September/October 2019 Birmingham Parent

THE PREMIER PARENTING MAGAZINE FOR CENTRAL ALABAMA — NOW IN OUR 16TH YEAR OF PUBLISHING

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

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We’re Seeing

Double: Our First Double Issue

Disaster Preparedness

WITH THE SPECIAL NEEDS CHILD HOW TO CARE FOR

the Caretaker OUR

Special Needs and Baby

FALL DIRECTORY

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ed note P.O. Box 326 (add 800 Hwy. 52 E. for pkg) Helena, AL 35080 205-624-2405 205-624-2515 FAX www.birminghamparent.com

Welcome to Our First Double Issue

editorial

As we mentioned last month, Birmingham Parent celebrates 16 years of publishing this year. Throughout the years we have had lots of changes, and this is likely one of our biggest, going to 7 issues a year, rather than 12, and you are holding our first double issue!

So, the September issue is now our September/October issue. January’s THE GUIDE 2020 and February’s Camp Issue 2020 will remain standalones.

We’ve debated doing this for years. Now, as more and more people are focusing on multi-media platforms – combining online, e-blasts, social media and print – we’ve decided to do this, giving advertisers TWICE as LONG on shelves and freeing up some of their marketing budgets for social and digital offerings, as well as video. And this issue is jam-packed with information. We hope you will enjoy it.

What can readers expect? You will see our issues on the shelves a little longer. Once combined into double issues, we’ll do a refill at the beginning of the second month to be sure you can find your copy of Birmingham Parent. Of course, it’s always online at www.birminghamparent.com, and be sure to check out the mobile issue on your phone. You’ll still see our great, award-winning stories and beautiful design, and hopefully these new issues will have more pages of those great stories.

What can advertisers expect? A longer life for your ad on the shelves! We’ll still have our 4 events a year – Happy Healthy Kids each August, Camp Expo in February 2020, Special Needs Expo-Birmingham and Special Needs Expo-Huntsville, both in March. You’ll still see Cover Kids Searches and our popular Family Favorites, though the voting times may change a bit to incorporate the issue changes. Watch for that toward the end of 2019. We may even have a surprise or two up our sleeves.

We’d love to hear from you! What are your ideas for stories, special events, columns and more? Let us know at carol@birminghamparent.com. Now is a better time than ever to market your product or service with us! Contact us today at info@birminghamparent.com.

Thanks for a great 16 years!

We look forward to many more.

THE PREM

FEB RUA

Carol Muse Evans publisher/editor carol@birminghamparent.com

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BRATING 15

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PUBLISHERS David & Carol Evans EDITOR Carol Muse Evans ASSOCIATE EDITOR Lori Chandler Pruitt CALENDAR Lori Chandler Pruitt CONTRIBUTORS Dr. Vivian Friedman, Ashley Talmadge, Christa Melnyk Hines, Rebecca Mason, Kimberly Blaker, Pam Molnar, Denise Yearian, Jan Pierce

sales SR. MARKETING CONSULTANT Kayla Fricks MARKETING CONSULTANT Natalie Julian

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

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KIDS AT AWBUILD AY CA MP HOW TO MAKE YOUR

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

Evans also serves on the board of directors of Childcare Resources.

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

4 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

BIRMINGHAM PARENT IS A PUBLICATION OF EVANS PUBLISHING, LLC. Publishers: Carol Muse Evans, David K. Evans Sr. Birmingham Parent (EIN200694149) is published monthly by Evans Publishing LLC. www.birminghamparent.com or editor@birminghamparent.com. Birmingham Parent is © 2019 by Evans Publishing LLC. Family Connections Media ©2019/2020

by Evans Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Editorial submissions are welcome. For back issues, please send a self-addressed 10” x 13” envelope with $4 for postage and handling.

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contents Finding the Right Doctor for Your New Baby During your baby’s first year, you’re going to be spending quite a bit of time with your child’s healthcare provider.

Take steps before your baby arrives to choose a doctor who you feel comfortable with and trust.

24 our focus

our features

babybook

EDITOR’S NOTE Welcome to our First Double Issue.......................................4 Disaster Preparedness for Families with Special Needs...................................12

36 Special Needs & Baby Directory...........................20 Finding the Right Doctor for Your New Baby.......................... 24

our regulars

Caring for Caretaker: Supporting Parents of Special Needs Child.......................16

46

PARENTING with Dr. Friedman...............................7 SHORT STUFF.................................. 8 CHATTING WITH CHILD’SPLAY: Teaching the Right Behavior to Your Child......................................18 ASK THE SPECIALIST Staying Fit in Pregnancy............... 34 FAMILY TRAVEL: The Ark Encounter..........................40

10 Tips to Ease Separation Anxiety..............28 A Parent’s Guide to Kindergarten Readiness ..............30

It’s Library Card Sign-up Month in September......................46

PET PAGE Advocating for Fearful Dogs.......44

Building Baby’s Library: Books Matter....................................32

8 Halloween Party Games for Teens or Tween.........................48

CALENDAR OF EVENTS..............55

Can a Pacifier or Thumb Sucking Affect Teeth Alignment?.............38

Our Pumpkin Patches & Fall Events Guide.......................49

PARENTING PEOPLE Oak Mountain Missions.................62

ON OUR COVER: Nathan, age 3, is seeing double sisters, Emily and Mary, age 1, just like we're seeing double this month! Mary has CVI, cortical visual impairment, and is part of the Early Intervention program that is associated with Alabama Institute for the Deaf & Blind. PHOTO BY DONALD LOVE PHOTOGRAPHY, http://dlovephotos.com.

6 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

PAR E N TI N G

Parenting

with Dr. Friedman

Q:

My daughter is divorced with children ages 17, 15 and 6. Their father has been diagnosed with a personality disorder and as having anger management

problems. Prior to the divorce, he had threatened suicide for several years in order to keep my daughter from leaving him. He tells the children that the divorce was their mother’s fault and says many other things about her. We never told the children about his problems, but just let them continue to believe it was their mother’s fault so as not to hurt them with too much information. When he would tell them things about their mother that were hurtful to them and they would come to me crying, I would just say “I wish I could tell you everything, but I can’t.” Telling them about their father doesn’t seem like the right thing to do. How do you deal with this type of situation with chil-

dren? How do you undo the damage that was done without hurting them more?

While there are times to shield a child from information, it is not always the right thing to do. Children cannot process and understand a situation unless they know the facts. There are times when not knowing what is going on is more damaging than having accurate information.

This said, it is not in the child’s best interest for parents to say negative things about each other, or even about teachers, scout leaders or sports coaches. Children feel most secure when they have parents and other adults whom they can look up to and trust. Unfortunately, not every child is blessed with a stable situation.

When one parent falls short, the other parent must step in and create the secure environment for the children.

Of course, how they are told and how much they are told depends upon the child’s age. The older children should pretty much know the whole thing. The 6-year-old will not be able to understand the situation even if he is told. He should be given only those parts of the information that he can absorb.

If dad is devaluing the children’s mother, you need to help the children respect their mother so that they can feel secure. Countering the dad’s negative words with factual information will not be harmful to the children.

Use their experience to correct dad’s negative ones. Something like, “Dad has told you that your mother lies. Has your mom every lied to you?” Tell them also that a loving parent does not put the children in the middle. Give them

permission to love both parents, but caution them that a parent who tells them otherwise is not parenting in their best interest.

Instead of telling the children, “I wish I could tell you but I can’t,” give them an explanation that does not put their father in a bad light but that does explain his problem. If he truly has “anger management” issues, it is likely that the children have seen it. Putting their experience into words for them will help them to cope with dad’s outbursts.

Vivian K. Friedman, Ph.D. is a child and family psychologist at UAB, Department of Psychiatry.

Send questions for response in this column to Viviankf@gmail.com. No personal replies are sent.

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S H O RT STU FF Children’s of Alabama Hosts Workshops for Parents and Preteens on Understanding Puberty If it’s time to have “the talk” with your child, make plans to attend the Girlology and Guyology workshops for preteens and parents on Sunday, Sept. 8 at the Children’s of Alabama Bradley Lecture Center (1600 5th Avenue S).

Girlology and Guyology is a growing national program started by two physicians and moms in Charleston, SC to help parents and their children have age-appropriate, medically accurate and cringe-free conversations about puberty and emerging sexuality through a series of programs that targets adolescents and teens.

Each workshop is $50 per child-parent/trusted adult pair. Registration for all workshops is online at www.girlology.com/pages/events. Free parking for the workshops will be available in the Children’s 5th Avenue S. parking deck.

For girls and their parents, there will be two workshops: • 1:30-3:30 p.m., Something New About YOU – helping girls face puberty with greater confidence, this session is geared towards girls ages 8–11.

• 4-6 p.m., Reproduction – providing kids with accurate, age-appropriate information about sex, this session is geared towards girls ages 10-12.

For boys and their parents, there will be two workshops: • 1:30-3:30 p.m., Just the Facts – equipping boys with the knowledge to navigate puberty, this session is geared towards boys ages 9–11.

• 4-6 p.m., Reproduction – providing kids with accurate, age-appropriate information about sex, this session is geared towards boys ages 10-12.

Children’s of Alabama Hosts Adoption Bootcamp The UAB International Adoption Clinic (IAC) at Children’s of Alabama will be hosting an adoption bootcamp seminar on Saturday, September 14.

This event seeks to educate potential adoptive parents and adult family members, as well as social workers, teachers, occupational therapists and other healthcare professionals, about the multifaceted needs of adoptive parents and their children.

The cost per family to attend is $150, which includes snacks for up to four attendees. All professionals wishing to attend should contact the IAC for cost. The seminar will run from 8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. at Oak Mountain Presbyterian Church (5080 Cahaba Valley Trace). To register, contact the IAC by phone at 205-638-6964 or by email at adoption@peds.uab.edu.

Wagon Rides 5 1/2 Acre Corn Maze Animal Barn Cow Milking Station Large Corn Pit Cotton Picker Play Area Cow Train Playground Concessions Picnic Area Tricycle Track Human Hamster Wheel Super Slides Pumpkin Bowling

11th Annual Baby Steps Memorial Run Supports The Amelia Center for Grieving Families The 11th annual Baby Steps Memorial 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run will be held Saturday, Sept. 14, at Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park in McCalla. All proceeds from the run benefit The Amelia Center at Children’s of Alabama.

Registration for individuals and teams is available online for $25 for the timed 5K or $20 for the 1-mile fun run at https://runsignup.com/Race/AL/McCalla/ babystepsal. The fees increase for in-person registration the day of the race to $30 for the timed 5K or $25 for the 1-mile fun run. Individual same day registration and packet pick up is at 7 a.m., followed by the start of the 5K and 1-mile fun run at 8 a.m.

Refreshments, door prizes, awards and a balloon release will follow the race. Children age 5 and under “race” free with the paid registration of a parent.

The Baby Steps Memorial Run is an event that allows grieving families and their friends to come together to remember their loved ones in a supportive, caring environment. The Amelia Center is a non-profit program of Children’s of Alabama which has served as a place of hope for grieving children, parents and families since 1997.

The center offers free grief counseling to parents and grandparents who have suffered the loss of a child and also to children who have lost loved ones. The center operates by donations and continued support from its community members. For more information on The Amelia Center, visit ameliacenter.org.

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Stone Mountain Park’s annual Pumpkin Festival: Play by Day, Glow by Night returns bigger, better and brighter in 2019!

Play by day as you experience all of your favorite park attractions and special fall entertainment, then glow by night in a whole new light!

Glow by night is an all-new, immersive experience with more than double the glow. Take a journey through classic storybook tales that come to life in 10 new themed areas featuring 40 newly imagined scenes with glowing lights, massive carved pumpkins, bubbles, fog and plenty of not-so-spooky, glow-in-the-dark adventures after sunset.

From fairytales to nursery rhymes, be part of the adventure as you encounter your favorite storybook characters. Follow the yellow brick road to Emerald City, discover an underwater marvel 20,000 leagues under the sea, meet Jack & Jill up the hill, and join the 3 little pigs for an adventure on the scenic railroad. Come and immerse yourself in picture-book settings with fun fall decor and much, much more!

Enjoy dozens of new scenes, thousands of jack-o-lanterns, costumed characters, glow-in-the-dark mini golf, new flashlight tour, new games, new storytelling adventures, new glow-along party parade, and more nighttime family fun.

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S HO RT STUF F How to Prepare Your Child for Surgery

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Has your child’s doctor said he will need to have surgery? This can be a scary time for both of you. But there are some things you can do to help ease your child’s anxiety and ensure a smoother experience.

Laura Lovell, a child life specialist at Children’s of Alabama, says the most important recommendation is to be honest with your child. “We have a lot of families come in and the first thing they say is, ‘We didn’t tell them why we’re here.’ This adds a lot of stress, in addition to being in an unfamiliar environment.”

Talk to your child in advance about what they can expect, in a way that is age appropriate. For a younger child, Lovell recommends looking for toys that are similar to what the child would see in the hospital. Most toy stores have doctor’s office toys that may include items like a stethoscope or a blood pressure cuff. Lovell encourages parents to engage younger children in role play, or encourage the child to play “doctor” with a stuffed animal.

Lovell also recommends a child bring a comfort item with them the day of surgery, such as a blanket, stuffed animal or toy.

Older children and teens can benefit from special attention as well. When preparing a teenager for surgery, Lovell says older kids can typically benefit from a little more detail. “We encourage the teens to ask questions,” she says. She adds that teens may want to bring an item of comfort too, like a favorite blanket.

Pediatric facilities are especially geared to respond to the needs of children. “We cater to children – we have an amazing staff that will go through and explain everything to the child,” Lovell says. “We give them opportunities like choosing a flavor for their mask. There are choices they can make so they feel empowered to be part of their care.”

If a child is especially anxious prior to surgery, parents can schedule a pre-surgery tour. Contact your child’s pediatrician to request it through Children’s Child Life Department.

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Study Indicates Children at High Risk in Parking Lots Due to Inattention

farmers market

FIND EVENTS

that didn’t make our print issue online at BirminghamParent.com

Children run across parking lots without adult supervision every day, and the consequences can be fatal.

A new study from the University of Alabama at Birmingham shows an alarming need for adult supervision in parking lots, with 67 percent of children observed not having supervision at some point between the vehicle’s parking and the child entering the building.

“Children are unpredictable,” says David Schwebel, Ph.D., associate dean for research in the UAB College of Arts and Sciences. “The safety risks in parking lots are already dangerous. We observed that parents pay less attention to their children in these parking lots, even further elevating the risk.”

The study, published in the Journal of Safety Research, observed 124 children ages 2-10 and their adult supervisors as they crossed a parking lot from their parked vehicle into a community recreation center.

While a majority of children are unsupervised, the study also showed that 88.9 percent of children in a parking lot are outside of an adult’s arm reach. And, more than half of the children observed exited the vehicle prior to the adult.

Investigators believe that the perception of risk diminishes in well-known, familiar locations, because adults and children feel “safe.” Jenni Rouse, a doctoral student in the UAB Department of Psychology, explains that adults and children may not see risks in parking lots because vehicles are moving more slowly, injury rates are perceived as lower in this environment, and there is an eagerness to get to where they are going. However, various distractions like cellphones are present, and there is a transfer of responsibility for creating a safe environment from the pedestrian to the driver.

Drivers in parking lots should be even more focused and attuned to those in the lot. Rouse recommends that drivers slow down and eliminate any distractions as they navigate parking lots.

Rouse recommends that adults: • Hold a child’s hand in parking lots.

• Make sure children remain in the car until an adult opens the door.

• Exit the car from the passenger side when being dropped off near a building to avoid cars passing on the driver side.

• Teach basic pedestrian safety practices, like looking both ways for traffic before crossing the parking lot.

• Make children aware of traffic and the dangers associated with moving vehicles.

• Use sidewalks when available.

• Reduce distractions as children are guided through a parking lot, including cellphones and conversations with others.

10 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

BE N N ET T FA R M S

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ARE YOU READY?

Disaster Preparedness for Families with Special Needs

By Ashley Talmadge

As the parent of a child with a disability, you’re good at anticipating and preparing for the unexpected. But are you ready for a large-scale emergency? Would you have the resources you need if a power outage lasted several days, or if roads were impassable?

When it comes to emergency preparedness, families with special needs must take additional precautions. It may seem overwhelming at first, but being proactive will help keep your family safe. Remember, preparedness doesn’t need to happen all at once. Follow these steps and take a few minutes each week to plan, add to your kit, and communicate with those who might care for your child during a disaster.

Here are some tips: Make a Family Plan. During a disaster, family members can easily become separated.

By developing a plan and talking about it in

advance, you ensure reunification will happen as quickly as possible.

“It’s important to consider what the individual need is and incorporate it in your plan,” says Jessica Cappelletti, preparedness specialist with the Red Cross. “Is there a parent who is usually close enough to pick up a child at school? If not, which neighbor or friend could provide the specialized care a child might need? Also, include contingencies for different types of emergencies.

A fire or flood may necessitate evacuation, while a winter storm or chemical hazard may require sheltering in place. Where will you go in either case?”

During a disaster, phone service may be inconsistent and it’s often easier to connect to a long distance, rather than local, number.

Therefore, Cappelletti suggests that families “ask an out-of-town friend or relative be a

12 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

point of contact.” All family members can check in with this person and provide status and location information.

Build Your Emergency Kit. Ideally, families should build two types of emergency kits. A “go kit” (usually a backpack) contains supplies for at least three days, and will be taken by each family member in the event of an evacuation. A “home kit” (usually several large bins) contains items required for the whole family during a “shelter in place” event for up to two weeks.

Several basics – water, food, first aid and hygiene supplies, batteries, and flashlight – should be included in all kits. Other items may be recommended depending on the type of disaster most likely in your area, and your own family’s needs. Many online resources provide lists of kit necessities. (See

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When it comes to emergency preparedness, families with special needs must take additional precautions. It may seem overwhelming at first, but being proactive will help keep your family safe. Remember, preparedness doesn’t need to happen all at once.

, Inc.

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sidebar and visit www.ready.gov/build-a-kit for examples.)

When your child has special needs, the following parts of your kit will require closer attention: Food. It may be difficult to find specific foods in the midst of a disaster. If your child is on a restricted diet, or has sensory issues that impact her desire to eat, be sure to stock your kit with nonperishable foods she can safely enjoy.

Medications. In addition to a seven-day backup supply of any necessary prescription medications, be sure to include over-the-counter items that your child regularly uses, such as melatonin or protein supplements. Include a medication list and copies of prescriptions. birminghamparent.com | 13

Power backup. “A lot of medical equipment relies on power, so families who have special needs should consider a generator and subsequently a carbon monoxide alarm,” explains Cappelletti. (A generator can be deadly when not used properly, so be sure to you know how to operate it.) Remaining connected and informed is essential for families with special needs, so it’s worthwhile to stock a variety of portable chargers (already charged) for phones and other devices. Solar and battery-operated chargers are also available.

Adaptive equipment. Decide how your child will access any specialized items he uses for feeding, mobility, self-care, or communication.

Comfort items. If possible, include some duplicates of familiar toys, books, and other items your child uses to calm herself, including electronic activities.

Practice Drills. Cappelletti notes that the unfamiliar sights, sounds, and expectations during an emergency can make any child anxious. The situation can be more challenging for a child who has mobility limitations, sensory issues, or who needs a predictable routine. “Children fear what is unknown,” says Cappelletti. “When drills are practiced, the family is getting equipped with confidence and the knowledge of what to do.”

Operate your smoke alarm, and rehearse your evacuation procedure in the dark. Try sheltering in place for a couple hours with battery-operated devices instead of electric power. Visit your neighborhood fire station and introduce your child to a firefighter in full gear. (Children who are not familiar with a firefighter’s uniform and equipment may hide from these first responders in an emergency.)

Expand Your Support Network. In addition to staff at your child’s school or daycare facility, be sure there are other people who are familiar with your child’s routines, equipment, and any comforting measures that might be helpful. If possible, exchange keys with a trusted neighbor, let her know where supplies are stored (including important documents), and decide how you will contact each other if phone service is spotty or non-existent.

Know Your Community’s Disaster Plan.

In the aftermath of recent wildfires, hurricanes, and flooding events, communities have developed disaster plans and are educating their citizens about preparedness. Contact your local emergency management office or the Red Cross to learn what’s happening in your community.

Notify local officials of your household’s needs in advance. This makes it easier for

14 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

first responders to provide assistance quickly.

Some communities offer a Special Needs Registry for this purpose. And if you’re electricity-dependent, you can also register with your local electric company.

Get Involved! Attend a class in Emergency Preparedness. If there isn’t a class scheduled in your community, your school’s PTA, church group, or other civic organization can arrange a presentation through the Red Cross. Your local Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) can give you information on becoming a member, or supporting their efforts.

As you and your neighbors become better equipped to deal with a disaster, the community (and your family) becomes safer and more resilient.

For more help, download the “Family Disaster Plan” template from the Red Cross: www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/make-a-plan.html, or the Department of Homeland Security, www. ready.gov.

Ashley Talmadge is a freelance writer, mother of two boys, and a member of her Neighborhood Emergency Team (NET).

Little by little, her family is becoming better prepared for an emergency.

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CARING FOR THE CARETAKER:

How to Support Parents of Special Needs Children

By Christa Melnyk Hines

When Tracy Glock’s 13-month-old daughter Kira was hospitalized with acute myeloid leukemia, she was touched by the outpouring of support she and her husband received.

During those eight difficult months, the community rallied around the family. Friends and acquaintances babysat Kira in the hospital while her mom and dad worked, and many others helped by delivering meals and even mowing the family’s lawn.

“Words cannot express the gratitude you feel when someone you barely know does so much for you,” Glock says, who was also pregnant at the time with Kira’s sister Allina.

Although Kira, now seven, has recovered from the frightening ordeal, she still faces many daily challenges. As a child with Down syndrome and autism, learning and development takes longer and requires more patience compared to the typically developing child.

Like many parents who have children with special needs, Glock says finding time for herself is difficult.

While many of us know how to help a family in crisis, how do we support parents who often put their own needs last as they focus on the daily challenges of caring for special needs youngsters?

Offer to babysit. Finding trustworthy, alternate caretakers is a huge relief for parents who regularly juggle doctor’s appointments, school issues and therapy, not to mention jobs and other children.

“Every special needs parent’s needs are different, but most just love a little rest,” Glock says.

Because special needs children require more attention from their parents, healthcare providers and therapists, other youngsters in the family may feel slighted.

“Children always struggle and this is the case whether they’re special needs or not,”

says Nancy Masannat, mom to two children, including Emy, 16, and Kyle, 14, who is on the autism spectrum. “There’s going to be sibling jealousies.”

When her children were younger, Masannat would often schedule her son’s appointments during times when her daughter was in preschool. “In my daughter’s mind, it wasn’t fair that someone was coming to the house and playing with her brother and not her.”

Having access to a qualified babysitter you can trust with your special needs child, can give you an opportunity to spend much-needed, one-on-one time with your other children too.

Listen. Ask your friend how she’s doing and then simply listen. Avoid offering platitudes or suggestions to help her fix problems.

“We all just like to be heard. Everybody likes to vent,” Masannat says. “Just listen to what the issues are without judgment. That’s a huge help for everybody, but primarily when you’re dealing with something that someone else might not understand.”

Educate yourself. Get to know your friend’s child, including her disability, her personality quirks and her individual needs. And ask your friend about her specific parenting challenges.

“It shows that you care and will help you provide more effective support,” says Heather Trammell, mom to two special needs children, including Beth, 14, who has Down syndrome and Marie, 11, who has high-functioning autism. Both girls also have a connective tissue disorder called Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.

Suggest resources. Support groups help parents feel less alone and provide valuable resources for assistance in childcare, school issues and navigating healthcare.

“The biggest thing for me was to know that I wasn’t in this by myself – that I wasn’t the

16 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

OTHER IDEAS TO BRIGHTEN YOU FRIEND’S DAY: Purchase a gift certificate for a massage or manicure If you plan to have the family over, ask your friend if you should be aware of any food sensitivities or specific ground rules to ensure a successful visit Offer to babysit and/or help with siblings Help with getting kids to practices Deliver a meal Mow their lawn Send a bouquet of cheerful flowers Arrange for a house cleaning crew Ask if you can pick up anything while running errands Mail an encouraging card only person who had a child who didn’t sleep well; that I wasn’t the only one with a child who is now three and not talking,” Masannat says.

To find support groups in your area, consult with the therapists and teachers your child already works with, your library, your church and online. For example, www.autismspeaks. org, which includes resources for families or the National Down Syndrome Society, www.ndss. org. Also check out Facebook and MeetUp.com for local support groups.

Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines, and her husband are the parents of two sons.

She is the author of Confidently Connected: A Mom’s Guide to a Satisfying Social Life.

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Every parent wants to teach their child right behavior. Behavior, right and wrong, are both a normal part of childhood. Every child is different and behavior management is personal to each family and child. Some key principles of managing behavior are generally helpful for most families.

PROACTIVE STRATEGIES: Safety It’s important for children to know they are safe and that their basic needs will be met. Simple things like letting a child know the plan of the day and providing consistent access to healthy nutrition can go a long way in supporting a child’s behavior.

Consistency and Predictability Children need to know “what to expect.” Use of visual supports like a picture calendar, social story for a new event, written family rules, or behavior charts can establish consistency and predictability.

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Curiosity about the behavior Generally, a child’s behavior is an expression of a need. Be curious about what need your child may be expressing. Many times, meeting their need will also eliminate their need for that behavior.

Teach the correct behavior through play Children learn best through play! Practicing the right behavior during a play activity is one of the best ways to teach a child.

Assessment of medical needs Always talk with your pediatrician if you are concerned about your child’s behavior. It could be that developmental, neurological, or sensory needs is the real reason behind a behavior.

CORRECTIVE STRATEGIES: Give choices Children often respond well when given a choice between two options.

Be Clear Simple directions usually work best.

Practice “re-do’s” When your child engages in a wrong behavior, give them the opportunity to practice completing it the right way.

Calm Down Children may need a calm down space to regroup and calm down after a tantrum or meltdown.

You need to find what works best for you, your child, and your family as a whole. If you are concerned about your child’s behavior, you should consult your pediatrician, or contact us for more information at 205-978-9939 (Hoover), 205-618-8095 (Chelsea).

We believe that all children have limitless potential!

Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind is part of Alabama’s Early Intervention System, providing services free of charge to children age birth to 3 years with a developmental delay or eligible diagnosis. By providing services and support to families, babies and toddlers in the Early Intervention program are getting the bright beginning they deserve. Through our statewide network of regional centers, we provide services in settings where natural learning opportunities occur—in the home, at daycare, at the park, and other appropriate settings in the community.

Visit www.aidb.org/regionalcenters to find a regional center near you.

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Special Needs & Baby Directory From Babies to Special Needs, we’ve combined two of our best directories into one great one in our first combined issue!

SPECIAL NEEDS Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind 205 South St. E Talladega, AL 35160 256-761-3284 www.aidb.org AIDB is the most comprehensive education, rehabilitation and service program for individuals of all ages who are deaf/hard of hearing, blind/visually impaired, deaf-blind and multi-disabled.

Serving over 26,000 children and adults across Alabama last year.

Autism Society of Alabama 4260 Cahaba Heights Ct. Ste. 188 Birmingham, AL 35243 877-428-8476 or 205-951-1364 www.autism-alabama.org The Autism Society of Alabama is a nonprofit advocacy group with the mission of improving services for those on the Autism Spectrum.

Child’s Play Therapy Center 3057 Lorna Road Birmingham, AL 35216 Hoover: 205-978-9939 48 Chesser Crane Road, Suite I Chelsea, AL 35043 Chelsea: 205-618-8095

www.childsplaytherapy.com Occupational, physical and speech therapy, along with a variety of special programs.

Two beautiful, fully equipped facilities. Our experienced, loving staff will exceed your expectations.

Bundles of Hope Diaper Bank 205-607-2112 www.bundlesdiaperbank.org Easterseals of the Birmingham Area 201 Beacon Pkwy West, Ste. 400 Birmingham, AL 35209 205-942-6277 www.eastersealsbham.org Our adult program assists individuals with choosing an appropriate vocational goal and finding and maintaining competitive employment. We provide Transitional Programs for high school students including Smart Work Ethics and Driver’s Education. We provide therapy programs for children.

Giant Medical Bed Movement Alarm www.bedmovementalarm.com An advanced movement sensing alarm that has been

20 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

alerting caregivers & family members to those who, during sleep, may experience irregular movements such as: muscle spasms, unusual twitching actions or prolonged shaking movements. On Sale NOW! Pediatric Therapy Associates, Inc. 700 Century Park S. Ste. 128 Birmingham, AL 35226 205-823-1215 www.pediatricptot.com Providing outpatient pediatric physical and occupational therapy to children and teenagers with special needs, sports related injuries, medical/pain issues, early intervention & school therapy.

The Learning Tree Inc. 251-533-6044 www.learning-tree.org The Learning Tree Inc. provides early intervention, residential, educational, behavioral analysis and consultation services for more than 600 children with intellectual disabilities and autism annually.

Service Dogs Alabama 8365 Mobile Hwy. Hope Hull, AL 36043 334-676-3733

www.ServiceDogsAlabama.org Training medical and psychiatric assistance Service Dogs for disabled children, adults, and Veterans. Assistance Dogs International (ADI) standards for Public Access and task training are met. Diabetic & Seizure Alert, Mobility/Wheelchair Assistance, PTSD, and Autism.

HEALTHCARE Alabama Department of Public Health www.alabamapublichealth.gov The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) is the primary state health agency for the state of Alabama.

Brookwood Baptist Health Four locations in Central Alabama BBHob.com • Brookwood Baptist Medical Center Birmingham, AL • Princeton Baptist Medical Center Birmingham, AL • Shelby Baptist Medical Center Alabaster, AL • Walker Baptist Medical Center Jasper, AL With four hospitals delivering

Bed Movement Alarm throughout central Alabama, access to an entire network of specialists, and countless ways to customize your experience, Brookwood Baptist Health is a community of care dedicated to making your new beginning a happy one.

Children’s of Alabama 1600 7th Avenue S Birmingham, AL 35233 205-638-9100 www.childrensal.org Children’s of Alabama has provided specialized medical care for ill and injured children since 1911, offering inpatient, outpatient, and primary care services throughout Alabama.

Grandview Medical Group OB/GYN 3686 Grandview Pkwy.

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

Grandview Medical Center Women’s and Children’s Center 3690 Grandview Pkwy.

Birmingham, AL 35243 205-971-1000 www.grandviewhealth.com Whether becoming a new parent or adding to your family - our dedicated team at Grandview Medical Center will make your experience memorable.

Purohit Pediatric Clinic 4 locations: • Birmingham 3686 Grandview Pkwy.

Ste. 710 205-379-7190 • Moody 2468 Moody Pkwy.

Moody, AL 35004 205-640-1200 • Anniston 516 Quintard Ave. 256-741-9799 • Roanoke 4441 Hwy 431, Ste.1 334-863-2553 www.purohitpeds.com Our caring physicians and staff are committed to

providing patients with the very best quality care and service. We welcome new patients from surrounding communities to any of our four Alabama locations.

Small Steps Pediatrics Dr. Shameza Boyd St. Vincent’s East Professional Bldg.

52 Medical Park Dr. E., Ste. 201 Birmingham, Alabama 35235 205-868-3486 www.smallstepspediatrics.com Providing exceptional health care and compassionate service to the families we serve. We offer a full range of pediatric care including well–child check–ups, immunizations and sick appointments.

UAB Women and Infants Center 1700 6th Avenue S Birmingham, AL 35233 205-934-9999 www.uabmedicine.org/ women UAB Women & Infants Services offers exceptional healthcare throughout a woman’s life. Whether you’re having a baby, battling cancer or struggling with incontinence or infertility, we’re with you every step of the way.

Urgent Care for Children 500 Cahaba Park Circle Birmingham, AL 35242 205-848-CARE (2273) www.childrensurgent.com With a clinic on Hwy. 280, one in Trussville, and three more locations (Madison, Vestavia Hills, and Tuscaloosa/Northport) set to open in the fall, Urgent Care for Children is committed to providing exceptional care 365 days a year.

Women’s Health Specialists of Birmingham 3686 Grandview Pkwy., Ste. 300 Birmingham, AL 35243 205-536-7676 www.whsbham.com Our physicians have created an environment for women that is calm, respectful and supportive. Visit whsbham. com for more information. continued on page 22

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Special Needs & Baby Directory

DENTISTS & ORTHODONTISTS McCalla Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry 4814 Bell Hill Road Bessemer, AL 35022 205-477-8004 www.mccallasmiles.com We provide high quality dental care for infants, children, adolescents and patients with disabilities, as well as orthodontics for children and adults. We offer traditional metal brackets as well as clear Invisalign option.

www.asfaschool.org ASFA is a public school for students-grades 7-12. Admission is by audition in one of six areas: creative writing, dance, music, theatre arts, visual arts or math and science.

Alabama School of Mathematics and Science 1255 Dauphin St. Mobile, AL 36604 251-441-2152 www.asms.net ASMS is a public, residential high school accepting applications from highly motivated 9th and 10th graders seeking adPediatric Smiles, LLC vanced studies in math, science Dr. Tabitha Jarman Gatrey and the humanities.

4823 Promenade Pkwy., Ste.101 Bessemer, AL 35022 Joseph Bruno 205-230-9000 Montessori Academy www.psmilesal.com 5509 Timber Hill Rd. Our top priority is helping your Birmingham, AL 35242 child achieve and maintain a 205-995-8709 beautiful, healthy smile! Providwww.jbma.education ing dental care for children of JBMA provides children & famiall ages, including those with lies with an education according special needs. Now accepting to the Montessori philosophy. new patients and most insurAt JBMA, we treat each child ance accepted. as individuals, building on their strengths to become lifelong PT Orthodontics global learners. Enrolling todLocations in Hoover, dlers - 8th grade.

Homewood/Mountain Brook, Cahaba Heights, Greystone, Odyssey Early Sch​ools Leeds, Pell City, Oxford, Huey• Inverness Campus town, Gardendale, 104 Heatherbrooke Park Dr. Jasper & Tuscaloosa Birmingham, AL 35242 205-979-9480 205-991-0039 PTortho.com • Trace Crossings Campus We know that a smile can 401 Emery Dr. change a life! Offering a full Hoover, AL 35244 range of braces to meet your in205-988-8829 dividual needs, including metal www.odysseyearlyschool.com braces, clear ceramic braces, Created by educators featuring ​ and Invisalign clear aligners. state-of-the-art facilities​, nurCall for a free consultation! turing teachers ​with Education degrees, and comprehensive Thomas Pediatric Dentistry curriculum ​that provides your 721 Montclair Rd. child with age appropriate Birmingham, AL 35213 exploration into the world of 205-879-6150 learning. www.thomaspediatricdentistry.com As one of Birmingham’s most trusted children’s dentists, Dr. EDUCATIONAL Thomas offers a safe, nurturing SERVICES environment in a state of the art oral health facility for infants, The Tutoring Center children, teenagers and those 2804 John Hawkins Pkwy. with special needs.

Ste. 100

SCHOOLS Alabama School of Fine Arts 1800 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd.

Birmingham, AL 35203 205-252-9241

Hoover, AL 35244 (near Academy Sports) 205-987-9577 www.hoover.tutorcenter.com One-to-one tutoring designed to help your child develop

22 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

stronger academic skills, earn better grades, score higher on standardized tests, while gaining confidence, motivation and focus.

FINANCIAL SERVICES America’s First Federal Credit Union Main Office 1200 4th Ave. N. Birmingham, AL 35203 205-320-4150 www.amfirst.org Save with our Kids 1st Club account! Visit www.amfirst. org to learn more. Available to qualifying members only. Some restrictions apply. Federally insured by NCUA.

DANCE, MUSIC & PERFORMANCE ARTS Alabama Ballet & Alabama Ballet School 2726 First Ave. S. Birmingham, AL 35233 205-322-4300 www.alabamaballet.org Since 1981, changing lives through dance by promoting and fostering the development of classical and contemporary ballet through high-quality performances, dance education, and community outreach.

Alabama Symphony Orchestra 205-251-6929 3621 Sixth Ave. S. Birmingham, AL 35222 www.alabamasymphony.org The Alabama Symphony Orchestra entertains, educates, and inspires students in schools, concert halls, and public venues throughout the state. ASO presents specially designed youth performances for all that leave a lasting impression.

The Dance Foundation 1715 27th Court S. Homewood, AL 35209 205-870-0073 www.thedancefoundation.org Our non-competitive dance education nurtures creativity, engages the imagination, and promotes social and developmental skills in a safe and enriching environment for self-expression and collaboration.

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

MUSEUMS & ATTRACTIONS Birmingham Museum of Art 2000 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd.

Birmingham, AL 35203 205.254.2565 www.artsbma.org Bart’s ArtVenture combines high tech art-making tools with hands-on creation stations to let kids and families develop their art education in a creative, communal environment. More than 15 hands-on learning stations for toddlers to tweens!

Cook Museum of Natural Science 133 4th Ave. NE Decatur, AL 35601 256-351-4505 www.cookmuseum.org The Cook Museum of Natural Science is a state-of-the-art natural science museum in downtown Decatur, AL. It provides a hands-on, immersive experience where kids can explore, interact with, and learn about nature. Come as a family or come as a group, there is so much to explore!

McWane Science Center 200 19th St. N. Birmingham, AL 35203 205-714-8414 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.

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Pediatric Therapy Associates, Inc. Individual Physical & Occupational Therapy, Early Intervention, Schools, Outpatient Specializing in: • Developmental motor skills • Neurological delay • Orthopedic surgery rehab • Strength and flexibility limitations • Pilates and rehab for sports injuries • Yoga for special needs and scoliosis Over 35 Years of Pediatric Therapy Experience • Fine motor skills including handwriting

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babybook

Finding the Right Doctor for Your New Baby

By Christa Melnyk Hines

During your baby’s first year, you’re going to be spending quite a bit of time with your child’s healthcare provider. Take steps before your baby arrives to choose a doctor who you feel comfortable with and trust.

When should you start the process?

Anywhere between one and three months before your due date is an ideal time to start shopping around for a pediatrician or a family physician. Try not to wait until the last minute.

“Once you go to the hospital, there’s a lot going on. You’ll be seeing a lot of doctors.

You’ll be going through labor. It’s not something you want to decide off-the-cuff,” says pediatrician Aaron Mayer, D.O. When you arrive at the hospital to deliver your baby, you’ll be asked who you’ve selected for your child’s primary care doctor. They will then notify your baby’s physician, and he or she will provide a physical examination of your infant within 24 hours after delivery.

Pediatrician or a family physician? Both practitioners are trained to provide quality healthcare for your family. Your choice will most likely boil down to personal preference

and the rapport you have with a particular physician. Here are the primary differences between the two types of physicians: • A family practice doctor is trained to provide healthcare to individuals at all stages of life, from newborn to senior. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians (www.aafp.org), family physicians train for three years in real-life clinical settings and are trained in all areas of medicine ranging from pediatrics and internal medicine to obstetrics.

Physicians should be board-certified by the American Board of Family Medicine and licensed in the state in which they practice.

• A pediatrician specializes specifically in childhood conditions, diseases and treatment for patients from newborn to age 18. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (www. aap.org), following medical school, a pediatrician-in-training completes three or more years

24 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

of courses focused entirely on pediatrics. Seek a pediatrician who is licensed and has obtained the designation of Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics (FAAP), which means they are board certified in pediatrics and adhere to the AAP’s standards and guidelines.

Where to begin? “Honestly, I think consulting with friends and family is probably best. If your friends like their doctor, you are likely to find a good fit with them as well,” says Kallie Foss, M.D., FAAP. Make sure the recommended physicians are part of your health insurance network. Also check out area hospital websites, which often feature doctors who are nearby and accepting new patients.

Dr. Shameza Boyd, MD, FAAP, of Small Steps Pediatrics in Birmingham, says parents also should decide if they want their child to be seen by the same person at each visit. “If so, a solo pediatric practice would be best,” she

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explains. “If convenience is a big plus, consider a larger group practice where you may be seen by different pediatricians, but be able to get in and out in a shorter time.”

Boyd also suggests checking hours that pediatricians are available. Many practices now offer early, late or even weekend hours to help parents manage busy schedules, she says.

Schedule a prenatal visit. Once you’ve got a list of two or three physicians, call and schedule a prenatal visit to help you get a feel for their personality and office environment.

While some physicians may prefer to do a phone consultation, a face-to-face appointment can help you get a sense of the office and nursing staff. Are they courteous, warm and helpful? What is the overall feel of the clinic? Is it kid-friendly, clean and welcoming?

“You don’t really know if the physician’s personality meshes with your family unless you speak with them in person,” Mayer adds.

“It’s important to do prenatal visits to see if the way they act, the way they treat you, and the environment of the clinic fits with what you want for your family.”

Make a list of questions. Now that you have prenatal appointments lined up, consider what issues are most important to you. For example, you might ask:

• Who will see my baby in the hospital?

• How soon after we leave the hospital should we see you?

• What is the schedule for well-child checks and immunizations?

• What can I expect during well-child checks?

• How long are the typical wait times at appointments?

• How do you handle after-hours calls?

• Which urgent care do you recommend?

• What’s your availability for last minute appointments?

• What kind of acute care do you provide?

Evaluate the visit. After the appointment, reflect on how you felt about the doctor and the practice.

• Were your most pressing questions and concerns addressed?

• Did you feel comfortable?

• Did the doctor support or respect your opinion regarding issues that matter to you?

• Did you feel listened to?

• Did you feel rushed?

• What was the office and support staff like?

• What was the clinic environment like?

• Was the location convenient?

26 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

“It’s important to do prenatal visits to see if the way they act, the way they treat you, and the environment of the clinic fits with what you want for your family.”

Need to break up? If over time, you become dissatisfied with your child’s physician or you need to switch providers due to changes in insurance or a relocation to a new community, make sure you have your child’s medical records, including vaccine history, transferred to the new physician that you select.

“Nothing is permanent,” Boyd adds. “If you discover that for whatever reason you don’t mesh well with a particular office, you can always transfer. The goal is for the relationship to be a happy and healthy one between you and the pediatrician that you choose.”

Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband are the parents of two boys.

She is thankful to have found a compassionate and thoughtful pediatrician for her kids. Christa is the author of Confidently Connected: A Mom’s Guide to a Satisfied Social Life.

It's your body. Take Control. confidential services provided.

babybook

10 Tips To Ease Separation Anxiety

By Denise Morrison Yearian

Separation anxiety is a normal developmental stage for most children. It usually sets in between six and 12 months of age, and can last two to four months. For some toddlers, it reappears between 18 and 24 months and then gradually diminishes as language development improves.

Separation anxiety is the result of a new cognitive skill called object permanence.

Children can now remember objects and specific people that were once present but now are not. They may search for a toy that has disappeared and can remember who is missing from their regular setting. During this stage, youngsters understand that people they are attached to leave, but they cannot yet comprehend about their return. They can also recognize signals an adult is about to go, so their anxiety may build even before the actual exit. Because they don’t understand the concept of returning, they have no idea when that person will come back and separation anxiety intensifies.

To reassure children and help them grasp the concept of your exit and return, consider these 10 tips: 1. Make it a Game. Play age-appropriate games, such as “Peek-a-Boo” and “Hide-andSeek.” Another one babies relish is, “Where is Baby?” Place a lightweight receiving blanket over your child’s head and ask, “Where’s baby?” then pull the cloth away and with a big

smile and gentle, animated voice say, “There you are!” Also place the cloth over your own head, or partially hide behind a chair or around a corner where you will be easily discovered.

2. Go Gradual. When your child is playing at home, casually mention you are going into another room and will return. Leave for 30 seconds then come back with a cheerful “Hello!” or “See? I’m back!” Gradually increase to a minute, making sure your child is safe before you step out. He will begin to learn that though you may be gone for a bit, you will come back.

3. Do a Trial Run. Enlist the care of a familiar relative or friend in your home for short amounts of time – 30 minutes, building up to an hour. Before leaving home, spend a few minutes one-on-one with your child. Then engage the sitter in your interaction.

4. Ease Into the Environment. When you leave your child with a caregiver, let your little one know beforehand you can only stay for a few minutes and then you’ll have to go. Give a two-minute warning, then a one-minute warning before you leave.

5. Keep Goodbyes Brief. When it is time for you to go, be simple and direct. Say goodbye quickly, with a clear, loving statement that you will be back. Then leave.

28 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

6. Don’t Slip Out. You want to foster trust, so always say goodbye. Don’t exit when your child isn’t looking.

7. Use Distractions. Before leaving, get your child and the caregiver involved with an activity to take the focus off of you.

8. Rely on the Familiar. Use objects your child has bonded with – a stuffed animal, blanket or toy – to comfort him when you are not around.

9. Watch Yourself. Be affectionate, but avoid making a big production about leaving. Stay calm, even if your child is crying. He will pick up on your emotions. Also, speak positively about the environment to others when your child is present.

10. Maintain Routines. When schedules and routines are the same throughout the day, children know what to expect and aren’t caught off guard. Also, make sure he is rested and well fed before you leave; children who are tired or hungry are less tolerant of parental absence.

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

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babybook

A Parent’s Guide to Kindergarten Readiness They're leaving toddlerhood and almost ready for school.

Now, how do we know they are ready for Kindergarten?

Parents often find it hard to know if a child is ready for kindergarten or even how best to prepare them.

“Kindergarten readiness is not just about learning your letters, numbers and shapes through flashcards,” says Cora Causey, Ph.D., instructor in the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Education. “There is so much more that parents and early childhood educators can do. We need to look at social-emotional, cognitive and language development in order to best prepare children for interaction in the classroom.”

Each child develops differently, but there are certain aspects of development that a parent can help progress. Causey encourages parents to meet children where they are in their development.

Social-emotional development Executive function, relationship development, coping and self-regulation play important roles in a child’s overall development, but most importantly in their social-emotional development so that they can handle a collaborative environment, like kindergarten. This includes sharing, taking turns, and learning when to

speak and listen, and to do this respectfully.

Coping and self-regulation can be tough for children at this age. Acting out situations can help a child learn to deal with a situation. This can be taught through role play, playing with figurines or even through books.

At home, parents and other family members should model the behaviors of making friends, sharing or following expectations. Children will learn from the models and be better prepared for situations that arise at school.

Cognitive development How a child learns, connects with experiences, and uses symbols and images relates directly to their cognitive development. Causey suggests enhancing cognitive development through literacy opportunities and mathematical language to prepare children for the kindergarten classroom.

Reading aloud to your children is the best way to cultivate cognitive development, she says. Ask your children questions as you read books related to the content, illustrations or even the child’s feelings.

Early math experiences help with a child’s cognitive development. Causey recommends

30 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

using household items to improve cognition.

For example, when a child is in a sandbox and pours sand in two cups, ask which one has more.

Language development Children should have the opportunity to listen, speak, read and write as they develop. This helps children further their language development orally. Everyday conversations help children understand language.

Easy tips for listening and speaking with your child include: • Read a book, but stop to look at the pictures and talk about them.

• When traveling, ask questions about what the child sees; connect it with additional questions, like colors, smells, noises, etc.

• In the grocery store, take time to look at the produce and ask questions about taste, texture, color and other noticeable features.

—Courtesy of UAB

UAB Women & Infants Services

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From a routine gynecologist appointment, to choosing an OB/GYN before the birth of your baby and eventually through menopause – we are with you every step of the way. And if you’re facing an issue you didn’t expect, such as infertility, a difficult pregnancy, a premature birth, incontinence or gynecologic cancer; our team of specialists and sub-specialists is committed to providing you with exceptional care and compassion through it all.

From the simple to the complex, from the everyday to the out of the ordinary, we want to be part of your journey as a woman – no matter where life takes you.

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Whether you are about to be a new parent or adding to your family, you have much to look forward to with the birth of your child. At Grandview Medical Center, we want your experience to be memorable. From helping you find an OB/GYN to the day you meet your new bundle of joy, we’re with you each and every step

Children's of Alabama Since 1911, Children’s of Alabama has provided specialized medical care for ill and injured children. Ranked among the best pediatric medical centers in the nation by US News & World Report, Children’s provided care for youngsters from every county in Alabama, 42 other states and seven foreign countries last year, representing more than 677,300 outpatient visits and more than 15,600 inpatient admissions. With more than 2 million square feet, Children’s of Alabama is among the largest pediatric medical facilities in the in the U.S. Children’s offers inpatient and outpatient services across its Russell Campus on Birmingham’s historic Southside with additional specialty services provided at Children’s South, Children’s on 3rd and in Huntsville and Montgomery. Primary care is provided at more than a dozen medical offices in communities across central Alabama. Children’s of Alabama is the only medical center in Alabama dedicated solely to the care and treatment of children. It is a private, not-for-profit medical center that serves as the primary site of the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) pediatric medicine, surgery, psychiatry, research and residency programs. More information is available at www.childrensal.org

of the way. To prepare for the arrival, we also offer a variety of prenatal classes including Comfort Measures in Childbirth, The Gift of Motherhood, Infant CPR, Breastfeeding, and Daddy Boot Camp.

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

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

Your well-being, and your newborn’s, is our top priority.

And you can be confident that at Grandview Medical Center, we are dedicated to giving your baby a wonderful welcome to the world.

For more information, visit www.grandviewhealth.com.

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Health Starts Early.

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Building Baby’s Library: Books Matter

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Educators tell us that every child needs to hear 500 books read aloud to them before entering kindergarten. Hearing all those stories prepares children for learning to read. They’ll pick up important “book knowledge” such as concepts of words and sentences, left to right orientation, top and bottom, the beginning, middle and end of a book and much more.

They’ll learn to enjoy book language, which is different from everyday speaking. They’ll move and bounce to the rhythms of words. They’ll learn to love characters who do silly things and they’ll giggle at funny pictures. They’ll learn there are books about virtually everything in the whole wide world.

They’ll learn something else from hearing their parents and other significant people in their lives read to them – they’ll learn to love reading. It’s never too early to read aloud to baby.

There are some classics you don’t want to miss.

Anything by Eric Carle will delight babies. His Very Hungry Caterpillar or The Very Busy Spider are just right for exposure to beautiful pictures and a simple story. Margaret Wise Brown’s Goodnight Moon, Mem Fox’s Hello Baby and Bill Martin books so full of rhythm and rhyme are also classics. Bill Martin’s Chicka Chicka Boom Boom and his collaboration with Eric Carle on Brown Bear, Brown Bear are two selections that should be on every baby library shelf. Other popular titles include Pat the Bunny by Dorothy Kunhardt and The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats. Other authors with wonderful books for baby are Tana Hoban, Sandra Boynton and Philip Eastman.

Other books are written for the purpose of exposing baby to specific topics or skills. The Baby Gym Books by Sanja Rescek introduce the five senses in titles such as Wiggle and Move, Touch and Tickle, Bounce and Jiggle and Calm and Soothe. My Little Quiet Books by Pockets of Learning teach baby beginning concepts of color, counting, opposites and recognition of animals.

Spots and Dots by Chez Picthall are wordless books meant for newborns to babies six months of age. They introduce visual stimulation through high contrast images in black and white and in bold colors.

Every new and second-hand bookstore and library have special sections of books just for baby. You also can use your local library and

32 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

BOOKS BABIES LOVE Choose sturdy board books or washable cloth or vinyl books.

Choose bright colors and simple pictures on solid backgrounds.

Babies respond to rhythm in language and simple rhymes.

Babies enjoy seeing pictures of familiar objects such as animals, food or clothing.

Babies love stories about the things they do such as eating, taking a bath or going to sleep.

Babies like repetition. They like books with repeated words or phrases.

Babies like to touch a variety of textures and help to turn pages in a book.

Babies love to read homemade books with pictures of their family members.

build a “rotating library” at home. In addition, your local library will have read-aloud times to introduce you to new titles and teach baby to sit and listen to another adult read.

In addition to the sheer pleasure of hearing books read aloud, babies also love the cuddly closeness of sitting with their readers. They’ll learn to point to certain objects and characters.

In fact there are lots of books for babies and toddlers meant specifically for building recognition of shapes, colors, objects, parts of the body, familiar animals and the like. The skill of hearing the name for an object and then finding it on the page is not only a book skill, it’s also related to beginning math skills such as sorting objects into categories.

Your efforts to make books available and your time spent reading aloud to your baby will be rewarded many times over when it comes time for your child to become an independent reader.

Jan Pierce, M.Ed., is a retired teacher and freelance writer. She specializes in articles on parenting, family life and education.

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Staying Fit in Pregnancy Pregnancy exercises and staying fit may help to improve stamina, flexibility and strength.

Whether you already exercise several times a week or not at all, pregnancy will likely change your physical ability and capability. Along with keeping your body fit, exercise may help relieve or prevent backache, leg cramps and constipation; improve your posture and maybe even promote early recovery after delivery.

Pregnancy Exercises to Manage Weight Gain

Pregnancy often brings anxiety about weight gain, so many pregnant women want to know how much exercise is healthy and what types of activities are the best. Many forms of exercise are safe when done with caution and moderation. Of course, most doctors would advise against activities and sports that could cause injury to mother or baby.

The exercises you can do mostly depend on the level of activity you were at before pregnancy and the status of your health. Your doctor will likely encourage you to consider your physical fitness routine before pregnancy and from there develop a reasonable exercise regimen. Even if you’re having a normal pregnancy, you will want to re-evaluate your activities. Here are some other activities you may want to consider: Swimming: This is a great activity for your body because it tones different muscles while the water supports your weight (non-impact).

Hot tubs and saunas should be avoided.

Stationary Cycling: This is preferable to road biking because weight and balance changes occur during pregnancy. Be sure to pay attention to your posture to avoid a backache.

Exercise Classes designed for pregnant women: Many health clubs and gyms offer exercise programs specific to pregnant women.

You may also try yoga to get into shape without straining your body.

Be Sensible About Exercise

A few general guidelines to keep in mind: • Do not exercise strenuously in hot, humid weather or when you are sick with a fever.

• Be smart – if something feels uncomfortable, don’t do it.

• Low-impact exercise is best to avoid jerkiness or high-impact on your joints.

• Most women experience breast enlargement during pregnancy. Be sure to wear a bra that gives proper support to help protect your breasts. You will likely need to buy larger cup sizes throughout your pregnancy.

• As pregnancy progresses, your center of gravity will change. Be aware of these changes as you choose exercises.

• Avoid deep knee bends, full sit-ups, double leg raises and straight-leg toe touches.

• Drink water often – before, during and after exercise to be sure your body gets enough fluid.

34 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

The exercises you can do mostly depend on the level of activity you were at before pregnancy and the status of your health.

• Stop exercising and consult your doctor if you experience pain, vaginal bleeding, dizziness or feeling faint, shortness of breath, irregular or rapid heart beat, difficulty walking, pain in your back or pubic area, or uterine contractions.

Even with its physical and emotional benefits, maintaining an exercise during pregnancy should always be under the supervision of a physician. You should always check with your doctor before beginning or continuing an exercise regimen to evaluate the risks and benefits.

Learn about maternity programs at Brookwood Baptist Health by visiting www.brookwoodbaptisthealth.com

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Can a Pacifier or Thumb Sucking Affect Teeth Alignment?

By Lori Chandler Pruitt

It’s natural for infants to suck their thumb or fingers, or a pacifier. For many babies and young children, the habit helps them feel secure and safe, especially in unfamiliar environments, and may help them sleep.

It’s great for parents too, at first – but as the child grows older, many parents become worried that their child may never stop – or that the habit will ruin their child’s teeth and mouth. When is it harmful? What age should your child stop?

What if they will not stop?

According to the American Dental Association, most of the time there is no need to panic. Most children stop such habits on their own between the ages of two and four. As kids get older, they spend more time doing other things, and school-aged peer pressure often causes many to stop.

“Sucking on fingers and pacifiers is normal for babies and very young children,” says Olga M. Sanchez-Hernandez DMD, MS, MS, of McCalla Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry.

“Most children discontinue these habits on their own and if it happens in a timely manner, no

effects are observed.” But the longer the habit persists, the more it could affect the development of teeth and jaws, and the more orthodontic treatment will be needed, Sanchez-Hernandez says. Prolonged thumb sucking may cause problems with proper mouth growth and teeth alignment. It also can cause changes to the roof of the mouth, making it push up and forward.

This creates a domino effect that can cause problems with speech and eating.

Children should stop using a pacifier by age two, because after that age the effects on the jaws and teeth might not be reversible and are similar to the effects of thumb sucking. Thumb and finger habits should be discouraged as soon as the child is old enough to understand that even though it feels comforting, it is not good for teeth in general. For most children, that is about five to six years old.

Using devices to help quit the habit is best when a child is old enough to understand and wants to quit. “A child who is still thumb or finger sucking by six to eight years old and wants to quit, but can’t figure out how to remember

not to put their thumb or fingers in their mouth when they are sleeping, are really tired or not thinking about it can usually be treated with different habit appliances,” Sanchez-Hernandez says. “Aggressive methods like hot sauce, sour liquids and thumb sleeves tend not to be effective if the child is too young to understand or has no desire to stop.”

Parents also should know that other habits, such as a child who drinks from the bottle too long or keeps a stuffed animal or “lovey” in the mouth have the potential to cause the same dental problems, says Valerie Madison, hygienist for pediatric dentist Dr. Clark Thomas.

From the American Dental Association, here’s some tips for parents to help with the transition: • Instead of scolding the child for thumb sucking, offer praise for not doing so.

• Children often suck their fingers when feeling insecure. Focus on correcting the cause of the anxiety and comfort the child. continued on page 38

36 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

MCCALLA ORTHODONTICS McCalla Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, the office of Olga M. Sanchez-Hernandez, D.M.D., M.S., M.S., is committed to promoting optimal oral health by providing high quality dental care for infants, children, adolescents, and persons with special healthcare needs in a friendly, comfortable environment.

We also strive to deliver the highest level of orthodontic care by providing customized treatment plans for children and adults that address individual needs and concerns, while utilizing the latest technological advancements.

Our team of skilled, experienced professionals is dedicated to providing each patient with the compassionate care they deserve. Our staff is especially trained to provide exceptional customer service.

At McCalla Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, we are combining orthodontic care and pediatric dentistry so that all of your family’s needs are met under one roof. We appreciate your interest in our services. Please contact us at 205477-8004 or mccalla.orthodontics@yahoo.com or visit our website at www.mcallasmiles.com if you have any questions or if you’d like to schedule an appointment.

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continued from page 36

October is National Orthodontics Month

• Reward the child when he or she avoids thumb sucking during a difficult period, such as being separated from family members. The dentist also can encourage the child to stop sucking his or her thumb and explain what could happen to the teeth if it continues.

If these approaches do not work, remind your child of the habit by bandaging the thumb or putting a sock over the hand at night. If the thumb sucking persists, talk to your child’s dentist or pediatrician.

He or she can prescribe a mouth appliance or a medication with which to coat the thumb to prevent the thumb sucking.

“Positive reinforcement is what seems to work the best,” Sanchez-Hernandez says. “Praising children when they show signs of stopping or doing it with less frequency is very important. Negative attention seems to have the opposite effect. Negative comments, public embarrassment and punishment tend to make children anxious and more likely suck their thumbs or fingers more often.”

Lori Pruitt is associate editor of Birmingham Parent.

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ARK ENCOUNTER:

Life-Sized Noah’s Ark Brings the Bible Story Alive

By Lori Chandler Pruitt

Many of us have heard and read the Bible story of Noah’s Ark and the years it took him to build the massive boat to God’s exact specifications. But there is something about seeing an actual sized replica that makes the story even more amazing.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ARK ENCOUNTER

40 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

Located in Williamstown, KY, halfway between Cincinnati, OH and Lexington, KY, the 510-feet-long ark is more than 50 feet tall and is the largest timberframe structure in the world. It opened in July 2016 and draws thousands every year. It is owned and operated

by Answers in Genesis.

Visitors enter a parking area about a mile from the ark itself, where tickets may be purchased. Shuttle buses take visitors to the ark and its different attractions outside the ark. Rounding the corner on the bus, the first sight of the ark is spectacular, knowing that it carried Noah and his family, hundreds of animals and everything necessary to survive.

There is a nice, paved curving path to the ark itself.

Going inside, it is simply amazing to walk through the structure, seeing lifelike exhibits that depict what it was like to live on the ark. There are several teaching exhibits throughout about the flood, Noah and the animals, answering questions like Noah might have cared for all the animals and how the ark was big enough, and what happened to those in the ark after the flood. Inside, the ark also has a food area and a gift shop. Daily presentations address a number of timely topics.

The ark takes a whole day, if you want to see just about everything. If you are planning to travel 45 minutes away to the ark’s sister attraction, the Creation Museum, it’s a good idea to take a day at each.

Outside the ark, there are many attractions and things to do. Some of those include a great meal at Emzara’s Buffet, a two-story buffet restaurant with a great view of the ark, pan for unique fossils at an authentic mining sluice while learning about science from a biblical perspective, soar on a zipline, visit the Ararat Ridge Zoo and play on the playground.

Speaking of attractions, more is coming. As the ark celebrates three years, tourist-related business is flourishing, with new hotels being built throughout the area. And, the ark encounter is expanding. New features coming this fall will include: • A 2,500-seat auditorium inside the Answers Center, with a 70-foot-long LED screen on the stage. This will host well-known musicians, Bible conferences and more.

• The Ararat Ridge Zoo, located behind the ark, will double in size soon with a walk-through kangaroo and emu area, along with the addition of lemurs, sloths, African tortoise, aoudad goats, live animal shows and more.

• A new family play area, accessible by all children and adults.

For tickets and other information on the Ark Encounter and the Creation Museum, go to https://arkencounter.com.

Lori Chandler Pruitt is associate editor of Birmingham Parent. birminghamparent.com | 41

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PET PAGE

Advocating for Fearful Dogs

By Rebecca Mason, CPDT-KA, CTDI, M.Ed.

You may not know it, but both of the dogs pictured here are afraid. One of these dogs looks a bit scary, but it’s unlikely that either of them would come at you from across the room…because the last thing either of them wants is for you to get any closer!

Often, I get an email from someone has a dog who barks and lunges aggressively when they’re on a walk and see other dogs.

While there are exceptions to the rule, more often than not I find that these dogs are simply afraid. “Afraid??” the owner asks.

“But he’s showing his teeth!”

Okay – imagine this – you are walking down the street at night. A really big, scary dude is walking by. Without meaning to, you find yourself standing up taller and putting on a tough face so you won’t seem afraid. That’s exactly what your dog is doing! He is trying to seem as scary as possible so the other dog (or person) won’t approach him, because the mere idea of that is simply terrifying! To make matters worse, your dog has found that this works, so he keeps doing it!

Dogs are individuals. They have different ways of expressing their emotions, just like we do. Regardless of how they express fear, no dog should have to feel afraid, especially when there is so much that can be done. As the owner of a fear-aggressive dog, I have certain responsibilities - mainly to her.

Here’s some tips: Attend to her body language. Are her ears going back, are her eyes getting wide?

Did her tail go from a swishy wag to very stiff? Is she growling (the dog version of “Help, mom! This is really scary!”)?

Prevent setting her up to fail by avoiding places or activities that might stress her.

Not every dog is a social butterfly who wants to go to festivals and restaurant patios. Could my dog tolerate these things? Sure, with lots of management on my part. But would she enjoy it? No! If she’s stressed, remove her or create distance from the trigger. If she sees a dog and is nervous or growls, we walk away and I use a “watch me” command to redirect her attention.

Be situationally aware at all times when in public places with her. Uh-oh, there’s a group of people wearing big hats in the leash aisle… let’s go down the next aisle instead, is an example of the kind of awareness that’s often needed.

Never get frustrated with her. She can’t help that she’s afraid. Scolding her would be like scolding a toddler for being afraid to go down a tall slide!

Train her to be less fearful of new things, sudden noises, and strange dogs through desensitization and counter-conditioning.

Avoiding is great, but there are going to be times where you have to take your dog somewhere.

Make sure the children in her life know how she does and doesn’t like to be interacted with (parents – this one is huge!)

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44 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

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Building a dog’s confidence is good, but there’s a difference between exposure and socialization. Shoving a dog into a new situation to “socialize” her with something is never a good idea. Socialization and desensitization should be done gradually with the help of a certified, experienced trainer. Force of any kind should never be used.

Fearful or not, look for ways you can be your dog’s advocate. Read up on body language, and check out some good books like The Cautious Canine by Patricia McConnell or From Fearful to Fear Free by Marty Becker.

Rebecca Mason is a certified dog trainer and owner of Love Them Train Them LLC in Birmingham. She is a former elementary school teacher and is passionate about working with families to channel their dogs’ energy positively.

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LIBRARY CARD SIGN-UP MONTH – A BACK-TO-SCHOOL ESSENTIAL

By Kimberly Blaker

What’s the most important school tool of all? A library card! September is Library Card Sign-up Month, which began in 1987 when former U.S. Secretary of Education William J. Bennett urged a national campaign for all kids to obtain and use a library card.

Today’s libraries offer a broad array of free materials, services, and activities. These are just a few of the great reasons to make the library an integral part of yours and your child’s life: Movies and films – There’s a great selection of mainstream movies and television series as well as educational, independent, and foreign films on DVD for children and adults alike.

Music CDs – Music is the universal language.

Check out pop, rock, and country CDs and even introduce your kids to a great selection of classical, jazz, blues, international music and more.

Computer software and games – For today’s video game-obsessed youth, the array

of children’s educational computer software and games found in libraries is a welcome addition. You’ll also find teen and adult video games, instructional and reference software, and productivity software ranging from Microsoft programs to graphic design.

Periodicals – Newspapers, magazines, and special interest periodicals are available for both in-library use and for check out.

Books, audiobooks, and ebooks – In addition to large collections of print fiction, non-fiction, and reference books, libraries offer audiobooks on CD and typically carry unabridged editions. Many libraries now offer ebooks as well in many different formats.

Computer and Internet use – Nearly all libraries today offer free computer access for browsing the Internet as well as basic word processing programs to Excel, PowerPoint, and more.

46 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

Inter-library loan – If your library or local branch doesn’t carry a particular book or item you’re looking for, most have inter-library and reciprocal loan programs. Your library can request the material from another library for you, or use your library card at other libraries in nearby communities.

Online catalog – Nearly all libraries have their own websites with access to their complete catalog. You can browse or search for materials from home to determine availability. If the item you want isn't available, you can usually reserve it or request an inter-library loan right from your computer.

Special events – Libraries offer a wide array of programs, events, and activities. These may include children’s story times, computer classes, enrichment programs, book discussion groups, used-book sales, author events, children’s and teen movie and craft events, summer reading programs and much more.

Learn more at AlabamaHealthyTeens.com

8 Halloween Party Games for Teens or Tweens

By Pam Molnar

Halloween is an exciting holiday for kids. They get dressed up, hang out with friends and know that a simple “Trick or Treat” means free candy.

As our kids hit middle school, costumes are no longer cool and their days of trick or treating reluctantly come to an end. In an effort to keep the holiday fun for teens, why not throw a party?

I know what you thinking – “How am I going to come up with entertainment that is not lame and that will keep everyone amused?” Simple!

Check out these eight teen-approved party games that will deliver hours of good times and laughter. But beware, if the kids have too much fun at your party, they will want you to host again next year!

Go Fishing – Fill a small swimming pool with water. On the bottom of the pool, place several marbles. Set as many chairs around the pool as will fit. Ask your guests to sit in the chairs and remove their shoes and socks. That’s right, they are going fishing for marbles with their feet. Add a little fear and anticipation by blindfolding the participants or turning off the lights.

Pumpkin Face – Have the kids put a layer

of Vaseline on their face. Pour several cheese balls on a long table. On go, each person has to cover their face with cheese balls without using their hands. Set the timer for one minute and the person with the most cheese balls wins. This is a great photo opportunity!

LCR – This is a great way to end the night. LCR is a popular dice game that can be played with any size group. You can either purchase the LCR dice or use regular dice and determine which number is L, C and R. Normally you would play with chips or coins, but since it is Halloween, let’s use candy. Every player starts with three candies. As you roll, the candy goes to the left, right or into a bowl in the center. The winner is the person holding the last piece of candy!

Bubble Gum Pie – Fill a pie plate with whipped cream and bury a couple pieces of bubble inside. Using only their face, the first kid to find the bubble gum, chew it and blow a bubble wins.

Plastic Wrap Mummy Race – Break the group into teams. Choose one person from each team to wrap in plastic wrap (from the neck down). As soon as the mummy is wrapped, the team has to gently lower him to the ground and roll him down the race course. When he gets to the finish line, you need to stand him back up and completely unwrap him. For a longer race, rewrap the next person and race back down to the other end.

Create a Crime Scene – Create a bag of things found at a mock crime scene, but don’t include obvious weapons like knives or rope.

Instead, find silly things like an apple, wooden spoon, stuffed animal, a children’s book and a magnet. Break everyone up into groups of four or five. Each group has to create a crime scene based on the items in the bag and present it to the group. This is a great activity to do while you are serving dinner.

Halloween Egg Hunt – Fill plastic eggs or plastic pumpkins with candy and hide around the room or outdoors. Take advantage of the early setting sun and search for the eggs with flashlights.

48 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

Fear Factor - Egg Roulette – Hard boil 12 eggs and let cool in refrigerator. Place eggs on a table in front of your guests. Tell the kids that there is one raw egg among the hardboiled eggs. Challenge them to find it by choosing an egg and smashing it on their forehead. Get your cameras ready. Their expressions will be priceless!

Pam Molnar is an avid party planner and mom of three. Follow her other party ideas on Etsy at Pam’s Party Printables.

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PUMPKIN PATCHES & FALL EVENTS GUIDE 1 4D FARM CORN MAZE & PUMPKIN PATCH Open Sept. 28 – Nov. 2nd Visit website for hours/dates 7066 County Road 703, Cullman, AL 256-775-2924 . www.4dfamilyfarm.com Fall 2019 again features our low ropes course and mechanical bull! Snow tube southern style on our Barnstormer tubing slide, Ride on our cow train, zoom down an 80 ft. slide or our 200 ft. zipline, pick a pumpkin, get lost in our corn maze, squeal at the pig races, jump on Johnny Jumper, see the Goats on the Barn and MUCH MORE! Admission $13.95 + tax, includes most activities. Seniors 65+ are $10.95 + tax. Under 2 free. Season Pass: $24.95+tax.

2 BENNETT FARMS October weekends only!

Fridays 2-5pm Saturdays 9am-5pm Sundays 1-5pm 1073 County Road 13, Heflin, AL 36264 256-302-1896 (cell) 256-463-3344 (farm) lexi@bennettfarms.com www.bennettfarms.com The greatest rewards are the smiling faces and the sound of laughter as new and old friends visit the pumpkin patch. Enjoy Hayrides, Farm animals, Pipe Slide, Country Cooking, Live Entertainment and more! We love sharing our farm with you!

4

3 THE GREAT PUMPKIN PATCH Open Sept. 28- Nov. 3rd Mon-Thurs. 8am to 4pm Fri. -Sat. 8am to 6pm Sunday 1pm to 6pm 288 County Hwy 45, Hayden, AL 35079 205-616-6431 greatpumpkinpatch.com FREE Admission! You pay for each activity or just enjoy sitting in the shade listening to music, watching kids play or tasting the wonderful food from the Red Barn Kitchen or famous Pie House.

4 PENTON FARMS September 28- November 2 Monday - Friday 1pm - 5 pm Saturday 8 am - 5 pm, Closed on Sunday 3595 County Road 59 Verbena, AL 36091 205-351-1480 PentonFarms@gmail.com www.pentonfarms.com We plant the seeds, you harvest the memories! We are a family owned farm in Verbena! Our season starts with a U Pick Farm in April and ends with our Pumpkin Patch!

We have a variety of activities for the whole family to enjoy including wagon rides, corn mazes, concessions, a human hamster wheel, and super slides! Our admission is $10 and includes the price of the pumpkin!

5 PUMPKIN PATCH EXPRESS AT HEART OF DIXIE RAILROAD MUSEUM Saturdays in October - 10:00, 1:00, & 3:00 Sundays in October - 1:00 & 3:00 1919 Ninth St., Calera, AL 35040 www.hodrrm.org . 205-757-8383 Board our vintage train for a beautiful autumn ride through the scenic forests of Shelby County to pick your perfect pumpkin from the Pumpkin Patch! Enjoy a hay ride, jump in the bounce house, and participate in a variety of other family-friendly activities! Get your train tickets, purchase your pumpkin, and find more info at www.

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6 STONE MOUNTAIN PARK PUMPKIN FESTIVAL: PLAY BY DAY, GLOW BY NIGHT Sept. 21 thru Nov. 3 from 10am - 9pm Individual attraction hours may vary.

Check daily schedule for details.

Glow by Night Experience: Dusk - 9pm 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd Stone Mountain, GA 30083 1-800-401-2407 . www.stonemountainpark.com Play by day as you experience all of your favorite park attractions and special fall entertainment, then glow by night in a whole new light with more than double the glow this year! Take a journey through classic storybook tales that come to life in 10 new themed areas featuring 40 newly imagined scenes with glowing lights, massive carved pumpkins, bubbles, fog and plenty of notso-spooky, glow-in-the-dark adventures after sunset.

birminghamparent.com | 49

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November 8, 2019 – January 1, 2020 Make unforgettable holiday memories this season at Gaylord Opryland Resort. Enjoy Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical, The Gift of Christmas with Trace Adkins and Friends, Tubing, Ice Skating, Gingerbread Decorating and our signature 9-degreee attraction ICE! featuring A CHRISTMAS STORY™. Also new this year, experience SoundWaves™, an upscale indoor resort water experience.

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ChristmasAtGaylordOpryland.com | (888) 677-9872 *SoundWaves indoor area now open; outdoor area re-opens May 2020. Guaranteed admission with exclusive SoundWaves overnight package options only. A CHRISTMAS STORY and all related characters and elements © & ™ Turner Entertainment Co. (s19). © Build-A-Bear Workshop, Inc. Used with permission. All rights reserved. PEPSI, PEPSI-COLA and the Pepsi Globe are registered trademarks of PepsiCo, Inc. “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” animated television special adapted from a story by Robert L. May and the song by Johnny Marks, music and lyrics by Johnny Marks. All elements © and ™ under license to Character Arts, LLC.

54 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

NASHVILLE, TN

calendar highlights We have two months of fall events in this calendar! September and October are among the busiest months of the year, and also boasts some of the most fun events of the year! Cooler air is

sept/oct

around the corner, but it is still a great time for outdoor fun.

Hang on to this issue to make your plans!

OCT 26 Owl-O-Ween

11am-2pm, Alabama Wildlife Center.

Children’s games, crafts, story time and much more! FREE after paid admission to Oak Mountain State Park.

SEPT 22

Sensory-Friendly Concert 3pm, Alys Stephens Center. The Alabama Symphony Orchestra presents “All the Stars in the Sky,” a musical journey through vibrant dreams and the night stars to a new sunrise. The performance provides materials to help plan the visit, quiet rooms, fun family programming and accessible seating. Scholarships available for those in need; tickets, info, 205-314-6936, www.alabamasymphony.org.

SEPT 19

Saint George Middle Eastern Food Festival 10:30am-9pm, Saint George Melkite Catholic Church.

Drive through food service!

A wide variety of Middle Eastern food, church tours, entertainment, shopping and more. A portion of proceeds benefits local charities. birminghamparent.com | 55

sept/oct calendar

September 1 Sunday Birmingham Barons vs.

Biloxi Shuckers 4pm, Regions Park. www.milb.com.

2 Monday Russ Bailey Memorial Beginner Bird Walk 7am-noon, Ruffner Mountain.

All ages and abilities welcome.

205-719-3678, https://birminghamaudubon.org. FREE. 28th Annual Labor Day Celebration 9am-6pm, Tannehill Park. Participate in Alabama’s largest moon pie eating contest, eat barbecue and more! Park admission. Information, tannehill.org.

Birmingham Barons vs.

Biloxi Shuckers 11:30am, Regions Park. www.milb.com.

3 Tuesday Teacher’s Night at the Zoo 5:30-8pm, Birmingham Zoo. A night just for educators! Ambassador animals, examples of program opportunities, a special keeper chat, door prizes and more. STIPD credit available.

Food/drinks provided. Register, www.birminghamzoo.com.

6 Friday Maestro’s Ball 6pm, Alys Stephens Center. The Alabama Symphony Orchestra’s largest annual fundraising event for its artistic, educational and community outreach programs.

Tickets, information, www.alabamasymphony.org.

7 Saturday Pepper Place Market 7am-noon, Pepper Place. Three areas of tents with farmers, makers and food vendors, and live music. www.pepperplacemarket.com.

Southeastern Outings Float, Picnic, Swim 9:45am, Locust Fork River, Blount County. Information, 205-6314680, seoutings@bellsouth.net.

8 Sunday Bargain Costume Closet 2-4pm, The Dance Foundation, 1715 27th Ct. S. Costumes, dressup and dancewear. Information, www.thedancefoundation.org.

9 Monday Alabama Disability Conference Hyatt Regency Hotel (The Wynfrey), Hoover. Three-day event

(Sept. 9-11). Theme: United We Achieve. Self-advocates, family members, caregivers, educators, lawmakers, direct support staff and others invited to attend.

Registration, information, https:// www.aldisabilityconference.org.

Knight Chess Tournament 5:30pm, Homewood Library. K-12 grades can learn strategy and fun! FREE.

10 Tuesday 13th Annual Harvest of Hope 10am-1:30pm, The Club, Birmingham. Oak Mountain Missions’ main fundraiser includes a silent auction (begins at 10am) and luncheon/program (begins at 11:30am). Keynote speaker: Ashley Curry, Vestavia Hills mayor and founder of the car ministry at Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church. To sponsor a table or for more information, 205-685-5757, https://oakmtnmissions.com.

PLEASE NOTE: Calendar information may be faxed to 205-624-2415; e-mailed to calendar@BirminghamParent.com; or entered 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 6 times a year. January events are included in the November/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 205-624-2405 or e-mail calendar@birminghamparent.com.

You may also fax information to 205-624-2415.

56 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

Preparing for College Workshop 6:30-7:30pm, Homewood Library.

Teens and parents invited to learn how to navigate the application process. Registration required at https://homewood. libnet.info. FREE.

13 Friday Sensory Storytime 9:30am, 10:30am, Homewood Library. Preschoolers. Register online, www.https://homewoodlibrary.org.

ZooGala 2019: South America Sizzle n’ Samba 7-10pm, Birmingham Zoo. Celebrate South American style on the new Hugh Kaul Plaza! Dine, dance and toast. Black tie optional; ages 21-older. Tickets, www. birminghamzoo.com.

14 Saturday Pepper Place Market 7am-noon, Pepper Place. Three areas of tents with farmers, makers

and food vendors, and live music. www.pepperplacemarket.com.

Southeastern Outings Canoe/Kayak Trip 8:45am, Terrapin Creek, Piedmont. Relaxing, relatively easy kayak/canoe trip with no classified rapids. Information, 205-6314680, seoutings@bellsouth.net.

17 Tuesday Birmingham Sci Café 6-8pm, John’s City Diner. Join other science geeks and novices!

6pm science trivia, 6:30pm, guest speaker. Topic: Forensic Entomology, Dr. Meaghan Pimsler, University of Alabama. www.mcwane.org.

19 Thursday Saint George Middle Eastern Food Festival 10:30am-9pm, Saint George Melkite Catholic Church. Drive through food service! A wide variety of Middle Eastern food, church tours, entertainment,

shopping and more. A portion of proceeds benefits local charities. www.saintgeorgeonline.org.

Family Fort Building Night 6pm, Homewood Library. Bring pillows, blankets and flashlights to build a reading fort. Snacks and stories provided.

20 Friday Saint George Middle Eastern Food Festival 10:30am-9pm, Saint George Melkite Catholic Church, see Sept. 19.

Birmingham Does Broadway: Leading Ladies 7pm, Samford University Wright Center. Hear favorite tunes from Broadways classics, sung by Birmingham stars! Tickets, info, www.alabamasymphony.org.

21 Saturday Pepper Place Market 7am-noon, Pepper Place. Three areas of tents with farmers, makers

and food vendors, and live music. www.pepperplacemarket.com.

10th Annual Head over Teal 5K-10K/Fall Festival 8-11am, Hoover Preserve. A family fun day as the Laura Crandall Brown Foundation hosts this event. Online registration, www.

ThinkofLaura.org/HeadOverTeal.

20 Friday Saint George Middle Eastern Food Festival 10:30am-9pm, Saint George Melkite Catholic Church, see Sept. 19.

22 Sunday Walk to End Alzheimer’s 12:30-4pm, Sloss Furnaces.

Register online at act.alz.org/ heartofalabama.

Sensory-Friendly Concert 3pm, Alys Stephens Center. The Alabama Symphony Orchestra presents “All the Stars in the

September 27 · 7pm FREE for Members · $25 for Non-Members

Birmingham Museum of Art · Sept 28 · 2019 – Jan 12 · 2020 This exhibition has been organized by the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery, Washington, D.C., and generously sponsored by the Thoma Foundation. The local presentation of the exhibition is made possible with support from the City of Birmingham.

Profile by Kumi Yamashita, 2018, wood, single light source, and cast shadow © Kumi Yamashita; Photo: Ryo Sekimura

birminghamparent.com | 57

sept/oct calendar Orchestra musicians will play a selection that the whole family will love! A kid zone, crafts and more. Tickets, information, www. alabamasymphony.org.

Southern Women’s Show 10am-7pm, BJCC. Shop, sample and have fun! Three-day event.

Tickets, information, https:// southernshows.com.

October

47th Annual Birmingham Greek Festival 10:30am-10pm, Holy Trinity-Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Cathedral.

Delicious cuisine, music, dancing and more. Information, www. birminghamgreekfestival.net.

3 Thursday

47th Annual Birmingham Greek Festival 10:30am-10pm, Holy Trinity-Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Cathedral.

Delicious cuisine, music, dancing and more. Information, www. birminghamgreekfestival.net.

4 Friday Southern Women’s Show 10am-8pm, BJCC. Shop, sample and have fun! Three-day event.

Tickets, information, https:// southernshows.com.

Sky,” a musical journey through vibrant dreams and the night stars to a new sunrise. The performance provides materials to help plan the visit, quiet rooms, fun family programming and accessible seating. Scholarships available for those in need; tickets, info, 205-314-6936, www.alabamasymphony.org.

25 Wednesday ASO Presents Explorer Concerts 9:30am, 11am, Northpark Baptist, Trussville. Concerts for the kids, led by Kevin Fitzgerald! Dance through different countries. Tickets $6 per seat. 205-975-2787.

26 Thursday ASO Presents Explorer Concerts 9:30am, 11am, Dawson Family of Faith. Concerts for the kids, led by Kevin Fitzgerald! Dance through different countries. Tickets $6 per seat. 205-975-2787.

27 Friday ASO Presents Explorer Concerts 9:30-11am, Dawson Family of Faith. Concerts for the kids, led by Kevin Fitzgerald! Dance through different countries. Tickets $6 per seat. 205-975-2787.

My Favorite Poem 7-9pm, Alabama School of Fine Arts. In partnership with the Birmingham Arts Journal, the ASFA

Creative Writing Department and Reed Books, this event invites poetry lovers from throughout central Alabama to share their favorite poems. A reception follows the reading. FREE.

28 Saturday Pepper Place Market 7am-noon, Pepper Place. Three areas of tents with farmers, makers and food vendors, and live music. www.pepperplacemarket.com.

Southeastern Outings Potluck/ Kayak/Canoe/Dayhike 11:30am, Oak Mountain State Park. Information, 205-631-4680, dfred4@bellsouth.net.

Fiesta Noon-8pm, Linn Park, Birmingham. Alabama’s largest celebration of Hispanic culture and heritage. Admission, information, fiestabham.com.

29 Sunday

47th Annual Birmingham Greek Festival 10:30am-10pm, Holy Trinity-Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Cathedral.

Delicious cuisine, music, dancing and more. Information, www. birminghamgreekfestival.net.

Alabama Ballet presents Blue Suede Shoes 7:30pm, BJCC. Full-length ballet danced to 36 master recordings of Elvis Presley songs, combining classical dance with classic rock.

Tickets, https://alabamaballet.org.

6 Sunday Southern Women’s Show 10am-5pm, BJCC. Shop, sample and have fun! Three-day event.

Tickets, information, https:// southernshows.com.

Alabama Ballet presents Blue Suede Shoes 2:30pm, BJCC. Full-length ballet danced to 36 master recordings of Elvis Presley songs, combining classical dance with classic rock.

Tickets, https://alabamaballet.org.

7 Monday Knight Chess Tournament 5:30pm, Homewood Library. K-12 grades can learn strategy and fun! FREE.

5 Saturday

11 Friday

Pepper Place Market 7am-noon, Pepper Place. Three areas of tents with farmers, makers and food vendors, and live music. www.pepperplacemarket.com.

Sensory Storytime 9:30am, 10:30am, Homewood Library. Preschoolers. Register online, www.https://homewoodlibrary.org.

7th Annual Alabama Parkinson Fighter Walk and 5K 8am, UAB Campus Green. All net proceeds go to UAB Parkinson research. Family-friendly fun!

Southeastern Outings Dayhike 1:45pm, Black Creek Park, Fultondale. Walk on a rails-to-trails conversion route. Smooth trail, wide and level. Information, 205-6314680, seoutings@bellsouth.net.

Bluff Park Art Show 9am-5pm, Bluff Park Community Center. More than 150 artists attracts more than 10,000 people each year. FREE.

22nd Annual Symphony30 Picnic 4pm, Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Alabama Symphony

Bark in the Park 9am-2pm, Veterans Park, Alabaster. Benefiting Shelby Humane Society. Family-friendly activities!

FREE admission.

58 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

Alabama Ballet presents Blue Suede Shoes 2:30pm, 7:30pm, BJCC. Fulllength ballet danced to 36 master recordings of Elvis Presley songs, combining classical dance with classic rock. Tickets, https://alabamaballet.org.

12 Saturday Pepper Place Market 7am-noon, Pepper Place. Three areas of tents with farmers, makers and food vendors, and live music. www.pepperplacemarket.com.

Mt Laurel Fall Festival 10am-3pm, Town of Mt Laurel.

Information, 205-408-8696, www.mtlaurel.com.

13 Sunday Trucks by the Tracks 11am-5pm, Railroad Park. Food trucks serve up everything from poboys to ice cream!

18 Friday

21 Monday

ASFA Theatre Arts Presents: Almost, Maine 7pm, Alabama School of Fine Arts. This play is the school’s fall mainstage production.

The play by John Cariani features nine vignettes about love. It is the most produced play in North American high schools and the best new play written in 2006. Tickets $10 adults, $5 students.

Teen CPR and First Aid Training 4-6pm, Homewood Library.

Learn life-saving skills.

Non-certified workshop offered by the Homewood Fire Department. Register online at https://homewood. libnet.info. FREE.

19 Saturday Pepper Place Market 7am-noon, Pepper Place.

Three areas of tents with farmers, makers and food vendors, and live music. www. pepperplacemarket.com.

ASFA Open House 9am, 10am, 11am, Alabama School of Fine Arts. All interested students and their families are welcome to come to a session to visit and learn about the school. ASFA is a public, tuition-free magnet school for grades 7-12 with specialty study in creative writing, dance, math/science, music, theatre arts and visual arts. No reservations needed. www.asfa.k12.al.us.

ASFA Theatre Arts Presents: Almost, Maine 7pm, Alabama School of Fine Arts, see October 18.

20 Sunday Barktoberfest Noon-4pm, Helena Amphitheatre. Fun for the whole family!

An adoption center, kids zone, low cost vaccines and microchips, bounce house and more! FREE admission.

ASFA Theatre Arts Presents: Almost, Maine 2:30pm, Alabama School of Fine Arts, see October 18.

Special Siblings 3:30-4:30pm, Homewood Library. K-12 grades. This support group for siblings of special needs children is a place to share ideas, experiences and the ever-changing needs of having a sibling with special needs.

24 Thursday UAB Neuroscience Café 6:30-8pm, Homewood Library. FREE.

25 Friday Pig Iron BBQ Challenge Hoover Met RV Park, 100 Ben Chapman Drive, Hoover. One of Birmingham’s oldest BBQ competitions benefits Children’s Harbor, which provides children with serious illnesses and their families a place to be themselves and have fun, while also receiving no-cost services. For more information, go to www.childrensharbor.com.

Ghostbusters in Concert 7pm, Samford University Wright Center. Join the Alabama Symphony Orchestra for this fantastic concert! Erik Ochsner, conductor. Tickets, information, https://alabamasymphony.org.

26 Saturday Owl-O-Ween 11am-2pm, Alabama Wildlife Center. Children’s games, crafts, story time and much more! FREE after paid admission to Oak Mountain State Park.

Pepper Place Market 7am-noon, Pepper Place.

Three areas of tents with farmers, makers and food vendors, and live music. www.pepperplacemarket.com.

31 Thursday

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events & attractions

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute n Aldridge Botanical Gardens

n Birmingham

n Heart of Dixie

3530 Lorna Road, Hoover.

205-682-8019, www.aldridgegardens.com

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

205-328-9696, www.bcri.org

n Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame

n Birmingham

Railroad Museum • Pumpkin Patch Express! Ride the vintage train Saturdays in October, 10am, 1pm, and 3pm; and on Sundays in October, 1pm and 3pm. Tickets, information, www.hodrrm.org.

1919 Ninth St., Calera. 205-6683435, www.hodrrm.org

1631 Fourth Ave. N., Birmingham.

205-254-2731, www.jazzhall.com

n Alabama School of Fine Arts 1800 Rev. Abraham Woods, Jr. Blvd.

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

n Alabama Wildlife Center 100 Terrace Drive, Pelham.

205-663-7930. www.awrc.org

n American Village Highway 119, Montevallo.

205-665-3535, www.americanvillage.org

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

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

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

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

• Bart’s Books. A storytelling program for children ages 4-7.

2000 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd., Birmingham. 205-2542565, www.artsbma.org

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

n Birmingham Zoo • Boo at the Zoo! In October!

In-park Special Attractions: • Special Saturdays. On the second Saturday of each month from 10-11am for ages 8-up, the Birmingham Zoo and KultureCity presents a series of zoo-based learning experiences for children and adolescents with cognitive or physical disabilities. Caregivers must attend all classes.

FREE; space is limited to 10 students per class. Information, Roger Torbert, rtorbert@birminghamzoo.com.

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

60 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

mentary comes to McWane!

Immerse yourself in 1969 when mankind took a giant leap into the future.

200 19th St. N., Birmingham.

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

n Moss Rock Preserve Preserve Parkway, Hoover.

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

n Jefferson County

n Oak Mountain State Park

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

200 Terrace Drive, Pelham.

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

n McWane Science Center • Bionic Me. Explore the inventive and ingenious medical and industrial breakthroughs that have helped the human experience! Hands-on and full-body experiences. Through September 2.

• Home School Day. Every first Monday of the month, special programs, live science demonstrations and more are presented! Special pricing for home schoolers and their parents.

IMAX Movies: • Oceans. Science and technology have allowed us to go further into the unknown than we ever thought possible.

• Superpower Dogs. In this inspiring true story, follow remarkable dogs who save lives and discover the powerful bond they share with their human partners.

• Apollo 11: First Steps Edition.

The highly-anticipated docu-

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

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

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

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

205-833-8226, www.southernmuseumofflight.org

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

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

A COMMUNITY BUILT ON WARMTH We never forget that there’s more to care than medicine. There’s compassion. Attentiveness.

And a healthy dose of kindness. Which is why when it comes to your care, all of us are here to treat you well.

Find a physician at BrookwoodBaptistHealth.com

To us every baby is a special delivery.

Coming in the November/December issue of

BIRMINGHAM PARENT!

Our Private School Directory The Winners of our Favorite Kids Docs National Adoption Month Stranger Danger? It’s More about Secret Keeping Danger Our 2019 Holiday Gift Guide Much more!

To place an advertisement in this issue, contact us by October 15 at 205-624-2405 or info@birminghamparent.com

birminghamparent.com | 61

PARE N T I N G PE O PL E

Oak Mountain Missions: Helping People Who Have Lost All

By Lori Chandler Pruitt

Lynda Staley always knew that many people are in need. But it wasn’t until she started volunteering at Oak Mountain Missions nearly five years ago that she understood it completely.

“You think everything is fine, and you find out it isn’t,” Staley says. “The need is so great – it breaks my heart. There are many people who aren’t mentally or physically capable of getting jobs, there are women and children in shelters who have lost everything. Many families and veterans need help.”

Oak Mountain Missions, a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit, provides food, clothes, household items, furniture and some financial assistance

to individuals and families who are referred to them by about 35 approved agencies that include faith-based agencies, domestic violence centers, homeless shelters, social service agencies and veterans’ groups, Staley explains.

Some area churches also financially support the ministry each month.

Roddy Cooper began the ministry in 2001, operating out of his garage and mini warehouse, then a facility in Riverchase, until the agency moved into a 10,000 square foot facility in Pelham. The facility has refrigeration and a pantry for food, rooms for clothes, a warehouse and prayer room.

62 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

The mission runs on more than 300 volunteers and serves all ages, and the need in Jefferson and Shelby counties continues to grow. In 2018, the mission had 6,490 interactions with families for assistance; 5,354 instances where monthly supplies of food, toiletries and groceries were provided; 1,846 visits for clothing; $67,364 in financial assistance for utilities, rent, medical expenses and gasoline; and 450 children in Shelby County had gifts under their tree at Christmas, just to name a few of the mission’s benefits to others.

About 39 percent of those helped are 18 and under, and 17 percent are 60 and over, Staley says. “We have shut-in clients who we deliver food to; some are eligible for 30 days’ worth of food at a time,” Staley says. “We pick up items and we do deliver many items to eligible clients. We have a waiting list of veterans who need furniture, and we have a truck that will pick up donations, like furniture, household items, appliances and more.”

Depending on resources, the agency might also provide diapers, wipes, school supplies for Shelby County students, automobiles, computers, adult pull-ups and car seats, Staley says. “We always need volunteers as well,” she says.

September is a very special month for Oak Mountain Missions. The 13th Annual Harvest of Hope, the agency’s only fundraiser, is scheduled for Tuesday, September 10 at The Club, with a silent auction beginning at 10 a.m. and a luncheon/program beginning at 11:30 a.m. Ashley Curry, mayor of Vestavia Hills will speak, and Janet Hall of Fox 6 News is mistress of ceremonies. The fundraiser makes up 30 percent of the missions’ annual budget.

Reservations are required; register as a table of eight or individually. To make reservations or for more information, call 205-685-5757 or go to https://oakmtnmissions.com.

Lori Chandler Pruitt is associate editor of Birmingham Parent.

SEAT BELT LAW

Section 32-5B-4 r cars at occupants of passenge Requirement of front se ions of certain persons. pt em ex ; lts be ty fe sa ar to we pant of a passenger car (a) Each front seat occu th ty belts in compliance wi manufactured with safe fety Standard No. 208 Federal Motor Vehicle Sa operly fastened about his shall have a safety belt pr e vehicle is in motion. body at all times when th n (a) shall not apply to: tio ec bs su of s on isi ov pr (b) The der the purview of Section (1) A child passenger un r d to use a child passenge 32-5-222, who is require ion at belt pursuant to Sect restraint system or a se 32-5-222. ses a ssenger car who posses pa a of nt pa cu oc An ) (2 a licensed physician that written statement from edical reasons to wear a he or she is unable for m safety belt. al of the United States Post (3) A rural letter carrier l his or her duties as a rura Service while performing letter carrier. or r delivering newspapers ge en ss pa or r ive dr A ) (4 e. mail from house to hous ar enger car with model ye (5) Passengers in a pass prior to 1965. vehicles which normally (6) Passengers in motor operate in reverse.

483, ยง4.)

(Acts 1991, No. 91-255, p.

This project was supported

by Subgrant #19-OP-M1-007 awarded by the Law Enforcement/Traffic Safety Division of ADECA and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

ASE VISIT: LE P , N IO T A M R FO IN FOR MORE atbelts.html se n/ tio en ev pr ry ju /in ov alabamapublichealth.g

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

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

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

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

To schedule a tour, call 1-844-GMC-DOCS.

3690 Grandview Parkway Birmingham, AL 35243

Look Forward.