Writing Workshops
Customized writing workshops are available for all ages – children, teens, and adults. The ideal audience size is a maximum of 30 participants, although larger groups can be accommodated. Workshop themes can include:
- word play – using intuitive writing to generate story ideas and learn writing techniques;
- villains and heroes – characterization and scene development;
- how to create stories from real-life experiences;
- how to create a believable fantasy or science-fiction world.
Please contact Karen for current rates and availability. Funding assistance is available through The Writers’ Union of Canada Readings Subsidy Programs.
WordPlayers Workshops
Karen designed the WordPlayers program to encourage children and teens to express themselves through writing in a positive, fun environment while learning writing techniques and concepts. Her technique promotes intuitive writing using a variety of stimulating activities, including word games, masks, story dice, photos, and character games. Karen currently teaches WordPlayers at Pegasus Studios in Toronto as well as at workshops in schools and libraries.
Writing for Children Course
Karen Krossing regularly teaches an introductory Writing for Children class at Centennial College. This class focusses on how to generate ideas, develop believable characters, understand genres, edit your writing, and market and promote your work.
Testimonials
“Karen’s writing program was well received, and both teachers also gave me positive feedback. She really got the kids writing well. I was amazed to see the quiet fury and the amount of writing they got done in a comparatively short time. They also really liked the exercises.”
Patrick Gracey, Librarian, Hospital for Sick Children
“Karen Krossing is a superb presenter with a wealth of knowledge and a dynamic, passionate, and clear way of communicating her ideas. Karen’s disposition is so positive, confident, genuine, generous, and full of great karma.”
Participant of a writing workshop
“It was impossible to not have fun in the workshop because Ms Krossing is a great teacher and the activities are really well thought out. The writing workshop was very useful for me and other students who like to write, but just can’t get that professional polish on their work.”
Sanjeev Narayanaswamy, writing workshop participant
“The WordPlayers program, a lunchtime writing club devised and led by Karen Krossing, was an exciting project. The children’s ideas were greeted with enthusiasm and built on in a constructive way. They learned to critique each other positively and to listen in a welcoming and empathetic way. Wherever Karen is able to present, I am sure that the participants will benefit from her knowledge of the writing process and her kind and encouraging manner.”
Martha Cunningham, Librarian, Presteign Heights Public School