Our next Community Conversations evening: Supporting self-regulation through play, is designed for families with children in Preschool to Year 8 and will explore how structured play can help children develop self-regulation skills. These are the skills that help us manage emotions, thoughts and behaviours. Strong self-regulation supports focus, emotional control, persistence and positive social interactions. It is also linked to long-term success in education, health and wellbeing.

We're pleased to welcome Mina Prip from ENGAGE™, a research-based programme developed by Dr Dione Healey (University of Otago) and used in schools and ECEs across Aotearoa.

Through fun and familiar games, ENGAGE™ builds: 

• emotional skills – recognising and regulating feelings, calming strategies and frustration tolerance
• cognitive skills – paying attention, remembering instructions 
• behavioural skills – impulse control, turn-taking, movement regulation.

Mina will share the research behind the programme, how it is being used by Marsden, and simple activities you can use at home.

Event Details: 

Date: Thursday 7 August 2025
Time: 5.30pm–6.30pm
Venue: Sheppard Wake, Main Block, Marsden School
Parking: There is limited parking in the school grounds. We kindly request that you park on Marsden Avenue or Vera Street. 

Any queries? 

Please email our Head of Preschool, Helen McConnell or Head of Primary, Jo Burns. 

Marsden's Community Conversations are open to students, parents, and the wider community and provide an opportunity to hear from inspiring speakers and engage in discussions on relevant and thought-provoking topics. There is no cost to attend.