Class

Children's Writing for Beginners

Do you dream of writing a children’s book? This class will explore the exciting world of writing for children and young adults through a mix of writing activities and discussion. The class is suited for both beginners and more established writers who are new to writing for a younger audience. Sessions will provide valuable tips and techniques and jumpstart you on a writing project.

You’ll delve into craft topics such as generating kid-friendly ideas, creating memorable characters, developing structure, and using muscular language. You’ll hear tactics for building writing habits. You’ll share writing with classmates in a nonthreatening environment. The teaching artist will offer individual feedback if requested. Whether you’re interested in pursuing publication or just want to create a memorable family story, this class will get you started!

Note: We’ll explore a diverse and inclusive list of children’s books, including picture books, chapter books, middle grade, and young adult titles such as: A Different Pond by Bao Phi, Stella Brings the Family by Miriam B. Schiffer, The Birchbark House by Louise Erdrich, All Thirteen by Christina Soontornvat, Victory. Stand! by Tommie Smith, Derrick Barnes, & Dawud Anyabwile, Last Night I Sang to the Monster by Benjamin Alire Sáenz.

No class Nov. 24

All Classes listed on the Loft website take place in Central Time.

Instructions for Accessing This Online Class

In order to access live class meetings, you must have the Zoom application downloaded to your computer. You will also need a WiFi/Internet connection throughout the duration of your scheduled meeting and a computer with audio and video capability. The information to join your Zoom classroom will be provided in your confirmation email upon registration. Please check spam folders if you do not see this email upon registration. For more information on how to use Zoom, please see our training manual here.

Some classes use a supplemental Google Classroom page. Should your teaching artist use Google Classroom, you will be invited to join the classroom via email at least 24 hours in advance of your class (check spam folders if you are not seeing this invitation). Please note that Google Classroom requires a Gmail address to access the Classroom. If you do not have a Gmail account, the email invitation will be sent to the email address we have on file and will prompt you to create a free account or enter an existing account to join the classroom. If we are unable to send an email invitation to your non-gmail account, you will be contacted by a staff member to provide a Gmail address. If you do not have a Gmail account, you can create a free account here. Should you have concerns about this, please contact a Loft staff member at [email protected] or 612-379-8999. For more information on how to use Google Classroom, please see our training manual here.