Pens for Kids®
For three decades, PCA volunteers have introduced children to the craft and history of fountain pens — at pen shows, in classrooms, and at libraries across the country. Every workshop is free. Every child takes home a pen of their own.
A Hands-On Introduction to the Craft of Writing
Pens for Kids® is a program of the Pen Collectors of America®, now in its third decade of introducing children to the use and history of fountain pens. Workshops typically take place at pen shows and in schools, libraries, and community spaces.
Each workshop is led by PCA volunteers, free of charge, and ends with every child receiving an inexpensive fountain pen of their own to take home. The materials are flexible — presenters customize the experience to the age group, the setting, and the time available.
The goal is simple: spark curiosity about writing, history, and craftsmanship in the next generation of collectors and enthusiasts.
Three Ways to Be Part of Pens for Kids®
Whether you teach a class, run a pen show, or simply want to support the program, there’s a place for you.
Host a Workshop
Bring Pens for Kids® to your school, library, scout troop, or community group. Workshop materials are free to use and easy to adapt.
- Free, downloadable workshop guide
- Age-flexible activities (grades 3–12)
- Customizable to 30, 45, or 60 minutes
- PCA can help connect you with a volunteer presenter
Volunteer or Sponsor
Every workshop runs on volunteer time and donated pens. Help us reach more kids by lending your time, expertise, or supplies.
- Lead or assist at a pen show workshop
- Donate beginner-friendly fountain pens
- Sponsor an event in your region
- Underwrite materials for a school visit
If You’re a PCA Member
Pens for Kids® is one of the programs your dues directly support — keeping the hobby alive for the next generation of collectors.
- Your membership funds workshop pens
- Your dues underwrite outreach at shows
- Members receive program updates in the Pennant®
- Renew or upgrade to keep the work going
The Pen on the Desk Tonight Was Yours.
When a third-grader uncaps a fountain pen for the first time and watches ink flow onto paper, that moment is funded by PCA members. There are no grants behind Pens for Kids®. There is no corporate budget. There are dues, donated pens, and volunteers willing to drive to a school on a Tuesday morning.
That model has carried the program for thirty years. It will carry it another thirty.
Workshop Materials & Coordinator
Everything you need to run a workshop — and one person to call if you have questions.
The Pens for Kids® Workshop Guide
A complete presenter’s guide with activities, talking points, and tips for adapting the workshop to different ages, settings, and time frames. Pick what fits, skip what doesn’t, and add your own twist.
Contact the Pen Show Coordinator
Reach out about:
- Sponsoring a workshop at your event
- Hosting Pens for Kids® at a school or library
- Volunteering as a presenter
- Donating pens or supplies
Help Us Reach the Next Thirty Years
Membership is what keeps Pens for Kids® running. $45/year USA · $70/year international.
Join PCA Today →