Issuu

WINTER 2026

Hillsdale CASA, Inc

Heather Upton working every day to ensure that those children are seen, heard, and supported

Business Spotlight:

Helping Hands Preschool & Childcare

The Importance of

Reading to Young Children

Plus...

Prenatal Care

2 MICHIGAN PARENT Winter 2026

from the publisher Marlanea McGraw

Welcome to our new issue! We hope that everyone is enjoying the holiday season and making some wonderful memories with family and friends. Our cover article spotlights Heather Upton, director of Hillsdale CASA: Court-Appointed Special Advocates. These caring and dedicated volunteers are trained to be support personnel for children in the foster care system as they go through the often difficult and challenging process that marks their situation. Read about how Heather and her team give so much to local children who need so much. (Perhaps you’ll be motivated to sign up for the training!) Literacy among children has hit a serious low in our country, and that includes our area. Stephanie Rathburn, director of Hillsdale Great Start Collaborative, discusses the current situation and provides some great tips on how to encourage reading in young children to give them a better start in school and in life. If you’re facing a tough discussion with your child and don’t know how to start, our article on approaching those difficult talks could help you get started. Every parent faces those times, and having some good guidance beforehand can really help! We hope the other articles will be of value to you and know that we so appreciate our readers. Also, do read and consider the ads—small communities only have those professionals, retailers, and services as long as area residents support them! With best wishes for holidays and into the new year!

Marlanea

MICHIGAN PARENT Winter 2026

take a look at what's inside... Winter 2026

Content

the cover

10 Talk, Read, Sing 12 Live Fit! 14 Two Pink Lines 16 Let’s Read! 18 Business Spotlight Conversations 20 Difficult With Your Kids 22 Pinterest Picks 24 Recipes 28 Puzzle Fun Everything is Literacy

Winter Family-Fun Fitness

Prenatal Care

Book Recommendations

Helping Hands Preschool & Childcare

Spirit Hair & Winter Fun!

Simple & Creative

Hillsdale CAPA, Inc. For children navigating the foster care system, stability can be rare and uncertainty constant. In Hillsdale County, one organization is working every day to ensure that those children are seen, heard, and supported.

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Elyse Apel Melissa McCance Sarah Gray Dakota Harding

for information on how to submit story ideas, concerns, or information on how to advertise, please contact Marlanea McGraw at (517) 320-9235 or email sales@simplyhers.net Michigan Parent magazine makes every effort to provide accurate information in advertising and editorial content, however, does not make any claims as to accuracy of information provided by advertisers or editorial contributors and accepts no responsibility or liability for inaccurate information.

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Hillsdale CASA, Inc. by Elyse Apel

or children navigating the foster care system, stability can be rare and uncertainty constant. In Hillsdale County, one organization is working every day to ensure that those children are seen, heard, and supported. That organization is the Hillsdale Court Appointed Special Advocates, better known as Hillsdale CASA, Inc. While CASA has existed nationwide since the program first began in the 1970s, the Hillsdale branch has been open just since 2014. Through the program, Hillsdale County residents become Court Appointed Special Advocates. They then volunteer to work one-on-one with children in foster care, visiting them weekly, monitoring their well-being, and advocating for their best interests in court.

“We are the eyes and ears for the court,” says Executive Director Heather Upton, the organization’s only paid staff member in Hillsdale. “Caseworkers do incredible work, but they have heavy caseloads, which makes it hard to focus on just one child. CASA volunteers can be that consistent person in a child’s life.” Consistency matters for children in foster care. CASA volunteers commit to weekly visits with their assigned child—who is often going through many significant life changes. They follow the child from placement to placement, gather information on schooling, counseling, medical needs, and family visits, and write court reports every 90 days. Importantly, each report includes a “child’s wishes” section— something that can sometimes be lost in the dramatics of court proceedings. “My favorite part is giving the child a voice,” Heather says. Children are rarely allowed in the courtroom, and the process can feel confusing and frightening. But, with their advocate, they know someone is speaking directly to the judge on their behalf.”

ABOVE: Hon. Judge Michelle A. Bianchi swearing in new CASA volunteers.

6 MICHIGAN PARENT Winter 2026

The need for CASAs in Hillsdale County is significant. As of late fall, roughly 100 children in the county are in the foster care system. Hillsdale CASA currently serves about 40 ofthem.

“Our ultimate goal is a CASA for every child,” Heather explains. “Because they deserve that consistency in a world that’s so inconsistent.” There are many challenges that face the Hillsdale County foster care system. One major one is the shortage of foster families. When local placements aren’t available, children are often moved out of the county. That can make assigning a CASA difficult and each move typically means a new school, new routines, and more upheaval. “Even if home wasn’t a safe environment, it was still their home,” Heather says. “Every move adds trauma. More local foster families would keep kids closer to their support systems.” Heather adds that another persistent barrier for parents trying to reunify with their children is transportation. Many lack reliable vehicles, which can make it very challenging for them to meet the requirements to have their children returned to them. “For parents working to get clean, find housing, start treatment, or get to work, transportation can make or break their progress,” she says. “We’re not trying to set people up for failure. We want them to succeed.” Heather notes that, despite its challenges, Hillsdale County actually has many available mental health and substance abuse resources. Volunteering as a CASA requires a time commitment, both during training and once assigned a case, but Heather says it’s one that makes an unbelievable difference in the lives of local children in need. Still, she encourages anyone interested to go through training, even if they’re unsure whether they will volunteer immediately.

ABOVE: CASA Board members Shannan Clevenger, Vicky Bowers, Juli Hayes, Abbey LoPresto, Sharon Turnbull, Tim Haylett, Norris March with executive director Heather Upton. (not pictured board members Gale Fix & Nichole Ellis.

Heather highlights that it is ultimately community support that keeps the program afloat. After losing a major grant in 2021— representing 60% of its budget—Hillsdale CASA managed to sustain its services through donations and fundraisers such as its annual Purse Bingo, held in August. Hillsdale CASA will begin its next volunteer training at the end of January, which Heather notes is perfect for anyone looking to start the new year with a meaningful commitment to the community. She adds that there is an especially big need for men to volunteer. “If anyone has even an inkling of interest, please reach out to me,” Heather says. “There’s no commitment, it’s just a first step.” For Upton, CASA’s mission remains clear and unwavering and she is excited to continue to share that with the community.

“Every child deserves someone who shows up for them,” she says. “If you can be that one person, you can change a life.” Potential volunteers or donors can learn more at hillsdalecasa. org, on the organization’s Facebook page, or by contacting Heather directly at director@hillsdalecasa.org or (517) 425-4145.

“You’re not wasting my time,” she says. “Even if you don’t take a case right away, the information is valuable for any community member.” Heather explains that her passion for this work is deeply personal. “I had a traumatic childhood,” she says. “But, I was lucky—I had an aunt who was that one stable adult in my life. It could have gone the other way. I want CASA volunteers to be that person for a child.” In addition to advocacy work, Hillsdale CASA operates the county’s Foster Closet, providing clothing and essentials to foster families out of its downtown Hillsdale office. Donations are accepted and new socks, underwear, and bras for all ages are always needed. Currently, clothing in sizes 4–5T are also especially needed.

ABOVE: Shelly Haylett, Foster Closet Coordinator and former CASA. MICHIGAN PARENT Winter 2026

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Talk, Read, Sing -

everything is literacy - make every moment count

magine driving down a quiet country road at night — only your headlights lighting the way, surrounded by stillness and darkness. Now picture downtown Chicago or New York City at night — bright lights, constant movement, and sound everywhere.

By Sarah Gray

That contrast is what it’s like inside a baby’s brain when it shifts from being unengaged to fully engaged — from that dark, quiet road to the brilliance of a busy city. All it takes is connection.

and partnerships include: ·

21 Little Free Libraries across Hillsdale County, offering free books for all ages — over 2,300 used children’s books placed over the last year.

“Our kids are impressionable at all ages,” says Stefanie Rathburn, director of the Hillsdale County Great Start Collaborative. “We know it has a huge impact later in life.”

Books for Babies, gift bags provided to families with a new baby at Hillsdale Hospital’s Birthing Center and the local WIC office.

According to the 2025 Kids Count in Michigan, 73.8 percent of third graders in the county are not proficient in reading, which is an increase from 2024 when 68.1 percent of third graders were not proficient. Michigan’s overall rate for reading proficiency in third grade is just 39.5 percent..

Hillsdale County Kids Read, a partnership with local businesses and agencies in which nearly 500 books were placed in 25 locations across the county last year.

Free books distributed at events such as the Community Baby Shower, Free Family Safety Fair, StoryWalk at the Hillsdale Farmers Market and more!

With literacy proficiency rates falling in Hillsdale County, it’s more important than ever for parents to start engaging with their children early — from birth — and to do it often, every single day. Because everything is literacy.

So why focus on babies when discussing third-grade reading? Because literacy begins at birth. “The more words children are exposed to, the better they do academically,” Rathburn explains. “Parents need to know they have the power to make a difference in their child’s future. It’s about more than feeding and clothing them.” The Hillsdale Great Start Collaborative is using the Talking is Teaching initiative to help parents turn everyday moments into opportunities for learning. “Small moments can be meaningful,” says Wendy Playford, family liaison with the Hillsdale Great Start Collaborative. “Communicate with your child in every part of life — during bath time, diaper changes, or grocery shopping. It’s about building a social and emotional connection.” Through the Talking is Teaching initiative, parents are shown that all types of communication are impactful to their children. Children can learn whether it’s playing I Spy in the store, counting steps up the stairs, or reading together before bed. “Embed it into everyday activities,” Playford says. “It can be literacy without a book.” Despite recently losing 100 percent of its state funding, the Great Start Collaborative continues to find ways to support families and create learning opportunities. Their programs 10 MICHIGAN PARENT Winter 2026

Three local libraries — Hillsdale, Jonesville, and North Adams — also participate in the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten initiative, which encourages parents to read often with their children and offers incentives for milestones reached. “Any exposure helps a child become more ready for school,” Rathburn says. “The more words they hear, the stronger their academic foundation.” She also stressed that parents don’t have to be strong readers themselves to make a difference. “Some parents feel intimidated by books if they are not good readers themselves. The engagement with your child is just as important as the words on the page.” That engagement can be simple. Asking a child to find a picture of a cow, house, or car on the page — that’s literacy. So is pointing to a cow and asking, “What sound does it make?” “Parents should use books in the way it works for them,” Playford says. “Any interaction with a book can be meaningful.” For more information about the events and initiatives offered by the Great Start Collaborative, visit greatstarthillsdale.com or follow them on Facebook, Great Start Hillsdale County.

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Live Fit!

Family-Fun Fitness and Why it is Important — Especially During Winter by Dakota Harding

I’ll admit it — I wasn’t thrilled when Grandma announced she was sending home yet another “toy.” As my brother often jokes, our house already “looks like Toys ‘R’ Us exploded.” Still, we brought the toy home. What began as a small, flat package quickly inflated into hours of laughter, movement, and unexpected exercise for the entire family. I had no idea an inflatable bounce-back-bopper could be beneficial and so much fun at the same time. This is just one example of some family-fun fitness. If you are struggling, brainstorm with your family to get creative and find something you will enjoy together. Winter can be a challenging season for families trying to stay active. Cold temperatures, shorter daylight hours, and fewer opportunities for outdoor play often lead to more time indoors, increased screen use, and less physical movement. But with a little creativity, home can become a hub for fun, healthy activity that keeps kids moving and families connected — even when it’s freezing outside. Why Family Fitness at Home Matters Engaging children in regular, family-based physical activity — especially during winter — offers powerful short-term and long-term benefits: ·

Physical health: Regular movement supports cardiovascular fitness, strengthens bones and muscles, promotes healthy weight, and reduces the risk of chronic illness later in life.

12 MICHIGAN PARENT Winter 2026

Mental and emotional well-being: Physical activity helps improve mood, reduce anxiety and depression, boost self-esteem, and build emotional resilience.

Cognitive and behavioral benefits: Research shows that active children often demonstrate better attention, memory, classroom behavior, and overall academic performance.

Family bonding and routine-building: Exercising together reinforces physical activity as a family value while creating meaningful shared experiences — especially important during winter when routines and movement tend to shrink.

Lifelong habit formation: Children who grow up participating in regular physical activity — even indoors — are more likely to stay active into adolescence and adulthood, helping prevent obesity, chronic disease, and other health concerns.

Making Winter an Active Season Winter doesn’t have to be a season of inactivity. With thoughtful planning, creativity, and family commitment, your home can become a space for movement, laughter, and connection. By prioritizing family fitness indoors, you help children meet essential activity guidelines, support their physical and mental health, and strengthen family bonds that last well beyond the winter months.

MICHIGAN PARENT Winter 2026

Two Pink Lines:

What Comes Next? Two pink lines. A tiny plus sign. The word pregnant. In a single moment, life shifts. There is joy, yes—but also questions: What happens next? Who do I call? When should care begin? Welcome to the beginning of an extraordinary journey, one you never have to walk alone.

The Journey Begins: Why Prenatal Care Matters Prenatal care is more than a medical routine. It’s your roadmap, support system, and an intentional way to prepare for a healthy pregnancy. Early and consistent prenatal visits protect the health of both mother and baby through screening, prevention, education, and emotional support. Most care follows a simple rhythm: • Every 4 weeks until 28 weeks • Every 2 weeks until 36 weeks • Weekly after 36 weeks Appointments grow into conversations about nutrition, movement, stress, birth preferences, and postpartum planning. Yet many families still face obstacles to beginning care early. In Hillsdale County, 35.1% of births in 2023 received less than adequate prenatal care, above Michigan’s 30.7%. Late or no care occurred in 9.6% of local births, compared with 6.3% statewide. Michigan’s maternal mortality ratio—79.3 deaths per 100,000 live births between 2016 and 2020—underscores why early support matters. Behind every number is a life, a family, a future.

Building Healthier Beginnings Strong prenatal care leads to safer deliveries, fewer preterm births, and healthier starts for babies. More families are turning to expanded care models that provide connection as well as clinical guidance.

Centering Care Picture a group of expectant mothers with similar due dates meeting together with a provider. Instead of brief check-ins, visits become shared conversations where women learn, connect, and prepare together. This Centering model is linked with lower preterm birth rates and higher breastfeeding success. Many describe it as the place where confidence grows and anxiety softens.

Doula Support Doulas offer continuous emotional, physical, and informational support during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Research shows that mothers with doula care experience shorter labors, fewer interventions, and a 39% lower likelihood of cesarean birth. Michigan now covers doula services through all Medicaid plans, expanding access to this vital support.

14 MICHIGAN PARENT Winter 2026

Lactation Support Care doesn’t end at delivery. Feeding, bonding, and recovery are essential parts of early parenthood. • WIC Peer Counselors offer practical encouragement from trained parents. • Community Breastfeeding Specialists (CBS) provide home visits and group support. • IBCLC Lactation Consultants help with complex feeding challenges and personalized care plans. In Hillsdale County, 85.3% of mothers initiated breastfeeding in 2022, yet continuation rates declined by three months. Early, hands-on support often makes the difference between frustration and confidence.

Love, Support, and the Next Step Those two pink lines are only the beginning. There is a whole support team waiting to help you build a birth and postpartum plan that includes your support team, rest strategies, and feeding goals. Prenatal care offers the framework. Centering and doulas create connection. Lactation support strengthens bonding and confidence. Together, these resources form a circle of care—helping every parent begin this journey with knowledge, community, and love.

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MICHIGAN PARENT Winter 2026

let's read! Cozy winter days (and nights!) call for snuggling up with a soft blanket and a good book. We’ve collected some titles for your children to enjoy through this cold season. Although these books are highly rated by parents, educators, and readers, you know your children best. We recommend reading (or at least skimming) the books for younger children to see if they’re appropriate for your child. Online reviews are available for the longer books to help you decide if they’re a good fit.

written by Melissa McCance

the more that you READ the more things you’ll KNOW the more that you LEARN the more PLACES you’ll go. ` Dr. Seuss

16 MICHIGAN PARENT Winter 2026

GRADES K-2 Broken by X. Fang covers one of the hard things that has happened to many of us as children: accidentally breaking or losing something that belongs to a loved one. In this book, Mei Mei breaks her grandmother’s favorite cup, and she’s sure there will be dire consequences. Instead, she learns about love, forgiveness . . . and that broken things can be repaired!

The Family Under the Bridge by Natalie Savage Carlson tells the story of Armand, an old man living on the Paris streets who gets by doing odd jobs and begging—no cares, no responsibilities. But then he discovers three cold and hungry children in his usual spot under the bridge and begins to take care of them. It all winds up with a happy and heartwarming ending.

GRADES 3-5 In How NOT to Start Third Grade, authors Cathy Hapka and Ellen Titlebaum chronicle the funny trials and tribulations of Will who is not excited to have exuberant little brother Steve starting kindergarten in the same school! This book is part of the Step into Reading series and is a great option for a confident new independent reader.

The Borrowers by Mary Norton is the first in a five-book series that has become a children’s classic. The borrowers are tiny people who live in the houses of “human beans” and survive by “borrowing” food and items from their giant cohabitants. The biggest danger is being seen, which is just what happens to this family. Although the setting (England) and when it was published (1952) can present some challenges for modern kids, it’s a charming story and well worth reading. (And, please, do NOT judge the books by the movie, which was dreadful and is not a faithful adaptation!)

GRADES 6-8 The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne is a beautifully-written book that may not be suitable for all children in this age group. However, it is an excellent way to introduce your middle-schooler to the Holocaust as well as underscoring the similarities among people despite efforts to emphasize differences. Acclaimed by critics, teachers, and parents, this novel can be a springboard to meaningful discussion. We do recommend reading the plot summary available on Wikipedia (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Boy_in_the_ Striped_Pyjamas) if you have any concerns about its suitability. (The difference in spelling “pajamas” is because Mr. Boyne is Irish.)

The Green Kingdom by Cornelia Funke tells the story of Caspia, who has to spend her summer with her parents in Brooklyn. And . . . she hates it. The city is too big, too dirty, too noisy, and too crowded. Then she discovers some old letters that were written by a girl who traveled the world with her botanist father. Each letter begins with a puzzle—and Caspia begins an adventure!

Helping Hands

Preschool & Childcare Center by Elyse Apel

Brandi is effectively combining business savvy with her childcare passion. In 2022, she earned her bachelor’s degree in business management. She is now pursuing a second degree in early childhood education to further her expertise. “I’ve always loved children,” Brandi explains. “We see a lot of different personalities and a lot of different temperaments in the kids, so I always try to think back to when I was a child and what I needed the most.”

When schools shut down in 2020, many parents were scrambling to find care and consistency for their children. For Brandi Donovan, that moment of upheaval became the spark for a new calling. “During COVID, my kids were sent home from school,” Brandi says. “That’s when I decided I wanted to start a home daycare.” By July 2020, Helping Hands Preschool & Childcare Center opened its doors. At first, it operated out of Brandi’s home. Within a year, the need for quality childcare had outgrown her home. In 2021, Brandi hired her first employee. When a Jonesville daycare facility came up for sale, she jumped at the opportunity. “There’s just such a big need for it,” Brandi explains. As the business flourished, Brandi began looking to expand again. Soon, she had the opportunity to open a second center in Reading. Since 2023, both facilities have been fully operational and offer childcare for infants to preschoolers. Helping Hands also offers before-and-after school programs and summer care. Both the Reading and Jonesville locations are fully licensed. While the Jonesville facility is currently at capacity, Reading has a number of openings. As owner, Brandi tries to be very hands-on with ensuring that every child in her care is given a safe, fun, and nurturing place to learn and grow while parents are at work. “I usually go into both centers two or three times a week,” Brandi says. “I like to sit with the kids, play with them, and really be part of their world.” 18 MICHIGAN PARENT Winter 2026

Helping Hands Preschool & Childcare Center has faced the same challenges many childcare providers do: staffing ratios, funding, and the growing demand for infant care. “There’s a huge need for baby care,” Brandi says. “Not many centers take infants because the ratios make it hard to stay profitable.” Another challenge is losing preschoolers to free government programs like Head Start and the Great Start Reading Program. “It’s wonderful that families have those options,” Brandi says, “but it does make it tough for small centers to compete.” To help bridge that gap for small business, Brandi is currently working to bring a Great Start Reading Program classroom into her Jonesville facility. She also dreams of maybe one day opening a specialized childcare center for children with special needs. “They often don’t have access to as many resources as other children,” she said. “Every child deserves the chance to grow, learn, and feel loved.” Despite the obstacles, Brandi’s focus remains on the children and families she serves. “What sets us apart is our willingness to go above and beyond with communication and transparency,” she said. “If I notice a child might have some developmental delays, I’ll talk with parents and make referrals for support. My goal is that every child who leaves here is ready to be successful in school, both emotionally and socially.” Helping Hands Preschool & Childcare Center has one location in Reading and one in Jonesville. For more information, questions, or to inquire about availability, you can message on Facebook or call (517) 826-5013 for Jonesville or (517) 901-0280 for Reading.

HELPING HANDS PRESCHOOL & CHILDCARE

We Believe :

It is the mission to provide a safe, fun, nurturing environment, a place where children can play,learn and grow. Our focus is to provide a foundation which encourages each child’s social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development, by providing developmentally appropriate practices.. Our goal is to ensure a well-run program, that is culturally sensitive to the needs of all families.

We Offer :

Before & After School Program Summer Care (limited availability) Infant Program Toddler Program Preschool Program

Find us on Facebook!

Jonesville Helping Hands Reading Helping Hands 310 North St. 221 Strong St. Jonesville, Mi 49250 Reading, Mi 49274 Call 517-826-5016

MICHIGAN PARENT Winter 2025

Having difficult, challenging and uncomfortable

conversations with your kids

By Sarah Gray

Death, sex, divorce, illness, safe touch.

questions they may have will differ greatly. However, the need for the conversation remains the same.

Having children means having to have difficult, challenging and even uncomfortable conversations. Some are discussions every parent should have. Some are talks parents wish they never had to have. Nevertheless, talking with children openly and honestly about hard topics is important.

Begin the conversation by asking what they already know. As stated before, kids are intuitive. They pick up on much more than parents give them credit for. They may already know or have an idea about what is going on. Create a safe space for them to talk - at home, with no distractions like phones or TVs around, and with no time limit. It is best to not have difficult conversations with your kids 10 minutes before they leave for school.

It isn’t easy. So much of parenting is not. And as much as they might push back and roll their eyes, kids need to hear this information from their parents. And they would never admit it, but they do appreciate it. A common mistake parents can make when it comes to discussing difficult or or uncomfortable topics with their children is simply avoiding the topic altogether. Pretend things are fine or change the subject. Parents may think by not talking about the subject they are somehow protecting their child or “keeping their innocence” about the topic. Children are much more intuitive than parents may give them credit. They know when things aren’t right. They can feel tension, sadness or anxiety in the home. They may not know how to address it, but they can feel it and are reacting to it. The Australian website rasingchildren.net says talking about tough topics strengthens a child’s ability to think, solve problems and communicate. It also helps to build a child’s resilience. The site adds that having these conversations allows parents to explain their own values and beliefs that are important to the family. There is no time table as to when parents should have difficult or sensitive conversations with their children. Grief or trauma can happen at any time. It is important, however, to tailor the talk with their child to their age. Speaking about a death in the family to a three-year-old is much different than talking with a teen. The child’s capacity to understand, emotional response and

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Be honest. Parents want to protect their children from pain and hurt but as the saying goes “honesty is the best policy.” St. Jude Research Hospital states that by speaking the truth, parents are building trust with their child. Trust goes both ways. Parents need to be able to trust their children and children need to be able to trust their parents. By keeping information from them regarding a difficult topic like divorce or illness they may think their parents are always keeping something from them in the future. Tailor the conversation to the child. Just as it is important to adapt the conversation to the age of the child, it is also important to individualize the talk to the child themselves. Every kid is different and the words and phrases used for one child might not be helpful to the next. Parents know their children and how they think. Use that knowledge to individualize the conversation to each child. Allow them to speak. Talking about death, sex or divorce is not easy for a parent and the goal may be to get in and get out of the conversation as quickly as possible. However it is important to allow time for the words to sink in and then a chance for the child to ask any questions they may have. Validate their feelings and leave the conversation open-ended so they can feel comfortable coming back and discussing the topic or asking more questions at a later date. Parents also need to remember to check in with their child to see how they are doing post conversation. Not just an hour or two later, but the day after, the week after, even the month after the conversation took place. Kids may not be eager to broach the subject again but may have questions, or worries they want to discuss. By checking in, the parent is giving their child permission to talk about the subject without having to bring up themselves. It may not be the perfect conversation, it may be awkward and uncomfortable, but having conversations with your children about difficult and challenging topics is important.

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