School visits can be one of the most rewarding—and profitable—parts of your life as a children’s book creator. But they’re also a skill. In Episode 8 of the Nonfiction Kidlit Craft Conversations podcast, author-illustrator Ann Koffsky joined me to break down everything you need to know about developing, delivering, and marketing successful visits.
Whether you’re just getting started or ready to level up, here are the top takeaways from our conversation.
Presentation Tips: How to Keep Kids Engaged
“You’ve got to be interesting. Making a speech is hard—and you really have to think about it.” – Ann Koffsky
Know Your Audience
A preschool visit looks nothing like a high school event. Ann emphasized the importance of tailoring your energy, vocabulary, and content based on your audience. Like a board book vs. a graphic novel, it’s all about voice and tone.
Mirror Their Energy
Kids reflect what you give them. If you’re flat, they’ll check out. If you’re animated and inviting, they’ll lean in.
“If you talk like this [enthusiastically], they’ll be more engaged. That’s just basic.”
Use Props and Interactivity
From historical costumes to drawing demos to yes/no games, hands-on elements create memorable moments.
“I bring a big purple prop bag. A doll in sandals shows Biblical times. Then we compare: What kind of shoes are you wearing?”
Visual Takeaways
Consider including a draw-along activity, paper airplane templates, or a printable coloring sheet to send home.
“Every kid gets something. Teachers love it, and it doubles as PR.”
Classroom Management: What You Need to Know
“When kids are engaged, they’re going to call out. And then you have to get them quiet again—and keep going.”
Set Expectations
Send a pre-visit checklist to the school: what equipment you need, classroom setup, and your must-haves.
“I need a screen for my slides. I need the teachers to stay. And I need them not chatting in the back!”
Ask for a Microphone
Even if you’re loud, don’t strain your voice. Especially on multi-session days, ask for a mic—or bring your own if needed.
Expect the Unexpected
Kids need the bathroom. Someone loses a tooth. Teachers forget the tech setup. Build in breathing room and backup plans.
The Takeaway Matters
“What is your message? What do you want them to walk away with?”
Your visit shouldn’t just be entertaining—it should be meaningful. Whether you’re reinforcing your book’s message or demystifying the creative process, plan your ending as intentionally as your opening.
Ann shows students her thick binder of rejection letters to reinforce the importance of persistence.
“This is just from 1998 to 2004. There’s a second one, too!”
Marketing Your Program: From Free to Paid
“It’s hard. And there’s no one formula. But there is a path.”
Start Where You Are
Begin with your child’s classroom, your local library, or schools where you have connections. If it’s unpaid, use it to practice—and collect photos, testimonials, and feedback.
Build a School Visit Webpage
Include:
What you offer
Age groups served
Video clips
A downloadable flyer
Teacher/organizer endorsements
A form or email to inquire
“That webpage doesn’t get you found. It seals the deal after they find you.”
Follow Up & Stay in Touch
Send occasional emails to past schools and contacts with news, new books, or updated flyers. When you land a visit in a new city, contact nearby schools to fill your schedule and share travel costs.
Leverage Literacy Events
World Read Aloud Day, Read Across America, diocesan read-alouds, and local book festivals are great ways to build momentum. A free virtual read may turn into a full in-person program (it did for Kirsten!).
Bonus Tips
Keep teachers in the room. Always.
Ask for parking instructions in advance (especially in cities!).
Bring tea or lozenges if doing long visits—your voice will thank you.
Wear comfy shoes—sparkly ones if you’re brave. Kids notice!
Take video (with permission). Even a 20-second clip makes great promo.
Collect testimonials—from kids, teachers, librarians. Quotes sell.
Don’t forget to include your website on everything you hand out.
Final Words
“I didn’t even know this was a thing when I started. Now it’s one of the best parts of my job.” – Ann Koffsky
School visits are more than author readings—they’re experiences that inspire, educate, and connect. With thoughtful planning and a flexible mindset, they can also be a meaningful part of your writing business.
🎧 Listen to the full conversation with Ann Koffsky on YouTube
📍 Explore Ann’s school visit page for more inspiration.
FEATURED BOOKS:
• Ping Pong Shabbat: The True Story of Champion Estee Ackerman (illustrated by Abigail Rajunov)
• The Peddler and the President (illustrated by Pedro Rodriguez) RESOURCES MENTIONED:
• Imprint.com (for affordable bookmarks)
• Creating coloring pages as giveaways
• World Read Aloud Day opportunities
• BOCES (NY) and similar educational service organizations
CONNECT WITH ANN KOFFSKY:
Website: https://annkoffsky.com
Instagram: @annkoffsky
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