Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why are there two different dates listed for the Young Authors Festival?
Over 1,200 students come to Calvin's campus during the Young Authors Festival. In order for us to accommodate such a large number of children, we offer the same event on two different days. Teachers and parents may choose which day they would like their students to attend.
2. What is the cost of registration for the Young Authors Festival?
The registration cost for each student to participate is $15.00
(including a snack and a t-shirt).
3. To whom should I have the check made out?
Please make checks payable to the Youth Writing Festival. We prefer one check per school, but if a student sends a personal check, the child's name should be on the memo line.
4. I read that each young author is asked to bring a final draft of his/her original writing to share. Are there guidelines for the type of writing they should bring?
Please refer to our book guidelines for ideas on the types of writing that are typically shared at the Festival.
5. Both the Young Authors Festival and the Middle School Writers Workshop include information for sixth graders. May students in the sixth grade choose which event they would like to attend?
We understand that arranging for transportation to and from Calvin's campus can be difficult. Since the location of the sixth grade varies from school to school, sixth graders may attend the Young Authors Festival or the Middle School Writers Workshop.
6. Will my students have assistance in finding their way around Calvin's campus?
Yes. There will be an adult guide assigned to each group of students.
7. Do we pick up the Festival materials on the day of the event?
We ask that all materials be picked up the week before the Festival. This practice has prevented long lines and confusion on the morning of the event. Materials may be picked up at Calvin's English Department located in the Covenant Fine Arts Center.
8. I have a student with severe allergies to nuts. Will there be nuts in the snacks?
Most of the snacks we provide are donated by a vendor in the area. We are very grateful for their generosity and support of the Youth Writing Festival. Since the snacks are donated, we are unable to regulate what they contain or where they were prepared.
9. May I pick up my child early on the day of the Festival?
We encourage all students to stay for the entire program. If your child needs to leave early, we ask that you notify us ahead of time.
10. Will my students be able to buy books at the event?
Students will have the opportunity to pre-order books at a discount. Teachers may record their students' orders on a form provided by the Festival. Teachers who return the completed form, with a minimum of ten books ordered, will receive a free book. All pre-ordered books will be included in the materials that are picked up the week before the Festival. A limited number of books will also be available for purchase at the event.
11. Will the authors be signing at the Festival?
Due to a full schedule, the authors will not have time to sign books during the Festival. Signature plates will be placed in all pre-ordered books, and a limited number of plates will also be available at the event.
12. If I decide to drive my child, where should I park my car?
We ask that all vehicles park in the DeVos Center and Prince Conference Center parking lots. There is a crosswalk over the East Beltline that will take you to the main campus.
13. Who should I call in case of an emergency?
In case of an emergency, please call the Festival office at 616.526.8423.
