Auburn Opelika Parents Magazine April 2013

Contents April 2013 Volume 4 Number 2

Features

26 Five Encouraging Things to Say to Your Kids

Learn what phrases of encouragement will make a lasting difference in your child’s life.

30 Choosing Childcare

Get the facts, do your homework and trust your judgment as you search for the right preschool/daycare fit for your family.

33 2013 Childcare Directory

Our listing of Lee County childcare centers offers details to help you narrow down your search, begin personal visits and make a decision.

Columns 2

44 Help Your Teenager Land a Summer Job

From One Parent to Another Kendra Sumner

4 Living With Children John Rosemond, Ph.D.

10 Kids Health

Spring is the perfect time for your teen to secure a summer job. Find steps for helping them start a business of their own or find a job in the community.

On The Cover

Wes Stubblefield, M.D.

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Departments 6 Bits and Pieces

Dave Says

12 School Bits

Dave Ramsey

28 Get This!

46 Family Calendar

Paige Gardner Smith

29 The FlyLady

56 Parent Previews

Marla Cilley

42 A Page in a Book Paige Gardner Smith

55 Parenting on the Plains Polly Dunn, Ph.D.

Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

Anderson Melnick lives in Opelika with his parents Blake and Micah Melnick. He is three years old and loves playing outside, spending time with grandparents and helping in the garden.

Anderson’s favorite movie is Toy Story and he enjoys riding his stick horse named Bullseye.

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

Auburn-Opelika Parents Lee County’s Foremost Parenting Source

From One Parent to Another...

Preschool, daycare, home care, afterschool programs, or summer camps...are you looking for a child care option for your family? Well, you have come to the right resource! Each April, we dedicate our efforts to providing a thorough listing of all the local child care programs in the Lee County area. Most families will have a need at some point or another, whether it is short term to help with school aged children during the summer or year round, full time care for a new addition to their family. In planning and looking for that perfect fit for your family, it is crucial to consider the components of the care providers based on your family’s priorities. Some are looking for flexibility and convenience, while other parents’ top concerns may be cost or teacher/child ratio. Regardless of your needs, choosing your child care is better addressed

Auburn-Opelika Parents Magazine, is founded on the principle that parenting is an exciting, diverse, challenging, and significant, role in our community. Auburn-Opelika Parents Magazine is a community advocate for families and the parenting process.

Publisher Kendra Sumner kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com

Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@auburnopelikaparents.com

Associate Editor Kelly Watson

Director of Sales Justin Sumner justin@auburnopelikaparents.com or (334) 209-0552

Contributing Writers Kelly Bartlett Marla Cilley Polly Dunn, Ph.D. Dave Ramsey Michele Ranard, M.Ed. John Rosemond Tanya Scherschel Paige Gardner Smith Wes Stubblefield, M.D.

Cover Photography Candy Avera www.pictureperfectbycandy.com

President Jason Watson jason@auburnopelikaparents.com

Visit us online at www.auburnopelikaparents.com Auburn-Opelika Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: 1204 Owens Road Auburn, Alabama, 36830. The phone number is (334) 209-0552 and fax is (334) 826-7303.

Auburn-Opelika Parents is copyrighted 2013

by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Auburn-Opelika Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

if you start with a plan.

In this month’s feature article, Choosing Child Care: Get the Facts. Do Your Homework. Trust Your Judgment, the author provides a wonderful starting point for research, planning and finding the best program for your needs. She suggests making a list of the questions to ask directors about their facility, teachers, licenses, curriculum and overall daily operating procedures. This will help to narrow down if a private, home setting, daycare or preschool will work best for you. Also, a structured learning curriculum or hands on, creative atmosphere can be two very different learning environments to consider. Will there be outdoor play, technology time, religious components, or art and music classes? After reviewing the author’s tips, you may have a better idea of what type of child care you are searching for. Above all, visit the locations, trust your instincts and, if your children are old enough, get their input and listen to their opinions. Don’t forget to check out our 2013 Child Care Guide. We have helped with some of the research and hope this is a great starting point for you!

Some of you might just be realizing that this will be the first summer that child care is not necessary because your little ones are not so little anymore. They have reached that age where they just might be the child care provider or camp counselor! Or, maybe you are realizing that as summer approaches, lying around playing video games and watching movies just won’t cut it this year. Yes, your child might be ready for a summer job! This can be an exciting, yet confusing, time for teens who have never worked, but who would like job experiences, extra spending money or are looking to venture out and try new interests. Helping Your Teenager Land a Summer Job, by Tanya Scherschel, suggests starting with your teen’s interests is key. Does he enjoy working with little kids? Being a summer camp counselor through Parks and Rec or working with VBS programs could be very rewarding. How about your social butterfly? She might like the fast pace of retail or restaurant jobs. Once you decide the direction to take, spend some time helping them create their resume. Building a resume will not only prepare them for their first job, but will be an invaluable learning tool for their future. Now, who is hiring? In today’s social networking world, encourage them to reach out to others and gain connections to help land that job. Summer internships, part time employment and volunteer opportunities are out there just waiting on your teen!

Whether you are searching for chid care for your little ones or summer jobs for your teens, start looking today! When we are away from our children, either being cared for by others or working on the job, having them in positive, happy environments makes it easier for us to drop them off or let them go. From one parent to another, plan, research and ask questions. The right fit is waiting to be found!

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

Living With Children

By John Rosemond

The Short & Sweet Answer When Your Child Argues While working in my secret parenting laboratory, hidden deep beneath the earth’s surface and accessible only by me and a small, select team of associates, I recently made what I believe is a huge and history-making breakthrough that promises to greatly improve parenting the world over.

For years, I have stood almost alone among America’s parenting pundits in defending the legitimacy of “Because I said so,” perhaps the most maligned four words in all of human history. I have gone on record as saying that “Because I said so” affirms the authority of the parent, provides an honest answer to a child’s demand to know the reason behind the parent’s decision, and all but eliminates the possibility of a mutually debilitating parent-child argument.

I have pointed out that adults have to accept the BISS principle—when we pay our state and federal taxes, for example— and asserted that it is in the best interest of

Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

children therefore that adults make them aware of this reality from an early age.

Furthermore, there is no evidence that “Because I said so” damaged the mental health of my generation—the last bunch of American kids to be universally exposed to it; there is no good reason to think, therefore, that it will damage the psyches of today’s children (although they do seem a tad more fragile than we were).

No short list of folks have suggested alternatives to BISS, such as “Because I am an adult and you are a child and it is my responsibility to make decisions of this sort on your behalf and you will not understand my actual reason until you are my age and have a child your age, so there’s no point in my sharing it with you, and whether you agree or not, you have to obey.” Needless to say, the child lost the parent at “responsibility.” Given the choice, I would recommend the simpler, shorter form.

Never would I recommend that BISS be said in other than a kind, yet decisive tone of voice. It should not be screeched at a child, but then neither should anything else. But all of this may be moot, because after years of painstaking and highly secret research, I have discovered an alternative that is even shorter and, therefore, sweeter: “Trust me.”

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Think of it! A child asks (demands to know) “Why?” or “Why not?” and the parent in question simply says, “Trust me.” That pretty much says it all. Most important, it affirms that the parent knows what is best for the child, whatever the situation. The parent knows (but the child does not) that eating broccoli is better than eating deep fried processed proto-junk, that play should be balanced with household responsibilities, that “my friends all have one!” is not justification for buying a 12-year-old a cell phone, and so on.

Children do not know what is best for them. They only know what they want.

And given the choice between what is best and what they want, they can be relied upon to choose the latter. Furthermore, when parents make the right choice for a child, there are no words under the sun that will cause the child to agree. The child will agree when he or she is an adult and is the parent of children who are demanding what they want. No sooner.

In the meantime, all one can do is ask the child to trust. To which someone might say, “But he won’t understand that either!” That’s all right. Faith is a long-term investment.

Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.

Advertising: 334-209-0552

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

bits & pieces Cardboard Boat Race at the SportsPlex

Build your own cardboard boat and sail it across the SportsPlex Pool for some great family fun, April 13, 10 a.m.

Anyone can join: families, business, schools, groups or churches. Boat and contest information can be picked up at the SportsPlex or online. $15 fee. Register by April 2. 334-705-5560.

Stadium Fest 2013 in Birmingham

Join us, April 12-13, at Spain Park in Birmingham. This free, biannual event features Christian music artists and speakers including: Rhett Walker Band, Bill “Bubba” Bussy and Rick Burgess, Jamie Grace, SwitchFoot, Bello, KJ-52, Britt Nicole, Building 429, Crowder, Scott Dawson, Newsboys and more! Children’s Playtime in Bronner Burgess Playground with inflatables, face painting, games and James Spann.

Firework finale. www.stadiumfest.com.

Lee County Relay for Life to be Held April 26

Relay For Life in Lee County is scheduled for April 26 at the Southern Union Community College track in Opelika, and will last 12 continuous hours, from 6 p.m.

– 6 a.m. This year’s theme is “Dream Big! Hope Big! Relay Big!” and, to date, 32 teams with 148 participants have signed up to raise funds and awareness of cancer in Lee County. When you walk to end cancer at a Relay event, it's your opportunity to not only honor cancer survivors and remember loved ones lost, but also to raise awareness about what we can do to stay well from cancer and raise money to help fuel the world's largest walk to end cancer.

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A-Day & Auburn Oaks

A-Day, Saturday April 20, 2013 will be the last time the Auburn Family will ever be invited to roll the existing oaks at Toomer's Corner. Do not miss this full day of activities, scheduled to include a parade, special appearances by former Auburn athletes, and concert & street dance, beginning at 1 p.m.! Each year Auburn gives students, alumni, parents, and friends a sneak peek at the upcoming football season by holding a spring football game in JordanHare Stadium. It is always Orange vs. Blue and the entire Auburn football team is divided in half to make up the two teams. All of the players are given the chance to participate, which allows Auburn fans to see the depth and future of the team. Bring your shakers and wear your orange and blue, and enjoy a day on the Plains watching the Auburn Tigers play.

Turning It Blue for Autism Awareness

On April 1, put on a blue t-shirt, grab all your friends and family and join us at the Lee County Courthouse fountain in downtown Opelika. The fountain is turning blue in support for Autism Awareness...come show your support! 5:45 p.m. Light It Up Blue (www. lightitupblue.org) is a unique global initiative that kicks-off Autism Awareness Month and helps raise awareness about autism. In honor of this historic day, many iconic landmarks, hotels, sporting venues, concert halls, museums, bridges and retail stores are among the hundreds of thousands of homes and communities that take part to Light It Up Blue.

Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

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2013 Montgomery Zoo Weekend: April 6-7

Mark your calendar today to make plans to join us for this fun-filled, family event at the Zoo. The Zoo and Museum are transformed into a festival-like environment complete with games, inflatable slides and bouncy houses, horse trail rides, giraffe encounter, live animal presentations, zookeeper talks, a variety of food, drinks and snacks, live entertainment and much more. Zoo Weekend is an annual fundraiser for the Zoo and Museum. Funds from this event go directly into the general fund allowing the Zoo to continue to grow and expand. Future projects coming aboard soon include the Zoofari Skylift, Parakeet Cove, new Alligator exhibit, Stingray Bay and Butterfly House. 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. www.montgomeryzoo.com.

FDR Days and Spring Fling

It’s a celebration of Franklin D. Roosevelt's life & death and the legacy he has left behind, and it’s also a celebration of Spring!

April 13-14, FDR Days and Spring Fling, held in Warm Springs, Georgia, will include events such as: antique car show, a magician performing throughout the day, ongoing entertainment, local fruit & vegetable stand, local school art exhibits, games for the children, crafts and food vendors, Best Dressed Pet Contest, and more! All music welcome. For additional information call the Welcome Center at 706-655-3322 or 1-800-337-1927.

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

bits & pieces Lee County Special Olympics Basketball Team Brings Home Gold

The Lee County Special Olympics basketball team took home the gold medal for the second year in a row at the state tournament in Montgomery on Friday, March 8! The athletes defeated the team from the Helen Keller School of Alabama by a score of 36 - 24 to take home the top prize. The 2013 Alabama Sate Special Olympics Basketball Gold Medal winners include: (*indicates member of 2012 Gold Medal Team as well): Back Row (L - R): Coach Kasey Kaschak, Justin Murphy, Gideon Weigel*, Donald Lee*, Jeffery Barnes, and Coach Daniel Hiestand; Middle Row (L - R): Wiley Crowell*, Elijah "Bo" Dunn*, Ben Crowell*, Richard Haynes*, Ann Finlen*, and Coach Gwen Janigan*; Front Row (L - R): Chris McPherson, Brooke Owens, Cari Autrey, and Britani Owens.

Lee County Special Olympics offers practices and competitions for athletes in basketball, bowling, flag football, golf, powerlifting, swimming, track & field, and volleyball. Currently, athletes are preparing for the Special Olympics Sectional Aquatics Meet on Friday, March 22 at the Opelika SportsPlex, and the Lee County Regional Track and Field Meet on Wednesday, April 17 at Smiths Station High School. Area and regional competitions culminate with the State of Alabama Special Olympics Games at Troy University May 17 - 19.

For more information on Lee County Special Olympics, visit www.auburnalabama.org/specialolympics or contact Alison Hall or Dana Stewart, Lee County Special Olympics Co-Directors, at 501-2930.

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2320 MOORES MILL ROAD, SUITE. 250 AUBURN, AL 36830 • (334) 887-0099

Congratulations to the Liles Smiles no cavity winners!

Abby Lawrence Abigail Arrington Abigail Large Addie Garcia Aden Peterson Ahnayah Preston Ahriyah Infante Aiden Barnes Aiden Craft Aikeem Smith Airyana Belcher Akeila Driver Alana Marie Prince Alexandria Burdell Alexandria Ogletree Alexis Berry Alexis Holloway Alicea Rainwater Alijah E. Calloway Allen Reinhardt Amanda Norman Amelia McCay America P. Vazquez Amiyah McKissic Amy McLaughlin Andrew Burkhalter Andrew Holloway Anna Elmore Anthony Driver Jr April Chen Armani Gordy Aryn Cole Asiah Williams Austin McConnell

Austin Winter Austinm Ware Autumn Bullard Ava Lawrence Ayden Hansen Bailey Clayton Bailey Grimes Bailey Hoppa Banks Ashley Ben Harman Benjamin Heyler Brady Bullard Branden Hall Brandon Crum Brandon Cruz Brandon Fears Brandon Green Bransley Looser Braxton Johnson Braxton Longino Brayden Brooks Brayden Coleman Brayden Knox Braylan Hughley Brent Lowery Brett Nelson Brian Eaton Brian Rogers Briana Brown Bristol Swader Brynne McCormick Cade Donley Caden Blair Caden Ricks

Caden Zickafoose Caleb Ames Calli Ann Stephens Callie Earles Cameron Boutwell Camille Champion Candice Joy Paschal Candice Kite Carissa Looser Cate Cleveland Catherine Hadley Cecilia Strickland Chaemin Son Chaney Thomas Chappell Shiflett Charles Worthington Charlie Placek Chris Kite Christian Lamar Hooks Christina Hollis Christina Walker Cierra Lynch Clyshawn Baker Cody Heyler Colt Jordan Colton Stroud Connor McCormick Cooper Puckett Cyler Carden Cynthia Alcantar Daleah Murph Daltyn Atkinson Daniel Venegas Daniella Cruz

Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

Darcie Driggers David Cruz David Holloway David Pifer Dawson Watson Dayanara I. Vazquez Demi Davis Destiny Blalock Deyven Tomas Dillan Pogue Dominic Russell Donwin Hughley Drake Reese Dwayne Fears Dylan Burgess Dylan Green Dylan White Edgar Cruz Edward Corbitt Edwin Cruz Edwin Osornio Eli Littlehawk Eli Pickard Eliana Foradori Eliana LaFoy EliJah Tarver Elizabeth Burgess Ellie Keesee Elonna Gilbert Emeri Roberts Emily Kate Corbitt Emily Tatum Emory Compton Ephraim Valentine

Erica Mayberry Erin Edwards Erron Mayberry Fatima Barron Gabrielle Johnson Garrin Bean Garrison Grimes Gloria Jayne Caridad Greydon Grimes Gwen Lehmkuhl Hannah Bazinaw Hannah Brooks Hannah Wilkerson Hayden Holt Haynes Keesee Heinrich Weikart Henry Strickland Holland Eaton Hudson Smith Hunter Clayton Hunter Cooper Hunter Meadows Hunter Wright Ian Foreman Imari Starks Indiah Williams Isaiah Crapp Isaiah Smith Izzie Williams Ja’Nia Pierson Ja’Vel Strickland Jaaliyah Thomas JaBrien Taylor Jackson Neighbors

Jada Finley Jada Grimes Jaden Hill Jaden Jackson Jaken Dowdell Jakena Dowdell Jalyrica Murph JaMarius K. Pace James Hume Jamyah Dorman Jaquavious Adams Jared Nelson Jasmine Finley Jasmine Heptinstall Jason Blair Garrett Jason Woods Javion Bush Jayda Coleman Jayden Rosier Jazmine Cooper Jeffrey Gourdine Jemison Rice Jenna Ammons Jennifer Hernandez Jeremiah Pierson Jericuse Coleman Jesse Dutton Jessica Casteel Jillian Meadows Joel Tatum Johnnie Taylor Jonathan Barnett Joseph Solano Joshua Kim Julia Karaca Justin Barnett Justin Levett Kaese Davis Kalayria Dinkins Kaleb Pirtle Kaleb Williams Kaleigh Jenkins Kamariah Finley KaMauri Drisker Kamori Finley Kan Miller

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Karson Brown Kate Seale Katelyn Downey Katelyn Frazier Katie McClain Kaycie Hill Kayden Aadil Kaylee Zickafoose Kaylin Lee Kellia Menefee Kelly Harman Kenly Yeager Kevin Karaca Keyonna Willis KhaLeah Gartrell Khalia Core Kiley Brooks Kim Harman Kimberly Mendoza Kimora Avery Kingston Hughley Kiptyn Mumma Knox Lane Kody Atkinson Kyle Harman Kyle Hugley Kylia Dickey Kylie Stroud La’Miracle Drive Lakezia Williams Lamarius Hughley LaMeriyah Harris LaMeshia Todd Lara E. Altindal Larry Marbury LaVarious Fergerson Leland Sehnert Leslie Paschal Lexi Richey Liam Weikart Lily Simpson Logan Johnson Logan Watson Logan Wright Lorenzo Valentine Lucas Hu

Lucy Zuniga Luke Donaldson Mac Lancaster Madison Preston Makaveli Infante Malachi Nelson Marco A. Vazquez Marjorie Zuniga Markell Wagner MarQue Wynn Mary Burkhalter Mary Hugley Masa Miller Mason Lehmkuhl Matthew Mask Matthew Rainwater May Saysombath Mayrin Escobar McKinley St. John Melissa Kessler Memkphis Butler Meredith Voyles Messiah Houston Michael Burgess III Michael Garcia Michael Kavon Dowdell Michael Turner Mijuael Dowdell MiKayla Dubovecky Mitchell Walker II Morgan Kitchens Morgan Nestor Morgan Paschal Morgan Watts Myja Butler Myles Foreman Myonna Riley Naomi Beasley Nathan Robinson Nia Wilson Nicole Seale Noah Merrels Nolan Hansen Nykeria Johnson O’layiah Barrow

Olivia Kahn Olivia Schwendeler Olivia Seale Oscar Strickland Owen Browning Owen Zapp Parker Boutwell Parker Williams Peyton Eaton Praylier Reinhardt Promise Strickland Qua’Shawn Satterwhite Quintrell Williams Rankin Williams Reagan Butler Reagan Moore Riley Reetz Robert Cole Robert Pack Rolya’T Taylor Ronald Harris Ryan Donaldson Ryan Mitchell Rylan Miller Sage Carter Sally Stanley Sara Beth Kahn Savannah Britt Savannah Luse Serenity Shuman Shakeva Kelly Shamiracle Dunn Shaniya Johnson Sharon Jeong Shawna-Kay Cunningham Shi’Miracle Madden Sierra Watson Skyler Gilmore Skyler Luse Sofia Foradori Somchai Saysombath Sophia Pastor Sophia Simpson Sophie Burditt Stella Lane

Stephanie Randolph Stephen Aidan Allen Treadwell Suhyun Son Tamea Johnson Tamrah Tucker Tanner Bailey Tate Dark Taylor Byrd Taylor Neighbors Terrence Brown, Jr Timothy Starks, Jr Toccara Jones Tonya Mathis Tremell Williams Treston Boler Trinity Taylor Trip Yordy Ty’Zavious Dunn Tyler Large TyQuavious Wagner Tyrone Hollis Valeria Reyes Vandrious Madden Vince Hume Violet Sakalaukus Virginia Lawrence Walker Zapp Warner McDonald Wesson Swader William Holloway William Pack William Sindo Wilson Slocumb Wynn Cleveland Z’Cari Bynum Zachary Beasley II ZaKariyah Joiner Zalexius Williams ZaNikja Brinkley Zaria Perry Zaria Peters Zavion Wagner Zaydin Dowdell Zyion Shaw Zyuna Ross

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34th Annual Chunnenuggee Fair

Union Springs hosts its annual juried arts and crafts fair with live entertainment, food and crafts vendors, children's games, door prizes, BBQ competition and more, on Saturday, April 27. This year the Fair is part of the Alabama Barbecue Trail, meaning even more home cooked food than ever before!

There are games, rides, characters, events, and plenty of goodies to be found at the booths to keep smiles on the faces of children and adults of any age! As always, we'll have a lineup of local and regional talent on stage, filling the air with everything from rock and blues to country and folk music - and everything in between! 9 a.m. – 3 p. m. www.chunnenuggeefair.com.

Old 280 Boogie in Waverly

Come Celebrate the 13th annual Town of Waverly (Old 280) Boogie! This year's event to be held on April 20, with gates opening at 10:30 a.m., music starts at 11 a.m.

Featuring this year's headliner, Charles Bradley and the Extraordinates, along with other guests including Pine Hill Haints, Hurray for the Riff Raff, The District Attorneys, The Larry Mitchell Band, Fire Mountain, Great Peacock, and much more! Event is rain or shine 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Food and artist vendors too. Tickets on sale now, www. waverlyboogie.brownpapertickets.com; children under 14 free. 1015 Mayberry, Waverly, AL.

Where Learning Begins

From the moment you enter our million dollar, state-of-the-art facility, you realize that Milestones Learning Center is more than a daycare. Established in 2007, we are proud to offer our award-winning services to the children and families of the Auburn/Opelika area. As a private academically focused program that specializes in early childhood education, we cater to those families that want the best for their child.

We offer year round educational programs for full and part-time childcare for children six weeks to Pre-Kindergarten.

In addition we provide a full menu of enrichment classes onsite which saves our parents valuable time.

Come by today and tour our facility and see the Milestones difference.

1811 E. Glenn Ave. • 334.887.4391 • www.milestoneslc.com Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

Kids Heal h

Sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn

Spring Allergies

Ah-choo! Ah, the sound of spring.

For most of us, spring brings to us warm weather, rain, flowers, and the end of the winter season. For some of us, spring brings sneezing, watery itchy eyes, and nasal congestion. Many trees and other flowering plants produce massive amounts of pollen during the warming of spring and especially in the South where warming can be sudden and significant. Nasal allergies are a source of frustration and, potentially, significant quality of life issues.

Allergic rhinitis is the technical term for the symptoms that those that are allergy-prone experience. Generally speaking, a particular person is “sensitized” to a particular allergen or allergens (such as pollen, animal fur, etc.). When exposed to an allergen, the body releases a wave of chemicals designed to protect us from illness and damage which, in turn, cause increased blood flow. One of the major contributors to this process is histamine (think antihistamines, e.g. Benadryl, Zyrtec, and Claritin). There are, of course, many other chemicals and our different treatments are focused at different points in this pathway (nasal sprays, e.g. Flonase and Nasonex) or others (e.g. Singulair and Accolate). Very importantly, there are some medications that reduce swelling but are not directed at the underlying process (e.g. Afrin) and, although provide immediate gratification, can be dangerous in young children or with excessive use. I

would avoid these medications (Afrin or similar specifically).

Although this is a natural process, the people that experience these symptoms are producing an over exaggerated response and can be miserable during the blooming season. This is why medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, are used. Additionally, this can lead to other complications due to this swelling and the inability of the body’s normal processes to work correctly such as bacterial sinusitis, otitis media (ear infections), asthma flareups, and fluid in the middle ear. Taking medications as prescribed can prevent or minimize some of these complications and it is important to adhere to treatment guidelines.

In children, seasonal allergic rhinitis is thought to start, at the earliest, around 18 months. These children are usually the product of allergic parents (or those with eczema or asthma). In younger children, allergies are usually due to indoor allergens (cockroach droppings, dust mites, food allergies, etc.) But, after one or two blooming seasons, the process begins. In younger children, the symptoms can be chronic throat-clearing, night time cough, recurrent ear infections, and poor sleep leading to fatigue, headaches, stomachaches, and irritability.

When treating allergic rhinitis, physicians usually attempt to maximize convenience, cost, and side effects while

attempting to maximize a patient’s quality of life. Although searching for and removing indoor allergens can be helpful for some patients, others are doomed to be sensitive to outdoor allergens and living in a large bubble is inconvenient. Sometimes, a physician may refer a particular patient to an allergist, a physician specifically trained to identify and treat allergies.

Allergists can search for allergies using blood or skin tests and, in certain situations, treat allergies with injections aimed at reducing the body’s responses (allergy shots).

Allergies are a significant part of many people’s lives. And, unless you’re planning to move to the desert, they are likely going to stay that way. With proper identification, treatment, and planning, allergy symptoms can be managed and controlled during this challenging time.

Dr. Wes Stubblefield graduated from the University of Alabama School of Medicine (UAB) with his medical degree in 2004, and then trained at Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital in pediatrics, finishing in 2007. He returned to Alabama in 2007 and joined Dr. Ellen Royal and Dr. Richard M. Freeman at their pediatric practice in Auburn. Dr. Stubblefield is board certified in pediatrics, is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, and currently serves as the local area representative for it’s Alabama Chapter. He is married to Jennifer and they have one daughter, Peyton.

www.AuburnPediatricAssociates.com Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

Carver Primary School Hosts "Night of Famous African American Stars"

Students at Carver Primary School recently hosted a "Night of Famous African American Stars" to celebrate Black History month. The event featured students dressed as many famous African Americans including: Steve Harvey, Will Smith, Jaden Smith, Mariah Carey, Beyonce, Alicia Keys, the Temptations, Tyler Perry, Michael Jackson, Nat King Cole, Natalie Cole, Oprah Winfrey, Nick Cannon, Diana Ross and President Barack Obama. Steve Harvey's character interviewed each guest on stage and the audience members learned interesting facts about them. The program was directed by Ms. Shonta Lowe, Counselor at Carver Primary School. Pictured: Raina Curtis and Zavier Dowdell dress up as Diana Ross and Barack Obama.

Dean Road Third Graders Use Pizza as Learning Tool

Dean Road third graders traveled to CiCi’s Pizza and made their own pizzas.

The trip was a culminating activity for their study on fractions. The students were instructed on how to make a pizza and then shown how the pizzas are cooked. Each group had to decide what fractional part of the pizza each member of their group received. The students then enjoyed their very own creations! Pictured are: Jason Doan, Ashley Chase, Lillie Huff, and Bella Henderson from Mrs. Evans’ third grade class and Ryan Wang and Maluken Habetariam from Mrs. Taylor’s third grade class.

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Cary Woods Students Dress Up for Dictionary Day and Parade

The children at Cary Woods Elementary School in Auburn had a unique vocabulary lesson Friday when they participated in Dictionary Day and Parade. Each student picked a vocabulary word and created a costume/outfit that reflected that words meaning. Many of them wrote out the definition and displayed it on their costume. The parade was the final event for Cary Woods' Red Across America Week. Other school-wide activities included, Book Fair, Grandparents' Day, Seuss Cafe' and many fun reading programs throughout the grade levels.

Wacoochee Elementary Holds First Daddy-Daughter Dance

Wacoochee Elementary School held its first annual Daddy-Daughter Dance on February 8. Girls in grades K-4 enjoyed a night of food, dancing, and picture taking with their Dads. It was a very special evening for all who attended! Pictured are Xyliah and PaPa.

Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

Read Across America at Morris Avenue Intermediate School

Third grade students at Morris Avenue Intermediate School in Opelika celebrated Read Across America on Friday, March 1st. They dressed up as their favorite book characters and had a special assembly celebrating the joys of reading.

Ms. Diane Burton, dressed up as the Cat in the Hat, made a special visit to read Great Day for Up by Dr. Seuss.

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Opelika High School Places Third in CVCC Mathematics Competition

The Opelika High School math team recently participated in the Chattahoochee Valley Community College (CVCC) Mathematics Competition. The JV team placed third in the large school division. Adrianna Royster was the top JV individual scorer from OHS. The OHS varsity team also placed third in the large school division category. April Rhiel was the top varsity individual scorer from OHS. The competition included individual written tests and team ciphering competitions. Pictured front row (l-r): Noah Traylor, Tilak Patel, Ben Bryant, and Adrianna Royster. Pictured back row (l-r): Gloria Campbell-sponsor, Lena Silavanh, April Riehl, Katie Parr, Roger Baggett, Harry Meadows, Alyssa Patel and Stacy Royster-sponsor.

Martial Arts Instructor Speaks at Southview Primary School

Students at Southview Primary School recently had a presentation

by Mr. Andy Roberts with Auburn Mixed Martial Arts. Mr. Roberts discussed goals and why it is important to work hard toward your goals. This assembly concluded a lesson on career exploration and the importance of work by the school counselor, Lola White.

Pictured are 2nd grade students with their teachers, Mary Patton and Amie White.

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Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

Beulah High Teams Make a Difference with Donation

Beulah High School basketball teams and cheerleaders donated $1,695 to the American Cancer Society. The proceeds raised for the organization resulted from Beulah’s 3rd Annual Conquer Cancer Challenge Basketball Tournament conducted last December. The tournament featured four boys and girls varsity teams from Beulah, Loachapoka High School, Randolph County High School, Woodland High School Boys team and the Beauregard HS girl’s team.

Coaches and students raised funds to help Conquer Cancer by soliciting sponsorships, selling basketball cut outs, half court shootouts during halftime, ticket raffles for prizes, and through the collection of admission proceeds. The efforts concentrated on developing community awareness and emphasizing the importance of helping others.

American Cancer Society representatives said funds raised from the tournament would be dedicated to cancer research on behalf of the Coaches vs Cancer program efforts conducted nationwide.

American Cancer Society representative Sarrah Herren, Beulah Boys Varsity Coach Jeff Lamb, Girls Varsity Coach Christie Barrington, Assistant Principal David Owen, and Administrator Casey Chambley joined with team members and cheerleaders to present the donation on behalf of Conquer Cancer Challenge sponsorship donations.

Donations were made by Dick’s Sporting Goods, East Alabama Clearing & Grading, owner Bobby Cash, Winston Smith T Company Building Materials & Hardware, Sprayberry Orthodontics, The Fig Tree Child Care, Knight Rides – Yamaha Golf Cars, Chambley Construction, Michael’s Masonry – owner Michael Gleaton, B&L Photography – owner Brian Todd, State Farm Insurance Agent Donny Holley, T & T Equipment, Century 21, Langley Buick-GMC in Lanett, David Bowen Sporting Goods, Extreme Hog Hunters Magazine, Max Fitness, Academy Sports, Dr. William King Family Dentistry, Givorn’s Foods, and Geiger Sewer Services.

Plans have already been made for Beulah to host the fourth annual Conquer Cancer Challenge in December of 2013.

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Lee-Scott Announces Winners of District VI Science Fair Competition

Biological Division: 2nd Place - Macy Kuykendall (left photo) - "How Oil Spills Affect Aquatic Plants"; 3rd Place - Chelsea Langley (right photo) - "Jelly Beans - Does Smell Affect Taste?". Physical Division: 1st Place - Andrew Lyle (center photo) - "Bat Ballistics". Macy Kuykendall placed 2nd in the Biological Division of the AISA State Science Fair at Huntingdon College.

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Trinity’s Geography Bee Winner

Congratulations to Brady Watts for winning Trinity’s annual Geography Bee. Brady is an eighth grader with a love for learning. This year’s bee was once again hosted by Mrs. Ellen Sistrunk with the assistance of Mrs. Sarah Ingram.

The anxiety could be felt in the room as the entire high school gathered to watch. Much like Mrs. Sistrunk’s geography class, the bee covered various questions ranging from countries to state territories and rivers to national landmarks. Surviving this bee was not an easy task, and we are extremely proud of those who made it to the final round: Amelia Graddy, Gray Walker, Michael Key, Anna Leuenberger, Ben Presley, Cameron Walker, Dixon Leuenberger, and Brady Watts.

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Please visit

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

Read Across America at Southview Primary

Students at Southview Primary had a busy week celebrating Read Across America. They participated in "Reading Under the Stars" which was a school wide evening event in which parents and students rotated through stations learning about reading techniques, participating in reading activities and roasting s'mores. The following day, community members read books to each class in honor of Dr. Seuss' birthday. Pictured: Guest reader, OZZ, Chick Fil-A marketing team member, reads to a group of "cows" in Mrs. Murphy's class.

Please send school news and photos by the 20th of each month to: kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com.

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Dr. Seuss Cafe' at Cary Woods

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Read Across America week would not be complete without celebrating Dr. Seuss' birthday with reading fun at the Seuss Cafe'! Students at Cary Woods visited the cafe to read and have other students read stories to them. Story time is always better with a self made Cat In the Hat top hat!

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Lee-Scott Academy's Elementary Technology Team Wins 1st Place at AISA State Tech Fair

Lee-Scott Academy's Elementary Technology Team came in first place at the AISA State Tech Fair. Individual winners were: 1st place Computer Graphics Townsend Kaak; 1st place Website Design Mackenzie Phillpott; 2nd place Applications Chelsea Rose Stroud; 3rd place Website Design Cater Childs.

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AHS Wins Southern Union Business Tournament

Auburn High School Business Management and Administration Students, under the instruction of Sonya Hutchinson and Audrey Marshall, attended the Annual Southern Union Business Tournament on Wednesday, March 6th. Auburn High had students who placed in all 7 events which resulted in receiving the school trophy for the most winners again this year. Contestants were: Dalyneth Diaz, Lydia West (2nd placeAccounting), Sydney Geiger, Samuel Zhu (2nd place - Computer Science and 1st place and Microcomputer Applications), Suleiman Alfa, Noro Datiri (1st place -Business Calculations), Mathew Fields, Sara Carden (3rd place – Accounting), Caitlyn Moody, Ifedolapo Fasino (3rd place - General Business/Economics), Jenequa Allen, Mathew Wright (3rd place –Keyboarding), Jordan Farrell, Christina Jung (1st place –Keyboarding), Kayla Yost, Jesse Birt (3rd place - Computer Science and 3rd place Microcomputer Applications), Andrew Cummings, Austin Crane (2nd place – Business Communications), Sara Bridges, Brianna McClain, Tyler Ferguson, Erin Baker, Brianna Mathews.

Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

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Read Across America Week at Wacoochee Elementary

Wacoochee Elementary School celebrated Read Across America Week with many fun events, such as Mixed Up Monday and Wacky Hair Wednesday.

Mrs. Wilkins’ fourth grade class wore their favorite hats to school on Top Hat Tuesday. The week ended by having visitors read Dr. Seuss books to the students. Wacoochee is wild about Read Across America Week!

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Read Across America Week at Northside Intermediate School

The students at Northside Intermediate School celebrated Read Across America Week by having a different theme every day. Theme days included crazy sock day, tacky day, and hat day. Friday was character day and everyone, including the teachers, dressed up as their favorite character.

Pictured with a few Northside third graders are Principal Mike McKee as "Dumbledore" and Mrs. Lauri Tickal as "Miss Frizzle".

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Trinity Hosts Lee County Spelling Bee January 31 was Trinity’s turn, once again, to host the Lee County spelling bee.

Taking place at the Opelika Sportsplex, students from various schools across the county in grades 4-8 participated in this bee. Our spelling bee sponsor, Mrs. Sarah Ingram, looks forward every year to another bee but was incredibly excited to be from the host school this year.

Trinity was extremely honored to have the opportunity to host. We are very proud of every contestant and congratulate the winner on their great accomplishment.

BSOFN!

[Big Smile On Face Now]

Enrichment Students Study Frog Anatomy at Morris Avenue Intermediate School

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Fourth grader, Devin McPherson, examines the external anatomy of a leopard frog in science enrichment at Morris Avenue Intermediate school in Opelika. Devin learned that frogs can absorb oxygen through their skin as they sit in pond water. Later, Devin presented his frog research by producing a frog nature video to help his classmates better understand frog habitats.

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

Dean Road Fourth Graders Investigate Multiple Intelligences

4th Grade at Dean Road Elementary School investigated Multiple Intelligences, also known as Learning Styles. All students took a survey which helped them to identify their predominant learning styles. In Math and Language Arts, students had several opportunities to choose exciting learning activities using their multiple intelligences. Boys and girls especially loved making our own “cooking shows” and writing songs about money.

Pictured are Caron Jones and Tripp Ingrum in front of a hallway display about Multiple Intelligences. They are demonstrating “musical smart.”

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Read Across America at Carver Primary School

In honor of Dr. Seuss' birthday and Read Across America Week, guest readers were invited to read to each class at Carver Primary School. The guests were treated to breakfast in the media center and then escorted to classrooms to read. Guest readers included community leaders, school administrators, retired teachers and school adopters. Pictured is Ta Mark, as Thing One, student Za'Millian Cumins, in the center as Thing Two and Pat Jones (AEA Rep) as The Cat in the Hat.

2013 Auburn University Summer Camps auburn.edu/summercamps

Programs that educate and inspire youth in academic and extracurricular endeavors.

Learn more and register online or call 334.844.5100.

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Lee-Scott Academy Basketball Team Wins AISA AAA State Championship

On Saturday, February 16th, the Lee-Scott Academy Girls' Basketball Team defeated Glenwood to win their 3rd straight State Title. Madison Prewett was named the tournament MVP; Hayden Robinson and Ali Rabren were named to the All Tournament Team. The Boys' Team was named State Runners-Up.

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PSA Cheer Teams Win First Place at JamFest Competition

The PSA Knights All-Stars competed in Mobile, on February 16 & 17 at JamFest Nationals. They had a wonderful time and their performance was outstanding. PSA Onyx Senior Level 4 Cheer Team finished 1st Place in their division as well as earning Grand Champion of the competition with the highest score of the day. In addition to their First Place and Grand Champion, Onyx was also awarded the Sportsmanship Award.

PSA Jade Junior Level 3 Cheer Team placed 2nd in their division, PSA Emerald Youth Level 2 Cheer Team placed 5th in their division and the PSA Pearl Mini Level 2 Cheer Team took 1st Place in their division. PSA Shining Knights Special Needs Cheer Team also competed and were awarded Medals and a Trophy for their performance.

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

Morris Avenue Students Create Plays Based on Art Exhibition

Morris Avenue students created original plays exploring the cold war historical issues surrounding the recent Art Interrupted Exhibition at the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art at Auburn University. The students studied what determines style in art and researched what role the 1946 post-war government and media played in recalling the historical paintings back from a Latin American and Eastern European tour intended to build cultural diplomacy. The plays were directed by Dr. Becky Hendrix.

Auburn Thunder U11 Girls 2013 Vulcan Cup Champions

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The Auburn Thunder U11 Girls team captured the 2013 Vulcan Cup Championship in Birmingham March 9 - 10. The team battled a physical tournament finishing at the top of their bracket, defeating the Birmingham United Soccer Association (BUSA) 02 Elite North Blue. The championship game was decided after two overtimes and a shoot-out. The Thunder captured the title by a score of 3 – 2 in the championship game. Congratulations to the 2013 Vulcan Cup Champions: (Front Row, L – R): Harper McGowan, McKinnon Young, Anna Kelly, Olivia Medina, Kennady Fetner; (Back Row, L – R): Coach Jenny Ferguson, Anna Collins Branch, Lauren Dallas, Bailey Bishop, Ayden Bailey, Mary James Bridges, and Anna Marie Carter.

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Former Press Secretary and Alumnus Visits Cary Woods Elementary

Students, teachers and staff at Cary Woods Elementary had a surprise visit from President Obama’s former press secretary Robert Gibbs! He is a former Cary Woods student and AHS graduate. The 5th grade students heard him speak about being a White House advisor, which added to this year's study of American History.

Beulah Seniors Pitch Invention Ideas for Shark Tank Project

The Beulah High School senior class just finished an Economics project called Shark Tank, modeled after the new hit reality invention show Shark Tank. The senior class was divided into 23 groups of four in which they had to come up with an invention to pitch to group of Shark investors for funding.

Each group must give as much information about the product, its price, marketing strategies, packaging, advertising, patents etc... as they could in five minutes to persuade the sharks to keep their idea. After the first round of presentations, the sharks selected six groups to come back in front of the panel one week later to pitch their idea again and be crowned as Shark Tank champions. The winning team’s name was JAMS Inc. They came up with a wireless set of ear buds called Ear Buzz that also had built in music data storage to hold music files, as well as touch activation on each ear piece. They Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

were completely wireless and had solar charging capabilities.

The JAMS team will be treated to lunch off campus one day as part of their prize packet. Special thanks go out to Charter Bank Valley Branch representative Susan Bullock for her role in judging participants and sponsoring the mock check $1 million donation that went out to the winning team. Pictured left to right BHS Administrator & Economics instructor Casey Chambley, Beulah HS Seniors & Jams team members Aaron Duffey, Steven Kerr, Morgan Davis, Jessy Milner & Charter Bank representative Susan Bullock. Back row BHS faculty members Mitchell Harte & Counselor Theresa Owen.

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

Lee County Youth Wins First Place in National Public Speaking Contest

Josh Johnson Visits Cary Woods 3rd Graders

Lee County 4H-er Nathan Gullatt took first place in the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Youth Public Speaking Contest in the 1114 age division on Feb. 7 in Miami, Fla. He won $500.

Congratulations, Nathan!

This winter, 3rd grade students at Cary Woods have been learning about weather including severe weather, weather safety and statistics about Alabama's weather.

As a bonus, Josh Johnson from WSFA Weather Team, Montgomery, visited with the students. He talked about all things weather and even played a trivia game with the students.

Happy Birthday, Dr. Seuss!

Students at Wrights Mill Road celebrated a special birthday in style!

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I’m 27 and married, and we have two kids. I make $90,000 a year, but we have $80,000 in consumer debt—$48,000 of which is in car loans. The rest is credit card debt. My wife’s parents have offered to let us move in with them so we can get out of debt faster. Do you think this is a good idea?

A.

If I were in your situation, I would not move in with the in-laws. You’ve got an absurd amount of money wrapped up in those cars. I’d sell the stupid things, start living on a budget and paying down debt, and keep my dignity.

In my mind there are only two scenarios where you’d even consider taking the in-laws up on their offer. One is where they’re absolutely wonderful people and you have a great, non-toxic relationship with them, where everyone involved knows their boundaries. Even then, I’d only consider this if it were for a very short, agreed-upon amount of time.

The second scenario would be if moving in with the in-laws were the only way to accomplish your goal. And you don’t pass that test. You guys can get out of debt pretty quickly if you’ll just lose these ridiculous cars! Think about it. If you had two little paid-for beaters, your lives would be so much different. You could even save a little money on the side while you were paying down debt and buy a better car as soon as the debt was gone.

If you can’t tell, I’m pretty big on maintaining dignity. You might love your cars so much that you’re unwilling to make the sacrifice. Not me. The money going into your automobiles is insane, and that’s your biggest problem!

Q. What do you think about the HARP program, and what exactly is it?

A. The Home Affordable Refinance

Program is designed for people who have made their payments on time but are

underwater on their mortgages. Being “underwater” means they owe more on their homes than the homes are worth. So basically it gives them the opportunity to refinance their home loans.

The HARP program is the only part of the Making Home Affordable program that actually worked. And to be honest, it has worked well. In contrast, the recent Home Loan Modification program is a piece of junk and all about political posturing. About 93 percent of the people who applied for a home loan modification didn’t get one. It was just another case of the government pretending to do something.

I’d advise looking into the HARP program if you’ve got a good credit history and you’re underwater on your current home. Lots of HARP program applications are being approved, and the deals are closing. That’s what really matters when you find yourself in a situation like this.

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

FIVE Encouraging Things to Say to Your Kids

by Kelly Bartlett

It’s no secret that kids need encouragement to thrive. But what exactly does encouragement sound like? It’s different than praise or admiration or guidance. It is common to want to give evaluative feedback to kids for their work (“Good coloring!”), or to tell them what we like about their accomplishments (“I like how you set the table.”), or what we expect of their behavior. (“You need to try your best at school today.”) Though these kinds of responses are well meaning, they teach kids to rely on our evaluations rather than to learn to form their own judgments about behavior.

Alfie Kohn, researcher and author of Punished by Rewards, says that kids can come to depend on praise and external validation instead of finding satisfaction in doing the right thing simply because it’s the right thing to do. “Rather than bolstering a child’s selfesteem, praise may increase kids’ dependence on us. It leads them to measure their worth in terms of what will lead us to smile and dole out some more approval,” says Kohn. He recommends that parents focus on supporting and encouraging their child’s efforts, rather than on praising the results.

Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

Encouragement is about teaching kids to see the value of their own accomplishments and to be in charge of their own success. It fosters internal strength and motivation by keeping the focus of children’s behavior on themselves instead of anyone else. As psychologist Rudolf Dreikurs said, “A child needs encouragement like a plant needs water.” Here are five encouraging things to say to your kids on a regular basis:

“Thank you!”

For tasks that a child has completed, let him know his efforts are appreciated. Tell him, “That helped a lot,” and, “I appreciate the time you spent on this.” It lets him know that his work is meaningful and he is an important contributor to the family. Saying ‘thank you’ is no less celebratory than saying ‘good job.’ Expressing gratitude for a job well done still communicates excitement and pride. The difference is you don’t need to tell your child that what he did was “good”; he will inherently feel it.

Claire, a stay-at-home mom of 3 boys, said that at dinner one night, she thanked her 3-year-old son, Tucker, for giving each family member a napkin to use. When Tucker 26

climbed into his chair and replied, “Mama, I like you thanking me. That feels nice,” she was struck by the power of those simple words. Without any praise, Tucker felt significant and appreciated; he felt his “good job,” and he was motivated to do it again.

“You did it!”

Use this kind of encouragement for when a child has achieved a goal or milestone.

Cheer for her by focusing on the effort it took to get there, rather than on the outcome.

Instead of saying, “I like how you built that Lego tower,” respond with, “Wow, you worked hard on that!”, “Look at what you accomplished!”, or, “You must feel proud.”

Responses like these focus the accomplishment on the child’s inner work, rather than on a parent’s external evaluation. It’s much more encouraging to say, “You sure never gave up during your game!” than, “You won your game, good job.”

“I’m listening.”

What could be more encouraging than to know someone is receptive to what you have to say? Active listening validates a child’s sense of significance and belonging in Advertising: 334-209-0552

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the family; they know they’re important and they matter. Let kids know you’re taking their thoughts seriously by echoing their statements back to them. There should be some backand-forth with open-ended questions (“What would you do about that?”), empathy (“Wow, you must have felt scared.”), and reflections (“Oh, you decided to take a break so you could calm down.”) Good listening sounds more like a conversation than a one-sided monologue. When a child is heard, she feels known.

“It’s OK to cry.”

It’s important for kids to know that their feelings are always okay. Learning how to manage these feelings takes support, acceptance, and lots of practice. Encourage kids by communicating that they are not wrong to experience unpleasant feelings like sadness, anger, or fear. Instead of saying, “You’re okay. Don’t be upset,” let your child know, “You have the right to feel angry. I understand; I would feel mad, too.” Or, “I can see you feel very sad right now, and that’s okay.”

Validating your child’s feelings leads to his own acceptance of them, and the realization that he is capable of handling them.

“I trust you.”

Instead of providing the answers and directing kids toward what to do, encourage them to make decisions and solve problems by letting them know you trust their ability to decide for themselves. Say things like, “I know you can figure this out,” “I have faith in you to find a solution,” “I know you’ll make an appropriate decision,” or “You lead the way on this.” Entrusting kids to make their own decisions is very empowering for young children! It shifts the dynamic from a parent’s control over a child to one of shared control.

It encourages kids to think through problems and come up with their own solutions.

Remember that by opting for encouragement over praise, you’re not ignoring your kids’ accomplishments or successes.

Encouragement is simply about keeping your response focused on their efforts and feelings as opposed to only the outcomes. Encouraging words not only reassure kids during times of success (“Wow, that took a lot of concentration!”), but also in times of disappointment (“I have faith in you to fix this mistake.”).

Instead of looking to a parent for affirmation, kids are able to decide how they feel about themselves. Their failures and successes, as they should be, are about them, not anyone else.

in

Kelly Bartlett is a mother of two, and a freelance writer with a focus on child development, family relationships, and discipline. You can find more of her work at www.kellybartlett.net.

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

Write On! Drawing Inspiration from Toys

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

When children reach the age where they know that finger paint goes onto paper (as opposed to in their mouth), their artistic journey has begun! That journey will include using crayons, markers, pencils and pens as kids strive to make their mark on the world around them. Sometimes these mediums of art in children’s hands can find unintended canvases, decorating destinations parents never imagined (ie. living room walls, car upholstery and sibling’s faces). Rather than restricting kids’ drawing and art, consider the following drawing outlets that offer kids engaging options to make their mark, again and again, without the mess!

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by Paige Gardner Smith

Inkoos

AquaDoodle

Inkoos are plush colorful animals that are designed for kids to draw on and decorate to their heart’s content. And when the drawing and decorations are done, and the artist is ready to begin again...Inkoos go right in the wash with the laundry.

Coming out of the dryer, Inkoos are ‘back-to-go’ as a toy canvas that invites kids to write messages, draw features, or make any kind of art on their surface. The Inkoo Mini comes with one clip-on washable marker and the larger version comes with three clip-on markers. There’s even a Glowin-the-Dark Inkoo for night owls! Reusable and mess-free, Inkoos are the perfect, plush, portable canvas for the artistic child.

The youngest of artists are now free to create without fear of mistakes or mess with AquaDoodle. The cloth bordered drawing mat has a surface that responds to a simple water marker with brilliant lines and colors that will delight young Picassos. And running out of drawing space isn’t a problem, because as each artwork dries, it simply fades away and the AquaDoodle canvas is ready for the next masterpiece to appear. No rough edges, no batteries, no stains, spills or permanent marks make AquaDoodle the perfect palette and portable canvas for older toddlers and up!

(The Bridge Direct)

(Spin Master)

(Crayola)

For the prolific young artist who’s already covered multiple refrigerators with drawings, the Crayola Light Designer offers a new outlet and new dimension for art. It’s a dome that responds with light to a stylus tool, letting kids create original color ‘drawings’ made of light. There are also pre-programmed templates and scenes that children can build out with their own drawings and colors. Games that cultivate use of the light drawing format are also included in the Light Designer, so kids can hone their skills with the stylus. The round dome “canvas” of the Crayola Light Designer expands kids’ spatial understanding as they begin to envision their drawing wrapping around the dome. An ideal added dimension and next step for the enthusiastic young artist, drawing with light will brighten their artistic horizon!

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Hot Wheels Lightbox Design Set

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One cool way to train a young designer and tune up fine motor skills for advanced drawing is to trace images and the best way to do that is to use a light box. The Hot Wheels Lightbox features a tracing surface that lights up, illuminating films that guide smaller hands as they trace car body design images onto their sketch page. Once the broad strokes are in place, artists can customize their car with colors and logos. Finishing touches for the car art include engines, mufflers and doors.

The combinations are endless, and the inspirations constant as kids build layers of confidence and better motor skills using the Lightbox Design Set to train the artist within!

Paige Smith is a freelance writer and syndicated columnist living in Alabama. More on GET THIS! at www.PageBookMedia.com.

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Advertising: 334-209-0552

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How many times a day do you hear the word ENOUGH come out of your mouth or into your brain. Let’s just look at damage that this word does to all of us.

1. I don’t have ENOUGH time! How many times do you say this one? We all have the same hours in every single day. Enough time to clean it the way your momma made you when you were a child. Enough time to get it right! So when we believe this lie; we stop dead in our tracks and DO NOTHING! 2. I don’t have ENOUGH help around the house! Oh Boy!!! Don’t get me started on this whiny attitude. If you live alone, it is just you.

Single parents don’t have anyone to whine to or nag either. You don’t hear them complain about this. There are no excuses for this attitude. If you will set the example in love, you will have the help.

3. I don’t have ENOUGH money! We have all said this one; over and over again. Do you want to know the truth of the matter? Rita

Davenport taught me. If money will fix it; it is not a problem. If we will quit wasting our money on quick fixes we will have all we need. Say no to buying more clutter! This will happen once the clutter is out of your home. You will find a new freedom from letting go of your clutter. Not only will you have more open clear spots in your home, but you will also have the money that you didn’t waste on the clutter.

This goes for fast food, yard sale bargains and department store sales. When you start filling that hole that is in your soul with love, you will no longer need to just dump anything in there to make you feel better.

4. I don’t have ENOUGH storage! Yes you do, but you have clutter taking over its space.

Let go of the clutter and you won’t have to spend money on those storage units. By only having things around you that you love and use; your clutter will have to find a new home. That will release the space for the things you love.

5. I don’t get ENOUGH respect! Do you want to know why? Because you don’t respect yourself first. You don’t need outside admiration when you value yourself. You have to show a little to get a little. This goes even farther than this. The more you give the more you will get. Give it to yourself and reap what you sow!

6. I can’t dress well because I don’t have ENOUGH nice clothes! This goes back to the respect issue. You don’t have to have fancy clothes to feel good and pretty in what you have. A clean pair of jeans and a bright colored shirt can make you feel like a million bucks if you will take the time to dress each morning. Once you quit wasting money and feel that you are worth it, you will get yourself one new outfit and a decent pair of lace-up shoes. You can save for them.

7. I don’t have ENOUGH love! Well you may be right about this one. You don’t have enough self love! If I can teach you to FLY...

Finally Love Yourself...then your home and life can come together. Have you ever been on an airplane and heard the flight attendant tell you that if the oxygen masks come down to secure yours first before you help your child or others? When you give, give, give and don’t save any for you, then you are left wanting. If momma ain’t happy then nobody’s happy! Take care of yourself first.

For more help getting rid of your CHAOS, check out her website and join her free mentoring group at www.FlyLady.net or her book, Sink Reflections, published by Random House,and her New York Times Best Selling book, Body Clutter, published by Simon and Schuster. Copyright 2013 Marla Cilley.

Used by permission in this publication.

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

Choosing Childcare

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Get the facts. Do the homework.

Trust your judgment.

by Michele Ranard, M.Ed.

Choosing a healthy, safe place for your child to thrive and learn is a daunting decision. But take a deep breath. Quality options for daycare and preschool are out there. It’s important to gather information, do the legwork, and ultimately trust your gut.

Get the Facts: Narrow the Possibilities

Begin your search early. Ann Douglas, author of Choosing Childcare for Dummies, suggests embarking upon your quest between eight weeks and a year before your back-to-work date.

Contact your local child care referral agency by checking Child Care Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

Aware, a national consumer education parent hotline (1-800-424-2246) and web delivery system (www.childcareaware. org). The National Child Care Information Center (1-800-616-2242 or www.nccic. org) is also a good start.

Ask the referral agency about licensing requirements in your area and how to collect information about complaints or licensing violations. Ask about financial assistance programs for which you may qualify.

Also, be sure to investigate the many child care options in the River Region in Montgomery Parents’ 2012 Child Care Directory immediately following this article!

Home Daycare or Center?

Home daycare may make sense.

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Providers tend to have flexible hours (especially helpful for atypical work schedules). They may have less rigid schedules and policies which set you at ease. If it is important that your caregiver be open to lots of individual accommodations (i.e. irregular naptimes), a home provider might suit you and your child best. Some home providers are regulated, but many are not so it’s a personal choice.

Licensed daycare centers offer many advantages. Centers may hire certified early childhood educators with training in child development as well as clearly outlined policies. Also, having more than one caregiver on the premises provides peace of mind (especially if you’re concerned about TV watching or unfamiliar adults in Advertising: 334-209-0552

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a home setting). Centers offer reliability so you won’t have to scramble for care if one caregiver is ill or on vacation. The spaces in a center are typically kid friendly and designed with safety in mind. Because of government regulation, child to caregiver ratios, safety requirements, and criminal record checks are standard.

Do the Homework: Visit and Assess Quality

En ro No w Su m l l i n g fo r m Fa l l 2 e r a n d 013

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends you consider the following 13 guidelines as you evaluate the quality of a provider: *Supervision. Are children supervised at all times, even when they are sleeping?

Is discipline positive, clear, consistent, and fair? *Handwashing/Diapering. Hands should be scrubbed with soap and water for at least 10 seconds and then rinsed and dried. Faucets should be turned off with a paper towel. *Director Qualification. Director should hold a B.A. degree and have worked in child care at least two years. *Teacher Qualifications. Lead teacher should hold a B.A. degree in a child-related field and have worked in child care for at least a year. *Child:Staff Ratio. One family home caregiver should care for only two babies. The fewer children each caregiver cares for, the better. *Immunizations. Does the provider have records proving that other children are up to date? *Toxic Substances. Are cleaning supplies and pest killers kept far from children? *Emergency Plan. Are first aid kits and emergency plans in place? *Fire Drills. Are these practiced monthly? *Child Abuse. Can caregivers be seen by others at all times so a child is never alone with one caregiver? Have all caregivers gone through a background check? Have all caregivers been trained to prevent, recognize, and report child abuse? *Medication. Is it kept out of reach and labeled properly? *Staff Training. Have all caregivers been trained in first aid and CPR? *Playground. Is it developmentally appropriate, clean, and inspected regularly for safety?

After School Care - Summer Camp - Computer Dance and Big Green Bus Offered - Closed Circuit Monitoring

Quality Preschools

The National Association for the

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

Education of Young Children (NAEYC) suggests the following 10 signs are indicative of a good preschool: 1. Children spend most of their time playing and working with materials or with other children.

2. Children have access to various activities throughout the day.

3. Teachers work with individual children, small groups, and the whole group at different times during the day.

4. The classroom is decorated with children’s original artwork and projects.

5. Children learn numbers and the alphabet in the context of their everyday experiences.

6. Children work on projects and have long periods of time to play and explore.

7. Worksheets are used rarely, if at all.

8. Children have an opportunity to play outside in a safe play area every day.

9. Teachers read books to children individually or in small groups.

10. Curricula are adapted for those who are ahead as well as those who need additional help.

Trust Your Judgment: Notice your Gut

One of the most helpful factors to consider when choosing a provider is the interaction between caregiver and children. Is there good communication? What is the caregiver’s interpersonal style?

Notice how the interaction makes you feel. Is it a place you would look forward to coming each day?

In order to find the best fit for your child, consider how the provider’s philosophy of child rearing, discipline, education, and nurturing meshes with your own. As Ann Douglas says in her book, “You can’t count on anyone else to guarantee your child’s health, safety, and well-being in a particular child care setting. Like it or not, the buck stops with you.” Do you agree with how a provider believes your child should be guided and cared for each day?

You should feel a sense of trust in the caregiver/program and that your child will learn and grow happily within a particular environment.

Michele Ranard has two children, a master’s in counseling, and a background in teaching preschool and running a daycare. Visit her at hellolovelyinc.blogspot.com.

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2013 Child Care Directory

ABC-123- Auburn Parks and Recreation Department

Coordinator: Melissa Weldon Address: Frank Brown Recreation Center, Auburn Contact: 501-2946; mweldon@ auburnalabama.org Ages: 3-5 years old Days/Time: Monday, Wednesday, & Friday; 8:00am -11:00am Program includes arts and crafts, storytelling and creative learning. Reinforces preschool readiness and promotes socialization skills. Field trips may be offered.

Child must be toilet trained.

Auburn First Baptist Child Development Center

Director: Milissa Clowers Address: 128 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn Phone: 821-8125 Email: afbcdc@gmail.com Website: www.auburnfbc.org Ages: Infant through 6 years and After School care available grades K - 5 / Summer Camps available for children who have completed Kindergarten - 5th grade (entering 6th) Hours: 7:00am-5:30pm Transportation from Schools available; Licensed by the State of Alabama; Nationally Accredited through Association for Early Learning Leaders (NAC); Themebased Lesson Plans and Curriculum. The Child Development Center is a ministry of Auburn First Baptist Church in which we provide safe, loving, quality care for children in a Christian environment. We strive to provide the best in early education by providing hands-on learning so that each child may develop to his or her highest potential cognitively, physically, emotionally, socially and spiritually.

Bonnie’s Kids Child Care Inc.

Director /Owner: Tammie Long Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

Address: 2314 Enterprise Drive; Opelika Phone: 745-6248 Email: Bonnieskids@aol.com Ages: 4 weeks-10 year old Hours: 6:00am-5:30pm; Monday – Friday “Where children grow.” Closed circuit monitoring; computer & dance programs; pick up from school for Beaure33

gard, Opelika & Auburn for after school programs, and summer camps. We are licensed for up to 200 children / DHR Licensed. Summer Activities Program for school age children; breakfast, lunch, & snack provided (USDA Food Program), Dance, Gymnastics, and Music Classes offered.

Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

Bright Beginnings @ First Baptist Church Opelika

Spanish, & before and after school care to most Auburn City Schools.

and more. Fall registration will be held annually in June.

Director: Marsha Teel Address: 301 South 8th Street, Opelika Phone: 364-2784 Website: www.fbcopelika.com Ages: 14 months (or walking) – Preschool Hours: 8:30 am- 12:00pm; Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday / Monday-Friday Christian- based curriculum. Lunch bunch, Chapel, Music, Spanish, extracurricular activities and more!

Learning Zone

Parkway Baptist Church Preschool

Growing Room Child Development Center

Milestones Learning Center

Director- Laura Smith Address: 644 North Dean Road, Auburn Phone: 887-2044 Email: lsmith@grauburn.com Website: www.growingroomusa.com Ages: 6 weeks-12 years old Hours: 6:30am-6:30pm Give Your Child the Growing Room Experience! “On Our Block”-language based curriculum, Character Education programs, A Beka Phonics, extracurricular programs include JumpBunch, Dance, and

Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

Directors: Debbie Armstrong & Renee Thomas Address: 1221 Commerce Drive, Auburn Phone: 821-1127 Ages: 3 weeks old-12 years old Hours: 5:15am -6:00pm Fall and Summer programs available.

After school program, drop off and pick up available, full and part time offered.

Director: Lee Sides Address: 1811 E Glenn Ave; Auburn Phone: 887-4391 Email: milestoneslc@gmail.com Website: www.milestoneslc.com Ages: 6 weeks old – Pre-K / Full time and part time available Hours: Monday- Friday; 6:30am- 6:00pm “Believes Childhood is a Journey, not a Race”. High/Scope Curriculum. Children learn through direct, hands-on experiences with people, objects, events, and ideas..

Tumbling, Kindermusik, Summer Camps

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Director: Dawn Woodrow Address: 766 East University Dr, Auburn Phone: 321-0537 Email: dawn.woodrow@parkwayauburn.org Website: www.parkwayauburn.org Ages: 6 weeks-Kindergarten program Hours: Monday-Friday; Infants-2yrs: 8:30am-12:00pm; 3yrs-Kindergarten: 8:30am-12:15pm “Guiding Their First Steps Toward Christ”. Christian based A Beka Curriculum, weekly Chapel & music, lunch bunch, extracurricular tumbling classes, and more!

Preschool Adventures at Lakeview Baptist – Auburn Director: Holly Hutto Address: 1600 East Glenn Ave, Auburn Phone: 332-5131 Email: hb5hutto@charter.net Website: www.lakeviewbaptist.org Ages: 1 year old- 4 year olds

Advertising: 334-209-0552

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Hours: Ones and Twos - Tuesday and Thursday; 8:45am-11:45am Threes and Fours - Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday, Friday; 8:45am-12:00pm Our most important tasks are to help children develop mentally, physically, spiritually, and socially through a planned curriculum. It is the intent of Lakeview Preschool Adventures to provide an opportunity for preschoolers to socialize and learn with peers in a Christian setting.

Christ-centered, focusing on Scripture memory, Bible stories, social interaction, letter and number recognition.

The Little Tree Preschool

Director: Leigh Ann Strain Address: 421 Opelika Road; Auburn Phone: 826-1847 Email: lstrain@learning-tree.org Website: www.learning-tree.org Ages: 2.5 years old-6 years old / Up to 24 children served at a time Hours: 7:45am -3:00pm; Monday-Friday 1. Preschool Program- Our preschool program aims to prepare students for Kindergarten. Our lessons are based on state standards and our teachers are certified.

We focus on pre-reading skills, basic math

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concepts, handwriting, and social skills.

All lessons are geared to address individual developmental needs of those enrolled.

2. Preschool Program for Children Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD): In addition to regular preschool services, we provide intensive services for children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental delays.

Our interventions are based on scientifically validated methods, specifically Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Each child eligible for special education services has an individualized education plan (IEP) developed upon entrance.

St. Michael Catholic Preschool

Director: Cindy Winton Address: 1100 North College St, Auburn Phone: 887-5540 Email: sm.preschool@yahoo.com Website: www.stmichaelauburn.com Ages: 3-4 year olds; 2 day, 3 day and 5 day options Hours: Monday-Friday, Monday/Wednesday/Friday, Tuesday/Thursday; 8:00am11:00am

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“Where God’s children learn, play, and grow in his love.” Providing quality education based on Catholic values and traditions, while nurturing the whole child through a safe, creative, and spiritual learning environment.

A to Z Home Daycare

Owner: Belinda Dowdell, president of Lee County Home Daycare Association Phone: 821-3292 Ages: 6 weeks-12 years Hours: day and evening care available Quality care when you’re not there! Child Development degree. Meals and snacks provided, homework help offered, in home computer lab, monthly field trips. Located just 5 minutes from Auburn University Exit 51.

Auburn University Early Learning Center

Address: Auburn Campus Phone: 844-4696 Website: www.humsci.auburn.edu/hdfs/ earlylearn-main.php Ages: 3-5 year olds; half day and full day options. Nationally accredited laboratory preschool is available to any child in the

Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

community. Head teachers generally hold advanced degrees in Early Childhood Education or Child Development and the teaching assistants are graduate students working on advanced degrees in Human Development and Family Studies. The teaching philosophy is “learn by doing”.

The facility also maintains a research mission and is designed to maximize opportunities to conduct developmental research on children and their families.

Auburn City Schools After-School Programs

Programs located at AEEC and all Elementary Schools Phone: 887-2100 Website: www.auburnschools.org Ages: Kindergarten and 1st-5th graders Hours: Immediately after school until 5:30 pm Individualized tutoring, participation in creative activities, and interaction with peers. Tuition prices are on a sliding scale based on lunch status. Activities such as art, sports, computer, music and movement, and other clubs added throughout the year help children interact socially and physically with children of all backgrounds in their community. Tu-

toring allows individualized instruction tailored to student’s learning styles and levels of understanding therefore improving grades and self-esteem.

Auburn Day Care Centers

Director: Ethel White 4 Locations Address: Central Office: 410 Boykin Street, Room 14; Auburn Moton Center- 68 Slaughter Street Ridgecrest Center- 969 Booker Street Boykin Center- 400 Boykin Street Phone: 821-4060 Email: auburndaycarectr@bellsouth.net Website: www.auburndaycarecenters.com Hours: Weekdays 6:30am-5:30pm Founded in 1964 to meet the needs of low-income, working families, ADCC is an accredited, full service daycare for infants through “afterschool” age 12 with fees based on a sliding scale. All families of any income level welcome. Half days available.

Auburn United Methodist ChurchChildren’s Day Out Director: Barbara Dawsey Address: 137 South Gay Street; Auburn

Phone: 826-8800 Website: www.aumc.net Hours: Open to the community on a firstcome, first-served basis Monday-Thursday from 9:00 am-12:00 noon. Open during the summer months.

The purpose of this program is to give parents free time each week by providing a safe, well-supervised place where they may leave their children. The cost is $10 per child for the morning and $2 for each additional child in the same family.

Auburn United Methodist ChurchWeekday Preschool Director: Rachael Thomas Address: 137 South Gay Street; Auburn.

Phone: 826-8800, ext 229 Email: rachaelt@aumc.net Website: www.aumc.net Ages: 1-4 year olds; 2 day, 3 day and 5 day options.

The Preschool follows the Auburn City School schedule and provides children opportunities for growth intellectually, physically, emotionally, and spiritually by including developmentally appropriate themes, experiences, and Christian education.

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Technology program for ages 1 & up Solid Rubber Playground Surface reduces injuries Our Character Education program teaches values Healthy menu with fresh fruit and whole grain foods Sign Language for all ages Lower Child:Teacher ratios Video monitoring in all classrooms Infant curriculum customized for your baby Infants through School-Age | Care available from 6:30am to 6:30pm Transportation available to most Auburn schools

644 North Dean Road, Auburn, AL | 334.501.2044

www.growingroomusa.com An independently owned and operated location of the Growing Room Franchising System

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Auburn UMC - Discovery Club After-School Program

Director: Lindsey Middleton Address: 137 South Gay Street; Auburn Phone: 826-8800, ext 278 Email: lindsey.middleton@aumc.net Website: www.aumc.net Days/Hours: Monday- Friday (after school until 6:00pm) care is available to children in the Kindergarten through 7th grades and can be picked up at their schools and transported by bus to the church for homework, snacks, crafts, cooking, recreational activities, devotionals and mission projects. All day sessions from 8:00am6pm are offered on days when the Auburn Public Schools are closed for staff development days. This ministry is designed to provide a Christian, homelike environment after school while parents are working.

Fees: Monday -Friday monthly fees-$165 for one child, $300 for two siblings, and $425 for three siblings.

Boys and Girls Club of Greater Lee County

Address: Auburn Unit-400-B Boykin Street, Auburn Phone: 821-6020 Potter Daniel Unit- 1610 Toomer Street, Opelika Phone: 745-2582 Website: www.bgcleeco.org After school hours: 2:30-6:30pm; Monday- Friday; Summer Camps available.

Club programs and services promote and enhance the development of boys and girls by instilling a sense of competence, use-

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fulness, belonging and influence. Offering transportation from schools, homework assistance, tutoring, mentoring, games, field trips, prevention services, sports, arts, and more!

BRIDGES- After School Program

Address: Drake Middle School, Auburn Phone: 749-8400 Hours: 3:15-5:30pm; Monday-Friday Full-time program of care for children ages 10-14 years sponsored by the Employers’ Child Care Alliance. Based on an innovative curriculum, participants are involved in a variety of healthy, fun, educational and interactive program elements (or clubs). Tutoring offered; snack provided. Summer Program registering now.

Care A Lots Child Development Center

Director: Dean Nevels Address: 1515 Lee Rd 298; Smiths Station Phone:(334) 297-7269 Ages: 6 weeks-12 years old Hours: 6:00am-6:00pm State Licensed. A Beka Curriculum

Child Care Network

Director: Nedlan Augustus Address: 702 Second Avenue; Opelika Phone: 749-9631 Website: www.childcarenetwork.net Ages: 6 weeks-12 years old Hours: Monday-Friday; 6:00am- 6:00pm High Reach Learning & Bright Babies Curriculum, Summer programs, Young

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Achievers Club, free meals and snacks with family style dining, before and after school pick up for most Opelika City Schools

Child Care Resource Center

Address: 2015 Gateway Drive, Opelika Phone: 749-8400 Website: www.ccrc-alabama.org Our Services: Training and professional development for childcare professionals; Assisting parents with locating quality child care; Financial assistance for childcare; BRIDGES After-School and Summer Programming for 10-14 year olds; AmeriCorps Program within 2 counties Work within child care centers to promote quality childcare (STEPS)

Covington Preschool- Opelika Parks and Recreation Department

Address: 213 Carver Avenue, Opelika Phone: 705-5550 Age: 3-4 year olds Days/Time: Monday-Friday, 8:00am12:00pm Prepare your child for school-combination of fun and learning skills. Space is limited.

Creative Discovery Child Development Center

Director: Staci Greene Address: 1675 Shug Jordan Parkway; Auburn Phone: 887-5730 Email: greenestaci@yahoo.com Website: www.creativediscoverycdc.com Ages: 6 weeks -12 years old

Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

Hours: 6:30am-6:00pm; Monday-Friday.

“Where discovery leads to learning!”

Daily schedule includes free choice of time spent in learning centers, group time for circle time, creative movement, music, storytelling, and dramatization. Learning centers include creative arts, literature, science, pre-math, dramatic play, and cognitive and small motor development.

Breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snack provided. After school pick up at Auburn City Schools, Lee Scott, and Indian Pines.

School Age summer camp, preschool summer camp, Scholastic Book Fairs, lots of special activities throughout the year for family involvement. Security hand-scan doors, closed circuit cameras throughout.

Family Guidance Center

Address: 36-D Samford Avenue, Opelika Phone: 745-7037 Resource for parents in Lee County.

Foundations Preschool at Cornerstone Church

Director: Deanna Franey Address: 2123 Hamilton Rd. Auburn

Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

Phone: 887-1152 Email: deanna@cornerstonebuzz.org www.cornerstonebuzz.org/foundations Ages: 6 weeks-4K Hours: 2day, 3 day, 4 day, and 5 day options; 8:00am-12:00pm.

Foundations Preschool is an exciting, funfilled Christian based learning experience for children. Features include worship time, music class and summer preschool classes.

Gillock Gang’s Home Child Care

Director/Owner: Kay Gillock Address: Opelika Phone: 703-8340 “Caring for them while serving Him”.

2008 Terri Lynn Lokoff National Child Care Teachers of the Year Award Winner National Association for Family Child Care Accredited Provider

God’s Glory Daycare

Director: Jeffery McCoy Address: 1500 Bruce Avenue, Opelika Phone: 737-0443 Ages: 6 weeks old-Pre-Kindergarten

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Hours: 6:00am- 6:00pm Before and After School care and pickup; Summer programs; A Beka Curriculum and My Baby Can Read.

Grace United Methodist Church Preschool

Director: Leslie Carter Address: 915 East Glenn Avenue; Auburn Phone: 887-5981 Email: gracepreschool_auburn@yahoo. com Website: www.graceumcaub.com Ages: 1 year- 4 years old Hours: 8:00 -11:30am / Two day, Three day and Five day options A thematic curriculum and related activities are utilized, addressing the physical, social, emotional, and intellectual domains of early childhood education. “Hands-on” learning experiences: Art, Manipulatives, Science, Dramatic Play, Chapel and Fieldtrips. Snacks provided and lunch bunch available.

Greater Peace Child Development Center

Address: 940 Fox Run Parkway, Opelika

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Phone: 749-5555 Ages: 3 wks-12 years Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30am-5:30pm

Hardy’s Creative Childcare

Director: Martha Hardy Address: 222 North College St, Auburn Phone: 821-4514 Email: hardyscreativech@bellsouth.net Ages: 18 months-11 years old Hours: 6:30am-5:45pm After School program/ Summer Day Camps; Developmentally appropriate curriculum, Nationally Accredited.

H.A.P.I.E- Helping Auburn Preschoolers-Intervening Early

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Address: 721 East University Drive, Auburn (inside Auburn Early Education Center) Phone: 887-4950 Ages: 3-5 years Hours: 2 programs offered- MondayThursday, 7:45-10:15am; Monday-Friday, 10:30am-1:30pm A preschool program designed to deliver special education. For a child that is deter-

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Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

mined eligible (according to the Alabama Administrative Code-for Special Education), services are provided at no cost to the family, if the child receives these services as part of their specifically designed instruction. Peer Models are children that participate in the program without an Individualized Education Plan and provide appropriate behavior, play and language skills as a model in the learning process.

Monthly fee for peer models.

Harvest Preschool

Director: Emmy Sorrells Address: 2520 Society Hill Road, Opelika Phone: 745-2247, ext. 22 Email: emmy@cothnow.com Website: www.cothnow.com/preschool Ages: Babies- 4 year olds A caring, nurturing environment based on Christian theology and a sound educational philosophy. Our children participate in prayer time, learning of Bible verses and weekly chapel, arts and crafts, reading time, center time play and outdoor recreation and lunch bunch.

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Holy Trinity Day School

Address: 100 Church Drive; Auburn Phone: 821-9838 Website: www.holytrinitychurch.info Preschool Program for 4 year olds offers units in art, music, literature, poetry, & field trips.

Kindergarten for 5 year olds offers science and social studies units, as well as, art, literature, poetry and field trips, Lippincott’s Beginning to Read, Write and Learn Series, and a hands on math program, Chapel, Music and more

Indian Pines Country Day School

Directors: Lisa Eaves and Peg Weiss Address: 1742 Saugahatchee Rd, Auburn Phone: 821-7786 Email: eaves11@charter.net; p_weiss@ bellsouth.net Website: www.ipcds.org Ages: 3 year olds- Kindergarten Hours: Monday-Friday; 8:30 am -12 pm Program includes themed units, language, math, science, social skills, phonics program and more. Lunch bunch, gymnastics, and art classes offered.

Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

Jacob’s Ladder Early Learning Center Director: Greta Jacobs Address: 1452 Opelika Rd; Auburn Phone: 821-5100

Joyland Child Development Center Director: Pamela Dumas Address: 410 Boykin Street; Auburn Phone: 821-7624‎ Email: JoylandCDCinc@yahoo.com Ages: 2 years-12 years old Hours: 6:30am-5:30pm Sliding Fee Scale; Joyland accepts children under Child Care Resource Center Subsidized Care Transportation before and after school

Kingdom Child Care Center

Director: Mary Madden Address: 112 North 16th Street; Opelika Phone: 749-7051 Ages: 6 weeks- 12 years old Hours: 6:30am- 5:30pm After school pick up and care, summer program, and offer a drop in care and mom’s day out.

Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

King’s Kids Child Care and Development Center

Address: 2900 Waverly Parkway, Opelika Phone: 749-3916 Email: director@opelikadaycare.com Website: www.opelikadaycare.com Ages: Newborn-Preschool Hours: 6:30am- 6:30pm Learning centers include Blocks & Building Design, Dramatic Play, Library & Literature, Math & Table Activities, Music & Movement, Science & Discovery, and Writing Exploration. We place special emphasis on reading-readiness, but your child will also explore beginning math and science concepts, creative arts, dramatic play and much more. Provide morning and afternoon snack and a warm lunch. Before and after School / summer program.

Lee County Home Providers Association/Lee County Home Childcare Association

President- Belinda Dowdell- 821-3292 Vice President and for referral information- Kay Gillock- 703-8340 Providers of in home care of children throughout Lee County. Monthly network-

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ing meetings; referrals; DHR approved in service training of home care providers.

Lee-Scott Academy- Preschool

Contact: Cindy Leonard and Mary Carl Address: 1601 Academy Drive; Auburn Phone: 821-2430 Website: www.lee-scott.org To provide a safe and pleasant atmosphere in which students may develop socially, mentally, physically, and spiritually. Our goals and objectives are carefully geared toward the needs and developmental stages of the individual pupil. We are committed to a low-key readiness plan for this age group, using familiar teaching vehicles to introduce language skills and number awareness. The program is lightly structured, based on our persuasion that four-year-olds thrive and learn in an atmosphere that stresses “fun with a purpose,” or learning by playing. We follow a thematic approach.

Little Miss Muffet Day Care

Director: Rico Haynes Address: 1101 Fitzpatrick; Opelika Phone: 745-2365 Email: ricomuffet@yahoo.com

Advertising: 334-209-0552

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Owner: Minnie Allen Address: 144 Lee Road 449, Auburn Phone: 821-0963 Email: mmdayc@yahoo.com Ages: 6 weeks-12 years Hours: Mon-Sun; 1st & 2nd shifts available Loving and nurturing home environment where we teach ABCs and 123s! Just 5 minutes from Exit 51 in Auburn, Auburn University and all the major plants on S. College Street. Meals and snacks provided; State Licensed and CPR Certified.

Miss Deanna’s Childcare

Director: Deanna Holley Address: 1901 Corporate Drive, Opelika and 1745 East University Drive, Auburn.

Phone: 745-7139 and 821-0066 Ages: 6 weeks -12 years Hours: Monday- Friday; 6:30am - 5:30pm After school transportation and care, School age summer program, High Reach learning curriculum, CPR and First Aid Certified and State Licensed.

Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

Opelika City Schools- Extended Day

Coordinator: Scarlett McAllister Phone: 745-9711 Email: www.scarlett.mcallister@ opelikaschools.org Extended Day Hours: 2:30-5:30pm.

Each day includes: snack, tutorial and homework time, crafts & activities, and physical play time.

Providence Baptist Church Child Development Center

Director: Mandy Steward Address: 2807 Lee Road 166; Opelika Phone: 745-0807 Email: msteward@providencealive.com Website: www.providencealive.com/community/providencecdc Ages: 6 weeks old-5 years old Hours: Monday-Friday; 6:30am5:30pm, full time/part time options Offers breakfast, lunch and snack; field trips.

Trinity United Methodist ChurchChildren’s Day Out Director: Melissa Address: 800 2nd Avenue; Opelika Phone: 745-2632 Email: melissa@tumcopelika.org

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Website: www.tumcopelika.org Ages: 3 months-5 years school year; 3 months-8 years summer program Hours: Open to the public- Wednesday and Fridays; 8:45am-12:00pm year-round.

A Christian day care program offered as a ministry to the community. Activities include crafts, games, chapel time, playground time, snack time, and more! There are no registration fees, no attendance requirements, and no need to call ahead – just use us when you need us! The cost is $15 for the first child and $5 for each additional child per day.

University Daycare LLC Child Care Center

Director: Hopewell Carroll Address: 2454 East University Drive, Auburn Phone: 826-7337 Email: hpcarroll@una.edu Ages: 6 weeks-10 years.

Hours: Monday –Friday; 6:45am-5:45pm Curriculum for all ages; after school care with pickup from Auburn City Schools and Lee-Scott. All staff is CPR certified; security lobby and cameras in all rooms. AOP

Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

A Page in a Book

by Paige Gardner Smith

The Fashion in Kids Books

As new parents, we dress our babies in the sweetest, cutest clothes the minute they leave the hospital. As long as they will let us, we put them in the clothes we like, because we know the fashion clock is ticking. There quickly comes the time when our child says, “I don’t want to wear that”, the time when they start making their own fashion choices.

Sometimes it’s a cringe-worthy combination of PJ pants, cowboy boots and a puffy vest.

Sometimes they prefer an eye-blinding blend of fuschia, turqouise and camouflage anything. It’s the beginning of our children starting to see clothes as an outward extension of themselves – the same way adults do. Offering kids a new way to look at what we wear and why, the following titles feature colorful stories that revolve around articles of clothing.

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The New Sweater

by Oliver Jerrers (Penguin) In a world full of Hueys who all look alike, and think alike, it’s hard to stand out. But one Huey, named Rupert decides to knit himself a sweater. And wearing it, he distinguishes himself from the rest of his peers. The other Hueys think Rupert’s new look is a bit odd. But Gillespie thinks the sweater is cool – and knits one that he can wear, too. Soon the look catches on and Hueys everywhere are sporting the same sweater. No longer viewed as odd, but rather a trend-setter, how will Rupert stand out from the crowd now? Jeffer’s simply-drawn, wildly expressive world of Hueys is the perfect landscape to illustrate the power of one brilliant orange sweater to make an individual fashion statement.

Lost and Found

by Bill Harley Illustrated by Adam Gustavson (Peachtree) Kids know what it means to have a favorite clothing item…and what it means to lose it. For parents (and kids) who have turned the house upside down before school in the morning seeking the elusive hatshirt-scarf-whatever, this title will strike a familiar chord. When a boy loses a special cap knitted by his Grandmother, he begins an all-encompassing search to find it before her visit. He discovers a mountain of items, separated from their owners in the school ‘Lost & Found’. But to get to through the avalanche of stuff and find his hat, he must cultivate a relationship with the school’s crusty custodian. His hat-search evolves into a mission that reunites classmates with things from the box, and finding homes for unclaimed items along the way. A warm celebration of natural attachments to favorite clothing, ‘Lost and Found’ is a great kids’ book find!

Laundry Day

by Maurie J. Manning (Houghton Mifflin) A poor shoeshine boy is hawking his services (without much success) on an early 20th century city street when a red scarf floats down around his shoulders. Looking up, among the clotheslines strung between the city’s buildings, he realizes that it’s laundry day and the scarf could have dropped from a host of neighbors’ lines. Climbing fire escapes, shimmying up drainpipes, the shoeshine boy carries the scarf from balcony to balcony seeking its owner. He meets people from different cultures and countries as he navigates through buildings filled with immigrant families. The boy’s journey to return the scarf becomes more than a goodwill mission, it opens up a world of discovery with its own rewards.

Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.

Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

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Advertising: 334-209-0552

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Public Library Activities Auburn Public Library 749 East Thach Avenue, Auburn (334) 501-3190; www.auburnalabama.org/LIBRARY/

Weekly Programs:

Baby Time – Every Tuesday at 10:00 am – Ages Birth—18 months Toddler Time – Every Wednesday at 10:00 am – Ages 18—36 months Preschool Time – Every Thursday at 10:00 am – Ages 3—5 years

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Special Programs:

Spring Reading Program – Registration for our Spring Reading Program began March 1st. All children who register will receive one prize from the treasure chest for every hour spent reading. At the end of the program, all children who meet their goals will be awarded a grand prize!

Lewis Cooper Memorial Library 200 South 6th St., Opelika (334) 705-5380; www.opelika.org

Story Time With Tim – Mondays, 10-10:20 a.m., for ages 2-4 Story Quest – Wednesdays at 1:30 p.m. for ages 4 and up Cooper Fun House – Last Friday of month, 3:30 - 4:45 p.m., for grades 3rd-5th.

Join the Crew as we play games, have fun and win prizes!

Library Teen Thing – A positive peer group for teens to promote reading and actions to become a citizen with character.

Every other Thursday, 6:30-7:45 p.m., for ages 13-17

AUBURN 2013

SOCCER CAMP LOCATED ON THE BEAUTIFIUL CAMPUS OF AUBURN UNIVERSITY

Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

2013 CAMP DATES June 8-10 • Girls Only Elite Weekend I • 9th-12th Graders July 19-20 • Girls Only Elite Weekend I • 9th-12th Graders June 9-12• Girls Only Residential Camp I • Ages 9-16 July 21-24 • Boys & Girls Residential Camp I • Ages 9-16 July 22-25 • Boys & Girls Day Camp • Ages 6-15

Directed by Auburn University Head Coach Karen Hoppa For Information & A Printable Application, Visit:

auburnsoccercamp.com 43

Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

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Helping Your Teenager

Land a Summer Job

By Tanya Scherschel

It won’t be long until that final school bell rings, and you and your teenager will start thinking about a summer job. But don’t wait too long to start looking. The sooner you begin the better.

Statistics show that summer youth employment has been dropping for the last decade and now stands at less than 50 percent. Not encouraging news if you also consider that several businesses, like community Parks and Recreation Departments, providers of long-time staple summer jobs like camp counselors, lifeguards, and concession stand workers, begin recruiting for their summer positions in January and February. So, what should a spring jobless teen and their parent do? Plenty!

Make a plan.

Don’t fret if your kid didn’t get that lifeguard gig he wanted. Brainstorm other places that hire teenagers. According to an article in The Wall Street Journal, “The sectors that traditionally employ younger workers are still the best bet: retail stores, hotels and restaurants.” Other venues also endorsed included: fast-food restaurants, because the recession has made cheaper outings more appealing; seasonal entities like Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

ice-cream shops, and places in health care where, “teens under age 18 can find work as file clerks and cafeteria workers.”

Networking isn’t just for adults!

Networking, or talking to friends, has long been a jobseeker’s best friend for one reason: it works. When your teen decides to look for a job, encourage them to share this with the people around them. Toss the net far and wide to include friends, teammates, neighbors, grandparents, coaches, guidance counselors, and affiliations through church. Perhaps your teen might consider changing their Facebook status to “unemployed but looking,” and while they’re online, have them check out www.Teens4hire.org. This free site offers searchable databases on places hiring teens in your area, answers questions regarding whether or not they need a job permit, and provides a host of other job seeking information.

Make sure your teen knows the businesses they’re targeting.

A first impression is critical in landing a job, and a bad first impression is hard to take back. Before your teen even approaches the manager for 44

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an application, have them drop in and familiarize themselves with the tempo of the workplace. Note how the employees are dressed. Slacks and a tie or a skirt might be warranted for an office job, but a crisp, clean polo and khakis may suffice for others. Note when the place is busiest. Asking for an application during lunch-rush at a fast food restaurant or during half-priced Tuesdays at your local aquatic attraction is not a good idea.

Make a resume.

Teenagers usually haven’t acquired much formal work experience, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have plenty to offer. Putting together a resume with your teen, in fact, can be a very positive experience. Brainstorm with your child.

Teenagers’ familiarity with technology can be so second nature that they take it for granted, but you can point out that the skills needed to speak fluent HTML or locate a missing file using Windows Explorer are not exactly common knowledge. Consider all of your child’s strengths: volunteer work, relevant studies, awards, and honors. Check out author and teacher Jeannie Withers at www. heygetajob.com for information about her teen job hunting book, Hey, Get a Job!, and to view her resume templates.

Advertising: 334-209-0552

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Start your own business.

Not ready for your teen to punch a time clock just yet? Starting a business as a lawn service provider, piano teacher, or a babysitter can be an appealing alternative to a traditional summer job, especially if your child is closer to a preteen than a teen. Make sure your teen has established a price for their service, knows what services they are including in that price, and that they can articulate this information to perspective clients when they call. Encourage your teen to spread word of their service through flyers they create and word of mouth. Want to really bump it up? Let them start a spread sheet so that

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DanRic Homes is a family business that has been building in the Auburn-Opelika area for over 20 years.

the ONLY certified WomenCentric builder in the East Alabama/West Georgia area Boasting an excellent home warranty department, DanRic is dedicated to providing you with a superior home building experience.

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they have a tangible record of income and expenses.

The ability to earn one’s own money, traditionally or through an entrepreneurial endeavor, is a huge step in the life of a young person. Watching your kid go to work for the first time is also a big deal for us parents. Our babies are growing up. But the next time junior asks you for a new pair of skates or the latest fashion, you won’t have to point outside to the naked money tree. Getting them to relinquish their own money, however, may be just as fictitious.

Tanya Scherschel is a freelance writer in O’Fallon, IL. Her eldest child will begin working this summer as an umpire.

Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

Family Calendar Ongoing:

A2Z Local Homeschooler’s Association For homeschooling families in the Auburn/Opelika Lee County area of Alabama. A2Z Loop is an all-inclusive support group open to all homeschool families in the Auburn/Opelika area regardless of differences in beliefs, cultures, nationality, race, religion, or method of home schooling. For more information call 334-728-1162 or email: momofpnk@gmail.com.

Alabama Mentor’s Foster Parent Training Classes Offered in the Opelika Auburn area. Call 334-7058877 x 18 to register or email: Deanna.Hand@thementornetwork.com.

Alabama Shakespeare Festival • Twelfth Night. March 28-30.

• God of Carnage. April 19-May 19.

• Around the World in Eighty Days. April 19-May 19.

• Macbeth. Through May 18.

• To Kill a Mockingbird. Through May 18.

Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Montgomery. www.asf.net.

ArtsRevive March 9-April 28. 11th Annual ArtsRevive Art Show and Exhibition. Selma. www.artsrevive.com.

Auburn Floral Trail Through April 21. Auburn Floral Trail. Sponsored

by Auburn Beautification Council and the Auburn-Opelika Tourism Bureau. Please go to auburnalabama.org for trail directions.

Birmingham Children’s Theatre Sleeping Beauty. March 9-16. www.bct123.org.

Bosom Buddies (a breast cancer support group) Meets at The Health Resource Center the first Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. (334) 528-1260. www.eamc.org.

DeSoto Caverns Park March 18-31. Easter Sound, Light, and Water Show.

A special Easter sound, light and water show that commemorates the birth, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ and is shown on every caverns tour. www.desotocarvernpark.com.

Expressions of a BraveHeart Program A fine arts program for teens and young adults with special needs (ages 11-21), sponsored by Opelika Parks and Recreation, utilizing Auburn University faculty and students, as well as community volunteers. Two 30-minute sessions of art, dance/ creative movement and music will be offered and participants will select 2 of the 3 classes. Expressions meets every 2nd and 4th Monday twice a month for 1.5 hours. Opelika Sportsplex, 334.705.5560. www.opelikasportsplex.com.

Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum March 23-30. Cottontail Express. Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum, Calera. www.hodrrm.org.

Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center Art Gallery Spring Exhibition. Through April 16, Auburn.

Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art Through May 4. Bauhaus Twenty-21 Exhibition.

Through May 18. Auburn Collects: Works from the Collection of Dwight and Helen Carlisle Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. www.jcsm.auburn.edu.

Lee County Parents of Chinese Children helps children understand, see and grow up with other families that look like their family (white parents/ Asian child). The group is 100% free! We try to eat out at Asian establishments monthly and have playdates. Families that are waiting to adopt are

Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

March/April 2013

welcome! We accept any families with adopted children from all Asian countries. Contact Melody at mmhilyer@bellsouth.net for more information.

McWane Center • The Ice Age in IMAX. Through May 11.

• Animal Grossology. A new exhibit that is oozing with science as you meet some of the slimiest and yuckiest creatures on Earth! Through May 31.

Birmingham.www.mcwane.org.

Meditation Garden and Labyrinth Come and Find the Quiet Center... in the Meditation Garden and Labyrinth, provided as a community service by Village Christian Church, 700 East University Drive, (across from Auburn Early Ed.).

334-887-5111. Try the practice of walking meditation or simply sit and enjoy the sights and sounds. The garden and labyrinth are always open and guests are always welcome.

Montgomery Ballet www.montgomeryballet.org.

Montgomery Performing Arts Montgomery Performing Arts. www.mpaconline.org.

Opelika-Auburn Newcomers Club A club for new women in town which offers fun social activities, meets for lunch on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Call Joan at 501-4974.

Rosa Parks Museum Through April 30. Against the Odds: The Story of the Tuskegee Airmen and Mildred Carter. Rosa Parks Museum, Montgomery. www.troy.edu.

Tuskegee Institute National Historic Site Women’s History Month. Through March 31. Free.

April 1-7 National Public Health Week. 334-7273200. www.nps.gov/tuin.

Wales West Cottontail Express. Silverhill, Al. Ride the train to the Easter Village for a visit with the Easter Bunny.

Hunt eggs in the egg patch and decorate them at the art table. Catch the train for a ride back to the station for refreshments. Sat.-Sun., 1-5 p.m., Through March 30. www.waleswest.com.

Parents Support & Moms Groups

Auburn Mommies, a fun group of moms in the Auburn/Opelika area that meet weekly for playgroups and Mommy and Me walking twice a week. We also have a Mommies Night Out once a month. Http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ auburnmommiesinalabama/.

Auburn Mommy and Me Big Dog Running Co, Auburn. 10-11 a.m. Social time, story time, music/movement, arts & crafts.

Ages 9 months-3 yrs. Free! 334-209-2580.

Breast Feeding class meets the second Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon on EAMC’s third floor. Call 528-1260 to register.

La Leche League, a support group for nursing moms, meets the 2nd Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. @ CORNERSTONE Family Chiropractic, Airport Plaza, 323 Airport Road Suite E, Auburn.

For more information call Josie at 257-3950.

Lee County Autism Support Group meets every other month. Call Julie Brown 887-3903 or Florence Evermom 887-5005. Covenant Presbyterian Church on Shelton Mill Road in Auburn.

MOMS Club of Auburn, a group of stay-at-home moms that meets about twice a week to provide support for each other and fun interaction for kids.

New website is www.auburnmoms.com.

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Moms In Touch. Do you worry about your children?

Come experience how you can replace your anxiety and fear with peace and hope by praying with other moms. Moms In Touch International gathers moms together for one hour, once a week, to pray specifically and scripturally for our children and school. Won’t you join with us in prayer for this next generation? Please contact Julia Farrow at julia@ cornerstonebuzz.org for information about our local groups. For more information about Moms In Touch International, visit www.MomsInTouch.org.

Single Moms Outreach of East Alabama Single Moms Outreach of East Alabama is for single moms and their child(ren). We have group class twice a month on Thursday night from 5:30-7 p.m. at Auburn United Methodist Church. We have 2nd Saturday every month. Our website is www.smoea.vpweb.com and we are on facebook. We are a 501(c)3 nonprofit.

Teen Moms (for moms under 20) is a ministry that connects trained adults with pregnant girls and teenage moms. Support meetings, classes, job preparation, devotions and games. Call Laura Fuller at laura@insideyfc.com or 334-501-5637. www.insideyfc.com.

Mom’s Morning Out

Auburn United Methodist Church, Children’s Day Out Program, every Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m.-12 noon. $10 per child for the entire morning, $2 each additional child. Attendance will be on a first come-first served basis. Contact Barbara Dawsey at 826-8800 for more information.

Trinity United Methodist Church (Opelika) Wednesdays and Fridays from 8:45-12. $15 per child.

Support Groups

Care N’ Share Group Caring for a family member or friend can be rewarding, but it is not easy. Whether you are the caregiver for your grandchildren, provide care to your parents or spouse or a dependent child, this group is for you! Learn from each other, ways to cope with the everyday stresses of caring for someone you love. We will also give you tools and resources to help you on your journey. Last Monday of each month through November. 7 a.m., or Noon CST (choose the one that works best for you).

Registration preferred but not required. This program is supported by the Opelika SportsPlex, Lee-Russell Area Agency on Aging, and Hospice Advantage EAMC. Food Allergy Support of East Alabama The Food Allergy Support of East Alabama group offers support through the sharing of information and resources. We are also working to increase awareness of food allergies in the state of Alabama.

For more information, visit our website at www. foodallergysupporteastal.org or call Barbara at 334826-3082; bkg2007@bellsouth.net.

GRACE - Post-Abortive Support Group Are you struggling with feelings of regret or sadness from having a pregnancy termination in your past?

Do you feel like you can’t share these struggles with anyone? Would you like to find healing and forgiveness? You are not alone. Women’s Hope Medical Clinic wants to help you! You are invited to take part in our GRACE abortion recovery group.

This confidential group gives you the opportunity to process the grief of your termination in a safe

Advertising: 334-209-0552

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and non-judgmental setting. If you would like more information about the times, dates and location for this group, call or e-mail Sherry at Women’s Hope: 334.502.7000 or sherry@womenshope.org Don’t let the regret of the past rob you of the joy in the future.

Call us today. We are here to help.

Sports

Auburn University Baseball March 19, 28-30. April 3, 10, 12, 13, 14.

Auburn Equestrian March 29, 30.

Auburn University Softball March 19, 27. April 5, 6, 7, 9, 19, 20, 21, 27.

Auburn University Tennis March 22, 24. April 5.

Auburn University Women’s Tennis March 29, 31. www.autigers.com Columbus Lions Arena Football Columbus. April 20, 27.

Cottonmouths Hockey March 22, 23.

Columbus Civic Center. www.columbusciviccenter. org.

Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Riverwalk Stadium. April 4-8, 15-19, 25-29. www.biscuitsbaseball.com.

Monday, March 18

Travel With Care Week Samford Lawn. Kickoff celebration begins at 10 a.m.

An annual transportation safety awareness campaign that promotes safety on the road and courtesy between all modes of transportation, including pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists. Free. 501-3029.

Tuesday, March 19

Kids in the Kitchen Covington Recreation Center. Easy hands-on spring treats. Ages 5-8 years. $8 fee. 3:30-4:30 p.m. 7055560.

Therapeutic Easter Egg Hunt and Cookout Kiesel Park. 6-9 p.m. Come join Auburn Parks and Recreation and the AU chapter of Best Buddies at Kiesel Park for food, fellowship, a visit from the Easter Bunny, and an exciting egg hunt! Bring your entire family, picnic baskets and a side dish. RSVP to 501-2939.

Cheap Skate! Columbus Ice Rink Skate for $3 and free skate rental! 5-7 p.m. www.columbusicerink.org.

Wednesday, March 20

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Seussical RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. Columbus. 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 7 p.m. www.rivercenter.org.

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A Little Lunch Music Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. 12 noon. www.jcsm.edu.

Open Adult Studio ‘Watercolor’ Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. Auburn.

5 p.m. Kids at heart are getting in on the fun of the open studio format. Assistants will be on hand to help

Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

Friday Night Drop-In Opelika SportsPlex. 7-9:30 p.m. 6th-8th graders. $20 registration, $5 per visit. 705-5560.

Fun Night Drop-In Covington Rec, Opelika. 6-8:45 p.m. Ages 3rd-5th graders. $15 registration, $5 per visit. 705-5560.

Annual Plant Fair and Sale at Callaway Gardens www.callawaygardens.com.

Callaway Gardens Spring Farmers Market Robin Lake Beach. 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. The Market features a variety of local and regional vendors selling fruits and vegetables, including those grown right here in Callaway Gardens’ own Mr. Cason’s Vegetable Garden; meats and dairy products; baked goods; soaps, sauces and other specialty items; and flowers and plants.

Fountain City Arts Festival Pratt Park, Prattville. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. www.prattvilleal.gov.

Storytelling Festival White Hall. Tuskegee. Free. www.nps.gov/semo.

Simba’s Adventure Presented by the Southeast Alabama Dance Company. Dothan. www.southeastalabamadancecompany.org.

Elton John Garrett Coliseum, Montgomery. www.ticketmaster. com.

Spring Days Festival at Historic Westville, Georgia 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. www.westville.org.

Riverchase Galleria’s Home and Garden Show Birmingham.

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun Stone Mountain Park, Ga. 6-9 p.m. Come dressed ready to dance, sing and have fun with just the girls!

Glitter hair, crafts, karaoke, pizza and a special treat! Age 6 to 11, $15/person. Advance registration required by March 15. 678-277-0179.

Cotton Patch Gospel See March 21 for details.

doing this to raise money for Single Moms Outreach of East Alabama. If you are interested in donating cookies please let us know. Boxes will cost $10. You can get as many boxes you want to and fill them up.

Blue Oceans Film Festival on Tour: Tour for Kids!

Biggin Hall, AU Campus. Kids Crafts, Activities and Screening of Shark Riddle by The Riddle Solvers.

1-4 p.m.

Mud Mania 8182 County Rd 53, Auburn. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. www.mud-mania.com.

Teen Scene Field Trip High Ropes Challenge Meet at Dean Rd. Rec Center. 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. All high elements are 35-40 feet above ground. They include the Burma Bridge, Multi-Swing, Swing Shot, and Zip Line. Ages 12-15yrs. $25 fee. 501-2946.

Spring Extravaganza at Fort Benning Lawn of Riverside. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. The Easter Bunny, egg hunt, games, refreshments and more. www.benningmwr.com.

Annual Plant Fair and Sale at Callaway Gardens www.callawaygardens.com.

Callaway Gardens Spring Farmers Market See March 22 for details.

Printmaking Class for Children Columbus Museum. www.columbusmuseum.com.

Color Me Rad 5k Riverfront Park, Columbus. www.colormerad.com.

Duck Dynasty Star Si Robertson Montgomery Renaissance Convention Center. 7 p.m.

334-386-7257. www.ticketmaster.com.

Atlanta Ballet presents New Choreographic Voices Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, Atl. www.ticketmaster.com.

Festival of Alabama Fiber Art Old Alabama Town, Montgomery. 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Free. www.al-fiberarts.org.

199th Anniversary of the Battle of Horseshoe Bend Horseshoe Bend National Military Park. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. www.nps.gov/hobe.

Simba’s Adventure Presented by the Southeast Alabama Dance Company. Dothan. www.southeastalabamadancecompany.org.

Fountain City Arts Festival See March 22 for details.

Spring Days Festival at Historic Westville, Georgia 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. www.westville.org.

Cotton Patch Gospel See March 21 for details.

Old-Fashion Easter Egg Hunt at the Farm House Ellerslie, Ga.3 p.m. Egg hunt, make your own Easter bonnet, cup cake decorating, visit with the bunny, live chicks and farm animals. Ages 2-9 yrs. $7 per child. 706-561-3435.

Paws in the Gardens Aldridge Botanical Gardens, Hoover. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. www.aldridgegardens.com.

Riverchase Galleria’s Home and Garden Show Birmingham.

Saturday, March 23

Sunday, March 24

you nurture your inner artist for a watercolor lesson. www.jcsm.auburn.edu.

Evan Lynch Clarinet Recital AU Goodwin Recital Hall. 7:30 p.m. Tickets, 8444165.

Spring Days Festival at Historic Westville, Georgia 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. www.westville.org.

Storytelling Festival White Hall. Tuskegee. Free. www.nps.gov/semo.

Cotton Patch Gospel The Springer Opera House, Columbus. www.springeroperahouse.org.

Celtic Kudzu at the Columbus Museum 8 p.m., www.columbusmuseum.com.

Annual Plant Fair and Sale at Callaway Gardens www.callawaygardens.com.

Seussical See March 20 for details.

Cheap Skate! Columbus Ice Rink See March 19 for details.

Friday, March 22

Lowe’s Build & Grow Clinic The Croods: Piranhakeet Chomper. 10 a.m. Free.

Opelika. www.lowesbuildandgrow.com.

Easter Cookie Walk Living Way Ministries, Opelika. 9-11 a.m. We are

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AU Gospel Choir Concert The City Church, Auburn. 4 p.m. Tickets, 844-4165.

Sheep Shearing Day Stone Mountain Park, GA. 1-3 p.m.

Cotton Patch Gospel See March 21 for details.

Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

Family Calendar

March/April 2013

Riverchase Galleria’s Home and Garden Show Birmingham.

Rodney Carrington RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. Columbus. www.rivercenter.org.

Annual Plant Fair and Sale at Callaway Gardens www.callawaygardens.com.

Kids Camp & Summer Fun Fair 2013 National Infantry Museum, Columbus. 1-4:30 p.m. www.muscogeemoms.com.

Simba’s Adventure Presented by the Southeast Alabama Dance Company. Dothan. www.southeastalabamadancecompany.org.

Callaway Gardens Spring Farmers Market See March 22 for details.

Easter on the Mountain Cheaha State Park. www.alapark.com/cheaharesort.

Pajanimals Live! Playdate Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, Atl. www.ticketmaster.com.

Spring Fling, Columbus Columbus, Ga. carnival with spectacular rides for adults and kiddy rides for the children, games, concessions, and more! www.columbusciviccenter. org.

Jerry Seinfeld BJCC, Birmingham. www.ticketmaster.com.

Alicia Keys Philips Arena, Atl. www.ticketmaster.com.

Cotton Patch Gospel See March 21 for details.

Monday, March 25

Saturday, March 30

Auburn Piano Trio AU Goodwin Recital Hall. 7:30 p.m. Tickets, 8444165.

Tuesday, March 26

AU Trumpet Studio Recital AU Goodwin Recital Hall. 7:30 p.m. Tickets, 8444165.

Jay Sanders Film Festival The Complete Metropolis Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. 7 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu.

Cheap Skate! Columbus Ice Rink See Feb. 19 for details.

Maroon 5 BJCC. Birmingham. www.ticketmaster.com.

Wednesday, March 27 Saxophone Quartet Concert AU Goodwin Recital Hall. 7:30 p.m. Tickets, 844-4165.

Thursday, March 28

Great Flashlight Egg Hunt Moore Stadium, Opelika. Hunt for eggs in the dark!

Bring a flashlight and a basket! Look for special prizes and “rock eggs”. Ages 3rd-5th grade. 7:30 p.m. 705-5560.

America’s Got Talent: All Star Tour Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, Ga. www.ticketmaster.

Cheap Skate! Columbus Ice Rink See March 19 for details.

Cotton Patch Gospel See March 21 for details.

Friday, March 29

Friday Night Drop-In See March 22 for details.

Under Water Egg Hunt Opelika SportsPlex. 6-8 p.m. Ages 6-10 yrs. Hunters of all abilities will have the opportunity to collect weighted eggs from the bottom of the pool and receive treats for their efforts! The Underwater Egg Hunt will occur in varying depths of water to allow participation by all swimming levels. The eggs are recycled back into the pool after each age group. $3 each guest swimmer, free to members. 705-5560.

Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

Easter On the Square Downtown Opelika. 10-10:45 a.m.- Egg-tivities; 10:45 a.m.- The Ultimate Parade; 11:00 a.m.- Super Spectacular Egg Hunt. Children 2nd grade and younger will enjoy Easter arts and crafts on the Square! Make bonnets to wear in the Easter parade, create a sidewalk chalk masterpiece and ride the Easter Express. There will be cotton candy, balloons, face painting, lemonade and visits with the Easter Bunny! All participants must be accompanied by an adult. Over 25,000 eggs to be gathered. Bring your basket! 705-5560.

32nd Annual Easter Egg Hunt Sponsored by Wells Fargo and Auburn Parks and Rec. Kiesel Park. 11 a.m. (Rain date- March 31, 2 p.m.). This free community event is one of the largest egg hunts in Lee County, with more than 35,000 eggs hidden over a four-acre area. Four “hunting grounds” are available for the following age groups: 3 & under, 4 - 6, 7 - 9, & 10 - 12 years of age. After the hunt, join us for free soft drinks and balloons, courtesy of Wells Fargo; musical entertainment; and a chance to have your picture taken with the Easter Bunny.

501-2930.

Young Eagles Day FREE Airplane Rides for Kids! Columbus Airport.

Ages 8-17. 8:30-11:30 a.m. (weather permitting).

706-324-2453.

Red, White, & Blue Veterans Run Rotary Park, Columbus. 9 a.m. www.bigdogrunning.com.

Columbus Symphony Orchestra presents The Precious Stone, This England RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. Columbus. www.rivercenter.org.

Uptown’s 2nd Annual Easter Egg Hunt Columbus, GA. Easter on the Mountain Cheaha State Park. www.alapark.com/cheaharesort.

Easter Weekend at Callaway Gardens Egg Hunts at Robin Lake Beach, Sunrise Service and Lunch Buffets. www.callawaygardens.com.

Clanton Spring Gun and Knife Expo Clanton Conference & Performing Arts Center. www.fairsandfestivals.net.

Sensory Sensitive Screenings Movie The Croods. Sponsored by The Autism Hope Center and Carmike Cinemas, Whittlesey Blvd, Columbus.

11 a.m. Register www.autismhopecenter.com.

Cotton Patch Gospel See March 21 for details.

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Spring Fling, Columbus See March 29 for details.

Rumpshaker 5K Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark, Birmingham. 6-11 a.m. www.rumpshaker5k.com.

Sunday, March 31

Easter Sunday Easter Sunrise Service Gates open at 4 a.m.; event 7 a.m. Stone Mountain Park, Ga. www.stonemountainpark.com.

Easter Weekend at Callaway Gardens Egg Hunts at Robin Lake Beach, Sunrise Service and Lunch Buffets. www.callawaygardens.com.

Clanton Spring Gun and Knife Expo Clanton Conference & Performing Arts Center. www.fairsandfestivals.net.

Spring Fling, Columbus See March 29 for details.

Monday, April 1

Turning It Blue for Autism Awareness Lee County Courthouse Fountain, Opelika. 5:45 p.m.

All families, friends are encouraged to wear a blue t-shirt and come out for a picture with OA news.

Spring Fling, Columbus See March 29 for details.

Tuesday, April 2 Spring Fling, Columbus See March 29 for details.

Wednesday, April 3 Anderson & Roe Opelika Center for the Performing Arts. www.eastalabamaarts.org.

Spring Fling, Columbus See March 29 for details.

Thursday, April 4

106th Annual Veterinary Conference Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine. www.vetmed.auburn.edu.

Little Women Red Mountain Theatre Company, Birmingham. www.redmountaintheatre.org.

Spring Fling, Columbus See March 29 for details.

Friday, April 5

Spring Fling & Outdoor Expo Crooked Oaks Farm, 768 Red Creek Rd, Notasulga.

Sponsored by Auburn University School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences. Silent and live auction, demonstrations from Auburn University’s EcoDogs and Raptor Center, tours of Quail Hollow Gardens and of Pat Dye’s home, an appearance by Aubie and a dinner accompanied by live music and dancing.

Tickets, 844-2719.

53rd Annual Opp Rattlesnake Rodeo Opp, Al. www.rattlesnakerodeo.com.

106th Annual Veterinary Conference AU Vet School. www.vetmed.auburn.edu.

First Fridays “Shop Late, Eat Local” Downtown Opelika, until 8 p.m. www.opelikamainstreet.org.

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Friday Night Drop-In Opelika SportsPlex. 7-9:30 p.m. 6th-8th graders. $20 registration, $5 per visit. 705-5560.

Opelika Unplugged The Event Center Downtown, Opelika. 7 p.m.

Performance platform for singers and songwriters. $5. www.eventcenterdowntown.net.

Alligators & Agriculture at Oxbow Meadows Learning Center Columbus. www.oxbow.columbusstate.edu.

Fantastic Friday: Many Ways to Count Columbus Museum, Ga. 10:30 a.m. Free. www.columbusmuseum.com.

Honda Indy Grand Prix of Alabama Barber Motorsports Park, Birmingham. www.barbermotorsports.com.

Spring Fling, Columbus See March 29 for details.

Little Women See April 4 for details.

Fairy Tale Weekend DeSoto State Park. Fairy Tales & Fun: An enchanting night starting with fairy stories and watching a true fairy tale film (Fri, Apr 5, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at DeSoto State Park Campfire Circle). Growing Up WILD and Living Wild-Fairy Houses: A fun fairy-house building workshop that teaches children to be creative and how to to use their observation skills (Sat, Apr 6, 10 a.m.-noon at DeSoto State Park). www.Alapark.com/DeSotoresort.

48th Annual Eufaula Pilgrimage 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. www.eufaulapilgrimage.com.

Rangers in Action Demonstration Hurley Hill Demonstration area, Fort Benning.

This highly coordinated performance will awe and thrill you as Rangers detonate explosives, jump from helicopters into the water, rappel down and up towers, race down zip lines, and participate in hand to hand combat. 10 a.m.

1st Annual Paws Humane Furry 5K Cooper Creek Park, Columbus. 9 a.m. rpierson@pawshumane.org.

Uptown Drum Circle Broadway, Columbus, Ga. 7-9 p.m. Bring Your Own Drum! A fun, family friendly event, where people empower each other in the act of celebrating community and life through rhythm and music.

Everyone has something to offer the circle, and anyone is welcome.

2013 Zoo Weekend Montgomery Zoo. 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. www.montgomeryzoo.com.

Piney Woods Arts Festival Enterprise State Community College. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Free. www.coffeecountyartsalliance.com.

53rd Annual Opp Rattlesnake Rodeo Opp, Al. www.rattlesnakerodeo.com.

Honda Indy Grand Prix of Alabama See April 5 for details.

Spring Fling, Columbus See March 29 for details.

Little Women See April 4 for details.

Fairy Tale Weekend See April 5 for details.

48th Annual Eufaula Pilgrimage 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. www.eufaulapilgrimage.com.

Birmingham Asian Cultures & Food Festival Cedars Club, Birmingham. www.alabamaasiancultures.org.

Women on Lake Martin Boating Class North Marina, Lake Martin. www.russelllandsonlakemartin.com.

Dave Matthews Band Oak Mountain Amp. Birmingham. www.ticketmaster. com

Saturday, April 6

Doggie Olympics Kiesel Park, Auburn. 1-5 p.m. Join The Tuskeegee University Canine Club in their annual Canine Olympics. Admission is free! Registration is only $2 per event. Let your pet show off his abilities and spend a relazing end of the weekend with us! Medals and other prizes will be awarded. www.tuskegee.edu.

Spring Fling, Columbus See March 29 for details.

2013 Zoo Weekend See April 6 for details.

Piney Woods Arts Festival See April 6 for details.

Little Women See April 4 for details.

Honda Indy Grand Prix of Alabama See April 5 for details.

48th Annual Eufaula Pilgrimage 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. www.eufaulapilgrimage.com.

Garden in the Park Municipal Park, Opelika. 8 a.m.-3 p.m. FREE! This arts and craft style event will feature a variety of vendors, children’s activities and entertainment. www.keepopelikabeautiful.com.

2013 Amphibious Warrior Mud Run The Great American Park, Auburn.jtc0014@ tigermail.auburn.edu.

106th Annual Veterinary Conference AU Vet School. www.vetmed.auburn.edu.

Spring Fling & Outdoor Expo 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. $5 admission. See April 5 for details.

Tiger Trekkers Hiking Club Dean Rd. Rec Center. Hikes are 3 miles. 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Register by April 1. 501-2930.

Two by Two Unity 5K Proceeds benefit Character Education through the Community Foundation of East Alabama. Opelika. 8 a.m. www.bigdogrunning.com.

Celtic Traditions Annual Ceili Jan Dempsey Arts Center, Auburn. 6-8 p.m. Free!

Social gathering that involves Irish music, dance, and craic (fun)! Come out and learn a couple of easy Ceili (group) dances and enjoy some live Irish music.

Market Days on Broadway Columbus, Ga. 9 a.m.-noon. Pick up locally grown produce, homemade baked goods, artwork, flowers, plants and handcrafted items! www.uptowncolumbusga.com.

Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

Sunday, April 7

Tuesday, April 9

Second Saturday Lee County Historical Society Museum, Loachapoka.

1-3 p.m. www.leecountyhistoricalsociety.org.

Target Free Second Tuesdays @ Imagine It! Free tickets available 1-7 p.m., first come, first served as capacity allows. Atlanta’s Hands On Children’s Museum. www.childrensmuseumatlanta.org.

Cheap Skate! Columbus Ice Rink See March 19 for details.

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Wednesday, April 10

Celebrating Biodiversity with Dr. E.O. Wilson The Hotel at Auburn University. 5:30 p.m. 334-8447780 or kcm0021@auburn.edu.

Thursday, April 11

2013 Hospitality Gala Auburn University Hotel and Conference Center.

5:30 p.m. www.thehospitalitygala.com.

Adult Open Studio: Jewelry and Bead Making Jule Collins Smith Museum Of Fine Art, Auburn. 5-8 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu.

Cheap Skate! Columbus Ice Rink See March 19 for details.

Friday, April 12

On The Tracks Downtown Opelika. 6 p.m. - midnight. Biannual Food & Wine Festival that lines the street, as live music was performed from a stage in the middle of the Railroad Avenue. www.onthetracks.org.

Friday Night Drop-In See April 5 for details.

Fun Night Drop-In Covington Rec, Opelika. 6-8:45 p.m. Ages 3rd-5th graders. $15 registration, $5 per visit. 705-5560.

Movie Under the Stars Ft. Benning, Ga. family friendly outdoor movie Frankenweenie, 8 p.m. Hotdog Eating Contest & Wiener Dog Race at 7 p.m. (only pets participating in the race allowed). www. benningmwr.com.

Tri-State BBQ Festival Dothan. www.tristatebbq.com.

Lebanese Food and Cultural Festival Saint Elias Maronite Catholic Church, Birmingham.

10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Free. www.stelias.org.

Stadium Fest 2013 Spain Park, Birmingham. FREE! Featuring Christian music artists and speakers including: Rhett Walker Band, Bill “Bubba” Bussy and Rick Burgess, Jamie Grace, SwitchFoot, Bello, KJ-52, Britt Nicole, Building 429, Crowder, Scott Dawson, Newsboys and more! Children’s Playtime in Bronner Burgess Playground with inflatables, face painting, games and James Spann. Firework finale. www.stadiumfest.com.

Saturday, April 13

We Love Our Cause Community Tailgating Cook Off Ag Heritage Park, AU Campus. Sponsored by Prewett Insurance Group. 2-6 p.m. An afternoon of family fun for a great cause. www.weloveourcause. com.

Bike Bash 2013 Chewacla State Park, Auburn. Sponsored by The City of Auburn and the Auburn Bicycle Committee. www.auburnalabama.org.

48th Annual Alpha Psi Rodeo An amateur rodeo with multiple events consist of bull riding, bronco riding, calf-roping, calf-wrestling, and tug of war. www.alphapsirodeo.com.

Cardboard Boat Race 10 a.m. Build your own cardboard boat and sail it across the SportsPlex Pool for some great family fun.

Anyone can join families, business, schools, groups or churches. Boat and contest information can be picked up at the SportsPlex or online. $15 fee.

Register by April 2. 705-5560.

Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

Family Calendar Tailgate for the Cause Community Cook Off Sponsored by Prewitt Insurance Group. Auburn.

The Cook Off will be open to local Auburn-Opelika non-profits and each non-profit will be represented at this event by their own selected “BBQ Team”.

The cook off is a friendly competition and each team will compete to win the “Community Cook Off Title”. The event will be open to the community, and will consist of: food sampling from each team, refreshments, kid’s activities (contests, bouncy houses, etc.) and Live, “Local” music! www.weloveourcause.com.

Alpha Gamma Delta Alumna Group Annual Plant Sale Wells Fargo Bank (intersection of E. University/ Opelika Rd.). Provided by Young’s Plant Farm and sell for $10. Proceeds donated to the AGD Foundation to fund scholarships and support Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Sun. 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Market Days on Broadway See April 6 for details.

Kids Art Club ‘April Showers’ Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. 10 a.m.

Spring is here, and we’ll usher in the new season with watercolors to create landscape paintings.

Saturday Art Clubs are an open studio format, meaning you can use the full hour to work on your creations or leave when finished. For this reason, parents are encouraged to stay for the entire session and visit our galleries while they wait. www.jcsm. auburn.edu.

Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

March/April 2013

Second Saturday @ Jule Collins Smith Museum Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, 1-3 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu.

6th Annual Confederate Living History Day Fort Morgan State Historic Site, Gulf Shores. www.fortmorgan.org.

Lowe’s Build & Grow Clinic The Croods: Planter. 10 a.m. Free. Opelika. www.lowesbuildandgrow.com.

Tri-State BBQ Festival Dothan. www.tristatebbq.com.

Rapunzel and the Rabbit Birmingham Children’s Theatre. www.bct123.org.

CASA Superhero 5K & Family Fun 1K Run RiverCenter, Columbus, Ga. 8:30 a.m. Superhero costumes encouraged! In front of the River Center, Broadway, Columbus. www.twincedars.org.

LaFayette Day for Valley Haven Courthouse Square, Valley. 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. www.valleyhavenschool.org.

Calico Fort Arts & Crafts Fair Fort Deposit, Al. www.calicofort.com.

Charlotte’s Web Birmingham Children’s Theatre. www.bct123.org.

Doxie Palooza 5 Kiesel Park, Auburn. 9 a.m. - 12 noon. A familyoriented event, open to the public; there is no cost to participate in either the dog show or the doxie races.

Find us on Facebook.

Stadium Fest 2013 See April 12 for details.

Montevallo Art Show Orr Park, Montevallo.

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FDR Days and Spring Fling Warm Springs, Ga. Arts and crafts exhibitors, antique dealers, children’s area, delicious foods and snacks combined with some good ol’ fashion entertainment. www.warmsprings.ws Strawberry Pickin The Rock Ranch, Ga. www.therockranch.com.

Lebanese Food and Cultural Festival See April 12 for details.

Warner Plays Shostakovich RiverCenter for Performing Arts. Columbus, Ga. www.rivercenter.org.

Sensory Sensitive Screenings Movie Jurassic Park 2. Sponsored by The Autism Hope Center and Carmike Cinemas, Whittlesey Blvd, Columbus. 11 a.m. Register www.autismhopecenter.com.

Sunday, April 14

Calico Fort Arts & Crafts Fair Fort Deposit, Al. www.calicofort.com.

The Greater Atlanta Coin Show Hilton Atlanta/Marietta Hotel & Conference Center, Marietta. Free. www.atlcoin.com.

FDR Days and Spring Fling See April 13 for details.

Alpha Gamma Delta Alumna Group Annual Plant Sale See April 13 for details.

Monday, April 15

Plein Air Paint Out, Art Show and Sale Callaway Gardens, Ga. Watch world-class painters in

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Tuesday, April 16

Plein Air Paint Out, Art Show and Sale See April 15 for details.

Dreamgirls RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. www.rivercenter.org.

Cheap Skate! Columbus Ice Rink See March 19 for details.

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Wednesday, April 17

Plein Air Paint Out, Art Show and Sale See April 15 for details.

Dreamgirls See April 16 for details.

Museum Theatre Festival presents History Now! Port Columbus. www.portcolumbus.org.

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Thursday, April 18

Dancing Stars of East Alabama The Event Center Downtown, Opelika. 7 p.m. Teams of professional dancers and local stars will battle it out on the dance floor to benefit the Child Advocacy Center of East Alabama. Hors d’oeuvres included with tickets/sponsorships. www.dancingstarsofeastalabama.com.

Plein Air Paint Out, Art Show and Sale See April 15 for details.

Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

Museum Theatre Festival presents History Now! Port Columbus. www.portcolumbus.org.

Cheap Skate! Columbus Ice Rink See March 19 for details.

Friday, April 19

Parents Night Out Sports Night at Opelika SportsPlex. 7-9:30 p.m.

Ages 8-12 years. 705-5560.

Tiger Trail of Auburn Induction Ceremony Toomer’s Corner. 5pm. Every fall during the height of football fever in Auburn, a new class of honorees is inducted into the Tiger Trail during a breakfast induction ceremony. Each inductee is presented with an engraved granite plaque to be placed in the sidewalk of downtown Auburn among the plaques honoring other Auburn greats. 96 of Auburn’s athletic elite are now part of the Tiger Trail. www.auburnchamber.com.

Friday Night Drop-In See April 5 for details.

Plein Air Paint Out, Art Show and Sale See April 15 for details.

Museum Theatre Festival presents History Now! Port Columbus. www.portcolumbus.org.

Movie Under the Stars Ft. Benning, Ga. family friendly outdoor movie Wreck it Ralph, 8 p.m., Safari Zoo 5 p.m. - 8 p.m. & Builder Bob at 7 p.m. www. benningmwr.com.

6th Annual Frogtown Hollow Music Festival Woodruff Park, Columbus. www.facebook.com/frogtownhollowjam1.

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Let There Be Art & Bloom Celebration of Art and Botanicals Columbus Museum. www.columbusmuseum.com.

Saturday, April 20

A-Day & Auburn Oaks Celebration Jordan-Hare Stadium and Toomer’s Corner. Each year Auburn gives students, alumni, parents, and friends a sneak peek at the upcoming football season by holding a spring football game. A-Day as we’ve always known it but also the last time the Auburn Family will ever be invited to roll the existing oaks at Toomer’s Corner. Do not miss this full day of activities, scheduled to include a parade, special appearances by former Auburn athletes, and concert & street dance!

Plein Air Paint Out, Art Show and Sale See April 15 for details.

Museum Theatre Festival presents History Now! Port Columbus. www.portcolumbus.org.

6th Annual Frogtown Hollow Music Festival See April 19 for details.

Let There Be Art & Bloom Celebration of Art and Botanicals Columbus Museum. www.columbusmuseum.com.

Market Days on Broadway See April 6 for details.

Guinness World Records Great Cloth Diaper Change Indianhead Village Center, 109 Lavoie Ave., Fort Benning. 10 a.m. Free to participate and every participant will receive a certificate from Guiness of their participation in the event.

Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

Family Calendar Yatta Abba Day Abbeville. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. www.cityofabbeville.org/community/yatta-abba-day.

Joy to Life Foundation Walk of Life Montgomery. 7 a.m. www.joytolifeorg.

Vizzini Farms Wine & Jazz Calera. 6-10 p.m. www.vizzinifarmswinery.com.

The Alabama Book Festival Old Alabama Town, Montgomery. Free. 10 a.m. 4:30 p.m. www.alabamabookfestival.org.

Spring Home & Garden Show Alexander City. 8 a.m.-noon. Free. www.alexandercitychamber.com.

Alabama Flora & Fauna Arts Festival Alabama Nature Center, Millbrook. Free. 8 a.m. 6 p.m. www.alabamawildlife.org.

13th Annual Old 280 Boogie 1015 Mayberry, Waverly, Al. Multicultural arts and music festival for families. 12 noon. www.facebook.com/old280boogie.

Lee County 2013 Walk for Autism Town Creek Park, Auburn. 8:30-11:30 a.m.

Riverfest Gold Star Park, Wetumpka. 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. www.wetumpkachamber.com.

Ozark Crawdad & Music Festival www.ozarkalabama.org.

Mountain Brook Art Association’s 32nd Annual Spring Art Festival Crestline Village. www.mountainbrookartassociation.com.

12th Annual Charity Car Show ‘Klassic Kruisers’ New Site City Hall, Alexander City. 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. Free. 256-234-6024.

French & Indian War Encampment Fort Toulouse, Wetumpka. www.preserveala.org.

Bloomin’ Festival St. Bernard Abbey Prep School, Cullman. www.bloomingfestival.com.

Sunday, April 21

Plein Air Paint Out, Art Show and Sale See April 15 for details.

Let There Be Art & Bloom Celebration of Art and Botanicals Columbus Museum. www.columbusmuseum. com.

French & Indian War Encampment Fort Toulouse, Wetumpka. www.preserveala.org.

Bloomin’ Festival St. Bernard Abbey Prep School, Cullman. www.bloomingfestival.com.

Monday, April 22

Earth Day Rihanna Diamonds Tour Philips Arena, Ga. www.ticketmaster.com.

Tuesday, April 23

Spring Treats Covington Rec Center. 6-7:30 p.m. $10 fee. 7055560.

Southern Circuit Tour of Independent Filmmakers presents Strong!

Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. 6 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu.

Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

March/April 2013

Cheap Skate! Columbus Ice Rink See March 19 for details.

Wednesday, April 24 The Big Friendly Giant The Springer Opera House, Columbus. www.springeroperahouse.org.

Thursday, April 25

Quatuor Ebène Opelika Center for the Performing Arts. www.eastalabamaarts.org.

The Big Friendly Giant See April 24 for details.

9th Annual Auburn City Fest Juried Art Preview Exhibit and Reception Nunn-Winston House, Kiesel Park. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free. 501-2963.

The Hallelujah Girls Red Door Theatre, Union Springs. www.reddoortheatre.org.

Cheap Skate! Columbus Ice Rink See March 19 for details.

4th Annual Bama Coast Cruise Orange Beach. www.bamacoastcruise.com.

Battle of Selma Battlefield Park. www.battleofselma.com.

Friday, April 26

Relay for Life Lee County Southern Union Track, Opelika. 6 p.m. - 6 a.m.

Fun Night Drop-In Covington Rec, Opelika. 6-8:45 p.m. Ages 3rd-5th graders. $15 registration, $5 per visit.

705-5560.

Friday Night Drop-In See April 5 for details.

Movie Under the Stars Ft. Benning, Ga. family friendly outdoor movie, Life of Pi, 8 p.m. Recommended for ages 13 and up. Pie throwing contest at 7 p.m. www. benningmwr.com.

Bash on the Banks BBQ and Music Festival Columbus, Ga. www.musgogeemoms.com.

15th Annual Georgia Strawberry Festival www.ga-strawberry.org.

TroyFest 2013 Troy. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Free! Arts, crafts, food, art show, children’s events and more. www.troyal. gov.

The Big Friendly Giant See April 24 for details.

The Hallelujah Girls See April 25 for details.

Russell Marine In Water Boat Show The Ridge Marina on Lake Martin. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. www.russellmarine.net.

29th Annual Interstate Mullet Toss & Gulf Coast’s Greatest Beach Party www.florabama.com.

11th Annual Open Buddy Bass Tournament Valley Grande, Selma. www.valleygrande.org.

Battle of Selma Battlefield Park. www.battleofselma.com.

4th Annual Bama Coast Cruise Orange Beach. www.bamacoastcruise.com.

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Symphony on the Sand with Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Callaway Gardens, GA. 8 p.m. www.callawaygardens.com.

Saturday, April 27

Auburn CityFest Kiesel Park. www.auburncityfest.com.

Slow Art Day Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. 10 a.m.

JCSM is a participating venue in this global all-volunteer event. The mission is to help more people discover the joy of looking at and loving art. www.jcsm.auburn.edu.

Relay for Life Lee County Southern Union Track, Opelika. 6 p.m. - 6 a.m.

Auburn 10K, 5K & 1M Finish on the 50 Toomer’s Corner, Auburn. 8 a.m. 332-0327 or on facebook.

12th Annual Reptile Fest Oxbow Meadows Learning Center, Columbus.

10 a.m. - 3 p.m. A day dedicated to the awesome world of reptiles! Enjoy a reptile show hosted by Jason Clark of SnakesRUs, kid-friendly crafts, an alligator feeding, the Hiss American Pageant, and much, much more! $5 per person. Children three and under get in free. www.oxbow.columbusstate. edu.

Market Days on Broadway See April 6 for details.

Bash on the Banks BBQ and Music Festival Columbus, Ga. www.musgogeemoms.com.

15th Annual Georgia Strawberry Festival www.ga-strawberry.org.

TroyFest 2013 See April 26 for details.

The Hallelujah Girls See April 25 for details.

Spring Festival & Auto Show Shelby Iron Works. www.shelbyironworks.com.

Russell Marine In Water Boat Show See April 26 for details.

11th Annual Open Buddy Bass Tournament Valley Grande, Selma. www.valleygrande.org.

Earth Day at the Gardens Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Free. www.bbgardens.org.

Dothan Gem & Mineral Show Westgate Park Recreation Center Gym, Dothan. door prizes, a silent auction, rock exhibits, and flint knapping demonstrations, along with the fossils, minerals, gemstones, beads, jewelry and lapidary equipment offered for sale. Free admission and parking. www. wiregrassrockhounds.com.

Corks & Chefs: Food & Wine Tasting Event Linn Park, Birmingham. 1-4 p.m. www.magiccityart.com.

34th Annual Chunnenuggee Fair Union Springs. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Juried arts and crafts fair with live entertainment, food and crafts vendors, children’s games, door prizes, BBQ competition and more. www.chunnenuggeefair. com.

Battle of Selma Grand Military Ball Sturdivant Museum, Selma. Experience a step back in time as the Battle of Selma reenactors and their ladies dress in their finest and enjoy a

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Family Calendar ball in the courtyard. Civilians (in period dress) are welcome. Dancing (waltz, Virginia Reel) and light refreshments. 7-11 p.m. www.sturdivanthall. com.

Young Eagles Day–FREE Airplane Rides for Kids!

Columbus Airport. Ages 8-17. 8:30-11:30 a.m. (weather permitting). 706-324-2453.

Battle of Selma Battlefield Park. www.battleofselma.com.

4th Annual Bama Coast Cruise Orange Beach. www.bamacoastcruise.com.

29th Annual Interstate Mullet Toss & Gulf Coast’s Greatest Beach Party www.florabama.com.

Rapunzel and the Rabbit Birmingham Children’s Theatre. www.bct123.org.

Charlotte’s Web Birmingham Children’s Theatre. www.bct123.org.

Allan Jackson Oak Mountain Amp. Birmingham. www. ticketmaster.com.

Sunday, April 28

Party on the Lawn Wynnton Arts Academy & Spring Midtown Bike Around. Wynnton Arts Academy, 2303 Wynnton Road, Columbus. 706-494-1663.

TroyFest 2013 See April 26 for details.

The Hallelujah Girls See April 25 for details.

March/April 2013

Russell Marine In Water Boat Show See April 26 for details.

Dothan Gem & Mineral Show See April 28 for details.

Corks & Chefs: Food & Wine Tasting Event See April 27 for details.

Battle of Selma Battlefield Park. www.battleofselma.com.

29th Annual Interstate Mullet Toss & Gulf Coast’s Greatest Beach Party www.florabama.com.

Tuesday, April 30

Homeschool Day at Columbus Museum www.columbusmuseum.com.

Cheap Skate! Columbus Ice Rink See March 19 for details.

Looking Ahead...

May 1-3. The Big Friendly Giant.

The Springer Opera House, Columbus. www.springeroperahouse.org.

May 3-4. Prattville CityFest.

Downtown Prattville. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. www.prattvillecityfest.com.

May 3-4. RUSH 2013 at The Rock Ranch.

The Rock, Ga. With speakers Tony Nolan, Brad Jones, Mark Pritchett and more!The Worship leaders will be Christian Standfill and RUSH WORSHIP! And this year, Switchfoot and Willi

and Si from Duck Dynasty. www.therockranch. com.

May 4. Derby Day at the Stables.

The Stables at Russell Crossroads, Alexander City. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Fundraising event for Children’s Harbor. www. russelllandsonlakemartin.com.

May 4. Dino Dig 2013.

Montgomery Zoo. 10 a.m. - noon. www.montgomeryzoo.com.

May 4. Flimp Festival.

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. www.mmfa.org.

May 4. George Washington Carver Arts & Crafts Festival.

Downtown Tuskegee. 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Free. www.tuskegeeareachamber.org.

May 4-5. Blessing of the Fleet.

Bayou La Batre, Al. Free. www.fleetblessing.org.

May 11. Walk for Life.

Women’s Hope Medical Clinic, Auburn.

May 11-12. Quidam by Cirque du Soleil.

Columbus Civic Center. www.ticketmaster.com.

Please send your calendar events to kendra @auburnopelikaparents.com by the 5th of the month. It’s FREE!

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Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

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Balancing Act: How to Juggle Commitments to Work and Family The two-income family has grown so much in recent years that it has almost become the norm. It’s often not a question of “Does Mom work?”but rather, “What does Mom do for a living?” Still, having both parents contributing to the household income means changes to the family dynamic are inevitable. There are certain areas of life where it can be stressful or difficult to do it all, especially from the woman’s perspective. However, there are many strategies for staying sane while working and caring for a family.

Here are a few tips. * Stay involved in school. Working parents may be at a loss as to how they can get involved with school or daycare happenings without compromising work.

While not everyone can be “Class Mom,” ask the teacher what you can do to contribute on your own time. Perhaps you can use business savvy to create a class website

or weekly newsletter. Talk with your boss to see if one day a month can be taken so that you can volunteer time at school, with work hours made up on a weekend or with a flex time program. Find out if party planning can be done after work hours. * Avoid busy mornings. With everyone getting dressed and ready for work and school at the same time, mornings can be chaotic. The best idea is to do as much as possible the night before. Everyone in the household should lay his or her clothes out for the following day. Briefcases and backpacks should be stocked and ready to grab. Lunches can be pre-made and stored in the refrigerator. You can have the children do as much as they can to free up your time to ready yourself. This will help them feel important as well as give you a break. Make arrangements with neighbors to get kids on the school bus or participate in a car pool scenario.

* Making the most of evenings. Set aside at least one night a week where the family comes together. This means no late work projects, sports practices, etc. Turn off the television and spend time together.

On other nights, take the time to touch base with everyone in the house. Aim for family dinners together, even if it’s a quick meal of heat-and-eat convenience foods. * Make time for you. It’s alright to set aside some time for yourself and your spouse. It doesn’t always have to be about the kids. In fact, if your relationship is strong, it will carry over into the way you handle yourself with the children and promote a stronger dynamic and could help you focus more at work. Whenever possible, take moments to talk with your spouse or go to bed at the same time and enjoy private moments.

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on the Plains

by Dr. Polly Dunn

How To Support Our Friends with Autism I have a close friend whose child was diagnosed with Autism when he was in preschool. Over the years I’ve learned a lot from this family, but one thing has made the biggest impression on me both as a mom and a child psychologist. It’s simply this: There is no way for any of us to truly understand what it is like to have a child with Autism unless you actually have one.

With the incidence of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) currently at one in 88 children, it’s likely that all of us know someone impacted by this disorder. Given that likelihood, what can we do to support children with Autism and their families? I guarantee that if you walk in their shoes for just a little while you’ll have a much greater understanding and appreciation of both the joys and the struggles of Autism. Here’s how: First, educate yourself about Autism.

According to the Autism Speaks website, Autism is “characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors.” Boys are four to five times more likely to be diagnosed with ASD than girls.

Despite difficulties with social interactions and communication, many individuals with Autism “excel in visual skills, music, math and art.”

Websites like AutismSpeaks.org and Autism-Society.org both offer reliable and up to date information about Autism. Closer to home, the Autism Society of Alabama (Autism-Alabama.org) provides great resources for children, families, educators, and the community. Also, NBC’s hit show, Parenthood, features a boy named Max who is diagnosed with Asperger’s Disorder. This show offers a realistic portrayal of Autism Spectrum Disorders and their day to day impact on families.

Next, take what you’ve learned about Autism and share it with your kids. There are several great books geared for kids that can help get the conversation started and keep it going. Two of my favorites are The Autism Acceptance Book and My Friend Has Autism. All kids need friends, and children with Autism are no exception. Boys and girls with Autism are especially susceptible to being bullied, so it’s important to teach Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

our kids from an early age how to be a friend to their peers with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

If your child has a classmate or peer with Autism, arrange a play date or invite the family over. Find out if there is anything you or your kids can do to make the outing or event as successful as possible.

Children with Autism are more than their diagnosis. Get to know them, their likes and dislikes, their hobbies and interests, and you’ll be certain to find more things in common than you ever realized. From one parent to another, I encourage you not to let the diagnosis of Autism keep you from reaching out to a child or a family.

And last but not least, get involved!

April is Autism Awareness Month. In our community there are lots of ways to show your support for children and families living

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with Autism. For example, on April 2 you can promote Autism Awareness by wearing blue or displaying a blue light bulb by your front door for Light It Up Blue day hosted

by Autism Speaks. Or, you and your family can participate in the Lee County Walk For Autism on April 20, in Town Creek Park.

Whatever you decide to do, I’m sure you’ll find that like me, you’ll be the one blessed beyond measure.

Dr. Polly Dunn received her Ph.D. from Auburn University in 1999. She is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and currently serves as the Director of the Auburn University Psychological Services Center, a position she has held for over ten years. Dr. Dunn is also the founder of www.ChildPsychMom.com where she blogs about what works and what doesn’t in her hectic life as a child psychologist, wife, and mom of four.

Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

Oz The Great and Powerful

The Incredible Burt Wonderstone

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B+ Violence: C+ Sexual Content: B Language: B+ Alcohol / Drug Use: BThe MPAA has rated Oz The Great and Powerful PG for sequences of action and scary images, and brief mild language.

Creating a prequel for a movie as legendary as the classic 1939 movie The Wizard of Oz takes a fair amount of ego, but then ego is what Oz The Great and Powerful is all about.

Oscar Diggs (James Franco), known on the traveling circus circuit as Oz, is a minor-league magician and con artist with a mediocre show. He aspires for greatness but only the kind that comes with adulation and not ethics. At each stop, he woos women with a slight-of-hand trick, a cheap trinket and a story about his dead grandmother. Knowing he’ll be moving on soon, he doesn’t worry about any kind of long-term commitment.

Then, while trying to escape the angry boyfriend of one of his conquests, Oz is swept away in a tornado and roughly deposited in an enchanted land that shares his moniker. He’s surprised to discover his arrival has been foretold and that the good people of Oz believe he will restore peace in the land by disposing of the evil witch. The helping part of the prophecy doesn’t interest him but the room full of gold that comes with the role does. Trying to find the easiest way to rid Oz of the witch and snag the prize, he sets off down the yellow brick road with a flying monkey (voice by Zach Braff) as a companion and baggage carrier.

Although there aren’t any talking lions, scarecrows or tin men in this adventure, Oz encounters a broken china doll (voice by Joey King) and three witches, Theodora (Mila Kunis), Evanora (Rachel Weisz) and Glinda (Michelle Williams) who all see possibilities in the illusionist but aren’t sure if he can live up to the reality of what he can be.

It is Oz’s transformation from indifferent to actively engaged that becomes the essence of this visually stunning story. Yet like the original movie, Oz The Great and Powerful isn’t aimed at young children.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: CViolence: C Sexual Content: C+ Language: D+ Alcohol / Drug Use: CThe MPAA has rated The Incredible Burt Wonderstone PG-13 for sexual content, dangerous stunts, a drug-related incident and language.

I’m not sure if signing on as a Las Vegas lounge show is a wise career move or a last ditch attempt to be on stage. In the case of Burt Wonderstone (Steve Carell) and his long-time friend Anton Marvelton (Steve Buscemi) it appears to be both. As young magicians they ink a deal on the Vegas Strip that brings the illusionists enough fame, free sex and cash to compensate for at least some of the loss of self-esteem they suffered because of being bullied during grade school. But after 10 years their routine has grown as uninspired as the velvet, rhinestone-studded suits they wear on stage. And their audiences are also dwindling.

Outside on the streets a new attraction has come to town. Steve Gray (Jim Carrey) doesn’t do traditional magic. Instead he captures the attention of passersby with outrageous stunts like slitting his cheek open with a knife, walking on hot coals and inciting fights. Gray’s goal is to shock rather than entertain, and both his cult following and cable ratings are on the rise.

While it is hard to see what kind of competition could possibly exist between these two very different presentations, the hotel owner where Burt and Anton work is so impressed when he sees Steve Gray refuse to urinate for a week that he tells the pair to up their game or he’ll cut their contract.

However the Burt and Anton’s “magical friendship” has always been a bit tenuous and when their own publicity stunt fails, they find themselves out of work and on the opposite ends of an argument. Unfortunately for Burt, he’s also out of money. Looking for any job he can find, he reluctantly accepts a gig as an entertainer in a retirement home where he meets Rance Holloway (Alan Arkin), the magician who inspired him as a boy.

This parody of lounge acts and reality television never quite captures its comedic timing and often falls as flat as the duo’s one-liners. The film’s concept of poking fun at everlasting Vegas entertainers, and the message of staying current and knowing when it’s time to reinventing yourself, should have resulted in many magical moments. Sadly the potential laughs in this movie just disappear with a puff of smoke.

What Parents need to know about Oz The Great and Powerful...

Violence: A man attempts to beat up another character. A character is swept away in a tornado, then later crashes and is washed over a waterfall. He is attacked and bitten by small creatures. Characters experience numerous moments of peril involving large fantasy creatures, monsters and witches. A community is destroyed and invaders kill many people - only aftermath of event is shown. Soldiers with spears attack. Characters are thrown against walls and down stairs. Fireballs and fireworks are used as weapons. A woman is captured and chained in front of a public gathering. A character is repeatedly shocked with an electrical-like current. A woman falls out of a window.

Sexual Content: A character lures a woman into his room and kisses her with the promise of a job. It is implied he has done this with others and he frequently attempts to woo many women (without a commitment). Couples kiss. Veiled sexual jokes are included.

Language: The script contains a couple of brief curse words and several uses of name-calling.

Alcohol / Drug Use: A character drinks while on the job.

Auburn-Opelika Parents I April 2013

What Parents need to know about The Incredible Burt Wonderstone...

Violence: Frequent “magic” acts involve dangerous and easily mimicked situations including drilling a hole through your skull with a power tool, laying naked on hot coals, cutting yourself with a knife and pounding a nail with your forehead. In another scene two men fall to the ground from a cage dangling that is dangling a crane -- one lands on top of the other resulting in injuries.

Sexual Content: A man uses his performing credentials to easily bed women; in one scene we see the beginning of sexual activity. Other sexual remarks are heard. Stage crew undresses a woman as she is rushed into a costume -- we see her in underwear.

Language: The script includes one sexual expletive, other scatological terms, moderate and mild profanities along with terms of deity.

Drugs/Alcohol: Social drinking is seen.

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