True Kindergarten Readiness + Tips to Get There

August 11, 2024

Don’t worry, summer isn’t over quite yet! But, if you have a soon-to-be kindergartener, there are some things you and your child can work on before school does start in the fall.

If you haven’t had a school-aged child yet, it’s important to know that kindergarten is quite different than it was years ago. While there’s still plenty of time for play and fun, there’s also a lot of time dedicated to academic learning. Students are encouraged to be independent and responsible.

Kindergarten sets the stage for your child’s school career, and no one wants to start out behind. It’s a big transition for all, so to ensure that your child hits the ground running, here is a list of kindergarten readiness skills from a certified public school kindergarten teacher. There’s even a bonus at the end—a parent readiness checklist for you!

SELF-CARE SKILLS

Self-care skills are those things that we adults do every day, automatically. They are second nature to us, but our kids need explicit instruction in order to successfully care for their own needs.

Bathroom Needs

This one might seem obvious, but let me remind you of the not-so-obvious. Using the bathroom at home is a bit different than using it at school. When at school, remind your kiddo to close the door! Work on wiping independently (especially after number two). Students should not be afraid to flush and they need to know how to pull up their clothing afterward.

Bonus: teach your boys to wipe the seat if they dribble. And, teach your girls how to make sure their dress isn’t stuck in their undies!

Blowing Their Nose

This is a big one for kindergarten readiness! With school comes germs. The boogers come and never seem to go. Kids should be able to blow their nose and wipe it independently. No nose picking! The book Blow Your Nose, Big Bad Wolf is great for teaching this.

Cleaning Up

Spills and crumbs are inevitable with little ones. Prepare your kiddo by talking about how to clean up water spills, how to handle crumbs on the table, and remind them to throw away their garbage. The book Curious George Cleans Up is a silly story with a great segue into these topics.

Clothing Needs

It’s okay if your child can’t yet zip, snap, or tie 100% of the time. However, please be conscious of this when getting them dressed for school. If your child can’t snap buttons yet, putting them in jeans might not be the best idea.

The same rule applies to tennis shoes; we don’t expect kindergarteners to be able to tie their own shoes, but we also don’t want to tie 28 pairs of shoes three times a day. Stick to easy shoes for your kiddo whenever possible.

Zipping is another task you and your child should practice this summer. And, kindergarteners should be able to take off and put on sweaters or coats independently. This one often isn’t thought of, but it’s a helpful thing to know! Practice taking a sweatshirt off and if the sleeves are inside out, teach your child how to get them back the right way.

Lunch Time Needs

Raise your hand if your little rascals get up fourteen times during lunch and take an hour to eat! (Mine!) Well, in school, kids have about 25 minutes to eat. This summer, set a timer and have your little one practice staying in their seat and eating the entire time. Additionally, your child is ready for kindergarten if they can unzip their own lunchbox, open containers and packages, and zip up plastic bags.

Washing Hands

Practice using the appropriate amount of soap and paper towel, not playing in the water, and turning it off when done.

SOCIAL SKILLS

Social skills are the ability to get along with others. Students will encounter children and adults with many different personalities and rules. Starting kindergarten with a strong sense of speaking and listening will set your child up for success.

Attention Span

Your new kindergartener should be able to sit and listen to an adult-directed activity for approximately 5-10 minutes.

Expressing Wants/Needs

Kindergarten kiddos should be able to clearly and calmly express themselves. For example: “I need a blue crayon please.”

Following 2- to 3-Step Directions

For example: push in your chair, get your coat, and line up.

Sharing + Taking Turns

This is another obvious one, but it takes a lot of practice and role playing. Model asking your child, “Can I play with you?” or “Can I have a turn when you’re done?” Read the book Can I Play Too? by Mo Willems together.

Speaking in Complete Sentences

Instead of just, “pencil,” children should be saying, “I don’t have a pencil.”

Waiting Patiently

The majority of kindergarten classes have one teacher for 25-30 students. Patience is a must. Help your child practice waiting quietly without interrupting, such as when you’re having a conversation with another adult.

EMOTIONAL REGULATION SKILLS

Emotional regulation is an essential life skill and an important part of kindergarten readiness. It’s the ability to recognize your emotions whilst also expressing them appropriately. This is an ongoing learning process, but students should have the basics when entering kindergarten.

Accepting Losing

Be sure to play lots of games at home this summer, and don’t always let your child win. Coping with loss is an important skill and knowing how to manage this before starting school will be very beneficial. Kindergarten is full of fun and games!

Controlling Strong Emotions

It’s expected that five-year-olds will have big feelings in school. At this age, students should be able to manage those emotions the majority of the time. They aren’t ready for kindergarten if they are having tantrums, throwing objects, or being physical when upset. The book Millie Fierce by Jane Manning is a great way to start this discussion with your little one.

Expressing Feelings

If upset, students should be able to explain why or what happened.

Separating from Parents

The first days of school are rough on everyone! If your child (or you!) cry at drop-off the first week, don’t fret. That’s normal. However, it shouldn’t be a daily occurrence. If your kiddo can calm down quickly once class starts, they are ready for kindergarten! There are a plethora of books to read to help prepare your child for this transition without you. One of my favorites is Clifford Goes to Kindergarten.

Solving Minor Problems

For example: what to do when there are wood chips in their shoes.

ACADEMIC SKILLS

When you hear kindergarten readiness, academic skills are probably what you think about. For kindergarteners, this is mainly a combination of alphabetic principles, number sense, and fine motor skills.

Alphabet

By the time they enter kindergarten, students should know the ABC song. It is wonderful if your child recognizes some uppercase and lowercase letters, too.

If your child is struggling with letter recognition, start by just recognizing the letters in their name. When you’re out and about, be sure to point out letters, too. For example: the McDonald’s M or the letters on street signs when you’re on a walk.

Art

By the age of five, children should know the basic colors and shapes. They should also be familiar with what is acceptable to color, cut, and glue.

Fine Motor

Children will continue to develop and strengthen their fine motor skills throughout the year. Before starting school, work with your child on correct pencil grip. They should not hold a writing utensil with their fist anymore; if you notice this, correct it every time. Grips are a habit, and it is harder to correct later on down the road.

I encourage you to allow your child to experiment with kid-safe scissors, again correcting the grip when necessary. Children should also have prior experience with tracing, coloring, and putting the tops on markers and glue sticks.

Name

For many, kindergarten is their first exposure to a school setting. There are names everywhere: desks, cubbies, folders, book bags, etc. It is essential that incoming kindergarteners are able to recognize their first name. When asked orally, they should be able to verbalize their first and last name, along with their age.

Numbers

Entering kindergarteners should be able to count to 20 and recognize a handful of numbers 0-10. It’s expected that they can use one-to-one correspondence when counting a small number of items in a set.

PARENT READINESS + RESPONSIBILITY

You may be excited to have more time to yourself now that your little one is going to be at school full-time. However, when it comes to kindergarten readiness, there are some responsibilities you will have now, too! Parents/guardians play a huge role in a child’s success. Being informed and involved with your child’s education is the best thing you can do.

Ask Questions

One of the best things you can do is talk to your child about his/her day! If you want to avoid the dreaded “I don’t know” response when you inquire, make your questions specific. Here are some examples: What book did the teacher read today? Who did you play with at recess? Was there a song you sang today?

Be Prepared for Tired Kids

The first month of kindergarten is exhausting! Those little loves are listening, learning, growing, connecting, and playing nonstop all day. Give them a break when they get home. Just like we adults enjoy relaxing after a long day, so do our kiddos.

Can Separate From Child

Easier said than done, I know! But, your child needs to know that you are okay so that they know they will be okay. You can totally cry once you’re out of eyesight!

Check Backpack Daily

You never know what you’re going to find in there! Hopefully you just see their folder full of fantastic work, but you’ll want to keep an eye out for spilled snacks, mysterious toys, library books, and possibly even a bundle of dandelions.

Label Everything

By October, the lost-and-found area looks like a full-on thrift store. Kids leave their coats on the playground never to be seen again. Unless . . . it has their name on it. Label it all: jackets, backpacks, lunch boxes and containers, school supplies, water bottles, winter gear. If you want it back, label it.

Bonus: seeing their name on everything will help your child recognize and spell it!

Read E-mails/Messages

With today’s technology, teachers and parents can stay connected easily. It’s often easier (and more eco-friendly) to send home an electronic note rather than a paper one, so be sure to read your e-mail daily.

Set a Routine

Children thrive on structure and routine. They need consistency and need to know what to expect. If you want to alleviate battles and meltdowns, as a family, create a routine for the evenings and mornings. A smooth morning at home translates to a smooth day at school!

Take some time this month to work on kindergarten readiness with your child. Remember that kindergarten readiness is not all about academics, but rather a slew of social and emotional skills that will foster your child’s independence for years to come. I know that kindergarten will be an amazing experience for you and your child!

Sending your child to Kindergarten can be full of SO many emotions. Read Steffanie’s beautiful letter to her Kindergartener!

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The Impact of Black Businesses | Let’s Talk About It

CarminIssa

August 10, 2024

August is National Black Business Month, created back in 2004 by historian John William Templeton and engineer Federick E. Jordan, Sr. This annual celebration was created to celebrate the economic contributions that Black businesses have offered since the beginning of time.

According to National Today:

“Approximately 10% of all American businesses are black-owned, and if we look at what statistics say about minority-owned businesses, about 30% of these would belong to black business owners. The primary sectors in which black-owned businesses operate include health care, social work, repair and maintenance, beauty salons, restaurants, and more. Black businesses across the country are booming and on the rise, with Washington D.C. having the highest ratio of black-owned businesses, a whopping 28%.”

How can you offer your support?

It is not enough to know that this month exists; action should be taken. Here are some ideas for how you can use this month to uplift Black business:

Buy the things.

Black-owned businesses offer a variety of items to consume. They offer services as well! Do some research. Find local Black-owned businesses (or ones that are online) to spend your dollars at.

Commit to learning.

Find causes that support Black-owned businesses; the NAACP and the Small Business Administration are great places to start. These organizations have tangible ways they offer resources to Black-owned businesses that help them scale and become successful.

Interact on social media.

It doesn’t cost a thing to share, like, and comment under someone’s business. In our day of technology, it is all about the algorithm! The more businesses are shared, the more eyes can come to them and possibly generate business.

Share your stories.

Shared experiences are important to build community. Talk to your community about a time you had a wonderful experience with a Black business.

Some of My Favorite Black-Owned Businesses

Something I take pride in is supporting Black-owned businesses as much as possible. Everyone wants to be able to see themselves in their work, their community, and when they shop! Here are a few of my favorite Black-owned brands and businesses that I encourage you all to try this month.

Be Rooted

Found in your local Target, founder Jasmine Foster has all your planner needs to stay organized! She provides the most lovely and inclusive planners. It doesn’t stop there, though–Be Rooted also offers home goods and materials to elevate your office space!

Fancy Homebody

I fell in love with this brand in the middle of the pandemic. Founder Vanessa Bouies offers a chic and comfortable take on fashion. My favorite pieces are her luxurious robe, and the most comfy and fashionable short set. I can wear it lounging around the house or when I go out to run errands.

FBF Body

When you see me out and about, especially in the gym, there’s a 10 out of 10 chance you will see me in FBF apparel! Founder Zakia Blain says that she sells confidence–and she is not wrong! When I wear her brand, I feel good about myself and how I look. FBF is known for their signature shapewear and athleisure wear. I am not biased when I say she has the BEST leggings that are NEVER see-through and have great compression.

Glam-Aholic

Born and raised in Detroit, MiaRay is a pinnacle for Black excellence. She has been highlighted locally and in Forbes magazine. She started with a blog that soon expanded and is now the multi-million dollar brand, Glam-Aholic.

Glam-Aholic offers a luxury experience for the everyday girl. They offer a variety of hand bags, travel sets, cosmetic bags, and more. The cosmetic bag is my favorite because it was created in a collaboration with another successful Black-owned business, The Lip Bar.

Source Booksellers | Detroit

Janet Webster Jones is a jewel in the Detroit community. The brick and mortar store, opened in 2002, houses much more than books. Visiting the bookstore is an enriching experience, and if you’re lucky you can attend a class or event that is sure to highlight the rich African history. They also offer online shopping that has helped expand their business.

The Lip Bar

Melissa Butler was rejected on live TV on Shark Tank in her pursuit to build her brand and business. The Lip Bar products are now housed in locations like CVS, Meijer, Target, and Walmart. She has one flagship store located in Downtown Detroit. She is known for her vegan-friendly beauty products and now, the five minute face. I am obsessed with every product. My favorite is the 3-in-1 tinted moisturizer!

These products just scratch the surface of what and how Black people show up in business. Black businesses are woven into the fabric of our country and should have the equity to thrive.

Supporting local businesses should happen every month of the year. For more local businesses to support, check out our guide to Black-Owned Businesses to Try In + Around Detroit.

The Parenting Post | Easing Back-to-School Anxiety

Detroit Mom

August 9, 2024

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

Do you have a parenting hurdle you’re working through? If so, “The Parenting Post” is for you! One of our writers, Albiona, has been answering all of YOUR parenting questions over on IG, and we’ve turned her series into blog posts on our website as well. We just can’t get enough of her helpful advice, and we thought you’d appreciate it, too!

Her videos cover a wide variety of parenting questions–honestly, anything and everything! If it’s something you’re wondering, there’s a really good chance that another parent in our community is struggling with it, too. And Albiona is here to help!

This week, she’s focusing on all the fresh feelings that can come with a new school year. How do we help our kids feel less anxious about going back to school? Well, it starts with us: the parents. So the real question is, how can we help ourselves with back-to-school anxiety, so that how we feel can trickle down to our kids and keep them feeling at ease, too?

How do we help our kids feel less anxious about going back to school?

Anxiety comes in many forms. Your child might be having moments where things feel challenging. Or, they could feel really anxious or nervous about their school day or taking a test. Parents have a huge hand in this, but not in the way that we would think. A lot of times what we think to do is to try to calm our kids and really build them up, praise them, and let them know that everything’s okay. We reassure them. And doing those things is important.

But with back-to-school anxiety, there is sort of a direct connection between how a parent is presenting themselves and how their child is feeling. How much anxiety do you have around your child’s performance at school? How much anxiety do you have letting go and watching your child go through the school day without you? In school, kids might feel pressure around test scores, testing, and grading. There’s a lot that’s really stressing them out already.

The problem is, I think we are just as anxious and just as stressed about grades and end results. And because our kids are so observant, they are picking up on that anxiety that we have around a possible fail or bad grade. So children have all this pressure when they’re going into school because they feel that we’re waiting to see how they’re going to do.

To start, try to be a little more self-reflective.

Think about what it all really means–the grading and test scores. For example, if your child was not getting really great grades and test scores, what would that look like for you? Could you detach from that idea if that’s who they’re supposed to be?

When I used to go to my kids’ elementary school conferences, often the teacher was prepared and excited to talk about their progress. She had all of their report cards and test scores ready and waiting. But I was more concerned with who they were in school. Do they raise their hand and participate? Do they help a child who’s struggling? Are they respectful of other kids? Are they mindful? Those were the things I wanted to know.

It didn’t concern me what their test scores were. Or, whatever the sort of end result that they were looking to share with me was. This might not be effective for every single parent, but it was really important to me that I laid that groundwork out for my kids: that there was so much more in the process, and I wasn’t going to put all this time into worrying about what the end result was.

Remember that each child is working through their own unique process.

My kids are older now, and they’re both great students. So it’s not to say that our kids have to be scared and afraid that if they are not doing well at school, some terrible thing will happen. I think we just really need to let it unfold and get comfortable with the idea that our kids are also in their own process. When a parent dials down their anxiety level around performance at school, their child’s anxiety level starts to come right down too. They’re pretty connected. So consider your own role in that process.

And, remember to be aware of how you are presenting your feelings when things don’t go according to plan. If your child says they didn’t do great on a test or assignment, they feel whatever your first initial reaction is–even if you’re trying to conceal it. So be very aware of how you’re presenting in that moment. It’s really important that we’re not piling on the pressure around that end result. Don’t forget about the process to get there.

Kids are always learning. They are always developing a test score. A grade is not indicative of how well your child learns or whether they can or can’t learn. Think of yourself in that process. Let your kids know that at the end of the day, it is really connected to the process. They want to make sure they’re doing right by you. They want to make sure that they’re achieving the things they’re supposed to achieve. But let’s reframe that a little so we can talk to them about how there is so much more in this world, and an A or a B or a perfect score or no mistakes doesn’t have to be the end goal.

Is your child ready to make new friends this year at school? Check out our previous Parenting Post that offers tips for how to help our kids navigate their friendships.

Detroit Mom’s Travel Series: Traverse City

LaurenDalton

August 8, 2024

We were blessed with a year of travel last year. Making it a point to do several two- or three-night trips within driving distance, our second to last trip last year was to Traverse City. We got up north just in time for peak fall colors . . . and it was breathtaking! Truly something a photo could never capture.

Traverse City is a perfect family-friendly getaway for all seasons. With its beautiful beaches, wonderful natural wonders, plethora of amazing restaurants, and fantastic ski resorts within a short drive, it really is a year-round destination. Come along with our family as we recap our adventure and share some of our favorites from the Cherry Capital.

Sample Itinerary

Day 1

1:00-4:00 p.m. | Manistee National Forest | Kings Hwy, Luther, 49656
We recently got a Jeep Wrangler so we made a pit stop to take it driving on one of the ORV trails. Manistee National Forest also has many wonderful hiking trails!

7:00-8:00 p.m. | Blue Tractor BBQ | 423 S Union St, Traverse City, 49684
This was a great and quick, easy, sit down-style restaurant to end our long day. To this day, it has the best chips and queso I have ever had!

8:30 p.m. | Tru Hotel | 3572 N US31 S, Traverse City, 49684
We spent our first two nights at Tru. This is a fantastic, affordable, modern hotel for families. It offers free breakfast and a fun common area with foosball and games.

Day 2

9:00 a.m. | Tru Hotel
Tru offers free breakfast. Any way I can save money during our travels is a plus in our book! They also have the coolest pancake maker I have ever seen at a hotel.

10:00 a.m. | Great Lakes Children’s Museum | 13240 S. West Bay Shore Dr., Traverse City, 49684
We had a day full of hiking planned but with cold rain all day in the forecast, we had to switch things up a bit. We headed to the Children’s Museum and the kids had a blast playing all morning.

1:00 p.m. | Tru Hotel
I had packed lunch to bring, so we ate back at the hotel and allowed the kids a little time to rest.

2:00 p.m. | Sleeping Bear Dunes | 9922 Front Street, Empire, 49630
With a small break in the rain we headed out to Sleeping Bear Dunes Park. The views were breathtaking but I will note, this is NOT the hike you want to take where you see that steep drop off you see on Instagram or TikTok. We learned this after we climbed eight dunes.

4:00 p.m. | Sleeping Bear Dunes | Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive
After much research, my husband found where everyone was climbing up and down the steep dune. After a few drive off scenic looks we finally got to that insta-worthy view, and all I can say is . . . WOW!

6:00 p.m. | Hop Lot |658 S W Bay Shore Dr., Suttons Bay, 49682
This was one of the most recommended breweries to try out with kids. We ended up having to eat inside due to the rain, but I can only imagine the fun it would be for a family during nice weather!

Day 3

9:00 a.m. | Tru Hotel
We again started out our day with breakfast at the hotel.

10:00 a.m. | Mission Point Light House | 20500 Center Rd, Traverse City, 49686
We made our way up Old Mission Peninsula to the lighthouse and Hessler Log Cabin. For a small fee, we were able to climb to the top of the lighthouse.

12:00 p.m. | The Little Fleet |448 E Front St., Traverse City, 49686
Our best friend made the drive up for the night and we met for lunch at The Little Fleet. This is an awesome option for families and groups because it allows everyone to choose what they want from the different food trucks!

2:00 p.m. | Great Wolf Lodge | 3575 N US 31 S, Traverse City 49684
We checked in early and our rooms were ready, so we unpacked and then headed to the water park.

7:00 p.m. | Hungry as a Wolf
We ordered pizza and took it back to our room for dinner.

8:00 p.m. | Ten Paw Alley
Great Wolf Lodge has mini bowling, which was perfect for our toddlers.

9:00 p.m. | Great Wolf Lodge
Our night ended with a spooky dance party.

Day 4

9:00 a.m. | Camp Critter
We woke up and had the buffet breakfast. They also had made-to-order omelets!

10:00 a.m. | Great Wolf Lodge
We spent the rest of our morning at the water park.

1:00 p.m. | Chic-fil-A | 2700 N US Highway 31 S, Traverse City, 49684
We did a quick lunch at Chic-fil-A before we made our trek back to Metro Detroit.

Attractions You Must Visit

Great Lakes Children’s Museum
With water features, indoor slides, and lots of pretend play, kids can have fun for hours.

Mission Point Lighthouse
A beautiful spot at the point of the peninsula.

Sleeping Bear Dunes
One of the many great natural wonders of our state–it is definitely something to see in your lifetime!

Favorite Coffee Shops

Higher Grounds Coffee | 806 Red Dr, Ste 150, Traverse City, 49684
Coffee that is roasted on-site, which can be enjoyed inside or on the patio. They also offer kids coco and steamer drinks.

Morsels | 321 E Front St., Traverse City, 49684
Coffee, espresso, and quick eats such as 2-bite treats, sandwiches, and yogurt parfaits.

Mundos Roasting and Co | Multiple locations
With three locations to serve Traverse City, they fresh roast their coffee beans each Tuesday. Their crepes look amazing!

Favorite Date Night Spots

Chateau Chantal |15900 Rue de Vin, Traverse City, 49686
With one of the most breathtaking views on Old Mission Peninsula, this is is the perfect spot for loved ones to enjoy one of the tasting experiences.

Firefly Kitchen & Bars | 310 Cass St., Traverse City, 49684
From super creative small plates and sushi to many burgers and sandwiches, this place can tantalize any taste bud. They also offer a large cocktail menu.

Trattoria Stella | 830 Cottageview Drive, Suite G01, Traverse City, 49684
Set in the former state hospital, this fine dining Italian restaurant offers both amazing food and architectural history . . . and perhaps a little paranormal activity.

Favorite Kid-Friendly Spots

Hop Lot Brewing
With the brewery set back into the woods, their beer garden offers fire pits and outdoor games–all in a beautiful setting.

Jacob’s Farm | 7100 E Traverse Highway, Traverse City 49684
A 40-acre farm that offers amazing food and drinks, live music, and a corn maze.

The Little Fleet
Several food trucks surrounded the outdoor seating area, allowing groups to pick the food style of their choice. They also offer a full bar.

Favorite Places for Sweet Treats

Common Good Bakery | Multiple locations
There are two locations in Traverse City to feed your heart and soul, both savory and sweet.

Milk and Honey | 240 E Front St., Traverse City, 49684
100% homemade ice cream with flavors that vary from birthday cake to cherries jubilee. They also offer vegan, keto, and sugar free options!

Peace, Love, and Little Donuts | 441 E Front St., Traverse City, 49686
There is nothing quite like a fresh homemade donut–but it’s even better if it is topped with fruity pebbles or maple bacon. Sign me up!

Restaurants You’ll Love

Blue Tractor | 423 S Union St, Traverse City, 49684
An awesome BBQ spot with options to have your smoked meat on a sandwich, as an entree, in a bowl, or on a salad.

Bubba’s | 428 E Front St., Traverse City, 49686
Known for their extensive burger and sandwich options. Everyone I talked to said to be sure to try their sweet potato tots!

The Filling Station | 642 Railroad Pl., Traverse City, 49686
The Filling Station has a large flatbread pizza menu with the option to build your own flatbread!

Bonus Tips to Traverse City

Don’t let the rainy days in the fall get you down. Just be sure to bring the kids’ rain/snow clothes!
You can go from city, to beachfront, to wilderness within a few miles. Pinpoint what you would like to do on your trip to determine where best to stay.
Traverse City is an all-seasons destination. Be sure to visit during different times of the year to take in all it has to offer!

What’s your favorite vacation spot? Check out our previous Travel Series location–the Shores and Islands of Lake Erie!

A Mom’s Guide to Cranbrook on the Green

Whitney Cornelli

August 7, 2024

Detroit Mom partnered with the amazing people at Cranbrook on the Green to bring you this post. All opinions are our own.

When it comes to date nights and family fun, we know a thing or two about the best spots around town. That’s why we’re so excited to share all about Cranbrook on the Green with you–it’s sure to be your next date night or family outing destination, and for so many good reasons!

Aside from wandering through the Art Museum and being able to walk the gorgeous grounds, Cranbrook currently has their own unique mini golf course complete with 11 holes and endless opportunities for memories. Each hole is unique and on Thursday nights, you can even sip your fave drink as you putt putt, since they offer a cash bar from 4:30-7:30 p.m. once a week. Talk about the perfect night out!

Cranbrook on the Green is so much more than just mini golf. It’s perfect for all ages and can be just one of many options for a fun-filled day at Cranbrook. Below, we’re sharing your complete guide to Cranbrook on the Green and everything there is to know. Oh, and we’ve also included a list of local restaurants so you can turn mini golf into a whole night out!

What is Cranbrook on the Green?

Cranbrook on the Green is a mini golf course consisting of 11 holes that are custom-designed and art-inspired. It’s truly one of a kind. Located on the grounds of Cranbrook Art Museum, you’ll find that the course is perfectly representative of the museum and its beauty! It’s open rain or shine, and golf umbrellas are available if there’s a little bit of rain. If there’s thunder and lightning, it may close for a bit to allow the severe weather to pass.

You can park in the Art Museum parking lot and then head over to the Knoll Walkway, adjacent to Triton Pool. This is where you’ll sign in.

The course is really great for kids of all ages. Kids under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. And for the youngest golfers (under age two), plastic mini clubs are available for use! You can bring a standard-size stroller, but it might be difficult to navigate the soft terrain of the course with it. You can also leave your stroller at the Cranbrook on the Green Golf Cart while you golf and retrieve it when you’re finished.

While each mini golf experience is unique, it usually takes a group of four about 45-60 minutes to work their way through the course.

When can I go?

Right now, the course is open during regular museum hours (posted below). These hours remain in effect until September 1.

Monday-Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. (last ticket sold at 4:15 p.m.)
Thursday: 10:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. (last ticket sold at 7:15 p.m.)
Friday-Sunday: 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. (last ticket sold at 4:15 p.m.)

From September 7-22, the hours will shift to only being open on the weekends, as follows:

Monday-Friday: Closed
Saturday-Sunday: 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. (last ticket sold at 4:15 p.m.)

Every Thursday night in August, the course is open late and there is a beer and wine cash bar from 4:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday nights are definitely the night to go for date night, girls night out, or even for some “me time”!

How much does it cost?

Tickets for Cranbrook on the Green include admission to the museum too!

Adults: $15.00
ArtMembers and Detroit Residents: $10.00
Kids ages 3-12: $8.00

How do I buy tickets?

Tickets can be purchased online or on-site. Advance reservations are not required, and you can tee off at any time during the day that you select for tickets. While your tickets are non-refundable, they can be transferred to use at a later date during the summer 2024 season, should the need to reschedule arise. Groups of 10 or more should contact Cranbrook directly for tickets.

What does my ticket include?

With your tickets to Cranbrook on the Green, free parking AND admission to the Art Museum are included. You can plan out an entire day at Cranbrook by wandering through the museum before or after your mini golf experience. You should absolutely take advantage of this and plan to spend some time checking out all it has to offer.

Inside the museum, you’ll be immersed in their current and ongoing exhibitions. You can also stop by the Fika cafe for coffee, drinks, ice cream, and snacks. The grounds are just gorgeous, so you’ll want to make sure to do a little exploring outdoors too before you leave!

How can I make it a night to remember?

After your day at Cranbrook, you don’t have to go straight home. Especially if you go on a Thursday evening when there’s a cash bar and they’re open late, you and your partner or BFFs can plan to grab dinner from one of these Bloomfield Hills restaurants and spend a little more time together!

Whether you’ve never been to Cranbrook before, or you’ve recently visited, the truly amazing thing about it is that each visit is a brand new experience for the whole family. With art, mini golf, gardens, snacks, and more, you’re sure to find just what you and your family (or your partner or group of friends, if you’re looking for an adults-only evening!) will enjoy time and time again.

A full day of fun is waiting for you at Cranbrook on the Green. Head to their website to grab your tickets today!

The Unplugged Summer | Family Time Without the Schedule

Megan Moore

August 4, 2024

Ah, summer! For my family, the word itself conjures up images of lazy days, sunshine, and the sound of kids playing (or at least trying to get along) outside. It’s the season where time seems to slow down, and the world feels just a tad bit more relaxed. As a mom who has a couple of months off over the summer, it’s a golden opportunity to hit the reset button. Instead of signing our kids up for summer camp, scheduling activities, or arranging a dozen play dates, we take the opportunity to connect as a family. And to break free from the usual whirlwind of scheduled activities.

This approach is definitely “to each their own,” and I get that! Some families don’t have abundant time off in the summer. Others find that their kids like and benefit from keeping a routine that involves camps, sports, or activities. But if you find that the school year stresses you out with all of the practices, groups, events, and endless scheduling, hitting pause for a summer reset can be a refreshing change. It’s a few months filled with chances to bond and a reminder that sometimes, the best plan is no plan at all.

The Beauty of an Unscheduled Summer

During the school year, life can feel like a never-ending to-do list. The calendar is jam-packed with school, extracurricular activities, sports practices, and homework for the kids. All this–coupled with my husband’s and my jobs, social events, and our time for personal and mental health–can be overwhelming. But summer offers a beautiful pause button. It’s the perfect time to embrace the joy of unscheduled days and let spontaneity reign supreme.

I relish in not really having a plan. Sure, we still schedule a family vacation and a few summer bucket list events that take a bit of planning. But, for the most part, we tend to stick to a blank agenda. I love asking my kids, “What do you want to do today?” when they wake up wondering what the day holds. Playground? Library? Backyard camping? Water park? Zoo? The opportunities are nearly endless.

Not only does this release me from having to arrange, plan, and schedule, but it also releases me from keeping all the times and dates carefully logged in my brain. During the year, I feel like I am constantly rifling through my mental calendar. Always trying to determine just how long we can stay at one event before we must move on to the next thing. Or, what do we have to say no to because we already said yes to something else? An unplanned summer releases me from all that. Plus, it also invites my kids to appreciate the beauty of spontaneity and the gift of mom repeatedly saying “yes” (usually).

Why Unscheduled Time is a Gift

There are many benefits to unscheduled time, including:

Creativity and Imagination

Without a rigid schedule, my kids can explore their creativity, whether at home or out and about. They can turn the backyard into a five-star kitchen (which has been a recent favorite), invent new games, or even embark on a make-believe adventure with friends. This kind of unstructured play is crucial for their development and lets their imagination soar.

Less Stress

The free time to do these things comes with the added benefit of reduced stress for everyone. Constantly rushing from one activity to another can be exhausting for both kids and parents. An unscheduled summer allows us all to relax and enjoy the moment. We wake up, check the weather, and talk about what we want to do. We are only bound by the time constraint of getting home for dinner. This is the one aspect of our daily routine I don’t let go of.

Some days, we stick around the house and take it easy, playing outside, baking a new recipe, or having Uno card game marathons. On other days, we venture out, sometimes locally, to the library or a playground. Still, other times we go a bit further to a water park, zoo, or museum. Whatever the case, it’s always go with the flow. Because, these unplanned and unscheduled activities are a chance to breathe, unwind, and truly enjoy each other’s company. All without the pressure of the next event on the calendar.

More Family Bonding

We find that unscheduling our summer encourages bonding among our family. That’s not to say we don’t have arguing and fighting and times when we rather wouldn’t be all together 24/7. Still, when there are no practices to attend, games to watch, or activities to make it to, we have more time to spend together. Like really together–not just in proximity to one another. These moments, like dinners outside on the deck, may seem inconsequential. But in reality, they are creating lasting memories and strengthening family bonds.

Embracing the Summer Slow Life

So, how do you make the most of an unscheduled summer? Here are a few ideas to help you slow down and savor the season with your family.

Backyard Camping

Turn your backyard into a mini-campground. Pitch a tent, roast marshmallows, and tell stories under the stars. It’s a fun way to experience the thrill of camping without leaving the comfort of home. Plus, if someone needs to use the bathroom or grab an extra blanket, it’s just a few steps away!

Creative Projects

Without a strict schedule, there’s more time to dive into creative projects. Start a family garden or try your hand at DIY crafts. The bravest among us can indulge their kids by undertaking one of those ridiculous YouTube craft videos they’ve seen and begged to try. Tie dye has always been a summer favorite at our house, as well as origami, rock painting, and making friendship bracelets. These projects are not only fun but also a great way to work together and let your kids express their creativity.

Lazy Mornings + Long Breakfasts

Forget the hurried breakfasts before school. Summer mornings are meant for sleeping in (if your kids choose to bless you with that opportunity) and enjoying leisurely breakfasts. Make pancakes together, have a fruit salad feast, or try new smoothie recipes. The key is to enjoy the slow pace and the simple pleasure of a meal together.

Movie Nights

We have younger kids, and most nights or weekends during the school year, it feels like we simply don’t have the time to sit down and watch an entire movie. So, in the summer, when we can all kick back and enjoy a blockbuster, we try to go all out. We make the living room super cozy for movie nights with pillows and our Peanut couch. We make an abundance of snacks and snuggle up together!

New Hobbies

Summer is the perfect time to explore new interests and hobbies. Whether it’s learning to bake, trying out a new sport (not as part of a team, necessarily; think going to a tennis court), or even starting a family club (we like trivia), these new activities can be a fun way to spend time together and discover hidden talents.

Outdoor Adventures

Nature is the best playground, and it’s free! Plan impromptu hikes, bike rides, or beach trips. Explore local parks, plan a picnic, or lie on the grass and watch the clouds drift by. These outdoor adventures don’t need to be elaborate; they’re about enjoying the fresh air and each other’s company.

The Importance of Downtime

In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook the importance of downtime. But having unstructured time is vital for both kids and adults. During these moments of “doing nothing,” we often find our best ideas, recharge our energy, and truly connect with ourselves and each other.

Although it isn’t always easy (especially when we just want our kids to give us five minutes of alone time), we try to abide by a few things over the summer to encourage downtime for our kids.

Let them be bored. My husband is a big proponent of the idea that boredom is not a bad thing. It encourages kids to use their imagination and create their own entertainment. Resist the urge to fill every moment with an activity and let them figure out how to occupy their own time.
Limit screen time. While letting screens fill the void is tempting, we try to limit their use. Encourage kids to play outside, read a book, or engage in creative play instead.
Model downtime. Show your kids that relaxing and taking a break is okay. Read a book, take a nap, or simply sit and enjoy the moment without getting sucked into your phone or another screen. When they see you valuing downtime, they’re more likely to do the same.

We really love the lazy days of summer. Letting go of the packed schedules and embracing the freedom of unscheduled days is something I really look forward to every year. It’s a chance to slow down, enjoy the little things, and create meaningful memories as a family. Being able to say yes to random ideas or activities my kids come up with and enjoy each of them at a leisurely pace is truly a gift. So, here’s to a summer filled with laughter, love, and the beauty of unplanned moments.

If your summer plans include a vacation, don’t stress! Albiona shares exactly how to manage behavior expectations while you’re away.

20+ Items to Bring to Disney, From a Disney-Frequenting Mom

RanaMakki

August 4, 2024

I’m a Detroit Mom who’s become an expert on Disney travel. My family and I have traveled to Walt Disney World Resort multiple times a year since my tween daughters were babies. We’ve visited during normal days, holidays, early mornings, late nights, great weather, stormy weather, altered plans due to Florida hurricanes, with toddlers, with tweens, and everything in between.

While we occasionally get the “You’re really going to Disney again?!” comments from friends and family, it remains our happy place. And I’m always glad to share the tips I’ve picked up with other moms—including what items I always bring to the Disney parks with me.

My trip packing varies based on the time of year, but a few items always make the cut. They permanently live in my “Disney Travel Bin” because they’ve proven themselves worthy. With them I’m prepared for the inevitable, and feel like a mom on a magical vacation—and not just a mom taking her kids on vacation to what’s supposed to be a magical place.

Are you planning a trip to Walt Disney World Resort this year and wondering what in the Whole New World you should be bringing to the parks with you? Keep reading for a list of items I always bring and that are guaranteed to help your family have a supercalifragilisticexpialidocious day!

1. Stroller

Okay, hear me loud and clear here: throw out every piece of “stroller age” advice you’ve ever received because the “stroller age” rule does not apply inside the Disney Parks. This means that you can—and SHOULD—bring or rent a stroller for any kid who’s too young to walk a marathon.

I still rent a stroller in the Disney Parks for my nine-year-old because it’s exhausting walking such long distances. On average, we walk about 9-10 miles a day! So even your kid who has proven they can walk for miles might surprise you mid-day when they need to rest often.

You are able to bring your own stroller, but make sure to read the official Walt Disney World Resort Stroller Policy so you’re not bringing a prohibited one. You also have the option of renting from many private stroller rental companies in the Orlando area who will even deliver it to your resort hotel for you!

My favorite option for older kids like mine is to rent one from Stroller Rental in the parks since I only need it there. However, if you have kids who are baby or preschool age, I recommend you always either a) bring your own or b) rent a stroller from a private company for the entirety of your trip. Thank me later on your daily walk through your hotel.

Bonus tip: if you use a stroller you always have a place to store all your stuff!

2. Stroller Hook

This obviously only applies if you use a stroller at all, but if you do, bring TWO. These little hooks are small but mighty and have the capacity to carry souvenirs, diaper bags, and all the things your family gets tired of carrying throughout the day.

3. Comfortable Shoes

Your visit to a Walt Disney World theme park is not the time to break in new shoes because you will be walking for many miles. Instead, bring your most trusted pair of comfortable shoes. Luckily, there are plenty of options now that are both cute and comfortable.

4. Backpack

Disney Parks have a great backpack policy. You’re allowed to bring a small to medium standard-size backpack and can carry it onto most attractions (though some will require it to be stowed away) or leave it in a rented locker.

If I’m renting a stroller I’ll pack one large backpack for my entire family to hook onto the stroller and use a mini backpack or Belt Bag as my purse. If I’m not renting a stroller, I’ll have each member of my family carry their own items in a medium-size backpack for themselves. But what do we pack inside these backpacks to make our day smoother? Keep reading to find out!

5. Complete Change of Clothes for Each Child

Oh the amount of times my kids have dropped ice cream on themselves or been soaked on Splash Mountain. But I’m glad I was prepared for those occasions. Occasions like this are why I always bring a complete change of clothes for my kids in a Ziploc Bag—right down to the socks. Thank me after your kid has finished that Mickey Premium Ice Cream Bar in the 97-degree Florida heat!

6. Rain Poncho and/or Mini Umbrella

If it’s guaranteed to be super rainy during our visit, I’ll bring both. If there’s a slight chance of rain, I’ll only bring a disposable poncho. But I will never walk into a Walt Disney World theme park without a rain poncho . . .because it rains in Florida. A lot. And unexpectedly. If I’m using a stroller I also like to bring an extra poncho I can drape over the stroller, whether my kids are in it or it’s sitting in Stroller Parking.

Bonus tip: While you can purchase ponchos inside all Disney Parks, I like to bring my own to be budget conscious!

7. Extra Pair of Socks for Each Person

On that unexpected rain note, I also bring an extra pair of socks for each of us. Because there’s nothing worse than sloshing around in rain-soaked socks all day.

8. Sunscreen

You’re in Central Florida. Enough said. Bring a travel-size sunscreen and reapply often.

9. Sunglasses + Hat

Another Florida must-have with no explanation needed.

10. Mini First-Aid Kit

While there’s a First Aid Center inside each park, I still like to bring my own mini first-aid kit. If your kid falls unexpectedly it’s nice to have a band aid on hand as opposed to having to locate one while they cry next to you. Some basic items I bring inside this kit are band aids, alcohol pads, and moleskin for shoe blisters.

11. Emergency Medicine Kit

I like to keep any emergency medicine we might need (such as headache medicine) in a small Ziploc bag with my first-aid items.

12. Ziploc Bags of Varying Sizes

You’ve read the words “Ziploc bags” multiple times now, and for good reason; any mom reading this can attest to their versatility and durability in many situations. In a bind they can act as storage, disposable trash bags, snack containers, gloves, extra clothing bags for clean clothes, or wet bags for dirty clothes. And, they take up virtually zero space.

13. Snacks + Refillable Water Bottles

To budget for our favorite Disney eats, I like to bring some of our own snacks throughout the day, as well as our own refillable water bottles to use at the refill water stations.

Bonus tip: You can even get cups of ice water and/or ice at any Quick-Service station!

14. Hand Sanitizer/Tissues

These items always live in my purse anyway, but especially in high-touch places.

15. Handheld and/or Neck Fan

While unpredictable Florida weather is not something us Michiganders will have trouble understanding, a portable fan is especially necessary between the months of April-November when it’s most hot and humid.

16. Light Sweater and/or Jacket

It might surprise you that I bring this, but I do–even in the summer months. Central Florida can be windy in the evenings, and sometimes even downright chilly. In the winter months I’ll bring a packable jacket, especially for the evening hours.

17. MagicBand+

An absolute necessity in my opinion, but if you have an older MagicBand you can absolutely bring it, as it will still work. The newer MagicBand+ can do everything a MagicBand can do such as opening Disney Resort Hotel doors, being used as a credit card, in Lightning Lane Pass lines, etc. while also being interactive.

Bonus tip: If you wear an Apple Watch it can also act as a MagicBand (but it can’t open your room’s door if staying at a Disney Resort Hotel).

18. Extra Phone Battery + Charging Cords

If you’ve been to Walt Disney World Resort any time in the last few years, you already know that you will be doing everything on the My Disney Experience app on your smartphone. Therefore, at some point, it will need to be charged. That’s why I always bring an extra rechargeable battery, phone charger, and cord, as well as charging cords for our MagicBand+ (just in case).

19. Wallet with Photo ID

Don’t fall into the trap of thinking that just because you have your My Disney Experience app open or that everything is on your Apple Wallet and/or MagicBand+, you don’t need your wallet, and especially your photo ID. If there’s trouble accessing your ticket, for example, they will need your photo ID. I’ve also been asked for it at Stroller Rental before. It’s always good to have on hand!

20. Autograph Keepsake for Character Signatures

Our personal favorite keepsake item is an Autograph Book, but we have used t-shirts and stuffed animals before. I’ve also seen picture frames, hats, ear headbands, etc. Just make sure to bring something so those beloved friends can sign them for you and your kids!

I hope this list of items to bring to Disney helps you be more prepared to have the most magical day during your next visit to a Walt Disney World theme park. I also hope you and your family make the most magical memories ever!

In addition to packing items to bring to Disney, you also want to pack your must-do list with everything you want to do when you’re there! Prima-Marie shares her family’s top Disney do’s and dont’s for the most magical trip.

Soccer Mom Essentials 101

Faten

August 4, 2024

The truth is, the moment my son decided he wanted to be part of a traveling soccer league, my heart sank a little. I was scared of the commitment and didn’t know what to expect. That was my first moment of fear: not knowing anything about what I was getting myself into.

I had so many questions and I just wasn’t sure where to start. Becoming a soccer mom is no joke!

After a year of him participating in traveling soccer, I have learned some tips and tricks and wanted to share them with all you wonderful moms because I know that it can be intimidating to commit to a new team!

Soccer Season: 6 Soccer Mom Essentials

1. Food + Drinks

We all know that food and drinks are a necessary part of occupying any child. Snacks and plenty of water to stay hydrated are essential. Have breakfast bars and healthy options for yourself and your soccer player to enjoy after games, too!

2. Comfort Essentials

Games usually run about an hour and a half, which means your comfort is essential! Parents typically bring a lounge chair (or multiple) if you’re traveling with kids. Also, bring a blanket for those chilly outdoor games.

3. Weather-Resistant Essentials

Games for a league go all year long, rain or shine! During early spring and late fall, games are outdoors, so you need to be prepared. Make sure your child has gloves, hats, sweaters, rain jackets, and thermal wear to stay warm and maintain their momentum during the game. Also, have an umbrella on hand in case it rains! Luckily, winter games are usually played indoors.

4. Planning Ahead

The key to keeping things smooth is to stay organized! The first thing you should expect is to travel. Most games will be about 30 minutes to an hour away. Our league uses an app to insert all games, times, and locations. Also, know that most coaches will want their players there about 30 minutes to an hour earlier to practice and prepare for the game. So, this should factor into your travel plans.

I suggest that as soon as you receive your soccer schedule, insert all dates and times for games, practices, and tournaments into your calendar. This ensures you have plenty of time to plan and don’t risk missing anything! While planning, also insert the addresses of all the games into your calendar. This way, you have an idea of locations and estimated arrival times. Having a game plan is a sure way to make things less stressful and run smoothly!

5. Support System

Many of us moms have multiple kids, and this is when you will need a support system. When we first started soccer season, I took my younger two kids along for the ride, thinking it would be a great experience for them. Boy, was I wrong.

Many games begin at the crack of dawn, making for a long day. Plus, they could be located anywhere from 30 minutes to four hours away! So having a support system is crucial for those days when you decide to leave your other kids behind. This way, everyone is happy.

6. Tag Teaming with Your Partner

Committing to a soccer team can test your relationship. My husband and I quickly learned that we had to tag team to make life easier. For most games we would drive together and both be present. If the games were on a weekend, we made the best of it and turned it into a fun family day. This has worked best for us.

Of course, there are always exceptions. If games were too early, one of us would stay behind with our younger kids. For example, we had a game start at 8:00 a.m. once, and my son and I had to leave the house at 6:00 a.m. to ensure we were on time. And on the flip side, sometimes my husband would attend, and I would stay back with my daughters. There will be different scenarios, but we have always tag teamed and found a solution.

The Positives of Being a Soccer Mom

Just like any other challenge, there are definite benefits that make you want to continue. I have already signed my son up for the following year, which shows my commitment and happiness with my decision! First and foremost, you will see significant changes in your child. Becoming part of a team has multiple rewards for children, including increased confidence and team-building skills.

Another benefit is the friendships you create along the way–for both kids and parents. We are truly blessed with an amazing coach and an amazing group of parents. They have become a support system, and we all offer one another help when needed, whether filling in during times of need or cheering our kids on. This is what a team is all about.

Although I had to learn some lessons the hard way, I can say now that every moment was worth it. Becoming a soccer mom may seem intimidating at first, but with a little planning, a solid support system, and a positive attitude, it can be a rewarding experience for both you and your child. So, embrace the journey, and enjoy the wonderful memories you’ll make along the way!

Sports commitment can be intimidating. If you need help finding the right sport for your child, read what Megan shares about taking the challenge out of choosing extracurricular activities.

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Keep Kids Safe in the Sun: Back-to-School Edition

Guest Blogger

August 3, 2024

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

As a Stage III Melanoma survivor and mom, sun safety has taken a front row seat in our house. I was diagnosed shortly after my son’s first birthday. I grew up on tanning beds, baby oil, and as much laying out in the sun as possible with a tablespoon of sunscreen.

Skin cancer was something I literally knew nothing about. I didn’t know there were different kinds, or that sunburns in your adolescent years increase your risk of skin cancer tremendously. I didn’t know what I didn’t know!

Well, now I know. Starting at a very young age, I want my kids (our daughter was born 4.5 years after my diagnosis) to know how important sun safety is. I want them to get used to wearing sunscreen every day because it’s just a part of their daily routine. I don’t want my kids or your kids to be told at the age of 25, “Your biopsy came back, it’s Melanoma, and we’re concerned it has spread.”

According to skincancer.org, if a person has had more than five sunburns, then their risk for Melanoma doubles. They also share that children’s skin especially is very sensitive to UV rays–it only takes one severe sunburn when they’re young to double the chances of a Melanoma diagnosis later on.

With it already being the beginning of August (how the heck did that happen?!), it’s time for us moms to go full force back into school supply shopping, new clothes, fall sports . . . the list goes on and on. While I’m not here to add more to your to-do list, I’m here to take the research out so that you can set your kids up for sun safety during the school year without added work.

Here are my three tips for keeping kids safe in the sun during the school year:

1. Teach your kids about sun safety.

We DO NOT want to teach them that the sun is bad. Instead, we want to teach them that we wear sunscreen, hats, UPF clothes, take shade breaks, etc. to keep our skin healthy. We want the focus to be on how important the skin is versus the sun being dangerous.

I like to let my kids pick what kind of sunscreen they want to wear that day. There’s something about a choice that makes them more excited to apply it!

2. Put sunscreen on your kids before they walk out the door in the morning (or have them do it).

Of course, this depends on the age of your kid(s). The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends that sunscreen be reapplied every two hours. Depending on your child’s recess time, we might technically be out of that window. However, SPF is better than no SPF and even on a cloudy day, they should still be wearing it.

I drive my son to school in the morning, so when we’re sitting in the car line, that’s our time to put sunscreen on. It can be easy to forget, especially if we’re trying to do other things in the morning like finish homework. I started setting a daily alarm to remind us.

3. Send in a new bottle of sunscreen, which is usually good for a year.

This can be sent in with locker/school supplies so that it can be in their locker all year long. Bonus points if you can get your child to put some on prior to going outside for recess!

I’m not a huge fan of spray sunscreens, only because they really need to be rubbed in to be effective and if you apply outside–and, for example, the wind is blowing–it’s really easy to miss a spot. However, my son likes a spray because it’s easier for him to apply. That’s what I will send in with him for the school year with a name sticker on it.

I’ll continuously remind him to apply it before he goes out for recess. (This is a big work in progress for us.) He will be in second grade this fall, and I’m considering looping the teacher in to help remind him.

Sun safety should be a priority all year round.

There’s a common misconception that if it’s cloudy or cold outside, you don’t need sunscreen, but the United States Environmental Protection Agency shares that up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate clouds. According to skincancer.org, UVB rays are strongest in the summer and are the main ones that are responsible for sunburns, but they can reflect off of snow and ice in the winter. And, UVA rays are constant throughout the whole year and lead to tanning, dark spots, and wrinkles. So, it’s important to remember that even when the UV index is low, you still have the risk of getting a sunburn.

I have found through my advocacy work that the majority of school playgrounds have very limited sun protection options. And, kids are outside when the sun is at its strongest (10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.). I’d love to see skin protection for all “bodies” to be added into the school’s health class or safety message.

What my husband and I try to focus on with our children is that your skin is the largest organ in your body and it’s the exterior layer that helps keep us safe. We need to do our part to protect it! It can be as easy as wearing sunscreen and/or protective clothing. The sooner it becomes habitual rather than being a “daunting” task, the easier it is on parents and kids.

It’s not about making the sun seem scary or unsafe, but we as parents are obligated to do what we can to make sure our kids stay safe in the sun. It’s not about being perfect or overthinking it, but every little bit of extra protection helps!

–Guest post submission by Leah Koskinen

It’s also important to have an annual skin check performed. Laurie shares about how a skin check led to her skin cancer diagnosis.

Detroit Mom’s Local Love Spotlight: Birth Humanity

Whitney Cornelli

July 31, 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 Elise Bowerman, owner of Birth Humanity.

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

She was born on a Friday the 13th despite her mom’s OBGYN’s encouragement to have a cesarean to avoid this date. Her mom knew Friday the 13th was historically a sacred day of feminine energy. She allowed Elise to arrive earth-side when she was ready. She believes her birth day set the tone for her purpose of honoring “rites of passage” for women.
She’s fulfilling her mom’s legacy of helping women tap into their innate wisdom through ancient practices. Her mom was a student of ancient healing practices. She taught Elise the value of research, independent thinking, and prioritizing holistic medicine.
She’s the first woman in her lineage to own her own business!

We also asked Elise to share a little bit more about her business with us, too. Get to know Elise and her business, Birth Humanity, below!

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

“Birth Humanity is now the third evolution, having started with Elise Bowerman LLC in 2009, then evolv[ing] in 2014 to Sweet Momma Yoga. In 2023 I embraced a bolder call-to-action. It became crystal clear how beneficial gathering as women and curating personal practices are for all of us–especially mothers. I guide two very separate groups of people: women in motherhood and women who are also called to teach prenatal and postnatal yoga practices.

“Back in college I graduated (2004) with undergrad requirements to become a Dance/Movement Therapist. While in college, I got exposed to the practice of yoga. [I] found it to be a blend of ancient healing with movement in an inviting and curious way I didn’t know I was craving. This shifted my attention and [I] did not pursue a Master’s degree. Shortly after becoming a Registered Yoga Teacher (2008, guided by Linda Makowski of Namaste Yoga, Royal Oak) I became pregnant. [I] then led prenatal and postnatal yoga classes . . . and they never left my schedule.

“My personal experiences of becoming a mom to my son, Lucas (2009), and daughter, Lilly (2012), paved my dedication so other moms have a soft landing space to express, inquire, and reflect on how they would like to show up for themselves in this phase. The more I embraced the calling to guide moms at the sacred time of becoming a mother, the more my passion and business grew.

“It took from 2009-2014 to figure out how to create a sustainable yoga business that solely focused on caring for the prenatal and postnatal phases of life. My husband and I called my teaching a ‘karmic act of service’–we would lose money [when] I went to ‘work.’ All it took was one yoga studio owner, Gary Sweetapple of Livonia Yoga Center, to trust me to operate differently than the other yoga teachers in our area. And it started with me teaching in the lobby–yes, lobby–of the studio! Within a couple months we outgrew the lobby and I requested to be placed in the studio at prime-time. Through this trust I was able to create a unique experience for prenatal and postnatal yoga classes in Metro Detroit.

“In 2017 I was ready to extend the next arm of my business by creating Michigan’s first Registered Prenatal Yoga School. The #1 thing I heard (and still hear today) is, ‘There are not enough perinatal yoga teachers in my area.’ OB/GYNs and midwives run the busiest healthcare practices. So I know there are plenty of moms to support our perinatal yoga classes . . . After all, we are usually the most visited perinatal professionals moms will see; even more than their providers.”

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

“Give myself more grace to explore how my business would open up. I am fortunate to have an entrepreneur as a husband, Jon, and our income provider. I do not have urgency to produce a certain income level besides covering the costs of operating my business (i.e. software, manuals, props, etc.). But I do have a strong will and desire to uplevel my impact and industry standards.

“In 2014 I received insights from my prenatal yoga teacher trainer, Dr. Laurel Hicks, on ways to structure my yoga offerings–like a business. Once I created this new framework my husband knew I was onto something moms and families would be interested in. And, I would finally gain profit. Now I get to teach other entrepreneurs how to prioritize their time, measure their impact, and build a framework that positively impacts their livelihood so they don’t burn out.”

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

“Keep it simple. Simplicity is one of the hardest attributes to create as a visionary business owner and operator. We are pulled in a million directions to make the vision happen. Simplicity helps me stay focused on my moms and teachers-in-training. If Jon were the COO he’d likely direct Birth Humanity to focus solely on moms or teachers; not both.

“This is where simplicity goes by the wayside for me. I LOVE to guide moms as much as I LOVE to provide confidence to those who are called to do this work. Even within my two loves, I could have 10 different programs/services–for each! Ultimately, ‘keep it simple’ translates as providing a 5-star experience for each service. I strive to meet and exceed expectations by providing a user-friendly online experience, a nurturing in-person connection, and maternal health education rooted in ancient wisdom with today’s evidence-based research.”

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

“Adversity I’ve faced in business due to being a woman has really been within myself. Growing up I saw myself as a SAHM and teaching a few dance classes a week. (I always knew I would be some kind of teacher.) It seemed like the perfect balance. Becoming a mom, navigating not earning a paycheck I was used to from working full-time, and deciding how many classes of yoga I wanted to teach each year invited more inner criticism than I imagined. I felt guilty for being away. At the same time my nerves went haywire being around the home all day, every day. I knew deep down I was meant for more meaningful and magnificent experiences. But, [I] felt trapped caring for my children and running the household.

“I have a Bachelor’s degree, lived independently for nearly a decade before getting married, have worked since I was 14 years old . . . a lot of my self-identification was based on what my job title was and what I could produce in the workforce. It has taken years of unwinding societal influences to remain steadfast as a SAHM. I’m still a SAHM and work part-time to help other moms and families navigate the often uncelebrated and under-cared for time of life: of becoming a family. When my kids are off to college I know deep down inside I will have ample opportunity to give more of my time to outside of our home. Right now, the 5-10 hours I work for others is enough.

“On a completely different note, I also have faced adversity as a white woman guiding yoga practices. Since yoga is a spiritual practice from India, it is not my cultural heritage. Through deep reflection and honoring that I am still only one of two prenatal yoga teaching schools in Michigan, I know this path is where I am called to be, for now. Having grown up in a household prioritizing holistic medicine, I found the entire practice of yoga and Ayurveda as the answer to my purpose of guiding others on how to prioritize lifestyle as a part of their healthcare. The more I explore the similarities of my Celtic roots and practices in Southeast Asia, I find both are rooted in ritual, earth medicine, and women gathering together . . . this is what I’m all about!”

How do you persevere in challenging times?

“First and foremost, I remind myself that everything is temporary. ‘This too shall pass.’ Surrounding myself with friends, family, and like-hearted women who believe in me is essential during challenging times. (I am also blessed to have incredible men such as my dad, brother, and husband who have attended my classes–when I taught mixed groups–and encourage me to follow my heart in caring for moms. They’re curious and empathetic of me forging a path holding space for women in such a tender way.)

“Most recently, I found an immense level of support in House of Reclamation’s CEO Mastermind; for my business and myself personally . . . because, after all, my business is a reflection of me. Being around women who see through an observer lens of what’s going on in my life or business helps me identify a blind spot or propel a phase of inner healing which needs to be addressed in order to move forward more boldly. Overall, collecting myself by prioritizing all aspects of health provides a foundational layer of support to give energy to any challenging time.”

What impact do you want your business to have?

“I see Birth Humanity as one of the contributors which will help name Metro Detroit as THE safest and sought after place to become a mom in the United States. Birth Humanity will do this by continuing to prioritize sacred ‘rites of passage’ all mothers go through so they may be seen, heard, and cared for. Plus, educating anyone interested in providing perinatal yoga practices so more families may benefit–in Michigan and internationally.”

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

“A pro I feel as a woman business owner today is that I do not have a sense of urgency to see my vision come to life. I am dedicated and at the same time open to how it unfolds. If I were a man, I believe there would be more pressure to ‘produce’ at a faster rate . . . whatever ‘produce’ may mean. I also love sharing a room with other women business owners. It’s super special and something rather new in our collective history. I am blessed to have women like my mom pave the way so I may have a guiding light as to ‘not be the first’ for everything.

“A con, and it may be a personal belief I’m still healing, is that women have a harder time getting others to financially invest in them. Providing a spiritually-led business is one that often is undervalued, as it is invisible work. I do see this shifting as more are aligning themselves with inner-work.”

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

“For anyone who heeds to the call of entrepreneurship: surround yourself with other entrepreneurs. No matter your business or purpose–learn from those who have been there and walk alongside those who are in their own work. There’s plenty of room for all of us. Our economy needs your talents, skills, vision, and more small businesses who provide exceptional products and services.

“You also, likely, don’t need social media as much as ‘they’ say to be reputable or financially successful when you are first starting out . . . or possibly ever. Depends on your business goals. Know your business goals. Why are you in business? To make a certain amount of income, build your reputation, create an impact or movement, or something else? There are TONS of intelligent and financially comfortable entrepreneurs who may have never heard. On the flip side–you may just need social media and no website to create your impact. Get clear on your business purpose and create boundaries with social media.”

What do you do for personal and professional development?

“I believe there is a healthy self-awareness each of us must reflect on for the reason why we are investing, listening, or learning from someone. Our society banks on people being in the ‘learner’ seat. You must learn about this in order to be the expert at that. It is true, however, the rabbit hole of constantly learning with little opportunity for application can make one feel inadequate, not ready, and the trending term–like an impostor.

“Every couple of years I will invest in guides and mentors for whatever area of interest calls to me. I typically am drawn to women who honor the wisdom of feminine energy, prioritize their own reflective work, center their marriage, have children, and are in their career at a leadership level. This year I invested in House of Reclamation (formerly, Retreat to Reclaim) with Elizabeth Lewis and Lauryn Laszczak. Along with them the past couple years I completed two courses with Usha Anandi of Womben Wellness. And, [I] am an active member in Sarah Jenks’ Holy Woman community. I apply what I learn, in addition to books I read, with the vision of enhancing Birth Humanity or myself.

“Much of my personal and professional development is in reflective work. [Meaning], having time in my daily life to truly care for myself and reflect on what is going on. Tuning out the noise of everyone else’s ideas of me or what I may think they think of me helps me listen clearly to my intuition. When the noise is quieted I see and feel what is necessary to do next. Whether it’s for myself, family, or business. I love quiet time.”

What mantra or quote do you live by?

“‘Be the change you wish to see in the word,’ summarized from Mahatma Ghandi: “We but mirror the world. All the tendencies present in the outer world are to be found in the world of our body. If we could change ourselves, the tendencies in the world would also change. As a man changes his own nature, so does the attitude of the world change towards him. This is the divine mystery supreme. A wonderful thing it is and the source of our happiness. We need not to wait to see what others do.”

“Within my whole being I believe so strongly how each of us are cared for when we are in our mother’s womb and then greeted earthside impact our personality, ability to trust, and to be loved. I know this is the root cause of many dysfunctions in families which now have intensely rippled into society, like not protecting or prioritizing care for women and children, emotional dysregulation without abandonment, and avoidance of duties in this life. ‘Be the change’ reflects my personal journey of healing the Mother-Daughter Wound without (and then later with) my mom’s presence. And, honoring my most important role: mother.

“A favorite technique I love to teach is the mother/womb/baby dialogue. It’s never too early or too late to begin a line of communication to prevent the future need for repair. Or, to begin a healing conversation when it is necessary. We will bring peace on earth when babies are seen as conscious beings who receive loving care while in the womb. And, are greeted earth-side with tender gentleness.”

What’s your favorite place in Detroit or Michigan?

“Grand Haven became an accidental family tradition for my husband, kids, and myself. Every summer we would spend a long weekend or week on the west side of Michigan. The beach is beautiful and the people are low key. No makeup necessary, just a bathing suit, cover up, and flip flops. Now, we live on a lake and get to boat all summer. So we make sure to at least do a day trip to get some Pronto Pups.”

Where can our readers find you on social media?

You can follow Birth Humanity on Facebook, Instagram, and on their website!

We hope you loved getting to know more about Elise + Birth Humanity. Be sure to check out our previous Local Love Spotlight featuring Jodi + Michigan Family Doulas!

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