Travel Tips from Kaufman Children’s Center Therapists

March 21, 2024

Detroit Mom partnered with the amazing people at Kaufman Children's Center to bring you this post. All opinions are our own.

Spring break and the summer season are right around the corner, and for many families that means vacation time. Some parents, however, may not be so quick to make plans. Traveling with children is almost always tricky–but traveling with kids who have diagnoses such as autism or sensory processing difficulties adds an extra element of planning.

Don’t put your trip on hold just yet, though! The occupational therapists, behavior analysts, and speech pathologists from Kaufman Children’s Center have some tips to make your time away easier on everyone.

Before You Go

Many children feel more comfortable if they know what to expect ahead of time. Here are a few ways to help:

Count down on a calendar how many days are left until the vacation begins/ends.
If your family plans to fly, watch airplane videos and role play airport procedures such as security checks, boarding, taking off, and landing. You might even visit an airport to get your child accustomed to the atmosphere.
Make simple sequence stories with pictures of each part of the trip (plane rides, hotel rooms, attractions, possible crowds, etc.). Take the stories along on your trip to remind them what’s next.

What to Pack

Take along items and activities that fight boredom (during travel, while waiting in line, and during other downtime on your trip) and help kids feel calm in overwhelming environments. Sensory supports are excellent options that achieve both purposes! Here are a few ideas on things to pack:

Chewing gum, which can also combat nausea
Relaxing music, such as familiar kid songs or classical music selections
Tactile fidgets for input through the hands, like hair ties, rubber band balls, stress balls, or twisty toys
Weighted blankets or lap pads for calming deep pressure

Getting There

Before getting on the plane or in the car, have kids perform physical “heavy work.” These activities promote a calm state and will help them to be able to sit for longer periods. Here are a few ideas:

Arm push-ups on chairs or walls
Deep-pressure hugs and squeezes
Frog jumps or jumping jacks
Pushing/pulling the luggage

Once you’re on your way, break out the sensory supports listed above, and also try a few of these favorite activities to keep kids engaged:

Clip small clothespins all around kids’ travel areas for an easy scavenger hunt.
Engage in fine-motor tasks such as sticker books, coloring books, and dry erase boards.
Enjoy simple activities like puzzles and blocks. Try hiding small objects inside balls of putty for kids to find!

Ensuring Safety

Keeping kids safe in unfamiliar environments is a top worry for vacationing parents. Here are a few helpful items recommended by Kaufman Children’s Center therapists (widely available through Amazon or other retailers):

Door alarms: Inexpensive portable alarms sound off when a door is opened from outside or inside. They are a great solution to make sure kids don’t leave the hotel room without you knowing.
Ear protection: Kids with sensory challenges can benefit from ear protection to reduce anxiety in noisy environments. Try headphones or ear plugs, depending on their preference.
Wrist bands: Write your contact information on cute, adjustable bands to help ensure kids are found quickly if lost. They are available in many different styles, including waterproof options.

If your child tends to wander or bolt away, consider a GPS tracking device, such as AngelSense or other wearable device. They give kids greater independence and confidence while giving peace of mind to parents and caregivers, who can track their locations. Read more about the service on the Autism Alliance of Michigan’s website.

Getting a Little Help

If your trip includes an amusement park or other attraction, research their disability policies ahead of time. Many have thoughtful plans in place to help make visits comfortable and memorable for everyone. Some even provide quiet spaces when a child needs down time.

One last pro tip: Ask your child’s therapy team for a letter requesting special accommodations, such as early boarding or skipping lines. It should be signed and on letterhead, listing what the child is being treated for and which situations they need help with. These letters work in some locations and not others, but are always worth a shot.

Happy travels!

Are You In a Coaching Cult?

Charmaine

March 19, 2024

Are you a part of a coaching cult? Have you ever seen a coach so magnetic that you just had to be in their group or program? Like they seem to know all your pain points and how they can help you solve them?

Do they have the social following you dream of, reels always popping, and livestreams always full? Their energy feels like what your life has been missing and if you could just get a bit of it, your life or business would grow?

That, my friends, is the coaching cult: you have a charismatic leader and the push for you to stay in the ecosystem and keep moving up the price chain of products and services. They sell you that their way is the only way and you can’t succeed without their next upsell. Oh, and if you don’t make the decision to purchase, you’re not as serious about your business as you say you are. And while you’re at it, don’t you dare go to another coach, because then you’re confusing yourself and their ecosystem is the only one you need to be in to win.

Does any of that sound familiar? Here’s my story:

How I Got Hooked

I was looking to increase my reach and profits in my business, and I wasn’t looking to go the slow way. Quick growth is what I wanted. I met her in a group for heart centered coaches–she was charismatic, exciting, and talked a helluva good game.

Once inside her program, I learned that was how she got new victims–I mean, clients. She would go into other groups, find someone who she felt she could help, and then befriend them. That way, when she offered her services, you felt comfortable enough to ignore your gut and say yes.

I started off taking one of her smaller challenges that helped improve your Facebook lives and convert. The group seemed positive and helpful. Everyone seemed excited and connected, so when we upsold to her group program, I figured it was a no-brainer. Heck, if I got these results from a 30 program, I could only imagine what I could do in a full group program.

The Shift

What I learned in looking back was that she spent a lot of time researching the pain points of the women she wanted to recruit. In fact, she put on multiple summits focusing on the trauma and brokenness of other women. In her groups she created trauma bonding. She always started things off with all of this loving and positive reinforcement; in fact, she had these weeks when she was uplifting and positive daily, giving us daily input and snippets to work from–which created dependency and trust.

Then came the criticism, the cuss out sessions, the rants. She would often go on a week-long binge of leaving rant videos in the group of how lazy and ungrateful we were and how we would never make it with that attitude or work ethic. Then whenever I or any other participant would bring how those rants made us feel to her attention, we were told we were soft or too sensitive, that this was business.

She would share what we’d shared with her in private session in the group. She bonded us by sharing all of our secrets and then setting us up to be afraid to leave because anyone who left the group got blasted as not committed and not able to take feedback to grow. Once I shared my doubts and fears as a business owner with the group that she issued a full-on rant to me in, that was when I decided to leave. She called me a pain in the ass client that was uncoachable and ungrateful. That I would have to pay her more to be a pain in the ass. I was hurt, embarrassed, and pissed off.

My Next Steps

I attempted to have a conversation with her to express how her comments made me feel and how I felt in her group, hoping we could salvage and make a pivot with our relationship because I thought we were friends. The conversation turned into why I wasn’t successful and how I was using her. Then she told me that I needed to humble myself and come to this healing retreat she was hosting.

At that point it hit me: “Damn girl, you’re in an abusive relationship with your coach.” So I took a look at my contract (which thank God was poorly written), talked to my lawyer, and bounced.

What I Learned

From this, I learned a few things:

Business always needs foundation: This idea of building or going fast is never sustainable.
Set and apply boundaries with clients: You experience less stress, and your clients respect you more.
Only charge what’s in alignment with my values: You don’t have to charge industry rate, you get to charge what you want.
For as many people there are with horrible intentions, there are more with good ones: Good always wins.

Moving Forward

After this incident, I took six months off to restructure my business model and just heal myself. Moving forward, I am much more intentional about who I work with, and work on staying clear about what I want to create in my life. I realize the part my neurodiversity has to play in “picking” people. And, I am doing a lot of work around that. In order to protect my mental health and allow me the space to heal, she is blocked. There is no contact.

I am more thoughtful before joining any program no matter the cost, making sure it’s in alignment with my financial goals not just my business ones. While there is no perfect formula to choosing the right coach, here are some things to look out for when choosing:

They are pain point focused.

Be watchful of those that are always focused on “Are you feeling . . . (insert pain point)”, or “I can help you solve (insert pain point).” Those people will always keep you in your pain.

They are there to keep you in line.

That is NOT the coach you want to work with. They will keep you in line, but your self-esteem will suffer. You don’t need anyone to motivate you or hold your feet to the fire. You don’t have to be embarrassed or humiliated to be held accountable.

It sounds too good to be true.

And it is. Be mindful of coaches who guarantee you’ll hit certain milestones with them. For example, “Take action to drastically change your life in 90 days.” No one can guarantee what milestones you’ll hit and when. Life is too weird for that.

But above all, keep your trusted group close.

That is what saved me during this ordeal: having my BFF and a therapist on lock. Cults–I mean, coaches–like that want to keep you as far away from your people as they can. They don’t want you doing therapy, reading books, or talking to anyone with opposing ideas. If you hear, “That’s a crutch, just do the work,” RUN.

I just want you to know: it’s not normal for someone to be mean and disrespectful to you AND you pay them for it. No matter if it’s a business coach, fitness coach, or gardening coach, we have to move away from believing that yelling at and belittling someone is a way to make them better.

If you’ve been through a negative coaching experience or are going through one now, I see you. And I hold space for your healing.

Ready to take your business to a new environment? Check out Amanda’s list of the most unique co-working spaces in the Detroit area.

Be Curious + Accommodating: One Mom’s Vision For The World

Guest Blogger

March 18, 2024

I read this incredibly challenging analogy the other day. It went like this: Make accessibility your baseline. What does this mean?

Imagine this: The custodian is rushing to shovel the snow on the stairs before students arrive so that when they do, they’ll be able to walk up the stairs and enter the building. The custodian finally finishes up, right on time for the bell. Students begin walking up the stairs to enter the building, but there are several students who use wheelchairs who aren’t able to get up the stairs. The ramp was still covered in snow. If the custodian had shoveled the ramp FIRST, all students would have been able to enter the building (even if the stairs didn’t get shoveled).

No one is harmed from too many supports: visuals, flexible seating, opportunities for motor breaks, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), etc. However, there ARE students who will miss out from LACK of supports.

My son Jaxon has an extremely rare genetic disorder called KDM5C. He is nonverbal and uses an AAC device for communication. He has cerebral palsy, and he has Autism. He is cognitively impaired and can have intense behaviors at times. He is a beautiful boy who laughs and loves life, but also struggles to do things that come naturally for most six-year-olds. He is a student that would miss out if we didn’t prioritize equity. Jax is why I choose to advocate.

I’m grateful for the person I am because of J’s disability.

It has deepened my empathy. My endurance. My understanding of equity and inclusion. My grit and tenacity. Truly, the way I view the world. I. Am. Grateful. But I absolutely hate what we had to do to get here. I hate the struggles that he must face to better my understanding of disability.

Constantly, I feel joy and grief battling for space in my mind. I never knew they could coexist like this. Unconditional true love and heartbreak. Proud of what we’ve overcome, yet scared of the future. High-fiving technology for AAC devices, but devastated that verbal communication is so difficult for him. Grateful that I understand his gestures and utterances, but terrified of who will understand when I’m gone. Feeling included when our friends invite us to neurotypical birthday parties, but frustrated that it always highlights how different our life is. Eager to advocate and move the needle, but really exhausted from all of it. Loving the progress we have made in six years, but still grieving what could have been. Not relating when I’m with my best friends but craving any kind of community. Pride and dignity. Faith and skepticism. It’s all of it.

Disability parents are some of the strongest people I know. They never asked to be in this category of parenting, but every day they continue to show up.

My desire is to bridge the gap between our world and yours, with two simple, yet profound actions you can take: be curious and be accommodating.

Be Curious

Curiosity is the bridge that connects unfamiliarity with understanding. When it comes to disabilities, the manner of your curiosity can make all the difference. It’s one thing to wonder about the limitations a disability might bring, but it’s another, more compassionate thing, to seek understanding about how to connect despite them.

For instance, instead of asking, “Why can’t Jaxon talk?” consider asking, “How can I best communicate with Jaxon?” This shift in perspective doesn’t just make me, as a parent, feel supported–it makes Jaxon feel seen and valued. Every child deserves to feel known, to be acknowledged for who they are–not just for the challenges they face.

Be Accommodating

Inclusivity isn’t about grand gestures; often, it’s the smallest accommodations that speak the loudest. If you’re hosting an event, something as simple as a thoughtful placement of food can alleviate the stress for a family with a child who has special needs. You don’t have to redesign your entire setting, but consider what minor adjustments could prevent self-exclusion.

For instance, a message saying, “I’ve set aside a quiet space for Jaxon if he needs a break from the party,” can be a beacon of relief. This kind of empathy–this willingness to make life a little easier for those already carrying heavy loads–can transform an ordinary space into a haven of comfort and understanding. It expresses, “I truly see you”.

Incorporating these actions into your life doesn’t just help families like mine; it enriches your own experience of the world.

It’s about taking the empathy you have and implementing it in a tangible way. Imagine a world where curiosity blooms into rich conversations, where accommodations are not exceptions but norms. This is a place where children like Jaxon aren’t just included, but they thrive; where the sound of “mama” is celebrated, even if they’re six years old.

It’s a world where every birthday party, every community event, every shared space is a welcome mat rolled out with love and consideration. If more of us take the time to be genuinely curious and make those small, thoughtful accommodations, we create ripples of change that expand into waves of inclusion, affecting countless lives.

This vision is not just a dream—it’s a possibility that begins with our actions today. The hard days are rarely ever hard because of Jaxon’s disability. They’re hard because the world/our culture doesn’t do equity or inclusion well. But I do have faith in humanity, and I am confident we can get there, together.

–Guest post submission written by Taylor Leal

Whitehall: Detroit Mom’s Favorite Michigan Vacation Spots

natashakearney

March 17, 2024

I love the idea of getting away somewhere that feels far away from home but without the added stress and financial burden of hopping on a plane somewhere or even a really long drive. That’s why I love heading over to the west side of the state during the summer. The clear water and pristine beaches that Lake Michigan offers are some of my favorites.

Just over three hours from Metro Detroit is Whitehall, a little beach town I’ve fallen in love with over the last two years. My family and I had our first trip there in the summer of 2022 and have vowed to go back each year. This town is also located 20 minutes north of Muskegon so between the two places, you have a multitude of options to find sun, sand, food, fun, and a getaway that will feel like you’re much farther from home than you actually are.

Where To Stay

Michillinda Lodge | 5207 Scenic Dr., Whitehall, MI 49461 | (231) 893-1895
This resort is the reason we fell in love with Whitehall. Located right on the edge of Michigan, you not only have an amazing beach and sand dune view for your stay but everything else you could possibly want all right within the resort. Amenities offered with your stay include a playground, sandbox, heated pool, basketball court, tennis courts, shuffleboard, volleyball, picnic areas, grills, horseshoe, and beach access so you really don’t even need to leave the resort in order to have a great vacation. Don’t even get me started on how beautiful the sunsets are!

I have not personally stayed anywhere else when visiting the area but there are several other options including a bed and breakfast, camping sites, and hotels to fit your family needs, which you can find all right here!

Favorite Restaurants

Bone Ends | 604 E Colby St, Whitehall, MI 49461 | (231) 893-3000
This is a small tex-mex BBQ restaurant where you order and take a seat! Perfect for something quick, easy, and yummy. I personally love the tacos here and always get a side of tex n’ mac! Gluten free, dairy free, and vegan menus are available too!

Brunch House | 3065 Henry St, Muskegon, MI 49441 | (231) 747-6986
We can’t visit Whitehall without making a day trip to Muskegon, and when we do, we always start with brunch at this restaurant. It’s kid-friendly and we have never had anything off the menu that we didn’t absolutely love. A must visit!

Gary’s Restaurant | 906 E Colby St, Whitehall, MI 49461 | (231) 894-1234
If you’re looking for a delicious breakfast in Whitehall, Gary’s is the place to be! The menu has something for everyone and they are very accommodating to children. The restaurant is a bit small so if you have a party of five or more, you may have a bit of a wait–but it is worth it.

San Marco’s Mexican Restaurant Bar And Grill | 3001 E Colby St, Whitehall, MI 49461 | (231) 894-2000
This is one of my favorite places because it is large enough to accommodate a large or small party, and the food is great! They have an extensive kids menu available and if you have someone to drive you home, make sure to take a look at the margaritas!

Favorite Outdoor Activities

Duck Lake State Park | 4733 N Scenic Dr, Whitehall, MI 49461 | (231) 744-3480
I haven’t been able to visit this park yet but it’s on my “must do” list for our next trip. The park has access to Lake Michigan as well as Duck Lake and a large sand dune, too. You can swim, fish, rent a kayak, picnic, and walk the trails.

Michigan’s Adventure | 4750 Whitehall Rd, Muskegon, MI 49445 | (231) 766-9959
A fun family adventure day! This amusement park has a water park, rides, games, arcade, and more! Definitely plan on spending the whole day. Between all that there is to do and the wait times for rides, time flies by.

Pere Marquette Beach | 3510 Channel Dr, Muskegon, MI 49441 | (231) 724-4100
We love this beautiful beach in Muskegon to enjoy a day at Lake Michigan. Be prepared for crowds and to park and walk. The sand is beautiful, the water is clear, and there is even a playground.

Favorite Cultural Activity

White River Light Station and Museum | 6199 Murray Rd., Whitehall, MI 4946 | (231) 894-8265
Another spot that is on my to-do list is this museum. This historic lighthouse was built in 1875. You will climb to the top of a spiral staircase and enjoy the view looking out to the water and sand dunes that surround the area. While you’re there, you can also immerse yourself among the 19th and early 20th century photographs and nautical artifacts that this museum houses.

Favorite Place for Sweet Treats

Dairy Treat | 209 E Colby St, Whitehall, MI 49461 | (231) 894-0223
Satisfy your sweet tooth with some unique and tasty ice cream flavor options. They use local dairy for their treats!

Favorite Date Night Spots

The Deck | 1601 Beach St, Muskegon, MI 49441 | (231) 755-5022
A unique BBQ restaurant located right on Pere Marquette Beach in Muskegon. It offers good food and a fun atmosphere. The top deck is a full service area and the below deck is first come first serve. Grab a drink, order some food at the take-out window, and seat yourself! Don’t forget to try out their swings and enjoy some live music in the evenings, too!

Mylan’s Waterfront Grille | 115 N Mears Ave, Whitehall, MI 49461 | (231) 894-0946
With upscale food and beautiful views, this is the spot for a romantic date night! Located right in downtown Whitehall, you could have a nice evening stroll around town and visit some shops to finish off the night.

Favorite Place for an Adult Beverage

Fetch Brewing Company | 100 W Colby St, Whitehall, MI 49461 | (231) 292-1048
This brewery is located right in downtown Whitehall and has a great and fun atmosphere. Grab a drink and some snacks and enjoy the energy that downtown has to offer. You can even take a stroll around town with your beverage in their social district. Be sure to check out the rules and guidelines for the social district here!

Bonus Tips to Whitehall

Check out the Fred Meijer Berry Junction Trail for biking.
Visit the downtown area shops for some cute souvenirs.
If you stay at Michillinda, make sure to stop at the White Duck Country Market for anything you need!

What’s your favorite Michigan vacation spot? Check out our previous spot: Silver Lake Sand Dunes!

Easter Basket Goodies: Local Businesses to Support

Laura Herr

March 16, 2024

Easter is coming up, and if you’re still looking for the perfect Easter basket goodies for your kids, we have you covered. We polled the readers in our Detroit Mom community and asked them where they like to shop for Easter basket gifts, so our list is definitely full of well-loved small businesses. And, it helps to know they all are personally recommended by those who’ve shopped there!

When you’re out and about shopping for Easter, check out one (or a few!) of these local businesses and check a few items off of your Easter basket to-do list.

Local businesses to support for all things Easter baskets:

2 Dandelions Bookshop | Brighton

Books are the gifts that keep on giving. They really are cherished for years and years! 2 Dandelions offers books for every age, and we think that you’ll find some really great new titles that will be perfect for your kids’ Easter baskets. You can search online before you head to the store, and a quick search for “Easter” brought up TONS of options!

Catching Fireflies | Ann Arbor, Berkley, + Rochester

This whimsical store is home to SO many unique gift items that will be perfect for Easter baskets. They also offer free gift wrap and free store delivery. Their pressed flower bookmarks would be perfect for your upper-elementary-aged reader. And you KNOW you can’t go wrong with a squishmallow backpack clip!

Coreander’s Children’s Bookshoppe | Grosse Pointe Park

This fun bookstore has so many cute books that would fit just right in your child’s Easter basket! There are so many to choose from, you’re sure to find ones your kiddos will treasure for years to come. Their puzzles would be a fun treat as well–perfect for any age!

Leon and Lulu | Clawson

Leon and Lulu has the most unique gifts, and we’re certain that you’ll find one-of-a-kind Easter basket goodies here! You could spend hours upon hours browsing the store in-person, exploring all of the different artists and makers. There’s honestly so much to see there!

The Little Seedling | Ann Arbor

From Michigan-themed shirts for baby to science goodies and everything in between, The Little Seedling is your place to shop for Easter basket goodies. Their felt dolls would be perfect for a child who loves pretend play. The alphabet soup game would be great for preschoolers or Kindergarteners!

Modern Natural Baby | Ferndale

Modern Natural Baby is where you can find the Jellycat stuffed animals. They look super soft and we’re pretty sure your child won’t want to ever set one down once they pick it up! Their selection of loveys is perfect for babies, and bigger kids will enjoy these magnetic toys!

Robin’s Nest Gift Baskets | Brownstown

Customized baskets that are kid-friendly and full of fun activities. They can include books, toys, and stuffed animals. Baskets can coordinate with specific themes as well.

Rock Paper Scissors | Ann Arbor + Saline

Rock Paper Scissors is offering a ready-made Easter box for any age. If you choose to have them create a basket for you, you’ll need to place your order by March 22nd. If you’d rather shop yourself, check out their shirts and blocks for baby, or arts and crafts supplies for older kids.

Toyology Toys | Royal Oak

Toyology Toys offers a wide range of fun things for kids of all ages, from science and nature toys to dress-up and pretend play. A search for Easter brings up a huge selection of goodies! This Easter card game sounds like a hit!

Wallflower Mercantile | Brighton

You’ll definitely want to head to their store to check out the full selection, as online ordering isn’t available yet on their website. It looks like they’ve got a wide selection of baby items and toys for kids!

Whistle Stop Hobby and Toy | St. Clair Shores

If you have a bookworm, you’ll love their selection of books that will fit perfectly in an Easter basket! They offer small stuffed animals and fidget toys, and a great selection of arts and crafts supplies. The Easter Stretchy Bunnies are so cute!

For more Easter inspiration and fun, Lindsay shares how to put together the most delicious Easter charcuterie board for kids!

This post was originally written by Whitney Cornelli and updated by Laura Herr in 2024.

Detroit Mom’s Local Love Spotlight: Michigan Pediatric Therapy

Whitney Cornelli

March 13, 2024

Detroit Mom’s Local Love series highlights local women and the businesses they have built. We love supporting small business! Today’s Local Love Spotlight belongs to Magda Girao, owner of Michigan Pediatric Therapy.

To start, we asked Magda to share a few fun facts about herself with us:

She is trained in craniosacral therapy for pediatrics.
She collects angels.
She adopted her son!

We asked Magda to share a little bit more about her business with us next. Get to know her and her business, Michigan Pediatric Therapy, below!

How did you come up with the idea of your business, and how did you start?

“When I brought my son home. He had so many issues that traditional therapy services could not address. I began a journey to learn as much as I could to help him and other children. So I could use all I had learned, I opened up my own practice. I wanted to make a bigger difference for children! [And] I am committed to children to keep moving forward.

“I cashed in my retirement savings account and took a leap of faith. I rented a space, printed business cards, and started marketing my business.”

Knowing what you know now, is there anything you would have done differently when you were first starting out?

“No, the journey taught me to have courage under fire. It taught me to think in the avenues of possibilities.”

What is the best business advice you’ve ever been given?

“Keep generating no matter what it looks like!”

Have you faced adversity in business due to being a woman? How did you navigate that?

“Different men consultants said I did not have what it takes to make it. I navigated by telling them to watch me succeed.”

How do you persevere in challenging times?

“I keep my focus on the children and the difference I want to make. I know God blessed me with a gift to help children. Before I take my last breath, I will make a difference for thousands. I will teach upcoming therapist[s] what I know so that millions can be impacted. Change the world with our knowledge!”

What impact do you want your business to have?

“To become a place where people feel at home and know that we will advance their lives and children’s lives to be successful and living a life of freedom from struggle. When children graduate from our services, parent[s] know that their lives have changed for the better.”

What are the pros and cons of being a woman business owner in 2024?

“Pros: we get to be creative and create from nothing. Our nothing opens up possibilities like a flower blooming.

“Cons: we have to prove ourselves over and over again.”

What knowledge would you share with someone who wants to become an entrepreneur?

“Everyone fails. Failure one day just defines the direction to the next success, arming you with tools and knowledge. This way you know the way.”

What do you do for personal and professional development?

“Mentor, listen to live seminars, watch recorded training videos. I believe in life, there is always more to learn. That makes life exciting!!”

What mantra or quote do you live by?

“Carpe Diem–Seize the day!!!”

What’s your favorite place in Detroit or Michigan?

“True Rest Spa–because it is important to take care of you, too.”

Where can our readers find you on social media?

You can follow Michigan Pediatric Therapy on Facebook, Instagram, and on their website!

We hope you loved getting to know more about Magda + Michigan Pediatric Therapy. Be sure to check out our previous Local Love Spotlight featuring Alicia Long + Sunny Side Up Wellness!

Simple Ideas for Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day With Kids

Laura Herr

March 12, 2024

Let’s face it, the month of March can be dreary. It’s that in-between, muddy, often gray time of year. Enter March 17th: St. Patrick’s Day! This fun holiday is a bright (green?) spot in the middle of the month. But why DO we celebrate St. Patrick’s day?

The holiday once began as a religious observance, because St. Patrick is credited with bringing Christianity to parts of Ireland. Now, the day has become a celebration of the Irish culture. Below, I am sharing some ideas for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with your kids! Spoiler alert: you don’t have to be Irish!

Activities + Games

We love a fun holiday game! Get the kids in the St. Patrick’s Day spirit by kicking off the morning with one of these activities, or as a fun way to decompress after school.

Pin the Tail on the Leprechaun game: here’s a game that’s fun for kids of all ages!
Printable St. Patrick’s day activity sheets: These are so cute and fun for a variety of ages! I love the coloring pages for younger kiddos. Older kids will love the word scramble and crossword puzzle!
Roll a Rainbow dice game: I love this one because all you need is a set of dice! The cute printable game cards are an added bonus. If you don’t want to use the game cards, just assign each number on the dice to a color of the rainbow (a 1 would equal red, 2 is orange, 3 is yellow, etc.) and try to be the first player to roll all the colors of the rainbow.

Books

We’re big readers in our house, and I love having a reason to pick out a new book!

How to Trap a Leprechaun by Sue Fliess: A fun read for the kiddos! The suggested age range is 2-6 years old.
St. Patrick’s Day by Gail Gibbons: This book can help kids understand the tradition behind St Patrick’s Day, as well as learn some Irish history and culture. Recommended for ages 3-7

Crafts

Festive crafts and projects are some of my favorite things to do with my kids! These can work for a range of ages, and you can make it as simple or involved as you like. My daughter’s preschool class made a leprechaun trap last year, and it was a huge hit with the kids!

Leprechaun Hat: Make this adorable leprechaun hat out of popsicle sticks! This one calls for craft foam, but I think you could use construction paper instead.
Leprechaun Hand Print: You can try this one with even the littlest of kiddos, provided they don’t mind paint on their hands! I love how the fingers and thumb become the fringe of the leprachaun’s beard.
Leprechaun Trap: Legend has it that if you capture a leprechaun, he must grant you three wishes in order to be released. Why not build a leprechaun trap with the kids?! A trap can be as simple or as involved as you want. We hear that the best way to lure a leprechaun into your trap is with anything gold and shiny! And, don’t forget rainbows! You can make a trap from materials you have at home, or check out this easy kit.

Food + Snacks

Try one (or all!) of these goodies to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with your kids! You could even pop one into a lunchbox for a festive surprise at school.

Lucky Charms treats: Is it even St. Patrick’s Day if we don’t break out the Lucky Charms cereal?! If you’re looking for a fun treat, try this twist on the classic rice crispy treat recipe.
Rainbow fruit parfait: Cut up fruit in the colors of the rainbow (strawberries, oranges, pineapple, kiwi, blueberries, purple grapes) and layer into clear cups. Top with a dollop of whipped cream or yogurt to look like a cloud!
Soda Bread: A fun way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with kids is to make soda bread, which is a traditional Irish quick bread. The key to making a soda bread that isn’t dry is to not overmix the ingredients. (For a soda bread with some flair, try this one!)
Spinach pancakes (for the green color without food coloring!): Wanting to try something different? Give these pancakes a try! The recipe states that the spinach gives a very neutral flavor, but lots of great green color. Add your favorite toppings for a festive St. Patrick’s Day breakfast!

You don’t need to be Irish in order to have fun this March 17th! I hope you and your family enjoy some of these ideas for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with kids. What things would you add to this list?

You can celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with Irish folk songs, too! Molly shares all about her personal connection to the music.

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Let’s ROAR For 313 Day!

AntonetteSlobodian

March 11, 2024

What does 313 Day mean to you? The crowds are ROARing so loud that you can’t hear for the next couple of days? The Detroit Lions blue painted all around Ford Field with die-hard Detroit Lions fans’ faces showing all sorts of emoji emotions? This is what ONE PRIDE and 313 DAY is all about! Are you ready DETROIT MOMS, once again, to show pride in our city on 313 Day?

To be honest, I never had a number from the 313 area code. However, I did play, got my higher education, and worked in the 313. So, I spent most of my young adulthood galavanting around (as my parents would say) in Detroit. I love the city! I remember when I was a kid calling my mom, who worked at a hospital in Detroit for over 30 years, on the phone almost every shift, saying “Hi, it’s me again . . . can I speak to Luchie?” The number is still ingrained in my ol’ brain: 313.966.4450!

All of us here in the Metro Detroit area have had many stories (some crazy) and memories and still either live, work, or have some special place we call home in the 313. On March 13, us Detroiters will celebrate the best we can! And if you need a few ideas, you know we’ve got you covered. Here are some great family events to check out for 313 Day!

313 Day Celebration

The Local 4 team, Detroit Riverfront Conservancy, and Raise the Flag together have packed this day full of fun for all ages!

When: March 13 (313 Day), from 3:13-7:00 p.m.
Where: 2670 Atwater St. Detroit, MI 48207 (Robert C. Valade Park)
What to expect: Music, comedy, trivia, and more

The best thing about this event is that it’s completely FREE and family-friendly. What better way is there to celebrate this great city than by enjoying the spectacular views of the Detroit River and all of the new developments such as the Southwest Greenway, which connects Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park with the Michigan Central Mobility Innovation District, and is a key part of the 27.5 mile Joe Louis Greenway!

Detroit vs. Everybody Pop-Up

Tommey Walker of Detroit vs. Everybody is celebrating 313 Day by showcasing a pop-up exhibit of garments, accessories, and art at the Detroit Historical Museum and it’s FREE!

When: March 13, at 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Where: Detroit Historical Museum (5401 Woodward Ave., Detroit MI 48202)
What to expect: Enjoy the rich heritage of Detroit by walking through the ol’ streets of Detroit and explore vignettes curated by Walker and the Detroit vs. Everybody team around the museum, highlighting each crevice of Detroit’s history and how the 313 was back in the day. Tell all your friends and family and have a great time down memory lane while taking great photos for the ‘gram!

The museum with Detroit vs. Everybody is such a natural collab as the brand “embodies the pride and unapologetic spirit of our beloved Detroit!” So grab your boos and your DvE shirts and have fun!

Mister Dips at the Shinola Hotel

At the Shinola Hotel, Mister Dips will be serving menu items for $3.13. Let’s get down in the D with Mister Dips on 313 Day!

When: On March 13 from 12:00-10:00 p.m.
Where: Mister Dips (19 East Grand River Detroit, MI 48226; in Parker’s Alley adjoining the Shinola Hotel)
What to expect: Burgers, ice cream, fries, and more for only $3.13. A Detroit kid’s dream dinner!

This sounds like a perfect meal for the whole family to enjoy while enjoying the downtown feels with our ONE PRIDE community and family! Make sure to take a walk through the gorgeous Shinola Hotel after your delicious treats. The hotel will make you feel like the royal family you are!

Whether you celebrate 313 Day at one of these fantabulous events, or at your humble abode, being grateful for the D-lightful city we live in; spend it with the people you love the most!

Looking for more ways to get out and explore? Check out Lauren’s list of indoor cold weather ideas for kids!

Homegrown Bouquets: How to Start Your Own Cut Flower Garden

Megan Moore

March 11, 2024

A year ago or so, my husband and I decided to try a cut flower garden after hearing about the results from a friend. Just from a single raised bed and a few pots, she created gorgeous small bouquets to adorn her house and gift to neighbors. In fact, her blooms were so prolific that she started a system where recipients of a bouquet could bring back their empty jar, and she would refill it for free.

Thanks to a sweeping variety of plants and a vast library of knowledge shared by other gardeners on social media, creating your own cut flower garden might be simpler than you think!

How to Get Started With a Cut Flower Garden

It’s best to start small until you figure out how many flowers you’ll readily use, and what types of blooms you like. Once you nail down the basics, the opportunities to fill more beds with other gorgeous plants are practically endless.

1. Select your location.

You know the adage: “location, location, location.” There are a few factors that go into choosing the perfect spot for your garden. To get a decent bounty of flowers, you’ll likely want to use a flower bed, either raised or in-ground. You may already have an open bed just waiting to be planted, or you might need to create one. Whichever spot you choose, be sure it receives plenty of sunshine and has an adequate growing medium–generally well-draining, rich soil.

It’s also important to think about how your flower bed will match your overall outdoor aesthetic. For some, having a lot of chopped-off stalks and a bed that can be semi-barren sometimes isn’t important. However, others might prefer to put their cut flower garden in a more inconspicuous location. After all, the purpose of this garden is to harvest instead of act as landscaping.

2. Start planning what to plant.

Well before the growing season, figure out which types of foliage and flowers you want to plant. You can choose annuals (a single-year producer) and perennials (a producer that comes back yearly, more or less). Annuals like Ageratum, Cosmos, Bachelor’s Button, and Zinnia are a few favorites. Perennials great for cutting include Aster, Anemones, or Foxglove*.

*As a mom, I think it’s important to check the toxicity of plants, especially those you will have near your home and plan to bring inside as bouquets. Some varieties that are great for cutting are also toxic. If you have younger, curious children, you may want to avoid planting these types!

Some prized flowers, like Dahlias, are excellent for cutting but don’t necessarily fall into either category for Michigan residents. Dahlias have tender bulbs that won’t survive our winters, but you can dig them up in the fall, store them in your basement, and replant them in the warmer months!

Choosing Flower Varieties

There are too many flower varieties to list, but in general, here are a few things to look for when deciding what to plant.

Longer stems. It’s great to have flowers of varying heights, but some are just too short. Longer stems can help ensure your flowers can be used in bouquets for vases or jars.
Consider texture, color, and size. Bouquets are like an artist’s palette; they should be varied in texture, color, and size. For example, you might choose spherical and smaller Ball Dahlias as well as tall and angular Larkspur. Or soft Aster contrasted with harsher, more angular Black Eyed Susan. Still, the colors should complement one another, so take note of what all the flowers’ hues might look like together in a bundle.
Note bloom time. Some plants bloom in early spring and stop when the weather gets warm (like our favorite, Ranunculus). Others are mid to late-summer bloomers, such as many Dahlias. If you want to keep your cut flower garden producing all season long, consider each plant’s individual bloom time and season.
Don’t forget foliage. Getting caught up with all the colorful, vibrant flower options is easy. However, greenery is a bouquet essential, and often used as a filler. Dusty Miller, Bunny Tail Grass, Eucalyptus, or herbs such as Basil or Mint can all be excellent additions to your cutting garden!

Planting and Caring For Your Garden

Many cut-flower gardeners plant their flowers in rows to keep things tidy and make gardening easier. You’ll still want to note the plant’s bloom times, though, so that you can stagger your planting to ensure something is always flowering.

Like a vegetable or herb garden, cut flower gardens require regular watering, weeding, and feeding. Unlike your veggie patch, you’ll also need to follow each plant’s instructions for deadheading. Deadheading is the practice of removing spent (or dead) flower heads to encourage new blooms. It’s often best to do this with shears.

You will also want to use sharp, clean shears to collect your harvest. Typically, it’s advised to snip flowers in the early morning or evening to avoid further stressing the plants in the hottest, harshest parts of the day.

Have fun with it!

Even if you tie a handful of flowers together with a bundle of kitchen twine, it’s likely your friend or neighbor will be more than happy to receive the vibrant, floral surprise. Cut flower gardens are meant to be enjoyed by everyone. Don’t be afraid to share your newfound hobby, even if your bouquets look nothing like the armfuls sold in stores. With a little planning and tender love, you’ll have homegrown gifts to share all season long!

A cut flower garden might be something you do solely for yourself, and that’s perfectly okay. Read Natasha’s tips for how to prioritize yourself again in motherhood.

Day in the Life of a Metro Detroit Muslim Family During Ramadan

RanaMakki

March 9, 2024

It’s officially Ramadan 2024. There are a few fundamental Ramadan facts that continuously hold true year after year:

Ramadan is about a month long. This year it starts on March 11th and ends around April 10th, 2024.
Muslims fast during the month of Ramadan from sunrise to sunset. Read my post “How My Family is Celebrating Ramadan” to learn more about Ramadan itself.
Many Muslims find their days and routines flip-flop during the month of Ramadan. This is due to the demands and daily changes fasting can incur.

I’ve spent the last few weeks preparing my home, family, and even our lifestyle for a successful Ramadan. This is because our day starts early before the sun even rises, and ends way past sunset.

Are you wondering how Muslims spend their time during this month and what makes it so special? Curious what a typical Detroit-based Muslim family’s daily routine might be during Ramadan? Keep reading to see what our typical daily life is like during this beautiful and holy month!

5:30 a.m.

We’re starting off the month with a 5:30 a.m. wake up. This gets earlier as the month progresses, so by the end we’ll be waking up earlier–at around 4:45 a.m. We’re awake this early to get in a super early breakfast during a meal called Suhoor, which must be complete before sunrise.

My favorite thing to have this early—a hot cup of coffee. (And very much needed, I might add.) While many Muslims might choose to forego their morning cup of coffee at Suhoor—along with a caffeine withdrawal the week before Ramdan—I’ve found that I do better with it, so now I drink mine at Suhoor.

Suhoor meals are protein-packed foods to keep us full during the day. Some of my family’s personal favorites for this early meal include egg omelets (my girls love them with cheddar cheese), overnight oats, protein waffles and pancakes, bagels and cream cheese, etc. As a special Suhoor treat I also buy my girls their favorite sugary cereals that aren’t allowed through my front door during the rest of the year.

After finishing our early breakfast and guzzling down what seems like a gallon of water, we have a few more minutes before morning prayer. Muslims complete five prayers during the day—the first happening before sunrise. Frequent prayer helps us constantly be reminded of God’s blessings and remain steadfast in our faith.

We’ll read from our Quran books, and about 15 minutes later it’s time to pray. If it’s a weekend and my kids don’t have school we’ll do a family prayer together. But since today is a weekday, they’re going to pray alone and then head back to bed for a few more hours before school.

6:00 a.m.

This is one of my favorite times of the day in general for me—and especially during Ramadan. I’m sure every mom—whether Muslim or not—can relate. Since the rest of my family is asleep, I blissfully get the quiet house to myself.

Fueled on that suhoor cup of coffee, I’ll sit to peacefully get some work done for the next couple hours. As a stay-at-home mom and writer, these moments of quiet are indispensable to me. I’ll break these two hours up into work time, and Quran reading time.

During Ramadan, Quran recitation is at the forefront of Muslims’ religious actions. This is because we believe the Quran was completed during this month. So I like to get cozy with a blanket on my empty living room couch, and read my Quran peacefully, as I’m better able to focus on it during this time.

After that I might pull out my laptop and catch up on some work before I see the sun coming up and it’s time to get my kiddos ready for school.

9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

My kids are in school, so I try to get as much done as I can with them out of the house. Yet another aspect many of you moms can relate to as well! I try to finish any time-consuming work early in Ramadan. (Thank goodness for that Suhoor cup of coffee again!) This means grocery shopping; washing, chopping, and preparing all the produce and whatever prep I can get out of the way for dinner. I find this cuts down significantly on time during that Iftar dinner rush. Iftar is the meal we break our fast with at sunset—usually dinner.

After dinner is prepped, I’ll move on to general house stuff such as cleaning, organizing, laundry, etc. Again, the game plan here is get it all done while that jolt of caffeine is still in my veins!

1:00-3:00 p.m.

Once I’m done with all my household chores and dinner is prepped and ready in the fridge, around this time is where I’ll pray my afternoon prayers. Then comes one of my favorite parts of my day where I sit again to complete any writing and desk tasks.

I’ll also save some time before picking up my kids to reopen my Quran and read some more of the chapter I started in the morning. Sometimes I’m able to complete it now, and sometimes I’ll have a little bit left for later. Being that Arabic is my second language, I’m a little slower at reading it. So it takes me a bit longer to finish up that Quran chapter. But the pride and accomplishment I feel afterwards is priceless, and makes the harder work so worthwhile!

4:00-5:00 p.m.

My kids are picked up from school. Another huge change for my family during Ramadan is that we have less extracurricular activities during this month.

I allow us much more “free rest time” together on the weekdays during Ramadan. For us that means more television, reading, and play time. Which also makes this month more special for my kids, as they look forward to our stricter rules being bent a little while they’re fasting.

So for this next hour we’re winding down from school and watching television together. One of our favorite shows to watch together? Full House! I got my kids into it, and now it’s become a Ramadan tradition for us to catch one episode every afternoon after school!

5:00-7:00 p.m.

Full House is over and now it’s time for homework. Since we don’t have any extracurricular activity disruptions, I can give my kids my full attention while we do this. This is another aspect of this beautiful month I look forward to: our “family time” is maximized. The “evening rush” usually disrupting our time together is much slower.

I can sit to do homework with my kids for longer. There is no worrying about rushing for karate class, or my listening to them practicing piano from the kitchen while I multitask to be done before our next activity. We’re able to take our time completing all these tasks, and possibly still have time to read a book, watch TV, and/or go for a walk together if it’s warmer.

My kids will also get ready for bed at this time. On a normal night we’d do this pre-bedtime prep routine after dinner. But Iftar dinner is a major event of the Ramadan day. Since Iftar is close to bedtime, our focus and energy is about to shift greatly for these last few hours of the day.

7:00-8:00 p.m.

Here it is folks: the dinner rush to end all dinner rushes! Preparing Iftar dinner is like being on a cooking show where you’re cooking as fast as you can, racing to beat the clock—where the ideal finish line is even before the clock ends.

Because when that minute hand hits Iftar time—around 8:00 in this case–the entire household is eating at the exact same time. So dinner can’t be late even by a few minutes. This is where that dinner prep I did earlier comes in handy. Since everything is pretty much prepared it doesn’t take long to heat things up, or take out what I need from the fridge.

On the flip side though, the entire household is eating at the exact same time. For 30 days straight. We all sit down together at the exact same time every night for 30 days. The only time of the entire year that we do. And they’re the most special meals I have the fondest memories of.

8:00-9:00 p.m.

As far as what’s for Iftar dinner? This really depends on the day. There are some foods associated with Ramadan and Iftar, but the general rule of thumb is nourishing and hydrating foods after a long day of fasting.

Most Iftar meals usually consist of dates which are an Islamic tradition, and both a soup and a salad because they’re nutritious and hydrating. There will also be a protein as a main course, as well as some carbohydrate-rich foods as sides. On this particular day we’re having dates, lentil soup, fattoush, spring rolls, hamburgers, and french fries.

While I know many people who will plan out their entire menus for the whole 30 days, I only plan them out weekly, depending on what we’re all craving. And if there’s one thing I love to do in Ramadan: it’s honor our delicious cravings!

After Iftar everyone pitches in to clean up, because more hands make light work. We complete our evening prayers, and then it’s off to bed for my kiddos.

As for my husband and I, this hour is another “time” perk Ramadan gave back to me. Since we finished dinner together, we get to relax in the evening together after dinner too. On a regular day we’d both be ending dinner at different times due to our differing work and extracurricular schedules. But in Ramadan during this hour, we get to enjoy a post-Iftar cup of coffee together as we watch a live-streamed Ramadan Islamic lecture.

10:00-11:00 p.m.

I’ll usually end the night with a TV show. Right now I’m currently watching This is Us. Then it’s off to bed and wake up again at 5:30 a.m. to do it all over again.

I hope reading this “day in the life–Ramadan style” helped you see what a typical day is like for my family during Ramadan. Some aspects of the month, such as fasting, require us to maneuver our day a bit to meet its demands. But other aspects such as the time spent with family—is truly a gift given back to us in exchange.

Lastly, to anyone also celebrating Ramadan, I bid you a beautiful Ramadan Kareem!

There are many things to learn about Ramadan. Faten is sharing a little bit about what she’s learned about sacrifice, self-discipline, and gratitude.

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