editors speak

Interview with Jennifer Winquist
Editor, KID ZONE magazine

KID ZONE is one of the mysterious magazines that we get asked about often. Anyone who has seen a sample copy knows it looks like a fun place to sell an article. The magazine is strongly interactive with puzzles, crafts, and recipes. We're delighted this month to talk with Jennifer Winquist and gain more insight into how freelancers can connect with KID ZONE.

KMW: There is so much wonderful content in KID ZONE but some of it is definitely done in house and therefore not open to submissions. Can you tell me what parts of KID ZONE are in house?
JW: The story is done in house (so KID ZONE is not a market for fiction submissions) as are the games (unless they are submitted as part of a larger feature) and Burman's brain benders.

KMW: Many of our writers enjoy doing holiday material. How does KID ZONE handle holidays?
JW: We try to take a fall-festival approach in the autumn issue and avoid anything that might be construed as anti-Christian or evil. We do promote Christmas in the Nov/Dec issue, but may also include Hanukkah and other December holidays. Likewise, we will talk about Easter in the spring issue but not so much in a religious manner.

KMW: I see that most of the zones in KID ZONE have an accompanying craft or activity -- do you also buy craft pieces separately or should they always come with an article?
JW: Articles that are submitted with craft projects, games, recipes, or other extras will probably get more consideration that those without. Projects may be submitted alone, but follow different guidelines for submission. Those who are interested in submitting craft ideas should request our designer guidelines.

Editor's Note: KID ZONE issues each have a general theme for projects:
March/April SPRING [submissions should be made by the previous November 1st]
May/June SUMMER [submissions by January 1st]
July/Aug BACK TO SCHOOL [Submissions by March 1st]
Sept/Oct FALL [Submissions by May 1st]
Nov/Dec CHRISTMAS/HOLIDAY [Submissions by July 1st]
Jan/Feb WINTER [Submissions by Sept 1st]

Submissions are considered based on a query, which includes a photo of the project along with a brief description of the project. These queries can be sent by mail or email.

KMW: What zones will appear in every issue of KID ZONE? Can you explain any that aren't obvious by title?
JW: We were alternating zones early on but have now found a core group that we do each issue: Chomp [food], Critter [specific animal], Discovery, Story [not open to freelance for the story but projects are open], Fun [usually hits on holiday themes, but not always, and is an area that is open for fun features that don't fit within our other zones.] and Culture.

KMW: How would an illustrator "break in" to KID ZONE?
JW: We currently work with two illustrators exclusively, but illustrators can submit a sample of there work via mail which we will keep on file should our needs change.

KMW: When a writer sends you a craft -- do you want to see accompanying photos? the finished product? Photos illustrating the steps? How about recipes -- do you cook them or do you need to see high quality photos of the finished food?
JW: Craft projects should be submitted with a photo. We don't need the instructions, just a brief description and photo. We keep the photos on file and will only respond if we can use it. We only take submissions of recipes with a feature submission. We don't need photos, just the recipe.

KMW: Is there any kind of "favorite" craft you like to see? I know some magazines like to see crafts that result in playable toys. Some like gift ideas. Some like DIY makeover things like room decor items. Is KID ZONE totally eclectic or do you have some things you'd like to see more of?
JW: We like to see a variety. We want to feature crafts in a variety of mediums throughout the issue. It's always great if the items needed are easily accessible and inexpensive to make. We have a lot of teachers and group leaders who use KID ZONE for group projects.

KMW: Are there any sorts of things you aren't seeing enough of? Any pieces you're seeing too much of? How can magazine writers better meet your needs?
JW: We get many submissions on bugs. Too many. We get the fewest submissions for our Culture Zone, which covers the culture of a different nation each issue. Submissions for this feature must mirror past issues as all are presented in the same manner. The submission must include information, words to say from that nation, a typical recipe and craft project. Photos are also helpful.

KMW: I really appreciate your time. I know this is an interview my readers have been waiting for. Any parting tips or comments?
JW: Thanks for your interest. If I can just add one more item that might be of help. The most annoying submissions are those from individuals who have either not reviewed the writer guidelines or have never looked at an issue. If you're going to submit to a magazine, make sure you have seen an issue and that you know what and how to present the piece. Otherwise you're just wasting your time, and the editor's.

If anyone wishes to send in submissions, I am pretty full for our 2005 calendar so, it's best to wait until about March 2005 or it will probably get sent back do to lack of space.

A LOOK AT THE EDITORIAL LINE-UP:

Project designers may consider sending photos and project descriptions, as there are still some openings available in some of the 2005 issues for projects. There also some spots open for Info Zone pieces (be sure to check a sample magazine for the type of information used in Info Zone and the way it's presented). According to the guidelines, "Info Zones cover a particular topic by presenting trivia-like bubbles of information. Approximately 10 per topic along with a project to correspond. Animals would usually not be considered here."

Since Jennifer has graciously shared that the Culture Zone is one of the best places to slip in, the writer's guidelines say "Culture Zone focuses on one country's culture and includes: map, flag with explanation, information on items of interest/importance to that country, what kids do, school information, what's great about that nation, recipe, how to write/speak a few words of the language, and craft project representative of that country. Present all information in a positive light -- the goal of this feature is to celebrate the differences of all people, Past features include: Thailand, Mexico, Sweden, India, New Zealand, St. Pierre & Miquelon, Russia, and Poland.

To submit project ideas and photos via email, send to Jennifer Winquist.
To submit project by regular mail, send to: KID ZONE, 450 Benson Bldg., Sioux City, IA 51101. Photos will not be returned.

This page last updated on 01 December 2004