Youth

Young Writers Institute

Since 1989, WPWP's Young Writers Institute (YWI) has offered young people exciting and engaging environments to explore writing. Young writers from across the Western Pennsylvania region come together and meet to have the opportunity to develop their skills as writers. Our outstanding staff includes certified classroom teachers, esteemed writers, and advanced writing students from regional colleges and universities.  

Specific activities vary from year to year and from one class to another, including a broad range of genres and experiences geared to generate rich writing. This may include poems, autobiographical sketches, short stories, plays, memoirs, guest authors, walking field trips, and much, much more. 

At the end of the Institute, families are invited to celebrate as students read their best work from their own copy of a published anthology. Our Institute is best suited for students who are eager to attend and who want to write for fun.

Our 2025 Young Writers’ Institute sessions will take place on weekdays from June 23 - July 1 from 8:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at the University of Pittsburgh. Registration for the summer of 2025 begins January 6, 2025. YWI will accept 15 registrations per age bracket.   

Please contact us with any questions or concerns. 

Registration FAQ

What are the registration requirements?
The only requirements for participation are the child's grade level and an interest in writing. Our Institute aims to be inclusive and accessible to all young writers. We will accept registrations for rising 5th-11th graders.

How do I register for the Young Writers Institute and what is the deadline?
Registration for the Young Writers Institute begins January 6, 2025. All registrations must be completed online, and full payment is required at the time of registration to secure a spot in the Institute.

Why is the Institute only accepting 15 students per age group?
We limit the number of students to 15 per age group to ensure that each participant receives close attention from our staff. This approach helps us focus on developing each young writer's skills not only in writing but also in social and emotional aspects. It allows us to maintain a high quality of engagement and support throughout the Institute.

What if my child needs to leave early or cannot attend certain days?
Registration covers the entire duration of the Institute, and full payment is required regardless of attendance. We understand that there may be circumstances requiring early departure or absence on certain days; however, these situations should be managed at your discretion, keeping in mind that fees cannot be prorated or refunded for missed days.

How will communication be handled?
The registration marks the beginning of communication about the Institute. Once children are admitted, more detailed information about the schedule, activities, and any necessary forms for clearances will be provided. Adults are encouraged to reach out with any additional questions they may have.

Are sibling discounts available?
Yes, sibling discounts occur automatically when registering more than one child for YWI. For each additional child registered, a discount of $50 will be automatically applied to the total. Up to three additional children can be covered under the sibling discount, resulting in a maximum discount of $150.

Can sibling discounts for YWI be combined with W4C discounts?
 YWI and Writing for College (W4C) share the same discount structure, however they are separate programs. In order for a sibling discount to be applied, siblings must be registered within the same program. 

Are scholarships available for the camp?
If you need a scholarship, simply reach out to us directly, and we will do our best to accommodate your request based on the availability of our limited resources.

YWI FAQ

When and where will the Young Writers Institute take place?
The Young Writers Institute will run weekdays from June 23 to July 1, held Monday through Friday each week. The Institute will be primarily located at the University of Pittsburgh, Posvar Hall, 230 South Bouquet Street, meeting on the fifth floor in the School of Education's area.

Will there be an orientation for the Young Writers Institute?
Yes, and orientation for YWI will be held. More details coming soon! 

What are the Institute hours?
Children can be dropped off as early as 7:30 a.m. The Institute starts promptly at 8:00 a.m. and ends at 12:00 p.m. Pick-up time is between 12:00 p.m. and 12:15 p.m., and all children must be picked up by 12:15 p.m. 

Who will be teaching at the Young Writers Institute?
The instructors at the Young Writers Institute are a diverse group of educators and students deeply engaged in the craft of writing and education. Our teachers include certified teachers who have completed the Western Pennsylvania Writing Project's Summer Institute and now serve as fellows for the organization. Additionally, graduate students from the University of Pittsburgh, who are pursuing degrees in writing and teacher education, will also be part of the teaching staff. This mix of experienced teachers and emerging educators ensures a rich, supportive learning environment for all participants.

Will there be off-site activities?
Yes, in addition to our main location, we may possibly utilize various nearby locations such as the Cathedral of Learning's nationality rooms, Carnegie Museum of Art, Phipps Museum, and Carnegie Public Library. All these sites are within walking distance, and we will notify adults in advance of any off-site activities.

What should my child bring to camp?
Daily lunch will not be provided, unless specifically communicated in advance. Lunchtime is not built into the daily schedule however students may bring snacks and bottled water as needed. Additionally, any necessary health-related materials should be brought daily. Detailed instructions and forms for these requirements will be shared upon registration.

Is there anything else adults should know?
We expect adults to send lunch with their children, and we will provide forms to better understand and support each child's needs in the absence of their adults. We strive to create a supportive and enriching environment for all participants.

A Day at YWI  

What does a typical day look like at the Young Writers Institute?
Details for 2025 coming soon!