News

Celebrating Autism Acceptance Month

Published April 1, 2026 A New Perspective As we enter into April, a familiar color begins to appear just about everywhere you look, from storefronts to social media feeds. But this year, the theme is shifting. Rather than simply focusing on Awareness, there’s now a more important push toward Autism Acceptance – a transition from […]

Breastfeeding Basics

Published 3/30/26 Consult an IBCLC While breastfeeding is an incredibly beneficial and rewarding journey, it often comes with an unexpected learning curve. Fortunately, there are many simple ways to improve your experience and find the support you need. A great first step is contacting an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) before the baby is […]

How to Know if Your Child is “Kindergarten Ready” from a Former Kindergarten Teacher

By BlueWaterParent.com Parenting Blogger Alyssa Dock. Views represented are for informational purposes and are the personal views of the writer. Over the years I have had the privilege to teach students of all ages, from preschool to second grade.  I spent two years teaching Kindergarten and there was always so much talk about what it […]

Pine River Nature Center Announces Family Events

Published 3/13/26 Pine River Nature Center in Goodells, Michigan, has announced several spring family events. The expansive nature center features not only hiking trails, but a treehouse and a large building with plenty of spaces for learning and exploring. Animal Encounters Animal Encounters is planned for Monday, March 30th, at 10:00 a.m. and Thursday, April […]

Attending Live Performances is Important for Kids

Going to see and hear things live and in person, whether it is animals at the zoo, actors on a stage, or athletes on a court or field is valuable for children’s developing brains. Watching something on a screen is just not the same. For kids who are learning a sport or learning to play […]

5th Annual SC4 STEM Fest Returns This March

Published January 11, 2026 and March 5, 2026 St. Clair County Community College announces the return of the SC4 STEM Fest, a premier community event designed to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators. Now in its fifth year, the festival will take place on Saturday, March 7, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Following a […]

Baby Led Weaning vs. Purees

Published 2/26/26 Introducing Solids When it comes time to introduce solids to your little one, this can be an exciting yet challenging time. Any mother always wants to do what is best for her little one, so this can feel like a big decision. Baby-led weaning is simply giving your baby food and allowing them […]

Overcoming Cold & Flu Season With Your Baby

Published 2/24/26 Cold & Flu Season with Baby Depending on where you live, the cold and flu season may last for 6+ months. For many mothers, this is a daunting time, but with some simple tips and tricks, it can be less scary knowing you are prepared. Prevention Your first line of defense with your […]

Sign up for Sweetheart Dance TODAY

Published 2/19/26 Sweetheart Dance for Girls and Special Adult If you missed the other Daddy-Daughter Dances in the area, or you went to one and had so much fun you want to go again, here’s your chance, but you need to act quickly. St. Mary/McCormick Catholic Academy is hosting a Sweetheart Dance with an adorable […]

BlueWaterParent.com Celebrates a New Chapter with New Ownership

Published 2/14/26 Trusted Resource Continues Port Huron, Michigan — BlueWaterParent.com, a beloved and trusted community resource for local families, is excited to announce the transfer of ownership from founder Jennie McClelland to new owner Lyndsey Brownfield. This milestone marks a joyful new chapter for BlueWaterParent.com, built on a strong foundation of community trust, meaningful connections, and […]

New Life Christian Academy’s 2026 Annual Celebration Banquet

Published January 15, 2026 New Life Christian Academy has announced its Annual Celebration Banquet on March 5, 2026, at Alexander’s in Marysville. The event will honor its history and all they’ve done in the community, while also reflecting on the school’s recent achievements and serving as a fundraiser for its future. The theme for the […]

National African American Read In February 21

Published 2/10/26 Port Huron Schools Host Read-In February is Black History Month. To celebrate the rich history of African Americans and to celebrate literature that tells the stories, Port Huron Schools is hosting the National African American Read-In on Saturday, February 21, at 10:00 a.m. at Cleveland Elementary. The Read-In is part of a national […]

Port Huron’s ChillyFest Turns Downtown into Winter Wonderland

Published 1/27/26 Ice Sculptures, Chili, More Port Huron’s Chilly Fest brings a variety of family activities to downtown Port Huron on February 7th. The annual winter celebration features ice sculptures placed in front of businesses throughout downtown and a variety of activities. Families can purchase chili tickets and use them to sample. The tickets are […]

Local Student Art on Display at SC4’s Beatrice Thornton Exhibition

Published 1/20/26 Young artists in Kindergarten through 12th grade will be showing off their creations at this year’s Beatrice Thornton Art Exhibit at St. Clair County Community College. The annual exhibit features artwork from St. Clair County public and private schools. This is the 58th year of the Blue Water area tradition. The exhibit is […]

The Athletic Factory Hosting BINGO Night!

Published 1/20/26 Fun Night for a Good Cause When’s the last time you played Bingo? This no-skill, all-luck game is a classic for a reason. All you have to do is listen for your numbers, watch your cards, and hopefully win some prizes. The Athletic Factory, a Port Huron, Michigan non-profit that provides youth activities […]

BLOOM 2026: You Are A Masterpiece

Published January 15, 2026 BLOOM 2026 is set to return this February, bringing an evening of inspiration, confidence-building, and community to local teen girls. Hosted by the nonprofit organization A Beautiful Me, this year’s theme, “Masterpiece,” focuses on reminding every young woman that she is created with purpose and unique worth. This event is presented […]

Hearts for Hope Raises Money for Kids

Published 1/9/25 Hearts for Hope Catholic Charities Counseling Services, located near Lake Huron Medical Center in Port Huron, provides services for all ages and stages of life. The office is expanding a very special part of their services for children and adolescents: play therapy. Money raised from this year’s Hearts for Hope event will go […]

Sign Up for Port Huron Recreation Winter Fun

Published 1/8/26 Dance, Theater, CPR, Cooking, and much more The Port Huron Recreation Department has a full catalog of events and classes for both residents and non-residents. Registration for City of Port Huron residents begins January 8th. Non-residents can register on January 9th. This winter’s offerings are diverse. There are performing arts classes led by […]

CocoBella’s Bakery Brings European Experience to St. Clair

Published 12/20/25 BlueWaterParent.com publisher, Jennie McClelland, took her family to CocoBella’s Bakery in St. Clair. Here’s her review. Field Trip Worthy Can’t make it to Paris for Christmas this year? CocoBella’s Bakery in St. Clair, Michigan, has got you covered. The European-style bakery is worth a family field trip. The architecture and decorating are lovely. […]

The Athletic Factory Volleyball Skills Camp Taking Registrations

Published 12/17/25 Volleyball Skills Camp The Athletic Factory in Port Huron is offering a winter Volleyball Skills Camp for students in grades Kindergarten through 4th grade. The camp has two sessions: Kindergarten to 2nd grade from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. and 3rd-4th grade from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Saturdays from January 17th […]

Huron Academic Endeavors Launches New Sports Program

Published 12/17/25 All The Sports Homeschooled kids have the opportunity to try out a variety of different sports with the new Sports and Skills Camp. Huron Academic Endeavors (HAE), a home-education center located in Smiths Creek, has re-imagined youth athletics. HAE will host weekly sports and open gym classes for area students. The classes offer […]

Attention Young Artists and Writers! St. Clair County Community Mental Health Creative Arts Contest Has Begun

Published 12/16/25 Art Contest for Grades K-12 Students in local schools can participate in this year’s St. Clair County Community Mental Health Creative Arts Contest. Entries are due by January 16th, 2026. This year’s theme is Stronger Together-You Are Not Alone. Kindness Connects Us The Elementary School (grades kindergarten through 5th grade) tagline is Kindness […]

Looking for a Family Giving Project? Backpacks for BWARM

Published 12/16/25 Your Family Can Help Do you feel helpless when you see someone who looks like they might be living on the streets? Do you want to model peace and love to your children during this holiday season? Blue Water Area Rescue Mission (BWARM) has created a very specific list that takes the guesswork […]

Win a One-Month Membership to Little Endeavors Enrichment Program

Published 12/8/25 Weekly Meetup for Babies and Parents Huron Academic Endeavors offers a weekly meetup for babies ages birth to two (siblings welcome) at their campus in Smiths Creek. The program is weekly from 9:00-9:45 a.m. on Mondays. More days will be added as the enrollment increases. Read this story from February 2025 to learn […]

Guide to Sledding in the Blue Water Area

Where are the best sled hills? Here’s the list. Click the link for maps (this is a full-service website!). Go to the bottom of the list for some sledding tips. Have a great time! DISCLAIMER: If you’re reading this, you are accepting that BlueWaterParent.com makes no claims as to the safety of any of these […]

SCCLS Offers Winter-Themed Photography

Free Holiday Photo Need a quick family photo? Here you go! The St. Clair County Library System is offering a photography micro session for local families. On Saturday, December 6th, from 10:30 a.m to 2:30 p.m., a family photographer will be onsite to provide winter-themed photos. Participants will receive a small selection of edited photos. […]

Teething Tips

Published 11/19/25 Is it time for teeth? Whether you’re a first-time parent or parent of 6, teething can be a challenging time for not just your baby but you as well. Some signs your little one may be teething include, but are not limited to, increased irritability, increased drooling, swollen or red gums, ear pulling, […]

While OB/GYNs are Scarce, Doula Access Expands

Published 11/19/2025 MDHHS Expands Doula Registry The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services had a goal of having 500 registered birth doulas by 2028. That goal has been not only met early, but doubled, with over 1000 registered doulas on the list. Medicaid Providers Over 700 of the doulas on the list are able […]

An Interview with The Nesting Spot

Registered Doula, Tayler Morrison, shares her interview with Angela, owner of The Nesting Spot, located in Lapeer, Michigan. The Nesting Spot Interview Sit down for our interview with Angela, an IBCLC and owner of The Nesting Spot, to hear what she has to say on supporting breastfeeding mothers! What is an IBCLC? “An IBCLC is […]

Dreaming of Home Ownership? Homebuyer Education Classes Can Help

Published 11/19/25 Looking to Buy? If you are hoping to buy a house in the future, but don’t know how much money you need or how to get started with the process, Blue Water Community Action can help. They have released their 2026 Homebuyer Education schedule. The classes are held online and are required for […]

SONS/YMCA Youth Basketball League Helps Kids Stay Active

Published 11/13/25 Indoor Basketball League Blue Water area youth can stay active with the Youth Basketball League, presented by SONS Outreach and the YMCA of the Blue Water Area. Practices and games are held at the YMCA. The league is open to boys and girls in 1st through 12th grade. Fun Perks for Players In […]

Navigating Reflux & Colic in Your Baby

Published 11/13/25 Certified Doula, Tayler Morrison, shares some advice on dealing with a fussy baby who may be experiencing colic or reflux. First Things First As a new mom learning about your baby, you may discover that your baby may have some colic or reflux. This is common in young babies as their digestive system […]

Happy Birthday to Discovery City! 10% Off Memberships

Published 11/4/25 10% Off For a Limited Time If you were thinking of buying a membership to Port Huron’s Discovery City Children’s Museum as a Christmas gift, this is the week to get a deal. From now until 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, November 9th, memberships are 10% off. The pricing starts at $135 for a […]

Introducing a Newborn to Older Siblings

Published 11/3.25 Certified Doula, Tayler Morrison, shares tips on bringing the newest member of the family home. Going Home Bringing home your newborn baby to join your family is one of the most joyous times; however, for some, this may also be a bit intimidating. Depending on the ages of the older siblings within the […]

Feeding Hungry Kids (and Adults) on the Cheap

Published 10/27/25 Make the Most of Grocery Money Unless our elected leaders work together to legislate in the VERY near future, Bridge Cards will not reload in November. SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) is federally funded and administered by the USDA, which has halted the program. This is a real crisis for low-income families who […]

Parenting Isn’t Easy; Get Some Help

Published 10/21/25 Parenting Classes Parenting is the most important job in the world. The job description is always changing: from changing diapers to teaching how to read to watching your child become an indiependent adult. It’s not easy, and it takes intention. Two local outreach groups are offering parenting help. SONS Outreach Parent Circles Group […]

Blue Water Martial Arts to Hold Annual “Force Against Hunger” November 1st

Published 10/15/2025 Jedi Training Blue Water Martial Arts, located at 2700 Pine Grove Avenue, Suite 14, has created a vibrant community of athletes with its martial arts school. They know the importance of a supportive community and are extending that community spirit with their collaboration with “Force Against Hunger” on November 1st from 10:00 a.m. […]

Book Review: The Calm Birth Method

Published 10/1/25 Certified Doula, Tayler Morrison, shares a book review. The Calm Birth Method The Calm Birth Method book is an excellent book selection for any woman planning a pregnancy, who is currently pregnant, or who plans on supporting a mother during her birth. This book’s main focus is on Hypnobirthing methods and how you […]

Preparing for Pregnancy

Published 10/1/25 Certified Doula, Tayler Morrison, shares tips for getting ready for the amazing journey of pregnancy. Start Early Whether you have decided to begin trying to conceive or think it may be in your future, you can never be too early in your preparation for pregnancy. Taking a prenatal vitamin is a simple way […]

Autism: Everybody’s Talking About It

Published 9/30/25 Parenting blogger, Jackie Davidson, shares her perspective on the recent announcement by the federal government on a possible correlation between acetaminophen and autism. The accuracy of the findings remains under scrutiny. The opinions shared are Jackie’s alone and should not be taken as medical advice. A New Perspective There has been a lot […]

Community Baby Shower October 14th

Door Prizes, Vendors, and More The 2025 Community Baby Shower is a can’t-miss event for expectant parents and parents of infants under three months. The Baby Shower is being held on Tuesday, October 14th, from 5-7 p.m. at Hillside Wesleyan Church Family Life Center. The annual event brings community agencies that provide services for families […]

The Athletic Factory to Host GAME ON Fundraiser October 27

Published 9/22/25 The Athletic Factory in Port Huron is hosting its 5th annual GAME ON “Together We Can Make a Difference” fundraiser on October 27, 2025, from 6-8 p.m. at the Blue Water Convention Center. This event is interactive with games and prizes. Eddie Kindle will deliver the keynote speech. Kindle worked in Port Huron […]

Unlimited Creative Solutions at The Forge Port Huron

Published 9/17/25 BlueWaterParent.com Publisher, Jennie McClelland, shares her “sneak peek” of The Forge in downtown Port Huron. Tools for Creating Just About Anything The Forge, located at Foundry Port Huron is something you really have to see to believe. I checked out the innovative makerspace this morning and got to hear from owner Jody Parmann […]

The Athletic Factory Offers Opportunities to Volunteer

Published 9/11/25 Share Your Skills Are you looking for a way to give back? Do you have a particular vocational skill, hobby, or interest that you could share with the youth of the Port Huron community? If so, The Athletic Factory, in Port Huron, might have the perfect volunteer opportunity for you. Everything from Woodshop […]