Dalton Creative Arts Guild Offers Free Writing Classes for Curious Kids

Award-winning writer Dana Shavin launches new program to spark creativity and self-expression

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Dana Shavin, an acclaimed writer and the literary arts program coordinator for the Dalton Creative Arts Guild, has launched a new initiative called "Writing Classes for the Curious" that offers free online workshops for kids ages 12-18 on personal essay, science fiction, and graphic novels. The goal is to provide accessible, inspiring, and fun entry points into writing to encourage experimentation and self-expression. Shavin, a former school psychologist, created the program based on her belief that strong language, reading, and speaking skills are crucial for student success.

Why it matters

In an era where many schools are cutting back on arts and creative writing programs, this initiative from the Dalton Creative Arts Guild aims to fill that gap and nurture the next generation of young writers. By offering free, high-quality workshops across diverse genres, the program seeks to spark curiosity, build confidence, and provide kids with valuable skills that can benefit them academically and personally.

The details

The three two-hour introductory writing workshops cover personal essay, science fiction, and graphic novels. Each workshop includes examples, short lessons, and writing prompts designed to encourage experimentation and self-expression. Shavin hopes the kids will share their stories with family and friends and receive feedback and encouragement. In addition to the free online classes, the Dalton Creative Arts Guild is also hosting in-person publishing and poetry workshops on March 7th, featuring industry experts who will provide insights and guidance for aspiring writers.

  • The free online "Writing Classes for the Curious" workshops are available anytime.
  • The in-person publishing and poetry workshops at the Dalton Creative Arts Guild will take place on March 7, 2026.

The players

Dana Shavin

An acclaimed writer and the literary arts program coordinator for the Dalton Creative Arts Guild. She is the author of two books, "The Body Tourist" and "Finding the World: Thoughts on Life, Love Home and Dogs", and has won numerous awards for her writing, including first place in the Green Eyeshade journalism contest's humor/satire category and second place in the travel writing category.

Dalton Creative Arts Guild

A local arts organization in Dalton, Georgia that provides programming and resources to support the creative community, including the new "Writing Classes for the Curious" initiative.

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What they’re saying

“I hope kids will share their stories with family and friends as they see fit, and in turn receive the feedback and encouragement that writing thrives on.”

— Dana Shavin, Literary Arts Program Coordinator, Dalton Creative Arts Guild (chattanoogan.com)

What’s next

The Dalton Creative Arts Guild will host in-person publishing and poetry workshops on March 7, 2026, where industry experts will provide guidance and insights for aspiring writers.

The takeaway

This new initiative from the Dalton Creative Arts Guild demonstrates the power of community-driven programs to nurture creativity and self-expression in young people, especially in an era when arts and writing programs are being cut in many schools. By offering free, accessible workshops across diverse genres, the "Writing Classes for the Curious" program aims to spark curiosity, build confidence, and provide valuable skills that can benefit students both academically and personally.