Children from all over central Missouri in kindergarten through 4th grade are invited to write and illustrate their own stories and submit them to KMOS!

This contest is designed to promote the advancement of children’s reading skills through hands on, active learning. It encouraged children to celebrate the power of creating stories and illustrations by submitting their own original pieces. 

THANK YOU to our Community Partners and Sponsors!

Entry Form

Entry Form (Spanish version)

Contest Rules

When can I send in my child's story?

The contest begins January 1, 2023

The deadline for stories is March 31, 2023.  Your entry must be postmarked by March 31.  

Where do I mail my entry?

KMOS PBS

University of Central Missouri

Wood 11

Warrensburg, MO 64093

Can I email my entry?

Yes! Email entries to alvested@ucmo.edu

Can stories be dictated to an adult?

Yes. Children who cannot write may tell their story to an adult who will write it.

Does spelling Count?

No.  The judges do not consider spelling, 'best guess spelling' is okay.

Can clip art, coloring book characters, or stickers be added to illustrations? Can someone else make my illustrations?  No. Your illustrations need to be your own work. 

Do I need to bind my story?  No. We will accept your story whether it is bound, stapled, or simply paper-clipped.

Will I get my original story back?

If you would like your original story back, when you mail in your story please include the return mailing address you would like the original story sent to.

When will the stories be judged, and how are they judged?

Stories will be judged in April 2023.

Stories are judged on originality, creative expression, storytelling, illustrations, and overall impression.  Some things that make a story special include colorful art; a unique story; a story with a good beginning, middle, and end; illustrations that match the story; attention to details; and following the contest rules.

How will I know if my story won?

KMOS PBS will announced on this website and will be notified by phone or email on or about May 2, 2023.

Winning stories will be posted on this webpage.

For more questions or inquiries, please contact

alvested@ucmo.edu