Birmingham Parent Magazine February 2016

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THE PREMIER PARENTING MAGAZINE FOR CENTRAL ALABAMA

FEBRUARY 2016

WHAT YOUR PEDIATRIC DENTIST WANTS YOU TO KNOW

Why Camp is Important for Kids 2016 Birmingham Parent Camp Directory PAGE 14

RAISING A COMPETITIVE CHILD HIGH TECH KIDS, LOW TECH CAMP

Summer Ice Skating Camps LEARN TO SKATE AND AND ICE ARENA LEARN TO PLAY HOCKEY 3 SESSIONS: JUNE 20-24, JULY 18-22, AUGUST 1-5 8 am to 4pm . Ages: 5-13 . Cost $250 per week 10 Hours of skating time, 2 ½ hours of off-ice workout, 3 hours of Arts & Crafts, 1 PG- rated movie a day, Camp T-shirt, 1 Pizza Party and Tons of Fun! 1 On-Ice Exhibition of tricks learned for Mom & Dad

Please register in advance by calling our Pro Shop at 205-620-6448 ext.261

Try Hockey For Free!

SAT, FEB, 20TH,2016 12:30 PM TO 2 PM

2.20.16 On Saturday, February 20th, USA Hockey and 300 local associations across the country will host TRY HOCKEY FOR FREE DAY, presented by Kraft Heinz! Participating locations encourage kids, ages 4 to 9, to come try youth hockey as part of Hockey Weekend Across America. Bring your own skates, sticks and helmets if possible as equipment is limited.

This event is designed to provide kids, between the ages of 4 to 9, a completely free experience to try youth hockey. A limited amount of equipment is available to borrow. Our top coaches will be on the ice to assist your child in learning the basics.

Your son or daughter does not need any previous skating or hockey experience.

For questions, please contact us (205) 259-3904 1coachmatt@gmail.com

PELHAM CIVIC COMPLEX ICE ARENA 500 AMPHITHEATER RD. PELHAM, AL 35124

editor’s note 3590-B Hwy. 31 S. #289 Pelham, AL 35124 205-987-7700 205-987-7600 FAX www.birminghamparent.com

editorial Publishers David & Carol Evans Editor Carol Muse Evans Associate Editor Lori Chandler Pruitt Office Assistant Bethany Adams Hunley Calendar Lori Chandler Pruitt Contributors Dr. Vivian Friedman, Gerry P. Smith, Charles Ghigna, Denise Yearian, The Camping and Education Foundation, Ben Plaisance M.D., Claire Yezbak Fadden

sales Account Executives Kayla Fricks, Brittani Ellison

We’re All About Going to Camp!

I still have vivid memories of my first camp experience as a child. I rode a yellow school bus across the B.B. Comer Bridge in Jackson County and up Sand Mountain to Girl Scout Camp in Buck’s Pocket.

I have fond memories of friends and fun – and a few not-so-fond ones of digging a latrine, mosquito and chigger bites and throwing up on the bus! However, my adventure in day camp helped prepare me for adulthood, gave me a lot of summer fun and helped me make friends I would have for years to come. It also gave my mom a much-needed (and deserved) break.

This month’s issue of Birmingham Parent is primarily dedicated to camp – kids going to camp, and finding the right camp for your child. In fact, there are so many decisions and options that many years ago, CAMP EXPO was created to help parents search for and find that great camp or workshop experience for their child, all under one roof.

Now in its 23rd year, Camp Expo will be held in a new location – the RIVERCHASE GALLERIA – on Saturday, Feb. 13, 2016, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free! There will be great local entertainment and giveaways, but most importantly, information and a chance for you to shop for just the right camp or summer program for your child. You might even find one for spring break.

In this issue we take a look at all things camp this month, from exploring why camp is important to kids (page 12), how to get your kids to go low tech at camp (page 20), how to make a memory book of camp (page 24) and our all-important resource, our camp directory, starting on page 14.

But February also is National Children’s Dental Health Month, and we haven’t forgotten this important topic with suggestions from area pediatric dentists on how you can better help your child’s dental health, and what they’d like you to know. Don’t miss this important story.

And don’t miss our first installment of a new column, Community Heroes, on page 38. We honor and highlight local attorney Gregory Zarzaur, a voice for victims of sexual abuse, this month.

Don’t miss next month’s issue of Birmingham Parent, when it’ll be all about Special Needs.

Thanks for reading!

Carol Muse Evans, Publisher/Editor carol@birminghamparent.com

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art & production Art Director Hilary Moreno Distribution T&P Deliveries E-blasts Simple Southern Lace Designs Legal Counsel Balch & Bingham LLP BIRMINGHAM PARENT IS A PUBLICATION OF EVANS PUBLISHING, LLC. Publishers: Carol Muse Evans, David K. Evans Sr. Birmingham Parent (EIN20-0694149) is published monthly

by Evans Publishing LLC. www.birminghamparent.com or editor@birminghamparent.com. Birmingham Parent is © 2015 by Evans Publishing LLC. Family Connections Media ©2011 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.

PEDIATRICS 24/7, 365 IT MATTERS When a patient goes in for a surgical procedure at either of our two locations, that child receives worldclass care from board-certified pediatric professionals: l surgeons l anesthesiologists l nurse anesthetists l OR nurses l OR scrub technicians l respiratory therapists l recovery room nurses and l support staff.

Everyone on our staff made the choice to work with children and their families.

Choose Children’s.

We offer a full complement of surgical services from ear tubes to cardiovascular procedures to delicate surgeries on neonates weighing less than 1 pound.

Children’s South Outpatient Center

18 surgical suites + 2 CV suites 1601 5th Avenue South Birmingham, Alabama 35233 205.638.9777

6 surgical suites 1940 Elmer J. Bissell Road Birmingham, Alabama 35243 205.638.3217

P Ribbon

Russell Campus

Cutting and Open Houseand

table of contents FREE

THE PREMIER PARENTING MAGAZINE FOR CENTRAL ALABAMA

FEBRUARY 2016

12 14

WHAT YOUR PEDIATRIC DENTIST WANTS YOU TO KNOW

Why Camp is Important for Kids 2016 Birmingham Parent Camp Directory PAGE 14

RAISING A COMPETITIVE CHILD HIGH TECH KIDS, LOW TECH CAMP

departments Note 04 Editor’s We’re all About Going to Camp

07

12 Why Camp is Important for Kids

8 Short Stuff 0 the Specialist: 40 Ask Heart Disease and Women

Page in a Book: 44 AKids Dig Dinosaurs

Birmingham Parent 14 2016 CAMP DIRECTORY

49

High Tech Kids Need 20 Why LOW TECH CAMP

50 February Calendar of Events

24

Make a Summer Camp MEMORY BOOK

February Calendar Highlights

Party: 54 Poetry Positive Poems

features

The Benefits of 26 YOGA FOR KIDS

20

Parenting with Dr. Friedman

a 30 Raising COMPETITIVE CHILD

26

24

ON THE COVER: Our Cover Search winner Love, age 8, of Helena, is a competitive child who enjoys both sports and dance. Photo by Visual Arts by Jessica, http://www.visualartsbyjessica.com & https://www.facebook.com/VisualArtsbyJessica.

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34

WHAT YOUR PEDIATRIC DENTIST Wants You To Know

38

COMMUNITY HEROES: Attorney Gregory Zarzaur

42

THE SHOWPLACE OF THE SOUTH Continues to Wow Audiences

34 30 20

parenting

Parenting with Dr. Friedman

Q:

My two oldest daughters are lazy. I’m the middle of five children. My mom didn’t work outside the home, yet we still helped her with housework. I have been working outside the home all my married life and so I need help more than she did. My husband, who is tied to his mother rather than to me, practically encouraged our three daughters not to obey me. He

always took their side against me and, as a result, they’ve never minded me and I don’t get much help at all with housework. Any time I try to tell him that he’s overindulging our daughters he accuses me of being jealous.

Our first two daughters (now 23 and 22) are exactly 14 months apart, and my husband has always treated them “even Steven.” That only created more competition between them and because they were so close in age, the same gender, and so different in personality.

They always compared what they got to what the other one got. Neither ever felt that she got the better deal.

It is too late now to change the situation as the girls are grown, but what could I have done differently?

The problem with the children started with problems in the marriage. Two people cannot raise children together if they do not respect each other. If the marriage is a competition for power and for love from the children, the children will fall through the cracks.

Counseling might have helped to change some of the competitive dynamics, but both parties would have to see the problem and agree that a change was needed. Counseling cannot change a person who does not want to change. You do not say how many hours your husband worked. If you were the full-time breadwinner, while he spent time with the children, he is likely to have more influence over them than you do.

You are correct in your assumption that focusing on everything being “even-Steven” between two siblings just teaches them to measure everything. Instead of telling children that everything will always be

equal, you want to tell them that they their needs will be met. There is no need to buy new shoes for both children when one needs a dress for the prom while the other needs new athletic shoes for a soccer game. When children complain over what a sibling has received, the correct response is, “I’m not

her wants. You do not fill emotionally empty children with material gifts. Spoiled children are never content. Minutes after they receive a gift they are looking for the next one.

What has been missing in your daughter’s lives is a role model of how to treat people with love and respect. Your husband seems

The problem with the children started with problems in the marriage. Two people cannot raise children together if they do not respect each other. interested in what your sister got. Tell me what you need.” Reconstruct the jealousy beneath the child’s complaint. Don’t promise that it will be equal or the same. Reassure the jealous child that she is loved and that you will meet all of her needs but only some of

to have failed to model positive regard for others and has overly emphasized material gifts. He has given your girls a handicap in life as “birds of a feather tend to flock together.”

That is, if they are not warm and giving, they are unlikely to attract others who are so.

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.

2016 SUMMER PROGRAMS Stimulating and engaging Summer Programs in Creative Writing, Dance, Music, Theatre, Visual Arts, STEM and Computer Game Programming. See our website in March for program descriptions, dates, times, fees and online registration at

www.asfaschool.org ALABAMA SCHOOL OF FINE ARTS 1800 Reverend Abraham Woods, Jr. Boulevard

Birmingham, AL 35203 205.252.9241 birminghamparent.com | 7

Register NOW for the 2016-2017 school year!

short stuff

We offer a variety of classes for Children 6 months to Kindergarten.

Our summer program starts June 21 through July 28 for ages 6 months to Kindergarten.

Call 205-989-8070

or Email us at riverchasedayschool@gmail.com 1953 Old Highway 31 Hoover, Alabama

www.riverchaseumc.org/ riverchasedayschool Photo courtesy of Alabama Ballet

DAILY TOURS AVAIL ABLE

Alabama Ballet Presents Don Quixote February 19-21 Bundles of Hope, the local diaper bank non-profit for those in need, needs YOU to donate storage/warehouse space and/or host diaper drives.

Businesses, local organizations & individuals all welcome!

205-607-2112 www.bundlesdiaperbank.org bundlesofhope@hotmail.com sponsored by

8 | birminghamparent | february 2016

The Alabama Ballet continues its 2015-2016 season with the fiery Don Quixote, February 19-21, 2016. This classic will captivate families and all who love classical ballet.

A story of love, comedy and justice, this full length ballet has spectacular costumes and scenery. Here’s your chance to see a company that could be anywhere in the nation, but happens to be right here in Birmingham.

The lavish sets and visually titillating costumes reflect a 17th century Spanish flare true to the story of Don Quixote.

This three-act ballet travels through a Spanish village, a gypsy camp, a tavern and a

wedding celebration to bring the audience on a search for love and justice.

Cervantes 1740 version of Don Quixote was the inspiration for the balletic translation which focuses on the lighthearted and humorous aspects of the tale.

The most familiar treatment comes from the 1869 Bolshoi production created by Marius Petipa, the father of ballet.

Petipa’s Don Quixote is the original source of the grand pas de deux, a standard showcase piece for dancers. Alabama Ballet’s production of Don Quixote is influenced by Petipa’s with restaging by Associate Artistic Director, Roger Van Fleteren.

The ballet weaves two

threads; the struggles of two lovers in a small Spanish town, and Don Quixote and his faithful companion Sancho Panza’s quest for justice. The third and final act culminates with brilliant, challenging dancing in the perfect wedding scene. This magnificent fulllength, main stage production is sponsored by The Hugh Kaul Foundation and Betty F. Brice.

It is at the Leslie S. Wright Fine Arts Center on the campus of Samford University. For tickets, call 205-202-8142 ($25-$55) or visit www.alabamaballet.org.

Performances are February 19 at 7:30 pm, February 20 at 2:30 and 7:30 pm, and February 21 at 2:30 pm.

short stuff SHERIFF’S CORNER:

New Year’s Resolution: Resolve to be Ready Just two months into the New Year, and it’s not too late to make some good resolutions you can keep.

Make one very important New Year’s resolution for your family in 2016 that’s easy to keep: Be ready for emergencies and disasters.

Take time to prepare your family, home, business and community for potential disasters. Be informed and know what to do before, during and after an emergency. Consider: Make a Plan. Prepare, plan and stay informed for potential emergencies. Have a weather radio handy. Where do I go, or hide? How should I prepare?

Get Involved. Find opportunities to support community preparedness.

Build a Kit. Build a disaster preparedness kit with items like a first aid kit, water, snacks, etc.

Pets. If you have pets be sure to include them in your disaster plans. They will be counting on you for their safety.

Business. Plan for and protect your business and employees for emergencies.

Kids. Create a personalized “Just in Case” family plan and teach it to your kids. This will lessen their stress in the event of an emergency.

Courtesy of JEFFCO Sheriff Mike Hale

Head over Heels Brings Aerial Silks Classes to Birmingham

Photo courtesy of HOH

Head Over Heels Gymnastics is bringing aerial silks to Birmingham. Also known as aerial fabrics, aerial tissue or aerial ribbons, it is one of the newest, most inspiring and versatile aerial art forms today, according to Ann Williams, owner of Head over Heels Gymnastics in Hoover.

Aerial silks classes provide a low-impact workout, giving each participant the opportunity to increase strength and flexibility at their own level, she says. Artists and fitness enthusiasts climb, twist, spin, drop and position themselves on fabric hanging from the ceiling.

Classes are challenging, yet fun. There are a variety of skills to be learned, from basics to very complex skills and more than 3,000 skills and combinations. It begins low to the ground then progresses into the air as students gain strength, skill and confidence.

Williams, who is “50-something,” says since she started in August she has gained a great amount of core strength. “I sent my daughter a picture of me doing a skill on the silks and she didn’t even recognize me! It’s a workout I look forward to each week,” Williams says.

Head Over Heels has weekly aerial silks classes for adults 16 and up and for youth ages 9-12. It’s also offered to younger ages during their camps. Visit www.headoverheelsgyms.com.

the

TRAVEL

VOICE

BY BECKY The only voice in travel that MATTERS! Catch The Travel Voice by Becky on Saturday’s in Shelby County on FM 99.9 APH Radio at 11 a.m. and anytime on iHeart Radio!

Great travel information, special deals, awesome guests, spectacular on location LIVE events and amazing giveaways!

For more information, visit thetravelvoicebybecky.com birminghamparent.com | 9

short stuff

Celebrate Black History Month with Books PICTURE BOOKS:

PHOTOS COURTESY OF PENGUIN BOOKS

I am Martin Luther King, Jr.

by Brad Meltzer; Illustrated by Christopher Eliopoulos (Dial; 9780525428527; Ages 5-8; $12.99) Even as a child, Martin Luther King, Jr. was shocked by the terrible and unfair way African-American people were treated. When he grew up, he decided to do something about it – peacefully, with powerful words. This lively, New York Times bestselling biography series inspires kids to dream big, one great role model at a time.

You’ll want to collect each book.

I am Jackie Robinson by Brad Meltzer; Illustrated by Christopher Eliopoulos (Dial; 9780803740860; Ages 5-8; $12.99).

I am Rosa Parks by Brad Meltzer; Illustrated by Christopher Eliopoulos (Dial; 9780803740853; Ages 5-8; $12.99).

MIDDLE GRADES: Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry: 40th Anniversary Special Edition by Mildred D. Taylor (Dial; 9781101993880; Ages 9-12; $18.99). Why is the land so important to Cassie’s family? It takes the events of one turbulent year – the year of the night riders and the burnings, the year a white girl humiliates Cassie in public simply because she is black – to show Cassie that having a place of their own is the Logan family’s lifeblood. It is the land that gives the Logans their courage and pride, for no matter how others may degrade them, the Logans possess something no one can take away.

The Girl Who Buried Her Dreams in a Can by Tererai Trent; Illustrated by Jan Spivey Gilchrist (Viking Books for Young Readers; 9780670016549; Ages 6-8; $17.99).

This is the story of a little girl with big dreams. All she ever wanted was an education, but in Rhodesia, education for girls was nearly impossible. She wrote her goals on a scrap of paper and buried them in a can, an ancient ritual that reminded her that she couldn’t give up on her dreams.

Would her dreams ever come true? Dr. Tererai Trent’s true story of perseverance is sure to inspire readers of all ages.

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A Tiny Piece of Sky by Shawn K. Stout (Philomel Books; 9780399173431; Ages 9-12; $16.99). From Frankie Baum’s small town in Maryland, the war is a world away, but when some people in town start accusing her father of being a German spy, all of a sudden the war arrives at Frankie’s feet and she can think of nothing else. Frankie has to do some spying of her own to try to figure out her father’s secrets and clear his good name. In a heartfelt, charming, and insightful novel that is based on true events, Stout weaves a story about family secrets, intolerance, and coming of age that will keep readers guessing until the end.

Who Was George Washington Carver? by Jim Gigliotti; Illustrated by Stephen Marchesi and Nancy Harrison (Grosset & Dunlap; 9780448483122; Ages 8-12; $5.99). Born in 1860s Missouri, nobody expected George Washington Carver to succeed. Slaves were not allowed to be educated. After the Civil War, Carver enrolled in classes and proved to be a star student. He became the first black student at Iowa State Agricultural College and later its first black professor. He went on to the Tuskegee Institute where he specialized in botany (the study of plants) and developed techniques to grow crops better.

Do you know what your kids want to do next summer?

GREAT YS GIVEAWA L LOCA INMENT E T EN RTA RE !

AN D M O

PRESENTED BY RIVERCHASE GALLERIA

SPONSORED BY

SAT, FEB. 13, 2016 • 10am-4pm • FREE NEW LOCATION! RIVERCHASE GALLERIA

Booths & Sponsorships available! CALL NOW! 205-987-7700 or carol@birminghamparent.com

SUMMER CAMP 2016

Why Camp is Important for Kids Special from The Camping and Education Foundation

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It is no secret that many children spend too much time in front of the computer or television screen today, and have little outdoors activity or interest in the natural world around them.

According to research by Psychology Today, camp makes kids resilient to daily life stresses and helps develop other positive traits in children. “A summer camp experience is so much more than learning to canoe or singing songs around the campfire,” says Hugh Haller, president/CEO of the Camping and Education Foundation. “Whether children attend a weeklong day camp or a several week sleep-away camp, the lifelong impact a camp experience can have on a child is monumental.

“Skills like social interaction, self-confidence, a love and respect for nature, healthy living choices; all of these can be learned and cemented at camp. It is truly a priceless experience and one every child should have a chance to enjoy,” he adds.

To help parents take a more active role in getting their kids interested in and active in the outdoors, the foundation offers a list of tips about why it is beneficial for children to go to camp during the summer:

To try new things

Camp pushes children out of their comfort zone and exposes them to new activities and experiences that they may not be familiar with. Campers get the opportunity to try out different things and discover new hobbies or passions. By exploring various types of activities, children have a greater chance of finding something that they excel at or that makes them happy.

Unplug from technology

When kids take a break from TV, cell phones, and the Internet, they rediscover their creative powers and engage the real world – real people, real activities, and real emotions.

Grow more independent

Camp is the perfect place for kids to practice making decisions for themselves without parents and teachers guiding every move. Managing their daily choices in the safe, caring environment of camp, children welcome

this as a freedom to blossom in new directions.

Reconnect with nature

Camp is a wonderful antidote to “nature deficit disorder,” to the narrow experience of modern indoor life.

Outdoor experience enriches kid’s perception of the world and supports healthy childhood development.

To build character

On top of making new friends, campers also develop an appreciation for the qualities required to cultivate and strengthen these relationships.

Camp provides children with the core values of a strong, moral individual by teaching them about ethics, honesty, caring, respect and responsibility.

Parents frequently report that after camp, their children are more kind, understand the importance of giving, are more equipped to stand up for what they know is right, and are willing to be more responsible.

The Camping and Education Foundation’s mission is to develop young men and women in body and spirit through wilderness experiences that celebrate a love of the outdoors.

For more information, visit www.campingedu.org.

Dawson Music Academy Classical music lessons in a Christian environment.

Pre-School Dance • Ballet • Pointe • Jazz • Lyrical • Contemporary • Hip Hop • Tap • Clogging • Acrobatics • Voice

COME DANCE WITH US DURING OUR SUMMER CAMP SEASON 2016!

PRINCESS CAMP June 20-23 / Ages 3-5

ALL BOYS HIP HOP CAMP June 27-30 / Ages 4-10

POP STAR CAMP June 20-23 / Ages 4-6

TWILIGHT TOTS July 11-13 / Ages 2-6

HIP HOP CAMP June 13-16 / Ages 5-18

“FROZEN” IN JULY June 18-21 / Ages 3-5

MINNIE MOUSE CLUBHOUSE CAMP June 27-20 / Ages 3-5

TINY TUMBLERS July 25-28 / Ages 2-5

TOTS IN MOTION June 6-9 / Ages 2-4

ACRO CAMP July 25-28 / Ages 5-8

SUMMER JAMM FOR TOTS June 6&8 and 13&15 / Ages 2-5

Summer Music Camp: June 20-24, 2016 Registration opens online: March 15 For more information contact:

871-7324 www.dawsonmusicacademy.org

Dawson Family of Faith • Dawson Memorial Baptist Church 1114 Oxmoor Road . Birmingham, Alabama 35209

CHEER CAMP June 6-9 / Ages 5-18

SUMMER INTENSIVE June 6-17 Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Clogging

THEMED BIRTHDAY PARTIES AVAILABLE: Little Ballerina - Princess - Hip Hop - Black Light Tiny Tumblers - Minnie Mouse - Frozen Characters Available Instructors & Music provided | Girls & Boys of any age

822-3012 | M-Th 11-7 & F 11-3 |

www.bdtdance.com

birminghamparent.com | 13

2016 Birmingham Parent

Summer Camp Directory

Day Camps Advent Episcopal School 2019 6th Ave. N. Birmingham, AL 35203-2701 205-252-2535 Info@AdventEpiscopalSchool.org adventepiscopalschool.org/ summer Offering summer camps June July for students entering Kindergarten to 3rd Grade. For students entering 4th Grade to 8th Grade, Advent will offer five weeks of camp over the summer.

WHERE EVERYONE IS A GENIUS The development of young minds is our greatest priority.

Small Class Sizes Live Online Monitoring Nutritious Meals Chess Club And MORE!

WELCOMING CHILDREN 6 WEEKS TO 5 YEARS 100 Derby Parkway Birmingham, AL 35210

205-434-2066

www.einsteins-playground.org Allow us to give you a personal tour

14 | birminghamparent | february 2016

2016 Adventures in Summer Learning at the Alabama School of Fine Arts 1800 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd.

Birmingham, AL 35203 205-252-9241 www.asfaschool.org Summer Program Dates: June and July 2016 Summer programs available in writing, dance, music, algebra, chemistry, computer programming, robotics, engineering, theatre arts and visual arts. See our web site for specific descriptions, fees, dates, times and registration information. Camps are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. www.asfaschool.org Alabama Ballet 2726 First Ave. S. Birmingham, AL 35233 205-322-4300 mandymcdaniel@alabamaballet.org www.alabamaballet.org Junior Camp-$285 weekly June 27-July 8 Ages: 8-12

Tutus & Tiaras-$250 weekly July 18- July 22 July 25-July29 Ages: 4-7 Offering 2 camp options where dancers will take age appropriate dance classes - ballet, theatre dance, modern, tap & jazz. Younger classes will create ballet-oriented crafts. Family performances on last day.

Aldridge Gardens Summer Camps 3530 Lorna Rd. Hoover, AL 35216 205-682-8019 aawilson@aldridgegardens.com aldridgegardens.com American Girls, Outdoor Makers, Construction in Nature, Engineering FUNdamentals, and more!

Campers entering K-4th grade.

All teachers have Alabama Certification in Education. Morning day camps, weekly June 6 -July 1.

American Village Celebrate America!

3727 Hwy. 119 Montevallo, AL 35115 205-665-3535 javerett@americanvillage.org www.americanvillage.org Dates: June 1 – Aug. 26 Ages: all Celebrate America – the signature summer program at the American Village. A family-friendly program for patriots of all ages.

Birmingham Dance Theatre 100 Olde Towne Rd. Suite 100 Vestavia Hills, AL 35216 ​205-​822-3012 ​BDTdance5678@gmail.com

www.BDTdance.com Dates: June & July Ages: 2-18 ​Offering beginner-advanced dance classes in hip-hop, jazz, ballet, cheer/dance team prep, tumbling, plus special Princess Camps and preschool ballet & tap classes.

Birmingham Museum of Art 2000 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd.

Birmingham, AL 35203 205-254-2565 www.artsbma.org Summer Art Camp is the only summer experience that gives your camper immediate access to our collection of original artworks from around the world!

Give your child a summer of endless inspiration!

Birmingham Southern College 900 Arkadelphia Rd. Birmingham, AL 35254 800-523-5793 www.bsc.edu Whether to experience college life or summer activities for grade schoolers, BSC offers options for everyone! Explore life on our beautiful campus, work with BSC coaches or music faculty, and make friends from around the country.

Birmingham Zoo 2630 Cahaba Rd. Birmingham, AL 35223 205-397-3877 www.birminghamzoo.com/education camps@birminghamzoo.com Dates: May 31- August 5, 2016

Ages: Entering 4K -8 th grade Experience up-close animal encounters, zipline adventures, train & carousel rides, fun in the splash fountains and guided zoo tours.

The best place for summer fun is a Birmingham Zoo Camp!

Camp Fliptastic At Head Over Heels Gymnastics 500 Caldwell Mill Trace Birmingham, AL 35242 205-981-2720 office@headoverheelsgyms.com www.headoverheelsgyms.com • Mighty Mites, ages 3-6 June 7-9 and July 12-14 • Gymnastics Camp, ages 5-12 June 13-17 and July18-22 • Circus Arts Camp –NEW! June 20-24 and July 25-29 • End of Summer Bash Camp Gymnastics and Circus Arts Ages 6-14, Aug. 1-3 Daily themes, fantastic staff, creative crafts, circus arts and plenty of gymnastics make our summer camp all day fun!!

Camp Indian Springs 190 Woodward Dr. Indian Springs Village, AL 35124 205-260-8548 campindiansprings119@gmail.com campindiansprings119.com Dates: May 31- July 29 Ages: 5-13

Campers are active and engaged in outdoor and indoor play as well as off-campus activities designed to entertain, develop and promote growth in each camper.

Camp LJCC 3960 Montclair Rd. Birmingham, AL 35213 205-879-0411 tweldon@bhamjcc.org bhamjcc.org Dates: May 31-Aug. 12 Ages: 1st -8th grade Camp LJCC offers 11 weeks of summer camps for children in the entire Birmingham community. Most importantly, you can sign up for one week or all 11!

The Dance Foundation 1715 27th Ct. S. Birmingham, AL 35209 205-870-0073 Info@thedancefoundation.org www.thedancefoundation.org Once Upon a Fairytale, 4K and 5K/ Once Upon a Ballet, 1st and 2nd/ Imagination Lab, 1st-6th/Dance Intensive and Theatre Intensive, 3rd-6th.

Dawson Music Academy 1114 Oxmoor Rd. Birmingham, AL 35209 205-871-7324 kjones@dawsonchurch.org

www.dawsonmusicacademy.org Dates: June 20-24 Dawson Music Academy provides a Christian environment for students of all ages to learn about music. Private music lessons for all instruments, Kindermusik and Music League group classes.

Einstein’s Playground 100 Derby Pkwy.

Birmingham, AL 35210 205-451-1750 info@einsteins-playground.org www.einsteins-playground.org Our camp is educational, full of enrichment, the opportunity for exposure and full of excitement! Each week is a themed week at the camp and fully-planned activities.

Fresh Air Family P.O. Box 321038 Birmingham, AL 35232 205-540-6642 verna@freshairfamily.org www.FreshAirFamily.org Dates: Summer 2016 Ages: 1-4th, 4-6 An award-winning science camp focusing on hands-on field biology.

Prepared, Not Scared teaches survival skills – foraging to dealing with bullies. And safety – weather, compass reading, tracking.

Highlands School Summer Camp 4901 Old Leeds Rd. Birmingham, AL 35213 205-956-9731 www.highlandsschool.org gmccool@highlandsschool.org Dates: June 6-August 5 Ages: K-8th Arts, sports, science and more for elementary-8th grade. Campers continue to learn while having a great time! Traditional day camps.

Morning and afternoon extended care.

Joseph Bruno Montessori Academy Summer Camp 5509 Timber Hill Rd. Birmingham, AL 35242 Rebecca@jbma.education www.jbma.education Ages: Preschool and elementary students Dates: June 1- July 24th Offers interactive and creative summer camps designed to engage children in meaningful and fun summer activities. Relax and EXPERIENCE summer on our peaceful wooded campus.

directory continued on next page >

FUN-FILLED SUMMERS START HERE

JUNE 6-AUGUST 5

ENTERING KINDERGARTEN THROUGH 8TH GRADE 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)

birminghamparent.com | 15

and comprehensive curriculum ​ that provides your child with age appropriate exploration into the world of learning.

Kidcam Camp at Oak Mtn. State Park Pelham, AL 35124 877.4KIDCAM www.KidcamCamps.com Dates: June 5- August 6 Ages: 5-13 Swimming, Arts, Sports, Hiking, Golfing, Boating, Archery, Geocaching, Nature, Outdoor Playgrounds & countless activities. Making Summers Rock for over 40 years!

LaPetite Academy 2825 Hwy. 31 S. Pelham, AL 35124 205-663-4011 ysanderfer@lapetite.com Provides educational childcare for children 6 weeks - age 12. Passionate about providing children with the tools they need to be successful in all aspects of their lives.

NS Dance Studio Dance Camps 1519 Grants Mill Rd. Birmingham, AL 35210 205-637-7675 www.nsdancestudio.com Dates: June 6 – June 23 Ages: 2-High School NS Dance Studio has three exciting dance camps for all ages – Boogie Babies (2-4), Dance Jamm (4-6) and Intense (7-high school). Call now for more information!

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,

Pelham Skate School’s Basic Skills Summer Camps Pelham Civic Complex and Ice Arena 500 Amphitheatre Rd. Pelham, AL 35124 205-620-6448 www.pelhamciviccomplex.com Week 1: June 20-24 Week 2: July 18-22 Week 3: August 1-5 Ages: 5-12 Fee: $250/wk We have the coolest camp in town!

10 hours of skating time, off-ice workouts, arts & crafts, movies, pizza party, camp t-shirt and exhibition for parents.

Red Mountain Theatre Company’s ​Summer Theatre Camps 3028 7th Ave. S. Birmingham, AL 35233 (205) 324-2424 www.redmountaintheatre.org /education/ workshops@redmountaintheatre.org Dates: June 6-June 24 Ages: 4-18 Experience a summer of singing, dancing, and acting instruction taught by theatre professionals for ages 7-18. With three experiences, Broadway Bootcamp, Summer Blast camp, or half-day camps we are the place for your young artist. ​ Riverchase United Methodist Day School 1953 Old Hwy. 31 S. Hoover, AL 35244 205-989-8070 riverchasedayschool@gmail.com www.riverchaseumc.org/riverchasedayschool Dates: June 21 -July 28 Ages: 6 mos.- K Providing a safe, loving Christian environment where children can learn about God’s love through interaction with other children and caring adults.

16 | birminghamparent | february 2016

RoofTop Friends 5780 Vaughn Rd. Montgomery, AL 36116 205-542-0070 Eunice@rooftopfriends.org www.rooftopfriends.org RoofTop Friends exists to love, serve, fellowship, share faith with those affected by disabilities by providing AL Family Retreat, fun activities and other respite care.

The Academy of the Arts at Samford University S. Lakeshore Dr. Birmingham, AL 35229 205-726-4049 205-726-2739 chmacon@samford.edu www.samford.edu/academy-ofthe-arts Samford University Academy of the Arts offers camps for art, music and writing.

• Bulldog Art- grades 1-5 June 27-July 1 • Art Studio for Teens - grades 6-8 June 20-24 • Adventures in Music - grades 1-12 June 13-17 or July 11-15 • All Aboard for Music -ages 3-6 July 18-22 • Writing camps June 6-10 or July 25-29 .

Overnight Camps

Auburn Youth Programs 301 O.D. Smith Hall Auburn, AL 36849​ 334-844-5817 auyouth@auburn.edu Auburn.edu/summercamps ​Dates: ​May 31st - July 29th ​Ages: K- 12th grade​ Overnight and Day Sessions Offering a unique Auburn Experience for participants to experience college life while residing in residence halls and participating in a variety of academic, athletic, & personal improvement fields.

Brandon Hall School Summer Camps 1701 Brandon Hall Dr. Atlanta, GA 30350

770-394-8177 678-868-1443 summercamps@brandonhall.org www.brandonhall.org Dates: May 30 - Aug. 5, 2016 Ages: K- 12, Boys & Girls Overnight and Day Sessions Babysitting Bootcamp, Chef Grill Masters, Driver’s Education, Leadership, Dance, Robotics, Photography/Videography, Theatre Camps, Various Arts and Sports Camps.

Camp Briarwood 2200 Briarwood Way Birmingham, AL 35243 205-776-5237 quest@briarwood.org www.campbriarwood.org Ages: 1st -9 th grades Sessions: 6/Day & Overnight Dates: June 13-July 23 Camp Briarwood was established in 1964 by Briarwood Presbyterian Church as a Christian camp for boys and girls. Serving campers from all over the Southeast.

Camp Juliette Low 321 Camp Juliette Low Rd. Cloudland, GA 30731 770-428-1062 info@cjl.org www.cjl.org Dates: June 5- July 30 Ages: 7-17 On Lookout Mountain! A traditional girl’s camp where self-reliance, confidence and teamwork are nurtured through fun, instructional programs. Smiles and friendship abound in beautiful surroundings.

Camp of the Rising Son 444 Lake Rd. French Camp, MS 39745 662-547-6169 info@campoftherisingson.com www.campoftherisingson.com Dates: June 5 – July 16 Ages: 6-17 Campers ages 6-17 come to have fun, unplug, engage creation hands on, make new friends, and experience the life-changing love of Jesus Christ!

Summer Camp

ADVENTure!

June - July 2016 • Kindergarten -3rd grade • 4th Grade -8th grade

Want your children to have some fun this summer while learning something new and exciting at the same time?

Whether they choose our hands-on, mind-challenging, and body-stretching SummerSoltice classes or our traditional full-day Panther Camp, each week will be a new ADVENTure!

For more information, call (205) 252-2535 or visit our website adventepiscopalschool.org/summer

Advent Episcopal School 2019 6th Avenue North, Birmingham, AL 35203

START HERE

Develop Your Skills

GO ANYWHERE auburn youth programs Find Your Passion

Become a Leader For a complete listing of camps and programs, go to auburn.edu/summercamps, call 334-844-5100, or email auyouth@auburn.edu. birminghamparent.com | 17

Camp Point Clear on Lake Guntersville Camp mailing address: 3528 Clifford Dr. Metairie, La 70002 504-837-0962 or 504-909-0963 cpcforgirls@gmail.com www.camppointclear.com Dates: June 5- June 26 Ages: 7-16 girls Experience unforgettable adventures while creating memories for a lifetime. Ski, sail, canoe, whitewater raft, rappel, horseback ride and many other activities. Located on Lake Guntersville.

Camp Rockmont for Boys 375 Eden Rd. Black Mountain, NC 28711 828-686-3885 info@rockmont.com www.rockmont.com Dates: June 5 – Aug. 5 Ages: 6-16 boys Rockmont’s mission of developing boys into young men is accomplished through age-appropriate skills and challenges that help campers know themselves better and discover God’s love.

Camp Sumatanga 3616 Sumatanga Rd. Gallant, AL 35972 256-538-9860 sumatangacamps@gmail.com www.sumatanga.org Dates: June 5- July 22 Ages:4-94 Camp Juliette Low 321 Camp Juliette Low Rd. Cloudland, GA 30731 770-428-1062 info@cjl.org www.cjl.org Ages: 7-17 On Lookout Mountain! A traditional girl’s camp where self-reliance, confidence and teamwork are nurtured through fun, instructional programs. Smiles and friendship abound in beautiful surroundings.

Camp Sumatanga, 50 miles north of Birmingham, offers Sports camps, Grandparent/child camps, Horse camps, Mom and Me and many more. Serving over 60 years.

ACA accredited.

Camp Walkabout 171 Baylor School Rd. Chattanooga, TN 37405 423-504-4336 423-757-2878 badams@baylorschool.org

BIRMINGHAM’S PREMIER DAYCARE AND PRESCHOOL www.OdysseyEarly School.com From our state-of-the-art facilities to our nurturing teachers (many have 4-year education degrees), our comprehensive curriculum and activities provide your child with age appropriate exploration into the world of learning.

Odyssey represents an exciting early childhood educational experience!

Age appropriate curriculum with individual weekly themes.

Internet Video Monitoring provides live streaming video of your child’s classroom.

Outstanding play environment, featuring infant, toddler & preschool play structures, overhead awnings, and water features.

Call and schedule your onsite tour today

Inverness Campus: 205-991-0039

Trace Crossings Campus: 205-988-8829

ASK ABOUT OUR $250 Birmingham Parent referral credit

THANK YOU for voting us a 4X favorite Childcare/Preschool in Birmingham Parents’ Family Favorites!

18 | birminghamparent | february 2016

baylorschool.org/campwalkabout Ages:11-14 Sessions:2 Dates: June 12-24; July 3- 17 Camp Walkabout is Tennessee’s premier outdoor camp! Come experience swimming, kayaking, climbing, paddle-boarding, hiking, camping, caving & canoeing.

Enjoy the summer of a lifetime in Chattanooga!

Camp Juliette Low 321 Camp Juliette Low Rd. Cloudland, GA 30731 770-428-1062 info@cjl.org www.cjl.org Ages: 7-17 On Lookout Mountain! A traditional girl’s camp where self-reliance, confidence and teamwork are nurtured through fun, instructional programs. Smiles and friendship abound in beautiful surroundings.

Cub Creek Science Camp 573-458-2125 www.MOScienceCamp.com Dates: May 29 – August 6 1-6 weeks sessions available Ages: Boys & Girls, 7-17 Care for 300+ exotic animals! Activities include: science experiments, veterinary medicine, animal

care, crime science, survival skills, archery, arts& crafts, & much more!

A/C cabins. 1:4 staff/camper ratio.

ACA accredited.

Deer Run Camps & Retreats 3845 Perkins Rd. Thompson’s Station, TN 37179 888-794-2918 contact@deerrunretreat.org www.camps.deerrunretreat.org Dates: June 5 – Aug. 6 Ages: ages 5 – grades 12; Family ages 5 and up Overnight Camps: grades 3-12.

Family Camp: ages 5 and up.

Traditional camp. Horseback riding, lake activities, climbing tower, paintball, ropes course, archery, nightly speaker, worship.

McCallie Sports Camp 500 Dodds Ave. Chattanooga, TN 37404 423-453-5633 sportscamp@mccallie.org www.mccalliesportscamp.com For over 35 years, McCallie Sports Camp has been the South’s premiere sports camp for boys. We emphasize sportsmanship, participation and fun for all ability levels.

Ponderosa Bible Camp 1018 Co. Rd. 734 Mentone, AL 35984 256-996-5141

256-634-3087 (fax) jnelson@pbcpsm.com www.ponderosabiblecamp.com Offering one week, overnight sessions. Bible-based lessons, pool, gym, zip-line, sky-swing, horses, canoeing, archery, riflery, field games, great food and leadership training.

Riverview Camp for Girls P.O. Box 299 Mentone, AL 35984 256-634-4043 info@riverviewcamp.com www.riverviewcamp.com Dates: May 29th –July 29th Riverview is a private camp for girls ages 6-16 on top of Lookout Mountain in Mentone. Over 16 activities to choose from for a summer full of fun.

Valley View Ranch Equestrian Camp 606 Valley View Ranch Rd. Cloudland, GA 30731 706-862-2231 info@valleyviewranch.com www.valleyviewranch.com Dates: June 5-August 5 Ages: Girls 8-17 Fee: $1650-$3200 Horse lovers’ paradise since 1954!

Atop Lookout Mountain, for 50 girls;

English, Western, Barrels, Vaulting, and Trails. Spend 4-6 hours daily with your OWN camp horse.

YMCA Camp Cosby 2290 Paul Bear Bryant Rd. Alpine, AL 35014 252-268-2007 info@campcosby.org www.campcosby.org Dates: June 5- July 30 Ages: 6-16 Camp Cosby offers a traditional overnight summer camp. Campers stay in air-conditioned cabins with highly-trained camp counselors.

Activities include archery, canoeing, horseback riding, water-skiing, arts and crafts.

Things for Camp Applause Dancewear 1629 Oxmoor Rd. Birmingham, AL 35209 205-871-STEP www.appausedancewear.net Largest selection of dancewear in the Southeast. Clothing, shoes and accessories for all types of dance to fit toddler to plus size, teams and individuals.

Sprouts Farmers Market 5265 U.S. Hwy. 280 Birmingham, AL 35242

205-263-2808 5250 Medford Dr. Hoover, AL 35244 205-263-4970 1031 Montgomery Hwy. (coming April 2016) Vestavia Hills, AL 35216 www.sprouts.com Sprouts is the grocery shopping experience that makes healthy living easy and affordable. At Sprouts, we believe healthy living is a journey and every meal is a choice.

Area Attractions

The Alabama Theatre 1817 Third Ave. N. Birmingham, AL 35203 205-252-2262 www.alabamatheatre.com Be sure to check out our website for information on our Throwback Thursday Kid Club and our 2016 Summer Film Series.

McWane Science Center 200 19 th 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.

Vulcan Park and Museum 1701 Valley View Dr. Birmingham, AL 35209 205-933-1409 www.visitvulcan.com Birmingham’s beloved icon, Vulcan, is the world’s largest cast iron statue. Featuring breathtaking views of the city, an interactive history museum and a beautiful public park.

EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES ITT Technical Institute Bessemer Area Campus 6270 Park South Dr. Bessemer, AL 35022 844-228-3378 www.itt-tech.edu/Alabama

VISIT OUR VIRTUAL CAMP EXPO 24/7 CAMP INFO ONLINE! http://birminghamparent.com/ camp/guide

Christ-Centered Residential Summer Camp for Ages 7-17

Register Online Today!

A Ministry of French Camp Academy

www.campoftherisingson.com • 662-547-6169 birminghamparent.com | 19

SUMMER CAMP 2016

Bring Your Binoculars – Leave the Laptop!

Why Tech-Savvy Kids Need Low-Tech Summer Camp

By Claire Yezbak Fadden

Kids learn anywhere – inside the home and classroom or outside under a tree. But in the summer, when the crickets are chirping and daylight stretches a little longer, nature’s education is truly showcased. It’s the perfect time to take advantage of the earth’s learning tools – ones that don’t need plugged in, downloaded or powered on.

It’s not surprising that according to a research by the Kaiser Foundation, kids between 8 and 18 spend an average of 6.5 hours a day absorbed in some type of media; and that most of that time was spent in solitary activities.

At summer camp, kids are encouraged to interact with something other than a keyboard, a smartphone or game controller.

It’s a place where there’s two-way communication with real people. And at the end of the day, there’s no winner, no loser and no points being tallied.

Why unplug? Here’s a few reasons why.

20 | birminghamparent | february 2016

Experience Life Powered by Humans

Sadly, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that an American child is six times more likely to play a video game on any given day than to ride a bike.

With an estimated 22 million of the world’s children under the age of five already considered obese, there’s growing need to increase a child’s physical activity.

Summer camp offers actual, not virtual, activities, like fencing, swimming, horseback riding and gymnastics. The really promising news is that according to research conducted by the American Camp Association (ACA), 63 percent of children who learn new activities at camp tend to continue engaging in these activities after they return home. This can lead to continued physical exercise that lasts a lifetime.

“Oftentimes camp is a child’s first exposure to recreational activities. Instruction and skill development usually come with

that and can awaken in campers a lifetime of enjoyment,” says Jill Thompson of Tips on Trips and Camps, a free advisory service.

“It’s easier to step outside their comfort zone while at camp because that’s where everyone is trying new things. Being at camp removes the pressure of performance that is often put on students through school and their everyday life,” she says.

Person-to-person Skills

At camp, kids are away from the overwhelming bombardment of media. Time is spent outside running, jumping and playing with other kids. Summer camp exists to provide supportive relationships, meaningful opportunities and challenging activities in a physically and emotionally safe environment. “It’s a place designed for and with children, where they can explore and discover an important rite of passage,” says Peg Smith, the ACA’s CEO. “They are able to make new friends, escape labels that are put on them in school and develop self-esteem,” adds Thompson.

Nature’s Cure for Stress

Unfortunately, kids aren’t exempt from anxieties of daily life. According to a recent

study conducted by the University of Essex in England, nature can help people recover from pre-existing stresses or problems. The research indicates that nature also has an immunizing effect that offers protection from future stresses, and helps people to concentrate and think more clearly. Additionally, according to a study by two Cornell University environmental psychologists, being close to nature can help boost a child’s attention span.

Real Life. Real Close.

Camp provides a bit of real life you won’t experience from the end of a game controller or by texting a friend across town. “You will get homesick, other campers will be mean to you, the food won’t be great,” says clinical psychologist Wendy Mogel, Ph.D. “You’ll be cold and hot and hungry.” Mogel, author of The Blessing of a Skinned Knee, hopes that some of these things will happen during a camping experience. “Otherwise a child is deprived of living life. Of its thorns and its roses.”

Hi-Tech Benefits for Camper Parents

Just like bringing the teacher an apple, receiving a letter from camp is a time-hon-

ored tradition. The practice has gone on for generations, and it’s still encouraged today.

However, camps like to take advantage of hi-tech capabilities. While campers benefit from unplugging, technology is still a good way for parents to stay in the loop. Many camp websites post newsletters, videos and pictures of campers for parents to view.

At many sleep-away camps, parents can fax or send their camper an e-mail. Some camps allow campers to e-mail home once a week. Most still encourage campers to use snail mail as the best way to send a message home.

“It seems that children are shielded from real-life experiences with screens,” observes Smith. “But it is amazing what can happen when children step out from behind the TV, video game or computer screen into a rich camp environment full of experiences and surprises – new friends, new songs, new achievements, combined with new growth and independence.”

Claire Yezbak Fadden is an award-winning freelance writer and mother of three sons, one of whom grew up to be a camp counselor.

Follow her on Twitter @claireflaire.

VIRTUAL

2016

VIRTUAL CAMP EXPO VIsitbirminghamparent.com VISIT OUR CAMPS ONLINE, SEE PICS, VIDEOS & GO TO THEIR SITES!

ONLIN E

NOW

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

B I R M I N G H A M PA R E N T ’ S

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

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

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

chorus • gymnastics • Dance • canoeing • tennis • GOLF

Exciting Traditional Camp for girls ages 6 to 16!

birminghamparent.com | 21

DAY & OVERNIGHT CAMPS for Grades 1–9 For more information, call 205-776-5237 or visit our website at CampBriarwood.org

CELEBRATING YEARS OVER

35 FAMILY-OWNED & OPERATED

LIKE US ON Tutus & Tiaras Camp

Junior Camp

Children ages 4- 7

2-week Junior Ballet Camp

Session 1 July 18 - 22, 2016

Dancers ages 8-12

Session 2 July 25 - 29, 2016

June 27- July 8, 2016

Cost-$250 per week

$475 2 weeks /$285 1 week

Schedule 10:00 am - 2:00 pm

Schedule 10:00 am - 3:00 pm

CONTACT School Administrator Libba Owen (205) 322-1874

www.alabamaballet.org

22 | birminghamparent | february 2016

s s o r ies e c c Dan A cewear & Your One Step to All 1629 Oxmoor Rd Birmingham, AL 35209 Your Dancing 205-871-STEP Needs! www.applausedancewear.net

SUMMER DAY CAMP OAK MOUNTAIN STATE PARK MADE FOR KIDS. BUILT FOR PARENTS. BUILD YOUR SUMMER AROUND YOU! Swimming, Arts, Sports, Hiking, Golfing, Boating, Archery, Geocaching, Nature, Outdoor Playgrounds & countless activities for campers 5 to 13 years old.

MAKING SUMMERS ROCK FOR OVER 40 YEARS! OVER 20 NATIONWIDE SUMMER CAMPS

Oak Mountain State Park Located in the Main Park Building & Pavilion June 6th - August 5th CHOOSE ONLY THE WEEKS YOU NEED SUMMER CAMP

Highest Quality Programming & Care Theme-based curriculum | Extended Hours 7a - 6p Multi Child Discounts | Build Your Own Summer Sessions

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Save 10% on 3+ weeks when you build your own summer sessions before May 9th.

REGISTER BEFORE MARCH 31ST AND SAVE $10

ENTER CODE BHAM10 AT CHECKOUT

LEARN MORE & REGISTER ONLINE TODAY! www.KidcamCamps.com 877.4KIDCAM

SUMMER CAMP 2016

Make a Summer Camp Memory Book

By Denise Yearian

For many young campers, there is often an abundance of excitement prior to attending camp. But there may also be a big letdown once the experience is over. To help children handle before-and-after camp transitions, have them create a summer camp memory book. All it takes is a few sheets of card stock, construction paper, markers, a computer, photographs and a handful of memories.

Several weeks before camp starts, have your child gather card stock and begin assembling the book. Page headings and subheadings can be created on the computer or handwritten. These pages can then be mounted onto colored construction paper if desired. Some pages can be filled in prior to leaving. Others will need to be added to after the experience is over.

24 | birminghamparent | february 2016

Here are a few ideas: ✱ On the first page, have your child type or write “Summer Camp Memory Book,” along with his name, age, name of camp and dates of attendance.

Then decorate the border. ✱ Make pages for “What I did to Prepare for Camp” and “Things I Packed.” Have him include a series of lines after the second entry for writing in a packing list. This list also can be used to help your child remember to pack all his belongings before returning home. ✱ Your child may want to include pages for keeping in touch with friends and loved ones. Have him create one entry titled “Letters to Send” that lists names and addresses of people he wants to write letters to while he’s away. Another entry could include “Letters and Packages Received.” One way to store letters he receives is to create a pocket by cutting an extra piece of cardstock in half and attaching it to the page with staples. Finally have him create a page called “Keep in Touch” with lines for filling in addresses and phone numbers of new friends made at camp. ✱ Another page should include things that happened along the way. Your child can format these entries before leaving home and either fill in the pages on the way or when he returns home.

Headings could include how long it took to drive to camp, unusual things seen on the way and stops along the way. You may even consider adding a second page with similar entries for the ride home. ✱ Include a page for first impressions of camp, what he did, how he felt and new people met, and a page or two for daily experiences – food, activities, free time and more. ✱ Don’t forget pages that include the best and worst of experiences – best food, worst food, favorite activity, best camp friend, favorite counselor, the best and worst thing that happened and new things learned.

Be sure to give your child a camera and remind him to take a lot of pictures throughout his stay.

Also take a few pictures of him packing and getting to and from camp. When he returns he can fill in the pages, paste in photos and illustrate other experiences.

To assemble the book, bind the pages together with a three-hole punch and secure with brads or yarn. In years to come, your child will have a great memory of summer camp!

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

Celebrate Washington’s Birthday Monday, February 15

at AMERICAN VILLAGE

Birthday cake with George Washington at noon

Family fun for all ages continues through 4 p.m.

3727 Highway 119 • Montevallo 205-665-3535 • www.americanvillage.org

Fun and educational summer camps at Aldridge Gardens. For elementary ages.

For all interests. Forever changed.

birminghamparent.com | 25

SUMMER CAMP 2016

Photos courtesy of Villager Yoga

The Benefits of Yoga for Kids

By Carol Muse Evans

While very few kids do yoga to find their “inner peace,” they definitely enjoy the many benefits yoga offers.

“The benefits children receive from yoga in many ways are the same as those that adults may experience,” says Annie Damsky, owner of Villager Yoga in Mountain Brook. “Building strength, balance and flexibility play a big role, while also introducing the tools needed to self-soothe and alleviate stress.”

Yogawoman expert Shana Meyerson, founder of “mini yogis yoga for kids” in Los Angeles, says on www.yogawoman.tv that yoga encourages children to use all of their muscles in new ways. “This is great for non-athletic children who typically shy away from physical activity in fear of failure or being picked last,” she says on the site, “and it also helps athletic children to excel in other physical activities and sports.”

Children can start yoga as young as infancy, Damsky says, and some classes at her studio are designed for parent and child to create an interactive environment. Yoga also is non-competitive, “one of the few (if any) non-competitive activities that a child can participate in.”

26 | birminghamparent | february 2016

Damsky and Meyerson offer these tips and facts about yoga and kids: ✱ Yoga is fun. ✱ Yoga promotes body awareness. ✱ Yoga promotes flexibility. ✱ Yoga is imaginative in nature. ✱ Yoga builds self-esteem, thinking, memory and listening skills. ✱ Yoga promotes a sense of control and the ability to manifest personal peace and calm (helping to shorten and even decrease tantrums). ✱ Yoga helps develop the mind-body connection. ✱ Yoga strengthens the nervous system, immune system and other organ functions.

Locally, Damsky says classes typically start at around $15 per class but are often less when purchasing several in advance. “Look for a (yoga) instructor that is 200-hour certified (at minimum) and has specialized training or years of experience if you are looking for a specific class style such as for kids, prenatal, etc.”

Carol Muse Evans is publisher of Birmingham Parent.

…because life doesn’t stop

summersession

2016

in the summer

• summer classes with BSC professors for college credit • leadership and entrepreneurship camps for high schoolers • K-12 camps in athletics, music, and more Learn more www.bsc.edu/summersession

BSC

Birmingham-Southern College birminghamparent.com | 27

Camp Juliette Low On Lookout Mountain in Cloudland, GA CJL is an independent, residential summer camp for girls ages 7-17.

1 & 2 week sessions June 5—July 30, 2016

     

Horseback Ropes course Climbing wall Pottery/crafts Fire-building Camp crafts

     

Canoeing Sailing Archery Pool Hiking Drama For more information or to register online:

770-428-1062 info@CJL.org www.CJL.org Preparing Girls for Confident Living and Leadership Since 1922

B I R M I N G H A M PA R E N T ’ S

VIRTUAL

2016

VIRTUAL CAMP EXPO birminghamparent.com VISIT OUR CAMPS ONLINE, SEE PICS, VIDEOS & GO TO THEIR SITES!

INE L N O sumatangacamps@gmail.com 28 | birminghamparent | february 2016

NOW

CAMP EXPERIENCES

OPEN HOUSE

2:00 to 4:00 p.m. cst MARCH 6 • APRIL 10 MAY 15 GUIDED WALKING TOUR and Meet Some of the SUMMER STAFF

Camps.DeerRunRetreat.org • 888.794.2918 2½ hours north of Birmingham near historic downtown Franklin, TN

Sessions: June 5 to August 6 Grades 3–5 Preteen Overnight Camps

Grades 6–8 1- or 2-week Middle School Overnight Camps Grades 9–12 High School Overnight Camps Grade levels are based on completion of grade.

DISCOUNTS: Multi-Child or Multi-Session PAYMENT PLAN: Available during Online Registration until May 15 CAMPER SHUTTLE: Deer Run operated to/from Nashville Int’l Airport

FAMILY CAMP: JULY 3–6 (ages 5 & up)

DEEPER FAITH. GREATER ADVENTURES. birminghamparent.com | 29

PHOTO BY VISUAL ARTS BY JESSICA

SUMMER CAMP 2016

Raising a Competitive Child

By Denise Yearian

Ever since Eileen Dina could remember, her son Matthew has had a competitive edge.

“He was two when his brother was born and already had three older siblings, so he was constantly vying for my attention,” reports this mother of six. “But when he started playing video games at four, that’s when it really escalated.”

“Parents can expect competition to begin early on,” says child psychologist Dr. D’Arcy Lyness. “In the preschool years, the primary focus is on skill development and the process by which a goal is achieved – ‘I can tie my shoes the fastest!’”

Dr. Richard Holmes, clinical/school psychologist, agrees. “So much of preschool is fantasy play – the best runner, the best at certain games – but it isn’t as much based on reality. Somewhere around six years of age, children begin to develop the cognitive capacity to grasp what competition is about.”

Karen Kolek, mother of three, found this to be true. “When Kyle was in preschool and we played games, he hated to lose. But when he started school, that competitive nature 30 | birminghamparent | february 2016

really kicked in. That’s when he began comparing himself to his peers, both physically and academically.”

Dina’s son Matthew toyed with comparisons too. Sometimes when he played video games it would be with his two older brothers, both of whom had more developed fine motor skills and a better understanding of the game. “When he couldn’t master the controller or figure out how to get to the next level, he’d get upset,” recalls Dina. “Sometimes he would snap out at one of his siblings and yell at the TV. That’s when I’d tell him he was out of control, and to turn off the game.”

While it is normal to show disappointment in a bad play or lost game, there are telltale signs competition is out of control – intense anger or crying, cheating, lying, fear of failure, and trying to change game rules, to name a few. If any of these signs appear, parents may need to intervene.

“First look at why is this happening,” advises Lyness. “Are there influences in your child’s life that are encouraging this?”

“Last year there was a baseball team in our

league and one of their assistant coaches – he was an older brother of a team member – got upset about a play and started cursing in front of the kids,” Kolek recalls. “I went up to him and told him I don’t use that kind of language at home and don’t expect to hear it here.” Kolek knew this teen coach was setting an example for the kids, so she took it up with league management and the rules were changed.

Dina’s oldest daughter, 14-year old Mary, has had to endure plenty of competitive issues with peers. “When she was little, there were two older neighbor boys who were all about win, win, win,” recalls her mother. “When they played a game and Mary lost, they rubbed it in her face. And when she won, they made such a scene. It got so bad we had to move away.”

However unfortunate, Mary learned valuable lessons regarding competition, which have helped her find a healthy balance. “The last two years she has been part of Business Professionals of America, an extracurricular activity aimed at introducing middle school students to business professions,” Dina

explains. “This past year she and her team put together a career package and did a formal PowerPoint presentation. They competed on the state level and got second place. This led to the national competition where her team came in third.”

But the team was not without problems. “They had issues working together because some of the girls wanted to control the project. Mary and I spent a lot of time talking about how best to deal with this,” says Dina.

Experts agree communication is key. “Whenever you notice a problem with regard to competition – either in your child or someone in his realm of influence – talk it over,” says Holmes. “Point out examples where others are out of line so your child can learn from these situations.” By the same token, if your child is going overboard with competition, communicate what is and is not acceptable behavior.

Most important, look at the value you and your spouse place on competition. “Children watch their parents and follow suit,” says Lyness.

“Competition can be a good thing – it’s what drives people to achieve their personal best. But when a child sets out with the sole intention of slamming his opponent, it has gotten out of perspective.”

Above all, balance enjoyment of an activity with the desire to win. “A child should try hard so he can feel proud of himself and want to win.

But if he does lose, he should see the value in learning from his mistakes, accept the loss, and bounce back with a good attitude, ready to try again,” Lyness says.

For many parents, Dina included, this may be a lesson communicated over and over. “I remember the time Matthew was seven and playing Nintendo. I was in the kitchen and heard things beginning to escalate. Before I had the chance to do my usual, ‘Turn it off!’ he got up, switched off the TV, and left the room! That’s when I knew it was finally sinking in.”

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

How to Keep Competition in Perspective ✱ Analyze your own feelings regarding your child’s participation in the activity. What do you want him to get out of it? ✱ Attend and observe his programs. Are the instructors being fair, teaching good sportsmanship, and encouraging fun, participation, and cooperation? In the younger years, is the emphasis more on skill development or winning? ✱ Keep your expectations for your child’s performance limited to his developmental level and age. ✱ Teach him to compete against his best performance. ✱ Help him set attainable goals. ✱ Compliment publicly. Give constructive words privately. ✱ Help him deal with his frustration. ✱ Praise his efforts, not the final outcome. ✱ Focus on his strengths. ✱ Be careful with personal comparisons. Negative comparisons make a child feel inferior. Positive ones build a child up while putting others down. ✱ Help your child understand that competitions are meant to be fun, and failure isn’t fatal. ✱ Emphasize fun, cooperation, and teamwork over competition. ✱ Love your child unconditionally.

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your child’s health

What Your Pediatric Dentist Wants You to Know

By Lori Chandler Pruitt

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month. While having healthy teeth and gums is important at any age, young children especially need to get an early start on regular dental care.

We asked pediatric dentists in the area about the top things parents should know about their child’s dental care: What are some of the biggest issues in the care of children’s teeth?

Tooth decay, says Kasey Davis, DMD of Kasey Davis Dentistry in Bluff Park. “It is the number one chronic health problem in American children, according to the American Dental Association, and much of the time, it goes undiagnosed and untreated, which can lead to serious health issues due to infection.”

Even if a child’s teeth look good at first glance, x-rays may reveal decay that is “hidden” between the teeth, due to lack of flossing and too many sugary drinks and snacks, Davis says.

34 | birminghamparent | february 2016

Such problems can adversely affect learning, communication, nutrition and other activities necessary for normal growth and development, adds Dr. Olga M. Sanchez-Hernandez, D.M.D., M.S. M.S. of McCalla Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry.

Dental caries, periodontal disease and other oral conditions, if left untreated, can lead to pain, infection and loss of function.

Parents should never underestimate the effect of their children’s diet on their teeth, says Dr. Angelica Rohner, Angelica Rohner Pediatric Dentistry. “Not everyone looks at food or beverage labels to check sugar or carbohydrate content,” Rohner says. “For example, fruit juices are full of sugar and are super harmful to our teeth.” She recommends parents give fruit instead of the sugary juices, and limit sweet beverages to one a day.

With such busy family schedules, many kids don’t take the time for brushing teeth that they used to, says Dr. Lauten Johnson of Dr. Clark Thomas, Dentist and Dr. Lauten Johnson, Dentist, Pediatric and

Adolescent Dentistry. Dr. Clark Thomas adds that the sugar in many diets not only feeds bacteria that causes cavities, but the acid dissolves tooth enamel.

When do you start looking at possible orthodontics for children?

The American Association of Orthodontics recommends children have an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Although most children do not need treatment at this age, pediatric dentists say it’s important to have a relationship established so that the dentist can evaluate the need over time. “Every child is unique and dental development varies,” Johnson says. “It’s appropriate for children to be evaluated by a dentist regularly so that development can be continually assessed.”

Davis adds such an evaluation by age 7 is important because tooth development and loss is varied at that age, and a specialist can determine if a problem is orthodontic or a normal development variation. “At this point, it usually can be determined whether or not the child will have room for their permanent teeth to erupt,” she says.

“Some things also are much easier to treat the earlier they’re diagnosed.”

Rohner says dentists evaluate such things as a child’s jaw structure, bite shape, tooth eruption stage and x-rays before determining if it’s time for a child to be seen by an orthodontist. Some problems that might require an early orthodontic intervention are crossbites, severe crowding, open bite, severe teeth

At what age should a child start visiting the dentist?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends children visit the dentist for the first time six months after the first primary tooth appears, and no later than their first birthday. “This dental visit should be thought of as a well-baby checkup,” says Sanchez-Hernandez.

At this first visit, dentists review medical and dental histories, an oral examination to check growth and development, oral hygiene, injuries, cavities or other problems, clean teeth and more. Dentists also will discuss a child’s diet, fluoride needs, brushing technique, habits that may affect the mouth (teething, pacifier use, finger or thumb sucking) and what parents can do to help prevent tooth decay, she says.

The American Dental Association recommends children visit the dentist after the first tooth erupts, Rohner says.

All children should be seen by age 1, she says. “The purpose is to teach prevention, because decay/cavities are becoming more prevalent in our society,” she adds.

DR. CLARK THOMAS DR. LAUTEN JOHNSON www.alpediatricdentistry.com

protrusion, ectopic eruption and oral habits, says Sanchez-Hernandez.

What are the top things you wish parents would do/what do you want parents to know?

The earlier you establish the relationship with the dentist, the less likely there will be fears and tears, but dentists stress that they’re used to it and understand there may be some apprehension for parent and child. “Coming to the dentist can be a fun and positive experience!” Sanchez-Hernandez says. “In fact, pediatric dentists and their teams work really hard to ensure that the visit is a positive one. Some children need more time to figure out what we do can be fun and not harmful.”

Sanchez-Hernandez adds that some behaviors are age-appropriate and parents need not avoid taking children to the dentist because of it. “We patiently expose them to what we do, and the majority of children over time to enjoy coming to the dentist. Children who learn to be comfortable in the dental chair become adults who seek regular dental care.”

Pediatric dentistry has come a long way over the years, which includes advanced technology and a comfortable environment, Rohner says. “Parents are often shocked at the ease of the dental

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procedures and soothing environment that we provide,” she says.

Parents also need to know that the job of their children’s dental health begins at home.

Dentists stress that even with regular visits, parents need to help their children brush and floss their teeth until age 8 to 10, when they understand the importance, have the physical dexterity and have been trained properly. “Most kids can’t effectively maintain good oral hygiene without parental guidance,” Johnson says. Parents need to be good examples of dental hygiene, too, dentists say.

Rohner agrees that parents must help. “We find a lot of parents are very surprised when we tell them that they still need to be helping their child all the way up to age 8!

Children often do not have enough manual dexterity to be able to rotate their hand around and brush all their teeth correctly.” An informal guideline for readiness is around third grade.

Parents should choose a fluoridated toothpaste, brush at least twice daily (preferably

after breakfast and before bed), with only water to drink after the bedtime brushing.

Home care, good nutrition and prevention are key – along with being very conscious of the sugar in children’s diets, Davis says.

“Get kids a timer or an electric toothbrush that plays music to help make brushing and flossing fun,” Davis adds.

“You can’t expect young kids to fully grasp the seriousness of the consequences of neglecting their oral hygiene, so it’s so worth taking just a little extra time each day to oversee this task.”

Are there any new things that parents may not be aware of?

Dentists have access to new toothpastes that kids who are prone to cavities can use, Thomas says. And fluoridated water is safe to drink, even though some cities are removing fluoride from water, which makes the use of fluoride toothpaste and mouth rinse that much more important, Johnson says.

In general, the fluoride issue is not new, but dentists

stress that it is vital for a healthy mouth. “I know there are schools of thought against the use of fluoride, and there has been a rise in all-natural products, but systemic fluoride has been shown to reduce cavities between 50 and 70 percent,” Davis says.

According to the Birmingham Water Works Board website (www.bwwb.org), one gallon of fluoride is added to every million gallons of water – the Alabama Department of Health asked the board to do this more than 20 years ago.

Fluoride also is recommended by the American Dental Association.

For a list of water systems in your community that contain fluoride, go to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov, and search fluoridation. The information is available under the topic “Community Water Fluoridation,” and parents can search by county for water systems that, according to the CDC, do and do not contain fluoride.

Lori C. Pruitt is associate editor of Birmingham Parent.

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community heroes

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ZARZAUR, MUJUMDAR &DEBROSSE

From Left, Anil Mujumdar, Diandra Debrosse Zimmermann and Gregory Zarzaur make up the team fighting for children of sexual abuse.

Children Have a Voice

with Gregory Zarzaur and Zarzaur, Mujumdar & Debrosse

“Research has shown that an average victim of child sex abuse has to tell at least seven adults before being believed.”

- G regory Z a rzau r

38 | birminghamparent | february 2016

Jerry Sandusky. Roman Polanski. Warren Yerger Sr. While you might not be as aware of the last two names, the first one probably means something to you. Though many others are not “famous,” they are all convicted child abusers.

Gregory Zarzaur, an attorney with Zarzaur, Mujumdar & Deborsse, along with his partners, has made it his life’s work to bring child abusers to justice by aiding the legal system, and to also give a voice to the abused through civil action.

The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children reports that there are currently 617,000 registered sex offenders in the U.S., and typically 100,000 of those are unaccounted for. Other pedophiles are not on records or in databases. Sadly, reports indicate that only about 10 percent to 20 percent of child sex abuse victims ever come forward, yet one in four girls and one in six boys will be sexually abused before reaching 18, and 20 percent of child sex abuse victims are under the age of eight, Zarzaur says.

“It is important that parents and other family members or guardians understand that Alabama has one of the shortest statute of limitations in the entire country for filing a civil lawsuit on behalf of a child that has been sexually abused,” Zarzuar explains. “Disclosure is important for a multitude of reasons.”

Because most survivors don’t understand the psychological hold being sexually abused has on them until adulthood, Zarzaur says, damage and harm is done, and it changes their life forever. Sadly, too, Zarzaur adds, where there is one victim, there’s usually many more.

Unfortunately, Zarzaur says he sometimes gets calls from people in their 30s and 40s, and he has to tell them there is nothing they can do, because of the time factor. That’s why it is so important to educate parents about the signs of sexual abuse and when to act, so that it will stop, predators will be exposed and hold both the predators and enablers accountable.

A recent CDC study found that the total lifetime estimated financial costs associated with just one year of confirmed cases of child maltreatment (which includes sexual abuse) is approximately $124 billion. The lifetime cost for each victim who lived was $210,012.

“Effects on the victim in the short term (up to two years) include regressive behaviors (thumb-sucking and bed-wetting in younger children), sleep disturbances, eating problems, behavior and/or performance problems at school and unwillingness to participate in school or social activities,” Zarzaur explains.

“Longer-term effects may be wide-ranging, to include anxiety-related self-destructive behaviors such as alcoholism or drug abuse, anxiety attacks and insomnia.”

the office at Zarzaur, Mujumdar & Debrosse is inviting and wellequipped to handle children.

Greg Zarzaur and his son Zane at the office.

If you know of a community hero who should be nominated for a profile, send your contact information and information about what makes that person a community hero to CommunityHeroes@birminghamparent.com. birminghamparent.com | 39

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ask the specialist

Heart Disease: What Women Need to Know

By Ben Plaisance, MD

February is American Heart Month. And while heart disease affects both men and women, it still remains the most common cause of death and disability in women in the United States. Despite recent advances in cardiovascular medicine, it is estimated that 38.2 million women, or 34 percent, are living with cardiovascular disease, with the population at risk even larger, and with most of this being preventable.

It’s possible these statistics are the result of women simply not knowing they can be victims of heart disease. Unlike women, men frequently experience more classic symptoms of heart disease which can be a huge determinant in whether or not to seek care. Women with heart disease typically: n Are 10 years older than men at the time of diagnosis n Do not report any previous symptoms including chest pain n May often relate heart attack symptoms to typical, everyday stress Although the traditional risk factors for heart disease – such as high cholesterol and blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, age, smoking, family history – affect women and men equally, other risk factors may play a bigger role in the development of the disease in women. Sedentary lifestyle, inflammatory or rheumatic diseases, and psychosocial stressors can increase a woman’s risk for heart disease as well as: n Post-menopause poses a significant risk for developing heart disease; despite this finding, oral contraceptives have been linked to increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. n Women’s hearts may be more affected from mental stress and depression than men’s hearts, especially after menopause and have been linked to congestive heart failure development during this time. n Diabetes and high blood pressure during pregnancy have been linked to increased risk for development of heart disease later in life.

Benjamin Plaisance MD, MPH, FACC is an invasive cardiologist with Cardiovascular Associates, a Brookwood Medical Partner.

40 | birminghamparent | february 2016

n Studies have shown that premenstrual syndrome (PMS) has even been linked to long-term development of elevated blood pressure and potentially heart disease.

Furthermore, although the procedures for detecting heart disease are similar between men and women, there are caveats as to how these methods differ in women.

For example, studies have shown that although offering valuable information, stand-alone treadmill stress testing has higher false positive rates in women. In addition, there are concerns regarding possible breast cancer risk with the added radiation used in nuclear stress testing and cardiac CT angiography. These and other factors are important to discuss with your physician when considering which test is the right one to choose.

Ultimately, heart disease in women is a complex issue and finding someone who can walk you through understanding your personal risk, how to modify that risk and attack problems as they arise will be important to your continued health and well-being.

For more information about women and heart disease, check with your physician or visit the website for American Heart Association or www.goredforwomen.org.

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Deadline is the 12th of each month preceding the birthday month. May enter for later months, too. birminghamparent.com | 41

Photos by Butch Oglesby, Blue Moon Studios

Alabama Awesome

“T he Showplace of the South�

CONTINUES TO WOW AUDIENCES

By Carol Muse Evans

When the Alabama Theatre opened as a movie palace in Birmingham in 1927, never did any planners dream what the Alabama would become today, serving the community as a piece of history and as a venue of world-class entertainment.

Families have learned to embrace the beauty and history of the Alabama while enjoying traveling shows and concerts, as well as the ever-popular holiday movie series, summer movie series as well as local recitals and other events.

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For 10 years, (1933-1943) the Alabama also was known for its Mickey Mouse Club. Meetings were held every Saturday, children would perform, watch cartoons and participate in many other activities including helping the underprivileged.

By 1935, the Club had more than 7,000 members, making it the largest Mickey Mouse Club in the world. The club peaked at about 10,000 before it closed in 1943, according to the Alabama website.

The Alabama also was home to silent movies, featuring an ornate Mighty Wurlitzer organ, as well as

Carol Muse Evans is publisher of Birmingham Parent.

PHOTOS BY BUTCH OGLESBY, BLUE MOON STUDIOS

the Miss Alabama Pageant from 1938 to 1966.

Movies used to cost from 25 to 30 cents, and it was a big deal to go to a movie at the Alabama – it was a social event.

Today, a movie at the Alabama is a nod to a bygone era, when everything was done on a grand scale. With seats for about 2,500 people, the Alabama was one of the larger movie theatres built in Birmingham and is the only one of its size remaining from that era and the first public building in Alabama to have air conditioning.

From the hunting lodge-designed men’s room, to the Pompeii style ladies’ room, a hodgepodge of history and styles all seem work together. Overall, you’ll find an Art Deco design at the Alabama Theatre. It’s fun to walk through and see what different styles and even animals you can identify in the décor.

One of the highlights to any trip to the Alabama is the Mighty Wurlitzer organ, with its ornate design and amazing sound. In fact, this organ was one of the reasons the building was salvaged long ago when it came close to being destroyed and turned into a parking lot. The Alabama Chapter of the American Theatre Organ Society wanted to buy it, realizing it was one of only 25 ever built. And folks at the Alabama say the realtor was smart enough to recognize the value and wouldn’t sell, so the group ultimately raised enough money to purchase the whole facility. Birmingham Landmarks Inc. was formed in 1987.

Today, you can hear the music of the Mighty Wurlitzer in just about any performance at the Alabama. The theatre was designed for silent movies, accompanied by this great organ, says house organist Gary Jones. The organ is designed to take the place of a full orchestra, he says, though many traveling productions bring an orchestra with them today.

In 1998, the Alabama underwent a complete restoration. Much was updated, replaced or recovered, but you can still see the original carpet in the upstairs today. EverGreene Studios from New York brought the Alabama back to its former grandeur in about eight months. A tour here is a real must to understand the history of this beautiful theatre and even the movie history of the time, as well as the mixture of designs in the grand theatre.

Today, you can come here to see the Alabama Symphony, numerous movies, the Alabama Ballet and many traveling productions and concerts. It is also available for rental for special events including weddings. It continues to be the “Showplace of the South.”

For more information and upcoming shows, visit http://alabamatheatre.com. You can also learn more about the Mighty Wurlitzer and how it works here, as well as take a “virtual tour” of the Alabama.

FUN FACTS The Alabama was placed on the National Register of History Places in 1979.

It received the designation of Official Historic Theatre of Alabama in 1993.

In 2011, The Alabama Theatre received the Building of the Year Award from the Alabama Architectural Foundation.

The award is presented to the one building statewide that best exemplifies how architecture can provide a meaningful impact on the citizens of Alabama in the past, present and future.

The Alabama has no elevator.

It was the first public building in Alabama to get air conditioning.

TOURS OF THE ALABAMA THEATRE You can tour the Alabama Theatre as an individual or a group every Wednesday each month at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. unless otherwise noted. It’s a fun activity for a couple, field trip, church or retiree group. Fee is $10/person, and large groups or a private showing can be booked at $200 per tour up to 20 people. To reserve a tour, contact Cindy Mullins at cindy@alabamatheatre.com or call 205-252-2262. birminghamparent.com | 43

book review

A Page in a Book

©

RECOMMENDING THE BEST BOOKS FOR CHILDREN AND TEENS

By Gerry P. Smith

Kids Dig Dinosaurs A kid’s first introduction to dinosaurs has become a childhood rite of passage in this century. Even though they haven’t roamed the earth in millions of years, dinosaurs have surged to the front of the pack among creatures that stir kids’ imaginations. Perhaps it’s their bizarre forms or the sheer size of these prehistoric marvels that capture a child’s attention. But it’s common knowledge that once a kid meets dinosaurs, they’re instantly hooked on the whole world of wildlife that ruled the earth so long ago. The following titles are delightful early introductions to dinosaurs that younger children will really sink their teeth into!

Dinosaur Kisses

By David Ezra Stein (Candlewick) As soon as baby Dinah emerges from her egg, she is ready to explore her great big world. She wastes no time as she begins to stomp and chomp her way around it. But when she sees a kiss for the first time, Dinah knows that it’s something that she wants to try, too.

But unfortunately her instincts to whomp, chomp and stomp send her mission to kiss someone awry. Even when she finally (carefully) learns how to pucker up for a kiss, she accidentally eats her target instead. Just as it seems that kissing isn’t something that is going to work out for Dinah, another option emerges. A perfect partner breaks out to help her whomp, stomp and chomp her way to a kiss that works for dinosaurs like her.

Dino-Baby If I Had a Raptor

By George O’Connor (Candlewick Press) What would it be like to adopt a raptor and keep it as a pet? In this title, one young girl wants to have all her bases covered when it comes to bringing a baby dinosaur into the family. It would need a bell (because it’s so tiny it could get lost). And it would need plenty of cozy places to curl up in and sunny spots to stretch out in. The girl thinks that her raptor would probably sleep all day (and run around all night). As the girl’s visions of a raptor as a pet expand, young readers will smile as they begin to pick up the similarities between pet raptors and pets of a feline variety. With illustrations that underscore the cat-like behaviors a raptor might exhibit, this title is a delightful what-if musing on adopting a dinosaur as a pet.

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By Mark Sperring, Illustrated by Sam Lloyd (Bloomsbury) Dino-Baby is a sweet story that follows one dinosaur family as they prepare their child for the arrival of a new baby. The older sister learns the importance of quiet time during naps as well as the joys of baby dino kisses. Teaching the baby good manners and how to use the potty are also important things that an older dino sibling can help with. It’s a special privilege for older siblings to be the one to introduce new arrivals in their family to the wonderful world of dinosaurs.

Dino-Baby is an ideal baby-on-the-way title as well as a sweet picture book introduction to dinosaurs that a big sibling can look forward to sharing with the new baby.

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For more information, visit StepIntoReading.com

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BIRMINGHAM PARENT’S 6TH ANNUAL

SAVE THE DATE! SATURDAY, MARCH 12, 2016 Come meet Miss Cahaba Valley 2016 Chandler Shields who will compete for Miss Alabama in June.

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Brookwood Primary Care is an extension of our physician family, with convenient locations all over town, backed by all the resources of Brookwood Medical Center.

Now book your appointment online at BirminghamDocAppts.com, or call 205-877-2726.

VOTE NOW in the 2016 Birmingham Parent’s Family Favorites Awards!

Visit birminghamparent.com to vote online for your favorite party place, kids meal, toy store, radio station & more.

Tell us Your Family’s Favorites & WIN!

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VOT I N G E N DS AT M I D N I G H T O N A P R I L 14 , 2 016 .

Look for the family favorites award winners in the June 2016 issue of Birmingham Parent. You must vote in at least 20 categories for your vote to count, and if you wish to be entered in the random drawing, we must receive your complete contact info. Information may be shared with prize sponsors.

calendar highlights

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There’s a variety of events to enjoy in February. Learn about black history at local libraries, and at the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, which will be open on Mondays through February in addition to its regular schedule. Make Valentines for patients in Children’s Hospital of Alabama, and enjoy musical and theatrical performances. It’s still a great time to be outdoors; check out the numerous hikes and other fun going on this month. And don’t forget Birmingham Parent’s Camp Expo, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, February 13 at the Riverchase Galleria!

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MAKE A VALENTINE at the Homewood Public Library, or bring in a homemade card that will be delivered to children who are patients at Children’s of Alabama. No candy or glitter – just heartfelt wishes for Valentine’s Day. Contact the library for activity hours and information at 205-332-6619.

Now in its 23rd year, Birmingham Parent’s CAMP EXPO is the event that families rely on for great information about all kinds of camps, health issues, travel, volunteer activities and more. Enjoy onstage entertainment, too! This year’s Expo will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, February 13 at the Riverchase Galleria. www.birminghamparent.com. FREE!

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THE AFRICAN CHILDREN’S CHOIR, a nonprofit humanitarian and relief organization dedicated to helping Africa’s most vulnerable children, will be in Birmingham at 6pm Sunday, February 21 at Sixth Avenue Baptist Church, 1101 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. This choir melts hearts with their charming smiles, beautiful voices and lively African songs and dances. Free to public; donations are welcome. Hosted

by Alabama Gospel Music Cultural Arts Center. The choir is a nonprofit humanitarian and relief organization dedicated to helping Africa’s most vulnerable children. www.africanchildrenschoir.com.

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calendar

school. Children of all faiths welcome! Call to reserve your place.

205-991-5963, option 3, www. olvbirmingham.com. FREE.

6th CHINESE NEW YEAR FESTIVAL 11am-2:30pm, Boutwell Auditorium.

Ancient articrafts, dance, music, food and more.

6 SATURDAY Terrific Textiles!

10:30-11am, Birmingham Museum of Art. Join museum educators in a fun, interactive experience!

Afterwards, visit Bart’s ArtVenture to make an art project inspired by what you see. FREE. www. artsbma.org.

Chinese New Year Festival 11am-2:30pm, Boutwell Auditorium. Ancient articrafts, dance, music, food and more. $2 admission; children under 12, free.

205-257-1716.

McWane Science Center Beaker Bash 2016 5-8pm, McWane Science Center.

It’s the annual family-friendly event! This year’s theme is Galactic Road Trip – visit new planets, meet strange lifeforms and even take a tour into a black hole! This event raises money for statewide science education programs throughout the year. Information, tickets, www.mcwane.org.

1 MONDAY Valentines for Children Homewood Public Library.

Through February 9, make a Valentine or bring in a homemade Valentine to the library to give to children who are patients at Children’s of Alabama. No candy or glitter. Contact the library for activity hours and information.

205-332-6619.

2 TUESDAY Groundhog Day at the Zoo! Birmingham Zoo. Will Birmingham Bill see his shadow? Join the zoo for this annual event with kid-friendly games, a wildlife show and more. www.birminghamzoo. com.

Get Rhythm with John Scalici 3:30pm, Five Points West Regional Library. Join drum circle leader John Scalici for an afternoon of

percussion fun! No experience required; a limited number of instruments available for use.

205-226-4013. FREE. Lego League 6-6:45pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Kids of all ages can play with Legos of all sizes. Kids 6-younger must be with an adult.

4 THURSDAY American Girl: Girls Just Like Me 3:30-5pm, Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Theme: Baking from the Heart. Children age 5 and above can help create yummy treats and learn the story of baker Grace Thomas. $20 members; $25 non-members. Tickets, 205-4143950, www.bbgardens.org.

Get Rhythm with John Scalici 4pm, Smithfield Branch Library.

Join drum circle leader John

Scalici for an afternoon of percussion fun! No experience required; a limited number of instruments available for use. 205-324-8428.

FREE. Harry Potter Book Night: A Night of Spells 6:30pm, Homewood Public Library auditorium. The whole family is invited to enjoy wizarding fun.

205-332-6600. FREE.

5 FRIDAY OLV Shadow Day 8am-2pm, Our Lady of the Valley Catholic School. See why OLV has twice been awarded the title of Blue Ribbon School of Excellence by the U.S. Department of Education. Interested students in K-7th grade will participate in a schoolwide Mass, attend classes with an OLV student, and truly experience a day in the life of a student at the

Wild About Chocolate The Harbert Center, 2019 Fourth Ave. N., Birmingham. The Alabama Wildlife Center’s fundraising event features a silent and live auction, live music, food and beverage provided by many of the city’s finest restaurants, bakeries, caterers and distributors. An elegant and philanthropic evening. Information, 205-663-7930, x8, wildlife@ awrc.org.

7 SUNDAY American Girl: Girls Just Like Me 2-4pm, Birmingham Botanical Gardens., see Feb. 4.

9 TUESDAY Get Rhythm with John Scalici 3:30pm, Powderly Branch Library. Join drum circle leader John Scalici for an afternoon of percussion fun! No experience required; a limited number of instruments available for use.

205-925-6178. FREE.

PLEASE NOTE: Events may change after publication deadline; please phone ahead to confirm important information. The deadline for submitting calendar items for the March 2016 print issue is February 5. Mail calendar items to: Calendar, Birmingham Parent, 3590B Hwy 31 S #289, Pelham, AL 35124; 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.

50 | birminghamparent | february 2016

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Tuesday Tour for Prospective Students 3:30pm, Alabama School of Fine Arts Lobby. Students and parents may take a tour of the school and learn about the application and audition process for the 2017/2018 school year. No appointment is necessary. ASFA is a tuition-free, public school located at 1800 Rev. Abraham Woods, Jr. Blvd.

Birmingham, AL 35203. Admission is by audition only. 205-252-9241, www.asfaschool.org.

13 SATURDAY Audubon Tom Imhof Zoo Bird Walk 8-10am, Birmingham Zoo. Twohour guided birding trip through the zoo. Bird lovers of all ages are invited to bring binoculars, bird field guides and cameras. www. birminghamzoo.com.

Birmingham Parent’s Camp Expo 10am-4pm, Riverchase Galleria.

Now in its 22nd year, Camp Expo is the place for families to learn about camps, health issues, travel, volunteer opportunities and more.

Onstage entertainment! www. birminghamparent.com. FREE. Great Backyard Bird Count 10am-2pm, Birmingham Zoo. Hear bird watching tips from Birmingham Audubon Society experts and take part in bird conservation efforts. www.birminghamzoo.com.

Make It Happen Performing Ensemble 10am, 1pm, Alys Stephens Center.

ArtPlay presents this program honoring the life of A.G. Gaston.

Tickets, $9 kids, $11 adults. www. alysstephens.org.

16 TUESDAY Family Fun Night: Black History is No Mystery 6-7:30pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Step into the world of an artist, a chef, inventors and others during this hands-on evening. Look, listen and learn, create and taste. Best for families with children in first grade and above.

Register at 664-6822.

14 SUNDAY

VALENTINE’S DAY Southeastern Outings Dayhike 1pm, Oak Mountain State Park.

Moderate 4-mile walk. Parts of this hike may be off the color-coded trails. There will be some ups and downs. Well-behaved, properly supervised children age eight and up able to walk the distance and complete the hike are welcome.

Share an adventure! Bring a friend. Depart 1pm from the Oak Mountain Park office parking lot. $5 per person ($2 seniors) park admission fee plus a drink. Kerry Cooper, 205-541-5233.

UAB Music Guest Artist Recital 3pm, Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. Featuring Anthony Offerle, baritone. FREE. 205-934-7376, www.uab.edu/cas/music.

The Road to College 6pm, Homewood Public Library.

Informational workshop geared towards high school students and parents who are overwhelmed with the college application process. Admissions counselors from several local colleges and universities will be present to answer questions. Free and open to the public. Information, Judith Wright, 205-332-6622, jrwright@ bham.lib.al.us. FREE. Birmingham Science Café 6-8pm, John’s City Diner, 112 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N. Join other science geeks and novices for an exciting presentation, lively discussion and a little science trivia. Free to public. www.mcwane.org.

17 WEDNESDAY

PRESIDENTS DAY

UAB Music Student Recital 12:20pm, Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. Featuring advanced students in the Department of Music, with Chris Steele, pianist. 205-9347376, www.uab.edu/cas/music.

FREE.

Celebrate Washington’s Birthday Noon, American Village, Montevallo.

Birthday cake with George Washington at Noon. Family fun for all ages continues through 4pm, 205-665-3535, www.americanvillage.org.

Get Rhythm with John Scalici 1:30pm, East Lake Branch Library.

Join drum circle leader John Scalici for an afternoon of percussion fun!

No experience required; a limited number of instruments available for use. 205-836-3341. FREE.

15 MONDAY

Dynamic Education Adventures – The Science of Sound 4pm, Birmingham Public Library.

Investigate the mechanics behind the sound! Target audience – children. 205-226-3655. FREE.

18 THURSDAY College Music Society’s Composers’ Concert 7:30pm, Birmingham-Southern College Hill Building. The Southern chapter of the College Music Society and the Birmingham-Southern College Department of Music presents new music written by composers throughout the southern region. Open to the public. www.bsc.edu.

19 FRIDAY UAB Music Faculty Recital 7:30pm, Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall, 950 13th St. South. Featuring Gene Fambrough, percussion.

205-934-7376, www.uab.edu/cas/ music. FREE. College Music Society’s Composers’ Concert 7:30pm, Birmingham-Southern College Hill Building, see Feb. 18.

Alabama Ballet: Don Quixote 7:30pm, Wright Center, Samford University. Classical ballet about a nobleman obsessed with stories of ancient chivalry. Tickets, www. alabamaballet.org.

20 SATURDAY Big Machines Day 10am-4pm, McWane Science Center. Get your motor running and head over to McWane! Get close to some big machines including backhoes, excavators, dump trucks, loaders, dozers and cranes. www.mcwane.org.

birminghamparent.com | 51

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20th

Cho, Kristine Hurst-Wajszczuk and Paul Mosteller. 205-934-7376, www.uab.edu/cas/music. FREE. Senior Dance Composition Showcase 7:30pm, Dorothy Jemison Day Theater, Alabama School of Fine Arts. Dance seniors choreograph, produce and direct this annual show performed by our accomplished dancers. $10 adults, $5 students. Tickets, 205-458-0360.

27 SATURDAY

BIG MACHINES DAY AT MCWANE SCIENCE CENTER. Get your motor running and head over to McWane! Get close to some big machines including backhoes, excavators, dump trucks, loaders, dozers and cranes.

Alabama Ballet: Don Quixote 2:30pm, 7:30pm, Wright Center, Samford University, see Feb. 19.

21 SUNDAY Southeastern Outings Dayhike 1pm, Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve. Moderately strenuous, 3.4 mile hike in one of the largest in-city nature preserves in the country. Scenic views overlooking the Birmingham skyline and views to the hills to the north. This trip will involve considerable elevation gain hiking from the lowland section of the park to the top of Ruffner Mountain. Well-behaved, carefully supervised children age 8 and up welcome. Bring water.

Depart 1pm from the Ruffner Road ballfields trail head. David Shepherd, davidshep2@netscape.net or 205-240-4681.

Red Mountain Park Hike Series 2pm, Red Mountain Park, 2011 Frankfurt Drive, Birmingham. Each hike offers a unique look into the history, nature and exciting plans for a signature urban green space.

All ages and abilities; leashed dogs welcome. Meet at the trailhead at 2pm. 205-202-6043, www.redmountainpark.org. FREE. African Children’s Choir Concert 6pm, Sixth Avenue Baptist Church, 1101 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive.

This choir melts hearts with their charming smiles, beautiful voices and lively African songs and dances. Free to public; donations welcome to support choir programs.

Hosted by Alabama Gospel Music Cultural Arts Center. The choir is a

nonprofit humanitarian and relief organization dedicated to helping Africa’s most vulnerable children. www.africanchildrenschoir.com.

Alabama Ballet: Don Quixote 2:30pm, Wright Center, Samford University, see Feb. 19.

23 TUESDAY UAB Music Faculty Recital 7pm, Alys Stephens Center, UAB. Featuring Paul Mosteller, baritone, and Yakov Kasman, pianist. Concert will include arias by Handel, ballads by Carl Loewe, songs by Tchaikovsky and selected Lieder from “Des Knaben Wunderhorn”

by Mahler. 205-934-7376, www. uab.edu/cas/music. FREE.

24 WEDNESDAY Engineering Showcase 9am-2pm, McWane Science Center. See how engineers make a difference in our world. Meet and greet experts in the field and more. www.mcwane.org.

26 FRIDAY American Girls Club 4pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. To celebrate Black History Month, kids will read the play “Friendship and Freedom: A Play about Addy,” about a girl who has escaped from slavery in 1864.

No memorizing necessary. Bring dolls! Girls under 7 must be with an adult.

UAB Music Voice Studio Recital 7:30pm, Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. Featuring students of Won

52 | birminghamparent | february 2016

Ready, Set, Ride!

Ovarian Cycle Birmingham 9am-noon, Levite Jewish Community Center. The Norma Livingston Ovarian Cancer Foundation and Ovarian Cancer Research Fund encourages riders to register as individuals or as part of a team to raise money. This indoor cycling event includes food and refreshments – and a few surprises!

Registration, information, www. nlovca.org.

15th Annual OLV B.A.L.L. 6-11:45pm, Our Lady of the Valley Catholic School. The 15th annual B.A.L.L. (Building A Lasting Legacy) benefiting the school will light up the social hall with an exciting evening beginning with cocktails, light hors d’oeuvres and jazz music. Dinner, grab bags, mosaic crosses made by OLV children, live auction, a huge silent auction, sweepstakes drawing (first prize winner: $5,000), a short video featuring OLV children, and dancing the night away to the music of Livewire. Bid on some one of a kind items: special art created by our children, sports memorabilia, furniture, sensational baskets, a trip to Rome and much, much more. Information, (205) 991-5963, www.olvbirmingham.com.

Senior Dance Composition Showcase 7:30pm, Dorothy Jemison Day Theater, Alabama School of Fine Arts, see Feb. 26.

28 SUNDAY “Side by Side” Concert 3pm, Samford University Wright Center. The Alabama Symphony Youth Orchestra performs side by side with the Alabama Symphony Orchestra. Conductor: Blake Richardson; Christopher Confessore, ASO resident conductor and special guest.

SUPPORT GROUPS _________________________ Positive Parenting Class 6:30pm, Thursdays, 632 11th Ave. SW, Alabaster (across from new Alabaster City Hall). Leader, Vicki Joiner.

FREE. 205-663-6301. _________________________ Bradford Health Services offers Family Support meetings on Wednesday nights at 6pm at 101 Aviators View Drive, Alabaster, for anyone in the family who is having substance abuse issues. Free to the community.

Bradford Health Services offers a 12-step substance abuse education class for adolescents Wednesday nights at 6pm at 101 Aviators View Drive, Alabaster. Free to the community. _________________________ Do you have a support group or special class to help parents you’d like to include in BIRMINGHAM PARENT? If so, please send the details to calendar@birminghamparent.com -- please send dates, times, any fees, location, recurring, if childcare is provided, registration needed, etc. Support groups with a significant fee may not be included.

events & attractions this unforgettable educational exhibition that will resonate with the health conscious viewer. This public health experience features a collection of authentic human specimens including whole-body plastinates, organs, translucent body slices and body configurations that show complexity of the human body and its vulnerability to illness and diseases. Through May 1.

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.

ALABAMA JAZZ HALL OF FAME 1631 Fourth Ave. N., Birmingham.

205-254-2731, www.jazzhall.com

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

ALABAMA SPORTS HALL OF FAME 2150 Richard Arrington Blvd. N., Birmingham. 323-6665, www.ashof.org

BIRMINGHAM CHILDREN’S THEATRE 1001 19th St. North, Birmingham, AL, 35203, 205-458-8181, www.bct123.org

ALDRIDGE BOTANICAL GARDENS 3530 Lorna Road, Hoover.

205-682-8019, www.aldridgegardens.com

ALABAMA WILDLIFE CENTER 100 Terrace Drive, Pelham.

205-663-7930. www.awrc.org ALBERT L SCOTT ALABASTER PUBLIC LIBRARY Story Times: Tunes & Tales: Wednesdays at 3:30pm in Library Meeting Room, all ages Toddler Tales: Fridays at 10:30am in the Library Meeting Room, 2 and 3 year olds 100 9th Street NW, Alabaster, AL, 35007. 205-664-6822, www.cityofalabaster.com/departments/library AMERICAN VILLAGE Highway 119, Montevallo.

205-665-3535, www.americanvillage.org BARBER MOTORSPORTS PARK 6040 Barber Motorsports Parkway, Leeds. 205-298-9040, www.barbermotorsports.com

BIRMINGHAM CIVIL RIGHTS INSTITUTE In addition to its regular schedule during the week, BCRI will be open on Mondays through February 29.

American Boricua. A documentary photography exhibition by award-winning photojournalist Wanda Benvenutti. Through February.

“Little Giants: Children of the Civil Rights Movement.” Huffman High School students, led by teacher Susan Pearson, explore their artistic talents in watercolor, pencil and pastel to portray the young, yet strong heroes of the American Civil Rights Movement. Through March 27.

16th St. N., Birmingham.

205-328-9696, www.bcri.org 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. This month’s book: Ferida Wolff’s The Story Blanket. February 20, 11amnoon. FREE. Haitian Flags. An exhibition of Haitian flags made for Vodou religious ceremonies.

2000 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd., Birmingham. 205-254-2565, www.artsbma.org BIRMINGHAM ZOO In-park Special Attractions: Giraffe Feeding & Keeper Chat, Saturday & Sunday 11am-12pm & 2-3pm, $3. See Griffin, the first giraffe born in a North American accredited Zoo in 2014!

Sea Lion Training, Daily 10am & 2pm Predator Zone, Saturday & Sunday 11:30am & 3:30pm 2630 Cahaba Road, Birmingham.

205-879-0409, www.birminghamzoo.com HEART OF DIXIE RAILROAD MUSEUM 1919 Ninth St., Calera. 205-6683435, www.hodrrm.org MCWANE SCIENCE CENTER Itty Bitty Magic City. This 10,000-square-foot area allows children newborn to kindergarten to learn in a fun and playful environment.

Body Worlds Rx. The institute for Plastination – organizers of the renowned Body Worlds anatomical and health exhibitions, presents

IMAX Movies: Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

Ocean Oasis. A fascinating journey into the bountiful seas and pristine deserts of Mexico’s Sea of Cortes and the Baja California desert.

Through March 17.

200 19th St. N., Birmingham.

205-714-8300, www.mcwane.org.

MOSS ROCK PRESERVE Preserve Parkway, Hoover.

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

OAK MOUNTAIN STATE PARK 200 Terrace Drive, Pelham. 205620-2520, www.alapark.com.

RUFFNER MOUNTAIN NATURE CENTER 1214 81st St. S., Birmingham.

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

SOUTHERN MUSEUM OF FLIGHT 4343 73rd St. N., Birmingham.

205-833-8226, www.southernmuseumofflight.org TANNEHILL IRONWORKS HISTORICAL STATE PARK 12632 Confederate Parkway, McCalla. 205-477-5711, www.tannehill.org VULCAN PARK Darkness into Life: Alabama’s Holocaust Survivors through Photography and Art. Vulcan Park and Museum, partnering with the Birmingham Holocaust Education Center, presents this sensitive exhibit of photography by Becky Seitel and art by Mitzi J. Levin. The paintings and photographs accompanied by educational narratives.

Through May 16.

1701 Valley View Drive, Birmingham. 205-933-1409, www.vulcanpark.org birminghamparent.com | 53

poetry party

by Charles Ghigna

Positive Poems!

We’re just one month into the New Year. Let’s kick off 2016 with a passel of positive poems! It’s fun to write these little 4-line motivational and inspirational poems.

Ants Never Cry “Uncle”

The High Road

The Art of Start

In Sight Close your eyes and look inside, A mirror shines within; To find where you are going, First see where you have been.

Consider the little ant.

He never says, “I can’t.”

And so it comes as no surprise, He carries things ten times his size!

Don’t search for inspiration when You have a task to do; Just start your work and you will see That it will soon find you.

Dreams Allowed

Now you try it!

Write a rhyme or two about what inspires you!

54 | birminghamparent | february 2016

The Right Touch

Don’t be afraid to dream aloud The things you want to do; Just saying what is in your heart Will help your dreams come true.

A thoughtful word, a thoughtful deed, We never lose the knack, For kindness is a boomerang That always comes right back.

Headway

Suitable Language

Do not let fear confine your life Inside a shell of doubt; A turtle never moves until His head is sticking out.

NOW YOU TRY IT!

The path to inspiration starts Upon the trails we’ve known; Each stumbling block is not a rock, But just a stepping stone.

Language is the dress of thought, Your words wear every shade; Be careful what you choose to say, Your mind is on parade.

For more poetry activities, visit the Father Goose website at FatherGoose.com. Want to submit YOUR poems for publication? Parents, here are some magazines that publish poems written by children: http://www.ckmagazine.org • http://www.magicdragonmagazine.com, http://www.cricketmag.com

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The YMCA of Greater Birmingham’s sleepaway camp, Camp Cosby offers a one-week camping experience for children ages 6 to 16 on the shores of Logan Martin Lake, just 45-minutes east of downtown Birmingham.

YMCA Camp Cosby gives kids a chance to play hard, make new friends and have the adventure of a lifetime!

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YMCA CAMP COSBY Register Now For 2016!

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