Speaking

IN ADDITION TO WRITING BOOKS, I LOVE TO SPEAK to children, parents, writers, and teachers. I’ve been speaking for more than thirty years both nationally and locally. I've spoken at church groups, schools, book conventions, writers’ conferences, and enjoy being a guest on radio, television, and podcast programs.

The following list explains some of my speaking topics and programs.

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SCHOOL PROGRAMS
Author’s assemblies — entertaining and informative

My talks have focused on being an author and where I get my ideas. I share my stories and poems as well as the real-life stories behind them. Assembly talks: 30 minutes for lower elementary and 45 minutes for upper.

POETRY WORKSHOPS
Presented in the classroom

I involve students in the process of writing: brainstorming, first draft, editing, and completing a poem. Workshops typically last 30-40 minutes for younger grades and 45-50 for older grades. 

TEACHER CONFERENCES

I have taught sessions for teachers on how to develop poetry units and teach poetry to their students all year long–not just during poetry month.

MOM GROUPS

My topics have included a variety of inspiring and encouraging talks for mothers of young children:

• Moms on the Grow: How moms experience personal growth while raising kids
• The Joys and Challenges of Being a Mom — it’s harder than it looks!
• Friendships: Making and Nurturing Female Friends
• Fostering Confidence and Faith in your Children

WRITERS CONFERENCES

I love teaching workshops at writers’ conferences when I can, where I share what I have learned and give instruction on a variety of topics including:

• Writing for the Children’s Market
• Writing Picture Books
• Writing in Rhythm and Rhyme
• Writing Devotions for Children
• The Wild World of Publishing