Birmingham Parent Magazine June 2015 Issue

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THE PREMIER PARENTING MAGAZINE FOR CENTRAL ALABAMA

JUNE 2015

FATHER KNOWS BEST:

Birmingham Dads Celebrate Father’s Day

BIG BIRTHDAY PARTY ISSUE THE

8 TIPS

for Saving on Birthday Gifts

DOUBLE UP ULTIMATE BIRTHDAY

PARTY GUIDE PAGE 13

on Birthday Fun

KEEP IT SIMPLE:

Have a Party Away from Home

Let's get this party started!!

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5405 Beacon Drive • Irondale, AL 205-745-1487 • www.grantsmillstation.com

2 | birminghamparent | june 2015

Family Camp & Events STRENGTHEN YOUR FAMILY & MARRIAGE Questions? Call 888.794.2918

Register NOW at DeerRunRetreat.org/upcomingevents

FAMILY CAMP

JULY 26-29

VETERAN’S PARK

HOOVER Every Friday night starting May 29th 6:30PM Papa John’s will be on site serving pizzas, snacks & cold drinks Let the kids enjoy the Benton Nissan Kid’s Zone with moonbounce, face painting and balloon art dusk Enjoy a family-friendly feature film on our 30’ wide movie screen

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For complete movie line up visit MyFoxAL.com

AUG 21-23 K

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SEPT 18-20

win great prizes Visit Alagasco’s Facebook page for weekly chances to win The Good Heat VIP seat package! facebook.com/alagasco Like Papa Johns at facebook.com/papajohnscentralalabama for your chance to win your very own Backyard Movie & Papa John’s Pizza Party to be given away at the last FOX6 Free Friday Flick

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NOV 20-22 DEEPER FAITH. GREATER ADVENTURES.

For weather updates affecting a movie @BYMovieParties or at facebook.com/freefridayflicks

Rain date: July 31st

birminghamparent.com | 3

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

editorial Publishers David & Carol Evans Editor Carol Muse Evans Associate Editor Lori Chandler Pruitt Office Assistant Bethany Adams Hunley Calendar Lori Chandler Pruitt Contributors Charles Ghigna, Dr. Vivian Friedman, Kerrie McLoughlin, Ginny Cooper McCarley, Leah Ingram Eagle, Malia Jacobson

Birmingham Parent Brings Home First Place Award for Publication Editing Birmingham Parent recently won first place in the Alabama Media Professionals’ (www.alabamamediaprofessionals.com/) Communications Contest 2014 in the category, “publication regularly edited by entrant.” This is a statewide award, and now Birmingham Parent’s entry goes on to the national affiliate, the National Federation of Press Women (www.nfpw.org), both organizations of which publisher/editor Carol Muse Evans is a member. Also receiving awards for this honor is co-publisher David Evans, Associate Editor/Calendar Editor Lori Chandler Pruitt and Art Director Hilary Moreno.

We are excited to see our hard work and commitment to great stories, both in content and the nuts and bolts of writing, be honored. So often in this business people point out your errors, and it’s nice to be recognized for quality work. Thank you to our advertisers, who make our publication possible each month, and to our loyal readers, who are faithfully picking up the magazine and following it each month, as well as keeping us on our toes! We always strive to give you quality editorial from accomplished, qualified writers, and we hope the attention to detail in the writing, editing and graphics shows our continuing commitment to a quality publication.

This Month in Birmingham Parent This month, we’ve moved our annual birthday party issue to June, while our Family Favorites Awards will appear next month in the July issue. We hope this will help you start the summer with a “bang” for all your summer parties, from birthdays to team parties, to other summer holidays.

Be sure to use our great directory from BirthdaysinBirmingham.com, and you can always access it on their website, too. We’ve also got some great stories about having those parties – and ways to be prepared for all the parties to which your child is invited throughout the year.

Don’t miss our Father’s Day roundup of area fathers and what being a father means to them.

Families come in all shapes and sizes – and these dads share from the heart with us this month.

Happy Summer!

Carol Muse Evans, Publisher/Editor carol@birminghamparent.com Member of Alabama Media Professionals and the National Federation of Press Women 4 | birminghamparent | june 2015

sales Account Executive Kayla Fricks Webmaster Digital Doo-Wop

art & production Art Director Hilary Moreno Distribution T&P Deliveries Legal Counsel Balch & Bingham LLP

BIRMINGHAM PARENT IS A PUBLICATION OF EVANS PUBLISHING, LLC. Publishers: Carol Muse Evans, David K. Evans Sr. Birmingham Parent (EIN20-0694149) is published monthly by Evans Publishing LLC. www.birminghamparent.com or editor@birminghamparent.com. Birmingham Parent is © 2013 by Evans Publishing LLC. Family Connections Media ©2011 by Evans Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Editorial submissions are welcome. For back issues, please send a self-addressed 10” x 13” envelope with $4 for postage and handling.

CAHABA HEIGHTS CRESTLINE PARK GREYSTONE HOMEWOOD HOOVER INVERNESS THE NARROWS OAK MOUNTAIN VESTAVIA

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

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

Camp Sumatanga Camps for all ages including grandparents & children!

Only 50 miles north of Birmingham

Adventure activities

www.sumatanga.org Serving families for over 60 years

Horse camps

3616 Sumatanga Rd. Gallant, AL 35972 (256) 538-9860 info@sumatanga.org

birminghamparent.com | 5

table of contents FREE

THE PREMIER PARENTING MAGAZINE FOR CENTRAL ALABAMA

JUNE 2015

30

FATHER KNOWS BEST:

Birmingham Dads Celebrate Father’s Day

BIG PARTY ISSUE THE

BIRTHDAY

8 TIPS

for Saving on Birthday Gifts

DOUBLE UP ULTIMATE BIRTHDAY

PARTY GUIDE PAGE 13

on Birthday Fun

KEEP IT SIMPLE:

Have a Party Away from Home

20 18 22

departments Note 04 Editor’s Birmingham Parent Brings Home First Place Award for Publication Editing

22

KEEP IT SIMPLE:

Planning a Birthday Party Away from Home

Illustration by Melissa Schultz-Jones

07

Parenting with Dr. Friedman

8 Short Stuff 0 10 School News 2015 33 June Calendar of Events Party: 38 Poetry Riddle Rhymes

features

18 & ME 26 BABY The Bathtub is a Baby’s Sensory Playground

20

13 Birmingham Parent’s Ultimate Birthday Party Guide 2015

Double Up on Birthday Fun: Pair Parties for More Fun and Less Work

8 Tips for Saving on Birthday Gifts

ON THE COVER: JOSIAH, age 22 months, is the COVER SEARCH WINNER for the ages 0-2 category from our 2014-2015 Search. He is celebrating his future birthday in the new Itty Bitty Magic City exhibit at McWane Science Center, now open for ages Kindergarten and under. PHOTO BY Visual Arts by Jessica,205-396-9090, www.visualartsbyjessica.com.

6 | birminghamparent | june 2015

KNOWS BEST: 30 FATHER Birmingham Dads Celebrate Father’s Day

parenting

Parenting with Dr. Friedman

Q:

I picked my granddaughter up from a junior high school dance last week. I was amazed at what the girls were wearing. Their clothes were so tight that I am surprised that the seams don’t pop when they breathe. Don’t these girls realize that they are putting themselves in danger? Why do the parents let their daughters out the door dressed to seduce?

Not all teens are the same. Teenagers run the full spectrum just as adults do.

If you observe a middle school dance, you will see many students who look like children, some who look like teenagers, and a few who look like fashion magazine models dressed to seduce.

The early teen years are a time of exploration. Boys figure out how to be boys and girls figure out how to be girls. They practice male and female roles, including how to attract friends of the opposite sex. A school dance is a time for teens to take on adult roles in a safe place. They are comfortable practicing in a place where they know that even if they take a small risk, they will be protected by their environment.

During the school day, dress codes lessen the opportunity to dress seductively. This is not to say that girls don’t wear tight jeans and fitted shirts to school, but school dances provide an opportunity that is still within the safety of the school but just enough outside it to push the limits and practice being grown up.

Most school dances are heavily supervised. There are chaperones at every entrance and students are typically not allowed to leave the dance except with the parent who is taking them home. The girls can play seductive without really meaning to be seduced. They have no intent to put themselves in danger but they are flattered by the boys’ attention. They are dependent upon the school rules and those of their parents to keep them safe while they push the limits. It is our job as parents to keep boundaries in place, but not necessarily to fail to allow them to explore at all.

Part of your concern about seductive dress is generational. The meaning of tight clothing today is not the same as it was in your time. When one girl dresses seductively she stands out from the norm. When the majority does, it does not communicate the same thing.

Parents do need to know what their children are wearing and where they are going. Parents do need to make sure that their children do not go

outside the boundary of good taste or that they communicate more than they intended to say. Teens lack perspective and adult maturity and experience is needed to provide this. The job of the parent is to teach the underlying principles of social communication and social propriety.

Seduction is not entirely a negative thing. It is probably an asset for a girl to learn how to attract the man of her dreams as long as she does this without putting herself in danger by suggesting more than she means. The child without social and flirtatious skills is at a disadvantage. Most parents worry just as much about a girl who does not care about how she looks or dresses.

Like in most things, the key is to find that middle ground.

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.

When you imagine their future - Imagine a beautiful smile!

Three convenient locations to serve you!

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Great smiles for children... and Mom & Dad Too!

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short stuff

North Alabama Barbecue Trail App Released

Ashley DeRamus receives National Down Syndrome Society Award Hoover resident also will represent clothing line Hoover resident Ashley DeRamus, founder of the Ashley DeRamus Foundation, a local charity founded and dedicated to the education, advancement and quality lifestyle of children and adults with Down syndrome, recently received the Self-Advocate of the Year Champion of Change Award by the National Down Syndrome Society.

DeRamus also has been named a spokesperson for Adorn Fashion in Atlanta. In partnership with DeRamus, Adorn will manufacture new designs for Ashley by Design, DeRamus’s clothing line, and Adorn Kids will launch a clothing line for children with Down syndrome.

“We are excited about partnering with Ashley and her wonderful foundation,” says Hema Pandaya, president of Adorn Fashion. “She is a talented designer with a keen eye for fashion, and we can’t wait to help her expand into children’s clothing.”

Founded by DeRamus and her mother, Connie DeRamus, Ashley by Design specializes in clothing specifically tailored for individuals with Down syndrome – a perfect fit that is hard to achieve off the rack. The designs also may be purchased at www.ashleybydesign.com.

The best places to enjoy North Alabama’s famous, slow-cooked barbecue is now just a click away with the recent release of the free North Alabama Barbecue Trail app for smart phones.

The trail, created by The Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association (AMLA), features 15 North Alabama barbecue restaurants known for serving up tasty, traditional southern barbecue. The app spotlights these restaurants along with having information about North Alabama barbecue festivals and a selection of family recipes for side dishes.

Festivals included on the app include the Cotton Pickin’ BBQ

Hoover High School Girl Scout earns Gold Award

Cookoff in May in Hartselle, the Decatur Jaycees Riverfest BBQ Festival in September in Decatur, and the Whistle Stop Festival in Huntsville in May. Cowboy Baked Beans, coleslaw and potato salad recipes are also shown in the app.

For more information about travel destinations and festivals in North Alabama, visit www.NorthAlabama.org.

Maggie Benson, a senior at Hoover High School, recently earned the Girl Scout Gold Award. Benson earned her Gold Award for her project, Backpacks for the Homeless. The project benefitted the homeless population of downtown Birmingham. Backpacks contained care supplies and included a list of places that offer assistance coping with and getting out of homelessness.

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2804 John Hawkins Pkwy, Suite 100, Hoover, AL 35244

Local Family Chosen for White House Easter Egg Roll this Spring

PHOTO COURTESY OF IESHA BYERS

Two-year-old Mason Byers of Birmingham was recently a visitor at the White House in Washington, D.C. for the Annual Easter Egg Roll.

Mason, his mom Iesha Byers and Brenda Sims Parker (Mason’s godmother) of Birmingham were chosen when Byers entered the public lottery for the 137th Annual Easter Egg Roll and was randomly selected from among more than 300,000 applicants. Only 35,000 guests were allowed, so Byers said they were beyond thrilled to be chosen.

Despite the honor, Byers had to pay for the trip, but says it was the event of a lifetime. “I had help, as I created a go-fund-me account for the trip,” Byers explains. “Mason raised more than $800. This meant a lot as I have read the lottery is very hard to win.

“We will remember this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I will be able to share it with Mason through stories and the many pictures that I have – as he says, he went to the Obama White House for Easter all the time,” she laughs.

Though they did not get to meet the president or first lady, Byers says they enjoyed the cartoon characters, performances, celebrities, the famous egg roll, story time, face painting and more.

Fun-filled summers start here. We have something for everyone from Fishing and Chess to Art and Sports.

Camp Dates: June 1st-July 31st.

Entering Kindergarten through 8th Grade Contact Gabe McCool at gmccool@highlandsschool.org or (205) 956-9731 ext 105 . Located on Old Leeds Rd. (I-459 exit at Grants Mill Rd)

Dental Insurance providers for: BCBS of Alabama, Southland, MetLife, Delta Dental, Guardian, and United Concordia.

2045 BROOKWOOD MEDICAL CENTER DRIVE, STE 21 • BIRMINGHAM, AL 35209

(205) 870-0892 • DR. ANGELICA R. ROHNER • WWW.DRROHNER.COM birminghamparent.com | 9

school news

Corinne Phillips, 17 of Gardendale and Samuel Sherling, 12, of Greenville were honored for their outstanding volunteer service during the 20th annual presentation of The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards.

The two, along with 100 other top youth volunteers from across the country, each received $1,000 and personal congratulations from Good Morning America co-anchor Robin Roberts at an award ceremony and gala dinner reception held at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History. In additional to their cash awards, they also received an engraved silver medallion and an all-expense paid trip with a parent to Washington, DC for four days of recognition events.

Phillips, a junior at Hope Christian School in Pelham, has led a small army of volunteers in knitting more than 3,000 hats for premature babies and cancer patients through Hats for Health, an organization she founded almost five years ago.

Sherling, a sixth-grader at Fort Dale Academy, initiated a pen pal program in which his fifth-grade classmates wrote letters once a month to 40 local senior citizens to let them know the students cared about them and wanted to get to know them, with great results.

Junior Camp

dancers ages 8-12 June 22 - July 3

After three days of simulated congressional hearings that tested their knowledge of the U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights, Vestavia Hills High School students captured fifth place at the 28th Annual We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution National Finals.

Amy Maddox coaches the Vestavia Hills class, whose members include: Isabella Aldana, Tommy Archibald, Ankit Bansal, Olivia Brooks, Graziella Camata, Justin Chediak, Samuel Crawford, Haley Gentry, Lynn Han, Summer Harrison, Amelia Haston, Kathryn Jason, Charles Li, Jason Liu, Anna Michaels, Mia Owens, Lin Lin Pan, Karan Patel, Mark Philpot, Callie Simon, Alec Sitarz, Lillie Stephens, Philip Wang, Sophia Warner and Andrea Zhang.

Tutus & Tiaras

dancers ages 4-7 Session 1: July 20 - 24 Session 2: July 27- 31

Now Enrolling for the 2015-2016 School Year!

For more information call us at (205) 322-1874 or email libbaowen@alabamaballet.org 10 | birminghamparent | june 2015

Photo courtesy of ASFA

Alabama’s Top Youth Volunteers of 2015 Honored

Photo courtesy of Prudentia

Vestavia Hills High School Students Place Fifth in Nationwide Championship

From left: Katlin Minor, Nath Tumlin and Colby Hollman. (Not pictured Victor Sui)

ASFA Seniors Named National Merit Scholars Two Alabama School of Fine Arts seniors, Victor Sui and Nath Tumlin, have been named as finalists in the National Merit Scholarship Program. Both are students in the math/science department. They qualified from among more than 1.5 million entrants nationwide.

Katlin Minor and Colby Hollman, also seniors, have qualified as finalists in the National Achievement Scholarship Program.

Minor is a student in the math/science department and Hollman is a student in the Theater Arts department. They qualified as finalists from among more than 160,000 entrants from across the country.

Suddenly, you’re in a whole different state of “Today we’re mermaids.”

“We can almost see forever!”

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CELEBRATING YEARS OVER

34 FAMILY-OWNED & OPERATED

LIKE US ON

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TRAVEL

VOICE

BY BECKY

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

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

For more information, visit thetravelvoicebybecky.com

Learn about the weather with Charles Ghigna’s new board books!

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Celebrating over 20 years of blockbuster fun!

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You name it.

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ULTIMATE BIRTHDAY PARTY GUIDE

BIRMINGHAM PARENT’S ULTIMATE PARTY GUIDE 2015 Brought to you exclusively from www.birthdaysinbirmingham.com

DOODLES 3238 Cahaba Heights Road Vestavia Hills, AL 35243 205-478-6082 www.doodleshomemade sorbetsandices.com

Look no further when you need help planning your next party. Whether it’s the great child’s birthday party, a team party, a Sunday school party or even a party for adults, this guide from BirthdaysinBirmingham.com and Birmingham Parent is a guide you’ll want to keep at your fingertips all year long. And, you can always find more information, coupons and other specials at www.birminghamparent.com.

FIRST AVE. ROCKS 2417 First Ave. South Birmingham, AL 35233 205-320-2277 www.firstaverocks.com

BIRTHDAY PARTY PLACES

FORT RED ROCK PAINTBALL Mountaintop Industrial Dr. Bessemer, AL 35020 205-424-3223 www.fortredrock.com

A PLAY PLACE 3231 Veterans Circle Ste. 103 Birmingham, AL 35235 205-903-5845 www.aplayplace.com ADVENTURE PARK @ GRANTS MILLS STATION 5405 Beacon Drive Irondale, AL 35210 205-745-1487 www.grantsmillstation.com AIRWALK TRAMPOLINE ARENA 7010 Champion Blvd Birmingham, AL 35242 205-578-1907 www.airwalk.us AMY HEAD STUDIOS 2801 18th St. S., Ste. 101 Homewood, AL 35209 205-879-3418 www.amyhead.com BIRMINGHAM BARONS BASEBALL Regions Park 1401 1st Avenue South Birmingham, AL 35233 205-988-3200 www.barons.com BIRMINGHAM CHILDREN’S THEATRE Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex Birmingham, AL 35201 205-458-8899 www.bct123.org BIRMINGHAM MUSEUM OF ART www.artsbma.org 205-254-2565 BRICKS 4 KIDZ 2531 Meadowview Drive, Suite C Pelham, AL 35124 205-757-6827 www.bricks4kidz.com/hoover BRUNSWICK RIVERVIEW LANES 2908 Riverview Road Birmingham, AL 35242 205-991-3900 www.bowlbrunswick.com

BRUSTER’S REAL ICE CREAM 1008 Vestavia Parkway Vestavia Hills, AL 35216 205-978-2347 www.brusters.com BUILD-A-BEAR WORKSHOP 2000-111 Riverchase Galleria Birmingham, AL 35244 205-985-3250 Party Line 1-877-789-BEAR www.buildabear.com BUMPERNETS, INC. Riverchase Galleria Birmingham, AL 35244 205-987-2222 www.bumpernets.com CHILDREN’S DANCE FOUNDATION 1715 27th Court South Homewood, AL 35209 205-870-0073 www.childrensdancefoundation.org CHUCK E. CHEESE’S 500 Olde Town Road Vestavia Hills, AL 35216 205-979-3420 and 4647 Highway 280 South Birmingham, AL 35242 205-980-3266 www.chuckecheese.com

FUNTIME SKATE CENTER 3508 Decatur Highway Fultondale, AL 35068 205-631-9206 www.myskatecenter.com HEAD OVER HEELS GYMNASTICS 500 Caldwell Trace Birmingham, AL 35242 205-981-2720 www.headoverheelsgyms.com HEART OF DIXIE RAILROAD MUSEUM 1919 Ninth Street Calera, AL 35040 205-668-3435 www.HODRRM.org HIDDEN CREEK RANCH 701 Moss Rock Trail Sterrett, AL 35147 205-672-2701 www.hiddencreekranch.info ISPEAK BIRTHDAY FIESTA 2531 Meadowview Drive, Suite C Pelham, AL 35124 205-721-8876 www.ispeakwell.com

CORKY BELL DANCE STUDIO 4612 Gary Avenue Fairfield, AL 35064 205-787-5544 www.corkybelldance.com

JAMJEV GYMNASTICS 5539 Parkwood Circle Birmingham, AL 35022 205-426-6550 www.jamjevgymnastics.com

DESOTO CAVERNS FAMILY FUN PARK 5181 DeSoto Caverns Parkway Childersburg, AL 35044 1-800-933-2283 www.desotocavernspark.com

JAMZ SKATE CENTER 6505 E.Oliver Blvd.

Fairfield, AL 35064 205-788-4839 www.myskatecenter.com

DO-IT-YOURSELF CRAFTS 1909 Oxmoor Road Homewood, AL 35209 205-868-4346 and 1713 Montgomery Hwy South Hoover, AL 35244 205-988-9962 www.doityourselfcrafts.com

JOANN FABRIC AND CRAFT STORE 1709 Montgomery Highway Hoover, AL 35244 205-985-9291 www.joann.com KIDS-A-MILLION 757 Brookwood Village Birmingham, AL 35209 205-870-0213 www.booksamillion.com

LEGACY GYMNASTICS 188 Chandalar Place Drive Pelham, AL 35124 205-663-9015 www.legacygymnastics.com LEGACY LIMOUSINES Princess Party 205-655-4321 www.legacy-limousines.com LIFE TIME FITNESS 3051 Healthy Way Vestavia Hills, AL 35243 205-547-3149 www.lifetimefitness.com MCWANE SCIENCE CENTER 200 19th St. North Birmingham, AL 35203 205-714-8414 www.mcwane.org MERRIE PLAYERS, ASCENSION EPISCOPAL CHURCH 1912 Canyon Road Vestavia Hills, AL 35216 205-822-3480 MICHAELS ARTS AND CRAFTS 4 locations www.michaels.com MOMMY AND ME TIME FITNESS * 3295 Park Ridge Drive Homewood, AL 35209 * 452 Park Ave. Birmingham, AL 35226 * 225 Centerview Drive Birmingham, AL 35216 205-356-0374 www.mommyandmetime.com MOUNTAIN BROOK GYMNASTICS Mountain Brook, AL 35223 205-969-4889 www.mountainbrookgymnastics.com OAK MOUNTAIN LANES 300 Bowling Lane Pelham, AL 35124 205-403-7466 www.oakmountainlanes.com OAK MOUNTAIN PETTING ZOO Oak Mountain State Park Road Pelham, AL 35124 205-620-2524 www.alapark.com/oakmountain OAK MOUNTAIN STABLES Oak Mountain State Park Road Pelham, AL 35124 205-620-3575 OFF THE WALL 7001 Crestwood Blvd.

Birmingham, AL 35210 205-545-9932 www.otwatcrestwood.com birminghamparent.com | 13

ULTIMATE BIRTHDAY PARTY GUIDE

PARTIES ON THE MOVE 6251 Park South Dr. Bessemer, AL 35022 205-428-6684 www.partiesonthemove.com PELHAM CIVIC COMPLEX 500 Amphitheater Rd. Pelham, AL 35124 205-620-6448 www.pelhamciviccomplex.com PLAY GROUNDS 1005 Crossroads Plaza Drive Moody, AL 35004 205-640-2715 www.playgrounds.tv PLAY STATION 411 Watterson Lane Trussville, AL 35173 205-655-1800 www.trussvilleplaystation.com PUMP IT UP, PELHAM 2724 Chandalar Place Drive Pelham, AL 35124 205-663-4646 and PUMP IT UP, TRUSSVILLE 4623 Camp Coleman Rd Ste. 101 Trussville, AL 35173 205- 661-5557 www.pumpitupparty.com

SOUTHERN ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER Birmingham-Southern College 900 Arkadelphia Road Birmingham, AL 35254 205-226-4934 www.bsc.edu/sec/bday.cfm SOUTHERN MUSEUM OF FLIGHT 4343 73rd Street N. Birmingham, AL 35206 205- 833-8226 www.southernmuseumofflight.org SPARE TIME TRUSSVILLE 3600 Roosevelt Blvd.

Trussville, AL 35235 205- 655-4500 www.sparetimetrussville.com SPORTS BLAST 19220 Highway 280 Birmingham, AL 35242 205-980-1701 www.sportsblastsc.com SPRINGVILLE MOUNTAIN TRAIL 325 Fred Young Road Springville, AL 35146 205-467-2597 www.horserentals.com/ springmountaintrail.html

REGAL CINEMAS 5895 Trussville Crossings Pkwy Trussville, AL 35235 (205) 655-2875 www.regmovies.com

STARLITE FARM 1426 Blair Farms Rd Odenville, AL 35120 205-410-8965 www.starlitefarmalabama.com

ROLLER MOTION SKATE CENTER 2474 Morgan Road, SE Bessemer, AL 35022 205-424-7000 www.rollermotionskatecenter.com

STEEL CITY JUMP PARK 7001 Crestwood Blvd.

Birmingham, AL 35210 205-683-5867 www.steelcityjump.com

RUFFNER MOUNTAIN NATURE PRESERVE www.ruffnermountain.org 205-833-8264

STOMP N SHOUT 3945 Vanderbilt Road Birmingham, AL 35217 205-808-1234 www.stompnshout.com

SERENDIPITY SWEETS 2518 Rocky Ridge Road Vestavia Hills, AL 35243 205-834-8263 www.serendipity-sweets.com

SUPER BOWL 4416 Pinson Valley Parkway Pinson, AL 35215 205-854-9159 www.superbowlinglanes.com

SIPS N STROKES 5870 Trussville Crossings Pkwy Trussville, AL 35235 205-655-3958 www.sipsnstrokes.com

THE BIRMINGHAM ZOO 2630 Cahaba Road Birmingham, AL 35223 205-879-0409 ext.257 www.birminghamzoo.com

SKATES 280 7043 Meadowlark Drive Birmingham, AL 35242 205-991-3611 www.skates-280.com

TOTAL BASEBALL 115 Citation Court Homewood, AL 35209 205-941-0105 www.tomorrowsplayer.com

SLOSS FURNACES Twenty 32nd St. North Birmingham, AL 35222 205-324-1911 www.slossfurnaces.com

UAB CAMPUS RECREATION CENTER 1501 University Blvd.

Birmingham, AL 35294 www.uab.edu

14 | birminghamparent | june 2015

VESTAVIA BOWL 1429 Montgomery Highway Vestavia Hills, AL 35216 205-979-4420 www.vestaviabowl.com VICTORIOUS ZUMBA Vestavia-YMCA 2086 Columbiana Road Vestavia Hills, AL 35216 205-243-3270 www.torih.zumba.com VILLAGER YOGA 3150 Overton Road Mountain Brook, AL 35223 205-262-2012 www.villageryoga.com VISION GYMNASTICS 3314 Old Columbiana Road Hoover, AL 35226 205-979-7969 www.visiongymnastics.com VULCAN PARK & MUSEUM www.visitvulcan.com 205-933-1409 YMCA www.ymcabham.org

ENTERTAINMENT 6TH DAY CREATURES 205-585-3535 www.6thdaycreatures.com AMAZING FLYIN’ K9’S 205-616-7884 www.k9air.com AMERSON EVENTS 205-508-0525 www.amersonevents.com AN ART AFFAIR 205-907-3442 www.haveanartaffair.com ANTIQUE FIRE TRUCK PARTY 205-478-6082 www.doodleshomemade sorbetsandices.com ARCH DUNCAN, MAGICIAN 205-823-5574 www.archduncanmagic.com AURAHOOPS 205-362-1548 AVALANCHE DELIGHTS 205-994-5964 www.avdelights.com BACKYARD MOVIE PARTIES 205-595-3549 www.backyardmovieparties.com BIG SAM THE BALLOON MAN 256-454-4181 www.bigsamtheballoonman.com

BOBBY T TANORY ENTERTAINMENT 205-991-7000 www.thebobbyTshow.com CARICATURES BY TIM ROCKS 205-351-6580 www.timrocksart.com CLOWN N’ SMORE CLOWNS 205-515-4751 CLOWNIN’ AROUND 205-854-4417 www.clownin-around.net CREATED BY YOU, LLC 205-317-9452 www.artyoucreate.org DIAL-A-PONY 205-616-5322 DISCO HRISTO PRODUCTIONS 205-356-1199 DREAMCAKES 205-871-9377 www.dreamcakes-bakery.com ED’S PET WORLD 205-879-1331 www.edspetworld.org THE FACE PAINTING FAIRY facebook.com/ thefacepaintingfairy 205-527-2134 FEEL THE BEAT ENTERTAINMENT 205-678-0845 www.feelthebeatentertainment.com FIVE POINTS CARRIAGE 205-243-9770 FUNNY FACE 205-616-5485 GAME TRUCK 888-602-4263 www.gametruckparty.com GLOIE’S FUN PARTIES AND FACES 205-222-6250 GOODIES ICE CREAM TRUCK 205-849-5646 HANSEL & GRETTEL TIE-DYES 205-969-3026 HOLY COW ICE CREAM 205-908-8399 HOOP FOR FITNESS 205-515-3010 www.hoopforfitnessbham.com

“BRING A BUDDY”

LEARN TO

PLAY ICE

HOCKEY Learn the basic skills needed to ice skate including balance, agility, stopping and turning. Then progress into stick handling skills, shooting, passing and hockey concepts relative to beginning players.

HOST YOUR AT VULCAN VISITVULCAN.COM 1701 Valley View Dr | Birmingham, AL 35209 205.933.1409 | event@visitvulcan.com

CHILD & ADULT CLASSES AVAILABLE Wednesday Nights 6:15pm- 7:00pm

CALL TODAY FOR CLASS SCHEDULE & REGISTRATION contact Director of Hockey - Randy Murphy randy@pelhamonline.com or 256.348.7984

PELHAM CIVIC COMPLEX & ICE ARENA 500 AMPHITHEATER RD . PELHAM, AL 35124 Every participant who “brings a buddy”will receive 50% OFF registration as will your buddy! birminghamparent.com | 15

ULTIMATE BIRTHDAY PARTY GUIDE

OUR MUSEUM YOUR CHILD’S

PARTY! The BEST play and the BEST assistant mean the BEST birthday party EVER! Partygoers party first, then stay and play in the museum!

PICK A PERFECT PALACE PARTY OR A THEME PARTY WHERE WILL YOUR CHILD CELEBRATE THEIR NEXT BIRTHDAY?

Carla (205)349-4235 carla@chomonline.org

2213 UNIVERSITY BLVD.

www.chomonline.org

IDLEWILD ADVENTURE COMPANY 205-861-7260 www.goidlewild.com JAMM ENTERTAINMENT SERVICES 205-856-5266 www.jamm.net KIDVID 205-621-0940 www.thekidvid.com

LARRY MOORE, THE MAGIC MAN 205-497-3229

SKIN & BONES’ COMEDY CIRCUS 205-472-2708

FUN MASTERS, LLC 205-937-1769 www.funmastersllc.net

LEGACY LIMOUSINES Princess Party 205-655-4321 www.legacy-limousines.com

SPACE AIR AIRBRUSHING 205-540-5872

FUN SOURCE, INC. 205-854-2022 www.funsourceinc.com

MAGIC BY KEVIN 205-663-6702 www.alabamaillusions.com MAGIC CITY FACE ART 205-613-0443 www.magiccityfaceart.com

MOMMY AND ME TIME FITNESS 205-356-0374 www.mommyandmetime.com MUSICAL BIRTHDAY PARTIES 205-222-9224

Now Enrolling!

Fun for ages 5 – 10.

Primrose School at Liberty Park 205.969.8202 ©2015 Primrose School Franchising Company.

16 | birminghamparent | june 2015

BUMPER NETS, INC. Riverchase Galleria Birmingham, Alabama 35244 205-987-2222 www.bumpernets.com CARNIVAL PARTY RENTALS 205-276-7481 www.carnival-party-rentals.com

MISS LISA’S STORY TIMES 205-870-7198 www.lisahicksstoryteller. bravesites.com

•••••

PUTTIN’ ON THE RITZ DJ SERVICE 205-410-5236 www.puttinontheritzdjservice. com RHYTHM N’ MOTION DANCE PARTY 205.578.2324 www.bhamdance.com

MALLISHAM’S GLASS SLIPPER CARRIAGE TOURS 205-345-8496 mallishamcarriagetours.com

THIS SUMMER, IMAGINATIONS TAKE FLIGHT.

PONIES 4 PARTIES 205-665-4683

ALABAMA RENTALS 2005 Old Montgomery Highway Hoover, AL 35244 205-985-9877 www.alabama-rentals.com

KONA ICE 205-908-6365 www.kona-ice.com

MAGIC CITY TINK 205-259-6664

•••••

PARTY SAFARI BY DEBRA 205-902-2915

NDB ENTERTAINMENT www.ndbentertainment.com NOLA ICE 205-381-7869 www.nola-ice.com P. STUDIOS 205-721-8684 www.youtube.com/MrPstudios PAINTED PERSONALITIES 205-907-0747 www.paintedpersonalities.com PARTY BOUTIQUE KIDS 301-728-6833 serving the Birmingham area

STARSHINE FACES 256-504-5977 www.starshinefaces.com

HORSE CREEK FUN 205-648-4290 www.horsecreekfun.com

STEVE AND LUCY’S PARTY PONIES 205-681-9506 205-283-8337

JUMP ‘N HIGH INFLATABLES 205-568-2274 www.jumpnhigh.com

THE ENCHANTED PRINCESSES 205-240-9905

LARRY’S LIMOUSINES 205-629-6642 www.larryslimos.com

THE LITTLE RED HEN 205-532-6101 www.thelittleredhen.biz

LEGACY LIMOUSINES, LLC 205-655-4321 www.legacy-limousines.com

THE EVERYDAY ARTIST 205-907-0116 www.everydayartist.net

PARTY SUPPLIES

THE SCIENCE LADY 205-213-0631 www.dynamiceducationadventures.com TUMBLEBUS 256-207-5496 www.tumblebusal.com VERNA GATES, STORYTELLER 205-540-6642 www.vernagates.com

ANN’S BALLOONS & FLOWERS 1125 Elizabeth Avenue Birmingham, AL 35217 205-841-4196 www.annsballoonsandflowers.com HOMEWOOD TOY & HOBBY 2830 18th Street South Homewood, AL 35209 205-879-3986 www.homewoodtoy-hobby.com

WE DRAW YOU! 205-914-8228 www.wedrawyou.com

MICHAELS ARTS AND CRAFTS 3 locations www.michaels.com

WE GOT GAMES 205-283-2828 www.wegotgamesbham.com

PARTY CITY 3 locations www.partycity.com

RENTALS

PARTY TIME 1021 Montgomery Highway Vestavia Hills, AL 35216 205-823-6332 www.turnerrental.com

A BIRTHDAY PLACE (online sales with local pickup) 1005 Commerce Blvd.

Pelham AL 35124 205-637-0010 www.store.abirthdayplace.com

POPPYSEED PAPER 205-874-6077 www.poppyseedpaper.com

Birthdays in Birmingham SMITH’S VARIETY 2715 Culver Road Birmingham, AL 35223 205-871-0841 SWOOZIES 305A Summit Blvd.

Birmingham, AL 35243 205-968-3458 www.swoozies.com THE INVITATION PLACE, INC. 3150 Overton Road Birmingham, AL 35243 205-970-3970 THE SCRIBBLER 2919 Linden Avenue Homewood, AL 35209 205-271-8135 www.scribblerpink.com VILLAGE PRESS 2710 Cahaba Road Mountain Brook, AL 35223 205-871-5498

CAKES EDGAR’S OLD STYLE BAKERY 4 locations 205-987-0790 www.edgarsbakery.com K & J’S ELEGANT PASTRIES Alabaster, AL 35007 205-663-4827 www.kjselegantpastries.com POSH CAKE DESIGNS 205-304-1718 www.poshcakedesigns.com ROYALTY PASTRIES 331 Scotland Drive Hueytown, AL 35023 205-999-7460

FACILITIES ALDRIDGE BOTANICAL GARDENS 3530 Lorna Road Hoover, AL 35216 205-682-8019 www.aldridgegardens.com B & A WAREHOUSE 1531 First Avenue South Birmingham, AL 35233 205-326-4220 www.bawarehouse.com IZ THE PLACE 3325 Rocky Ridge Road Vestavia Hills, AL 35243 205-979-7522 www.everythingiz.com

JACOB’S CORNER 105-A Plaza Circle Alabaster, AL 35007 205-406-8000 www.jacobscornerevents.com

Your local birthday party resource Loved by Parents since 1997

MCWANE SCIENCE CENTER 200 19th Street North Birmingham, AL 35203 205-714-8414 www.mcwane.org PARK CREST EVENT FACILITY 2030 Little Valley Road Hoover, AL 35216 205-822-7275 www.parkcrestevents.com ROSEWOOD HALL 2850 19th Street South Homewood, AL 35209 205-332-6119 www.rosewoodhall.com SLOSS FURNACES Twenty 32nd Street North Birmingham, AL 35222 205-324-1911 www.slossfurnaces.com THE AVON THEATER 2829 7th Avenue South Birmingham, AL 35233 205-529-3939 www.redmountainchurch.org

birthdaysinbirmingham.com Places to Go  Entertainment Party Supplies & Rentals  Facilities  Coupons

THE GASLIGHT HOUSE 8066 Helena Road Pelham, AL 35124 205-733-1951 www.gaslighthouse.com THE HILL EVENT CENTER AT THE ALABAMA THEATRE 1811 3rd Avenue North Birmingham, AL 35203 205-252-2262 www.hilleventcenter.com THE STAR LIGHT HOUSE 2001 Linden Avenue Homewood, AL 35209 205-871-9950 www.thestarlighthouse. yolasite.com VULCAN PARK AND MUSEUM 1701 Valley View Drive Homewood, AL 35209 205-933-1409 www.visitvulcan.com WOODROW HALL 5504 1st Avenue North Birmingham, AL 35212 205-599-2160 www.woodrowhall.com WORKPLAY 500 23rd Street South Birmingham, AL 35233 205-879-4773 www.workplay.com

Looking for a fun place to throw your next

Birthday Party?

Admission, animal encounters, cake, drinks, carousel ride, train ride and more for up to 25 people are included. Members receive special discounts. For more information and details, call or go online today!

205.879.0409 ext. 257 www.birminghamzoo.com/events/ birthday-parties birminghamparent.com | 17

ULTIMATE BIRTHDAY PARTY GUIDE

DOUBLE UP ON BIRTHDAY FUN:

Pair Parties for More Fun and Less Work

By Malia Jacobson

For a double scoop of fun at your child’s next birthday, why not host a dual party? Combined parties for siblings, cousins, or friends with close birthdays are a growing trend, says Marnie Ann Pacino, author and illustrator of Cool Party, Mom! The Other Three Words Every Mother Loves to Hear. With kids’ parties becoming bigger, grander affairs, double parties let moms share the workload and the expense of birthday festivities.

Why share the work and the cost? Because birthday parties are a much bigger deal than they used to be, says Pacino. “Between decorations, invites, favors, activities, and food, it can be exhausting and expensive. Who wouldn’t love some help running errands, cleaning up and footing the bill?”

Double parties don’t just benefit parents. For kids, a combined party often means a bigger party with more guests. “A potato sack race with 20 kids is bound to produce more giggles than the same race with 10 kids!” notes Pacino.

Shared parties are also convenient for invitees’ parents. Kathleen Yarbro combined birthday parties for Lilly, 3, and Chloe, 1, into one celebration because the girls’ birthdays are 10 days apart. “Most of the families we’d invite were the same for both girls,” she says. “It made more sense to invite them all at once, instead of asking them to come over two weekends in a row.”

Think a double-decker party might work for your family? Here’s how to host a sweet soiree that your child (or children) will cherish for years.

GET INPUT

The first step to a successful double party: Ask the kids involved if it’s what they want (if kids are too young to ask, it’s probably a safe bet that they don’t mind sharing the spotlight). Parents shouldn’t assume that all kids want a combined party. And some children with very different temperaments – one who’s a scene-stealer, and another who’s more retiring, for example –may not make compatible party mates. If the guests of honor are on board, give both kids equal say in planning decisions.

THEME SCHEME

If the birthday kids can’t agree on a theme, don’t choose. Let each child pick a theme, and use both.

When Christy Ramersrus hosted a double party for her two children, Joslyn, 7, chose a pony theme, while Carson, 4, picked Thomas the Tank Engine.

The family had separate decorations and a cake for each child in different rooms of the house. The theme combination was eclectic, Ramersrus admits, but the arrangement kept her kids happy and their guests entertained.

18 | birminghamparent | june 2015

DOUBLE THE FUN WITH THESE JOINT PARTY THEMES:

GIFT GUIDELINES

Buying double the birthday gifts can cause sticker shock for some guests. To ensure that people aren’t disinclined from attending because of the burden of purchasing two gifts, consider specifying simple gifts, or setting a no-gift policy.

Book exchanges, where each guest brings a book to exchange in lieu of a gift, are a popular way to skirt the gift issue.

Harry Potter and Hermione Emmett and Wildstyle from the Lego Movie Phineas and Ferb Thing 1 and Thing 2 Dora and Diego Noah’s Ark

SOLO SPOTLIGHT

Even at a combined party, kids should still feel special at their birthday shindig. Two birthday cakes are a must, as well as taking turns being first during games and activities. At the Yarbro party, each girl got their own rendition of the “Happy Birthday” song and sat in a seat of honor to open gifts.

Double parties can be a blast, but they’re not for everyone, Pacino notes. Sibling rivalry can be intense during certain times in a child’s development – do parents want to put up with more sibling bickering during what’s supposed to be a fun event? Solo birthday parties also give kids in large families a rare chance to be the center of attention.

But for many kids, double parties mean double the fun. So set a budget, set realistic expectations, get both birthday kids involved in planning, and get ready for a double-dose of frosting-fueled birthday memories.

Princess and Knight Cowboy and Cowgirl Peter Pan and Tinkerbell Max and Ruby Humpty Dumpty and Little Miss Muffet Spiderman and Batman Sugar and Spice Source: Marnie Ann Pacino, author and illustrator of Cool Party, Mom! The Other Three Words Every Mother Loves to Hear.

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ULTIMATE BIRTHDAY PARTY GUIDE

8

TIPS FOR SAVING ON BIRTHDAY GIFTS

By Kerrie McLoughlin

I don’t know about you, but it seems like I’m always toting my kids to a birthday party. Buying all those gifts can be a real budget buster, and nobody wants to go into credit card debt trying to impress little kids (and their parents!) with lavish gifts. Below are some money-savings tips to save hundreds of dollars every year on birthday party presents.

20 | birminghamparent | june 2015

CHECK YOUR BUDGET. This will be harder for some of you than for others, but I promise if you stop worrying about what other people think, you will automatically save some serious cash. Focus on your own finances, and spend only what you can afford.

PLAN AHEAD. Make a list of upcoming birthdays and parties, and factor

in several last-minute invitations you hadn’t counted on. Computer-savvy mommas can set up a spreadsheet, but notebook paper also works just fine. If you have gifts ahead of time, you’re likely to spend less on a last-minute present.

STOCK UP. Stocking up on gifts saves money on gas because you aren’t running to the store every time you get a birthday party invitation. I also tend to spend more when my own kids are with me helping me to pick out a present for their friend. It’s so comforting to know you have a stockpile of gifts in a big plastic tub somewhere for any birthday party invitation that may come your kid’s way. What to stock up on, you ask? Read on …

KNOW WHAT A KID WANTS. Some classic, frugal gift ideas for kids of different ages include: stickers, crayons, sketch pads, baby dolls, Barbies, balls, puzzles, small cars, beads with string, lacing kits, Legos, tea sets, dinosaurs, Perler beads, DVDs and books.

FIND THE DEALS. Look at thrift stores, garage sales, consignment shops andwww.Craigslist.com because usually a kid doesn’t care if something is USED as long as it is USEFUL to them. For new items, check back-to-school sales, sales after school has been in session a couple of weeks and going-out-of-business sales (think of the huge book store that just folded and the savings that were to be had!). There’s a large department store chain (hint: it has a bull’s-eye logo) that has great $1 stocking stuffer-type items year-round.

GET CRAFTY. The day after Thanksgiving I ventured out to our local huge craft store, armed with a 50 percent off coupon. I stocked up on about 20 sets of the following: 3 bottles of paint, a pack of paintbrushes 10 wooden magnets in different animal shapes. I spent about $5 per set and had the perfect rainy-day craft gift for just about any kid.

CARD TRICK. I haven’t bought a greeting card for a child in 10 years because

they are expensive, and they just get thrown away (or recycled, as in my house)!

I used to make my own cards for kid parties, but then my own kids started wanting to do it. You can go old school and use construction paper, or have your kids make a card on the computer.

WRAP IT UP. If you have gift bags lying around the house, use them up! I’ve been known to put birthday gifts in Christmas gift bags — year-round — and have never had a kid complain. Otherwise, you can wrap gifts in the Sunday comics section of the newspaper or have your kids decorate plain copy paper with markers, stickers and rubber stamps.

Kerrie McLoughlin has a blast raising her 5 kids on a budget.

For more frugal living ideas, head toTheKerrieShow.com.

ACADEMY OF THE ARTS AT SAMFORD UNIVERSITY presents

SUMMER MUS C AND ART CAMPS taught by experienced faculty and staff

ART

June 8–12 (grades 6–8) June 22–26 (grades 1–5)

Adventures in Music

June 15–19 (piano only) July 6–10 (piano and voice)

All Aboard for Music July 13–17

726-4049 or 726-2739 www.samford.edu/academy-of-the-arts

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

COME DANCE WITH US!

Located off Hwy 31 in Vestavia BDT SUMMER CAMP SCHEDULE Call or go online for info and registration JUNE 1- 4 Princess Camp - Ages 3-6 Cheer Camp - Ages 3-18 Hip Hop Camp - Ages 5-18 June 8 & 10 and June 15 & 17 Summer Jamm for Tots - Ages 2-5 June 8-11 Tots in Motion - Ages 2-4 June 15-18 Pop Star Camp - Ages 4-6 July 7-9 Twilight Tots - Ages 2-6 July 27-30 Tiny Tumblers - Ages 2-4 Acro Camp - Ages 5-18 July 28-30 Technique Camp All Company Levels SUMMER INTENSIVE Ballet, jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Clogging Call for class times!

BOOK YOUR BDT DANCE PARTY TODAY! Are you looking for a fun way to celebrate your child’s birthday?

BDT is proud to host dance themed birthday parties for girls and boys of any age! We can take care of all the hard work while you sit back & enjoy!

H 2 hour time slot H 45 minutes of themed dance instruction H Instructor and music H Tables, chairs and clean-up H We can provide cake, candles, beverages & favors THEME IDEAS: Little Ballerina • Princess • Hip Hop Black Light • Tiny Tumblers M-Th 11am - 7pm F 11am- 3pm 205-822-3012 Visit us at www.bdtdance.com birminghamparent.com | 21

ULTIMATE BIRTHDAY PARTY GUIDE

Illustration by Melissa Schultz-Jones

KEEP IT SIMPLE: Planning a Birthday Party Away from Home

By Leah Ingram Eagle

22 | birminghamparent | june 2015

Planning your child’s birthday party can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. If you want to skip the work of a party at your home, another option is to have it at a venue where someone else handles everything for you.

One of the biggest advantages of having a party away from home is less stress.

Instead of getting all wrapped up in planning and preparing, parents can just relax and enjoy their child’s party. Other perks are more space, on-site entertainment and having everything. This way, you don’t have to clean your house before guests arrive and after they leave.

There are many options around the Birmingham area that offer all kinds of activities. From dance and gymnastics, to skating and bowling, to pottery and art, and indoor inflatables and trampoline arenas, you’re sure to find something your child will enjoy. Many of these venues offer complete packages that include everything from the invitations and paper products, to food and cake, so you just bring the birthday girl or boy and have fun!

COST OF HOME VS. AWAY

First, compare the cost of a home party vs. an outside venue.

There may not be a big difference. After buying the cake, food, decorations, party favors and other items, it can add up to the same or more than what you’d pay at a party venue. “We really don’t have any surprises with our parties,” says Nicki Mewbourne, owner of Pump It Up in Trussville. “We are pretty much cut and dry for what our offerings are. Everybody wants to know about pricing. The most important things to ask are, ‘What does the facility provide in each type of package? What if something happens and I need to reschedule? And is my party private?’”

HOW TO CHOOSE A VENUE

Next, choose a venue. Think about what kind of place would be best suited for your child and their age. If they’re old enough, ask for their input. When choosing a venue, make a list of places your family likes to go and check and see if they have a party package. Make sure to ask about the menu and cost per person. If the weather is nice, a party at the park could be a fun option. For example, Hoover Parks & Recreation takes reservations for Veterans Park off Valleydale Road up to three months in advance, says Jackie Tortomasi of Hoover Parks & Recreation. All other Hoover parks are first come, first served.

“We rent to residents of Hoover or Shelby County,” Tortomasi says. “Just bring your own stuff and clean up afterwards.”

Call the venue in plenty of time. Planning should begin at least six weeks before your child’s birthday. Places can book up to several months in advance, especially if you want a Saturday, so don’t wait until the last minute to call for availability. If your child’s birthday falls within the school year, it may be easier to have the party on a weekend.

However, if it’s during winter break, spring break or summer, you could opt for a weekday party, where some places offer less expensive rates.

Also, you may want to determine the guest list in advance, so you can know if the party is affordable for your guest list, or if you may need to adjust to fit your budget.

ASK THOSE ALL-IMPORTANT QUESTIONS ABOUT CONTRACTS AND MONEY

Will your party be private, or will there be other people in the venue? Will an employee be on hand to help serve during the party? Does each child have to have an adult with them? Are tips requested or allowed? What is the suggested age range for the party? Do they require a deposit, and when is the final payment due? What if you have to cancel because of illness or family emergency? If the party is outdoors, what is the back-up plan?

Magic City Face Art

Venues may have a limit on the number of attendees, and charge extra per child if it’s more than their package caters to. Invite fewer guests if your child prefers a smaller group. And remember, the more guests, the more the party will cost and the more hectic it will be. Always get a written agreement and cost from the venue. Make sure to read the fine print and don’t forget about the sales tax.

“It’s always nice if parents ask how long the party is and the party room time,” says Heather Holmes, owner of Pump it Up in Pelham. “That way they know what to expect are are not surprised the day of the party.... and always ask about outside food because there are some restrictions.”

FIND OUT WHAT’S INCLUDED & WHAT YOU CAN BRING IN

Megan Smith, birthday party coordinator at McWane Science Center, says parents also need to ask what outside items may be brought in and decoration restrictions. And Connie Buse, front office manager at the Pelham Civic Complex, is often asked the temperature inside the arena, how guests should dress and package rates, including skate rental.

About three to four weeks before the party, send the invitations, either by mail, e-mail or hand delivery. It’s best not to hand out invitations at school if

FACE PAINTING AT ITS FINES T

Planning ideas with a thorough list of questions to ask: www.babycenter.in/ a1021296/hostingyour-childs-birthdayparty-away-from-home A great party checklist: www.realsimple.com/ holidays-entertaining/ birthdays/childs-awayhome-party-checklist

not inviting the entire class, so others don’t feel left out. Make sure the invitations have all the important details including the date, start and end time, location and address, RSVP information, special instructions (dress up, what food will be served) and directions.

About a week before the party, check your RSVPs, call the venue and confirm a final number of attendees, and get ready to have fun!

Leah Ingram Eagle is a Birmingham freelance writer.

Nurturing the Mind, Body & Spirit of Every Child Preschool for ages 6 weeks through 4K. We also have a 5K program using the same curriculum as Trussville City Schools.

205-613-0443 www.magiccityfaceart.com

MORE IDEAS:

M-F 7:30 am–4pm 2-day, 3-day, 4-day, or 5-day programs available

5700 Deerfoot Pkwy, near I-59, exit 143, Trussville, AL Sandy Jenkins, WEE Director 205.352.4020 sjenkins@northparkbc.org mynoahspark.com

A Ministry of NorthPark Baptist Church birminghamparent.com | 23

It’s all about happy, healthy kids!

BIRMINGHAM PARENT’S

2015 happyhealthykidsfair2014 Presented by RIVERCHASE GALLERIA, Birmingham

AUG 8th SATURDAY

10-4

GREAT GIVEAWAYS, FACE PAINTING WITH FACE PAINTING FAIRY ALL DAY AND MAGIC CITY FACE & BODY ART FROM 10AM-2PM. GREAT VENDORS WITH HEALTH, EXERCISE, EDUCATION, SPORTS, EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES, LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT AND MORE CHILDREN’S OF ALABAMA

I F Y O U A R E I N T E R S T E D I N B E I N G PA R T O F H A P P Y H E A LT H Y K I D S FA I R 2 0 15 C O N TA C T 2 0 5 - 9 8 7-7 7 0 0 O R I N F O @ B I R M I N G H A M PA R E N T. C O M

24 | birminghamparent | june 2015

BIRMINGHAM PARENT’S

20 20 UNDER

wild

west

day!

satur day, july 25th Train departures at 10am, 1pm, & 3pm

DO YOU KNOW AN AREA YOUTH WHO DESERVES RECOGNITION FOR HIS OR HER ACHIEVEMENTS? Recognizing outstanding youths in our community in arts, sports, community service, and innovation.

NOMINATIONS ARE NOW OPEN! Visit http://birminghamparent.com/ content/20-under-20-nominations.html

Where all the dental needs of your child can be met under one roof!

Dr. Olga SanchezHernandez is dual trained as a pediatric dentist and a board certified orthodontist

SERVICES INCLUDE:

★ Dentistry for children and adolescents

★ Dentistry for patients with disabilities

Travel back to the 1800s and experience life in the Wild West! Enjoy a train ride through the forests of Shelby County, but hang on to your gold and valuables just in case yer waylaid by desperados! The Black Hat Gang is known to hold up this train! Enjoy live music by Riverboat John. Bring your camera for photos with the outlaws!

for tickets and information:

www.HODRRM.org or 205.757.8383

Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum ★ 1919 9th St., Calera, AL 35040

★ Orthodontics for

children and adults

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baby & me

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

The Bathtub is a Baby’s Sensory Playground From bath time to bedtime, there are a number of rituals parents participate in with their children that bring them closer together.

These small acts provide a sense of security to little ones and serve as family bonding time.

However, many parents do not realize these everyday moments can be more impactful than they seem.

A recent Johnson’s Global Bath Time Report found that 84 percent of parents say bath time is some of the best quality time they get with their child, yet many parents underestimate its power and benefits. In fact, more than half of parents (58 percent) say bath time is not extremely important to their child’s brain development. Yet, emerging and foundational science reveals multi-sensorial experiences such as bath time can be critical to baby’s happy, healthy development.

During the first three years of life, 85 percent of baby’s brain is formed. Researchers have found that during the formative first years of life – every interaction – every 26 | birminghamparent | june 2015

moment – is an opportunity to help shape baby’s developing brain.

Bath time is more than cleansing; it’s a ritual that allows parents to unlock the full power of baby’s senses with opportunities to use smell, touch, sight and sound. Make bath time mean more with these fun ideas: Don’t leave out the bubbles: Playing with bubbles can help babies develop hand-eye coordination and discover objects exist even when they can’t be seen.

Be a rock star for the night: Play music and sing songs during bath time, which can stimulate parts of the brain responsible for memory. Did you know that playing certain types of music stimulates parts of the brain responsible for visual imagery?

Give a language lesson in the tub: Talk back and forth with baby during this time. It can help with language development.

Link smell with happy memories: Pleasant smells, like those from a fragranced bath product, can create long lasting memories for baby when paired with the loving interaction of a parent.

Another big part of the after-bath routine is routine massage, and research shows that babies who receive routine touch and massage are more likely to make eye contact and have an overall positive expression. According to the report, only 19 percent of parents in the U.S. understand that baby massages are extremely important to their child’s brain development with nearly three in 10 (28 percent) saying it’s not at all important. Yet, this skin-on-skin contact through routine massage can lead to improved cognitive development and increased alertness and attentiveness for children.

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father’s day

FATHER KNOWS BEST: Birmingham Dads Celebrate Father’s Day Father’s Day often plays second fiddle to its May counterpart – the tradition was not declared an official holiday until nearly 50 years after Mother’s Day became a routine celebration. However, for many dads in the Birmingham area, fatherhood is an all-encompassing trek through the joys of life and love, and Father’s Day is a great opportunity to celebrate their role.

KENNETH PASCHAL “Father’s Day was meant to honor and celebrate men and the loving bond they share with their kids. For many men though, Father’s Day is just a reminder of time lost and bonds that have been broken due to divorce, custody issues and parental alienation,” says Kenneth Paschal of the Alabama Family Rights Association (AFRA). “Despite my devotion to fatherhood, I have only seen my daughter Abby once since 2011. She and I are among the thousands of children and parents (approximately 40,000 each year) who are pulled apart due to the lack of support our government body and the current family court system offers to divorcing families. The trauma this creates for these kids is immeasurable. For me, “Father’s Day” has become a reminder of the pain that losing the relationship with my daughter has caused me, but it also keeps me fighting the good fight and encouraging others to do the same. I am determined to convince our lawmakers of our State’s need to implement child custody laws that protect our parent/child relationships and enable ALL children to freely love both parents.”

“Even though my daughter can’t reciprocate, I still send and show her UNCONDITIONAL LOVE,” Paschal adds. “I keep telling other dads and moms the same. Don’t ever give up on them! Take this day to rejoice and remember the love and joy you have shared with them. Take comfort in knowing that one day nothing will be able to keep you apart from one another.”

TAYLOR HOLLINGSWORTH “You can think about it and try to prepare yourself as much as you want, but your entire perspective on life changes when that little life is handed into your arms,” says Birmingham-based musician Taylor Hollingsworth of the indie rock band Dead Fingers. He adds that some of the most unexpected changes were the “infinite amount of time, love, worries, and doubts,” involved in raising a child. He and his wife Kate Taylor, also of the band, often take their 2-year-old daughter, Ava, on tour.

28 | birminghamparent | june 2015

“I keep telling other dads and moms don’t ever give up on them! Take this day to rejoice and remember the love and joy you have shared with them.” — Kenneth Paschal

RICK BURGESS “The best part of being a father is to be able to try to teach (your kids),” says Rick Burgess, co-host of the Rick & Bubba Show. “I love that, to be able to instill wisdom in them. We do get kind of a pass to be, as my wife says, the ‘fun parent.’ Those are some of my favorite moments, when my kids are laughing at their daddy.” Burgess also understands the importance of being the spiritual leader of the home. “(I tell my kids) ‘If you’re a warrior for Christ, then I’m proud of you. The beautiful thing about that is that it simplifies things.”

“The best part of being a father is to be able to try to teach (your kids),” says Rick Burgess, co-host of the Rick & Bubba Show. “I love that, to be able to instill wisdom in them.”

BEN SMOLIN “It fulfills you and completes you in a way,” says Ben Smolin, leader of Birmingham-based band Ocean Liner and father of 18-month-old Sage Elizabeth. “I don’t really even understand everything. It only gets better.”

NEVILLE BAAY “I really enjoy cooking with the kids,” says Neville Baay, head chef and co-owner of the popular Birmingham restaurants El Barrio and Paramount.

His children Maddie, 11, and Asher, 8 enjoy the kitchen as well. He also has noticed how much easier it is to be altruistic. “Once you have children, you suddenly realize how easy it is to be selfless, how enjoyable it is to be selfless.”

“Once you have children, you suddenly realize how easy it is to be selfless, how enjoyable it is to be selfless.” — Neville Baay birminghamparent.com | 29

“Right now (the best thing about being a dad) is certainly the memory of being a young father and having good boys,” Hale says, noting his success as a dad was due to the support system of his JEFFERSON COUNTY SHERIFF MIKE HALE Hale kept his granddaughter, Ella Grace, in the administrative office for six months while his wife underwent chemotherapy for breast cancer. She made “better men out of us all. She calls (everyone in the office) her uncles,” Hale laughs. The memory of being a father to his three boys, all of whom are now fathers themselves, is a lasting source of joy. “Right now (the best thing about being a dad) is certainly the memory of being a young father and having good boys,” Hale says, noting his success as a dad was due to the support system of his family and church. Hale’s own father, who routinely showered his family with hugs and kisses, was one of the role models who shaped Hale’s experience as a dad. “My dad was just a good, good man. I got to hear him pray, I got to see him be a witness. I got raised in a family of love,” Hale says.

family and church.

Bussey is not worried about the particulars of his Father’s Day celebration, as long as there is family and laughter. “Those are the things you remember. I just like Father’s Day because I get to pick where to eat and what to do and no one can really say anything about it.”

BILL “BUBBA” BUSSEY Bill “Bubba” Bussey, co-host of the Rick & Bubba Show says instilling Christian principles in his children, Hunter, 17, and Katelyn, 15, is a vital part of being a father. “I want them to have a good Christian base, and know their relationship with God is the most important thing,” Bussey says.

For fathers across the Birmingham area, the ideal Father’s Day looks fairly similar: Lots of good food, family, and fun. “The kids enjoy cooking – or trying to cook - and they bring me breakfast in bed,” Baay says. “It’s great fun, very relaxed and casual. I get to pretend to be the boss for the day.”

Sheriff Hale’s family also gathers around a delicious meal to celebrate the holiday. “They all come over and they all come bearing gifts,” Hale says. “We usually have an ultra-big family dinner.”

Bussey is not worried about the particulars of his Father’s Day celebration, as long as there is family and laughter. “Those are the things you remember,” Bussey says. “I just like Father’s Day because I get to pick where to eat and what to do and no one can really say anything about it.”

Carol Muse Evans, Lori Chandler Pruitt and Ginny McCarley contributed to this story.

30 | birminghamparent | june 2015

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june highlights

Calendar sponsored by

IT’S TIME FOR SUMMER READING!!

PHOTO COURTESY OF ALBERT L SCOTT LIBRARY

Local libraries are ready to sign up kids for their summer reading program. Not only do kids get the chance to read a lot of wonderful books, summer reading programs also offer lots of special activities. For example, the Albert L. Scott Library in Alabaster will host a magic show (June 8, 10:30), juggling (June 8, 4pm), the Iron Giant Percussion Workshop (June 11, 4pm) and a comedy circus (June 15, 10:30am) and that’s just this month! Check with your local library to join in the fun!

Learn how to be safe around railroad tracks and trains at Rail Safety Day, 9am3pm at the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum, Calera. Exhibits, safety activities, train rides and more.

Sponsors include Alabama Operation Lifesaver, Alabama Department of Transportation, Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum. Information, www.hodrrm.org.

4

Come to Kelly Ingram Park in Birmingham for the 20th Annual Juneteenth Cultural Festival from 11am-8pm. The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute presents this oldest known celebration commemorating the ending of slavery in the United States, dating back to June 19, 1865. Event celebrates liberty and justice for all cultures. Information, 205-3289696, x234, bcri.org.

6

Kick off the summer in a big way with a weekend of concerts in Railroad Park!

The Alabama Symphony Orchestra presents Symphony in the Summer, June 5 and 6 at 8pm and June 7 at 6pm. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets. FREE.

5-7

Celebrate Father’s Day with the Birmingham Zoo! On Sunday, June 21, dads can get in free at the zoo with the purchase of a full-price child’s admission ticket!

21

4

birminghamparent.com | 33

calendar

Calendar sponsored by

Presented by Birmingham Park and Recreation Board. 205254-2391. FREE. Hoofin’ It 5K/10K Trail Run 8-11am, Indian Springs School.

Benefits Special Equestrians.

Registration $30; day of race, $35. 205-987-9462, www. specialequest.org.

PHOTO COURTESY ALBERT L. SCOTT LIBRARY

42nd Annual Tannehill Gem, Mineral, Fossil and Jewelry Show 9am-5pm, Tannehill Historical Park, McCalla. Two-day event. Family-friendly fun.

Demonstrations, children’s activities, door prizes. Park admission only. 205-477-5711.

A summer of heroics and reading is in store for Alabaster’s children of all ages at the Albert L. Scott Library where they can become reading champions. Check with your local library for fun and activities – and summer programs for older kids!

1 MONDAY

5 FRIDAY

Real Life Heroes: Police Officers 10am, Powderly branch, Birmingham Public Library.

D-Day 2015: Honor and Remember 9:30am-noon, Berman Museum, Anniston. Help honor the “greatest generation” at the museum’s second annual D-Day remembrance event. FREE.

2 TUESDAY LEGO My Hero Family Night 6pm, Avondale branch, Birmingham Public Library.

4 THURSDAY Rail Safety Day 9am-3pm, Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum, Calera.

Exhibits, safety activities, train rides and more. Sponsors include Alabama Operation Lifesaver, Alabama Department of Transportation, Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum.

Information, www.hodrrm.org.

Alagasco presents Fox 6 Free Friday Flicks 6:30pm, Veterans Park, Hoover. Movie: Alexander and the Horrible No Good Very Bad Day. Come early and visit vendors, grab some food and have fun! Bring your blanket and enjoy a family-friendly film.

Enjoy a picnic with Papa John’s.

Rain date: July 31. For complete lineup, www.MyFoxAL.com.

BIRMINGHAM PARENT IS A SPONSOR. FREE.

Symphony in the Summer 8pm, Railroad Park. Kick off the summer in musical style! Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and be serenaded by the Alabama Symphony Orchestra.

FREE.

Alabaster CityFest 9am-11pm, Alabaster Municipal Park. One of the state’s premier family music festivals!

Live entertainment, KidsFest and more. FREE admission. www.alabastercityfest.com.

Hikes for Tykes with Fresh Air Family 10am, Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Fun and learning for preschool children and their families. www.freshairfamily. org. FREE.

Pepper Place Market 7am-noon, 1130 22nd St. S. Rain or shine. Fresh produce and much more.

Water, Water Everywhere!

10am-4pm, Children’s HandsOn Museum, Tuscaloosa. Join “Riverboat John” Ferguson as he tells musical stories about our rivers. Games and crafts. All activities included in admission. 205-349-4235, www.chomonline.org.

Family Fishing Rodeo 7am, East Lake Park, Birmingham. The largest community fishing event in the state! Enjoy fishing for tons of catfish, activities, information on local organizations, contests, giveaways, entertainment and more.

20th Annual Juneteenth Cultural Festival 11am-8pm, Kelly Ingram Park, Birmingham. The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute presents this oldest known celebration commemorating the ending of slavery in the United States, dating back to June 19, 1865.

6 SATURDAY

PLEASE NOTE: Events may change after publication deadline; please phone ahead to confirm important information. The deadline for submitting calendar items for the July 2015 issue is June 5. Mail calendar items to: Calendar, Birmingham Parent, 3590B Hwy 31 S #289, Pelham, AL 35124; fax to 987-7600; e-mail to calendar@ BirminghamParent.com; or enter directly to the online calendar at www.birminghamparent.com. Entries added online after the print deadline will not appear in the print version. Information cannot be accepted over the phone. Birmingham Parent publishes a calendar 11 times a year. January events are included in the December issue.

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

34 | birminghamparent | june 2015

calendar

Calendar sponsored by

Event celebrates liberty and justice for all cultures.

Information, 205-328-9696, x234, bcri.org.

Symphony in the Summer 8pm, Railroad Park, see June 5.

7 SUNDAY 42nd Annual Tannehill Gem, Mineral, Fossil and Jewelry Show 9am-5pm, Tannehill Historical Park, McCalla, see June 6.

Vulcan’s 111th Birthday Bash Noon-4pm, Vulcan Park and Museum.

The most anticipated birthday celebration in Birmingham! Lots of fun for all ages and of course, birthday refreshments!

Party admission $5. www.visitvulcan.com.

BIRMINGHAM PARENT SPONSORS. Symphony in the Summer 6pm, Railroad Park, see June 5.

8 MONDAY Maynard, Magic & Music Show 10:30am, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster.

205-664-6822.

Heroes of Juggling Show 4pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. 205-664-6822.

Discovery United Methodist VBS 5:30-8:30pm, Discovery United Methodist Church.

June 8-11. Theme: “Under Construction.” Age: 4 year olds through fifth grade.

Snack supper served.

Download registration form at www.discoveryumc.org.

Information, pharrison@ discoveryumc.org.

Sixth Avenue Baptist Church VBS 6-8pm, Sixth Avenue Baptist Church, 1101 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, SW.

June 8-12. Theme: “Journey Off the Map.” Ages K-adult.

Dinner served nightly at 4:30pm. Register at www. sixthavebaptist.com.

9 TUESDAY Lego League 4-4:45pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Kids of all ages can play! 205-6646822.

11 THURSDAY Iron Giant Percussion Concert & Workshop 4pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Sign up suggested if you want to make an instrument after the concert! 205-664-6822.

12 FRIDAY American Girls Save the Day! 2pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Sign up for this fun event! 205-664-6822.

Full Life Ahead Family Weekend 3pm Friday to 11:30am Sunday, Children’s Harbor, Lake Martin. Full Life takes families with teens and young adults who have disAbilities on family weekends! Special mix of fun, learning and sharing.

Teens and young adults have their own events and activities, and parents enjoy their own sessions.

Cost is $30 per person and includes meals, accommodations, programs and activities. Information, 205-439-6534, www.

FullLifeAhead.org.

Alagasco presents Fox 6 Free Friday Flicks 6:30pm, Veterans Park, Hoover. Movie: Strange Magic, see June 5.

BIRMINGHAM PARENT IS A SPONSOR. FREE.

13 SATURDAY Pepper Place Market 7am-noon, 1130 22nd St. South. Rain or shine. Fresh produce and much more.

Native American Festival 9am-5:30pm, DeSoto Caverns Family Fun Park, Childersburg. Two days of family-friendly fun.

800-933-2283, www.

DeSotoCavernsPark.com.

DENTISTRY FOR

CHILDREN & SPECIAL NEEDS PERSONS

5 Years of Primrose 10am-1pm, Primrose School at Liberty Park, 1800 Urban Center Pkwy. Vestavia Hills. Help celebrate their fifth anniversary. Crafts, storytelling, face painting and more. 205-969-8202, www.primroselibertypark.com.

Kids Ultimate Fitness Challenge 10am-6pm, UAB Campus Green. The nation’s largest fitness event traveling coast to coast dedicated to keep kids healthy and active.

Fun for the whole family!

Information, 205-489-8056.

FREE. Hikes for Tykes with Fresh Air Family 10am, Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Fun and learning for preschool children and their families. www. freshairfamily.org. FREE.

Dr. Tabitha Jarman Gatrey, DMD

5751 Pocahontas Rd. Suite B Bessemer, AL 35022 p 205-230-9000 f 205-230-0188

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Dairy Day 10am-4pm, Children’s Hands-On Museum, Tuscaloosa. Learn about cows and dairy. Make a cow mask, churn fresh butter and enjoy samples and ice cream floats. All activities covered in museum admission. 205-349-4235, www.chomonline.org.

14 SUNDAY Native American Festival 9am-5:30pm, DeSoto Caverns Family Fun Park, Childersburg, see June 13.

15 MONDAY Skin & Bones Comedy Circus 10:30am, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. 205-6646822.

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calendar The Arc of Shelby County Parent Workshop 6-8pm, The Arc of Shelby County. Parent educational workshops cover “real life” topics like safety, special needs financial planning and more. 205-664-9313, www. thearcof shelby.org. FREE.

16 TUESDAY Science Café presents: Alabama’s Amazing Biodiversity 6pm, science trivia, 6:30pm, speaker, John’s City Diner.

Learn from scientists in a laidback atmosphere! Speaker: Scot Duncan, Ph.D., assistant professor of biology and author at Birmingham-Southern College. www.mcwane.org/ event/science-cafe-10/.

19 FRIDAY Alagasco presents Fox 6 Free Friday Flicks 6:30pm, Veterans Park, Hoover. Movie: Annie (2014 version), see June 5.

Daddy/Daughter Dance 6:30-9pm, Inverness Vineyard Church. Enjoy this “Under the Sea” dance! $25 per couple ($3 per additional daughter) includes dinner, dancing and a photo booth. Register, 205-980-1690, Suzanne@ invernessvineyard.org.

20 SATURDAY Pepper Place Market 7am-noon, 1130 22nd St. South.

Rain or shine. Fresh produce and much more.

Calendar sponsored by

Southeastern Outings Kayak and Canoe Trip 9am, Elk River, Elkmont. Easy section on a scenic stretch of river. Novice canoeists welcome but must be partnered with an experienced canoeist in their boat. Children age 10 and over welcome.

Depart 9am from the Hayden/ Corner Park and Ride.

Reservations are required; call Dan Frederick for information about rentals and more. 205631-4680.

Hikes for Tykes with Fresh Air Family 10am, Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Fun and learning for preschool children and their families. www.freshairfamily. org. FREE. Zoo, Brews and Full Moon Bar-B-Que 5-8pm, Birmingham Zoo. Cheers to 60 years! During this family event enjoy live music

by The Whigs, Full Moon BarB-Que, brews by Good People Brewing Co., drinks, animal greetings and walkabouts, a bouncy castle, train rides and much more. All guests will receive a free memorabilia cup. All proceeds benefit the zoo’s animals and educational programming. Tickets, www. birminghamzoo.com.

21 SUNDAY

FATHER’S DAY

Father’s Day at the Zoo Birmingham Zoo. All dads get in free to the zoo on Father’s Day with the purchase of a fullprice child’s admission ticket.

The first 60 dads to enter the zoo will receive a free can koozie! Enjoy a fun family day! www.birminghamzoo.com.

24 WEDNESDAY Flicks Among the Flowers 6pm gates open, 8pm movie, Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Adult couples and friends are invited to the gardens for summer movies.

June movie: Ghostbusters.

Cash bar, movie-themed menu.

Bring your blanket. No pets or outside alcoholic beverages.

FREE admission.

26 FRIDAY Alagasco presents Fox 6 Free Friday Flicks 6:30pm, Veterans Park, Hoover. Movie: Maleficient, see June 5. BIRMINGHAM PARENT IS A SPONSOR. FREE.

advancement, education, health and well-being, healthy relationships, healthy parenting and self-advocacy.

Free lunch and childcare!

Register online at www. singlemothersempowerment.org.

Southeastern Outings River Float, Picnic, Swim 9am, Locust Fork River, Blount County. Well-behaved, properly supervised children age 8-up welcome, but parents responsible for all risks. Must be able to swim. Bring picnic lunch, sunscreen, towels, old sneakers; and inflatable vinyl float or air mattress. Depart 9am from the Cleveland, AL Chevron. For information on what type of float is allowed, directions and more, call Dan Frederick, 205-631-4680 or email seoutings@bellsouth.net.

Hikes for Tykes with Fresh Air Family 10am, Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Fun and learning for preschool children and their families. www.freshairfamily. org. FREE.

27 SATURDAY Pepper Place Market 7am-noon, 1130 22nd St. South.

Rain or shine. Fresh produce and much more.

Single Mothers Empowerment Conference: “Revive and Refresh” 9am-3pm, Drayton Nabors Event Center, McWane Science Center. Topics include budget management, career

29 MONDAY Superhero-Princess Tea Party 4pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Sign up for this fun event! 205-664-6822.

a ladies boutique with stylish and affordable fashion

Come see the latest in trendy clothing including Piko tops, tunics and other fashion must-haves, as well as fun jewelry and other accessories. Becky’s at Brookwood Village.

Find Becky’s on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BeckysGiftsAL $10 OFF a purchase of $50 or more.

One coupon/person. Does not apply to previous purchases, sale or clearance items. Expires 6.30.15.

36 | birminghamparent | june 2015

events & attractions

Calendar sponsored by

Aldridge Botanical Gardens Art in the Gardens. Some of the best artists in the country live right here in Alabama. Stroll through the gardens, see their works up close, and of course, shop! Close to 60 area artisans will compete for category and best of show awards in this juried open-air show that features only Alabama artists. This year expect to see painting, mixed media, jewelry, woodworking and more.

With both returning favorites and new talent in 2015, this is an opportunity to see new pieces and get original, one-of-a-kind works. 10am-4pm, June 13 and 14.

3530 Lorna Road, Hoover.

205-682-8019, www. aldridgegardens.com Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame 1631 Fourth Ave. N., Birmingham. 205-254-2731, www.jazzhall.com Alabama Sports Hall of Fame 2150 Richard Arrington Blvd. N., Birmingham. 323-6665, www. ashof.org Alabama Wildlife Center 100 Terrace Drive, Pelham.

205-663-7930. www.awrc.org Albert L Scott Alabaster Public Library Story Times: Tunes & Tales: Wednesdays at 3:30pm in Library Meeting Room, all ages Toddler Tales: Fridays at 10:30am in the Library Meeting Room, 2 and 3 year olds 100 9th Street NW, Alabaster, AL, 35007. 205-664-6822, www.cityofalabaster.com/ departments/library

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

Birmingham Children’s Theatre 1001 19th St. North, Birmingham, AL, 35203, 205-458-8181, www.bct123.org Birmingham Civil Rights Institute Selma to Montgomery: A March for the Right to Vote – Photographs by Spider Martin.

This collection chronicles the 1965 march which brought about the passage of the Voting Rights Act in August of that year. Woolfolk Gallery.

Through June 28.

16th St. N., Birmingham. 205328-9696, www.bcri.org Birmingham Museum of Art Family Tours in June: Flights of Fancy! Discover fantastical creatures in the exhibition, Between Fantasy and Reality: Frank Fleming and look for whimsy in the museum collection! Every Tuesday, 10:30am (and Saturday, June 6). FREE. Bart’s Art Cart in June: Play with Clay. Every Saturday, 11am.

FREE. 2000 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd., Birmingham. 205-2542565, www.artsbma.org Birmingham Zoo In-park Special Attractions Giraffe Feeding & Keeper Chat, Saturday & Sunday 11am-12pm & 2-3pm, $3. See Griffin, the first giraffe born in a North American accredited Zoo in 2014!

Sea Lion Training, Daily 10am & 2pm Predator Zone, Saturday & Sunday 11:30am & 3:30pm 2630 Cahaba Road, Birmingham. 205-879-0409, www.birminghamzoo.com Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum 1919 Ninth St., Calera. 205-6683435, www.hodrrm.org McWane Science Center TOYTOPIA. Stage Nine Exhibit Design presents this highly acclaimed exhibition.

TOYTOPIA is an immersive and interactive exhibition focusing on the various histories and legacies of toy makers throughout the past century

Vulcan Park & Museum will celebrate Vulcan’s 111th Birthday with a big party on June 7. Tickets are $5!

See more here: www.facebook.com/ visitvulcan

of toymaking. Learn about the origins of toys, who made them and why they are fun and dear to us. Through September 7. www.mcwane.org.

ITTY BITTY MAGIC CITY now open! For kindergarteners and younger, this new, permanent exhibit offers four major types of play: Physical play, exploratory play, constructive play and imaginative play. This hands-on exhibit features Main Street, Tot Spot, Water Play and much more.

IMAX Movies: Now showing: Mysteries of the Unseen World and Journey to Space.

Upcoming: Horses. Horses takes you on a spectacular journey through Argentina, British Columbia, Chile, Mexico, Morocco, Spain and Texas to meet vaqueros, gauchos, baqueanos and cowboys – all part of a single global horse culture, an unbroken trail stretching back 1,500 years.

Opens June 15.

Ocean Oasis. Ocean Oasis, a giant-screen film, is a fascinating journey into the bountiful seas and pristine

deserts of two remarkably different, but inextricably linked worlds — Mexico’s Sea of Cortés and the Baja California desert. Opens June 15.

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

Moss Rock Preserve Preserve Parkway, Hoover.

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

Oak Mountain State Park 200 Terrace Drive, Pelham.

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

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

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

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

205-833-8226, www. southernmuseumofflight.org Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park 12632 Confederate Parkway, McCalla. 205-477-5711, www. tannehill.org Vulcan Park 1701 Valley View Drive, Birmingham. 205-933-1409, www.vulcanpark.org birminghamparent.com | 37

poetry party

by Charles Ghigna

Riddle Rhymes I like riddles.

I like rhymes.

I like poemMaking times!

Look around.

What do you see?

A clock, a mirror, A bumblebee?

Pick an object.

Write it down.

Who can guess What you found!

Undercover Friend Here I sit Upon the shelf.

I’m not a toy.

I’m not an elf.

Yet I can take You faraway To anyplace, Night or day.

We’ll travel to Each foreign land, Yet I will stay Right in your hand.

My friends and I, You will see, Are full of facts And fantasy.

So pick me up And take a look.

Now you know-I am a BOOK!

High Flyer I fly above the tallest trees.

I’m not a bird or plane.

I have no wings or feathered things.

I do not like the rain.

I play among the passing clouds.

I like to rise and sail.

I am a friend who loves the wind.

I’m big and have a tail.

I like the gusty month of March.

I soar way out of sight.

My shape is like a diamond.

I am a brand-new KITE.

The Everlasting Light I shine forever free.

I do not cost a cent.

I need no bulb or battery.

My light is permanent.

You’ll find me way up in the sky, When each new day’s begun.

But do not look me in the eye-I am the shining SUN!

NOW YOU TRY IT! Writing Riddle Rhymes is easy and lots of fun!

Think of an object. Write down things about it in rhyme.

Those things will be clues so others can guess your object.

Put the name of your object at the end of your poem.

It will be the answer to your Riddle Rhyme!

Now comes the best part. Read them to your family and friends! and see who can guess your Riddle Rhymes before you get to the last line!

For more poetry activities, visit the Father Goose website at FatherGoose.com. Want to submit YOUR poems for publication? Parents, here are some magazines that publish poems written by children: http://www.ckmagazine.org • http://www.magicdragonmagazine.com, http://www. cricketmag.com 38 | birminghamparent | june 2015

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Photos Clockwise: General Jackson Showboat; Flamingo Lagoon at Nashville Zoo, by David Bailey; The Delta Riverboat; Delta Atrium at Gaylord Opryland; Atrium at Gaylord Opryland; Grand Ole Opry

W O N N! E P O

Join us for the opening of our newest addition, specially designed for our littlest visitors ages K and younger.

ON LEVEL THREE

Learn about the origins of toys, who made them & why we love them.

200 19th STREET NORTH • BIRMINGHAM, AL • (205) 714-8300 • WWW.MCWANE.ORG