Unlock Humor: Writing for Kids and Teens

Introduction

I’m the last author in the world who knows how to incorporate humor into her stories. (Hey, my readers tell me that Josie, the goat in Half-Truths, provides comic relief and I didn’t even know I was doing that!). Thankfully, there are writers who know how to write clever, funny stories that kids of all ages enjoy. And even better–Write2Ignite‘s spring virtual Master Class with J.J. Johnson will help me (and you!) incorporate humor into our stories.

Laughing on the Light Side: Writing Clean, Clever Humor for Kids and Teens

Or, in other words how to write humor that connects kids, teens, and families without sacrificing message, heart, or faith.

Wow, That’s a mouthful! Are you really going to learn all that? Check out the workshops:

Workshops

Session 1: Humor is More Than Jokes
In this foundational session, we’ll explore why laughter creates connection, deepens character, and strengthens tension in a story. We’ll explore why clean humor is needed and why (or should this be how?) humor can help strengthen faith. Learn how humor works as a powerful storytelling tool that keeps readers turning pages.

Session 2: Writing Funny for Kids and Teens: MG, YA, and Picture Books
What makes a third grader laugh is different from what lands with a teen. This session breaks down how humor shifts across picture books, middle grade, and YA, and how to match comedic voice, tone, and style.

Session 3: Comedy Toolbox – Building Hilarious Scenes
Ready to get practical? This hands-on session delivers concrete techniques for writing funny moments on purpose, from timing and dialogue to awkward situations and escalating chaos. Walk away with tools you can apply immediately to make your scenes sharper and funnier.

The Facts

Master Class Date: Saturday, April 18, 2026

Registration Opens: March 7, 2026

Registration Cost:
$79 non-members, $59 members and students
*$59 Special Rate for Kids Middle School
through High School Only

This Workshop Is For You If You…

• Write humor that keeps heart and faith intact.
• You struggle to make funny scenes feel natural.
• You write PB, MG, or YA and want age-appropriate humor.
• You believe clean humor can still be bold and engaging.
• You want practical tools to write funny on purpose.
• You’d like to deepen character and tension through laughter.
• You want stories that compete with screens.
• You’re ready to write with more confidence and joy.

But don’t take it just from me. Here’s J.J. to tell you more.

WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?

REGISTER HERE!

Guess which two books J.J. is giving away as door prizes at the class! We’ll have other door prizes too, like So My Mom is From Outer Space, by Tennille Marie, one of our panelists.

I am the new W2I Master Class co-director and will be the emcee for the day. I really hope to see some of you there!