Supporting & guiding overwhelmed parents to feel calmer, more confident, and deeply connected relationships with their children - even in the hardest moments.
Parenting in the early years can feel overwhelming in a way no one really prepares you for.You’re doing your best—reading, learning, trying to stay patient—but still finding yourself second-guessing, feeling stretched, or reacting in ways you didn’t expect. It can feel exhausting. Heavy. Sometimes even lonely.
It doesn’t mean you’re failing. You’re not failing! It simply means you haven’t had the right tools and support yet.At Early Roots, I support you to understand what’s really going on beneath your child’s behaviour, so you can respond effectively and positively, with calm and confidence. Even during tantrums, big emotions, and everyday challenges.Because the early years aren’t just about raising children—they’re about growing into the parent you want to be.You don’t have to figure this out alone!
Hi, I’m Marisela.
I’m a mum of two and a qualified Early Childhood Education teacher with over 15 years of experience supporting tamariki and their whānau across New Zealand, the USA, and México.I hold a Bachelor of Teaching (ECE), and have worked in a range of settings—from early learning centres to in-home family support, including nannying and Au Pair roles.Over the years, I’ve supported tamariki through big emotions, behavioural challenges, and everyday transitions like sleep routines and daily routines. My focus has always been on creating calm, nurturing environments where tamariki feel safe, understood, and supported to grow. And what I’ve learned along the way (over and over again) is that supporting children starts with supporting their parents.I’ve worked closely with families to build strong, trusting relationships, helping them feel more confident and more connected with their children. My approach is grounded in positive guidance, emotional regulation, and practical strategies that actually work in real life, always respecting the values and beliefs of each whānau.I created Early Roots to offer you a space where you feel heard, understood, and supported without judgement. I’m here to help you make sense of your child’s behaviour and respond in ways that feel calm, intentional, and aligned with the kind of parent you want to be.
You might be:
Feeling overwhelmed by your child’s behaviour or emotions.
Snapping, shouting or reacting in ways you didn’t intend.
Unsure how to respond in challenging moments.
Trying different approaches but nothing feels consistent.
Navigating tantrums, big emotions, or daily struggles.
Asking yourself ”why is this so hard when I really care so much!?”
HOW I SUPPORT YOU:
Understanding, together, what’s really going on beneath your child’s behaviour.
Helping you make sense of your child’s development stage.
Creating simple, realistic strategies you can actually use in the moment.
Supporting you to co-regulate and respond with intention during challenging moments.
Strengthening a calm, positive, and secure connection with your child.
Helping you feel more confident in your parenting decisions.
What to expect:
Feeling calmer and more in control of your responses
Learning how to respond instead of react
Understanding your child in a deeper, more meaningful way
A more connected and peaceful relationship with your child
Confidence in your parenting decisions
Personalised guidance tailored to your family, helping you navigate challenges with clarity, confidence, and a deeper understanding of your child.
Practical and supportive sessions where you can learn, reflect, and grow alongside other parents—while gaining tools you can use in everyday life.
The Early Roots Village Membership
A monthly membership. Offering you ongoing support, real conversations, and guidance when you need it most, so you don’t have to do this alone!
You don’t need to have it all figured out.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply ready for more support—this is your next step.
Join The Early Roots Village!
Hi there! Did you know you were never meant to raise your child alone?Parenting can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to do things differently. Trying to stay calm during a meltdown; trying to respond with connection instead of reacting, or to break patterns and raise your child in a more intentional and positive way. And yet… most of us are doing it without the support we actually need. That’s where The Early Roots Village comes in.This is a space where you will feel supported, guided, and understood. Inside the Village, you don’t have to figure everything out on your own. You’ll have real support, real conversations, and practical guidance you can actually use in everyday life.🌿 Inside the Village, you’ll get:
- Weekly Village Circles (Live)
- Ongoing Support (Private WhatsApp Group). You can message anytime, ask questions in the moment, and receive guidance when you need it.
- Monthly Parenting Themes to keep things simple and focused.
- Practical tools that work in real homes with real children.🌿 This is for you if:
- You feel overwhelmed or unsure at times.
- You want to respond calmly instead of reacting.
- You care deeply about your child’s emotional wellbeing.
- You don’t want to do this alone.🌿 Imagine this…
- Understanding what’s actually happening during a tantrum.
- Feeling more confident in your decisions.
- Having someone to turn to when things feel hard.
- Feeling calmer, more connected, and supported🌿 Join as a Founding Member
For a limited time:
$30 NZD/month
You’ll keep this price for as long as you stay inside the Village.You don’t have to do this alone anymore!Stay tuned! Dates coming up by Sunday, 17th of May. Leave your details if you would like to be the first one to know.
Click here to be in the VIP list!
Helping parents understand behaviour, strengthen connection, and feel more confident in everyday parenting.
You don’t have to figure this out alone:
_
Hi, I’m Marisela.
I’m a mum of two and a qualified Early Childhood Education teacher with over 15 years of experience supporting tamariki and their whānau across New Zealand, the USA, and México.I hold a Bachelor of Teaching (ECE), and have worked in a range of settings—from early learning centres to in-home family support, including nannying and Au Pair roles.Over the years, I’ve supported tamariki through big emotions, behavioural challenges, and everyday transitions like sleep routines and daily routines. My focus has always been on creating calm, nurturing environments where tamariki feel safe, understood, and supported to grow. And what I’ve learned along the way (over and over again) is that supporting children starts with supporting their parents.I’ve worked closely with families to build strong, trusting relationships, helping them feel more confident and more connected with their children. My approach is grounded in positive guidance, emotional regulation, and practical strategies that actually work in real life, always respecting the values and beliefs of each whānau.I created Early Roots to offer you a space where you feel heard, understood, and supported without judgement. I’m here to help you make sense of your child’s behaviour and respond in ways that feel calm, intentional, and aligned with the kind of parent you want to be.
Helping parents understand behaviour, strengthen connection, and feel more confident in everyday parenting.
You don’t have to figure this out alone:
Supporting overwhelmed parents to feel calmer, more confident, and deeply connected relationships with their children - even in the hardest moments.
Personalised guidance tailored to your family, helping you navigate challenges with clarity, confidence, and a deeper understanding of your child.
Practical and supportive sessions where you can learn, reflect, and grow alongside other parents—while gaining tools you can use in everyday life.
The Early Roots Village Membership
A monthly membership. Offering you ongoing support, real conversations, and guidance when you need it most, so you don’t have to do this alone!
Join Early Roots Village!
Hi there! Did you know you were never meant to raise your child alone?Parenting can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to do things differently. Trying to stay calm during a meltdown; trying to respond with connection instead of reacting, or to break patterns and raise your child in a more intentional and positive way. And yet… most of us are doing it without the support we actually need. That’s where The Early Roots Village comes in.This is a space where you will feel supported, guided, and understood. Inside the Village, you don’t have to figure everything out on your own. You’ll have real support, real conversations, and practical guidance you can actually use in everyday life.🌿 Inside the Village, you’ll get:
- Weekly Village Circles (Live)
- Ongoing Support (Private WhatsApp Group). You can message anytime, ask questions in the moment, and receive guidance when you need it.
- Monthly Parenting Themes to keep things simple and focused.
- Practical tools that work in real homes with real children.🌿 This is for you if:
- You feel overwhelmed or unsure at times.
- You want to respond calmly instead of reacting.
- You care deeply about your child’s emotional wellbeing.
- You don’t want to do this alone.🌿 Imagine this…
- Understanding what’s actually happening during a tantrum.
- Feeling more confident in your decisions.
- Having someone to turn to when things feel hard.
- Feeling calmer, more connected, and supported🌿 Join as a Founding Member
For a limited time:
$30 NZD/month
You’ll keep this price for as long as you stay inside the Village.You don’t have to do this alone anymore!Stay tuned! Dates coming up by Sunday, 17th of May. Leave your details if you would like to be the first one to know.
Click here to be in the VIP list!
Helping parents understand behaviour, strengthen connection, and feel more confident in everyday parenting.
You don’t have to figure this out alone:
Is parenting feeling overwhelming? Looking for a safe space to feel supported and understood? Wanting to become a calmer, more positive and confident parent? These free of judgement workshops are for you,
JOIN US!
Dates coming up soon! Stay tuned!
If you’d like to work together, feel free to contact me at [email protected]
or click the button below:
Helping parents understand behaviour, strengthen connection, and feel more confident in everyday parenting.
You don’t have to figure this out alone:
The Early Roots Village
Hi there! Did you know you were never meant to raise your child alone?Parenting can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to do things differently. Trying to stay calm during a meltdown; trying to respond with connection instead of reacting, or to break patterns and raise your child in a more intentional and positive way. And yet… most of us are doing it without the support we actually need. That’s where The Early Roots Village comes in.This is a space where you will feel supported, guided, and understood. Inside the Village, you don’t have to figure everything out on your own. You’ll have real support, real conversations, and practical guidance you can actually use in everyday life.🌿 Inside the Village, you’ll get:
- Weekly Village Circles (Live)
- Ongoing Support (Private WhatsApp Group). You can message anytime, ask questions in the moment, and receive guidance when you need it.
- Monthly Parenting Themes to keep things simple and focused.
- Practical tools that work in real homes with real children.🌿 This is for you if:
- You feel overwhelmed or unsure at times.
- You want to respond calmly instead of reacting.
- You care deeply about your child’s emotional wellbeing.
- You don’t want to do this alone.🌿 Imagine this…
- Understanding what’s actually happening during a tantrum.
- Feeling more confident in your decisions.
- Having someone to turn to when things feel hard.
- Feeling calmer, more connected, and supported🌿 Join as a Founding Member
For a limited time:
$30 NZD/month
You’ll keep this price for as long as you stay inside the Village.You don’t have to do this alone anymore!Stay tuned! Dates coming up by Sunday, 17th of May. Leave your details if you would like to be the first one to know.
Click here to be in the VIP list!
You don’t have to figure this out alone:
1:1 Parenting Support & Coaching
Hi there, I’m Marisela. I’m a qualified Early Childhood teacher with over 10 years of experience supporting tamariki and whānau. But my biggest learning has come from becoming a mum to my two beautiful children.
I know that parenting can feel overwhelming at times. You might find yourself second-guessing your decisions, unsure how to respond to your child’s behaviour, or simply feeling stretched. But you don’t have to navigate this alone.
These 1:1 sessions are a space for you to feel supported, understood, and gently guided, so you can respond to your child’s needs and behaviours with more clarity and confidence.
This space is for you if you are:
- Feeling overwhelmed with your parenting
- Unsure how to respond in certain situations
- Wanting to build a stronger, more connected relationship with your child
- Looking for gentle, respectful, and practical guidance
- Ready to feel positive and confident in your parenting
Every session is tailored to your family, but we may explore:
- Understanding what’s underneath your child’s behaviour
- Responding with connection instead of reaction
- Setting boundaries in a calm and respectful way
- Supporting big emotions (yours and your child’s)
- Creating more ease and rhythm in your daily lifeWhat’s included
Pre-session connection
A short intake form so I can understand your family and what support you’re needing.90-minute 1:1 session
A personalised session focused on your child, your challenges, and your goals. The structure of the session will be guided by your whānau’s needs.Personalised follow-up booklet
A summary with key insights, tools and practical strategies to support you after the session.7-day follow-up support
A space to check in, ask questions, and feel supported as you begin to implement.How it works
1. Once you book, you’ll receive a short form to complete before your session.
2. Sessions are held online or in person. The set-up will look different for every whānau.
3. After your session, you’ll receive your personalised kit along with follow-up support over the next 7 days.
Investment: $130 per sessionDisclaimer: There is no “perfect” way to parent. This work is about understanding your child more deeply, while also supporting you.
If this feels like what you’ve been needing, I’d love to support you. Book your session HERE
You don’t have to figure this out alone:
Helping parents understand behaviour, strengthen connection, and feel more confident in everyday parenting.
You don’t have to figure this out alone:
Helping parents understand behaviour, strengthen connection, and feel more confident in everyday parenting.
You don’t have to figure this out alone:
Child development in the first 5 years of age,
and why it matters more than you think
Fighting against the parenting myths is one of the biggest challenges when starting this wonderfull journey of parenting. We know that some of them can be harmful for our children’s brain development. We are a different generation wanting to parent in a very different way.
Parenting Myths
Since the early century, parents have faced different stages of parenting beliefs. Some of them are carried for years and we have been unable to squash them out. If you are in your parenting journey, I’m sure you have heard all these myths that our great grand parents used to believe: don’t carry or hug your child too much otherwise they will only want to be with you, you shouldn’t sleep with your children, your children should walk at a certain age, and there are other ones like “feed them with this herbal tea at weeks of age”, “your breast milk is not enough”. And the question is, how does this affect our parenting and our children development?
You don’t have to figure this out alone:
Child development in the first 5 years of age,
and why it matters more than you think
The first 5 years of every human's life are the most important stage of development. During this period of time, the child’s brain grows rapidly, building the foundation for learning, behaviour, emotional wellbeing, and future success.
What does early childhood development mean?
Early childhood development (0–5 years old) is a critical stage of the human brain, where so much growing, learning, and foundation-building happens. During these early years, children develop their physical abilities (like movement and coordination), their social and emotional skills (behaviour and self-regulation), their language and communication, and their cognitive thinking (learning and problem-solving).What’s important to understand is that none of these areas develop on their own — they are all deeply connected. For example, when a child is learning to communicate, they are also building confidence, emotional awareness, and their ability to connect with others.In these early years, the brain forms millions of connections through everyday experiences. The simple, ordinary moments and interactions, their play and routines are actually shaping how children learn, how they relate to others, and how they think and respond to the world around them.Research consistently shows that the early years lay the foundation for lifelong learning, health, and well-being. The brain develops faster than at any other stage of life, and children are incredibly responsive to their environment, and their early experiences have a lasting impact.Reminder: It’s often the simple, everyday moments like talking, playing, comforting, and connecting that build strong developmental foundations. These small interactions may seem ordinary, but they are doing important work in shaping how a child grows and learns.
How can I support my child development?
Relationships: the heart of children’s development
Strong and secure relationships are at the center of a child’s development.Children learn about the world through their relationships. When caregivers respond consistently and warmly, children begin to understand that they are safe, valued, and that they can trust others. This sense of security supports emotional regulation, confidence, and social development.Your relationship with your child is the most powerful, but connections with whānau, educators, and other children also play an important role.At Early Roots NZ, we often talk about connection before correction, because behaviour is always a form of communication. There is an old belief about children being manipulative, when in reality, they're only trying to communicate something: "I need attention", "I need help", "I'm tired", "I'm feeling overwhelmed", "I need to feel safe", "I don't know how to explain what I'm feeling" - but we will talk about more about this in our next blog!
Play-based learning: how children learn best
Play is not just entertainment, it’s how children learn.Through play, children explore and make sense of the world around them. They develop problem-solving skills, build creativity and imagination, and learn resilience through trial and error.Play-based learning is a core part of early childhood education in New Zealand, and for good reason. It supports all areas of development in a way that feels natural and engaging for children.As a parent or caregiver, your role isn’t to control play, but to support it. This can look like giving children time and space to explore, encouraging their curiosity, and being present and engaged. Even small moments of connection during play can have a big impact.
What else influences a child’s development?
While relationships and play are central, there are other important factors that shape development in the early years.Nutrition plays a big role in supporting brain development, energy levels, and overall growth. In this subject, it's important to mention how children also learn from what they see, so sharing meals and modelling healthy eating helps build positive habits from an early age.Physical activity is just as important. Running, climbing, balancing, and outdoor play all support both physical and cognitive development. These experiences help children build motor skills, develop coordination, and improve their ability to focus and learn. Encouraging movement early on supports lifelong healthy habits.Health is another part of the picture. Most children will experience minor illnesses as they grow, and this is a normal part of childhood. However, if there are ongoing health or developmental concerns, early support can make a significant difference. Trusting your instincts as a parent is important, if something doesn’t feel right, it’s always okay to ask for help.Environment and community also shape children development. Here in New Zealand, access to safe outdoor spaces, early childhood education, playgroups, libraries, and community support all contribute to a child’s growth and wellbeing. Feeling a sense of belonging within a community supports both tamariki and their families.
Every child develops differently
A very important reminder for all of us parents:One of the most common concerns for parents is whether their child is “on track.”The reality is that every child develops at their own pace. While developmental milestones can give general guidance, there is a wide range of what is considered typical. For example, children may begin walking anytime between 8 and 18 months.So next time you find yourself comparing your child’s achievements, remind yourself to focus on their individual progress. And if you have any concerns, seeking advice early can provide reassurance and the right support if needed.
The parenting support
Or what we like to call it… The Early Roots Village.Parenting in the early years can feel overwhelming at times. You might find yourself questioning your decisions and ways of parenting so often you may feel like you are “about to lose it”.At Early Roots, we recognise that supporting children starts with supporting parents and caregivers. In fact, children behave better when they feel safe and connected with their caregivers - and in order to make them feel safe and build a stronger connection with our tamariki we need tools and real-life strategies that help us respond in the most calm and positive way.And remember… You don’t need to have all the answers. What matters most is being present, building strong relationships, and being open to learning along the way.Looking after your own wellbeing is also an important part of this. When you feel supported, you’re better able to support your child.
Final thoughts: small moments, big impact
Child development in the first five years isn’t about perfection, they don’t need an instagram kind of life, it’s about connection!The most meaningful things you can offer your child are love and security, time to play and explore, and a safe, nurturing environment. These everyday experiences shape your child’s future more than anything else.If you’re looking for more support, guidance, or practical strategies, I’m here to walk alongside you and help you feel more confident in your parenting journey.
Contact me
You don’t have to figure this out alone:
PRIVACY POLICY
Last updated: May 2026Early Roots respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how information is collected, used, and stored.1. Information Collected
Information collected may include:
- Name
- Email address
- Phone number
- Information shared through contact forms or bookings
- Information voluntarily shared during sessions or messaging support
2. How Your Information Is Used
Your information may be used to:
- Respond to enquiries
- Schedule and provide services
- Send updates relating to bookings or membership
- Improve services and website experience
- Share newsletters or updates (if subscribed)
- Your personal information will not be sold or shared with third parties unless required by law.
3. Confidentiality
Information shared during sessions is treated respectfully and confidentially. However, confidentiality may need to be broken if there are concerns about:
- Serious harm to yourself or others
- Child safety concerns
- Legal obligations under New Zealand law
4. Website & Cookies
This website may use cookies or analytics tools to improve website performance and user experience. You can disable cookies through your browser settings if preferred.
5. Third-Party Platforms
Early Roots may use third-party services such as:
- Booking systems
- Email marketing platforms
- WhatsApp
- Payment providers
- Social media platforms
These platforms may store information according to their own privacy policies.
Please note that messaging platforms are not guaranteed to be fully secure.
6. Access to Your Information
You may request access to or correction of your personal information at any time.
To do so, please contact:
[email protected]
7. Updates to This Policy
This Privacy Policy may be updated occasionally.
The latest version will always be available on this website.
You don’t have to figure this out alone:
TERMS & CONDITIONS
Last updated: May 2026
Welcome to Early Roots. By using this website or booking any services through Early Roots, you agree to the following Terms & Conditions. These Terms are designed to create a safe, respectful, and clear experience for everyone involved.
1. About Early Roots
Early Roots provides relationship-based parenting support, guidance, workshops, memberships, and educational services for parents and caregivers.
Services are designed to support parents in understanding children’s behaviour, emotional regulation, connection, and everyday parenting challenges.
Early Roots is not a medical, psychological, or crisis service.
2. Services
Services may include:
- 1:1 parenting support sessions
- Discovery calls
- Group workshops or talks
- Membership/community support (The Early Roots Village)
- Educational resources and blog content
- Follow-up support via messaging
All services are intended for educational and supportive purposes only.
3. Bookings & Payments
Payment is required before sessions unless otherwise agreed.
Prices are listed in NZD and may change over time.
Early Roots reserves the right to update pricing, services, or offerings at any time.
4. Cancellation & Rescheduling Policy
If you need to cancel or reschedule your session, please provide at least 24 hours notice.
Sessions cancelled with less than 24 hours notice may not be refunded.
If Early Roots needs to reschedule a session, an alternative time will be offered.
5. Messaging Support Boundaries
Some services may include limited follow-up support via WhatsApp or other messaging platforms. This support is not intended to provide immediate or emergency responses.
Please note:
- Responses are provided during business hours only
- Response times may take up to 24 hours
- Messaging support is intended for brief guidance and reflection between sessions
- Ongoing or complex concerns may require an additional session
- Early Roots is not available for crisis support
If you or your child are in immediate danger or require urgent mental health support, please contact emergency services or an appropriate health professional.
6. Membership Terms – The Early Roots Village
- Membership fees are billed monthly unless otherwise stated.
- Founding Member pricing applies only while membership remains active.
- If membership is cancelled and later restarted, the current pricing at the time of rejoining will apply.
- Membership can be cancelled at any time before the next billing cycle.
- The Village is intended to be a supportive group space. Respectful communication is expected at all times.
- Early Roots reserves the right to remove members who engage in harmful, disrespectful, or inappropriate behaviour.
7. Disclaimer
Early Roots provides parenting education, guidance, and emotional support only. Services do not replace:
- Medical advice
- Psychological treatment
- Therapy
- Mental health services
- Professional diagnosis
Any information shared through sessions, workshops, social media, blog posts, or membership content is general in nature and should not be considered medical or clinical advice.
Parents and caregivers remain responsible for decisions relating to their child and family.
8. Intellectual Property
All content on this website, including text, resources, guides, branding, logos, and materials created by Early Roots, remains the property of Early Roots unless otherwise stated.
Content may not be copied, reproduced, distributed, or used for commercial purposes without written permission.
9. Privacy
Your privacy matters.
Any personal information shared through bookings, contact forms, emails, or sessions will be handled respectfully and confidentially.
Please refer to the Privacy Policy for more information.
10. Changes to These Terms
These Terms & Conditions may be updated from time to time.
By continuing to use this website or services, you agree to the current version of these Terms.
Please contact Early Roots for any questions regarding these Terms:
Early Roots NZ
Email: [email protected]
You don’t have to figure this out alone:
WEBSITE DISCLAIMER
Last updated: May 2026
The information provided by Early Roots is intended for educational and supportive purposes only.
While every effort is made to provide thoughtful, accurate, and relationship-based guidance, information shared through this website, social media, workshops, memberships, or sessions should not be considered medical, psychological, therapeutic, or legal advice.
Early Roots does not provide diagnosis, mental health treatment, or crisis support.
Parents and caregivers remain responsible for decisions relating to their child, family, and wellbeing.
Any reliance placed on information provided by Early Roots is at your own discretion.
If you have concerns regarding your child’s health, development, or safety, please seek support from an appropriate qualified professional.
You don’t have to figure this out alone: