The Power of Laughter to Connect with Students

There’s something transformative about the moment a classroom erupts in laughter, not the disruptive kind, but the kind that unites. In those moments, barriers begin to fall, trust is built, and real connection takes root. Life Education North Wellington educator Marsha knows this well. "As educators, we often enter the classroom armed with plans, objectives, and standards. But it’s the spontaneous joy, the shared smiles, and the light-hearted moments that often leave the deepest impressions on both students and teachers," says Marsha.

Laughter is a universal language. It eases tension, opens hearts, and invites students to be their full selves. When students laugh, they let their guard down.
Marsha adds:
"When teachers laugh with them, not at them, it signals that the classroom is a safe, human space where everyone belongs. In these moments, we’re not just teaching content; we’re building community."

Marsha’s approach to learning has always recognised that fun is not a distraction from learning; it is a pathway to foster fun, deeper curiosity, risk-taking, and resilience. It makes the learning experience memorable and meaningful.

That point was underscored recently when a school counsellor approached Marsha during lunch to share some unexpected feedback:
"Wow, Marsha, if you ever leave this job, you should go into comedy! Your teaching style captivates the students. They were all engaged. It was so cool to see students who are usually closed off totally relax. I actually wanted to tell you this: a student I just saw in session, who was in tears after what they described as a terrible week, told me their one happy moment was, ‘when I was with Harold and Marsha.’"

These moments remind us that education isn’t just about delivering information—it’s about building relationships. And when those relationships are grounded in trust, laughter, and joy, their impact extends far beyond the classroom walls.

Marsha started her teaching career in Toronto, Canada in 2002. With degrees in Kinesiology/Physical Health Education and Education, she has worked across both private and public education sectors around the world.

She moved to New Zealand in 2006, drawn to Life Education because it represents everything teaching means to her, and empowers young minds to make healthy, informed decisions while having fun and enjoying the journey of learning.

"It’s about helping students discover the most important aspects of themselves," says Marsha. "Building resilience and standing tall with confidence, showing kindness, respecting their magnificent bodies, and fuelling their minds and bodies with the right energy. Supporting them in this way isn’t just rewarding, it’s what brings education to life," says Marsha.

What inspires Marsha most about working with young people is the sense that they’re always learning together. Their curiosity keeps every day fresh. "There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing those big, bright smiles when something clicks, when they have that ‘aha’ moment. It’s inspiring to think about the futures they can create with the right support, encouragement, and belief in themselves. Being part of that journey is a true privilege," says Marsha.

But she also hears about the tough stuff in the voices of young people who face words, unkind treatment, bullying, and exclusion, both online and face to face. Many students are navigating challenges with friendships, feeling left out, or being targeted by hurtful behaviors, especially through social media. Marsha notes,
"These experiences can deeply affect their confidence and sense of belonging, highlighting just how important it is to create safe, supportive spaces where they feel seen, heard, and valued."

One of Marsha’s special gifts is remembering names.
"To be honest, I’ve always been good with names. In the classroom, I remember the students I teach by focusing on the little things that make them unique like how they laugh, the questions they ask, the way they light up when they learn something new. Sometimes it’s a moment of connection, a shared joke, or a breakthrough that sticks with me. I may not always remember every name instantly, but I remember how they made me feel and how we impacted each other during our time together," says Marsha.

In 2024, Marsha received the Tohu Karamata (Life Education Award), a term meaning 'summit' or 'pinnacle,' acknowledging her commitment to going above and beyond to support tamariki and their whānau.

As MC Carleen noted: "Marsha is a big supporter in her region and regional group. She always puts her hand up to support national initiatives, and fronts so well for the organisation. Marsha is well known for her humour, heart, fun and jokes!"