Coping With Seasonal Allergies in Children During Metro Detroit’s Worsening Allergy Season

The soccer game is barely five minutes in, and your child’s already sneezing on the sideline. Their eyes are watery, their nose is running and they’re miserable. Sound familiar?

In southeast Michigan, allergy season has long stretched from April through October, covering tree, grass and weed pollens. But in 2025, it kicked off in early March — part of a trend building for over a decade, according to Bridge Michigan.

Allergy specialist Rana Misiak, M.D. — who works at Henry Ford Health locations in Novi and Dearborn — sees it firsthand.
“Every year, my patients come in saying that this allergy season feels worse than the last,” Misiak says in a recent Henry Ford Health blog. “There is evidence to support that.”

Here’s what Michigan parents should know about what’s changing, what to do at home, and when to call in expert help.

Yes, Michigan’s allergy season is getting worse

Experts say the shifts are real — and affecting more children.

• It’s longer: Climate change is making pollen seasons start earlier and last longer, says the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In the Midwest, ragweed season increased by up to 25 days between 1995 and 2015.
• There’s more pollen: Carbon pollution is making plants release more allergy-triggering pollen for longer stretches, reports Climate Central, a policy-neutral nonprofit. Today’s pollen is also more potent, adds Misiak of Henry Ford Health.
• It’s hitting kids harder: About 19% of U.S. children have hay fever, rising to 24% among teens, says Climate Central. Pollen can also trigger asthma. Ultimately, 1 in 5 kids are dealing with seasonal allergies that disrupt sleep, school and mood.

How to help your child feel better at home

You can’t stop Michigan’s pollen, but you can make things easier for allergic kids.

• Establish a routine: Check your metro Detroit pollen forecast daily at Pollen.com. Plan outdoor time for later in the day, when counts are lower, advises Nemours KidsHealth.
• Rinse away allergens: Have your child shower and change clothes after playing outside. Nasal saline sprays and eye drops help wash out pollen, adds KidsHealth.
• Try over-the-counter meds: Talk with your pediatrician about age-appropriate antihistamines or decongestants. “To get the optimal effect from these, you need to start them about a month before,” says Misiak of Henry Ford Health.
• Keep triggers out of your home: Close windows on high-pollen days and run a HEPA air filter in your child’s bedroom. Wipe down pets and wash bedding weekly in hot water, recommends the Mayo Clinic.
• Watch for skin flare-ups: Allergies can show up as eczema or hives. Keeping bedding clean, lowering humidity and reducing dust mites can help, says the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI).

When to call the doctor for your child’s allergies

If your child’s symptoms persist or escalate, it may be time for medical support.

• Symptoms aren’t improving: If over-the-counter meds and routines haven’t helped after a week or two, or symptoms are getting worse, check in with your pediatrician, Mayo Clinic says.
• Your child has asthma: Allergies and asthma often go hand-in-hand. If symptoms like coughing or wheezing ramp up during allergy season, a doctor can help manage both, notes the AAAAI.
• Testing could help: Skin or blood tests can pinpoint what’s triggering your child’s symptoms — pollen? pet dander? dust mites? — and guide a targeted treatment plan.
• Allergy shots are an option: If meds aren’t enough, allergy shots may help. They can be given to kids who are at least 5 years old. They start weekly for about six months, according to Henry Ford Health, then resume monthly for 3-5 years.

This content is sponsored by Henry Ford Health. For related content, visit Top Kids Health Questions Answered!

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Best Elementary Schools in Washtenaw County

Choosing an elementary school is an important early step in a child’s education.

Some schools in Washtenaw County have better scores than others. Niche, a data-analyzing website focused on schools, has graded some of the best elementary schools in Washtenaw County.

The results stem from multiple ranking factors including teacher quality, state test scores, student-teacher ratio, student diversity and more. Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

Angell School, Ann Arbor (A+)

Address: 1608 S University Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48104

School District: Ann Arbor Public Schools

Why It Stands Out: Renowned for its dedication to academic excellence and nurturing environment, Angell School boasts a diverse curriculum designed to foster both intellectual and social development. With a strong emphasis on community involvement and innovative teaching methods, Angell prepares students to excel in a rapidly changing world.

Named after James Burrill Angell, the school has been an integral part of the Ann Arbor community for over a century, continually evolving to meet the needs of its students while honoring its rich tradition of educational distinction.

South Arbor Charter School, Ypsilanti (A+)

Address: 8200 Carpenter Rd, Ypsilanti, MI 48197

School District: South Arbor Academy (Charter)

Why It Stands Out: South Arbor Charter School prides itself on a rigorous academic curriculum partnered with character education. The school’s unique approach integrates technology and creativity into the learning process, preparing students for future challenges.

As a charter school, South Arbor has consistently leveraged its flexible framework to prioritize student-centered education, quickly adapting to the needs of its diverse student body.

Martin Luther King Elementary School, Ann Arbor (A)

Address: 3800 Waldenwood Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48105

School District: Ann Arbor Public Schools

Why It Stands Out: Known for its outstanding academic programs and a vibrant multicultural community, King Elementary fosters a learning environment where diversity and respect thrive. Students are encouraged to cultivate critical thinking skills and become lifelong learners.

Inspired by its namesake, the school embodies the values of equality and inclusiveness. Since its inception, King Elementary has been a pillar of educational progress and community engagement in Ann Arbor.

Wines Elementary School, Ann Arbor (A)

Address: 1701 Newport Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48103

School District: Ann Arbor Public Schools

Why It Stands Out: Wines Elementary is celebrated for its commitment to environmental stewardship and inclusive educational practices. The school’s eco-friendly initiatives and collaborative learning environments offer students a unique opportunity to engage with the natural and social landscapes around them.

Wines has grown from a small neighborhood school to a leader in educational innovation, maintaining a reputation for nurturing academic success and holistic growth.

Uriah H. Lawton School, Ann Arbor (A)

Address: 2250 S Seventh St, Ann Arbor, MI 48103

School District: Ann Arbor Public Schools

Why It Stands Out: Lawton School emphasizes academic excellence alongside social and emotional learning. The school nurtures a caring and supportive environment, where students are encouraged to reach their full potential.

With a history spanning several decades, Lawton School has consistently adapted to educational advancements while maintaining a commitment to the holistic development of its students.

Bach Elementary School, Ann Arbor (A)

Address: 600 W Jefferson St, Ann Arbor, MI 48103

School District: Ann Arbor Public Schools

Why It Stands Out: Bach Elementary excels in academic performance while promoting social responsibility and community engagement. With small class sizes and a nurturing staff, the school creates a welcoming atmosphere for all students.

Since its founding, Bach Elementary has been a cornerstone of the community, known for its close-knit environment and dedication to comprehensive education.

Burns Park Elementary School, Ann Arbor (A)

Address: 1414 Wells St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104

School District: Ann Arbor Public Schools

Why It Stands Out: Burns Park Elementary is cherished for its inclusive community atmosphere and strong parent involvement. With a well-rounded curriculum and vibrant arts programs, it supports an enriching educational journey for all students.

Deeply rooted in tradition, Burns Park has been a neighborhood fixture for decades, fostering a legacy of academic achievement and community spirit.

Eberwhite Elementary School, Ann Arbor (A)

Address: 800 Soule Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI 48103

School District: Ann Arbor Public Schools

Why It Stands Out: ​Eberwhite Elementary School in Ann Arbor, Michigan, offers a nurturing learning environment with a strong academic record. Students achieve 72% proficiency in math and 77% in reading, supported by a 15:1 student-teacher ratio.

The school emphasizes lifelong learning, self-esteem, and social responsibility, all set against the scenic backdrop of Eberwhite Woods.

Logan Elementary School, Ann Arbor (A)

Address: 2685 Traver Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI 48105

School District: Ann Arbor Public Schools

Why It Stands Out: ​Logan Elementary School in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is recognized for its academic excellence and diverse community. With 67% of students achieving proficiency in both math and reading, the school ranks in the top 10% statewide.

A student-teacher ratio of 13:1 ensures personalized attention, fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

Ann Arbor STEAM at Northside, Ann Arbor (A+)

Address: 912 Barton Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48105

School District: Ann Arbor Public Schools

Why It Stands Out: ​Ann Arbor STEAM at Northside is a top-rated K–8 public school in Ann Arbor, Michigan, emphasizing a STEAM-focused curriculum. With 601 students and a 14:1 student-teacher ratio, the school boasts 60% math and 69% reading proficiency rates.

Recognized for its academic excellence and diversity, it ranks among Michigan’s best public middle and elementary schools.​

This article was recently updated on April 4, 2025 by Metro Parent’s writer, Sarah Knieff. The update included her research to feature the latest information. Questions? Please reach out to editor@metroparent.com.

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Best Private Schools in Detroit Area

With college admissions becoming increasingly competitive and global education more essential than ever, many families in the Detroit area are exploring private school options for their children.

Private schools can offer unique academic environments—ideal for students interested in bilingual education or those who thrive in structured, college-preparatory settings.

While tuition costs can be high, many schools provide financial aid or scholarships to support families with demonstrated need. Contacting individual schools about their admissions processes and available aid is a great first step toward accessing a high-quality education.

Read on for our guide to the top private schools in the Detroit area, according to Niche.

1. Cranbrook Schools (A+)

• Address: 39221 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills
• Why it stands out: Students of Cranbrook Schools gain a unique education–rigorous academics, picturesque facilities and world-class museums are all part of the experience. 

It’s no surprise that Cranbrook Schools takes the top spot for best private schools in the Detroit area. The private PreK-12 education system is renowned for its rigorous academics and picturesque campus.

Students of Cranbrook Schools can expect a thoughtful education experience unique to their own needs and interests. Students might take Latin or stellar astronomy then head to a dance showcase after school. Student life at Cranbrook is unique–students experience all 319 acres of the campus as part of the classroom. Plus, the upper school offers a boarding program. 

In addition, Cranbrook Schools students have access to the resources of the Cranbrook Institute of Science and Cranbrook Art Museum.

2. Greenhills School (A+)

• Address: 850 Greenhills Drive, Ann Arbor
• Why it stands out: Greenhills School is well known for its excellent academics and student enrichment offerings. From its prime location in Ann Arbor, Greenhills School is able to benefit from its relationship to the nearby University of Michigan. 

Greenhills School students earn a progressive education in a welcoming environment. 

The school’s refrain of “bringing out brilliance” is a guiding principle–teachers are wholly engaged in their students. Academics at Greenhills School are rigorous with an emphasis on whole-child learning. 

Greenhills School will soon offer families a K-5 education in addition to the grades 6-12 it currently serves. In the 2026-27 school year, the Summers-Knoll School will become Greenhills’ lower school.

3. Detroit Country Day School (A+)

• Address: 22305 W. 13 Mile Road, Beverly Hills 
• Why it stands out: Detroit Country Day School is a premier private school with impressive academics and a commitment to creating well-rounded global citizens. 

Detroit Country Day School is a nationally recognized independent college prep school serving grades PreK-12. 

The school’s curriculum is focused on the principles of providing a globally-minded liberal arts education. Students in upper levels might take a 21st century global issues class or an introductory philosophy course.

Students may also participate in an exchange program to different European countries beginning in the eighth grade.

4. The Roeper School (A+)

• Address: 41190 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills
• Why it stands out: The Roeper School is a PreK-12 private school specifically for gifted children. The private school’s mission is twofold: unlock the full potential of its students and a commitment to social justice. 

The Roeper School is guided by its philosophy of dignity, human rights and diversity. 

The school serves “gifted” children in grades PreK-12. Students are considered gifted if they show exceptional ability or potential in six traits: capability, collaboration, commitment, communication, connection and creativity. The school provides specific programming and supports based on these student qualities. 

Through the school’s multifaceted approach to educating gifted students, learners are challenged to use their full potential.

5. University Liggett School (A+)

• Address: 1045 Cook Road, Grosse Pointe Woods
• Why it stands out: Project-based learning, innovative curriculum and small class sizes let students reach the height of their academic potential. 

University Liggett School is a PreK-12 private school with a focus on instilling confidence and curiosity. 

Graduates of University Liggett School are well prepared to tackle intensive college programs and careers. Students also have the opportunity to play on sports teams, participate in clubs and attend school social events.

6. Rudolf Steiner School of Ann Arbor (A+)

• Address: 2775 Newport Road, Ann Arbor
• Why it stands out: A holistic approach to education is a hallmark of the Waldorf education method. Students are encouraged to become the truest versions of themselves.

Rudolf Steiner School operates by the principles of a Waldorf curriculum. The school is focused on enriching the whole child–from social emotional health to academics. 

An example of its unique approach to education is the Pentathlon, which the school celebrates as a coming-of-age competition. Waldorf students study Greek history in fifth grade, and at the end of the lesson, students participate in the Pentathlon. Students are judged not just on athleticism in the modern sense, but also how graceful they are and as well as their conduct.

7. Michigan Islamic Academy (A+)

• Address: 2301 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor
• Why it stands out: The Michigan Islamic Academy offers a secular and religious curriculum. The school is one of few in the area to offer an Islamic studies curriculum. 

The Michigan Islamic Academy, located in Ann Arbor, services grades PreK-12. Islamic values are upheld and celebrated at this private school.

Teaching the Qur’an is an integral part of the education a student receives at the academy. The Islamic Studies curriculum uses the National Islamic Studies Standards for grades 2-8 and the Yaqeen Curriculum for 9-12.

8. Frankel Jewish Academy of Metro Detroit (A+)

• Address: 6600 W. Maple Road, West Bloomfield
• Why it stands out: A faith-based school with excellent facilities and a college prep environment. 

Frankel Jewish Academy of Metro Detroit is a college preparatory high school with rigorous academics. The school is committed to furthering Jewish literacy and values.

Students may take Advanced Placement (AP) courses, STEAM classes and fine arts. Roughly two-thirds of students play sports through the school’s participation in the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA). A partnership with the Jewish Community Center offers students excellent facilities for training.

9. Academy of the Sacred Heart (A+)

• Address: 1250 Kensington Road, Bloomfield Hills
• Why it stands out: A longstanding Catholic institution known for its close knit community and commitment to creating confident leaders. 

The Academy of the Sacred Heart is a Catholic PreK-12 school for students of all faiths. The private school serves boys from infancy to grade 8 and girls from infancy to grade 12. 

High schoolers engage with challenging college-prep studies, take class retreats and have weekly service learning. 

The school is part of the Network of Sacred Heart Schools and is affiliated with the Society of the Sacred Heart.

10. Brother Rice High School (A+)

• Address: 7101 Lahser Road, Bloomfield Hills
• Why it stands out: An all-boys school in the Catholic tradition. Brother Rice graduates are trained to be ethical and civic leaders. 

At Brother Rice High School, Catholic values are an integral part of education. 

Students are expected to challenge themselves academically–choosing from 41 honors and Advanced Placement (AP) classes. 

Student life is engaging at this all-boys college prep school. Roughly 96 percent of Brother Rice students participate in an extracurricular. As for athletics, the school is highly competitive, with 80 state championship titles.

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Top 10 School Districts in Oakland County

Choosing the right school district can significantly impact your child’s academic success and future opportunities. In Oakland County, some districts consistently outperform others in key areas like teacher quality, graduation rates and state test scores.

Niche, a data-analyzing website focused on schools, has graded some of the best school districts in Oakland County.

The results stem from multiple ranking factors including teacher quality, state test scores, graduation rates and more. Notably, SAT/ACT scores have been removed from its ranking factors to “reflect a general de-emphasis on test scores in the college admissions process,” Niche says.  Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

This article was recently updated on April 12, 2025 by Chicago Parent’s writer, Sarah Knieff. The update included her research to feature the latest information. Questions? Please reach out to editor@chicagoparent.com.

Looking for more information on Oakland County schools? Check out these stories:

• Find Out Where the Best Teachers in Oakland County Public Schools Are
• Most Diverse School Districts in Oakland County
• Top 13 Oakland County Public Schools for Athletes

Best School Districts in Oakland County

1. Novi Community School District (A+)

Address: 25345 Taft Road, Novi, MI 48374

Why it stands out: Consistently ranked among the best, the Novi Community School District is celebrated for its diverse student body and innovative curriculum that emphasizes the arts and STEM fields. Known for its strong community support, the district fosters an environment where students excel both academically and socially.

Established in the mid-20th century, Novi’s commitment to educational excellence has propelled it into the ranks of Michigan’s finest school districts. Over the years, it has adapted to the community’s growing needs, continuously updating its facilities and programs to offer cutting-edge learning experiences.

2. Troy School District (A+)

Address: 4400 Livernois Road, Troy, MI 48098

Why it stands out: The Troy School District is synonymous with academic achievement. With multiple schools recognized nationally, it offers robust programming that includes award-winning arts and highly efficacious sports teams.

Established in the mid-19th century, Troy School District has evolved significantly. Its commitment to a high-quality, well-rounded education has been a constant, driving its reputation as a leader in academic excellence.

3. Oakland Schools (A+)

Address: 2111 Pontiac Lake Road, Waterford, MI 48328

Why it stands out: As an intermediate school district, Oakland Schools serves a wide range of students across various communities by providing invaluable resources and support services that enhance district capabilities throughout Oakland County.

Formed to consolidate and streamline educational resources across the county, Oakland Schools has grown into an indispensable partner for local districts, boosting educational outcomes through collaboration and resource sharing.

4. Bloomfield Hills Schools (A+)

Address: 7273 Wing Lake Road, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48301

Why it stands out: Known for its individualized learning approach, Bloomfield Hills Schools provide a nurturing environment that challenges students to think critically and creatively. It is lauded for unique programs like its International Baccalaureate and specialized magnet schools.

Bloomfield Hills Schools has distinguished itself by embracing educational innovation and consistently seeking ways to engage students in meaningful learning experiences.

5. Rochester Community School District (A+)

Address: 501 W. University Drive, Rochester, MI 48307

Why it stands out: Rochester Community Schools pride themselves on engaging students in a dynamic learning environment that emphasizes character development alongside academics. The district’s proactive approach to implementing technology in classrooms sets it apart.

Since opening, Rochester has been committed to creating a nurturing educational environment that adapts to meet students’ needs and prepares them for future challenges.

6. Birmingham Public Schools (A+)

Address: 31301 Evergreen Road, Beverly Hills, MI 48025

Why it stands out: Birmingham Public Schools’ dedication to educational excellence is evident in its comprehensive curriculum and extensive athletic and arts programs. It stands out for its emphasis on globally-minded education and service learning.

Birmingham schools have become a cornerstone of the community, known for continuous improvement efforts and a strong tradition of academic excellence.

7. West Bloomfield School District (A)

Address: 5810 Commerce Road, West Bloomfield, MI 48324

Why it stands out: West Bloomfield School District is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and offering a diverse, inclusive environment that nurtures student growth. With a robust set of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, state-of-the-art technology integration, and a strong focus on arts and athletics, the district provides a holistic approach to education.

Established during the mid-20th century, the West Bloomfield School District has evolved significantly, keeping pace with educational innovations. Its history is steeped in a tradition of community involvement and fostering lifelong learning, making it a preferred choice for families seeking a well-rounded education for their children.

8. Berkley School District (A)

Address: 14501 Talbot Avenue, Oak Park, MI 48237

Why it stands out: Berkley School District is celebrated for its outstanding academic programs and personalized attention to students’ needs. The district prides itself on its innovative curriculum that includes language immersion programs and project-based learning, fostering critical thinking and creativity among students.

Berkley School District began its journey in the early 20th century, gradually building a reputation for educational excellence. Over the decades, it has cultivated a culture that emphasizes community and collaboration, consistently adapting to the educational demands of the future while rooted in rich traditions of the past.

9. Lake Orion Community Schools (A)

Address: 315 N Lapeer St, Lake Orion, MI 48362

Why it stands out: Known for its strong academic performance and exceptional extracurricular programs, Lake Orion Community Schools emphasize a student-centered approach. It offers an outstanding STEM program and has one of Michigan’s finest athletic programs, ensuring a well-balanced education that pushes students to achieve their best.

Established in the late 19th century, Lake Orion Community Schools has grown from a small, rural district into a vibrant educational community. Its long history of excellence and adaptation has allowed it to evolve with changing educational landscapes, yielding generations of successful graduates.

10. Farmington Public Schools (A-)

Address: 32500 Shiawassee St, Farmington, MI 48336

Why it stands out: Farmington Public Schools is known for its commitment to cultivating a nurturing learning environment with a strong focus on inclusivity and diversity. Its dedication to providing cutting-edge educational tools and a comprehensive selection of career-oriented programs truly sets it apart.

Farmington Public Schools dates back to the early 1900s, rooted in a rich tradition of pioneering education that has expanded and adapted over time. The district’s legacy is one of innovation and continuous improvement, enabling it to remain a front-runner in public education.

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Detroit Public Schools Calendar 2024–2025: Key Dates for DPSCD Families

Planning around school breaks, holidays and days off? The 2024–2025 Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) calendar is your go-to guide for all the important dates parents need to know.

Whether you’re figuring out when Detroit schools start, organizing mid-winter break plans, or tracking report card days, this calendar includes every key date approved by the DPSCD Board of Education. From the first day of school to holiday breaks, bookmark this to stay ahead of your family’s schedule all year long.

Detroit Public Schools Key Dates 2024–2025

• First Day of School: Aug. 26, 2024
• Thanksgiving Break: Nov. 27-29, 2024
• Winter Break: Dec. 23, 2024-Jan. 3, 2025
• Mid-Winter Break: Feb. 17-21, 2025
• Spring Break: March 24-28, 2025
• Last Day of School: June 10, 2025

See the full Detroit Public Schools calendar below or visit detroitk12.org.

Full DPSCD School Calendar by Month

August 2024

• First Day of School: Aug. 26, 2024
• No School: Aug. 30, 2024

September 2024

• No School (Labor Day): Sep. 2, 2024
• No School (Professional Development): Sept. 28, 2024

October 2024

• Parent Teacher Conferences (High School): Oct. 9, 2024
• Parent Teacher Conferences: Oct. 16, 2024

November 2024 

• No School (Professional Development): Nov. 5, 2024
• No School (Thanksgiving Break): Nov. 27-29, 2024

December 2024

• No School (Winter Break): Dec. 23, 2024–Jan. 3, 2025

January 2025

• No School (Martin Luther King, Jr. Day): Jan. 20, 2025
• No School: Jan. 18-19, 2024
• Report Card Day: Jan. 25, 2024

February 2025 

• No School (Mid-Winter Break): Feb. 17-21, 2025

March 2025

• Parent Teacher Conferences (High School): March 12, 2025
• Parent Teacher Conferences: March 19, 2025
• No School (Spring Break): March 24-28, 2025

April 2025 

• No School (Good Friday): April 18, 2025
• No School: April 21, 2025

May 2025  

• No School (Memorial Day): May 21, 2025

June 2025

• Last Day of School: June 10, 2025

This article was last updated on April 16, 2025, by Metro Parent’s Audience Development Manager, Katina Beniaris. For questions, please reach out to katina@metroparent.com.

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Will Your Child With Autism Be Supported at School? How to Make the Transition Smoothly

One important milestone for children with autism is the move from full-time ABA therapy into a traditional school setting. With growing concerns about how changes at the national level might impact public education — including autism accommodations at school such as IEPs or 504 plans — many parents are wondering what lies ahead. 

While no one can predict the future, one thing remains clear: having a gradual, well-supported plan in place can make a big difference.

“It’s important to have the discussion about a transition with your service providers pretty early on,” says Reena Naami-Dier, M.S., BCBA, LBA, owner of Spark Center for Autism in Farmington Hills.

She recommends starting the conversation six to 12 months in advance, which gives families time to plan, ask questions and build a smooth transition path for their child.

Planning early, transitioning gradually

Rather than switching from ABA to school overnight, Naami-Dier recommends what’s called a “titration of services” — a gradual adjustment where ABA support decreases as school time increases. 

This step-by-step approach allows children to practice the skills they’ll need in school while still receiving the support that has helped them thrive.

The idea is to avoid sudden changes that can be overwhelming. Naami-Dier shares that when transitions move too quickly, children may struggle with classroom challenges that didn’t come up in therapy. “In those cases, we can take a step back, reevaluate and work through the challenge one-on-one.”

Building school-ready skills

Many children with autism benefit from extra practice with group learning and classroom routines. At Spark Center, children work on these skills in a supportive environment — starting with simple group activities like circle time, songs and sharing stories.

“We use group settings early on to help children get comfortable listening to a teacher, participating with peers and following broad instructions,” Naami-Dier explains. These settings mimic real classrooms but include individualized support when needed.

Through Spark Center for Autism’s school transition and readiness (STAR) program, kids practice skills like:

• Following group instructions
• Working independently for longer stretches
• Engaging in classroom routines like circle time
• Managing behaviors during challenging or non-preferred tasks

These supports mirror common autism accommodations at school — such as behavior reinforcement systems, visual cues or quiet work time — helping children adjust before entering a larger classroom setting.

The STAR program also includes familiar school-style reinforcements — like color-coded behavior charts or points to earn small rewards — so children can build comfort and confidence in settings that resemble school.

What happens when autism accommodations at school change

With current shifts in the education landscape, families may have questions about the stability of their child’s school supports — especially autism accommodations at school that are part of an IEP or 504 plan. 

“During times of uncertainty, we find that parents feel more confident when they have a trusted support team and a clear roadmap for their child’s next steps,” says Naami-Dier.

Spark Center for Autism therapists can observe children in their school environments and collaborate with teachers to smooth out bumps in the road. This partnership can help children adjust more easily and allow parents to advocate more effectively.

Parents as partners

Throughout the transition process, parents play a central role. 

“Every child is unique and parents know their child best,” says Naami-Dier. Spark provides parent training and encourages open communication so that families feel confident and equipped.

Naami-Dier says that families are often given resources for social skills groups, activities and other supports that complement the transition to school. 

With strong collaboration between parents, therapists and educators, the transition from ABA to school can be a confident step forward.

This content is sponsored by Spark Center for Autism. Learn more at sparkcenterforautism.com.

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Which High School Clique Were You In? Here’s How Teen Social Groups Look Today

High school cliques have shaped teenage life for generations. Whether you were a jock, band geek, prep, emo kid or floater, your friend group probably influenced where you sat at lunch and who you hung out with on the weekends.

But have high school cliques changed in 2025? Do the same social hierarchies still exist, or have Gen Z and Gen Alpha students redefined what it means to be popular?

A recent study by researchers at the University of Chicago and the University of Texas at Austin found that high school social groups have evolved due to changing demographics, cultural shifts and digital influences.

Curious which clique your child belongs to today—or how today’s teen groups compare to when you roamed the halls?

Here’s a breakdown of 12 distinct high school cliques, their defining traits (with insights from Urban Dictionary), and where they rank in the ever-changing teen social hierarchy.

What are the top high school cliques?

High school social structures may have evolved, but popularity still matters. The top-tier cliques continue to dominate the teen social hierarchy, often gaining attention both in school and online.

The cool kids

Researchers in the study found kids who fall in these high school cliques tend to be affluent, attractive and well known. Evidence shows they also like to party and are often well-liked, though kids in lower cliques don’t always look upon them too highly.

Populars 

Urban Dictionary defines this clique as the kids who have it all. They’re the “good looking” kids that always sport the latest top-of-the-line clothing and tech.

They may also be known as trendsetters and are sometimes viewed as the “bullies” or “mean girls” by cliques lower on the list.

Atheletes

These are the kids whose entire life revolves around sports. They have always taken a higher spot on the social ladder, and this study proves they’re still holding onto that spot.

They are sometimes classified by lower listed groups as being bullies, but Urban Dictionary differentiates between “athletes” and “jocks,” claiming that athletes are more likely to hang our with everyone, despite their status on the team.

Floaters

Floaters are the kids that don’t really have one specific group of kids they hang out with — you may have referred to them as “drifters” or “clique jumpers” in the past.

Urban Dictionary says these kids are generally shy but are also polite and friendly. They tend to have a lot of friends and get along with most everyone, which is why they’ve historically scored high on the list.

Good-ats

You may have known this clique as the overachievers or maybe even the teachers’ pets. They’re the kids that are good at just about everything and generally participate in and excel at a multitude of extracurricular activities or volunteer work.

Generally, these participants in the study excelled at well-roundedness, which lands them among the more popular cliques.

What high school cliques are middle in the field? 

Academically advanced and influenced by art and culture, these kids tend to fly under the radar in high school and embrace things that are not as mainstream as the members of the higher-ranked cliques.

‘Fine arts’ kids

According to the study, this group of kids made a leap up the list due in part to high levels of extracurricular engagement.

They may use color, art, piercings and other body modifications to express themselves and tend to have a more creative appearance. You may know them as “indie” or “hipster.”

The brains

These are the “smart kids,” “nerds,” “gamers.” The ones that excel in their schoolwork and consistently pull good grades.

The study found that this group exhibited high levels of academic anxiety and were “less mentally healthy” due to fear of upsetting their parents.

Historically, they’ve fallen in the middle of the pack and continue to hold onto their spot.

Normals

These are the kids that are unknown. They might feel “invisible” and don’t really fall into any other clique, so they embrace one another and fall smack dab in the middle of the pack.

Stoners

Burnouts. Potheads. Druggies. The kids who smoke weed or do drugs fall into this category.

Research notes that because these kids can score drugs and bring them to parties frequented by higher cliques, they’ve always fallen toward the top of the middle in terms of popularity, but lost a little of their footing due to anti-drug and smoking campaigns.

Urban Dictionary notes that these kids are generally pretty cool, laid-back and get along with most everyone.

What are the bottom-ladder high school cliques?

The study notes that these kids reject the mainstream; tend to have low self-esteem and run with smaller friend groups. It also suggests that these kids are usually more influenced by current events, pop culture and social media.

Emo/goths

You know those kids that wear all black, dye their hair dark, sport the black nail polish and see the beauty in darkness? Those are the kids in this clique.

These kids focus on counter-culture behaviors and are generally quiet and somewhat withdrawn.

Though not typical of all members of this group, some may also self-harm, so parents of these kids should be aware of the signs.

Anime/manga fans

This is the newest peer group found by the study and is basically a modern twist on the classic “computer geek” crowd. They embrace Japanese pop culture, including animated series, films, graphic novels and other artwork and may spend their time online experiencing and sharing their passion.

Loners

In this group are the kids that don’t really have friends or who are content being alone.

The study found that other cliques tend to be standoffish around them out of fear these kids may be dangerous, which it claims is “new and unique” to today’s youth due to the prevalence of active school shootings — though not all loners are at risk of becoming violent.

For this reason, the study places these kids at the bottom of the social ladder.

‘The Ethnic Groups’

The study also notes that racial and ethnic stereotypes are still prevalent in our high schools, despite increasing diversity.

Ethnic high school cliques tend to be more fluid and often act as a “home base” to kids of different ethnicities that may be a part of other cliques.

This article was recently updated on April 16, 2025 by Metro Parent’s Audience Development Manager, Katina Beniaris. The update included her digital media expertise to provide a user-friendly reading experience. Questions? Please reach out to katina@metroparent.com.

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