Key West Poet Laureate Offers Free Poetry Workshop for Kids

Budding poets ages 7 to 12 are invited to explore the power of words and imagination at a free Youth Poetry Workshop, hosted by the Seawall Society of Young Poets in partnership with the Key West Art & Historical Society.  The workshop will take place on Saturday, January 10, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the historic Fort East Martello Museum.

Led by Key West Poet Laureate Emily Schulten Weekley and experienced facilitators, this interactive two-hour session will inspire young writers to discover big ideas hidden in small things.  Participants will explore Key West’s rich literary legacy through the children’s poems of John Ciardi and other playful, thought-provoking works.

The workshop will begin with reading and discussion of poems that celebrate imagination, curiosity, and observation.  Participants will then head outdoors to notice the tiny details in their surroundings, whether a seashell, a leaf, or a fleeting moment, and use them as inspiration to create their own poems.  The session encourages students to experiment with new poetic forms, develop their own voice, and share their work in a supportive, no-pressure environment.

As part of the Seawall Society’s mission to elevate youth voices, each participant will record their original work for inclusion in a video anthology, which will be featured on the Seawall Society website.

This event is free and open to all youth in the Key West area, regardless of background or writing experience.  All materials will be provided.  Space is limited and advance registration is required. Families can register at kwahs.org/whats-on.