The Kids Count Data book provides population data on all children across the United States from birth to age 17. Michigan is home to 650,317 children under the age of five. 20% of those children reside in Wayne County, the largest population of young children across the entire state. In the 2024 Kids Count report, which covers through 2022, there is striking data regarding Michigan’s youngest and most vulnerable children:  The statistics above demonstrate the critical need for diverse programming that supports infants, toddlers, preschoolers and their families. The first five years of a child’s life are the most critical due to rapid brain development. These early years lay the foundation for future educational, relational, and life-long success. Early childhood professionals from all disciplines work tirelessly to educate, support, and empower families with young children to mitigate the risks and increase positive outcomes.   At Starfish, we support early … [Read more...]

By: Marisa Nicely, Chief Operating Officer My name is Maria Isabel Farinacci Musgrave, but most of you know me as Marisa Nicely. I’m proud to be a Latina and the Chief Operating Officer of Starfish Family Services. Today, I’d like to share a bit about my journey—from being an ESL student to becoming a leader at Starfish. It’s a story of identity, resilience, and the power of embracing one’s heritage. Celebrating National Hispanic-Latino Heritage Month National Hispanic-Latino Heritage Month is a time to honor the rich traditions, diverse cultures, and lasting contributions of Latinx individuals in the U.S. This month, I want to offer a glimpse into my personal journey as a Puerto Rican woman navigating leadership and how my heritage has shaped who I am today. Embracing Two Worlds Moving to the U.S. as a young Puerto Rican came with its fair share of challenges and opportunities. I found myself walking a tightrope between two cultures—my Puerto Rican roots and the customs … [Read more...]

By: Marisa Nicely, Chief Operating Officer At Starfish Family Services we love the month of September and especially the first day of school. There is something incredibly special about the beginning of a new school year. Everyone in our organization is excited about new challenges and endless opportunities. As the lead of programs here at Starfish, I see this time of year as an opportunity to celebrate, evaluate, and ensure we are offering the most relevant, comprehensive, and quality services to our families.   Our early childhood centers prepare all summer long to welcome back our young learners. Teachers, center employees and the early education team are always excited to welcome new and returning families to our classrooms. It’s a wonderful experience to see children coming to school for the very first time and to watch preschoolers eagerly greet their teachers and friends. Our team is out in full force to welcome, and sometimes comfort, both the children and … [Read more...]

At Marygrove Early Education Center, we are thrilled to announce the success of our SEEDing for College program, a groundbreaking pilot initiative launched in partnership with Wayne Metro Community Action Agency. This program is a vital step toward empowering our students and their families to prepare for the financial aspects of attending college, and we are proud to share the impact it has had on our community. About SEEDing for College: Empowering Futures SEEDing for College was designed with one primary goal: to equip students with the financial knowledge and tools they need to confidently pursue higher education. The program offers a comprehensive approach, focusing on helping students and their families navigate the often complex processes of making bank deposits, securing financial aid, and planning for college expenses. Through a combination of workshops, counseling sessions, financial literacy education, and our unique Deposit Days, students received hands-on experience … [Read more...]

Read the full article on Livonia Today here Every child benefits from a good night’s sleep and Pajama Program makes that happen for many.The nonprofit national organization provides pajamas for newborns to 10-year-old children, and even teddy bears and books to promote and support a comforting bedtime routine and healthy sleep habits that could benefit people the rest of their lives. Everything that is donated to children is new.Research shows that children who follow a bedtime routine are more likely to get the healthy sleep they need to thrive and feel secure. The bedtime routine promotes parent and child bonding and helps children fall asleep, stay asleep and wake up refreshed. Good sleeping habits pave the way for good health and emotional well-being.The organization provides new pajamas, bears and storybooks, as well as health education programs about the importance of sleep among children and their families. The books that are donated also promote literacy and a love for … [Read more...]