How to Publish a Board Book for Kids – A Complete Guide by 24by7 Publishing
Children’s board books are among the most cherished treasures in any household. From colourful good-night stories to vibrant alphabet adventures, board books play a vital role in a child’s early development. They are often a child’s first introduction to the world of books—designed to be visually engaging, durable, and fun to hold. But what does it take to publish a high-quality board book that children love and parents trust?
If you’ve written a story you believe belongs in the hands of toddlers and young readers, 24by7 Publishing is your ideal self-publishing partner. This detailed guide will walk you through every step involved in publishing a children’s board book—from manuscript creation to printing, distribution, and promotion.
Let’s begin with understanding what makes board books special and why self-publishing them is the best choice for new and seasoned authors alike.
Why Board Books? Why Now?
Board books are unlike traditional paperback or hardcover books. They are printed on thick, sturdy paperboard—usually 700 GSM or higher—which allows young children to flip through them without tearing pages. They are resistant to moisture, bending, and chewing, making them perfect for tiny hands and active toddlers.
In today’s fast-paced world of parenting, board books continue to be an essential part of early education. They help kids learn basic concepts like numbers, colours, animals, and values. They are often read aloud, making them not just books but emotional bonding tools between parents and children.
If you’ve got a story or concept that’s suitable for toddlers, now is the perfect time to publish your board book. The demand is growing globally for educational and value-driven children’s content—and 24by7 Publishing is here to help you reach that market with confidence.
Step 1: Create a Story That Speaks to Children
Every great board book begins with a simple yet powerful story. It doesn’t need to be long—in fact, less is more when writing for toddlers. Focus on rhythmic language, repetition, fun rhymes, and relatable visuals.
Some popular themes for board books include:
- Bedtime routines
- Animal sounds and names
- Shapes, colours, and numbers
- Emotions and social habits
- Cultural celebrations
- Parent-child bonding stories
At 24by7 Publishing, we often help first-time children’s authors refine their raw ideas into engaging board book scripts. You may submit a hand-written draft, a typed document, or even a voice recording. Our editorial team can help shape the content to suit the visual format of board books.
✍️ Tip: Keep your text concise. A 12-page board book may have just 80–100 words total. The magic lies in how the visuals complement the words.
Step 2: Design and Illustration – The Heart of Board Books
Illustration is the most important aspect of a children’s board book. Children don’t read pages—they absorb visuals. Your story should come alive through bright, friendly, high-resolution images that match the storyline.
If you don’t have an illustrator, don’t worry. 24by7 Publishing has an in-house team of top-notch creative designers and illustrators who will work closely with you to:
- Understand your storyline and age target
- Develop characters, settings, and emotions
- Create full-colour spreads for each page
- Ensure international design quality
Our illustrators are experienced in working with both educational content and fun stories, meaning your book will look as good as any top-selling title in the market.
All designs are created in 300+ DPI, suitable for high-end printing on 700 GSM board paper.
🖍️ Add-on Service: Want custom characters based on your child or pet? We offer personalised character design at an affordable rate!
Step 3: Select the Right Size and Shape
Standard board books usually come in sizes like 6” x 6”, 7” x 7”, or 8” x 8”. But at 24by7 Publishing, we go beyond the ordinary. We allow you to choose:
- Any size between 4” x 4” to 8” x 8”
- Portrait, landscape, or square orientation
- Custom shapes like circles, animals, or fruits (on special request)
You can even create a die-cut book where the edges of the board pages are cut to form a special shape that enhances the theme of the book.
📐 Pro Tip: For most children’s books, square-shaped 6”x6” books work best for balance between visual space and handling ease.
Our team will help you decide the most effective layout based on your page count, image placement, and readability.
Step 4: Choose a Publishing Package That Fits
Board book publishing has long been a niche segment, often seen as costly and difficult. But at 24by7 Publishing, we have designed board-book-specific self-publishing packages that are:
- Affordable
- Transparent
- Inclusive of all key services
- Easily customizable
Our packages include:
- Editing & layout formatting
- Professional illustration
- Full-colour board printing on 700 GSM material
- ISBN & barcode allocation
- Cover design
- Metadata setup
- Free author copies
- Distribution across online platforms
- Sales dashboard access
We also provide print-on-demand options for clients who want to maintain flexibility with physical inventory.
🛒 Did You Know? Our proprietary market-smart algorithm ensures adaptive stock management, meaning your board book never goes out of stock during its availability period.
Step 5: Upload and Launch the Production
Once your story is written and your design files are ready, the next step is to upload your manuscript to our Author Portal. If you’re unsure how to format it, our publishing specialists will help you prepare your content in a print-ready format.
You’ll be asked to:
- Upload your manuscript and/or script
- Upload high-resolution images (if you’re using your own)
- Provide a high-resolution author photo
- Approve the book blurb and author bio
- Select your publishing plan
- Finalise MRP and royalty model
After all these steps are completed, your book moves into production!
Our production timeline for board books typically ranges from 15 to 25 business days, depending on the complexity of the layout and illustrations.
Why Choose 24by7 Publishing for Your Board Book?
There’s a reason 24by7 Publishing is regarded as India’s leading children’s book and board book self-publishing company:
| Feature | Our Offering |
|---|---|
| Paper Quality | Premium 700 GSM board |
| Design | Fully custom, in-house illustration |
| Support | Dedicated publishing specialist |
| Sales Dashboard | Monitor performance in real-time |
| Global Distribution | Sell on Amazon, Flipkart, Google Books, and more |
| Personalisation | Option for custom characters, shapes, and more |
| Price | Most affordable premium board book publishing in India |
| Guidance | Step-by-step consultation, even for first-time authors |
We treat every children’s book as a potential classic—and work tirelessly to give your book the professional polish it deserves.
What’s Next?
In Part 2, we will explore:
- How to approve your final design
- The printing and finishing process
- Distribution strategy for both Indian and international markets
- Promotion tools and optional marketing add-ons
Your children’s board book deserves a global stage—and we’re here to put it there.
STEP 6: Approval – Your Final Review Before Printing
Before your book is sent to the press, you get one last opportunity to review and approve all aspects of your project. This ensures that every detail—from your illustrations to your layout—is exactly the way you envisioned.
What You Will Review
After our design and editorial teams have prepared the final files, you will receive:
- Final PDF layout of your board book pages
- Cover design (front, back, and spine)
- Title page, copyright page, and credits (if applicable)
- Trim size confirmation
- Binding format and finish type
- ISBN and barcode layout
We recommend you take your time during this stage. Enlist a friend or editor to do a second round of proofreading. Children’s books are simple but must be flawless. A typo or visual misalignment can ruin the experience.
Free Minor Revisions Included
Our packages include one round of free minor revisions, so if you notice:
- A misplaced comma
- A character colour inconsistency
- A page alignment issue
- A small design tweak
You can let us know, and we’ll implement the change before final printing. Additional rounds of revision can be purchased as Add-On services.
Checklist Before Final Approval
Here’s what you should confirm before giving the go-ahead:
- 🖍️ Are all illustrations placed correctly?
- 🧸 Is the story flowing naturally across the pages?
- ✏️ Is the text free from typos?
- 📐 Is the layout aligned and balanced?
- 📖 Is the cover attractive and appropriate for the age group?
- 🎯 Does the book reflect your original vision?
Once you approve, we lock the files and move the project into the production phase.
STEP 7: Printing – Premium Quality Board Book Production
This is where your story becomes tangible—printed, trimmed, and bound into a sturdy, high-quality board book.
At 24by7 Publishing, we use industrial-grade printing presses and premium materials to ensure that your board book is not only attractive but also resilient to wear and tear.
Board Book Printing Specifications
Here’s what makes our board book printing stand out:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Paper Quality | 700 GSM duplex board |
| Finish | Matte or glossy lamination |
| Print Technology | High-resolution offset or digital printing |
| Binding | Secure, child-safe rounded edges |
| Trim Sizes Supported | 4” x 4” to 8” x 8” |
| Custom Shapes | Available upon request |
| Page Range | Typically 8–24 board pages |
📦 Pro Tip: For optimal durability, we recommend limiting board books to fewer pages (12 to 20) to prevent excessive thickness and improve child usability.
Production Timeline
Once files are approved, printing and finishing usually take 15–25 business days, depending on the page count and complexity of the layout or shape.
If you’ve selected a custom-shaped book (e.g., elephant-shaped, heart-shaped), our team will create a die-cut template. The custom shape will add a few extra days to the timeline but makes your book highly distinctive and engaging for young readers.
STEP 8: Distribution – Reach Little Readers Everywhere
Your board book is now printed, packed, and ready—but what about getting it into the hands of readers? Distribution is one of the most crucial aspects of a successful publishing journey, and 24by7 Publishing makes it seamless and scalable.
Where Will Your Book Be Available?
We make your book available across multiple online and retail platforms depending on the package you choose. Our distribution coverage includes:
Online Marketplaces
- Amazon.in (India)
- Amazon.com (US)
- Amazon.co.uk, .ca, .au (global territories)
- Flipkart
- Golpapa
- Notion Press Store (for Indian readers)
- Google Play Books (for eBooks, if opted)
- Kobo, Apple Books, and Barnes & Noble (select international packages)
Print-on-Demand Support
For cost-efficient, low-inventory distribution, we enable Print-on-Demand (POD) where a copy is printed only when a buyer places an order. This ensures:
- Zero stock wastage
- Flexible print management
- Unlimited availability
Offline Retail Distribution (Add-On Option)
While board books mostly sell online, we also offer Add-On support for offline distribution, such as:
- 📚 Independent bookstores
- 🏫 Preschools and Montessori centres
- 🎁 Gift shops and toy stores
- 🏥 Children’s hospitals and daycares
Through our network of retail partners, you can place your book at points where parents and educators are likely to discover them.
🌍 Want global reach? Our international listing services (Ingram, Baker & Taylor, Amazon Global) are available as Add-On packages.
STEP 9: Promotion – Let the World Know Your Book Exists
Even the most beautiful book needs readers. Promotion is what takes your board book from shelf to spotlight. While you may not promote directly to children, your target audience is parents, teachers, schools, and gifting buyers.
24by7 Publishing helps you promote your book through a range of built-in and optional services.
Default Promotions Included in Packages
- 📣 Amazon metadata optimization
- 🧾 Book listed on top platforms
- 📸 Instagram and Facebook promotional creatives
- 📧 Newsletter mentions
- 🔍 Google indexing for visibility
These services ensure your book is searchable, discoverable, and shareable from the day it is published.
Optional Promotional Add-On Services
Book Trailer Video
A short, animated video summarizing your story, perfect for sharing on YouTube, Instagram Reels, WhatsApp, and more.
Author Website
Establish your identity as a children’s author with a professional website featuring your bio, book links, reviews, and contact form.
Merchandise
T-shirts, bookmarks, posters, and stickers printed with your book characters—great for giveaways and classroom visits.
Posters & Business Cards
Printed promotional materials that you can hand out during school events, launches, or exhibitions.
Social Media Management
We can run targeted campaigns to engage the right audience—young parents, teachers, and early childhood educators.
Marketing Strategy Tips for Children’s Books
- Run giveaway contests on social media for parents.
- Create read-aloud videos to share online.
- Partner with early learning centres or parenting bloggers.
- Ask for reviews from bookstagrammers or parenting YouTubers.
- Use festivals like Children’s Day or Christmas to time promotions.
Marketing a children’s book is about building trust and emotional value—something we help you with every step of the way.
You Get Full Transparency via Author Dashboard
When you publish with 24by7 Publishing, you also get login access to the Author’s Academy Portal, which includes:
- 📊 Sales dashboard to track monthly orders
- 💸 Royalty calculator
- 📈 Promotional activity logs
- 📎 Guides and publishing tips
This dashboard is your backstage pass to managing your publishing career with confidence.
In Part 3, we’ll wrap up the journey with:
- Royalty models explained
- Earning potential from board book sales
- Ongoing support and upgrades
- FAQs and free consultation offer
Your board book is more than just a product—it’s a gift to future generations. And we’re here to help you deliver it.
STEP 10: Earn – Royalty, Recognition & Revenue
Publishing a children’s book isn’t just about sharing a story—it’s also about gaining recognition and earning ongoing income. Once your board book is published and distributed, you begin receiving royalties on every sale.
How Royalty Works at 24by7 Publishing
Unlike traditional publishers who retain most of the profits, our self-publishing royalty model ensures you earn what you deserve. Depending on the package selected, you receive a transparent percentage of profit share from every book sold.
Key Points:
- Royalty begins accruing the moment your book is live.
- You’ll have access to your sales dashboard 24×7.
- Royalty payments are processed on a monthly or quarterly basis.
- You can withdraw your earnings directly to your bank account or UPI.
Whether it’s a board book bought by a parent in India or a gift purchased from the US, every sale counts—and you get your rightful share.
Earning Potential from Board Books
Board books often fall under premium children’s titles because of their quality and durability. This means they usually command a higher MRP, increasing your potential profit per copy.
Typical MRPs for board books range from ₹199 to ₹599 depending on:
- Page count
- Size and shape
- Colour usage
- Custom die-cut features
As an author, this positions you for high-margin earnings, especially if your story appeals to a wide audience.
STEP 11: Ongoing Help & Author Support
Publishing is a journey—and we walk with you every step of the way.
At 24by7 Publishing, we offer dedicated author support from day one. Whether you’re a first-time writer or an experienced educator publishing a curriculum-based board book, our team is always available to assist.
You Can Reach Us Via:
- 📞 Phone support (during working hours)
- 💬 WhatsApp chat
- 🌐 Author dashboard internal messaging system
All authors also get access to our FAQ library, filled with video tutorials, publishing guides, and troubleshooting solutions.
What Our Support Includes
- Query resolution on layout/design
- Royalty statement clarification
- Package upgrade help
- Sales performance consultation
- Manuscript preparation guidance
Our commitment doesn’t end at publishing. We are your publishing partner for life.
FAQs – Common Questions from Board Book Authors
Q: What is the ideal age group for board books?
A: Board books typically cater to children between 6 months and 5 years. The target age influences the tone, visuals, and themes of your story.
Q: How many pages should my board book have?
A: Most board books have 12 to 24 pages, depending on your storyline and desired thickness.
Q: Do I need to provide illustrations?
A: No. Our team of professional illustrators can design the entire book based on your story. However, if you already have illustrations, we can integrate those.
Q: Can I print the book in regional languages?
A: Yes. We support books in English, Hindi, Bengali, Marathi, Tamil, and many other Indian and foreign languages.
Q: Is there a minimum order quantity?
A: No. We offer Print-on-Demand options, which means your book can be printed and sold as per real-time demand without large upfront stock orders.
Q: Will I receive ISBN for my board book?
A: Yes. Every book published with us comes with an ISBN and barcode, making it globally identifiable.
Why 24by7 Publishing is the Best Choice for Board Books
✅ India’s only premium board-book self-publishing platform
✅ Full-colour 700 GSM board printing
✅ Custom sizing and shapes supported
✅ In-house illustration and editorial teams
✅ Sales dashboard to track earnings
✅ Promotion, distribution, and international availability
✅ Cheapest board book publishing with top-tier quality
✅ Completely customizable plans with full author control
We’ve published hundreds of successful board books—some by first-time authors, others by educators, NGOs, and parenting influencers. No matter who you are, we treat your book with the care it deserves.
Your dream of becoming a children’s book author is now easier and more achievable than ever.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re serious about publishing a beautiful, high-quality board book for children, we’re here to help you make it happen—step by step.
🎯 Contact us today for a FREE consultation.
📝 Upload your manuscript or share your story idea.
📚 Explore our board-book publishing packages.
💡 Get expert advice from our publishing consultants.
Conclusion: Turn Your Story into a Childhood Treasure
Stories shape childhoods. A well-made board book becomes more than a bedtime read—it becomes a memory, a learning moment, a gift that gets passed on. At 24by7 Publishing, we’re honoured to help you transform your imagination into a lasting legacy.
Whether you’re a parent, teacher, storyteller, or dreamer—your story deserves to be told. And we’re here to help you tell it.
✅ Start your board book publishing journey today with 24by7 Publishing—the most trusted name in premium board-book self-publishing.