Tranquil Studio Org

01/20/2025

After thoughtful discussions with our amazing board members, we’re excited to share a meaningful update: our slogan has evolved!

✨ From: “Creative Solutions”
✨ To: “Creative Solutions for Community Impact”

This change reflects a broader focus, incorporating everything we’ve built with Tranquil Parenting while expanding to serve all community organizations—not just parenting-related ones. It’s about embracing the full scope of our work: designing and implementing impactful training and programs that support families, organizations, and communities alike.

Nothing is being cut or left behind—this evolution captures the heart of what we’ve always done while highlighting our greater purpose: creating meaningful change and meeting people where they are, both physically and emotionally.

Thank you for being part of this journey with us. Together, we’re making a real impact! 💡💙 We will keep everyone posted on further decisions that were made this past week as changes happen. More to come!!!

01/02/2025

🎉 Congratulations, Grace Lambert! 🎉 We are thrilled to share that our Fall 2023 Tranquil Parenting intern, Grace Lambert, has been accepted into the Master of Social Work (MSW) program at the University of Michigan! 💙💛

Grace made incredible strides during her time with us, driving meaningful progress within Lenawee County. Her passion and dedication to supporting families and communities have left a lasting impact.

Washtenaw is lucky to have her next, and we know she will continue to do amazing things!

Congratulations, Grace—your future is bright, and we’re so proud of you! 🌟

12/30/2024

Check out my latest article, part of my yearly research on how AI can transform education. It features action items from José Antonio Bowen and C. Edward Watson's Teaching with AI! Purchase at: https://amzn.to/3BNnvbE

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/book-review-teaching-ai-jos%C3%A9-antonio-bowen-c-edward-sonja-qcatc/?trackingId=rWB5T1O4TfWM69xw8Kpqmw%3D%3D

In Teaching with AI, José Antonio Bowen and C. Edward Watson provide specific actions educators can take to integrate AI into their teaching.

12/30/2024

Check out my latest article, part of my yearly research on how AI can transform education. It features action items from Salman Khan's "Brave New Words"!

Purchase at: https://amzn.to/3Pj1yEy

Read Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/book-review-brave-new-words-salman-khan-sonja-l-howell-ph-d--40bdc/

In Brave New Words, Salman Khan offers advice on how we can use artificial intelligence (AI) to change the way we learn and teach. This book is full of actionable ideas for educators, parents, and anyone passionate about improving education.

12/23/2024

12/21/2024

At Tranquil Studio, we prioritize transparency and confidentiality in our work. Here's why we choose not to share certain aspects of our work:

1. Confidentiality for Our Clients
We understand the importance of trust and privacy for the parents and organizations we work with. Respecting their vulnerability and safeguarding their confidentiality during challenging times is paramount. At Tranquil Studio, we uphold values of trust, respect, and providing safe spaces for growth. Sharing their stories without consent would contradict these principles.

2. Confidentiality for Our Contracts
Our contracts involve proprietary information, organizational strategies, and goals that are confidential. It is not within our rights to disclose these details. While there may be ongoing discussions on handling contracts in this domain, we align with established models by local organizations that prioritize confidentiality. We are privileged to engage in collaborations that uphold these standards.

While the state may still be figuring out the best ways to handle contracts in this space, some local organizations have successfully established models that work—and I’m honored to collaborate with them.

At Tranquil Studio, we remain committed to fostering impactful solutions and partnerships while upholding the privacy and integrity of all parties involved.

12/19/2024

Today, I received the call I’ve been waiting for since before Covid—the call from the state asking me to become a vendor again for parenting instruction. I was filled with mixed emotions as I explained that the state had cut the funding, and we both shared our disappointment. She said, but your program is referred by so many in the courts. We just can’t pay you. I shared with them my recent study in Lenawee County, a study I did to help our community, only to find that there was no longer a way to compensate me for my work. Parenting instruction is no longer a checkbox on the form. Such a simple change that cut out a valuable resource.

As I spoke, I couldn’t help but tear up, but I took a deep breath and shared my resolve: Parents still have health insurance, and they can work with therapist using the books I’ve written. I know that although I was cut out of the process, parents still have 18 requirements to meet before they can reunite with their kids. It’s overwhelming to make them seek help from five different people during the process. By cutting me out, the state may have taken away my income, but they’re keeping families together.

Even as I cried on the phone, she was relieved to hear that I had a plan. I’ve already solved many of today’s challenges within this process, and my materials are ready to support parents who need help. I’m not saying I won’t help those in need, but I’m no longer the first stop for parents. I’m still working with families one-on-one through the courts, and the high-conflict situations where nothing else works, but not as a state contract. Seems like it wouldn’t be rewarding to work myself out of a job.

For a long time, I feared I wouldn’t have the strength to let go, but this is how the state made it happen.

I’m happy to share that I have an answer, and the state is thrilled that the solution is just $20 per parent. Tranquil Parenting continues to live on, and I can still do what I love, supporting families, organizations, and our community.

I’ve always been committed to finding quick resolutions to challenges for organizations, and today’s call proves that my work is far from over and I can continue doing what I love. My plan is working. She was so very happy as it solved her dilemma and helps parents… helps the kids.

Link to books: https://www.amazon.com/author/sonjalhowellphd

Follow Sonja L. Howell PhD and explore their bibliography from Amazon's Sonja L. Howell PhD Author Page.

12/15/2024

We are thrilled to announce the release of our second new book this semester, Acceptance Heals All: Helping Parents Support and Understand Their LGBTQIA+ Children.

Every semester, we focus on a social issue impacting families, and this semester’s project holds a special place in our hearts. A huge thank you to Hailey from Adrian College for her dedication, grit, and passion in bringing this work to life.

The A.C.C.E.P.T-ance Guide presents a research-based framework to help parents support their LGBTQIA+ children with understanding and affirmation. Grounded in evidence and practical strategies, it provides tools to foster stronger parent-child relationships while promoting resilience and acceptance. This guide is an essential resource for creating a loving, inclusive, and supportive family environment.

📚 Now available on Amazon!
Congratulations to our newest published author!

Link: Acceptance Heals All: Helping Parents Support and Understand Their LGBTQIA+ Children https://a.co/d/79RnZA7

Acceptance Heals All: Helping Parents Support and Understand Their LGBTQIA+ Children

12/14/2024

Happy Saturday! Tomorrow is the last day to grab Share Your Shine for free on Kindle.

Thank you to my co-mentors—your guidance and support have shaped who I am and inspired this workbook. I’m so grateful for each of you.

Join the 28 people who have downloaded it and the 10 who have requested a PDF. Don’t miss out—download your free copy and share it with others today!

Link: Share Your Shine: Inspiring Women Leaders https://a.co/d/bJVzOG9

12/14/2024

We’re excited to share the latest episode of Tranquil Studio, where Dr. Howell speaks with Dionne Bowens, Kirstin Sarabia, and Donovan McCary from Lenawee County. Together, they explore the powerful shift in juvenile justice, emphasizing restorative practices and education over punishment and incarceration.

This insightful conversation covers the importance of accountability, community collaboration, and family involvement in creating lasting change for at-risk youth. Learn how Lenawee County is leading the way in redefining juvenile justice and fostering a supportive framework for young people.

✨ Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/DBOVPpgSaKg

In this candid episode of Tranquil Studio Org, Dr. Howell sits down with Dionne Bowens, Probate Juvenile Court Administrator, alongside juvenile probation of...

12/09/2024

Come visit me at…

📣 Calling All Sponsors and Vendors! 🌟
We are excited to announce the 30th Annual Parenting Conference and are seeking vendors and sponsors to be a part of this incredible event! 🎉
📅 Date: 3/1/2025
📍 Location: Macomb Intermediate School District (44001 Garfield Rd, Clinton Township, MI 48038)
🕘 Time: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
This conference brings together parents, caregivers, and professionals to share resources, ideas, and inspiration for stronger families and thriving children. As a vendor or sponsor, you’ll have the opportunity to:
✨ Showcase your products or services to a diverse audience.
✨ Network with community leaders and other businesses.
✨ Support a meaningful event that empowers families.
Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out on this opportunity to make a lasting impact!
📩 For more information or to sign up, visit https://ow.ly/UUo550Unyw2
Together, we can make this milestone event our best one yet! 💙

12/08/2024

Today marked my final meeting with Hailey, Tranquil Studio Org’s amazing intern, and I couldn’t be prouder to share that she is now officially an author, a graduate with her bachelor’s, and a truly wonderful young woman! We’re thrilled to announce the chosen book cover—a vibrant rainbow iris on a bold green background, symbolizing healing, renewal, and inclusivity. Thank you to everyone who shared their insights and helped shape this meaningful design. This book is a celebration of love, acceptance, and growth. Our book will be available soon on Amazon. You can see us holding a mock-up design of our book.

12/08/2024

Please vote: We’re so excited to share the upcoming release of Acceptance Heals All: Helping Parents Support and Understand Their LGBTQIA+ Children, co-written with my amazing Adrian College intern, Hailey Chretien.

Both cover options feature a beautiful rainbow iris, symbolizing restoration, clarity, and the beauty of diversity and inclusivity. The iris reflects the journey of understanding and embracing one another with love and acceptance.

Now we’d love your input.

Option 1 has a tall field of green grass, representing openness, growth, and flourishing relationships. It evokes a sense of freedom and the natural beauty of supportive connections.

Option 2 has a solid green background, symbolizing boldness, renewal, and stability. It reflects the energy of healing and the vibrant possibilities of a more inclusive future.

Which cover do you feel captures the spirit of this book? Please share your thoughts in the comments. Your input means so much to us as we finalize this special project.

Thank you for your support toward acceptance and healing. We will share the final choice tomorrow.

12/05/2024

Speaking at the symposium about conflict resolution in healthcare. Please support this initiative. See information below.

12/04/2024

Extension Extra’s Parenting Hour
These free online parenting workshops will provide guidance for parents of children as they navigate the challenges, concerns, and joys of parenting. Participants may register for as few or as many workshops as they wish. The workshops are on Tuesday evenings from 8:00 to 9:30PM ET as follows:

Class dates:

12/10/2024: Birds and the Bees: Talking with Kids About S*x
12/17/2024: Helping Kids Manage Stress
Class Times: 8:00PM to 9:30PM
Registration: https://msu.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_tsaVF3uvTp2wINV5dlR2vw

12/04/2024

Join us!
Register Here: https://forms.gle/hacDVSsLzgrMrd3L9