Fun and Hands-on: This balloon workshop is just right for beginners who have never been to balloon class or school before. Students get real-world experience sculpting balloons to take home. First, Abby teaches an easy way to knot a balloon. Then Abby covers basic techniques for frustration-free twisting. Participants create their own versions of two balloon toys that fly. Then everyone makes a balloon sword. The emphasis in the workshop is on simple designs.

These balloon twisting lessons are recommended for ages 7 and up, ages when most people have enough hand strength and dexterity to succeed.

By a qualified teacher: Abby has many years of professional experience sculpting balloons -- since 1997. She has travelled to conferences to be taught by experts. She uses differentiated instruction, scaffolding, repetition and humor to make learning easy, successful and fun.

Supplies are included: Each child takes home a Certificate of Achievement, the sculptures that he or she made, written instructions, and fresh balloons with which to practice later. The price is all-inclusive and covers commuting, gasoline, preparation time, and supplies.

Balloon pumps are not required for this workshop, because Abby inflates and ties balloons for everyone beforehand. After the workshop most students either borrow a parent's bicycle pump or inflatable-bed pump, or they purchase an inexpensive hand balloon pump. Abby will reveal local and online sources for inexpensive hand pumps. She may also offer pumps for sale after the workshop.