Adventure awaits at overnight summer camps for metro Detroit kids

Instead of spending the summer perfecting the art of being a couch potato, overnight summer camps in Michigan give kids the opportunity to try out new activities — think archery, kayaking, rock-climbing, hiking and more.

Plus, there’s the opportunity to make new friends from across the state while enjoying all the fun that the outdoors can offer. The skills and memories campers will gain often stick with them for years to come, too — among the many other benefits of camp.

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

Featured overnight camps in metro Detroit

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

Project Foxwood – Camp Carvela

Photo credit: Camp Carvela

June 15-Aug. 14, 2026

• Address: 33 Bass Lake Rd., Traverse City, MI 49685
• Phone: 231-299-0005
• Ages served: 7-18
• Number of students: Not provided
• Type: Overnight Camp
• Cost: 3-Night Sessions: $995. 1-Week Sessions: $1,545. 2-Week Sessions: $3,295. Teen Leadership Program: $3,795.

Camp Carvela is a vibrant overnight camp and day camp where curiosity leads the way and every camper gets to shape their own adventure. Nestled in the beautiful forests of Northern Michigan, Camp Carvela blends classic camp fun with a modern, choice-based approach that helps campers grow in confidence, creativity and connection.

Each day, campers choose from a wide range of activities, including arts and crafts, sports and games, nature exploration, waterfront fun and imaginative group challenges. This emphasis on choice empowers campers to follow their interests, try new things at their own pace and discover what they truly love.

Whether a camper thrives on creative expression, active play or quiet moments in nature, there’s space for everyone to feel successful and included.

At the heart of Camp Carvela is a strong sense of community. Our caring, enthusiastic staff focus on building positive relationships, encouraging teamwork and creating an environment where kindness and belonging come first. Campers leave not only with muddy sneakers and art projects in hand but with new friendships, increased independence and memories that last long after summer ends.

Camp Carvela is a place where kids can be kids, one unforgettable summer day at a time.

YMCA Camp Nissokone

Photo credit: YMCA Camp Nissokone

June 14-Aug. 22, 2026

• Address: 6836 F41, Oscoda, MI 48750
• Phone: 248-887-4533
• Ages served: 5-17
• Type: Day camp, overnight camp, sports camp
• Cost:
  • Overnight camp = $779 per week
  • Day camp = $299 per week

Nissokone is a place like no other: a spectacular natural environment in which the majestic AuSable River meets the shores of Lake Huron. For over a century, this jewel of the YMCA has been Michigan’s premier destination for summer camp experiences, where spectacular natural beauty becomes the backdrop for extraordinary growth.

Named one of Newsweek’s Top Camps in the USA, Nissokone offers unforgettable experiences for kids entering grades K-12. Nissokone is perfect for getting out in nature for adventure and play, offering a wide variety of age-appropriate activities. Our 100+ acres of forest and pristine waterfront offer endless possibilities from sailing and horseback riding to ziplines, paintball and wilderness expeditions.

Here, friendships forge lifelong bonds, confidence flourishes and young people discover their limitless potential within a caring community. Our experienced camp counselors guide every adventure, grounded our core values: caring, honesty, respect, responsibility and inclusion.

Welcome to Nissokone where nature inspires, challenge transforms and memories last forever. Camp Nissokone is accredited by the American Camp Association.

YMCA Camp Ohiyesa

Photo credit: YMCA Camp Ohiyesa

June 8-Aug. 28, 2026

• Address: 7300 Hickory Ridge Rd., Holly
• Phone: 248-887-4533
• Ages served: 5-17
• Number of students: Not listed
• Type: Day camp, overnight camp, sports camp

YMCA Camp Ohiyesa is a historic camp located in Holly, Michigan, providing youth with a safe, inclusive and values-based camp experience for over a century. Nestled on the shores of Fish Lake, Camp Ohiyesa helps youth build confidence, independence and lasting friendships through outdoor adventure, skill-building activities and intentional community living. Our programs include day camp and overnight camp with activities such as swimming, archery, climbing, waterslide and horseback riding. As part of the YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit, Camp Ohiyesa’s programs are guided by the YMCA’s core values of honesty, caring, respect, responsibility and inclusion. Camp Ohiyesa creates meaningful experiences that support personal growth, character development and connection, helping young people thrive long after their camp experience ends.

More overnight camps in metro Detroit

This section includes additional camp options for families to explore. These listings are added separately from our paid listings.

Black River Farm and Ranch

June 14-Aug. 15, 2026

• Address: 5040 Sheridan Line Road, Croswell
• Cost: $1,365-$6,916
• Best for ages: 6-16

A “paradise at the end of a dirt road,” this family-owned girls’ camp (since 1962) offers horsemanship, riding lessons, swimming, kayaking, archery and more.

Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp

Two-week sessions from June 24-Aug. 16, 2026

• Address: 300 E. Crystal Lake Road, Twin Lake, Mich.
• Phone: 800-221-3796
• Cost: $1,875 – $1975 (varies depending on major; significant scholarships available for motivated students; discounts for siblings, Session 4, and those enrolling in more than one session)
• Best for ages: 11-18

Celebrating 60 years, Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp offers immersive two-week summer programs for Grades 5-12 in music, art, theater, dance and writing. 

Camp AGQ through the Ann Arbor Y

June 14-Aug. 9, 2026

• Address: 220 E. Ann St., Ann Arbor
• Cost: $430-$1,715
• Best for ages: 6-16

Camp AGQ on Burt Lake offers a scenic sleepaway experience for ages 6-16, with optional sailing, horseback riding, water-skiing and more. Mini Camp eases first-time campers.

Camp Carvela

June 14-Aug. 14, 2026

• Address: 33 Bass Lake Road, Traverse City
• Phone: 231-299-0005
• Cost: $390-$3,295, cost varies depending on session type (day or overnight) and length
• Best for ages: 7-18 (plus Family Camp)

Camp Carvela, part of Project Foxwood, is a small, creative camp nestled on Bass Lake in Traverse City. With day, overnight, adventure trips and family camps for ages 7-18, we offer a camper-driven experience—every day is unique!

Camp Lookout

June 14-Aug. 14, 2026

• Address: 1310 Beuna Road, Frankfort
• Cost: $1,395+
• Best for ages: 7-17

Accessible only by pontoon, this vehicle-free retreat for ages 7-17 fosters creativity and adventure, offering beach and woodland camping in a playful, supportive environment.

Camp Walden

June 22-Aug. 8, 2026

• Address: 5607 S. River Road, Cheboygan
• Cost: $850-$13,100
• Best for ages: 7-16

This Up-North camp offers 150 acres of forest, waterfront, and trails for ages 7-16, with water sports, horseback riding and more on spring-fed Long Lake.

Camp Westminster

June 21-July. 31, 2026

• Address: 116 Westminster Drive, Roscommon
• Phone: 313-341-8969
• Cost: $840/week for overnight camp, $330/week day camp
• Best for ages: 7-17

Camp Westminster on Higgins Lake has been a beloved summer camp and retreat center in northern Michigan for 100 years! Westminster creates a welcoming community where campers gain confidence, independence and lifelong friendships while exploring faith and nature.

Crystalaire Adventures

June 21-July. 17, 2026

• Address: 33 Bass Lake Road, Traverse City
• Cost: $575
• Best for ages: 10-18

Here, older kids learn to live and work together — and get a better sense of who they are. They’ll explore caverns, backpack North Manitou, basecamp at South Manitou and more. Exciting programs for middle schoolers, too. Ask about custom programs.

Summer Academic Programs at LTU

July 13-17, July 20-24, July 27-31, 2026

• Address: 21000 W. Ten Mile Road, Southfield
• Phone: 800-225-5588
• Cost: Varies, see website for details
• Best for ages: 14-23

Help shape the future of STEM with the Marburger STEM Center’s immersive high school summer programs! Connect with a dedicated community of innovators in engineering, technology, design, and science, all united by a passion for discovery and innovation.

YMCA Camp Copneconic

July 5-Aug. 14, 2026

• Address: 10407 N. Fenton Road, Fenton
• Cost: See website for details
• Best for ages: 9-17

Fantastic campfire songs are just the start with YMCA offering overnight camps. Campers take action-packed field trips, go ziplining, tubing, kayaking, canoeing and sailing, plus enjoy weekly themes like searching for gold or building a time machine.

This article was recently updated on Jan. 22, 2026 by Metro Parent’s writer, Sarah Knieff. The updates reflect the latest information. Questions? Please reach out to editor@metroparent.com.

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The most “egg-citing” view: Watch Easter eggs rain from the sky!

Key takeaways

• Kids can enjoy the spectacle of high-flying easter eggs before hunting what is dropped at 11 a.m. March 28-29 and April 3-4 at Lake Orion. 
• Prize redemption and activities are available for participants. 
• Advance tickets are mandatory. 

Elevate your Easter holiday plans with a high-flying experience at the Canterbury Eggstravaganza in Lake Orion! Witness the thrill of the Easter Bunny’s helicopter dropping eggs from the sky for children to collect and redeem for prizes. Between the excitement of the easter egg hunt and relaxing family time playing lawn games or watching magic shows, it’s the perfect seasonal celebration for all ages.

• Location: 2325 Joslyn Court, Lake Orion
• Time: 11 a.m. 
• Date: March 28-29 and April 3-4

What to expect at the Canterbury Eggstavaganza 

Forget searching in the field, watch Easter eggs rain from the sky as the Easter Bunny’s helicopter flies overhead to deliver eggs directly to the drop zone. Children can collect up to 10 of these special eggs to redeem them for exciting prizes. These aerial drops are organized into specific times and days based on age groups to ensure everyone has a fair chance. 

 

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A post shared by Canterbury Village (@canterburyvillagelakeorion)

Stick around after the aerial Easter egg hunt to participate in a variety of activities and treats including: 

• Free lawn games 
• Free petting zoo with the option to purchase food 
• Free photos with the Easter Bunny 
• Magic shows and juggling 
• Vendor market 
• Tasty food and drinks
• Monster truck rides for $10 

Ticket information 

• Advance tickets are required and walk-ups at the door are not permitted. 
• Early bird tickets are $10.99 plus sales tax and processing fees, and all attendees, including adults, must purchase tickets. 
• Ticket prices will increase to $13.99 after March 15. 
• Tickets must be purchased for the appropriate age range for children for safety reasons. Older children will not be allowed onto the drop field during younger children’s time slots.

What families are saying

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Why does my child melt down over small things — and what does it mean for their mental health?

Key Takeaways

• Frequent meltdowns are common in young children as emotional regulation skills are still developing.
• Intense reactions often reflect overwhelm rather than defiance.
• Calm, consistent adult responses support long-term emotional regulation.
• If patterns change or concerns persist, start with a pediatrician for guidance.

______________________________________

When your child reacts intensely to something that seems minor — a change in plans, a small frustration, a disruption in routine — it can feel confusing or concerning. Parents and caregivers may wonder whether this is simply part of growing up or a sign of anxiety or another mental health issue.

Emotional outbursts are common in childhood. But repeated big reactions to small stressors can prompt families to look more closely.

Developmentally, frequent meltdowns in young children can be typical, according to Andrea  Scheid, MD, FAAP, a pediatrician with Team Wellness Children and Adolescent Center in Detroit. 

“Most kids have tantrums multiple times a day,” she explains. As children develop independence, they are still building the neurological skills required to manage strong emotions.

For parents, reframing the concern can help build understanding. Instead of focusing only on how intense the reaction appears, consider what might be driving it.

Why do children have big emotional reactions?

From a mental health perspective, intense reactions can be signs of overwhelm.

“Behavior is communication,” Dr. Scheid says. When children lack the language or emotional regulation skills to describe what they are feeling, their distress can show up behaviorally.

Young children’s nervous systems activate quickly. Fatigue, sensory discomfort, frustration or anxiety can all surface as tears or anger. What looks disproportionate to an adult may feel genuinely unmanageable to a child in the moment.

Temperament also plays a role. Some children are naturally more sensitive to change or unpredictability. Routine disruptions or unmet expectations can feel destabilizing, particularly for children who rely heavily on structure.

Christine Post, DO, a child psychiatrist with Team Wellness, cautions against rushing to label every intense reaction as a mental health disorder. “I think parents tend to call everything anxiety,” she notes. While anxiety can contribute to emotional outbursts, not every meltdown signals a diagnosis.

Understanding context, patterns, and developmental stages is essential before drawing conclusions.

How can parents respond in ways that support mental health?

One of the most protective factors for children is a regulated adult.

Dr. Scheid emphasizes what she calls “rational detachment” — resisting the urge to match a child’s emotional intensity. When adults escalate, children’s stress responses often intensify as well.

Instead, parents can focus on:

• Maintaining a calm tone and steady presence
• Observing patterns that tend to precede meltdowns
• Paying attention to what reinforces or resolves them
• Preserving predictable routines whenever possible
  

These responses may not stop meltdowns immediately. But consistent, calm reactions create a sense of safety that allows emotional regulation skills to develop over time.

What calming skills can children learn?

In addition to responding calmly in the moment, families can intentionally teach regulation skills during neutral times.

Dr. Scheid recommends simple strategies, including:

• Box breathing (inhale for four seconds, hold for four, exhale for four, hold for four)
• Progressive muscle relaxation
• Focusing on a calming place or memory
  

Practicing these skills when a child is calm makes them more accessible during stressful moments. Over time, these tools help children recover more effectively from emotional surges.

When should parents seek additional support?

While meltdowns are common, parents should pay attention to changes from a child’s usual patterns.

If reactions are new, intensifying, or accompanied by other noticeable shifts in mood, sleep, or behavior, it is reasonable to gather more information.

Dr. Post reminds parents that they don’t need to know exactly what’s going on before asking for guidance. If something feels off, it’s OK to talk it through with a professional.

Both physicians recommend beginning with a pediatrician rather than moving immediately to specialty mental health care. A primary care provider can help rule out underlying medical factors and guide families toward appropriate next steps.

Seeking guidance is not a sign of failure. As Dr. Scheid says, “Parents have superpowers. But sometimes you need somebody else.” That support may come from a pediatrician, therapist, school counselor or community resource.

Mental health development unfolds over time. Children will experience periods of growth, stress, and emotional intensity. When parents respond with curiosity, steadiness, and a willingness to seek support when needed, they help lay the groundwork for long-term emotional resilience.

This content is sponsored by the Ethel and James Flinn Foundation. Find more articles like this at A Parent’s Guide to Family Mental Health.

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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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