College and career readiness in Macomb County schools

Key Takeaways

• Ford Next Generation Learning helps Romeo and Center Line students explore careers starting in ninth grade.
• Students complete industry tours, job shadows and internships with Macomb County employers before graduating high school.
• Fueling the Talent Pipeline connects all 21 Macomb County school districts with local business partners to offer real-world career exploration opportunities.
• Macomb County businesses can partner with schools through classroom visits, student experiences and long-term campus partnerships.

When parents think about high school, one big question comes up: What happens after graduation? In Macomb County, two school districts are helping students answer that question early. 

Through Ford Next Generation Learning (Ford NGL), Center Line Public Schools and Romeo Community Schools are giving students structured opportunities to explore careers, connect with local industries and prepare for college or the workforce before they earn a diploma.

We spoke with Macomb County Planning and Economic Development Senior Outreach Specialist Jennifer Weot about how the program works and why it matters for families.

What is Ford Next Generation Learning?

Ford Next Generation Learning is a national framework designed to help high school students prepare for life after graduation. In Macomb County, it connects classroom learning with real-world career experiences.

“Ford Next Generation Learning is a unique way of preparing students for life after high school, whether it be college readiness, career readiness or job readiness,” says Weot.

While Ford NGL programs across the country reflect local industries, Macomb County’s approach closely aligns with its strong manufacturing base. Other districts, such as Nashville Public Schools, focus on industries like music and entertainment based on their region’s economy.

How does Ford NGL work in Romeo and Center Line schools?

Photo credit: Macomb County Planning & Economic Development

Students begin exploring careers as early as kindergarten. However, it’s in ninth grade seminar classes where they figure out what career fields best match their interests.

Business professionals regularly visit classrooms to talk about their careers. They share what they like and dislike about their jobs, how they entered their field and what students should know about the profession. Weot says companies are very transparent with the students.

“At the end of ninth grade, these students will choose an Academy they would like to join and within the Academy, a pathway to pursue in 10th, 11th and 12th grade,” says Weot. “It is as if they are choosing a specific college and a college major.”

Each Academy focuses on a broad career field, allowing students to take more specialized courses and gain hands-on experience throughout high school. For Ford NGL, every student is allowed to participate in the program no matter their grade point average.

How does Center Line bring career learning into elementary and middle school?

Photo credit: Macomb County Planning & Economic Development

Center Line Public Schools takes the Academy model even further. The district is one of only a few in the country operating as a K–12 wall-to-wall academy, meaning career-connected learning begins in elementary school, according to Center Line Public Schools Superintendent Joseph Haynes.

Even kindergarten students are introduced to career pathways. As part of a required “all about me” writing project, students connect their work to the Innovative Art and Design Pathway. A published children’s author visits classrooms to explain how stories are created, edited, illustrated, published and sold, introducing students to the range of careers behind a single book.

In middle school, students take Academy Explorer courses aligned with career pathways, where they complete project-based learning experiences connected to real industries.

“I’m really proud of the quality of programming that Center Line offers our students,” says Haynes. “I’ve been to several other Ford NGL communities, and I can honestly say, for the size and resources available to our district, we are the true blueprint for career education in small to medium-sized districts.”

What real-world experiences do students receive in high school?

Photo credit: Macomb County Planning & Economic Development

For families, Ford NGL offers a clear progression of hands-on career experiences before students graduate. Ford NGL guarantees career-connected learning experiences for students in 10th-12th grade.

Students move through structured, real-world exposure each year:

• 10th grade: Students participate in an industry tour at a local business to see what a particular career is like.
  
• 11th grade: Students complete a job shadow experience if they decide to continue pursuing that career path.
  
• 12th grade: The goal is for students to secure an internship connected to their chosen pathway.
  

Romeo and Center Line depend on industry partners to help deliver these experiences, and business representatives are frequently present in their schools.

What is Fueling the Talent Pipeline?

Fueling the Talent Pipeline (FTTP) works alongside Ford NGL but serves a broader purpose across Macomb County. While Ford NGL operates specifically within Romeo and Center Line, FTTP supports all Macomb County school districts by building connections between schools and local employers.

“FTTP supports all 21 school districts,” says Weot. “If Fraser or Utica schools were to contact me asking for industry support, I would do my best to connect that school district with business partners to support whatever event or initiative they have. Our two Ford NGL districts have business partners at their campuses almost every day.”

The key difference is depth of partnership. Ford NGL districts have structured, ongoing industry involvement built directly into their school model, while other districts can access support as needed.

Why does this matter for Macomb County families?

For families, these programs provide clearer pathways after high school. Students are not just learning about careers from a textbook — they are meeting professionals, touring workplaces and building connections within Macomb County’s largest industries.

That early exposure can help students make more confident decisions about college majors, technical training or entering the workforce. It also strengthens the connection between local schools and local employers, creating a stronger talent pipeline within the county.

How can Macomb County businesses get involved?

Local businesses play a central role in making these programs successful.

“We are always looking for businesses to help support our 21 school districts,” says Weot.

The two Ford NGL districts feature partnership walls inside their high schools to recognize committed business partners.

“If you’re a strong business partner who has committed to many events or experiences at either of these schools, your logo is displayed on the partnership wall where students meet and eat lunch every day for three years.” says Weot. “The students will see your logo every day they are in school.”

Businesses interested in partnering with Macomb County through Fueling the Talent Pipeline as well as the Ford NGL districts can fill out the form on the county’s website. 

If you have any questions, you can reach out to Jennifer Weot at Jennifer.Weot@macombgov.org.

For more information on living and learning in Macomb County, visit Make Macomb Your Home. Find more articles like this at Metro Parent’s A Family Guide to Macomb County.

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How to talk to your children about conflict, war and tragedy

The uncertain state of the world can often leave many of us feeling daunted or overwhelmed. From the constant exposure to 24-hour headlines to unfiltered footage of war on social media, it’s likely that the children in your life have also seen it and may be trying to make sense of what they have witnessed and heard.

As a parent or caregiver, you might be wondering how to address these questions, how honest you should be or how to explain things you might not fully understand yourself. But having thoughtful and age-appropriate conversations about war and conflict can help children feel safer, more informed and less anxious or alone in their worries.

1. Remain calm.

Try to remain calm and collected when talking. Your child can pick up on body language if you appear anxious or fearful and may be less inclined to share how they’re feeling.

2. Remember to keep things age-appropriate. 

Brown Health says it’s important to use age-appropriate language when discussing conflict or tragedy. Even though discussing these events may be difficult, children should know what is happening in the world they live in. But as a parent or caregiver, you also have the responsibility to protect them from distress. You can inform them about what is going on without sharing unnecessary facts or details that may cause additional distress.

3. Listen to how they are feeling and what they already know.

Children can discover news in a multitude of ways, from friends at school to overhearing the television at home, so it’s important to learn what they already learned about the situation. Before offering explanations, gently ask them what they know or what they think is happening.

You can do this by simply asking open-ended questions like “What did you hear about this?” or “How did it make you feel?” The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry says this provides the opportunity not only to correct potential misinformation but also to create a safe space for expression and reassurance for your child about their safety.

4. Reassure them.

Reassure the child that they are safe from harm, and remind them that there are adults in their life working to protect them. Institute of Digital Media and Child Development tells us to focus on what is true and within your control, such as emphasizing current stability. You can do this by reminding them, “I am here with you now,” or “Right now, you are safe.”

Reassure the child that you’re there for support and that all feelings are welcome. Let them know it’s okay to express themselves, whether they are confused, sad or maybe not very impacted at all. 

5. Emphasize the good: Highlight help, hope or current action.

Oftentimes, especially in times of crisis, positive headlines are overshadowed by tragedy. But just because it isn’t being covered, doesn’t mean it isn’t happening. While it’s important to remember and acknowledge these events, children can significantly benefit from hearing about the people who are helping.

The Institute of Digital Media and Child Development also suggests bringing attention to the current action. This can be done through sharing stories of doctors, volunteers, rescue workers or even everyday people showing kindness. This doesn’t ignore or diminish the seriousness of the situation. Instead, it helps children understand that even during difficult events, compassion and action remain part of the story.

6. Limit intake of distressing news or media.

Constant news cycles can be overwhelming for children and adults alike. Graphic footage, alarmist headlines and repetitive coverage can significantly contribute to anxiety even if the events are happening thousands of miles away.

Be mindful and aware of what is playing on screens when children are around. The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry advises setting boundaries on news consumption or finding time to check updates privately. If your child wants additional information, provide it in smaller amounts using more age-appropriate language, rather than through unfiltered social media content.

7. Continue check-in and seek out help if needed.

Continue to gently check in with your child. They may process information more slowly, or even return with new questions about the situation. UNICEF suggests to watch for changes in behavior, such as trouble sleeping, stomachaches or irritability, as they can signal that a child is feeling overwhelmed. If distress continues or begins to interfere with daily activities, consider reaching out to a licensed mental health professional.

8. Compassion, not stigma

UNICEF also says that war and conflict can also bring increased prejudice, stereotypes or discrimination. Children may hear biased or harmful statements in the media or from adults and peers. When talking with children, take the opportunity to reinforce empathy and critical thinking. Remind them that it’s okay to ask questions, and that treating others with kindness, especially during difficult times, is important.

Reflection

Talking about war, conflict and tragedy with your children can feel daunting. But it doesn’t require perfection; it requires presence. By listening calmly, offering reassurance and highlighting helpers, you can help your child feel safer and supported in an uncertain world.

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Great Start Readiness Program promotes early education in Macomb County

In the first five years of life, a child’s brain is in its most flexible state — which makes those earliest years crucial for learning and growth. As children reach age 3 or 4, it’s the ideal time to consider preschool as a way to help their overall development — and prepare them for success in school and life.

That’s where Macomb County’s Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) comes in.

This state-funded, nationally recognized PreK program is free for all 4-year-olds and prepares children for school success with a whole child approach and a curriculum that focuses on all areas of development.

“Overwhelming research indicates that high-quality early education promotes school readiness, literacy, numeracy, skills and other positive short- and long-term outcomes,” says JoAnne Elkin, the Early Childhood/Early Literacy Consultant at the Macomb Intermediate School District.

“High-quality preschool programs like GSRP help children improve their communication skills through making new friends, playing and interacting with children and adults.”

In addition, Elkin says that kids who enroll in Macomb’s GSRP develop independence, responsibility, and self-esteem.

How it works

Students enrolled in Macomb County’s GSRP have the option to attend either half-day classes, 4-day full day classes (Monday- Thursday), or 5-day full day classes (Monday- Friday).

Teachers use a research-based curriculum that aligns with the Michigan Early Childhood Standards of Quality for Pre-Kindergarten to ensure kids get a quality education as well as the one-on-one attention and social interaction they need.

“Macomb County’s GSRP programs provide developmentally appropriate learning in a safe, nurturing and positive environment,” Elkin explains. “High-quality instruction is balanced with play-based learning (and) content learning areas including literacy, math, science, social studies, art and technology.”

Beyond these areas of study, kids also participate in group activities, along with daily free choice time and outdoor play.

Free meals are provided daily and some sites even offer transportation and before- or after-school care, too.

How to enroll

Families can now enroll for the 2026-27 school year.

Registration is done at a program level, which means that you need to reach out to the facilities that offer the program directly to enroll your child. Here you will find a list of all program locations throughout the county.

For more general information about Macomb County’s GSRP, parents can contact a Macomb Intermediate School District Enrollment Specialist at 586-228-3468.

“Macomb County’s GSRP is continuing to enroll children and we are committed to supporting families and children,” Elkin adds. “GSRP is a great start to launch children into successful learning and prepare them for kindergarten and beyond!”

This post was originally published in 2024 and has been updated for 2026 by Claire Charlton.

For more information on living and learning in Macomb County, visit Make Macomb Your Home. Find more articles like this at Metro Parent’s A Family Guide to Macomb County.

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Unforgettable summer camps in Sterling Heights—your kids will beg to stay longer

In Sterling Heights, local summer camps transform the sunny months into an unforgettable experience filled with creativity, exploration, and fun.

Whether it’s splashing in the pool, exploring nature, or diving into arts and crafts, these camps offer a dynamic range of activities that engage and inspire children of all ages.  Check out our list below for summer camp options located in and around Sterling Heights.

Looking for more summer camps? Check out our ultimate guide to find the best summer camps for metro Detroit kids.

Best summer camps for kids in Sterling Heights

Skills Camp at Legacy Volleyball

June 15 -Aug. 5, 2026

• Address: 6406 19 Mile Road, Sterling Heights
• Cost: $150 for two-day camp
• Best for ages: 10-18

This well-respected volleyball camp helps young athletes improve technique, stay in shape and have fun over the summer. There is a second location in Novi.

Summer Playground

2026 Dates TBA

• Address: Select schools in Sterling Heights
• Cost: $150 residents, $225 nonresidents
• Best for ages: 7-14

Sterling Heights Parks and Recreation offers a supervised playground program with crafts, sports, field trips and more at select local schools for summer fun.

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Metro Detroit’s coolest libraries for kids—storytime, play spaces and more

Your child doesn’t have to be a little bookworm to take advantage of the library. All around metro Detroit, public libraries are hubs of activity that offer family storytimes, arts and craft workshops, play time sessions and many other fun perks and activities for kids. 

Plus, libraries lend way more than just books. Did you know that you can rent everything from movies, magazines and ebooks to museum tickets, toys and even laptops and tools? The best part? All these services are free! 

Transform how you and your child think about the library by exploring all that these great local libraries have to offer. Keep in mind that just because your local library isn’t on this list doesn’t mean they don’t offer these services. Check their website or speak to a librarian on your next visit to learn more about events, special programming and borrowing materials for kids. 

Best children’s libraries in Macomb County

Clinton-Macomb Public Library-Main Library

• Address: 40900 Romeo Plank Road, Clinton Township

The children’s librarians at the main branch of Clinton-Macomb Public Library would be happy to help your child pick out a book using one of their kids reading lists or challenges, but books aren’t the only thing you can check out at this library. Take home a STEM to-go kit and explore math and science concepts at home, or snag a Michigan Activity Pass and get access to 450 nature and cultural destinations across the state. 

Can’t make it to the library? Call Clinton-Macomb’s 24-hour story phone hotline at (586) 226-5006 to listen to a story read by a CMPL librarian.

Fraser Public Library

• Address: 16330 14 Mile Road, Fraser

Fraser Public Library’s event calendar is packed with great activities for kids and families. Attend a Family STEM Night session, or visit every other Thursday morning for Pirate & Princess Story Time. 

Kids who struggle with reading can practice their reading skills on Monday nights by sharing a story with a pup during a 15-minute PAWS to Read session. There are book discussions, book sales and take-home craft kits for kids and teens.

Harrison Township Public Library

• Address: 38255 Lanse Creuse St., Suite A, Harrison Township

Having an HTPL library card does more than just unlock amazing library services for you and your kiddos — it also unlocks discounts at local businesses, theaters, sporting events and more. We don’t think you need any more of a reason to visit this location, but in case you do, here’s some more great perks at the Harrison Township Public Library: 

From preschool story time to baby playgroups and toddler dance parties, there’s many exciting activities for kids happening at the library. Plus, your kids will have the chance to read to dogs and play with baby chicks at upcoming events. 

Using the library computers to browse the web is great, but is your connection a bit spotty once you get home? Check out a portable Wi-Fi hotspot and, while you’re at it, use it to download free music and movies using your library barcode. 

Mount Clemens Public Library 

• Address: 150 Cass Ave., Mount Clemens

The newly renovated Mount Clemens Public Library hosts Saturday storytimes, drawing classes, live music and more for kids. Easy reader books are organized by the style of the book, making it simple for your beginner reader to find their new favorite read.

Best children’s libraries in Oakland County 

Commerce Township Community Library

• Address: 180 E Commerce St, Commerce Charter Township

With so many shelves filled with books, it can be overwhelming knowing where to start when looking for that perfect new read. Let the librarians at Commerce Township Community Library help! Simply fill out this form, and librarians will curate a book bundle filled with books of the topics and genres you request.

When you’re ready to pick up your book bundle, check their event calendar to see if there are any events happening that day. The library frequently hosts Lego club, Music & Movement, storytime and more. 

Farmington Community Library: Farmington Hills 

• Address: 32737 W. 12 Mile Road, Farmington Hills

The more you look around the campus of the FCL Farmington Hills location, the more statues and art you’re likely to spot! The lower level is a dedicated space for kids in grade 5 and younger to play, read, study and explore. There’s a music nook, plenty of computers with kid-appropriate resources, a play kitchen and other fun interactive toys. 

Southfield Public Library

• Address: 26300 Evergreen Road, Southfield

Full of natural light and impressive architecture, the Southfield Public Library is the ideal spot to curl up with a book. The children’s library looks like an enchanted castle made out of books, complete with high wooden ceiling beams, a dragon’s den, covered forest areas and — of course — plenty of hidden nooks and crannies where kids can let their imaginations soar. 

Troy Public Library 

• Address: 510 W. Big Beaver Road, Troy

At the end of each month, the Troy Public Library hosts a Storybook Trail in Raintree Park. Families can walk (and push strollers) down the paved path and enjoy the outdoors while stopping occasionally to read a page from the month’s featured story. There’s activity ideas to keep little ones entertained between pages, too. 

If your child prefers to stay stationary when reading, stop by the library for a book club, crafting or storytime session. 

West Bloomfield Township Public Library

• Address: 4600 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfield Township

The entrance to the Youth Services area at West Bloomfield Township Library is shaped like an adorable oversized clubhouse. Inside, kids can discover play areas that are filled with educational toys and games, and colorful activity rooms that host arts and crafts, reading with critters, move and groove tot sessions and more family fun activities. 

Best children’s libraries in Wayne County

Detroit Public Library: Main Library

• Address: 5201 Woodward Ave., Detroit

Detroit has many branch locations that offer great library services for children and their families, but we chose to feature the Main Library for its breathtaking arched ceilings, gorgeous stained glass windows and historic artwork. If you’re looking for a grand library that feels like a movie set, this is the place for you. 

Plus, you can check out Michigan Activity Passes, laptops, a book club in a bag and more! 

Redford Township District Library

• Address: 25320 Six Mile Road, Redford Charter Township

The extensive catalog at the Redford Township District Library truly has something for everyone. The wide selection of picture and board books for early readers and chapter books for older kiddos is homed in a cozy area with a small children’s play space. 

Redford Township District Library hosts some wonderful events for kids, including Chess Club, Storymakers for young authors, Lego Club, Pokemon Club and, of course, storytimes for all ages. 

Best children’s libraries in Washtenaw County

Ann Arbor District Library: Downtown

• Address: 343 S. 5th Ave., Ann Arbor

The downtown branch of Ann Arbor District Library has a dedicated children’s area with plenty of books, iPads with kid-approved games and apps, and plenty of nooks and crannies to relax, read and learn. 

Little kids will love attending Duplo Days where they can use their imaginations and build, and First Chapter Fridays, a live story reading event, is a great way for tweens to get a feel for a book before they commit to checking it out. See what other film, arts, gaming and social events are coming up at the downtown branch. 

Westgate Branch | Ann Arbor District Library

• Address: 2503 Jackson Ave., Ann Arbor

The Westgate branch of the Ann Arbor public library system isn’t just a great place to read and learn; it’s also the perfect place to play and eat! Kids of all ages will love playing with the giant Lite Brite, and little ones will love the quiet building block area that offers comfy seating for parents and a selection of toys for young children. There’s interactive wall art and board games, and Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea, a cafe located on the first floor. Grab a coffee for an extra boost before you hit the stacks, or unwind with your new books over lunch.

This article was recently updated on Feb. 26, 2026, by Metro Parent staff writers The update included research to feature the latest information. Questions? Please reach out to editor@metroparent.com.

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Where to find the top summer camps for kids in Macomb County

Summer camp is a rite of passage for kids in southeast Michigan. It allows them to make new friends, explore activities that interest them and create memories that will follow them through life.

But finding the perfect summer camp for your child’s specific interest and needs is a tall order — especially for parents with an already jam-packed schedule. Here are some summer camps to check out in Macomb County.

Find more Macomb County summer camps near you!

• Best summer camps for kids in Sterling Heights
• Best summer camps for kids in Shelby Township
• Best summer camps for kids in St. Clair Shores

Appleseed Camp at Blake’s

June 9-July. 23, 2026

• Address: 17985 Armada Center Road, Armada
• Cost: $280/child per session, $30/early check in, $30/extended pick up, $15/additional meal add on for lunch
• Best for ages: 6-11

Appleseed Camp at Blake’s Cider Mill offers farming fun, pony rides, crafts, inflatables, train rides, and more.

Skills Camp at Legacy Volleyball

June 15-Aug. 5, 2026

• Address: 6406 19 Mile Road, Sterling Heights
• Cost: Check website for pricing
• Best for ages: 6-17

This well-respected volleyball camp helps young athletes improve technique, stay in shape and have fun over the summer. There is a second location in Novi.

Pony Pal Camp at Windermere Equestrian Center

June 15-Aug. 7, 2026

• Address: 20615 Dunham Road, Clinton Township
• Cost: $385/five days
• Best for ages: 4-8

This camp is considered “horse kindergarten” for little ones with a love of horses but not much experience. Sessions are limited to 12 students.

Macomb Day Camp at Macomb YMCA

June 15-Aug. 28, 2026

• Address: 10 North River Road. Mount Clemens
• Cost: $295-$340/five days
• Best for ages: 4-13

Campers build friendships and develop creativity, teamwork and independence through arts, sports, swimming, STEAM, outdoor activities and field trips.

Drama Workshop at Macomb Center for the Performing Arts

June 22-25, 2026

• Address: 44575 Garfield Road, Clinton Township
• Cost: $175/grades 2-3, $225/grades 4-12
• Best for grades: 2-12

All The World’s Stage camp fosters cooperation, concentration and movement in a welcoming, non-competitive environment, specializing in top-rated youth theatre programs.

Mad Science Metro Detroit Summer Camps

June 22-Aug. 21, 2026

• Address: Various locations in metro Detroit
• Phone: 248-773-8570
• Cost: Cost varies, see website for details
• Best for ages: 4-12

Get ready for a summer of discovery and hands-on fun! Mad Science offers exciting STEM-themed day camps for kids of all ages. Each week features a brand-new science adventure — from Secret Agent Lab and Digging Dinos to NASA Camp, Robot Academy and more!

Choose from morning, afternoon, full-day, half-day or even single-day options at multiple locations across metro Detroit. Camps are packed with interactive experiments, outdoor play and dynamic science lessons, all led by enthusiastic Mad Science instructors. Spots fill fast and new sessions are added weekly.

Horsemanship Day School at Windermere Equestrian Center

June 22-July 31, 2026

• Address: 20615 Dunham Road, Clinton Township
• Cost: $510/five days
• Best for ages: 8-plus

Windermere Equestrian Center camp offers hands-on care like grooming, braiding and feeding for hunter/jumper riders aged 8 currently enrolled in lessons.

Summer Youth Programs (K-12) at Macomb Community College

 2026 Dates TBA

• Address: Locations vary in Warren and Clinton Township
• Cost: Costs vary, see website for details.
• Best for ages: 3-17

Macomb Community College offers K-12 students exciting summer programs, including Camp Scrubs, career academies, and College 4 Kids (C4K) classes, with hands-on learning and exploration.

Clinton Township Recreation

2026 Dates TBA

• Address: 40700 Romeo Plank Road, Clinton Township
• Cost: 2025 information not yet released
• Best for ages: 6-14

This camp provides kids with fun activities like field trips, water games, arts and crafts and more.

For more information on living and learning in Macomb County, visit Make Macomb Your Home. Find more articles like this at Metro Parent’s A Family Guide to Macomb County.

This article was recently updated on Feb. 26, 2026, by Metro Parent staff writers. The updates reflect the latest information. Questions? Please reach out to editor@metroparent.com.

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Top 10 things to do with metro Detroit kids this March

This March, metro Detroit is packed with exciting family-friendly events! Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, enjoy live theater performances and other fun things to do together. 

Ready to plan your month? Scroll down to explore our top picks for March family events in Detroit that will keep your calendar full of winter fun!

Key Takeaways

• Families in Metro Detroit can enjoy a variety of kid-friendly March events, including parades, live theater, sports games, and hands-on activities across the city.
• Local libraries and community centers host interactive programs such as storytime, crafts, and puzzle competitions that foster literacy, creativity, and teamwork for children.
• Seasonal outdoor activities at parks and science centers provide opportunities for sledding, nature exploration, and STEM learning, offering active and educational experiences for kids.
• Events range from free community gatherings to ticketed performances, giving families multiple ways to engage, explore, and plan weekend outings throughout March in the region.

Photo credit: Nadir Ali

Winter at Valade

• Hours: noon-8 p.m.
• Date: Sunday, March 1
• Location: 2670 Atwater St., Detroit

Soak up the last few weeks of the winter season at Robert C. Valade Park along Detroit’s scenic Riverfront. Winter at Valade, the park’s recurring seasonal event, offers sleds available to borrow, bonfires, marshmallow roasting and plenty of outdoor activities perfect for kids and families. Pack your handwarmers and coats for one last chance to enjoy free winter fun on the riverfront before the snow melts away. 

Groovin’ Through Reading with Pete the Cat

• Hours: 2-3 p.m.
• Date: Saturday, March 7
• Location: 2507 West Grand Blvd., Detroit

Celebrate National Reading Month at the Duffield branch of the Detroit Public Library with a special family afternoon designed to spark a love of books—and Pete the Cat! This kickoff event includes books, music, crafts, trivia, games and prizes. It’s a simple (and free!) way to encourage literacy while having fun as a family. 

Free family puzzle competition

• Hours: 6-7 p.m.
• Date: Wednesday, March 11
• Location: 8733 W. Vernor Highway, Detroit

Ready for a bit of healthy competition? Head to the Campbell Branch of the Detroit Public Library for a family-friendly puzzle competition that will put you and your crew’s teamwork to the test. Families can race against the clock to see who can complete their puzzle first. It’s a fun, low-pressure way to build problem-solving skills (and bragging rights) together. Reserve a spot online today.

“The Lion King”

• Hours: Showtimes vary daily.
• Dates: March 12 – April 5
• Location: 1526 Broadway St., Detroit

Give your kids a chance to roam on the wild side at “The Lion King!” This award-winning Best Musical is a perfect opportunity to introduce kids to theater in an approachable, familiar way. With creative costumes and unforgettable music, it’s a Broadway experience the whole family can enjoy. Secure tickets online in advance. 

313 Day at Valade

• Hours: 3:13 p.m.-8 p.m.
• Date: Friday, March 13
• Location: 2670 Atwater St., Detroit

Looking for a fun way to rep the 313? On March 13, enjoy this all-ages celebration packed with everything there is to love about the Motor City. With live music, trivia, poetry, interactive activities and local vendors, this community event is a great way to soak up the spirit of Detroit and show off your city pride —for free!

Photo via the Detroit St. Patrick’s Day Parade Facebook page

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

• Hours: 1 p.m.
• Date: Sunday, March 15
• Location: 6th Street to Michigan Avenue, Detroit

Don’t get pinched! Put on your best green getup and head to the annual Detroit St. Patrick’s Parade for its 68th year of festive family fun. As one of the largest St. Patrick’s parades in the country, you won’t want to miss the floats, marching bands and lively performances that bring the streets of Detroit to life. Arrive early to grab a good viewing spot and enjoy one of the city’s most beloved spring traditions.

Photo credit: Detroit Pistons

Detroit Pistons vs. Golden State Warriors

• Hours: 7:30 p.m.
• Date: Friday, March 20
• Location: 2645 Woodward Ave., Detroit

Cheer on the home team as the Detroit Pistons face the Golden State Warriors at the Little Caesars Arena. It’s the perfect way to kick off your weekend with an exciting night of professional basketball. Tickets vary by seating selection and must be purchased online in advance. 

Photo credit: Monster Jam

Monster Jam

• Hours: 5 p.m. Saturday; 3 p.m. Sunday
• Date: March 21-22
• Location: 2000 Brush St., Detroit 

Visit Monster Jam at Ford Field to see massive monster trucks, top drivers and a day of high energy racing. Each show includes a pre-event Pit Party (available for an additional cost) where fans can meet drivers, take photos and see the trucks up close. This all-ages event is action-packed from start to finish. Tickets should be reserved online in advance.

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“The Cat in the Hat – Live on Stage!”

• Showtimes: 11 a.m.; 2 p.m.; 5 p.m.
• Date: Saturday, March 28
• Location: 2211 Woodward Ave., Detroit

Take your kids to watch as Dr. Seuss’s classic story comes to life at “The Cat in the Hat – Live on Stage!,” a fun performance perfect for younger audiences. This energetic show brings the mischievous Cat and his friend to life at the Fox Theatre with colorful sets and lots of laughs. Check showtimes and secure tickets in advance for this timeless tale.

Photo credit: Cranbrook Institute of Science

Spring into Science at Cranbrook 

• Hours: 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
• Date: March 30-April 1
• Location: 39221 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills

Just outside Detroit, celebrate the start of the new season at Spring Into Science at the Cranbrook Institute of Science in Bloomfield Hills. Families can explore local ecosystems through hands-on activities and experiences designed for all ages. This event is the perfect way for kids to learn while having fun. All activities are free with museum admission.

This article was last updated on Feb. 26, 2026, by Metro Parent staff writers. The update includes newly-added events to MetroParent.com’s calendar, highlighting the top family-friendly activities in metro Detroit this month. 

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