Another year of teaching at my homeschooling co-op has wrapped up just as I’m finalizing my writer’s guild Youth writing workshop.

I love teaching. It’s fun to laugh with students and help them find their joy in learning. No two minds think the same, but we can always find some shared understanding and that’s where lessons really take off.

My students wrapped up another issue of our new co-op’s student paper and it’s bigger and better than the first volume.

I spent the past two weeks visiting other schools and leading other writers and authors from my guild to speak to students and invite them to our summer workshop, where we’ll host writing exercises, skill-building tips, and a student writing competition.

I had a great time speaking with students about my work and the writer’s guild as the Youth Outreach Chairman, but I really enjoyed hearing the other authors tell their stories and engage the students with questions and comments on writing and life in general.

Teaching is always a learning experience. It’s a give and take when done properly. Maybe that’s why I’m a fan of unconventional learning in the modern age. I learn best through experience and helping to offer hands-on learning experiences seems to help my students understand themselves and their work better.

I’m hoping to expand these lessons to any students who wish through the youth writing workshop next month, and who knows… even though it’s during summer break, maybe a few kids will show up.