creative writing programs for elementary students

20 Creative Writing Activities for Elementary Students

• November 23, 2021

Did you know that November is National Novel Writing Month? While your young learners are probably not ready to write an entire book, this month is a great time to practice creative writing skills with your students. Not only can creative writing be helpful for teaching vocabulary and sentence structure, but it can also encourage students to use imaginative thinkin g —and even find a genuine love of writing!

All of these 20 creative writing activities can be used with elementary school students to practice reading and writing skills. We’ve included options for both early elementary students, who may still be learning to write, and elementary students in upper grades who are ready to work on projects of their choosing.

1. Join the NaNoWriMo organization’s Young Writers Program (YWP) ! Together, your students can work on all sorts of age-appropriate writing challenges and activities throughout the year—including a project of their choice in November!

2. To practice pre-writing skills and collaborating on a project, try these shared writing project activities .

3. If you have any budding cartoonists in your class, this Finish the Comic activity from author Jarrett Lerner can be a great way for younger students to practice writing dialogue.

4. Teach your students about adjectives and writing descriptions with this Popcorn Adjectives activity .

5. Students can learn about creative writing by studying imagery and poetry by established authors. Using this writing worksheet , kids can write out their thoughts about a poem and draw images that stand out to them.

6. To teach creative thinking skills with kindergarteners and early elementary students, try this Mystery Seed writing activity .

7. Get families involved, too! Share these fun home writing activities with your student’s families to help them practice at home.

8. Print out and put together a Writing Jar with tons of creative writing prompts to inspire your students.

9. Check out this resource for even more writing prompts focused on imaginative thinking.

10. Try blackout poetry , an activity that encourages students to make their own beautiful art from a work that already exists.

11. Creative writing isn’t limited to fiction. This narrative writing activity can teach students to write events clearly and in sequence from their real life.

12. For a creative writing project that’s just plain fun, try this Roll a Story activity.

13. This nonfiction project helps children learn to write a letter as they write to a loved one of their choice.

14. If you want to give your students some freedom in choosing a writing assignment, hang up this Writing Prompt Choice Board in your classroom and let them answer whichever prompt they’d like!

15. Encourage students to keep their own journal throughout the year. You could even give them time each morning to respond to a journal prompt .

16. Use this journal page template to help students structure and compile journal entries.

17. These printable Mad Libs can teach children different parts of a sentence while they use their imaginations to create a story.

18. Use this What? So What? Now What? exercise (#6 at the link) to help students structure their creative writing projects.

19. To teach children how to create descriptive sentences, play this Show, Don’t Tell writing activity .

20. If you’d like to hold a month-long creative writing activity, try this 30-Day Writing Challenge for kids .

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Free tools to make your students better writers and readers .

Quill.org, a non-profit, provides free literacy activities that build reading comprehension, writing, and language skills for elementary, middle, and high school students.

Writing Across the Curriculum: Quill's nonprofit mission is to now build both reading and writing skills through free, OER content across the curriculum. Over the coming years, we will be building a library of free ELA, social studies, and science activities that engage students in deeper thinking through writing prompts that provide immediate feedback.

9 million students have written 2 billion sentences on Quill.

Quill Reading for Evidence

Provide your students with nonfiction texts paired with AI-powered writing prompts, instead of multiple-choice questions, to enable deeper thinking.

Students read a nonfiction text and build their comprehension through writing prompts, supporting a series of claims with evidence sourced from the text. Quill challenges students to write responses that are precise, logical, and based on textual evidence, with Quill coaching the student through custom, targeted feedback on each revision so that students strengthen their reading comprehension and hone their writing skills.

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Quill Connect

Help your students advance from fragmented and run-on sentences to complex and well structured ones.

Using the evidence-based strategy of sentence combining, students combine multiple ideas into a single sentence. They then receive instant feedback designed to help them improve their clarity and precision.

Quill Lessons

The Quill Lessons tool enables teachers to lead whole-class and small-group writing instruction.

Teachers control interactive slides that contain writing prompts, and the entire class responds to each prompt. Each Quill Lessons activity provides a lesson plan, writing prompts, discussion topics, and a follow up independent practice activity.

Quill Diagnostic

Quickly determine which skills your students need to work on with our diagnostics.

The diagnostics cover vital sentence construction skills and generate personalized learning plans based on the student’s performance.

Quill Proofreader

Proofreader teaches your students editing skills by having them proofread passages.

Students edit passages and receive personalized exercises based on their results. With over 100 expository passages, Proofreader gives students the practice they need to spot common grammatical errors.

Quill Grammar

Students practice basic grammar skills, from comma placement to parallel structure.

Quill Grammar has over 150 sentence writing activities to help your students. Our activities are designed to be completed in 10 minutes so you have the freedom to use them in the way that works best for your classroom.

How Quill Works

Set up your classroom, without it.

You can quickly and easily set up your classroom in Quill by inputting student names or providing students with a unique code. If you use Google Classroom or Clever, you can automatically set up your classroom with one click.

Choose activities

Decide if you want your students to proofread passages, combine sentences, or complete a diagnostic. Use our ten minute activities as building blocks during your classroom instruction.

Use easy-to-consume reporting

Use our reporting to spot trends and identify growth opportunities. Monitor comprehension on specific writing standards.

Get immediate feedback for your students

Save time grading and watch your students correct their mistakes instantly.

Intervene where students struggle

See exactly where your students need intervention with our comprehensive reports.

Differentiate learning to meet the needs of all students

Assign specific activities for ELLs and students with learning differences.

Engage students with adaptive activities

Challenge students with questions that automatically adapt based on their previous responses.

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Your story matters

Write your novel now., what is nanowrimo.

National Novel Writing Month is a fun, empowering approach to creative writing. The challenge: draft an entire novel in just one month. For 30 wild, exciting, surprising days, you get to lock away your inner editor, let your imagination take over, and just create!

Our Young Writers Program supports under-18 writers and K-12 educators as they participate in our flagship event each November, and take part in smaller writing challenges year-round.

Only you can tell your story.

Set your word-count goal for the month and draft your novel right on our site. We'll help you track your progress. Plus, get support from published authors and an international community of fellow novelists.

Unleash your students’ creative potential.

Start a virtual classroom to read student novels and track progress. Keep your kids motivated with free classroom kits, workbooks, and Common Core-aligned K–12 lesson plans.

“The Young Writers Program has given me the freedom to write on any subject and has improved my writing and grammar skills. It has made a huge impact in my English classes.” 7th Grader Virginia, USA

“The first year I joined NaNoWriMo, I was inspired to actually finish a project. The Young Writers Program motivated me to continue on in my novel even when I didn’t want to.” 7th Grader California, USA

“The Young Writers Program showed me that I could do whatever I want if I put my mind to it. I never thought I could write a novel. And YWP proved me wrong.” 7th Grader Illinois, USA

“I am constantly thinking of story ideas for the next NaNoWriMo. The Young Writers Program has inspired me to let my imagination run wild, and I find myself more motivated after writing.” 6th Grader California, USA

“I loved how you could just write. In most other programs, there was always a worksheet, or months and months of planning. I just loved writing my novel and was so inspired, I made a novel-writing club for my school!” 5th Grader Indiana, USA

“We had over 500 students doing this project together. Students knew that there were other people who were having the same fears, going through the same struggles, and feeling the same sense of pride in their work.” Daniel Stone Educator, South Carolina

“I watched all my students grow and develop as writers, thinkers, and creators over the month of November. They’re excited to do it again this year and engage further in developing their own stories about their world.” Celia Emmelhainz Educator, Kazakhstan

“From November on, I see new depth in their reading journal entries as they begin to read like writers, contemplating and evaluating what published authors have done in their work.” Melody Sutton Educator, California

“Even if they only have 15-20 minutes to write, the room goes silent except for the sound of words making their way onto the page. Students leave my room and enter the world of their novels.” Noriko Nakada Educator, California

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Writing Tips Oasis - A website dedicated to helping writers to write and publish books.

5 Top Online Writing Programs for Elementary Students

By Madalina Olteanu

If you’re looking for online writing programs for elementary students, be sure to read about the 5 featured below.

1. Write About This

Write About This is an app created by Brad Wilson, an elementary school teacher, and by Bob Armbrister, an entrepreneur and IT leader. The purpose of it is that of helping elementary-age children learn by using visual writing prompts with the support of their parents and teachers.

This app allows young students to develop several skills – for instance, numerous prompts require them to state and explain their points of view regarding specific topics, while also providing a starting point for fiction and nonfiction narratives. At the same time, both prompts and pictures are used to help students create details for works of poetry, prose, and for many others, which vary from letters to lists.

A free version of Write About This is available as well, but it only gives you the possibility to check out all the features and functionalities provided in the full version. The latter costs only $3.99 and it encompasses 125 images, 375 prompts, unlimited Write Abouts, voice recordings, author profiles, exports to camera roll, and a few others. An Android version with the same materials is available for $2.99.

If you have any questions, you can address them by using this contact information.

2. Pre-reading & Pre-writing by M.E. Greenlee through Storybird

Storybird is a platform designed particularly for writers who wish to improve their skills. Here you can learn how to tell your stories, while also having the benefit of receiving feedback on your work from teachers, authors, and professional editors. Over 9 million writers from all over the world are active on Storybird. The website has three main categories, respectively Challenge, Read, and Write. The latter includes Picture Book, Longform Story, Comics, Flash Fiction, and Poetry, where you can find artworks that will help you create a narrative. However, the Challenge section is the most useful one – it involves Basic Writing, Creative Writing, Thematic Compositions, Children’s Songs, Leveled Reads, and How-To Guides.

Pre-reading & Pre-writing is a course meant for children in grades 1 and 2, and it was created by M.E. Greenlee, an educator who has 20 years of experience in the field. It contains 27 challenges (easy writing and reading lessons), and each of them covers a different topic. For instance, in lesson 4, your child will have to create their own picture book featuring an invented character, while in lesson 8 they will be asked to use words such as “apple” and “igloo” to create another picture book.

If you want to sign up as a parent, you have three membership options: $8.99/month for the monthly plan, $4.99/month or $59.98/year for the yearly plan, and up to 40% off for the family plan, which is available for 2-5 members. The membership options for educators are displayed here . To ask any questions, you can access the Contact Us section at the bottom of the main page.

3. Time4Writing

Time4Writing’s team of certified teachers will help your child study from home. Mrs. Leslie joined the team in 2008 – she has a BA in Secondary Speech, Drama, and Middle School English from The University of Miami, and she began her career in the Miami-Dade Public Schools, where she spent 10 years both as a teacher and as a department chair. Mrs. Glig is another teacher working for Time4Writing – she has a BA in Education and an MA in Curriculum, and she has experience in teaching all age ranges, from preschoolers to adult educators.

There are three types of courses on the platform: basic, intermediate, and advanced. Those created for elementary school students are appropriate for grades 2-5, and they involve grammar skills, writing sentences, writing paragraphs, narrative writing, and a few others. To exemplify, Writing Paragraphs is an intermediate course which teaches students how to put together the parts of a paragraph, as well as how to write in chronological order. In the first unit, they have to review writing sentences and to practice writing a topic sentence. Later on, they will be taught to transition words in order to make their sentences flow together, and they will end the course by learning how to write a narrative paragraph. If interested, you can find a demo here – the curriculum is also available online .

A certified teacher-led 8-week writing course costs $119. If you have any questions, you can reach them by completing this form.

4. Connections Academy

Connections Academy is an online schooling option which provides free online elementary school courses which focus on reading, writing, social studies, math, and science. Supported by Pearson, their approach is called Personalized Performance Learning, and it involves reviewing the child’s background and learning styles, evaluating test performance, as well as setting goals. Regular evaluations, individualized lessons, and schedule modifications are the main activities through which they adapt to every student’s changing needs – this is possible because their teachers try to maintain a permanent collaboration with the parents.

Their elementary school programs (K-5) are meant to help children learn the basics of writing and acquire new skills. If you need to see sample lessons before making a decision, you can find several here – the only thing you have to do is to select the appropriate grade. However, there are still eligibility requirements that have to be met, and they depend on the location chosen. For instance, for the 2020-2021 school year, the California Connections Academy schools request an official birth certificate, a green card, medical records, a passport, and a few other documents. You can find additional information on enrollment here .

If you want to ask anything, you can find their contact information online .

5. Essentials in Writing – Where Students Learn to Write

Essentials in Writing was founded by Matthew Stephens, who has a BA in Elementary Education from Missouri State University and a teaching certificate with a focus on Elementary Education, Middle School and High School English with the Missouri state. Furthermore, he holds two MAs – one in Education Administration from William Woods University, and one in Music from Texas State University. More details about the team can be found here .

Their writing courses are available on levels, starting from ages 6-7 to ages 17-18. Each course contains lesson-by-lesson video instruction for students, and you can opt either for streaming or for DVD. If you choose the first one, your child will take classes online exclusively, and will still receive a physical copy of the textbook and Teacher Handbook, as well as the assessment/resource booklet if you choose to purchase this. The Level 1 course (ages 6-7) includes lessons like letter, word, and sentence formation, types of sentences, common nouns, adjectives, action verbs, lists, paragraphs, personal narratives, and parts of a personal letter.

Each course costs $89 – if you want to learn more, you can contact them online .

I am a content writer from Romania. My projects involve non-fiction writing, academic writing, product reviews, as well as technical writing. Although I have a personal preference for articles regarding social issues and human rights, I can provide content on any other topic.

12 Online Writing Classes for Kids

by Kaelyn Barron | 2 comments

We encourage kids to read and develop a love for books starting at a young age. Many schools even sponsor fun contests that reward students who read the most pages or books in a given period.

However, less emphasis is placed on writing, especially when it comes to younger kids. While grammar and the basic mechanics of writing are of course an integral part of their school curriculum, the material rarely delves deeper than the basics. And there’s so much more to writing than proper sentence structure!

If your child is passionate about writing and wants extra practice, or if you simply aren’t satisfied with their regular writing curriculum, some of the online writing classes in this post might just be what you and your little storyteller are looking for.

Online Writing Classes for Kids

Below are 12 online writing classes for kids that will help young learners appreciate the joy of writing.

1. Ultimate Mystery Writing Course for Kids

Steve Reifman is an award-winning author and elementary school teacher who will teach elementary-aged kids how to write a suspenseful mystery that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.

In this Ultimate Mystery Writing Course , students will learn valuable techniques that will help them write captivating mysteries, but also build the foundation for brilliant stories in every genre.

Here’s a bit of what kids will learn in this course:

• how characters can change and grow throughout the plot
• how to describe characters in an interesting, effective way
• how to use alibis, red herrings , and other mystery elements
• how to use a “Story Mountain” to organize ideas logically

Price: $79.99

2. Creative Writing for Kids: Write a Spy Story!

In this fun writing course , English teacher and author Luke Richardson shows kids how to write their own spy story by teaching them the elements of a thrilling narrative.

The course includes a comprehensive workbook with additional pictures, activities, and excerpts from the stories referenced. This course is ideal for ages 10–14.

Students will learn how to:

• develop dynamic characters
• edit and revise their own work
• understand point of view
• use essential spy vocabulary
• have fun writing an exciting story

Price : $94.99

3. Creative Writing for Kids: Write the Future!

In this creative writing course for kids , Luke Richardson explores the basics of a great sci-fi, futuristic, or dystopian story.

Like all of Richardson’s courses for kids, a comprehensive workbook with images, activities, and excerpts are included.

In addition to the basics of storytelling, kids will learn how to:

• imagine futuristic or fantasy worlds
• effectively describe the setting
• write a backstory
• consider tense and perspective

4. Fiction Writing Workshop for Kids

In this fiction writing workshop for kids , instructor and sci-fi author Hank Quense teaches students a step-by-step process for writing a short story, starting with the initial story idea.

Three separate story ideas are explored and for each idea, Quense leads students through a process of character and plot development.

Students will explore the following story ideas:

• a pet story
• a quest story
• a superhero story

This course offers a fun, hands-on way for kids to learn the basics of storytelling and gain an appreciation for writing.

5. My Favorite Things

This course is aimed at young writers aged 5–9, who may only be writing simple sentences now, but will learn to write complete paragraphs using these fun, animated lessons.

Students will have fun writing about their favorite things, while learning to build paragraphs and create transitions.

Kids will learn how to:

• organize ideas
• express themselves clearly
• use transitions
• write simple, structured paragraphs

6. Five-Minute Creative Writing Challenges

Though not exclusively for kids, this writing course is perfect for teaching aspiring young writers the basics of creative writing.

In a series of short lectures, Luke Richardson

• vary sentence structures
• use repetition, adverbs, extended and metaphors
• use sound in their writing
• practice freewriting
• write great dialogue

7. Young Writer’s Blueprint

Young Writer’s Blueprint is a FREE course offered by Alice Kuipers, an award-winning author of YA and children’s books.

Students can access downloadable videos and worksheets so children can work completely offline. This step-by-step guide is aimed at young writers aged 6–10.

They’ll learn how to:

• gather ideas
• develop characters
• describe setting
• write poems, short stories, and longer works
• edit their own writing

Pricing: Free

8. Time4Writing

Time4Writing offers online curricula that can be incorporated as part of a homeschool curriculum, or used to supplement your child’s education with additional lessons on writing.

Their courses feature personalized instruction and feedback from certified instructors, and help students focus on specific areas of their writing so they can prepare for tests and sharpen their skills.

There are courses for all ages, including elementary, middle, and high school students. Course material ranges from the basics of grammar and sentence structure, to advanced essay and research paper writing.

Pricing : Courses start at $119. See all options here .

9. Writing Classes for Kids

Dee White started Writing Classes for Kids after her creative 10-year-old son was “turned off” by his school’s restrictive writing curriculum. A year later, he finished the first draft of his first novel.

Dee offers online courses for kids ages 8–10, 11–18, and adults. Each course features 6 modules, which include comprehensive notes, examples, and writing activities. All of her courses also come with personal feedback on each writing activity.

Pricing : 6-week courses start at $100. See all course options here .

10. Word Up Kids

Word Up Kids offers unique writing courses that focus on the “organic” process of writing by helping kids find their inner, authentic voice and use it to create original stories, poems, and works of nonfiction.

Course sessions feature fun and original writing exercises, and students get the opportunity to share their writing in a safe, supportive space while learning how to give and receive constructive feedback.

Pricing : Courses start at $225. See all options here .

11. San Diego Scribblers

Online Scribblers is a writing program with courses for students in grades 3–12. Their goal is to support students with both creative and academic writing through workshops that cover the essentials of grammar, rhetoric, and other creative writing topics.

High school-level courses can count toward homeschool credits, or simply serve as a supplement to your child’s main school curriculum.

Pricing: $159 per 8-week class

12. Brave Writer

Brave Writer helps students find their writing writing voice and navigate the writing process, while giving parents the support they need to nurture creativity in their children.

Classes are offered by the quarter and incorporate aspects of multiple methods, including Charlotte Mason, Classical, and Unschooling. While students can receive credit, grades, and transcripts for high school classes, these courses can also serve as a great supplement to traditional schooling for students particularly interested in writing.

Price : Find complete pricing info here .

What Is the Best Homeschool Writing Program?

Our resident homeschooling expert compiled a complete guide to homeschool curricula , including tips for choosing the right curriculum for your child. For Language Arts, she recommends Rod and Staff English and Heart of Dakota Drawn Into the Heart of Reading .

How Can You Improve Your Child’s Writing Skills?

No matter your age, one of the best ways you can learn is by doing. If you’d like your child to improve their writing skills, have them practice every day with fun and creative writing prompts for kids . You can also encourage them to enter a writing contest for kids !

It’s equally important to encourage your child to read regularly, especially if you want to foster strong writing skills. Younger children can practice with read-aloud websites and books , while older kids might enjoy these books for teens .

Did you find this post helpful? Let us know in the comments below!

If you enjoyed this post, then you might also like:

• List of Writing Contests for Kids (Updated for 2021)
• 15 Art Books for Kids to Inspire Creativity in Young Minds
• Free eBooks for Kids: 16 Sites to Download Free Reads for the Little Ones
• Educational Games for Kids: 22 Websites and Board Games for Math, Reading, and Science Skills

As a blog writer for TCK Publishing, Kaelyn loves crafting fun and helpful content for writers, readers, and creative minds alike. She has a degree in International Affairs with a minor in Italian Studies, but her true passion has always been writing. Working remotely allows her to do even more of the things she loves, like traveling, cooking, and spending time with her family.

Hello, I’m looking for an online writing course for my nine-year-old daughter. She’s English listening, speaking and reading are well, but lacks writing skills. I hope to find a suitable course for her and help her improve the writing

Our friend, a writer, just died. We don’t want to send flowers. We want a deserving 9 to 12 year old to get a free writing course in his memory. Unfortunately , at age 82, we don’t have more than $50 to spend. Is it possible to do this? Thank you.

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Pursuing excellence for library service to children

Inspiring Young Writers at the Library

Have your kids suggest 10-20 words at random. Take a variety – nouns and verbs, short words and long words, silly words and every day words, etc. Write them up where everyone can see them and then issue the challenge: they have five minutes to use as many of these words in a story as possible. Resist the urge to make this into an outright competition, which will diminish their creativity. Some students may only be able to use one or two words, while others may be able to use all of them, but all students are challenging and expressing themselves.

Our Friend Sticky

For this exercise, we’re creating a character together. Start by drawing a simple stick figure where everyone can see. Maybe just a circle head and a line for the body. Please do not use your best drawing skills for this activity – the sillier and messier, the better. Ask the kids to provide some details for your character. What does their hair look like? How many legs do they have? Draw everything the kids say. Usually kids will start offering up silly details, from unicorn horns to bat wings. Remember to keep drawing, the messier the better. When you can’t fit any more details on your stick figure, turn the kids over to their own papers and ask them to make up a name for the character, and somewhere for the character to go. Then challenge them to start writing the character’s story!

The Magic Box

Before your program, create two boxes. One should be beautifully alluring: wrapped in sparkly paper, or painted in glittery gold, or topped with an enormous bow. One should be slightly worrying: painted black, draped in cotton cobwebs, or topped with DANGER in big red letters. Show your kids the first box, and give them fifteen minutes to write a story where a character, or the student themselves, wakes up to find that magical box on the foot of their bed. What’s inside? How did it get there? Once they’ve written their hearts out, stop them and tell them that next in their story, a second box should appear. Get out the eerie box, and turn your writers loose again!

Three Simple Rules To Remember To Have a Great Writing Program

• Don’t help spell words or correct grammar. Tell kids to make their best guess and that these things can be fixed later if they want. Programs are short, and we don’t want to waste our precious writing time!
• Let kids break the rules. If a student doesn’t want to write about Our Friend Sticky? No problem! They can make up their own character instead. A student hates our Magic Box and wants to keep working on their Wings of Fire fanfiction? We’re here to support you. You can’t encourage someone to write by telling them they can’t write what they want.
• Always provide time to share what students have written, but never force a student to share.

Happy writing!

Today’s guest blogger is Chelsey Roos . Chelsey has been a member of ALSC’s Advocacy and Legislation committee, and was most recently a children’s librarian at the Castro Valley Branch of the Alameda County Library.

This blog relates to ALSC Core Competencies of  III. Programming Skills

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Best Websites for Teaching & Learning Writing

Our favorite free and paid writing resources across the web!

Writing is one of the most important skills students can learn in school. Writing skills are linked to reading skills and to overall academic achievement. Luckily, there are loads of interesting and engaging websites to help make writing instruction fun. To help you get started, here’s a list of the best writing websites for teaching and learning.

With 9 million members and 800,000 participating K-12 classrooms, Storybird  is the world’s largest language arts program. With Storybird, students can create short, visual stories on their own or with friends. In addition, this writing curriculum is aligned with Common Core standards and offers over 600 lessons, quizzes, and writing prompts created by seasoned educators and authors.

Cost: Free trial, subscription

Writing A-Z

With thousands of downloadable and projectable resources for writing instruction, as well as a collection of interactive online writing tools, Writing A-Z helps teachers meet the needs of every student at every learning level. In addition, teachers can track students’ progress, making individualized instruction a snap.

Story Jumper

StoryJumper is a free storybook creation site for students in grades 1-8. Students create their own original stories, then add their own artwork or access images from StoryJumper’s library. Kids can write alone, collaborate with classmates or even connect with students around the world. In addition, the site includes teacher guides, writing projects, templates, and more.

Cost: Free, Prices vary for printed books

Features an expansive, curated collection of story-starts created by renowned authors such as Jeff Kinney (Diary of a Wimpy Kid) and Jeff Bruel (Bad Kitty). Students read the first chapter of a story, then write, edit and revise the next chapter themselves online. As a class project, teachers can assign all students the same story starter. Once all the stories are written, students can anonymously read other entries and peer assess and vote for the best version of the story.

Cost: $12.99 per book

Write About

An authentic classroom writing community and publishing platform built by teachers for teachers. Access units and lessons, free choice and creative writing tips, journaling lessons, quick writes, and more for students K-12.

Cost: Free, Premium and Premium Plus versions

Storium.edu

This innovative, collaborative writing game revolves around digital story cards that represent different aspects of storytelling and character development. Along with visual cues, the cards serve as writing prompts, helping students figure out what to write next at each step of the game. Students take turns playing story cards and adding to the story. Paragraph by paragraph, they collaboratively write their own original story simply by playing the game.

Elementari integrates coding into writing as students create and publish simple interactive and animated digital stories. Using the online platform, students write and code, share, and remix interactive stories using professional illustrations and sounds. Teachers can monitor progress and offer personalized feedback to help students grow as writers.

Access 1000+ writing assignments and prompts organized by collection, genre, or grade level with Writable. Scaffold instruction and motivate your students to become purposeful, proficient writers. Also available: Skills activities, graphic organizers, quick writes, response to reading, and much more

Magnetic Poetry

Just like the fridge magnets we all know and love, this tool offers a selection of words and screen space for students to create their own poetry. They can request more words, start over and even share their poetry electronically. Magnetic Poetry is a perfect choice as a writing station or an option during creative play.

Make Beliefs Comix

Students of all ages love creating their own worlds through comic strips. MakeBeliefs Comix provides story ideas and comic starters as well as a gallery of comics for inspiration. Students choose from a wide cast of characters with different looks and moods and then write the words and thoughts for them. Also featured on this site: videos, writing tools, lesson plans, a special needs section, and an ideas exchange.

Read, Write, Think

Sponsored by the National Council of Teachers of English, this site offers high-quality, standards-aligned education materials for students K-12. Featuring hundreds of lesson plans, calendar resources, printouts, and interactive tools such as story maps, plot diagrams, timelines, and more.

PicLits is an e-learning website that utilizes photography and keywords to improve students’ literacy skills with an emphasis on interactive, visual learning. Inspired by an image, students create a caption, sentence, story, paragraph, poem, or even a quotation to capture the essence, story, and/or meaning of that image.

iWrite offers free online creative writing and illustration activities for kids in grades 1-8. In addition, they help writers take advantage of innovative online writing clubs, camps, workshops, and publishing opportunities. iWrite TV offers videos on topics like brainstorming, genre and theme, setting and description. and more.

Grammarly for Education

Grammarly helps students polish up their communication skills. A great student writing aid, it allows students to check their writing for typos, commonly confusing words, tricky sentence structure, and more. And Grammarly has hundreds of informative blogs such as H ow to Write a Research Paper, How to Write a Poem, and Grammar Tips.

Cost: Free basic plan, Subscription Education options.

StoryboardThat

StoryboardThat is an easy drag-and-drop creation platform with cross-curricular applications for writers K-12. With over 3,000 lesson plans and activities , teachers can create materials and lessons for their classes which will help students can take ownership of their voice and learning.

Grammar Girl

One of Writer’s Digest’s 101 best websites, Mignon Fogarty offers “Quick and Dirty Tips” with blogs and videos such as Top Ten Grammar Myths and Can You Start a Sentence with And to help students become the best writers possible.

NaNoWritMo Young Writers Program

NaNoWritMo’s Young Writers Program supports young writers and K-12 educators as they participate in National Novel Writing Month each November and offers smaller writing challenges year-round. Kids can track their word-count goal for the month and draft their novel right on the site. Plus, they can get support from published authors and an international community of fellow novelists.

Power Poetry

The largest online poetry community in the world and a safe, creative, free place for teen poets and teachers. Chock full of resources, there are lesson plans, classroom activity guides, and printable worksheets to help you in the classroom.

Poetry Foundation Teen Section

The Poetry Foundation offers a variety of articles, videos and podcasts to help teens in all aspects of poetry. You’ll find tips on understanding and writing poems along with featured poems by famous poets. The Poetry Foundation also has a Children Section as well as a Teacher Section.

Time4Writing

Free writing resources for students K-12 in seven main categories. Each category includes a selection of fun writing games, instructional videos, printable writing worksheets, and other writing tools. This site also offers online courses with writing instruction by certified teachers.

Cost: Free resources, Fees for online courses

What are your favorite writing websites for the classroom? Share in the comments below!

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The 9 Best Writing Programs for Elementary Students

When we think about our kids’ education, one crucial thing is fostering their ability to think and express themselves freely through writing.

Today’s learning methods have changed a lot, and most students have habituated themselves to learning in front of a screen. This situation makes it difficult for them to write and express themselves clearly. If your child is facing this issue, check the best writing programs for elementary students available online.

The Best Writing Programs for Elementary Students

It is common for many children to encounter difficulty in writing, especially at the elementary level. Education experts have already addressed the issue and worked on methods to improve their skills at writing . Amongst all, writing something original is essential. With so many writing programs targeted at different levels, we have compiled a list of such writing programs that will benefit your children. How will you choose the perfect program? Read about the courses below, so you can assess the benefits each one could provide to your children.

1. Night Zookeeper

Who said that gaining literacy skills has to be boring? Night Zookeeper is one of the most engaging learning platforms that’s tailor-made for elementary students. It’s using gamification and providing children with personalized feedback to motivate them to learn reading and writing at their own pace. Some of the activities include learning new vocabulary, writing creative stories, completing writing-related puzzles, and much more. The design of the product is pretty amazing, with beautiful graphics, interesting characters, and exciting challenges that your kid will want to take part in. It’s available on laptops, tablets, and mobile phones. The best part is that this service is cheap, starting at $5 per month, similar to what you could expect from a cheap essay editing service (there’s even a free trial so you can test it.)

Quill is another great writing program for elementary students that emphasizes composition and grammar. This program features plenty of learning elements , which are organized into five separate tool sections. For example, there is a diagnostic feature that evaluates a student’s skills and assigns activities based on their skill level. The lessons section shows instructions regarding prompts, topics for discussion, etc. The grammar section focuses on grammar and sentence construction, while the connect tool assigns writing activities for advanced levels. Lastly, it comes with a proofreader section for fixing mistakes and final touch-ups. Quill is a useful program that focuses on the fundamentals of good composition, and it is very easy to use for its layout. Teachers can track a student’s progress efficiently with this system.

3. BoomWriter

This is another splendid writing program that tries to build up writing and composition skills through creativity and communication. BoomWriter is the place to engage your students quickly and make them do better each time. The program features frequent interactions between a student and his or her instructors and fellow students to bring the best out of everybody. Students can also compete for writing chapters – the program comes with pre-written prompts, and the teacher may select the chapters for the students to work on. There are specific periods for them to finish, and after that, they can communicate what everyone has written. The program enables the students to read what everybody else has written, and based on that, a winner can be selected. Listening to others read and share their perspective is a wonderful learning experience for kids. It allows them to be more flexible and see things from different angles. They can also add new flavors to their writing – be it new themes or new styles of compositions.

4. Writable

Writable is a writing program that pushes the limits of web-based courses. The contents of this program cover all major aspects of any writing genre suited for grades 3 – 12. The program involves an instructor and a few students, but other teachers may also join in through invitations. Students learn to write different compositions – be they explanatory, argument-based, or even informational. There are also many types and levels of assignments. Students learn to create from short write-ups to long multi-paragraphed essays . The teachers manage the revision process and peer feedback. They can also jump in to provide additional comments. After the teachers have finished the review, the content goes back to the writer. Once the changes are introduced, it goes for a second review, where the teachers complete and grade the writing. Besides that, there is another tool available called RevisionAid, which is super helpful in analyzing writings. It adds multiple layers to the review circles to show the levels of corrections in specific colors.

5. NaNoWriMo Young Writers Program

This writing program prods students to aspire to be bigger, better, and unique. NaNoWriMo emphasizes writing skills development so well that it enables students to pen an entire novel by themselves. Most of this program’s resources are classroom-ready, which is a great thing to boost the confidence of students. The program takes the traditional home assignment method, where the students have to finish a chapter overnight and bring it to the class. Then, the teacher will help with the word count of every piece of writing – focusing more on the quantity than quality at first to make students feel accomplished. However, the lack of quality will become the focus of discussion in the review meeting, where the teacher can talk about the strengths and weaknesses of each writing. Although most of the writings will happen overnight, they can still take place between regular periods of learning the language and its structure. The teacher may join in and keep track of the writings in real-time, so the students remain motivated. The teacher can throw the students writing challenges and assign time limits to let them test their creativity to the fullest. After a month, the final review takes place. Students can introspect their writing abilities and make changes accordingly. These features make it one of the best writing programs for elementary students.

6. Connections Academy

Connections Academy is an all-around platform, which focuses on providing writing courses to elementary grade children. They came up with a specialized method called Personalized Performance Learning, which checks a child’s background and learning capabilities and then sets a goal to maximize effective learning. The method is customizable, as per the child’s needs, as nobody’s learning curve is linear. This service is worth checking out if you’re on a tight budget, or can’t send your child to a regular school for whatever reason. Joining an online learning community is a great alternative to traditional schooling. By participating in a professionally designed online learning program, your child can learn the writing skills to thrive in today’s competitive environment. And best of all, it’s free!

7. WritingCity

Another excellent writing curriculum that fits both teachers and students equally is WritingCity. The program focuses on kid writers. It unlocks the young ones’ ability to express themselves, stokes their creativity, and eliminates writing and grammar mistakes. The program is so easy to use, and it eliminates countless hours of planning and preparation. WritingCity also emphasizes classroom demonstration, interactive whiteboard lessons, daily lesson plans, and authentic student writers’ samples.

8. Write Bright Station

If you’re looking for a robust elementary grade writing program, Write Bright Station would be a great choice. This curriculum offers a lot. From videos that provide co-teaching experience to daily grammar lessons, score booster tips, and even learning an effective frame system to break down essays. Each lesson in this program follows a specific formula to keep the consistency intact and gradually build up confidence for young writers. With all that, it is extremely user-friendly for teachers, as it says – made by a teacher, for teachers.

9. Writing A-Z

This program provides a detailed approach to nurturing writing talents. Writing A-Z offers a plethora of resources teachers can use to guide any student – from fundamental levels to the more complicated. While most of the resources depend on the traditional worksheet style, the system makes it easier for students to build up skills steadily. The best feature of this program is that it puts a lot of emphasis on the interactive side. Including other elements in the learning process such as songs helps students capitalize on a certain word and also lets teachers logically assess the works. On the other side, the program may not be pushing the boundaries of innovation, but it provides a well-rounded approach.

Bottom line

Assigning to a writing program is one of the best things you can do for your children to develop their pen-pushing ability. Learning to write better involves critical and rational thinking without stifling the creative side . It also teaches empathy and helps students to process emotions deeply. Each of the course providers we discussed here offers some unique features. Hence, all of them deserve to be on the list of the best writing programs for elementary students. It is up to you which one you would opt for. Next up, you may want to explore a guide to the best assignment help websites for students .

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300 Fun Writing Prompts for Kids: Story Starters, Journal Prompts & Ideas

Are you a parent or teacher? Here are 300 fun and creative writing prompts for kids to spark the imagination of young writers everywhere. Use these kids writing ideas as journaling prompts, story starters or just for fun!

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It’s never too early to start writing, and so we’ve created this fun list of 300 creative kids writing prompts for teacher and parents to use.

You’ll love these fun ideas for kids writing prompts to use as creative sparks to get young imaginations writing in no time!

These are perfect to use as kids journal writing prompts, as short story writing prompts, or just for exercises to help students and children of all ages tap into their creativity. Maybe your kids will write an essay, maybe a poem, or maybe even a whole book!

Whether you are a teacher or parent looking to inspire your kids to write, or maybe even an adult who would like to practice writing with a more playful and young-hearted approach, I hope you find these creative writing prompts inspiring!

Buy the Printable Cards!  We will always have this list of 300 kids writing prompts available for free, but I’m very excited to now also offer an  ad-free printable version of these prompts  in my online Etsy shop. Thank you for your support!

The Ultimate List of 300 Fun & Creative Writing Prompts for Kids

#1. Imagine a giant box is delivered to your front doorstep with your name on it. What’s inside and what happens when you open it?

#2. Write a short story about what it might be like if you woke up one morning with a mermaid tail.

#3. Which is better, winter or summer? Write about the reasons why you think winter or summer is better.

#4. Write about what would it be like if you had an alligator as a pet.

#5. If you had $1,000, what would you buy and why?

#6. Write a story using these 5 words: apple, train, elephant, paper, banjo

#7. What do you want be when you grow up and why?

#8. Who is your favorite person on the planet? What do you like most about that person?

#9. If you could have any secret super power, what would you want it to be and why?

#10. Write about 3 places you would like to travel someday. What do these three places have in common?

#11. Write about a time you felt really happy. What happened? What made you feel happy?

#12. Imagine what would happen if someone shrunk you down to be only 1″ tall. How would your life change?

#13. If you were in charge of the whole world, what would you do to make the world a happier place?

#14. Write a story about what it would be like to climb to the very top of the highest mountain in the world.

#15. If you were in charge of planning the school lunch menu, what foods would you serve each day?

#16. What are some of your favorite animals? What do you like about them?

#17. Imagine that dogs take over the world. What do they make the humans do?

#18. Write a story about flying to outer space and discovering a new planet.

#19. You are a mad scientist and have invented a new vegetable. What is it called? What does it look like? What does it taste like? Most importantly: Is it safe to eat?

#20. You go to school one morning to discover your best friend has been turned into a frog by an evil witch! How do you help your friend?

#21. Describe what it is like when trees lose all of their leaves in the autumn season.

#22. Write about your favorite sport and why you like it so much.

#23. Imagine what it might be like to live on a boat all the time and write about it.

#24. If you had one wish, what would it be?

#25. Write about what you might do if you have the super power to become invisible.

#26. You are walking through the forest when one of the trees starts talking to you. What does it say? What do you do?

#27. The weather forecast is calling for a blizzard in the middle of the summer. What do you do?

#28. What types of transportation will people have in the future?

#29. What were some of your favorite toys when you very little? Do you still enjoy playing with them?

#30. What would a day in your life be like if you were a movie star?

#31. Imagine you’ve invented a time machine! What year do you travel to?

#32. What are your favorite things to do over summer vacation?

#33. What is your favorite holiday and why?

#34. If you could meet any fictional character from a book, who would it be?

#35. You are writing a travel guide for kids visiting your city. What places do you think they should visit?

#36. What is a food you hate? Write about it!

#37. Imagine what it would be like if there was no electricity. What would be different in your daily routine?

#38. You are building a new city! What types of things do you think your city needs? How will you convince people to move to your new city?

#39. What is your favorite movie? Write your review of the movie and why you think people should watch it.

#40. Imagine you get a magic sweater for your birthday. What happens when you wear the sweater? What do you do with these new found magical powers?

#41. You are the security guard at the zoo and someone has stolen a rhinoceros! How do you track down the thief?

#42. You have been invited to have lunch with the queen. What foods do you eat and what topics do you and the queen discuss?

#43. If you could design a school uniform, what types of clothes would you suggest? What colors would they be?

#44. Imagine you are a reporter interviewing a celebrity about their life. What questions do you ask?

#45. You are running a lemonade stand. Describe the steps for how you make lemonade and the types of customers you see during the day.

#46. Write a story about being the ruler of an underwater world.

#47. Write an acrostic poem for the word “treehouse”.

#48. You decide to grow a sunflower, but the sunflower grows so tall it reaches up to the sky! Write about what happens when you decide to climb to the top. What do you discover?

#49. Imagine you look out the window and it is raining popsicles from the sky! Write a story about the experience.

#50. If you could be any animal, which one would you be and why?

#51. If you were on a spaceship, what would you be most excited about seeing?

#52. Do you have any pets at home? Write an essay about how you take care of your pets. If you do not have a pet, what type of pet might you like?

#53. Imagine you are opening a store that only sells items which are blue. What types of items do you sell?

#54. Have you ever lost something that is important to you? Were you able to find it?

#55. Write a story about a kid who is moving to a new school. How do you think they might feel?

#56. Rewrite the ending of your favorite fairy tale. For example, what would have happened if Cinderella never went to the ball?

#57. Have you ever forgotten to do your homework? What happened?

#58. Do you have a favorite song? Write about the type of music you like to listen to.

#59. Imagine your parents wake you up one morning to tell you they will take you to do anything you want to do for the whole day – you don’t even have to go to school or do your chores. What would you choose to do and why?

#60. Do you like amusement parks? What are some of your favorite rides?

#61. Write a story using these three words: detective, piano, and pizza.

#62. Have you ever been to the beach? Write about your favorite things to do. If you have never been to the beach, what would you like to do the first time you visit?

#63. Is there a favorite tv show you like to watch? Write about your favorite character and why they are your favorite.

#64. Write a poem using onomatopoeia , where the words you use are pronounced similar to the sound they make. For example, buzz, bark, sizzle, slam and pop.

#65. Have you ever had to stand in line to wait a long time for something? What did you do while you waited? How did you feel while waiting? How did you feel once the wait was over?

#66. Is it a good idea to keep ALL secrets a secret? Write about examples of when it is okay to spill a secret – and when it isn’t.

#67. Is there something you are good at doing? Write about your best strengths.

#68. What historical time period and location would you go back to live in if you could? Write about it!

#69. Write about 5 things you can do that are important for you to stay healthy and safe.

#70. Do you think thunderstorms are scary? Why or why not?

#71. What would you most like to learn over the next year? Think about things that interest you or questions you might have about the world and make a list!

#72. You are going on a trip to a jungle safari! What items do you pack in your suitcase?

#73. Imagine you are sitting at home one day and you hear someone shrieking in the living room they see a mouse in the house! Write a story about what might happen next.

#74. You are writing a letter to someone who is having a hard time making new friends at school. What do you write? What advice do you give them?

#75. Imagine you just met a magician – but their beloved rabbit who they pull out of a hat for all the tricks has been kidnapped! How do you help find the rabbit?

#76. Do you hear what I hear? Set a timer for 5 minutes and write about all of the sounds you hear in those 5 minutes.

#77. Imagine you go to get a haircut and they accidentally shave your head! How do you feel about that and what would you do?

#78. Do you find it easy to talk to people you don’t know? What are some ways you can start up a conversation with someone you have never met before?

#79. Are there any chores you have to do at home? What are they? What do you like – and not like – about each one?

#80. Open up a random book to any page. Write for 5 minutes about the first word you read.

#81. Pretend you are a writer for your city’s newspaper. Who would you like to interview for a news story and why?

#82. There are many fictional characters who live in unusual houses, such as the old woman who lived in a shoe. What kind of unusual house would you like to live in? Write about what it would be like to live in an unusual house!

#83. Write a list of 10 things you can do to practice kindness to others.

#84. Is there a homework subject you dread? Why do you not like getting homework in that subject?

#85. What is your favorite month of the year? Write about why you like it and some of your favorite things to do during that month.

#86. Imagine you are planning a surprise birthday party for someone. How do you keep it a surprise?

#87. Pretend you walked outside to find a sleeping dragon in the grass! Why is the dragon there? Is it a friendly dragon? What do you do? Write about it!

#88. What are you grateful for today and why?

#89. You were on your way to a very important event when you fell into a puddle. Now what?

#90. Have you ever watched a movie and didn’t like how it ended? Write what you think should happen instead.

#91. Can you answer this riddle from Alice in Wonderland ? How is a raven like a writing desk?

#92. Imagine you are the captain of a pirate ship. Write a diary entry for what your day was like.

#93. If you could start any type of business, what kind of business would you start? What types of products or services would you provide?

#94. Write a sequel to one of your favorite fairy tales. For example, what was Goldilocks’s next adventure after she left the bears?

#95. What is something you are afraid of? What helps you to feel less afraid of something? What would you say to a friend who feels scared to help them feel less afraid?

#96. Write a letter to your future self in 20 years.

#97. In addition to basic survival needs such as food, water, air and shelter, what are 3 things you would you need to be happy?

#98. If you could invent a robot of any type who could do anything you imagine, what types of things would you would have the robot to do?

#99. Which do like better? Apples or Oranges? How are they alike? How are they different?

#100. Why did the chicken cross the road? You are a detective and are assigned to the case. How do solve the mystery?

#101. Write instructions for how to make your favorite snack. Be sure you add your favorite tips and suggestions for how to select the best ingredients!

#102. Imagine you borrowed a friend’s favorite lucky pencil to help you pass a math test – but then it snapped in half! How will you ever tell the news to your friend?

#103. Look around the current room you are sitting in and choose 3 random objects that are nearby. Now write a story or poem that includes those three items!

#104. Write a letter to the author of a book you recently read and tell them what you liked most about the book.

#105. Ernest Hemingway is famous for writing a six word story. Can you write a story in just 6 words?

#106. What do you think will be the future for cell phones? Will people still use them in 25 years or will something else take its place?

#107. Do you want to go to college? Why or why not?

#108. Write a story or poem about a kitten who wanders off and gets lost. How does the kitten find its way home?

#109. Currently, it is required by law that kids go to school. Do you think this is a good or bad idea?

#110. If you could invent a new board game, what would it be called? How is it played? What are the rules? What makes it fun to play? Write about it!

#111. Imagine you come home to discover your entire bedroom is covered in ketchup! What on earth happened? What is your reaction? How do you clean everything up?

#112. What is something you learned today?

#113. Would you rather have a goldfish or shark as a pet?

#114. From A-Z: make a list of something for every letter of the alphabet.

#115. Have you ever gone fishing? If you have, did you like it? Why or why not? If you haven’t, do you think you might want to?

#116. What is one of the most important things you do each and every day?

#117. Write a story about Gretchen the Grouch, a girl who is always angry! Will she ever be happy? Why is she so grumpy all of the time?

#118. How do you feel when someone takes something of yours without asking? What is a good way to deal with it when that happens?

#119. Write a poem that starts with the word “if”.

#120. Write a story about a family of rabbits who live in the woods. What are some of the challenges they face?

#121. What clothes do you think are the most comfortable? What kind of clothes do you like to wear the most? What clothes do you NOT like to wear?

#122. Imagine there are no grocery stores and you must get your own food. What are some of the ways you find food? What types of things do you eat?

#123. What are 3 things you can do that are good for the environment?

#124. If you could meet any famous person today, who would you want to meet and why? What questions might you ask them?

#125. A tongue twister is a quick poem where many of the words start with the same letter and are similar in sound. For example, “Peter picked a peck of pickled peppers.” Try writing your own with this fun kids writing prompt!

#126. What is the first thing you think of when you hear or see the word green?

#127. A hero is someone who is admired for their courage and achievements. What do you think makes someone a hero? Who are some of your heroes?

#128. What did you do during summer vacation last year? What do you want to do for summer vacation this year?

#129. Write a story about a super hero dog who saves the day! Who does the dog help and why?

#130. Would you rather live somewhere that is always cold, or somewhere that is always hot? Write about which one you would rather choose.

#131. Have you ever volunteered to help a charity? If so, write about the experience! If not, what are some charities you think you might like to volunteer for?

#132. What does the word courage mean to you?

#133. What makes you unique? What are some things about you that make you an individual?

#134. Have you ever been to a museum? What is your favorite thing to look at on display?

#135. What can you do to set a good example for others to be kind?

#136. A Tall Tale is a story that exaggerates something that actually happened. Write a tall tale about something that recently happened to you.

#137. What is one of your favorite toys that you think you might still want to have and play with when you are 22 years old?

#138. Oh no! Everyone around you is sick with a nasty cold! Write a silly poem about how you try to avoid catching their germs!

#139. Personification is when a non-living object takes on human characteristics. Write a story where you personify a common electronic gadget in your house, such as the Television or toaster.

#140. Write a poem using similes, which is when you say an object is like something else. Here is an example of a simile: “Her eyes were as blue as the sky.”

#141. Have you ever read a book written by Dr. Suess? Write your own “Suess-style” story, complete with rhymes and made up words.

#142. Do you have any siblings? Think about what it might mean to be a good brother or sister and write about it!

#143. Make a list of questions to interview your parents or grandparents about what it was like when they were growing up as a kid. Then, ask them the questions and write about their answers!

#144. You are in charge of writing a new radio show just for kids! What topics will you talk about? What music do you play?

#145. What do you usually eat for breakfast every day? What, in your opinion, is the greatest breakfast food ever created? What makes it so great?

#146. Write a 12 line poem where every line is about a different month of the year.

#147. What is something you look forward to doing the most when you are an adult?

Use these prompts in your classroom!  Get the  ad-free printable version of these prompts  to inspire your students to write! Thank you for your support!

#148. Do you like to try new things? What is something new you have tried recently or would like to try?

#149. Imagine what it might be like to be alive in Egypt when the pyramids were built. Write about what it was like.

#150. A credo is a statement of personal beliefs. Try writing your own credo for things that you believe in and feel are important.

#151. The circus has come to town but they have no place to perform! How do you help the ringmaster find a place to put on a show?

#152. Do you like to act? What are some of your favorite actors or actresses? What do you think makes someone a good actor or actress?

#153. “Practice makes perfect” is a popular saying. What is something you like to practice so you can become better at it? A sport? A musical instrument? A special skill? Do you like to practice?

#154. Write about what it might be like to be water drops freezing and turning into ice.

#155. Do you think it is important to keep your room clean? What do you like about having a clean room?

#156. Imagine your parents are sending you away for a two week summer camp trip. Would you be excited? Why or why not?

#157. What are you currently learning about in history class? Write a fictional story about someone from the past you are learning about.

#158. Many wars have been fought in the past. Instead of going to war, what do you think countries could do to resolve their differences peacefully?

#159. Every year over 8 billion plastic bottles and cans are thrown away. What are some things you can do to help encourage your family and friends to recycle?

#160. Imagine if you were the principal of the school. What might you do differently? What things would you do that are the same? Write about it!

#161. Pretend that one day you are at your neighbor’s house and you notice a strange noise coming from the basement. You go downstairs to investigate to see a large machine running with many lights and buttons. Why is it there?

#162. Write an essay that starts with the line, “Tomorrow, I hope…”

#163. If you could give one thing to every child in the world, what would you want to give them?

#164. Do you have a piggy bank at home? How do you earn money to add to your savings?

#165. What qualities make a house a home? What are 3 things you think every house should have?

#166. Would you rather go scuba diving or rock climbing? Write about which one you think you would like to do more and why.

#167. Do you think it is a good idea for kids to write a daily journal? What are some of the benefits of writing every day?

#168. Do you like watching fireworks or are they too noisy? Write about a time when you saw fireworks in the sky.

#169. Oh no! Your friend has turned into a statue! How did this happen? What do you do? Does your friend ever turn back into a person again?

#170. If you could be any movie character, who would you be and why?

#171. A mysterious message appears in code on your computer screen. What could it mean?

#172. If you could go to work with one of your parents for a day, what do you think the day would be like? What types of things do your parents do at work all day long?

#173. Imagine you are the President and you are creating a new national holiday. What is your holiday about? How is it celebrated? What day of the year do you celebrate? Write about it!

#174. You won a never-ending lifetime supply of spaghetti noodles! What will you do with all of these noodles?

#175. Would you rather be a bunny rabbit or a hawk? Why did you choose the one you chose?

#176. Your teacher has been acting mysterious lately. After school one day, you notice a weird green light shining through underneath the door of your classroom. What do you do? What is happening with your teacher?

#177. Write an article about tips for how kids can be more organized and study well for tests.

#178. Look at any product in your house and read the ingredients labels. Research what each ingredient is. Do you think these ingredients are good or bad for people?

#179. If you were a doctor, what do you think would be the most important part of your job every day?

#180. The school librarian needs your help! A truck just arrived with 2,000 books and she can’t fit all the books onto the shelves! What do you do? How do you find a place to put all these books?

#181. Do you think it would be fun to plant a garden? What types of plants would you want to grow? Write about your garden ideas.

#182. What is a sport or activity you would like to try playing for the first time?

#183. Do you think kids should be allowed to do the same things as adults? What things do you think kids should be able to do that only grown-ups can?

#184. Imagine you and your parents switch places for a day. Your parents are the kids and you are now in charge! What would you do?

#185. Write a get-well letter to someone who has been sick. What can you say to make them feel better?

#186. If you could visit any planet in the solar system, which planet would you like to visit the most and why? Write about what it might be like.

#187. Have you ever been to a farm? What did you like about it? If you haven’t been to a farm, do you think you might like to visit one? Why or why not?

#188. The mayor of the city has a big problem and needs your help! What is the problem and how will you solve it?

#189. Pretend your little sister ate carrots for dinner and the next morning woke up with rabbit ears!  How did this happen? What do you do? Will she be a rabbit forever?

#190. Imagine you wake up in the morning to find out you get to relive any day of your life again for the whole day. What day would you want to experience again and why?

#191. Do you think you might like to be a firefighter? Why or why not?

#192. You are a lawyer and your client has been accused of stealing a car. How do you convince the jury your client is innocent?

#193. Think of the four elements: fire, air, earth, and water. Which of these four elements do you like the best?

#194. What would you do if you could be invisible for a whole day? Do you think you would enjoy it or be glad to be back to normal the next day? Write about it!

#195. Imagine you are a meteorologist and people are starting to get angry that your weather predictions are always wrong. What do you do?

#196. If you could create any law, what would it be? Why do you think the law is an important one to have?

#197. You are going incognito and need to hide to your identity so you aren’t recognized or discovered while you walk through the city. What type of disguise do you wear?

#198. Write a persuasive letter to your parents explaining why you should get a new pet. Make sure you provide a convincing argument they won’t be able to refuse!

#199. Your friend wants to do something dangerous. What should you do?

#200. How do you think the world would be different if there were no oceans?

#201. What do you do when someone disagrees with your opinions? Is there a better way to handle conflicting opinions?

#202. What do you think you as a kid could do to help encourage more people to read?

#203. Do you have a good luck charm? What makes this item lucky? When do you use it? How do you use it?

#204. What is at the end of a rainbow? Imagine you follow a rainbow to the end. What do you discover? Is it a pot of gold, or something else?

Use these prompts in your classroom!  Get the  ad-free printable version of these prompts  to inspire your students to write! Thank you for your support!

#205. What do you think the consequences should be for someone who is caught cheating on a test at school?

#206. Imagine you are riding your bike one day when you encounter an older kid who wants to steal your bike. What do you do?

#207. You are the lead singer and star of a famous rock and roll band, but there is one problem – your drummer is jealous of your fame! How do you solve this situation?

#208. If you could help a group of kids in any part of the world, what kids would you want to help the most and why? What are some things you think would help these kids?

#209. Everyone knows the house on the end of the street is haunted. What are some of the strange things that happen there? Why is the house haunted?

#210. You notice at school one day there is a door to a secret passage next to the janitor’s closet and decide to explore. Where does it lead? Why is it there? Do you go alone or bring a friend along?

#211. A bucket list is a list of things you want to accomplish in your lifetime. What are 5 things on your bucket list?

#212. Imagine the perfect treehouse or clubhouse for you and all of your friends as a place to hang out. Describe what it is like inside.

#213. Do you get bored easily? Make a list of things you can do whenever you feel like you are bored and there is nothing fun to do!

#214. Now vs. Then: Think about how today is different from one year ago. How have you changed? What things in your life are different?

#215. Write your autobiography about your life.

#216. It’s a heat wave! What do you do when the weather is hot? What are some of your favorite ways to stay cool?

#217. What are three important safety tips every kid should know to stay safe?

#218. What genre of books do you like to read the most? Write about the characteristics of the genre and list some of your favorite books as examples.

#219. Holiday Traditions: How does your family celebrate the different holidays and events? What are some traditions you do each and every year?

#220. Imagine one day in science class a science experiment goes terribly wrong and now you and all of your classmates have superpowers! What are your superpowers and what do you do with them?

#221. Who is favorite teacher? Why are they your favorite?

#222. You are baking a cake, but you accidentally put salt in the cake instead of sugar. Nobody will eat it! How do you feel? What will you do next time?

#223. Do you think it is important to have good table manners? What do you think some good manners to practice might be?

#224. Many schools no longer teach cursive handwriting. Do you think this is a good or bad thing? Do you know how to write cursive handwriting? Would you like to learn if you haven’t?

#225. If you were the owner of a theme park, what types of rides and attractions would have? Describe what they would be like and why people would want to visit your park.

#226. Your parents give you $100 to spend at the grocery store. What do you buy and why?

#227. Some people who are alive today grew up without computers or video games. What would you do if you didn’t have a computer or video games? How would life be different?

#228. You walk into your living room and discover there is a giant elephant standing there. How did the elephant get there? What do you do about it? How do you explain the elephant in the living room to your parents?

#229. Have you ever had a weird dream? What happened in the dream? What do you think it means?

#230. Do you like to draw or paint? Write a story inspired by a painting, doodle, or sketch.

#231. You are being sent on a mission to outer space to live in a space station for 5 years. What supplies do you pack and why?

#232. What is the scariest creature alive on earth? Describe in detail what makes it so horrifying.

#233. What do you think your pet might say if they could talk to you?

#234. Imagine your school is putting on a talent show. What act will you perform? What other acts will be in the show?

#235. If you could breathe under water, what would you do?

#236. What time of day do you think school should start? Write a convincing argument on why or why not the time of day school starts should change.

#237. If you were to start your own YouTube video channel, what would the videos on your channel be about?

#238. Do you like to cook? What are some things you like to make and eat?

#239. Your school is having a field day and you are in charge of planning the activities and games. What types of activities and games would you plan for the event?

#240. If you had a remote control drone that takes video of everything it sees from the sky and you could take it anywhere, what would you film? For example, the inside of a volcano or soar it over the plains of Africa.

#241. The Bermuda Triangle is an area of the ocean where many ships and planes have gone missing. Why do you think this could be? Write a story about what it might be like to travel there.

#242. There are 7 great wonders of the world – which one do you think is the most wonderful?

#243. If you could speak any foreign language fluently, which one would you like to speak and why?

#244. You are inventing a new flavor of ice cream! What is the new flavor called and what ingredients do you need to make it?

#245. Would you rather go to a baseball game or read a good book? What reasons do you have for your choice?

#246. You walk outside to get your mail and your mailbox starts talking to you! What does your mailbox have to say?

#247. Imagine you are a famous person. What are you most famous for? What is it like to be famous?

#248. What do you think would be the most fun job in the world to have? Give examples of why you think it would be a fun job to have.

#249. Write a poem about an object that is shiny and dazzling.

#250. Do you like to watch the Olympics? Why or why not? If yes, what is your favorite Olympic sport?

#251. What kind of car do you want to drive when you are older? Do you think learning to drive will be easy or hard?

#252. What do you think would make for a great gift to give someone on their birthday?

#253. Describe a time when you needed help and someone helped you. What did they help you with and how did it make you feel?

#254. If you could be any type of fruit or vegetable, what would you be and why?

Love these prompts?  Get the  ad-free printable version of these prompts  to use at home or in the classroom!

#255. Do you think it is more important to have a good imagination or have all the facts proven?

#256. Do you have a favorite aunt, uncle, or another relative? Write a story about their life and why you like to be with them.

#257. Think of a time you laughed really, really hard. What was so funny? Why were you laughing? Write about it!

#258. Write a poem about an emotion. For example: happy, sad, angry, embarrassed, guilty.

#259. Do you ever have a hard time falling asleep? What are some things that help you feel sleepy?

#260. If you could drive a car, where would you drive and why?

#261. Imagine you are trading places with your friend for a day. What will it be like to be at their house? What will your friend think while they are at your house? Write about it!

#262. If you could break a world record, what would it be? What do you think would be necessary to be able to break the world record?

#263. Imagine you live in Colonial times. What would it be like to grow up as a kid in Colonial America?

#264. You are building a new city. What is the name of your city? What is the weather like? What buildings will you build?

#265. What do you think it would be like to work as a sailor on big ship in the ocean each day?

#266. Imagine you are the teacher for the day. What types of activities do you make the students in the class do?

#267. How would you feel if your parents told you that you would be getting a new baby brother or sister? Write about it!

#268. Do you know any good jokes? What are some of your favorite jokes? What makes them funny? Do you think you could write your own?

#269. Imagine you are floating down a river on a raft. What types of things can you see from the river that you normally wouldn’t see from the land?

#270. You want to start a new hobby collecting something. What kinds of things would you collect and why?

#271. Your mom announces she is having a yard sale. Would you let her sell any of your things? Why or why not?

#272. Imagine you walk out your front door one morning and it is raining popcorn! What do you do?

#273.  You are camping in the woods one night and hear a scary noise. What do you do? What might be the cause?

#274. What do you think might make kids really happy to go to school? What are some things you think schools should do so that it could be more fun?

#275. Today’s lunch at the cafeteria was unusually horrible. You are a detective on the case to investigate. What do you think is the cause?

#276. If you had a tree that grows money, what would you do?

#277. What would you do if you had a unicorn as a pet?

#278. Would you rather go to the zoo or go to the aviary? Which one would you pick and why?

#279. What are some safety tips you should follow when riding a bike?

#280. You are designing the cover of a magazine. What are some of the headlines on the cover?

#281. Are you afraid of the dark? Why or why not?

#282. If you could learn to play any type of musical instrument, which one would you like to learn how to play and why?

#283. Imagine you are playing a sport that involves a ball, such as soccer, baseball or kickball. What would it be like if the ball could talk?

#284. You come home to discover a friendly alien has been living in your closet. What do you do? Why is there an alien in your closet?

#285. Is there something you are afraid of that you wish you weren’t afraid of? Write about it.

#286. Write about the best party you’ve ever been to. What made the day fun and special?

#287. What makes you feel loved and cared about? What are some ways people can show you that they love and care about you?

#288. There is a kite flying competition coming up and you are going to design your own kite. What will your kite look like? What colors will it be? Will it have any certain shape?

#289. You are given the challenge to drop an egg on the floor – without it breaking! What are some things you might try to make sure the egg won’t break?

#290. What are some of the things you can do every day to stay healthy?

#291. Do you think grown-ups are boring? Why do you think they are so boring all of the time? What is something fun that boring grown-ups could do instead of being so boring?

#292. Write a lyrical poem or song about what kids do while they are at school all day long.

#293. What are the first things you like to do when you are done with school each day? What are some of the activities you like when you are not at school?

#294. Imagine dinosaurs were still alive today. How do you think our lives would be different?

#295. Would you rather visit a volcano or a desert? Which one would you choose and why?

#296. Is there a sound you think is annoying? What types of sounds drive you crazy? Write about them!

#297. What do you think it would be like to be the size of an ant for a day? What types of things would you do?

#298. Imagine one of your stuffed animals comes to life and starts talking to you. What types of things will you talk about? What will you do?

#299. What makes you feel happiest? Write about the things in life that make you feel happy!

#300. Imagine there is no gravity. What kind of things would you do you for fun? How would some of the things you already do for fun be different?

Buy the Printable Cards!  We will always have this list of 300 kids writing prompts available for free, but I’m very excited to now also offer an  ad-free printable version of these prompts  in my online Etsy shop. Thank you for your support!

Parents and teachers, I hope you enjoyed these 300 writing prompts for kids and that you will use them to inspire your children’s creative imaginations.

These prompts of course can be used in a number of different ways and can be adapted for a variety of different styles of writing !

What do you think? Do you think these are good conversation and story starters for kids? Do you have any ideas for writing prompts you would like to share?

And of course, if you’d like to make it super fun and easy to use these prompts at home or in your classroom, be sure to get our ad-free printable version of these kids writing prompt cards now available in my Etsy shop.

We’d love to hear your thoughts on different creative writing ideas and topics for kids to write about! Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Chelle Stein wrote her first embarrassingly bad novel at the age of 14 and hasn't stopped writing since. As the founder of ThinkWritten, she enjoys encouraging writers and creatives of all types.

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Lighthouse connects kids and teens to words, new friends, and a writing community. We offer workshops in poetry, fiction, nonfiction, playwriting, screenwriting, and many other genres and topics. Our classes are taught by published authors and are designed to foster creativity, self-expression, and excitement about writing.

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• Creative Storytelling Writing Activities for Elementary Classrooms

by Studentreasures | Apr. 26, 2024 | Classroom Activities

Creative storytelling is a magical thing in elementary classrooms, transforming how young minds engage with words and ideas. Through elementary writing activities centered on storytelling, students embark on a journey of imagination and expression, crafting narratives that entertain and enhance their literacy skills.

As you introduce elementary writing activities into your classroom, you’re not only shaping the minds of young writers but also nurturing the storytellers of the future. These fun writing activities serve as a playground for young learners, allowing them to explore and express themselves without boundaries.

These fun writing activities offer a unique blend of fun and learning, making them a valuable asset in any elementary educator’s toolkit. From group story projects to individual creative exercises, they are designed to spark imagination, encourage collaboration and develop essential writing skills in a fun, engaging way.

Why Writing Activities Are Crucial for Student Development

As educators, you understand the significant role that educational writing activities play in your students’ growth. From enhancing language proficiency to developing problem-solving skills, writing activities influence a wide variety of academic achievements and your student’s ability to articulate thoughts and ideas effectively.

Enhancing Creativity and Imagination

Encouraging your students to participate in fun writing exercises is a springboard for their imagination. Elementary writing exercises that involve crafting stories, considering different perspectives and exploring a variety of scenarios can expand their creative capabilities. As they dive into storytelling, they not only invent worlds but also learn to think critically and innovatively about the one they live in.

Improving Language and Communication Skills

Communication is key in any walk of life and educational writing activities for elementary students provide a platform to hone this essential skill. Through regular writing practice, students improve their vocabulary, syntax and grammar, facilitating clearer expression of thoughts and ideas. As they articulate their narratives, they also become more adept at understanding the nuances of language, which will serve them well in all future endeavors.

Cognitive and Emotional Development Benefits

Storytelling has vast cognitive and emotional benefits. Elementary writing exercises engage the brain, demanding focus, memory retrieval and problem-solving, which are crucial to cognitive development. On the emotional front, writing stories allows students to express their feelings and empathy as they build characters and situations that reflect a wide range of human experiences. This emotional literacy is invaluable as it cultivates compassion and understanding in young minds.

Understanding the Benefits of Storytelling for Elementary Students

Embracing storytelling in the classroom goes beyond just a fun activity; it represents an investment in your students’ developmental growth. Storytelling activities can enhance your classroom’s ability to grasp complex concepts through narrative forms and empower students by giving them voice and agency, leading to higher self-esteem and a deeper level of class participation.

• Increased engagement through relatable and exciting content.
• Strengthened memory retention by connecting information to stories.
• Improved social skills as students share and discuss their narratives.
• Enhanced creative thinking with the development of unique story ideas.

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Integrating storytelling with common core standards.

While storytelling might seem like a slight departure from Common Core Standards, storytelling activities can complement and enhance these fundamental requirements. Creative writing doesn’t just tap into a student’s imagination; it allows for the practical application of language arts standards, such as narrative techniques, character development and descriptive details.

• Identify elements of a story (characters, settings, plots) and their connections to language arts standards.
• Utilize storytelling to practice writing narratives clearly and coherently, an essential Common Core skill.
• Teach students how to conduct research for their stories, aligning with standards on gathering and synthesizing information.

Incorporating these elements within your teaching plan doesn’t just check the boxes for curriculum requirements but also ignites a lifelong passion for storytelling and writing among your students. By weaving creative writing into the educational fabric, you’re preparing your students for a future where they can confidently articulate their ideas and stories.

Beginner Storytelling Exercises to Spark Imagination

Unlocking creative potential is a delightful journey into the world of words and ideas. Elementary writing activities designed to stir the imagination can transform any classroom into a wonderland of stories. The following writing exercises engage young minds and build foundational skills that will benefit their academic and personal growth.

Story Starters and Idea Generators

Breathe life into your storytelling activities with various story starters and idea generators. These engaging prompts inspire students to take their first bold steps into creative writing. Here’s how you can get started:

• Use intriguing questions or scenarios to provoke curiosity and prompt storytelling.
• Introduce a “What if” situation to spark ideas and encourage students to think outside the box.

Character Creation Workshops

Creating characters is the heart of storytelling. Through character creation workshops, students learn to give their stories a personal touch. Guide your students with these strategies:

• Encourage them to draw their characters and describe unique traits or habits.
• Have them answer a questionnaire as their character to explore deeper dimensions.

Adventure Mapping

Adventure mapping allows students to visualize the settings of their stories, giving them a tangible roadmap to follow. Fun writing exercises such as this one include:

• Using graphic organizers to plot out key locations in their narratives.
• Incorporating elements of their own community or imaginary worlds to enrich the plot.

Weekly Creative Writing Challenges

Regular practice is crucial in any craft, and weekly creative writing challenges can keep young authors engaged and eager to write. Consider these tips for your classroom:

• Set clear, achievable goals for students to accomplish with each writing challenge.
• Reward consistent participation and celebrate when milestones are reached.

Mad Libs for Story Structure Fun

Mad Libs aren’t just entertaining – they’re an excellent educational tool for understanding the fundamentals of story structure. With Mad Libs:

• Students can recognize parts of speech and see how they fit into a narrative framework.
• Playing with placeholders for nouns, verbs and adjectives paves the way for creative and humorous storytelling.

Advanced Storytelling Techniques for Your Students

As educators, you strive to provide educational writing activities for your students that teach the basics and help them expand their abilities. Beyond the foundational skills, advanced storytelling techniques offer a way to develop critical thinking and creativity. Let’s explore several methods to elevate your classroom’s writing projects and engage your students in deeper, more compelling narrative creation.

Using Dialogue and Character Development

Dialogue is a powerful tool for character development. It reveals personalities and relationships without needing overt explanations. To teach this effectively, guide your students through exercises that focus on crafting authentic dialogue that individualizes each character.

Practice scenarios might involve role-playing or rewriting a scene from a different character’s perspective. This will promote an understanding of character motivation and voice within your elementary writing exercises.

Exploring Plot Twists and Conflict Resolution

Integrating plot twists keeps readers on their toes and teaches young writers how to build suspense and drama. Encourage your students to brainstorm unexpected events that could change the direction of their story’s plot.

Conflict resolution activities enable students to think critically about problem-solving, pushing them to consider different outcomes for the conflicts they create. These activities reinforce narrative structure and the essential elements of storytelling.

Creative Writing Prompts for Storytelling Activities

Unleashing the imaginative potential in young minds begins with the right prompt. The goal is to fold fun writing exercises for students into their learning experience, transforming the daunting task of writing into a delightful adventure. Here are a few handpicked selections of writing prompts designed to inspire and engage:

• Imagine you discovered a secret door in your school that leads to a magical world. What does this world look like and what adventures await you?
• Your pet suddenly gains the ability to speak. What’s the first conversation you have with them?
• Write a story about a day when everything you draw becomes real. What do you choose to draw and why?
• Create a tale about a superhero whose power comes from their ability to change colors. How do they use this power to save the day?
• Think of your favorite food. Now write a story where this food is the main character. What challenges does it face?

Encouraging students to delve into these prompts can be as simple as setting aside time each week for creative writing sessions. The goal is to make these fun writing exercises a regular part of their routine. By allowing students to choose which prompts resonate with them, you’re not only supporting their creative journeys but also fostering a genuine love for the written word.

Collaborative Storytelling: Group Activities for Team Building

Storytelling activities are also a great opportunity to build teamwork and communication skills throughout the classroom. By incorporating collaborative exercises into your teaching strategies, you can enhance the experience by harnessing the power of group narratives.

Group Story Building

In group story building, you can guide your students through the exciting process of creating a shared story. This collective endeavor can start with a simple setting or theme. Then, you can invite each student to contribute their ideas, weaving them into the tapestry of the story.

• Begin with a story prompt and let each student develop it further, adding their unique twist.
• To foster a structured group dynamic, assign roles such as characters, settings and plot developers to individual students.
• Encourage students to build on each other’s ideas, emphasizing respect and consideration for diverse thoughts and suggestions.

Story Chains

Story chains, another effective form of elementary writing activities, can excite students as they eagerly await their turn to add a new link to the class story. The anticipation of how the tale will evolve with each new addition fosters a sense of community and shared purpose.

• Have each student contribute a sentence or paragraph, depending on their comfort level and writing ability.
• Keep the flow by allowing students to read the last few entries before adding their piece, ensuring narrative continuity.
• Use the completed story chain to reflect on the collective creativity and teamwork it took to bring the tale to life.

Tips for Parents and Educators

Fostering a love for writing in young minds is a critical component of education. The following advice can help you effectively encourage and support your young writer, making writing beneficial and enjoyable.

Encouraging Regular Writing Practice

To build a strong foundation for writing proficiency, consistency is key. Here are ways to integrate writing activities into daily routines:

• Create a dedicated “writing zone” that is comfortable and free of distractions to inspire creativity and focus.
• Set aside regular time slots for writing, making it a routine much like spelling tests or recess.
• Use fun writing prompts that pique your students’ interests to kickstart their imagination and eagerness to write.

Supporting and Motivating Young Writers

Encouragement and motivation can turn obligatory tasks into passions. Employ these strategies to motivate students in their writing journey:

• Show genuine interest in their stories and ideas to boost confidence and validate their efforts.
• Provide positive feedback while guiding them on how to improve their writing in a supportive manner.
• Reward progress with praise and celebrate milestones to reinforce their dedication to writing.

Build Lifelong Skills with Studentreasures’ Publishing Kits

Every story a student writes is a new adventure, a fresh lesson in language mechanics and a step forward in cognitive development. Creative writing activities are essential to fostering a nurturing environment in which imagination and self-expression flourish in the classroom. With your guidance, the storytelling process can be balanced with fun and learning, creating a harmonious combination of creativity and knowledge.

At Studentreasures , we offer an incredible opportunity for educators to transform their students into published authors with our FREE classbook publishing kits . With our easy-to-use publishing kits, teachers can guide students through an exciting journey of storytelling that results in professionally bound books.

Imagine the pride and joy on your student’s faces as they hold their published works—a memory to cherish forever. Don’t miss the chance to make a lasting impact in your classroom. Your students’ stories are waiting to be told and celebrated—let’s turn them into treasured keepsakes!

Don’t forget to dive into our blog and Teacher’s Lounge for endless creative writing resources and ideas to inspire a lifelong love for writing in your young authors.

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Summer Writing Programs for Elementary Students: Enroll Today!

My name is Debbie, and I am passionate about developing a love for the written word and planting a seed that will grow into a powerful voice that can inspire many.

Calling all young writers! Are you ready to unleash your creative genius this summer? Look no further than our exciting and immersive summer writing programs for elementary students. Get ready to embark on a thrilling journey filled with words, imagination, and endless possibilities. Whether you dream of becoming the next Shakespeare or simply want to explore your love for storytelling, our programs offer the perfect platform to hone your writing skills and ignite your passion for the written word. So, why wait? Enroll today and embark on an unforgettable summer adventure with the power of your pen!

1. Ignite Your Child’s Creativity: Summer Writing Programs Designed for Elementary Students

2. nurturing young authors: why enrolling in a summer writing program is beneficial for elementary students, 3. unlocking the power of words: how summer writing programs inspire confidence in young writers, 4. tailored curriculum for elementary students: what to expect from a summer writing program, 5. building strong foundations: essential skills developed through elementary summer writing programs, 6. expert guidance and individualized feedback: enhancing writing skills in summer programs for elementary students, 7. fostering a love for writing: cultivating a lifelong passion through summer programs, 8. real-world applications: how summer writing programs prepare elementary students for academic success, frequently asked questions, wrapping up.

Looking for a way to spark your child’s imagination this summer? Look no further than our specially crafted summer writing programs designed exclusively for elementary students. Our goal is to ignite your child’s creativity while also fostering their love for writing and storytelling.

With our program, your child will have the opportunity to explore their creative potential through a variety of engaging activities and writing exercises. They will discover new genres, experiment with different writing styles, and learn how to craft captivating narratives. Our expert instructors will guide them every step of the way, providing personalized feedback and support.

• Engaging writing activities that inspire your child to explore their creativity.
• Opportunities to experiment with different writing genres, from imaginative stories to descriptive essays.
• Expert guidance from experienced instructors who are passionate about nurturing young writers.
• Small class sizes to ensure personalized attention and individualized feedback.
• A supportive and encouraging learning environment that helps boost your child’s confidence.

By joining our summer writing program, your child will not only enhance their writing skills but also develop critical thinking ability and improve communication skills. They will become more expressive and confident in expressing their ideas on paper. So why wait? Give your child the gift of creativity this summer with our exceptional writing program designed exclusively for elementary students.

Enrolling elementary students in a summer writing program provides them with a unique opportunity to nurture their writing skills and unleash their creative potential. Here are some reasons why participating in such a program can be highly beneficial:

• Individual attention: Summer writing programs often have small class sizes, allowing teachers to provide individual attention to each student. This personalized instruction helps young authors to develop their writing skills and receive feedback tailored to their specific needs.
• Boosting confidence: Writing can be intimidating for some young students, but a summer writing program offers a safe and supportive environment for them to express themselves. Through engaging activities and constructive feedback, students gain confidence in their writing abilities and become more willing to take risks and explore new ideas.
• Exploring different genres: In a summer writing program, children are exposed to various writing genres such as storytelling, poetry, and even journalistic writing. By exploring different forms of expression, students can discover their interests and strengths while expanding their creative horizons.

By enrolling in a summer writing program, elementary students can develop a passion for writing, enhance their skills, and gain the confidence they need to become accomplished authors. Whether they dream of writing their own novels or simply want to improve their academic writing, these programs provide a solid foundation and a nurturing environment for young writers to thrive.

Summer writing programs offer an exciting opportunity for young writers to explore their creative side and develop their writing skills. These programs go beyond simply teaching grammar and vocabulary; they provide a nurturing environment where budding wordsmiths can freely express themselves and unlock their hidden potential. By participating in these programs, young writers gain confidence in their abilities and develop a deep appreciation for the power of words.

One of the key benefits of summer writing programs is the chance for young writers to collaborate and learn from their peers. Through workshops and group activities, participants can share their ideas, receive constructive feedback, and engage in stimulating discussions. This collaborative atmosphere fosters a sense of community and encourages young writers to embrace their unique voices and perspectives. Additionally, the programs often feature guest speakers – successful authors, journalists, and poets – who inspire young writers with their personal experiences and offer valuable insights into the world of professional writing.

Are you looking for a summer writing program that offers a tailored curriculum for students in elementary school? Look no further! Our program is designed to provide an engaging and educational experience for young writers, helping them develop essential skills while having fun. Here’s what you can expect from our summer writing program:

• Interactive Writing Workshops: Our program features interactive workshops led by experienced instructors who are passionate about nurturing young writers. Through a combination of group activities and one-on-one guidance, your child will have the opportunity to enhance their storytelling abilities, expand their vocabulary, and improve grammar and punctuation skills.
• Creative Writing Prompts: We believe in fostering creativity and imagination, which is why our program includes a variety of creative writing prompts. From exploring fantasy worlds to crafting personal narratives, students will be encouraged to think outside the box and express themselves through the written word.
• Individualized Feedback: In our summer writing program, each student receives personalized feedback on their writing. Our instructors provide constructive comments to help young writers refine their work, develop their own unique voice, and take their writing to the next level.
• Collaborative Projects: We promote teamwork and collaboration in our program. Students will have the chance to collaborate with their peers on writing projects, allowing them to learn from one another, exchange ideas, and build their social skills in a supportive environment.

Join us this summer and give your elementary school student an unforgettable writing experience! Our tailored curriculum, interactive workshops, creative writing prompts, individualized feedback, and collaborative projects will inspire your child’s love for writing and boost their confidence as budding authors.

Participating in an elementary summer writing program can provide children with an incredible opportunity to develop essential skills that will lay the foundation for their future academic success. These programs not only foster creativity and self-expression but also help students enhance their critical thinking abilities and refine their communication skills. Here are some of the key skills that children can develop through elementary summer writing programs:

• Language and Vocabulary: Writing activities encourage children to expand their vocabulary, explore new words, and develop a deeper understanding of language structures. Through exposure to various writing styles, young writers become more proficient in using diverse vocabulary and expressions to effectively convey their thoughts.
• Writing Mechanics: By participating in writing programs, children learn the importance of grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure. They gain practice in organizing their ideas coherently and improving their overall writing mechanics, which are crucial skills that will carry over into other subjects and throughout their academic journey.
• Creative Thinking: Writing exercises prompt children to unleash their imagination as they create characters, construct plots, and build fictional worlds. By engaging in storytelling and imaginative writing, students develop their creative thinking skills, allowing them to approach problems from different perspectives and find innovative solutions.

Moreover, elementary summer writing programs also foster collaboration and communication skills as students often work on group projects, providing feedback and constructive criticism to their peers. Additionally, participating in writing workshops and discussions allows children to build confidence in expressing their ideas verbally and in writing. By honing these essential skills at an early age, children can develop a solid foundation, empowering them to excel academically and become effective communicators in all areas of their lives.

In our summer programs for elementary students, we place a strong emphasis on enhancing writing skills through expert guidance and individualized feedback. Our team of experienced educators and writing specialists are dedicated to helping your child develop and strengthen their writing abilities in a supportive and engaging learning environment.

With our expert guidance, your child will receive personalized instruction tailored to their specific needs. We understand that each student has unique strengths and areas for improvement, and our instructors will work closely with them to address their individual writing goals. Whether it’s improving grammar and sentence structure or refining storytelling techniques, our team is committed to helping your child become a confident and skilled writer.

• Expert educators and writing specialists
• Personalized instruction tailored to individual needs
• Focus on improving grammar, sentence structure, and storytelling techniques
• Engaging and supportive learning environment
• Opportunities for collaboration and peer feedback
• Regular assessments and constructive feedback to track progress

At our summer programs, we believe that fostering a passion for writing starts with providing students with the tools they need to succeed. Our expert guidance and individualized feedback will empower your child to develop their unique writing voice and thrive as a confident communicator. Join us this summer and watch your child’s writing skills soar!

Summer programs can be a wonderful way to foster a love for writing in young minds, providing them with the opportunity to hone their skills and discover the joy of expression. By immersing themselves in a supportive and creative environment, students can cultivate a lifelong passion for writing that extends beyond the summer months. These programs offer a range of activities and workshops specifically designed to nurture and inspire young writers.

One key aspect of these programs is the emphasis on encouraging students to explore different forms and genres of writing. From poetry to short stories, essays to plays, young writers are exposed to a diverse range of literary styles, enabling them to find their unique voice and express themselves authentically. Through hands-on workshops and collaborative writing exercises, students can also learn important techniques and skills, such as character development, plot construction, and effective storytelling.

Summer writing programs are an excellent way to equip elementary students with the necessary skills and tools for academic success. These programs go beyond traditional classroom teaching methods, providing students with real-world applications that stimulate their creativity and critical thinking abilities. By participating in these programs, students gain a competitive edge that sets them up for success in various subjects.

One of the key benefits of summer writing programs is that they foster a love for writing in young students. Through engaging activities and interactive workshops, students discover the joy and power of expressing themselves through words. They learn how to craft compelling essays, captivating stories, and persuasive arguments. Moreover, these programs offer a platform for students to showcase their work and receive feedback from their peers and instructors. This not only boosts their confidence but also encourages them to explore different writing styles and genres.

• Enhanced Communication Skills: Summer writing programs enhance elementary students’ communication skills, both written and verbal. By practicing effective writing techniques, students learn how to convey their thoughts and ideas clearly and concisely.
• Improved Critical Thinking: These programs help students develop critical thinking skills by presenting them with challenging prompts and problems that require analytical reasoning and problem-solving.
• Expanded Vocabulary: Through vocabulary-building exercises and exposure to a variety of texts, students broaden their word knowledge and develop a stronger command of language.
• Increased Confidence: Summer writing programs provide a supportive and encouraging environment where students can express themselves freely. This fosters self-confidence and a belief in their own abilities.

By participating in summer writing programs, elementary students gain valuable skills that extend beyond the summer months. These programs nurture creativity, improve communication, and build confidence—essential qualities for academic success.

Q: What are summer writing programs for elementary students? A: Summer writing programs for elementary students are educational programs designed to enhance children’s writing skills during the summer break from school. These programs offer a supportive and engaging environment where young learners can explore various writing techniques, receive feedback on their work, and develop a love for writing.

Q: Why should I enroll my child in a summer writing program? A: Enrolling your child in a summer writing program can bring numerous benefits. Firstly, these programs help prevent the “summer slide,” where children may lose academic progress during the lengthy break. Additionally, summer writing programs provide opportunities for children to express creativity, build confidence, and improve their writing abilities, which are important skills for their future academic and personal success.

Q: What can my child expect to learn in a summer writing program? A: In a summer writing program, your child can expect to learn foundational writing skills such as grammar, spelling, sentence structure, and punctuation. They will also be introduced to various writing genres, including creative writing, storytelling, poetry, and even non-fiction. The program may also focus on enhancing critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, encouraging young writers to think deeply and articulate their thoughts effectively.

Q: How are the summer writing programs structured? A: Summer writing programs for elementary students are typically structured to be fun, engaging, and interactive. Most programs include a mix of individual writing exercises, group activities, and guidance from experienced instructors. These programs foster a positive learning environment, encouraging collaboration and helping children embrace their unique writing styles.

Q: Are there any prerequisites for enrolling in a summer writing program? A: No prerequisites are typically required for elementary students to enroll in a summer writing program. These programs are designed to accommodate a wide range of skill levels, from beginner writers to those with more advanced abilities. The focus is on fostering growth and development, regardless of the child’s starting point.

Q: How do I find a suitable summer writing program for my child? A: To find a suitable summer writing program, start by researching local schools, community centers, and writing institutes that offer such programs. Consider factors such as program duration, class size, student-instructor ratio, and reviews from previous participants. You may also reach out to other parents or consult local educational resources for recommendations.

Q: How long do summer writing programs for elementary students typically run? A: The duration of summer writing programs for elementary students can vary. Some programs run for a couple of weeks while others may extend throughout the entire summer. The specific length of a program is usually determined by the institution offering it. Be sure to check the program’s schedule and choose one that aligns with your child’s interests and availability.

Q: Are there any additional benefits to summer writing programs? A: Besides improving writing skills, summer writing programs offer additional benefits to elementary students. These programs often promote social interaction, helping children develop teamwork skills and make new friends who share their passion for writing. They also provide a platform for children to express themselves, boost their self-confidence, and ignite a lifelong love for literature.

Q: How can I enroll my child in a summer writing program? A: Enrolling your child in a summer writing program typically involves contacting the program administrator, either online or by phone, to express your interest. They will guide you through the registration process, provide you with any necessary forms, and inform you of tuition fees and payment options. Some programs may offer online enrollment forms for added convenience.

Q: Is financial aid available for summer writing programs? A: Financial aid or scholarships may be available for summer writing programs. It’s advisable to inquire with the program administrators beforehand to determine if they offer any assistance options. Additionally, organizations or local foundations may provide funding opportunities for educational programs, so it’s worth exploring those resources as well.

In conclusion, enrolling your elementary student in a summer writing program can provide invaluable opportunities for growth and creativity. Don’t miss out—enroll today!

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Top 10 Elementary Writing Curriculums- Homeschool Family Favorites

Teaching writing to elementary-aged students can be both challenging and rewarding. As a homeschool parent, you have the opportunity to provide your child with personalized instruction and the flexibility to tailor their writing education to their individual needs. Here are some tips for teaching elementary writing in homeschool:

Start with the Basics: Before jumping into complex writing assignments, it’s important to build a strong foundation. Start by teaching your child the basics of grammar, sentence structure, and paragraph development. Use simple writing exercises and prompts to help them develop their skills.

Focus on the Process: Writing is a process, and it’s important to teach your child how to approach it systematically. Teach them how to brainstorm ideas, create an outline, draft, revise, and edit their work. Encourage them to take their time and not rush through the writing process.

Use Creative Prompts: Children are naturally creative, so use writing prompts that encourage them to use their imagination. Use prompts that ask them to write a story, describe a place or thing, or express their feelings about a topic. This will help them develop their creativity and critical thinking skills.

Incorporate Technology: Technology can be a valuable tool in teaching writing. Consider using writing software or online writing tools to help your child organize their thoughts and ideas. Additionally, allowing your child to type their writing assignments can improve their typing skills and make the writing process more enjoyable.

Provide Feedback: Feedback is crucial to improving writing skills. Provide constructive feedback to your child, pointing out areas where they excel and areas where they need improvement. Encourage them to take your feedback and use it to improve their writing.

Celebrate Successes: Writing can be a challenging task for children, so it’s important to celebrate their successes. Praise them for their hard work, creativity, and progress. Display their writing in a prominent place in your home, such as on the fridge or on a bulletin board, to showcase their achievements.

In conclusion, teaching writing to elementary-aged homeschool students requires a patient and systematic approach. Starting with the basics, focusing on the writing process, using creative prompts, incorporating technology, providing feedback, and celebrating successes are all important strategies for success. With these tips, your child can develop strong writing skills that will serve them well in their academic and personal lives.

Top Ranked Homeschool Family Favorites Elementary Writing Curriculums

INSTITUTE FOR EXCELLENCE IN WRITING

The Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW)’s “Teaching Writing with Structure and Style” provides a foundational technique from which parents can easily teach writing, as well as the other language arts skills of listening, speaking, and reading.

WRITING STRANDS BY MASTER BOOKS

Writing Strands is a homeschool writing curriculum designed to help students develop strong writing skills through a step-by-step approach. The program focuses on teaching writing as a process, with lessons that cover brainstorming, outlining, drafting, revising, and editing. Writing Strands includes assignments that range from creative writing to expository writing and is suitable for students in grades K-12. The curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing parents to tailor the lessons to their child’s individual needs and abilities. Additionally, the program includes detailed instructions, examples, and evaluation criteria to help parents guide their child through the writing process. Writing Strands is a comprehensive writing curriculum that can help students develop the skills they need to communicate effectively through writing.

Rounding Out The Top 10 Homeschool Elementary Writing Curriculums

• Easy Peasy All-in-One Homeschool
• The Good and the Beautiful
• Language Lessons for a Living Education from Master Books
• Gather Round Homeschool
• Writing with Ease from Well-Trained Mind
• New American Cursive from Memoria Press

2022 Best Homeschool Curriculum Guide

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In-Person & Online Camps For K-12 Students Creative Writing Camp

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We live in a creative world where ideas, collaboration, and adaptability are a must–and writing is essential. So how do we prepare our children for their future? How do we ensure that they become thoughtful leaders for change, passionate learners, and curious thinkers we need to improve our world? Through Creative Writing Camp, young people discover the power within themselves – to create, innovate, and connect with others.  

The Only Place Where Children Learn from Talented Educators & Writers

In addition to being accomplished educators working in classrooms year-round, many have Masters and Ph.D.s in writing and education and are published authors. Our instructors are experts at this, and they’re ready to help your child shine.

How We Measure Up

For 20 years, Dr. Carl Scott of the University of St. Thomas has evaluated the success of the program and found students improved in writing skills, creativity and self-confidence.

How Creativity Leads to Success

According to Becoming Brilliant: What Science Tells Us about Raising Successful Children (Kathy Hirsh-Pasek and Roberta Golinkoff), what children most need for 21st-century learning are the 6Cs: collaboration, communication, content, critical thinking, creative innovation and confidence.

Creative Writing Camp works because it’s where writing is an exploration. It’s where one day your child will create their own map to a planet they’ve just discovered, and the next day they’re writing the ending to a 3-act play with a group of friends. It’s where they’ll publish their first poem. It’s where they’ll begin to see what they can become. Whether they’re not sure how to get started or they already write a million pages a day, they’ll feel at home writing here. This is where the spark of invention begins.

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Please read through the information below and view the embedded tutorial videos to make the process as smooth as possible.

The 3-step process for registering includes: Step 1 - Family Account setup Step 2 - Pre-registration application for your student(s) Step 3 - Registration.

If you completed Steps 1 and 2 during the Pre-registration period between Jan. 16-29, please proceed to Step 3. All others should start at Step 1.

Note: Completion of Steps 1 and 2 during the Pre-registration period does not guarantee your student(s) a place in camp.

A Family Account is required to register a student for our 2024 Creative Writing Camp. To register a student for camp, a parent/guardian must create a Family Account using their own name in order to successfully begin the pre-registration application process. Once you have set up your account, you will be able to add your student(s)/member(s) to the Family Account. You will be able to manage all members in your Family Account.

Note: If you created a Family Account when registering for a previous summer's CWC, please use your existing account.

Should you need step-by-step instructions, we have created a brief video tutorial to help guide you through the Family Account Set up. 

Video Tutorial - Create a Family Account

Video Tutorial - Manage Your Members

After setting up or logging into your Family Account, including adding student(s)/member(s) you plan to register for camp, you are now ready to complete the parent permissions application for each student. Cick “New Application” in the menu options of your Family Account, then “More Information” and “Apply Now.” You will now be able to “Start” CWC pre-registration for your student(s)/member(s). During the application process, there are six “To Do” pages to complete for each student. As you complete each page, you will see a green check mark next to each page to reflect your progress. To move to Step 3, Registration, you must complete all “To Do” items in order to submit the parent permissions application. Completing these “To Dos” will take approximately 10 minutes per student/member.

Before you begin Step 2: “Pre-registration”, you will need the following:

• Medical Insurance Information
• Emergency Contact Information
• Contact Information for an alternate authorized person to pick up your student(s), if applicable.

Note: If registering for virtual camps, a unique email address is required for each student you plan to register.

Video Tutorial - Submitting Student Applications

Once you have successfully completed all six “To-Dos” in the Pre-Registration Application (Step 2) and they reflect “Complete,” you will be able to register and complete the payment process for your student(s).

Please use the following instructions to complete the registration process. Should it be helpful, you can download the Registration Instructions .

Registration Instructions

1.   Scroll down on this webpage to the listing of the Camps available.

2.   Select a camp, and this will take you to the cart. If you want to select an additional camp, click the Back button on your browser, or click “Keep Shopping” in the Cart.

3.   When you are finished selecting camp/s, click “Checkout.”

4.   If you have already completed pre-registration, log in under “I have a Family Account already.” If you haven’t already completed pre-registration, please go back up to “How to Set Up a Family Account – Step 1” above.

5.   At the cart screen, click on “Add/Remove Members” for a camp selection, and in the pop-up window select the student for that camp. Then click on “Enroll Members.” Repeat this step for additional camps selected, if any.

6.   If you are registering 2 or more students, the siblings discount will be automatically applied at the end of the checkout process. If it’s not automatically applied, please check "Apply a Discount" in the Cart, then select "SLC CWC Siblings" from the dropdown menu to apply the discount.

7.   Click on “Checkout.”

8.   Now, you will select the t-shirt size for your child/ren. Click on the plus sign on the far right of their name and then click on the pull-down menu to see the sizes. Select the size. Repeat this step for each student and click on “Continue Checkout.”

9.   Next, click on “View Members” for each camp to confirm you selected the correct student for the camp. Click on “Continue checkout.”

10.  Enter your credit card information and click “Continue.”

11.  Next, check your email for confirmation of your registration. Note: reception of email may take a few minutes.

Note: Completion of Pre-registration between Jan. 16-26 does not guarantee your student(s) place in camp.

Virtual Camp Single Student - $495

On-Campus Single Student - $525

Sibling Discount (Two or more) – 5% discount per student

The sibling discount will be applied automatically to your cart during Step 3: Registration. You must register two or more at the same time to be eligible for this discount.

Just Write It! Our signature camp experience for incoming K – 12th grade students, in-person and online

Jump into the magic of creative writing! This course offers an array of fun, interactive writing activities and customized exercises designed to help students develop their unique voices, broaden their imaginations, and boost their confidence as writers. With the help of professional writers and teachers, students will explore a range of poetry, prose, and creative nonfiction as they use their writing to investigate their worlds and examine issues that are important to them. During the week, students will peer review each other’s work, and receive feedback from their instructors. Students will share their creations at a celebration on the last day of camp and take home a portfolio of their collected work.

Magical Worlds (6th/7th) Do you enjoy folklore, stories with magical settings, characters with superhuman abilities? As far back as ancient times, people have lived by the phrase, “Life is what you make it so make the best of it.” In this playful course you will do just that—build your own world! Guided by your writing coaches you will learn the basics of worldbuilding and create, explore and develop your own original world. You will delve into narrative genres such as science fiction, fantasy, and superhero fiction as you explore writings with a fantastical edge. You will leave with the tools needed to help you create new worlds in a variety of genres.

Nature: A Writing Inspiration (6th/7th) “Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts…. Rachel Carson

A wooded pass covered in freshly fallen leaves, or perhaps a thunderstorm rolling in through the evening sky. Nature has a way of capturing the eye, and inspiring those who gaze upon its natural beauty. Through this course students will have a chance to experience writing that centers nature as its inspiration. By using outside writing time as well as prompts and mentor text that show how other artists around the world have crafted writing for and inspired by the great outdoors, your young writer will be able to capture the beauty from their eyes while enjoying nature.

Focus on Fiction: Characters and Conflict (8th/9th) Dive deep into the heart of storytelling! This course is an exploration of the elements that breathe life into compelling narratives. Uncover the secrets of creating multi-dimensional characters with depth and authenticity, while also delving into the art of crafting engaging conflicts that drive your plot forward. Through a combination of insightful discussions, writing exercises, and constructive feedback, you will hone your skills in character development and conflict resolution—the tools you need to captivate readers and weave unforgettable tales!

Uncanny and Unreal: Adventures in Sci-Fi and Fantasy Writing (8th/9th) Embark on a captivating journey into the extraordinary realms of science fiction and fantasy. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned fantasy writer, discover the secrets of crafting immersive worlds, creating compelling characters, and mastering intricate plots in speculative fiction with other fantasy fanatics. From the art of genre blending to developing your unique voice, this course offers a dynamic blend of writing exercises, workshops, and collaborative discussions, providing the tools and inspiration to bring your wildest imaginings to life on the page. Join us and unleash your creativity in the fantastical landscapes of the uncanny and unreal.

The Art of the Essay (10th/12th) The history of the essay finds its origins in the core Renaissance ideal of “rebirth.” This course will allow you to give “new life” to the art of essay writing by asking you to examine your personal story and connect it to a broader world of concepts and ideas. We’ll analyze this important and passionate literary form that will take your writing beyond familiar boundaries. We’ll experiment with fun, contemporary non-fiction forms like flash non-fiction, recipe writing, humor, and even lampoon to expand and sharpen your essay writing skills. Through the writing workshop model of peer review, you will work with your fellow writers to hone techniques and approaches, and you will leave with a portfolio of several completed essays.

Begin the registration process by finding your grade level and campus below. Please note camps often fill up quickly. You must complete checkout to secure your spot. If your desired camp is not visible, then it is currently at capacity.

Filter by grade:

Registration for Creative Writing Camp 2024 opens Monday, Jan 29! Sign up below to be the first to know when registration opens.

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Dates, Locations and Grade-levels for Creative Writing Camp 2024

Choose among five in-person camp locations, or an online option for campers anywhere!

Frequently Asked Questions

For questions about Creative Writing Camp programming – Please leave a voice messagefor School Literacy and Culture at 713-348-5333 or Writer’s in the Schools at 713-523-3877. Your message will be answered as soon as possible. For technical help with registration, please contact 713-348-4803.

Seats may become available due to cancellations or the opening of new classes. Please check the website often to see if any seats have opened at a particular campus. Creative Writing Camp does not have a waitlist.

If you are enrolling your child in the 2024 Rice + WITS Creative Writing Camp, you have read and understand the following cancellation and refund policy:

A 10 percent processing fee will be subtracted from all refunds. Due to the high demand for courses, registrations are considered final 30 days before classes start. No refunds will be issued after these dates and credits will not be given for future classes. No refunds will be granted for participants who miss a portion of a program. Refund requests before the deadline must be made in writing to  [email protected] . Refunds for credit card payments will be processed as credits to the accounts from which they were paid and may not appear as a credit on your statement for up to four to six weeks. Refunds for enrollments paid by check take up to four to six weeks to be processed and mailed by the Rice University accounting office. There is a $30 charge for any check returned for insufficient funds.

If multiple children are registered and have received the sibling discount, and later one or more registrations are canceled so that only one child remains registered, the remaining child's registration will be adjusted to the full price, and a refund for the appropriate amount will be issued.

A limited number of scholarships are available based on financial need. Please make your request by emailing [email protected] and an application form will be sent to you. Submitting a scholarship application does not guarantee receiving a scholarship. Please note if your child was awarded a scholarship last summer, you are not eligible to apply for the upcoming summer.

After you create your Family Account, please save your credentials. To revisit your Family Account, you can save the link to login or click on the link directly from the Creative Writing Camp webpage. To access your account, use the login username and password credentials and follow the login instructions. If you no longer know or have access to your credentials, please follow the Forget Password instructions directly on the login page. GO TO FAMILY ACCOUNT

All classes will be team-taught with class sizes capped at approximately 20 students.

• Health and safety protocols for each camp session will be dependent upon campus-based policies in effect at the time camp is offered.
• Participating campers will be invited to bring basic supplies (paper, pencils, colored pencils, crayons, markers, small watercolor kits) for individual use throughout the week of camp.
• Classes will be divided into age-level groupings that may include students from more than one grade level.  Based on enrollment, classes may include students from more than one grade level.
• Creative writing and fine arts activities will be planned by highly qualified teacher/writer pairs and feature low staff-to-camper ratios.

Friend requests may be made in the student's Pre-registration application. Requests are not guaranteed but we will do our best to grant them.

Focus groups of professional writers and highly effective teachers have come together to craft this exciting online approach to Creative Writing Camp, which has received positive reviews from parents and students since its inception in 2020. Wherever possible, student experiences will draw upon our traditional camp model, but we will also embrace this opportunity to explore new approaches and think creatively. Join us as we explore just what is possible in a virtual environment!

All classes will be team-taught with class sizes capped at approximately 20 students. Classes will be divided into age-level groups:

• Morning: 3rd–5th grade
• Afternoon: 6th–8th and 9th–12th grade

Classes for younger students will include a combination of:

• Live community-building activities
• Live large and small group times that might include anything from the reading of a great children’s book as inspiration for creative writing to a virtual field trip
• Live story dictation activities with a teacher and
• “Center time” featuring pre-recorded activities and a wealth of independent art and extension projects to enjoy at your family’s convenience.

Classes for older students will include:

• Live large and small group times
• Live personalized consultation with experienced writers/teachers and
• Independent pre-recorded activities and extension projects to enjoy at your family’s convenience.
• All camp courses will utilize the Canvas learning platform. Each student will need a unique e-mail address to access the system. Emails are to be provided by the parents.
• Students will also need a laptop, tablet or phone to access the course, but we recommend a laptop or tablet. The best user experience is achieved through the Google Chrome web browser. If using a tablet or phone, download the Canvas Student app to access the course.
• Each student will need a notebook, journal, or folder with blank paper and writing implements such as pencils, pens, and markers.
• Extension activities will utilize basic arts and crafts materials such as scissors, colored paper, glue, watercolors, etc. that students typically use at school. Parents will not be asked to buy specific art materials.
•  All families will be asked to complete a “tech check” the week before their virtual camp session. Support staff will be available for assistance that day should families have any challenges logging into the system.
• During “tech check” students will be able to “meet” their teachers as they view pre-recorded videos uploaded by the teachers and writers leading the course. Students will also be asked to record their own introductory video to share with their classmates.
• “Tech check” will also provide an opportunity for parents to receive more detailed information regarding each class’s daily schedule, should they have a need for specifics.

Finally, should families have challenges with technology at any point during the camp experience, they will be able to connect directly with IT support staff via phone or e-mail. 713-348-4803 or [email protected]

Creative Writing Camp is a collaboration between Writers in the Schools and Rice University’s School Literacy and Culture and has inspired young writers for over 30 years. Our online and in-person camps deep dive into writing topics that hone creativity and prepare students for future success. With low student-teacher ratios and mentorship from professional writers, Creative Writing Camp offers a writer’s workshop experience!

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Creative Writing Academy

• How to Apply
• Summer College
• College Prep
• U.S. Campaigns & Elections Academy
• Pre-College Online

Transform your dreams, ideas, and stories into organized, compelling, creative written works with dynamic lectures in craft topics, workshop sessions with graduate student instructors, and insightful, productive feedback from your peers. This combination of instructional approaches will help you generate and polish a wealth of new poems, stories, and essays, and allow you to experiment with innovative forms in the field of creative writing. The Academy will also focus on the publishing and professionalization aspects of the industry, exploring what markets are available for your writing, what jobs are available to creative writers, funding opportunities for your work, undergraduate and graduate programs in writing, and how to get published. Topics for discussion will include literary form and targeted craft points, often in relation to social, political, and environmental themes. In addition, this week-long program will feature excursions to sites around Washington, D.C., including an exercise in ekphrastic writing at the National Gallery of Art and the chance to read your work aloud at Busboys and Poets, a famous D.C. literary hub.

Estimated Tuition:

Price includes tuition, housing, and meals. Commuter Student tuition is $2,625.

How You'll Benefit

• Participate in writing workshops
• Awaken your powers of observation, imagination, and description
• Learn concrete elements of the craft of writing in daily workshops
• Attend readings from published authors, who will lead interactive classes and conduct group discussions
• Work with Georgetown's expert creative writing faculty to bring out your most creative ideas
• Read excerpts from award-winning works and use them to develop your own original works
• Visit local monuments, world-renowned theaters, museums, and literary organizations
• Take part in peer critiques and learn how to revise and refine your writing

Program Format & Subject Areas

As a student in the Creative Writing Academy, you'll spend your day immersed in a blend of classroom lectures, field trips, hands-on activities, and group discussions. Throughout the week, you'll have the opportunity to explore the following subject areas:

• Personal prose
• Literary history
• Technique (story structure, character development, theme, description, dialogue)
• Finding good ideas and turning them into polished pieces
• Using great literature and art for inspiration

All in all, I fell in love with the program. I got to meet so many amazing people not only from the D.C. area but all around the country.

Having the chance to experience once in a lifetime opportunities and getting to meet people from around the world made it so I got to really experience what college life was like.

My #SummerHoya experience was enriching, inspiring, and rewarding; if I could turn back the clock, I’d do it all over again.

It was amazing to be surrounded by such high caliber students and staff who were all encouraging and fabulous to work with. I took away many positive things from my week as a Summer Hoya.

As I am filling out my college applications, I am able to think back to my memories from the summer and I am reassured that I am pursuing the right educational path.

The program offers so much–from the off-site visits to the daily lectures and the on campus activities. The lectures were interesting, meeting new people was great and the off-site visits were interactive and intriguing.

Want to learn more?

Request information to find out the latest on the Summer Programs for High School Students.

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• Summer 2024

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• Community Development
• Arts Division

Moscow Public Art

Public art is at the heart of Moscow’s creative culture, and with a collection including works by local and regional artists, its public spaces reflect the Inland Northwest’s tradition of artistic excellence.  

Artworks range from sculptures and murals to framed pieces in the City’s portable collection. Temporary artworks include vinyl-wrapped utility boxes, storm drain murals, and bus shelters as well as sculptures at the Intermodal Transit Center on the University of Idaho campus.

The City of Moscow’s acquisition of public art began in the 1980s, and is supported by a 1% for the Arts fund established by ordinance in 2004. A Public Art Master Plan guides the Moscow Arts Commission, Arts staff, and community members as they incorporate new works into the City’s landscape.

Moscow is rich with diversity of thought, inhabited by minds open to possibility and creative interpretation. As such, the public art program celebrates the artist as a professional and valued business partner while welcoming a broad range of media and art-making processes into its collection.

PERMANENT COLLECTION

J. Casey Doyle, "Access," 2022, Becker Memorial at the ITC Sculpture Garden

Miles Pepper, "The Volunteer," 2004, Fire Station 3

Nethaniel Ealy, "Children at Play," 2010, East City Park

David Govedare, "Dancing," 2003, Hamilton Indoor Recreation Center

Avard T. Fairbanks, "Doughboy Memorial," 1923, East City Park

FABS (Camille Cote), "Filter of life," 2019, Water Filter Plant

David Govedare, "Focus," 2003, Hamilton Indoor Recreation Center

Robert Horner, "Helio-Terra," 2012, Wren Welcome Garden

Harold Balazs, "Hey Mom! Look at me!," 1999, Hamilton-Lowe Aquatics Center

Melissa Cole, "Inspiration," 2018, Latah County Library District Moscow Branch

Lizette Fife and K-6 students of Lena Whitmore Elementary School, "Lena Whitmore Goes Swimming," 2000, Hamilton-Lowe Aquatics Center

Issak Julye, "Lock Onto Something Great," 2011, Water Department

Melissa Cole, "Pollination," 2018, Latah County Library District Moscow Branch

David Govedare, "Running," 2003, Hamilton Indoor Recreation Center

David Govedare, "Speed," 2003, Hamilton Indoor Recreation Center

David Govedare, "Strength," 2003, Hamilton Indoor Recreation Center

David Govedare, "Swimming," 2003, Hamilton Indoor Recreation Center

Jenifer Corio & Dave Frei, "The Homecoming," 2020, C & Main Street Couplet

Kristin LeVier, "Untitled," 2013, College Street

Gail Siegel, "Untitled," 2013, City Streets

Miles Pepper, "Weathervane," 2004, Fire Station #3

David Govedare, "Yoga," 2003, Hamilton Indoor Recreation Center

David Govedare, "Aerobics," 2003, Hamilton Indoor Recreation Center

David Govedare, "Agility," 2003, Hamilton Indoor Recreation Center

David Govedare, "Balance," 2003, Hamilton Indoor Recreation Center

David Govedare, "Basketball/Volleyball," 2003, Hamilton Indoor Recreation Center

Nethaniel Ealy, "Bike," 2010, East City Park

Temporary Collection

VINYL-WRAPPED TRAFFIC SIGNAL BOXES

Artworks featured on vinyl-wrapped boxes have been a part of the City of Moscow’s temporary public art collection since 2012. This project provides public space for artists to share their two-dimensional work with the public, and beautifies street fixtures throughout the community. 

Each year, a selection panel chooses several artworks to be displayed at locations throughout Moscow for a period of up to 5 years. These works are enjoyed by Moscow’s visitors and residents alike, and have become a cherished element of the visual landscape. 

Molly Klingler, “Rolling Hills,” 2023, 3rd & Jackson

Travis Gray, “Waterbear Float,” 2023, Water Reclamation & Reuse Facility, 2221 Pullman Rd.

Ed Haagen and Dave Tong, “Palouse Moose Deuce Coupes,” 2023, 6th & Jackson

Jamie Sugai, “North Idaho Flora,” 2023, 6th & Washington

Julene Ewert, “Calm,” 2023, 3rd & Washington

Rene Guggenheimer, "Full Circle," 2022, Mountain View & Hwy 8

Meghan Antkowiak, "Rainbows in the Rivers," 2022, Jackson & A St

John Donald Carlucci, "Murder in Moscow," 2022, 6th & Alley between Jackson & Main

Autumn Stanley, "Canola Fields Forever," 2022, Jackson & College

Dave Tong, "Trail Life," 2022, Styner & Hwy 95

Inna Popova, "Cereal and Milk," 2021, Perimeter & Hwy 8

Justin Pickard, "Rent Free Treehouse," 2021, S Blaine & Hwy 8

Britani Phelps, "Day on the Palouse," 2021, Palouse River Dr & US 95

Sonya Isenberg, "Explosions," 2021, Warbonnet & Hwy 8

Alison Meyer, "Glorious Day on the Palouse Hills," 2018, Wren Welcome Garden

Justin Pickard, "Plant Meditation," 2020, 3rd & Main

Melissa Rockwood, "I like coffee, I like tea," 2020, 6th & Main

John Larkin, "Penstock," 2020, D & US 95

Emily Power, "Whoosh," 2020, Line & Hwy 8

Julene Ewert, "Constellation Harbor," 2020, Moscow Public Library

Joey Nance, "Small Town Neon," 2020, Sweet & US 95

Maggie Keefe, "Downstream," 2023, 4th & Main St

Bernadette Johnson, "Beavers in Springtime," 2023, 2nd & Main St

John Carlucci, "Woes of Nessie," 2022, 3rd & Jackson St

Amy McKenna & Telisa Swan, "Into the Depths," 2022, 3rd & Washington St

STORM DRAIN MURALS

The City of Moscow’s Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) flows directly into local waterways, including Paradise Creek. The Storm Drain Mural program was created to raise public awareness for this direct connection between storm drains and local streams.  

Each year, a selection panel chooses artists to create murals on sign stands. This is an opportunity for artists to share two-dimensional artwork with the public while illustrating Moscow’s commitment to the environment.

INTERMODAL TRANSIT CENTER SCULPTURE GARDEN

The Intermodal Transit Center Sculpture Garden was created by the City of Moscow Arts Department in 2012, and it provides art viewing opportunities for the public as well as exhibition space for emerging regional artists. Each year, a selection panel chooses sculptures to be displayed at the Sculpture Garden for approximately twelve months. These works are viewed by travelers utilizing the many modes of transportation supported by the Intermodal Transit Center.

Jill Kyong, “The Sun Shines Through It,” 2023, ITC Sculpture Garden

JacQueline Walker, “Absolution,” 2023, ITC Sculpture Garden

Melanie Velazco Curiel, “C’mon I Ain’t That Scary,” 2023, ITC Sculpture Garden

Alyssa Hamburger, “A Lucky Rabbit’s Footside,” 2023, ITC Sculpture Garden

Melissa Rockwood, "Appaloosa Story," 2019, Warbonnet and Hatley Way

Payton Glover, "Your Story Begins Here," 2018, 6th and Greenhouse Street

Melissa Rockwood, "Moscow Timeline," 2012, 4th and Main

Juan Mendez, "Untitled, 2011," 6th and Line

Corey Kelmel, Untitled, 2011, Styner Ave and Hawthorne Dr

David Waters, "Palouse Hills," 2009, E and N Main

Laurel Macdonald, "Untitled," 2009, Blaine and White Ave

Jacob Howell, "Transportation Map," 2009, Farm Road across from WinCo Foods

Michele Foster, "Tree Bark Images," 2009, 6th and Blaine

Dan Stephens, "Palouse Winds," 2008, 6th and Deakin Ave

BUS SHELTERS

Bus shelters throughout Moscow have featured artists’ designs since 2008. At the intersection of aesthetic and utilitarian function, these public artworks create a sense of place for those traveling through the city.

Portable Art Collection

The Portable Collection is comprised of over 80 works, which are prominently displayed in City of Moscow buildings. It represents a broad spectrum of artistic media and styles and reflects the City of Moscow’s commitment to the arts.

Henry Stinson, "Portrait Mayor Bill Lambert," 2016, City Hall

Debra J. Burt, "The Dining Room," 2020

Helen Grainger Wilson, "Dance of the Rosehips," 2003, 3rd Street Annex

Jo Simpson, "Untitled," 1987, Finance Department

Chuck Pezeshki, "Evening, Southern Pahsimeroi," Date Unknown, City Hall

Bill Blair, "Red Delicious," 2005, Community Development

Carla Kappler, "Rainy Day Market, 1999," Arts Department

David Wilson, "Blazing West," 2019, Community Development

Karen Rohn, "International Rust," 2013, Street Department

A. Barr, "The Pond," Date Unknown, City Hall

Bill Blair, "Friendship Walk," 2005, Street Shop

Jan Gordon Brown, "Eastern Blue Jay," 2013, City Hall Legal

Arnold Westerlund, "Untitled," 1998, 3rd Street Annex

William Billingsley, "Moscow Centennial Fanfare," 1990, City Hall- Administration Intern Office

Bill Voxman, "Palouse Winter," 2, 2012, 3rd Street Annex

Ilsa Shreiner, "Otter Family," 2009, 3rd Street Annex

Susan Segota, "Winter Market," 2018, Water Division

Forrest Dickison, "Easter Lilies," 2016, Arts Department

Mary Kirkwood, "Family Portrait," 2001, University of Idaho

Mary Kirkwood, "Boat Ride," 2001, Arts Department

Mary Kirkwood, "Abstract, blue and green," 2001, University of Idaho

Kelly Knouff-Burk, "Moscow City Hall," 2019, Arts Department

Mary Kirkwood, "Portrait of Robert Kerr (1949)," 2001, University of Idaho

Jeanne Wood, "Viking Pot, 2004," Water Department

Larry Ellingson, "Copper Band Reflector," 2013, Street Department

Carolyn Guy, "Porcelain Jar," 2004, Arts Department

Kyla Lakin, "Mid-day at Roost Coffee," 2015, Community Development

Martha McIver, "Untitled," 2009, City Hall

Andy Sewell, "Garden Studebaker," 2013, Engineering

Martha McIver, "Latah County Grain Growers Inc.," 2010, Street Shop

Tom Garfield, "Butte with a View," 2014, Eggan Youth Center

Diana Pace McIver, "Purple Prickly Pear Cactus," 1997, City Hall Administration

David Wilson, "Outlaw," 2019, Eggan Youth Center

Bonnie Griffith, "Twilight on the River," 2015, City Hall Administration

Erica Wagner, "Market Study No. 1," 2018, Water Reclamation and Reuse Facility

George Flett, "Elk Medicine," 2010, City Hall

Dana Aldis, "Palouse Impression," 2011, Engineering

Dave Schweitzer, "Wooden Bowl," 2004, Police Department

Betty Jo Fitzgerald, "Boxed Tulips," 2009, 3rd Street Annex

Steve Schulte, "Grassy Mop," 2015, Water Department

Sharon Macy, "Historic First Methodist Church," Moscow, ID, 2018, City Hall

Pat Tremaine, "County Line," 2019, Arts Department

Arnold Westerlund, "Voices in the Midst," 1998, 3rd Street Annex

Frank Werner, "Wooden Decoy," 2004, City Hall

Tobias Sauer, "Standing Proud," 2017, Water Department

Ellen Vieth, "Joy, Suture, Lesson and There," 2008, Third Street Annex

Martha McIver, "Moscow City Hall," 2013, City Hall Administration

David McGranoghan, "Sidewalk Closed," 2010, Street Shop

Linda Wallace, "She Who Calls the Sun Down," 2000, Street Shop

Rob McPherson, "Poplar," 2016, Engineering

Mary Kirkwood, "1983 Portrait of Keith Washburn," 2001, University of Idaho

Jared Shear, "Potlatch Valley," 2010, Finance Department

Nancy Bowman, "View From Sand Road," 2013, City Hall Administration

Susan Segota, "Dancing at the Farmers Market," 2012, 3rd Street Annex

Kevin Rhodes, "Starburst," 2019, Arts Department

Martha McIver, "City Hall in the Snow," 2010, City Hall

Artist Unknown, "Patriotic Flag," Date Unknown, City Hall

Lauryn Ringwood, "Scout Christmas," 2014, Community Events Division

Chris Anderson, "Painted Clock," 2002, City Hall Third Floor

James (Pete) Amell, "The Barn," 2011, Paul MANN Building

Alf Dunn, "Untitled," 1987, Paul MANN Building

Antonin Passemard, "The Gypsy Life," 2012, Paul MANN Building

Katherine Clancy, "Ichabod," 2009, City Hall

Tom Garfield, "Pea Mill," 2010, Engineering

Carla Kappler, "Farmers Market Sunflowers," 2014, Eggan Youth Center

Diana Moses Botkin, "Purple Palouse Morning," 2010, Arts Department

Haru Tsurusaki, "Ceramic Scuplture," 2004, City Hall Administration

Carl Warnick, "Moscow Changing Seasons," 1987, 3rd Street Annex

Jed Davis, "Untitled," 1987, Streets Department

Lauren McCleary, "Night Shifters," 2015, Water Department

Ralph Crawford, "Calf Roper edition 12 of 24," 2015, City Hall

Ryan Law, "Nairobi," 2018, City Hall

Jeanne Wood, "Untitled," 2003, Finance Department

Terri Walters, "Ginger Jar," 2004, Arts Department

Forrest Dickison, "Creek Side Light," 2014, Arts Department

Linda Wallace, "Untitled," 1987, Engineering

Aaron Johnson, "Spring Green," 2013, City Hall Administration

Mary Kirkwood, "1984 Portrait of Brenda Kirkwood," 2001, University of Idaho

Judith Mousseau, "Mayor Nancy Chaney," 2012, City Hall Administration

Aaron Johnson, "Afternoon Clouds," 2013, City Hall Legal

Mary Kirkwood, "Self Portrait of Mary Kirkwood," 2001, University of Idaho

Clara Nickels, "Creation," 2019, Community Events Division

Larry Ellingson, "Untitled," 2014, Streets Department

Terrie Walters, "Hummingbird Watercolor," 2003, City Hall Administration

Ben Carpenter, "Wooden Vessel," 2004, Police Department

Moscow School District #281

• A.B. McDonald Elementary School
• J. Russell Elementary School
• Lena Whitmore Elementary School
• Moscow High School
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• View Original
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Elementary Attendance Zones

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Please note that the maps below are for Moscow city limits only and are provided as a guide. If your address is outside the Moscow city limits, please call the Superintendent's Office at 208-892-1139 for assistance. While all effort is made to place students within the school they are zoned for, final placement is determined by the Superintendent as needed due to class sizes.

Lena Whitmore Elementary School Zone - Grades K-5

McDonald Elementary School Zone - Grades K-5

West Park Elementary School Zone - Grades K-2

Russell Elementary School Zone - Grades 3-5

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