Repeated school refusal is often linked to anxiety
Patterns over time matter more than one difficult morning
Letting a child stay home can reinforce avoidance if it becomes routine
Validation works best when paired with encouragement
Consistent routines and small adjustments can reduce morning stress
Morning routines can unravel quickly when your child refuses to go to school. A few minutes before leaving, everything may seem on track — until they begin crying, clinging or insisting they can’t go. For parents, the decision is immediate: push through, pause or stay home?
Moments like this are common. But when they happen regularly, they may point to something more than a difficult morning.
“Stress and anxiety is something that we all experience,” says Rotesa Baker, MA, LPC, NCC, ACS, Manager of Access at Oakland Community Health Network. What matters, she says, is “how often it’s happening and what else might be contributing.”
Why kids cry before school — looking beyond the moment
The reasons behind school morning meltdowns are often layered and vary by age.
For younger children, separation anxiety is common, especially when routines change. A parent returning to work outside the home or a shift in daily structure can make mornings feel uncertain.
As children get older, social dynamics often take on a larger role. Friendships, peer pressure and classroom expectations can all contribute to stress.
“Peers are everything,” Baker says, noting that even subtle shifts, like a new teacher or changes within a friend group, can trigger anxiety.
Sometimes the cause is specific. Your child may struggle on certain days or around particular activities. Recognizing those patterns helps you move from reacting in the moment to understanding what’s driving the behavior.
Your child’s home environment can also play a role. “If I’m frantic … they will pick up on it. They will model it,” Baker says. The tone of the morning, rushed or calm, often blends into how a child feels as they start their day.
When school anxiety becomes a pattern
Most children resist school at some point, which on its own isn’t cause for concern. What matters is consistency.
When your child experiences morning distress repeatedly — across days, weeks or even on specific days — it can signal something more persistent. You may also notice trouble sleeping, physical complaints like stomachaches or headaches, or increased irritability.
Over time, patterns matter more than any single episode, and how long it continues matters, too. Baker says if concerns persist for about two to three months, it may be time to seek additional support. That timeframe helps distinguish between a temporary adjustment and something that may require extra support.
In the moment: What helps — and what can make it harder
When a child is crying and visibly distressed, the instinct is to fix it quickly. But how parents respond can shape what happens next.
Validation is a good place to start. “It looks like you’re having a rough morning. Can I give you a hug?” Baker suggests. Acknowledging feelings helps children feel understood and opens the door to conversation.
Then, encouragement helps move things forward. Simple statements — “I know this is hard, but I believe you can get through today” — reinforce a child’s ability to cope without dismissing how they feel.
That balance matters. Moving too quickly past emotions can escalate distress, while stopping there can make it harder to move forward.
Should you ever let your child stay home?
This is often the hardest decision in real time. Staying home may feel like the most supportive response. But it can also create a pattern that becomes difficult to break.
Baker says children may begin to think, “If I do this … I get to stay home.” The decision is less about a single morning and more about what happens over time.
Occasional flexibility may help. But if staying home becomes routine, it can reinforce avoidance rather than address the issue.
How to make school mornings easier over time
Small adjustments can reduce stress for both parent and child. Preparing backpacks, lunches and clothing the night before removes pressure from the morning. Even a few minutes can change the tone of the day. “Five minutes can make an entire difference,” Baker says.
Starting conversations earlier also helps. Talking about the upcoming school day the night before, or even over the weekend, gives children time to process what’s ahead.
Remember to be consistent. When mornings follow a predictable rhythm, children know what to expect. Ending the day on a positive note can help, too. Talking about what went well — even something small — can shift how a child approaches the next morning.
Coping skills kids can carry into the school day
Alongside routines, children benefit from simple tools they can use when anxiety shows up.
Baker recommends practicing these skills at home so they feel familiar at school. Grounding techniques, focusing on what they can see, touch or hear, can help bring attention back to the present moment.
Some families create a calming space at home with familiar items. Others encourage journaling or sketching as a way to process emotions. Physical movement can also help release tension. Short bursts of activity, like stretching or jumping jacks, can improve focus.
These strategies do not eliminate anxiety, but they give children ways to manage it and build confidence over time.
When to seek additional support
If school-related anxiety continues, families do not have to navigate it alone, says Baker.
Reaching out to teachers, school staff or a mental health professional can provide additional perspective. In some cases, anxiety may be connected to temperament or family history.
Recognizing patterns and responding early can help prevent school mornings from becoming a daily struggle. With support, children can learn to manage anxiety — and mornings can become more manageable again.
Canterbury Village’s Medieval Faire offers families a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience a long-gone era. Designed with both parents and younger children in mind, the faire combines lively entertainment with fantasy-fueled activities that festival-goers of all ages can enjoy and immerse themselves in.
Key takeaways
The big picture:The Medieval Faire is a family-friendly, living-history event designed to entertain and immerse families in forgotten medieval traditions and history.
Zoom in:The Medieval Faire is located at 2359 Joslyn Court in Orion Township and is open every weekend from May 23, 2026, through June 7, 2026.
How and why it works:The event balances spectacle with hands-on play, keeping festival-goers engaged and entertained.
What families can expect
Canterbury Village transforms into an outdoor medieval adventure, adorned with castle turrets, cobblestone paths, knights and even jesters. There is a plethora of live entertainment options and interactive activities for kids and adults alike, along with a lengthy list of vendors.
A multitude of vendor options for medieval wares and garb
Food and drink
The faire offers a variety of medieval-inspired dishes like turkey legs, roasted corn and spiced almonds as well as more modern options like hot pretzels and nachos.Mead and other adult beverages are also available to those 21 and above.
Planning your visit
Before heading out, here are a few helpful details to keep in mind when planning your visit to the Medieval faire.
Location: 2359 Joslyn Court, Orion Township
Shows: Shows run every weekend for three weeks. Available weekends include May 23-25, May 30-21, and June 6-7.
Ticket information: Tickets for kids
Parking: Parking is free, but can fill up fast.
FAQs
Are the bathrooms on-site?Yes, there are indoor bathrooms and air-conditioned buildings available.
Is it stroller accessible?Strollers are allowed in the faire.
Can I bring outside food and drink?Typically, outside food and drink are not permitted. The faire has a variety of options for vendors.
How long does the festival last?It runs from 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Are costumes and props allowed?Yes, and are encouraged! Certain props, such as swords, axes, arrows and daggers must be checked and peace-tied upon entry. Toy props, such as foam and wooden swords, are allowed. No sharp or realistic props are allowed, and blades must remain sheathed. Firearms and replicas are also prohibited.
Mother’s Day, a special birthday, or just a typical Tuesday, there is never a bad time to show mom how much you care with a beautiful bouquet. While it might be tempting to grab a generic, plastic-wrapped bundle from the big-box checkout line, Detroit is home to plenty of incredible, independently owned flower shops that offer gorgeous arrangements on a budget. Detroit florists are incredibly skilled at using seasonal blooms and textured greenery to create volume and elegance without the premium markup. Below is your guide to finding the perfect, affordable local blooms for mom in Detroit and the surrounding areas.
Key takeaways
Skip the big box stores.You can find stunning, budget-friendly blooms right here at local Detroit florists instead of settling for grocery store chains. Surrounding suburbs like Dearborn and St. Clair Shores hide incredible, affordable floral gems.
Ask for seasonal stems.Florists can stretch your budget much further if you opt for seasonal or “deal of the day” flowers.
Call ahead for custom cuts.Local experts are happy to build beautiful arrangements around whatever specific budget you give them.
Detroit Floral focuses on accessible beauty with a special “Under $50” collection that completely removes the guesswork from budget shopping. Their expert florists know exactly how to maximize visual impact using seasonal blooms and creative design principles so you never have to sacrifice quality. Mom will receive a stunning, professionally styled bouquet and you’ll love the fantastic deal.
A longtime staple in downtown Detroit, Ashley’s Flowers has a stellar reputation for delivering reliable and beautiful arrangements. While they carry premium exotics, their skilled team is incredibly accommodating and happily works within tight budgets to create lovely custom bouquets. You will appreciate their attentive customer service and artistic flair when finding something special for Mom.
The name truly says it all: Thrifty Florist brings farm-fresh, affordable flowers to metro Detroit families. With over a dozen locations spread across the metro area, picking up a beautiful, budget-friendly bouquet for Mom is incredibly convenient no matter where you live. They always have plenty of ready-to-go options that look significantly more expensive than their price tags suggest.
This Dearborn gem is highly regarded for its affordable “Deal of the Day” bouquets, which are perfect for scoring a high-end look for much less. Their friendly designers are experts at putting together charming, personalized arrangements using the freshest daily cuts. You are guaranteed to walk out with something that feels wonderfully unique without breaking the bank.
Serving the Detroit community for over 120 years, this historic, family-owned greenhouse knows exactly how to craft classic, timeless floral pieces. They offer a massive variety of freshly cut blooms and thriving green plants that fit comfortably into any price range. Stepping inside their shop feels like a true local experience filled with colorful, budget-friendly inspiration.
A metro Detroit classic, the Viviano family has dedicated themselves to providing gorgeous floral designs to the community for decades. Though they are famous for handling lavish events, their daily floral options are surprisingly accessible and perfect for a tight family budget. You can easily find a professionally styled, elegant piece that brings pure joy to any mother.
Nestled on Detroit’s east side, Conner Park Florist has been a trusted neighborhood flower supplier for over 70 years. Their talented team loves working with local families and will happily design a vibrant, seasonal arrangement that respects your specific budget limits. Mom gets to enjoy a gorgeous, long-lasting burst of color, and you get the satisfaction of supporting a historic community staple.
Because traditional emergency departments are not equipped to provide comprehensive behavioral assessments or address underlying medical and behavioral needs, families can struggle to access coordinated care that goes beyond short-term stabilization.
Now,Straith Hospitalhas openedStraith Behavioral Health, Michigan’s first inpatient unit especially designed for children and adolescents on the autism spectrum with significant behavioral support needs. The program aims to reduce reliance on crisis services while helping children remain closer to home and to their families.
Key takeaways
Straith Hospital opened Straith Behavioral Health on Feb. 9, 2026, marking Michigan’s first inpatient behavioral health unit specifically designed for children on the autism spectrum.
The 12-bed facility provides 24/7 medically integrated care, combining applied behavior analysis, psychiatric services, medical care and family support under one roof.
The program was created to address long waitlists, emergency room reliance and out-of-state placements for children with significant behavioral support needs.
A $19.1 million grant from the Michigan Health and Hospital Association helped make the program possible, alongside partnerships with organizations including The Autism Alliance of Michigan and several universities
A newly completed room inside the expanded facility. Photo credit/Straith Hospital
What Straith Behavioral Health offers
This 16,630-square-foot facility is especially designed to provide safe, compassionate and medically integrated care in one location. The 12-bed inpatient program offers families 24/7 support, bringing together applied behavior analysis, psychiatric services, medical care, nursing and social work under one roof. In addition to inpatient treatment, the program includes a comprehensive outpatient day program operating six to eight hours per day, five days a week, helping ensure continuity of care as children transition between levels of support.
Dr. Karoline Kenville speaks during the opening event for the new wing. Photo credit/Straith Hospital
A focus on long-term outcomes and family involvement
Dr. Karoline Kenville, executive director of Straith Behavioral Health, says the program is focused on long-term outcomes and caregiver involvement from the first day of treatment. “Our goal is to improve children’s quality of life and build meaningful, functional skills that support long-term success,” she says. “From the point of admission, our team works intentionally toward discharge – focusing on continuity of care and transition plans that support each child’s return to home, school and community settings.”
One of the multipurpose rooms included in the new wing. Photo credit/Straith Hospital
Designed for safety, stability and skill-building
On Feb. 9, 2026, Straith Behavioral Health officially opened its doors in Southfield, welcoming families to a newly constructed space designed specifically for pediatric behavioral health care. The facility offers a range of medical services, including psychological and psychiatric evaluations, medication management, feeding and nutritional support, as well as dental and pediatric care. Therapeutic services include applied behavioral analysis, speech and language therapy, occupational and physical therapy, social work services, family training and school consultation.
The environment is structured to reduce unnecessary stimulation and support safety, predictability and engagement, with specialized treatment and observation rooms that allow clinicians to assess behavior in real time and adjust care as needed. Straith Behavioral Health’s multidisciplinary team uses data-informed applied behavior analysis to better understand underlying causes of behaviors and help children build adaptive skills.
A look at one of the rooms in the new clinic space. Photo credit/Straith Hospital
Expanding access to care close to home
Brad Bescoe, CEO of Straith Hospital, says the program helps bridge gaps in Michicgan’s pediatric behavioral health system by offering families a more comprehensive level of care within the state. “We are proud to help empower families and foster an environment where children living with these challenges can thrive, reach their full potential and remain closer to home,” Bescoe shares.
Choosing the right school is one of the biggest decisions a parent can make — and with so many great options in Metro Detroit, it helps to have a little guidance. That’s why we’ve partnered with some of the region’s most impressive schools to bring you this curated list.
These sponsored partners are going above and beyond to create outstanding learning environments for kids, from early education through high school. Whether you’re just beginning your school search or looking for a change, these amazing Metro Detroit schools are definitely worth a spot on your radar.
Take a closer look and see what makes each one stand out.
Address:29230 W. 12 Mile Rd., Farmington Hills 48334
Phone:(248) 702-6922
Grades served:6–12
Number of students:88
Type:Private School
Aim High School is dedicated to the academic, social and emotional growth of students in grades 6-12 who learn differently. We serve students with language-based learning differences, including ASD, ADHD, anxiety and mood disorders, in a supportive, inclusive general education setting.
We believe students are most successful when they feel safe, understood and genuinely happy at school. Our program intentionally supports the development of executive functioning, social communication and emotional regulation alongside strong academics, helping students build confidence, independence and meaningful relationships.
Eton is the school home of over 200 thriving and talented K-12 students who happen to learn differently. Eton Academy gives students with ADHD, Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Executive Functioning Disorder, or other learning difficulties the skills they need to be confident and successful.
Eton Academy prides itself on providing: A maximum class size of 10 students and a student to educator ratio of 5:1, individualized instruction and support that students need to regain a true love of learning while also moving forward socially and emotionally, and a partnership with students, teachers, staff members, and parents to form a nurturing and supportive environment where everyone feels included, valued and accomplished.
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.
Number of students: Brownell 621, Parcells 677, Pierce 574
Type: Public Schools
Experience what middle school can be in the Grosse Pointe Public School System. Here students in 5th-8th grades have access to advanced math and world languages, fine and performing arts, broadcast journalism, clubs and sports, highly qualified staff focused on their content area expertise, and a school within a school feeling for their fifth graders transitioning to secondary school — including 5th grade camp to bond as a class.
Academic support is also available, meeting students where they are and working toward their goals. Peer2Peer and student mentorship programs help ensure everyone feels part of our school community. GPPSS offers comprehensive musical offerings in Band, Choir, & Orchestra in grades 5-12.
All schools are members of MSBOA & MSVMA and participate in Solo & Ensemble, Choral Festival, and Band & Orchestra Festivals. Each school offers opportunities for performance travel annually to destinations including Chicago and Mackinac Island. And GPPSS 8th graders have the opportunity to travel to Washington DC as a capstone experience.
Experience Livonia Public Schools – a district that is rooted in tradition and excellence, with a 21st Century focus on the future. Step into Livonia Public Schools and you’ll see: newly renovated schools; STEM pathway K-12; a new Early Childhood Center; Japanese Dual Immersion Elementary School (one of just four in the U.S.); full spectrum of special education programs from early childhood through age 26; gifted and talented programs grades 1-12; Early Middle College; Dual Enrollment; Career Technical Education (CTE) programs with certificate opportunities; Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) high school program; Global Education high school program; award-winning athletics and robotics programs; one of the state’s largest PTA/PTSA memberships and dozens of extracurricular activities.
The Macomb Intermediate School District provides services to students in Macomb County from birth-age 26. Various levels of support are provided through consultation with Special Education staff depending upon the students’ needs. Those needs are discussed in an Individual Development Plan (IDP) in which parents, the students and MISD staff are included.
At Minto’s Casa, the team strives to provide a home away from home for each child. It is a unique childcare and learning center with a caring and homely atmosphere, ideal for every child’s emotional, physical and social growth.
While the staff follows an age-appropriate structured program, the focus is always on the individual needs of each child. The staff consists of experienced, certified teachers and caregivers with more than ten years of experience, all dedicated to providing the best for every child.
Minto’s Casa encourages one-on-one teacher-child interaction and communication so that each child feels they have a special place there.
Novi Christian Academy stands out as a vibrant, Christ-centered school committed to academic excellence and spiritual growth. With small class sizes and passionate, dedicated teachers, students receive personalized instruction that prepares them for college and beyond. NCA’s rigorous curriculum is infused with a biblical worldview, fostering both intellectual development and strong moral character. From advanced placement courses to hands-on STEM programs, students are challenged and inspired every day.
Beyond the classroom, NCA offers a dynamic array of extracurriculars including championship-winning athletic teams, fine arts programs, robotics, and missions outreach. Students regularly participate in local and global service projects, living out their faith in meaningful, real-world ways. Whether it’s leading worship in chapel, competing in state tournaments, or serving on international missions trips, students at Novi Christian Academy are equipped to lead and make a difference for Christ in every arena of life.
At Novi Northville Montessori Center (NNMC), “It’s Not What We Say, It’s What We Do” that maximizes a child’s ability to learn. They speak softly, walk slowly, respect each other through their words and their actions.
NNMC offers one-on-one learning and a place for a child to grow academically and emotionally in a nourishing environment. With their highly individualized program, meeting the needs of each individual child, NNMC’s success is determined by the child’s individual growth meeting their needs.
Address:27055 Orchard Lake Rd., Building F, Farmington Hills, MI 48334
Phone:248-522-3541
Grades served:9-13
Number of students:185
Type:Public School; None of the above
Oakland Early College is a school that combines the best elements of high school and college. OEC students attend school on Oakland Community College’s Orchard Ridge campus in Farmington Hills in a smaller high school environment. OEC students engage in an exciting college-preparatory curriculum while simultaneously taking college courses through OCC. Interested families come to OEC from across Oakland County from a variety of educational and personal backgrounds with the goal to better themselves through education, learn in a school with a focus on culture and community and jump start their college experience.
Students have access to Oakland Community College’s wide range of student activities and are deeply involved in all aspects of campus life assuming leadership roles in student government honor society and the fine and performing arts programs. Over 160 college degree pathways are available to OEC students through our partnership with OCC. Upon graduation students graduate with at least 30 and up to 60 transferrable college credits and/or an associates degree.
Oakland Early College is a collaboration between the West Bloomfield School District and Oakland Community College. Call today to set up a family meeting and start your journey to college success today!
Southfield Christian School is a leading Christian college preparatory school in Metro Detroit, built on the belief that academic excellence and spiritual growth go hand in hand. With a mission of “Pursuing Excellence for the Glory of God,” the school encourages students to see every area of life as an act of worship. A strong partnership between school, family, and church fosters a Christ-centered community rooted in shared values and purpose.
Recognized as the #1 Christian school in Metro Detroit for 2025, Southfield Christian prepares students with critical thinking, problem-solving, and academic rigor. The school offers a robust curriculum that includes Advanced Placement and dual enrollment opportunities, with 100% of graduates accepted to the college of their choice.
Beyond academics, students have the opportunity to explore their interests in fine arts and athletics. Whether in the classroom, on stage, or on the field, Southfield Christian equips students to excel—and to do so with faith and purpose.
The Roeper School is a nationally recognized school for gifted students in preschool through grade 12, with campuses in Bloomfield Hills and Birmingham. For more than 80 years, Roeper has specialized in educating gifted learners through discussion based classes, interdisciplinary learning and opportunities for independent exploration. Students learn alongside intellectual peers while developing their voice, leadership and sense of social responsibility. Beyond academics, Roeper offers robust arts, athletics and extracurricular programs including a no cut policy in athletics and theater, encouraging every student to participate and grow. Guided by the philosophy of educators George and Annemarie Roeper, the school prepares students to think deeply and engage meaningfully with the world.
Type: Public School, International Baccalaureate (IB) School
Utica Community Schools is Michigan’s second-largest school district. Whether your child shines in the classroom, on the field, on stage or in the workshop, Utica Community Schools offers award-winning programs as unique as the students we care for. Their student-centered approach supports the whole child, both educationally and emotionally.
Utica Community Schools are recognized for excellence at both state and national levels, with one of the top graduation rates in the country. As a school of choice district, we accept students from across Macomb, Oakland, St. Clair, Lapeer and Wayne counties.
Photo credit: Walled Lake Consolidated School District
Address:850 Ladd Rd., Bldg. D, Walled Lake, MI 48390
Grades served:JK-12
Number of students:11,861
Type:Public School, Special Education, STEM-Focused, Arts-Focused
Walled Lake Schools is the place to explore, belong and grow offering state-of-the art learning spaces in all 19 schools including three award winning, comprehensive high schools.
