JoJo's Circus - TV-Y
TV Rating: TV-Y
Network: Disney Channel Cast: Madeleine Martin, Robert Smith, Marnie McPhail
Genre: Children, Cartoons, & Animation
Available on: 
DVD
Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that this series is a good fit for younger preschoolers because of its simple plotlines, adorable visuals, and silly, circus-themed characters. To help younger viewers follow along, JoJo talks directly to viewers to describe what's happening and summarizes the lessons learned at the end of each story. The series will help kids learn about playing with others, making group decisions, listening to others' ideas, and communicating their own.
Families can discuss the lessons of the day. What are your kids' favorite things about the circus? Do parents notice specific skills that their kids are getting from watching JoJo's interactions? Do kids think JoJo has what it takes to be a professional clown when she grows up?
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Pam Gelman
JOJO'S CIRCUS follows a curious kindergarten-aged clown who explores Circus Town with her equally colorful friends.
JoJo's world revolves around a theme that's an immediate draw for young kids -- the circus. She's a young clown who hopes one day to be a famous clown. She often takes the lead in suggesting ideas or finding ways to help friends when they're in trouble.
JoJo has a pet lion and close companion named Goliath, styled with a flashy, pompadour-like mane. Each episode starts with Goliath hiding and JoJo finding him. Kids love it each time.
JoJo's parents -- Mr. Tickle and Peaches -- are also circus performers. Mr. Tickle leaves for work each morning by blasting out of a cannon. It would be nice to see a bit more character development in Peaches, though she's clearly a doting mother to JoJo.
Other friends include Skeebo Seltzer, Trina Tightrope, Croaky Frogini, Dinky Elephant, Tater Spudinski, and Bal Boa. As these names imply, JoJo is friends with other aspiring circus performers, including animals, reptiles, amphibians, and vegetables.
Each half-hour episode contains two short stories on subjects such as JoJo going on a sleepover and wanting to dance with teddy bears, or an energetic baby clown performer coming to town. At the end of each story, JoJo literally has the spotlight and answers the inevitable question -- "JoJo, what did you learn today?"
From a 3-year-old's perspective, JoJo's Circus packs a lot into each short story. No doubt it's a series that kids grow out of, perhaps even before they finish preschool. But for those who are interested, it provides a half-hour of downtime while sharing some giggles and lessons about friendship.
Kids might also want to check out Pinky Dinky Doo or It's a Big Big World.
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