Writing For Children Workshop

Zanni has run engaging writing courses for adults for a number of years at writers centres and festivals, including Byron Writers Festival and Queensland Writers Centre. She also teaches Writing Picture Books for the Australian Writers’ Centre.

In a nurturing and supportive workshop environment, Zanni helps writers generate and harness ideas, develop compelling stories and characters, and make writing a meaningful and practical part of every day life. She also introduces aspiring authors to the submission process.

Course outcomes include:

  • Increased confidence in writing ability
  • Practice writing narrative and dialogue that appeals to children
  • Generating new story ideas
  • Knowledge about story and character development
  • Sophisticated editing tips and writing tips
  • Feedback on writing style and story
  • Knowledge about the children’s book industry
  • Knowledge about the submission process
  • Practical tips for integrating writing into every day life

  • Zanni’s workshops are well organised, loaded with information and practical skills for creative writing and great for either skilled or unskilled writers. Zanni's knowledge about the publishing industry and her insight into developing story lines along with her encouraging and generous style makes for a two day workshop experience that encourages sharing of ideas and promotes a creative atmosphere where there is little doubt you wouldn't come away feeling inspired, informed and encouraged to continue on the path that possibly took you there in the first place.

    - Marianne BraggeTheatre director

  • What can I say? The workshop is a safe way to share your work, to be inspired, to keep writing every day... warm, friendly, welcome. I implore all writers to attend.

    - Komal

  • Zanni is a warm and welcoming workshop presenter. She shares her valuable industry knowledge with workshop participants and inspires you to get writing in whatever way you want.

    - Kate

  • This was a great and supportive course, which has helped to inspire me with my book. Lovely delivery and a wonderful group of people.

    - Portia Tristam, Mullumbimby

  • Zanni delivered the course in such an easy, helpful way. She took us seamlessly through each topic, instilling a real sense of excitement for writing. This course delivered all I thought it would be and more!

    - Linda Quinn JarvisActor

  • Zanni is a natural teacher and communicator. Her workshop was practical, inspiring and fun! Zanni's passion for books and natural effervescence is infectious. I would warmly recommend her course for creatives at any stage of their career.

    - Edwina WyattChildren's Author

  • Zanni’s workshops and private mentoring were just the motivation I needed. It was a supportive and encouraging environment were I felt comfortable to share my thoughts and ideas. These sessions were the catalyst to me completing my book and becoming published.

    - Simi GenziukChildren's Author

  • Zanni creates a calm and nurturing learning environment that encourages contribution and creativity. I particularly enjoyed the practical activities. Ideas that seemed flat at home sprang into life as Zanni and other workshop attendees grabbed them and shared their insights.

    - Kim Stewart

  • Attending Zanni’s workshop, ‘Writing Compelling Stories for Children’ is a wonderful way for aspiring children’s authors to begin learning about the intricacies of writing for children. Zanni is a very experienced, informative and engaging presenter and published author who is willing to share her experiences and advice about every aspect of becoming a professional children’s author.

    - Katrina McKelveyChildren's Author