Writing for Children long weekend intensive writing retreat

Escape the everyday, commune with other writers, immerse yourself in your work, and turn your stories for children into a book.

 

Traditional forms of children’s literature include circle stories, accumulation stories, alphabet stories and memoir-based stories. In this weekend writing workshop, you will explore the picture book form and methods of illustration that do not require previous art experience, then transform a story into a working book dummy. Do all this under the guidance of bestselling children’s book author/illustrator Helena Clare Pittman and in the beautiful Catskill Mountains.

With Q&A discussions, feedback on your work and an optional private consultation with Helena, you’ll learn to build on your natural strengths, returning home with a sound understanding of how to optimize your talent and develop your skills.  All levels welcome, including beginners.

The concentrated focus of this learning experience is offset by the lush and rustic setting of the Lazy Pond Bed & Breakfast. Workshops are held in the peaceful, woodsy setting of Helena’s cabin and painting studio, which is crammed with artwork and surrounded by the thick hemlock and beech woods so characteristic of Sullivan County. In such a creative, artistic space, you can’t help but be inspired.

Registration for this long weekend includes:

  • Rigorous instructional workshops;
  • Ample private time to complete writing assignments;
  • Q&A discussions plus feedback on your writing;
  • A personal consultation with your instructor (optional);
  • 4 days and 3 nights of private accommodations at the Lazy Pond Bed and Breakfast, situated on 12 acres in Sullivan County, NY
  • Transportation to and from your hotel if you don’t have a car;
  • Breakfasts and lunches included; enjoy breakfast at the B&B on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, and lunches provided by your teacher Friday and Saturday

Retreat begins 6:00 PM Thursday and ends 12:30 PM Sunday.

*NOTE: To ensure personal attention tailored to your needs, as well as a private room at the Inn for all attendees, enrollment is initially limited to 3 participants.*

*ALLERGY ALERT: The workshops are held in the home/studio of Helena Clare Pittman, where several cats also reside.*