Circus art used at work with children and adolescents

The therapeutical usage of the circus art has begun to gain recognition in recent years. The majority of the current research is focused on the usage of particular aspects of the circus art – object manipulation (juggling, rola-bola tricks, hula-hoop), acrobatics in partnership with another person, aerial arts (trapeze, silk and rope) and clownery. The specific sets of skills developed through the circus art trainings can increase individual’s coordination levels, focus, patience, tolerance to frustration, as well as goal oriented behavior and therefore help establish a safe environment for risk-taking tasks. The art of circus uses circus skills to reach specific pedagogical and therapeutic goals, such as positive development of personal and group traits and various social skills. These goals are adequately adjusted according to the specific needs and perceptions of the individual and his group. In the theoretical part of my thesis, I explore the use of the circus art as a therapeutic tool. Later on, in the empirical part, I study the perspective and reactions in the monitored group of children and mentors involved in a street circus program. I am also exploring whether in circus art we can identify the elements of help with art and how the whole project affects the socio-emotional development of the participants. Additionally, I inquire the mentors on their perspective about the crucial aspects of their work. By using circus arts tools, we can introduce new social and emotional worlds to children. Not only do they develop strength, coordination and physical awareness, but they can gain confidence through their ability to creatively express themselves within the group