Oakland County’s Best Public Schools for Athletes

Student athletes thrive in schools that prioritize their development—and many Oakland County schools are doing just that exceptionally well.

To help families make informed choices, this list highlighting the best public schools for athletes in Oakland County, uses a combination of publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Department of Education and U.S. Census Bureau, along with community reviews, survey feedback, and academic performance indicators such as test scores and college readiness.

Read on for our guide to best public schools for athletes in Oakland County.

Read more: Top Metro Detroit Schools for Athletes

Featured school districts in Oakland County

In this section, Metro Parent’s advertising partners share their top school offerings.

Farmington Public Schools

Photo credit: Farmington Public Schools

• Address: 33000 Freedom Road, Farmington
• Phone: 248-489-3350
• Grades served: K-12
• Number of students: Almost 9,000
• Type: Public School, Virtual School, Special Education School, STEM-Focused School, International Baccalaureate (IB) School, Therapeutic/Alternative School

Farmington Public Schools is a community that takes great pride in its schools, parents that actively support programs to ensure a rich tapestry of experiences for their children, and staff focused on giving students the knowledge to rise to their fullest potential.

Their students consistently score well above average on state and national assessment tests, achieve on incredibly broad levels in academics, fine arts, and athletics, and embrace the diversity of experiences that set the stage to becoming a thoughtful, contributing citizen in this ever-changing world.

Unique learning opportunities are available for all students to reach their fullest potential including an accredited early childhood program, live remote and virtual self-paced online learning options and a high school International Baccalaureate Programme. Farmington Public Schools also boasts one of the largest Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs in Oakland County where students compete and earn state and national recognition.

More public schools in Oakland County for athletes

These stories feature some of the best public schools for athletes in Oakland County and are based on public data, academic performance, community reviews and survey feedback to help families find the right fit.

Lake Orion Community Schools

• Address: 315 N Lapeer St., Lake Orion
• Why it stands out: Offers cutting-edge STEM and project-based learning opportunities in a supportive environment.

Emerging from a modest rural system in the late 1800s, Lake Orion Community Schools has grown in step with suburban expansion and educational innovation. The district features 12 different school buildings, including a primary high school, an alternative high school, three middle schools, six elementary schools and an early childhood center. Each facility has a personalized and unique environment suited to students needs.

Rochester Community School District

• Address: 501 W. University Drive, Rochester
• Why it stands out: Maintains one of the highest academic standards in the state, with strong extracurricular offerings and community engagement.

Founded in 1821, it is one of Michigan’s oldest districts, with a legacy of educational leadership spanning more than two centuries. The district serves nearly 15,000 students, providing facilities including three high schools, four middle schools, 13 elementary schools and even an early childhood education center. Offering an engaging and quality curriculum, the district’s mission is to “provide a quality education in a caring atmosphere so all students can attain the necessary skills and knowledge to become lifelong learners and contribute to a diverse, interdependent and changing world,” according to its website.

Clarkston Community School District

• Address: 6389 Clarkston Road, Village of Clarkston
• Why it stands out: Recognized for offering a well-rounded educational experience that blends rigorous academics with strong arts and athletic programs.

Founded in 1837, it has evolved alongside the town, growing from a single-room schoolhouse to a modern district serving thousands of students. Dedicated to providing a supportive, safe, healthy and challenging yet engaging experience, Clarkston Community School District serves a diverse student body of nearly 6,500. The district offers facilities such as a high school, junior high, middle school, seven elementary schools, an early childhood center and even a virtual academy. 

Birmingham Public Schools

• Address: 31301 Evergreen Road, Beverly Hills
• Why it stands out: Known for its high academic rankings, progressive curriculum and commitment to personalized learning experiences.

Established in the early 20th century, the district has continually innovated to meet the demands of a highly educated and engaged community. Birmingham Public School District offers a variety of facilities, including two high schools, an alternative senior high school, a district-wide 3rd through 8th grade school, two middle schools, eight elementary schools, an early childhood center and even a post-secondary adult transition center. Serving 7,500 students, the district also holds athletic memberships with the Michigan High School Athletic Association and Oakland Activities Association.

Huron Valley Schools

• Address: 2390 S. Milford Road, Highland
• Why it stands out: Emphasizes inclusive teaching, real-world learning and career-readiness programs that address a wide range of student needs.

Formed through consolidation in the 20th century, it has consistently evolved to reflect the values of its semi-rural and suburban communities. Huron Valley Schools focuses on academics, athletics and arts, offering facilities including two high schools, one alternative high school, two middle schools, eight elementary schools, early childhood center and junior kindergarten and even an International Baccalaureate program. The district boasts 120 different sports teams across its middle and high schools.

Novi Community School District

• Address: 25345 Taft Road, Novi
• Why it stands out: Offers a globally minded curriculum with strong technology integration and diverse student engagement.

Began as a small-town school system and transformed after the 1960s into a top-tier, internationally focused district. The district serves about 6,700 students and has a mission statement to “unlock the unique genius in each child, preparing them to excel, empathically lead, and innovate in a global society,” according to its website. Novi Community Schools offers facilities, including a high school, a career-prep high school, a virtual academy, a middle school, six elementary schools, an early childhood center, and an adult transition center.

Troy School District

• Address: 4400 Livernois Road, Troy
• Why it stands out: Praised for its advanced academics, AP and IB programs, and high college placement rates.

Developed during the suburban expansion of the 1950s through the 1960s, the district quickly became a model of excellence in public education. Troy School District serves a culturally diverse community of over 12,000 students. The district offers facilities such as four high schools, four middle schools, 12 elementary schools, career-centric programs and a premiere premiere preschool. The athletics department supports and manages over 40 seasonal athletic programs that all students can access.

West Bloomfield School District

• Address: 5810 Commerce Road, West Bloomfield
• Why it stands out: Distinguished by its diversity, innovative classroom models and cutting-edge facilities.

Evolved throughout the 20th century into a leader in progressive education, serving a highly multicultural population. West Bloomfield School District serves a diverse population of over 5,500 students with a mission statement to “Support each student’s needs by providing the opportunities, experiences, and educational tools for their journey,” according to its website. The district’s facilities include a high school, a college preparatory school, a middle school, four elementary school and a preschool academy. 

South Lyon Community Schools

• Address: 345 S Warren St., South Lyon
• Why it stands out: Offers a close-knit educational atmosphere with academic excellence and expanding career-tech opportunities.

Traces its roots to the mid-1800s and has maintained a strong community-based educational tradition through ongoing growth. South Lyons Community School District features 13 different schools, including two high schools, two middle schools, eight elementary schools and an early childhood center. According to the website, the district believes that “athletics are an integral part of the total educational program. Not everyone can be a member of a team, but everyone can benefit from the programs offered by the Athletic Department.”

Walled Lake Consolidated School District

• Address: 850 Ladd Road, Walled Lake
• Why it stands out: Known for its broad curriculum, inclusive education policies and strong student support services.

Created through mid-century district mergers, it has developed into one of the largest and most dynamic districts in the region. Walled Lake Consolidated School District offers facilities including three high schools, three middle schools and 12 elementary schools. The district, which is dedicated to fostering a safe and inclusive culture, also provides athletic services, such as physical therapy resources, training coordinators and more.

This story was updated on April 16, 2026, by Metro Parent writer Zakkary Parker. His work included updating the list with 2026 rankings and adding more detailed information. Questions? Email editor@metroparent.com.

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Accio, family outing! Free butterbeer is coming to Rochester Hills this weekend

The Harry Potter Butterbeer Truck Tour is making a rare metro Detroit stop, and it’s completely free.

The traveling truck will pull into Festival Park at The Village of Rochester Hills — near Bravo Italian Kitchen and Sweetgreen — from 2-8 p.m. Friday, April 17, according to The Detroit News. And yes, it’s worth clearing your schedule for.

The pop-up is part of a limited nationwide tour celebrating the 25th anniversary of the first “Harry Potter” film, with only a handful of stops across the entire country. Metro Detroit landed one of them — which makes this a genuinely rare chance to bring a little Hogwarts magic to your Friday afternoon.

What to expect

Families can cool off with complimentary Butterbeer slushies — non-alcoholic, vegan and gluten-free — while supplies last. There’s also a themed “Harry Potter” photo experience, sweet treats, exclusive merchandise for purchase and a wizard-inspired lounge with interactive games.

Not sure what Butterbeer actually tastes like? At the “Wizarding World of Harry Potter” theme parks, the drink is made with a cream soda base, butterscotch topping and whipped cream, according to Yahoo! Think: sweet, rich and very on-brand for a magical afternoon out.

Tips for visiting with kids

The slushies are free while supplies last, so arriving earlier in the afternoon is your best bet — especially if you have little ones who won’t want to miss out. Families can also pair the experience with dinner at The Village, making it a full evening of fun. WCSX

The details

• When: 2-8 p.m. (or until supplies run out) April 17
• Where: Festival Park at The Village of Rochester Hills, 104 N. Adams Road, Rochester Hills
• Cost: Free

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Treat your kids to metro Detroit’s best ice cream shops

Craving something cold and sweet? Whether it’s a sweltering summer day or just time for a fun family outing, nothing beats a trip to your favorite neighborhood ice cream shop. Metro Detroit is packed with amazing local spots serving up everything from creamy old-fashioned scoops to inventive liquid nitrogen creations.

If you’re searching for the best ice cream in metro Detroit, look no further. We’ve rounded up our favorite kid-friendly ice cream shops in Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw and Wayne counties — perfect for shakes, sundaes, gelato and more. These local gems are sure to cool you down and satisfy any sweet tooth, one scoop at a time.

This article was recently updated on March 31, 2026, by Metro Parent staff writer Jenna Dolch. The update included her updating shop information and creating an interactive map to make it easier to find the best ice cream shops you.

Read more: Over-the-Top Desserts That Kids Will Love in Metro Detroit

Key takeaways

• Metro Detroit offers tons of kid-friendly ice cream spots across multiple counties.
• Shops stand out with creative flavors and customizable treats.
• Many are local, family-owned businesses with homemade or fresh ingredients.
• Several locations double as fun family outings with added activities.

Ice cream near me

Ice cream shops in Macomb County

Erma’s Original Frozen Custard

• Addresses: 6451 Auburn Road, Shelby Township

In 1942, it was a roadside stand. Now, Erma’s has two yummy ice cream shops. Beyond its traditional vanilla and chocolate, it offers unique flavors every week — such as Cherry, Pina Colada, Java, Cookie Butter and more. They also have a location in Warren.

Miller Bros Creamery

• Address: 149 Dickinson St., Mount Clemens

Choose from flavors including chocolate covered strawberry, salted caramel pretzel, outrageous oatmeal cookie crave and more at this local spot.

Modern Cone

• Address: 28616 Harper Ave., St. Claire Shores

This Macomb County ice cream shop has gotten TikTok’s attention with their viral videos. You definitely want to visit to check out their famous ice cream nacho sundaes — kids will love to choose their own flavors, sauces and toppings!

Screamers

• Address: 44666 Mound Road, Sterling Heights

Founded in 2010, this establishment has tons of sweet treats on the menu, plus rotating ice cream and yogurt of the week flavors.

World’s Finest Frozen Custard

• Address: 33538 23 Mile Road, New Baltimore

This iconic small town ice cream shop offers two weekly rotating flavors of soft-serve alongside the classic chocolate and vanilla options, plus hand-dipped cones. Stop by with the whole family for a rousing game of putt-putt (featuring larger-than-life animal statues) and a playground for the little ones. Note: it’s cash only at this spot!

Ice cream shops in Oakland County

Photo credit: Treat Dreams

Bombshell Treat Bar

• Address: 2688 Coolidge Highway, Berkley

There’s no limit on creativity at Bombshell Treat Bar! Families will love to make their own ice cream bar by picking the type of chocolate dip, drizzle and all their favorite toppings. So cool!

Cook’s Farm Dairy

• Address: 2950 E Seymour Lake Road, Ortonville

Visit the last remaining dairy in Oakland County, where creamy choices like Cow Pie, Raspberry Chocolate Torte and Coconut Almond Fudge await you.

Guernsey Farms Dairy

• Address: 21300 Novi Road, Northville

Try this family-run ice cream shop’s one-of-a-kind, Michigan-made treats. (It’s tradition to enjoy your snack on the “famous rock under the tree” outside.) Pick from cones, shakes, banana splits, hot fudge sundaes, brownie fudge treats, hot fudge cream puffs and more.

Ray’s Ice Cream

• Address: 4233 Coolidge Highway, Royal Oak

Family owned since 1958, Ray’s offers award-winning ice cream in over 50 different flavors, including Mackinac Island Fudge, Butter Pecan and its famous Fat Elvis flavor.

Treat Dreams Dessert Emporium

• Addresses: 22965 Woodward Ave., Ferndale

Indulge in offbeat ice cream flavors like Hot Jalapeno, Avocado Chocolate Chip and Kooky Monster. It also serves up vegan ice cream and sorbet.

Ice cream shops in Wayne County

Photo credit: Calder Dairy

Calder’s Dairy Store & Ice Cream Parlor

• Address: 1020 Southfield Road, Lincoln Park

Try a real, fresh-from-the-farm experience. Made with milk from on-site cows, each batch is crafted by hand at Calder’s farm in Carleton and served here. Bloo Moo and Fudge Swirl are just two of its 34 flavors. Seasonal flavors, too.

Custard Hut

• Address: 25947 W. Warren St., Dearborn Heights

This local custard and ice cream shop has been a Dearborn Heights staple for years. Today, they are known for their famous hot waffle sandwich.

Frosty Boy

• Address: 67 Main St., Belleville

Try mouthwatering toppings like toasted coconut, Oreo and Nutter Butter to specialize your cone exactly to your liking. New additions include The Cookie Monster, The Taco Tuesday (ice cream taco) and homemade Monster Cookies that are made fresh daily.

Stroh’s Ice Cream Parlor

• Address: 3162 Biddle Ave., Wyandotte

Family owned and operated since 1992. Offers flavor of the moment and 34 of the 44 flavors are made in-house. Also, has sundaes, shakes, sodas, malt and floats on the menu. They also have a location in Bloomfield Hills.

Ice cream shops in Washtenaw County

Photo credit: Washtenaw Dairy

Blank Slate Creamery

• Addresses: 300 W. Liberty St., Ann Arbor

This place has handmade, all-natural flavors of ice cream — including raspberry sorbet, coffee and blueberry pancake. Check their website for a full list of flavors at each location.

Michigan Creamery

Photo credit: Michigan Creamery

• Address: 302 S. State St., Ann Arbor

Not only is it located on U of M’s campus, but it also supports the state by proudly serving Michigan products in shop — including candy, coffee and hand-dipped ice cream.

Washtenaw Dairy

• Address: 602 S. Ashley St., Ann Arbor

Washtenaw Dairy has been serving the Ann Arbor area since 1934, so it’s not surprising that they tout an extensive list of delicious flavors.  Some of the flavors include blueberry waffle cone, peanut butter brownie crunch and raspberry chip cheesecake, just to name a few.

Zingerman’s Creamery

• Address: 3723 Plaza Drive, Suite 2, Ann Arbor

Find at least 10 single-serve gelatoflavors — more by the pint. Faves include Stone-Ground Sea Salt, Dark Chocolate, Lemon Sorbet and Coconut Macaroon — but they’re always whipping up something new. Get your cheese here, too.

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When your child cries before school: A parent guide

Key takeaways

• Repeated school refusal is often linked to anxiety
• Patterns over time matter more than one difficult morning
• Letting a child stay home can reinforce avoidance if it becomes routine
• Validation works best when paired with encouragement
• Consistent routines and small adjustments can reduce morning stress
  

Morning routines can unravel quickly when your child refuses to go to school. A few minutes before leaving, everything may seem on track — until they begin crying, clinging or insisting they can’t go. For parents, the decision is immediate: push through, pause or stay home?

Moments like this are common. But when they happen regularly, they may point to something more than a difficult morning.

“Stress and anxiety is something that we all experience,” says Rotesa Baker, MA, LPC, NCC, ACS, Manager of Access at Oakland Community Health Network. What matters, she says, is “how often it’s happening and what else might be contributing.” 

Why kids cry before school — looking beyond the moment

The reasons behind school morning meltdowns are often layered and vary by age.

For younger children, separation anxiety is common, especially when routines change. A parent returning to work outside the home or a shift in daily structure can make mornings feel uncertain.

As children get older, social dynamics often take on a larger role. Friendships, peer pressure and classroom expectations can all contribute to stress.

“Peers are everything,” Baker says, noting that even subtle shifts, like a new teacher or changes within a friend group, can trigger anxiety. 

Sometimes the cause is specific. Your child may struggle on certain days or around particular activities. Recognizing those patterns helps you move from reacting in the moment to understanding what’s driving the behavior.

Your child’s home environment can also play a role. “If I’m frantic … they will pick up on it. They will model it,” Baker says.  The tone of the morning, rushed or calm, often blends into how a child feels as they start their day.

When school anxiety becomes a pattern

Most children resist school at some point, which on its own isn’t cause for concern. What matters is consistency.

When your child experiences morning distress repeatedly — across days, weeks or even on specific days — it can signal something more persistent. You may also notice trouble sleeping, physical complaints like stomachaches or headaches, or increased irritability.

Over time, patterns matter more than any single episode, and how long it continues matters, too. Baker says if concerns persist for about two to three months, it may be time to seek additional support. That timeframe helps distinguish between a temporary adjustment and something that may require extra support.

In the moment: What helps — and what can make it harder

When a child is crying and visibly distressed, the instinct is to fix it quickly. But how parents respond can shape what happens next.

Validation is a good place to start. “It looks like you’re having a rough morning. Can I give you a hug?” Baker suggests. Acknowledging feelings helps children feel understood and opens the door to conversation. 

Then, encouragement helps move things forward. Simple statements — “I know this is hard, but I believe you can get through today” — reinforce a child’s ability to cope without dismissing how they feel.

That balance matters. Moving too quickly past emotions can escalate distress, while stopping there can make it harder to move forward.

Should you ever let your child stay home?

This is often the hardest decision in real time. Staying home may feel like the most supportive response. But it can also create a pattern that becomes difficult to break.

Baker says children may begin to think, “If I do this … I get to stay home.” The decision is less about a single morning and more about what happens over time.

Occasional flexibility may help. But if staying home becomes routine, it can reinforce avoidance rather than address the issue.

How to make school mornings easier over time

Small adjustments can reduce stress for both parent and child. Preparing backpacks, lunches and clothing the night before removes pressure from the morning. Even a few minutes can change the tone of the day. “Five minutes can make an entire difference,” Baker says. 

Starting conversations earlier also helps. Talking about the upcoming school day the night before, or even over the weekend, gives children time to process what’s ahead.

Remember to be consistent. When mornings follow a predictable rhythm, children know what to expect. Ending the day on a positive note can help, too. Talking about what went well — even something small — can shift how a child approaches the next morning.

Coping skills kids can carry into the school day

Alongside routines, children benefit from simple tools they can use when anxiety shows up.

Baker recommends practicing these skills at home so they feel familiar at school. Grounding techniques, focusing on what they can see, touch or hear, can help bring attention back to the present moment.

Some families create a calming space at home with familiar items. Others encourage journaling or sketching as a way to process emotions. Physical movement can also help release tension. Short bursts of activity, like stretching or jumping jacks, can improve focus.

These strategies do not eliminate anxiety, but they give children ways to manage it and build confidence over time.

When to seek additional support

If school-related anxiety continues, families do not have to navigate it alone, says Baker.

Reaching out to teachers, school staff or a mental health professional can provide additional perspective. In some cases, anxiety may be connected to temperament or family history.

Recognizing patterns and responding early can help prevent school mornings from becoming a daily struggle. With support, children can learn to manage anxiety — and mornings can become more manageable again.

This content is sponsored by the Ethel and James Flinn Foundation.

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Why you should check out Canterbury Village’s Medieval Faire this year

Canterbury Village’s Medieval Faire offers families a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience a long-gone era. Designed with both parents and younger children in mind, the faire combines lively entertainment with fantasy-fueled activities that festival-goers of all ages can enjoy and immerse themselves in.

Key takeaways 

• The big picture: The Medieval Faire is a family-friendly, living-history event designed to entertain and immerse families in forgotten medieval traditions and history.
• Zoom in: The Medieval Faire is located at 2359 Joslyn Court in Orion Township and is open every weekend from May 23, 2026, through June 7, 2026.
• How and why it works: The event balances spectacle with hands-on play, keeping festival-goers engaged and entertained.

What families can expect

Canterbury Village transforms into an outdoor medieval adventure, adorned with castle turrets, cobblestone paths, knights and even jesters. There is a plethora of live entertainment options and interactive activities for kids and adults alike, along with a lengthy list of vendors.

Entertainment

 

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• Medieval combat, like knight battles and jousting tournaments
• Comedy skits
• Glassblowing and blacksmithing demonstrations
• Live music performances

Interactive activities

 

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• Archery
• Foam sword dueling
• Arts and crafts
• Storytelling
• Petting zoo/animal feeding
• Kids combat training
• A multitude of vendor options for medieval wares and garb

Food and drink

The faire offers a variety of medieval-inspired dishes like turkey legs, roasted corn and spiced almonds as well as more modern options like hot pretzels and nachos. Mead and other adult beverages are also available to those 21 and above.

Planning your visit

Before heading out, here are a few helpful details to keep in mind when planning your visit to the Medieval faire.

• Location: 2359 Joslyn Court, Orion Township
• Shows: Shows run every weekend for three weeks. Available weekends include May 23-25, May 30-21, and June 6-7.
• Ticket information: Tickets for kids
• Parking: Parking is free, but can fill up fast.

FAQs

Are the bathrooms on-site? Yes, there are indoor bathrooms and air-conditioned buildings available.

Is it stroller accessible? Strollers are allowed in the faire.

Can I bring outside food and drink? Typically, outside food and drink are not permitted. The faire has a variety of options for vendors.

How long does the festival last? It runs from 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

Are costumes and props allowed? Yes, and are encouraged! Certain props, such as swords, axes, arrows and daggers must be checked and peace-tied upon entry. Toy props, such as foam and wooden swords, are allowed. No sharp or realistic props are allowed, and blades must remain sheathed. Firearms and replicas are also prohibited.

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Beautiful, budget-friendly blooms for mom in these Detroit local flower shops

Mother’s Day, a special birthday, or just a typical Tuesday, there is never a bad time to show mom how much you care with a beautiful bouquet. While it might be tempting to grab a generic, plastic-wrapped bundle from the big-box checkout line, Detroit is home to plenty of incredible, independently owned flower shops that offer gorgeous arrangements on a budget. Detroit florists are incredibly skilled at using seasonal blooms and textured greenery to create volume and elegance without the premium markup. Below is your guide to finding the perfect, affordable local blooms for mom in Detroit and the surrounding areas.

Key takeaways

• Skip the big box stores. You can find stunning, budget-friendly blooms right here at local Detroit florists instead of settling for grocery store chains. Surrounding suburbs like Dearborn and St. Clair Shores hide incredible, affordable floral gems.
• Ask for seasonal stems. Florists can stretch your budget much further if you opt for seasonal or “deal of the day” flowers. 
• Call ahead for custom cuts. Local experts are happy to build beautiful arrangements around whatever specific budget you give them.

Detroit Floral

• Cost: $ (Arrangements start at $42)
• Address: 15321 W McNichols Road, Detroit
• Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday
• Contact: (313) 836-4000

Detroit Floral focuses on accessible beauty with a special “Under $50” collection that completely removes the guesswork from budget shopping. Their expert florists know exactly how to maximize visual impact using seasonal blooms and creative design principles so you never have to sacrifice quality. Mom will receive a stunning, professionally styled bouquet and you’ll love the fantastic deal.

Ashley’s Flowers

• Cost: $ (Arrangements start at $35)
• Address: 333 E. Jefferson, Detroit
• Hours: 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.  Monday-Friday
• Contact: (313) 259-5000

A longtime staple in downtown Detroit, Ashley’s Flowers has a stellar reputation for delivering reliable and beautiful arrangements. While they carry premium exotics, their skilled team is incredibly accommodating and happily works within tight budgets to create lovely custom bouquets. You will appreciate their attentive customer service and artistic flair when finding something special for Mom.

Thrifty Florist

 

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• Cost: $ (Arrangements start at $45)
• Address: 24111 Telegraph Road, Southfield
• Hours: 8 a.m.-8 p.m. daily
• Contact: (888) 847-4389

The name truly says it all: Thrifty Florist brings farm-fresh, affordable flowers to metro Detroit families. With over a dozen locations spread across the metro area, picking up a beautiful, budget-friendly bouquet for Mom is incredibly convenient no matter where you live. They always have plenty of ready-to-go options that look significantly more expensive than their price tags suggest.

Flower & Gifts By Renee

 

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• Cost: $ (Arrangements begin at $55)
• Address: 6914 Schaefer Road, Dearborn
• Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday
• Contact: (313) 584-1010

This Dearborn gem is highly regarded for its affordable “Deal of the Day” bouquets, which are perfect for scoring a high-end look for much less. Their friendly designers are experts at putting together charming, personalized arrangements using the freshest daily cuts. You are guaranteed to walk out with something that feels wonderfully unique without breaking the bank.

Chris Engel’s Greenhouse

• Cost: $ (Arrangements start at $45)
• Address: 1238 Woodmere Ave, Detroit
• Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday
• Contact: (313) 841-0478

Serving the Detroit community for over 120 years, this historic, family-owned greenhouse knows exactly how to craft classic, timeless floral pieces. They offer a massive variety of freshly cut blooms and thriving green plants that fit comfortably into any price range. Stepping inside their shop feels like a true local experience filled with colorful, budget-friendly inspiration.

Viviano Flower Shop

• Cost: $ (Arrangements start at $40)
• Address: 32050 Harper Ave., St. Clair Shores
• Hours: 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday
• Contact: (586) 293-0227

A metro Detroit classic, the Viviano family has dedicated themselves to providing gorgeous floral designs to the community for decades. Though they are famous for handling lavish events, their daily floral options are surprisingly accessible and perfect for a tight family budget. You can easily find a professionally styled, elegant piece that brings pure joy to any mother.

Conner Park Florist

 

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• Cost: $ (Arrangements start at $45)
• Address: 9830 Conner St., Detroit
• Hours: 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday
• Contact: (313) 527-7550 

Nestled on Detroit’s east side, Conner Park Florist has been a trusted neighborhood flower supplier for over 70 years. Their talented team loves working with local families and will happily design a vibrant, seasonal arrangement that respects your specific budget limits. Mom gets to enjoy a gorgeous, long-lasting burst of color, and you get the satisfaction of supporting a historic community staple.

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Straith Hospital opens Michigan’s first inpatient unit for children on the autism spectrum

Because traditional emergency departments are not equipped to provide comprehensive behavioral assessments or address underlying medical and behavioral needs, families can struggle to access coordinated care that goes beyond short-term stabilization.

Now, Straith Hospital has opened Straith Behavioral Health, Michigan’s first inpatient unit especially designed for children and adolescents on the autism spectrum with significant behavioral support needs. The program aims to reduce reliance on crisis services while helping children remain closer to home and to their families.

Key takeaways

• Straith Hospital opened Straith Behavioral Health on Feb. 9, 2026, marking Michigan’s first inpatient behavioral health unit specifically designed for children on the autism spectrum.
• The 12-bed facility provides 24/7 medically integrated care, combining applied behavior analysis, psychiatric services, medical care and family support under one roof.
• The program was created to address long waitlists, emergency room reliance and out-of-state placements for children with significant behavioral support needs.

• A $19.1 million grant from the Michigan Health and Hospital Association helped make the program possible, alongside partnerships with organizations including The Autism Alliance of Michigan and several universities

A newly completed room inside the expanded facility. Photo credit/Straith Hospital

What Straith Behavioral Health offers

This 16,630-square-foot facility is especially designed to provide safe, compassionate and medically integrated care in one location. The 12-bed inpatient program offers families 24/7 support, bringing together applied behavior analysis, psychiatric services, medical care, nursing and social work under one roof. In addition to inpatient treatment, the program includes a comprehensive outpatient day program operating six to eight hours per day, five days a week, helping ensure continuity of care as children transition between levels of support.

Dr. Karoline Kenville speaks during the opening event for the new wing. Photo credit/Straith Hospital

A focus on long-term outcomes and family involvement

Dr. Karoline Kenville, executive director of Straith Behavioral Health, says the program is focused on long-term outcomes and caregiver involvement from the first day of treatment. “Our goal is to improve children’s quality of life and build meaningful, functional skills that support long-term success,” she says. “From the point of admission, our team works intentionally toward discharge – focusing on continuity of care and transition plans that support each child’s return to home, school and community settings.”

One of the multipurpose rooms included in the new wing. Photo credit/Straith Hospital

Designed for safety, stability and skill-building

On Feb. 9, 2026, Straith Behavioral Health officially opened its doors in Southfield, welcoming families to a newly constructed space designed specifically for pediatric behavioral health care. The facility offers a range of medical services, including psychological and psychiatric evaluations, medication management, feeding and nutritional support, as well as dental and pediatric care. Therapeutic services include applied behavioral analysis, speech and language therapy, occupational and physical therapy, social work services, family training and school consultation.

The environment is structured to reduce unnecessary stimulation and support safety, predictability and engagement, with specialized treatment and observation rooms that allow clinicians to assess behavior in real time and adjust care as needed. Straith Behavioral Health’s multidisciplinary team uses data-informed applied behavior analysis to better understand underlying causes of behaviors and help children build adaptive skills.

A look at one of the rooms in the new clinic space. Photo credit/Straith Hospital

Expanding access to care close to home

Brad Bescoe, CEO of Straith Hospital, says the program helps bridge gaps in Michicgan’s pediatric behavioral health system by offering families a more comprehensive level of care within the state. “We are proud to help empower families and foster an environment where children living with these challenges can thrive, reach their full potential and remain closer to home,” Bescoe shares.

The program was made possible through a $19.1 million grant from the Michigan Health and Hospital Association in 2023. Straith Behavioral Health also collaborates with partners including the Autism Alliance of Michigan, Eastern Michigan University, Oakland University and Rutgers University.

Families interested in learning more about admission criteria or how to apply can visit Straith Behavioral Health online for more information.

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