Learn the secret to putting the little ones in your life to sleep with the power of singing with producer and host of podcast Lullaby: The First Steps Dr. Marie van Gend.

Singing lullabies brings a wealth of benefits to both child and carer. It is an easy and accessible method for helping manage everything from post-natal depression in parents to language development in children.

Bring along the little ones in your life to join in a relaxed and welcoming singing circle with Dr Marie van Gend, who will teach you all that you need to know about the power of lullabies and how to incorporate them into your life.

Dr Marie van Gend BSc (Med) Hons Sport Science Grad. Dip Edu

Dr van Gend was born in Zambia and moved to Australia in 1980. She completed a BSc at Griffith University followed by a Med (Hons) Sport Science at the University of Cape Town. After a year in research, she joined Flight Centre for ten years as a consultant, manager and area coordinator. Dr van Gend moved to Port Macquarie in 1995. Choir leading became her main profession for the next twenty years. She completed at Graduate Diploma in Education through UNE, taught Science and Music and established and ran the vocal program at St Columba Anglican School. Dr van Gend completed her PhD in Music in 2019 through the University of Newcastle under the supervision of Dr Philip Matthias. Since 2020 she has developed an interest in lullaby singing and created a podcast called Lullaby: The First Steps to support parents and carers to sing more to their babies.

This event is for UNSW students and staff and their families. Limited places available and registration is essential.

This event is brought to you by the UNSW Music Performance Unit.

Mental Health March is created by UNSW Health Promotions Unit and aims to encourage the UNSW community to engage in conversations surrounding the often challenging topics of mental health and wellbeing. The team offer workshops, resources and mental health services to all UNSW Students and Staff.

If you or someone you know needs some support with their mental health, you can contact the Psychology and Wellness team via Mental Health Connect.