Writing Classes Near Me

Farmer Bob is missing and we need your help to solve this mystery! Campers will serve as investigators to try and locate Bob and as forensic scientists analyzing evidence collected at the crime scenes. Latent print and footprint comparisons, toolmark and handwriting analysis, principles of chromatography, scientific method and DNA analysis will all be used to solve this mystery! (Based on curriculum developed by BCI, which incorporates a study of Ohio fossils.)

Join our Authors' Workshop, designed for children ages 8 to 12! In this fun and engaging class, young writers will learn the essentials of the writing process, from brainstorming ideas to enticing readers with fun facts or a compelling story. With guidance from an experienced instructor, each child will move through the writing process, just like authors do. By the end of the week, they’ll have a published piece to take home, celebrating their creativity and inspiring a love for writing!

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION! Filmmaking & Acting Summer Camp Overview: This 5-day summer camp is an immersive experience where campers will create multiple short films, each exploring different storytelling styles and genres. Through a mix of hands-on activities, improvisation, and teamwork, campers will develop creative confidence while making movies they’ll be proud of. DAY 1: Action-Packed One-Take Movie & Silent Film Challenge 🎬 Focus: Acting, Movement, and Visual Storytelling • Icebreaker: “Act It Out” – Fun group activities to build confidence on camera. • The One-Take Action Movie – Campers create a 1-2 minute action scene in a single take (e.g., a zombie chase, a superhero showdown, or a spy escape). • The Silent Movie Challenge – Inspired by classic silent films, teams must tell a short story using only expressions and physical comedy (e.g., “The Great Pie Fight” or “Lost in the City”). • Screen & Discuss – Watch the films and discuss storytelling without words. DAY 2: Mystery, Comedy & The Talk Show Challenge 🎬 Focus: Writing & Improvisation • The Mystery Short Film – Groups create a 2-3 minute whodunit (e.g., “The Missing Trophy” or “The Haunted Backpack”). • Comedy & Improv Games – Learn comedic timing through fast-paced acting exercises. • The Talk Show Challenge – Each group produces a hilarious or serious talk show segment with characters (e.g., “Aliens Among Us,” “Secrets from the Principal’s Office”). • Scriptwriting & Planning for the Big Film – Start brainstorming and outlining the main project for Days 3-5. DAY 3: Filming the Big Movie – Genre Pick 🎬 Focus: Shooting a Full Short Film Campers break into teams and choose one of the following genres for their main project: Some examples of movies are below but the story will be decided by campers. ✅ Sci-Fi: “The Portal Problem” – A group of kids discovers a strange portal in the park. ✅ Fantasy: “The Magic Object” – An ordinary object gives someone unexpected powers. ✅ Horror: “The Cursed Phone” – A haunted smartphone wreaks havoc. ✅ Comedy: “The Worst Babysitter Ever” – A chaotic babysitting adventure. ✅ Drama: “Best Friends… or Worst Enemies?” – A friendship takes an unexpected turn. • Assign Roles & Rehearse – Actors practice, and directors finalize their shot lists. • Filming Begins! – Teams start shooting their films, capturing multiple scenes. DAY 4: Continue Filming & Special Effects Scene 🎬 Focus: Finishing Scenes & Adding Movie Magic • Morning: Finishing Principal Filming – Complete any remaining scenes. • The Special Effects Scene Challenge – Learn to shoot basic special effects, like: • Superpowers (e.g., teleportation, flying, force fields) • Disappearing Tricks (using jump cuts and clever angles) • Ghostly Figures (double exposure tricks) • Editing Prep – Organize footage and choose music/sound effects. DAY 5: Editing & Film Festival Premiere 🎬 Focus: Bringing It All Together & Celebrating • Final Editing Touches – Groups polish their films and add soundtracks. • Movie Poster Challenge – Each team creates a poster for their film. • Wrap-Up & Goodbyes – Exchange contacts and reflect on the week’s experience. Extras: • Online Film Access – Campers will receive a link to download their movies and we will sometimes hold film festivals at various venues across the city!

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION! Filmmaking & Acting Summer Camp Overview: This 5-day summer camp is an immersive experience where campers will create multiple short films, each exploring different storytelling styles and genres. Through a mix of hands-on activities, improvisation, and teamwork, campers will develop creative confidence while making movies they’ll be proud of. DAY 1: Action-Packed One-Take Movie & Silent Film Challenge 🎬 Focus: Acting, Movement, and Visual Storytelling • Icebreaker: “Act It Out” – Fun group activities to build confidence on camera. • The One-Take Action Movie – Campers create a 1-2 minute action scene in a single take (e.g., a zombie chase, a superhero showdown, or a spy escape). • The Silent Movie Challenge – Inspired by classic silent films, teams must tell a short story using only expressions and physical comedy (e.g., “The Great Pie Fight” or “Lost in the City”). • Screen & Discuss – Watch the films and discuss storytelling without words. DAY 2: Mystery, Comedy & The Talk Show Challenge 🎬 Focus: Writing & Improvisation • The Mystery Short Film – Groups create a 2-3 minute whodunit (e.g., “The Missing Trophy” or “The Haunted Backpack”). • Comedy & Improv Games – Learn comedic timing through fast-paced acting exercises. • The Talk Show Challenge – Each group produces a hilarious or serious talk show segment with characters (e.g., “Aliens Among Us,” “Secrets from the Principal’s Office”). • Scriptwriting & Planning for the Big Film – Start brainstorming and outlining the main project for Days 3-5. DAY 3: Filming the Big Movie – Genre Pick 🎬 Focus: Shooting a Full Short Film Campers break into teams and choose one of the following genres for their main project: Some examples of movies are below but the story will be decided by campers. ✅ Sci-Fi: “The Portal Problem” – A group of kids discovers a strange portal in the park. ✅ Fantasy: “The Magic Object” – An ordinary object gives someone unexpected powers. ✅ Horror: “The Cursed Phone” – A haunted smartphone wreaks havoc. ✅ Comedy: “The Worst Babysitter Ever” – A chaotic babysitting adventure. ✅ Drama: “Best Friends… or Worst Enemies?” – A friendship takes an unexpected turn. • Assign Roles & Rehearse – Actors practice, and directors finalize their shot lists. • Filming Begins! – Teams start shooting their films, capturing multiple scenes. DAY 4: Continue Filming & Special Effects Scene 🎬 Focus: Finishing Scenes & Adding Movie Magic • Morning: Finishing Principal Filming – Complete any remaining scenes. • The Special Effects Scene Challenge – Learn to shoot basic special effects, like: • Superpowers (e.g., teleportation, flying, force fields) • Disappearing Tricks (using jump cuts and clever angles) • Ghostly Figures (double exposure tricks) • Editing Prep – Organize footage and choose music/sound effects. DAY 5: Editing & Film Festival Premiere 🎬 Focus: Bringing It All Together & Celebrating • Final Editing Touches – Groups polish their films and add soundtracks. • Movie Poster Challenge – Each team creates a poster for their film. • Wrap-Up & Goodbyes – Exchange contacts and reflect on the week’s experience. Extras: • Online Film Access – Campers will receive a link to download their movies and we will sometimes hold film festivals at various venues across the city!

Lights, Camera, Action! 5-Day Filmmaking and Acting Summer Camp Overview: Lights, Camera, Action! is a dynamic and engaging 5-day summer camp designed to introduce students to the exciting world of filmmaking and acting. Through a blend of interactive workshops, hands-on activities, and practical exercises, campers will learn the fundamentals of storytelling, scriptwriting, acting, camera techniques, and video editing. Led by experienced instructors, this immersive experience will empower campers to unleash their creativity, collaborate with peers, and bring their ideas to life on screen. Day 1: Introduction to Filmmaking - Explore the basics of filmmaking and storytelling. - Engage in icebreaker activities to foster a sense of community. - Learn about the various roles in filmmaking and the importance of collaboration. - Dive into acting games and exercises to build confidence in front of the camera. Day 2: Pre-production - Develop storytelling skills through scriptwriting and storyboarding. - Assign roles and responsibilities for the production phase. - Plan shooting schedules and scout locations around the camp. Day 3: Production - Gain hands-on experience with filmmaking equipment. - Rehearse scenes and fine-tune performances under the guidance of acting coaches. - Begin filming scenes according to the production schedule. Day 4: Post-production - Learn the basics of video editing software. - Edit footage to create a polished final cut. - Explore sound design techniques to enhance the film's audio. Day 5: Screening and Wrap-Up - Present completed films in a special screening event. - Share experiences and insights gained during the camp. Throughout the camp, participants will collaborate in small groups to create their own short films, allowing them to develop teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. By the end of the week, campers will have gained a deeper appreciation for the art of filmmaking and acting while creating lasting memories and friendships. * Completed Movies will made available for download online shortly after the end of the course. ** On occasions, movies will be entered into international film festivals! If this is the case, we will offer letters of consent from parents before application.

High School Public Speaking Weekend Bootcamp Join us for a fun, high-energy weekend bootcamp designed to help high school students become confident, clear, and engaging speakers! Whether you're prepping for class presentations, student leadership, or college interviews, this bootcamp will give you the tools to speak up and stand out. Over two interactive sessions, students will learn the fundamentals of public speaking, including how to structure their thoughts, write compelling content, and deliver with confidence. We’ll explore a variety of speaking formats—persuasive, storytelling, debate, and impromptu—while keeping the atmosphere encouraging and collaborative. With a balance of writing and speaking exercises, students will improve their communication on the page and on the stage. The weekend includes plenty of individualized instructor coaching and peer feedback, so each student walks away with tangible growth and renewed confidence. This bootcamp is not only about skills—it’s about connection. Students will build friendships, practice social confidence, and have a blast while they learn. Bootcamp Agenda Day 1 – Foundations & Expression Welcome & Icebreakers - Fun speaking warm-ups to build comfort and group connection - Set personal speaking goals for the weekend The Building Blocks of Public Speaking - Learn to use voice, body language, and pacing with confidence - What makes a speaker memorable? Structure & Clarity - Organize thoughts clearly and effectively - Practice mini speech outlines - Share and receive peer feedback Break (20 minutes) Impromptu Speaking Practice - Think on your feet with fun prompts and games - Build confidence with instructor and peer feedback - Daily Wrap-Up & Reflection - Reflect on what you’ve learned Preview Day 2 Day 2 – Crafting & Performing Warm-Up & Speaking Game - Energizing group activity to get everyone talking and collaborating Writing for Impact - Craft powerful openings, closings, and use of storytelling - Learn persuasive techniques to strengthen your message Speech Craft - Choose a format (persuasive, storytelling, or debate-style) - Draft your own short speech with individual support Break (20 minutes) Coaching & Practice Rounds - Practice speeches in small groups - Receive targeted instructor coaching and peer feedback - Strengthen both writing and performance Closing Reflection & Optional Mini Showcase -Share final takeaways Optional: Present your final speech in a mini showcase Celebrate growth and build lasting confidence

Lights, Camera, Action! 5-Day Filmmaking and Acting Summer Camp Overview: Lights, Camera, Action! is a dynamic and engaging 5-day summer camp designed to introduce students to the exciting world of filmmaking and acting. Through a blend of interactive workshops, hands-on activities, and practical exercises, campers will learn the fundamentals of storytelling, scriptwriting, acting, camera techniques, and video editing. Led by experienced instructors, this immersive experience will empower campers to unleash their creativity, collaborate with peers, and bring their ideas to life on screen. Day 1: Introduction to Filmmaking - Explore the basics of filmmaking and storytelling. - Engage in icebreaker activities to foster a sense of community. - Learn about the various roles in filmmaking and the importance of collaboration. - Dive into acting games and exercises to build confidence in front of the camera. Day 2: Pre-production - Develop storytelling skills through scriptwriting and storyboarding. - Assign roles and responsibilities for the production phase. - Plan shooting schedules and scout locations around the camp. Day 3: Production - Gain hands-on experience with filmmaking equipment. - Rehearse scenes and fine-tune performances under the guidance of acting coaches. - Begin filming scenes according to the production schedule. Day 4: Post-production - Learn the basics of video editing software. - Edit footage to create a polished final cut. - Explore sound design techniques to enhance the film's audio. Day 5: Screening and Wrap-Up - Present completed films in a special screening event. - Share experiences and insights gained during the camp. Throughout the camp, participants will collaborate in small groups to create their own short films, allowing them to develop teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. By the end of the week, campers will have gained a deeper appreciation for the art of filmmaking and acting while creating lasting memories and friendships. * Completed Movies will made available for download online shortly after the end of the course. ** On occasions, movies will be entered into international film festivals! If this is the case, we will offer letters of consent from parents before application.

Ultimate 3-Week Public Speaking & Creativity Summer Program for Rising 5th-8th Graders! Join us at our brand-new CENTER in Reston, VA, for an unforgettable summer filled with confidence-building, creativity, laughter and communication! Over three weeks, students will dive into public speaking, creative writing, debate, entrepreneurship, improv, and more! Whether your child wants to strengthen their voice, unleash their imagination, or sharpen their persuasion skills, this program has something for everyone! Week 1 (July 21-25): Public Speaking & Creative Writing AM Session: Ultimate Public Speaking Program • Master the art of confident public speaking through engaging lessons and interactive activities with plenty of practice and individualized feedback. • Learn persuasive speech, storytelling, and impromptu speaking skills. • Gain essential communication techniques for school, social settings, and future careers. PM Session: Write & Rock! Creative Writing Coolness • Explore character development, world-building, and storytelling techniques. • Build confidence in writing and presenting original works. • Engage in interactive exercises that blend writing with public speaking skills. Week 2 (July 28-August 1): Advanced Public Speaking & Debate AM Session: Public Speaking Mastery – Debate & Persuasive Speaking • Develop structured arguments and think critically in engaging debates. • Learn persuasive techniques and refine delivery through real-time feedback. • Strengthen confidence in class discussions, leadership roles, and social settings. PM Session: Expression Explosion! Readers Theater, Monologues & Improv • Develop confidence and creativity through theater-based activities. • Perform in Readers Theater, monologues, and improv games. • Strengthen speaking and quick-thinking skills in a supportive environment. Week 3 (August 4-8): STEAM Innovation & Theatrical Expression AM Session: STEAM Tank – Innovate, Speak & Pitch Like a Pro! • Inspired by Shark Tank, campers will create, brand, and pitch a business or product idea. • Learn persuasive speaking, marketing, and intellectual property basics. • Participate in a high-energy pitch showcase judged by real professionals! PM Session: Comedy Camp! Stand-Up & Stand Out! Get ready to write, perform, and bring the laughs in this fun and interactive comedy camp for rising 5th-8th graders! Stand-up comedy is one of the most challenging—but also most FUN—forms of public speaking, and this camp will help young comedians build the skills they need to craft clever (and age-appropriate) jokes, develop their own comedic style, deliver punchlines, and stand up on the comedic stage with confidence! Over 10 hours of hands-on learning, campers will: 🎤 Discover the art of writing humor – from wordplay to storytelling to perfecting comedic timing. 😂 Create their own jokes & stand-up routines – developing material that fits their unique style and personality. 👀 Receive peer and instructor feedback – refining their work through fun, supportive critique. 🎭 Perform their original stand-up sets – putting their skills to the test in a final comedy showcase! Daily Schedule for All Camps: 9:30 – 10:00 AM – Early Drop-Off (Extra Fee – Please Add to Your Registration) 10:00 – 11:30 AM – Morning Session Part 1 11:30 – 11:50 AM – Snack & Socialization/Activity Time 11:50 AM – 1:00 PM – Practice/Activity/Feedback Time 1:00 – 1:45 PM – Lunch & Quiet Activity (Drop-Off for PM Students) 1:45 – 2:00 PM – Warm-Up & Icebreakers 2:00 – 4:00 PM – Lessons, Practice, & Feedback 4:00 – 4:30 PM – Wind Down & Parent Pick-Up Why Choose This Program? ✔️ Designed for middle schoolers to develop real-world confidence and communication skills. ✔️ Taught by expert instructors, including Sumedha Bahri, Patent Attorney, Professor, Speaker & Stand-Up Comic! ✔️ Hands-on, engaging activities with daily practice and personalized feedback. ✔️ Small class sizes for individual attention and maximum participation. ✔️ A fun, supportive environment where students learn while having a blast! Don’t miss out—spots fill up fast! Secure your child’s place in the Ultimate 3-Week Public Speaking & Creativity Summer Program today!

Ultimate 3-Week Creative Writing + Readers’ Theatre and Improv + Comedy Writing and Performance (PM Program) PM Session Daily Schedule: 1:00 – 1:45 PM – Lunch & Quiet Activity (Drop-Off for PM Students) 1:45 – 2:00 PM – Warm-Up & Icebreakers 2:00 – 4:00 PM – Lessons, Practice, & Feedback 4:00 – 4:30 PM – Wind Down & Parent Pick-Up Week 1 (July 21-25): Write & Rock! Creative Writing Coolness • Explore character development, world-building, and storytelling techniques. • Build confidence in writing and presenting original works. • Engage in interactive exercises that blend writing with public speaking skills. Week 2 (July 28-August 1): Expression Explosion! Readers Theater, Monologues & Improv • Develop confidence and creativity through theater-based activities. • Perform in Readers Theater, monologues, and improv games. • Strengthen speaking and fun, quick-thinking skills in a supportive environment. Week 3 (August 4-8): Comedy Camp! Stand-Up & Stand Out! Get ready to write, perform, and bring the laughs in this fun and interactive comedy camp for rising 5th-8th graders! Stand-up comedy is one of the most challenging—but also most FUN—forms of public speaking, and this camp will help young comedians build the skills they need to craft clever (and age-appropriate) jokes, develop their own comedic style, deliver punchlines, and stand up on the comedic stage with confidence! Over 10 hours of hands-on learning, campers will: 🎤 Discover the art of writing humor – from wordplay to storytelling to perfecting comedic timing. 😂 Create their own jokes & stand-up routines – developing material that fits their unique style and personality. 👀 Receive peer and instructor feedback – refining their work through fun, supportive critique. 🎭 Perform their original stand-up sets – putting their skills to the test in a final comedy showcase! Why Choose This Program? ✔️ Designed for middle schoolers to develop real-world confidence and communication skills through incredible fun and creative courses! ✔️ Taught by expert instructors, including Sumedha Bahri, Patent Attorney, Professor, Speaker & Stand-Up Comic! ✔️ Hands-on, engaging activities with daily practice and personalized feedback. ✔️ Small class sizes for individual attention and maximum participation. ✔️ A fun, supportive environment where students learn while having a blast! Don’t miss out—spots fill up fast! Secure your child’s place in the Ultimate 3-Week PM Ultimate Writer and Performer Pack!

"Write & Shine: A Creative Writing Adventure" - Summer Camp at Highest Speak Unleash your creativity this summer with Write & Shine: A Creative Writing Adventure, a fun-filled, 5-day camp designed to ignite the imaginations of rising 2nd to 4th graders! Over the course of five exciting days, campers will develop their writing skills through hands-on lessons, fun writing activities, and the opportunity to build confidence in public speaking. Through interactive games, group discussions, and creative exercises, each child will walk away with not only a stronger command of creative writing but also valuable public speaking skills that will serve them for years to come. Camp Schedule: 1:00-1:45 PM – Lunch Break/Quiet Activity Time to relax, recharge, and enjoy a quiet activity like reading or drawing to get ready for the exciting afternoon. 1:45-2:00 PM – Circle Time We’ll gather in a circle to share our thoughts, review the day's goals, and engage in icebreakers or quick creative exercises to prepare for class time. 2:00-4:00 PM – Class Time Each day will feature a lesson on an important aspect of creative writing, followed by a hands-on writing activity and an opportunity to present their work. The focus will be on fostering creativity, building writing confidence, and developing skills in public speaking. 4-4:30pm- Wind down activity while waiting for parent pick-up Each student will receive valuable, constructive feedback on their writing from both peers and instructors. This feedback will help them sharpen their writing skills, not only improving their creativity but also preparing them for school assignments and projects. The ability to review and revise their work based on feedback will be an essential tool for success in school, especially in writing-intensive subjects. Additionally, practicing presenting their stories will enhance their public speaking abilities, boosting their confidence in class presentations and future speaking engagements. Ready to Write & Shine? Sign up today for this unique summer camp and watch your child’s creativity flourish in a supportive, fun, and educational environment!

Children will explore the colorful world of rainbows, the wonder of unicorns, and the joy of expression. Each week concludes with a special Art Show, where the children proudly showcase their incredible creations! - Drop off starts at 9:00am. - Pick up is 2:45pm to 3:00pm. - Aftercare hours available 3pm-5pm - Our aftercare can be purchased as a series package, we will not be offering aftercare on FRIDAYS. If you’re looking for individual days, please email ximena@messyartlab.com for individual aftercare days. What to Bring.... No NUTS or nut products are allowed at our program. -Two healthy snacks ( morning and afternoon) -Lunch (Please DO NOT pack sugary drinks, gum, or sweets) -A refillable water bottle -Comfortable clothes that can get messy and stained. -Please send your child with a jacket, sunhat, and layers. -Please put sunscreen on your child BEFORE camp. - A pair of extra clothing. Requirements : - 4-8 years old ( NO EXCEPTIONS) - 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 (neurodiversity, trauma) your child may have must be informed during the sign-up process. This information will help us make any necessary preparations and provide a supportive and enjoyable environment for everyone. Please note that all information shared is kept confidential. The policy for Messy Art Lab Camps refund and cancellations is as follows: - 100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of registration. - All enrollment fees include a non-refundable deposit of 20%. - Refund of enrollment fee minus 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 credits 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 per availability, with a penalty fee of 20% non-refundable deposit if made within 30 days of original camp week start date.

Timings: (Please send the email to connect@thegrowwise.com if you want a different timing other than offered with the program) 9:30 -11:30 12:30 -2:30 Our Bridge The Gap program helps 5th and 6th-grade students strengthen their Math and English skills, ensuring a smooth, confident transition to higher grades. It addresses learning gaps, builds confidence, and enhances comprehension and problem-solving skills. Why Choose Bridge The Gap? Seamless Grade Transition: Prepares students for the next school year by bridging gaps in Math and English. Engaging Approach: Fun, interactive lessons, games, and puzzles to keep learning enjoyable. Skill Enhancement: Development of problem-solving, writing, analytical thinking, and comprehension skills. Progress Monitoring: Regular assessments and reports to track improvement and keep parents informed. Confidence Boost: It builds confidence in challenging topics, giving students a strong start for middle school. Help your child excel with our Bridge The Gap program—designed to make learning fun and effective!

Our Bridge The Gap program helps 5th and 6th graders strengthen their Math and English skills, ensuring a smooth, confident transition to higher grades. It addresses learning gaps, builds confidence, and enhances comprehension and problem-solving skills. Why Choose Bridge The Gap? Seamless Grade Transition: Prepares students for the next school year by bridging gaps in Math and English. Engaging Approach: Fun, interactive lessons, games, and puzzles to keep learning enjoyable. Skill Enhancement: Development of problem-solving, writing, analytical thinking, and comprehension skills. Progress Monitoring: Regular assessments and reports to track improvement and keep parents informed. Confidence Boost: It builds confidence in challenging topics, giving students a strong start for middle school. Help your child excel with our Bridge The Gap program—designed to make learning fun and effective!

Class Duration: 2 Hours Grade: Grade 3 and Above Our Writing Lab program helps students develop strong writing skills through creative writing, storytelling, academic writing, and structured writing exercises. From crafting engaging stories and essays to creating digital content, we focus on enhancing grammar, vocabulary, and confidence in writing. Why Choose the Writing Lab? Boosts Creativity & Structure: Balance imaginative storytelling with clear, organized writing techniques. Teaches Essential Writing Skills: Master grammar, essay writing, creative writing, and diverse writing styles. Encourages Collaboration: Participate in peer reviews and receive constructive feedback. Embraces Digital Tools: Integrate technology and explore digital storytelling.

Class Duration: 2 Hours Grade: Grade 3 and Above Our Writing Lab program helps students develop strong writing skills through creative writing, storytelling, academic writing, and structured writing exercises. From crafting engaging stories and essays to creating digital content, we focus on enhancing grammar, vocabulary, and confidence in writing. Why Choose the Writing Lab? Boosts Creativity & Structure: Balance imaginative storytelling with clear, organized writing techniques. Teaches Essential Writing Skills: Master grammar, essay writing, creative writing, and diverse writing styles. Encourages Collaboration: Participate in peer reviews and receive constructive feedback. Embraces Digital Tools: Integrate technology and explore digital storytelling.

Date & Time June 23-27, 9:30am-2:30pm General Information This course is designed for students entering 8th-12th grades. Please be sure to pack a healthy snack and lunch for writers. Students will have access to restaurants within the SJSU SU, but we likely will not know which eateries are open until the week of camp. NOVEL WRITING COURSE DESCRIPTION This course will cover everything you ever wanted to know about writing a book—and culminate with you writing one! We’ll tackle concepts, first lines, chapter structure, and everything else needed to craft exciting and meaningful worlds for our characters, including the minute details of world building that really make a story come to life. While writing, we’ll work on ways to keep up motivation, tackle writer’s block, and avoid creating another unfinished work. This course is designed as a precursor to our Novel Writing Program. At the end of the week students will have pages ready to apply for our year-round online program. Instructor Bios Jane Gilmore is the director of the Teen Novel Writing Program & holds a certificate in novel writing from Stanford University. The screenplay she has written based upon the novel she completed at Stanford has been recognized and awarded by numerous film festivals, including Sedona International Film Festival and the Cannes screenplay competition. She has taught Novel Writing with the Writing Project for seven years in addition to her role as Program Director of SJAWP. Hannah Jayne is the author of the UNDERWORLD DETECTION AGENCY CHRONICLES from Kensington books and the young adult thrillers TRULY, MADLY, DEADLY, SEE JANE RUN, THE DARE, and THE ESCAPE, available from Sourcebooks, Inc. When she’s not battling the demons of the Underworld or tackling a murderer at Hawthorne High, Jayne kicks her feet up in her San Francisco bay area home with her rock star husband, daughter, and their three enormous cats.

Join us as we explore the beauty of nature, the wonder of storytelling, and the magic of art, all inspired by the enchanting world of fairies! Each week concludes with a special Art Show, where the children proudly showcase their incredible creations! - Drop off starts at 9:00am. - Pick up is 2:45pm to 3:00pm. - Aftercare hours available 3pm-5pm - Our aftercare can be purchased as a series package, we will not be offering aftercare on FRIDAYS. If you’re looking for individual days, please email ximena@messyartlab.com for individual aftercare days. What to Bring.... No NUTS or nut products are allowed at our program. -Two healthy snacks ( morning and afternoon) -Lunch (Please DO NOT pack sugary drinks, gum, or sweets) -A refillable water bottle -Comfortable clothes that can get messy and stained. -Please send your child with a jacket, sunhat, and layers. -Please put sunscreen on your child BEFORE camp. - A pair of extra clothing. Requirements : - 4-8 years old ( NO EXCEPTIONS) - 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 (neurodiversity, trauma) your child may have must be informed during the sign-up process. This information will help us make any necessary preparations and provide a supportive and enjoyable environment for everyone. Please note that all information shared is kept confidential. The policy for Messy Art Lab Camps refund and cancellations is as follows: - 100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of registration. - All enrollment fees include a non-refundable deposit of 20%. - Refund of enrollment fee minus 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 credits 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 per availability, with a penalty fee of 20% non-refundable deposit if made within 30 days of original camp week start date.

A special week of camp in conjunction with Young Engineers, a program that uses legos to teach engineering concepts. Students will get a "light" version of our regular summer camp curriculum, which will replace the regular math and writing classes with the Young Engineers class. More info about Young Engineers can be found here: https://fairfaxcity.youngengineers.org/ Enjoy a well-rounded summer at NoVA PlayLabs and avoid the summer brain drain. Our Summer Camps offer a good mix of fun and academics, learning and chill time, and quiet activities and active play. We will spend time outside playing and eating snacks and lunch. Students will be grouped by grade level and rotate among different stations. We maintain a small 1:8 instructor/student ratio in order to give personalized attention to each student. For ages 5-14. Please pack two snacks, a lunch, and a water bottle (water refilling station is available). NO phones or tablets are allowed. Parents may call or text at any time (571-250-7719) to ask about their kids. 🤧 Our make-up policy for illness is very generous in order to encourage sick students to stay home 💲Fees are non refundable, but can be used towards another week, based on availability.

Fall Semester Session 1 (August-October) 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!

Lights, Camera, Action! 5-Day Filmmaking and Acting Summer Camp Overview: Lights, Camera, Action! is a dynamic and engaging 5-day summer camp designed to introduce students to the exciting world of filmmaking and acting. Through a blend of interactive workshops, hands-on activities, and practical exercises, campers will learn the fundamentals of storytelling, scriptwriting, acting, camera techniques, and video editing. Led by experienced instructors, this immersive experience will empower campers to unleash their creativity, collaborate with peers, and bring their ideas to life on screen. Day 1: Introduction to Filmmaking - Explore the basics of filmmaking and storytelling. - Engage in icebreaker activities to foster a sense of community. - Learn about the various roles in filmmaking and the importance of collaboration. - Dive into acting games and exercises to build confidence in front of the camera. Day 2: Pre-production - Develop storytelling skills through scriptwriting and storyboarding. - Assign roles and responsibilities for the production phase. - Plan shooting schedules and scout locations around the camp. Day 3: Production - Gain hands-on experience with filmmaking equipment. - Rehearse scenes and fine-tune performances under the guidance of acting coaches. - Begin filming scenes according to the production schedule. Day 4: Post-production - Learn the basics of video editing software. - Edit footage to create a polished final cut. - Explore sound design techniques to enhance the film's audio. Day 5: Screening and Wrap-Up - Present completed films in a special screening event. - Share experiences and insights gained during the camp. Throughout the camp, participants will collaborate in small groups to create their own short films, allowing them to develop teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. By the end of the week, campers will have gained a deeper appreciation for the art of filmmaking and acting while creating lasting memories and friendships. * Completed Movies will made available for download online shortly after the end of the course. ** On occasions, movies will be entered into international film festivals! If this is the case, we will offer letters of consent from parents before application.

Lights, Camera, Action! 5-Day Filmmaking and Acting Summer Camp Overview: Lights, Camera, Action! is a dynamic and engaging 5-day summer camp designed to introduce students to the exciting world of filmmaking and acting. Through a blend of interactive workshops, hands-on activities, and practical exercises, campers will learn the fundamentals of storytelling, scriptwriting, acting, camera techniques, and video editing. Led by experienced instructors, this immersive experience will empower campers to unleash their creativity, collaborate with peers, and bring their ideas to life on screen. Day 1: Introduction to Filmmaking - Explore the basics of filmmaking and storytelling. - Engage in icebreaker activities to foster a sense of community. - Learn about the various roles in filmmaking and the importance of collaboration. - Dive into acting games and exercises to build confidence in front of the camera. Day 2: Pre-production - Develop storytelling skills through scriptwriting and storyboarding. - Assign roles and responsibilities for the production phase. - Plan shooting schedules and scout locations around the camp. Day 3: Production - Gain hands-on experience with filmmaking equipment. - Rehearse scenes and fine-tune performances under the guidance of acting coaches. - Begin filming scenes according to the production schedule. Day 4: Post-production - Learn the basics of video editing software. - Edit footage to create a polished final cut. - Explore sound design techniques to enhance the film's audio. Day 5: Screening and Wrap-Up - Present completed films in a special screening event. - Share experiences and insights gained during the camp. Throughout the camp, participants will collaborate in small groups to create their own short films, allowing them to develop teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. By the end of the week, campers will have gained a deeper appreciation for the art of filmmaking and acting while creating lasting memories and friendships. * Completed Movies will made available for download online shortly after the end of the course. ** On occasions, movies will be entered into international film festivals! If this is the case, we will offer letters of consent from parents before application.