Birmingham Parent April 2019

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

FREE

BABY APRIL 2019

BOOK

THE BEST SKIN CARE FOR YOUR BABY

WHAT NO ONE TELLS YOU ABOUT CHILDBIRTH

GETTING YOUR PET READY FOR THE NEW BABY

GROWNUPS WERE STUNNED AS HE CHARMED THE SERVER INTO GIVING HIM ICE CREAM WITH SPRINKLES AND HOT FUDGE, ON THE HOUSE!

C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S G R E E N V A L E P E D I AT R I C S , 2 0 1 8 F A M I LY F AV O R I T E S P E D I AT R I C I A N S

CHILDREN A M A Z E U S E V E R Y D AY

and at Children’s of Alabama, we want to see every child grow up and live to their fullest potential. That’s why we recruit, train and retain the most inquiring minds, the most skilled hands and the most compassionate hearts in pediatric medicine.

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 ( 2 0 5 ) 6 3 8 - 9 1 0 0

Ice Cream- Valor 7.25 x 4.8 - BhamParentMag.indd 1

Family Favorite

2019

CAST YOUR VOTE

6/6/18 2:33 PM

in the 2019 Birmingham Parent’s Family Favorites Awards!

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

Vote for your favorites & be entered to win a GRAND PRIZE getaway to OWA,

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Voting ends at midnight April 26, 2019.

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THE WINNER WILL ENJOY: • A two-night stay at OWA’s on-site TownePlace Suites by Marriott • Tickets for 4 to The Park at OWA • Dinner at one of Downtown OWA’s restaurants.

OWA has already been named Alabama’s Top Attraction of the Year.

Visit www.visitowa.com.

TWO 2nd prizes will be awarded.

We will give away two one-year family passes to McWane Science Center.

What happens during recovery is as important as what happens during delivery.

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

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

Find a physician at BrookwoodBaptistHealth.com

Proud sponsor of the Birmingham Iron

ed note IT’S OUR SPRING BABY ISSUE! This month we celebrate babies. This issue is full of great information, along with our popular calendar of events to keep you busy all month long with fun activities for you and your family.

Be sure to check out our Pet Page on page 13, where author and pet trainer Rebecca Mason gives tips for introducing your new baby to your fur baby. If you have a dog or cat at home, you want to be safe by getting them ready in advance and doing it right when the time comes.

Pregnant? Giving birth? We’ll tell you what REALLY happens during childbirth on page 14. Some of these things might surprise you, but being informed and prepared will make the process more bearable.

On page 16 we address the best skin care for your baby. Writer Sandra Gordon helps you know the basics of moisturizing, how often baby needs a bath, about rashes and MORE. And don’t miss our Baby Book Directory, a great synopsis of our baby-related advertisers to keep all year long for reference.

This month’s “Ask the Specialist” from Brookwood Baptist Health looks at Neonatal Intensive Care Units. You don’t want to need one, but when you do, this information will be helpful. And check out some great products on page 23.

It’s hard for me to believe my “babies” are 30 and 26 – time flies. They are grown. It’s a cliché, but it’s really true. I promise. You’ll blink, and your babies will be going off to college, getting married, buying a home.

Happy Spring everyone. Hope you have a wonderful and blessed Easter.

Carol Muse Evans publisher/editor carol@birminghamparent.com

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

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

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

4 | birminghamparent | april 2019

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

editorial PUBLISHERS David & Carol Evans EDITOR Carol Muse Evans ASSOCIATE EDITOR Lori Chandler Pruitt CALENDAR Lori Chandler Pruitt CONTRIBUTORS Dr. Vivian Friedman, Rebecca Mason, Sandra Gordon, Elena Epstein, Gerry P. Smith, Denise Yearian, Melanie B. Holliman

sales SR. MARKETING CONSULTANT Kayla Fricks MARKETING CONSULTANT Natalie Julian WEB & SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR Bethany Adams Hunley

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 (EIN200694149) is published monthly by Evans Publishing LLC. www.birminghamparent.com or editor@birminghamparent.com. Birmingham Parent is © 2019 by Evans Publishing LLC. Family Connections Media ©2019/2020

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

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contents WHAT NO ONE TELLS YOU ABOUT CHILDBIRTH Vomiting? Shivering? Ripping off your clothes? We’ll fill you in on what

14 our focus PET PAGE Getting “Buster” Ready for Baby.....12 WHAT NO ONE TELLS YOU About Childbirth............................... 14

our features

30

THE BEST SKIN CARE for Your Baby....................................16

attending your childbirth education classes and reading everything you can get your hands on about the stages of labor and birth.

our regulars EDITOR’S NOTE It's Our Spring Baby Issue!..............4 PARENTING with Dr. Friedman...............................7

DINING WITHOUT WHINING Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana............11 A PAGE IN A BOOK A Sense of Belonging.................... 24

ASK THE SPECIALIST Neonatal Intensive Care Units.......22

16

that you’re pregnant, you’re dutifully

SHORT STUFF.................................. 8

BABY & ME DIRECTORY Spring 2019.......................................18

WE LOVE IT NAPPA Awards Product Reviews....23

really happens during childbirth. Now

ASK THE ATTORNEY Basics of Special Needs Trusts.....28 BHM 26.2 RACE Benefits Magic Moments and Children’s of Alabama............10

CALENDAR OF EVENTS.............. 33 PARENTING PEOPLE: Joan Wright, Childcare Resources.... 38

SUMMER CAMP: Benefits of Special Needs Camps..................................25 FAMILY TRAVEL What’s New at SeaWorld Orlando?........................30

24

ON THE COVER: ON THE COVER: One-year-old Graysen of Fairfield is meeting Teddy. Learn how to introduce your baby to a pet – or vice versa – on page 12.

PHOTO BY CHRISTY PIERCE PHOTOGRAPHY LLC, www.christypiercephotoraphyllc.com, 205-902-0385.

6 | birminghamparent | april 2019

PAR E N TI N G

Parenting with Dr. Friedman

Q:

My 10- and 13-year old stepchildren play softball and baseball. I always enjoy watching them play, in part,

because I like those sports. Some parents of their teammates go to every game in which their child plays. While I do think that attending a child’s activities is fun, especially if you like the underlying activity, I don’t go to every one of their games on principle. I didn’t go to every game even when I have nothing else to do because I think children should do activities because they enjoy them and not for the audience. I don’t think children’s sports should be a test of a parent’s devotion and I don’t think children should get the idea that the world, or even the family, revolves entirely around them. Is the “soccer mom” a better parent, or am I? Most things in life involve finding a balance or a middle ground. The parent who is wrapped up in his child to the extent that all else gets pushed aside, is not only stifling his child’s growth but isolating herself from other social contacts.

This parent will have a difficult adjustment to the empty nest when the child leaves home for college or adulthood.

Parental attendance at a child’s sport, dance, music or theatrical performances is the stuff that self-esteem is made of. By attending, you tell your child that

he is important to you and that what he is doing is valuable.

Children hate to be different from their peers. At most games, nearly all of your child’s peers will have a parent or two in attendance.

If your child doesn’t, he will feel awkward and abandoned.

The age of the child will, to some extent, determine how he feels.

Children below the age of 12 need to have a parent present at events when the majority of his peers will have parents present. By high school, most of his friends will not have parents observing every game

of a season and so your presence is optional at any given game but not at all or most of the games.

What matters is not that you attend every game for an older child but that you show an interest in your teenager’s life. Asking him about the scores and the plays after the game or the next day can take the place of some of the attendance.

Young children are sometimes distracted by the presence of their parents. For this reason, most dance studios ask parents to observe only at recital or special class performance times. While it is fine for parents to attend every game of a season, it is probably best not to stay for all of every ball practice.

Some parents get over-involved to the point where the adults scream at the referees or sometimes, even at their own children. This takes

away from the experience for the child. It matters less if the referee is right or not than that your child learns good sportsmanship.

A soccer mom, in moderation, can be an excellent parent.

Yet you are not wrong to want to teach a child that the world does not revolve only around him. You might do this more effectively by encouraging him to participate in service to others than by withholding your presence at his games.

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.

For over 35 years, Joseph Bruno Montessori Academy has offered a high-quality, private school education to children from Toddlers through 8th grade from across the Jefferson and Shelby County area. JBMA offers a unique nurturing learning environment designed to meet the needs of each individual child, equipping them with the essential skills and knowledge to thrive as a joyous child today, as a successful high school and college student tomorrow and a thoughtful adult for a lifetime.

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S H O RT STU FF Alabama Fatal Child Drowning Rates Spike in 2018

UAB master’s student and Birmingham native Sarah Elliott and 12-yearold Taylor Gautney of Auburn are participating in the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s Take Steps Birmingham walk this month as this year’s “Honored Heroes.”

This year’s event takes place at 4 p.m. Saturday, April 27 at Homewood Central Park. Elliott and Gautney both live with Crohn’s disease, which like ulcerative colitis, is a painful, debilitating digestive disease. These diseases, known collectively as inflammatory bowel disease, affect more than 3.1 million Americans, including an estimated 80,000 patients under the age of 18.

Elliott overcame setbacks with Crohn’s disease by graduating from high school with a full ride to college, graduated at the top of her class and entering grad school.

She also persevered through surgery related to the disease.

Gautney has been diagnosed with Crohn’s disease for less than a year, but his battle with IBD started several years ago. He is now on a treatment plan and his doctors are working hard to get him into remission.

The walk is the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s largest nationwide event dedicated to finding cures and raising awareness for digestive diseases. For more information on how to register for your local walk, visit www.cctakesteps.org.

Parents cautioned to “Pool Safely” Year-Round

PHOTO COURTESY OF CROHN’S & COLITIS FOUNDATION

Two Alabamians Named “Honored Heroes” to Raise Funds and Awareness for Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation

April is Autism Awareness Month April is Autism Awareness Month to raise awareness of autism, which now affects 1 in every 59 people.

The Autism Society of Alabama will host a Birmingham Funky Fun Run and 5K at Avondale Park on Saturday, April 6. The fundraising event begins at 7 a.m. (checkin) with the 5K starting at 8 a.m. and the funky fun run at 9:30 a.m. Walkers are welcome, too! All ages welcome. Register individually or as a team at funkyfunrun.com/locations.php and follow the prompts.

The Autism Society of Alabama seeks to improve services for individuals of all ages affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder and their families. For more information on the group, go to www.autism-alabama.org.

8 | birminghamparent | april 2019

Alabama was among the deadliest states in the U.S. for child pool and spa drownings in 2018, with eight drownings occurring last year for an increase of 50 percent over 2017.

The data comes from total media reported pool/ spa drownings for the year, compiled by the USA Swimming Foundation. Nationwide, there were 253 media reported fatal drownings in 2018 for children under age 15 in a swimming pool or spa.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s Pool Safely campaign (www.poolsafely.gov) urges parents and caregivers to be vigilant any time they are in or near the water, to follow the Pool Safely simple safety steps, and to take the Pool Safely Pledge to help reverse this tragic trend in 2019.

Here are some safety tips: • Never leave a child unattended in a pool or spa, and always watch your children closely around all bodies of water.

• Designate a “water watcher” to supervise children in the pool or spa. This person should not be reading, using a smart phone or be otherwise distracted.

• Learn how to swim, and teach your child how to swim.

• Learn how to perform CPR on children and adults.

• Keep children away from pool drains, pipes and other openings to avoid entrapment.

• Ensure any pool and spa you use has drain covers that comply with federal safety standards, and if you do not know, ask your pool service provider about safe drain covers and ask your public pool operators if their drains are VGB compliant.

SH ORT STU FF When to Visit the Emergency Department Courtesy of Children’s of Alabama Your child doesn’t feel well, but should you take them to the hospital ER? Sometimes it can be hard to tell when a child requires urgent medical treatment or if the concern can wait.

Dr. Sam Strachan, a pediatric emergency fellow at Children’s of Alabama, says the ER at Children’s receives approximately 80,000 visits each year – an average of 219 patients each day!

While the ER will never turn anyone away, a child may be better served and have a shorter wait time by seeing their pediatrician instead.

“Every child should have a pediatrician,” he says. “If a child isn’t feeling well, even in the middle of the night, you can always call your pediatrician’s on-call number for advice.”

Always take your child to the emergency department in a true emergency. These signs include: Go to ER for: - serious injury - trouble breathing - not drinking enough, not urinating enough - unusual sleepiness or confusion - head injury and is vomiting - eye injury - serious burn - ingested poison or unknown substance Call 911 if: - isn’t breathing or is turning blue - is unconscious after a fall - is having a seizure - has a serious allergic reaction - has broken a bone that sticks out through the skin - is choking - has a large cut that is bleeding uncontrollably

A high fever can be scary for a parent.

However, Strachan says it’s the body’s natural defense mechanism against infection. “A lot of parents are concerned with a fever of 104 or 105 in their child,” he says. “However, children can deal with high fevers better than adults can.”

Babies are the exception. “Any baby under two months old should be seen right away for any fever greater than or equal to 100.4,” he adds.

Strachan offers these tips to help decide if a child needs to go to the emergency department in the event of a fever:

- If feverish, try Motrin or Tylenol, depending on the age of the child - If the child feels well between fever, wait to see pediatrician until the next day If it’s not a true emergency, it’s always best to wait to see your child’s pediatrician. “On the front end, you’re taking away resources from children who really need it,” Strachan says.

There’s another benefit to seeing the pediatrician. “They know your child, they know your child’s history,” Strachan says.

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H A PPY H E ALTHY

BHM 26.2 Race

Benefits Magic Moments and Children’s of Alabama

PHOTOS COURTESY OF BHM 26.2

WHAT: BHM26.2 Race Series Marathon, Half Marathon, Marathon Relay & Fun Run with After Party

WHO: Benefiting Magic Moments & Children’s of Alabama

WHEN: Sunday, April 14, 2019 Marathon, Half Marathon & Marathon Relay: 7 a.m.

Fun Run: 10 a.m.

After Party: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Band August Night: 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Awards Ceremony & Presentation: 11:30 a.m.

Feat. Party of the Year: noon to 2 p.m.

WHERE: Railroad Park 1600 1st Ave. S. Birmingham, AL 35233 www.bhm262.com 10 | birminghamparent | april 2019

The second annual BHM26.2 race to benefit Magic Moments and Children’s of Alabama is coming Sunday, April 14 at Railroad Park.

The event features a full marathon, half marathon, marathon relay and fun run throughout Birmingham landmarks. Each race will start and finish at scenic Railroad Park, where more than 2,500 runners are expected to participate. This race is also a 2019 Boston Marathon qualifier race.

The BHM26.2 is the only fully charitable marathon in Alabama and provides a fresh, new course to runners in Birmingham, statewide and regionally.

Last year’s inaugural event saw more than 2,000 participants and raised more than $250,000 for local children who benefit from the care, services and experiences provided by Magic Moments and Children’s of Alabama. All proceeds from this year’s event will again benefit Magic Moments – the only wish-granting organization devoted exclusively to children in Alabama with chronic, life-threatening illnesses – and Children’s of Alabama, which provides care for children in every county in Alabama.

The full marathon is a one-loop course that showcases Birmingham’s growth and diverse cityscape and takes runners past landmarks for which the Magic City, as well as Homewood and Mountain Brook, are known.

The BHM26.2 Fun Run is a one-mile tour of downtown Birmingham’s Railroad Park and is open to all ages; children under the age of 10 must be accompanied by a registered adult. Registration for all races will end April 13, 2019 at 11:59 p.m.

Runners and their friends and family will celebrate crossing the finish line at the official BHM26.2 Party of the Year After Party sponsored

by Stifel from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Attendees will be entertained with live music from Party of the Year from the producers of The Black Jacket Symphony

and local band August Night. Guests will also enjoy the Kids’ Zone by Fun Source, BBQ pork meal provided by Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q, refreshments from Coca Cola Bottling Co., Tito’s Handmade Vodka and a FitVine Wine Tasting. Runners receive one complimentary After Party ticket with race registration as well as a complimentary drink from Tito’s Handmade Vodka for those over the age of 21. Additional After Party tickets may be purchased at the discounted rate of $18 per ticket if purchased at the time of race registration.

After Party tickets are $25 each until Saturday, April 13, 2019 and $30 at the door. Children 8 and under do not need a ticket to attend the After Party. During the After Party, representatives from Medical Properties Trust will surprise a child and his/her family with the reveal of a Magic Moment.

The reveal is set for 11:30 a.m. and will be hosted

by Will Lochamy. A $10,000 price purse will be divided among the top finishers in their race category.

Each year, race organizers select 26 children from Alabama – one for each mile of the marathon – to become the official BHM26.2 “Mile Marker Children.” Each child has been diagnosed with one or more chronic life-threatening illnesses. All Mile Marker Children have been granted non-medical moments through Magic Moments, where they have a chance to ask for an experience or item they would otherwise not be able to do or have. Mile Marker Children from 2018 will serve as ambassadors for the race this year as well.

The BHM26.2 race series is produced by Magic Moments and Children’s of Alabama and led by Anna Martin, BHM26.2 co-founder; Stephanie Moore, BHM26.2 co-founder; and Sandy Naramore, executive director of Magic Moments.

Birmingham Parent is a Sponsor.

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5 D OLLA R DINNERS WIT H E RIN CH ASE

Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana Yield – 4 hearty servings Preparation Time – 10 minutes Cooking Time – 7 minutes INGREDIENTS: ●

2 Tbsp. olive oil

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1 lb. mild Italian ground sausage

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1 tsp. minced onion

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1 tsp. garlic powder

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4 cups chicken stock

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4 russet potatoes, peeled and cubed

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1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper, optional or use as garnish

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2 to 3 cups kale leaves, stems removed

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1 to 1 1/2 cups heavy cream

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Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish: grated Parmesan cheese Side: salad DIRECTIONS: In the Instant Pot insert, heat the oil on “saute” mode, and then brown the Italian ground sausage with the minced onion and garlic powder.

Quick release the pressure, and then stir in the kale. Let sit on “keep warm” mode for a few minutes to allow the kale to melt into the soup.

Press “cancel,” then pour in the chicken stock, cubed potatoes and crushed red pepper. Close the lid and set to “sealing.”

Stir in the heavy cream. Keep on “warm” mode until ready to serve. Garnish with shredded Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Cook on high, for 7 minutes.

Serve Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana with simple side salad. Enjoy!

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

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PET PAGE

Getting “Buster” Ready for Baby

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

to spite you – he’s stressed. Our dogs are no different than us when it comes to change.

Dogs need exercise and positive mental stimulation – training, or learning a few tricks – even when we don’t feel up to it or have much free time.

A dog who is physically AND mentally tired is better-behaved!

Try not to scold your dog for getting into things, like baby’s toys or the diaper pail. Prevent issues by blocking off rooms, or redirect and teach your dog what you DO want him to do. Have your spouse reward him for settling on his bed and while you nurse or play with baby. This makes it a positive experience for your dog and teaches a good go-to behavior. Dogs can learn context cues easily, so if you practice having him settle every time you do certain things in certain rooms, he will start doing these things more easily over time.

You will have lots of visitors once baby arrives. When all else fails or when you need to keep your dog busy, give him a Kong stuffed with xylitol-free peanut butter, low-fat cottage cheese, or canned dog food. If a lot of commotion stresses or over-stimulates him, let him rest in another room. Always give him an out!

Above all, always supervise every interaction, especially as baby gets older. There is no situation more precarious than a dog and a toddler! (Check out my future articles to learn how to manage life with both!)

Melinda Jones @melindajonesphotography (Instagram)

You’re due in two months, and you realize you’ve done nothing to prepare your dog for baby’s arrival! Training is crucial before baby arrives.

First, you’ll need to desensitize your dog to all things baby. That can include a doll wrapped in a blanket (though it won’t smell the same), baby crying sounds on YouTube, a stroller, a Baby Bjorn, the smell of diaper cream, a baby swing, a play mat that makes sounds or has blinking lights.

Don’t just shove these things into your dog’s face; let him first observe them from across the room. Reward him with treats and praise for “bravery.” If he wants to interact more closely with these items, great, but let it be on his terms.

Once baby is born, introduce your dog to her smell on a blanket. Some dogs won’t want to get near an infant, but some will be curious. Regardless, do you really want the “teeth end” of your dog near baby? Her skin will be incredibly delicate, and innocent, playful mouthing can cause injury. Your dog has an amazing sniffer; he doesn’t have to be that close to smell her!

Teach incompatible behaviors. Buster can’t be jumping if he’s in a “stay” and can’t counter surf if he’s on his bed.

Impulse control, settling behaviors, “leave it” (food dropped by baby, diaper pail, baby itself), back up, and “wait” at the door are helpful commands!

Keep in mind, schedule changes can cause behavior shifts and potty accidents for your dog. It’s not because he’s trying

You’ll need to desensitize your dog to all things baby. That can include a doll wrapped in a blanket (though it won’t smell the same), baby crying sounds on YouTube, a stroller, a Baby Bjorn, the smell of diaper cream, a baby swing, a play mat that makes sounds or has blinking lights.

Rebecca Mason is a certified dog trainer and owner of Love Them Train Them LLC in Birmingham. She is a former elementary school teacher and is passionate about working with families to channel their dogs’ energy positively. She believes every dog has potential, no matter the age or breed. www.lovethemtrainthem.com

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8 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD HIRE A LEAD-SAFE CERTIFIED RENOVATION CONTRACTOR: TO HELP PREVENT: 1. Learning disabilities 2. Behavior issues 3. Diminished motor skills 4. Lower intelligence 5. Hearing loss 6. Brain damage 7. Memory loss 8. Headaches Using a lead-safe certified renovation contractor is the law.

Home repairs that create even a small amount of lead dust are enough to poison your child and put your family at risk. Make sure you renovate right with a contractor that is Lead-Safe Certified.

For more information, visit alabamapublichealth.gov/lead or call 1-800-819-7544

What No One Tells You About Childbirth Vomiting? Shivering? Ripping off your clothes?

We’ll fill you in on what really happens during childbirth.

By Sandra Gordon

Now that you’re pregnant, you’re dutifully attending your childbirth education classes and reading everything you can get your hands on about the stages of labor and birth.

Chances are, however, you’ve only gleaned the big picture, not the surprising – and sometimes embarrassing – details. For example, during labor – especially if you haven’t been given pain medication – you may find yourself screaming, crying, even swearing at your husband or doctor. Or you may strip.

“I’ve had patients who were so uncomfortable that they pulled off their gowns and delivered naked,” says Lisa Fraine, a certified nurse-midwife. These reactions are common; they’re simply a response to pain and exhaustion. You can also blame hormones: “Labor causes a shift in your estrogen and progesterone levels, which is akin to a major case of PMS,” explains Henry Klapholz, M.D. If you lose it, don’t feel bad. Doctors and nurses are used to these reactions. But if you’re uncomfortable with the idea of such a display, be prepared for your delivery.

“Women who take childbirth classes tend 14 | birminghamparent | april 2019

to stay calmer than those who don’t,” Klapholz says.

If you know what to expect, it can make for a less stressful delivery. We’ve asked the experts to spill the beans on more common (yet seldom-talked-about) scenarios: You may throw up. Who knew that vomiting during labor is normal? I certainly didn’t, until the birth of my fi rst daughter nearly three years ago. One reason it can happen: Epidurals can cause hypotension, a sudden drop in blood pressure. “An early sign of this is nausea and vomiting,” says David Birnbach, M.D., spokesperson for the American Society of Anesthesiologists.

Throwing up can occur even if you haven’t been given an epidural (pain block), either because of the pain you’re experiencing or as a result of food sitting in your stomach; digestion usually stops during labor. To keep vomiting to a minimum, eat only light foods during the earliest stages of labor, and stop eating completely – drink only clear liquids – once you’re in active labor.

Your teeth chatter. “Nearly 50 percent of women complain of shivering and chattering teeth chattering,” Birnbach says. It has nothing to do with being cold. In fact, your body temperature may rise a degree or two during labor, making you feel hot. The jury’s still out on what exactly causes this, but the latest evidence points to blood incompatibility.

“During labor, a small amount of fetal blood crosses into the mother’s bloodstream,” says Klapholz. “Studies show that when there’s an incompatibility in blood type between mother and baby – for example, your blood is type A and your baby’s is type B – the mother shakes, shivers and gets chills.”

Your body makes noises. As a baby descends through the birth canal, air gets forced out the anus, so be prepared to pass gas. This is especially likely if you’ve had an epidural, which paralyzes the anal sphincter.

Another unpleasant side effect of childbirth: You may have a bowel movement right on the delivery table. “It’s purely a space issue,” says Arianna Sholes-Douglas, M.D.

“As your baby’s head makes its way through the birth canal, the rectum gets flattened and its contents pushed out.” In any event, don’t worry. “These bodily functions happen all the time – there’s very little we haven’t seen or heard before,” says labor and delivery nurse Deborah Robbins.

Your mind goes blank. In the heat of the moment, it can be easy to forget what they taught you in childbirth class. “I couldn’t remember the various positions I was supposed to get into to ease labor pains,” says new mom Elizabeth Estes Niven. “Instead, I stayed flat on my back, gripping the bed railing.” You’re also likely to forget many of the details of the birth. So be sure your partner takes plenty of photos or captures it all on video.

It’s not always love at first sight. Don’t feel bad if your first reaction to holding your newborn isn’t overwhelming joy. You’ve just been through an exhausting experience and need time to recover. If you can, try breastfeeding – then try to get some rest while your baby sleeps.

If you lose it, don’t feel bad. Doctors and nurses are used to these reactions. But if you’re uncomfortable with the idea of such a display, be prepared for your delivery. “Women who take childbirth classes tend to stay calmer than those who don’t,” Klapholz says. If you know what to expect, it can make for a less stressful delivery.

Labor’s tough for dads too. The nerve-racking beep of the fetal monitor. All those bodily fluids.

Your roller-coaster emotions. Childbirth can be tough and frightening for dad. “We’ve had to ask men to leave the room,” says obstetrician Elise Santana, M.D. “Seeing a spouse in that much pain can upset a man, which only makes his wife more nervous.”

“One father fainted when his wife delivered,” Klapholz recalls. “The poor guy broke his leg and had to be admitted to the hospital.”

If you suspect your partner might not have the stomach for labor, bring a second person along. Your best bet: a female friend or family member who has given birth herself and knows just what to expect, or a birth doula.

April is National Volunteer Month and we want to send a big thanks to our incredible volunteers.

They are instrumental to our work and are helping keep Birmingham babies clean and dry!

Visit bundlesdiaperbank.org and signup for a recurring monthly donation to BLESS A LOCAL FAMILY Businesses, local organizations & individuals all welcome!

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Sandra Gordon is a freelance writer. birminghamparent.com | 15

babybook

The Best Skin Care for Your Baby

By Sandra Gordon

Skin care for babies is big business. On Amazon alone, there are more than 60,000 products in the baby skin care category!

Before stocking up on bottom balm and lavender baby wash or other skin care “essentials” for your baby registry, read up. We asked experts from the Society for Pediatric Dermatology for the dirt on the best skin care products – what your baby truly needs and what you can do without.

Stick with the basics. “All babies certainly need a gentle wash,” says Lacey L. Kruse, MD, FAAD, assistant professor of pediatrics and dermatology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago and mom to Jonah, 2, and Nolan, 3½.

Kruse is picky about the products she uses and recommends for her patients. Skin cleansers that make the cut include Dove Body Wash, Aquaphor Baby Wash and Shampoo, Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser (not Cetaphil’s baby line) and CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser (ditto – not CeraVe’s baby line).

“They’re very gentle and don’t strip the 16 | birminghamparent | april 2019

natural oils from our skin that keep it moist and protected, and they do a good job of getting what you need cleaned off,” she says.

Do babies need moisturizer?

Moisturizer is a definite yes for babies prone to dry skin or eczema – an inflammatory skin condition that causes itchy, red and dry skin.

One in five of all babies have eczema.

For these babies, Kruse recommends Vasoline (petroleum jelly) or Aquaphor, which is similar. “Vasoline is one of the best moisturizers there is,” she says, or a non-fragranced, thick, white cream moisturizer, which helps prevent the skin’s natural moisture from evaporating. “Lotion is better than nothing, but a cream is better than a lotion,” she adds.

Kruse’s top moisturizer picks include CeraVe Cream, Cetaphil cream (not the baby line) and CeraVe Baby Moisturizing Lotion, which is thinner the CeraVe cream.

After your baby’s bath, pat her dry and then apply moisturizer. The best time to

moisturize is within three minutes of getting out of the bath. “A little bit of moisture seeps into the skin during the bath. Moisturizer helps seal in that moisture,” Kruse says.

Recent studies show that a bath, then applying moisturizer may help prevent eczema from developing. You don’t need to apply moisturizer daily if your baby doesn’t have a bath – or at other times of the day, Kruse says. An after-bath moisturizing is all your baby needs.

If your baby has eczema, however, you’ll want to apply moisturizer more often to help prevent flare-ups. If a flare-up does occur, prescription or over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication (cortisone) typically clears it up quickly, Kruse says.

How often do babies need a bath?

Less often than you might think. You don’t need to give your baby a bath daily. “For many babies, a few times per week or every other day is enough,” Kruse explains. For babies with dry skin, keep the bath short – about

Do babies need “baby” skin care products?

“No. In fact, baby skin care products are often the products we don’t recommend because they tend to be heavily perfumed to smell like baby,” Kruse says. Fragrance can be irritating for kids with sensitive skin or prone to eczema.

She recommends avoiding a skin care brand’s baby line if it’s heavily fragranced. Cetaphil’s baby line falls into this category, she says.

“It’s fine for the average baby,” Kruse says.

But if your baby has eczema, “I like Cetaphil’s non-fragranced cream much better.”

What about “organic” or “natural” baby skin care products?

“Look for skin care products that are gentle for baby. “‘Natural,’ ‘herbal’ and ‘organic’ doesn’t necessarily equate to gentle,” says Jennifer Sorrell, MD, FAAP, FAAD, clinical assistant professor of dermatology and pediatrics at Stanford University School of Medicine.

Lavender, for example, sounds soothing as does calendula, “but it doesn’t mean they’re the gentlest products for baby’s skin,” Sorrell adds.

For babies, Sorrell recommends avoiding skin care products with additives such as lavender and calendula because they’re potential irritants for babies with eczema or sensitive skin. The same goes for skin care products with aloe.

Kruse agrees. “A lot of the plant and food extracts in organic products can be irritating for kids with sensitive skin or eczema.”

Is it ever okay to skip the diaper rash ointment?

It’s good to use diaper rash ointment preventively if your baby is prone to diaper rash; if, for example, he has frequent bouts of diarrhea.

But if your kid has zero diaper rash problems, you don’t necessarily need diaper rash ointment, Kruse says.

Which baby wipes are best?

Wipes are an important part of your baby skin care routine. Look for baby wipes without fragrance or buy water wipes, which are moistened with water and a small amount of grapefruit seed extract. Traditional baby wipes can have harsh preservatives. “If you feel your baby is irritated by traditional baby wipes, water wipes are a great choice,” Kruse says.

Sorrell also recommends fragrance-free dry baby wipes, which you moisten yourself

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with water. If your baby has super sensitive skin, she recommends making your own wipes with cotton squares and mineral oil, which is baby oil without fragrance. Store your homemade wipes in a to-go container to wick up moisture.

Which diaper type is better for preventing diaper rash – cloth or disposable?

Studies are mixed. Some show that diaper rash is more common with cloth diapers. Others indicate that diaper rash is less likely with cloth diapers, Kruse says. If you choose cloth diapers, use a diaper liner if/when you use diaper rash ointment. Without the protective liner, which also makes changing cloth diapers a lot easier, diaper rash ointment will clog cloth diapers over time, making them nonabsorbent.

When your baby has a diaper rash outbreak, switch to disposable diapers and use liberal amounts of diaper rash ointment. This is, by far, the best choice for treating diaper rash, Kruse says.

What’s the best laundry detergent for baby clothes and diapers?

“For babies with sensitive skin or eczema, I recommend All Free and Clear or Tide Free and Gentle,” Sorrell says. “There’s no fragrance and they do a really good job of having as few ingredients as possible.”

What about cradle cap?

If your baby has lots of the flaky, dry skin that looks like dandruff, “just massage a little mineral oil into your baby’s scalp and use a soft toothbrush to remove the flakes,” Sorrell says.

Otherwise, don’t bother. “You don’t have to treat mild cradle cap as long as it’s not causing any distress, like itching,” she says.

Sandra Gordon is a writer who specializes in health and medicine.

Shameza Boyd, MD, FAAP

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five to 10 minutes. Use warm, not hot, water, then moisturize after you’ve patted your baby dry within that three-minute deadline.

How often do babies need a bath?

Less often than you might think.

You don’t need to give your baby a bath daily. “For many babies, a few times per week or every other day is enough,” Kruse explains. For babies with dry skin, keep the bath short – about five to 10 minutes. deadline.

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ASK T H E S PE C I A L I ST

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Neonatal Intensive Care Units PHOTO COURTESY PRINCETON BAPTIST MEDICAL CENTER

The birth of a child is one of the most exciting times of parents’ lives. While most parents do everything they can to ensure their child is born healthy, problems sometimes arise that require a newborn to remain hospitalized longer than expected.

When complications occur, infants are often sent to an intensive care unit that specializes in treating sick newborns, often called a neonatal intensive care unit or NICU. Generally, a baby will be admitted to the NICU within the first 24 hours after birth. The illnesses vary, but some of the reasons an infant might enter a NICU is if he is born prematurely, if difficulties arise during delivery or if signs of a problem show up within the first few days of life. Common NICU diagnoses include: Anemia – a low red blood cell count Apnea – slowed breathing; the baby’s brain does not remember to take a breath Hydrocephalus – the buildup of fluid around the brain and spinal cord; also called “water on the brain.”

Jaundice – a high level of bilirubin (a byproduct of the natural breakdown of blood cells) in the blood.

Sepsis – an infection caused by bacteria growing in the blood.

Once an infant enters a NICU, he will receive care tailored to his specific needs.

Equipment used in NICUs, such as incubators and ventilators, are made especially for premature infants and their special needs. Most babies in NICUs are on special feeding schedules, depending on their level of development or any problems they have.

For example, some infants cannot eat on their own and must have a feeding tube that runs through the mouth and into the stomach. Others need high-calorie diets to help them grow.

The doctors and nurses who work in NICUs specialize in caring for newborns and the illnesses that afflict them. Infants will often have multiple doctors assisting with care. A neonatologist, a doctor who specializes in newborn intensive care, usually heads up the medical team. Specialists, such as neurologists, cardiologists and surgeons, 22 | birminghamparent | april 2019

often care for the babies as well, depending on the illness.

Having a child in a NICU can be very overwhelming for parents. Nurses are often a great resource because they see the baby every day. Nurses can give parents frequent updates on the baby’s condition and explain what the monitors, tubes and machines do.

However, it is important to remember that nurses do not make diagnoses. Parents should discuss a diagnosis or their baby’s overall plan of care with the neonatologist.

Most parents want to bond immediately with their newborn, and they can still do it in a NICU. Doctors will tell parents how much contact they can have with their newborn, but parents are almost always allowed to visit and spend time bonding with their child. Depending on how sick the baby is, parents may be allowed to hold him, even if he is on a ventilator or has an IV. Sometimes holding might be too much for the baby, but parents will be allowed to hold his hands or stroke his head. If a doctor thinks touching would be too stressful on the baby, parents may still be encouraged to softly talk and sing to him.

While complications during or after childbirth are often unexpected, it is important for parents to know their options for care before labor begins. Not all hospitals have NICUs, and their capabilities differ. NICUs

Having a child in a NICU can be very overwhelming for parents. Nurses are often a great resource because they see the baby every day. Nurses can give parents frequent updates on the baby’s condition and explain what the monitors, tubes and machines do.

are rated I, II or III, with a level III NICU being equipped to handle difficult neonatal emergencies while a lower rating might require a baby to be transported to another nursery in a different hospital.

Knowing what type of nursery your hospital or birth center offers before labor starts will allow you to concentrate on your health and the health of your baby instead of making last-minute decisions.

Information provided by Princeton Baptist Medical Center, which features a Level 3 neonatal intensive care unit.

WE LOVE I T !

We Love It: NAPPA Awards Product Reviews

By Elena Epstein

Aptica Stroller Italian-made, luxury full-size stroller that will grow with your baby from newborn up to 55lbs. Features one-hand folding with the seat attached facing either the parent or street. Ultra-compact and easy to maneuver with a large basket and extra zip-fastening storage compartment. Adapts to Aptica Bassinet & Stand. $599, inglesina.us/aptica-stroller

Ditty Bird Musical Books Go on an enchanted journey with this charming collection. Push the button on each page to hear one of the six fun tunes sung by children. $16.49 each, ages 1- 3, dittybird.com

Pursuit Pro Made with soft, flexible material and featuring seven convenient pockets large enough to fit diapers and baby bottles. The shoulder straps, with pillow soft cushioning, tout a new design with a slideable sternum clip. $150, birth-24 months, lillebaby.com

Girls’ Home Spa Lab Filled with creative inspiration for developing healthy self-care habits.

Includes 50 recipes for natural body care products to make at home, craft projects for relaxation, yoga routines and more. $16.95, ages 9-13, storey.com Dreamers by Yuyi Morales In spare, lyrical verse and vibrant images for which she has become legendary, Morales has created a picture book memoir about the journey that she and her son took together from Mexico to San Francisco.

A beautiful story that celebrates the gifts that immigrants bring into a new country. $18.99, ages 4-8, holidayhouse.com

Eternis S An all-in-one car seat with steel reinforced frame, 3-positon reclining headrest and SensorSafe™, which integrates important safety technology into the chest clip of the car seat to alert the caregiver of unsafe situations like a child unbuckling the seat or extreme temperatures. $379.95, birth-120 lbs., cybexonlineshop.com Elena Epstein is the director of NAPPA Awards and a mom of two. For more product reviews, visit nappaawards.com . birminghamparent.com | 23

A Page in a Book

©

RECOMMENDING THE BEST BOOKS FOR CHILDREN AND TEENS

A Sense of Belonging A child’s first sense of belonging emerges within their family, an inborn connection. As they grow, they develop

By Gerry P. Smith

social skills and begin to find commonalities with their peers. They may find themselves happily embedded in a group of fellow dinosaur fanatics, or in complete sync with basketball teammates. Belonging can emerge quickly through shared interests or evolve slowly as children discover connection with others. As social creatures, a sense of belonging in family, among friends, and within community offers strong emotional benefits. The following titles follow journeys from solo experience toward the best sense of belonging.

Am I Yours?

By Alex Latimer (Peachtree Atlanta)

After a gusty wind pushes a big spotted egg off its nest and sends it tumbling across a prehistoric landscape, a voice from inside the shell begins a rolling inquiry to find out where it belongs.

“Excuse me, please, but am I yours?

I’m sure I am a dinosaur’s” is the egg’s opening query as he encounters potential parents. A procession of dinosaurs query the egg’s occupant about its characteristics (as they can’t see inside) hoping to discover its nest home.. As spikes, horns, long necks, and crests are eliminated from the egg’s self-image, a picture of exactly where the egg fits begins to emerge. Moving from generalities to specifics, Am I Yours? is an adorable rhyming Q & A that leads a little one back to the home where they belong.

Found

By Jeff Newman and Larry Day (Simon & Schuster)

While a thunderstorm pours rain through the city streets, a young girl spots a puppy alone among the puddles. Bringing him in from the weather, she slowly assembles the things that might help him recover and feel at home. She has some dog food, a small bed, and a leash on hand.

The observant reader of this carefully illustrated wordless title will begin to discern that the girl has recently lost a dog of her own.

The relationship between the girl and pup is hesitant and careful.

Should this dog belong to her? Should she give up on the search for her lost companion? Crafted with care, Found is a surprisingly tender exploration of how we navigate loss and find the connections that bring us back where we belong.

24 | birminghamparent | april 2019

Kitten and The Night Watchman

By John Sullivan, Illustrated

by Taeeun Yoo (Simon & Schuster)

Leaving the embrace of his family as the sun sets and a night watchman heads to his job when the evening comes.

As the only person patrolling a vast construction work site, he moves among the buildings and equipment alone, his flashlight casting shadows that bring a bit of life to the darkness. But when a small figure emerges to join him on his rounds, his journey becomes a little less solitary. As the sun starts to pink the morning sky, the two sentinels who started their journey solo find their paths merging toward a common destination. A quiet balance between solitude and companionship, Kitten and the Night Watchman navigates the full circle from leavetaking to homecoming.

CAMPS

By Denise Yearian

At age 6, Kim Kelly paid her first visit to a special needs residential camp. It was an experience she and her family will never forget. Up to this point, she had lived a pretty sheltered life.

“Because she has a hearing loss and an orthopedic problem, it was natural for me to want to hold her close,” explains her mother, Ruth. By bringing Kim to camp, her mother realized two things: “My daughter needed to learn to do things on her own, and I needed to let go a little.” For the Kelly family, it was a positive experience.

There’s a host of benefits children derive from attending camp, but for kids with special needs, those benefits are amplified, says Sandy Cameron, editor of Camping Magazine.

“Traditional camps do a great job mainstreaming special needs children into their programs, but a special needs camp lets them be with other kids who have similar disabilities,” Cameron says. “The programs are pretty much the same, but may be altered to meet the children’s needs.”

Heidi Haldeen, summer program specialist for Easter Seals, agrees. “The only difference (between traditional and special needs camps) is the activities are modified according to the camper’s needs.

This gives them a chance to shine.”

Continued on page 26

birminghamparent.com | 25

SUMMER CAMPS 2019

BENEFITS OF SPECIAL NEEDS

SUMMER CAMPS 2019

Inclusion Camps continued

INCLUSION CAMPS That’s what 9-year-old Tiffany Wells found when she attended a special needs camp. During the school year, Tiffany, who has cerebral palsy and asthma, played on the children’s softball team, and a community bowling league. But because none of the children she played with were disabled, the competition wasn’t always equal.

“Attending a special needs camp allowed Tiffany to compete on more even ground because all the other kids were playing with some kind of disability,” reports her mother, Linda. The result? “Tiffany saw that she could actually win and come out on top.”

One of the beauties of a special needs camp is that the kids can learn and experience new things with others who have similar disabilities, says Cameron. “It’s like camaraderie. It gives them the confidence they need to try new things they might not have otherwise tried.”

This was the case with Kim Kelly. When she first went to camp, Kim was afraid of the water. “She cried just getting her face wet,” her mother says. Through encouragement of the trained staff, Kim slowly edged her way into the water. By summer’s end, she was jumping in the deep end and had received her first American Red Cross swimming certificate.

While some see summer camp as an outlet for fun and recreation, others use it to continue education and therapy goals, and teach life skills. This is accomplished one step at a time. “It may mean being ten minutes late for breakfast so Timmy can learn to tie his shoes by himself,” Haldeen says.

Developing new skills isn’t the only thing kids glean at a special needs camp. They learn about friendships, too. Last year when Tiffany went to camp, there was a girl in her cabin with a more severe case of cerebral palsy than Tiffany had. Because Tiffany had spent her whole life with people helping her, she naturally wanted a chance to help others. “When we went to the dance, I got to push my new friend around in her chair,” says Tiffany. “I also got to help her eat.”

Cameron says one of the best things about any camp is the opportunity for children to make friends. “And for children with special needs, it’s especially important. They find out they are not alone, that there are others with similar disabilities,” she adds.

When camp is over, what do the children take with them? For some, new skills. For others, new friends. And for many more, simply a fond memory of having had a break from their normal routine.

Many campers look forward to returning year after year, says Haldeen.

“For many, we are their summer vacation. The minute they drive away, they are making plans to return next year.”

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

SUMMER

 ACADEMIC RECOVERY PROGRAM (June 16 - July 13)  MILITARY LEADERSHIP / SURVIVAL SKILLS CAMP (June 16 - 22)  NRA SAFETY & MARKSMANSHIP CAMP (June 23-29)  AVIATION CAMP (June 30 - July 6)  ADVENTURE CAMP (July 7 - 13)

SCHOOL

PO Box 550, 174 Ward Circle, Camp Hills, AL 36850 . 256-675-6269 admissions@lwma.org . www.lwma.org 26 | birminghamparent | april 2019

While camps designed for specific needs offer very specialized care, some families would prefer to attend a traditional camp that caters to all children. Before enrolling your children in a camp, visit the facility and make sure the layout and surroundings meet your expectations and needs.

Following are a few things parents should keep in mind before choosing a traditional or special needs camp for their child: • Is the camp is accredited by an organization such as the American Camping Association (ACA, www.acacamps.org) or the National Camp Association (NCA, www.summercamp.org)?

• Does it meet the organization’s standards for kids with special needs, including facility and staffing requirements?

• What training and experience do the directors and counselors have in working with kids with a need similar to your child’s?

• Are there other families you can contact whose children have attended the camp that might be willing to discuss their experience with you?

• What is the ratio of counselors to campers? For children with severe disabilities, the ratio should be at least one counselor for every three campers.

• What is the camp’s health and safety procedures? What about the facility? Is there a registered nurse in residence? If not, who will disperse medication, if needed? How close is the nearest hospital? Have emergency arrangements been made with a local hospital?

• Are they able to accommodate special dietary needs?

Who will assist with feeding, toileting or other activities of daily living?

• Can I visit the camp to see the program firsthand? Do they have sessions year-round?

• How do they ensure an inclusive environment when some activities aren’t appropriate for your child? What alternatives are available?

• What about the camp’s registration fee? (Keep in mind that expense and quality may not go hand-in-hand, because many specialized camps charge only a fraction of actual costs. Find out if there are scholarships available.)

FOR AGES 7–19

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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!

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Check us out online at www.riverviewcamp.com

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

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SUMMER CAMPS 2019

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ASK T H E AT TO R N E Y

The Basics of Special Needs Trusts

By Melanie B. Holliman, Estate Planning & Special Needs Attorney, Executive Director of Alabama Family Trust

A special needs trust (sometimes called a supplemental needs trust) disburses funds to supplement the care, support, and treatment of a disabled person or beneficiary in a way that complements any governmental entitlements such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Medicaid.

Assets funding a special needs trust may come from a legal settlement or judgement, child support, alimony, family gifts, or inheritances. If someone already receiving government benefits receives funds from one of these sources, their government benefits could be jeopardized. New assets handled through a special needs trust avoids repeating the complicated government program application process.

Setting up a special needs trust may entitle the beneficiary to government benefits sooner without the “spend-down” to a minimum asset amount required by Medicaid. The combination of both government benefits and a special needs trust can greatly improve the quality of life for a disabled person by providing services not covered by governmental entitlements.

28 | birminghamparent | april 2019

A special needs trust is NOT the type of trust often found in a will or living trust which allows a trustee to have complete discretion in paying for anything for the beneficiary.

Who Needs a Special Needs Trust?

Disabled children, disabled adults, as well as elderly individuals who need long-term care are primary candidates. Alabama Medicaid does not pay for long-term care in a skilled nursing facility, so a special needs trust can be particularly helpful for elderly individuals who can no longer care for themselves independently.

What is a Pooled Trust?

A separate account for each beneficiary is maintained, but a non-profit company “pools” the assets for investment and management purposes.

The higher volume of assets lowers the administrative cost for each individual account.

How Alabamians over 65 can use a Pooled Trust?

For disabled Alabamians over 65, a pooled trust is

the only way to preserve assets from a Medicaid “spend-down.” The trust account can be used to pay for items and services that the person needs for the remainder of the beneficiary’s life.

Upon the beneficiary’s death, any remaining funds are used to reimburse Alabama Medicaid for any benefits paid up to the total amount of medical assistance Alabama Medicaid paid to the beneficiary.

The family of a disabled individual should work closely with an attorney experienced with all types of special needs trusts.

Melanie B. Holliman is Executive Director of Alabama Family Trust, a non-profit, 501(c)(3) pooled-trust company that has been serving Alabamians for 25 years. www.alabamafamily. trust.com. Although this article is only intended as educational information and is not to be taken as legal advice, the Alabama State Bar requires the following in any communication that may be interpreted as an advertisement: “No representation is made about the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.”

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D E ST I NAT I O N GUI DE PHOTOS COURTESY OF SEAWORLD ORLANDO

What’s New at SeaWorld Orlando?

If it’s been a while since your family went to SeaWorld Orlando, it might be time to schedule another visit. SeaWorld has amazing sea creatures and shows, but it has so much more in terms of rides and fun than ever before.

New for 2019 is the recently-opened Infinity Falls. Infinity Falls takes guests on an adventure through a lush rainforest environment inspired by some of the world’s most incredible freshwater ecosystems. The new attraction features the world’s tallest drop on a river raft ride and allows visitors to experience the feel of exhilarating rapids. The ride also features an innovative elevator lift designed to transport the rafts to the top of the ride’s 40-foot drop before plunging into churning whitewater. If you love a thrill, this might be the ride for you.

Of course, SeaWorld still has some great coasters, if you haven’t been there in a while.

Kraken Unleashed is themed after a massive, mythological underwater beast unleashed from the depths of the sea. Riders’ feet dangle as they travel in open-sided seats, riding on a pedestal above the track at highway speeds to heights of more than 150 feet. Then there’s Mako, is the tallest, fastest and longest roller coaster in Orlando – 200 feet high, 73 miles per hour and a track that’s nearly a mile long.

30 | birminghamparent | april 2019

Mako is a hyper-coaster, which means it’s all about speed, tight turns and feelings of weightlessness at the top of each hill. Manta is a fun, seamless blend of up-close animal encounters with a head-first, face-down thrill ride. The only flying roller coaster of its kind in Florida, Manta tops the list of don’t-miss theme park attractions. Journey to Atlantis is an edge-of-your-seat watercoaster – part water ride, part roller coaster – thrill ride that plunges guests into the middle of a clash for the lost city of Atlantis.

Kids of all ages can enjoy attractions like Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, which lets guests experience the mystery and wonder of Antarctic life on the ice through the eyes of a penguin. The family ride combines closer-than-ever animal connections with state-of-the-art interactive ride technologies for adventures that are different each time.

After stepping off the ride, guests will explore a colony of more than 250 penguins right before their eyes.

Of course, there are multiple shows at SeaWorld, up-close animal attractions, behind-the-scenes opportunities and more.

Admission is charged for ages 3 and up.

Visitors and Florida residents can choose from a variety of new admission products for the SeaWorld and Busch Gardens® family of

Infinity Falls takes guests on an adventure through a lush rainforest environment inspired by some of the world’s most incredible freshwater ecosystems. The new attraction features the world’s tallest drop on a river raft ride and allows visitors to experience the feel of exhilarating rapids.

parks that provide more value and flexibility.

For the best deals, visit www.seaworldorlando.com.

Also, for tourists visiting Florida, the multi-day and multi-park ticket options simplify vacation planning so guests can enjoy multiple visits to four of the Sunshine State’s most popular theme parks. The program allows guests to customize their ideal itinerary and receive substantial savings for each additional park or visit – the more you visit, the more you save.

Ages two and under are free. Prices are subject to change without notice. Discounts available for guests with disabilities, senior citizens, military personnel, AAA and CAA members. Throughout 2019, members of the military and as many as three direct dependents may enter any of the SeaWorld parks, Busch Gardens parks or Sesame Place® with a single-day complimentary admission.

Airports with Biggest Delays Found Planning a trip for the spring, or recently experienced a flight disruption that delayed your trip?

If you are flying out of one of these major airports, there is a good chance your flight will have issues, and in some cases, you could be eligible for compensation from your airline.

The world’s leading air passenger rights company, AirHelp. com, found that out of all U.S. airports, Chicago O’Hare International Airport has the highest number of flight disruptions, followed by Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport and Atlanta Hartsfield-International Airport, which each had more than 75,000 flights experience issues last year.

Airports in major cities across the U.S. experienced a ton of

issues – with the top 10 each having more than 50,000 flights impacted by delays or cancellations – and in some cases, if flying to the European Union on an EU airline, or back from the EU, passengers may be eligible to claim up to $700 in compensation for a flight disruption, and can check their eligibility on AirHelp.

Using their flight data, AirHelp found the following U.S. airports had the most delayed or cancelled flights last year: Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD): 115,900 disrupted flights Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW): 75,600 disrupted flights Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL): 75,400 disrupted flights

Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT): 61,700 disrupted flights Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR): 61,300 disrupted flights Los Angeles International Airport (LAX): 60,700 disrupted flights Denver International Airport (DEN): 59,100 disrupted flights San Francisco International Airport (SFO): 51,500 disrupted flights New York John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK): 50,800 disrupted flights Boston Logan International Airport (BOS): 50,100 disrupted flights —Courtesy of Airhelp

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calendar highlights APRIL April signals spring – and from all the events we have featured, a lot of this month will be spent outdoors! Support a good cause walking or running, hike, catch a free concert and more. And this year, Easter Sunday is April 21. There are many Easter-themed events in the calendar, from breakfast with the Easter bunny to egg hunts.

12

APRIL 13

APRIL 8

Pepper Place Market 7am-noon, Pepper Place. This date kicks off the outdoor venue season of the Pepper Place Market! Rain or shine! www.pepperplacemarket.com.

Homeschool Happening: An Hour with James Spann 10-11am, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Learn about spring weather hazards, safety and more from Spann, ABC 33/40 meteorologist. Come as a James Spann look-alike if you want!

The public is invited.

APRIL 12 Social Media, the Digital World, and Your Child 8:15am, Prince of Peace Catholic Church. Dr. Dale Wisely, the church’s director of family life and wellknown mental health professional, presents this parent education session. FREE. Information, www.popcatholic.org.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ALBERT L SCOTT LIBRARY

birminghamparent.com | 33

april calendar 1 Monday

6 Saturday

9 Tuesday

Free Tutoring 3:30-4:30pm, Homewood Library. Grades K-12. Get help from Homewood High School Peer Helpers and surprise guests from the Greater Birmingham Humane Society.

Ms. Casey’s Marvelous Music and Movement 10:30-11:15am, Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest. Ms. Casey will have you moving and dancing to her favorite music, while also learning a little about music and rhythm. Fun for families with preschoolers! 205-978-0155, http:// vestavialibrary.org. FREE.

UAB Piano Series 7pm, Alys Stephens Center. Yeol Eum Son’s graceful and timeless interpretations have caught the attention of audiences worldwide.

Tickets $15, students K-12 and UAB employees $5, UAB students, free. www.uab.edu/cas/music.

Pepper Place Indoor Market 7am-noon, 2901 2nd Ave. S.

UAB Brass Chamber Ensembles 7pm, Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. FREE.

UAB Percussion Ensemble 7-8pm, Alys Stephens Center.

Directed by Gene Fambrough.

FREE.

2 Tuesday LEGO League 6-6:45pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Kids of all ages. Children under age 7 must be with an adult.

UAB Department of Music Honors Recital 7 pm, Alys Stephens Center.

Performances by UAB music students selected by outside judges through audition. FREE.

3 Wednesday UAB Music Guest Artist 12:20pm, Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. Scot Humes, associate professor at the University of Louisiana Monroe, performs music for clarinet and saxophone.

FREE.

4 Thursday UAB Faculty Brass Quintet Noon, UAB Hospital Atrium.

FREE. UAB Jazz Combos Spring Concert 7pm, Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. FREE.

5 Friday 9th Annual Racing for Children’s Charity Dinner & Auction 6:30pm, Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum. Presented

by Medical Properties Trust, this event kicks off Honda Indy Grand Prix weekend festivities while raising funds and awareness for the Alabama Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders at Children’s. Individual event tickets $125. Sponsorship opportunities, group ticket information and other details at www. racingforchildrens.org.

The Icon: Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony 7pm, Alys Stephens Center. The Alabama Symphony Orchestra performs. https://alabamasymphony.org.

Birmingham Funky Fun Run and 5K 7am, check-in, 8am 5K, fun run, 9:30am, Avondale Park. The Autism Society of Alabama hosts this fundraising event. Walkers welcome, too! All ages welcome.

Register individually or as a team at funkyfunrun.com/locations. php and follow the prompts.

The Icon: Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony 2pm, Alys Stephens Center, see April 5.

Birmingham Fencing Club 10-11am, Birmingham Fencing Club, Vestavia Hills. Try the sport of fencing with the whole family!

Wear athletic or tennis shoes.

FREE. UAB Young Performing Artist Piano Recital 7pm, Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. Featuring Mira Walker.

FREE.

7 Sunday Special Siblings 3:30pm, Homewood Library. A support group for kids grades K-12 to share ideas, experiences and the ever-changing needs of having a special needs sibling.

UAB Chamber Trio & Friends 4pm, Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. FREE.

8 Monday Homeschool Happening: An Hour with James Spann 10-11am, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Learn about spring weather hazards, safety and more from Spann, ABC 33/40 meteorologist. Come as a James Spann look-alike if you want!

Knight School Chess Tournament 5:30-7pm, Homewood Library.

Learn strategy and have fun!

Grades K-12.

34 | birminghamparent | april 2019

10 Wednesday

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

Southeastern Outings Hike 9:45am, Veterans Park, Hoover.

Easy 3-mile walk on trails.

Bring water and walking shoes or boots. Meet 9:45am at the parking lot beside the restrooms.

Optional lunch afterward at Mikey’s Grill. Randall Adkins, 205-317-6969.

11 Thursday Homeschool Hour: Dissection Day 2-3pm, Homewood Library.

Earthworms and grasshoppers!

All supplies provided. Register online.

Senior Research Symposium 5:30pm, Alabama School of Fine Arts. Math-science seniors present in-depth research projects. www.asfaschool.org. FREE. Family Yoga 6-6:45pm, Homewood Library.

All ages.

“The Three Hermits” 7pm, Independent Presbyterian Church. UAB Opera and Independent Presbyterian Church present this one-act opera directed

by Kristine Hurst-Wajszczuk. Jeff McClelland will conduct a small orchestra of Alabama Symphony Orchestra members. FREE. Birmingham Barons vs. Tennessee 7:05pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.

12 Friday Spring Plant Sale Birmingham Botanical Gardens.

Three-day sale April 12-14! Celebrate the sale’s 50th anniversary.

Information, www.bbgardens.org.

Social Media, the Digital World, and Your Child 8:15am, Prince of Peace Catholic Church. Dr. Dale Wisely, the church’s director of family life and well-known mental health professional, presents this parent education session. FREE. Information, www.popcatholic.org.

Sensory Storytime 9:30-10am, Homewood Library. Preschool age.

Register online.

UAB Department of Music Faculty Recital 7pm, Alys Stephens Center.

Won Cho and Chris Steele. FREE. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets in Concert 7pm, Samford University Wright Center. See the movie on the giant screen while the Alabama Symphony Orchestra performs John Williams’ unforgettable score. Tickets, https://alabamasymphony.org.

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

13 Saturday Pepper Place Outdoor Market 7am-noon, Pepper Place. The outdoor season begins!

Easter Egg Hunt/Breakfast with the Easter Bunny 8am, Bellingrath Gardens and Home, Mobile. www.bellingrath.org.

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets in Concert 2pm, Samford University Wright Center, see April 12.

“The Three Hermits” 3pm, Independent Presbyterian Church, see April 12.

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

14 Sunday

PALM SUNDAY BHM 26.2 Race 7am, Railroad Park. Marathon, half marathon, marathon relay, fun run! All proceeds benefit Magic Moments and Children’s of Alabama. After party features live music, kids zone, food and more!

Birmingham Parent is a sponsor.

Information, registration, www. bhm262.com.

Spring Walking Tour: Vulcan Trail 9:30am-noon, Kiwanis-Vulcan Trail. REV Birmingham and the Five Points Alliance highlights how the Five Points South master plan is shaping new growth and redevelopment.

Take a peek behind new projects underway. Advance purchase required; $10 members, $12 non-members. www. visitvulcan.com.

Southeastern Outings Dayhike 1:45pm, Oak Mountain State Park. Moderate 4-mile walk.

Children 8-up able to walk the distance welcome. Meet 1:45pm in park office lot. Bring $5 person ($2 seniors) park admission plus a drink. Doris Hatch, 205-901-8367.

UAB Birmingham Youth Wind Symphony 2pm, Alys Stephens Center.

FREE. Birmingham Barons vs. Tennessee 4pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.

UAB Piano Studio/Ensembles 4pm, Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. FREE. UAB Gospel Choir in Concert 7:30pm, Alys Stephens Center.

Features choir alumni from the past 23 years, as well as current students. Directed by Reginald Jackson. Tickets $7; all students admitted free.

15 Monday UAB Wind Symphony/ Symphony Band 7pm, Alys Stephens Center. FREE.

16 Tuesday Family Night-Animal Tales!

6pm, dinner, 6:30-7:15pm, Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest. See exotic animals up close and learn exciting facts from the knowledgeable animal handlers. All ages. FREE. Dye-ing to Color Workshop 6:15pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. EGG-citing! $3 per half-dozen eggs. Sign up and pay in advance by April 15. All children must be with an adult.

205-664-6822.

UAB Young Performing Artist Program 7pm, Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. Piano recital featuring Jacob Skiles. FREE.

17 Wednesday Hippity-Hoppity Tales with the Easter Bunny & More 10am-noon, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Children and caregivers invited to a funfilled morning with Miss Spring and the Easter Bunny, cookie decorating, and a trackless train ride around the library parking lot. Free tickets available in the lobby. All children must be with an adult.

UAB Commercial Music Ensemble 3pm, Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. FREE. Kids Create: LEGO Club 3:30-4:45pm, Homewood Library. K-5 grade.

18 Thursday American Girl Mardi Gras Masquerade 6-6:45pm, Homewood Library.

Celebrate with Cecile and Marie Grace! Festive snacks and crafts.

Spain Park High School Band 7pm, Hoover Library Plaza.

Enjoy a concert by young musicians in the community! FREE. UAB Computer Music Ensemble in Concert 7pm, Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. FREE.

18 Thursday Gala 7pm, Alabama School of Fine Arts. Welcome spring with ASFA’s orchestra, jazz ensemble, choir and Concerto delle Donne. $10 adults, $5 students. www.djdtheater.org.

19 Friday

GOOD FRIDAY Easter Egg-stravaganza 10:30am-noon, Vestavia Hills City Hall lawn. New location for plenty of parking! The egg drop begins promptly at 10:30am, followed by other activities. Pictures with the Easter Bunny, crafts, snacks, lawn games and more. Ages birth to first grade. http://www. vestavialibrary.org. FREE. UAB Jazz Band 5pm, Alys Stephens Center.

Directed by Steve Roberts. FREE. UAB Spring Choral Concert 7pm, Southside Baptist Church. Featuring the UAB

FIND LUCK Y THE TO EGG SPECIAWIN A L PRIZE !

RIDE THE TRAIN COTTONTAIL EXPRESS

HOP ABOARD for a train ride to Peter Cottontail’s meadow for an Easter Egg Hunt and fun activities!

Saturdays April 13 & 20 - 10AM, 1PM, 3PM Sunday April 14 - 1PM, 3PM for tickets & information

www.HODRRM.org • 205-757-8383

1919 9th St., www.HODRRM.org 1919 9th St.,Calera, Calera,AL AL35040 35040 •• www.HODRRM.org birminghamparent.com | 35

april calendar Concert Choir and Chamber Singers, directed by Brian Kittredge.

Featured artists: Emily Jaworkski, assistant professor of voice, and Denise Gainey, professor of clarinet and associate chair of the UAB Department of Music. FREE. The Pastoral: Beethoven’s Sixth Symphony 11am, Alys Stephens Center. The Alabama Symphony Orchestra. https://alabamasymphony.org.

Vivaldi’s Four Seasons Recomposed 7pm, Alys Stephens Center.

Alabama Symphony Orchestra’s Masterworks series. https://alabamasymphony.org.

Gala 7pm, Alabama School of Fine Arts, see April 18.

20 Saturday Pepper Place Outdoor Market 7am-noon.

Breakfast with the Easter Bunny 8-9am, 9:30-10:30am, Birmingham Zoo. Kick off the Eggstravaganza celebration at the zoo! Enjoy a great breakfast followed by a visit from the Easter Bunny. All children receive a special holiday gift upon arrival. Tickets, information, www.birminghamzoo.com.

Easter Eggstravaganza!

10-11am, ages 0-12; 11:15am adult egg hunt; 11:30am-12:30pm, ages 0-12, Birmingham Zoo. Children can collect 10 eggs and receive a bunny plush. Adult egg hunt winners can receive special zoo tours, memberships and several other prizes. Admission, more information, www.birminghamzoo.com.

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

Easter Egg Hunt 9:30am, babies to age 3; 10:30am, ages 4-10, North Shelby Library. Grab your Easter basket and hop on over to the library!

No registration required. www.northshelbylibrary.org.

Vivaldi’s Four Seasons Recomposed 7pm, Alys Stephens Center, see April 19.

21 Sunday

EASTER

Southeastern Outings Walk 1:45pm, Dunnavant Valley Greenway Walking Trail. About 4½ miles. Meet 1:45pm at the DVGWT trail head on Shelby Highway 41. Children 7-up able to complete walk welcome. Dan Frederick, 205-631-4680.

Birmingham Barons vs. Jackson 4pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.

22 Monday Birmingham Barons vs. Jackson 1pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.

23 Tuesday Birmingham Barons vs. Jackson 7:05pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.

A Bohemian Spring: Smetana, Schumann & Brahms 7:30pm, Samford University Brock Recital Hall. Alabama Symphony Orchestra performs. https://alabamasymphony.org.

24 Wednesday Birmingham Barons vs. Jackson 11am, Regions Field. www.barons.com.

Kids Create: DIY Bird Feeders 3:30-4:15pm, Homewood Library.

Spring is here! Make a bird feeder All ages.

25 Thursday Assistance League of Birmingham Gala 6pm, The Club. Dinner, music/ dancing, live/silent auction.

Proceeds support the league’s assistance programs, including Operation School Bell, which provides new school clothes to children. Information, tickets, 205-870-5555.

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

Breast cancer affects over 200,000 women each year. With earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment, patients are living longer. Learn about insights from neurological research. FREE.

26 Friday

Birmingham Homeschool Fair and Convention Hyatt Regency Wynfrey Hotel.

Two-day conference (April 2627). A collaboration of Birmingham Homeschoolers Community and CHEF of Alabama brings together an exhibit hall with resources, activities, and support for homeschooling families, and workshops and sessions featuring national and local speakers on subjects that will enhance the homeschool experience.

Featured keynote speakers: Pam Tebow, Chelsea Cameron, Brian Pruitt. Join the Facebook event page, and watch for more information. Register at BirminghamHomeschoolFair.com.

American Girls Club: Spring Fashion Show 4pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Girls age 7 years old and older can walk the runway and model their fresh spring fashions.

Come with or without a doll; family and friends can sit in the audience. All kids in the audience must be with an adult. Sign up.

18th Annual Gardendale Magnolia Festival 5-10pm, Gardendale Civic Center.

Live entertainment, midway carnival, pooch parade, 150 vendors, car show, artisan demonstrations, free kids zone, free parking and free admission. www.magnoliafestival.org.

Alabama Ballet presents Ovation 7:30-9pm, BJCC Theatre. Ovation is a mixed repertory performance featuring three world premieres by critically acclaimed Germaul Barnes and company dancers

Nadine Barton and Frederick Lee Rocas; and Roger VanFleteren, associate artistic director. Tickets, information, 205-322-4300, https://alabamaballet.org.

27 Saturday 18th Annual Gardendale Magnolia Festival 10am-5pm, Gardendale Civic Center, see April 26.

LEGO Wars 11-11:45am, Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest. Build according to the theme and win prizes for the best creation. First grade and up.

205.978.0155, http://vestavialibrary.org. FREE. 4th Annual Quarry Crusher Run 8am, Dolcito Quarry, Tarrant. A hillside quarry where you start in the middle, run to the top and then to the bottom! Experience 735 feet in elevation change on the route! Proceeds benefit Tarrant City Schools. Information, 803-600-1800, http://quarrycrusherrun.com.

Alabama Ballet presents Ovation 2:30-4pm, 7:30pm-9pm, BJCC Theatre, see April 26.

Crohn’s & Colitis Take Steps Birmingham Walk 4pm, Homewood Central Park.

Nationwide fundraising event dedicated to finding cures and raising awareness for digestive diseases. Information, www.cctakesteps.org.

28 Sunday 12th Annual Duck Derby 1-4pm, Children’s Hands-On Museum, Tuscaloosa. Family fun for all ages! Inflatables, outdoor games, music and more. $10 Duck Derby ticket may be purchased online or at the event.

Proceeds support the museum’s programs. 205-349-4235, www. chomonline.org.

Alabama Ballet presents Ovation 2:30-4pm, BJCC Theatre, see April 26.

PLEASE NOTE: Events may change after publication deadline; please phone ahead to confirm important information. The deadline for submitting calendar items for the May 2019 print issue is April 9. Mail calendar items to: Calendar, Birmingham Parent, P.O. Box 326, Helena, AL 35080; fax to 624-2515; e-mail to calendar@BirminghamParent.com; or enter directly to the online calendar at www.birminghamparent.com. Entries added online after the print deadline will not appear in the print version. Information cannot be accepted over the phone. Birmingham Parent publishes a calendar 11 times a year. January events are included in the December issue.

Guidelines: Birmingham Parent’s calendar is intended to be a resource and service to the community and our readers. Events which are open to the public, fundraisers, free classes, etc., are events that may be included in our monthly calendar. We reserve the right to reject any event or listing due to rules or space restrictions. For questions regarding calendar entries, call 624-2405 or e-mail calendar@birminghamparent.com.

36 | birminghamparent | april 2019

events & attractions n Aldridge Botanical Gardens

n Birmingham Public Libraries

3530 Lorna Road, Hoover.

205-682-8019, www.aldridgegardens.com

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

Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame 1631 Fourth Ave. N., Birmingham. 205-254-2731, www.jazzhall.com

n Birmingham Zoo

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

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

n Alabama Wildlife Center 100 Terrace Drive, Pelham.

205-663-7930. www.awrc.org

n American Village Highway 119, Montevallo.

205-665-3535, www.americanvillage.org

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

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

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

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

205-328-9696, www.bcri.org

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

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

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

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

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

n Heart of Dixie

• Pandas. Scientists in China are dedicated to protecting this species by breeding adult Giant Pandas in order to introduce cubs to the wild.

• Oceans. Science and technology has allowed us to go further into the unknown than we ever thought possible.

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

April 26-27, 2019

GARDENDALE CIVIC CENTER

FRI 5PM-10PM / SAT 10AM-5PM

n Moss Rock Preserve Preserve Parkway, Hoover.

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

n Oak Mountain State Park

n Jefferson County

n Ruffner Mountain

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

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

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

n McWane Science Center

n Shelby County

200 Terrace Drive, Pelham.

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

• Genome: Unlocking Life’s Code. An immersive, hightech exhibit that captures the revolutionary nature of genomic science. Through May 5.

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

• Speed: Science in Motion. This exhibit, developed by Scitech in Perth, Australia and produced

by Imagine Exhibitions, replicates the high-octane action of the Formula 1 racetrack, complete with pit lane, workshop and physical testing environments. Challenge yourself!

Through May 5.

4343 73rd St. N., Birmingham.

205-833-8226, www.southernmuseumofflight.org

IMAX Movies: • Journey to the South Pacific.

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

18th Annual

200 19th St. N., Birmingham.

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

Railroad Museum 1919 Ninth St., Calera.

205-668-3435, www.hodrrm.org

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

THE TOTAL FAMILY EXPERIENCE

n Southern Museum of Flight

PRESENTING SPONSOR

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

DIAMOND SPONSORS

PLATINUM SPONSOR

GOLD SPONSORS

n Vulcan Park • Alabama Justice: The Cases and Faces that Changed a Nation. Vulcan Center Museum will host this exhibit that tells the story of eight Alabama-based, landmark U.S. Supreme Court cases and profiles three U.S. Supreme Court justices from the state. Through May 13.

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

SILVER SPONSORS

GARDENDALE

MAGNOLIAFESTIVAL.ORG birminghamparent.com | 37

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHILDCARE RESOURCES

PARE N T I N G PE O P L E

Childcare Resources Helps Give Parents Needing Daycare Peace of Mind

By Lori Chandler Pruitt

Childcare Resources, a United Way agency, works to help parents find the best type of childcare possible. The agency provides a free resource and referral service that guides families through the difficult process of finding just the right place. And with hundreds of childcare programs in central Alabama alone, it’s a welcome service for many parents.

And every time parents find what they need, Joan Wright, executive director, knows exactly why she does this for a living. “They say if you find what you love, you will never work a day in your life,” she says. “I love to help parents get the information they need to make a well-informed choice that supports the goals and dreams they have for their child.”

Childcare Resources, a non-profit agency, is central Alabama’s only childcare resource and referral agency. It has a trained and dedicated staff that helps parents narrow down their childcare choices based on needs, location, type of care and more. Parents also get the tools they need to recognize quality child care when visiting potential providers. The agency has a listing of providers, but it does not license, endorse, rate or recommend any particular providers. The agency serves Jefferson, Shelby, Blount and Walker counties.

Services provided include financial assistance for low-to-moderate income working families, quality training and technical assistance for child 38 | birminghamparent | april 2019

care providers (including a free early learning resource library, mobile resource library van, and early learning demonstration classroom), research-based parent education resources, and assistance to hundreds of families in the community seeking quality childcare options for their young children.

Childcare Resources also provides several other parent education programs. One of them, Parent Education @ Work program, is offered free to area businesses at the work site. Its website also lists different educational resources for parents to help their child be ready for kindergarten.

Wright, who has been with Childcare Resources for 11 years, also worked for United Way’s Success by Six program, which helps improve the quality of early learning for children in childcare settings. “I’ve always had an affinity for children and children’s programs,” she says.

“I love what I do.”

Wright’s background also includes children’s recreation – she was a swim coach for the Learn to Swim program and much more.

One of the lesser-known, but no less important, roles that Childcare Resources provides is childcare provider training. “Training is the largest part of our budget and it is a huge part of what we do,” Wright says. “We train novices to seasoned professionals to help them do the very best job that they can.”

The Alabama Department of Human Resources requires several hours of training for childcare facility directors and employees both before hiring, and later to maintain its license.

“We offer all kinds of training conferences for providers, to show them how important their role is for children to get their best start in life,” Wright says. “For parents to feel comfortable with their childcare choice, that impacts the workforce. About 60 percent of working women in Alabama have children under age five.”

Childcare Resources also has training opportunities all year long. On April 13, Childcare Resources will host the Sky’s the Limit Training Conference, providing attendees with the most current, innovative and entertaining information to make them the best childcare providers and early educators possible.

“Our staff is totally dedicated to providing the very best training possible,” Wright says.

And, the agency also raises money for its programs. On May 3, it will hold its Champions for Children Charity Breakfast, and in August, it will present its popular Fairy Tale Ball, an enchanted evening for families. For more information on programs, events or to donate, call 205-945-0018 or go to www.ccr-bhm.org.

Lori Pruitt is associate editor of Birmingham Parent.

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

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

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

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

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

3690 Grandview Parkway Birmingham, AL 35243

Look Forward.