FOR THE LOVE OF THE GAME
Loft poetry workshop for ages 7-12
“With a bolt of lightning on my kicks . . .The court is SIZZLING. My sweat is DRIZZLING. Stop all that quivering. Cuz tonight I’m delivering,”
-The Crossover, Kwame Alexander 2015
Whether you’re racing down the soccer pitch, nailing a dance solo, or hitting that field goal with a swish, there’s something so special about killing it at the activities you love.
But how can we put words to that exceptional feeling? How can we share with others what it means to be in that moment, with adrenaline rushing and muscle memory carrying you to success?
This class is designed especially for young people aged 7 – 12 to express their love of the game in fun, genuine ways that match the energy they feel in their favorite sport or activity. Join author and educator Keenan Jones at Hope Arts Center from 2 – 3:30 p.m. for a class you won’t forget!
About the educator:
For Keenan Jones, a college basketball injury opened the door to a new path—storytelling. Growing up in Gary, Indiana and the south suburbs of Chicago, he was surrounded by a family of educators, pastors, athletes, and musicians, all of whom shaped his belief in the power of community and the importance of representation. Now living in Plymouth, Minnesota, Keenan writes stories that reflect the beauty of Black culture in America and the ways books can inspire young people to dream and strive for greatness.
His debut picture book, Saturday Morning at the ‘Shop (Beach Lane Books/Simon & Schuster, 2025), illustrated by Ken Daley, follows a young boy who discovers the vital role a neighborhood barbershop plays in community and culture. A 2022 Mirrors and Windows Fellow with The Loft Literary Center, Keenan also teaches writing workshops and speaks on the importance of literacy, representation, and storytelling. He is passionate about ensuring every child has the opportunity to see themselves in the pages of a book.
ABOUT CHILDREN & FAMILY WEEKEND:
Join Hope Arts Center and House of Hope Presbyterian Church for Children & Family Weekend, a joyful two-day celebration centered on the theme “Creativity, Resilience, and Your Unique Voice.”
Designed for parents, children, grandparents, educators, caregivers, mentors, health professionals and those interested in the intersection of arts and health, the weekend brings together nationally acclaimed speakers, outstanding Twin Cities arts organizations, and hands-on experiences that celebrate the creativity and potential of every child while equipping the adults who help them thrive.
Saturday features ERIN WALSH, nationally recognized child development expert and co-founder of Spark & Stitch Institute, will present a talk titled, “It’s Their World: Raising Resilient Kids in the Digital Age”, offering practical, research-based insights on children’s mental health, resilience, and healthy relationships with technology. While adults attend Erin’s presentation, children and youth can participate in engaging poetry workshops led by teaching artists from The Loft Literary Center.
On Sunday, Newbery Medal-winning author and poet KWAME ALEXANDER joins moderator Arleta Little of The Loft Literary Center for an inspiring conversation about creativity, storytelling, and discovering your unique voice. Children and youth are admitted free to Sunday’s keynote.
Throughout the weekend, enjoy performances by Hope Arts Center music students, family puppet-making with Heart of the Beast Puppet Theatre, a multigenerational dance workshop with Young Dance, book sales and signings with Red Balloon Bookshop, a parade with Heart of the Beast artists, poetry slam, art gallery visits, receptions, and a lively dance party.
Children & Family Weekend reflects a shared belief that creativity is more than artistic expression—it bolsters confidence and resilience, fosters connection, and helps young people build healthy, happy lives. Whether you are raising children, teaching them, mentoring them, or simply care about the next generation, this weekend offers inspiration, practical ideas, and meaningful opportunities to create, learn, and celebrate together.
We hope you’ll join us for this special community event as we celebrate creativity, resilience, and every person’s unique voice.
