Writing Classes Near Me

Level 2 Storytelling & Public Speaking (Grades 5–8) Class Length: 1 hour and 15 minutes Prerequisite: Students who completed any Highest Speak Summer 2026 Camp are eligible for this Level 2 course. Students who completed a Highest Speak course during the 2025–2026 school year may also qualify depending on the course completed and prior experience. Please contact us at info@highestspeak.com and we will be happy to confirm eligibility. ****Students beginning with Level 1 this Fall should continue with the Level 1 course sequence and are not yet eligible for Level 2. Great speakers know how to tell great stories! Whether giving a presentation, sharing an idea, delivering a speech, or speaking on the spot, strong storytelling skills help students connect with an audience and make their message memorable. This engaging Level 2 course is designed for students in grades 5–8 who are ready to build on their foundational skills and take their storytelling and public speaking to the next level. Students will develop more sophisticated stories, strengthen their writing and organization, and learn how to deliver their ideas with greater confidence, creativity, and impact. In this fun, interactive class, students will: Create engaging, well-structured stories with strong openings, clear progression, and memorable endings Develop richer stories using descriptive details, character development, dialogue, conflict, and other creative techniques Strengthen organization and learn how to shape ideas into compelling narratives Use vocal variety, pacing, pauses, gestures, facial expressions, and movement to bring stories to life Practice both prepared storytelling and impromptu speaking Participate in creative storytelling games and speaking challenges that build quick thinking and confidence Receive constructive feedback and learn how to use it to strengthen both content and delivery Build greater confidence presenting original stories and ideas in front of an audience Our instructors are experienced educators and performers who create an encouraging, high-energy environment where students can take creative risks, develop their individual speaking style, and continue growing as confident communicators. Please note: Assignments will be given throughout the course to support preparation and practice outside of class for the best results. Questions about Level 2 eligibility? Please email us at info@highestspeak.com. We’re happy to review your child’s previous Highest Speak experience and recommend the appropriate level.

Get ready to make a little magic—and a whole lot of mess! In Sparkle & Splash, young artists will dive into three days of colorful, shimmering, and wonderfully messy art experiments. Campers will explore what happens when water, color, light, texture, and unexpected materials come together. They’ll splash, drip, mix, layer, sprinkle, swirl, and experiment with a variety of wet and dry materials to discover new ways of making and creating. There’s no step-by-step project and no “right” way to make. Instead, campers will be encouraged to follow their curiosity, experiment with materials, make discoveries, and let the process lead the way. This three-day camp is perfect for curious young artists who love getting messy, trying something new, and making art that shimmers, splashes, and surprises! 📅 December 28–30 👧 Ages 4–8 Children must be ready to follow safety guidelines and engage in their projects for 30 minutes or more. Children must be fully potty-trained and capable of handling their bathroom needs independently. Any medical conditions (such as allergies or diabetes) and/or behavioral needs (including neurodiversity or trauma) must be disclosed during the sign-up process. This information helps us make necessary preparations and provide a supportive and enjoyable environment for everyone. All information shared is kept confidential. Camp Cancellation & Transfer Policy The policy for Messy Art Lab Camps is as follows: 100% refund for cancellations made within 24 hours of registration. All enrollment fees include a non-refundable 20% deposit. Refund of enrollment fee minus the 20% non-refundable deposit if cancellation is made prior to 30 days of session start date. No refund for cancellations made within 30 days of session start date, unless the spot is filled, in which case a refund credit minus the 20% non-refundable deposit will be issued. Cancellations must be requested in writing via email. Approval for transfer of camp week to another week will be determined on a case-by-case basis and based on availability, with a 20% non-refundable deposit/transfer penalty if made within 30 days of the original camp week start date.

Welcome to a winter wonderland of color, texture, imagination, and messy making! In Winter Wonder Lab, young artists will explore the magic of the season through open-ended, hands-on art experiences inspired by snow, ice, winter landscapes, cozy textures, frosty colors, and imaginative winter worlds. Campers will experiment with painting, sculpture, building, texture, movement, and a variety of unexpected materials as they explore what happens when they mix, layer, transform, and create. Each day brings new opportunities to follow their curiosity and turn their ideas into something completely their own. There are no step-by-step projects or perfect finished products. Instead, campers will be encouraged to experiment, make choices, take creative risks, and discover where the materials lead them. Come get cozy, get curious, and get wonderfully messy during winter break! 📅 December 21–23 No camp December 24 & 25 👧 Ages 4–8 Children must be ready to follow safety guidelines and engage in their projects for 30 minutes or more. Children must be fully potty-trained and capable of handling their bathroom needs independently. Any medical conditions (such as allergies or diabetes) and/or behavioral needs (including neurodiversity or trauma) must be disclosed during the sign-up process. This information helps us make necessary preparations and provide a supportive and enjoyable environment for everyone. All information shared is kept confidential. Camp Cancellation & Transfer Policy The policy for Messy Art Lab Camps is as follows: 100% refund for cancellations made within 24 hours of registration. All enrollment fees include a non-refundable 20% deposit. Refund of enrollment fee minus the 20% non-refundable deposit if cancellation is made prior to 30 days of session start date. No refund for cancellations made within 30 days of session start date, unless the spot is filled, in which case a refund credit minus the 20% non-refundable deposit will be issued. Cancellations must be requested in writing via email. Approval for transfer of camp week to another week will be determined on a case-by-case basis and based on availability, with a 20% non-refundable deposit/transfer penalty if made within 30 days of the original camp week start date.

Welcome to Winter at Highest Speak! No prerequisites necessary — this is a Level 1 introductory storytelling and writing class, perfect for beginner teens and tweens! In this fully interactive, high-energy class, students will have a ton of fun learning the essential elements of effective storytelling, story writing, and story structure. Through hilarious storytelling games and multiple hands-on storytelling assignments, your child will sharpen both their creative writing and public speaking skills. Winter is the perfect time for storytelling! With the season’s cozy vibes and magical atmosphere, students will be inspired to create and share imaginative, captivating stories that bring their ideas to life. Each class includes: - Open Forum: a positive, welcoming discussion to warm up - Mini Lesson: focused on a specific storytelling or performance topic - Speaking Games: fun, fast-paced activities to build creativity and confidence - Assignment: a daily storytelling or writing task to practice new skills For classes with more than 10 students, we provide two instructors to ensure every child receives plenty of individual attention and feedback in smaller breakout groups. Our instructors are not only professional skilled educators, but also stand-up comedians and performers, guaranteeing a fun, engaging, and memorable learning experience for every student! Please note: Assignments are expected to be completed outside of class to help students get the most out of their learning.

Welcome to Winter Storytelling at Highest Speak! No prerequisites – this is our introductory storytelling and writing class, perfect for beginners! Whether your child is brand new to storytelling or just wants to boost their confidence, this fun, high-energy class is the perfect place to start! Students will improve both their public speaking and creative writing skills as they learn how to craft and perform powerful stories in a supportive, laughter-filled environment. From developing story structure to delivering stories out loud, students will have a blast while building real-world communication skills. And what a perfect time of year to tell magical stories! Winter is full of wonder, imagination, and inspiration—making it the ideal season to bring creative ideas to life through words and performance. Students will work on both prepared stories and impromptu storytelling, building flexibility and confidence as they learn to think on their feet and express themselves clearly and creatively. Each class includes: Open Forum: positive group discussion to warm up and build connection Mini Lesson: focused instruction on a storytelling or performance concept Speaking Games: fast-paced, hilarious activities to boost confidence and creativity Story Assignment: writing or speaking activity that reinforces the day’s lesson Throughout the course, students will write, share, and present their original stories—building confidence in both written expression and spoken delivery. Individualized feedback helps each student grow at their own pace. ✨ All classes with more than 10 students are led by two instructors, ensuring personalized attention in smaller breakout groups. And yes—our instructors are not only experienced educators, but also stand-up comedians and performers—so your child can expect to laugh, engage, and leave class buzzing with excitement each week. 💬 Please Note: Light homework may be assigned each week. Students get the most out of the class when they practice their skills outside of our sessions.

Our premium, curriculum-based program has children ready to embark on an academic journey beyond introductory experiences. Children will expand upon the fundamental skills necessary for reading and writing as we explore letter recognition, phonics, sight words, spelling, and comprehension. They will engage in advanced academic learning, collaborate and negotiate with their peers, and learn ways to communicate, cooperate and play together.

Welcome to Winter at Highest Speak! No prerequisites necessary — this is a Level 1 introductory storytelling and writing class, perfect for beginner teens and tweens! In this fully interactive, high-energy class, students will have a ton of fun learning the essential elements of effective storytelling, story writing, and story structure. Through hilarious storytelling games and multiple hands-on storytelling assignments, your child will sharpen both their creative writing and public speaking skills. Winter is the perfect time for storytelling! With the season’s cozy vibes and magical atmosphere, students will be inspired to create and share imaginative, captivating stories that bring their ideas to life. Each class includes: - Open Forum: a positive, welcoming discussion to warm up - Mini Lesson: focused on a specific storytelling or performance topic - Speaking Games: fun, fast-paced activities to build creativity and confidence - Assignment: a daily storytelling or writing task to practice new skills For classes with more than 10 students, we provide two instructors to ensure every child receives plenty of individual attention and feedback in smaller breakout groups. Our instructors are not only professional skilled educators, but also stand-up comedians and performers, guaranteeing a fun, engaging, and memorable learning experience for every student! Please note: Assignments are expected to be completed outside of class to help students get the most out of their learning. Bonus Opportunity: Students enrolled in this class are eligible to participate in our Friday Evening Winter “Magic Mic” Night on December 12 for a small additional fee! Please register separately if you would like your child to join this fun, special storytelling event.

Level 2 Storytelling & Public Speaking (Grades 5–8) Class Length: 1 hour and 15 minutes Prerequisite: Students who completed any Highest Speak Summer 2026 Camp are eligible for this Level 2 course. Students who completed a Highest Speak course during the 2025–2026 school year may also qualify depending on the course completed and prior experience. Please contact us at info@highestspeak.com and we will be happy to confirm eligibility. ****Students beginning with Level 1 this Fall should continue with the Level 1 course sequence and are not yet eligible for Level 2. Great speakers know how to tell great stories! Whether giving a presentation, sharing an idea, delivering a speech, or speaking on the spot, strong storytelling skills help students connect with an audience and make their message memorable. This engaging Level 2 course is designed for students in grades 5–8 who are ready to build on their foundational skills and take their storytelling and public speaking to the next level. Students will develop more sophisticated stories, strengthen their writing and organization, and learn how to deliver their ideas with greater confidence, creativity, and impact. In this fun, interactive class, students will: Create engaging, well-structured stories with strong openings, clear progression, and memorable endings Develop richer stories using descriptive details, character development, dialogue, conflict, and other creative techniques Strengthen organization and learn how to shape ideas into compelling narratives Use vocal variety, pacing, pauses, gestures, facial expressions, and movement to bring stories to life Practice both prepared storytelling and impromptu speaking Participate in creative storytelling games and speaking challenges that build quick thinking and confidence Receive constructive feedback and learn how to use it to strengthen both content and delivery Build greater confidence presenting original stories and ideas in front of an audience Our instructors are experienced educators and performers who create an encouraging, high-energy environment where students can take creative risks, develop their individual speaking style, and continue growing as confident communicators. Please note: Assignments will be given throughout the course to support preparation and practice outside of class for the best results. Questions about Level 2 eligibility? Please email us at info@highestspeak.com. We’re happy to review your child’s previous Highest Speak experience and recommend the appropriate level.

Level 2 Storytelling & Public Speaking (Grades 5–8) Class Length: 1 hour and 15 minutes Prerequisite: Students who completed any Highest Speak Summer 2026 Camp are eligible for this Level 2 course. Students who completed a Highest Speak course during the 2025–2026 school year may also qualify depending on the course completed and prior experience. Please contact us at info@highestspeak.com and we will be happy to confirm eligibility. ****Students beginning with Level 1 this Fall should continue with the Level 1 course sequence and are not yet eligible for Level 2. Great speakers know how to tell great stories! Whether giving a presentation, sharing an idea, delivering a speech, or speaking on the spot, strong storytelling skills help students connect with an audience and make their message memorable. This engaging Level 2 course is designed for students in grades 5–8 who are ready to build on their foundational skills and take their storytelling and public speaking to the next level. Students will develop more sophisticated stories, strengthen their writing and organization, and learn how to deliver their ideas with greater confidence, creativity, and impact. In this fun, interactive class, students will: Create engaging, well-structured stories with strong openings, clear progression, and memorable endings Develop richer stories using descriptive details, character development, dialogue, conflict, and other creative techniques Strengthen organization and learn how to shape ideas into compelling narratives Use vocal variety, pacing, pauses, gestures, facial expressions, and movement to bring stories to life Practice both prepared storytelling and impromptu speaking Participate in creative storytelling games and speaking challenges that build quick thinking and confidence Receive constructive feedback and learn how to use it to strengthen both content and delivery Build greater confidence presenting original stories and ideas in front of an audience Our instructors are experienced educators and performers who create an encouraging, high-energy environment where students can take creative risks, develop their individual speaking style, and continue growing as confident communicators. Please note: Assignments will be given throughout the course to support preparation and practice outside of class for the best results. Questions about Level 2 eligibility? Please email us at info@highestspeak.com. We’re happy to review your child’s previous Highest Speak experience and recommend the appropriate level.

Level 2 Storytelling & Public Speaking (Grades 5–8) Class Length: 1 hour and 15 minutes Prerequisite: Students who completed any Highest Speak Summer 2026 Camp are eligible for this Level 2 course. Students who completed a Highest Speak course during the 2025–2026 school year may also qualify depending on the course completed and prior experience. Please contact us at info@highestspeak.com and we will be happy to confirm eligibility. ****Students beginning with Level 1 this Fall should continue with the Level 1 course sequence and are not yet eligible for Level 2. Great speakers know how to tell great stories! Whether giving a presentation, sharing an idea, delivering a speech, or speaking on the spot, strong storytelling skills help students connect with an audience and make their message memorable. This engaging Level 2 course is designed for students in grades 5–8 who are ready to build on their foundational skills and take their storytelling and public speaking to the next level. Students will develop more sophisticated stories, strengthen their writing and organization, and learn how to deliver their ideas with greater confidence, creativity, and impact. In this fun, interactive class, students will: Create engaging, well-structured stories with strong openings, clear progression, and memorable endings Develop richer stories using descriptive details, character development, dialogue, conflict, and other creative techniques Strengthen organization and learn how to shape ideas into compelling narratives Use vocal variety, pacing, pauses, gestures, facial expressions, and movement to bring stories to life Practice both prepared storytelling and impromptu speaking Participate in creative storytelling games and speaking challenges that build quick thinking and confidence Receive constructive feedback and learn how to use it to strengthen both content and delivery Build greater confidence presenting original stories and ideas in front of an audience Our instructors are experienced educators and performers who create an encouraging, high-energy environment where students can take creative risks, develop their individual speaking style, and continue growing as confident communicators. Please note: Assignments will be given throughout the course to support preparation and practice outside of class for the best results. Questions about Level 2 eligibility? Please email us at info@highestspeak.com. We’re happy to review your child’s previous Highest Speak experience and recommend the appropriate level.

Where they are: Children are ready to embark on a classroom experience without their adults by their side. They are ready to develop early literacy skills; collaborate and negotiate with their peers; and learn ways to communicate, cooperate and play together. What to expect in class: A playful twist on a traditional preschool/pre-k class. Children will develop the fundamental skills necessary for reading and writing as we explore letter recognition, phonics, sight words, spelling, and comprehension. They will build social skills during Gathering Time, while exploring the day’s fun and imaginative theme, and during Show and Share. Children will learn decision-making skills and build fine motor skills during our station play, and expand their creativity through art. The learning will extend to the home with printable “Literacy Kits”, with letter and theme-based worksheets. We will help prepare them for a lifetime love of school, classrooms, and learning. Benefits: Physical:As a play-based program, children will continue to develop their gross-motor skills through movement games, free play, and team-building activities. Cognitive: Build foundational literacy skills, nurture imagination and creativity, and practice problem-solving. Social: Build key social skills and self-confidence needed for kindergarten and beyond.

Welcome to Winter Storytelling at Highest Speak! No prerequisites – this is our introductory storytelling and writing class, perfect for beginners! Whether your child is brand new to storytelling or just wants to boost their confidence, this fun, high-energy class is the perfect place to start! Students will improve both their public speaking and creative writing skills as they learn how to craft and perform powerful stories in a supportive, laughter-filled environment. From developing story structure to delivering stories out loud, students will have a blast while building real-world communication skills. And what a perfect time of year to tell magical stories! Winter is full of wonder, imagination, and inspiration—making it the ideal season to bring creative ideas to life through words and performance. Students will work on both prepared stories and impromptu storytelling, building flexibility and confidence as they learn to think on their feet and express themselves clearly and creatively. Each class includes: Open Forum: positive group discussion to warm up and build connection Mini Lesson: focused instruction on a storytelling or performance concept Speaking Games: fast-paced, hilarious activities to boost confidence and creativity Story Assignment: writing or speaking activity that reinforces the day’s lesson Throughout the course, students will write, share, and present their original stories—building confidence in both written expression and spoken delivery. Individualized feedback helps each student grow at their own pace. ✨ All classes with more than 10 students are led by two instructors, ensuring personalized attention in smaller breakout groups. And yes—our instructors are not only experienced educators, but also stand-up comedians and performers—so your child can expect to laugh, engage, and leave class buzzing with excitement each week. 💬 Please Note: Light homework may be assigned each week. Students get the most out of the class when they practice their skills outside of our sessions.

Fall Semester Session Two (October-December) Students will exercise the imagination at the Art House. This class is designed to help our young artists learn and develop fine art skills that will also help them in writing and problem solving! Your child will be drawing, painting, and sculpting. Classes also expose them to art history. They are encouraged in their self expression while also learning to follow directions. Our projects are always new and engaging as they continue to grow in their abilities. We desire to build confidence and support their strengths. Classes are limited in sizes so sign your child up today!

A playful twist on a traditional preschool/pre-k class. Children will develop the fundamental skills necessary for reading and writing as we explore letter recognition, phonics, sight words, spelling, and comprehension. They will build social skills during Gathering Time, while exploring the day’s fun and imaginative theme. Children will learn decision-making skills and build fine motor skills during our station play, and expand their creativity through art. We will help prepare them for a lifetime love of school, classrooms, and learning.

There are as many metaphors to describe what locals call 'down in the Buckskin' as there are people who have been there. I choose the word 'in' because you are literally inside the walls of the world's longest slot canyon. According to the Bureau of Land Management ('BLM') website, Buckskin Gulch is 16 miles long (around 26 km) from the Buckskin Trailhead to the Paria Canyon and over 500 feet (around 150m) deep at its confluence with the Paria River. There are places in the Buckskin where you are able to touch both canyon walls at the same time. Buckskin Gulch is a photographer's and hiker's Mecca. Every corner you turn is changing continuously; the cliffs are water-and-wind-sculpted patterns of colors, light and shadows. You may also marvel and puzzle at the meanings of the rock writings (petroglyphs) from the early Archaic period (some are as old as 9,000 years). It was voted one the top 10 hikes in the world by National Geographic Adventure Magazine a few years back.

In the heart of downtown Chicago, the American Writers Museum celebrates all genres of writing through interactive exhibits and programming. From Twain to Tupac, there's a story here for everyone. Discover for yourself and visit today! Named Illinois' Best Attraction by USA Today and One of the 10 Best New Museums in the World by Fodor's. Flexible Date Entry

In Salem, Massachusetts in the late 1690s, a man & a woman fall in love. But shortly before the wedding, the man finds a magic spell in his fiancée’s handwriting - the spell was to make him fall in love with her by unnatural means. He rejects her & calls off the wedding, calling her an evil witch. “I'll show you an evil witch!” she vows & turns him into a vampire, but that isn’t all: he finds his coffin impossible to open! Now it’s up to you & your team to uncover the secrets of their love affair & help the vampire reclaim his coffin.

Our tour will start at the Lowell National Historical Park Visitor Center, pass by the places that shaped Kerouac’s childhood, inspired his writing, and welcomed the wild energy of the Beat Generation. You’ll get a chance to see his park, his typewriter, the mill his parents worked at, the high school he played football, the library he often frequented and the bar he spent much of his time writing stories. Go at your own pace, anytime. The tour is hands free, and plays as you walk.

This guided walking tour will take you to the real places that Hemingway lived, worked and played, including where he watched and refereed boxing matches, where he kept his boat the Pilar, the bookstore where his books were sold, his first apartment in Key West where he finished writing “A Farewell to Arms”. Along the way you will have three food samplings, before visiting where he took the train, fished and charted boats in the Key West Harbor, and finally where he spent a lot of time drinking- Sloppy Joe's. Numerous other historical sites that Hemingway frequented while he lived in Key West will also be visited on this incredibly authentic tour.

Lose yourself for two hours in this amazing Beach Boys production. This talented cast takes audiences on a musical journey though the 60's and 70s to the West Coast beaches.  Beautiful harmonies, unique songwriting and skillfully choreographed dance moves are combined to make this an experience you won't want to miss.

Hey y’all — I’ve lived in Nashville for over 20 years, writing songs, co-writing on Music Row, and performing country music from coast to coast. I love Music City — especially the history of Music Row. Come join me on a walking tour! You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at this iconic area from someone who’s been in the writing rooms, worked with musicians who knew the legends, and lived the musical heartbeat of this town. We’ll walk past the studios and landmarks where country and rock ’n’ roll history were made. Along the way, I’ll share some of my own experiences and maybe even play a tune or two. It’s laid-back, personal, and different every time. My goal is to keep it fun and meaningful with real stories from the road and the Row. We’ll wrap things up with a private acoustic performance — possibly in my favorite Music Row dive bar! **Note:** I only offer a few of these per month and require at least 3 days' notice to book. Feel free to message me with questions before booking!