My child ignores me. How can I address the root cause instead of feeling triggered myself?

When a child seems to ignore a parent, the behavior is not always intentional disrespect. In many cases, the response is connected to distraction, emotional reactions or a child’s need for control — and it can also trigger deeper emotions in parents themselves.

According to Stephanie Wright, counselor and founder of The Wright Counseling, one of the most important steps is pausing to examine both the child’s behavior and the parent’s reaction.

“Sometimes a big piece that’s missing is recognizing the role we as parents are playing in what’s showing up for our kids,” Wright says.

The Quick Answer

Children may appear to ignore parents for many reasons, including distraction, emotional frustration or a desire for control. Addressing the root cause often requires parents to first notice their own emotional reactions — what is coming up for us, why are we reacting to our kids in a certain way — and then determine what might be happening underneath the child’s behavior.

• Pause before reacting: Feeling activated may reveal something the situation is bringing up for the parent.
  
• Make sure your child actually heard you: Kids are often distracted and may not have fully registered the request.
  
• Look for underlying emotions: Ignoring instructions may signal frustration, a lack of confidence, hurt feelings, or a need for control.
  
• Invite children into the process: Including kids in discussions about expectations can reduce power struggles.

Why ignoring happens in the first place

Parents often interpret a child not responding as disrespect. But Wright encourages families to first explore whether the child truly heard the request.

Children’s curiosity is their superpower, and often we mistake it for being distracted or defiant. Our brains aren’t really built to be able to multitask the way our society requires it these days. While adults may try to juggle multiple tasks at once, kids are often more easily distracted by screens, activities or their own thoughts.

Before assuming defiance, Wright suggests making sure you have your child’s full attention.

“Did they hear you? Were they distracted?” Wright says. “Dual attention is sometimes not an easy thing for kids. Our brains really aren’t built to do too many things at one time.”

One strategy is asking the child to repeat back what they were asked to do. This helps confirm they heard and understood the instruction.

Looking at what the behavior may be communicating

If a child clearly heard the request but still does not respond, the behavior may signal something deeper.

Sometimes children feel upset about something unrelated and ignoring a parent becomes a way to express frustration. Other times it reflects a child trying to regain a sense of control. This is not defiance, it is a strategy they have learned that gets our attention. Even if that attention isn’t exactly what they are looking for, any attention is better than no attention.

Children have relatively little control in their daily lives. Parents set rules, expectations and schedules. When kids feel unheard or excluded from decisions, resistance can become one of the few ways they feel they have power.

“It can cause kids to feel unseen or unheard,” Wright says.

Managing the parent reaction

Equally important is understanding what the moment may bring into awareness for the parent.

If a parent repeatedly asks a child to do something and the child does not respond, the reaction may stem from feeling ignored, dismissed or disrespected.

Wright encourages parents to pause and ask themselves what the situation is bringing up emotionally for themselves before responding. Our kids are our biggest mirrors. We often miss this amazing opportunity of self growth and instead try to control the child’s behavior and outcome.

By slowing down and approaching the moment with curiosity rather than frustration, parents can shift the interaction from a power struggle to a conversation about what the child might be feeling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my child ignore me when I ask them to do something?

Children may not respond because they are distracted, emotionally overwhelmed, or seeking a sense of control. The behavior often reflects something deeper than simple disobedience.

How can I make sure my child actually heard my request?
Try gaining their full attention first and asking them to repeat the instruction back to you. This confirms they heard and understood what you asked.

Why does this behavior trigger such strong reactions in parents?
Parents may interpret being ignored as disrespect or dismissal. Pausing to recognize these feelings and working towards understanding our own internal experience, can help prevent escalating the situation. When you share this insight as well, it can create a really important modeled experience as well a moment of true connection with your child.

• How can I tell if my child’s behavior is rooted in anxiety rather than defiance?
• Am I reinforcing “bad behavior” as a parent if I stay calm?

Learn more about The Wright Counseling on their website at thewrightcounseling.com.

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How can I tell if my child’s behavior is rooted in anxiety rather than defiance?

A child’s behavior may be rooted in anxiety rather than defiance when the behavior reflects an underlying feeling — such as worry, fear, or stress — that the child does not yet have the language to explain.

According to Stephanie Wright, counselor and founder of The Wright Counseling, many parents first notice concerns through behavior at home, school, or a doctor’s office. What may initially appear as disobedience or refusal can actually be a child trying to communicate something deeper.

“We say that all behavior is communication,” Wright says. “If you’re looking at behavior just as behavior, you may be missing what the child is trying to communicate.”

The Quick Answer

Children often express anxiety through behavior because they do not yet have the emotional vocabulary to explain what they are feeling. Instead of saying they are worried or overwhelmed, anxiety may appear as sleep problems, clinginess, distraction, or changes in normal behavior patterns.

Key Takeaways

• Behavior is communication: Actions that seem defiant may signal fear, worry, or stress.
• Changes from normal behavior are important clues: Sudden shifts in sleep, independence, routines or focus may indicate anxiety.
• Children often lack emotional language: Younger kids especially may not know how to explain what they feel internally.
• Looking for the root cause helps guide support: Understanding anxiety allows parents to respond with the right tools and resources.

What anxiety-related behavior can look like in children

Because children often struggle to name their feelings, anxiety frequently appears through behavior rather than words.

One of the most common indicators Wright sees is changes in sleep patterns. Children experiencing anxiety may suddenly have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep at night.

Parents may also notice behavior that falls outside a child’s usual patterns. Wright says this is one of the biggest clues that something deeper may be happening.

“If it’s not something that normally occurs that could be a sign that something is percolating underneath,” Wright explains.

Another sign can be increased clinginess. A child who previously felt comfortable being in their own room may suddenly want to stay close to a parent or avoid being alone.

For older children and teenagers, anxiety can sometimes show up as the opposite behavior — withdrawing more than usual. Teens might spend excessive time in their rooms, retreat to their phones, or immerse themselves in activities that feel safer and help them avoid whatever is causing worry.

Understanding the root cause of ‘bad’ behavior

Because behavior is often the first signal parents see, Wright encourages families to look beyond the action itself and consider what the child might be experiencing internally.

Children may not yet know how to say something like, “I’m worried about a test on Friday,” even if that worry is affecting their focus or mood. They may not be able to make that connection.

Instead, anxiety may appear as distraction, resistance or frustration, or “defiance”.

When parents begin viewing behavior as communication rather than simply misbehavior, it can help reveal what a child might be trying to express — and open the door to meaningful support.

Frequently Asked Questions

What behaviors might signal anxiety in children?

Sleep difficulties, oppositionality, clinginess, avoidance, distraction, and noticeable changes from a child’s normal behavior patterns can all be indicators of anxiety.

At what age can anxiety show up in behavior?

According to Wright, clinics like The Wright Counseling commonly work with children starting around age five, though many families seek support when children are around eight or older.

How can parents respond if they suspect anxiety?

Start by noticing patterns and asking what the behavior might be communicating. Speaking with a mental health professional can help families better understand the root cause and learn strategies for supporting their child.

Learn more about The Wright Counseling on their website at thewrightcounseling.com.

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Detroit Parent Answers: At what age can I legally leave my child home alone in Detroit?

As summer break approaches, many working parents and families in Detroit face a pressing question: Is my child old enough to stay home alone?

If you are searching for local laws for a specific number or age, you will not find one. In Detroit and across the state of Michigan, there is no legal minimum age for leaving a child home alone.  

Welcome to Detroit Parent Answers, your guide to what parents need to know about raising kids in the Motor City. From schools and neighborhoods to local events and fun facts, we break down the stories, policies and places shaping family life across metro Detroit. Curious about something? Send your questions, comments or thoughts on what we should cover next to david@metroparent.com.

Key takeaways

• The bigger picture: There is no specific legal age requirement for leaving your child home alone in Michigan or Detroit. Parents are expected to use “reasonable judgment” based on their child’s maturity level or the situation at hand.
• More details: As a general rule, children 10 years old or younger are not responsible enough to be left home alone. 
• Why this matters: Maturity level can matter more than age. A responsible or more mature 11-year-old may be fine for an hour or so, whereas a less mature 13-year-old may not be ready at all.
• What to remember: You can still be charged with neglect or abandonment, despite your child being a teenager, if the situation was clearly unsafe, such as leaving them for numerous days without resources. 

The law: Parental responsibility and neglect 

While the state does prohibit children under the age of 13 from being left alone in a car for “a period of time that poses an unreasonable risk of harm or injury to the child or under circumstances that pose an unreasonable risk of harm or injury to the child,” as stated in Mich. Comp. Laws § 750.135a, Michigan law does not explicitly specify an age.

Rather, it imposes a continuous duty on parents to supervise their children. According to the Michigan Legislation, this duty includes arranging “proper supervision for the minor when the parent must be absent.” 

The Michigan Child Protection Law defines neglect as “harm or threatened harm to a child’s health or welfare by a parent, legal guardian, or any other person responsible for the child’s health or welfare.” This can occur through negligent treatment, including the failure to provide adequate food, clothing, shelter or medical care, as well as placing a child at an unreasonable risk to the child’s health or welfare. If a neighbor, school official or other mandated reporter communicates concerns that a child was left in a dangerous situation, Child Protective Services has the authority to investigate. If found to be negligent, parents could face legal consequences.

Parent’s checklist

Since there is no specifically designated number, you must be the judge of your child’s readiness. Before you leave them home alone, the State of Michigan asks parents to consider factors like:

Age and maturity 

• Is your child physically and mentally able to care for themselves? 
• Does your child obey rules and make good decisions? 
• Does your child feel comfortable or fearful about being home alone?

Circumstances

• How long will your child be left home alone at one time? Will it be during the day, evening or night? 
• Will the child need to fix a meal?
• How often will the child be expected to care for themselves?  

Legal guidelines

• How many children are being left home alone? 
• Is your home safe and free of hazards?
• How safe is your neighborhood?

Additional tips for parents

The state also recommends additional tips for parents, such as;

• Trying a trial period. Leave the child home alone for a short time while staying close to home. This is a good way to see how they will manage. 
• Role playing. Act out possible situations to help your child learn what to do. 
• Establishing rules. Make sure your child knows what is (and is not) allowed when you are not home. Some experts suggest making a list of chores or other tasks to keep children busy while you are gone. 
• Checking in. Call your child while you are away to see how it’s going, or have a trusted neighbor or friend check in. 
• Talking about it. Encourage your child to share his or her feelings with you about staying home alone. 
• Don’t push it. Even a mature, responsible child shouldn’t be home alone too much. Consider other options, such as care programs offered by schools, babysitters, youth organizations and more to help keep your child busy and involved.

In Detroit, the answer to “what age” is not a specifically named number, but rather a judgment call made by you. However, that judgment may come with legal risk. If you are unsure, err on the side of caution. The consequences of a Child Protection Services investigation or a neglect charge are far more costly than paying for a babysitter or arranging a summer camp or youth program.

FAQs

Q: Does Detroit have stricter rules than the rest of Michigan? A: No. Detroit follows state law, which has no minimum age.

Q: Can my child babysit a younger sibling? A: There is no law setting an age for babysitting. However, you are legally responsible for both children. If the older sibling cannot handle an emergency and they or the younger child are harmed, you may face neglect charges.

Q: At what age can my child stay home overnight? A: It is generally not recommended that children under the age of 16-17 should be left alone for overnight stays.

 

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Michigan in Bloom: The best spots to see cherry blossoms this spring

Cherry blossom season, typically between late April to early May, is a must-see for this coming spring. Don’t miss out this season and check out our top spots to see the cherry blossoms in bloom, from outlooks to gardens to historic sites located in Michigan.

Photo credit: Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

Key takeaways

• The bigger picture: Michigan is home to a surprising variety of cherry blossom viewing spots making it easy to plan a beautiful spring outing close to home.
• More details: Highlights include Traverse City’s millions of blooming trees along Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas, more than 100 cherry blossoms at Belle Isle Park, the iconic weeping cherry tree at Nichols Arboretum and authentic Japanese garden scenery at the Japanese Cultural Center in Saginaw.
• Why this matters: Cherry blossom season in Michigan is brief — typically late April to early May — making timing everything. Planning ahead ensures families don’t miss one of the most visually stunning natural displays the state has to offer each spring.

Traverse City

Traverse City, known as the “Cherry Capital of the World,” boasts several tourist attractions including its Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and its several vineyards and wineries. In addition to this, Traverse City is one of the top cherry blossom viewing spots in Michigan, with millions of trees in bloom, with notable spots including Old Mission Peninsula, off of M-37, and Leelanau Peninsula, off of M-22. Visit Traverse City’s website for tour and guide information.

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

Photo credit: Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is a must-visit destination that combines art, culture and nature through its indoor and outdoor gardens and sculpture galleries. It offers year-round tours, programs and activities and is among the top most-visited museums worldwide. Be sure to check out the gardens this spring in time to see their beautiful cherry blossoms in bloom while enjoying their collection of art and nature. Tickets range from $14 for children, $19 for students, $20 for seniors and $25 for adults.

Belle Isle Park

Belle Isle Park is a 985-acre state park located in the Detroit River. It is the largest city-owned island park in the US and a popular tourist spot with its stunning views of Detroit to the North and Canada to the South and its abundance of historical and cultural sites. It features the James Scott Memorial Fountain, the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, the Belle Isle Aquarium and the Ralph Wilson Gateway. There are designated swim beaches, hiking trails, areas for fishing and paddling and more. The southern region of the island, near James Scott Memorial Fountain, is a popular viewing spot for Belle Isle’s more than 100 cherry blossoms. Be sure to catch the cherry blossoms between late April and early May.

Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum

Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum. Photo credit: Michele Yanga

The University of Michigan Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum is a more than 800-acre (across five locations) botanical garden and conservatory featuring gardens, farmland, research areas and nature preserves. The Botanical Garden and Arboretum is a reflection of the University’s commitment to plant life and nature preservation, and experiential learning opportunities for students. Visit the Matthaei Botanical Gardens for an opportunity to see their cherry blossoms in their outdoor garden, or visit the Nichols Arboretum (The Arb) to see their notable “weeping cherry tree” near the Dow Prairie.

Meadow Brook Hall Rochester

Meadow Brook Hall is a historic house museum, cultural center and event venue located in Rochester. The historic estate spans 88,000 square feet, featuring 110 rooms that house an abundance of historic artifacts, including more than 75,000 original paintings, sculptures, prints, furniture, ceramics, antique textiles and more. Amongst the estate’s historic and cultural value, take time to explore Meadow Brook Hall’s several gardens (the West Gardens and the East Gardens). Meadow Brook Hall offers a serene environment to take a stroll and enjoy their beautiful cherry blossoms in the spring.

Japanese Cultural Center, Tea House and Gardens of Saginaw

The Japanese Cultural Center, Tea House, and Gardens of Saginaw is a garden and tea house committed to “promoting intercultural understanding and peace through a bowl of tea.” Their spring season begins on April 1 and extends to October 31 for the public. The garden comprises several Japanese rock landscapes as well as cultural structures constructed by artisanal carpenters. The Japanese Cultural Center, Tea House, and Gardens of Saginaw also offers tea ceremony demonstrations, Tea House tours, programs and festivals that celebrate Japanese art and culture. Be sure to explore the Tea House and Gardens and catch the cherry blossom season in time to check out their cherry blossoms in full bloom.

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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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