MSI Press Blog

Long before sensory processing became a widely understood concept, pediatrician  T. Berry Brazelton  was attuned to its signals. I remember him noting, as early as my son’s infancy, that his reactions to sound, touch, and movement were intense and layered. Brazelton’s insight wasn’t just clinical—it became a lifeline. My son is now 45, and while sensory overload hasn’t disappeared, we’ve spent decades learning how to navigate it with compassion and precision. One of the earliest lessons?  Reduce the variety of sensory input occurring simultaneously.  A child might tolerate loud music, flashing lights, or unfamiliar textures individually—but together, they form a storm. Sensory sensitivities aren’t just about discomfort. They’re about threshold—the point at which a child goes from grounded to overwhelmed. Recognizing that threshold is key. 🛠️ Strategies to Ease Sensory Overload Here are some tools and adjustments that have helped, and may support others walking a sim...

Parenting is a full-body, full-brain experience. For neurodivergent parents—those with ADHD, autism, sensory processing differences, or other cognitive variations—it can feel like juggling fire while walking a tightrope. But it can also be a masterclass in resilience, innovation, and radical empathy. 🧩 The Double Layer of Complexity Neurodivergent parents often face two simultaneous realities: Managing their own sensory, emotional, or executive functioning needs Supporting children—who may also be neurodivergent—with structure, care, and advocacy This dual navigation requires extraordinary mental flexibility and self-awareness. 🔍 Strengths That Shine Neurodivergent parents bring unique gifts to the table: Hyperfocus becomes deep engagement : When present, you're fully present. Pattern recognition fuels insight : You notice what others miss—subtle shifts in mood, behavior, or environment. Creative problem-solving : You invent systems, rituals, and hacks that work for ...

  “Mastery” is a tempting word—often paired with achievement, confidence, and control. But parenting, especially of children with unique needs, rarely fits a model of fixed achievement. It's not a subject to master; it’s a relationship to grow. Raising a child who sees, feels, or learns differently can be unpredictable. What works beautifully one day might fall flat the next. It’s not failure—it’s the nature of a dynamic, evolving bond. 🌟  What Does Mastery Really Mean in Parenting? If mastery implies control, perhaps the real art lies in embracing adaptability: Learning what soothes your child after a tough day—and relearning it as they grow. Celebrating progress, not perfection. Releasing comparison and finding comfort in your child’s unique timeline. 🧠  Mastering Your Mindset More than specific techniques, parenting well means mastering your own mindset: Becoming calm in uncertainty. Practicing patience without passivity. Learning to pause before reacting—especially ...