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Family Summer Essentials I Keep in My Car

June 24, 2026

Does your Mom Car have a purse? Well, mine does! Let’s do a “What’s in My Mom Car’s Purse? Summer Edition.”

First off, I’m sorry if I confused you. I call my car my “Mom Car” because it’s basically the mode of transportation that chauffeurs my kids around, especially in the summertime. My two kiddos and I are stuck together like peanut butter, jelly, and banana in the summer. It really only becomes my car again on the rare occasion I get to run errands alone. Therefore, I carry a lot of things around in my car’s “purse” just for the summer months. This “purse” is actually a trunk organizer–and it holds all of our family summer essentials.

Meet My “Purse”

For my own sanity, I like to keep this “purse” (or trunk organizer) stocked with essentials for my family all year long. But summer is its own kind of beast since we’re out and about so much. The items I keep stocked in it have saved me on many occasions. I highly suggest keeping summer essentials in your trunk at all times.

My biggest tip here is to tailor your trunk organizer to your kids’ individual needs and ages. If you have a child with food allergies, this would be a good place to store allergy necessities (just be mindful of extreme outdoor heat when it comes to medicine). When my kids were babies, this is also where I stored extra diapers and wipes. I rarely had an emergency occasion where I had to run to the store to grab extra during an outing, because I was always prepared.

I’d be happy to share with you what’s in my car’s “purse” for the summer:

Extra Clothing

To start, I like to keep one extra outfit per kid in the car. When they were younger, I would keep multiples. But now that they’re older, one is enough for us. This is for the inevitable ice cream spills, hot dog ketchup-and-mustard disasters, impromptu water-balloon sessions, potty accidents for younger children, etc. I use an old outfit that’s semi-small, so we’re not wasting perfectly-fitting clothes.

One Bathing Suit Per Kid

This is for the same reason as the extra clothes above, except when swimming. I learned the hard way that bathing suits aren’t ketchup-and-mustard-proof either. It’s better to have an extra on hand than to soil a clean swimming pool with gross ketchup and mustard stains (or worse).

Summer Essentials

I also always have extra sunscreen and hats in my trunk organizer because of the amount of time I’ve forgotten to put sunscreen on my kids while at home. This also goes for insect repellent!

“Busy Activities”

Like yours, my kids also act like they’re moving out whenever we go somewhere. Thus, they bring every activity and toy they own. But sometimes, we’ll have an impromptu outing where they can’t gather nine chapter books that they’re absolutely going to finish reading on our 15-minute car ride.

On these occasions, I’m so glad I thought ahead and kept a bunch of activities in my car. I like to keep extra colored pencils, activity books, magnetic toys, mini puzzles, drawing notepads, plain old lined paper, etc. These are for the doctor’s office waiting room, if I have an appointment somewhere, lengthy dinners, music class while waiting for a sibling to be finished, sports practices, etc.

First-Aid Kit

I always keep a first-aid kit throughout the year, but during summer this GROWS. It becomes a chubby first-aid kit, filled with items such as large-sized band-aids, alcohol pads, bug sting medicine, tweezers, kids’ antihistamine medicine, and more. This is due to the extra amount of time we spend outdoors!

Cleaning Supplies

As for the cleaning supplies, I keep extra hand sanitizer, paper towels, tissues, hand wipes, and mini garbage bags for spills or messes on hand too.

Grooming Necessities

This goes for both boys and girls. I like to keep extra deodorant, hand and face wipes, a hairbrush, hairpins, hair ties, travel-size leave-in conditioner, and hair clips in my car “purse.” This way, after swimming, if they’ve forgotten to bring a hair brush (which happens more often than not), I always have one.

Don’t Be Overwhelmed . . .

I know, I know, after reading through this list you’re probably wondering why you want to carry extra stuff on top of the stuff you’re already carrying daily. But here’s the thing: you’ll pack it once right now at the beginning of summer and won’t have to pack it again except to restock. I genuinely can’t state the number of times this trunk organizer full of our summer essentials has SAVED me over the years!

Once your car is stocked, it’s time to hit the road. Our latest Travel Series post took us to Niagara Falls!

The Ultimate Summer Play Guide For Growing Bodies + Busy Brains

Detroit Mom

June 24, 2026

Summer break brings longer days, family adventures, and a well-deserved change of pace. It also brings a shift in routine that can make returning to school in the fall more challenging for some children, especially those with sensory or motor differences. While kids deserve plenty of downtime, including fun movement and sensory experiences in their summer can help them maintain important skills and make the transition back to school easier for everyone. This is where our friends from Kaufman Children’s Center come in!

Sensory and motor skills are the foundation for many school tasks. Children rely on them to sit upright in their chairs, pay attention during lessons, hold pencils, cut with scissors, navigate the playground, and regulate their bodies throughout the day. During the summer months, less structure and fewer opportunities for movement can sometimes lead to a loss of endurance, coordination, or sensory regulation. Keeping these skills active through play can help kids feel more confident and ready when school begins again.

The good news? Many favorite childhood activities naturally support the sensory and motor skills kids use every day in the classroom. We’ve rounded up tons of ideas from occupational therapists at Kaufman Children’s Center for Speech, Language, Sensory-Motor and Autism Treatment that don’t actually feel like therapy.

Head Outside for Big Movement

Their first trip? Get outside! Outdoor play provides some of the best opportunities for developing strength, coordination, and body awareness. Some examples include:

Bike riding: This favorite summer activity helps kids develop balance, core strength, bilateral coordination, visual attention, and motor planning, all of which support success in the classroom.
Obstacle courses: These fun challenges help improve balance, coordination, motor planning, and body awareness. Courses are versatile and can be set up indoors or outdoors, making them a fun way to keep kids moving no matter the weather.
Playground time: Equipment in your own backyard or local park benefits kids in lots of different ways. Climbing helps strengthen arms and core muscles, while swinging can provide calming sensory input for many children. Slides help kids build core and upper body strength, balance, coordination, motor planning, and body awareness.

Try including these events in outdoor play: hopping over pool noodles, crawling under chairs, balancing on a line, tossing beanbags into buckets, and jumping from one spot to another.

Get Wet + Messy

Summer is the perfect time to embrace sensory play. Warm weather and outdoor adventures provide endless opportunities for children to explore different textures, sounds, and movements while having fun. Some examples include:

Sand play: Digging, scooping, and building with sand strengthens little hands and encourages creativity. Hide small toys or shells in the sand to add an extra sensory challenge.
Sidewalk chalk: Drawing with chalk encourages grasping skills and upper-body strength. Hopscotch and chalk obstacle courses add movement and coordination to the fun!
Water play: Sprinklers, water tables, kiddie pools, and squirt bottles provide wonderful sensory experiences while encouraging hand strength and coordination. Filling cups, pouring water, and squeezing toys all help develop fine motor skills.

Encourage Heavy Work

“Heavy work” includes pushing, pulling, lifting, and carrying. These activities provide proprioceptive input, the sensory information that helps children understand where their bodies are in space. Heavy work can be especially calming and organizing for many kids and makes them feel accomplished while giving their bodies input they crave. Try activities like:

Building with large blocks
Carrying groceries
Helping move patio cushions
Pulling a wagon
Pushing a toy lawn mower
Watering plants with a watering can

Build Fine Motor Skills Through Play

Fine motor skills are essential for handwriting, cutting, and managing school supplies. Examples of ways to build fine motor skills through play include:

Arts and crafts: Finger painting, coloring, bead stringing, cutting, and making friendship bracelets strengthen the small muscles of the hands while encouraging creativity.
Cooking together: Stirring batter, using cookie cutters, peeling fruit, and spreading toppings on sandwiches all build coordination and independence.
Exploring nature: Nature walks are full of sensory opportunities. Encourage children to notice birds singing, different textures of leaves, scents of flowers, sounds of insects, and all the colors and shapes around them.
Gardening: Planting flowers or vegetables offers opportunities for digging, picking up tiny seeds, and watering plants. Kids often enjoy watching their hard work grow over the summer.
Play dough fun: Rolling, pinching, squeezing, and hiding small objects in the dough provides excellent hand strengthening activities.
Scavenger hunt: Create a scavenger hunt and help your child look for things that are rough, smooth, soft, or bumpy. These experiences strengthen observation skills and encourage kids to engage with their environment.

Practice Balance + Coordination

Classic outdoor childhood games can improve motor planning, balance, coordination, reaction time, and body control, while also providing tons of fun. Introduce these to your kids:

Balloon volleyball
Catch with a beach ball
Hopscotch
Jump rope
Red Light, Green Light
Simon Says

Don’t Forget Downtime!

Summer should still include opportunities for relaxation. Calming sensory experiences can help children regulate and recharge. Balancing active play with quiet moments allows them to develop self-regulation skills that are important in the classroom.

Consider these activities:

Building with blocks or LEGOs
Coloring
Listening to calming music
Reading in a hammock
Snuggling under a blanket for story time

Small Moments Add Up

You don’t need a packed schedule or expensive equipment to support sensory and motor development in the summer. Everyday activities provide meaningful opportunities for growth. Most importantly, keep it fun. Kids learn best through play, and those playful summer moments can help them head back to school feeling stronger, more confident, and ready for a successful year ahead.

And remember: you don’t have to navigate summer challenges alone. Sometimes a little support can make all the difference. If you have questions about your child’s development or would like ideas for helping them continue growing over the summer, Kaufman Children’s Center can help. Their experienced team can help create individualized strategies and activities that fit naturally into your family’s routine, helping your child build confidence, maintain important skills, and start the next school year ready to succeed.

Ready to reach out for support or just explore your options? Head to the Kaufman Children’s Center website to get started!

Summer Family Fun: Berry Picking In + Around Detroit

Megan Jalbert

June 22, 2026

last updated 5/27/2026

We all know that Metro Detroit has some pretty stellar apple orchards. But, did you know that many of the apple orchards offer other produce to pick . . . and some of them even have cider and donuts available?! There are also many great u-pick farms that you can take the kids to to enjoy a day of berry picking. As crops can sometimes be unpredictable due to our crazy Michigan weather, please be sure to call before going to ensure they have crops to pick!

GENESEE COUNTY BERRY PICKING

Spicer Orchards | Fenton

Come be a part of six generations of farming at Spicer Orchards. There is a playground and animals if you are bringing the kids along.

June: hoping to have strawberry picking starting June 10th and continue throughout the month
July: cherries will be ready the first half of July, followed by raspberries and blueberries
September: apples will be ready beginning the second week of September

MACOMB COUNTY BERRY PICKING

Blake’s Apple Orchard | Armada

Blakes now offers four locations, with each one being a bit different. At the main orchard and mill location be sure to enjoy the restaurant and tasting room along with the Funland, which is open Thursday-Sunday. The Big Apple location is a bit smaller but still offers u-pick with less of the crowds. Blake’s Backyard offers a taproom along with a market to be able to buy their fresh produce. Lastly, Blake’s newest location in Lyon Twp offers u-pick and many fun options offered at the other locations.

June: strawberries (festival June 20-21), asparagus, pea pods
July: cherries, raspberries, apples, cucumbers, summer squash, cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, zucchini, peppers, green beans
August: sweet corn, peaches, plums, raspberries, apples, tomatoes

Verellen Orchards | Romeo

A quaint family orchard that has been operating for over 100 years offering the best high quality products for berry picking. U-pick will be opening early June, Tues-Sun 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

June: strawberries, cherries, nectarines
July: peaches, plums, Paula red apples
August: pears, McIntosh apples

Westview Orchard | Washington Twp.

A wonderful family-friendly option due to its playground and petting farms. Also be sure to check out their sunflower fest in August!

June: asparagus, strawberries, sweet cherries
July: sweet/tart cherries, raspberries, sweet corn, summer veggies, u-cut flowers, u-cut sunflowers
August: u-cut flowers, summer vegetables, sweet corn, u-cut sunflowers, peaches, early fall apples

WASHTENAW COUNTY BERRY PICKING

Dexter Blueberry Farm | Dexter

A quaint farm offering blueberry picking. Be sure to check their website for peak picking. They also greatly encourage cash payment.

July: blueberries are anticipated to be ready in mid-July

Rowe’s Produce Farm | Ypsilanti

Rowe’s is no longer planting strawberries. Be sure to join their “LIST” to receive an email when peak picking begins!

June: sugar snap peas and English peas
July: corn and Farmers Markets

Slow Farm | Ann Arbor

Slow farm is a certified organic farm offering both u-pick and pre-harvested produce. They encourage you to bring your own u-pick containers to prevent waste. Be sure to join their Facebook page or subscribe to their newsletter for the latest crop updates! Thursday – Sunday 9am until 12pm are u-pick hours.

June: strawberry season; they also have seasonal produce available for u-pick

Wasem Fruit Farm | Milan

Check their Facebook page for seasonal updates. They encourage cash and they are one of few dog-friendly fruit farms. You can also find them at the Ann Arbor Farmers Market. They do not have u-pick strawberries, they are pre-picked ready for purchase.

June: strawberry season
July: tart cherries, black and red currants, gooseberries
September: plums, raspberries, apples
October: pumpkins

Wiards Orchard | Ypsilanti

Wiards is the oldest continually owned family-business in Michigan. Along with all of their produce, there are many activities for children.

September: apples, pumpkins

As the weather warms up, we’re spending more time outdoors. Check out our mom’s guide to ticks so that you’re prepared for any situation!

This post was originally written by Elizabeth Lewis and updated in 2026 by Megan Jalbert.

Protecting My Peace: Black Motherhood in a Divided World

PattiNicholson

June 19, 2026

Being a mom is beautiful and terrifying. It’s wanting your children to grow up surrounded by joy, happiness, and endless opportunities while knowing that the world doesn’t always offer Black boys and girls the same kindness as those with lighter skin tones. As a Black woman raising Black children, that fear can become overwhelming.

The reality that so many Black people face is something I can’t ignore. I see the statistics, the countless stories of Black people being hurt, demonized and victimized simply for existing. I think about the Black men and women incarcerated for long periods because they can’t afford bail. Families torn apart over small amounts that should never determine someone’s freedom. Mothers who don’t have family or resources to fall back on when things go wrong. I understand that living as a Black mother, there is a reality that simple things like routine traffic stops by police could quickly escalate to a tragic outcome.

Losing My Sense of Safety

In 2020, as the Black Lives Matter movement gained momentum, heartbreaking stories of Black people being killed by police or violent neighbors were everywhere. I remember driving past houses draped in Confederate and Trump flags. These signs seemed to scream hostility towards me without ever saying a word. Anxiety would tighten my grip on the steering wheel as my mind raced with worst-case scenarios. Even simple things like going for a run in my neighborhood became nerve-wracking. I wondered if my white neighbors saw me as a threat. The news, social media, and endless stories of Black people being harmed stole my sense of safety.

This year started with a wave of confusing executive orders from the President and rollbacks of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts that make the future look hazy for my children. Now, as a mother of two-year-old twins, my anxiety has multiplied because it’s not just me I’m worrying about anymore. My beautiful, joyful children deserve to grow up with laughter, love, and possibilities.

How do I protect their peace while still struggling to protect my own? How do I teach them to find joy and purpose when I’m constantly aware of the world’s cruelty? I’m going to share what has worked for me.

Tips for Protecting Your Peace

Prioritize Your Peace

Setting boundaries around the media I consume has been essential. I limit the amount of news I watch and only focus on the highlights. Having constant notifications about every disturbing event in the world did nothing but heighten my anxiety.

I also became intentional about curating my social media feed, and unfollowing accounts that regularly shared traumatic content. I didn’t want to scroll through Instagram during a work break and be met with horrifying images. This intentional filtering has allowed me to stay informed while still protecting my mental health.

Invest in Community

Surround yourself and your children with a loving and supportive community. I make an effort to connect and build relationships with people who bring love and joy into our lives, whether that’s a caring daycare or a mom community like Detroit Mom. I feel blessed beyond measure to have a network of local and distant friends and family–parents, siblings, cousins, aunts, uncles–people who step in when I need help or act as sounding boards when I’m struggling.

I’ve never been entirely alone, and I want my children to feel that same safety net. I want them to know there are people here to love them, support them, and catch them when the world becomes too heavy.

Be Your Best Self

Focusing on what you can control can help ground you and give you peace–whether it’s excelling at work to show that Black women and mothers can thrive, or volunteering in your community to offer support where it’s needed. Pour into the areas where you can make a difference. Some places and spaces were not made with Black people in mind. The best thing I can do is show up as my complete self and, if necessary, create spaces that support me and my children.

Practice Gratitude

Focusing on the good in your life can truly shift your perspective. If you choose to dwell on the 10% of negativity in your day, it can easily consume you. But when you focus on the 90% of things that went right, you realize how much you have to be grateful for. I have a home, food, shelter, and a job–and when I take a step back, I see that I’m doing just fine. In fact, I’m doing better than fine compared to so many around the world.

Embrace Your Soft Life

The concept of living a soft life has really resonated with me. For so long, Black women and mothers have been conditioned to believe that struggle, hustle, and exhaustion are just part of the journey. But times have changed (thank God!). Supportive partners, especially supportive Black husbands, are real and present. It’s okay to accept the help being offered. When someone extends their hand, take it graciously, thank them, and give yourself permission to rest. Because you deserve peace and ease, even if it’s just for a moment.

Despite the disparities of being a Black mother, I’m still here. I’m still joyful. Still growing. Still excelling. And I want my children to know that they can, too. And one thing Black mothers will always do . . . still I rise.

Looking for resources for teaching your kids to be inclusive? Check out our Guide to Empowering Our Children!

Beginner Gardening: How to Start a Thriving Backyard Garden

Lindsay Gizicki

June 17, 2026

Have you always dreamed of stepping into your backyard and picking fresh vegetables, colorful flowers, or fragrant herbs straight from your own garden? If you’re new to gardening, you’re not alone. Many people want to start a garden but feel overwhelmed by questions about where to begin, what to plant, and how to keep plants alive.

The good news is that gardening doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little planning and some beginner-friendly plants, you can create a beautiful and productive backyard garden that brings joy all season long. Whether you want to grow food for your family, create a colorful flower bed, or simply enjoy spending more time outdoors, these tips will help you get started.

Start Small + Keep It Simple

One of the biggest mistakes new gardeners make is trying to do too much at once. While it may be tempting to fill your yard with dozens of plants, a smaller garden is easier to manage and often more successful. Consider starting with a garden bed that’s about 4 feet by 8 feet or a few large containers on your patio. This gives you enough space to learn the basics without becoming overwhelmed.

Remember, gardening is a skill that develops over time. It’s better to successfully grow a few plants than struggle to maintain a large garden!

Choose the Right Location + Know Your Growing Season

Before planting anything, spend some time observing your yard. Most vegetables, herbs, and flowers need at least six to eight hours of sunlight each day. Look for an area that receives plenty of sunlight, has well-draining soil, is close to a water source, and is easy to access for regular maintenance. Michigan summers provide excellent growing conditions, but choosing the right location can make a huge difference in your garden’s success.

Michigan gardeners also need to pay attention to frost dates. In most parts of the state, the last spring frost occurs between late April and mid-May, while the first fall frost typically arrives in September or October. For many beginner gardeners, Memorial Day weekend serves as a good rule of thumb for planting warm-season vegetables outdoors.

You can start cool-weather crops such as lettuce, spinach, and peas earlier in the spring, while tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers should wait until the danger of frost has passed.

Prepare Your Soil

Healthy soil is the foundation of a successful garden. Before planting, loosen the soil with a shovel or garden fork and mix in compost or organic matter. Compost improves drainage, adds nutrients, and helps plants develop strong root systems.

If you’re unsure about your soil quality, consider purchasing a simple soil test kit or contacting your local Michigan State University Extension office for guidance. Good soil can often make the difference between struggling plants and thriving ones!

Plants for Beginners

Below are some ideas for plants that are perfect for beginners!

Beginner-Friendly Flowers

If your goal is a beautiful backyard filled with color, consider adding easy-care flowers. Some excellent choices include marigolds, zinnias, Black-Eyed Susans, coneflowers, sunflowers, or cosmos.

Many of these flowers attract butterflies, bees, and other pollinators that help your entire garden thrive.

Beginner-Friendly Herbs

Herbs are some of the most rewarding plants for beginners. Try planting basil, chives, parsley, mint (best grown in containers), oregano, or thyme. Most herbs require little maintenance and can be used in countless recipes throughout the growing season.

Beginner-Friendly Vegetables

If you’re growing vegetables for the first time, start with crops known for their reliability and ease of care:

Cherry tomatoes are often easier to grow than larger varieties and produce plenty of sweet fruit throughout the summer!
Green beans grow quickly and produce abundant harvests throughout the summer. They can be planted directly in the garden after the last frost.
Lettuce grows rapidly and can be harvested multiple times. It’s perfect for Michigan’s cooler spring and fall temperatures.
Peas love Michigan’s cool spring weather and are a great crop for beginner gardeners.
Radishes are one of the fastest-growing vegetables and can be ready to harvest in as little as three to four weeks.
Zucchini plants are famously productive. In fact, many gardeners joke that one zucchini plant can feed an entire neighborhood.

Gardening Tips for Success

Many beginner gardeners either overwater or underwater their plants. As a general rule, most gardens need about one inch of water per week, including rainfall. Water deeply rather than lightly sprinkling every day. Deep watering encourages stronger root systems and healthier plants. The best time to water is early in the morning. This allows leaves to dry during the day and helps reduce disease problems.

And, adding mulch around your plants is one of the easiest ways to improve garden success. Mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, regulate soil temperature, and improve soil quality over time. Wood chips, shredded bark, straw, and compost all work well as mulch. Just apply two to three inches around plants while keeping mulch away from stems and trunks!

While doing so, you’ll probably find weeds. Just remember that every gardener deals with weeds and the key is staying ahead of them. Spend just 10 to 15 minutes each week pulling weeds before they become established. Regular maintenance prevents weeds from competing with your plants for water and nutrients.

And remember: even experienced gardeners lose plants from time to time. A tomato plant might develop disease, a rabbit may snack on your lettuce, heavy rain may damage flowers. These setbacks are part of gardening. Keep notes about what worked and what didn’t; each season provides valuable lessons that will help you become a more confident gardener.

Once you’re ready to head to the garden center and get things started, sketch out your garden on paper. Consider where taller plants will go, how much space each plant needs, which plants grow best together, and which areas receive the most sunlight. A simple plan helps prevent overcrowding and creates a more attractive, organized garden!

Enjoy the Process

Perhaps the most important gardening tip is to enjoy the journey. Gardening is about more than growing plants. It’s an opportunity to slow down, spend time outdoors, reduce stress, and connect with nature. Many Michigan gardeners find that tending a garden becomes one of the most rewarding parts of their summer routine. Watching seeds sprout, flowers bloom, and vegetables ripen creates a sense of accomplishment that few hobbies can match.

You don’t need a green thumb to get started. With a little sunlight, healthy soil, regular watering, and patience, you can create a backyard garden that flourishes year after year! This season, take the first step. Plant a few seeds, get your hands dirty, and discover the joy of growing something beautiful right in your own backyard.

Feeling ready to grow? Kristen shares tips for growing plants from seeds.

Summer Activities From A to Z In + Around Detroit: For MOMS!

Faten

June 15, 2026

Summer is here and moms everywhere are wondering how they’re going to survive the long days, endless snack requests, camps, activities, and keeping everyone entertained. But while we spend so much time making summer magical for our kids, we can’t forget about ourselves too.

With the kids home for the summer, we’re sure to need moments to recharge, reset, and reconnect with ourselves. Whether it’s a solo coffee run, a girls’ night out, a peaceful walk, or a fun adventure with friends, taking care of you matters too.

Our team put together a Metro Detroit Summer A to Z Guide for Moms to help take the stress out of figuring out how to enjoy your summer too!

Metro Detroit Summer Activities from A to Z: MOM Edition

A: Ann Arbor Art Fair | Ann Arbor

Nothing says summer in Michigan quite like spending a day wandering through the Ann Arbor Art Fair. Every July, downtown Ann Arbor transforms into a vibrant outdoor experience filled with local artists, handmade goods, live music, food trucks, and endless people-watching.

Bonus: Walk through Art in the Park in downtown Plymouth to discover local artists, handmade goods, unique small businesses, and the perfect summer day atmosphere.

B: Barefoot and Free Festival | Commerce

The Barefoot & Free Festival offers festivals, retreats, yoga, movement, and community experiences designed to help women slow down, reconnect with themselves, and feel fully alive this summer. Try it out for the ultimate summer reset!

Bonus: From spray tans at The Bronze Bar to pottery painting at The Bee’s Knees Pottery & Art Studio and peaceful walks through Belle Isle Conservatory, Metro Detroit has no shortage of summer spots for moms to relax, recharge, and enjoy a little time for themselves.

C: Coriander Kitchen and Farm | Detroit

Coriander Kitchen and Farm gives all the waterfront summer vibes. Between the fresh food, outdoor seating, and relaxing atmosphere by the water, it’s the perfect place for a slow lunch, solo date, or girls’ outing.

Bonus: Stop in to Cooking with Que and pickup a tasty meal for lunch or dinner.

Bonus #2: If you’re seeking a serenading space, be sure to visit Cranbrook House and Gardens in Bloomfield Hills. Take a peaceful stroll through the beautifully landscaped grounds, and then capture memorable photos against the stunning backdrops of the gardens!

D: Dancing at Boogie Fever | Ferndale

Dancing at Boogie Fever Cafe is the perfect excuse for moms to throw on a cute outfit, sing along to throwback music, and enjoy a fun night out with friends this summer.

Bonus: Walk the Dequindre Cut and pose for some family photos in your new outfits.

Bonus #2: Get creative at the 2D DIY Studio and make something fun with your hands. Summer is the perfect time to reconnect with hobbies and creativity outside of motherhood.

E: Eastern Market’s Saturday Market | Detroit

A summer morning at Eastern Market just feels like a Metro Detroit rite of passage. Fresh flowers, local produce, iced coffee, street vendors, and walking around soaking up the energy makes for the perfect Saturday outing. They are open every Saturday from 6:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

Bonus: Ed Sheeran at Ford Field is the ultimate summer concert night with friends, music, and unforgettable downtown Detroit vibes. His concert is Saturday, August 29th!

F: Fourth Tri Sanctuary | Ferndale

Find self-care and support for new moms at Fourth Tri Sanctuary, a peaceful space designed to help mothers rest, recover, connect, and feel cared for during the postpartum journey.

Bonus: Farmington Farmers Market is such a wholesome summer stop. From fresh produce to handmade goods and flowers, it’s the perfect Saturday morning activity for moms wanting a slower pace and community feel.

G: Greenfield Village | Dearborn

Greenfield Village is a beautiful place to spend a summer day exploring history, gardens, and charming walkways. It’s one of those places that feels nostalgic and peaceful all at once.

H: Heritage Park | Farmington Hills

Heritage Park has some of the best walking trails for moms needing quiet time, movement, or a mental reset. Grab a coffee, put on a podcast, and enjoy the peaceful scenery.

I: Improv Show at Go Comedy | Ferndale

If you are in need of a good laugh this summer, catch an improv show at Go Comedy for a much-needed moms’ night out filled with laughter, fun, and a break from the everyday routine.

Bonus: Stop in to Ima Noodles for a bite to eat!

J: Jazz Festival | Detroit

Enjoy the sound of jazz at the Detroit Jazz Festival for a summer evening downtown filled with live music, city vibes, and a fun night out with friends or your partner. The festival takes place September 4th-7th.

K: Kensington Metropark | Brighton

Kensington Metropark is the perfect peaceful summer escape filled with fresh air, beautiful scenery, and a chance to unplug and recharge in nature.

Bonus: Take a public kayak tour along the Detroit River and take in the beautiful scenery with Detroit River Sports.

L: Lula’s Cafe | Shelby Township

Lula’s Cafe is cozy, calming, and perfect for catching up with a friend or taking yourself out for coffee and brunch. It’s one of those places that encourages you to slow down and stay awhile.

Bonus: Visit Lavender Lane for peaceful lavender fields, beautiful summer photos, and a relaxing afternoon that feels like a mini escape from everyday life.

M: Motor City Float | Clawson

Find some self-care at Motor City Float with a fire and ice day or relaxing salt soak for the ultimate summer reset to help you recharge both mentally and physically.

Bonus: Grab a bite to eat at Mad Nice or Monarch Rooftop!

N: Nautical Mile | St. Clair Shores

Enjoy the Nautical Mile with waterfront dining, boutique shopping, ice cream walks, and relaxing lake views that make for the perfect moms’ day out.

O: ORO Spa | Garden City

ORO Spa is the perfect place to recharge and pour back into yourself this summer in a calming, luxury space. They’re especially known for their incredible scalp massages that leave you feeling refreshed, relaxed, and completely taken care of.

Bonus: Om Day Spa is the kind of place every mom deserves to escape to this summer!

P: Pine Knob | Clarkston

Pine Knob Music Theatre is a Metro Detroit summer tradition. From nostalgic throwback artists to big summer tours, concerts here always feel like the highlight of the season.

Bonus: If you’re looking for a fun summer activity, Puppy Yoga Detroit combines movement, laughter, and puppies. Or head to Pretty and Pinked for a new tattoo and a little self-expression this season.

Q: Qahwah House | Dearborn

Stop in for the best spiced Yemeni Adani tea and purchase some coffee beans to take home.

Bonus: If you love coffee then add Qimmah Coffee House to your list of cafes to visit!

R: Road Less Traveled | Farmington Hills

The Road Less Traveled Bookstore is a must-visit for a cozy summer afternoon spent browsing books, slowing down, and enjoying a peaceful moment away!

Bonus: Try RH Rooftop Restaurant for beautiful rooftop views, and pretend you’re on vacation for a couple of hours. Then head downstairs to shop their stunning collection of luxury furniture and home décor. Or head over to Redford Theater for fun throwback movies.

S: Spruce & Ash | Farmington

Spruce & Ash is a perfect date night or girls’ night spot with a cozy upscale atmosphere. Summer evenings here feel relaxed, elevated, and much needed.

Bonus: Stop in to Supino Pizzeria for a bite to eat after taking photos. Grab some pizza by the slice and walk around town while you eat.

T: Tigers Game | Detroit

Catch a Detroit Tigers game at Comerica Park for the ultimate summer night downtown filled with baseball, stadium snacks, and fun memories with family or friends.

Bonus: For more fun enjoy Taques for date night or girls night, or try The Lip Bar for a pop of color!

U: UWM Field | Utica

Formerly known as Jimmy John’s Field, UWM Field is perfect for a fun, laid-back summer baseball night. Grab snacks, enjoy the warm weather, and soak in the nostalgic summer energy.

Bonus: Head underwater, literally, and take the Detroit-Windsor tunnel over to Canada for the day.

V: Vecino | Detroit

If you’re looking for the perfect girls’ night out dinner spot in Detroit this summer, then you have to try Vecino for delicious food, beautiful vibes, and a fun night out with friends.

Bonus: If you’re looking for a lively summer night out in Detroit, then you have to try Vicente’s Cuban Cuisine for delicious Cuban food, live music, dancing, and the perfect girls’ night atmosphere.

W: Woodward Avenue | Several Participating Communities

Hop in the car, roll the windows down, and cruise Woodward on a Friday or Saturday night after dinner. Stop at Custard and Company and get some ice cream, too.

X: X-Golf | Various Locations

Spend an afternoon playing golf without going to the golf course. Stay for a bite to eat after!

Bonus: For some of the best Mexican food in Detroit, head to Xochimilco Restaurant, a longtime local favorite known for its lively atmosphere, delicious food, and summer dinners that always feel like a celebration.

Y: Yoga at Citizen Yoga | Detroit

Citizen Yoga is a beautiful way to reconnect with your body and mind this summer. Whether you’re new to yoga or experienced, taking an hour for yourself can change your whole day.

Bonus: Grab dinner from Yum Village in Detroit!

Z: Z Lot Rooftop | Detroit

The final stop for photo ops in the city–the Z Lot rooftop! Dress in coordinating outfits (or don’t!) and smile for some fun, festive pictures with our beautiful city in the background.

It’s fun to explore in summer, but make sure you’re prepared! Read over our Mom’s Guide to Ticks so you know just what to do if you see one.

This post was originally written by Whitney Cornelli and was updated by Faten Saad in 2026.

Family Fun + Date Nights at Comerica Park

JessicaPlunkett

June 11, 2026

Summer is here and you know what that means in Detroit . . . it’s time for some Detroit Tigers baseball! If you’re planning a fun family outing or a laid-back date night with your partner, there’s just something about a day at Comerica Park that always makes for a good time. Between the downtown energy, ballpark food, fireworks, and family fun, a Tigers game can easily turn into a full-day experience.

Below, I’m sharing everything you need to know before you go!

Before the First Pitch: Restaurants to Check Out

Downtown Detroit has so much energy on game days. One of the best ways to make the most of a Detroit Tigers game is to head downtown early and turn it into a full-day outing instead of just showing up for the first pitch. Fans in Tigers gear fill the streets, restaurants are busy, and there’s just an excitement in the air that makes the whole experience feel special before you even walk into Comerica Park.

If you’re making it a family outing and don’t want to fill up entirely on ballpark food, there are plenty of kid-friendly spots downtown to grab lunch or dinner before the game:

Buddy’s Pizza | 1565 Broadway St, Detroit, MI 48226

Buddy’s is always a crowd pleaser for both kids and adults. Their classic Detroit-style pizza and kid-friendly menu make it an easy stop before heading to the stadium.

Hockeytown Cafe | 2301 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48201

If you really want to soak in the Detroit sports atmosphere before the game, Hockeytown Cafe is a great stop. Detroit sports memorabilia everywhere, games playing on TVs throughout the restaurant, and plenty of menu options for the whole family, even your picky eaters.

JoJo’s Shake Bar | 88 W Columbia St, Detroit, MI 48201

JoJo’s is such a fun option. Between the classic comfort food menu and customizable shakes, it’s almost guaranteed to be a hit for everyone.

Let’s be honest: part of the fun of going to a Detroit Tigers game is the food. Sure, you could save money by eating before the game, but ballpark snacks are just part of the experience. From classic hot dogs and popcorn to loaded fries, pizza, chicken tenders, and ice cream, there’s something for everyone inside Comerica Park. Somehow everything tastes better while sitting in stadium seats cheering on the Tigers. Once you’ve grabbed food and settled into your seats, the fun at Comerica Park is just getting started.

Fun for the Whole Family

Comerica Park offers so much more than just baseball. Between the family activities, kid-friendly attractions, and game day excitement, it’s easy to turn a Tigers game into a full family outing.

Sunday games are especially fun thanks to Chevy Sunday Kids Days. Fans ages 14 and under can enjoy free rides on the ferris wheel and carousel, collect player autographs, and after the game, kids even get the chance to run the bases themselves.

Friday night games at Comerica Park bring an extra level of fun for both kids and adults. After the game, fans can stick around for one of the best parts of the night: fireworks over the ballpark. For kids, it’s the perfect ending to an exciting night downtown. Between the game, snacks, music, and fireworks, it easily becomes one of those summer memories they’ll talk about long after baseball season ends. For adults, Friday night games have such a fun summer atmosphere. The stadium lights, downtown energy, and fireworks make the entire experience feel more like an event than just a baseball game.

Throughout the summer, select Friday games also feature post-game concerts from popular artists, making it even more worth turning your Tigers outing into a full night downtown.

2026 Sounds of Summer Postgame Concert Schedule

Nelly: Friday, June 19, 2026 (following the Tigers vs. White Sox game)
Flo Rida: Friday, July 24, 2026 (following the Tigers vs. Royals game)
Dustin Lynch: Friday, September 11, 2026 (following the Tigers vs. Rockies game)

Date Night at the Ballpark

Tigers games aren’t just for families. They also make a surprisingly fun and easy date night. Grab drinks, sit on a patio, or enjoy dinner before heading into the game together. Sometimes the best date nights are the simple ones that don’t require a ton of planning. And there’s just something nostalgic about spending a summer night at the ballpark together.

Check out these amazing restaurants downtown:

Elwood Bar & Grill | 300 E Adams Ave, Detroit, MI 48226

Want more of a laidback classic Detroit spot? Elwood Bar & Grill is always a great choice. The cozy atmosphere and location right near the ballpark make it the perfect spot to start your night.

Tin Roof Detroit | 47 E Adams Ave, Detroit, MI 48226

Looking for more of a bar atmosphere? Tin Roof Detroit is a fun pre-game option with live music, drinks, and plenty of game day excitement.

Union Assembly | 2131 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48201

If you want a fun downtown vibe, Union Assembly is a great option before the game. Between the cocktails, elevated comfort food, and patio atmosphere, it’s an easy date night stop within walking distance of the stadium.

A trip to Comerica Park is about so much more than baseball. It’s the excitement of downtown Detroit on game day, the stadium snacks everyone insists on getting, the fireworks lighting up the sky, and the memories made in between innings.

At the end of the day, those are the moments that stick with you most. Sitting in the stands together, hearing the crowd cheer, watching your kids light up over something as simple as running the bases or being part of the wave, or enjoying a summer night downtown with your partner. Sometimes the best memories are made during the simplest outings.

So grab your Tigers gear, load up the car, and head to Comerica Park this summer.

Go Tigers!

Looking for more summer fun? Laura updated our Guide to Farmers Markets In + Around Detroit!

The Importance of Juneteenth for African Immigrants

Tambari

June 10, 2026

During my early years as an African immigrant living in the United States, Juneteenth was not on my radar. My family never celebrated Juneteenth, and my sisters had lived in the country for well over a decade. It wasn’t until after college and the uprise in racial division post-2016 that I came face to face with Juneteenth. “Should Africans celebrate Juneteenth?” became a topic of conversation.

Initially, I said no, simply because I thought it was strictly Black American history. Therefore, since it’s not our history, it’s not our business. But then I started to look at other public holidays that we African immigrants participate in and realized the hypocrisy of it all.

We’re not American, and yet we throw parties on the 4th of July. The majority of us don’t have family members who served in the military, yet we grill on Memorial Day weekend. So why then wouldn’t we celebrate a significant event in American history that actually directly impacted us?

Us vs. Them

Historically, African immigrants and Black Americans live segregated lives. Africans tend to find their pockets of community and settle there. The only time we’re forced to mix is usually in classrooms and offices. And when I say “we,” I’m speaking generally about African immigrants. We established places of worship for us. In universities, we have the African Student Unions and similar organizations. It’s a very complicated history behind this separatism that boils down to racism. But I’ll save that for another time.

Unfortunately, this “us vs. them” mentality has left a lot African immigrants ignorant of the history of Black Americans, and how much it has impacted Blacks of all origin in the United States. I believe Juneteenth is a great opportunity to bridge the gap between the two communities and cultivate understanding and respect amongst Black ethnicities in the country.

Juneteenth is important for African immigrants for several cultural, historical, and social reasons, even though our ancestors may not have been enslaved in the United States. Here are several reasons why it matters:

1. Shared Black Identity + Solidarity

Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the U.S., specifically the day (June 19, 1865) when the last enslaved Black people in Texas were informed of their freedom. While African immigrants may have different ancestral experiences, we are often racialized in America similarly to African Americans.

One cannot typically tell the difference between a Black American and a Black immigrant based on the color of skin. This emancipation made it possible for people of Black African heritage to make a new life here in the U.S. And as immigrants, we are perceived as the same at first glance because we are Black.

Understanding and honoring Juneteenth strengthens solidarity within the broader Black diaspora and helps combat anti-Black racism together.

2. Understanding American Racial History

Juneteenth is a key part of U.S. history that affects African immigrants directly and indirectly. African immigrants would not have access to freedom in the U.S. if not for the emancipation of slaves. Being aware of this legacy helps us better understand the roots of systemic racism, inequality, and cultural resilience in the U.S. It offers insight into why certain issues (like police brutality, economic disparities, and voter suppression) disproportionately affect Black Americans and also African immigrants.

3. Cultural Integration + Community Building

Celebrating Juneteenth can be a meaningful way for African immigrants to participate in Black American culture and history. It builds bridges between African and Black American communities and encourages mutual respect and cultural exchange. This integration can help break down tensions or misunderstandings that sometimes exist between African immigrants and Black Americans.

4. Empowerment + Education

Juneteenth celebrates freedom, resilience, and self-determination; values that resonate with many African immigrant stories as well. Through celebration, African immigrants are educated about the Black experience in America. It is a focus on the resilience of Black Americans, their journey to freedom, and the cultural impact evident today. It’s a moment to reflect on the ongoing fight for justice and equity and to learn about the legacy of resistance that benefits ALL Black people in America.

5. Political + Social Relevance

As Juneteenth has become a federal holiday, its observance is part of American civic life. Hence African immigrants, especially those on the path to citizenship or raising children in the U.S., benefit from engaging in these moments of national reflection and celebration. Just as all other significant holidays are celebrated, Juneteenth is equally as important.

Juneteenth isn’t just Black American history; it is American history. It is a history that paved the way for us African immigrants to live freely and gain access to civic rights in this country. And for us African immigrants, recognizing its importance fosters a deeper understanding of the Black experience in the U.S.; a phenomenon that we benefit from. Celebrating Juneteenth promotes unity across the diaspora, and strengthens community ties.

Juneteenth is important to learn about. Erica shares a bit about the background behind the holiday.

The Year I Graduated Too: 5 Things I Wasn’t Prepared for During My Son’s Senior Year

CarminIssa

June 7, 2026

This year has been a whirlwind of emotions. As I prepared for my youngest to start a new chapter in school, my oldest was entering his final year of high school. One beginning. One ending. One child needed me to hold on tighter while the other was quietly preparing me to let go. And if I’m being honest? Nobody fully prepares you for senior year.

You know graduation is coming. You know adulthood is around the corner. But what nobody tells you is that senior year feels like a strange mix of project manager, event coordinator, therapist, chauffeur, and professional crier. As I close this chapter with my son, I wanted to share five things I wasn’t prepared for during senior year that didn’t cost a dime, but added tremendous value to the experience, and can help the next mom getting ready to help their child in the next chapter.

Because while I thought I was preparing my son for adulthood, senior year quietly prepared me for letting go.

1. Get a planner . . . because the dates will start dating (fast).

Let me save you now: get a tracker, planner, calendar, something! Deadlines begin flying at you before senior year even officially starts. Senior pictures. FAFSA. College applications. Scholarship deadlines. Cap and gown information. Homecoming. Graduation meetings. Final transcripts. It comes in hot. I quickly learned that if it wasn’t on my calendar, it simply did not exist.

Whether you use your phone, a paper planner, or color-coded sticky notes that make you feel powerful (no judgment), keeping dates visible matters. Senior year moves quickly, and while we absolutely want to celebrate this season, there is also a very real administrative side to it. I made my son responsible for adding events to the family calendar. While it annoyed him at times, ultimately it built a skill of preparedness in him.

Future you will thank present you (and your kids will, too, if you add them in!).

2. Use your free resources. There are more than you think.

One thing I wish I had leaned into sooner? Resources. There is so much free help available to prepare your senior for whatever comes next, and you do not have to figure it all out alone. Some of my favorite free resources included:

College Board: Helpful for SAT information, college planning tools, and scholarship searches.
College nights + free webinars: Most schools and organizations host free sessions on financial aid, applications, and planning next steps.
LinkedIn: Yes, even for young adults! It’s a great place to begin learning professional networking and exploring careers.
School counselors: Truly underrated. They often know deadlines, scholarships, career pathways, and opportunities you may never hear about otherwise.
The Senior Parent Facebook Group: Slightly chaotic? Yes. Occasionally overwhelming? Also yes. But incredibly helpful for reminders, questions, and the “Wait . . . are we supposed to be doing this already?” moments.
TikTok: Stay with me here. There are surprisingly helpful creators breaking down financial aid, scholarships, resumes, dorm life, and career advice in ways our kids actually understand.

The reality is this: none of us are experts at preparing our child to graduate for the first time. Use the village.

3. It’s okay to NOT be okay.

Nobody prepared me for the grief and excitement happening at the same time. At some point, whether it’s the first day of school, senior pictures, or that final homecoming, it hits you: Your baby is becoming an adult.

And let me tell you, that feeling doesn’t visit once. It keeps showing up. You feel excitement. Pride. Gratitude. Fear. Joy. Sadness. Sometimes all before noon. You are grieving a former version of the child you raised while watching, in real time, the adult they are becoming. An adult who will eventually explore the world without needing to hold your hand.

And honestly? It sucks. It’s beautiful and exciting, and heartbreaking. Two things can be true at once. You can be incredibly proud and deeply emotional. You can celebrate while quietly mourning the end of an era.

4. They are navigating this transition too.

Listen . . . as a Type A planner, I had senior year in a chokehold. Appointments? Scheduled. Applications? Submitted. Resume updates? Done. Character references? Requested. I thought I was doing everything right to prepare my son for adulthood. Then one day, my son said something that completely stopped me in my tracks: “Mom, I know you want me to be accountable and take initiative with these things, but sometimes I just need you to check on me. Ask me how I’m doing. I’m trying so hard to do everything.”

Whew. Talk about being humbled. In my effort to prepare him, I had unintentionally prioritized productivity over presence. I thought I was building drive and responsibility. What he also needed was nurturing. And honestly? It made sense.

This transition is hard for them as well. They are making huge decisions while trying to manage expectations, friendships, identity shifts, and the pressure of “what comes next.” So yes, prepare them. Hold them accountable. Teach responsibility. But also pause. Ask how they’re doing. Talk about the excitement, the fears, the uncertainty.

Sometimes they need less coaching and more connection.

5. Enjoy this time. Seriously!

Senior year moves fast. One minute you’re buying school supplies, and the next you’re ordering graduation announcements wondering how we got here so quickly. Enjoy this season.

Take the pictures. Go to the games. Celebrate the small wins. Say yes to the random conversations in the kitchen.

My advice, for this season: be fully present for the ordinary moments. Because one day you’ll realize they were actually the big moments. Graduation is a victory for both of you! And if you’re like me and this is your first child graduating, whew! What an honor! You grew together. You LEARNED together.

This season isn’t just about celebrating where they’re going, it’s also about honoring how far you both have come.

Congratulations, senior moms. We graduated too.

Are you new to the high school world? Nia shares what the high school admission process was like for her daughter.

Tourette Awareness Day is June 7th

JaclynBethel

June 1, 2026

DISCLAIMER: The following post outlines the writer’s personal story of Tourette Syndrome. It is not intended to act as medical advice. As always, please consult your doctor with any questions about your health.

When you hear someone has Tourette, your brain immediately thinks, “F#ck, f#ck, sh!t.”

In honor of global Tourette Syndrome Awareness Month (May 15–June 15) and Tourette Syndrome Awareness Day on June 7, let’s talk about the misconceptions, reduce stigma, and learn the facts–because Tourette Syndrome and Tic Disorder are far more common than most people realize.

Tourette Syndrome (TS) and Tic Disorder (TD) are neurodevelopmental disorders that cause involuntary, repetitive movements and vocalizations called Tics. TS/TD are also underdiagnosed, largely because most people only associate Tourette with the extreme stereotype of Coprolalia.

Coprolalia

The “famous” part of Tourette! Coprolalia only affects 10-30% of people diagnosed with TS. It’s an involuntary vocal tic that creates an uncontrollable urge to say inappropriate things: profanity, derogatory phrases, racial slurs, or other socially unacceptable comments. Basically, your brain grabs the absolute worst thing you could possibly say–-and MAKES you say it. Involuntarily.

Take a moment and imagine the worst possible thing someone could shout:
Grocery shopping.
In their mother’s face.
Getting pulled over by police.
At an airport.
At the 2026 BAFTA Film Awards when two Black actors step on stage to present an award.

Before you rush to judge someone in one of these situations, imagine the horror and heartbreak of living with a medical condition where your worst possible thought—one you do not endorse—becomes your loudest word.

A Spectrum of Its Own

TS/TD have their own spectrum of motor and vocal tics. Tics can vary in intensity, frequency, body location, and complexity over time. Motor and vocal tics can be simple or complex. Here are a few baseline examples:

Simple Motor Tics: smaller movements, usually involving the face, head, or upper body like blinking, grimacing, facial movements, head movements, shoulder jerks, or tapping
Simple Vocal Tics: throat clearing or coughs, growling, gurgling, humming, lip smacking, or sniffing
Complex Vocal Tics: often louder or involve words and phrases; Coprolalia, Echolalia (repeating words or phrases), spitting, shouting, or sudden changes in vocal volume or tone
Complex Motor Tics: involve multiple muscle groups and some of these can look alarming to people who don’t understand what they’re seeing, like arm movements, punching, throwing, kicking, jumping, body flinging, aggressive-looking movements, self-injurious actions, or frozen or locked muscles

TS/TD rarely party alone. They commonly overlap with anxiety, ADHD, OCD, depression, sensory disorders, and Autism. Autism stims and tics can look very similar, though one is self-regulation and the other is involuntary.

Tic triggers can include stress, excitement, poor sleep, sensory overload, anxiety, specific people, and certain phrases–or sometimes, absolutely nothing obvious at all.

Onset

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 1 in 162 children experience tics at some point! Symptoms typically appear between ages 4-10. In a cruel twist of time, tics often peak during the teenage years–because apparently adolescence isn’t hard enough! For some individuals, tics lessen or disappear into adulthood. For others, they remain lifelong.

Diagnosis

Basic diagnostic criteria include symptoms beginning before age 18 and motor and/or vocal tics being present for more than a year (frequency and severity may fluctuate over time) that are not a result of another medical issue. Start with your primary care doctor: after discussing symptoms, a Tourette or Tic Disorder diagnosis may be given, or, most often, you may be referred to a Neurologist or Neuropsychologist.

Because many factors affect tics, they may not occur during a doctor’s appointment. It is best to try to get a video of concerns prior to an appointment so providers can better observe what is happening.

Educational Support

Having a TS/TD diagnosis does not automatically qualify a child for a 504 Plan or an IEP (both are educational support plans). Eligibility is based on whether symptoms significantly or negatively impact a student’s educational access or performance.

Even without an education plan, communication matters. Make sure school and extracurricular staff understand that your child’s grimace, tapping, vocal noises are involuntary–not intentional disruptions or behavioral problems. Disciplinary action should never be used against something a child cannot control, but how are staff going to know if YOU don’t include them?

You don’t need formal paperwork for the school to offer compassion. Sometimes a student simply needs a bathroom break, permission to step into the hallway, or a place in the building they can try to reset. Knowing your school team matters. A trusted adult that understands and a safe place to go can make a huge difference in your child’s school life.

Build Your Bubble

If your child is having tics AGAINST THEIR OWN WILL, do you think it’s hard to focus? Make friends? Build self-confidence? The more visible or complex a tic becomes, the more isolating it can feel. Build your support bubble. Open honesty lets people in. And yes, painfully, it also reveals who does not deserve access to your child or your family.

When supportive peers, teachers, relatives, and friends understand, they can become advocates too, stepping in with a simple, “It’s a tic, they can’t help it.”

Don’t Take a Tic Personally

“You must think that way, why else would you say it?” No. That’s not how Tourette works. Coprolalia is famous for the shock-value, but the tic is not a reflection of the person’s character, morality, beliefs, or intent. You must separate the person from the tic–even when the situation is uncomfortable, catches you off guard, or pulls at emotions.

Treatment

Some children will outgrow or experience reduced symptoms after puberty, while others experience tics throughout their lives. While there is no “cure,” there are treatments and supports that many people find helpful, including medication, therapy, and behavioral interventions.

Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT) is a type of behavioral therapy that can help some individuals recognize the urge before a tic happens and build alternative response strategies. CBIT is not a universally effective therapy–it requires the ability to recognize and communicate pre-tic sensations, which is not an option for everyone.

And most importantly: tics NEED to come out. Masking (trying to hide or suppress the tic) often causes a larger, stronger rebound effect later.

The Tic is Not the Person

Tourette isn’t a joke. It isn’t bad behavior or attention-seeking. It is neurological.

The tic is not the person.

Tourette deserves awareness, understanding, and compassion.

When we share our stories, we help other mothers feel seen. Local mom Melanie reflects on being her daughter’s caregiver and advocate.

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