Writers Circle Arrives at Sparkhouse for Fall Classes

The popular Writers Circle creative writing workshops for children have arrived in South Orange. A number of this fall's classes, taught by TWC Director Judith Lindbergh and Madison teacher Michelle Cameron, will meet and write at Sparkhouse Kids in South Orange.

A schedule and registration information are below.

Storytellers Circle (Kindergarten - 3rd grade)

Understanding stories is the first step toward writing them. Each Storytellers Circle begins with a folktale or story read aloud as a jumping off point for discussing story elements. Children make their own stories through group interaction, writing, illustration, music, movement and fun. Students gain appreciation for the imaginative process and build confidence in their own ability to create fascinating tales.

• Tuesdays 4:00 PM-5:15 PM
  Sparkhouse Kids, South Orange, NJ

Story Magic (3rd-5th grade)

Through group dynamics, imaginative prompts and role-playing exercises, students learn the basic elements of story creation and put their inspirations on paper. Children gain confidence in a fun, non-judgmental environment where everyone supports each other’s ideas. Home writing is suggested but not required. The goal is to ignite the creative spark by temporarily casting off rigid academic requirements.

• Saturdays 11:30 AM-12:45 PM
  Sparkhouse Kids, South Orange, NJ

FOR BOYS ONLY!

Yes, a boy’s imagination requires a special kind of environment that welcomes the physical, the gross, the absurd, the fantastical and the just plain ridiculous. Come indulge in the freedom to imagine anything and make it come true—well, at least on paper! Find out more in this interview with Ralph Fletcher, author of On Boys Writing.

• Thursdays 4:00 PM-5:15 PM
  Sparkhouse Kids, South Orange, NJ

FOR GIRLS ONLY! - NEW CLASS!

By popular demand! This all-girls all-the-time program is rich with pop stars and princesses, witches and women warriors, fashion shows and fantastic adventures that only girls can think up. Explore being a girl in all the colors of the imagination.

• Tuesdays 5:15-6:30 PM
  Sparkhouse Kids, South Orange, NJ

Teen Writers Circle (middle/high school)

This class balances inspiration with discipline, teaching students to accept critique, revise thoroughly and work toward story completion. We will delve into story elements like plot, character, pacing, point of view and style; and explore different genres, including reality-based and imagined fiction, plays, poetry, memoir, journaling and more.  Honing their writing skills in a creative, nurturing environment, students will find ease and confidence that will benefit school performance, test preparation and college essay writing.

• Saturdays, 12:45-2:00 PM - 9 WEEKS ONLY! Starts Sept. 24!

  Sparkhouse Kids, South Orange, NJ

The Young Storymakers

This invitation-only, workshop-based class is for younger students with an insatiable drive to write. Students will be expected to write during their own time and bring in work each week to share aloud and critique with the group. The group will act as a sounding board to help students discover what works, what doesn’t, and what might be done to improve their stories. Each writer will learn to go beyond the initial exhilaration of creation and work through multiple revisions to complete a polished story. Email or call for more information about joining The Young Storymakers.

• Saturdays 10:00 - 11:30 AM
  Sparkhouse Kids, South Orange, NJ

To find out more, click here or or download Registration Form