Teen Summer: Poetry for Wellness

Class Description

In times of challenge and transformation, words have an extraordinary power to heal and bring solace. Join our nurturing and therapeutic poetry workshop designed to explore the profound connection between writing and wellness. In this class, we will draw inspiration from contemporary poets such as Jose Olivarez, Susan Nguyen, and many more who skillfully and compassionately share their own personal experiences through verse. Through guided readings and discussions, we will delve into the works of these poets, discovering how they utilize the medium to transform pain, grief, and joy into poetry that resonates with authenticity.

But this workshop isn't just about admiring the work of others. In this safe and supportive space, you will also learn how to find and empower your own voice. Through reflective writing exercises, prompts, and peer discussions, you will have the opportunity to explore your own experiences, emotions, and narratives through poetry. No prior experience in poetry is required; this workshop is open to all levels of writers, from beginners to seasoned wordsmiths. All that's necessary is your willingness to embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing through the written word.

Students will leave with a batch of fresh poems as well as an understanding of how to harness the therapeutic power of poetry to promote wellness, process emotions, and find solace in self-expression. For writers of all experience levels, age 13 - 18 ONLY.

Sustainability:

Based on student suggestions to offer writers a more sustainable learning experience, this YAWP weeklong provides a balance of craft sessions and exercises with plenty of optional components so that teens can take screen breaks as needed.

Each morning session will feature a craft talk or group exercise with your designated instructor, and in the afternoon you’ll have optional and lowkey meetings that could consist of:

• Q&A chat with your writing instructor
• Group writing with music
• Reading party
• Movie viewing followed by a chat about craft
• Writing games
• Open mic/sharing

Students are encouraged to self-advocate, opting out if they are fatigued and diving in if they want more creative activity. Either way, instructors will always be available to answer questions via email and/or Zoom chat!

Registration Instructions:

• Register for the class by clicking the red "ADD TO CART" button and following the checkout instructions through our website. If you do not have an account, you will be able to make one easily. When making the account, please use your preferred name.
• If you are registering on behalf of a student, add their email in the “For a Friend or Child?” field on the right-hand side of the screen at check out. This will send them a direct link and reminder to create their own profile with GrubStreet.
• If the student is under 18, parents/guardians must complete this permission form online. You only need to fill this form out one time, not for every class. Please complete it with the student's preferred name. If you cannot remember whether you have already filled it out, please email [email protected] and we will check for you! If you do not complete this form, your registrations could be voided and the cancellation policy will apply.
• If the student is 18, simply let us know by emailing [email protected].

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If you have any questions or concerns, please email us at [email protected]. We’re excited to write with you this summer!