Class

2026 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/submit/47a9485d-af6c-4494-be46-35ac391f394…

The following sessions will take place throughout the four days:

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

In this workshop, students explore storytelling through spoken word, visual art, and hands-on craft. Young writers are encouraged to use their voices, imagination, and personal experiences to create original poems while building confidence in self-expression and performance. Students learn how imagery, texture, and design can deepen poetic meaning. Participants will create and perform poems while making scrapbook pages, clay sculptures, bookmarks, and painted tote bags, blending writing and art into a powerful, expressive experience.

CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT: DESIGN A FANTASY OR SCI-FI PROTAGONIST AND VILLAIN
(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.

CREATIVE NONFICTION: LET ME TELL YOU A STORY (for ages 10-13, with Holly Day)

In this class, we'll go over many of the ways nonfiction writers draw inspiration from their lives. As part of that, we'll explore everything from deciding how to turn your memories and personal anecdotes into stories, how tone affects your story, and how to create vivid scenes and scenarios that will transport your readers into the story you’re trying to tell. By the time this class is over, you'll know how to make yourself start writing, and keep writing until your piece is done.

SCREENWRITING: WRITE YOUR MOVIE
(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.