Write for Children

How do we write vivid children’s literature?

How do we move young adult (YA) readers on the page?

It’s all about turning story ideas into scenes. Creating lovable—and hateable—characters. And crucially, understanding the conventions of children’s & YA literature.

At “Write for Children” we'll analyze a range of forms, from the picture book to the YA novel.

Perhaps best of all, you’ll write a piece of your own.

You'll leave the class with:

A first draft of your story, written at the workshop
Notes on how to expand & revise your story
10 writing techniques that reach out to young readers

All levels and non-native speakers of English are welcome.

April 25 & 26, 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Taught by Lisa Friedman
Venue: Beurs van Berlage, Amsterdam, or online - get directions
Register for this workshop (Fee: €175)
Have questions about this workshop? Call us +31 (0) 62 502 0817 or send us an email.

You may participate in person or remotely.

Workshop times listed are in Amsterdam time (CEST).

Writing Memoir: A Free Mini-Workshop(March)

Writing Nonfiction (March)

Writing Memoir (April)

What people are saying about this workshop

“There are many reasons why I write, but I have always believed that a story needs an audience, a reader – a story needs to be heard one way or another. And even when it is scary, exciting and nerve-wracking to expose that vulnerable part of you to others, at the end it is very rewarding to see how other people react to your work, how you as a writer have managed to capture their interest or provoke an emotion out of them. It is always a bit scary to hear your work being read out loud, especially in front of others – nevertheless, the experience is empowering.

The atmosphere in the workshop was amazing, the opportunity to spend time and talk about children’s literature with like-minded people was inspiring. The conversations and comments flowing through the workshop gave me a lot of insight.”

Mari, April 24, 2022

“Despite being a veteran of online writing courses, I learned a great deal at this workshop. Letting others read my work was also a great way of testing my ideas are working; the first-hand feedback was a goldmine.

I’m so pleased about the positive approach at the workshop; it made me feel as though I was in good hands, from start to finish.”

ZG, April 24, 2022

“I learnt numerous techniques to use when writing for children and young adults. Learning how to recognise and understand these was eye-opening.

I enjoyed the learning environment. The timing and pace of the workshops were well structured, keeping everyone involved, alert, and even entertained!”

Angela, February 28, 2016

“This was a great workshop. The teacher clearly knows her stuff and is very energetic and highly inspiring. Many thanks.”

Ron, February 28, 2016

“Children are game for anything. I throw them hard words, and they backhand them over the net.”

– E.B. White

Write for Children