PBS KIDS Writers Contest opens January 12, 2026 and closes March 31, 2026

Young storytellers across Georgia, it's your moment! The 2026 PBS KIDS Writers Contest is officially open, inviting children to unleash their imaginations and become celebrated creators! This statewide annual contest invites children in kindergarten through third grade to write and illustrate their very own original stories. The contest encourages creativity while building early literacy and storytelling skills.

Kids can submit fact or fiction, poetry, prose, or graphic novels, as long as the story is completely their own. Entries will be judged on originality, creative expression, storytelling, and how well words and illustrations work together. A first, second, and third place will be chosen from each grade level.

Entries are judged by a panel of early educators, librarians, and authors. Once the winning stories are chosen, winners are notified and invited to be celebrated at an awards ceremony at GPB. Winners also will receive a prize pack and get to narrate their stories in our recording studios. Recorded stories appear on GPB's website.

PBS KIDS has provided a robust set of resources for children and teachers, including activity sheets and checklists to inspire children throughout their brainstorming, writing, and editing process.

Explore the PBS KIDS Writers Contest Rules and Entry Form.

This year, we are excited to offer online submission if you prefer to skip the post office!

The contest opens January 12, 2026. Submissions must be postmarked by March 31, 2026.

Looking for some inspiration? Watch previous writers contest winners and finalists read their stories.

For more information, visit gpb.org/writers.