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.
Where Should You Move in Michigan?
From peaceful Upper Peninsula towns to vibrant, urban metropolises like Grand Rapids or Detroit, finding your perfect place in Michigan just got a lot easier.
Family-Friendly Living by the Numbers
Michigan Youth Aged 5 to 19 Participate in Experiential Learning Activities Each Year
Michigan State University Extension’s 4-H Youth Development ProgramDive Deeper
Learn More About Family Friendly in Michigan
- Michigan MiFamily
- Whole Family Well Being
- Additional Learning Resources
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.
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.
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.
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Featured Programs
- Innovative Child Care
- Free Parenting Videos
MI Tri-Share
Through MI Tri-Share, the cost of an employee’s child care is shared equally among the employer, the employee and the State of Michigan — a three-way split — with coordination being provided regionally by a MI Tri-Share facilitator hub. With MI Tri-Share, parents can get back to work knowing that their kids are safe, cared for and have the opportunity to succeed.
MI Parenting Resource
This free, short video-based program supports caregivers across the state to strengthen their parent-child relationship by gaining new tools for enhancing positive child behaviors.
What’s Up in Michigan?
Stay up to date with the latest news from Michigan.
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Thumb Region Networking Guide: Where to Plug In, Lead and Grow
Thinking about a move to Michigan’s Thumb—or already there and ready for a career refresh? The region’s seven counties—Genesee, Shiawassee, St. Clair, Huron, Tuscola, Sanilac and Lapeer—offer plenty of organizations where you can build your network, sharpen leadership skills and plug into community life. Here’s a list of some great groups to help you get […]
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Getting Connected in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
42 Organizations to Expand Your Professional and Personal Network Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (U.P.) is the state’s largest region and approximately 300 miles long (Ironwood to Sault Ste Marie). Bordered by Lake Superior (to the north), Lake Michigan (to the southeast) and access to Lake Huron on the northeast corner, this region provides a combination of […]
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Getting Connected in West Michigan: 46 Organizations to Grow Your Network
A great way to identify career opportunities and improve your job prospects in the West Michigan region is to build a strong network by getting involved in some of the many industry and business associations across the region. By networking in West Michigan, you’ll have the opportunity to develop new skills, connect with other […]
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