As part of The Ultimo Series, the IGS Community had the privilege of welcoming Marina Bailey, a highly respected Psychologist and Member of the Australian Psychological Society, for a powerful and insightful lecture titled Supporting Your Child’s Emotional Resilience.
Drawing on over three decades of experience, Marina explored the foundations of emotional resilience in children and the role adults play in shaping it. She unpacked the concept not as a fixed trait but as a dynamic process that can be nurtured through consistent, supportive relationships and everyday interactions. Her message was clear: emotional resilience grows when children feel safe, understood and connected.
Marina spoke about the importance of emotional literacy, co-regulation and the value of modelling calm and constructive responses to stress. She encouraged families and educators to focus on building trust and predictability, especially during times of change or challenge. Practical strategies were shared throughout the lecture, including ways to support children in naming their emotions, developing problem-solving skills and building a sense of agency.
One of the most resonant ideas was the notion that “emotional resilience is the ability to stretch and keep going despite how you feel”. Marina reminded us that children who learn to sit with discomfort – rather than avoid it – are more likely to bounce back from adversity and thrive. She emphasised that “strong people tend to be happier”, and that strength often comes from navigating small challenges early in life, not avoiding them.
Throughout the evening, Marina emphasised the importance of building a ‘team around the child’. She shared real-world examples and encouraged participants to consider how emotional resilience is nurtured not just in moments of crisis but in everyday interactions. She spoke candidly about the parenting crossroads – those moments when a child’s distress tempts us to rescue rather than support. “Sometimes our response can make them immediately happy,” she said, “but sometimes it makes them stronger – and then happy.”
Marina also explored the role of emotional regulation, describing it as a skill that develops over time and requires guidance. She offered practical advice for helping children manage anger and frustration, noting that “feelings are okay – just not all behaviours.” She encouraged parents to model emotional regulation by stepping away when overwhelmed and returning with calm.
Social development was another key theme. Marina discussed the complexities of friendship, especially in the upper Primary and early High School years, and the importance of helping children understand what makes a good friend. She reminded us that “sometimes strengths in little kids don’t feel like strengths – they feel like weapons,” but with time and support, those traits often become leadership qualities.
Communication was highlighted as a protective factor, with Marina noting that “the amount of talking we do in homes has reduced significantly.” She urged families to reclaim space for conversation, laughter and listening, the everyday moments where children reveal how they’re really travelling.
The event offered the IGS Community valuable insights along with a sense of connection, reassurance and shared purpose. Attendees left feeling encouraged and equipped with practical tools to support children’s emotional resilience at home and in the classroom.
This lecture marked the final instalment of The Ultimo Series 2025, a program that has continued to grow in reach and impact thanks to the dedication of Deputy Principal Academic Thom Marchbank. His ongoing work in curating the series has helped bring vital conversations to the IGS Community, and this year’s success is a testament to his thoughtful leadership and commitment to meaningful engagement.
