Topic: Teaching an Introduction to Writing for Children course

[jancoates]

For some strange reason, I agreed to teach an 8-hour course at my local university as part of their lifelong learning program (if anybody signs up for it). It will basically be an introduction to writing for children, and I'm wondering if anybody has any experience doing this kind of thing, or if anybody can direct me to a website with a possible structure/outline for a course like that?  Thanks

[Christy]

Congrats! I hope it goes well.

[Joni]

You know more than you think you do. If you covered genres, word lengths, age-appropriateness, the submission process, a little about markets and resources, and maybe had them share some writing for feedback, you'll keep them busy. I've done a  lot of this sort of thing and really, most groups could practically keep you going that long just with questions.

[jancoates]

Oh - I hope there are lots of questions - I'm always more comfortable with answering questions than straight talking. I figure the first night I'll take in lots of kids books and get a feel for what they're looking for out of the course. Thanks!

[Vijaya]

You might want to contact Peggy King Anderson -- she teaches an 8 week basic course and I took it many years ago. It was wonderful. She'll have lots of tips for you. Her website is: http://www.peggyking.com/

Good luck, Vijaya

[jancoates]

Thanks, everybody - I got a message from Kris, that I've tried to respond to here and on her blog, but unsuccessfully - if you can message me again, yes I'd love to see your PPT slides!

[lauriew]

I'm also teaching a lifelong learning course, though mine is 15 hours. I break it into three parts: overview of children's books (detailed explanation of the different genres); writing (hints, plot, characterization, etc); and, business (agents, contracts, marketing, etc.) Laurie
 

[Schriscoe]

Best of luck! I know it will turn out wonderful!