While we hold all of this as true, we would also suggest that learning to write is different from learning many other skills for a simple reason: the raw material has to come straight out of the person with limited experience. A young writer isn’t generally given a well-structured unit or a word-filled workbook with which to begin.  The writer, even one who is brand new to the activity, often confronts a blank page.

To add to the challenge, when inexperienced writers get stuck, they themselves commonly don’t know why. They are attempting so much at once—sifting and selecting ideas, ordering content, respecting conventions—that to pinpoint the source of their trouble, the source of the malaise when it sets in, is not always possible.  The writer might simply feel lost.

These were key notions when we began building the theStoryElves.com.  We wanted to construct an environment that was contemplative and unhurried.  (Young writers often feel such pressure about time.)  We aimed to lay storytelling open, to highlight more of its curious and sumptuous parts!  Above all, we wanted the workshop to be a place where writers could explore and happen upon the right set—the most fitting combination—of ideas and supports.

Children are prepared to offer artists considerable respect and trust.  Even reluctant writers will give something a try with a professional standing at their elbow.  This is precisely where we want to be.  We hope this is what visits to theStoryElves.com feel like.

Join us in supporting a creative process!  Let an artist take wild chances.  Enthusiastically encourage their efforts, no matter how small the yield may at first be.  We know from watching even a few human basketball games that is very hard to sink a three-point shot without missing many times first.  Radiate the confidence that misses will eventually add up to success—because they so often do.

We look forward to working with you.

—The Story Elves