Auburn Opelika Parents Child Care Guide April 21 by KeepSharing

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April2021 20

Volume 12 Number 2

Columns 4

Kids Say the Wisest Things Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA

Common Sense Media

Do You Overparent?

An ultimate guide to managing your child’s Instagram account.

Common pitfalls and how to turn them around.

Kids Health Watch sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn

22 Parenting, Media &

Everything in Between Common Sense Media

Dave Says Dave Ramsey

Help Your Child Make the Most of Daycare

2021 Child Care Guide

A prescription for smooth, fun days.

Our detailed listing of daycares, preschools, and MMO programs.

Departments 5

Bits and Pieces

On The Cover Lynlee (6) and Garrett (2) Sims are the children of Brandon and Brittney Sims of Auburn, AL. They also have two older siblings, Marlie (14) and Owen (9). Lynlee and Garrett both attend Parkway Preschool and Kindergarten. Lynlee enjoys art, ballet, gymnastics, baseball, dolls and playing with her siblings and cousins. Garrett is full of energy and he loves playing with his big brother, his trains, cars, bouncy balls, and singing songs with Mrs. Jackie, the music teacher at Parkway Preschool.

School Bits 32

Family Calendar

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Publisher’sNote

Auburn Opelika Lee County’s Foremost Parenting Source

Spring is a great time to start thinking about fall planning for your children. Many of our local preschool and kindergarten programs begin registration now for their Fall 2021 programs. Whether you need full time care or half day, you will find everything your child needs in one of the many childcare centers in our area. Find the best program that fits your family’s needs. Is the location, related to your home or work, your top priority? How about the curriculum taught to prepare for early school years? Maybe the teacher-to-child ratio is on the top of your list. Or, do they offer extracurriculars on site like tumbling, foreign languages and arts? These are great questions that should be considered when planning a successful start for your childcare needs. Also, while researching what each childcare and kindergarten program has to offer parents and their children, be mindful that a great start this fall also happens at home. In our feature article, Help Your Child Make the Most of Daycare and Preschool, the author points out that much of the preparation begins inside the home as parents teach skills needed before that first drop off day. One suggestion is to teach and reinforce sharing among siblings and friends. This may sound like a no-brainer, however, when your son shares with his younger brother, many times it may go unnoticed. The main goal is to catch him when he happily shares and then acknowledge the gesture with praise and reinforcement. On the other hand, if there is a moment when he refuses to take turns, use this as a teachable moment by explaining how the sibling or friend might be feeling when denied his turn. This can be a great lesson in empathy and preparation before making new friends at daycare. Another great skill to plan for and practice at home is following directions. Thinking about a few tasks that will take place in their classroom this fall can help you better plan, practice and prepare them for their new childcare center. Don’t forget to prepare yourself too. When my daughter’s first day of preschool arrived, I thought I had everything ready and in order. We had been talking for months about her new teacher and new friends she would make. We both were excited and prepared…so I thought. That morning was hectic and we were late for drop off. I was frazzled, which meant she was frazzled. Once it was time for me to leave her for the day, she became clingy and upset and, of course, so did I. My mistake? I did not lay out her outfit the night before, nor did I pre-pack her backpack. The rushing around led to delay in our morning routine, which made us run late. After that day, preparing for our day became more purposeful in our home. I learned to organize everything in advance and allow extra time for unexpected things like traffic and weather. For me, what was most important was how my daughter felt as I left her at preschool for the day. Success was her feeling happy and excited to learn and planning was key for me. Choosing the right preschool for your family is a big undertaking. Use our 2021 Childcare Guide in this month’s issue to make the process easier and find the right fit for your children. Once you decide, then the preparation begins. Practicing listening and empathy skills at home will go a long way toward a successful first day!

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 Associate Editor Kelly Watson Contributing Writers Sandra Gordon Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA Sarah Lyons Dave Ramsey Ellen Royal, MD Cover Photography Keightley Garnett Simple Joy Photography www.simplejoyphoto.com

President Jason Watson Director of Sales Justin Sumner (334) 209-0552 Ad Design Tim Welch

Visit us online at www.auburnopelikaparents.com

Kendra

kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com

Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2021

Auburn-Opelika Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: 475 Bennington Ct, Auburn, Alabama, 36830. The phone number is (334) 329-8073 and fax is (334) 826-7303. Auburn-Opelika Parents is copyrighted 2021 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.

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3. Tell your family’s stories over and over again. Research has revealed that children who are informed about their family history have higher self-esteem, a better sense of their capacity to control what happens to them, and lower levels of anxiety.

by Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA

“My Parents Are Always On Their Phones” This month’s wise statement comes from children as young as three, as old as 19, and every age in between. This is not a one-time statement from my younger clients, it is a reoccurring cry for attention. The words are simple, but the implication is very telling: “My parents are always on their phones.” I am not surprised by the 3-year-olds, however, the teenagers who say this break my heart. All day long they have to compete with screens to obtain the attention of their peers, teachers, and employers. These teens are yearning for a place where they belong; a place where people put down everything and run to the door to greet them. They may never say this to your face, but they truly want this from you. So how do we provide a sense of belonging to our children? The answer is simple: shared experiences. In other words, do things together as often as you can. Shared experiences are made up of four things that help a person feel like they belong.

Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2021

These four things are feeling seen, appreciated, liked, and loved. Let’s be honest, shared experiences do not happen when we are distracted by our phones, they happen when we are fully engaged in the moment. Here is a list of ideas for shared experiences that will do more than just make memories… 1. Play LOTS of family games. Games are important for a variety of reasons. They provide opportunities to practice and learn important life lessons (social skills, manners, academic skills, patience, good sportsmanship, etc). If your children need to learn a lesson, use a game to teach it instead of giving another boring lecture. According to Jeanne Segal, PhD, children learn best when they are playing and retain the lesson longer. 2. Use multiple senses. Experiences that use more than one sense are easier to recall (Gottfried and Smith, 2004). For example, cook dinner with your family while listening to fabulous music. Another idea is to take a Sunday drive with the windows down while eating a special snack.

4. Take time to listen. This is especially crucial for parents of middle school children. When you take the time to listen without judging or blaming, children are more able to hear you and change their own behaviors (Bernstein, 2013). I cannot tell you how many times I have just listened to a child’s ludicrous rant only to watch them go on and correct their own thinking. 5. Do chores together. Several peer reviewed studies showed that family chores are associated with childhood happiness. Chores help children realize they are able to make meaningful contributions to their families. Also, collaborative chores have been shown to improve sibling relationships. So…crank up the music and have your entire family clean the house. 6. Let the kids be in charge. Giving your children an opportunity to plan something for the family will give them a chance to create, organize, and lead an outing for a group. This is the perfect way to let them know that they belong in your family. As you follow their plan, make sure to let them know that they are seen, appreciated, liked, and loved.

Dr. Beth Long received her education in Counseling Psychology from Chapman University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Beth has worked in six unique clinical environments across the country and currently owns Works of Wonder Therapy in Montgomery. Beth utilizes the knowledge from a variety of different disciplines to give her patients the best care possible. To learn more visit www.worksofwondertherapy.com.

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Nature Art Series: Recycled Plastic Bottle Critters

20th Annual Auburn CityFest

Auburn’s largest free outdoor festival will be held on Saturday, April 24, 2021, at Kiesel Park, Auburn, from 9:00 AM-4:00 PM. Join the Auburn Parks and Recreation Department for a fun day filled with food, community and entertainment with Live music, arts & crafts, and fine arts vendors, children’s activities and more! Don’t miss the Bama Air Dogs, Todd Key, Lew-E the Clown, Aubie the Tiger, Southeastern Rapture Center, Auburn Community Orchestra, ArtFest Tent and much more! CityFest is FREE to the public and is a rain or shine event. www.auburncityfest.com

April 18, local artist Heather Jackson teams up with the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center to bring you this art workshop series for all ages. Each workshop has a nature theme and will explore beautiful and interesting art techniques. As Heather says, "Art is for everyone - no art experience needed! The theme for April is inspired by Earth Day, learn how to “Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle” by creating fun planters from recycling plastic 2-liter soda bottles. Design your own critters such as a bunny, a frog, a pig, a bear, a panda bear, a cow, a fox, a dog, or a cat. Kreher Preserve & Nature Center. www.facebook.com/aupreserve

15th Annual Garden in the Park

Keep Opelika Beautiful hosts 15th annual Garden in the Park at Opelika Municipal Park, May 1. This free event features all handmade or homegrown art. Festival attendees will have the opportunity to shop the work of 60-plus artists and makes who work with an array of mediums from jewelry, fiber, glass, and ceramics. There will also be garden items such as plants, pots, and birdhouses. Safety precautions due to COVID-19 will include enforcing mask mandate for attendees. Hand sanitizer stations will be available throughout the park. www.keepopelikabeautiful.com/gardeninthepark

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Montgomery Zoo Weekends (Yes, multiple weekends!)

It’s like Zoo Weekend with a twist. In order to provide a safe and healthy environment for all our guests, Zoo Weekend is going to be held over four Saturdays in April (April 3, 10, 17 and 24). Guests will be LIMITED to 4,000 per Saturday. Each Saturday will provide a slightly different experience. Each Saturday will provide: a festival-like environment, games and rides for the kids, live entertainment, animal presentations, wildlife attractions and encounters, train and sky lift rides, and tasty concessions. Admission fees for the day are: Adults: $17, Children (ages 3-12 years old): $13, Toddlers (2 years old and younger) and Montgomery Zoo members: FREE (admission includes entry to the Zoo and Mann Museum) www.montgomeryzoo.com

Auburn Floral Trail

The Alabama Floral Trail is open for viewing from March 8 to April 16, 2021. The Auburn Floral Trail is broken into a 10.5-mile south trail and a 3.5-mile north trail with two optional sections. Wayfinding signs are posted along the north and south trails to help visitors, cyclists and pedestrians navigate. The trail features common springtime flowers such as azaleas and blooming trees such as pear, cherry, and plum trees. To find out more about the trail or get a brochure with the trail map visit City Hall or Auburn-Opelika Tourism's office www.auburnalabama.org/ environmental-services/auburn-floral-trail.

Zakir Hussain and The Masters of Percussion

Zakir Hussain is appreciated both in the field of percussion and in the music world at large as an international phenomenon. A classical tabla virtuoso, he has elevated the status of his instrument both in India and around the world. Hussain’s many historic collaborations include Shakti, the fusion band he founded with John McLaughlin and L. Shankar, Remember Shakti, Planet Drum with the Grateful Dead’s Mickey Hart, and recordings and performances with artists as diverse as George Harrison, Yo-Yo Ma, Joe Henderson, Van Morrison and Pharoah Sanders, among many others. Gogue Performing Arts Center, April 18. www.goguecenter.auburn.edu

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• Riding - English, Western, and Jumping

• Ropes Course • Climbing Tower

• Outdoor Nature Skills • Sports • Soccer • Basketball

On Top of Lookout Mountain in Historic Mentone, Alabama

Best of Parenting WINNER 10

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Susan & Larry Hooks, Owners & Directors Donna Bares, Assistant Director

800-882-0722 www.riverviewcamp.com

Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2021

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• Beach Volleyball • Tennis • Canoeing • Golf • Archery • Gymnastics • Cheerleading • Dance • Chorus • Drama • Arts & Crafts • CIT Program • Campfires every night • Optional trips & more!

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Bo Bikes Bama Ride from Home

This year the Bo Bikes Bama event will be virtual and taking place on April 24, 2021. Participants will be able to register online and make a donation and will receive a t-shirt, rider number, and bike plate so they can go out and ride wherever they are on April 24th, and post their ride and photos on our social media pages. This year they will have two virtual rides with Bo through the "Zwift" platform and will request donations from participants. There will also be a small in-person ride with Bo that will be socially-distanced for a 10-rider maximum VIP experience. Everyone that signs up to ride is eligible for prizes and rewards. Donations will be going to Governors Emergency Relief Fund. All registered Bo Bikes Bama From Home riders will receive a t-shirt, commemorative bib number, commemorative bike plate, wristband, and sticker in the mail. Additionally, registrants will have the exclusive opportunity to purchase the 2021 Bo Bikes Bama cycling jersey, cycling cap, and cycling socks. www.bobikesbama.com

If you have thirty minutes or more to listen, ask Antonio what he dreams of being in ten years. WE DO WHAT WE DO BECAUSE CHILDREN HAVE DREAMS.

Spring Flower Fest at Callaway

Discover the All New Spring FlowerFest! Garden guests will be able to see our brand new oneof-a-kind larger than life peacock topiary and floral mosaic display, spanning across more than 30 different scenes and extending roughly 8,000 square feet. Each Spring, Callaway Gardens explodes with one of the world’s largest displays of native and cultivated azaleas – more than 20,000 of them! – plus fresh blooms of Dogwoods, Crabapples, Daffodils, Tulips, and more. A series of themed weekends, known collectively as celebrate Spring, feature special activities and events for families and friends to share against the backdrop of these dazzling surroundings. www.callawaygardens.com

1 6 0 0 7 T H AV E N U E S O U T H BIRMINGHAM, AL 35233 (205) 638-9100 | ChildrensAL.org

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn

Brushing Up on Water Safety Spring is here, temperatures are on the rise, and it’s time to go swimming. The American Academy of Pediatrics recently updated its water safety tips just in time for the swimming season. I’ll highlight a few here but be sure to explore the topic more on www.healthychildren.org. Did you know that after birth defects, drowning is the number one cause of death in children age 1-4 years old? And the most frequent place these drownings occur is in home swimming pools. Here’s how to stay safe: 1) Pool fencesChildren are attracted to the pool. “They can slip out a door, climb out a window or even crawl through a doggy door to access the pool.” Not all states have laws requiring pool fences and there is no national pool fence law. However, in Alabama the Law does require a 4-foot-high fence with self-closing locking mechanism. The fence should not have footholds that make it easy to be climbed and the slats in the fence should not be wider than 4 inches

Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2021

apart. The AAP also recommends that the fence completely surround the pool, “4 feet, 4 sides” separating it from the house and the rest of the yard. 2) Alarms- “Drowning is silent. Alarms break that silence”. If you have a home swimming pool, consider installing a pool alarm that detects waves on the water surface. This can help alert others if someone falls in the pool. Also consider having an alarm on the pool fence gate and house doors. 3) Assign a “water watcher” or an adult who’s only job is to watch the children in the water. This is especially important during a party or busy event. 4) Life jackets- Buy the kind approved by the US coast guard and wear them. 5) Swim lessons- Sign kids up for swim lessons from a professional teacher. 6) CPR training- This is really a great idea for anyone who helps take care of kids, but is especially important for parents and pool owners.

7) CHECK THE WATER FIRST- If a child is missing, check the pool first. It only takes a minute for a child to slip away and quick action can save a life. A few more thoughts: Sunscreen is recommended for children age 6 months and older, teens, and adults. The sunscreen should have a SPF rating of at least 15 with broad spectrum coverage--UVA and UVB ray coverage. Use water-resistant sunscreen and re-apply every two hours. In summary, be safe around the pool, always wear sunscreen and have a fun time. Swimming is a great way to exercise and stay cool during the hot summer months. Source: American Academy of Pediatrics- “Pool dangers and drowning prevention-When it’s not swimming time” and “Sun Safety tips”

Dr. Ellen Royal attended the University of South Alabama College of Medicine for her medical degree and graduated in 1994. She returned to Alabama the summer of 1998 to join the pediatric practice of Dr. Richard M. Freeman. Dr. Royal is a member of the Lee County Medical Society, Medical Association of the State of Alabama, American Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics. She is board certified in Pediatrics. Dr. Royal is married to Dr. Kevin Royal who practices Internal Medicine in Opelika and they have three children.

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Autauga County Schools

Auburn HS Gets New Head Football Coach

The Auburn City Schools Board of Education met in a special-called meeting to approve the hiring of Keith Etheredge for the position of Head Football Coach at Auburn High School. Etheredge has a 15-year career as a high school head football coach with an overall record of 150-52 and five state championship titles across three different classifications including the 6A State Championship in 2019, back-to-back 4A State Championships in 2014 and 2015, and two 3A State Championships in 2008 and 2010. ACS is excited to welcome Coach Etheredge and his family to our community!

Drake MS Student Performs with New Jersey Orchestra Hajune (Jacob) Shin, a 6th-grade student at J.F. Drake Middle School, was recently chosen as first winner at the Camerata Artists International Competition and performed with the New Jersey Orchestra as one of the winners!

Recognizing Pick Elementary Teacher

Sami Moccia, a fourth-grade teacher at Pick Elementary School, was featured as Teacher of the Week in the February 19, 2021 issue of “The Week Junior” magazine! Now in her second year of teaching, Ms. Moccia had this to say about the recognition: “This season has been difficult for everyone, but being flexible is key. If I have found a way for my students to feel loved, supported, and inspired, that’s a win in my book!”

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Autauga County Schools

Developing Future Workforce at Auburn HS

CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining skills is the number one need in the local manufacturing workforce today. To help better prepare students for a career in manufacturing, the Industrial Development Board of the City of Auburn donated eight custom-built laptops to the Auburn High School Manufacturing/Machining Career and Technical program. These laptops were built to give students the ability to develop design skills using Fusion 360, CAM and other software programs that expose and train high schoolers in programming technically advanced machines.

Local Students Recognized for Girls’ Wrestling

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Erin Clarkson (on left) and Fabiola Sanchez (on right) were recognized recently at the Auburn City Council meeting for their success at the first-ever AHSAA Girls Wrestling Championship on January 23rd in Hoover! Sanchez earned a State Championship in the 130-pound weight class, and Clarkson was runner-up in the 95-pound weight class. Both girls wrestled alongside 75 girls in 11 weight classes during the competition.

1452 Opelika Road 334.502.0200 Stop In Where Good Health Hits Home. SHOP OUR AWARD-WINNING COLLECTION Oil Tinctures | Water Solubles | Topicals Soft Gel Capsules | Bath & Beauty Pet Products & more! *Mention this ad and receive 15% off your first order

Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2021

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Ogletree ES Teacher Receives Max Life Changer Award

Traci Stewart, a third-grade teacher at Ogletree Elementary School, was recently awarded the Max Life Changer Award and was formally recognized at the Auburn University Men’s Basketball game against Mississippi State on February 16th. Mrs. Stewart goes above and beyond to make a special connection with her students and their families. She always seems to find ways to celebrate and ensure that learning is fun each day. From the glitter on her bulletin boards and masks to sequined pillows and costumes to bedazzled posters on her walls, Mrs. Stewart’s room is a representation of just how much she sparkles at Ogletree. ACS celebrates Mrs. Stewart for her dedication to teaching young people in our community!

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Celebrating Black History Month in Auburn Schools

In celebration of Black History, students and teachers adorned the hallways of Auburn City Schools during the month of February. Check out some of the sights from schools across the city!

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Autauga County Schools

St. Michael PreK Ice Cream Party

Auburn Classical Academy Students Artistically Recreate “The Last Supper” ACA’s entire student body contributed to this special art project by each creating a square. Students used acrylic paints and were instructed to give special attention to both scale and color. They completed their squares individually and were excited to see the collective result—a beautiful mural of Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece, “The Last Supper.”

Lee-Scott Academy Alum Chosen as War Eagle Girl

Congratulations to LSA alum Abby Esco for being chosen as a War Eagle Girl for 2021-2022 at Auburn University! The men and women of WEGP are charged with the duty and honor of representing Auburn University students to faculty, administrators, and the community. We are so proud of you, Abby!

TAKE YOUR SWING TO THE NEXT LEVEL Grand National is offering golf clinics this summer for junior golfers, ages 7-14, taught by PGA Certified pros. The clinics will be held in three, Tuesday–Thursday sessions from 8:30-11:30 a.m. : : SESSION 1 June 8-10 · SESSION 2 June 29-July 1 SESSION 3: July 20-22 $100 PER SESSION Lunch and a free Par 3 round are included each day. » FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO REGISTER, CALL 334.749.9042. «

THE ROBERT TRENT JONES GOLF TRAIL AT GRAND NATIONAL 3000 Robert Trent Jones Trail · Opelika, AL 36801 facebook.com/rtjgrandnational · rtjgolf.com

Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2021

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Trinity Christian Students Celebrate the 100th Day of School

Opelika PreK Lottery

Thank you to Mayor Gary Fuller for helping us draw the names for the 2021-22 Opelika City Schools Pre-K classes. We are excited about the next school year! If you missed the lottery deadline, there is still time to register and be placed on the waiting list. Pre-register at www. children.alabama.gov or call 334-741-5623 for more information.

Auburn HS Final Four Bound

The Tigers defeated Fairhope 54-52 in double overtime to become Regions Champs, and moved on to the Semi-Finals on March 2nd at UAB! Go Auburn High!

Please send your school news to: kendra@auburn opelikaparents.com.

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Autauga County Schools

Teachers of the Year at Chambers Academy

Chambers Academy is pleased to announce that high school science teacher, Mrs. Brandi Fuller was selected as the school’s nominee for the AISA Secondary Teacher of the Year. Additionally, third grade teacher, Mrs. Yvonne Flanary was honored as CA’s Elementary Teacher of the Year. Mrs. Fuller has taught science courses at Chambers Academy for eleven years. This year she is teaching anatomy and physiology, biology, earth science, life science, Bible, and Earth and space science. She also serves as the school’s Fellowship of Christian Athletes sponsor and SGA/Student Government Association sponsor. Mrs. Fuller also served on CA’s Accreditation Review Team for the AISA/Cognia five-year review. She is married to Jody Fuller and they reside in LaFayette. The Fullers have two children, with Lindsay being a junior at CA and Colton being a sixth grader at Chambers Academy. Chambers Academy Headmaster, David Owen noted that Mrs. Fuller is very dedicated to helping her students succeed. She has a vast working knowledge of her content areas and works hard to be prepared to challenge the students in her classes each day. Mrs. Fuller chairs the science department at Chambers Academy and oversees the school’s annual science fair for project-based learning for students. Additionally, she is a CA alumnus from the class of 1997 committed to pouring back into the school’s students. Mrs. Yvonne Flanary is in her second year serving as CA’s third grade teacher after previous experience working in the Chambers County School System. This is her fifth year overall working as a teacher serving the students across Chambers County. She is teaching grade level curriculum in a self-contained setting for CA’s third grade. Additionally, Mrs. Flanary serves as CA’s Art Club sponsor and oversees the school’s annual art show. She also oversees the tutoring program for the afterschool program at Chambers Academy. Yvonne is married to her husband, Doug Flanary and they reside in Valley. The Flanarys have two children with Ty and Taylor attending school in Chambers County. Mrs. Flanary works hard within the Renaissance Place program to encourage reading intervention with her students to get them performing above grade level on their Star Reading Assessments. CA is very fortunate to have such dedicated teachers such as Mrs. Fuller and Mrs. Flanary on our staff to work with our children. Pictured from left to right are: CA Headmaster, David Owen, CA Secondary Teacher of the Year, Brandi Fuller, CA Elementary Teacher of the Year, Yvonne Flanary and CA Assistant Headmaster, Jon Owens.

Training up the next generation of Christian leaders TCSOpelika.org | 334-745-2464 Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2021

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WE ARE ACS: Cary Woods ES Assistant Principal

Lamarrius Anderson has 21 years of experience in education, having served for the past five years as Assistant Principal of Cary Woods Elementary School. Mr. Anderson’s favorite thing about CWES is the diversity and family atmosphere where he can build relationships with students, parents, and teachers while watching them grow and develop. With the opening of a brand new building on the Cary Woods campus this school year, COVID-19 has presented opportunities to be creative with décor. At CWES, there are colored polka dots spots throughout the building that remind students to maintain social distancing guidelines. “We are unique in that we are the only K-2 school in Auburn with two stories, so the dots are great for our building, and they keep student aware of their spacing when walking the halls to lunch and PE.” - Lamarrius Anderson

Auburn HS ACE Club Presents Black History Program

The Afro Cultural Education (ACE) Club presented their 3rd Annual Black History Program! A group of 40 Auburn High School students began working on this production in December 2020 with the theme of “Legend,” which is a call to action to leave a legacy behind for others to follow. The evening was full of singing, dancing, poetry, and a presentation by keynote speaker Aiesha Gentry (AHS Class of 2008). The mission of ACE is to educate students about Black history and Afro culture through creative projects. The club promotes diversity, openness, representation, and opportunity for everyone by exposing the rich heritage of African culture while supporting students in academics and personal growth as citizens thriving in a global world. ACE encourages positive and healthy lifestyles by emphasizing how the choices affect history and future generations.

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Autauga County Schools

Studying Greek Mythology at Auburn Classical Academy

Celebrating Black History

Last year, ALSDE announced a partnership with the Alabama Bicentennial organization, AT&T, and Regions Bank to produce “The Future Emerges from the Past: Celebrating 200 Years of Alabama African-American History & Culture.” The Alabama Bicentennial Commission African American Heritage Committee published the book which highlights the history, people, events, institutions, and movements that contributed to the Great State of Alabama, the nation, and the world during the state’s first 200 years. Now, the Beyond the Book series continues the journey online and goes beyond what could be included in the book’s 244 pages.

Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2021

ACA 3rd graders have been focusing on Greek Mythology. Each student was assigned 1 constellation to learn about. The assignment included writing a story of how the constellation came to be and to create a mask representing the main character from their constellation. While 'in character', the students presented their stories to the entire school and their parents! Additionally, they learned about foods eaten during that period...known as 'food of the gods'.

Auburn Classical Academy Class Welcomes Hissing Cockroaches

Our 4th graders spent time observing crickets recently. They also met their new class pets, three Madagascar hissing cockroaches named Jabner, Bathsheba, and Lassie!

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Contraction Surgery at Trinity

First grade contraction surgery is a success at Trinity Christian!

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Auburn Classical Academy Spelling Bee Winner

We're so proud of our 7th grader, Ella M., who represented Auburn Classical Academy well at the Lee County Spelling Bee today. And a big thank you to Opelika City Schools for hosting the Spelling Bee!

Bike Time at LeeScott Academy

PK4 is riding us off campus today into Spring Break as they wrap up their week learning about transportation!

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Autauga County Schools

WE ARE ACS: Creekside ES Assistant Principal

Jill Harling has 16 years of experience working in education, with 13 of those years as a special education teacher and the past three years as Assistant Principal of Creekside Elementary School. Mrs. Harling’s favorite thing about being an assistant principal is getting to know kids and coming up with new innovative ways to meet their unique needs. This year at Creekside, Harling has emphasized continuing traditions and family connections by providing virtual programming such as a virtual

family night and a virtual fine arts night. “We embrace the HAWKS mentality at CES, which is an acronym that reminds students to have respect, act responsibly, work hard, keep a positive attitude, and stay safe.” - Jill Harling

Auburn HS Final Four Bound Girls

The Lady Tigers defeated Central-Phenix City for a fourth time this season 52-39 to become Region Champs and moved on to the Semi-Finals on March 2nd to play Hoover in the Final Four at UAB! Go Auburn High!

1204 OGLETREE VILLAGE LANE AUBURN, AL 36830 • (334) 887-0099

Congratulations to the Liles Smiles no cavity winners! AVA ALLEN COOPER ALLEN JADON BOZEMAN RAEGAN BOZEMAN LILY BRADY SLAYTAN CATRETT JERICUSE COLEMAN CARLOS ESCOBAR CAROLINE FAHRINGER SKYLAR FITCH JORDAN GARCIA MADISON GULSBY JAYDON HARTIN NOAH HARVILL SCARLETT HUDSON KENDRICK MANLEY HAILEY MCMANUS JASON MCMANUS KATE MINIX RAELYNN MINIX EMMA NGUYEN PAXTON NORRIS PEYTON NORRIS JAMES PRICE OLIVIA GRACE PROVO ALIE BETH RABURN STOCKARD RABURN ZOEY RICHARDSON PATRICK SALATTO LUKE SEXTON LILITH SHAW KWAMARIA SMITH JETT TATUM CAROLINE TAYLOR COLLINS TAYLOR MASON THOMPSON JAXON WHITCOMB

ALLY CORBITT BRAXTON COWART EDWIN CRUZ VICTOR DANNAR KASHSTON DENNIS KINTAVIOUS DENNIS DANIEL ELMORE GUNNER ELMORE KYMANI ETHERIDGE KAMRI FLOWERS CARTER GOODEN SAYLOR GOODEN JOHN GREGORY AVA HERNADEZ JAMETRIUS JOHNSON JARQIVAS JOHNSON HARPER MANN GRAYSON MICHAUD XAVIER MICHAUD JESSE PARK JUSTIN PARK JOSLYN STEELE PAISLEY WELCH CHLOE ARNETT ASHTON BELLAMY NOELLE BULGER SANIYA BULGER DABIN CHOI ZYDARIUS DERICO KASHTON DICKSON JENUS GRAHAM JACKSON HARRIS TIMOTHY HARRIS ARI`YANA HARVEY BRAYDEN JACKSON DOMINIQUE KEY JR ISAIAH LYLES

BELEN MENDEZ CHAYCE MILLINER ARIEL MOORE LARRY SCOTT WILLIAM THOMAS ASHTON TORBERT BRELAND WILLIAMS BRIELLE WILLIAMS CALIYAH WRIGHT ASIA ALEXANDER EMERSON ARTHUR SAWYER ARTHUR CAMERON BARNETT CORDAJHA BARNETT MALEKAI CALLOWAY ANSLIE CLAXTON ELIZABETH COTTRELL HANNAH COTTRELL JACKSON COTTRELL EMMA DAVIS JORDAN DEFOOR RUT DIAZ BENNETT DUNAWAY HARLEN DYE CHASE EDWARDS ANNA ELMORE JACKSON FULLER MASON HARRIS RYAN HASSANI LINDSEY HOLCOMB HATTIE KENNEDY HARPER KNIGHTON REECE KNIGHTON DALLAS MACKEY JOHANNY MANRIQUEZ ANNA LEE MASSIEU JOSEF MEADE

Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2021

GRACE MILLS BENTLEY MOORE GIOVANNA MULDOON COLIN ROBINSON WILLIAM ROBINSON MIA ROLF JOHN SPRINGER ELIZA TAPLEY FRANCES TAPLEY GRAYSON THROWER EMMA VOSS HAYNES WILSON KIRBY WOODRUFF LYDIA BLACK ROBERT BLACK WALKER BLACK JAYDEN BRONSON DEMARCUS BROOKS FISCHER BROOKS LONDYN BUCK DONNAJAH COOPER EASTON DANZEY WALKER DANZEY GABRIELLE EYKE ALEAH FINLEY ELIANA FORADORI OLIVIA FULLERTON AUTUMN HARRIS JACKSON HARRIS EMELY HERNANDEZ BRODY HOLLOWAY STEVEN MCCOY ANNABETH MCKISSIC ANNISTON MILES KATIE MILES EMMA MILLAR KAI NASH

ZOI NASH KACIN OWSLEY ANSLEY REIBLING BRENDYN STENDER MELANIE WALKER JANIAH WHATLEY MASON BAILEY TIMOTHY BOONE CAMILLE BURNETTE FREYA CAMACHO LILLIAN ELLIOTT TITUS ELLIOTT SILAS HYPPOLITE WILLOW HYPPOLITE BLAKE KELLY ADDISON LAMB TRISTAN LAMB MISHA MCCULLOUGH JAMES MITCHELL KEVIN MITCHELL RAILYNN MITCHELL MADDOX MORROW LUKE OLIVER VIVIANNE PAYNE OLIVIA PRICE ARIE QUINN KAYDEN QUINN STORM REIF COLTON TAYLOR LILLIANNA WEBB TUCKER WEBB WAYLON BARNETT WILLOW BROADUS BROOKLYN FOREMAN AMIRA GREENE GABRIEL HARRIS COLTON HENDRIX

PARIS HOLLOWAY JAXON HOLLOWAY LEVERETTE LAE`LANNI HUDSON SAMUEL HUDSON TATUM HUDSON FAIZA ISLAM JORDAN JOHNSON ZYLIN JOHNSON TANNER KIRBY MAVERICK KNIGHT KEILA MARROQUIN JOHN MARTIN THOMAS MARTIN KATHERINE PEREZ MONTIEL JADA PETERS JAYLAN PETERS JORDAN PETERS CATARINASEBASTIAN-FRANCISCO NEVAEH SHERIDAN MICHEAL SMITH HARMONY THOMAS ZA`NIYA THOMAS ZOEY TOLBERT SAMUEL TOWNLEY DIEGO VEGA MA`KENZIEWILLIAMSCHAMBLIS EMILEAH WYROSDICK JACKSON ALLEN BENJAMIN BALLARD HENLEY BOOS KENNEDY CARTER KENSLEY CARTER BRIAN CASH EMORIE CAUDLE ELODIE CLARK EMMALINE CLARK ADAM CLAYTON OLIVIA CLAYTON LILLIAN DUNN RAMER DUNN IAN FOREMAN LIAM FOREMAN MILES FOREMAN LAKYN FULLER JASE HALLMARK JAXON HAMMOND BRODY HARRIS LIAM HARRIS

LEVI KYLES AVERY LAKEMAN PEYTON LAKEMAN HAYDEN LEDBETTER LIAM LEDBETTER ANNELISE MAY AVERY MCCARLEY WILLIAM MCCARLEY BAILEY MCCAY OWEN MCCAY JULIANA MILLER REGINALD MOSS RYELEE MOSS HAYES NICHOLS HYATT NICHOLS LEVI PONCE NOAH PONCE AMARI PORTER CLAYTON RENNER COLE RENNER ADALYNN SASSER CORDARRYL SHEALEY JR JOSEPH SIZEMORE ADALYN TISDALE MARLEE TISDALE MICAH TRUITT HADLEY WAITES CHARLIE WARD LAYLA WHITFIELD BRADLEY WILSON KAYLIE BONILLA ETHAN CAMPBELL KATE CAMPBELL SARAH CAMPBELL PAKARI CORE TUCKER EDWARDS STELLA HENDERSON ALEXANDRIAH HORNSBY NATALIE HUTCHINSON EVAN JAMES FELICITY JONES FLETCHER JONES FORREST JONES SAVANNAH JONES BAXLEY KIRKLAND JOHN MCCARLEY DANIEL RUIZ LOGAN SHIREY

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JACQUELYN LUGO ISABELLA MACK JOSIAH MILLER KALEB MILLER MORGAN MILLER ALLAN MORALES-PEREZ JAYCEE MORAN ANA PAGAN EMA PAGAN EZEKIEL PAGAN CASH PATE REMINGTON PHILLIPS LILY RHODES ZACHARY RHODES JACKSON ROSS BRAYLEN SLAUGHTER KENSLEIGH SMITH GIANNA SPURILL MATSON STONE LILAH STRICKLAND MIRACLE TOLBERT TALYNN TYNER TUCKER TYNER DANIELLA VEGA CHRISTOPHER BING MIRANDIA CAVENDER TRENTON CLAYTON CHLOE GROSS KALEB HALL KENLEIGH HALL KACY HARPER TYSHON HARPER ALISABETH HENTSCHEL NEVAEH HICKS MILEY HUA ALEXIS HUNT ANGELINA JONES KENNETH JONES LEO LEDBETTER ZYRA MASON OSCAR MCKINSTRY BROOKLYNN MEIGS ERICA NORMAN AUBREY PAGGETT WESTON SANDERS HARSIMRAN SUDAN AVERY THOMPSON ALONNA TOLES

KALEAH TOLES CORD BAILEY ROLLIE CARTER KEATON CONNER BILLY COOPER SAVANNAH COX JACK DUNNIGAN TIMOTHY DUNNIGAN III DAXON DYE VICTORIA FERNANDEZ KETAVIUN FLOYD ELIZABETH GONZALEZ HECTOR GONZALEZ ISABELLA GONZALEZ ANNE HEFELFINGER ELLA HENNIGAR SOPHIA HENNIGAR FERNANDA HERNANDEZ NATALIE HERNANDEZ ELLIE JEONG JAYDEN JEONG DESTINY JOHNSON RAELYNN JOHNSON LUCY JONES STEELE KENDRICK SARAH MENDOZA JUAN MOLINA CARLOS MONTERO HALEY MONTOYA NOE MUNOZ CHRISTOPHER NELSON JR. BONNIE RANGE VALERIA REYES NATHANIEL SANCHEZ MARIYAH SMITH ZYCARI TURNER KAITLYN WILLIAMS NATHAN WILLIAMS KAMDYN WYCKOFF CHRISTIAN ADAMS AUSTIN BATTLE EZEKIEL COLEMAN PARKER ESTES RAYLEE ESTES KEYMONIE FIELDS ALAYSIA FRAZIER LANDYN GOSDIN CHARLES HALL III

ASHER HALLMARK MERCY HALLMARK JUSTICE JOHNSON QUINZAVION JOHNSON IAN JONES HAYES JOYCE HAYNES KEESEE VANESSA LOA KAITLIN MADDOX MOLLY MADDOX CHRISTIAN MCCLENDON CALI MCCLENDON CARSON MCCLENDON JARA MUNOZ AIDEN NOBLES GUNNER PAINTER KAYDEN PAINTER SCARLET PARKER AIDEN SALSMAN HOLLAND SISK SOPHIA SISK CADEN SKINNER RYLEE SKINNER ROBERT SPORT WILLIAM SPORT ELIJAH SWINT JEFFREY TRIMBACK AMY TRUETT ALIVIA WILLIAMS MATHEW WILLIAMS TA`NYLA WILLIAMS LACREASHA ALLEN DESTINY BARAJAS ZYCURRIAH BARNETT ELIJAH BROWN LOUISE HAYNIE LUCY HILLYER NELSON HILLYER JAMAURI JACKSON SHA`MYA JACKSON CAMERON JOHNSON JAKIRAH JONES JALEYAH JONES RYLEIGH JONES KAMARRIOUS KINDRED ABBY LAWRENCE CARMINE LONG CIARA LONG

JAVIOUS MOORE KE`ASIA PARKER MATTHEW PETERSON MORGAN PETERSON JACAIDEN RICKS JEREMIAH RICKS LANAVEIA RICKS MARY RIDDLE BRISTOL SENN MADELYN STALLWORTH-WARD JAXON STODDARD MARA TAHA A`JAYVIEN THOMAS ESTEFANY VIDAL COOPER WATTS ZACHARIA AKINS COOPER BARBER KARLIE BARNES KATHERYN BARNES SARAH BARNES CAROLINE BROOKS JOSHUA CLARDY DESTINY CORE LOGAN HARRIS BRAXTON HOFFMAN JINA JEONG YOUNWOO JUN AINSLEY KING RILEY KING ANNIE KIRK ADALEIGH LAZENBY BRYSON LAZENBY YAREL MCMULLEN COOPER MIMS ADAM POWELL AVA ROBERTS CHRISTIAN ROWSER IVY SELF KATIE SELF WINSTON SHEFFIELD MOLLIE SIMS IRIS TIBBLES WHITNEY WADSWORTH CHARLEE WYLIE

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m d,

Animal Project Day in 2nd Grade at Trinity Christian!

Soccer at LeeScott Academy

All four soccer teams competed on the LSA campus! The JV Boys team defeated Trinity Opelika 101. The Varsity Girls team defeated Autauga Academy 6-1 and the Varsity Boys team won 6-2. The JV Girls dropped a close game to Trinity Opelika 2-1.

Opelika City Schools Celebrate National School Breakfast Week

Lee-Scott Presents 2021 Drum Major

Congratulations to Maddie Spoor who was selected as the 2021 Drum Major for the LeeScott Academy Warrior Marching Band! We are so proud of you.

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Parents want the best for their kids and have a strong desire for them to be successful in every endeavor. While this tendency

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comes with positive intentions, it can occasionally backfire and leave kids unprepared for the natural consequences and realities that come with everyday life as an adult.

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According to the Cambridge Dictionary, overparenting is defined as “too much involvement by parents in the lives of their children, so that they try to help with or control everything that happens to the child.” Kids who are raised in this environment struggle in college and beyond with basic tasks, common disap-

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pointments, and self sufficiency. How do you know if you are overparenting? Here are some common pitfalls parents can easily find themselves falling into and some tips to turn these tendencies around.

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Common pitfall: Power struggles

Do you often find yourself having a heated debate with your child about something that isn’t important in the grand scheme of things? For example, you may be tempted to argue about your child’s clothing choices, if their room isn’t clean enough, if they are not playing with toys the “right way”, or if they are simply approaching a task differently than you would tackle it yourself. This is a sign you may be overparenting. Turn it around: When you find yourself in the middle of another power struggle, pause and reflect if it is worth debating. Your child will learn problem solving skills and gain independence from doing things their own way. If it doesn’t work as smoothly as the way you would have done it, that’s to be expected. They will learn the lesson and adjust naturally on their own. The best part will be less arguing and stress in the home.

Common pitfall: Lack of natural consequences

One of the hardest things about parenting is watching your child fail. If they don’t make the team, get a bad grade, break a toy, or have a disagreement with a friend, parents are often tempted to step in and “fix” the situation so their child is not hurt or disappointed. While this seems like a good thing now, it can cause long lasting challenges for your child. Turn it around: Let them try, make mistakes, and deal with the aftermath - positive or negative - that comes from their actions. Facing natural consequences is hard but kids who do so are better prepared for making decisions as an adult, when the stakes are much higher and the choices can be life altering.

Common pitfall: Lack of responsibilities

A common sign of overparenting is a lack of age-appropriate expectations and responsibilities. It is tempting to do all of the chores around the house, help your child with homework assignments, allow them to give up when things get tough, clean up for them, and assist them with daily tasks they can do on their own. Kids often surprise us with how much they can do by themselves when given the chance to try. Turn it around: Start by choosing one task and let your child know they will be responsible for it from now on. Teach them how to do it, let them know you are there to answer questions and help but they will need to do the task on their own. It will most likely be a struggle at first, but over time they will be able to do it independently and will gain a sense of pride. Soon they will be ready to take on more responsibilities and harder tasks.

Common pitfall: No time for traditional play

Traditional play and down time are important for kids development because it promotes creativity and allows your child rest from the structure and pressures that school and extracurricular activities bring. If your child has so many scheduled activities that they have very little free time, it may be due to overparenting. It’s best to find a good balance of your time that promotes both traditional play and activities such as sports or artistic interests equally. Turn it around: Ask your child what they are truly interested in and reduce the rest of the activities to allow more free time. Keep 21

in mind this may or may not be the activity they excel at. Allowing your child to choose what activities outside the home is important as they gain independence and allows time for them to develop their interests rather than spreading them too thin. Parenting is challenging and changing behavior is even more so. Give yourself grace and make small changes at a time. The hard work will be worth it when your child develops into a healthy, self sufficient adult ready to face the challenges and successes that life brings. AOP Sarah Lyons is a contributing writer.

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Parents’ Ultimate Guide to Instagram When you see a teen taking a selfie, chances are that picture will end up on social media. Often, that means Instagram, one of the most popular social image-sharing platforms in the world. What’s all the fuss about? Teens love Instagram for a lot of reasons, but most importantly, that’s where their friends are. They can also keep tabs on their favorite celebrities, follow accounts that align with their interests, and, of course, maintain their own profile (or profiles) that present an image of themselves to their friends -- and sometimes to the world. As with all social media, the elements that make teens love Instagram can also be breeding grounds for trouble. Depending on whom you follow or what you search for, you can find lots of mature content. And the comments on posts can be downright vicious, especially if an account is public. Then there’s the pressure. Lots of kids feel that they have to maintain a perfect profile, so they’re constantly scanning posts for likes and deleting ones that don’t measure up. And they have to check their feeds all day (and sometimes at night) for updates from friends. Instagram also has a commercial aspect. Embedded ads, celebrity endorsements, and links to buy products are all over kids’ feeds. Still, with some guidance around settings, limits on use, and ongoing conversations about content and comments, Instagram can be a place for kids to connect and be creative. Here we answer a few of your most common questions.

What kinds of content will my kid see on Instagram? The kinds of

content kids will see mostly depends on whom they follow: If they only follow friends and don’t search for anything, they may see only pictures of their friends having fun. But kids rarely limit their feeds to people they Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2021

know, so it’s likely they’ll see mature content (including sexy stuff, swearing, and substance use), mean or sexual comments, and hashtags about suicide, anorexia, and other concerning topics. If they follow celebrities, they’ll probably also see marketing.

How can I monitor my kid’s activity on Instagram? You can ask your kid to

give you a tour of their Insta. Ask them to walk you through their account, explain memes and comments, discuss friends, and share whatever comes up. Or try one of these ideas:

• Create your own Instagram account and follow your kid. You’ll see what they post (unless they block you), but you won’t see their DMs (direct messages). • Follow their friends. It’s not unusual for parents to be friends with their kids’ friends online (but you should hold back on comments). If you’re close with your kids’ friends, you can follow each other and keep tabs on your kid’s doings. • Ask for your kid’s Instagram username and password. Then, you can log in as them and review their accounts. • Do spot checks. Either random or scheduled, these check-ins give you time to sit down together and go through your kid’s feed. • Install a third-party monitoring app. Parental controls such as Bark give you a lot of visibility into what kids are doing online. Learn more about parental controls.

Is there any way to limit or restrict my kid’s activity on Instagram, including connecting with strangers? Instagram accounts are public by default, so the first thing to do is make your kid’s private. To do this, go to Settings from your profile page. Select Privacy and toggle on Private Account. With a private account, only people you approve can see what you post. You get a lot of options in the Privacy 22

section -- and you should spend some time here if you’re helping your kid set up their first account. You can’t lock Privacy settings, though, so be aware that kids can change them back. A few more key Instagram privacy settings: Comment controls. You can limit comments to followers, block comments from specific people, hide “offensive” comments, and create specific filters for words and phrases. Resharing to stories. You can control whether or not other people can reshare your posts. Photos and videos. You can prevent people from automatically adding pictures of you to your profile without your approval and hide photos and videos so they don’t display in your feed.

What can I do if it seems like my kid can’t stop looking at Instagram? All social media uses persuasive techniques to keep users engaged, and while it can help kids feel connected to friends and family -- especially during times of isolation like extended school breaks -- it’s easy to get sucked in for longer periods than is healthy. If your teen has trouble logging off when they have other stuff to do or they just need a break, you can try using Instagram’s Your Activity feature, which the company introduced to help people be more aware of the time they’re spending on the app and to set limits for themselves. To get to Your Activity, go to the profile page, tap the three horizontal lines, select Your Activity, and then tap Time. You’ll see your daily average, and you can set a time limit and get a reminder to stop. If your kid has mastered self-regulation, Your Activity may work to curb their use. If not, you can try using the parental controls built into your phone’s operating system (Screen Time on iOS or the Family Link app on Android) to block access and set time limits on all the apps on your kid’s phone. A few other tricks: Adjust or turn off notifications completely to calm the need to check the phone every few minutes; and tell kids to stop scrolling once they see the “You’re all caught up!” message that tells them there’s no new content to see since the last time they checked. www.auburnopelikaparents.com

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Ace the Drop-Off

Besides helping you get work done or caught up on some errands, daycare and preschool

Pick the right daycare or preschool. “Separating from mom and dad can be tough for infants, toddlers and preschoolers, though some kids display it more aggressively than others,” says Keller. To make drop-off easier, choose a daycare or preschool you feel good about. “Parents telegraph their comfort and confidence about the school in so many ways to their kids,” says Keller. If you’re happy with your choice of school and know that your child is in a good learning situation, your child will pick up on your confidence and be okay with it, too, even if he initially doesn’t seem to like going there. And keep in mind that separation anxiety is often more painful for you than your child. “Children are amazingly adaptable,” Keller says.

present enormous benefits for your child. “Both offer kids experiences they might not get at home, such as exposure to a larger social environment that can help them learn how to get along well with others,” says Cathy Keller, the director of preschool and infant care center. Who knew that 18-month-olds could have friends? When kids go to daycare and preschool, their schedule tends to fill up with play dates and birthday parties. Developmentally, kids who’ve done at least a year of preschool are more ready to jump into the learning environment of kindergarten, too. “Preschool is an environment in which kids have the opportunity to use language in many different ways with others who are at the same developmental age,” says Jennifer Kurumada Chuang, the owner of a multi-grade child care center and preschool that serves 225 children and their families. But, overall, preschool helps young naturally-egocentric kids learn how to exist with others in a classroom. “Preschoolers learn how take turns, follow directions, pick up after themselves, stand in line, sit in a circle, raise their hand, use their words to express themselves instead of physically acting out and talk when it’s appropriate,” Kurumada Chuang says. “If they master those social skills in preschool, they’re ready to learn in kindergarten.” All told, your child’s early learning experiences can set the tone for years to come. To help your child prepare for daycare and preschool and reinforce the lessons he learns there, here’s the homework you can do that can make all the difference.

Manage morning madness. To help make drop-off at daycare or preschool smoother, take the hassle out of your AM. Try doing what you can the night before, when you have more time to think the next day through. For example, fill out permission slips, write any notes to the teacher and checks for daycare or preschool field trips and put them in your child’s backpack or lunchbox. Have your child take her bath or shower too. You can even set the table for breakfast and take out the breakfast cereal, if you want to. You could also check the weather forecast and let your preschooler set out the next day’s outfit. Stick to a routine. Whether your child is in daycare or preschool, establish a morning routine and stick to it. It might be: wake up, get dressed, eat breakfast, has a short playtime together, double check the backpack or lunchbox, and leave the house. Structured routines give children a sense of control. “When they know what’s coming next, they’re less likely to

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follow through by offering an incentive to do whatever it is you’re asking. Tell your child that he can play outside once he’s finished putting his toys away. An incentive helps him understand that following directions makes other fun activities possible. If he doesn’t follow your directions and, for example, put his toys away, calmly explain that he won’t be able to play with those toys for the rest of the day or go to the park. Keep it positive by focusing on how clean the playroom will look when you’re done. Then praise him when he’s successful.

procrastinate or become anxious about going to daycare or preschool,” Keller says. Make a morning-routine poster for your family and put it in a common area, such as on your fridge. The poster should outline the order of tasks such as dressing, eating breakfast, putting on shoes and socks and brushing hair and teeth. Use pictures to convey the message. If your child dawdles even with a set routine, move up his bedtime and his wake-up by 15 minutes instead of trying to get him to conform to your schedule. Also, make sure he gets to bed early enough so he’s more apt to be up-and-at-‘em in the morning. Keep in mind that infants 3 to 11 months need 9 to 12 hours of sleep at night and a 30 minute to 4 hour nap one to three times a day. Toddlers need 12 to 14 hours of sleep in 24 hours and preschoolers need 11 to 13 hours of shut eye at night.

Help your child master sharing and turn taking. From age 3 to 5, children tend to hoard coveted toys and objects. They’re not really ready to grasp the concept of sharing yet. But you can help your youngster practice by having him “take turns” with toys and catching him when he shares on his own. To help him develop the empathy that true sharing requires, state what he did and how it makes others feel, such as: “Thank you for sharing. It makes your sister feel good when you share the ball.” Your child should be able to “own” special or new toys, though, so keep them out of sight on play dates or in his room away from siblings.

Don’t linger. At daycare or preschool, say goodbye to your child calmly, give your child a kiss and hug and tell him when you’ll be back to pick him up (such as after lunch or his nap). Then walk out the door and let the teacher give your child some lovies so you can make a quick exit. At the end of the day, make sure you’re there to collect your child when you say you will be. “Kids that young can’t tell time, but they will know that if you always pick up after their nap and you’re not there until 5 PM, that’s a big difference,” Keller says. Try to pick up at the same every day, if possible.

Be There at Pick-up Focus on your child. When it’s time to collect your time, be really glad to see her. Make sure you’re not on your cellphone or otherwise distracted. “Pick-up should be all about your child,” Keller says. “Your child wants to know you’re super glad to see her and that you’ve been looking forward to it all day.” AOP

School Success Rx Help your child learn to follow directions. Practice at home by giving simple commands, such as “Please help me pick up your toys and put them in the toy box.” Then, encourage your child to

Sandra Gordon is a contributing writer.

Join us for Summer Camps offered through Auburn University COSAM!

Science SCORE Matters Camps Science Matters is a summer enrichment program for students in rising grades 1st-8th. Each thematic course features hands-on STEM actives instructed by certified teachers. Courses available for summer 2021 include Chemistry Magic, Space Exploration, Natural Disasters, Under the Sea, Curves Ahead and many more!

The Southeastern Center of Robotics Education is hosting camps targeted toward grades 2nd-12th in a variety of topics. This years camps will include a Makerspace Camp, Flight Dynamics with Drones, VEX IQ Competition Camp, VRC Team Camp, and many more!

Available dates for Science Matters

Available dates for SCORE Camps

6/7-6/11 6/21-6/25 7/12-7/16 7/26-7/30 6/14-6/18 6/28-7/2 7/19-7/23

6/1-6/4 6/21-6/25 7/5 - 7/9 7/19-7/23 6/14-6/18 6/28-7/2 7/12-7/16 7/26-7/30

More Information on Science Mattters at:

More Information on SCORE Camps at:

aub.ie/ScienceMatters Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2021

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Grading Family Movies: Streaming, Digital Rentals, and DVDs

y e.

Raya & The Last Dragon

lp d he t ur

Moxie

Netflix

Overall

Violence

Sex

Profanity

Alcohol/Drugs

A-

B-

Rating

Overall

Violence

Sex

Profanity

Alcohol/Drugs

PG-13

C+

C-

Vivian has finally had it with sexism in her high school. She is disgusted that boys rank girls based on their anatomy, angry that girls’ teams are underfunded, and sick of dealing with entitled guys. She channels her anger into a self-produced zine which triggers a cascade of unexpected consequences. This movie raises important issues for teens and is a great way to begin conversations. Unfortunately, it also contains a fair bit of negative content. Photo ©Netflix

The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge on the Run

Digital on Demand

Rating

Overall

Violence

Sex

Profanity

Alcohol/Drugs

A-

SpongeBob's beloved pet snail, Gary, has been snailnapped! The culprit appears to be none other than King Poseidon, and SpongeBob and Patrick head off on a rescue mission. This film leans hard into the goofy silliness that made the TV series a hit and will be appreciated by kids and adults who are feeling nostalgic. Content issues are minor, limited to slapstick violence. This is probably a bit much for preschoolers, but school aged kids will have a blast. Photo ©Paramount Pictures

Rating

The Druun have returned to Kumandra, turning people to stone. When Raya’s father is affected, she goes on a quest for the last mythical dragon and the pieces of the dragon gem. But the dragon isn’t what she expects, and Raya learns that a magic greater than that inside the gem might be necessary to save her people. Disney’s genius for storytelling and animation shines in this outstanding family film but it does have some unusually intense violence. Photo ©Disney +

Disney+

Yes Day

Netflix

Rating

Overall

Violence

Sex

Profanity

Alcohol/Drugs

B-

Allison and Carlos are sick of feeling like the bad guys for always telling their kids "no". The solution? A day where they have to say “yes” to everything the kids want to do. But things start spiraling out of control fairly quickly. Not surprisingly, this chaotic story will be a big hit with elementary school aged kids. Parents will be less enthused both by the movie’s writing and the thought of putting the kids in charge. Photo ©Netflix

Bombay Rose

Netflix

Rating

Overall

Violence

Sex

Profanity

Alcohol/Drugs

PG-13

B-

C+

Having escaped from a forced child marriage, Kamala makes flower garlands to support her sister. Meanwhile, Salim sells flowers on the streets of Bombay. The two fall in love but they both have big secrets to keep. The story is unremarkable but this film boasts stunning hand painted animation which illuminates the inner lives of its characters and brings Bombay to vibrant life. It’s not a story for kids but adult animation fans will enjoy the artwork. Photo ©Netflix Grades range from: A= absence of content concerns to D= excess of content concerns Detailed reviews available at www.parentpreviews.com 27

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2021

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Auburn Day School ad on page 7

1199 South Donahue Dr, Ste B, Auburn, 36832 Auburn Day School is a half-day, drop-in STEM preschool serving children ages 8 months- 5 years. Rather than themes, our lessons are taught through overarching concepts, which are ideas that can apply to anyone, at any time, with any background knowledge. Our focus is on process rather than procedures. We want to help students to learn how to think, not what to think so we can help set the foundation for a lifetime of learning. Our classes are designed with children’s interests and readiness in mind. Our age ranges overlap a bit to give parents and teachers some choice over which class is the best fit. Ages: Ages 8 months-5 years Contact: Katharine Murrah kmurrah@auburndayschool.com www.auburndayschool.com

Auburn First Baptist Child Development Center ad on page 36

128 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn, 36830 Transportation from Schools available; Licensed by the State of Alabama; Nationally Accredited through National Accreditation Commission for Early Care and Education Programs/ 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. Now Enrolling Summer Camp. Hours: Monday-Friday; 7:00am-5:30pm Ages: Infant through 6 years and After School care available grades K - 5 Contact: Milissa Clowers 334-821-8125 afbcdc@gmail.com www.auburnfbc.org

Chambers Academy ad on pages 4, 23

15048 US Hwy 431, LaFayette, 36862 Chambers Academy provides daycare services for children from 6 weeks old to 5 years. The daycare has been in existence since 1986. Chambers Academy’s Daycare is a state licensed daycare for families desiring a safe and stimulating environment for their preschoolers. An extended after school day program is also available for our students. Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30am-5:30pm Ages: Ages 6 weeks-5 years 334-864-9691 www.chambersacademy.com Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2021

Growing Room Child Development Center

The Little HAPIE Tree Preschool

644 North Dean Road, Auburn, 36830 Give Your Child the Growing Room Experience! More Informed Parents Choose Growing Room! “On Our Block”-language based curriculum, Character Education programs, A Beka Phonics, nutritious warm meals, superior security and an outstanding playground with safe, solid rubber surfacing. Extracurricular programs include JumpBunch & Dance. We offer before and after school care to most Auburn City Schools. Hours: Monday-Friday; 6:30am-6:30pm Ages: 6 weeks to 12 years Contact: Laura Smith 334-501-2044 hautrey@grauburn.com www.growingroomusa.com/auburn

Auburn Early Education Center, 721 East University Drive, Auburn, 36830 Pre-Kindergarten special education is a part of the total special education program offered through Auburn City Schools. PreK special education and related services are offered for children with disabilities and special needs ages three through five through the H.A.P.I.E./ Little Tree collaborative program (Helping Auburn Preschoolers – Intervening Early). The H.A.P.I.E classrooms are housed at Auburn Early Education Center and the Learning Tree classrooms are house at Dean Road Elementary School. Hours: Monday-Friday Ages: Preschool 3-5 years 334-887-4958 jzevac@learning-tree.org www.auburnschools.org/Page/2503

ad on page 13

Growing Room Child Development Center ad on page 13

1755 Thomason Drive, Opelika, 36801 Now Open! Give Your Child the Growing Room Experience! More Informed Parents Choose Growing Room! “On Our Block”-language based curriculum, Character Education programs, A Beka Phonics, nutritious warm meals, superior security and an outstanding playground with safe, solid rubber surfacing. Extracurricular programs include JumpBunch & Dance. We offer before and after school care to most Opelika City Schools. Hours: Monday-Friday; 6:30am-6:30pm Ages: 6 weeks to 12 years Contact: Laura Smith 334-501-2044 www.growingroomusa.com/ auburn

Parkway Baptist Church Preschool & Kindergarten ad on page 11

766 East University Drive, Auburn, 36830 Christian based preschool consisting of biblical and instructional curriculums. Instructional curriculum is Handwriting Without Tears®. The curriculum draws from years of innovation and research to provide developmentally appropriate, multisensory tools and strategies for our classrooms. The program follows research that demonstrates children learn more effectively by actively doing, with materials that address all styles of learning. Weekly Chapel, monthly lunch bunches, extracurricular tumbling classes, and more!! Hours: Monday-Friday; 8:30am-12:00pm & 8:30am-12:15pm Ages: 6 weeks through Kindergarten Contact: Dawn Woodrow 334-321-0537 dawn.woodrow@parkwayauburn.org www.parkwayauburn.org/parkway-preschool

ad on page 15

Trinity Christian School ad on page 14

1010 India Road, Opelika, 36801 Trinity offers a classical, Christian education that employs time-tested curricula and teaching methods. Our students participate in hands-on learning about God’s creation and they practice careful articulation when expressing the truth of God’s Word; all the while, they grow to appreciate great literature and Latin as well as how God weaves science and mathematics throughout His world. Hours: Monday-Friday Ages: Kindergarten 334-745-2464 www.tcsopelika.org

Woodland Wonders Nature Preschool ad on page 5

2222 North College Street, Auburn, 36830 Woodland Wonders Nature Preschool is Auburn’s first nature preschool and the second nature preschool in Alabama. “Nature preschool” is an innovative educational strategy that allows your child to learn about, with, and through nature, embracing the great outdoors as their classroom. Children spend their school time exploring and uncovering knowledge in an environment where curiosity and child-led discovery are encouraged. This incredible, cutting-edge, and revolutionary philosophy combines earlychildhood education and environmental awareness on a new level. Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday OR Tuesday, Thursday, 8:00-11:30am Ages: Ages 3-5 years 334-844-8091 preserve@auburn.edu wp.auburn.edu/preserve/woodlandwonders/

www.auburnopelikaparents.com

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Auburn Auburn City Schools After-School Programs

Programs located at and all Elementary Schools Hours: After school until 5:30pm Ages: Kindergarten to 5th grade 334-887-2100 www.auburnschools.org

Auburn Day Care Centers

Central Office: 410 Boykin Street, Room 14, Auburn, 36830 Hours: Monday-Friday; 6:30am-5:30pm Ages: 6 weeks to 12 years Contact: Ethel White 334-821-4060 auburndaycarectr@bellsouth.net www.auburndaycarecenters.org

Auburn Outreach Multicultural After-school and Summer Services

Auburn United Methodist ChurchWeekday Preschool

137 South Gay Street, Auburn, 36830 Hours: Monday-Friday; 8:30am-12:00pm Ages: 2-4 years Contact: Debbie Bagwell 334-826-8800 DebbieB@aumc.net www.aumc.net

Auburn University Early Learning Center

Auburn Campus, 210 Spidle Hall, Auburn University, 36849 Hours: 8:30-11:30 or 12:30-3:30 Ages: 3-5 years 334-844-4696 chshelp@auburn.edu www.humsci.auburn.edu

Big Blue Marble Academy

103 O.D. Smith Hall, Auburn University, 36832 Hours: year round Ages: K-12 334-559-9023 www.auburn.edu/outreach/ceoe

585 Devall Drive, Auburn, 36830 Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30am-6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks-school age 334-518-6091 www.bbmacademy.com/locations/ auburn

Auburn United Methodist ChurchChildren’s Day Out

Big Blue Marble Academy

137 South Gay Street, Auburn, 36830 Hours: Monday-Thursday; 9:00am-12:00pm Ages: 6 weeks to 4 years Contact: Allison McNeely 334-826-8800 meghan.kemp@aumc.net www.aumc.net

Auburn United Methodist ChurchDiscovery Club After-School Program

137 South Gay Street, Auburn, 36830 Hours: Monday-Friday; afterschool until 6:00pm Ages: Kindergarten to 7th grade Contact: Leigh Oelmann 334-826-8800 leighO@aumc.net www.aumc.net

1811 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn, 36830 Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30am-6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks-school age 334-326-0527 www.bbmacademy.com/location/ glenn-ave

Creative Discovery Child Development Center

1675 Shug Jordan Parkway, Auburn, 36830 Hours: Monday-Friday; 6:30am-6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks to 12 years Contact: Staci Greene 334-887-5730 kidscreative7@gmail.com www.creativediscoverycdc.com

Farmville Baptist Church First Steps Preschool

3607 Al Hwy 147, Auburn, 36830 Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00-11:30am Ages: Ages 1-4 years Contact: Sherri Cash 334-329-KIDZ info@farmvillefirststeps.org www.farmvillefirststeps.org

Foundations Preschool at Cornerstone Church

2123 Hamilton Road, Auburn, 36830 Hours: Monday-Friday; 8:00-11:50am Ages: 6 weeks to 4K Contact: Amy Baxter 334-887-1152 amy@cornerstonebuzz.org www.cornerstonebuzz.org

God’s Glory Daycare

1500 Bruce Avenue, Opelika, 36830 334-737-0443

Grace United Methodist Church Preschool 950 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn, 36830 Hours: Monday-Friday; 8:00-11:30am Ages: 1 year-PreK Contact: Leslie Carter 334-877-5981 info@gracepreschoolauburn.com www.gracepreschoolauburn.com

Grove Hill Academy

1279 Weatherford Street, Auburn, 36830 Hours: Monday-Friday Ages: Infant-school age 334-521-0308 www.grovehillacademyauburn.com

Holy Trinity Episcopal Day School

100 Church Drive, Auburn, 36830 Hours: Monday-Friday; 8:00-11:45am Ages: Preschool-Kindergarten Contact: Katherine Israel 334-821-98 dayschool@holytrinitychurch.info www.holytrinityepiscopaldayschool.info

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Indian Pines Country Day School

1742 Saugahatchee Road, Auburn, 36830 Hours: Monday-Friday; 8:30am-12:00pm Ages: 3-5 years Contact: Stacy Jackson 334-821-7786 sccijackson@yahoo.com www.ipcds.org

Jacob’s Ladder Early Learning Center 954 Opelika Road, Auburn, 36830 Ages: 3 weeks-12 years old 334-821-5100

Joyland Child Development Center

410 Boykin Street, Auburn, 36830 Hours: Monday-Friday; 6:30am-5:30pm Ages: 2 years to 12 years 334-821-7624 joylandcdcinc@yahoo.com www.facebook.com/pg/JOYLANDCHILD DEVELOPMENTCENTER

Lakeview Preschool Adventures

1600 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn, 36830 Hours: Monday-Friday Ages: 1-4 year olds 334-887-7094 www.lakeviewbaptist.org/preschool-ministry/lakeview-preschool-adventures/

Lee Scott Academy- Preschool

1601 Academy Drive, Auburn, 36830 Hours: Monday-Friday Ages: Preschool-Kindergarten 334-821-2430 info@lee-scott.org www.lee-scott.org

Little Explorers of Auburn Preschool

323 Airport Road, Suite F, Auburn, 36830 Hours: Monday-Thursday Ages: 2-4 year olds Contact: Amanda Carmello info@leapauburn.com www.leapauburn.com

Preschool Adventures at Lakeview Baptist Church

1600 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn, 36830 Hours: Monday-Friday Ages: 1-4 years ontact: Holly Hutto 334-321-4905 hhutto@lakeviewbaptist.com www.lakeviewbaptist.org

St. Michael Catholic Preschool

1100 North College Street, Auburn, 36830 Hours: Monday-Friday Ages: Preschool 3-4 years - Kindergarten 334-887-5540 2013smcp@gmail.com www.stmichaelsauburn.com

The Children’s HouseAuburn Montessori

231 East Drake Avenue, Auburn, 36830 Hours: Monday-Friday Ages: School aged students Contact: Charlene Kam 334-209-2513 amstchori@gmail.com www.auburnmontessorischool.org

Opelika

Bonnie’s Kids Childcare Center

2314 Enterprise Drive, Opelika, 36801 Hours: Monday-Friday; 6:00am-5:30pm Ages: 4 weeks to 10 years Contact: Tammie Long 334-745-6248 bonnieskids@aol.com www.bonnieschildcare.com

Bright Beginnings at First Baptist Church Opelika

301 South 8th Street, Opelika, 36801 Hours: Monday-Friday; 8:30am-12:00pm Ages: 11 months (and walking ) to Kindergarten Contact: Sherrie Crowley 334-364-2784 sherriec@fbcopelika.com www.fbcopelika.com

By His Grace Daycare & Learning Center

311 South 6th Street, Opelika, 36801 Hours: Monday-Friday; 5:00am-12:00am Ages: 3 weeks-13 years old 334-750-0309 byhisgracedaycare@charter.net www.byhisgracedaycare.com

Child Care Resource Center

A.C.H.R. Child Development Center-Darden 601 South 4th Street, Opelika, 36801 Hours: Monday-Friday; 6:00am-5:30pm Ages: 3 weeks-12 years old 334-821-8336

Big Blue Marble Academy

555 East Thomason Circle, Opelika, 36801 Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30am-6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks-school age 334-249-1088 www.bbmacademy.com/location/ opelika/

2015 Gateway Drive, Opelika, 36801 334-749-8400 www.ccrc-alabama.org

Childcare Network

702 Second Avenue, Opelika, 36801 Hours: Monday-Friday; 6:00am-6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks to 12 years Contact: Michelle Abernathy 334-341-5042 www.childcarenetwork.net

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Opelika City Schools, Opelika, 36801 Hours: Monday-Friday; afterschool until 5:30pm

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Contact: Scarlett McAllister 334-745-9700 scarlett.mcallister@opelika schools.org

Sonshine Preschool at FUMC Opelika 702 Avenue A, Opelika, 36801 Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 8:45am1pm Ages: Ages 2-4 years Contact: Drew Speakman 334-745-7604 drewspeakman@fumcopelika.org www.fumcopelika.org/pre-school

The Oaks School 2201 Executive Park Drive, Opelika, 36801 Hours: Monday-Thursday Ages: PreK-Kindergarten Contact: PreK and Kindergarten 334-887-9947 www.theoaksschool.org

Trinity United Methodist ChurchChildren’s Day Out- Opelika 800 2nd Avenue, Opelika, 36801 Hours: Monday-Friday; 8:30am-1:30pm Ages: Ages 3 months through Pre-K (Summer—ages 3 months—children entering 3rd grade) 334-745-2632 www.tumcopelika.org/connect/ kids/childrens-day-out/

University Daycare 2900 Waverly Parkway, Opelika, 36801 Hours: Monday-Friday Ages: 6 weeks-12 years Contact: Debbie Holley 334-203-1234 universitydaycarefamily@gmail.com www.udcauburn.com

Other Boys and Girls Club of Greater Lee County 400 B Boykin Street and 1610 Toomer Street, Auburn and Opelika, 36830 and 36801 Hours: Monday-Friday; 2:30-6:30pm. 334-745-2582 clubs@bgcleeco.com www.bgcleeco.org

Care A Lots Child Development Center 1515 Lee Road 298 and 3825 Highway 80 West, Smith Station and Phenix City, 36868 Hours: Monday-Friday; 6:00am-6:30pm Ages: 6 weeks to 12 years 334-297-1041 Smiths@carealots.net www.caralots.net

Miss Deanna’s Childcare 1901 Corporate Drive and 1745 East University Drive, Opelika and Auburn, 36801 and 36830 Hours: Monday-Friday; 6:30am-5:30pm Ages: 6 weeks to 12 years 334-745-7139 and 334-821-0066 www.facebook.com/MissDeannasChildcare Auburn

The Fig Tree Childcare and Learning Center 44 Lee Road 380, Valley, 36854 Hours: Monday-Friday; 6:00am-6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks to 12 years 334-741-9216 gwen@figtreechildcare.com

The Learning Tree Preschool 101 South Dubois Street, Tallassee, 36078 334-415-9372 infotallassee@learning-tree.org www.learning-tree.org AOP

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FamilyCalendar Thursday, April 1

Flashlight Egg Hunt Moore Stadium, Opelika, 7:30 PM. Grades 3rd-5th welcome. Hunt for Easter eggs in the dark. Bring your flashlight and a basket. There will be special prizes and golden eggs. www.opelikasportsplex.com

Friday, April 2

Underwater Egg Hunt Opelika SportsPlex indoor pool. 6:00-8:00 PM. Ages 6-10 welcome. Free for members, $4 for guests. Free swim to follow the hunt. www. opelikasportsplex.com Easter Weekend at Callaway April 2-4. Bunnies, beautiful blooms and lots of Easter fun! From kid-friendly Easter activities to rejuvenating spa treatments, springtime at Callaway offers all kinds of adventure and relaxation. Our Annual Easter Egg Hunt and activities at Robin Lake Beach provide fun for the entire family. Special Easter Sunday Sunrise Service over Robin Lake. www.callawaygardens.com

Saturday, April 3

Opelika Art Walk Join Opelika Main Street at the Opelika Theatre Company for the first-ever Opelika Art Walk, 1:007:00 PM! Hosted at the downtown train depot, this event will feature live music, local art vendors, and an outdoor performance of Godspell by the Opelika Theatre Company. www.opelikamainstreet.org Zoo Weekend Montgomery Zoo. In order to provide a safe and healthy environment for all our guests, Zoo Weekend is going to be held over four Saturdays in April (April 3, 10, 17 and 24). Guests will be LIMITED to 4,000 per Saturday. Each Saturday will provide a slightly different experience. www. montgomeryzoo.com Easter Egg Hunt The 39th Annual Easter Egg Hunt sponsored by Wells Fargo and Auburn Parks and Recreation will be hosted at beautiful Kiesel Park. Four “hunting grounds” are available for the following age groups. Come join us for some great musical entertainment, free sodas and balloons, and a chance to meet and take pictures with the Easter Bunny! The first age group will START at 10:30 a.m. sharp! www.facebook.com/cityofAuburnAl Easter on the Square Downtown Opelika. 10:00 AM. Children ages 2nd grade and under welcome. Easter Egg-tivities, bonnet contest, parade, visits with the Easter Bunny and the largest egg hunt in the area. www.opelikasportsplex.com Big Fish Bass Tournament Rules & Angler registration forms available at the Millbrook Area Chamber of Commerce. $60/ person. No more than three (3) anglers per boat. We will be at Bonner’s at 3:30 AM for those wishing to register the morning of the tournament. If your entry fee is not collected before 6AM, you WILL NOT be eligible to weigh-in. You can launch from any landing on Lake Jordan. Fishing will begin at 6 AM. Weigh-ins begin at 7:00 AM and continue until the last weigh-in at 2:00 PM. Complete list of rules available at the Chamber office. 334.285.0085

Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2021

Dino Dig Education Program The Montgomery Zoo. Our junior explorers get to experience an archaeological dig, discover bones from the past and have a great time while learning about creatures that roamed the earth millions of years ago. Dino Dig is an educational program with hands-on experience and fun. It is geared for boys and girls aged 4-10 years old. Advanced reservation required by April 2. www.montgomeryzoo.com

Thursday, April 8

Family Discovery Hike: Frogs Kreher Preserve and Nature Center. Join us at 3:30 PM for a monthly guided hike through the Kreher forest. Family Discovery Hikes offer excellent opportunities for the entire family to learn about nature and see wildlife up close, while enjoying fresh air and exercise in our beautiful outdoors. Each month offers a different theme. Discovery Hikes are free – donations are welcomed. Rescheduled in the event of rain. www.auburn.preserve.edu

admission charged.) For more information or to register for craft show or car show, contact: Craig Brown (334)756-2868 or Lynn Oliver (334) 219-1890. 8 a.m.-3 p.m. CDT. www.valleyhavenschool.org CSO: Exquisitely English RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, Columbus. The music of England is many things, but it is almost always lyrical and filled with beautiful melodies. If it’s singable “tunes” you want, you will love this music of Elgar, Vaughan Williams, Holst and friends. www.rivercenter.org Zoo Weekend See April 3 for details.

Tuesday, April 13

Family Discovery Hike: Frogs Join Kreher Preserve & Nature Center for monthly guided hikes through the Kreher forest. Family Discovery Hikes offer excellent opportunities for the entire family to learn about nature and see wildlife up close, while enjoying fresh air and exercise in our beautiful outdoors. Discovery Hikes are free – donations are welcomed. Rescheduled in the event of rain. www.facebook.com/aupreserve

Thursday, April 15

Friday, April 9

Tavern Fest 2021 Wet Willie featuring Jimmy Hall headline Tavern Fest 2021, a street party in downtown Montgomery on North Hull Street in Old Alabama Town. Lucas Tavern, the oldest building in Montgomery, is the impetus for this family friendly event. The group is well known for its top ten hit anthem “Keep on Smilin’” and other Top 40 charters such as “Weekend,” and “Street Corner Serenade,” across decades of recorded work. Eufaula Pilgrimage April 9-11. Eufaula hosts Alabama’s oldest tour of homes and has more than 700 structures listed on the National Register. Each spring, the city of Eufaula opens its doors to share this historical wealth. Visitors can take guided tours of homes and sites and also enjoy an art show, concerts, a wax museum and much more. www.eufaulapilgrimage.com

Saturday, April 10

Spring Fling Festival 2021 Warm Springs, Ga. Come enjoy a day of arts & crafts, food, live entertainment, kids’ activities, and our shops and restaurants of Historic Warm Springs! Festival admission free. Pony rides $5 each, petting zoo $3 each. Other activities for children may have a nominal fee. Please Contact Lynsey Tyler Festival Coordinator for application inquiries Email: refreshinglycountry@hotmail.com Science on Saturdays: Tales from the Wildlife Vet 10:00-11:00 AM. The Kreher Preserve and Nature Center welcomes Dr. Adam Cooner to take you on an exciting adventure into the world of wildlife medicine. Learn all about veterinarian work with exotic animals and see live animals up close and in person. This program costs $5 per person. Registration is available on our website or on-site. Cancelled in the event of rain – please watch our Facebook page for updates. Nerf War Opelika SportsPlex. Ages 6-8 years 9:00-10:30 AM and Ages 9-12 years 11:00 AM-12:30 PM. Bring your nerf gun and ammo! www.opelikasportsplex.com LaFayette Day for Valley Haven Arts and crafts, antique cars, children’s games and rides, a motorcycle ride, live family entertainment, a variety of food available and much more. (No

The Legendary Count Basie Orchestra Gogue Performing Arts Center. In its decades touring the world, the Count Basie Orchestra has played for kings, queens and other members of royalty; appeared in movies, television shows, and commercials; won every respected jazz poll in the world at least once; and received 18 Grammy Awards—the most for any orchestra. www.goguecenter.auburn.edu

Friday, April 16

Monkey Park After Dark: Movie Date Night Enjoy a date night at Monkey Park for a movie at 8:30 p.m. Ages 18+ and viewer discretion is advised. This event is free and open to the public, with the movie TBA. Click here for more information. www.opelika-al.gov

Saturday, April 17

Spring Showcase, Opelika Theatre Company The outdoor, Social-distanced, family-friendly showcase event will be held at the Opelika SportsPlex Amphitheatre. www.opelikatheatrecompany.com Auburn Football A-Day 2021 Jordan-Hare Stadium. Plan your spring game festivities accordingly, Auburn fans. This year’s A-Day will be exciting with Auburn’s new head coach Bryan Harsin’s debut. www.facebook.com/footballAU Fort Mitchell Pioneer Day and Quilt Show Festival highlighting our past with many family centered activities, such as an awesome quilt show. Also, there will be demonstrations from blacksmiths, an outdoor cook using cast iron and a wood fire, as well as a split oak basket maker. We have 2 bluegrass bands and a country music band playing on stage along with other performers. There are wagon rides and kids activities as well as tours of the site which also include the Indian Heritage Monument for the Creek Trail of Tears and a beautiful Dog Trot Cabin built in 1840.

www.auburnopelikaparents.com

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FamilyCalendar Spring Old 280 Boogie This year’s spring festival will be held in the yard of the Standard Deluxe. The line up includes: The Band of Heathens, Lillie Mae, The Pine Hill Haints, Lee Bains III & The Glory Fires and more! Tickets from the rescheduled 20th anniversary 280 Boogie are still valid. There will be tons of vendors, artists, and food going to be there. For a list of all the vendors. www.standardeluxe.com Nerf War Zone Opelika SportsPlex. Bring your nerf gear and play! Ages 6-8, 9:00-10:30 AM and Ages 9-12, 11:00 AM12:30 PM. www.opelika-al.gov Crank Down at TigerTown Also April 18. Crank Down in TigerTown will take place in the Chewacla State Park. The course at this park will use a combination of tight and twisty single track and wide dirt roads to test the racer’s fitness and bike handling skills. The seemingly flat course is deceiving as the constant up/down results in 381 feet of elevation gain per HS lap. Spectators bring your noisemakers because as the trail meanders through the woods, there are several opportunities to see the race unfolding from your seats in the infield area. www.alabamamtb.org Food Truck Festival Benefiting the Nicunited Program of the CDH Foundation Supporting the EAMC NICU. This Food Truck Festival will showcase local food trucks and we will welcome AU students and the greater Auburn/ Opelika community to taste, eat, bid on silent auction items, and have fun for the family, at The Jay and Susie Gouge Performing Arts Center! This event will benefit the Level II Nursery and Level III NICU at East Alabama Medical Center through the NICUnited Program of the CDH Foundation. 10:00 AM-4:00 PM. Herb Day 2021 The ‘Herb Day’ festival is a free, fun-filled, public educational event for the entire family. Lectures/ demonstrations will feature experts on identifying, growing and using herbs - including a cooking demonstration. There will be music, children’s activities and the opportunity to find gifts, plants, and crafts at the open air market. A variety of vendors will sell their garden-related wares including a huge selection of herbal and other plants, crafts, herbal teas, goat cheeses and various and sundry yard art. Herb Day is at a new location this year (Grace Presbyterian Church at 5 Bell Rd, Montgomery). www.alabamaherbsociety.org French and Indian War Encampment April 17-18. Fort Toulouse-Fort Jackson Park, Wetumpka. The French & Indian War encampment focuses attention on daily life at a French frontier fort and Creek village in the year 1756. Living history demonstrations of military, Indian, and civilian life take place throughout the day with re-enactors dressed and equipped as they appeared in North America during the middle of the eighteenth century. www.fttoulousejackson.org Zoo Weekend See April 3 for details.

Sunday, April 18

Nature Art Series: Recycled Plastic Bottle Critters Kreher Preserve and Nature Center. This is an Earth Day art project idea of learning how we can “Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle” by creating fun planters from recycling plastic, 2-liter bottles. Local artist Heather Jackson teams up with the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center to bring you this art workshop series for

Saturday, April 24

all ages. 2:00-4:00 PM. Visit our website for more information: aub.ie/natureart. BBQ 101 Class with Butcher Paper BBQ Opelika. Butcher Paper BBQ is hosting a barbeque class with a day’s full worth of activities! Topics covered will include starting fires, fuel and cooker types, meat prep, spice rubs, sauces, wrapping, finishing, and serving. You will also get a first-hand demonstration on how to trim brisket and pork butts and how to break down chickens and trim ribs. www. facebook.com/butcherpaperbbq James Gregory RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, Columbus. For decades, the unforgettable caricature of veteran comedian James Gregory has stood grinning: his shirt untucked, his arms outstretched, a carefree welcome to a down-home, hilarious comedy experience. It’s storytelling at its best. The trademark caricature is the essence of his humor. www.rivercenter.org Zakir Hussain and The Masters of Percussion Gogue Performing Arts Center. Zakir Hussain is appreciated both in the field of percussion and in the music world at large as an international phenomenon and one of the greatest musicians of our time. www.goguecenter.auburn.edu

Wednesday, April 21

Bo Bikes Bama Ride From Home This year the Bo Bikes Bama event will be virtual. For the event, participants will be able to register online and make a donation and will receive a t-shirt, rider number, and bike plate so they can go out and ride wherever they are on April 24th, and post their ride and photos on our social media pages. www.boybikesbama.com 20th Annual Auburn CityFest Kiesel Park, Auburn. Auburn’s largest free outdoor festival. 9:00 AM-4:00 PM. Live music, arts & crafts, and fine arts vendors, children’s activities, food, and more! CityFest is FREE to the public and is a rain or shine event. www.auburncityfest.com USTA Spring Junior Classic Also April 25. Yarbrough Tennis Center. USTA is hosting the Auburn Spring Junior Classic at the Yarbrough Tennis Center. The tournament is for level 6’s and registration is available for boys and girls 12 and under and boys and girls 18 and under. 334.501.2921

Homeschool Science Day Series at Callaway Gardens April 2122. Dig In! Vegetable Gardening Callaway Discovery Center Classrooms. 2:00-3:30 PM EST. We will talk about how to grow veggies and herbs in your own back yard. Students will have the opportunity to plant vegetables at the Pioneer Log Cabin and get to take their own veggie plant home. www.callawaygardens.com

CSO: Musique Francais RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, Columbus. We welcome CSO members Boris Abramov and Sarah Park Chastain in a performance of Mozart’s elegant and effervescent Sinfonia Concertanted for violin and viola. The Mozart is framed with two great French masterpieces. www.rivercenter.org

Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis The Gogue Performing Arts Center welcomes Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis to the stage. Wynton Marsalis leads 15 of the finest jazz soloists and ensemble players today as they perform a vast repertoire ranging from original compositions to masterworks by Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Fletcher Henderson, Thelonious Monk, Mary Lou Williams, Dizzy Gillespie, Benny Goodman, Charles Mingus, and many others. www.goguecenter.auburn.edu

Young Eagles Day: FREE Flights For Kids See March 27.

Thursday, April 22

Auburn CityFest Juried Art Show & Preview Reception 5:00-5:30 PM in the Nunn-Winston House at Kiesel Park. This is a great time to preview the art before the CityFest that takes place on April 24. www.auburncityfest.com

Friday, April 23

Tulotoma Art Trail Also April 24. Wetumpka’s historic downtown will transform into the area’s liveliest art show and this is your chance to be a part of it. Come join the fun, 10 AM to 5 PM, to experience the art and the music at the Tulotoma Art Trail. www.thekelly.org

Weogufka Mule Day Sylacauga. We will have plowing demonstrations, Mule and Wagon rides, Log snaking, 3 Big Stages of Music, Hobby train display, Dancers, Food, and Vendors with arts and Crafts. RV campers welcome. 256-249-8885. Event held annually on last Saturday in April.

Zoo Weekend See April 3 for details.

Sunday, April 25

GEICO 500 Nascar Cup Series Talladega Superspeedway is NASCAR’s Most Competitive Track, most banked, and longest, as well as the most fun and fan-friendly, offering up hundreds of acres of free camping, amazing kids ticket prices (get in for FREE on Friday and Saturday’s activities) and special offers for military members, teachers and educators, as well as college students.

Thursday, April 29

“Air Play” by Acrobuffos The Gogue Performing Arts Center welcomes “Air Play” by Acrobuffos to the stage. Since 2005, Acrobuffos have been redefining traditional circus performance to the delight of all ages. Their latest production, “Air Play,” is a comedic physical theater adventure of two siblings journeying through a surreal world, turning everyday objects like fabrics, balloons and confetti into scenes of uncommon beauty and wonder. www.goguecenter.auburn.edu

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FamilyCalendar Saturday, May 1

Valley Haven Hike/Bike/Run A day of events including a 1 or 5 mile hike, a 10, and 20 mile bike ride, and a one mile, 5K or 10.5K run. Participants in the events pay a small registration fee or can just get pledges. Prizes and t-shirts to participants. Food and children’s activities available. For more information, call Tony Edmondson @ Valley Haven School, Valley, AL 334756-7801. The Flimp Festival Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. An annual celebration of imagination, creativity, and good humor. As usual, there will be fun for all ages in the many activities of Flimp! The Flimp Festival is held annually on the first Saturday in May. www.mmfa.org George Washington Carver Commemorative Festival Downtown on the Square. Annual community cosponsored event commemorating the life and work of Dr. George Washington Carver with music, arts, crafts and other multigenerational activities. 10 a.m.6 p.m. Visit website for event schedule. www.carverfestival.org. 334-727-7798 Nature Art Series: Mandula Sun Catchers Students will create beautiful suncatchers with mandala-inspired designs. Local artist Heather Jackson teams up with the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center to bring you this art workshop series for all ages. Each workshop has a nature theme and will explore beautiful and interesting art techniques. Visit our website for more information: aub.ie/natureart.

Planes, Trains and Things that Go Zoom Also May 8. Springer Opera House Outdoor Theater, Columbus. Join the friendly fleet of trucks, planes and trains at Transportation Station to help get their cargo to Birthday Town before the big party. When Junior, a speedy cargo truck, moves into fleet, he wants to rush every load to its destination by himself, disrupting deliveries and frustrating everyone. Can Junior learn how to work with a team? Will he discover that he has to stop before he goes? And will Birthday Town’s big party have everything it needs? Rev your engines and honk your horns for this interactive play about teamwork and things that go. www.springeroperahouse.org Derby Day Russell Crossroads, Alexander City. We’ll have some food and drink, watch the “Run For The Roses” and have a great time. The event is free, but you may want to bring some cash. We do raise a little money for Children’s Harbor. For details, call 256-397-1019. 13th Annual Storybook Farm Kentucky Derby Join Storybook Farm for our 13th annual Kentucky Derby Party! Derby Day is the most festive day of the year to show your support for Storybook Farm. Don your festive hats, bow ties and colorful clothing all while raising money to provide Hope on Horseback. Guests can participate in an auction, enjoy food and drinks and have the opportunity to explore our farm. Not only will Storybook Farm stream the 147th running of the Kentucky Derby from Churchill Downs but college football as well. For more information or to purchase tickets, www.hopeonhorseback.org/derby 15th Annual Garden in the Park Keep Opelika Beautiful hosts 15th annual Garden in the Park at Opelika Municipal Park. This free event features all handmade or homegrown art. Festival attendees will have the opportunity to shop the work of 60-plus artists and makes who work with an array of mediums from jewelry, fiber, glass, and ceramics. There will also be garden items such as plants, pots,

Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2021

and birdhouses. Safety precautions due to COVID-19 will include enforcing mask mandate for attendees. www.keepopelikabeautiful.com/gardeninthepark

Tuesday, May 4

Auburn Firefighters Association: William Buechner Memorial Golf Tournament The Auburn Firefighters Association will host the third annual William Buechner Memorial Golf Tournament at Auburn University Club. Sponsorship opportunities are available as well as team registration. All money raised will be used for a scholarship fund for public safety families in Lee County. auburnfirefightersassociation@gmail.com

Thursday, May 6

Spring Sundown Concert Series Join Auburn Parks and Recreation for an evening of music and fun at beautiful Keisel Park, 5:30-7:30 PM. Bring your lawn chair, blanket, kick back, and enjoy the music. Food concessions will be on-site for purchase along with FREE inflatables. This event is free to the public. www.auburnalabama.org/parks S’more Fun with Mom at Kreher Also May 7. Join us for S’more Fun with Mom, Lee County’s mother/son adventure, co-hosted by the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, and the City of Auburn. For boys aged 4 to 12 and their moms, this fun evening will include a night hike, cookout, storytelling, and of course s’mores! Our mother/ son duos may visit a craft station to create their own keepsake art project, and a photographer will be available for photos. S’more Fun with Mom will be offered two evenings: Thursday and Friday, May 6 and 7 from 6:00 – 8:30 p.m. The cost is $30 per mother/son duo ($10 each for any additional children). Registration is available on our website or on-site. www.facebook.com/aupreserve

Friday, May 7

Dover Quarter and Bridget Kibbey The Gogue Performing Arts Center welcomes Dover Quartet and Bridget Kibbey to the stage. Cherished harpist Bridget Kibbey and the world-renowned Dover Quartet unite for the first time in a celebration of Johann Sebastian Bach. Kibbey is an acclaimed soloist and chamber musician who has toured with Dawn Upshaw and Placido Domingo. The Dover Quartet is one of the most in-demand ensembles in the world, performing more than 100 engagements each year. Together, they will inspire audiences with a rousing selection of some of Bach’s greatest works. www.goguecenter.auburn.edu

Saturday, May 8

Opelika Main Street on Tap Downtown Opelika. There will be different breweries available to try. www.opelikamainstreet.org Mother Daughter Tea Party Opelika SportsPlex. 10:00 AM-12:00 PM. Wear your Sunday best for tea, snacks, arts & crafts and photo booths. $10 per daughter. Please register at the Opelika SportsPlex by May 5. www.opelika-al.gov

Tuesday, May 11

Family Discovery Hike: Bats Join Kreher Preserve & Nature Center for monthly guided hikes through the Kreher forest. Family Discovery Hikes offer excellent opportunities for the entire family to learn about nature and see wildlife

up close, while enjoying fresh air and exercise in our beautiful outdoors. Discovery Hikes are free – donations are welcomed. Rescheduled in the event of rain. www.facebook.com/aupreserve

Saturday, May 15

Tallapoosa River Fest Join us for a one day canoe/kayak float down beautiful Tallapoosa River in Dadeville. Trip registration fee includes equipment shuttle to put in and take out locations, paddler shuttle to put in and take out locations, cookout, and participant T-shirt... along with some give-a-ways. For ages 12 years old and up. Please, no novice paddlers for this event. You will need your own canoe or kayak for this trip. www.tallapoosacountytourism.com Garden Tour presented by Lee County Master Gardeners Also May 16. Biennially, Lee County Master Gardeners select private gardens offering a garden tour that showcases a variety of garden landscapes, utilizing trees, shrubs, perennials annual flowers and vegetables. Large, grandiose gardens along with smaller charming gardens are featured. This is a self guided tour. www.leemg.org

Sunday, May 16

Russell Marine In-Water Boat Show Also May 17. Lake Martin.This event has been tentatively rescheduled for May 16 and 17. The Southeast’s largest inland, in-water boat show at the Ridge Marina on beautiful Lake Martin. Over 150 boats on display, come out and take a demo ride in your next boat. 9 AM until 5 PM. www.RussellMarine.net

Wednesday, May 19

Celebration of the Arts Awards The upcoming “Celebration of the Arts Awards” will be held at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival. The event is much like the Kennedy Center Honors where selected performances pay tribute to each awardee. Tickets are FREE, but they must be reserved by calling 334-242-5147.

Thursday, May 20

Spring Sundown Concert Series 5:30-7:30 PM. Join Auburn Parks and Recreation for an evening of music and fun at beautiful Keisel Park. Bring your lawn chair, blanket, kick back, and enjoy the music. Food concessions will be on-site for purchase along with FREE inflatables. This event is free to the public.

Saturday, May 22

CSO: Appalachian Spring & Wendy Warner RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, Columbus. Cellist Wendy Warner returns to the stage to play Tchaikovsky’s Rococo Variations as only she magnetically can. The orchestra offers the ever popular Appalachian Spring by Aaron Copeland and Haydn’s final symphony. www.rivercenter.org 6th Annual Cornhole Tournament The Lake Martin Dadeville Area Chamber is hosting this fun event for any skill level player. The first Tournament is a “Blind Draw” with players of any skill level, double elimination for a chance to win one of 3

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FamilyCalendar cash prizes. Guaranteed $1,000 in prize money. The second tournament is a “bring your own partner” for a chance to win the pot. The first 40 players signed up receive a commemorative tournament t-shirt. chamber@dadeville.com

Friday, May 28

Nautique Masters Water Ski and Wakeboard Tournament Also May 29 and 30. Kickoff Summer with a splash at our 61st Annual Nautique Masters Water Ski & Wake-board Tournament! Celebrate all weekend with beach activities, great food and drink specials, water recreation rentals and so much more! www.callawaygardens.com RXR Fest (Also May 29) Beginning on Friday you are invited to bring your cooler, your lawn chair, your pet (On A LEASH PLEASE) your friends, family, or come alone and make new friends to Russell Crossroads for the RXR Fest. It’s FREE and you’ll hear great music from local musicians, regional musicians and some national acts may happen along too! It’s a lot of fun and did we mention that it is FREE!! Join us on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads, you don’t want to miss out!! www.russellcrossroads.com

Saturday, May 29

City Market City Market is back for the summer season. Auburn Parks and Recreation invites the community, growers and consumers alike, to join us Saturdays from May to August. City Market will be held at Town Creek Park on select Saturdays May through August from 8-11 a.m. The market will host local farmers, growers, and artists to sell their produce and products. www.auburnalabama.org/citymarket

Library Events

Lego Club First Friday of each month from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. for kids ages five and up at Auburn Public Library. We will provide the space and the LEGOs. Kids just need to come with their ideas and imaginations. Space is limited so the program will be run on a first come, first served basis. There will be small pieces that present a choking hazard. This program is not suitable for very young children. We offer a separate play space with LEGO Duplo blocks for children under five. Donations of LEGOs are greatly appreciated. Crazy 8’s Math Club (K-2nd grade) Wednesdays, 3:30-4:30. Join us and you’ll build stuff, run and jump, make music, and make a mess… it’s a totally new kind of math club! Space is limited to 16 participants per age group. Please register by emailing libraryevents@ auburnalabama.org. Crazy 8’s Math Club (3rd – 5th grade) Mondays, 3:30-4:30. Join us and you’ll build stuff, run and jump, make music, and make a mess… it’s a totally new kind of math club! Space is limited to 16 participants per age group. Please register by emailing libraryevents@ auburnalabama.org. Kids Writing Workshops with Authors (3rd-5th grade). Tuesdays, 3:30 – 4:30. Has your child ever wondered how his or her favorite authors come with the stories they tell? This fall three authors will share their writing tips with elementaryage children. Children and their favorite grown-up can join us to learn how to create a compelling character or add a plot twist to your own stories in a special writing class for kids. libraryevents@ auburnalabama.org.

Saturday STEM Storytime Saturdays, 10-11 AM, Auburn Public Library. Preschoolers - 2nd grade children (ages 4-7) and their caregivers are invited to join us for a storytime on Saturday mornings that is all about STEM. STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math This storytime will focus on these concepts in a fun, interactive, story-driven format Please note: Some activities may involve messy fun! (334) 501-3296. Library Puppet Troupe Dates: 3/6, 4/3, 5/1. All ages welcome. 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Join the Auburn Public Library Puppet Troupe for shows full of laughs, wonder and puppets sure to delight children of all ages! Each show will feature two performances for your entertainment. libraryevents@auburnalabama.org KIDS! Virtual Story Time with Miss Jenn Join our friend Miss Jenn, Mondays at 10:00 AM for an online story time on Facebook Live (Auburn Public Library Advocates). KIDS! Preschool Virtual Story Time Auburn Public Library. Wednesdays on Facebook (Auburn Public Library Advocates) at 10:00 AM. Kids Bedtime Tales Join us on Thursdays at 7:00 PM on our Facebook Page (Auburn Public Library Advocates) for Bedtime Tales! Each week we will read 2 or 3 short bedtime stories for you to enjoy with your family. Grab your teddy and have Sweet Dreams! KIDS! Maine Student Book Award Chat Fridays 3:00 PM. Join Miss Deb as she chats about two great books from the 2020-2021 Maine Student Book Award list. The Maine Student Book Award is for kids in grades 4 - 8. Read three of the titles on the list and you can vote for your favorite to win the Maine Student Book Award in April. Please call 207-333-6640, x3 or email us at request@ auburnpubliclibrar.org to order books for curbside pickup.

Performances

March 19-April 23: Singin’ in the Rain Springer Theatre, Columbus. Based on the glossy, glamorous movie starring Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds, and Donald O’Connor, this extravagant theatre sensation includes onstage rainstorm, dazzling costumes, jaw-dropping dance numbers and a string of Hollywood’s most loved musical numbersGood Morning, Make ‘em Laugh, All I Do is Dream of You, Moses Supposes and of course Singin’ in the Rain. www.springeroperahouse.org April 10-11 17-18: Click, Clack, Moo Springer Opera House Outdoor Theatre, Columbus. Cows that type? Hens on strike! Whoever heard of such a thing! The barn is too cold and the cows request electric blankets. When Farmer Brown says no, the cows and chickens go on strike! Will Farmer Brown give in to the animals’ demands? Who will help them find a solution? Find out in a hilariously moving musical about negotiation and compromise, based on the Caldecott Honor Book by Doreen Cronin and Betsy Lewin. www.springeroperahouse.org

Sports

Auburn University Tennis April 1, 3 Auburn University Softball April 2, 3, 4, 16, 17, 18, 30. May 1, 2 Auburn University Soccer April 3

Auburn University Baseball March 26, 27, 28. April 6, 9, 10, 11, 20, 23, 24, 25. May 4, 7, 8, 9 www.auburntigers.com

Ongoing

March-April 16: Auburn Floral Trail The Alabama Floral Trail is open for viewing from March 8 to April 16, 2021. The Auburn Floral Trail is broken into a 10.5-mile south trail and a 3.5-mile north trail with two optional sections. Wayfinding signs are posted along the north and south trails to help visitors, cyclists and pedestrians navigate. The trail features common springtime flowers such as azaleas and blooming trees such as pear, cherry, and plum trees. To find out more about the trail or get a brochure with the trail map visit City Hall or AuburnOpelika Tourism’s office. www.auburnalabama.org/ environmental-services/auburn-floral-trail. April 6-17: 2021 Magic of Marble Festival Sylacauga. The twelve-day event will showcase Sylacauga’s beautiful white marble and feature sculptors in action at the city’s Blue Bell Park. The visiting Italian master sculptor will teach on site and will conduct a symposium for visiting sculptors at the Comer Library. Exciting activities such as the “Marble Mania” Scavenger Hunt and the Nemak 5-K run add to the fun of the Festival. Tours will be offered to the marble quarries that manufacture calcium carbonate as well as those that lift dimensional stone. Festival activities are free and open to the public. www.bbcomerlibrary.net April-May 31: Spring Flower Fest at Callaway Discover the All New Spring FlowerFest! This Spring garden guests will be able to see our brand new one-of-a-kind larger than life peacock topiary and floral mosaic display, spanning across more than 30 different scenes and extending roughly 8,000 square feet. Each Spring, Callaway Gardens explodes with one of the world’s largest displays of native and cultivated azaleas – more than 20,000 of them! – plus fresh blooms of Dogwoods, Crabapples, Daffodils, Tulips, and more. www.callawaygardens.com Nature Walk Join our guides for a peaceful morning walk as you take in the many sights and sounds of the Preserve. Nature Walks offer excellent opportunities to socialize and learn, while enjoying fresh air and exercise in our beautiful outdoors. Nature Walks are for adults only and offered the second Thursday of each month from 8:30 – 9:30 AM. Pre-registration is not required. Each month features a new seasonal theme. Groups meet at the pavilion. AUsome Amphibians & Reptiles Kreher Preserver & Nature Center. Join the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center educators for a one-hour presentation on the AUsome amphibians and reptiles found in our state and beyond. Children and adults will enjoy this entertaining hands-on program with live animals. Admission is $5/person. Children 3 and under are free. Pre-registration is not required. Proceeds benefit the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center. Mar. 8-April 16: 22nd Annual Juried Art Exhibition Jan Dempsey Community Art Center. A competitive exhibition open to artists and craftspersons in Southeastern Alabama.

Because of ever-changing circumstances due to Covid-19, please check with each venue prior to attending the event to verify the information provided is still accurate and up to date.

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Raising Them to Be Great Adults Q. Why do you seem to put so much emphasis on teaching young children about money? Isn’t there time for that later when they’re older?

A. I firmly believe that one of the best ways you can make sure your kids are ready to face adulthood when the time comes is to teach them how to handle money at an early age. The reason? Learning about money, and how to manage it in a wise, mature fashion, is about a lot more than just dollars and cents. There’s a quote from author Andy Andrews I really love. He says, “The goal is not to raise great kids. It’s to raise kids who become great adults.” If you think about it, there’s a subtle but powerful distinction here. Kids might behave well out of a

Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2021

sense of obedience or even fear, but that doesn’t mean they’ll do what’s best for them once they’re on their own. To raise kids who later become great adults, you have to begin instilling good character traits in them at an early age. Work equals money. When you teach kids to work, you’re teaching them responsibility. Whether it’s chores around the house or a job at the mall, work involves accountability and following through on tasks. Work shows kids they are in control of their actions, and that they will reap the rewards or consequences of those actions. Teaching kids to save teaches them patience. Today’s world is one of instant gratification, and saving money makes you slow down and think. It also shows kids

they can’t have every little thing they want the moment they want it. When you teach kids to give, you’re teaching them generosity. A willingness and desire to give doesn’t always come natural to us when we’re young. Parents should encourage and model the act of giving, because generosity is a wonderful character trait and a powerful weapon in the fight against selfishness and greed. Finally, teaching kids to spend responsibly is a great way to teach wisdom. All kids totally get the idea that spending money is fun. That’s a no brainer. But when you get involved in teaching spending as something that should be thought through and done with care and reason, you’re imparting the idea of using good judgment and thoughtfulness before taking action.

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LET'S BE SMART Let's Properly Dispose Those Prescription Drugs!

EAMHC - Prevention Promotes 20th Prescription Drug Take Back Event By: Emi Brooks

The stress and isolation of COVID-19 pandemic have presented enormous challenges for many individuals, particularly the ones with substance use disorder. Although substance abuse has been a major part of history in our country, it is evident that COVID-19 pandemic made it even worse. According to CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) website, drug overdose, or preventable drug-related deaths, increased during the pandemic, with 83,544 Americans overdosing during the 12-month period ending July 1, 2020. By far, this is the most recorded in a 12-month period. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) announces its 20th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on April 24, 2021–10AM to 2PM. The National Prescription Drug Take Back Day aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medication, (National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_disposal/takeback/). This national event is coordinated by DEA twice a year – usually on a Saturday of April and October. It is very well supported by law enforcement agencies all over U.S. Family Children's Services

2300 Center Hills Dr, Bldg 2 Opelika, Al 36801 www.eamhc.org (334) 742-2112

OCTOBER 2020 NAT'L DRUG TAKE BACK DAY TOTAL COLLECTION SITES - 4,587

TOTAL LAW ENFORCEMENT PARTICIPATION - 4,153

TOTAL WEIGHT COLLECTED

985,392 LBS (492.7 TONS) (7,411 LBS - ALABAMA)

DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) provides Authorized Collectors whole year round. Visit the website provided below. Information such as zip code or city, state and radius are needed to locate the site nearest you. https://apps2.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/pubdispsearch/spring/ main?execution=e1s1

East Alabama Mental Health Center Prevention Services www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

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• It’s safe, simple, and free of charge. • It could keep you from getting COVID-19. If you still get COVID-19, it could keep you from becoming seriously ill. • It will help you do your part to slow the spread of COVID-19 and protect the health of your family, your friends and your community. • It’s an mRNA vaccine. These types of vaccines have been studied for more than two decades to evaluate their safety and effectiveness. • It’s the first step toward life returning to normal.

alabamapublichealth.gov/covid19 1