Haley Kotwicki

Oakland Family Services (OFS) provides prevention, education and treatment programs that support individuals and families. These programs build brighter futures in our community by enriching the lives of children, strengthening families and rebuilding lives.

Highlights of the natural playgrounds at our Children’s Learning Centers in Pontiac and Walled Lake.

Through our years of school, many people come to understand what type of learner we are. Some of us may learn best by seeing or reading to understand, while others may need verbal directions. Some learn best in groups, while others learn best independently. Just like there are different types of learning, there are also different types of teaching. Early education programs use specific education philosophies and curriculums to teach toddlers and young children, such as HighScope, Montessori, Re

Are you looking for fun activities to do with your kids over the holiday break or ideas for new family traditions? Check out the Specialized Services for Youth (SSY) 2021 Guide to the Holidays! Each page features a craft, indoor/outdoor activity or recipe curated by the SSY team for families.

Why is it important to understand the impact of ACEs? The impact of ACEs not only affects the child, but stays long into adulthood, creating a harmful ripple effect. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Department of Preventive Medicine at Kaiser Permanente conducted the original ACEs studies from 1995 to 1997, and many states have built on this research by collecting ACE data through the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). The key findings of CDC-Kaiser a

Learn how to create a safe environment for your child during car rides and at home, including childproofing, and lifesaving measures.

Tips for Talking to Your Senior Parents About the COVID-19 Vaccine Adults age 65 and up and/or individuals with pre-existing health conditions (i.e. diabetes, asthma, etc.) are at the greatest risk of serious illness or death when encountering COVID-19. Thus, many states are inviting seniors to be some of the first citizens to receive the vaccine. While many older adults are eagerly making appointments for vaccinations, some are concerned or confused. As a family caregiver, you can help educate

Finding a home care agency to watch over a parent, grandparent, spouse or another older loved one is a serious responsibility. Do you know what to look for in a home care agency to ensure that you’re making the best choice for your loved one?

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted all of our daily lives in many ways, but seniors have been hit particularly hard. According to the CDC, people over 65 years of age are in a high-risk group for coronavirus. Due to the increased risk, many seniors and their families now are facing difficult situations. To stay safe, seniors must be even more vigilant with social distancing, which only makes it increasingly complicated to handle their living environment and care. Group environments like assiste