On Saturday 21 March 2026, 12:00–16:00, the Tsuen Wan & Kwai Chung District Kindergarten Heads Association will present “A Journey to Wellness - Carnival” at Nina Park. In the fast-paced life of the city, the pressures faced by young children are often overlooked by adults. Research indicates that the ages of 0 to 6 are crucial for the development of emotional regulation skills. Slow walks in nature not only promote physical health but also effectively help regulate emotions and alleviate stress.

The “A Journey to Wellness - Carnival” event is designed based on the 4R framework of trauma-informed care (Recognise, Relate, Respond, and Avoid Re-traumatisation) and emotional regulation theory. We believe that the most effective mental health education occurs not in the classroom, but with every step taken together by parents and children, as well as in the laughter shared during each booth activity.

This event aims to provide parents with the opportunity to learn how to become emotional coaches for their children, fostering a deeper sense of secure attachment in a relaxed and natural environment through nature walks and engaging booth games.

Event Details:
Date and Time: 21 March 2026 (Saturday), 12:00 - 16:00 
Location: Nina Park - 8 Yeung Uk Road, Tsuen Wan (Tsuen Wan West MTR Station Exit C3)
Target Audience: Children aged 3 to 7 and their families
Admission: Free

*Note: Game tickets will be distributed at the redemption booth located at the main entrance steps of Nina Park. Tickets are available on-site only and will be issued on a first‑come, first‑served basis while stocks last.

The Tsuen Wan & Kwai Chung District Kindergarten Heads Association presents a specific approach to integrate activities with early childhood educators and parents by dividing the event into three phases: pre-event, during the event, and post-event. 

1.Preparation Before the Event: Integrating "Recognise" and "Realise"

· Recognising Emotions and States:

Before embarking on the walk, parents can crouch down and ask their child, “We’re going for a stroll soon; how are you feeling? Happy? Excited? Or a bit tired?”

· Connecting Point: This aligns with "Recognise" in the 4R framework. It allows children to practice recognising their physical sensations and emotional states from a young age.

· Understanding Children's Limits:

Parents need to "Realise" that young children have limited stamina and attention spans. The "Healthy Stroll" should not be treated as a training session or a task but rather as an adventure. If the child is not feeling well on the day, be prepared to shorten the walk or cancel it altogether to prevent any added pressure about "strolling."

2. During the Event: Parents can utilise the walking experience to help their children practise emotional regulation

· Using the "Stroll" as a Regulating Tool:

When children become impatient, noisy, or argue with siblings during the walk, instead of getting frustrated, parents can use the act of strolling itself to help regulate their emotions.

· Approach: “Let’s hop slowly like little rabbits!” or “How about we have a race to see who can walk as slowly as a turtle to that big tree over there?”

· Effect: Changing the rhythm of movement (such as walking slowly or jumping) can alter physiological states, helping children calm down from their excitement. This connects to "Respond" and "Regulate" in the 4R framework.

· Practising "Reframing" in Nature:

If a child complains, "I’m so tired, I can’t walk anymore," parents can guide them to shift their perspective.

· Approach: Pointing to nearby flowers or fallen leaves, parents might say, “Look, the little butterflies are accompanying us! Shall we fly like them to that gazebo ahead?”

· Effect: This helps children redirect their focus from tiredness to interesting things around them, serving as a gentle practice of "Reframing."

3. After the Event: Creating Moments of Reflection and Connection

· Fostering Positive Connections (Reach Out/Relate):

After the walk, you can hug your child and reflect together: “What did we see today? Do you remember that butterfly?”

· Connecting Point: This reinforces the bond between parent and child. Sharing these memories is essential for establishing a secure attachment. In this process, children feel seen and remembered, which is inherently therapeutic.

· Reflect and Recharge:

Before bed, you might casually say, “Today was fun, even though it was a bit tiring, wasn’t it?” This encourages the child to reflect on the entire experience, allowing them to sleep with a sense of satisfaction and completing their mental recharge.

Conclusion: Why are strolling and the 4Rs such a perfect match?

· Strolling provides a "Low-Pressure" environment:

Compared to having serious heart-to-heart discussions in the classroom or at home, walking allows the body to be in motion and the gaze to be forward. This way, children don’t feel as though they’re under scrutiny, making it easier for them to relax and open up. They are also more willing to accept guidance when in this informal setting.

· The 4Rs Offer a "Guided Approach":

Parents are not just taking their children out to release energy; they are consciously using this time to engage with their child's emotions and teach them how to self-regulate. This intentional guidance nurtures emotional awareness and strengthens the parent-child connection.

1) This event is organized by Tsuen Wan & Kwai Chung District Kindergarten Heads Association, with Nina Park as the venue sponsor.

2) Please check the latest event updates on Nina Park's Facebook and Instagram before departure; no individual notifications will be provided.

3) Please pay attention to the weather conditions on the day and dress appropriately.

4) By joining the event, participants agree to the event's terms and conditions, adhere to Nina Park's visitor rules, follow special arrangements for inclement weather, and comply with instructions from on-site staff. Please help maintain a clean environment by refraining from littering.

5) Due to weather, safety, maintenance, or other operational reasons, Nina Park and the organizer reserve the right to modify or cancel the event (or any part of it) and/or amend the above terms and conditions without prior notice. In case of any dispute, Nina Park’s decision shall be final. 

6) Participants are responsible for assessing their own physical condition to determine suitability for the activity. Nina Park and the organizer accept no liability for any discomfort or accidents resulting from participation.

7) Image consent: We may photograph, film, videotape, record or otherwise reproduce the images and voices of any visitor who enters Nina Park (“the Park”). The material may be used for educational, media, or editorial purposes on our website, social media platforms, publications, or promotional materials issued by the Park and the Chinachem Group.