Generations United’s Seniors4Kids raises the voices of adults age 50 and older in support of policies affecting children and youth. One way to advocate for children is to pick up your pen – or to pull out your keyboard – and write a letter to the editor or an opinion editorial (also known as an op-ed) expressing your support for children’s issues.

Getting published in a print or online publication

• shows readers that adults 50+ care about kids
• helps convince politicians and other decision-makers that their constituents over 50 care about children’s issues
• highlights intergenerational bonds making our communities stronger

Seniors4Kids Guide to Getting Published

How can your letter or column stand out? Editors often sort through hundreds of submissions each day. Here are a few tips to increase the probability that your letter or op-ed gets selected for publication.

Be Timely.

Did the newspaper publish an article or a column relating to a children’s educational issue? Is there pending legislation or an upcoming debate? If you could submit the letter or column you want to write at any time, think again. Newspapers and other publications want something that is news now – not last week.

Be Relevant.

What new information can you offer to an issue in the news? How can you add a valuable perspective or a new twist on an ongoing debate? Letters or columns with useful and/or surprising information are more likely to be published.

Be Quick.

It’s better to submit a good piece today than a perfect piece tomorrow, if you are making a comment on breaking news or a new study. Fresh beats stale every time.

Be Accurate.

Always check your facts. Inaccuracies or exaggeration will hurt your credibility and ruin your chances of being published again. Make your point without fluff. Readers – and editors – want to discover your message quickly without wading through flowery prose or tangents.

Be Yourself.

Draw from personal experience. As an older adult who cares about kids, why are you so passionate about these issues? If you would like some feedback or tips on the piece, contact us. If you prefer just to send your own opinion, don't forget to let us know about your efforts.

Helpful Links

Engaging the Media on Children’s Issues

Making Changes Through Persuasive Writing

How to Write an Op-Ed

The Op-Ed Project

How To Have Your Say (in the Washington Post)

If you would like to speak up in support of pre-k and you live in one of our four states, contact Anne Tria Wise via email or at  202-289-3979.