Based upon the conviction that children can be taught many of the aspects of writing unique to the preparation of professional writers, this book offers ideas for the teaching of creative writing to children. "Creative" writing is defined and its values for children are discussed. Specific suggestions to promote imaginative writing are proposed in ensuing sections: (1) preparation for the writing experience--the classroom environment, the teacher's personality, the input of experiences and ideas, and writing opportunities, (2) materials to stimulate children to translate experience into expression--topic assignments, "beginning phrases," images, objects, and pictures, (3) components of composition, (4) figures of speech and rhythmic language patterns, (5) methods for revitalizing writing projects, and (6) evaluation techniques for measuring goals, standards, and results of the writing program. Included are examples of student writing and a sample writing lesson based on a literature selection. (JB)