Since 2007, Westside Circus has been developing innovative programs which use social circus to foster the development of early childhood learning among newly arrived families.

The Once Upon A Circus program responds to the early childhood and social development needs of newly arrived and refugee children (aged 3-5 years) and their mothers, who have recently settled into the Brimbank municipality. The aim of Once Upon A Circus is to promote play as a fundamental family activity and use circus, storytelling and literacy to develop key childhood development skills such as confidence, communication and perseverance in order to build strong, resilient communities.

In 2011, Westside is working with several playgroups in Brimbank, holding weekly workshops which encourage independent creative development, persistence, and physical dexterity, through circus and literacy games and activities. Mothers and children participate together and are given the opportunity to socialise and celebrate their successes.

Each group is working alongside artists from Kids Own Publishing to produce a book based on a theme, such as 'My Family', 'Numbers' or 'Me in the Mirror'.

Westside Circus is proud of its growing reputation for reducing disadvantage and developing innovative projects which empower whole communities to contribute to society.

The Once Upon A Circus Project has been developed in partnership with Brimbank Council, Sunshine West Community Centre.

Ph: 9482 2088

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