April 18 digital edition

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BIRMINGHAM PARENT'S FIRST

RELOCATION GUIDE HOW MUCH HOUSE CAN WE AFFORD?

OUR SPRING

BabyBook BED REST

SURVIVAL GUIDE HOW

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P.O. Box 326 (add 800 Hwy. 52 E. for pkg) Helena, AL 35080 205-987-7700 205-987-7600 FAX www.birminghamparent.com

editorial PUBLISHERS David & Carol Evans

This month, we’ve got TWO great special sections for our readers – our always popular “Baby Book” – and introducing the new “Relocation Guide.” We hope to grow and build the relocation guide into a yearly staple that will help our readers in the moving process, whenever they make a move across town or across country. Of course, we’ve been publishing our Baby Book for many years. As always, we welcome your input as to what you’d like to read and how we can make it even better.

Our cute cover girl Chloe is exploring the “home” at McWane Science Center’s Itty Bitty Magic City this month, while we explore “How Much House Can I Afford?” from Dave Ramsey, and “How to Help Kids with a Move,” with all sorts of tips for the move and even attending a new school.

In our Baby Book, you’ll find a story on surviving bed rest. If you’ve been pregnant and were given bed rest, you know how tough this can be. We take a look at some “survival skills” while you wait. There’s also a great story this month on the popular “babymoon” some parents take before the birth of a child, and our writer takes hers in Nashville. And we’ve got a fascinating look at how birth order affects how we parent our children.

A couple of important April designations this month are National Autism Awareness Month (see a story about a book on adult children with autism on page 8) and National Child Abuse Awareness Month (on page 28).

We’re still giving you great camp information in our camp section this month, as well as our popular monthly calendar of events.

EDITOR Carol Muse Evans

Happy Spring!

Carol Muse Evans Publisher/Editor carol@birminghamparent.com

MARKETING & SPECIAL EVENTS CONSULTANT Amy Phillips

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Lori Chandler Pruitt OFFICE ASSISTANTS Bethany Adams Hunley, Kate Hankins CALENDAR Lori Chandler Pruitt E-BLASTS Lacey Updegraff CONTRIBUTORS Dr. Vivian Friedman, Dave Ramsey, Denise Yearian, Sarah Lyons, Laura Lyles Reagan, Erin Chase, Charles Ghigna

sales SR. MARKETING CONSULTANT Kayla Fricks MARKETING CONSULTANT Michelle Awtry

WEB & SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR Bethany Adams Hunley

art & production ART DIRECTOR Hilary Moreno DISTRIBUTION T&P Deliveries LEGAL COUNSEL Balch & Bingham LLP

ABOUT THE EDITORS: Carol Muse Evans is the publisher/editor/owner of Birmingham Parent magazine, a publication she and her husband David began in 2004. The Birmingham, Alabama-based parenting publication attracts more than 60,000 readers monthly in a four-county area and receives 10,000 hits per month on its website. The magazine has a 20,000+ print circulation, plus several thousand in readership of the digital edition online. It is the only independently audited free publication in our area. Evans is an award-winning writer and editor who has also has written for several other publications as a freelance writer since the late 80s. She is a graduate of Auburn University in journalism and is a graduate of Scottsboro High School. She is married with two grown children and lives in Alabaster. She is a member of the National Federation of Press Women, Alabama Media Professionals and Southeastern Advertisers and Publishers Association (SAPA). Evans also serves on the board of directors of Childcare Resources.

Lori Chandler Pruitt is associate editor of Birmingham Parent, where she is responsible for the calendar and editorial editing. She also is a freelancer for Business Alabama magazine and has written/edited for several other publications. This award-winning writer and editor is a graduate of the University of Alabama in news/editorial and Hueytown High School. She is married with two children.

4 | birminghamparent | april 2018

BIRMINGHAM PARENT IS A PUBLICATION OF EVANS PUBLISHING, LLC. Publishers: Carol Muse Evans, David K. Evans Sr. Birmingham Parent (EIN200694149) is published monthly by Evans Publishing LLC. www.birminghamparent.com or editor@birminghamparent. com. Birmingham Parent is © 2018 by Evans Publishing LLC. Family Connections Media ©2018 by Evans Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Editorial submissions are welcome. For back issues, please send a self-addressed 10” x 13” envelope with $4 for postage and handling.

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contents Helping Children Adjust to a Move The Rivera family lived in a cozy three-bedroom home. But cozy became cramped when they adopted four children within two years. “We had gone from three to seven people under one roof,” recalls their mother Nancy. So the

PAGE 14

Riveras moved to a larger home about an hour away.

our focus

our features

our regulars

RELOCATION GUIDE

SPRING BABYBOOK

EDITOR’S NOTE Welcome to April................................4

Birmingham Parent’s Relocation Guide..............................11 How Much House Can I Afford?......................................12

20

PARENTING with Dr. Friedman...............................7 Short Stuff........................................... 8

Helping Children Adjust to a Move.............................. 14

DINING WITHOUT WHINING: At Home, with $5 Dinners............30

12 Tips to Help Your Child Adjust to a Move...................16

CALENDAR OF EVENTS................ 41

17

Birmingham Parent’s Spring BabyBook.............................19 Bed Rest Survival Guide.................................20 Babymoon in Nashville................. 24 Baby Love! How Birth Order Affects How We Parent.................26 April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month..............28

POETRY PARTY Genealogy.........................................46

check it out!

SUMMER CAMP: 10 Last-Minute Tips Before Day Camp Starts...............32 DESTINATION GUIDE: Take the Whole Family to Sheraton Bay Point Resort...........36

ON OUR COVER: Odenville toddler Chloe, age 2, was a Cover Kids winner from the 2017 search. Chloe is checking out the “house” at McWane Science Center’s “Itty Bitty City.” Photo by Samantha Ferguson, His Hands Photographs, www.hishandsphotographs.com, 205-862-3374.

6 | birminghamparent | april 2018

PAR E N TI N G

Parenting with Dr. Friedman

Q:

My 13-year-old daughter is immunosuppressed due to cancer treatment. She still wants to do what other children are doing – that is, sleep over at friends’

homes and go to summer camp. I want to keep her away from other children to keep her healthy but she feels that being isolated is like having no life at all. Will I damage her emotionally if I do what is best for her medically?

I am not a physician and I cannot speak to what is best for her medically, but what is best for her emotionally is what will keep her healthy. It is not fun to be sick. In the long run, by not being cautious, she will miss more time with friends than if she is careful.

This said, the tendency is for parents to limit a chronically ill child more than is absolutely necessary to maintain health. Yet there is a fine line to draw and you may not always know in advance what exposure is too much for your child. Sometimes only hindsight will give you the correct answer.

Instead of saying “yes” or “no” to her requests for freedom, help your child to develop a time line and a sense of sequence.

That is, it might be better to be more cautious for now and for a planned period of time and then to release her from the restrictions when she is no longer on her immunosuppressant regimen.

The key will be for you and the others who care for her to recognize the change in her status and not to continue to restrict her when restrictions are no longer necessary.

This is a general issue for all special needs children. Children should be

accommodated only where accommodations are necessary, but not in all areas of a child’s life. All children have needs typical of their age mates in some aspects, even when they are different in some ways. An intellectually deficient child might not need to be restricted from swimming in the pool with supervision. He might only need to be restricted from using a power saw on his own.

When to lift restrictions and reduce supervision is an issue for typical children as well. One of the most difficult things about parenting is that the job description changes every few months or years. Parenting a newborn is a 24/7 job. Parenting a teen requires a longer leash. A task for parents is to know when to hold on and when to let go; when to tell a child “be careful” and when to say “go ahead and try it.” Recognizing the changes in maturity is the key to raising an independent and confident child.

The task of the teen years is to break away from the parents and move towards independence. Serious illness makes a child more dependent. Just as your daughter was about to embark on some degree of autonomy, the illness pulled her back. This is the source of

her frustration. Help her to see that when she is done with her treatment, she will be able to get back on track with independence appropriate to her age.

When life puts obstacles in the way of a child, the parents’ attitude and acceptance will color the child’s view. A parent who can help his child cope will have a happier child than the parent who is angry at the cards dealt to him. Help your child to see the glass as half full rather than half empty. Help her to see that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

Caution now will give her more freedom later.

Vivian K. Friedman Ph. D. is a child and family psychologist at UAB, Department of Psychiatry. Send questions for response in this column to Viviankf@gmail.com. No personal replies are sent.

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Showcase listings with photos, video, maps, links to your website, registration form downloads and more.

VENDORS: Packages for our celebration page, regular display ads and the Virtual Celebration Expo. FREE to you with any display ad in June, our BIG Birthday Party Issue.

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S H O RT STU FF Local Author Shares Learning Her Adult Child had Autism April is National Autism Awareness Month, and local author and mom Janet Lenore Harris has a new book, “Autistic Now….at Twenty Years Old?” from Christian Faith Publishing that is encouraging parents of older children with autism.

This 32-year-veteran RN-turned-author published her book that could be applicable to any difficult situation one suddenly finds himself in, she says, as she writes about her ups and downs after receiving a devastating diagnosis and how God’s love, grace and favor helped her look beyond herself and see the needs of another.

The book takes the reader through the diagnosis of Harris’ daughter, Jennifer, as she grieved the abandonment and loss of her dad, exhibited signs of depression, and was diagnosed with autism at 20 years old.

“I wrote the book because as a mother, I just couldn’t believe or readily receive the knowledge that I’d been with my child all of her life, 20 years, and missed the diagnosis,” Harris says. “I knew that she was different from her brother in many ways, but there were by far more similarities than differences.

“Also being a psychiatric nurse, I was accustomed to observing behaviors carefully, often diagnosing patients before the physicians did. But this time I missed it. How could it be? Was I just in denial?

Possibly so.”

Today, Harris’ daughter is a full-time college honors student majoring in psychology and neuroscience while maintaining a 4.0 GPA. The book is available from Christian Faith Publishing in paperback and is sold for $12.95. It is available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, iTunes, Mahogany Books and other bookstores. Call 866-554-0919 for more information.

Ghigna’s New Book Celebrates Alabama

A new book written by author Charles Ghigna and illustrated by Michelle Hazelwood Hyde, “Alabama My Home Sweet Home” will be released this month as part of the state’s bicentennial celebration.

The Alabama Bicentennial is working to provide every Alabama bicentennial baby born in 2019 a copy of the book, and the Alabama chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics has chosen it for their 2019 Reach Out and Read program and will provide copies to their patients on their well-baby/child visits.

32 pages • 9 x 11 inches • Hardcover • Full color The book features bear cub guide Camellia, who is ready to helpApril readers Coming 2018 The state of Alabama isthe celebrating 200 years in the nation! Bear guide, Camellia, is ready to help you discover wha discover what makes Alabama so special. Encounter famous faces ofcubHelen makes Alabama so special! Encounter the famous faces of Helen Keller, Rosa Parks, and Martin Luther King, Jr., just to a few!just Visit cities thatname represent Alabama with pride, like Huntsville and Dothan.

And remember events in history tha Keller, Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King,name Jr., to a few.

Visit cities that helped changed our nation; such as the Tuskegee Airmen in World War II, Jesse Owens winning a gold medal, and Rosa Parks riding in theDothan. front of a bus. FromAnd the Nativeremember Americans in Moundvilleevents to the Alabamain and Auburn rivalry, this book i represent Alabama with pride, like Huntsville and packed full of people, places and events that made Alabama into the state it is today! author Charles Ghigna - Father Goose and illustrator Michelle Hazelwood Hyde both reside in Alabama. history that helped changed the nation, such Renowned as the Tuskegee Airmen in World War Mr. Ghigna has written more than one hundred books for children and adults; while Mrs. Hyde is a freelance illustrator of ten books for children.

II and Jesse Owens winning a gold medal.

EAN Title ISBN Case Count Retail (each From the Native Americans in Moundville to the Alabama and Auburn rivalry, 24 0794846513 9780794846510 Alabama My Home Sweet Home $14.95 this book is packed full of people, places and events that made Alabama into the state it is today.

Ghigna has written more than 100 books for children and adults, and Hyde is a freelance illustrator of 10 books for children.

Other programs and events are in the works, including a big book launch at the Alabama Book Festival in Montgomery this June. ®

SHERIFF’S CORNER: Keeping Safe Online

By Sheriff Mike Hale

The increased use of internet social networks by adults, teenagers and businesses has become the hunting ground of criminals.

Please remember that your information, even if set to private, can be compromised. For example, you post that your family is on vacation. This leaves your home vulnerable. There are documented cases of criminals assuming the identity of someone from your past and “friending you” online. They can then use your status to target your home during your absence. Wait until you return home to post those great vacation photographs.

Lastly, protect your personal information. Posting it makes you a potential target of criminal activity and identity theft.

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Tips to Stop Bullying According to a report from the National Center for Education Statistics, 20 percent of students in the United States ages 12 to 18 reported being bullied at school in 2015.

“Most people think of bullying as kids just being mean to each other,” said Jonathan Adams, a Ph.D. student in the UAB College of Arts and Sciences’ Department of Psychology.

“From a research perspective, bullying is a repeated, intentional and aggressive act by a more powerful child aimed at a less powerful child. There are certain acts taken by bystanders that either feed the bullying behavior or stop it.

We also know from research that bullying peaks around middle school.”

Drawing from the body of research currently available on bullying, Adams, whose own research focuses on the well-being of kids in the school environment, has developed some practical tips for students, parents and teachers to combat bullying.

STUDENTS • Speak up in the presence of a bullying act. Bullying rarely happens in a vacuum.

There are usually a lot of other kids around when a bullying incident occurs. “Bullies want to emphasize their social power,” Adams says.

“They will do this by choosing a physically or socially weaker victim and victimize them in a highly public setting to demonstrate that they are one of the more socially powerful people in the environment. If bystanders cheer

on the bully, it reinforces the behavior. If the bystanders step in to reject the behavior, the bullying is less likely to occur in the future.”

• If you are a victim, tell someone. “We know that one reason some students hesitate to tell someone is due to a culture among students that says tattling is bad,” Adams says “Telling an adult can improve the outcome when adults adequately address the situation.”

PARENTS • Talk to your child about bullying. It is important to talk about bullying with your kids because it is unlikely they will bring it up naturally. This is true for both bullying perpetrators and victims.

• Work with teachers to address bullying.

If discipline happens at the school but is not carried through in the home, it is not consistent.

This will send mixed messages to the student on whether or not bullying is acceptable behavior.

EDUCATORS • Seek out more training on how to identify bullying. This will require help from school administration.

• Take reports of cyberbullying seriously.

Students are often hesitant to bring up cyberbullying to teachers out of fear of the consequences of revealing that they may have been using a phone or other electronic device at school if the device is not allowed.

Health Starts Early.

Health Starts Here.

Auburn Nursing’s New Outreach Program Combats Poor Health Trends in State If one Auburn University associate professor has her way, a new outreach program aimed at promoting healthy behaviors in children from neighboring Tallapoosa County will one day be available statewide.

Linda Gibson-Young, an associate professor in Auburn’s School of Nursing, along with fellow nursing faculty Ann Lambert, Tonya Johnson and Margot Fox and pediatrician Dr. Eric Tyler, collaborated to create TigerCHAT – Community Health, Awareness and Training – to establish healthy eating, physical activity and oral care behaviors among school children.

The program is being piloted this semester at Radney Elementary School in Alexander City, home to nearly 500 students in fifth and sixth grade. Gibson-Young and Auburn nursing students visit the school for 10 weeks to present lessons on the heart (nutrition and activity), lungs (staying healthy and sleep health) and brain (dealing with emotions like sadness and anger).

With the support of Alexander City Schools and the Russell Medical Center Foundation, TigerCHAT will be offered at Radney for at least the next four years. Gibson-Young said she intentionally integrated TigerCHAT into the school curriculum in order for it to be sustainable and exist beyond the current partnership.

Gibson-Young said she is currently seeking grant funding to share the program in Chambers County schools. She’s also looking to partner with psychology, kinesiology, nutrition and pharmacy at Auburn, as well as the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, to help adapt the program.

Then she wants to bring the program to Lee County schools, potentially partnering with Southern Union State Community College.

- Amy Weaver....

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JOIN EASTERSEALS OF THE BIRMINGHAM AREA FOR

BBQ AT THE ZOO

W W W.T H O M A S P E D I AT R I C D E N T I S T R Y. C O M 721 MONTCLAIR RD . BIRMINGHAM, AL 35213

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Grilling teams will compete for the best BBQ, and visitors will get to enjoy it all.

If you enjoyed the Big Green Eggs in the Ham events past, THIS is the event for 2018, now open to all types of grilling, Music and fun activities for children.

A one-of-a-kind football camp for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities

Saturday, June 16 | UAB Legacy Pavilion | 9am-1pm FOR TICKET INFO VISIT WWW.EASTERSEALSBHAM.ORG/EVENTS . 205-314-2187 10 | birminghamparent | april 2018

Register at www.arcofcentralalabama.org

BIRMINGHAM

PARENT’S

RELOCATION GUIDE Welcome to Birmingham Parent’s First Relocation Guide! So you’re considering a move – or you are already in the process. Whether it’s across town or across the country, psychologists say moving is one of the most stressful life events. In fact, according to a recent study of 2,000 adults by energy company E.ON, the stress of moving actually beats out divorce and starting a new job.

You can only imagine how your child may feel, and our relocation guide will help you navigate how to help your children adjust to a move, a new school and more.

If you enjoy this relocation guide, let us know.

We’d like to bring you another one in the fall!

We’d love to hear from you.

How Much House Can I Afford?.................... 12 Helping Children Adjust to a Move............... 14 12 Tips to Help Your Children Adjust to a Move............................. 16 Transitioning to a New School.......................17 Reading Resources to Help Children Prepare for a Move..........................17

A SPECIAL SECTION birminghamparent.com | 11

How Much House Can I Afford?

By Dave Ramsey

Buying a home can be lots of fun. It’s exciting to see all those years of dreaming come to life in a place you can finally call your own. With so many possibilities at your fingertips, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement before asking yourself the most important question of all: How much house can I afford?

It doesn’t matter if the kitchen is fabulous or the backyard is big. If you can’t pay the mortgage each month, or find the cash to fix what’s broken, your home will never be a blessing.

Step 1: Start with a Solid Foundation Before trying to find out how much house you can afford, determine if you’re financially ready to buy a home by asking yourself these questions: • Am I debt-free with three to six months of expenses in an emergency fund?

• Can I make at least a 10 percent (preferably 20 percent) down payment?

• Do I have enough cash to cover closing costs and moving expenses?

• Is the house payment 25 percent or less of my monthly take-home pay?

12 | birminghamparent | april 2018

• Can I afford to take out a 15-year fixed-rate mortgage?

• Can I afford ongoing maintenance and utilities for this home?

If you answered no to any of the above questions, now may not be the right time to buy a home. Just married? Wait at least a year before buying a home, even if your finances are in order. Don’t add the stress of a home purchase to a brand-new marriage, and never buy real estate with your significant other unless you’re actually married!

Step 2: Get the Right Real Estate Agent Your search for homes may start online, but it shouldn’t end there. You can do a lot of research on your own, but you need the help of an expert when it comes to finding and securing your perfect home.

A buyer’s agent can help you navigate through the home-buying process. In some cases, they may even be able to help you find a house before it hits the market, giving you a competitive edge. When it comes to making an offer, your agent will negotiate on your behalf so that you don’t pay a penny more than necessary.

Step 3: Maximize Your Down Payment The more cash you put down, the less money you’ll need to finance. That means lower mortgage payments each month and a faster timeline to pay off your home loan!

A down payment of 20 percent will keep you from having to pay private mortgage insurance (PMI). PMI protects the mortgage company in the event you don’t make your payments, and they have to foreclose on you. It usually costs about 1 percent of the total loan value, and that cost is added to your monthly payment.

Step 4: Get Pre-approved for a Mortgage Getting pre-approved takes a little more work, because a lender will need to verify your financial information and submit your loan for preliminary underwriting.

Although it takes some extra time to get preapproved, it pays off when you begin your home search since a preapproval letter shows that you’re a serious buyer.

Remember, bad financing can turn your biggest asset into a liability. We recommend always getting a 15-year, fixed-rate conventional loan with monthly payments that are no more than 25 percent of your take home pay.

Step 5: Calculate the Costs You can figure out how to buy a home that won’t bust your budget by crunching a few numbers. Once you know how much you can realistically spend on a new home, make sure you and your spouse are on the same page about your budget and what you can actually pay.

Add up all income you bring home each month, then multiply your monthly take-home pay by 25 percent to get your maximum mortgage payment. If you bring home $5,000 a month, your house payment should be no more than $1,250 a month, including taxes and insurance. Also, remember to factor in home ownership costs and moving expenses.

The Final Step Talk with a professional real estate agent about your financial goals for help in finding a home that fits your budget. A good agent with the heart of a teacher will understand how important it is to help you find a home you can afford – and that means one that won’t bust your budget!

Used with permission from DaveRamsey. com. For help deciding which mortgage is right for you, visit https://www.daveramsey. com/mortgage-calculator.

birminghamparent.com | 13

Helping Children Adjust to a Move

By Denise Morrison Yearian

The Rivera family lived in a cozy three-bedroom home. But cozy became cramped when they adopted four children within two years. “We had gone from three to seven people under one roof,” recalls their mother Nancy. So the Riveras moved to a larger home about an hour away.

Moving can be a daunting experience for everyone, especially children. So how do parents navigate the journey and help children adjust? “Once a decision to move has been made, parents should sit down and talk with their children,” says Dr. Jennifer Shroff Pendley, pediatric psychologist.

“Since older children need more time to adjust to the idea, you should tell them as soon as the move is definite. With preschoolers, you may want to wait until the move draws closer. Whatever time you choose, present it as an exciting experience – an adventure.”

Dr. Diana Terrell, clinical psychologist, agrees.

“Be optimistic and focus on the good things about the move. In the days to follow, your children will have a lot of questions, so allow plenty of time to answer those questions.”

This is what Cindy Morris, mother of 6-yearold Robbie and 3½-year-old twins Alex and Ally, 14 | birminghamparent | april 2018

did when they moved several months ago. “When we first told our children about the move, they were flooded with questions,” says Morris. “We were careful to explain what would and would not change in their lives. Robbie would itemize things – ‘Mommy, is this toy going?’ ‘Will we have the same couch?’ Sometimes they would ask the same thing over and over again.”

According to Pendley, repeated questioning is common among the younger set. “Answer their questions, give reassurance and let them know they can talk with you.”

Older children, adds Pendley, may be more adamantly opposed to moving than younger ones.

“If this is the case, listen, acknowledge their concerns and be empathetic. Try to figure out the driving force behind the opposition. Is it fear of the unknown? Feeling out of control?”

Rivera found empathy an important quality in dealing with her 12-year-old son Tony. “Although he was glad to be moving to a bigger house, he didn’t want to go because he had a lot of neighborhood friends,” recalls Rivera. “Whenever I saw him sad, I would say, ‘What’s going on? How can I help you?’ I didn’t hammer him but just let him know I was there for him and understood how he felt.”

“One of the best ways to alleviate concerns about the move is to give your children concrete information,” states Terrell. “The more homework you do, the better off your children will be. For younger ones, the concern may be something insignificant, like if there will be a swing set. For older children, it may revolve around friends and activities – ‘Will I be accepted in the new school?’ ‘Will there be a karate studio to replace the one I’m leaving?’”

If possible, take your children to the new community. “This helps build a clearer image in their heads of what life is going to be like,” Terrell continues. “You can say, ‘Look! Here’s the library.’ ‘Here’s the YMCA.’ It makes things more tangible.”

Prior to the physical move, the Rivera family made weekend trips to the new community. “We had settled on the house but hadn’t moved in yet. On Friday nights, we would pack the car and head out. The next day we’d walk to the shopping center then come back, get in the car and explore the area. It was like an adventure for us.”

The Morris family tried to make it adventurous too. “Before the move, we told the kids they could each pick out a theme for their bedrooms. We would go shopping and buy new

“Be optimistic and focus on the good things about the move. In the days to follow, your children will have a lot of questions, so allow plenty of time to answer those questions.” — Dr. Diana Terrell

things, but everything was put away until we moved into the new house.”

Perhaps the hardest part of a move is saying goodbye. Fortunately, there are things families can do to ease the pain. “Take pictures, make videos, call or write. Plan one special event with friends before leaving,” Terrell advises.

“Right before the move a friend gave us a party,” Morris recalls. “I had kept telling her it wasn’t ‘goodbye,’ because I knew we’d be coming back to visit. So she threw a ‘we’ll-seeyou-soon’ party.”

Breaking away from the old community may be indeed painful. But getting rooted in the new one is a sure cure. “We still do play dates with friends from home, write letters and make phone calls,” continues Morris. “But we’re getting established here too. We’ve made

some new friends and have had a few play dates.”

Shortly after the Riveras settled in the children were homesick, so their parents started them in activities at the YMCA. “It took care of the homesickness and boredom and helped them make new friends,” says Rivera.

It has been nearly three years since the Riveras moved, and they now have a whole new set of friends and are at home in their community. And if you ask Tony, he may just tell you life is comfy cozy again.

Turn the page for 12 tips to help your children adjust to a move...

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Helping Children Adjust to a Move continued...

Recognize that some old toys and certain items of clothing may have significant value and be difficult for your children to part with.

and behaviors that children pick up on. Show healthy ways to handle the stress of the move.

Display confidence. Keep a positive outlook. Present a united front with your spouse.

4. Be ready for older child opposition.

Encourage older children who are opposed to the move and not want to leave. Listen and try to figure out exactly what is troubling them. See if there are alternative options – can the move be postponed until the end of the school year?

12 tips to help your children adjust to a move

By Denise Morrison Yearian

1. Talk it over.

Once the decision to move has been made, find uninterrupted time to talk with your children.

Keep in mind age and developmental level. Older children need more time to adjust to a move than younger ones.

2. Keep an open line of communication.

Remind your children it is okay to ask questions. Acknowledge their concerns. Be patient with

16 | birminghamparent | april 2018

preschoolers who may have repeated questions. Be encouraging and empathetic. Share regrets about leaving but tell them what they have to look forward to. If communication time is limited due to schedules, make a “question jar” so children may write down concerns to be answered at a designated time.

3. Stay positive.

Maintain a good attitude toward the move. Parents model attitudes

5. Watch for stress.

Kids, like adults, can experience stress whenever there is a significant life change. This could include loss of sleep, loss of appetite, separation anxiety, withdrawal from family and/ or friends, self-inflicted injury, hostility, etc. Be observant.

Talk with your children and teach stress management techniques. Contact a professional if necessary.

6. Travel to the new locale.

Prior to the move, take your children to see the house and other places of interest. Drive and walk around the community.

Talk with neighbors. Visit the new school. If you cannot visit prior to the move, look online for information about the community and activities. Get a newspaper. Look for online virtual walkthroughs of your home. Remember, children will feel more secure with concrete images and information.

7. Take on old toys and clothes.

Recognize that some old toys and certain items of clothing may have significant value and be difficult for your children to part with. If

so, wait until after the move. Or make a deal with them: for every bag of toys or clothes given away, they get to purchase a specified number of new things.

8. Let them participate.

If your children want to help with the move, it will give them a sense of ownership and let them feel a sense of control over their lives.

Allow them to help pack boxes, make small decisions, plan how to decorate their new rooms, etc.

9. Say fitting goodbyes.

Take pictures of old friends and familiar places. Create a photo album or collection of things.

Make a video. Have a “goodbye” party with friends. Buy a t-shirt and ask your child’s friends to sign it. Buy something from a favorite store you frequent (a bakery, for example) to take with you as you move.

10. Keep in touch.

Make phone calls, write letters, send email or texts and take advantage of options such as Face Time. Schedule play dates. Visit old friends and invite them to visit you.

11. Settlement priorities.

Make setting up children’s rooms a priority. It gives them a sense of home, settlement and security.

Maintain regular routines as much as possible. Get involved in activities as soon as you can.

12. Work through homesickness.

Listen, support and encourage your children. Acknowledge sadness but remind them it will get better. Share your own sad feelings, but end on a positive note about the good things at your new home and community.

Reading Resources to Help Children Prepare for a Move FOR YOUNG CHILDREN: • Alexander, Who’s Not (Do You Hear Me? I Mean It!) Going to Move, by Judith Viorst, Atheneum, 1995.

• The Berenstain Bears’ Moving Day, by Stan and Jan Berenstain, Random House, 1981.

• Goodbye House, by Frank Asch, Aladdin Paperbacks, 1989.

Transitioning to a New School Be enthusiastic. If you are excited and confident, your children will be too.

• The Leaving Morning, by Angela Johnson, illustrated by David Soman, Orchard Books, 1996.

• Moving, by Fred Rogers, G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 1987.

Review the route. Make a trip to the school before your children’s first day.

Point out landmarks and turns. If they will not be taking the bus, tell them where you will drop them off and pick them up.

FOR OLDER CHILDREN:

Visit the school. Call and ask if you can meet the teachers and see the classrooms prior to your children’s first day. In the classrooms, point out cubbies and lockers. Show your children where the nearest bathroom is and how to get to the main office and school nurse. Ask about school supplies and the lunch program.

• The Moving Book: A Kids’ Survival Guide, by Gabriel Davis, Little, Brown & Company, 1997.

• Anastasia Again! by Lois Lowry, Yearling Books, 1982.

Adjust the clock. If you have gotten out of a routine because of the move or summertime, adjust your children’s schedules so they get a good night’s sleep and have plenty of time in the morning to prepare for school.

Create routines. Establish new routines so your children fall into the groove of school. Find a place in your new home for your children’s backpacks. If your children have homework, make sure it is done at the same time in the same location every day.

Get library cards. This may not be on the top of your priority list but teachers often require children to check books out of the library. Soon after school starts, go to the library and get your children their own library cards. Even if you are busy, try to spend a few minutes each day reading to your children to foster literacy and spend quality time with them during this stressful time.

Prepare yourself. Whether you realize it or not, sending your children to a new school may create some personal apprehensions. Be careful that your children do not pick up on any anxieties you may have. If you are excited about this new beginning at school, your children will more than likely be too.

Note there may be some separation anxiety the first few days you leave your children in a new setting. Encourage them to take this new step and remind them you will be there when their school day is over.

Arrange a play date. Find someone in your children’s classrooms who you can arrange a play date with. This will give them a familiar face when they walk into their classrooms every morning.

Make extra time. At the end of the school day, set aside extra time to talk with your children about their school experiences – who they met, what they did, what their teachers are like. Sharing these experiences will be memorable and build a good foundation for later communication.

Denise Morrison Yearian is the former editor of two parenting magazines and mother of three children and four grandchildren.

birminghamparent.com | 17

A concussion

is an injury caused by a blow to the head in which the brain moves rapidly and may collide with the inside of the skull.

Even a minor fall or collision may be of concern, so be alert to symptoms such as headaches, unsteadiness, confusion or other types of abnormal behavior.

Any athlete with a suspected concussion: n.....Should be IMMEDIATELY

REMOVED FROM PLAY/ACTIVITY n.....Should be evaluated right away

by a doctor/healthcare professional n.... Should not be left alone n.....Should not drive a motor vehicle

www.ChildrensAL.org/concussion

KNOW what to do in case of suspected concussion In case of medical emergency, call 911 or go directly to your local ER

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A SPECIAL SECTION

babybook Hospital Bed Rest Survival............................................ 20 BabyBook Directory...................................................... 22 Babymoon in Nashville................................................. 24 Baby Love! How Birth Order Affects How We Parent................................................. 26 Be Their Voice: April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month....................... 28

birminghamparent.com | 19

babybook

BED REST SURVIVAL GUIDE

By Sarah Lyons

For a busy mom, resting in bed may sound appealing. A mom who has experienced hospital bed rest will tell you it is not all she had dreamed it would be. How does a mom survive bed rest?

Keep your focus Focus on the goal, allowing baby to grow as long as possible.

Keep a record Writing in a journal or starting a blog about your pregnancy can be therapeutic and creates a record to look back on later.

Keep entertained Catch up on your TV shows, read books, watch movies, or do some Internet shopping.

Keep resting Rest is best for mom and baby.

Keep comfortable Bring comforts from home to the hospital.

Items like blankets, pictures of family, or anything that reminds you of home.

Keep busy Paint your fingernails, learn to crochet, and finish the thank you cards from your baby shower. Anything to pass the time.

Keep a routine Keeping a simple daily routine will help time pass and help create a sense of normalcy.

Keep working Get a laptop and keep up with your work from the hospital bed.

Keep perspective Remind yourself this is temporary and will be worth it when you hold your baby in your arms.

Keep a support system Encourage friends and family to visit as much as possible and accept help from those that offer.

Keep positive You can do it!

Sarah Lyons spent 3 weeks on bed rest when she was pregnant with her two year old triplets.

20 | birminghamparent | april 2018

Every story has a beginning.

When you’re pregnant, you learn a lot about what to expect. But no matter what, you know that having your baby is only the beginning of the story. With five hospitals throughout central Alabama, access to an entire network of specialists, and countless ways to customize your experience, Brookwood Baptist Health is a community of care dedicated to making your new beginning a happy one.

Find your happy beginning with us at BrookwoodBaptistHealth.com/OB birminghamparent.com | 21

baby&me DIRECTORY 2018 Great Shops & Services When You Need Them for You and Your New Bundle of Joy! HEALTH & WELLNESS BROOKWOOD BAPTIST HEALTH Five locations in Central Alabama BBHob.com • Brookwood Baptist Medical Center 2010 Brookwood Medical Center Dr. Birmingham, AL 35209 • Citizens Baptist Medical Center 604 Stone Ave. Talladega, AL 35160 • Princeton Baptist Medical Center 701 Princeton Ave. S.W. Birmingham, AL 35211 • Shelby Baptist Medical Center 1000 1st St. N. Alabaster, AL 35007 • Walker Baptist Medical Center 3400 Hwy. 78 E. Jasper, AL 35501 With five hospitals throughout central Alabama, hundreds of specialists, and countless ways to customize your experience, Brookwood Baptist Health is a community of care dedicated to making your new beginning a happy one.

CHILDREN’S OF ALABAMA 1600 Seventh Ave. S. Birmingham, AL 35233 205-638-9100 www.childrensal.org Children’s of Alabama has provided specialized medical care for ill and injured children since 1911, offering inpatient, outpatient, and primary care services throughout Alabama.

GRANDVIEW MEDICAL GROUP OB/GYN 3686 Grandview Pkwy.

Suite 320 Birmingham, AL 35243 205-971-5499 www.grandviewmedicalgroup.com Our board certified OB/ GYNs are passionate about helping women achieve their goals and offer care that is compassionate and personal.

22 | birminghamparent | april april2018 2017

GRANDVIEW MEDICAL CENTER WOMEN’S AND CHILDREN’S CENTER 3690 Grandview Pkwy.

Birmingham, AL 35243 205-971-6349 www.grandviewhealth.com Whether becoming a new parent or adding to your family - our dedicated team at the new Grandview Medical Center will make your experience memorable.

MCCALLA ORTHODONTICS & Pediatric Dentistry 4814 Bell Hill Rd. Bessemer, AL 35022 205-477-8004 mccalla.orthodontics@yahoo.com www.mccallasmiles.com Dentistry for children, adolescents and patients with disabilities. Orthodontics for children and adults. We offer traditional metal brackets as well as the clear Invisalign.

SMALL STEPS PEDIATRICS ​Dr. ​Shameza Boyd St. Vincent’s East Professional Bldg.

52 Medical Park Dr. E., Suite 201 Birmingham, AL 35235 2​05-868-3486​ www.smallstepspediatrics.com ​Providing exceptional health care and compassionate service to the families we serve. W ​ ​e offer a full range of pediatric care including prenatal visits for expecting parents, well–child check– ups, immunizations and sick appointments

PEDIATRIC & ADOLESCENT DENTISTRY Dr. Lauten Johnson www.alpediatricdentistry.com 1015 Brocks Gap Pkwy.

Hoover, AL 35244 205-982-0112 www.alpediatricdentistry.com Your child’s path to optimum dental health starts here with our kid-friendly staff.

Options for in-office sedation or general anesthesia at Children’s Hospital. Kids love us, Parents trust us!

UAB MEDICAL CENTER WEST 985 Ninth Ave. S.W. Birmingham, AL 35022 www.medicalwesthostipal.org We pride ourselves in providing quality compassionate care to each and every one of our patients.

WOMEN’S HEALTH SPECIALISTS OF BIRMINGHAM 3686 Grandview Pkwy.

Suite 300 Birmingham, AL 35243 205-536-7676 www.whsbham.com Our physicians have created an environment for women that is calm, respectful and supportive. Visit whsbham. com for more information.

DENTAL CARE ANGELICA ROHNER Pediatric Dentistry 2045 Brookwood Medical Ctr.Dr. Suite 21 Birmingham, AL 35209 205-870-0892 www.drrohner.com office@drrohner.com Dr. Rohner is a mother of four and has been a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist for almost two decades. With a background in education, she understands that each child needs individualized care.

DR. (SORY) CHUCK SHANNON PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY 5113 Cyrus Circle, Suite A Birmingham, AL 35242 205- 582-4508 www.shannonchuckdmd.com Providing dental care for children includes a teeth cleaning and education on oral hygiene. We treat Children, Adolescents, and those with Special Needs.

THOMAS PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY 721 Montclair Rd. Birmingham, AL 35213 205-879-6150 info@thomaspediatricdentistry.com www.thomaspediatricdentistry.com As one of Birmingham’s most trusted children’s dentists, Dr. Thomas offers a safe, nurturing environment in a state of the art oral health facility for infants, children, teenagers and those with special needs.

SPECIAL NEEDS THE ARC OF CENTRAL ALABAMA 6001 Crestwood Blvd.

Birmingham, AL 35212 205-323-6383 www.arcofcentralalabama.org The Arc of Central Alabama provides services to over 700

people with intellectual disabilities in two counties with programs for all ages. Early Intervention serves young children, while our residential program serves adolescents and adults.

CHILD’S PLAY THERAPY CENTER LLC 3057 Lorna Rd #220 Birmingham, AL 35216 Hoover & Chelsea Locations 205-978-9939 www.childsplaytherapycenter.com Occupational, physical, speech and music therapy, along with academic tutoring. Experienced loving staff and facility just for kids.

EASTERSEALS PEDIATRIC THERAPY 205-314-2165 www.eastersealsbham.org Provides physical, occupational and speech therapy to children with special needs ages birth to 21 regardless of ability to pay for services.

PRESCHOOLS, DAYCARES & EDUCATION JOSEPH BRUNO MONTESSORI ACADEMY 5509 Timber Hill Rd. Birmingham, AL 35242 Phone: 205-995-8709 Fax: 205-995-0517 www.jbma.org For over 30 years, JBMA has equipped children with the essential skills and knowledge they need to thrive as a successful adult. Enrolling toddlers - 8th grade.

ODYSSEY EARLY SCH​OOLS • Inverness Campus 104 Heatherbrooke Park Dr. Birmingham, AL 35242 205-991-0039 • Trace Crossings Campus 401 Emery Dr. Hoover, AL 35244 205-988-8829 www.odysseyearlyschool.com Created by educators, featuring state-of-the-art facilities, nurturing teachers ​ with Education degrees, and comprehensive curriculum ​that provides your child with age appropriate exploration into the world of learning.

SHOPS & SERVICES APPLAUSE DANCEWEAR 1629 Oxmoor Rd. Birmingham, AL 35209 205-871-STEP www.appausedancewear.net Applause has the largest selection of dancewear in the Southeast. Clothing, shoes and accessories for all types of dance that fit toddler to plus size, teams and individuals.

SPOTLESS CLEANING SERVICES 205-937-1153 www.SpotlessTrussville.com PERFORMING ARTS & CLASSES ALABAMA BALLET​ 2726 First Ave. S. Birmingham, AL 35233 205-322-4300 www.alabamaballet.org Providing the highest quality training to aspiring artists of all ages that is developmentally appropriate both physically and artistically. The school’s instruction is based on the syllabus provided by the Royal Academy of Dance.

ALABAMA DANCE ACADEMY 3221 Old Columbiana Rd. Hoover, AL 35226 205-978-6820 www.aladance.com A state-of-the-art dance instruction facility in the disciplines of ballet, pointe, jazz, tap, hip hop, lyrical/contemporary and Pilates.

Founded by professional ballet dancer Pamela Merkel in 1995.

Pre-school classes offered.

Pelham, Shades Valley, Trussville and Vestavia Contact: Rhonda Elmore relmore@ymcabham.org www.ymcabham.org At the YMCA of Greater Birmingham, it’s about your community, your family, and your health. With a mission centered on balance, the Y encourages good health, brings families closer together, and fosters personal connections.

THE ACADEMY OF THE ARTS AT SAMFORD UNIVERSITY 1939 South Lakeshore Dr. Birmingham, AL 35229 205-726-2739 www.samford.edu/academy-ofthe-arts Offering a variety of noncredit courses & workshops in the arts for all ages: calligraphy, drawing, photography, painting, pottery, creative writing, and summer camps. Music lessons in piano, strings, theory, voice, woodwinds & harp.

ENTERTAINMENT & TRAVEL

RECREATION THE YMCA OF GREATER BIRMINGHAM 10 Branch Locations Alabaster, Downtown, Greystone, Hoover, Mt. Brook, Northeast,

BIRMINGHAM MUSEUM OF ART 2000 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd.

Birmingham, AL 35203 205.254.2565 www.artsbma.org Bart’s ArtVenture combines high tech art-making tools with hands-on creation stations to let kids and families develop their art education in a creative, communal environment.

HEART OF DIXIE RAILROAD MUSEUM 1919 Ninth St. Calera, AL 35040 www.hodrm.org 205-757-8383 Visit us to ride a train, look at our museum collection, and learn

more about Alabama’s railroad history. Museum admission is free of charge and donations are accepted! There is a charge for train rides.

HIS HANDS PHOTOGRAPHS Samantha Ferguson, photographer www.hishandsphotographs.com 205-862-3374 MCWANE SCIENCE CENTER 200 19th St. N. Birmingham, AL 35203 205-714-8414 info@mcwane.org www.mcwane.org Fun and learning never end at McWane Science Center, a nonprofit, hands-on museum with aquarium and IMAX® Dome Theater. Four floors of interactive exhibits celebrate science and wonder.

SOUTHERN BREEZE TRAVEL 256-513-9874 sandra@southernbreeze.vacations www.southernbreeze.vacations Planning the best vacation sometimes can be a lot of hard work. I specialize in resort travel, honeymoons, and family vacations. Let me help you to create vacation memories to last a lifetime.

Grandview Medical Center Whether you are about to be a new parent or adding to your family, you have much to look forward to with the birth of your child.

At Grandview Medical Center, we want your experience to be memorable. From helping you find an OB/GYN to the day you meet your new bundle of joy, we’re with you each and every step of the way. To prepare for the arrival, we also offer a variety of prenatal classes including hospital tours, infant CPR, breastfeeding and Daddy Boot Camp.

Inside our beautiful, new women’s center you will find the staff focused on mother/family bonding with the baby.

Every effort is made to keep the baby and mom together and our open visiting hours allow siblings and other family members to be part of the experience. And should the need arise, our private NICU suites are designed for parents to stay right in the room with their little one.

Your well-being and your newborn’s is our top priority and that’s why Grandview Medical Center was one of the first hospitals to receive the Blue Distinction Center for Maternity Care designation by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama.

For more information, visit www.grandviewhealth.com.

BIRMINGHAM’S PREMIER DAYCARE & PRESCHOOL ---------------------------------Preschool Teachers with Degrees in Early Childhood Education ---------------------------------Exceeds All State-Student Ratio Standards ---------------------------------Professionally Developed Age-Appropriate Curriculum ---------------------------------Free Internet Video Monitoring ---------------------------------Music, Spanish, Computer & Gymnastics/Dance ---------------------------------Best Playground in Birmingham ---------------------------------LIMITED SPACE AVAILABLE. FOR CHILDREN 6 WEEKS THROUGH 3rd GRADE

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babybook

BABYMOON IN NASHVILLE

By Bethany Hunley

Steadily growing in popularity over the last several years, “babymoons” are meant to be the last romantic hoorah for expecting parents. When my husband and I decided to plan our babymoon, I was six months along with twin girls and already huge. We knew that we wanted to stay close to home and find a destination where most of the attractions were close by. We chose the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center.

The Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center sits on 47 acres in Nashville, TN. Offering more than 2,800 guest rooms, including 171 suites and five themed presidential suites, saying this resort is enormous is an understatement.

There are more than 50,000 tropical plants within the resort’s nine acres of indoor gardens, and there is an indoor river within the resort’s 4.5 acre Delta atrium.

My husband and I chose to board the Delta Riverboat, another enjoyable and unexpected attraction offered within the lobby. A guide whose knowledge of the Gaylord Opryland Resort and some of its very famous guests, as well as the Delta’s plant and fish life, ensures that you are both entertained and educated when you exit the riverboat. However, if boat rides are not your cup of tea, simply walking through the atriums, complete with waterfalls, scenic hideaways, gorgeous greenery and a dancing water fountain is a treat in itself.

The Relache Spa spans 27,000 square feet, making it the largest spa in Tennessee. I was given the opportunity to try the prenatal massage, and my experience was wonderful. The highly-trained staff is pregnancy-friendly, and you are given a pillow with a hole on which to lay during the massage (your belly fits into the hole). The prenatal massage is only one of dozens of spa treatments offered at the Relache Spa, and if you share that you are expecting, the staff can list all of the spa treatments that are safe for you and your baby.

One of my favorite things to do there was shop, particularly for the twins. While sightseeing inside the Delta atrium, we began to see what looked to be a small village elevated above the greenery. We had found the Delta Island Shops.

My favorite store inside the Gaylord Opryland Resort is Kids Korral. Inside this store you will find everything from specialty toys, boutique clothing, old-fashioned toys and some of the most precious baby gear I’ve found. Kids Korral is one of those stores that seems to house merchandise that you cannot find anywhere else.

A highlight of our stay was our dining experience at Ravello, an Italian restaurant inside the resort. Everything that we ate during our dinner was spectacular. My husband still says that the steak he ordered at Ravello is the best steak that he has ever eaten.

24 | birminghamparent | april 2018

The Gaylord Opryland Resort is within walking distance of Opry Mills, a massive indoor mall filled with popular stores and dining options, where we found many great shops and the Grand Ole Opry. Opened in 1925, this weekly country music show is broadcast live on the radio while the audience gets to enjoy the live show. Visitors can even take a backstage tour, and see where artists ranging from Dolly Parton to Brad Paisley receive fan mail from all over the globe. The Gaylord Opryland Resort provides a free shuttle to and from the Grand Ole Opry for guests.

Nashville also is filled with honky-tonk bars and aspiring musicians.

Featuring amazing live music, tasty food and an enormous dance floor, the famous Wildhorse Saloon provides about the most fun a pregnant woman can have. Offering line dancing lessons every hour or so, everyone is encouraged to step onto the dance floor and learn a move or two.

Despite the enormity of the resort itself, my husband and I found our stay to be pregnancy friendly. Communicate with the staff from the beginning that walking long distances could be an issue, and they can make sure that your room is closer to the main hallways. Valet parking is also an available option.

The Gaylord Opryland Resort is the perfect babymoon destination, because so many amazing sights and activities are located right outside your hotel room. The next time you find yourself planning the perfect babymoon getaway before another bundle of joy arrives, be sure to look into staying at this incredible resort.

Learn more by visiting www.marriott.com and searching for the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center.

Bethany Hunley is the web and social media editor of Birmingham Parent.

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babybook

PHOTO BY HILARY MORENO

BABY LOVE!

How Birth Order Affects How We Parent

By Laura Lyles Reagan

Birth order theories are more complicated than assumed at first glance, because they are affected by forces outside the family as well as forces within the family. The real issue is, how do these forces affect how we parent? Being conscious of our own behavior as parents and how it affects our parenting will help us honor the individual journeys, personalities and choices of each of our children.

Parenting expert Dr. Gail Gross summarizes the existing roles and research on birth order by naming the firstborn as the achiever, the middle child as the peacemaker and the youngest child as the life of the party. While the eldest child is programmed for excellence and achievement, the middle child is raised to be understanding and conciliatory and the baby seeks attention. Only children relate to 26 | birminghamparent | april 2018

the personality traits of the achiever and the life of the party.

Some researchers state that birth order can be as powerful a variable in personality development as gender. It returns us to the old nurture vs. nature argument. Ultimately, we are different parents to different children in part due to their birth order.

According to Meri Wallace, author of Birth Order Blues, “birth order has to do with the way the parent relates to the child in his spot, and some of it actually happens because of the spot itself. Each spot has unique challenges,” she explains.

By being the firstborn with inexperienced, new parents, the parenting approach might be a mixture of instinct and trial-anderror. Perhaps this will cause the parents to consult parenting books, be extremely

attentive and rigid about how they enforcement “the rules.” This approach might cause the child to perfectionistic and become a people pleaser.

In contrast, if the couple decides to have a second child, they might raise their second-born with less rigidity due their experiences raising their firstborn. They might also be less attentive to the secondborn since there’s another child competing for attention. This might cause the secondborn to be less perfectionistic, more relaxed but more likely to compete negatively for attention. It is not so much that the child came out of his mother’s womb first that caused him to be a leader. Rather, it’s the fact that his parents treated him as their firstborn child that shaped his attitude and behavior.

The Sociology of Birth Order While we might be tempted to think similarities or differences among siblings are the result of inborn personality traits or birth order, Dalton Conley’s book The Pecking Order reminds us that families are affected by social forces. These forces in turn shape children’s identities and opportunities.

In other words, even though we grow up in the same families, events like economic changes, illness, and death affect us differently based on our age and gender. Conley used census data, the Panel Study of Income Dynamics and the General Social Survey as well as in-depth interviews with siblings to arrive at his findings on birth order. Generally, the wealthier a family, the better able they are to protect children during difficult times.

All children struggle when a parent dies, becomes ill or loses a job, but those with larger financial savings have more resources to cope. Children might attend therapy, or those that develop behavioral problems can be sent to special schools. Lower income families might need children to pitch in with household chores or jobs instead of pursuing extracurricular interests or higher education. A child in pain who acts out might find themselves in trouble with the law instead of in therapy. Remarriage after the death or divorce might benefit children in some circumstances.

This might not be surprising, but some other findings are. Social psychology research and popular wisdom tell us that middle children are long suffering, but Conley’s research findings teach us that this is usually only the case in large families with fewer resources to go around.

Laura Lyles Reagan, MS is a family sociologist, parenting coach and author of How to Raise Respectful Parents. She can be reached for coaching services or parenting workshops through her website, www.LauraLReagan.com.

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Some general personality traits of children by birth order can be: FIRSTBORNS: Achievers Reliable, conscientious, structured, cautious, controlling MIDDLE CHILDREN: Peacemakers People-pleasers, somewhat rebellious, thrives on friendships, large social circle THE LAST CHILD: The Life of the Party Fun-loving, uncomplicated, manipulative, outgoing, attention-seeker ONLY CHILDREN: Relate to the personality traits of the achiever and the life of the party Source: Dr. Gail Gross

FREESTANDING EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT The Medical West Freestanding Emergency Department (FED) is located off of Highway 150 in Hoover next to Sprouts. This 24,342 square foot facility is open 24/7 and consists of 10 exam rooms including: two trauma rooms, CT, X-ray, ultrasound, EKG, laboratory and room for expansion.

5300 Medford Drive • Hoover, AL 35244 • (205) 820-8416 medicalwesthospital.org In Case of Emergency, Dial 9-1-1 birminghamparent.com | 27

babybook

BE THEIR VOICE April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month

Thirteen pinwheels are on display in front of Birmingham City Hall this month, representing the 13 precious children lost in one year in the state of Alabama due to child abuse and neglect. April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month.

According to the Exchange Club Child Abuse and Prevention Center in Birmingham, programs that support at-risk families, such as home visitation programs and family resource centers, are proven to prevent child abuse and neglect. Studies show that children do well when their parents do well. Supporting families and ensuring parents have knowledge, skills and resources they need to parent effectively can help

protect children from the risk of child abuse and neglect.

In 2017, the CAP Center served 80 families and 137 children with free in-home parent education, nearly 500 adults with free parenting classes, and educated more than 2,400 children to speak up and stay safe in Jefferson County schools and Birmingham City Schools through the Safe Kids Prevention program.

Here are some ways you can support the cause: • Blue Mondays – Wear blue every Monday in April to increase awareness • Wear a pinwheel lapel pin throughout the month of April to increase awareness

(lapel pins are available through the Exchange Club CAP Center).

• Post a picture to social media any day of the month wearing blue or your pinwheel lapel pin and tell the world why you want to bring awareness to Child Abuse Prevention. #noexcuseforchildabuseBham, and share the helpful tips and exciting contests that will be posted on The Exchange Club CAP Center’s social media pages throughout the month.

To learn more about child abuse prevention and for more ideas how to become involved, visit www.4CAP.org.

• Self-serve doggie wash • Pet photography • Drive-thru pick up & drop off • Loyalty points program toward discounted services

205-610-8818 Pet Grooming

104 Market Center Dr. (Rite Aid shopping center) Alabaster facebook.com/shaggychicalabaster/

ask about our discounts 28 | birminghamparent | april 2018

Help Alabama

Shine!

The Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) is a joint research project between the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Alabama Department of Public Health. Its purpose is to determine why some babies are born healthy and others are not in order to aid in the development and assessment of programs designed to identify high-risk pregnancies and reduce adverse pregnancy outcomes.

New mothers are randomly chosen from the state birth registry to participate in PRAMS. Surveys may be returned by mail or completed over the phone. Let your voice be heard!

“Happy to be part of this survey.”

“Thank you for checking on us!”

Actual comments from survey responses.

Moms who complete the PRAMS survey receive their choice of a cooler bag, diapers, or manicure set!

Responses are kept confidential to the extent of the law. For more information, please call us at 334-206-2923 or go to alabamapublichealth.gov/PRAMS birminghamparent.com | 29

ADPH does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, gender, age, religion, disability, genetic information, and other federal, state, or agency regulations and policies. Inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies may be directed to Civil Rights Coordinator: ADPH CRC, RSA Tower, 201 Monroe Street, Suite 1010, Montgomery, AL 36104, Tel. 334-206-5226, or email crcomplaints@adph.state.al.us.

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AT HOME, WITH $5 DINNERS Slow Cooker Pineapple Chicken

1 cup rice, as side dish

A slow cooker can be a best friend to the cook for a busy family, and who doesn’t like chicken? Here is a wonderful recipe with a fresh way to do chicken in the slow cooker. Add some rice and a salad, and you’re in the supper business!

Yield – 4 servings Prep Time – 10 minutes Cook Time – 8 hours in slow cooker Ingredients 4 small boneless chicken breasts 3/4 cup chicken stock 1/4 cup brown sugar 3 Tbsp soy sauce 1 tsp minced garlic 20 oz. can pineapple chunks Salt and pepper, to taste 1 Tbsp cornstarch Sesame seeds, garnish

Fresh veggies or salad, as side dish Directions: Drain the pineapple juice into a small bowl.

Set the drained can of pineapple to the side.

Add the chicken stock, brown sugar, soy sauce and minced garlic to the bowl with the pineapple juice.

Place the chicken breasts in the base of the slow cooker and pour the pineapple chunks around the chicken. Season with salt and pepper. Pour the pineapple-soy sauce mixture over the top.

Set on low and cook for 8 hours. With 30 minutes left in the cooking cycle, stir the cornstarch with a few tablespoons of water and whisk it into the sauce. Slow cook for remaining 30 minutes to allow sauce to thicken.

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Cook the rice as directed.

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Erin Chase is the home chef behind of 5DollarDinners.com and author of The $5 Dinner Mom Cookbook series. She lives with her husband, four boys and one furry boy in San Antonio, TX.

Cooking with Birmingham Parent!

A great, interactive, online resource for recipes, cooking with kids and more! Share a recipe, and win some fun prizes. Use it for a resource when it’s time for something new in the kitchen. Visit http://birminghamparent.com/directory/cooking -with-birmingham-parent/ for more info.

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| 31

10 Last-Minute Tips Before Day Camp Starts Camp season is upon us. Before sending your child to day camp, here are 10 last-minute suggestions.

By Denise Morrison Yearian

1. FILL ‘ER UP. Bring one bottle of water that has been cooled in the refrigerator and a second one that has been in the freezer. As the day wears on, the frozen water will melt and provide cool refreshment for your child. Spray bottles are a great idea too. They keep the face and body cool in the hot sun.

2. IT’S A SCORCHER! Apply sunscreen to your child’s skin before he leaves home and send the tube along for later reapplication. Avoid sending tanning lotion with little or no SPF, or sunscreen that contains glitter as it can reflect light and cause sunburn. Consider sending along a hat for extra protection.

3. BUG OFF! If your child is going to be out in a natural environment, he should wear insect repellent. Look for a lotion form that is safe for children; avoid sprays. When camp is over, follow up with a tick check for safe keeping.

4. ALL DECKED OUT. One thing camp directors always see is children coming with the wrong dress. Some kids want to pick out their own clothes, but if they have chosen black jeans and a dark t-shirt, it may not be the best option. Dress your child for comfort, safety and appropriate temperatures. Proper shoes are important too, particularly if he is playing outside. Avoid strappy sandals and flip flops; opt for tennis shoes.

5. NAME IT AND CLAIM IT. Any item brought to camp should have your child’s name, address and phone number on it in case it gets left behind. It also avoids confusion if identical items are brought by two children.

6. TIME OUT FROM TECH TOYS. Do not bring valuable items such as handheld games or cell phones. Day camp programs are designed to provide an enriching experience, and your child should be engaging in these activities rather than playing with electronics.

If these items are brought, they may be confiscated and returned at the end of the day in hopes your child gets the message.

7. PILLS, PAINS AND OTHER PROBLEMS. All camps have forms for parents to list medications their child is on. But if you take your child off a medication for the summer, the camp needs to know that too, because it could cause an extreme change in behavior. Allergies are another issue to make counselors aware of, be it insect or food related. Equally important is to share other concerns with camp staff, such as if your family is going through a divorce or has experienced a recent death, as this might affect how your child interacts throughout the day.

Camps look out for the physical and emotional needs of a child, so the more information you provide, the better equipped they will be.

8. HELP IS ON THE WAY! Having an emergency contact person is vital. Even more important is that the designated person knows you have written her name down. Every year camps have situations where they call the emergency contact person and she was not informed she was designated as such. Before listing a person’s name on the form, let her know first.

9. BEEF YER’ BRAIN. Read the materials the camp gives you—policies, procedures and planned activities. If you know what to expect and what is expected of you, things will run much smoother. Most camps have a weekly schedule so parents know what the upcoming activities are. Talk with your child about the activities planned. If she cannot participate because of health reasons, make sure you (not your child!) inform the camp.

10. GETTING TO KNOW YOU. Find out if there is an open house where you can meet the staff and see the facility prior to camp. If not, make other arrangements to introduce yourself to those who will be caring for your child. It is important for the camp directors and counselors to know you so they can keep you informed on how things are going for your child at camp.

Finally, encourage your child to enjoy the experience. Mark the first day of camp on the family calendar and do a countdown. Help your child develop a checklist of items needed. And don’t forget to share your own camp stories. Remind your child to do his best, obey the rules, be respectful of others and have a great time!

Denise Morrison Yearian is the former editor of two parenting magazines and the mother of three children and four grandchildren.

B I R M I N G H A M PA R E N T ’ S

VIRTUAL

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2018

No camp the week of July 4th.

ENTERING 4K THROUGH 8TH GRADE

Check out our CIT (Counselor-in-Training) Program Contact Gabe McCool at gmccool@highlandsschool.org or (205) 956-9731 ext 105 Located on Old Leeds Rd. (I-459 exit at Grants Mill Rd) 32 | birminghamparent | april 2018

View our Camp Expo camps online, see photos & videos and visit their sites!

www.birminghamparent.com/camp

Welcome to an award winning camp experience…

RIVERVIEW CAMP FOR GIRLS.

Just off DeSoto Parkway on top of Lookout Mountain in Mentone, Alabama…nestled in a bend of Little River.

Adventure, inspiration, character & confidence-building are just a few of the benefits that go hand-in-hand with the activity choices. Riverview’s Christian emphasis & exciting programs are appreciated by both parents & campers!

Call 800-882-0722 or visit www.riverviewcamp.com for a FREE DVD & Information packet

Only 2 short hours from Birmingham 1 & 2 week sessions!

Mother-Daughter Weekends also Available

Dr. Larry and Susan Hooks, Owners/Directors Donna Bares, Assistant Director Accredited by American Camping Association Members of Christian Camping Conference Asso.

Check us out online at www.riverviewcamp.com

SUMMER CAMP 2018

cheerleading • ropes course • ARTS & CRAFTS • soccer • sports • nature • drama

Recognized as one of the South’s favorite Christian summer camps for girls!

swimming • beach volleyball • archery • riding • basketball • golf • much more!

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There is no place like Y Day Camp. A home away from home where your children laugh, learn, explore and grow in the outdoors while creating memories and friendships that last a lifetime.

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SUMMER CAMP 2018

SAMFORD ACADEMY OF THE ARTS

SUMMER CAMPS 2018

Art Studio for Teens • Grades 6-8 • June 4-8 Bulldog Art Camp • Grades 1-5 • June 25-29

Adventures in Music Camp • Grades 1–12 Session I: Piano • June 11-15 Session II: Piano and Voice • July 9-13 Music and Art for Minis • Ages 4-6 • July 16-20

Writing Camp for Teens & Tweens • Ages 11–15 Session I: June 18-22 Session II: July 23-27

Register Now! samford.edu/go/aota 205-726-2739

Regional Outdoor Day Camp at Hargis Retreat You’re the type of parent who wants your children to spend their summers outdoors, exploring their surrounds, making lifelong friendships, and having a blast.

Unlike other summer day camps, Regional Outdoor Day Camp at Hargis Retreat is real camp situated on more than 200 wooded acres in Chelsea!

UPGRADE YOUR CHILD’S SUMMER AT REGIONAL OUTDOOR DAY CAMP AT HARGIS RETREAT.

34 | birminghamparent | april 2018

JOIN THE FUN! Sat., May 19th . 10am-3pm at Find fantastic things to do with your children this summer like summer camps, tutoring programs, travel opportunities, entertainment, church programs, health care, day care and so much more!

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D E ST I NAT I O N GUI DE

Photo Courtesy of Sheraton Bay Point Resort

Take the Whole Family (Even the Furry Ones!) to Sheraton Bay Point Resort

By Carol Muse Evans

We couldn’t believe it when we found out Lambchop and Charlie were going to get to go with us. My adult daughter and I had a weekend trip to the beautiful Sheraton Bay Point Resort in Panama City Beach, and the four of us had a fabulous trip. This time, no one got left at home.

The Sheraton Bay Point Resort, situated along the historic St. Andrews Bay, has worn several names during its history, but its latest renovation is top notch. Now an AAA four-diamond resort, “luxury” was the key word for us, right down to Lambchop and Charlie’s complimentary doggie bed in our well-appointed beach front room. It’s a great escape from the crowds of the main beaches at PCB without sacrificing any amenities.

The Sheraton Bay Point, while on the bay, offers the private bay beach. While it is a small piece of beach after a lovely walk across the bay on the boardwalk, you can enjoy the water in a safe environment, enjoy drinks from the nearby Hammocks Beach Bar and feel like you have your own exclusive piece of paradise.

Just down that boardwalk you can board a boat to take you to Shell Island, one of the Gulf Coast’s most beautiful, pristine beaches, with Sheraton Bay Point’s shuttle service. The shuttle is only $10 per person for resort guests, and you can enjoy beautiful Shell Island without ever moving your car to get to a boat to get there.

36 | birminghamparent | april 2018

Photo by Carol Muse Evans

There are two beautiful heated outdoor pools to enjoy at the resort, and both are near the outdoor Flip Flops Pool Bar, where you can get a delicious meal, a drink or a snack served poolside or at one of their tables with fantastic views. There’s also a family pool near the golf villa area.

Speaking of golf, Sheraton Bay Point has 36 holes of championship golf, including the only Nicklaus Design course on the Emerald Coast. The Sheraton boasts a full-service facility including a clubhouse, practice greens, driving range, equipment rentals, classes and the Club 19 Bar & Grill if you get hungry or thirsty.

Sheraton’s on-property water sport rental kiosk provides a one-stop shop for all your water rental needs. You can rent something as large as a pontoon boat or fast-paced like jet skis. You also can choose a kayak, stand-up paddleboard, or a family favorite, bike rentals. The resort area is secluded and expansive, so there are great places to ride – or bring you own bikes.

Don’t forget tennis! The resort features five lighted HydroGrid courts and a comprehensive pro shop. There are also individual and group lessons available. The Fitness center rounds out your fitness needs while staying at the Bay Point Resort, and exercise with spectacular views of St. Andrew’s Bay on state-of-the-art equipment.

The resort offers many fun activities through the summer season for families and kids, including “dive in” movies at the pool. There’s also a fun game room on site, as well as a playground.

While we were visiting, my daughter and I enjoyed massages at the Serenity Spa on site, with its own private swimming pool as well.

Newly-renovated, the spa has many body and skin treatments, and you can also enjoy a Swedish or deep tissue massage. There are facials, selfheating mud therapy, and you can get your nails or hair done if you wish.

It is a great escape for a little while for mom!

There are a number of room options and price points at the Sheraton Bay Point. Some rooms are pet friendly, as mentioned, so ask when you make your reservation. The resort has 120 one-bedroom units, and each feature a mini-fridge. About 60 units have a separate living room with continued on page 38

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D E ST I NAT I O N GUI DE sleeper sofa, 60 have a microwave, 60 have a full balcony and a few units even offer a fully-equipped kitchen.

Panama City Beach doesn’t want for great places to eat and taste some Gulf seafood, but you don’t have to leave the Sheraton Bay Point Resort to do that, if you don’t want to. In addition to Flip Flops Pool Bar, there’s Pelican’s on their beach, Tide’s, a full-service restaurant for breakfast, lunch and dinner, a Starbuck’s and the Bar 72 Pub & Eatery. There’s also the MarketPlace where you can purchase food or toiletries.

For more information, room reservations and more, visit www. sheratonbaypoint.com. Check the website frequently for seasonal specials. The average rate from Memorial Day to Labor Day is around $275/night and up, shoulder seasons average $175/night.

There is a $30 resort fee, but it includes Wi-Fi, self-parking, two day passes to the spa daily, one ticket to Shell Island shuttle per day and FREE access to YOLO paddleboards and bicycles – really a bargain.

If Lambchop and Charlie could talk, we are quite certain they’d like to go back to “the resort.” They did amazingly well, and staff was so kind and supportive of pets being there. In fact, as we drove away, we were pretty certain they were unhappy to be leaving.

Carol Muse Evans is publisher of Birmingham Parent.

38 | birminghamparent | april 2018

Photo Courtesy of Sheraton Bay Point Resort

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calendar highlights

April is all about spring – and all the fun, mostly outdoor things to do this time of year. Support a good cause with numerous walks, runs and other events,

A P R I L

go on a hike or take in a kayak/canoe trip, or catch one of the many free concerts at colleges this month. Catch some “spring fever!”

14th

thru the 7th

14th

FESTIVAL OF TULIPS Stroll through more than 100,000 tulips at the American Village, which is holding its second annual Festival of Tulips now through April 7. You can pick ones you want to purchase and take home armfuls of beautiful blooms in every color of the rainbow. Bring your camera, too! Tickets, information, www.americanvillage.org.

PEPPER PLACE MARKET Saturday, April 14 kicks off the outdoor venue season of the Pepper Place Market. 7am-noon, rain or shine! www.pepperplacemarket.com.

at the Birmingham Museum of Art

Register Today: artsbma.org birminghamparent.com | 41

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bitious plans, and is determined that Lise marry Alain, the son of a wealthy landowner. Tickets, www.alabamaballet.org.

A Night of Laughter 6pm, Tabernacle of Praise Ministries. Featuring comedian Lawrence Jackson. Don’t miss this amazing event in support of the Alabama Kidney Foundation.

Tickets, 205-853-3933, www. thetopministry.com.

01 SUNDAY

Easter Sunday Happy Easter!

02 MONDAY Homeschool Happening 10-11am, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. TV meteorologist James Spann talks about spring weather hazards, safety and more! Come as a Spann lookalike if you wish! All ages and families. FREE. Knight Chess Tournament 5:30-7pm, Homewood Library.

Learn strategy and have fun!

Preschool-12th grade. FREE.

03 TUESDAY Lego League 6-6:45pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Kids of all ages welcome. Children 6-under must be with an adult.

04 WEDNESDAY Social Media & Substances: Going Further Faster 8:30am-11am, Bradford Health, Shelby County. Educational opportunities and awareness of culture trends in Shelby County.

Presented by the Shelby County Drug-Free Coalition. Contact Rachel Lawley at 205-790-9177 or rellison@bradfordhealth.net to reserve a spot.

UAB Student Recital 12:20pm, UAB Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. Advanced students in the Department of Music; Chris Steele, pianist. 205-9347376 or visit www.uab.edu/cas/ music. FREE. UAB Brass Chamber Ensembles 7pm, Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. Blazer trumpets, trombone 42 | birminghamparent | april 2018

choir, tuba and euphonium ensembles and more. 205-934-7376, www.uab.edu/cas/music. FREE.

05 THURSDAY UAB Faculty Brass Quintet Noon, UAB Hospital North Pavilion Atrium. First Thursday Pops concert. FREE. Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame Student Jazz Band Festival Birmingham-Southern College, Munger Hall Auditorium. This three-day festival (April 5-7) is free and open to the public.

Performances from college, high school and middle school jazz bands, vocalists and more. Information, www.jazzhall.com.

Homeschool Hour 2-3pm, Homewood Library.

Meet representatives from NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, who will talk about what it really means to work with NASA. Suggested age 10-up. Free, but space limited; online registration required. www.homewoodpubliclibrary.org.

UAB Music Presents 7pm, Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. Presenting Eamon Griffith, senior piano recital. FREE.

07 SATURDAY Pepper Place Indoor Market 7am-noon, Martin Biscuit building, Pepper Place, 29th St. S. Last day of the indoor market before the outdoor market begins next Saturday! www. pepperplacemarket.com.

Walk MS: Birmingham 7am site opens; 8am walk begins, Homewood Central Park.

Presented by National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Southeastern Outings Kayak and Canoe Trip 9am, Locust Fork River, Blount County. Depart 9am from the Cleveland Chevron Service Station. Reservations required; contact Dan Frederick at 205-631-4680 or seoutings@ bellsouth.net.

Woodlawn Street Market 10am-4pm, 1 55th Place South, Birmingham. An urban street market in the heart of historic Woodlawn. FREE admission. https://hdsa.donordrive.com.

Alabama Ballet Presents La Fille Mal Gardée 2:30pm, 7:30pm, BJCC Theatre, see April 6.

06 FRIDAY

08 SUNDAY

UAB Computer Music Ensemble 7pm, Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. New works of electro-acoustic music and multimedia. Matthew Bryant, director. FREE.

Birmingham Team Hope Walk 1-5pm, Oak Mountain State Park. 5K and 1 mile walk raising money for the Huntington’s Disease Society of America’s community services, research and education programs. Ticket sales begin at 1pm, walks at 2pm. Admission to the park is included in ticket admission.

Alabama Ballet Presents La Fille Mal Gardée 7:30pm, BJCC Theatre. This light-hearted and comedic ballet is the story of Lise, the only daughter of widow Simone. Lise loves Colas, a young farmer – but her mother has far more am-

Walk to End Lupus Now 1-5pm, Veterans Park, Hoover.

Set up teams and raise funds for the one-mile fun walk. Music,

dancing, bounce house, T-shirt contest, prizes, silent auction and more. www.chapters.lupus.org.

Southeastern Outings Dayhike 1pm, Oak Mountain State Park. A moderate 4-mile walk. Children 8-up able to complete the hike welcome. Depart 1pm from the park office lot. Bring park admission and drink. Edd Spencer, 2-5-317-5868.

Alabama Ballet Presents La Fille Mal Gardée 2:30pm, BJCC Theatre, see April 6.

Special Siblings Support Group 3:30-4:30pm, Homewood Library. A place to share ideas, experiences and the ever-changing needs of having a special needs sibling. Open to siblings ages 5-18.

UAB Piano Series presents Kenneth Broberg 4pm, Alys Stephens Center, UAB. Broberg, the Van Cliburn silver medalist, also has won medals at several other competitions. He has performed as a soloist with numerous orchestras. Tickets $15; $5 for students through grade 12 and UAB employees; free to UAB students.

205-975-2787.

UAB Percussion Ensemble 7pm, Alys Stephens Center.

Gene Fambrough, director. FREE.

10 TUESDAY Junk Drawer Robotics 4-5pm, Homewood Library.

Make your very own robot from items commonly found in your house. Open to 4th-7th graders.

Online registration required. www.homewoodpubliclibrary.org.

UAB Guitar Ensemble and Jazz Combos 7pm, Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. Maria Bitran, Carlos Pino and Steve Roberts, directors. FREE.

11 WEDNESDAY Birmingham Barons vs. Montgomery Biscuits 7:05pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.

12 THURSDAY UAB Faculty Jazz Quintet Noon, UAB Hospital North Pavilion atrium. FREE.

Sponsored by

Family Storytime 6:30-7pm, Homewood Library.

Dress in your favorite pajamas and listen to some stories before bedtime!

Spain Park Band Ensembles 7pm, Hoover Library. Individual and small ensemble performances by members of Spain Park High School’s band.

FREE. UAB Music presents Marta Pirosca 7pm, Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. Senior flute recital. FREE. Birmingham Barons vs. Montgomery Biscuits 7:05pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.

13 FRIDAY Spring Plant Sale 9am-7pm, Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Annual three-day sale with more than 100,000 plants available! FREE admission. www.bbgardens.org.

UAB Steel Band 7pm, Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. Gene Fambrough, director. FREE. Birmingham Barons vs. Montgomery Biscuits 7:05pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.

14 SATURDAY Pepper Place Outdoor Market 7am-noon, Pepper Place, 29th St. S. It’s the first day of the outdoor season of this popular market! Celebrate Alabama’s best! www.pepperplacemarket. com.

Team Jory Walk for Autism 8am-noon, Railroad Park, Birmingham. Come walk to support Jory’s Journey Foundation, a nonprofit which raises autism awareness and provides services in underserved communities in Birmingham.

Information, jorysjourney@ gmail.com.

World Class Fossil Hunt!

9am, 1pm, meet in Walmart parking lot, Sumiton, to go to site. Join Fresh Air Family for this amazing event! Hike led

by Carl Sloan, secretary of the

Alabama Paleontological Society. You can keep your fossils unless they are museum quality! Registration required, fee charged. Call 205-540-6642, events@freshairfamily.org. For info on what to bring, etc. go to www.freshairfamily.org.

Big Adventures, Bigger Memories!

Spring Plant Sale 9am-5pm, Birmingham Botanical Gardens, see April 13.

Spring Walking Tour – Redmont Neighborhood 9am-noon, Vulcan Park and Museum. Annual tour series of Birmingham’s history and neighborhoods. Member tour $10; non-member, $12. 205933-1409. www.visitvulcan. com.

Personal Safety and Awareness Workshop for Women 3-5:30pm, Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest. Taught by Vestavia Hills police officers.

FREE, reserve your spot by calling 205-978-4678. Ages 18+.

Birmingham Barons vs. Montgomery Biscuits 6:30pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.

UAB Music Faculty Recital 7pm, Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. Featuring Won Cho, bass-baritone and Chris Steele, pianist. FREE.

All aboard for a

train ride with Thomas and so much more!

April 13-15 & 21-22 The Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum

April 13-15 & 21-22 Calera, AL

The Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum

FOR FORTICKETS: TICKETS:

Visit ticketweb.com/dowt visit ticketweb.com/dowt or call 866-468-7630 or call 866-468-7630 Day Out With Thomas™ © 2018 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. Thomas & Friends™ Based on The Railway Series

by The Reverend W. Awdry. © 2018 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. Thomas the Tank Engine, Thomas & Friends and Day Out With Thomas are trademarks of Gullane (Thomas) Limited. ©2018 Mattel. All Rights Reserved. ® and ™ designate U.S. trademarks of Mattel, except as noted.

FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED FOR 37 YEARS!!

15 SUNDAY Spring Plant Sale 11am-3pm, Birmingham Botanical Gardens, see April 13.

Alabama Wildlife Center/ Exploring Natural Alabama 1:30-4pm, Alabama Wildlife Center. Katie Barnes, Birmingham Audubon senior coastal biologist, guest speaker.

Explore the lives of sandpipers, plovers and terns, coastal birds that call the Alabama coast home at least part of the year. Weather permitting, an informal nature walk follows the program so bring your camera, binoculars & field guides. Free after paid admission to Oak Mountain State Park. 205-663-7930x4, www.awrc.org. FREE.

@applause_ dancewear Toddler to Adult sizes.

Professional Shoe Fitting.

Over 2700 square feet of unique dancewear, shoes, tights, liturgical and tutus from the top industry brands.

www.applausedancewear.net

1629 Oxmoor Rd | Birmingham, AL 35209 | 205-871-STEP birminghamparent.com | 43

calendar Southeastern Outings Sunday Stroll 2pm, Dunnavant Valley Greenway Walking Trail. Depart 2pm from the walking trail head on Shelby County Highway 41.

Children 7-up able to walk 4½ miles welcome. Dan Frederick, 205-631-4680.

Birmingham Barons vs. Montgomery Biscuits 3pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.

Alabama Youth Symphony Pop-Up Performance 3pm, Macy’s, Brookwood Village. Enjoy a family-friendly program. FREE. UAB Jazz Ensemble 4pm, Alys Stephens Center.

Steve Roberts, director. FREE. UAB Piano Studio and Piano Ensembles 7pm, Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. Featuring students of Yakov Kasman and Tatiana Kasman. FREE.

16 MONDAY Concert Band Invitational Festival Alys Stephens Center, UAB. Concerts throughout the day and a finale performance by the UAB Wind Symphony. Information, 205-934-7376, www.uab. edu/cas/music.

17 TUESDAY Birmingham Sci Café 6-8pm, John’s City Diner. Join other science geeks and novices for an exciting presentation, lively discussion and a little science trivia! FREE. UAB Honors Recital 7pm, Alys Stephens Center.

Featuring winners of the 2018 Honors Recital competition.

FREE.

18 WEDNESDAY UAB Opera 12:20pm, Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. Opera scenes with student performers. FREE.

19 THURSDAY American Girl Luau 6:30-7:15pm, Homewood Library.

Presented by Schaeffer Eye Center, this family night includes dancing and luau fun to celebrate American Girl Nanea. Crafts, activities and yummy Hawaiian snacks. Dress up and bring a doll to share!

20 FRIDAY American Girls Club Spring Fashion Show 4pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Girls age 7 and older can walk the runway and model their fresh spring fashions – and those of their dolls if they wish! Girls can come with or without a doll, and family/friends can sit in the audience. All kids in the audience must be with an adult.

UAB Choirs 7pm, Southside Baptist Church, 11th Ave. S. at 19th St. Ken Fulton, guest conductor. FREE.

21 SATURDAY Pepper Place Outdoor Market 7am-noon, Pepper Place, 29th St. S. Celebrate Alabama’s best! www.pepperplacemarket.com.

Southeastern Outings Kayak/ Canoe Trip 8am, Sipsey Fork River, Winston County. Depart 8am from the Floor and Décor store on Green Springs Highway or 9:30am from Jack’s in Double Springs. Reservations are required. Information, Dan Frederick, 205-631-4680, seoutings@bellsouth.net.

22 SUNDAY Southeastern Outings Wildflower Walk Noon, Bibb County Glades. This

Sponsored by

preserve is home to 61 rare plant species and the most biologically diverse piece of land known in the state. Walk also includes the Meyers property across from the glades. Children 11-older only; there are many steep drop-offs and high cliffs with no guardrails.

Depart at noon from McDonald’s, Riverchase Galleria. Joe Meyers, 205-988-0741; David Shepherd, 205-240-4681.

will get to enjoy it all! Open to all types of grilling. Music and fun for kids! All funds benefit Easterseals, which helps children and adults who have disabilities.

Birmingham Parent is a sponsor. www.birminghamzoo.com.

23 MONDAY

St. Symeon Food and Culture Fair 10am-4pm, St. Symeon Orthodox Church. Bring the family, tour the new church, see the iconographic murals, hear the choir, and shop at our multi-ethnic food market and bakery. Sacred music presentations at 11 and 2; iconography talk and tour at 1; church tours and food hall all day. Enjoy the new, accessible playground. www.facebook.com/stsymeonfair/. FREE.

Unidos Leemos Family Night 6-7:30pm, Homewood Library.

Stories, songs and crafts for Latino parents and children.

Meet friends from the Literacy Council of Central Alabama and take home a free picture book.

Registration required; 205-3326619, www.homewoodpubliclibrary.org.

26 THURSDAY Birmingham Barons vs. Biloxi Shuckers 7:05pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.

27 FRIDAY Tails in the Trails 6:30-10:30pm, Birmingham Zoo. Presented by the zoo’s junior board, this annual event features live music from Nationwide Coverage, hors d’oeuvres and much more. Online auction benefits a new interactive flamingo habitat at the zoo and more! An age 21+ event. Tickets, www.birminghamzoo.com.

Birmingham Barons vs. Biloxi Shuckers 7:05pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.

28 SATURDAY

Pepper Place Outdoor Market 7am-noon, Pepper Place, 29th St. S. Celebrate Alabama’s best! www.pepperplacemarket.com.

Sensory Storytime 10:30-11am, Homewood Library.

Monthly, all-ages storytime introduces stories and songs in a variety of engaging ways in a sensory-friendly atmosphere.

Birmingham Barons vs. Biloxi Shuckers 6:30pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.

29 SUNDAY Birmingham Barons vs. Biloxi Shuckers 3pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.

30 MONDAY Birmingham Barons vs. Biloxi Shuckers 11am, Regions Field. www.barons.com.

BBQ at the Zoo 10am-3pm, Birmingham Zoo. Join Easterseals for this special event!

Grilling teams will compete for the best barbecue, and visitors

PLEASE NOTE: Events may change after publication deadline; please phone ahead to confirm important information. The deadline for submitting calendar items for the May 2018 print issue is April 6. Mail calendar items to: Calendar, Birmingham Parent, P.O. Box 326, Helena, AL 35080; fax to 987-7600; e-mail to calendar@BirminghamParent.com; or enter directly to the online calendar at www.birminghamparent.com. Entries added online after the print deadline will not appear in the print version. Information cannot be accepted over the phone. Birmingham Parent publishes a calendar 11 times a year. January events are included in the December issue.

Guidelines: Birmingham Parent’s calendar is intended to be a resource and service to the community and our readers. Events which are open to the public, fundraisers, free classes, etc., are events that may be included in our monthly calendar. We reserve the right to reject any event or listing due to rules or space restrictions. For questions regarding calendar entries, call 987-7700 or e-mail calendar@birminghamparent.com.

44 | birminghamparent | april 2018

events & attractions

Sponsored by

n Aldridge Botanical Gardens

n Birmingham Public Libraries

3530 Lorna Road, Hoover.

205-682-8019, www.aldridgegardens.com

Find a library near you for all kinds of fun events and enrichment! www.bplonline.org

n Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame

n Birmingham Zoo

1631 Fourth Ave. N., Birmingham. 205-254-2731, www. jazzhall.com

In-park Special Attractions: • Special Saturdays. On the second Saturday of each month from 10-11am for ages 8-up, the Birmingham Zoo and KultureCity will present a series of zoobased learning experiences for children and adolescents with cognitive or physical disabilities. Caregivers must attend all classes. FREE; space is limited to 10 students per class. Information, Roger Torbert, rtorbert@ birminghamzoo.com.

2630 Cahaba Road, Birmingham. 205-879-0409, www. birminghamzoo.com

n Alabama School of Fine Arts 1800 Rev. Abraham Woods, Jr. Blvd., www.asfa.k12.al.us

n Alabama Sports Hall of Fame 2150 Richard Arrington Blvd. N., Birmingham. 323-6665, www. ashof.org

n Alabama Wildlife Center 100 Terrace Drive, Pelham. 2 05-663-7930. www.awrc.org

n American Village The Festival of Tulips. Started in 2017, this festival will feature 100,000 tulips! Tulips available for purchase and more. Through April 7. Highway 119, Montevallo.

205-665-3535, www.americanvillage.org

n Barber Motorsports Park 6040 Barber Motorsports Parkway, Leeds. 205-298-9040, www.barbermotorsports.com

n Birmingham Botanical Gardens When visiting the Gardens, be sure to download the treasure map to take with you! www. bbgardens.org/documents/treasuremapforweb.pdf 2612 Lane Park Road, Birmingham. 205-414-3900, www.bbgardens.org

n Birmingham Children’s Theatre 1001 19th St. North, Birmingham, AL, 35203, 205-458-8181, www.bct123.org

n Birmingham Civil Rights Institute 16th St. N., Birmingham.

205-328-9696, www.bcri.org

n Birmingham Museum of Art Bart’s Art Cart! Free drop-in art program for kids and families features a different theme from galleries and art activity each month. Saturdays from 11am-1pm.

Bart’s Books. A storytelling program for children ages 4-7. 2000 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd., Birmingham. 205-254-2565, www.artsbma.org

n Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum 1919 Ninth St., Calera. 205-6683435, www.hodrrm.org • Day Out with Thomas: Big Adventures Tour 2018. April 13-15 and April 20-21. Tickets, www.ticketweb.com/dowt or 866-468-7630.

n Jefferson County Library Cooperative Find a library close to you for all kinds of fun events and enrichment! www.jclc.org

n McWane Science Center Spring Fever. Celebrate springtime at McWane Science Center!

Through April 15.

• Backyard Adventures! From the biological interactions between plants and insects, and the zoology of nocturnal animals to the horticultural know-how that goes into growing giant vegetables, the mathematical genius needed to lay pavers and the feats of construction that can go on in the shed, the backyard is full of science.

• Pandamonium! In celebration of the upcoming IMAX movie Pandas narrated by Kristen Bell, dress in black and white on Friday, April 6 for a special giveaway. Then come Saturday, April 7 and Sunday, April 8 for $10 Pandas movie and McWane combo tickets. Programs throughout the day!

• Going Places. Planes! Trains!

Rockets! Cars! Explore this

Birmingham Museum of Art exhibition and discover the technology of transportation. Fly a plane, ride a hovercraft, learn to fly an airship!

• Member Mondays. Every Monday, McWane Science Center members receive extra perks while visiting! Includes a special gift for kids when checking in, 30 percent discount on gift shop purchases, $1 small popcorn at IMAX concession stand and a free members-only evening event each month. Also, on the second Monday of each month, McWane opens its doors from 5-8pm for its members.

• McWane After Dark: Party Like it’s 1998!

April 20, 7-11pm. In celebration of McWane’s 20th year, a throwback party is planned! Information, www.mcwane.org.

IMAX Movies: • Journey to the South Pacific.

Adventure to the lush tropical islands of remote West Papua, where life flourishes above and below the sea. Through April 5.

• Pandas. This film follows a researcher at Chengdu Panda Base in China, where scientists are dedicated to protecting the species by breeding adult Giant Pandas in order to introduce cubs into the wild. Coming April 6.

200 19th St. N., Birmingham. 205714-8300, www.mcwane.org.

n Moss Rock Preserve Preserve Parkway, Hoover.

205-739-7141, www.hooveral.org.

n Oak Mountain State Park 200 Terrace Drive, Pelham.

205-620-2520, www.alapark.com.

n Ruffner Mountain Nature Center 1214 81st St. S., Birmingham.

205-833-8264, www.ruffnermountain.org.

n Shelby County Public Libraries Find a library near you for all kinds of fun events and enrichment! www.shelbycounty-al.org

n Southern Museum of Flight 4343 73rd St. N., Birmingham.

205-833-8226, www.southernmuseumofflight.org

n Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park 12632 Confederate Parkway, McCalla. 205-477-5711, www.tannehill.org

n Vulcan Park 1701 Valley View Drive, Birmingham. 205-933-1409, www.vulcanpark.org birminghamparent.com | 45

PO ET RY PARTY

genealogy Have you ever wondered how your family got started?

Have you ever heard stories from your grandparents about your great grandparents or your great great grandparents?

Searching through your family’s history is lots of fun.

It’s called genealogy.

Genealogy is your Family Tree!

If your Family Tree could talk, this is what it might say to you.

FAMILY TREE My roots are deep within you, Growing as you grow.

My shade provides the shelter For the new seeds that you sow.

No matter what the season, I stand here still the same.

Come winter, spring, or summer, My branches bear your name.

—©Charles Ghigna

Send us your poems and we will publish them here!

Parents and teachers! Send us poems written by your children ages 4-14. Include the poet’s name & age and the name of person submitting the poem. Please include your relationship to the poet (parent, teacher, etc.). Send original poems to Father Goose at PaGoose@aol.com.

For information on “How to Write a Poem,” visit the Father Goose® website at FatherGoose.com.

46 | birminghamparent | april 2018

Watch Alabama Cable Network programming on Spectrum Channel 80 STATEWIDE, online at www.alabamacablenetwork.com and even on your smart phone.

We are your home for local programming, since 1981! Check our website for dates and times for programming.

ACN SHOWS Legal Speak with Thomas Carmichael and Kim Davidson Scott Beason’s Reality Check The Joe Lockett Show The Voice of Alabama Politics with host Bill Britt Coosa Valley Magazine with host Jim Green Daybreak Live 5:30 a.m. daily from Sylacauga with Jimmy Dale Abrams The Rick and Bubba Television Show

Special People and Places with Margaret Lee The Time of Your Life with Bob and Janie Mosca Forgotten Treasures with Kendall Benson

RELIGIOUS

Church of the Air with Bobbie Gurley The Cullman First Baptist Church Dillworth Church of God with Pastor Nelson Kimberly God’s House of Prayer with Bishop Frank McCloud Good News with Pastor Ruel Phillips

Valley Happenings daily at 9 a.m. with Susie Wiley

Gospel Jubilee with Al and Sandy Jerkins

Alabama Car Show featuring clubs from all over Alabama

Gospel Music Southern Style from TV24 Anniston

Greater Visions Baptist Church with Pastor Wayne Ferguson Manna Fest with Perry Stone Pulpit LIVE with Apostle Willie Simmons Seeking the Lost with Earl Barnette Southern Gospel Show with Tommy Johnson and Kendall Benson Victory LIVE with Pastor Jim McCann

SPORTS Simply Fishing Tide TV Coach Avery Johnson Show Coach Bruce Pearl Show Jax State Coach Show

birminghamparent.com | 47

FOR A BIRTHING EXPERIENCE THAT FEELS LIKE HOME, WE DELIVER.

When you’re having a baby, everything we do is focused on your care, comfort and privacy.

From helping you find an OB/GYN, to offering preparatory classes, to delivering your new bundle of joy, we’re with you every step of the way. Our beautiful new women’s center features spacious labor and delivery suites and, should the need arise, we have a Level III NICU right here. At Grandview Medical Center, we are dedicated to giving your baby a wonderful welcome to the world.

To find a physician who delivers at Grandview Medical Center or to take a virtual tour of the Women’s Center, visit GrandviewOB.com.

To schedule a tour, call 205-971-6349.

3690 Grandview Parkway Birmingham, AL 35243

Look Forward.