A Master Class In:
Writing for the Children’s Magazine Market
Learn how to break into children’s magazine writing with Jesse Florea, longtime editor and publishing professional with more than 30 years of experience.
Sat. Sept 12
9:30–5:15 Eastern
Online via Zoom
From 59 USD
Meet Master Class Instructor Jesse Florea
Jesse Florea has worked at Focus on the Family for more than 30 years. As the editor-in-chief of all Focus publications he oversees Clubhouse Jr. (ages 3-7), Clubhouse (for kids 8-12), Brio (for teen girls) and the flagship Focus on the Family magazine. He also co-hosts the NRB award-winning “Official Average Boy” podcast with Christian comedian Bob Smiley and the “Official Adventures in Odyssey” podcast. He has written or co-written more than 50 books, including three Bibles for teens and kids, the Defend Your Faith devotional, the Case for Christ Young Readers edition with Lee Strobel, Average Boy’s Above Average Year, and the Read Again and Again Old and New Testament Bible storybooks. He lives with his wife, Stephanie, in Colorado Springs and enjoys hanging out with his children and grandchildren.
What You’ll Learn
Class Details
Date: Saturday, September 12, 2026
Time: 9:30–5:15 Eastern
Location: Online via Zoom
Registration Opens: August 1, 2026
Cost: From 59 USD. Members and students: $59 / Non-members: $79
This class is for you if you want to:
- Break into the children’s magazine market.
- Build publishing credits and grow your platform.
- Develop short evergreen nonfiction articles.
- Write and publish short stories for Christian readers.
- Avoid common writing and submission mistakes.
Workshops
Session 1: Do’s and Don’ts of Magazine Writing
Magazine writing is a great way to build your platform, earn a little profit and express your passions. This workshop will help you break into this still viable field. All you have to do is follow these do’s and don’ts, such as: do research the publication you want to write for, don’t expect an editor to edit your article to the correct word count, do know your intellectual property rights and don’t forget to take extra time on your lead.
Session 2: Writing Dynamic Magazine Fiction
What makes a story grab a reader and not let them go? You first need a compelling character. Then something needs to happen. This workshop looks at key story elements and structure that will help you write unforgettable fiction, including comparing the traditional three-act story structure to the three-dimensional story “cube.” We’ll also discuss where many stories miss the mark and, therefore, miss impacting their readers.
Session 3: Writing Creative Magazine Nonfiction
Nonfiction stories are the bread and butter of many Christian magazines. But what are editors looking for? This workshop explores the possibilities of writing devotions, how-to articles and profiles—including how getting an interview and why having good interviewing skills can open doors to big-time stories.
Ready to grow your children’s magazine writing skills? Join us online for a practical, encouraging day with Jesse Florea.