Happy Failures delivers playshops (not workshops!) for those who may need support with their play, social and communication skills. Using games and techniques from the discipline of improv theatre, the program is focused on helping children become more confident and creative. Playshop participants will have fun with each other and find joy in making mistakes. A “happy failure” is when something doesn’t quite go to plan but we embrace it and turn it into something great. It is the embodiment of the growth mindset we all try to teach and instil in our children, but often have so much difficulty doing. Happy Failures welcomes students who are neurodiverse and may have additional learning needs. And if it’s a child who is already bright, bubbly, and bursting at the seams to hit the stage, then they’ll fit right in as well. Participation in Happy Failures may be therapeutic, but not in an in-your-face kind of way. It’s open to all, as we all need to find better ways to live, laugh and get along with each other.
Happy Failures runs on Thursdays during the school term at the Bianca Fenn School of Music in Greensborough, Victoria. Lower primary 4-5pm; Upper Primary 5.10-6.10pm; and Secondary 6.20-7.20pm. Students are welcome to attend a free trial, and thereafter, playshops cost $30 per session.
PS Elvin Ho (one of the partners of Happy Failures) is the parent of a child with autism and has helped design the program with the special needs community in mind.
