AtLivonia Public Schools, education extends beyond academics to include connection, belonging, and preparation for life after graduation. Serving more than 13,000 students across 24 schools, the district offers a Pre-K through postsecondary continuum shaped by both long-standing community ties and evolving educational needs.
Livonia Public Schools serves a large student population while prioritizing personalized learning and a sense of community.
Photo credit” Livonia Public Schools
A district that feels like family
What stands out immediately in Livonia Public Schools is the culture. Despite its size, the district emphasizes school communities where students are supported and recognized.
“Hundreds of our staff members and parents are proud LPS graduates,” says Stacy Jenkins, Administrator of District Communications. “That generational connection helps create a district that feels small, supportive and family-oriented.”
The district prioritizes relationships, with every student having at least one trusted adult in their school and a feeling of belonging
Photo credit: Livonia Public Schools
Strong academics for every learner
Livonia Public Schools students consistently outperform state averages on standardized assessments and rank in the top quarter of tri-county districts. Academic offerings are designed to meet students where they are and help them grow.
Options range from early childhood and special education services through age 26 to Advanced Placement courses, gifted and talented programming (grades 1-12), dual enrollment, Early Middle College and Career Technical Education programs with certificate opportunities. A districtwide STEM pathway supports students from kindergarten through high school, alongside specialized programs in performing arts and global education.
Photo credit: Livonia Public Schools
Building a supportive school culture
School culture is one of Livonia Public Schools’ four priority areas, alongside student achievement, employee capacity and fiscal responsibility. Students and staff practice Community with Character traits throughout the year, focusing on one value each month.
This creates a learning environment where respect, responsibility, and empathy are part of everyday school life.
Photo credit: Livonia Public Schools
Opportunities for learning outside the classroom
Learning in Livonia Public Schools continues outside the school day. The district offers a nationally recognized FIRST Robotics program that begins in elementary school and continues through high school, with teams competing at the world level.
Students also benefit from award-winning athletics, esports, Unified Sports programs and a wide variety of extracurricular activities. Parent involvement is especially strong, with one of Michigan’s largest PTA/PTSA memberships supporting districtwide programs and events that enrich the student experience.
Modern schools with a future-focused vision
Livonia Public Schools has invested more than $400 million in school renovations through recent bond issues, resulting in updated classrooms, athletic facilities and learning spaces across the district.
While the facilities are impressive, district leaders say it’s the focus on relationships and meaningful connections that truly sets Livonia Public Schools apart.
“Our schools have never looked better,” Jenkins says. “But it’s our commitment to students that makes the biggest difference.”
This content is sponsored by Livonia Public Schools. To learn more, visit the Livonia Public Schools website — and explore more metro Detroit schools in the Best Schools Guide.
Midtown Detroit is one of the city’s most active neighborhoods, known for its mix of restaurants, museums and major entertainment venues all within walking distance. This cultural hotspot is packed with kid-friendly attractions, making it perfect for a short visit or a full weekend. There’s always something to do in Midtown, and we’ve put together this guide to help you and your family start exploring the heart of Detroit.
Photo credit: Detroit Institute of Arts
Indoor adventures
Looking for a fun way to get out of the house while encouraging kids to learn outside the classroom? Midtown Detroit is home to several of the city’s most popular museums, making it a great destination for a family day of fun.
If you’re expecting rain, you’re in luck: these locations are completely indoors and all within walking distance of one another. With hands-on displays and many activities designed especially for kids, you and your child can learn, explore and share a memorable day together.
Got a future Van Gogh in the family? The Detroit Institute of Arts invites kids to create, play and look closely at art through gallery games and family-friendly activities. All over the museum, Eye Spy prompts encourage children to spot small details in artworks, turning a visit into an interactive scavenger hunt. Families can also joindrop-in art-making workshopson Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, plus enjoy puppet shows, music, and other family-friendly programs included with museum admission almost every weekend. The DIA is a creative, kid-friendly Midtown favorite for families.
Tickets:Adults: $20; Seniors and college students: $10; Ages 6-17: $7; Ages 5 & Under: Free; Free admission for members and residents of Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties.
At the Detroit Historical Museum, families can uncover the city’s history in a fun, easy-to-follow way. Kids will enjoy seeing classic cars, exploring old-time Detroit shops and learn about the history of Motown music. With interactive displays and rotating exhibits, there is always something new to learn about. It’s a great Midtown stop for families who want to mix fun with a little local history.
Tickets:Adults: $15; Seniors, Students ages 13-17 and College, Active Military, First Responders, Educators: $12; Ages 6-12: $8; Ages 5 & Under: Free; Free admission for members.
Photo credit: JoJo’s Shake Bar
Best bites
Midtown Detroit has no shortage of casual, kid-friendly dining options, all within easy reach of popular attractions. Whether you’re in the mood for can’t-miss Detroit-style pizza, a more adventurous kids’ meal at Ima Noodles or a delicious dessert, Midtown has something everyone will enjoy—and you may just find a new family favorite.
After a visit to the nearby museums, families can walk over to Ima Noodles for a wide range of options that are easy to share. For kids willing to step out of their comfort zone, menu highlights include several ramen bowls, udon, pho and other warm noodle and rice dishes. Ima offers families an easygoing dining experience, with plenty of opportunities for kids to try something fun and new.
Just south of Midtown, near Comerica Park, you’ll find Buddy’s Pizza, a historic city staple known for the original Detroit-style square pizza. For families looking for a bite to eat after exploring, Buddy’s has plenty of options, from pizza and salad to pastas and grilled cheese on the “Lil’ Buddy’s” menu. It’s a casual place to relax and refuel after a busy day in the city.
Can’t decide between dinner and dessert? Jojo’s Shake Bar delivers on both. The menu includes familiar favorites like sandwiches, salads, wings, nachos and fries, along with a full brunch menu from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. The real showstoppers, however, are the over-the-top milkshakes, stacked with candy, cookies and just about any topping you can imagine. Kids will love the colorful presentation, and parents can appreciate having plenty of savory options to balance out the sugar rush.
For families with a sweet tooth, For the Love of Sugar is a Midtown bakery known for both its creative desserts and interactive baking classes. The menu features everything from cookies and cakes to macarons, as well as specialties like homemade cosmic fudge brownies, making it easy for everyone to find something they love. In addition to grab-and-go treats, For the Love of Sugar hosts seasonal kids’ classes, such as Valentine’s treat decorating and St. Patrick’s Day cupcake workshops, withregistration detailsposted on the bakery’s website as events are announced. It’s a fun stop for dessert after dinner, or a special treat to kick off a day in the heart of Detroit.
One exciting way to wrap-up a visit to Midtown is by planning an evening of family-friendly entertainment. After spending time exploring museums and grabbing a bite to eat, it’s the perfect time to plan an activity the whole family can take part in. Midtown Detroit keeps neighborhood entertainment and large event venues easily accessible in one central area. Here are a few popular options worth checking out.
Opened on Aug. 1, 1913, The Garden Bowl has stood the testament of time in Midtown Detroit, combining history, games and great food all in one place. Families can enjoy a few rounds on the historic bowling lanes, grab pizza from Sgt. Pepperoni’s and experience a piece of Detroit history without even trying. It’s a great way to wind down after a busy day visiting museums and restaurants across Midtown. Just keep in mind that The Garden Bowl is 21+ after 8 p.m., so planning an earlier evening visit is best for families with young kids.
Hours:11 a.m.- midnight Monday and Sunday; 11 a.m.-2 a.m. Tuesday-Saturday
Whether you’re cheering on the Detroit Redwings or the Detroit Pistons, or simply just enjoying the excitement of a live sporting event, the Little Caesars Arena in Midtown will create an unforgettable experience for sports-loving kids and families. Even if your group isn’t full of die-hard fans, the arena also hosts concerts, shows and special performances throughout the year, making it worth checking theevent scheduleduring your visit. Spending an evening at this Midtown landmark is a high-energy and memorable way to wrap up a day exploring Detroit.
Looking for things to do around metro Detroit that don’t cost any money? Detroit is full of great public spaces and hidden gems that everyone can enjoy for free, including lots of newly-renovated riverfront greenspace. Use this comprehensive list to brainstorm and plan your next family adventure that won’t break the bank.
Valade Playground – Courtesy of Detroit Riverfront Conservancy Photo Gallery
Explore 22-acres of transformed green space along Detroit’s riverfront that recently opened in October of 2025. Enjoy brand-new dynamic play areas, paved walking paths, and access to theWilliam Davidson Sports Housefor year-round recreation. After the kids tire themselves out on theDelta Dental Play Garden—one of the largest play gardens in the state of Michigan—take a tranquil walk around the 2.5-acrewater garden, with its winding paths and ample waterside seating.
The iconic riverwalk stretches five miles—from Gabriel Richard Park to Ralph Wilson Park—and offers unmatched views of the Detroit River. Along the way, stop at theBank of America PlayscapeandValade Park, which offers its own playground, year-round beach access and (in the winter) a sledding hill. When it gets warmer, you won’t want to miss cooling off atMt. Elliot Splashpad—offering family-friendly summertime fun from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Located at the heart of downtown, Campus Martius Park is the perfect hang-out spot for families, and theyhost loads of super great free eventsas well, like trivia and movie nights. Check back in May and you’ll finda beachtransplanted right into the park! Release your kids to build sandcastles while you lay back in a lounge chair and listen to live music—all free to enjoy!
Venture out to the985-acre island in the Detroit River and learn why it’s known as the “Jewel of Detroit.” Walk along paved paths for unmatched water views, and enjoy free admission to both theBelle Isle AquariumandBelle Isle Nature Center! Kids can learn about important conservation efforts and meet with the animals that call those spaces home. In the summertime, the island offers buoyed swim spots for safe, fun swimming.
Note: A state park pass is required to drive on the island. However, passengers, pedestrians, bicyclists and transit riders do not need a pass.
Public libraries, and all of their amenities, are always free to use! Every DPL branch location has a designatedKid’s Zonethat provides a safe space for quiet play, reading and computer access. Each branch also offers free kids’ story times, workshops, and other family events—just check theevents calendar!
Note: Reserving aMichigan Activity Pass (MAP)with your DPL library card is worth checking out! It allows you to enjoy free or discounted ticket prices to participating museums, parks and recreation areas. Only valid for one-time use.
Step into what is truly a treasure trove of books. John King Books is an iconic independent bookseller, with a flagship store in downtown Detroit that spans four floors, and houses overone millionbooks. They also house a collection of extremely old stories and manuscripts in their Rare Book Room. No need to purchase anything though. Exploring the maze of shelves together as a family is adventure enough.
Explore local produce, baked goods and arts vendors spanning across multiple open-air sheds. It might be hard to walk past all the delicious eats, but you don’t have to spend a single dime to browse and enjoy the energy and live music of the market.
The Saturday Market runs from 6 a.m.-4 p.m. year-round. They also host seasonal flower markets in May and holiday markets in November and December.
When your child receives an autism diagnosis, you may experience feelings of sadness, anger, even frustration. As you seek more information about the nature of autism spectrum disorder, it’s not unusual to also feel confused about the specifics related to your child, says Jennifer Thomas, Ph.D., BCBA-D, LBA, Chief Clinical Officer at Healing Haven, a metro Detroit autism evaluation and therapy provider.
Since the term “autism” was coined in 1943, there have been various methods used to describe the level of severity or to pinpoint where an individual appears on the spectrum. Your child’s diagnosis may contain references to specific levels — Level 1, Level 2 or Level 3. This diagnostic approach came into common usage in 2013 when the latest Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) was published.
“Parents often want to know what these levels mean and how they relate to what they should do for their child,” says Dr. Thomas. “These levels are a general guide to inform a parent how much support is likely needed for their child.”
But what do these levels mean? And how might they affect the services and support your child will receive? What if your child’s diagnosis doesn’t include any reference to these levels? Healing Haven’s diagnostics team understands and explains what these levels means, so we asked Dr. Thomas all these questions and more. She shared what parents need to know to better understand the three levels of autism.
Why are the autism levels important to know?
Fundamentally, the level or levels indicated in a child’s diagnosis can indicate how much support they will benefit from and how much assistance they are likely to need in daily life. The level is determined by those performing the evaluation.
“What parents need to know is that it is a time stamp. A moment in time. The diagnosis doesn’t define your child. It’s the opinion of the comprehensive evaluation made by a professional or a team of people and it’s not necessarily representative of the whole child,” says Dr. Thomas.
Autism levels, demystified
Level 1
Level 1 generally indicates that the child faces or will face social challenges that require some support. They may have difficulty responding to others, initiating conversations with others and remaining engaged in conversation. They may also prefer following specific routines and feel uneasy in new environments.
“This level can often go under the radar until about age 10, or closer to the pre-teen years. A child at this level may be able to be supported by a general education setting,” explains Dr. Thomas. “When a child comes in with a new diagnosis at age 10, we typically know they are at a Level 1.”
When the child grows and has increased social interactions with peers, they may miss the nuances and gestures required to take in the full meaning of a social exchange, which can make it difficult to develop and maintain friendships. Fortunately, specialized support can help older children and teens learn how to engage in social environments.
Healing Haven’s expert team is skilled at evaluating children and teens, which helps them access therapy services specifically designed to support their individual needs.
Level 2
Children with a Level 2 diagnosis need more support to learn skills that other children learn more easily. They may express interest in only very specific topics and have difficulty understanding facial expressions and other nonverbal communication. Because they may struggle to cope with change, they find daily functioning more difficult. They may become distressed when faced with a new environment.
“A child diagnosed at Level 2 will typically need Applied Behavior Analysis therapy several times a week and may need speech therapy and occupational therapy. They may also need help with behavior challenges,” says Dr. Thomas, adding that at this level, children are more likely to be in a self-contained classroom at school where they have a paraprofessional or aide to support them.
For children at Level 2, an expert evaluation by a knowledgeable diagnostics team will help guide the ABA services to best meet their needs.
Level 3
At Level 3, a child has more profound or extensive manifestations of autism spectrum disorder. They may experience extreme distress if they are required to change focus to a new task. They may have difficulty forming friendships or demonstrate little interest in others and limit their interaction with peers.
They may also have a dual diagnosis of intellectual developmental disorder or other medical condition, such as a seizure disorder. A comprehensive evaluation that results in a Level 3 diagnosis usually indicates the child will need a relatively high level of support and services to develop communication and social skills, and other skills needed for daily living.
More about autism levels
The latest DSM indicates that a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder must include two components: struggles or delays in social communication and social interaction and restricted repetitive behaviors, interests and activities.
“Each of these criteria should be assigned a level,” says Dr. Thomas. For example, a child may be considered at Level 1 for the social criterion, but at Level 2 for the behavioral criterion. Healing Haven’sexperienced diagnostics teamprovides a thoroughevaluation, helping parents get answers about their child’s support needs faster.
The assignment of a level is a general classification to help understand the current support needs in each of these categories. Some children can, with behavioral intervention, move to a different level such that they require less support over time. Regardless of the detail included in the diagnosis, your ABA therapy center should perform a thorough assessment when they begin working with your child.
“Our assessments are more granular and specifically related to skills and behaviors. We look at all the domains, such as fine and gross motor, visual performance, social communication and initiation — we get nitty-gritty about it. We need to know exactly what skills a child has, and the same behaviorally, even under what conditions behaviors occur,” says Dr. Thomas.
When you meet with your child’s BCBA, be sure to ask about what they have learned from their assessment and what this information might mean for the level of services your child will receive, and how you can best support your child at home.
Your child is an individual, not an autism diagnosis
Dr. Thomas encourages parents to look beyond the leveled diagnosis and recognize that each child is an individual with inherent strengths and skills — as well as areas where they could benefit from additional support and skill-building.
“In general, the DSM puts people in boxes so that they can seek out help and the person helping them can know where to start,” says Dr. Thomas. “We know that humans do not fit in boxes. We take great care to recognize, in great detail, all of the skills our clients have, including language, social, self-help and so many others.”
As with many issues related to your child’s autism, their “level” is another data point that helps determine the services and support your family will need. Be sure to talk with your child’s BCBA and autism therapy team for more specific information about your child’s individual needs.
This content is sponsored byHealing Haven, serving metro Detroit families with autism evaluations, as well as autism therapy programs at several locations. Discover Healing Haven’sindividualized approachfor ages 2 to young adult.
Searching for your next family reading adventure? Southeast Michigan is home to dozens of bookstores that are fun for children to explore, with everything from gently used finds to the newest children’s and teen/young adult releases.
Explore cozy spots in Macomb, Oakland, Wayne and Washtenaw counties — many offering story times, bilingual books and spaces designed to spark a love of reading.
Explore a map of kid-friendly bookstores in metro Detroit
First, take a glance at our map of 41 shop options scattered around southeast Michigan, from Detroit to Ann Arbor to Armada. See what’s close to you!
A list of children-friendly bookstores in southeast Michigan
Next, let’s dive into the details! All of these stores at least have some children’s book options. Some also offer story times and bigger selections for kiddos. Read on to learn more.
This family-friendly store offers in-person and virtual events for kids. Its shelves have a diverse children’s selection and offer Spanish-language adult and children’s books. Watch for bilingual (Spanish and English) story times on Saturday mornings.
This independent shop is in the heart of downtown Ypsilanti. It puts on kid-friendly events, including story times. The children’s section is filled with diverse books, plus it offers soaps, oils and T-shirts.
Discover used books and comics at this shop. Stop in to purchase a comic out of their bin for only $10. Plus, turn used books into them for credits to use on your next purchase.
This New Center, run by a local parent, bookstore sells used books and graphic novels online and in-person. They also carry new books by marginalized authors.
This full-service independent bookstore has an extensive section of children’s books and Melissa and Doug Toys — and it sells pasties (UP-style meat pies)! It also hosts book signings and monthly book clubs, and is involved in downtown Fenton events.
Open since 1988-89 (it’s up for debate!), this community staple is nestled in a former hobby shop. While it’s smaller than the main location (see below), it’s still packed with fantastic reads for all book lovers.
Four floors of books to browse — that’s why this is Michigan’s largest used and rare bookshop. Staff is there to assist families who are looking for specific reads.
Explore author readings, book clubs, poetry nights, children’s story times, and free book clubs for ages 13 and older — and, of course, plenty of books for sale.
Owned by local mom-and-dad duo Erin and Max Cambron, this shop offers a selection of genres including romance, young adult fiction, mystery and thrillers, fantasy, fiction, nonfiction, juvenile and children’s books.
Specializing in quality used books, this spot also stocks some current reads and records. Follow them on Facebook for occasional events like author signings and story times.
Find children’s and teens books here, among many genres. Check out a variety of free events, including story times, author readings, book signings and poetry readings. There’s also a piano and games like chess and checkers.
Formerly Nicola’s Book, this spacious bookstore has a fully stocked children’s section. It offers a K-8 summer reading program, author-led story times and author events for kids.
Address: 325 S. Washington Ave. and 220 W. Fourth St., Royal Oak
This popular indie bookshop offers plenty of books and events on Washington Avenue — plus don’t miss it’s dedicated children’s book store, The Caboose, on Fourth Street!
This bookstore has a room just for kids — with lots of children’s and young adult books, plus toys to play with while they’re there. Local authors come in for story times.
My earliest memory of a paczki was in sixth grade. My industrial science teacher was Polish and went all out for the holiday.
He would dress up in his folk attire and travel from class to class with his rolling cart, handing out paczkis to everyone who wanted one. They were amazing and my mouth is watering just thinking about them.
Since then, I’ve been very particular about my paczkis — and the chain store-bought kind just don’t compare to plump and pillowy decadence when they’re freshly made.
Detroit is one of the few places that celebrates Paczki Day, along with Chicago and other large cities in the Midwest and Northwest. It is one of the few holidays that is a big deal here and many people celebrate — even if they’re not Polish.
Here, we’ve rounded up a list of local bakeries that make and sell real paczkis for Fat Tuesday. Plus, find other local establishments that have joined in on the Paczki Day fun with their unique twists on the delicious delight.
Address: 5600 Van Dyke Road, Almont and 17985 Armada Center Road, Armada
Blake Farms is seving up delicious paczki this year! Maybe try a classic flavor like apple or blueberry lemon. Feeling adventurous? Try one of their specialty flavors: triple jam, cookies & cream, s’mores, tiramisu and chocolate bavarian cream.Pre-order now!
New Palace offers some unique flavors — cookie butter buttercream, peanut butter & jelly, strawberry cheesecake, and buttercream. It also has some classics — strawberry, raspberry, blueberry, custard, lemon, apple and prune. The bakery is not taking any online orders; you can call or visit the bakery to place an order in advance.
Preorderedpaczkis come in raspberry, strawberry jalapeno, blueberry, vanilla custard and horseradish orange marmalade. Mix and match options available.
Address: Pick up at 2950 Rochester Road, Troy and 3 E Church St., Clarkston
Treat yourself to creative flavors of paczki with theOld School 4-Pack. Flavors include apple brown butter, strawberry shortcake, maple bourbon butterscotch with candied bacon and churro. Try out theNew Wave boxfor more of a modern twist, including nutella fluff, mangos & coconut, fruity pebbles or Dubai (chocolate).
Paczki Day alternatives
Unique flavors and alcoholic paczki beverages are putting a twist on this Polish tradition.
Many places in Metro Detroit are making their own mark on this holiday in order to attract locals to their spots.
Check out the places below to keep the Pazcki Day fun rolling with paczki beers, classes and more.
It will be offering a ‘Paczki bomb’, which is a shot and a doughnut all in one. They open at 10 a.m. on Fat Tuesday and will be available until they run out.
This article was recently updated on Feb. 9, 2026, by Metro Parent writers. The update included research to feature the latest information and offerings.
Skip the line and preorder! 
