Class

2025 Loft Youth Writing Intensive: Ages 10 To 13

The Loft's Summer Youth Writing Intensive for Ages 10-13 is led by acclaimed and published writers. These teaching artists are experts in their field! Over the course of four days, students will gain new insights into the craft of writing. (Application link is below.)

This class consists of multiple workshops, all listed below. Each aims to inspire creativity, self-expression, and a passion for writing. During the week, young writers will engage with published writers across various genres.

By the end of this intensive, students will have completed at least one piece of new writing. You'll leave with new friends and inspiration for new projects! Additionally, students will have the option to share their writing in a public reading at week's end, and have an opportunity to publish work in a youth anthology.

Writers of all skill levels are encouraged to apply! This 4-day class is for ages 10-13. Register and submit a short application and writing sample here: https://loft.submittable.com/projects/edit/24867f1e-6305-4189-b42f-6e9c…

The following sessions will take place throughout the four days:

SCRAPBOOK POETRY
(for ages 10-13, with Dralandra Larkins)

Students dive into words and imagery by sharing their imagination and creativity using their voices in the form of Spoken Word. Students explore visual art exercises to enhance their understanding of poetic expression and visual art integration. Students will create poems, clay sculpture, painted plant pot, bookmark, and tote bag.

CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT: DESIGN A FANTASY OR SCI-FI PROTAGONIST, VILLAIN, AND SIDE-KICK
(for ages 10-13, with Kelsey Daly)

Come create your very own fantasy character and villain! Explore writing exercises that help your characters pop off the page and into your reader’s heart. What are their motivations, backstories, dreams, worries, and noteworthy fashion choices? Through a combination of writing exercises and games, your character will spring to life.

ELEMENTS OF FICTION: PUT THE STORY IN YOUR STORY
(for ages 10-13, with Robert Voedisch)

In this class, we’ll look at the big questions that drive every story—Who are these characters? What do they want?—but we’ll also look at the smaller, more technical aspects of fiction, like point-of-view, voice, and time. (Note: Students will have 20 pages of work critiqued by the instructor.)

SCREENWRITING
(for ages 10-13, with Michael Gorrie)

Are you a tween and want to write your movie? Then this class is for you! Over the course of this 4-day class we'll cover the fundamentals of screenwriting structure, formatting, and character development. Students will have the opportunity to receive feedback from their peers and teaching artist in class.