straightforward. First, children should venture outdoors to observe nature in their local environment, which could include parks, gardens, or beaches. Next, they are to write an article of 200-250 words detailing their experiences and observations. Finally, submissions should be sent through the designated form provided on The Guardian’s website.
While photographs or drawings are not mandatory, they can enhance the submission and provide additional context. Parents are encouraged to mention any available images in the “more information” section of the form, although attachments cannot be included.
For those unsure about what to write, there are several tips available to help ignite creativity. Notably, good nature writing often begins with sensory details. Children can describe what they see, hear, smell, or feel during their outdoor adventures. Keeping notes during their excursion can also help capture important details.
Exploring additional information about observed wildlife can make their articles more informative. For instance, if a child encounters a unique insect, they could research its species and lifespan. They can choose to paint a broad picture of their surroundings or focus on small, intricate details of a butterfly’s wings or a beetle’s markings. Above all, writers should reflect on how their nature experience made them feel and what thoughts it provoked.
The Young Country Diary series aims to celebrate the voices of young naturalists and inspire a new generation to engage with the environment. As an added incentive, all selected participants will receive payment for their published works.
For further inspiration, past entries include contributions from young writers such as Mia, age 11, who wrote about discovering a rare fungus; Sachin, age 8, who observed a beautiful bird; and Flynn, age 10, who detailed a close encounter with a beetle.
Parents and guardians are reminded to complete the submission form on behalf of their children. The form is designed for secure transmission, ensuring that personal information remains confidential. A member of the Young Country Diary team will reach out once a submission is selected for publication.
This initiative not only promotes writing skills but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the natural world among young people in the UK.
