Family rides horses on an equestrian trail at Fort Custer Recreation Area.
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Family Friendly

Healthy Living, Learning and Growing

Michigan’s commitment to family-friendly policies, progressive health care rights, top rated schools and safe communities are what truly set the state apart. Several of the state’s communities are often ranked among the best of the nation — including Ann Arbor, which was ranked as the number one city to raise a family by Fortune in 2022.  Other areas including Okemos, Northville, Rochester, Portage and Munising have all been named among the top areas in Michigan to raise a family. Additionally, programs like the Michigan Department of Education’s MiFamily and free workshops for guardians create strong parent-teacher collaborations, while assistance for families of children with disabilities ensures that no one gets left behind on their educational journey.

In 2023, the state introduced the Tri-Share child care program in which the cost of an employee’s child care is shared equally among the employer, the employee and the State of Michigan. With MI Tri-Share, parents can get back to work knowing that their kids are safe, cared for and have the opportunity to succeed.

Michigan also offers fun and engaging experiences that bring families closer together. This family-friendly environment is fostering the development of tomorrow’s leaders, who will be both resilient and driven to innovate.

Family-Friendly Living by the Numbers

#1

Best Place to Live for Families (Ann Arbor)

Fortune, 2022
200,000+

Michigan Youth Aged 5 to 19 Participate in Experiential Learning Activities Each Year

Michigan State University Extension’s 4-H Youth Development Program
Climate Haven

Michigan will be Spared from the Worst Effects of Climate Change

MLive, 2022

Dive Deeper

Learn More About Family Friendly in Michigan

  • Michigan MiFamily
  • Whole Family Well Being
  • Additional Learning Resources
Michigan MiFamily

A Strategic Family Engagement Framework

If you’re a parent who’s just moved to Michigan and is eager to get involved in your child’s education, look no further than MiFamily. Developed by the Michigan Department of Education, MiFamily provides a wealth of educational tools and information for parents to play an active role in their child’s educational journey outside of school. This resource uses an innovative framework to help families, educators and providers collaboratively aid in children’s learning and development, setting them up for success in the years to come.

Learn More About MiFamily Call to action arrow
Mother reading to smiling daughter.
Whole Family Well Being

It Takes a Village

Raising healthy and successful children comes almost second nature for parents in the Great Lakes State, thanks to a range of supportive programs. The Childcare and Development Fund State Plan is a comprehensive program that assists families with affordable, safe and high-quality services while the Michigan Alliance for Families connects families with support and advocacy services for children with disabilities. From financial assistance to supplemental services for every learning level, Michigan is full of resources and communities that build a brighter future for children within the state.

Family with a son in a wheel chair smiling and crossing a bridge.
Additional Learning Resources

Positive and Intentional Learning Environments

Michigan is home to several educational programs and experiences that give parents the tools to help their children become successful learners. Michigan 4-H Youth Development, through the Michigan State University Extension, is a great option for parents seeking to engage their children in hands-on learning experiences such as robotics, environmental science and leadership development. Additionally, community-driven nonprofits like Michigan Science Center provide a range of exciting and interactive STEM activities that are perfect for inspiring young minds.

Boy working at a wooden desk in class.

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What’s Up in Michigan?

Stay up to date with the latest news from Michigan.

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Tech Talent with a Purpose: Devin Allen’s Inspiring Mission

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Grand Rapids is the benchmark for Michigan’s growth

West Michigan stands out in the state for its ability to grow both population and jobs One area of success is increasing how many educated young professionals live in the region Among the region’s 10-year goals is to increase tech jobs, and it’s on track to reach that Our state’s second-largest city has been a […]

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Michigan’s Award-Winning Talent Attraction Effort Delivers Momentum with Workers and Relocators Read More
Press Releases

Michigan’s Award-Winning Talent Attraction Effort Delivers Momentum with Workers and Relocators

  Quality of life, career opportunity, and affordability among top reasons candidates consider Michigan, one-year into the “You Can in Michigan” campaign LANSING, Mich.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Approximately one year after the public launch of Michigan’s talent attraction campaign, a long-term effort meant to help retain and attract high-tech workers alongside population growth initiatives, the message that “You […]

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