I know I’m a new member, but lots of people recommend joining the Society for Children’s Books Writers & Illustrators.

They have an incredible set of SCBWI-specific resources.

They have a huge number of members who also contribute information.

There are two national conferences and (probably) hundreds of regional ones.

You can get to know people in your area who are writing children’s books. That’s how I met several people in my state.

You will learn so much.

When you get published–which you will!–you can celebrate by putting notices up and your books in their members-only stores.

There are awards and grants: for writers, illustrators, published authors and illustrators, and students.