Program Type:
Class/DemonstrationAge Group:
School-Age (ages 6-11)- Registration is required for this event.
- Registration is no longer available for this event.
- This event is for registrants grade Kindergarten to 5th Grade.
Program Description
Details
Kids! Join us for the WQED Writer’s Contest Kickoff!
Get inspired and jump-start your creativity! Stop by the library to explore fun activities designed by WQED especially for children in grades 2–5.
Children in kindergarten and first grade are also welcome to participate in the contest. They’re invited to attend the kickoff with a parent or adult guardian to learn more and pick up helpful resources.
During the kickoff, families can:
✨ Discover what the WQED Writer’s Contest is all about
✨ Try engaging, literacy‑boosting activities
✨ Gather tips and information to help young writers succeed
✨ Meet Elly Strittmatter, a South Fayette resident and past contest winner, and hear about her writing experience
Whether your child loves to write or is just getting started, this event is a great way to spark imagination and build confidence. Come learn, create, and get excited about storytelling!
What is the WQED Writers Contest?
Calling All Young Writers
Let’s spark creativity and a love of storytelling in every child!
WQED is excited to announce the 2026 Writers Contest, running from January 5 – March 31, 2026. For 17 years, this beloved program has encouraged children across our region to build literacy skills, express creativity, and share their unique voices. This year, we’re excited to expand the contest to include students in grades K–5, now welcoming 4th and 5th graders!
There’s no required theme—young authors are free to let their imaginations soar and create any original story they wish. All participants are invited to both write and illustrate their own stories, and WQED will return all submissions at our expense.
More than 16,000 local students have taken part in this fun and educational experience over the years. We hope you’ll help inspire the next generation of storytellers—whether by encouraging a young writer at home or incorporating the contest into classroom activities. We can’t wait to read the stories they create!
Disclaimer(s)
By participating in or attending any library event, program, or class, visitors may be photographed by library staff. The library reserves the right to use these photographs for publicity purposes in printed materials and online. If you or a family member prefer not to be photographed, please inform the library staff in charge before the event begins.