• Big Top at Schoolcircus background image by Peter Baxter from Fotolia.com
  
  Circus theme activities can promote learning in a fun, interactive and cooperative manner. Children learn skills that promote balance, coordination, communication and trust. Since circus acts utilize skills, children with different talents will be able to participate and enjoy performing. Mastering a circus act will facilitate confidence and make children feel comfortable performing before a group.
  
  

Juggling

• Juggling promotes hand-eye coordination and is commonly performed in circuses. Students can practice with inexpensive balls, beanbags or sticks. Circus music can be added to the activity to enhance children's enjoyment. Students can start with two or three items, but more advanced students might be able to juggle more. If a school wishes to have a student circus, this is a cheap activity that is enjoyable to watch.
  
  

Stilt Walking

• Stilts are available in a number of sizes. Gym classes are the perfect place to practice stilt walking and learn how to do it with supervision. Stilt walking promotes balance, and as students gain confidence, they may be comfortable using higher stilts.
  
  

Clown Acts

• Clowning Aroundclowns image by itsallgood from Fotolia.com
  
  Clowns are an integral part of circuses and promote a healthy dose of fun and laughter. Children who enjoy acting will love dressing as clowns and can learn simple mimes or actions that will provide comic relief after more serious acts. Clown acts promote self confidence and allow students to perform by themselves or as part of a group.
  
  

Wheel Activities

• Skate boarding tricks or riding on a unicycle promotes coordination and balance. Some students may already be proficient at these activities, but tailoring them to a learning activity may require additional focus and balance. Students may learn how to perform jumps in confined spaces or manipulate unicycles or skateboards around obstacle courses. These activities require appropriate safety gear, but experienced students will enjoy performing to circus music.
  
  

Hula Hoops

• Hula Hoop routines allow students to show off their coordination and rhythm. Students will enjoy practicing rotating hoops on their hips and arms, and some students may be able to revolve multiple hoops at once. Acts can even include catching hoops and rotating them.