MSI Press Blog

  Chaos in a family isn’t always loud. Sometimes it’s quiet—missed schedules, misunderstandings, emotions simmering just below the surface. Other times, it’s full-blown: tantrums, tech battles, homework meltdowns, or dinner that ends in declarations of "I hate broccoli!" And still, within all this noise lies an opportunity: not to control every moment, but to guide it toward harmony. 🎯  Harmony Doesn’t Mean Perfection Before we dive into strategies, let’s redefine harmony. It doesn’t mean silent agreement or conflict-free days. Harmony means alignment: A sense of rhythm that supports each person’s needs. Conflict that leads to connection. Calm tools that parents and kids can return to—together. 👪  Strategy 1: Build Predictable Routines Children thrive on structure. Whether it’s a morning checklist or a shared family calendar, routines reduce decision fatigue and create emotional safety. Use visual schedules for younger kids. Create weekly family “reset” times to discuss...

  Today's tip for parents from two talented teachers comes from  365 Teacher Secrets for Parents  by Cindy McKinley Alder and Patti Trombly. #201 Body Math   To keep the body in good health is a duty... otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear. ~ Buddha   Few things interest children more than learning about themselves. Use this to your advantage to increase your child's math skills. Below are some ways to practice math and have your child learn cool stuff about her body:   ●       It is said that you are as tall as the length of your arms from fingertip to fingertip across your chest. Help your child measure herself and see if it's true for her. Then, have her measure you and the whole family. If it does not hold true for someone, use subtraction to find the difference. ●       Have you heard that your feet are as long as the area between your wrist and your elbow? Help your child me...

  “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 ...