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SCBWI Houston: “Critique Basics” webinar & Critique Crew Connection

Dec 15, 2025

Online event

Connect with fellow children’s book creators in a supportive, online-only critique group tailored to your genre, experience level, and schedule. This SCBWI-exclusive program matches 3–6 members for a 6 month long feedback journey, starting with a “Critique Basics” webinar and guided monthly check-ins. Whether you write picture books, middle grade, YA, nonfiction, or illustrate, you’ll find your story circle here.

🧭 Program Overview: Critique Group Match-Up

🎯 Goal

SCBWI members will be paired into online-only critique groups of 3–6 based on:

  • Genre (PB, MG, YA, NF, ILL, etc.)
  • Region (for time zone compatibility)
  • Critique expertise (beginner, intermediate, advanced)
  • Publication status (pre-published, agented, published)
  • Preferred critique frequency (weekly, biweekly, monthly)
  • Preferred time/day (evenings, weekends, etc.)

📅 Timeline

Registration: Nov 15 – Dec 15, 2025

Matching Period: Dec 15 – Jan 15, 2026

Groups Launch: February 2026

Includes webinar + check-ins


🎓 Critique Basics Webinar

  • December 15, 2025 6:00PM-6:45PM CST
  • Recorded
  • Webinar only, option available

💬 Support Structure

  • Monthly check-ins (first 3 months): Email/ Zoom drop-in
  • Group commitment: Six month suggested, with option to continue

💰 Pricing and Refunds

  • $15 Early Bird Premium Members
  • $30 Early Bird Preview Members
  • Covers: critique group matching, webinar, and support
  • Refunds: If no match is found by Jan 15, you will receive a full refund


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✍️ Critique Group Agreement Policy

Purpose

Critique group are created to support writers through constructive feedback, creative encouragement, and consistent accountability. We value inclusivity, respect, and growth.

Commitment & Participation

Members commit to 6 months of active participation, with monthly or biweekly meetings as agreed upon. Consistent attendance is expected. If you need to miss a meeting, please notify the group in advance. Members agree to submit work (or have it ready in time for meetings) and offer feedback in a timely, thoughtful manner.

Respect & Conduct

Harassment, discrimination, or bullying of any kind will not be tolerated. All feedback should be constructive, specific, and kind—focused on the work, not the writer. Members agree to maintain confidentiality about shared work and personal stories. We celebrate diverse voices and commit to inclusive, respectful dialogue.

Submissions & Feedback

Each member will have equal opportunity to share work and receive feedback. Submissions should follow agreed-upon word counts or page limits. Feedback may include comments on craft, clarity, emotional impact, and market fit. AI generated feedback is not permitted.

Group Structure

Groups may be matched by genre, mixed experience level, etc. A group coordinator will help facilitate scheduling and communication. Members may re-evaluate their participation after the 6-month term.



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Got questions? Contact Kaye Marc-Charles at [email protected]