Yes! The online learning environment offers many opportunities to support reluctant writers and kids with challenges such as dysgraphia and dyslexia. Writing starts with ideas. Fast-flying sparks and brainstorming that rains down in a steady stream. All kids have creative, exciting ideas!
During our weekly Zoom calls, we focus on brainstorming and sharing ideas. For kids who may need assistance with writing their assignments, they have plenty of time to receive transcription assistance from family members or use dictation tools outside of class.
My approach provides various accommodations for dysgraphia and dyslexia. I include audio recordings on all Google Slides in which I read all text aloud. Kids can play the audio as many times as they like, and they can read along with me.
While the workshops are only a few weeks long, writing is a process. Many students who need more time or prefer writing long-form stories continue writing after the workshop is “finished” (it’s never really finished 🤣) and turn in additional content and chapters over time. I’m here and ready to read student work as it evolves.
My writing classes for kids also offer opportunities for making physical objects and props that are related to the theme. For example, students create treasure boxes, spy glasses, and maps in my Pirate Adventure writing workshop. Kids pitch tents, roast marshmallows, and create indoor/backyard nature trails in my Crazy Campout workshop. Students record videos and snap photos to accompany written work.
Hands-on activities support kinesthetic learners. Working with concrete objects gets students away from their screens (something we’re especially craving these days!) and helps young writers build new worlds.
So yes! Everyone is welcome in The Writer’s Workshop for Kids! The students create a supportive (and hilarious) learning environment in which everyone is a writer who discovers their voice and encourages others.