Community Education Series
Risky Play with Dr. Mariana Brussoni
Join us for our first Community Education Night of the school year, featuring Dr. Mariana Brussoni, a Professor at UBC and Director of the Human Early Learning Partnership.
Dr. Brussoni will explore the benefits of risky play, highlighting how unstructured outdoor learning can reduce anxiety, support mindfulness, and enhance classroom outcomes for students with learning differences and ADHD. Her research shows that such play enhances physical health, social skills, and cognitive development by allowing children to explore, take risks, and learn from their environment.
Dr. Brussoni will discuss the role of responsible adult guidance in enabling safe risk-taking that fosters freedom and growth. By embracing these principles, parents, educators, and professionals can create more dynamic teaching practices while fostering a supportive, growth-oriented learning environment for children.
When: Tuesday, October 28, 2025 – 7:00 to 8:30 pm
Where: In-person at Fraser Academy, 2294 West 10th Ave, Vancouver.
Who should attend: Parents, educators, and professionals who support children and youth, especially those with ADHD or learning differences like dyslexia. If you are interested in how outdoor play fosters resilience, wellbeing, and growth, this event will be a great fit for you.
Registration: The event is open to the public and free to attend. Registration is required as spaces are limited.
Registration is now closed for this event.
About the Presenter

Dr. Mariana Brussoni
Professor at UBC and Director of the Human Early Learning Partnership
Dr. Mariana Brussoni is a Professor in the Department of Pediatrics and the School of Population and Public Health at UBC, and Director of the Human Early Learning Partnership. She is also an investigator with the BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute and the BC Injury Research & Prevention Unit. Her work and research focuses on the benefits of risky, unstructured outdoor play for children’s development.
Photo Credit: Guillermo Llamos