Birmingham Parent Magazine - March 2014

THE PREMIER PARENTING MAGAZINE FOR CENTRAL ALABAMA

FREE

MARCH 2014

UCP

Serves Many Special Needs

beauty UNIQUE

Understanding Albinism OUR SEMI-ANNUAL

SPECIAL NEEDS DIRECTORY

MERCY FLIGHT:

Saving Lives One Flight At a Time

destination

MARCH 15, 2014 — 10am-3pm

HILTON SANDESTIN

Alabama Dance Academy’s Ballet Classique, Jazz and Lyrical Ensembles present the world premiere of

Aladdin La Bayadere excerpts and

Oak Mountain High School Theatre

Saturday, April 26th 2:00 and 7:30 performances All tickets $ 14.00 For tickets call 205-978-6830 or www.alabamadanceacademy.com MAGIC CARPET RIDE TEA PARTY with Jasmine and Aladdin at 1:00pm.

Tickets sold separately for $5.00 MENTION THIS AD AND BUY ONE TICKET AND GET ONE TICKET 50% OFF.

Alabama’s Premier Dance School 3221 Old Columbiana Road Hoover, AL 35226 SPONSORED BY

205-978-6830

www.alabamadanceacademy.com find us on Facebook: Alabama Dance Academy

CAHABA HEIGHTS CRESTLINE PARK GREYSTONE HOMEWOOD HOOVER 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.

T

E SAV E T A D HE

SATURDAY, APRIL 12, 2014

VETERANS PARK, HOOVER, ALABAMA

PICTURE HUNDREDS OF PARTICIPANTS UNITED & EXCITED FOR A COMMON CAUSE. Whether you are a corporate team or an individual, your participating in the walk helps create solutions and change lives for people with disabilities.

REGISTRATION opens at 6:30am, closes at 7:45am.

8:00am - 5K START; 9:00am - 1 Mile Family Fun Walk START For more information, contact ALLISON NICHOLS at anichols@eastersealsbham.org or 205.314.2187

Face painting, moonwalks, cotton candy, popcorn & more!

SPONSORED BY:

SPONSORSHIPS ARE STILL AVAILABLE!

All proceeds raised by the walk stay local and go directly back to the Pediatric Clinic.

Please visit our website for more information or to register a corporate team: www.eastersealsbham.org

Comer/Cosby Group

EDITOR'S NOTE

SPECIAL NEEDS PARENTS ARE SPECIAL, TOO I can’t go to United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Birmingham without coming out amazed. I am amazed at those who work with children at Hand in Hand and the adults at LincPoint. I am amazed at those special individuals themselves, and I am amazed at the parents who love and support them daily.

Being a parent is tough. Throw in your child having special needs, sometimes even severe disabilities, and the landscape of your daily walk as a parent changes even more. Rather than planning for college, you may be concerned if you child will hear, or see or walk, much less walk onto the campus of a major university. And when I look at those parents, I cannot help but be amazed by their courage, love and determination to give their children the best possible care and the best chance in life possible.

This issue is meant for those parents who take care of their children with special needs. I hope it also honors them and their commitment to their families, and to raising individuals to be the best they can be and productive members of society.

We hope the resources in this issue will help those parents, and the new parents who suddenly find out their child has learning delays or disabilities. Rather than feeling helpless, we want to help empower them. We also want to honor some of the many organizations that serve them with the stories we’ve included this month.

SPECIAL EVENT If you are a parent of a child with special needs, don’t miss the Special Needs Expo Saturday, March 15, 2014, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at LincPoint on the United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Birmingham campus. Admission is free, activities are free, and there will be great information, entertainment and lots of fun for the whole family. Don’t miss it!

And if your business or service wants to be a part of this expo, it’s not too late! Call us today at 205-987-7700 or e-mail me at carol@birminghamparent.com to learn more.

Happy March!

Thanks for picking up this issue!

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

4 | birminghamparent | march 2014

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 Calendar & Business David Evans Contributors Cathy Ashby, Gerry Page Smith, Tiffani Hill, Paige Townley, Pam Molnar, Dr. Vivian Friedman, Christopher “Bull” Garlington, Anabela Simon-Lee

sales Special Events Coordinator Sharon Menachemi Account Executives Kayla Fricks, Melanie Cade Webmaster David Evans

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.

HELPING HANDS

We’re here for the few they can’t.

WITH A PERSONAL TOUCH

Orthodontics for adults, children & special needs children

Visit us at the Birmingham Parent Special Needs Expo

Giving hope to parents and providing care to children is what we’ve done for over 100 years. Our nationally ranked healthcare team treated children from 42 states and 4 foreign countries just last year. Children’s of Alabama is recognized locally and around the world as providing a level of care that presents children with a much brighter future.

1 6 0 0 7 T H AV E N U E S O U T H B I R M I N G H A M , A L 3 5 2 3 3 (205) 638-9100 ChildrensAL.org

David M. Sarver DMD, MS 1705 Vestavia Pkwy Birmingham, AL 35216 office 205-979-7072 fax 205-979-7140 info@sarverortho.com

www.SarverOrtho.com

MARCH2014 THE PREMIER PARENTING MAGAZINE FOR CENTRAL ALABAMA

FREE

MARCH 2014

26

Serves Many Special Needs

UCP

18

beauty

22

MERCY FLIGHT:

16

destination

42

UNIQUE

Understanding Albinism

10

OUR SEMI-ANNUAL

SPECIAL NEEDS

Saving Lives One Flight At a Time

DIRECTORY

MARCH 15, 2014 — 10am-3pm

HILTON SANDESTIN

departments

04

Editor’s Note Special Needs Parents are Special, Too

07

Parenting with Dr. Friedman

08

18

24 UNITED CEREBRAL PALSY OF GREATER BIRMINGHAM: Serving Many Special Needs in our Community

14

16

26 22

School News March Pull Out Calendar March Expanded Calendar of Events

38

A Page in a Book Being Better Than the Bully

40

Ask the Specialist: Are Heart Attack Symptoms Different for Women?

44

Death by Children: The Pencident

42 MERCY FLIGHT: Saving Lives One Flight at a Time

SUMMER CAMP Make Summer Extra Special for Your Child With Special Needs

UNIQUE BEAUTY: Understanding Albinism and Its Effects

ON OUR COVER: Lindley, age 3, of Hoover, and Dr. Gary Edwards, chief executive officer of United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Birmingham, play on UCP’s fantastic playground at Hand in Hand where Lindley is a student.

PHOTO BY DONALD LOVE, www.dlovephotography.com, 205-902-5357.

6 | birminghamparent | march 2014

DESTINATION Hilton Sandestin

parenting

Parenting with Dr. Friedman

Q:

My daughter is 2½ now and has always been such a pleasant child. However, within the last two weeks she does not want me to do anything for her, i.e., change her diaper, change her clothes, give her a bath or brush her hair.

It is a fight every day just to get her dressed. I am very confused about how to handle this. I have tried to speak calmly to her and to explain why she needs to change clothes. I have tried counting to three before popping legs (this worked great for a while, until now). But nothing seems to work. I do not want to make a mistake and do the wrong thing.

Can you please help me?

A:

My guess is that this is your first child. You are experiencing the so-called “terrible twos.” It hits most first-time parents as a shock when their previously reasonable and sweet child suddenly becomes irrational and seemingly defiant, and the previous eager-to-please “yes” turns into a stubborn “no.”

Your daughter doesn’t really mean what she is saying and doing. A child in the “terrible twos” will cry when you ask him to get into the bath and then will cry again when you ask him to get out. The difficulty of the terrible twos is that there is no logic to what the child thinks he wants. What he wants is to assert himself and to show you that he is a person separate from his parent.

A direct approach does not work with an irrational child. Diversion and distraction will do better. Instead

of saying, “Get into the bath,” try “Go choose your bath toys.” This leaves the child with a choice rather than with the opportunity to say “no.”

Times of transition are the most difficult for the two-year-old. Stopping one activity to start the next one does not flow smoothly. Advance notice will go a long way in preventing sudden meltdowns. Express time in terms of the sequence of activity not in time units.

“You have just enough time to put your blocks in the toy box before we will eat dinner.”

Distraction goes a long way too.

While I generally don’t advocate the use of TV, showing a video while you dress your daughter might allow you to slip her clothes on without fuss. You will need to limit the video privilege at other times for this to work. If she watches videos all day long, the less frequent

dressing task will command her attention over the more common video experience.

Routines and schedules soften the resistance of the terrible twos. What your child is seeking is some sort of control over his life. If he has a predictable routine, he will know what is coming next and will not balk at the change.

Know thy child. Don’t ask him to be flexible right before his nap or if he’s hungry. There are times when your child becomes irrational that you simply have to read his cues. Put her down for a nap or feed her when she is inconsolable.

As her language develops and she can better express herself in words, some of the illogical resistance will evaporate. The “terrible twos” is a stage of development that will pass as she grows.

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.

JUNE 2 - 6 Theatre Arts (grades 4-6) Kodu: Game Programming (grades 5-8) Molecular Biology (grades 6-8) Hydrobotics (grades 6-8) Biotechnology (grades 6-8) JUNE 9 -13 Creative Writing (grades 5-10) Basic Musicianship (grades 5-7) Theatre Arts (grades 7-9) Hydrobotics (grades 6-8) Chemtastic (grades 6-8) Kodu: Game Programming (grades 5-8) Envirolab (grades 6-8)

JUNE 16-20 Visual Arts (grades 5-8) Intermediate Musicianship (grades 7-8) Green Innovations (grades 6-8) Civil Engineering (grades 6-8) Computer Programming: Android App Camp (grades 6-8) JUNE 2-20 Pre-Algebra (grades 7-9) Algebra I (grades 8-10)

birminghamparent.com | 7

CONSIGNMENT Upscale Children’s Clothing

G& N I R P S MMER SU EMS ILY IRTIVING DA AR

O ASFA STUDENT FEATURED ON HBO DOCUMENTARY 32 yrs in business hours: Tues - Sat 10 - 4

DENTISTRY FOR

CHILDREN & SPECIAL NEEDS PERSONS

Alabama School of Fine Arts student Melody Dailey was recently featured on HBO broadcast TV in a documentary filmed last year in San Francisco.

In the documentary, actress and YoungArts master teacher Anna Deavere Smith mentors a group of YoungArts alumni, aspiring young artists, in the 19th episode of the twice Emmy-nomiated HBO series, “YoungArts MasterClass,” shown February 17.

“YoungArts MasterClass” was created by executive producer Lin Arison and filmmakers Karen Goodman and Kirk Simon, a filmmaking team whose work has garnered an Academy Award in 2010 as well as four previous Academy Award nominations, many Emmys and the Dupont-Columbia Award for Independent Programming.

In conjunction with Columbia University’s Teachers College, YoungArts also developed a study guide based on its “YoungArts MasterClass” series which is distributed free to schools nationwide to help increase arts education and awareness.

O TWO NEW COMPUTER SCIENCE COURSES NOW COUNT AS MATH CREDIT AT ASFA Dr. Tabitha Jarman Gatrey, DMD

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

www.psmilesal.com 8 | birminghamparent | march 2014

Thanks to the hard work of a committee including Carol Yarbrough, Alabama School of Fine Arts computer science instructor, the Alabama Board of Education recently approved a motion that allows two specific computer science courses to count as a math credit towards graduation.

This change provides additional ways for students to earn their high school diploma by completing the state’s required courses. Students may now take Computer Science Principles or Advanced Placement Computer Science A in place of a traditional advanced math course.

This new idea developed from a committee spearheaded

by University of Alabama computer science professor Dr. Jeff Gray along with three high school computer science teachers, two State Department of Education administrators and two state college readiness officials.

Carol Yarbrough is a computer science instructor as ASFA.

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 Orthodontics for children and adults

April 7-19, 2014

We offer the traditional metal brackets, as well as clear.

Eastwood Shopping Center

We also do Invisalign.

exit 1

Spring/Summer childrens, juniors and maternity gently used consignment sale.

EASTERN VALLEY RD.

459 BELL HILL RD.

MON-THU 8AM-5PM

www.mccallasmiles.com 4814 Bell Hill Rd, Bessemer, AL 35022 . 205-477-8004 WE FILE ALL INSURANCE AS A COURTESY. WE ARE PROVIDERS FOR MOST INSURANCE COMPANIES.

----------- OPENING DAY -----------Monday, April 7th 8am-8pm NOTE: April 7th ONLY...Absolutely NO strollers, diaper bags or big purses allowed while shopping on first day.

Fanny packs & laundry baskets are always allowed.

Tues., April 8th * 9am-8pm Wed. - Sat., April 9th-12th * 9am-6pm (CLOSED Sunday, April 13th) Mon. - Sat., April 14th-19th * 9am-6pm ----------- DISCOUNT DAYS -----------*25% OFF Thursday, April 17th * 9am-6pm *50% OFF Friday, April 18th * 9am-6pm *50% OFF Saturday, April 19th * 9am-6pm

Get control of food allergies — let us help.

Weily Soong, MD James R. Bonner, MD Maxcie Sikora, MD John Anderson, MD Meghan Lemke, MD Sunena Argo, MD Patricia Luthin, CRNP

Find allergy relief now Let us help.

205-871-9661 alabamaallergy.com

Allergy & Asthma Care for Adults and Children Board-Certified by the American Board of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology FIVE CONVENIENT LOCATIONS: Homewood • Hoover • Hwy. 280 • Cullman • Alabaster

NOW OFFERING ASTHMA EDUCATION CLASSES

*% off days apply only to BLACK tags.

RED tags will remain original price.

Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Discover, Cash and Debit Cards NO checks

Family Favorite

2013

Located in the Eastwood Shopping Plaza (in the old K-Mart store) 7845 Crestwood Blvd (Hwy 78), Irondale, AL 35210 birminghamparent.com | 9

DIRECTORY SPRING 2014 YOUR ONE-STOP SOURCE FOR BIRMINGHAM’S KIDS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

Following is an abbreviated list of resources and services, both local and national, made available to Alabama residents who have children with special needs. There are a number of services offered throughout the state for parents with children with disabilities, from inclusive school care programs to music and sports teams and classes.

If you know of an organization or service that should be included in the next special needs directory in our SEPTEMBER 2014 issue, or in The Guide 2015, please e-mail editor@birminghamparent. com or fax to 205-987-7600 for updating in the next directory.

INFORMATION Alabama Association for Parents of Children with Visual Impairments www.aapvi.org 205-422-5826 Provides educational, social and recreational opportunities for families with children who are blind or have low vision, including children with multiple disabilities.

Alabama Council for Developmental Disabilities www.acdd.org 334-242-3973 or 800-232-2158 Provides educational resources for individuals with special needs and their families.

Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program (ADAP) www.adap.net 800-826-1675 205-348-4928 Provides free legal services for disabled individuals who qualify.

Autism Society of Alabama www.autism-alabama.org 877-428-8476 or 205-951-1364 The Autism Society of Alabama strives to empower individuals impacted by autism and their families through advocacy and support.

Collat Jewish Family Services www.cjfsbham.org 205-879-3438 Confidential counseling and social service support for individuals and families experiencing challenges in coping with some aspect or situation in their life.

Disability Rights and Resources (Jefferson, Shelby, St. Clair, Walker and Blount counties) www.drradvocates.org 205-251-2223 Empower individuals with disabilities to fully participate in the community.

Parent Connection Network of Alabama www.rehab.alabama.gov/crs 800-441-7607 A statewide network of families who have children with special health care needs or disabilities and who are willing to share their experiences with other families.

Special Knowledge www.specialknowledge.org Connects parents and caregivers of individuals with special needs to service providers who are skilled, compassionate and dedicated.

Talk About Curing Autism (TACA) www.tacanow.org/alabama National organization dedi-

10 | birminghamparent | march 2014

cated to education, empowering and supporting families affected by autism. Local chapter in Alabama.

Special Education Parent Teacher Association is a member of the Birmingham Council of PTAs.

United Way of Central Alabama - Information and Referral Center www.uwca.org 205-251-5131 A community resource directory of services in Shelby, Jefferson, Walker, Blount and St. Clair counties.

Grace Notes Music Therapy http://vhumc.org/ministries/ coa/school-music/musictherapy/ 205-769-0123 Grace Notes Music Therapy offers individual and group music therapy sessions for people of all ages and abilities.

CHILDCARE/DAYCARE Childcare Resources, Birmingham www.ccr-bhm.org 205-252-1991 or 800-822-2734 Assists parents with children with special needs in locating childcare and information.

United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Birmingham - Hand in Hand Early Learning Program www.ucpbham.com/our-programs/hand-in-hand 205-944-3901 or 800-654-4483 A learning program for children 6 weeks through age 4 for children with and without disabilities to maximize each child’s intellectual, physical and emotional health.

Shades Mountain Baptist Church Hand in Hand Ministry www.shades.org/connect/ ministries/special-needs A ministry providing assistance to special needs children, adults and the elderly.

EDUCATION The Literacy Council www.literacy-council.org 205-326-1925 or 888-448-7323

Community Outreach Special Education PTA www.cosepta.org The Community Outreach

The Horizons School www.horizonsschool.org 800-822-6242 Milestones Behavior Consulting, LLC 205-253-6903 www.milestonesaba.com Providing ABA Therapy to persons with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Intellectual Disabilities, and typically developing children with challenging behaviors in Alabama.

Parent Advocates Down Syndrome www.downsyndromealabama.org 205-988-0810 The SensoryBus™ 205-451-6268 www.thesensorybus.com The SensoryBus™ is a mobile sensory experience to help children and adults with special needs.

Spring Valley School www.springvalleyschool.org 205-423-8660

Southeastern Diabetes Education Services 205-402-0415 www.southeasterndiabetes.org Super Duper® Publications www.superduperinc.com 800-277-8737 Super Duper Publications creates enjoyable, engaging educational materials for children with special needs and communication or language delays.

VSA Arts of Alabama www.vsaalabama.org 205-307-6300 A statewide, nonprofit organization dedicated to providing opportunities in the arts for people with chronic illnesses and disabilities.

FINANCIAL/ INSURANCE AllKids www.adph.org/allkids 800-252-5300 Provides insurance for eligible children younger than 19.

Easter Seals Medical Assistance Grant www.eastersealsbham.org 205-942-6277 Assists in paying for medical requirements of children and adults who have disabilities, and those unable to provide for their own needs.

Medicaid of Alabama www.medicaid.alabama.gov 800-362-1504 Strauss Financial Group www.straussfinancial.com 205-967-9595 Financial consulting for families of children with special needs.

HEALTH AND REHABILITATION 4 Paws for Ability www.4pawsforability.org 937-374-0385 Service dogs (including seizure dogs, autism dogs, hearing dogs, and others) are made available to help

increase community acceptance and participation of people with disabilities.

Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services Children’s Rehabilitation Service www.rehab.alabama.gov 800-441-7607 Statewide organization of doctors, therapists, etc. serving children to age 21 with varying disabilities.

Alabama Relay Center www.alabamarelay.com 800-676-3777 Communication systems for the visually impaired and hearing impaired ARC www.thearcofalabama.com 866-243-9557 The Arc of Alabama, Inc. is a statewide volunteer membership organization which advocates for people with cognitive, intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.

The Arc of Jefferson County www.arcofjeff.com 205-323-6383

We offer the latest technology in prosthetic design and fabrication.

We provide complete orthotic services including scoliosis bracing, HKAFO, KAFO, AFO and knee braces for all situations including CP and MS.

3624 5th Ave. S.• Birmingham, AL 35222

(205) 595-0632 www.bhamlimbandbrace.com

I AM SMART. I AM CREATIVE. I AM DYSLEXIC.

The Arc of Shelby County www.thearcofshelby.org 205-664-9313 The Bell Center for Early Intervention Programs www.thebellcenter.org 205-879-3417 The Bell Center is dedicated to maximizing the potential of children at risk for developmental delay.

SACS Accredited

Specialized Instruction for Dyslexia, ADD and Other Learning Disabilities.

Small Class Sizes with a 9:1 Student Ratio.

Lower School Through 12 th Grade

The Autism Society of Alabama is partnering with the Alabama Department of Public Safety to ensure that every Alabama county has a plan for children and adults who may wander or bolt. This program is made possible by the Alabama Council for Developmental Disabilities. www.autism-alabama.org

Executive Director 205 - 423-8660

w w w . s pri ngval l ey s c h o o l .o r g birminghamparent.com | 11

PHOTO BY DONALD LOVE

Children like Linley benefit from many services and therapies as well as inclusion at Hand in Hand, UCP of Greater Birmingham.

Birmingham Limb & Brace www.bhamlimbandbrace.com 800-762-9850 205-595-0632 A healthcare facility providing services of orthotic and prosthetic devices.

Children’s Hospital of Alabama www.childrensal.org 205-939-9100 Alabama’s premier hospital for children. Provides advocacy, resources and medical services including specialty clinics for children with disabilities.

Child-Adolescent Partners, LLC 205-451-6496 www.childadolescentpartners.com Provides evidence-based professional counseling services to children, adolescents and adults throughout central Alabama.

Child’s Play Therapy Center LLC Pediatric Occupational Therapy Services www.childsplaytherapycenter.com 205-978-9939 Occupational, physical, speech and music therapy, along with academic tutoring.

Experienced loving staff and facility just for kids.

Easter Seals Pediatric Therapy www.eastersealsbham.org 205-621-6503 Provides physical, occupational, and speech therapy to children with special needs ages birth to 21 regardless of ability to pay for services.

Focus MD Birmingham 205-769-0649 www.focus-md.com We are a medical clinic staffed

12 | birminghamparent | march 2014

by board certified physicians, which utilizes FDA cleared, cutting-edge, computerized testing in the diagnosis and individualized treatment of ADHD.

Friends of Disabled Adults and Children, Too! www.fodac.org 770-491-9014 or 866-977-1204 FODAC, in Georgia but also serving Alabama, offers free durable medical equipment (including wheelchairs), installation, ramps in homes, disposable medical equipment.

Full Life Ahead www.fulllifeahead.org 205-439-6534 or 866-700-2026 Empowers the person with a disability to live as independently as possible.

Glenwood, Inc. www.glenwood.org 205-969-2880 or 877-295-8425 Glenwood was created for the purpose of educating and treating individuals diagnosed with autism, emotional disturbances and mental illnesses.

Hands, LLC 205-733-0976 or 866-450-4263 Services include one-on-one behavior based therapy for children 2 to 18, social skills groups, workshops and support groups.

Hanger Prosthetics and Orthotics www.hanger.com 877-442-6437 Patient care services to maximize the ability of each patient to successfully perform activities of daily living.

Jefferson County WIC www.jcdh.org/cs/wic 205-933-9110

Lakeshore Foundation www.lakeshore.org 205-313-7400

Mitchell’s Place www.mitchells-place.com 205-957-0294

Comprehensive treatment center for children and young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Mobility Central, Inc. www.mobilitycentralinc.com 205-916-0670 Mobility Central employs a team of highly trained and caring medical equipment professionals dedicated to the well-being of our patients.

Pediatric Therapy Associates, Inc. www.pediatricptot.com 205-823-1215 Programs focus on specialized individual physical and occupational therapy services.

Puzzle Piece www.puzzlepiecealabama.com 205-969-8080 Providing evidence-based DIR/floor time play therapy for families touched by autism. In home, family-focused, low cost, relation-based intervention.

Sarver Orthodontics www.sarverortho.com 205-979-7072

Thrive Behavioral Services www.thrivebehavioralservices.com 205-222-0965 Behavioral services for children diagnosed with autism and/or other developmental disabilities.

University of Alabama at Birmingham - Civitan International Research Center, Sparks Clinics www.circ.uab.edu 205-934-8900 or 800-822-2472 Provides an extensive range of interdisciplinary clinics offering comprehensive diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of the needs of children and adults.

University of Montevallo Speech and Hearing Center 205-665-6720 Assists children with communicative problems in obtaining diagnostic and therapeutic

services; training of students majoring in speech language pathology.

Vocational Rehabilitation Services www.rehab.alabama.gov 334-293-7500 or 800-441-7607

RECREATION Adaptive Aquatics www.adaptiveaquatics.org Provides opportunities for people to learn to water ski, no matter what their limitations.

Children’s Dance Foundation www.childrensdancefoundation.org 205-870-0073 Movement to Music for school-age children with special needs is creative, includes a variety of colorful props and features live music.

Camp Our Time www.ourtimestutter.org 212-414-9696 Iroquois Springs, Rock Hill, NY A sleep-away arts camp for young people ages 8-18 who stutter and their siblings.

CAMP ASCCA - Easter Seals - Alabama’s Special Camp for Children and Adults www.campascca.org 256-825-9226 Easter Seals Camp for children and adults with special needs.

The Exceptional Foundation 205-870-0776 www.exceptionalfoundation.org

A non-profit organization located in Homewood that strives to meet the social and recreational activities of the mentally challenged population through an array of daily programs. Also offered is an eight-week summer camp.

Lakeshore Foundation www.lakeshore.org 205-313-7400 Promotes independence for adults and children with physically disabling conditions and opportunities to pursue active healthy lifestyles.

Moody Miracle League www.moodymiracleleague.org 205-225-9444 A full handicapped accessible baseball field for any special need player. More than 250 players range from 4-75.

Oak Mountain Youth Baseball/Softball Challenger League www.omybs.com 205-995-1776 Provides boys and girls with disabilities the opportunity to experience the emotional development and the fun of playing Youth League Baseball.

Space Camp & Aviation Challenge www.spacecamp.com 800-637-7223 Space Camp and Aviation Challenge use space and aviation as a platform to excite and educate children ages 9 through 18 in math, science and technology.

Chelsia Massey M.S. BCBA

Owner - Board Certified Behavior Analyst

205-222-0965 ThriveBehavioralServices@gmail.com g inin m Tra gra ool nce ntal h Pro c a pme S B t / s V t i velo bility / n Ass e e A D r Pa IEP AB Disa Be Red havior ucti on

Com mun icat ion

Special Equestrians www.specialequest.org 205-987-9462 Therapeutic horseback riding for those with disabilities.

The McWane Science Center www.mcwane.org 205-714-8300 Special needs groups can explore the world of science and wonder every day of the year.

Bath Fitter www.bathfitter.com 205-876-1760 Hanger Prosthetic & Orthotics www.hanger.com 205-322-0384 or 877-4426137 Mobility Works www.mobilityworks.com 877-275-4907

RESPITE & SUPPORT

TRANSPORTATION

Alabama Lifespan Respite Resource Network www.alabamarespite.org 256-859-4900 866-737-8252 Helps caregivers of children with disabilities find respite providers.

Clastran www.clastran.com 205-325-8787 Transports persons who are elderly (60-plus), disabled or traveling to or from a rural area in Jefferson or Shelby counties.

Saint Mark United Methodist Church Respite www.saintmarkumc.org/#/ our-ministries/respite-care

Kid One www.kidone.org 800-543-7143, 205-978-1000 Kid One Transport provides transportation for any child in need of reaching care that will better them medically, mentally or physically when they are without means of transportation.

Socks 4 Surgery www.socks4surgery.com Dedicated to providing a keepsake of a pair of socks, a reminder of overcoming the adversity of surgery.

SUPPLIES/SPECIALTY ITEMS/TOYS Alabama Wheelchair Specialists www.alabamawheelchair.com 205-322-3250 or 800-383-2862

RESIDENTIAL SERVICES The Baddour Center 888-422-3368 or 888-422-3368 www.baddour.org Provides a model residential community in Mississippi for adults with mild and moderate intellectual disability.

Give the gift that lasts — a home.

Social Skills Training

Auti sm

ThriveBehavioralServices.com

FOSTER PARENTS NEEDED gway.org or 510-2722

birminghamparent.com | 13

MAKE SUMMER EXTRA SPECIAL With Camp for Your Child with Special Needs

By Cathy Ashby

C

At the end of the day, the parents of children with special needs want the same thing as other parents: They want their child to have an exciting and educational summer experience.

Resources: Where to Find a Camp http://nichcy.org/publications/camps http://find.acacamps.org/ 14 | birminghamparent | march 2014

hildren who have special needs miss out on a lot of things, but summer camp doesn’t have to be one of them. Not only are there hundreds of specialty camps that cater to children with specific physical, behavioral and developmental challenges, today’s traditional summer camps are more inclusive than ever. With a little research, parents can find programs to make every kid’s summer extra special.

Before you even think about registering for a summer camp, do some legwork to find out if the program and the staff can accommodate your child’s needs.

You’re likely to find many so-called “special needs” camps that aren’t appropriate for all children. On the flip side, you may be surprised to find an adventure program with provisions for children with special needs. It’s up to you to find the right match.

“For parents of a special needs child, there are considerations that go beyond the usual camp search, says Susie Lupert with the American Camp Association. “Whether a parent is researching a special needs camp or a mainstream camp, it is important for parents to be upfront with the camp director about their child’s needs. You want to make sure the camp is equipped for your child’s challenges.”

Lupert suggests that you be honest and provide details. “Tell the camp director about your child’s needs and how he is on his worst days. Ask if the camp has had a child with similar needs in the past and ask if you may speak with a family with a child similar to your child.” This is the perfect time to ask about the camp’s access to medical facilities and specialists who may be needed.

If possible, arrange for a visit to the camp and request a face-to-face with camp staff members. “Look for a camp director who is interested in meeting your child and family,” says Lupert. “This gives the director insight into your child and will allow them to determine if your child is a right fit for their camp program.” It also gives parents an opportunity to see the camp facilities first-hand so they can determine whether their child can manage the physical terrain.

At the end of the day, the parents of children with special needs want the same thing as other parents: They want their child to have an exciting and educational summer experience. Lupert knows it’s an attainable goal. “If parents take the time and do their research,” she says, “they will be able to find the right summer camp program for their special needs child.”

Cathy Ashby, a former camp counselor and camp director, is a big believer in the positive powers of summer camp.

Grace Community School & Daycare

205-769-6209

TheWhaleSchool.com MATTHEW 12:40

OUR PRESCHOOLERS CAN READ!

INFANT—KINDERGARTEN—NO REGISTRATION FEE! • ABeka Curriculum • Fun While Learning • Daily Bible Class • Character Training • Interactive White Board • Open 6:30am-6pm • Extracurricular Activities • Healthy Meals and Snacks N Stu ew • Students Advance at their own Pace Spe dent • Superior/Customized Reading Program call cial, now !

• Secured Entry & Touchscreen Check in/out • WAY Model School 2013-2014 school year

Comprehensive Pediatric Therapy Services

…we’re just for kids!

COMING SOON!

FOCAL POINT

our new treatment program for ADD/ADHD!

8777 Helena Road, Pelham Open 6:30am - 6:00pm

For questions, contact Nate.Wells@TheWhaleSchool.com

Finally a place that concentrates on

ADHD.

OCCUPATIONAL HANDWRITING SPEECH /PHYSICAL THERAPY HELP THERAPY

TUTORING SERVICES

Now Open in Birmingham Focus-MD is a medical practice dedicated to ADHD care. Let our doctors help your family move from frustration to focus.

Check us out on Facebook and Twitter to find out about upcoming events. facebook.com/focumdbham @FocusBhamADHD

FEEDING THERAPY

INTEGRATED LISTENING

from frustration to…

focus-md.com

3300 Cahaba Road, Suite 202 • Birmingham, AL 35223

205-769-0649

MUSIC THERAPY

www.ChildsPlayTherapyCenter.com Conveniently located on Lorna Road in Hoover “Like” us on facebook! birminghamparent.com | 15

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MERCY FLIGHT

MERCY FLIGHT

Saving Lives One Flight at a Time

By Paige Townley

W

hen Andrea Duffey’s daughter Aubrey was just six weeks old, she was diagnosed with plagiocephaly, a syndrome that causes a baby’s head to be flattened, and torticollis, a twisted neck.

Making matters worse, the only treatment to help correct Aubrey’s medical condition meant weekly visits to Miami, Florida.

“There was a company there that could outfit her with a DOC band to help her head positioning, but we were going to have to go in every week for a few months for them to readjust the band to allow her skull to grow into the proper shape,” Duffey explained.

Weekly travel to and from Miami was financially and logistically impossible as Miami is about an eight-hour drive one way from their Florida Panhandle home. “With three other children and our overall financial situation, we couldn’t afford to get to 16 | birminghamparent | march 2014

Miami and back every week like that,” Duffey says.

“Plus the time it would take for us to go every week would keep me away from my other children, who I needed to be home to take care of too.”

Fortunately for the Duffeys, Mercy Flight Southeast was just a phone call away.

Mercy Flight Southeast is a nonprofit organization that coordinates free flights for children and adults who need access to far-from-home doctors and medical facilities and cannot afford the travel or are unable to travel on public transportation.

Mercy Flight helped little Aubrey’s family get her weekly visits to Miami, Florida for treatment. Weekly travel to and from Miami was financially and logistically impossible as Miami is about an eight-hour drive one way from Aubrey’s Florida Panhandle home.

The organization was founded 31 years ago by Mary Webb, a pilot who began coordinating missions at her kitchen table in South Florida. Mercy Flight Southeast now operates in five states – Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi and South Carolina – and is comprised of more than 650 volunteer pilots.

The organization flies approximately 3,000 missions a year. “One of the best things about the organization is that for every dollar that is donated we are able to return almost 10 dollars back to the end recipient because that dollar goes to picking up the phone 24 hours a day but pilots donate their own aircraft, fuel and time,” says Steven Purello, Mercy Flight Southeast’s CEO. “In 2012, our volunteer pilots donated over 2.2 million dollars’ worth of services.”

Purello has been a volunteer pilot with the group for 18 years. He joined the organization full time three years ago. “Once you are given the privilege of being able to do something like fly an airplane and own an airplane, it just seems common sense to give back with your special talents and

the fact that you own an airplane,” he says. “And this is an organization that is easy to believe in. You can see the direct results we have on these peoples’ lives.”

Today, Purello’s other responsibilities with Mercy Flight Southeast means he flies fewer missions – he now mainly flies when another pilot cannot make a scheduled flight or if there is a problem with a flight – but that has not changed the relationships he has built with many of those helped by the organization.

“Over the years you definitely become close to them – you become intertwined in their lives,” Purello says. “Some have passed away over the years, but others have become very good friends and have gotten completely better. One passenger I used to fly goes surfing with me now.

Another passenger, who we still fly, does speaking engagements for us and is a friend of mine that I spend time with too.”

Also particularly special to Purello is little Aubrey who, after seven months of flying back and forth from her Bonifay home to Miami – never having to spend a night away from home thanks to the

“These pilots truly care and are truly passionate about helping people,” says Duffey.

“They have become like family.” volunteer pilots at Mercy Flight Southeast – is now physically developing properly.

“These pilots truly care and are truly passionate about helping people,” says Duffey. “They have become like family. If it wasn’t for them, we could not have gotten Aubrey the treatment she needed.”

Paige Townley is a local freelance writer.

For more information on Mercy Flight Southeast, visit www.mercyflightse.org or call 888-744-8263.

Helping Families with Special Needs through All Stages of Life

ArtPlay is proud to partner with Music Therapy of Alabama to provide art classes to students of all abilities.

ArtPlay

Strauss Financial Group, Inc. offers consulting for special needs families. Financial Advisor Arthur Strauss, has been involved with special needs children since elementary school, and continues this passion by offering families his financial expertise. Our goal is to help create peace of mind and security for parents worrying about the future of their child with a comprehensive long-term strategy.

SERVICES WE OFFER * Create a customized financial plan for the individual’s lifespan. obstacles, and goals.

(Special Needs Trust, Irrevocable Discuss options based on your * Trust, and Personal Investment fi nancial and daily needs.

Account) * Implement a game plan with * Simplify the complex emotional attorney, physician and/or and fi nancial decisions. social worker.

* Listen to your fears, concerns,

UAB’s Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center Education & Outreach

ArtPlayASC.org » 205.975.4769

www.straussfinancial.com . hstrauss@straussfinancial.com (205) 967-9595 . 2201 Cahaba Valley Dr. Birmingham, AL 35242 birminghamparent.com | 17

PHOTOS BY DONALD LOVE PHOTOGRAPHY

United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Birmingham: Serving Many Special Needs

By Carol Muse Evans

Hand in Hand kids are a mixture of those with and without special needs.

V

isit Hand in Hand at United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) of Greater Birmingham any day, and the children running and playing on the playground there seem like any other group of kids at preschool. But if you look closely, some are not “average.” There is a mixture of special needs kids and “regular” kids here, and this special playground is equipped to handle some of the disabilities they face – like wheelchair accessibility.

Hand in Hand, a nationally accredited program, is just one of many UCP of Greater Birmingham’s services offered to help children and adults with disabilities be the best they can be and be active and productive members of the community. Dr. Gary Edwards, Ph.D., the chief executive officer of UCP for 30 years, is a big part of that.

“For more than 30 years, Gary Edwards has helped families of children and adults with disabilities move beyond lifeshattering circumstances while providing those same children and adults with inclusive opportunities to learn, live and work in their communities. There is no greater champion for these families, and 18 | birminghamparent | march 2014

the board at UCP of Greater Birmingham is deeply grateful for his passion and his commitment,” says Melva Tate of Tate & Associates LLC, UCP board chair.

Early on, Edwards explains, UCP, which has been a part of Birmingham for the past 60 years had a major focus – identify children as early as possible with developmental delays and help them. “For every $1 spent in early care of those with developmental delays, $7 is saved in future benefits,” Edwards points out.

Hand in Hand’s special blend of children has allowed moms and dads of children to have more options for inclusion of a child with special needs. And, according to Margaret Bishop, marketing and events manager for UCP of Greater Birmingham, there are even scholarship opportunities for the children with disabilities. “These children get therapy at daycare, too,” she explains.

Another move that Edwards was instrumental in was the creation of the Life Without Limits Clinic, headed up by Dr. Charles Law, and now housed at Hand in Hand. “We saw a big age gap with school-

aged kids who need therapy,” Edwards says.

“Life Without Limits was created giving specialized care for their special needs.”

Another facet of therapy and inclusion at UCP of Greater Birmingham is the adult program which includes an employment program. “We noticed that kids about to exit school need help finding something they are qualified to do,” Edwards says. “We take a one-on-one approach, with a job coach assigned after an assessment of needs and skills. They search for a job, go to the interview, train the person to do the job and are always in check.”

UCP didn’t stop there. In fact, they’ve started two businesses to help make work a possibility for some young adults with special needs. Both scanning and construction businesses employ some 90 people who are severely disabled, Edwards adds.

In addition, a day program at LincPoint, also on the UCP of Greater Birmingham campus, helps with therapy, training and care of adults with physical and cognitive disabilities. “It’s a whole life effort,” Edwards adds.

“We call it a ‘continuum of care’ to serve people from 6 weeks through their life span,” Bishop adds. “We have a service for everyone, no matter what they have.”

For Edwards, he sees UPC’s role in the community as “How can we as an agency help people beyond their boundaries?”

For parents of a child with special needs, their dreams they had for their child are often shattered when they are faced with developmental delays and much more, Edwards says. Sometimes dads have it rough, he says, because they see their job is to “fix everything,” and this is something they simply cannot fix.

“So we make a big part of our service to support families,” Edwards says. “We help see them through what needs to be done to help their child.”

Not only are there services at the UCP of Greater Birmingham campus, there is early intervention help for Jefferson County and 10 surrounding Alabama counties offered. This includes physical therapists that travel to the patient and early intervention is provided free.

Currently, more than 800 families are being served through this service, along

with 250 at Hand in Hand and 250 n the adult program. And the Life Without Limits Clinic sees more than 2,200 patients a year.

One issue facing those with special needs is the changes in Medicaid, Edwards says. Pre-existing conditions problems have been gone for years and children can remain on parental insurance till age 26.

Not surprisingly,45 percent of the children at UCP are on Medicaid.

“Medicaid covers 47 percent of children statewide,” Edwards says, and “at least 53 percent of births in Alabama are covered by Medicaid. While the disabled are 17 percent of the total population, they spend at least one half of the allotment on Medicaid.”

Coming on the horizon is a regional care program to manage care in five separate regions, to ensure everyone will have a case manager, Edwards says.

Within two years, the Regional Care Act will help states like Alabama to help manage the cost of Medicaid, which is one-third of the state’s budget. Edwards says parents need to watch for information about Medicaid changes and also to simply be involved in their child’s care. “It’s a constant issue,” he says.

“We call it a ‘continuum of care’ to serve people from 6 weeks through their life span,” Bishop adds. “We have a service for everyone, no matter what they have.”

For Edwards, the outlook for people with disabilities and special needs has never been better. “People with disabilities are being included more than ever before.

Schools are doing better at acceptance and inclusion.” Also, technology has made possibilities reality for many people with disabilities, from hearing, seeing, communicating and more. “It’s an exciting future,” Edwards says.

Carol Muse Evans is publisher and editor of Birmingham Parent.

For more information on UCP of Greater Birmingham and its programs and services, visit http://ucpbham.com.

Fostering independence, development, and fun...

205.916.0670 www.mobilitycentralinc.com 400 Old Towne Road, Vestavia, AL 35216 Open Monday - Friday 9 to 5 and Saturdays 10 to 2 Located off of Highway 31 in Vestavia behind the bowling alley and next to Chuck-e-cheese birminghamparent.com | 19

SPECIAL KIDS CLUB 2014 advertorial

BIRMINGHAM PARENT'S

UNITED CEREBRAL PALSY OF GREATER BIRMINGHAM United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Birmingham provides programs for children and adults of all disabilities that address physical and health needs, support educational development and offer opportunities for employment and independence.

The sooner you start your journey, the farther you’ll go. That’s why UCP created Hand in Hand – an advanced early intervention and early learning program

for children of all abilities from six weeks of age to 5 years old.

Early Intervention, provided by UCP at no cost to the families served, provides hope and help for families of infants and toddlers with delays in development, diagnosed disabilities or children who are at risk for developmental delay during the first three years of life. More than 700 children and their families were served in multiple counties throughout central Alabama.

Early Learning is focused on inspiring families to help their children grow beyond what anyone dreamed possible in an inclusive environment, serving nearly 200 children. Under the direction of The Life Without Limits Clinic under UCP’s Medical Director, Dr. Charlie Law specializes in physical medicine & rehabilitation.

Over 2,200 patients received services from the clinic throughout the state of Alabama, from Huntsville to Mobile.

100 Oslo Circle Birmingham, AL 35111 205-943-5250 www.ucpbham.com

MOBILITY CENTRAL Mobility Central is a local, family-owned medical equipment provider offering state-of-theart equipment and therapies to improve the quality of life for both children and adults with special needs. We are dedicated to helping each patient regain and secure freedom and independence for daily living; as well as fostering development in our younger patients. Mobility Central employs a team of caring professionals who are thoroughly trained and highly

skilled in the services they provide. The staff works with medical personnel, the patient, the family and the caregiver to evaluate the home environment, assess equipment needs, and customize solutions that support the patient’s functional needs and therapeutic goals while addressing activities of daily living. At Mobility Central, we strive to build relationships with our customers by adhering to a “customer-centered, needs based” philosophy that ensures a

perfect equipment fit every time and exceptional customer service for the life of the equipment.

states. With more than 2 million square feet, it is the third largest pediatric medical facility in the U.S. Children’s offers inpatient and outpatient services across its Russell Campus on Birmingham’s historic Southside with additional outpatient services provided at Children’s South and Children’s on 3rd. 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, research and residency programs. Children’s recently moved much of its inpatient services into a new building named The Benjamin Russell Hospital for Children.

www.childrensal.org

• There is no pediatric facility in Shelby County that provides individualized care like Easter Seals Pediatric Therapy offering physical, occupational and speech therapy services with an interdisciplinary approach (including co-treatments) to meet each family’s needs. The therapist is one on one with the child in an outpatient setting. We provide a variety of distinctive services.

Easter Seals of the Birmingham Area 2717 3rd Avenue South Birmingham, AL 35223 (205) 942-6277 www.eastersealsbham.org www.facebook.com EasterSealsBirmingham

Mobility Central was founded in Birmingham, Alabama in 2004 to serve the people of Alabama with medical equipment needs while demonstrating the utmost care and professionalism. When the simple act of living becomes really complex, trust Mobility Central to help you every step of the way!

400 Old Towne Road Vestavia, Alabama 35216 205-942-2534 www.mobilitycentalinc.com

CHILDREN'S OF ALABAMA Children’s of Alabama has provided specialized medical care for ill and injured children across the state and throughout the southeastern U.S. since 1911. For the past three years, Children’s has been ranked among the best children’s hospital programs in the nation by US News & World Report. Last year, patients made more than 634,000 outpatient and nearly 14,000 inpatient visits to Children’s from every county in Alabama and from 47 other

EASTER SEALS OF THE BIRMINGHAM AREA The mission of Easter Seals of the Birmingham Area is to create solutions that change the lives of children and adults with disabilities or other special needs and their families.

Easter Seals of the Birmingham Area will be the one non-profit organization: • Recognized throughout the Birmingham Area for the quality of its services by all people touched by the organization.

• With the most committed, capable and giving volunteers and staff of any charitable organization in Birmingham.

• Known for its unified sense of purpose and its seamless network of services for children and adults with disabilities or other special needs, their families and their communities.

• Strengthening the public’s belief, commitment and financial support of its mission.

20 | birminghamparent | march 2014

BIRMINGHAM PARENT'S

SPECIAL KIDS CLUB 2014 advertorial

THE AUTISM SOCIETY OF ALABAMA The Autism Society of Alabama (ASA) is a statewide advocacy group with the mission of improving services for persons with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families through education and advocacy. ASA provides: • ASA Network Support Groups in 33 Alabama cities. ASA Network Groups offer families guidance in the care of their loved one with ASD. • An Information and Referral

Line to answer family questions about ASD. • Conferences throughout the state to educate parents, therapists, teachers and individuals about ASD issues.

• A communication hub for Alabama families living with ASD through enews, website, social media and meetings.

• Consulting with legislators, the Governor’s Office and Departments of Education, Rehabilitation Services,

Medicaid and Public Health.

• Innovative programs including the 2014 Safety Net Campaign to combat injury and death as a result of ASD wandering and bolting.

Please join us in April, Autism Awareness Month, as we Light It Up Blue April 2 and Walk for Autism, April 5, 2014. The Walk for Autism is a great event and an opportunity to meet families thriving with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

www. autism-alabama.org 1-877-4AUTISM follow us

CHILD'SPLAY THERAPY CENTER Child’sPlay Therapy Center provides occupational, physical, and speech therapy services, along with academic tutoring, music therapy, and psychological testing and counseling. Our experienced staff uses play and “kid approved” activities to help children reach their goals. We can help your child succeed in the areas of speech/language development, gross motor skills, fine motor skills, sensory processing, attention/concentration, feeding concerns, and academic delays. New

this spring is our Focal Point treatment program for ADD/ADHD. This summer, we are offering a variety of summer camps including handwriting clubs, early language skills, kindergarten preparedness, social skills, and sensory motor groups.

Our brightly colored, beautiful facility consists of 8000 square feet of state of the art space designed just for kids! It includes 2 sensory motor gyms, kid-friendly and adult waiting areas, feeding therapy room, multi-purpose toddler/pre-

school room, numerous private therapy rooms, and a space just for teens and pre-teens. Parents are welcome to participate in therapy.

However, they are also able to view and listen to their child’s session from the waiting areas on special tablets via webcam technology. Our special programming includes Orton Gillingham reading therapy, the “SOS” approach to feeding therapy, Handwriting Without Tears, Interactive Metronome, and Integrated Listening.

www.childsplaytherapycenter.com 205-978-9939

STRAUSS FINANCIAL GROUP, INC. Strauss Financial Group, Inc. opened its doors in 1988 with a mission to create and preserve wealth by offering personalized and objective financial advice.

Our advisors have a combined 90 years of experience and work with high net worth individuals, trusts, retirement plans and corporations throughout the United States.

As an independent fee-only Registered Investment Advisor, Strauss Financial Group, operates under a fiduciary standard, which means that all advisors must exhibit the highest form of trust, honesty, and integrity.

Our wealth management services include strategic financial, retirement, and estate planning, investment portfolio

management, special needs care, small business and succession consulting, insurance and long term care.

As a fee-only company, Strauss Financial Group works solely for our clients, and we act as an advisor and guide to help achieve and maintain security, wealth and peace of mind.

2201 Cahaba Valley Drive Birmingham, AL 35242 Ph: 205-967-9595 Fax: 205-967-9114 hstrauss@straussfinancial.com

THRIVE BEHAVIORAL SERVICES, LLC At Thrive Behavioral Services we believe all children are capable of learning! Many are in need of a different form of teaching. We believe we have that to offer.

Using the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis and Verbal Behavior, we will design a program that targets your specific child’s individual needs. Most programs include targeting behaviors we want to increase such as communication, school readiness, toileting, dressing oneself, and

social skill development while at the same time targeting behaviors that we want to decrease such as biting, screaming, throwing objects, hitting, and task refusal.

At Thrive we believe in families, after all the family is the child’s primary teacher. Staying true to our vision we focus on working with the child in their most natural environment, the home. WE COME TO YOU! In addition to home-based services we offer community based services. If

your child has difficulty when visiting grocery stores, restaurants, movie theatres, parks, daycare/ school, we are here to accompany you and your child to that specific community setting to work on goals there. Services Include; IEP support, ABA/VB Therapy, NET, Discrete Trial, Assessment, Parent/Caregiver Training, Potty Training, Social Skills, Functional Assessment, Functional Analysis, School/Daycare Shadowing and Support/Training.

Behavioral Services

Chelsia Massey M.S. BCBA 205-222-0965 ThriveBehavioralServices.com birminghamparent.com | 21

Unique Beauty: UNDERSTANDING ALBINISM AND ITS EFFECTS

By Tiffani Hill

When Niya Pickett-Miller settled in to watch one of 2013’s most-talked-about movies, “The Heat” with Sandra Bullock and Melissa McCarthy, she thought she’d be in for a night of hilarity. What she got wasn’t funny at all.

“I was laughing until it featured a person with albinism who was made fun of,” says the mom of two, including 22-month-old Noah, who has albinism.

The character was called “evil” and “snow cone” and was the butt of other offensive jokes.

“Needless to say, I was quickly reminded of how misunderstood albinism is and how important it is for me to educate others,” she says. “Noah is a beautiful example of God’s unique creation and I think others could benefit from learning about this unique condition.”

About 1 in 17,000 people in the United States has some type of albinism and it affects people of all races, according to the National Organization for Albinism and Hypopigmentation. Albinism causes a person to have little to no pigment in their eyes, skin or hair. It is a condition that occurs when gene mutations create too little melanin.

WHAT IS ALBINISM? Albinism is a condition characterized by an inability to make pigment, says Bruce Korf, M.D., Ph.D., and chair of the UAB Department of Genetics.

“There are pigment cells in the skin, and elsewhere in the body, and importantly, in the back of the eye, and pigment is important in part to protect the skin against damage due to sunlight and ultraviolet radiation. And it turns out that it’s also important to the development of the function of the visual system.

“When people fail to be able to make this pigment then they typically have, in the most extreme instances white hair, very, very pale skin that’s extremely prone to sunburn, and they also have a lack of pigmentation in their eyes, so their eyes are blue and they have problems with their vision.”

EFFECTS ON VISION

PHOTO COURTESY OF NIYA PICKETT-MILLER

22 | birminghamparent | march 2014

Because pigment in skin and eyes is a protectant, the lack of melanin can cause problems for both systems. “There are two major vision problems and probably the most important is poor visual acuity,” Korf says. “Some people with oculocutaneous albinism, which affects the eyes and the skin, will have vision in the 20/200 or worse range. They can see

but not nearly as well as they otherwise would and it could make it impossible to drive. Their eyes are also very, very sensitive to light so they need to wear sunglasses when they go outside.”

Some people with albinism may also have a problem with binocular vision, in which the development of the visual system is not quite right, Korf says. Normally people would have depth perception, the ability when looking at something to perceive whether it’s nearby or far away.

But those with oculocutaneous albinism have a hard time with that.

EFFECTS ON SKIN In addition to vision problems, people with albinism must be extremely cautious with their skin.

“We always have a hat with a brim in the car for Noah,” Pickett-Miller says.

“He wears prescription glasses with transition lenses. We have the darkest tint allowed by law on our vehicle’s windows as well as a window shade. The biggest thing is educating caregivers and teachers at his learning center about the importance of applying sunscreen.”

Indeed, Korf says the biggest medical burden for people with albinism is sunburn and skin cancer. “It takes a lot of vigilance,” he says.

SOCIAL EFFECTS Of course, like anyone who is regarded as outside society’s norm, people with albinism can face mocking and harassment as evidenced by the previously mentioned movie. But even strangers’ curiosity can be overwhelming and many times rude.

“Early on we spent a lot of time explaining,” Pickett-Miller says. “People are attracted to babies and couple that with anything unusual and that just magnifies the amount of attention.”

Even a simple trip to the grocery store could become an event. “For me, it meant practicing a lot of avoidance. ‘Do I take Noah or not? Do I want to answer all the questions today? What do I say when someone stops to talk about him?’ It took a lot of energy to be sympathetic to others’ concerns.”

In a webinar called “Stares, Smirks and Shout-Outs,” (http://www.youtube. com/user/NOAHAlbinism? feature= watch) Kelsey Thompson, a licensed clinical professional counselor and a member of NOAH’s board of directors, discusses three types of negative experiences that people with albinism often face. Those are:

The silent – stares, pointing, smirks The rudely curious – questions that aren’t meant to be hurtful but can be annoying and embarrassing The curiously rude – yells or questions that are meant to humiliate If you or your child falls into one of these categories, think about how you’d feel if your child were on the receiving end of cruel jokes.

“This is a part of our reality,” PickettMiller says. “And while we should be sensitive to all stereotypes, there are just not enough positive images in media of people with albinism. The jokes in that movie just reinforced the idea of ‘this is weird, this is abnormal.’ When it happens, I wonder how Noah would feel about himself if he saw this movie.”

Also, the preferred term is “a person with albinism,” not “albino.” “Saying ‘albino’ is placing the condition before the individual, his physical characteristics before him,” Pickett-Miller says.

AMAZING INDIVIDUALS Dan Oates, educational outreach specialist at the West Virginia Schools for the Deaf and the Blind, wants everyone to know that members of the albinism community are amazing.

“In my 34 years of working with blind and low-vision children, I have found the children with albinism to be my favorite kids,” he says. “They are intelligent and most of them are a little ‘energetic’ – those are my kind of kids!” Each year, Oates, also a NOAH board member, brings a group of students who are visually impaired to Huntsville’s Space Camp.

In fact, one world-class photographer left his career in high fashion to show the world the beauty of these amazing individuals: “One day, on a break from a photo shoot, a chance encounter on a Manhattan street changed everything. Rick Guidotti saw a stunning girl at the bus stop – a girl with pale skin and white hair, a girl with albinism,” his website says.

Tired of being told who deserved to be photographed, Guidotti set out to expand the definition of beauty when he established Positive Exposure. According to its website, http://positiveexposure.org, the organization “utilizes photography and video to transform public perceptions of people living with genetic, physical and behavioral differences – from albinism to autism. Our educational and advocacy programs reach around the globe to promote a more inclusive, compassionate world where differences are celebrated.”

Second Annual Noah for NOAH Bowl-a-Thon March 22 Oak Mountain Lanes in Pelham 12:30-2:30 p.m.

Donate online and get details by visiting http://noah.kintera.org/ bowl/noah4noah Questions?

E-mail niypic@gmail.com National Organization for Albinism and Hypopigmentation, NOAH www.albinism.org/publications/ what_is_albinism.html BEAUTIFUL DIFFERENCES Everyone is different. How boring it would be if everyone were alike. Allowing people to be who they are without repercussion would be wonderful. Pickett-Miller cited Beyonce’s music video for her song “Pretty Hurts” as a good starting point.

“In the same week that I saw a negative representation of albinism in the media with “The Heat,” I also saw Beyonce’s ‘Pretty Hurts,’ which features a beauty pageant. The queen is a contestant with albinism. I took it as a little nod to us as a reminder to be a positive voice and keep working. If I ever meet Beyonce, I’ll tell her thank you.”

An albino tiger, an albino gorilla, an albino whale are considered precious and rare. Why aren’t humans as precious?

“We see animals with albinism and we tend to view those animals more favorably,” Pickett-Miller says. “Yet in people, we’re taken aback or even afraid.

“When people see Noah, I’d like for them to say, ‘Wow, that’s cool! How unique! That color of blond is beautiful!

We can’t replicate that.’ ” To learn more about albinism or help raise awareness, join Noah, Pickett-Miller, her husband, David; and their daughter, Nalla, on March 22 at Oak Mountain Lanes in Pelham for the 2nd annual Noah for NOAH Bowl-a-Thon.

Tiffani Hill writes about parenting, pop culture and girl power. As mom to a tween, she finds creative ways to guide her daughter through the highs and lows of growing up. Contact her at tiffanihill@icloud.com or learn more at http://tiffanihill.com. birminghamparent.com | 23

3

31

MIDDLE NAME PRIDE DAY

10

Little Miss Muffet and the Lost Sheep, 10am-11am, Leeds Theatre and Arts Center.

BUNSEN BURNER DAY

MONDAY

WEDNESDAY

11

4

Moms Connect, 6:30-8:30pm, Riverchase Community Church.

HUG A GI DAY

PLANT A FLOWER DAY; GIRL SCOUTS DAY

Rosa Parks

5

12

THIS IS NATIONAL WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH!

POPCORN LOVERS’ DAY

Spencer Lecture, 6:30pm, Birmingham Botanical Gardens.

The name of March comes from Latin Martius, the first month of the earliest Roman calendar. It was named for Mars, the Roman god of war who was also regarded as a guardian of agriculture and an ancestor of the Roman people through his sons Romulus and Remus.

March 1 began the numbered year in Russia until the end of the 15th century. Great Britain and its colonies continued to use March 25 until 1752, when they finally adopted the Gregorian calendar. Many other cultures and religions still celebrate the beginning of the New Year in March.

6

13

THURSDAY

March is the first month of spring in the Northern Hemisphere.

Its birth flower is the daffodil.

March's birthstones are aquamarine and bloodstone.

These stones symbolize courage.

TUESDAY

HIGHLIGHTS

march 2014

St. Patrick’s Day Benefit for the Arc of Jefferson County, 6pm, Avondale Brewery.

14

7

The North Arts Council Annual Spring Arts and Crafts Show, 8am-6pm, Gardendale Civic Center.

NATIONAL CROWN ROAST OF PORK DAY

FRIDAY

1

8

15 Birmingham Parent’s 4th Annual Special Needs Expo, 10am3pm, LincPoint at United Cerebral Palsy of Birmingham.

Spirit of Sochi Family Festival 11am-3pm, Lakeshore Foundation.

Snakes: The Unhuggables, 9:30-11:30am, Aldridge Botanical Gardens.

Hikes for Tykes with Fresh Air Family 10am, 2pm, Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Dr. Seuss Science 10am-6pm, McWane Science Center.

Roy Downs/ Calera Library 6th Annual Fairy Tale Ball, 10amnoon and 6-8pm, Roy Downs /Calera Public Library.

SATURDAY

9

2

16 Southeastern Outings Dayhike, 2pm, Red Mountain Park.

Pianist Robert Henry, 4-6pm, Alys Stephens Center.

Southeastern Outings Day Hike, 1pm, Oak Mountain State Park.

OLD STUFF DAY

SUNDAY

NATIONAL CHOCOLATE COVERED RAISIN DAY

SAINT PATRICK’S DAY

24

17

WAFFLE DAY

Moms Connect, 6:30-8:30pm, Riverchase Community Church.

25

18

19

26

MAKE UP YOUR OWN HOLIDAY DAY

POULTRY DAY

27

20

Shred Day by RecyclAbility, 1-4pm, Arc of Jefferson County.

INTERNATIONAL EARTH DAY

SOMETHING ON A STICK DAY

FRAGRANCE DAY

28

21

22

Free Classes from Magic City Chess U, 10am-noon, Birmingham Public Library. See March 1.

29

Hikes for Tykes with Fresh Air Family, 10am, 2pm, Birmingham Botanical Gardens.

Wonders of Water, 10am-3pm, Birmingham Zoo.

PAWS in the Gardens, 9am-5pm, Aldridge Gardens.

TAKE A WALK IN THE PARK DAY

NATIONAL CHIP AND DIP DAY

30

23

mar

calendar

Calendar sponsored by

PHOTO COURTESY OF BMA

2014

15th HOLI: AN INDIAN CELEBRATION OF COLOR 10am-3pm, Birmingham Museum of Art. This annual, colorful delight of the senses showcases dancers, food and decorating, welcoming spring, friendship and COLOR! www.artsbma.org. FREE.

1 SATURDAY Roy Downs/ Calera Library 6th Annual Fairy Tale Ball 10am-noon and 6-8pm, Roy Downs /Calera Public Library.

Young princes and princesses, come meet your favorite fairy tale characters, from Cinderella to Oompa Loompas! This event is the largest of its kind in the state of Alabama. Bring your dancing shoes and your imagination. No ticket required. 205-668-7200, www. cityofcalera.org. FREE. Dr. Seuss Science 10am-6pm, McWane Science Center. One fish, two fish, red fish, blue fish! Discover Seuss

Science with exciting programs on Dr. Seuss’s Birthday! 205-7148300, www.mcwane.org. fee.

Hikes for Tykes with Fresh Air Family 10am, 2pm, Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Hikes for Tykes offers a hands-on, guided tour of the Gardens focused through the lens of preschool children. Register at: Events@FreshAirFamily.org.

205-540-6642, www.freshairfamily.org. FREE. Free Classes from Magic City Chess U 10am-noon, Birmingham Public Library, Second Floor. Learn

to play or improve your play in these free classes. 205-8622018, www.magiccitychessu. wix.com. FREE.

3 MONDAY Little Miss Muffet and the Lost Sheep 10am-11am, Leeds Theatre and Arts Center. The Leeds Arts Council presents this performance by the Birmingham Children’s Theatre Touring group. Preschool-2nd grade.

Tickets $8; one free teacher’s admission for every 10 children. 205-699-1892, www. leedsartscouncil.org.

6 THURSDAY Spencer Lecture 6:30pm, Birmingham Botanical Gardens. This free annual event brings noted botanist David Price to the Gardens for an intriguing talk titled “A Sense of Place: Bok Tower Gardens.” Reservations required. 205-414-3950, www. bbgardens.org. FREE.

8 SATURDAY Snakes: The Unhuggables 9:30-11:30am, Aldridge Botanical Gardens. Do snakes get a bad rap? In this family nature program, see these amazing creatures and how they have

Events may change after publication deadline; please phone ahead to confirm important information. The deadline for submitting calendar items for the April 2014 issue is March 3. 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 designed 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.

26 | birminghamparent | march 2014

mar

Calendar sponsored by

2014

an important role in our ecosystem. Fee $5 to $26, see website for details. 205-682-8019, http://aldridgegardens.com.

Hikes for Tykes with Fresh Air Family 10am, 2pm, Birmingham Botanical Gardens. See March 1.

Free Classes from Magic City Chess U 10am-noon, Birmingham Public Library, see March 1.

Spirit of Sochi Family Festival 11am-3pm, Lakeshore Foundation. As a U.S. Olympic and Paralympic training site and Paralympic Sport Club, Lakeshore is hosting the first U.S. community-wide celebration and viewing of the Paralympic Opening Ceremony broadcast. Spirit of Sochi will feature a traveling interactive tour. The Paralympic Opening Ceremony will be shown on a large screen TV. 205-313-7436, www.lakeshore.org. FREE.

9 SUNDAY Southeastern Outings Day Hike 1pm, Oak Mountain State Park.

Enjoy a moderate four-mile walk. Parts of this hike may be off the color-coded trails.

Some ups and downs. Depart 1 pm from the Oak Mountain State Park office parking lot.

For details, see the website or phone. 205-631-4680, www. seoutings.com.

Pianist Robert Henry 4-6pm, Alys Stephens Center.

Henry will perform all-Chopin for the final installment of the UAB 2013-2014 Piano Series.

Tickets $15; $5 for UAB students. 205-975-2787, www.uab.edu/music.

11 TUESDAY Moms Connect 6:30-8:30pm, Riverchase Community Church. A support group of mothers with children of all ages. Theme: Learn more about Easter and the Gospel message. Call Lynn for childcare reservation.

205-664-4531, FREE.

14 FRIDAY The North Arts Council Annual Spring Arts and Crafts Show 8am-6pm, Gardendale Civic Center. Over 75 vendors with a wide variety of handmade crafts including children’s clothing, home décor, jewelry and one of a kind gifts. Door prizes given away every hour. Pictures made with the Easter Bunny on Saturday from 9am-3pm for $10. www. northartscouncil.webs.com.

FREE ADMISSION. St. Patrick’s Day Benefit for the Arc of Jefferson County 6pm, Avondale Brewery. The second annual Shamrock Shindig includes great food, drinks, music by DJ Mark Goldstein and prizes, all to benefit The Arc of Jefferson County. Tickets are $50 per person and $80 per couple.

205-423-6234, www.instagift. com/shamrockshindig.

REAL BIG REAL BIG

An amazing ride with Thomas the Tank Engine™!

Plus tons of other activities. www.ticketweb.com/dowt or call 866-468-7630

MONTH MARCH 28-30 and 00–00, 2014 APRIL 5-6, 2014 HEART OF DIXIE RAILROAD YOUR RAILROAD 1919 9th St, Calera, AL ADDRESS, CITY, STATE

Day Out With Thomas™ Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends™ Based on The Railway Series by The Reverend W. Awdry. © 2014 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends, Thomas & Friends and Day Out With Thomas are trademarks of Gullane (Thomas) Limited. © 2014 HIT Entertainment Limited. © 2014 MEGA Brands Inc. All rights reserved.

MEGA BLOKS and the MEGA BLOKS logo are registered trademarks of Mega Brands Inc.

15 SATURDAY Birmingham Parent’s 4th Annual Special Needs Expo 10am-3pm, LincPoint at United Cerebral Palsy of Birmingham.

Birmingham Parent presents vendors for services and products for children and adults with special needs.

Great entertainment, door prizes, information, food sampling, inflatables, face painting, speakers and much more. Presented by United Cerebral Palsy of Birmingham.

Sponsors include ABC 33/40, Easter Seals, Children’s of Alabama and Alabama Family Trust. Vendor booths still available. 205-987-7700. carol@ birminghamparent.com. FREE Gwin Elememtary Spring Fling 10am-3pm, Gwin Elementary School. Kick off spring!

Carnival rides (from Deborah’s Party Rental), games, food, prizes, bingo, silent auction, Fair Hair, face painting, local vendors and more. Tickets and armbands for rides and games will be sold at the door.

FREE ADMISSION.

birminghamparent.com | 27

mar

calendar

Calendar sponsored by

2014

Free Classes from Magic City Chess U 10am-noon, Birmingham Public Library. See March 1.

Wonders of Water 10am-3pm, Birmingham Zoo. Celebrating The National Wildlife Federation’s National Wildlife Week. Learn about water and animals. Games, activities and more. www.birminghamzoo. com. fee.

MAP COURTESY OF BBG

Southeastern Outings Evening Walk 7pm Hillsboro Trail, Helena. Join a friendly four-mile walk on a wide, paved trail with only a few short hills. 205-631-4680, www. seoutings.com.

27 THURSDAY Before your visit to The Birmingham Botanical Gardens, make sure to download the treasure map above, based on Alabama Course of Study, Science. Curriculum resources are available per teachers’ request. Download map at www.bbgardens.org.

The North Arts Council Annual Spring Arts and Crafts Show 9am-4pm, Gardendale Civic Center, see March 14.

Hikes for Tykes with Fresh Air Family 10am, 2pm Birmingham Botanical Gardens. See March 1.

Free Classes f rom Magic City Chess U 10am-noon, Birmingham Public Library. See March 1.

Holi: An Indian Celebration of Color 10am-3pm, Birmingham Museum of Art. This annual, colorful delight of the senses showcases dancers, food and

decorating, welcoming spring, friendship and COLOR! www. artsbma.org. FREE.

16 SUNDAY Southeastern Outings Dayhike 2pm, Red Mountain Park. Come enjoy a hike in one of the largest city parks in the United States, just 15 minutes from downtown Birmingham. 205631-4680, www.seoutings.com.

18 TUESDAY Moms Connect 6:30-8:30pm, Riverchase Community Church. A support group of mothers with children of all ages. Theme: Craft Night. Join us in making your own jewelry.

Call Lynn for childcare reservation. 205-664-4531, FREE.

22 SATURDAY PAWS in the Gardens 9am-5pm, Aldridge Gardens. Tail waggin’ fun for the whole family! Bring your best friends out for a stroll! Food, dog-friendly demonstrations, vendors and more. Proceeds benefit Shelby County Human Society and Aldridge Gardens. $10/dog. 205-682-8019, www. aldridgegardens.com.

Hikes for Tykes with Fresh Air Family 10am, 2pm, Birmingham Botanical Gardens. See March 1.

Shred Day by RecyclAbility 1-4pm, Arc of Jefferson County.

The RecyclABILITY truck and its employees will be on site, ready to destroy confidential documents at a discounted rate. The shredded remains are recycled.

The cost is $5 per banker box of documents, $10 per extralarge sized box, and $5 per bag of documents. The RecyclABILITY program employs individuals with intellectual disabilities who have learned vocational skills. 205-423-6234, www. arcofjeff.org.

29 SATURDAY Hikes for Tykes with Fresh Air Family 10am, 2pm, Birmingham Botanical Gardens. See March 1.

Free Classes from Magic City Chess U 10am-noon, Birmingham Public Library. See March 1.

When you imagine their future - Imagine a beautiful smile!

Three convenient locations to serve you!

Deborah A Sema D.M.D., M.S. specialist in orthodontics

205-942-2270

www.ovortho.com

Great smiles for children... and Mom & Dad Too! 28 | birminghamparent | march 2014

CLEAR BRACES, INVISALIGN, AND INVISALIGN TEEN

415 West Oxmoor Road Birmingham 5751 Pocahontas Road Bessemer 3045 Independence Dr. Homewood

Multiple Winner of Family Favorite Dentist

michael s. anglin, d.d.s pediatric & adolescent dentistry

Advent Episcopal School Come Share the ADVENTure!

Classes begin in 4-year-old Kindergarten

2019 6th Avenue North, Birmingham, AL 35203 (205) 252-2535 www.AdventEpiscopalSchool.org

erin nelson, d.d.s family dentistry 3825 Lorna Road, Suite 206, Hoover, Alabama 35244 205-988-9800 . www.BirminghamKidsdentist.com

VOTE NOW

in the 2014 Birmingham Parent’s Family Favorites Awards!

YOU CAN ALSO BE ENTERED IN A RANDOM DRAWING FOR A GREAT GULF SHORES PRIZE PACKAGE!

Tell us Your Family’s Favorites & WIN!

Cast your vote online at

www.birminghamparent.com SPONSORED BY

Must vote in at least 20 categories for you survey to be counted and also put into the random drawing for a 3 night stay for 4 people in a Gulf-front condominium in beautiful Gulf Shores.

This fall vacation package will include a meal and an attraction, too! Some restrictions and black out dates apply.

Call for Free Confidential Help!

1-866-962-3030

birminghamparent.com | 29

MEET THE CANDIDATES

who are helping beat blood cancer!

T h et w oindiv idual sw h orais et h emo s tf undsduring t h is1 0 w e e kc ampaign f o rT h eL e uk e mia & L y mph o ma S o c ie t y e arn t h et it l eo fM an and W o man o ft h eYe ar.T it l e h o l de rsw il lbeanno unc e d att h eBl ac kT ie& Bl ueJ e ansG rand F inal eatI ro nC it yo nM ay1 5 ,2 0 1 4at6pm.O nl y1 4l o c alme n and w o me nh av et h eh o no ro fbe ing no minat e d.I fy o uo r s o me o ney o uk no ww o ul d bea s t ro ng c andidat e ,v is itw w w . mw o y . o rg/ bh m and c l ic kN o minat ea C andidat e . .

J arv isE s c o t t F i rstI mpre ssi o ns M ark e t i ng G ro up

M o na S il v e y I nc y t eC o rpo rat i o n

D o nP ie rini W e l l sF argoA dv i so rs & L i qui d G o l dF o undat i o n

T o ni H il l F re e do mF i nanc i alG ro up

YO U RN A M EH E R E

L ibbyL as s it e r Bay e rP ro pe rt i e s

Bil l yBl air C o bbs A l l e n

F o r mo reinf o rmat io no rt os po ns o rac andidat e ,pl e as ev is itw w w . mw o y . o rg/ bh m o rc al l2 0 5 9 89 0 0 9 8.

individual attention beautiful smiles

ceLebrating years oVer

33 famiLy-owned & operated

Like us on

Mo ntg om

ery H

wy

1651 Independence Court Suite 141 Birmingham 35209

Brookwood Medical Center

orthodontics for adults and children

In

d

orthodontics

mark r. yanosky, dmd, ms

H Brookwood Hospital

31

nce Court de en ep

Yanosky Orthodontics

Dr.

Located in the Professional Office Building at Brookwood Medical Center

205-870-1444 • www.dryanosky.com

30 | birminghamparent | march 2014

Dan cewear & 1629 Oxmoor Rd Birmingham, AL 35209 205-871-STEP

www.applausedancewear.net

ss o e c c A

r ies

Your One Step to All Your Dancing Needs!

events & attractions

mar 2014

teractive robotic components, showing how robotic technology can change our lives for the better. Through May 11.

BIRMINGHAM ZOO Come see Griffin, the first giraffe born in a North American accredited Zoo in 2014!

ALDRIDGE BOTANICAL GARDENS 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 AMERICAN VILLAGE Highway 119, Montevallo.

205-665-3535, www.americanvillage.org

Birmingham. 205-414-3900, www.bbgardens.org BIRMINGHAM CIVIL RIGHTS INSTITUTE 16th St. N., Birmingham.

205-328-9696, www.bcri.org BIRMINGHAM MUSEUM OF ART 2000 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd., Birmingham.

205-254-2565, www.artsbma.org BIRMINGHAM ZOO 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

BARBER MOTORSPORTS PARK 6040 Barber Motorsports Parkway, Leeds.

205-298-9040, www.barbermotorsports.com

HEART OF DIXIE RAILROAD MUSEUM 1919 Ninth St., Calera.

205-668-3435, www.hodrrm.org

BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL GARDENS Be sure to download the treasure map to take with you! www.bbgardens.org/documents/treasuremapforweb.pdf or view it on page 28 of this issue. 2612 Lane Park Road,

MCWANE SCIENCE CENTER Nano Exhibit. This exhibit engages visitors interactively in nanoscale science, engineering, and technology. Hands-on exhibits present the basics of nanoscience and engineering.

Through March 30.

Robots + Us. This exhibit features more than a dozen in-

IMAX Movies: TITANS OF THE ICE AGE Titans of the Ice Age transports viewers to the beautiful and other worldly frozen landscapes of North America, Europe and Asia ten thousand years before modern civilization. Through March 20, TORNADO ALLEY Tornado Alley takes audiences on a thrilling quest to experience a tornado’s destructive power at point blank range.

Through May 21.

GREAT WHITE SHARK Great White Shark explores the Great White’s place in our imaginations, in our fears, and in the reality of its role at the top of the oceanic food chain.

Through May 31. 200 19th St. N., Birmingham.

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

MOSS ROCK PRESERVE Preserve Parkway, Hoover.

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

OAK MOUNTAIN STATE PARK 200 Terrace Drive, Pelham.

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

RUFFNER MOUNTAIN NATURE CENTER Children’s Story Time. On the first Monday and third Saturday of every month at 10am, children 3-5 are invited to story time to encourage their excitement about the outdoors. Short activity follows.

Must be accompanied by an adult. $3, $2 for members.

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

mon-sat 10am-5pm

HIGH FASHION designer consignment boutique

25% OFF

One child’s outfit!

EXP. 3/31/14

Calendar sponsored by

GREAT

SELECTION OF

SPRING

MERCHANDISE!

Accepting spring merchandise for consignment.

Riverbrook Plaza Valleydale Road at US 31 205.987.7027 Cahaba Heights (Ladies Clothing Only) 4200 Oakview Ln 205.970.7997

www.shrose.com

COMING IN

APRIL

Birmingham Parent's Baby Book All About Twins What's in a Name?

More in our Spring Destination Guide birminghamparent.com | 31

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

B I R M I N G H A M PA R E N T ’ S

VIRTUAL

2014

CHECK OUT OUR

VIRTUAL CAMP EXPO ONLINE NOW

VIsit http://birminghamparent.parenthood.com/directory/camp/ or go to www.birminghamparent.com VISIT OUR CAMPS ONLINE, SEE PICS, VIDEOS & GO TO THEIR SITES! Booths & Sponsorship buttons available - call now! 205-987-7700 or carol@birminghamparent.com 32 | birminghamparent | march 2014

SPONSORED BY

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

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

Welcome to an award winning camp experience…

RIVERVIEW CAMP FOR GIRLS.

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

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

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

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

Mother-Daughter Weekends also Available

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

Check us out online at www.riverviewcamp.com

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

chorus • gymnastics • Dance • canoeing • tennis • GOLF

Exciting Traditional Camp for girls ages 6 to 16!

birminghamparent.com | 33

YOUNG DANCER INTENSIVE

Enroll in Birmingham-Southern College’s

Conservatory of Fine and Performing Arts

Fun-filled Summers Start Here!

GET IN SHAPE. MEET OTHER MOMS. HELP CURE CANCER.

Lessons in piano, voice, violin, guitar, band and much more. Preschool classes also available.

M IT

. . .

Music and Theatre Camp 2014 June 16-20 K5-5th grade www.bsc.edu 205/226-4960

MOMS IN TRAINING Choose from Sports, Art, Music, Drama, Technology & Just Plain Fun! Full day care available.

Registration begins in February.

Camp dates are June 2 - August 8.

JULY 7th- 18th grades 5th-8th

To request a brochure, email

Contact Gabe McCool at gmccool@highlandsschool.org or (205) 956-9731 ext 105 Located on Old Leeds Rd.

Jkilgore@asfa.k12.al.us or visit www.asfa.k12.al.us

SUMMER AT HIGHLANDS

1800 Reverend Abraham Woods, Jr. Blvd.

Birmingham, AL 35203 205-252-9241 ext. 2233

(I-459 exit at Grants Mill Rd)

Flexible 9-week work-out program for ALL athletic abilities Experienced coaches (who are also moms) Bring baby along STROLLERS ARE WELCOME! Train in honor of your loved ones affected by cancer Fundraise to support blood cancer patients & their families

Contact your local Leukemia & Lymphoma office for more info 205.989.0098 or kimberly.johnson@lls.org

B I R M I N G H A M PA R E N T ’ S

VIRTUAL

2014 VISIT BIRMINGHAM PARENT’s VIRTUAL CAMP EXPO ONLINE WWW.BIRMINGHAMPARENT.COM 34 | birminghamparent | march 2014

Camp Juliette Low Cloudland, GA Located on Lookout Mountain in northwest Georgia, CJL is an independent, non-profit summer camp

for girls ages 7-17. 1 & 2 week sessions available June 8—August 2, 2014

     

Horseback Ropes course Climbing wall Crafts/pottery Drama Pool

     

Canoeing Sailing Archery Fire-building Backpacking Camp crafts

For more information or to register online: 770-428-1062  info@CJL.org

www.CJL.org …preparing girls for confident living and leadership since 1922

A ho-hum summer? No way. You’ll enjoy nature, sports, animals, art, music, movies and more. Reserve your spot today.

Call (877) 217-9530 to find a school near you.

LaPetite.com

Programs vary by school. See school for details. La Petite Academy, Inc. is an equal opportunity provider and employer. © 2014 La Petite Academy, Inc.

LPA S14 Birmingham Parent 7.2x4.5.indd 1

birminghamparent.com 35 1/29/14 10:49| AM

Last month to vote for your favorites!!

VOTING ENDS AT MIDNIGHT ON MARCH 31

special needs

Walker

special needs

Malina

special needs

Sabrina & Sofia

0-2

Olivia

0-2

Drake

0-2

Kinslee

0-2

Marvin

0-2

Raelynn

3-5

Kinzlee

3-5

Ava Claire

3-5

Cambree

3-5

Logan

3-5

Marshall

6-11

Kyle

6-11

Lauren

6-11

Rebecca

6-11

Emma

6-11

Michael

GO TO WWW.BIRMINGHAMPARENT.COM TO VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITES! Only one vote per IP address, and you must choose one child in each category for your ballot to count. Voting will end at midnight MARCH 31, 2014. Winners will be announced in the MAY 2014 issue of Birmingham Parent, online and on Facebook and Twitter.

36 | birminghamparent | march 2014

Us + s t o b o R it ib h ew ex n e h t e c n his ie t r e r p e t x n E e C e c n ie c at McWane S

g n i spr

!

K A E R B Robots + Us was produced by the Science Museum of Minnesota. The exhibit was made possible with support from the National Science Foundation.

SPECIAL EVENTS & OFFERS

POLAR BEARS

TO THE ARCTIC NOW SHOWING

IMAX SEASON PRESENTED BY

WIN A POLAR BEAR

One lucky visitor to McWane will go home with a 36” Coca-Cola Polar Bear each day of Spring Break

SUMMER CAMPS

SUMMER CAMPS

Sign up today for McWane’s Summer Camps before they sell out!

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

| 37

A Page in a Book

©

RECOMMENDING

THE BEST BOOKS FOR CHILDREN & TEENS

By Gerry Paige Smith

Being Better Than the Bully Everyone encounters a bully, sooner or later. Your child will meet the kid who through ignorance, anger or meanness simply turns on his peers with rude, hurtful and pushy behavior. You can help your child avoid being a victim, caught off-guard by bullying, by introducing the signs and actions that fall into this unpleasant realm. Understanding the forms of bullying may help your young reader avoid being picked on, know what to do if it starts, and learn not to mimic bullying behaviors themselves. The following titles take a light-hearted look at bullying while offering gentle suggestions that may help children to navigate these troubling situations and more importantly, to behave better than the bully.

Lion vs Rabbit

By Alex Lattimer (Peachtree)

Bad Apple

By Edward Hemingway (G.P Putnam’s Sons / Penguin) Mac is a shiny red apple who loves to read, to go on adventures and is by all reports a good apple. But when he wakes up one day to meet Wil, a worm that’s taken up lodging in his head, Mac discovers a friend who completes him in all his activities. They begin to do everything together, sharing the closest bonds of friendship. But soon the other apples begin to tease Mac, and call him mean names, a ‘bad’ apple because he has a worm in his head. The cruelty is enough that Wil leaves in the night, so his friend won’t be bullied further. But Mac learns that a true friend is far more valuable that the opinions of small-minded crab apples, and he sets out to get his best friend back. With an uplifting message of staying true to yourself and your friends, in spite of teasing from bullies, Bad Apple is a delicious testimony to loyalty and personal strength.

All of the animals of the savannah are tired of being bullied by Lion who delights in playing cruel pranks on them. In an effort to stop Lion’s mean behavior, the animals advertise a reward to anyone who will come to deal with their problem.

The first three applicants try their strength, size and speed against Lion – but each fails to defeat him. When the last taker, a small rabbit arrives to challenge the bully, Lion is so confident of victory, he agrees to several competitions. But Rabbit has a smart plan to ensure that Lion cannot win any of them. With humorous illustrations and a very clever storyline twist, Lion vs Rabbit is a delightful tale of a lofty bully brought back to earth by strength in numbers.

Llama Llama and the Bully Goat

By Anna Dewdney (Viking / Penguin) With her deft hand at exploring emotionally delicate childhood situations, Llama Llama author Anna Dewdney turns her talents toward bullying in her newest title. Gilroy Goat is the new “kid” in school and he quickly alienates most of the class with his bad behavior. He mocks the other students, disrupts the lessons and calls the other pupils mean names. The children try to avoid him and focus on their own play, but Gilroy becomes impossible to ignore as he become more aggressive. When Llama Llama enlists the help of the teacher, some time-out and direct talk puts the “bully” goat onto the friendlier path to making friends. This gentle exploration of bullying is ideal for very young children with its sound advice to involve an adult and its optimism that bad behaviors can changes for the better.

38 | birminghamparent | march 2014

www.dlovephotography.com 205-902-5357 birmingham, al

OFFI CE H OU RS:

Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

DR. CLARK THOMAS DR. LAUTEN JOHNSON www.alpediatricdentistry.com KIDS LOVE US, PARENTS TRUST US!

Welcoming children 6 months & older.

Treating children, not just their teeth, for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Y.

KW

SP

WY.

W HA

WY. ACE PK

BR

OC

KS

GA

PP

KW

Y.

STADIU

459

M TR

EST PK SHAD

ES CR

150

KIN

HN

JO

Dr. Lauten Johnson

HOOVER LOCATION

MONTCLAIR LOCATION

1015 Brocks Gap Pkwy Hoover, AL 35244

3918 Montclair Rd. Suite 206 Birmingham, AL 35213

205.982.0112

205.879.6150

Dr. Clark Thomas birminghamparent.com | 39

ask the specialist

Sponsored by

Are Heart Attack Symptoms Different for Women?

By Anabela Simon-Lee, MD, M.P.H.

M

any women lead busy lives. Females have a lot of people who depend on them, including a spouse, children and job demands.

My patients sometimes feel that they don’t have enough time to keep their heart healthy. But whatever else is going on, everyone needs to periodically focus on them and prioritize personal health. By taking care of personal wellness, women ensure they’ll be around later for the many other people who depend on them.

n Heart disease is the number Dr. Anabela Simon-Lee is a cardiologist at Brookwood Medical Center.

one cause of death in American women. In the United States, more women than men die every year from cardiovascular disease. Here are a few startling statistics:

n In 2007, cardiovascular disease

still caused approximately one death per minute among women in the United States.

n Cardiovascular disease rates

in the United States are significantly higher for black females compared with their white counterparts.

n In a recent American Heart As-

sociation national survey, only 53 percent of women said the first thing they would do if they thought they were having a heart attack was to call 9-1-1.

Send us your questions for "Ask the Specialist" at info@BirminghamParent.com.

No personal replies are sent.

40 | birminghamparent | march 2014

Unfortunately, women may fail to recognize that their symptoms could indicate a heart attack or heart disease until it is too late.

The following symptoms are considered the “classic” symptoms of a heart attack:

n Sudden and intense chest pain n Pain or discomfort in the chest or stomach which radiates to one or both arms, back, shoulder, neck or jaw

n Shortness of breath n Sweating (often a cold, clammy

sweat), nausea or lightheadedness

Women often experienced “non-classic” symptoms of a heart attack:

n Mild chest discomfort,

pressure, squeezing, tightness or fullness

n Weakness n Unusual fatigue n Sleep disturbances n Indigestion, nausea or vomiting n Anxiety It is extremely important to recognize these symptoms and seek prompt medical attention if any are experienced. Calling 9-1-1 is the quickest and most efficient way to receive emergency medical attention. Lifesaving therapy can be initiated upon arrival of emergency medical services and waiting to call for help may result in heart muscle damage. Do not wait too late to act.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with heart disease, there are healthy behaviors to adopt decrease the risk of heart attack. Talk to a health care provider and find out how to maintain a healthy heart.

Suddenly, you’re in a whole different state of

“Hmmm, I wonder. . .”

“What’s so shiny?”

“Hey, little crab!”

It’s amazing how fun learning can be in the right environment. Here you’ll find 32 miles of uncrowded sugar white beaches, sparkling water, unspoiled natural wonders and interactive educational attractions just waiting to be explored.

And a whole different state of discovery.

GulfShoresOrangeBeach

@alabamabeaches

GulfShores.com/BirminghamParent 877-475-1528 birminghamparent.com | 41

travel

DESTINATION HILTON SANDESTIN: You’ll Be Planning Your Trip Back Here Soon

By Carol Muse Evans

E

ver since our children were young I thought I needed a condo at the beach to be comfortable and have a good time.

The Hilton Sandestin (hotel) changed my mind. And I want to go back!

Of course, a stay at the beautiful white sandy beaches of Sandestin, right on the Gulf, can’t be beat. It’s really the main draw – what we go to the Gulf Coast to see. A mere four and half hours away from Birmingham, this resort is an easy drive for a family for a weekend or a week.

Elegant furnishings, access to golf, two pools and kiddie pool, hot tub, great beach side deck with complimentary towel service, pool side restaurant and bar (Barefoot’s Beachside Bar and Grill) and of course, the ocean front location with beach service makes it great for mom and dad as well as the kids. It’s a very short walk to the beach. And unlike a condo, there’s daily maid service for your room – a real treat at the beach as you go through those towels.

There’s also valet service or individual parking – whichever you desire.

This hotel has all the comforts of a condo, minus multiple rooms, but I didn’t miss them, because there’s still plenty of privacy. Our room included a separate bunk area with two bunk

beds, dresser and chair and even a small television. It was divided by a long hall and huge bathroom, and then the regular hotel room with two beds, table, balcony, wet bar area with fridge and microwave, and of course, that amazing view of the Gulf of Mexico. We couldn’t have been more comfortable.

There is literally 600 feet of beachfront here, along with a 20,000 square foot deck both beach side and pool side. Use one of the grills provided around the pool for a special, home cooked meal, if you like.

You can have breakfast in your room, thanks to the fridge and condo, or enjoy an “over the top” breakfast at buffet at Hilton Sandestin Beach’s Sandcastles Restaurant. I recommend doing this at least once during your visit – it’s a real treat, and you won’t want lunch! There’s also a Starbucks Coffee Shop on the property with pastries and juices. And the famous Seagars Prime Steak & Seafood within the hotel for a special dinner.

Ask about the kids club summer program and babysitting, depending on the time of year you visit.

At some point during your time at the Hilton Sandestin, you should take the complimentary resort trolley to the Village at Baytown

Wharf (www.baytownwharf.com or www.sandestin.com), which features places to eat, snack, galleries, boutiques and nightlife. Four golf courses, 15 tennis courts, boating, dolphin cruises, a great outlet mall and more are all located nearby, and the hotel’s concierge can help you schedule any of it.

The service here is that of a HOTEL. In fact, the Hilton Sandestin Beach is the largest full-service beachfront resort hotel on Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast. The staff caters to your every need, and there’s also a spa, salon, fitness center and even an additional indoor pool, if you like.

Should you need it, there are rooms and services for business needs, as well as a laundry/valet service, coin laundry, safe deposit boxes, notary public, resort transportation, and high speed internet. They have thought of just about everything.

When we visited, the Sandestin Hilton was undergoing a major renovation, but they did a good job of us hardly knowing it. As of this month, the transformation will be complete.

There is an all new main entry, lobby, Sandcastles Restaurant and Lounge, Hadashi Sushi, all new Spa Tower rooms and the Serenity by the sea Spa has been updated as, well.

Carol Muse Evans is publisher and editor of Birmingham Parent, and the beach is one of her favorite destinations.

42 | birminghamparent | march 2014

There is literally 600 feet of beachfront here, along with a 20,000 square foot deck both beach side and pool side.

The Hilton Sandestin Beach is the largest full-service beachfront resort hotel on Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast. The staff caters to your every need, and there’s also a spa, salon, fitness center and even

PHOTO BY CAROL MUSE EVANS

an additional indoor pool, if you like.

MARCH PACKAGES: Check out the Sun-sational Spring package, Family Fun Package, Leisure Escapes and the Weekday Beach Day Escape. Packages details at www.sandestinbeachhilton.com/specialsand-packages-seasonal. The Weekday Beach Day Escape will be posted online soon, but in the interim, the package will be available for weekday stays (Sunday-Thursday) and includes accommodations and a daily beach setup (two chairs, one umbrella) starting from $281 per night.

PHOTO BY CAROL MUSE EVANS

IF YOU GO: Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa 4000 Sandestin Blvd. S. Destin, FL 32550 www.hilton/com/sandestinbeach 850-267-9500 Room Rates in the Spa Tower/partial Gulf view start at $229/night

birminghamparent.com | 43

death by children

The Pencident

By Christopher “Bull” Garlington

When I married my wife, I married her friends, too. In an instant, I became their mover, their lifter and their Starbucks butler.

Shortly after my son was born, my wife’s friend asked if WE would watch her children and her house while she and her husband jetted to the Caribbean to create another baby because the two in her house were lonely. So WE moved into her manse for a week with the plan that WE would wrangle her preschoolers while WE went through her medicine cabinet, her closet and her wine rack.

This house would make Martha Stewart roll her eyes. It was opulent.

It was luxurious. It was ridiculous.

Of course, I wasn’t worried about being left in her house with her two children AND mine because my wife would be with me because WE were watching the house and . . . wife?

Wiiiife? Hello?

Yeah, it was just me.

I spent a week in mortal terror as the children slung frosted Cheerios in every direction and peed in their sheets. But I handled it. I locked them in the basement.

Well, us.

My wife’s friend’s basement was wall-to-wall oh my god and blanketed hip deep with hand-crafted Swedish gender-neutral toys. I dragged a crate of juice boxes and Cheez-Its down and we watched cartoons and stayed away from the good china and all was well. Until I sat down on the sumptuous, well-tailored snow-white couch and there, where my shoulder sunk deep into the alabaster upholstery, was a hideous scrawling splatter of black ink. &*^%$#@!

It was like a capital letter out of the Rorschach alphabet. It was like a squid threw up. It was like one of the kids had found a sharpie.

“WHO MADE THIS MARK ON THE COUCH!?”

This is a rhetorical question, natch. No kid in his right mind is going to answer me, much less admit that-“It was me!”

The little prince. The lord of the manse. My wife’s friend’s son, barely three and a half. I glare all the way through the back of his thin skull but he just beams up at me like ruining a $4,000 couch is no big deal.

High over our heads my wife’s friend was arcing through the sky on her way back home to count her silverware and garden gnomes. Her limo was due at sunrise. I called my wife.

“Hey babe, how’s the house?”

“We’re moving to Florida.”

We were up all night. We went to Walgreens twice. At three in the morning, the spot faded to a dark gray. Around 5, it vanished. I fluffed the pillows and prayed.

The limo screeches to a stop at sunrise. My wife’s friend prances into the house and we’re all enjoying a glass of [unpronounceable snobbish something something] when my wife’s friend flits away down in to the basement. Her feet had barely graced the Berber when she squeals.

Well that’s it. We’re buying a couch. The friend comes up, staring at us with a look very similar to what I imagine she would level at a guy who’d just pooped in her wine cellar.

We’re reaching for our checkbook when she says, “How did you get rid of that old stain?”

I level my best Bruce Willis at her kid and seethe: “You said you did it.”

And he says, “Yeah, when I was two.”

Christopher “Bull” Garlington is a syndicated humor writer and a Birmingham native. His first book, by the same name as his column, is available at Amazon.com.

44 | birminghamparent | march 2014

Celebrations

MAKING YOUR PART Y A RE AL CELEBR ATION!

Magic City Face Art

Birthdays in Birmingham Your local birthday party resource Loved by Parents since 1997

birthdaysinbirmingham.com 205-613-0443 www.magiccityfaceart.com

FACE PAINTIN G AT IT S FINES T

Places to Go  Entertainment Party Supplies & Rentals  Facilities  Coupons

Make her dreams come true...

At Tea Party Castle, she will feel like a real princess!

Daddy Daughter Date Night

WE SPECIALIZE IN BIRTHDAY PARTIES

Feb 7th at 6pm

Reservations required

Singing princesses • Fine China • Royal gowns • Stage & dance floor • Hair Up-Dos

205.529.0081 www.teapartycastle.com/alabama 23 Olmsted St., Birmingham, AL 35242

national classified ads ADOPTION ARE YOU PREGNANT? A childless married couple seeks to adopt. Will be Hands-On Mom/Devoted Dad. Financial security. Expenses PAID. Call/ TEXT Jessica & Adam. 1-800790-5260. (FL Bar #0150789) A UNIQUE ADOPTIONS, LET US HELP! PERSONALIZED ADOPTION PLANS. FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE, HOUSING, RELOCATION AND MORE. GIVING THE GIFT OF LIFE? YOU DESERVE THE BEST. CALL US FIRST! 1-888-637-8200. 24 hour HOTLINE. ANNOUNCEMENTS Beware of loan fraud. Please check with the Better Business Bureau or Consumer Protection Agency before sending any money to any loan company.

AUTOMOBILES TOP CASH FOR CARS, Call Now For An Instant Offer. Top Dollar Paid, Any Car/Truck, Any Condition. Running or Not. Free Pick-up/Tow. 1-800-761-9396 BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

EXCITING NEW, LOW COST, HOME BASED SERVICE FRANCHISE. Be your own boss & “WOW” your customers with our easy to learn Tile & Grout rejuvenation services.

Call: 1-800-401-9597 Visit: TheGroutGeeks.com COMPUTERS & TECHNOLOGY My Computer Works: Computer problems? Viruses, spyware, email, printer issues, bad internet connections - FIX IT NOW! Professional, U.S.-based technicians. $25 off service.

Call for immediate help. 1-888582-8147 EDUCATION/INSTRUCTION EARN YOUR High School Diploma at home in a few short weeks. Work at your own pace. First Coast Academy.

Nationally accredited. Call for free brochure. 1-800-6581180, extension 82. www. fcahighschool.org EMPLOYMENT / HELP WANTED 12 PRO DRIVERS Needed.

Full Benefits + Top 1% Pay. Recent Grads Welcome. CDL A Required. 1-888-592-4752.

FINANCIAL Beware of loan fraud. Please check with the Better Business Bureau or Consumer Protection Agency before sending any money to any loan company.

HEALTH & MEDICAL Canada Drug Center is your choice for safe and affordable medications. Our licensed Canadian mail order pharmacy will provide you with savings of up to 90 percent on all your medication needs. Call Today 1-800-265-0768 for $25.00 off your first prescription and free shipping.

MISCELLANEOUS Dish TV Retailer -SAVE! Starting $19.99/month (for 12 months.)

FREE Premium Movie Channels.

FREE Equipment, Installation & Activation. CALL, COMPARE LOCAL DEALS! 1-800-351-0850.

DONATE YOUR CAR - FAST FREE TOWING 24 hr. Response - Tax Deduction UNITED BREAST CANCER FOUNDATION Providing Free Mammograms & Breast Cancer Info888-759-9782.

Medical Guardian - Top-rated medical alarm and 24/7 medical alert monitoring. For a limited time, get free equipment, no activation fees, no commitment, a 2nd waterproof alert button for free and more - only $29.95 per month. 800-983-4906 AIRLINE CAREERS BEGIN HERE - GET FAA APPROVED MAINTENANCE TRAINING FINANCIAL AID FOR QUALIFIED STUDENTS - HOUSING AVAILABLE JOB PLACEMENT ASSISTANCE. CALL AVIATION INSTITUTE OF MAINTENANCE 1-866-724-5403 WWW.FIXJETS.COM. DIRECTV $0 Start Costs! 150+ Channels $7.50/week! FREE HBO/Cinemax/Showtime/Starz!

FREE Whole Home HD/DVR! FREE Installation! Local Installers!

Hurry Ends Soon Call Now 1-800-983-2690.

REAL ESTATE 20 ACRES Only $119/month, $0 Down, Owner Financing, No Credit Checks! Near El Paso, Texas. Beautiful Mountain Views!

Money Back Guarantee. 1-866882-5263 Extension 81. www.

SunsetRanches.net

SATELLITE TV DISH TV Retailer. Starting at $19.99/month (for 12 mos.) & High Speed Internet starting at $14.95/ month (where available.) SAVE! Ask About SAME DAY Installation!

CALL Now! 1-800-351-0850 *REDUCE YOUR CABLE BILL* Get a 4-Room All-Digital Satellite system installed for FREE! Programming starting at $19.99/MO. FREE HD/ DVR upgrade for new callers. CALL NOW 1-800-795-1315 VACATION/TRAVEL CAVENDER CREEK CABINS Dahlonega, North Georgia Mountains. **WINTER SPECIAL: Buy 2 nights, 3rd FREE!** 1,2 & 3 bedroom Cabins with HOT TUBS! Virtual Tour: www.

CavenderCreek.com CALL NOW Toll Free 1-866-373-6307 WANTED TO BUY CASH for unexpired Diabetic Test Strips! Free Shipping, Friendly Service, BEST prices and 24 hour payment! Call Mandy at 1-855-578-7477, or visit www.TestStripSearch.com Espanol 1-888-440-4001

THE ABOVE ADS HAVE NOT BEEN SCREENED BY THE SOUTHEASTERN ADVERTISING PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION (SAPA) or BIRMINGHAM PARENT; Therefore, any discrepancies thereof shall not be the responsibility of the aforementioned association or this publication. Your publisher has agreed to participate in this program and run these ads as a service to the Southeastern Advertising Publishers Association.

birminghamparent.com | 45

DON’T MISS IT!

H

Driving Directions to United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Birmingham/LINCPoint

HERE ARE YOUR MAP & DIRECTIONS. United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Birmingham

100 Oslo Circle, Birmingham, AL 35211

■ Take the Lakeshore Drive Exit #255 ■ From I-65 South, turn right onto Lakeshore Drive and go about 3.7 miles ■ From I-65 North , turn left onto Lakeshore Drive and go about 3.7 miles ■ After you pass Cook’s Pest Control on the left, take the next left onto Sydney Drive (at the light).

■ Turn right onto Oslo Circle.

■ When you turn onto Sydney Drive, you will see a large Colonial Building at the corner of Sydney Drive and Oslo Circle which is the UCP Administration Building. UCP has THREE buildings on Oslo Circle.

■ For LINCPoint, then turn left into the second driveway on the left and park in front of the building.

ROOM A 10:30 a.m. “Positioning Options for Children with Special Needs,” Mariliese Degado, MS, PT, of UCP 11:30 a.m. “Special Needs Planning for your Special Child- Strategies to Protect Your Child’s Future,” Strauss Financial Group, John Strauss & Heidi Strauss, Wealth Advisors, and Arthur Strauss, Financial Advisor. Strauss Financial Group is a Registered Investment Advisor.

12:30 p.m. “Management of a Child with Developmental Delay” Paola Mendoza, MD, assistant clinical professor for the Division of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine at Children’s of Alabama 1:30 p.m. "Teaching Language to Children with Autism," Chelsia Massey, MS, BCBA, Board Certified Behavior Analyst, owner of Thrive Behavioral Services 2:30 p.m. “Advocacy for the Therapeutic Foster Care and Special Needs Population,” Sekeria Volece Bossie, LBSW, MS, LPC, Eds, NCC, CAMS, CAS, Seraaj Family Homes

Don’t miss all the great speakers at this year’s event.

ROOM B 11:30 a.m. “Autism Spectrum Disorder: At School, with Family and in the Community,” Bama Hager, Ph.D., parent of a teen son with autism and Policy and Program Advisor for the Autism Society of Alabama 12: 30 p.m. “Disaster Preparedness for Persons with Special Needs and the Jefferson County Disability Alert System,” Jefferson County Emergency Management Agency and Jefferson County Department of Health, Annette Davis, Emergency Management Officer, Jefferson County Emergency Management Agency; Julie R. Cobb, RN, Emergency Preparedness and Response, Jefferson County Department of Health; and Shila McKinney, MPH MT(ASCP), Disease Intervention Specialist, Emergency Preparedness & Response, Jefferson County Department of Health.

1:30 p.m. “Q & A for Parents – Safety Awareness,” Sergeant Randy Pate, Jefferson County Sheriff ’s Office

PRESENTS

BIRMINGHAM PARENT’S 4TH ANNUAL

SATURDAY, MARCH 15, 2014, 10 A.M.-3 P.M. LINCPoint on the United Cerebral Palsy Campus in Birmingham, off Lakeshore Dr. F R E E AC TI V ITI E S !

FACE PAINTING  BLOOD DRIVE  INFLATABLES  GIVEAWAYS  ENTERTAINMENT  BALLOONS Great information for parents and caregivers of children with special needs, from the cognitive to physically challenged, meeting with SPONSORED BY

providers of special products and services, speakers to educate and inform, as well as after school activities, sports, education, camps and more! All under one roof! Fun zone, too, for children to enjoy.

A L A BA M A FA M ILY T RUS T

Booths available for nominal registration fee for qualifying special needs providers. Sponsorships also available for any business or service. For booth information or sponsorship info call 205-987-7700, e-mail carol@birminghamparent.com or visit www.birminghamparent.com.