StoryStudio is proud to offer classes and programs to young writers in grades 5th-12th. For years, StoryStudio has been home to hundreds of adult writers, and we decided it was time to expand our offerings to young scribes as well.
Our Youth Programs Manager Sahar Mustafah curates single-session and multi-week classes for young students. You can find our current programs, summer camps, and writing contests here.
Sign up for our Youth Newsletter today! Get writing prompts, book recommendations, information about upcoming youth events, and more – right in your inbox.
Each term, we offer youth classes with our regular courses. Ages and lengths vary.
The Form’s The Thing: An Intro to Poetic Forms
Single-Session: Saturday, April 8
Grades 7-12
Annual Summer Camps
Each summer we offer a variety of youth summer camps for students in grades 5th-12th. Over the years, we’ve run general writing camps and specific topics like Sci-Fi & Fantasy, 3K Write!, and we have plans to run others like food writing, sports writing, and more.
We have scholarship opportunities for those interested.
Mentorships & One-on-One Consultations
Have you finished a writing project and need a pair of professional eyes to help you polish it? Or are you feeling stuck in a draft and would like some professional support?
For our ambitious young writers, we’re pleased to offer personalized, one-on-one manuscript consultations and coaching with our esteemed faculty members. From first chapters, to college applications, to full novels, these instructors offer a wide range of services. Instructors can help with line edits, big picture ideas, structure, and more.
Writing Contest
Calling all young writers in grades 5th-12th! StoryStudio Chicago is pleased to host a youth writing contest with two winners receiving a cash prize or admission into a youth writing class. Details can be found below, as well as the published writing from our winners.
Youth Literary Magazine: Stella Nova
Stella Nova is a home for your words. As a young writer having participated in any of our summer camps, creative writing classes, or Chicago Stories Project programs, we are delighted to showcase the work you’ve produced right here in your very own magazine.
Monthly Virtual Write-Ins
Join us online for an hour of writing together! Write-ins are a great space for new and emerging young writers to find community and get inspired. Click the link below to find our upcoming write-in dates and hosts. They’re free!
Upcoming Date:
TBD