Stories with Morals

Writing Fables to Teach Simple Lessons

Jan 3, 2009 Karen 'Kai' Medders

Here's how to write an entertaining story for kids with an effective moral, one of the most classic forms of children's literature.

Books written for young children typically have the same basic purposes: to entertain, teach a valuable life lesson, and lay a foundation for future learning. While there is nothing wrong with a picture book meant only to show a toddler the difference between a square and circle, nor anything lacking in a fairy tale that seeks to enchant, stories with morals have a long and rich history.

Two Authors: Aesop and Henkes

The word 'fable' is almost synonymous with the name 'Aesop', a somewhat mysterious figure who is known only for the collection of stories attributed to him. These stories are literally ancient and were even studied by Aristotle. They continue to be read and passed around because of their simply stated but almost universally true morals.

In postmodern times, the idea of hard and fast morality has faded in importance and the focus has turned to teaching children about valuing themselves and respecting others. Kevin Henkes is one author who exemplifies this trend. His books (often about mice) focus on struggles that real children face, working through their problems with gentleness and a complete lack of condescension.

Do and Do Not

When setting out to write a story that is intended to teach a lesson, it is unwise to presume that one's own personal values are moral absolutes. Knowing that not everyone will agree with the point of the book and knowing that the book may not save the world, write from the heart rather than the pulpit.

Also, keep the story as well as the lesson simple. Very young children are usually not contemplating the human condition or worried about politics. However, that does not mean that a writer has to stick to the most common problems and situations kids face as they grow up.

Stepping out of the box and addressing more specific issues is a good thing, as long as the resolutions for these tales are not overly complicated or nuanced. A story about going to church for the first time does not need to apply to every child, nor does a story about moving to a new city.

Above All, Avoid Exploitation

Some moral stories make their point by building up a feeling of guilt in the children they are addressed to. Some lessons are taught by teaching children to be ashamed of themselves when they are less than perfect. These stories need not be written, and these lessons need not be taught. Exploiting the emotional sensitivity and impressionability of children does not make for a better story, nor does it make the lesson at the end any more likely to stick with them.

The copyright of the article Stories with Morals in Writing for Children is owned by Karen 'Kai' Medders. Permission to republish Stories with Morals in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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