Summer Reading Program
Hands-on Balloon Twisting Workshop for Oklahoma Libraries
For 2027, every child twists their own detective gear — and takes home something they made themselves.
45–60 min
All Ages
Indoor
$385
🔍 2027 CSLP Theme: "Mysteries Await at Your Library" · Now booking 2027 & 2028 · See 2027 programs →
Summer Reading Program
For 2027, every child twists their own detective gear — and takes home something they made themselves.
Program overview
Hands-on fun for kids of all ages! For the 2027 mystery theme, kids make their own detective gear, like magnifying glasses and detective hats. Participants learn the basics of balloon twisting as they create simple animals, hats, and other shapes. This workshop fosters creativity, coordination, and patience while giving every child a tangible, self-made balloon creation to take home. A perfect blend of artistry and play.
One of the best things about the Balloon Workshop is that every single child goes home with something they made themselves. No one is left out — and it photographs beautifully.
What happens
Joe opens by showing off finished examples — a dog, a hat, a flower, a sword. Kids immediately want to make those things. The first lesson is balloon basics: how to inflate without popping, how to hold, and the first twist. Everyone is nervous and then everyone succeeds.
Shape #1 is simple — a dog or a sword — designed to be an easy win that builds confidence fast. Kids practice, compare, adjust. The room fills with the squeak of balloons and the kind of focused energy you rarely see in a room full of children.
Shape #2 steps it up: a hat or a flower, something kids can wear or give away. Joe encourages customization — add a twist here, change the color combination there. The finale is everyone holding up their creations at once.
Educational connections
The Balloon Workshop is rooted in tactile creation — the kind of learning that sticks because kids do it with their hands. Every shape requires following instructions, sequencing steps, and handling a small setback when the balloon pops (which it sometimes does, to great laughter).
For 2027: For "Mysteries Await," kids twist detective hats, magnifying glasses, and evidence envelopes — taking home their full detective kit. See 2027 programming →
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What librarians say
"Balloon Workshop is always one of our most requested repeat programs. Kids come back with their parents saying 'can we do it again?'"— Library Director, Rural Oklahoma
"Every single kid left with a balloon animal they made themselves. The smiles were worth every penny."— Children's Librarian, Oklahoma
Photo gallery
Also available
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Thank you! We'll review your request and reach out within 24 hours to confirm availability and discuss your dates. We look forward to bringing the magic to your library!