Frequently Asked Questions

What will my child do in class?

Students will brainstorm, write, confer, revise, edit, and publish in a workshop setting. Our teachers will also incorporate community building activities, reading from mentor texts, and goal setting into their lesson plans.

What are the qualifications of the teachers?

All of our teachers are Fellows of the National Writing Project, and have attended a rigorous summer Institute in how to teach writing and/or literature. Our teachers also have at least 3 years of classroom experience.

How many children are in a class?

We limit our class size to 15 students. Students are grouped by age and grade level. Our teachers are prepared to teach multi-age classes.
We accept 20 children with two teachers for the classes at Longwood Gardens.

What supplies will my child need?

We request that each child bring a snack and drink to camp each day (no nut products please!). We provide pencils, journals, and all other supplies that your child will use in class.

Can my child be placed in the same class with a friend?

Yes, as long as the children are in the same age/grade level we can usually put them together.

Will my child have homework?

No, there is no specific homework. Students will begin many pieces in their writer’s notebook, and are encouraged to continue writing outside of class. If your child wants to participate in the Anthology Cover Contest, the drawing is to be completed at home.

Can I enroll my child in a higher class than his/her current grade level?

No, our classes are grouped by grade level. Our classes are small, and the teachers are prepared to teach students of different ability levels.

Can my child attend for only one week?

We offer a few classes that are designed to be one-week long. However, the majority are designed as a two-week program with 30 hours of instruction. We discourage children from attending less than the full program, and do not adjust the tuition for those who cannot attend for the full time.

Can my child attend more than one program?

Yes. Some students attend more than one session, and many return year after year. Our teachers are encouraged to update their lesson plans each session. Please let the office know if your child is repeating. We will do our best to place him/her with different teachers.

Is transportation available?

No, but we do share telephone numbers and addresses with parents who request inclusion on a carpool list.

Do you have extended hours?

No, we request that children be dropped off and picked up promptly at the designated times.

Are scholarships available?

Yes, we have a limited number of need-based full and partial scholarships available. The application requirements are posted on our website.

What is the closest program to my house?

The address of each Young Writers site is listed on our website. Grade levels vary at each location.

My child does not enjoy writing. Will your program help him/her?

We try to create a relaxed, camp-like atmosphere where students will feel comfortable and gain confidence in their writing ability.

My child is in a gifted class. Will your program challenge him/her?

Our classes are small, and our teachers are encouraged to individualize the program to reach all ability levels.

Do the children get a break during the class?

Yes, we provide a break about half way through the day when children can enjoy a snack, relax with their teacher and classmates, and go outside if weather permits.

May I observe a class?

Because our camps are relatively short, we do not permit parents to observe in the classroom. However, we have an Open House on the last day of camp when parents are encouraged to visit their child’s classroom and see what they have done.

If I register my child on-line and do not pay immediately, is his/her spot held in the class?

If you are applying for a scholarship, we request that a registration form be submitted to hold a place in the class until the scholarships are awarded. If you are not applying for a scholarship, full payment should accompany the registration form. Registration is not complete until full payment is received.

What if the class I register for is full?

We limit the number of students in each class. If the class you register for is full, we will notify you and put your child on a waiting list or transfer the registration to another class that has room.

How do I get a receipt?

After your child completes the program, please call 610-436-2202 or e-mail Mary Buckelew.

Please provide your name, your child’s name, and address.

How are absences made up?

If your child is out for an illness or other activity, we do not have make-up days or provide refunds.

Learn More about Young Writers Camp

Pennsylvania Writing and Literature Project