Traditional publishing company?

[Ellen]

I had a children's book published by a self publishing company. I made a few sales and after that things went down hill. The company kept asking me for money, but I was doing the work and I severed my connection with them.
I have been reading information about self publication and all that I have seen want money from the author. I have also read that any legitimate publishing company will not ask for any money from the author.
I know that by going the Traditional publishing way is difficult, but from what I have read I feel that it is a better option. I have been searching online for a legitimate free Traditional publishing company, however all I find is information about self publishing companies which I would prefer to keep away from.
If anybody knows of free legitimate Traditional publishing companies who will take unsolicited children stories please email me with the information.

Thank you,
Ellen