Writing With Kids

Last weekend, several teachers received credits or clock hours for attending the annual Western Washington SCBWI (Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators) conference. Each year at this gathering, we learn from national experts in the field of writing and publishing for children. Authors, editors, agents, and other professionals share what they know through keynotes, workshop sessions, and consultations. I love reading the evaluations from teachers who have attended the conference, hearing how they enjoyed the conference, and how they learned more than they imagined.

I attended SCBWI conferences for years when I was in a classroom teacher and elementary librarian. The conferences influenced how I taught writing, how I wrote, and what I was able to share about books and authors with my students. As a teacher, I wished I could get credit for all the time I spent learning from these experts in the field of children’s literature, since I often learned more at these conferences for writers than I did at conferences that were strictly “educational.” That’s why I facilitate these conferences for credit now. Okay, I confess. It’s also to meet teachers and get my education fix through our conversations and discussions. And to keep on learning.

On May 14 and 15, teachers have another opportunity for credits and clock hours, this time, for the first time, in Portland at the Oregon SCBWI conference. Their conference is on a Friday and Saturday. I’ve known the folks who run this event for about a decade now. They’re a fun bunch, extremely supportive and friendly, especially around newbies (which we all are in some respects).

So, about those credits…

If you want 2 credits, you’ll need to attend both days, but if you want clock hours, we can adjust the numbers for one or both days. You must first register for the conference through their SCBWI chapter, then pay me for credits when we meet at the beginning of the conference. Please contact me if you’re interested.

Hope to see you in Oregon!

Or, better yet, if you’re in the Seattle area and want to ride down there with me, we’ll make it a road trip…