Mobile Bay Parents

Transforming Pediatric Care

We know children aren’t tiny adults. They need specialized care. With every patient, we work to normalize the hospital experience through the Mapp Child & Family Life Program. This includes visits with Ginny, a trained pet therapy volunteer who meets little ones at the bedside. Our Class Act program features full-time certified teachers who ensure students don’t fall behind in their studies. Designed with children in mind, these programs are another way we are transforming pediatric care in Mobile and the Alabama Gulf Coast.

1700 Center Street, Mobile, AL 36604 l USAHealthSystem.com

September2019

Columns

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Volume 9 Number 6

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Publisher’s Note 4

Therapeutic Parenting Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP

Common Sense Media Discover 12 of the best kidfriendly podcasts available.

Success Strategies for Struggling Students 5 expert tips from educators.

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Kids Health Watch

sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

30 Parenting, Media & Everything in Between Common Sense Media

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Dave Says Dave Ramsey

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Parenting Today’s Teens Mark Gregston

Play Dates with Special Needs Kids

Special Needs Guide

Advice for a smooth, fun day!

Local and national resources assist in caring for your child.

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A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith

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Get This!

Gerry Paige Smith

On The Cover Violet Taylor (8), daughter of Amber and Scott Taylor. Her siblings are Dakota Barclay (15) and Mikayla Harlan (11).

Grandparents are Kim Durham, Randy Whitehead, and Debora and Ricky Taylor.

Violet loves yoga, ballet, and hip hop that she takes through Dance Without Limits. She enjoys shopping, singing, watching makeup tutorials on YouTube and gaming. Violet is also an accomplished painter!

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Departments 6

Bits and Pieces 12

School Bits 52

Family Calendar 60

Movie Reviews www.facebook.com/mobilebayparentsmagazine

FromthePublisher

Mobile Bay Mobile Bay’s Foremost Parenting Source

Do you remember the Army commercial that said, “We do more before 9am than most people do all day”?

That is exactly what I feel about some of the amazing families I have met with special needs children. We all know the stresses and challenges of everyday parenting, but imagine adding in extra doctor’s appointments, special dietary restrictions, therapies, possible physical challenges and more. I truly don’t know how they do it.

They deserve recognition and support. This is why every year we dedicate the month of September to these outstanding families in our annual Special Needs Issue. We started this in an effort to recognize these exceptional families, collaborate and share resources, and to educate others on what children with special needs and their families want you to know. I have learned so much from putting together the September issues and cannot express what a pleasure and inspiration meeting the various families has been for me. So, to all of these families, thank you for enriching my life!

One thing I have heard multiple times from parents with different needs is that it is very difficult to find helpful resources. They don’t have time to sit and Google resources, and some are difficult to find even by doing an internet search. This is why each September we include a Special Needs Resource Guide to help families find activities, therapies, support groups and other services. The guide is a collaboration of information from various families who tell us about resources, along with research done by our team. If you know of a resource that is not included in our guide, please let us know. We could not put this together without the community’s help.

DeAnne always does a nice job finding articles that fit our theme and will appeal to our readers, and this month is no exception. For starters, Success Strategies for Struggling Students, by Sandra Gordon, not only targets readers whose children may be having a difficult time in school, but provides strategies that can be used by any student to increase their chances of academic success. We’ve also included Tips for Playdates with Special Needs Kids, by Sarah Lyons. I personally found this article to have some insightful information on what both the host and the guest of a play date can do to help it run smoothly and be enjoyable for everyone. We had a swim party one year and invited a sweet young lady who had some physical challenges. I wanted to make sure she was comfortable and had a nice time, so I decided to just ask her mom what I could do to make the party enjoyable for her daughter. I admit I was a little nervous, but the mom was actually very happy I asked and we all had a wonderful time!

Speaking of wonderful times, I am excited to announce our 3rd Annual Special Needs Expo! This year’s event will be held on Sunday, October 6, from 2pm – 5pm at GulfQuest Maritime Museum. We are thrilled with the new location and the opportunity to connect providers of special needs products and services to special needs families. Attendees will receive free admission to GulfQuest and will have the opportunity to visit with some great local special needs resources. There will even be a kids’ area that will include face painting, balloon animals, and live creatures to meet courtesy of Animal Tales. We hope to see you there!

Wishing everyone a joy-filled and special September!

Mobile Bay Parents Magazine is founded on the principle that parenting is an exciting, diverse, challenging, and significant role in our community.

Mobile Bay Parents Magazine is a community advocate for families and the parenting process.

Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@mobilebayparents.com Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@mobilebayparents.com Associate Editor Kelly Watson Research Editor Lucy Green Contributing Writers Jennifer Adair, M.D. Sandra Gordon Mark Gregston Sarah Lyons Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP Dave Ramsey Gerry Paige Smith

Cover Photography Hannah Stinson www.hannahstinsonphotography.com

President Jason Watson Advertising Sales Lynn Knighton ads@mobilebayparents.com (251) 304-1200 Account Manager Eleanor Williams Ad Design Tim Welch

Visit us at www.mobilebayparents.com

Lynn

Mobile Bay Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: P.O. Box 81105, Mobile, Alabama, 36689. The phone number for voice and fax is (251) 304-1200.

Mobile Bay Parents is copyrighted 2018 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

Opinions expressed in Mobile Bay 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.

lynn@mobilebayparents.com

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TherapeuticParenting

by Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP

Driving on the Parenting Freeway I spend an inordinate amount of time driving up and down freeways eating a ridiculous amount of Chick Fil A waffle fries.

And it is in those long stretches of twisting roads and big city interchanges that it has occurred to me that the very act of driving is so incredibly reminiscent of parenting.

Despite how prepared we think we are: Seatbelt - check, Oil change - check, GPS set to destination - check, we still tend to approach driving with the mindset that there could be some interruptions to our proposed journey and we easily account for that. We build some time into our driving schedule to refuel, we budget time for construction or closed roads, and we innately do that because we fully realize that despite our level of preparedness, driving, like parenting, requires an immense amount of flexibility.

We may have our preferred course set before us, but the road is fraught with unknowns. We very well may have to recalculate and take a side road that we hadn’t

Mobile Bay Parents I September 2019

intended, or we may have to pull over for the night and reset because we are just too exhausted to continue on.

This process is never more evident than when you are driving in the right lane and a car comes off the ramp and needs to merge. We all automatically make adjustments for that change in traffic flow. You may speed up, slow down, or you may move over to allow them space to settle in and adjust.

When a change comes, when a hard day happens, it is just necessary to sometimes move over and give your kid some space. Or, depending on the circumstance, it may be time to speed up and lean in to connecting with your child, or maybe you need to just slow down and breathe. But so often what we tend to do is just keep barreling down the freeway at 80mph because – hello – THIS IS MY LANE and everybody else just needs to work around us. Fair enough, and sometimes we need our children to just follow our lead and be in alignment with what we require from them, but I think there are certainly more times than not when we can do that

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in a spirit of collaboration with our children.

Our children are so often only able to move at their own speed or only able to make so many adjustments in one day before they are empty and need to refuel.

Just as we are aware of our car’s level of functioning, we need to be equally mindful about evaluating where our kids are emotionally, physically, psychologically and socially. Do they need to take a rest for the night before we tackle that big issue? Do we need to step aside and let that teenager have a bit of space to process some of those feelings? Do we need to schedule a special ice cream date because our child’s love tank is running low? Overall, just being mindful of the fluid nature of relationships and navigating them with a sense of connection and love will almost certainly help you arrive at your destination effectively… and happily full of waffle fries.

Sonia is a licensed social worker and holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work. Her clinical focus is on helping parents and professionals understand the role of the brain in behavior and how to adopt therapeutic parenting techniques to mitigate negative behaviors. She is the Director of Central Alabama for Lifeline Children’s Services and is a mother to 7 sons, 3 of which were internationally adopted and she is a foster parent.

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12th Annual GO Run 5k and 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk

Third Annual Rubber Ducky Regatta

The 12th Annual GO Run 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk presented by the Catranis Family Charitable Foundation will be held Saturday, Sept. 28 at the University of South Alabama Mitchell Center Lawn / Moulton Tower & Alumni Plaza. All GO Run proceeds will benefit the amazing gynecologic cancer research taking place at the USA Mitchell Cancer Institute. Please visit www.usahealthsystem. com/events/go-run for more information.

Quack, quack, the ducks are back!

Rubber Ducky Regatta will make a splash on October 5 by dropping 10,000 rubber ducks into the Mobile River at Cooper Riverside Park. The "adopted" ducks will race to the finish line where the lucky ducky's adopter can win a cruise for two on the Carnival Fantasy!

Along with other great prizes from local favorites, the event will include sweet treats, kids' activities, and the race itself! You do not need to be present to win.

All proceeds will benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile, a home away from home for families with seriously ill and injured children being treated at area hospitals. The event kicks off at 10 AM on Saturday, October 5, and the race will begin at 11 AM. For more information or to adopt your ducks visit rubberduckyregatta.com/#Tickets

Mobile Arts Council’s 8th Annual Throwdown

In its 8th year, The Throwdown is the Mobile Arts Council’s (MAC’s) largest fundraiser of the year, consisting of a live art competition between five of Mobile’s finest local artists, an allinclusive silent auction, live music by Rogerwood featuring Roger Fritz, cold spirits, and catering by Heroes and The Royal Scam, with desserts by The Simple Greek.

This year Anna-Marie Babington, Mary Elizabeth Kimbrough, Brandin Stallworth, Patrick Tucker, and Ginger Woechan will have 90 minutes to create an original piece of art. At the end of the evening, these one-of-a-kind works will be auctioned off, and the artist with the highest bid will take home the title of 2019 Throwdown champion.

This year’s event will take place on Friday, September 20, from 6 until 9 PM at the USS Alabama’s Medal of Honor Aircraft Pavilion. Tickets are $30 in advance and $35 the day of and can be purchased at www.mobilearts.org.

Alabama Coastal Cleanup

Team up to get the Trash Out of the Splash at the 32nd Annual Alabama Coastal Cleanup. Show your support and concern for Alabama’s coastal waterways and beaches on Saturday, September 21, 2019 from 8 AM – 12 PM. Over 87,000 volunteers have assisted in this event since Alabama joined the International Coastal Cleanup in 1987. We are grateful to the many helping hands and hearts who have pitched in to benefit our priceless natural resources. Please visit alabamacoastalcleanup.com for more information.

3rd Annual Special Needs Expo

Mobile Bay Parents and Eastern Shore Parents will host their 3rd Annual Special Needs Expo, on Sunday, October 6 from 2 PM - 5 PM at GulfQuest Maritime Museum. Admission is FREE and attendees will have the opportunity to visit with exhibitors and learn about products, support groups, recreational activities, healthcare, therapy and other services for children and adults with special needs. This is a family-friendly event that will include face painting, balloon animals, live creatures from Animal Tales and more! Guests will also have an opportunity to tour GulfQuest and enjoy the hands-on activities and exhibits. A big thank you to our sponsors: Thomas Hospital/Infirmary Health, High Hopes 4 Autism, NBC 15, Palmers Toyota and Publications Press. For more information or to become an exhibitor please call 251-304-1200 or email lynn@mobilebayparents.com.

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Doing The Most Good Luncheon

Doing The Most Good Annual Luncheon will be held at the Renaissance Mobile Riverview Plaza with Guest Speaker Terry Bradshaw on September 25, where doors open at 11:30 AM and program begins at noon.

This luncheon is to raise funds and awareness to help the less fortunate and disadvantaged throughout southern Alabama.

With your help, The Salvation Army will be able to share it has helped impact lives throughout our various programs and services in order to encourage others to continue to support the programs that The Salvation Army offers. For more information, please visit sacoastal.org.

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun Returns for 13th Year

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun is an unforgettable evening of styling, makeovers, shopping and more! The 13th Annual Girls Just Wanna Have Fun fundraiser will return on Thursday, September 12 from 5:30 – 9:00 PM at Government Plaza to benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile, the Gulf Coast’s ‘home-away-from-home’ for families of seriously ill or injured children. This not-to-bemissed event is an evening for ladies 21 years of age and older, complete with heavy hors d’oeuvres from local chefs and restaurants including Bonefish Grill, Haint Blue Brewing Company, Half Shell Oyster House, Cheese Cottage and many more.

Tickets are available for $50 in advance or $60 at the door. Attendees also have the opportunity to purchase additional “Purse-Onality” tickets at $25, $50 or $100, which includes a stylish purse with a surprise gift inside!

For more information about Girls Just Wanna Have Fun, visit rmhcmobile.org/girls.

American Cancer Society plans Vintage Affair Gala

The American Cancer Society (ACS) will host the 25th Annual Vintage Affair Gala, presented by Lexus of Mobile, on Sunday, September 29 at Cotton Hall from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Enjoy the upscale wine tasting and auction featuring exquisite cuisine by Clifton Morrissette, the exciting sounds of Cooper Trent and the Court of Trent. Sure to thrill are the live and silent auctions which include fabulous trips, local art, and a featured painting by artist Margi McCall. Tickets for the event are $150 and can be purchased online at www.vintageaffairmobile.org or by calling 251.344.9858. For more information, follow us on social media @acsvintageaffair.

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Original Oyster House Free Lunch for First Responders

The Original Oyster House restaurants will honor Mobile and Baldwin County law enforcement, firefighters, paramedics and sheriff officers by offering a free “Never Forget” Lunch at either the Gulf Shores or Mobile Causeway location on Wednesday Sept. 11 from 11 AM to 4 PM. The 12th Annual Never Forget Lunch was established by the Original Oyster House restaurants in honor of the 9/11 First Responders who risked their lives to save, protect and serve and in recognition of all first responders for their service.

“Let us never forget the brave men and women that went above and beyond that tragic day in history. Please join us on Sept. 11th anytime between 11 AM to 4 PM. Just show your ID or better yet wear your uniform so we may recognize you with a handshake,” stated David Dekle, co-founder of the Original Oyster House restaurants.

In memory of 9/11, LifeSouth Community Blood Centers will also be on hand at the Mobile Causeway location for blood donations. All blood donations collected will be distributed to local hospitals. Local attractions will also be onsite to honor our first responders and pass out free or discounted tickets. iHeart Radio’s Mason will live broadcast the day’s event.

Pictured, City of Prichard police officers stand with local vendors, USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park – Kristen Lee and WildNative Delta Safaris – Jami Wiber, who passed out information on their company and also provided free or discounted admission for first responders.

2019 United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile’s Food & Folly

United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile 10th Annual Food & Folly event will take place on Thursday, September 19 at Fort Whiting Armory from 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM. This year’s festivities Guests will have a chance to taste local cuisine, fine wines and craft beers and participate in a wine grab and silent auction.

All proceeds from Food & Folly will benefit the programs and services provided by United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile – programs such as Early Intervention, UCP Preschool, an Adult Day Program, Camp SMILE and many more! For tickets to the 2019 Food & Folly or for more information contact United Cerebral Palsy at 251.479.4900 or visit us on the Food & Folly Facebook page or at the website www.ucpmobile.org.

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

Autism Spectrum Disorder Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), or Autism for short, is a term that relates to a large and complex range of conditions.

There is no one particular type of autism, and it can look different in each child diagnosed with it. Due to the varying degree to which it affects each individual, there is no one particular age when it can be diagnosed. However, each child with ASD has some form of speech and social interaction that are affected, and these indicators generally appear by the age of 2 or 3.

Currently we know that 1 in 59 children have some form of ASD. Individuals on the Autism Spectrum have difficulty to some degree making eye contact, adjusting to new social situations, picking up on social cues from others, and adjusting to new routines.

They also have a speech delay which can range from being nonverbal to grunting to repeating what others are saying (echolalia).

Sometimes the delay can be quite mild. Many times children with ASD are content playing

Mobile Bay Parents I September 2019

alone, and they often utilize repetitive behaviors, or “stimming,” as a coping mechanism.

Because many social and speech developmental milestones are not achieved until a child is between 9 months and 2 years of age, 18 months is the average age to start truly noticing if someone has ASD. In fact, there is a screening tool many pediatricians use on every single child at well-child visits to look for autism. This is called the M-CHAT, and it consists of 20 simple questions specific to ASD. This screening tool is used most commonly at or after 18 months old. Because many children with developmental delays are noticed only as other children their age are passing them in achieving new developmental milestones, children with developmental delays will not be diagnosed until they are older– typically by 2 or 3 years of age in the case of ASD. Research is still ongoing to determine the cause of ASD, but there is definitely a combination of genetic and environmental factors that play a role in causing autism, but also in

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the treatment of autism. The advancements in therapy are very exciting. Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) therapy is the newest form of therapy to help teach those with ASD how to advance their social and communication skills, so that children with autism can learn to interact in their communities and can improve their outcomes and ways of life.

If you have any questions about your child’s development or wonder if your child has autism, address this with your pediatrician. It’s important to ensure that your child gets any help necessary to ensure the brightest future possible. Remember that you are your child’s best advocate!

Jennifer Adair, M.D., was born and raised in Mobile. She joined Children’s Medical Group in July 2013 and currently practices at their Airport office. Jennifer and her husband, Cory, reside in Mobile with their son, Finn, and their three dogs, Barkley, Fitz, and Roo.

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Autauga County Schools

St. Luke’s Expands Medical Portion of STEMM Program

St. Luke's is expanding the STEMM (science, technology, engineering, math, and MEDICAL) program on both campuses for the 2019-20 school. For Parent Preview Night, we had the grand opening of our new age-appropriate Biomed Lab on the lower campus complete with a medicalthemed cake and many guests who are excited to have such a wonderful opportunity for our lower campus.

Old Shell Road Students Visit Teacher’s Art Exhibition at MMoA

Mrs. McBride’s third-grade students at Old Shell Road School of Creative and Performing Arts were chosen to visit the Mobile Museum of Art and tour their art teacher’s exhibition. The students then shared their knowledge of Ms. Monica Beasley’s style with the seniors at the Connie Hudson Community Center.

MGM Welcomes Incoming Freshmen

Mary G. Montgomery High School held its annual Sink or Swim Freshman Orientation Program on July 30 and 31. Upperclassmen welcomed over 120 incoming freshmen and committed to mentor the freshmen during the first year of their Viking voyage.

During the two-day orientation, students toured the campus, attended informative small group sessions, participated in activities with their classmates, and learned about Viking life. A pep rally complete with cheerleaders and the Viking marching band concluded MGM’s Sink or Swim program.

New Year at E.R. Dickson

E.R. Dickson Tigers are ready for the 2019 – 2020 School Year.

Principal Katryna Kinn greeted students and parents to a new year as they entered the doors. The students were excited to see their new classrooms and returning classmates. Dickson teachers engaged the students throughout the day with many back-toschool activities. We are ready for an exciting new year.

Back to School Pool Fun at St. Pius

St. Pius X School held its annual Back to School Mass and book drop-off, followed by a pool party, on Saturday, August 10.

Students, especially these eighth graders, had a great time eating barbeque, seeing old friends and enjoying pool fun.

Welcome Back, St. Mary Catholic Faculty and Staff

St. Mary Catholic School welcomed back all faculty and staff with a Mass in St. Mary Catholic Church celebrated by St. Mary Pastor, Rev. Msgr. G. Warren Wall. The Mass was followed by a delicious breakfast prepared by the St. Mary PTO Parents. Kicking off a week of training and classroom preparation, the faculty are geared up for a great 20192020 school year!

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Welcome St. Dominic Catholic School!

We are very excited to welcome many new families to St. Dominic Catholic School! Our buddy families kept busy delivering welcome signs throughout the summer.

Welcome to the SDCS family. Go Eagles!

Little Flower Gym Gets Paint Upgrade

The gym at Little Flower Catholic School underwent an extensive upgrade this summer. When the painting was complete, the final touch was the addition of the Viking mascot image. The fierce Viking image will be a reminder to Little Flower students to strive for their best.

Faith Ram Rally and New Student Social

Faith Academy’s new student social was combined with the Ram Rally this year. After new students meet teachers and administrators, they are walked by students in their grade through their schedules. They end their tour at the Ram Rally, which is an expo of the 2019 football half time show in which the cheerleaders, band, dance team, color guard and twirlers perform.

First Day of School at Kate Shepard ES

The teachers at Kate Shepard Elementary School were eager to greet their students on the first day of school.

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Keep your benefits and save for the future.

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Enable Savings Plan Alabama provides tax-free savings accounts for eligible individuals with disabilities. You can save for current and future expenses without impacting your resource-based benefits.

To find out more about Enable Alabama and to sign up for updates, visit us at EnableAL.com.

Investments Are Not FDIC Insured* | No Bank, State or Federal Guarantee | May Lose Value *Except the Bank Savings and Checking Investment Options Š2019 First National Bank of Omaha

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Autauga County Schools Mobile Christian Football Players

Phillips Prep Student Wins Award at Workshop in Hong Kong

Help Landscape New School

Thomas Carmichael, an eighthgrader at Phillips Preparatory, traveled to Hong Kong and Qinzhou and Beihai in southeast China this summer to attend the 4th International Workshop on Science and Conservation of horseshoe crabs.

The workshop brought together scientists, government officials, managers, conservationists and students from all over the world to share research and learn about horseshoe crab ecology and conservation. Thomas was one of 28 students in attendance, most of whom were college or graduate level, and was the only middle school student.

At the workshop Thomas presented the results of a study he did in collaboration with a researcher at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab in Alabama.

His poster, titled: “Airsoft science: A test of horseshoe crab molt durability,� won one of three Best Poster awards at the closing ceremony.

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Mobile Christian School varsity football players volunteered their time laying sod and landscaping in front of the new elementary complex on campus.

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Couples Join Lighthouse Baptist Academy Staff

Jacob and Abby Lattie are joining the Lighthouse Baptist Academy staff, having recently completed their degrees at Crown College in Powell, TN. Bro. Lattie will teach History at LBA and coach our soccer team. His experience as a collegiate athlete will be a big help to our soccer program as we enter our second season. Mrs. Lattie will be our school Financial Secretary. Her happy spirit and servant’s heart will be a great asset to our office staff.

We're also excited to have Paul and Karen Moolenaar join our staff! Bro. Moolenaar will be a part of our school administration and oversee the academics at LBA. He holds a Bachelor's degree from Purdue University in Industrial Management and has also earned a Master's Degree in School Administration. Bro. Moolenaar also brings with him nearly 20 years of school administration experience. Mrs. Moolenaar has joined our office staff and will oversee our ministry finances and human resources. Her experience in the corporate environment has already been a valuable asset to our ministry. We're incredibly grateful to have these wonderful couples join us in serving the families of Lighthouse Baptist Church and Academy!

Welcome Back, Phillips Preparatory Pirates!

Welcome, students, back to school! We are so excited about your safe return.

Pictured, Ms. Goodson’s class is doing a getting-to-know-each-other activity!

Prichard Prep Parents and Students “Meet the Teacher”

Meet the Teacher was another huge success! As usual, the parents were more than ready for school to start and the students, not so much. Dr. Dodge shared some updates with the parents and students before they met the teachers. Welcome to our newest teachers: Mrs. Smith - Kindergarten, Ms. Armstrong - 1st, Ms. David 2nd, and Ms. Ruhde - 5th. We are so glad to have you! Thanks to all the parents who took the time to attend - our teachers appreciate it so much. We pray this will be a blessed year.

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Autauga County Schools UMS-Wright Summer Programs

Mobile Christian’s Elementary Complex is Officially Open!

Dr. Curry, MCS elementary principal, rang in the new school year with the bell in her building. Faculty, staff and students have been hard at work moving desks and furniture into the classrooms to be ready to welcome students for the first day of school.

Please email School News and Photos to Lynn@mobilebayparents.com.

Mobile Bay Parents I September 2019

A new initiative that has been implemented at UMS-Wright is an addition to our Summer & After-School Care Program. While we have always had summer and after-school programs, this year we filled a void in which many of our parents expressed interest: full-time summer day care for children ages 3-5. The Summer & After-School Programs build on the mission of our school by providing academic, athletic, life-skill, and exploratory learning opportunities to ignite new passions and deepen an individual’s potential in mind, body, spirit and character. Our programs provide an expansive, inclusive environment that lays the foundation for encouraging children to challenge themselves academically, artistically, and physically throughout the school year and summer. The K3-K5 summer care program was structured by analyzing what teachers currently value and expect in K3, K4, and K5 classrooms here at UMS-Wright.

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Rafting with St. Dominic Boy Scouts

Old Shell Students Share Love of Art at Senior Center

St. Dominic Catholic Boy Scouts had a great time at Camp Daniel Boone. They learned many new skills and even got to go white water rafting!

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Old Shell Road School of Creative and Performing Arts students visited the Connie Hudson Regional Senior Community Center to share their love of art with the seniors as their Bicentennial Project.

North Mobile Christian School Kick-off

We had a wonderful start to the new year at North Mobile Christian School. Thank you, Angela Echols and our PTO for an exciting kick off!

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Autauga County Schools In-Service Training

New Playground for Little Flower

A new set of playground equipment has been installed in the playground at Little Flower Catholic School. The climbing station is sure to be a hit with all the students. Among other improvements, there are new bouncing rides and a new seesaw. The new ground cover will serve as extra safety protection for students.

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Ninety MCS faculty and staff gathered at Creekwood Church of Christ for in-service training. Teachers and administrators are looking forward to the start of another great school year.

St. Luke’s Cheerleaders Win First Place at Cheer Camp

Our varsity cheerleaders swept the competition at UCA Cheer Camp this summer! They won first place in their division in ALL categories, including rally routine, sideline, cheer, and overall game day. The squad also received the coveted UCA Traditions award, which is given to ONE team at camp that shows outstanding leadership and spirit. KyliAddison Evans, Madalyn White and Riley Griffith received Pin it Forward awards for exemplifying good character while at camp. We had 6/6 girls become All American Cheerleaders (Kennyde Williams, Madalyn White, Kyli-Addison Evans, Riley Griffith, Chloe Watts and Taylor Jackson.) Our mascot, Abigail White, also impressed at mascot camp, receiving the Mascot Leadership Award!

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Prichard Prep Kicks Off First Day of School

Where did the summer go? School has started and we saw smiles, happy children and a few tears – mostly from parents who can’t believe their babies are old enough to go to school! This year is starting off great with lots going on. We have made upgrades to the curriculum and are in the process of upgrading our technology infrastructure. Welcome back to returning students and teachers and welcome to the new students and teachers It’s going to be a great year!

Please email School News and Photos to Lynn@mobilebayparents.com.

St. Pius Teachers Prepare for New School Year

BREAK TIME! St. Pius X teachers take a much-needed break for fun while preparing for the coming school year. Pictured here are, from L to R: Mrs. Katie Mattingly (Resource), Mrs. Betsy McLean (3rd grade) and new SPX early childhood teachers Miss Charissa Kulpa (Kindergarten) and Mrs. Tara Perea (PK).

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Autauga County Schools MGM Teacher Selected 2019

2019 CHCA Lady Warrior Soccer Team Has Historic Season

The Lady Warriors, led by Coach Brandon Richardson and Coach Gracie Clark, finished the season 17-5 with the 17 wins being a school record. The Lady Warriors also earned the 1st playoff win in school history and advanced to the Final 4 for the 1st time in school history. The Lady Warriors only lost 1 senior to graduation and will return 9 or 11 starters for the Spring 2020 season.

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Science Ambassador Fellow

Congratulations to Dr. Karla McInnis, MGM science and PLTW teacher, for being one of thirty teachers nationwide selected to serve as a 2019 Science Ambassador Fellow by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Dr. McInnis attended the 5-day interactive summer course at CDC headquarters in Atlanta, GA. Throughout the week, Dr. McInnis interacted with CDC scientists to develop classroom lesson plans, attended seminars with Epidemic Intelligence Service officers, and participated in panel discussions by CDC public health scientists on current public health topics. As part of her fellowship, Dr. McInnis will continue to work with the CDC for one year through professional development opportunities and collaborations.

Additionally, she will work with CDC scientists to finalize teaching materials, pilot public health lesson plans, present public health lesson plans to local teachers, and consult on the development of public health-based resource materials for middle and high school teachers nationwide.

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Corpus Christi Catholic School Welcomes New Teachers

Corpus Christi Catholic School welcomes the following new teachers: Mrs. Amy Hines, 3rd grade; Mrs. Bebe Moore, 4th grade; Miss Paige Eliot, middle school English; and Miss Natalie Finnorn, middle school literature. Mrs. Kim Langham moved from 3rd grade to be the new PE teacher. The teachers are pictured left to right: Natalie Finnorn, Amy Hines, Elizabeth "BeBe" Moore, and Paige Elliott.

Phillips Prep Partner in Education

Phillips Preparatory would like to thank Mr. Bill Shultz, catering manager at Chick-Fil-A, for meal cards and being our Partner in Education.

St. Dominic's Eagle Theatre Produces Fantastic Summer Performance!

St. Dominic Catholic School’s drama students recently presented “Murder at the Pie Auction”, a funny and interactive show that included a live auction with the audience.

Thank you to Jeanette Connally, middle school teacher and director of our drama department.

Great job Eagles!

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Autauga County Schools

Faith Academy’s 50th Anniversary

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Faith Academy is celebrating 50 years of empowering, teaching, and mentoring students! Established in 1969, Faith’s mission has not changed. They seek to provide a quality Christian education in a clean and orderly environment where kids are challenged to find their purpose in Christ. #50yearsfaithstrong Pictured are Faith Academy teachers and administrators for the 2019-20 school year.

Old Shell Students Sing with Senior Center Members Old Shell Road choir students visited the Connie Hudson Regional Senior Community Center to sing some of their favorite songs as part of the school bicentennial project. The students shared some singing techniques with the seniors. The result was a joint performance of new and traditional music with the community center members.

St. Ignatius Teachers to Teach Education in Virtues

Sr. John Dominic spent the day with the St. Ignatius teachers to talk about Education in Virtues, an educational program developed by the Dominican Sisters for K-8th grade schools. This program focuses on Christian Virtues in everyday life. St. Ignatius will be implementing this program this year with our students. Pictured her is Fr. Bry Shields, Tori Miller (Principal), Sr. John Dominic and Elizabeth Collins (Vice-Principal).

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GMC Presents Inaugural Jim Fibbe Legacy Award to Local Student

Goodwyn, Mills and Cawood, Inc. (GMC) is pleased to announce Clement O’Dell Williams Jr., as the recipient of the inaugural Jim Fibbe Legacy Award. Williams is a recent graduate of W.P. Davidson High School and received a $500 award.

GMC presented the award to Williams on Monday, June 24. Mobile County Public School System Superintendent Chresal Threadgill, a longtime friend of Fibbe who was his elementary school basketball coach, was present for the award presentation, in addition to Williams’ father Clement Williams Sr., and Kristi July Signature Academy Coordinator for the Mobile County Public School System.

The Jim Fibbe Legacy Award was established to honor Jim Fibbe, a long-time engineer and current client liaison at GMC, who is admired throughout the community for both his professional and personal accomplishments. The $500 award is given to a local student interested in pursuing a career related to services GMC provides, including architecture, engineering, environmental, electrical, landscape architecture, planning and transportation.

A native of Frankfort, Ky., Fibbe attended Auburn University, where he led the Tigers to an SEC Basketball Championship and earned a civil engineering degree. He served as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for two years following graduation. After working for a short time as an engineer in Huntsville, Ala., Fibbe moved to Mobile in 1966 where he accepted the position of Director of Environmental Services for the Mobile County Health Department. While working as an engineer in Mobile, Fibbe was responsible for developing an air pollution control program and was named Air Conservationist of the Year by The Alabama Wildlife Federation, The National Wildlife Federation and the Sears Roebuck and Company in 1977. In 1987, he became Director of the Mobile Area Water and Sewer System, where he served for 11 years. He later served as the General Manager for the Mobile County Water, Sewer and Fire Protection Authority and Executive Director of CSS Alabama Association (USA) before joining GMC in 2004. Fibbe has served on countless boards, task forces, committees and nonprofits in an effort to further his impact on the local community and invest his knowledge and resources in the City of Mobile, Mobile County and the State of Alabama, among others.

Williams interned with GMC in 2018 as part of the Mobile County Public School System’s Signature Academy Summer Internship Program.

In addition to his internship with GMC, he was a member of the James McPherson National Honor Society, recipient of the Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (NJROTC) Marksmanship Award, winner of the Stephen Decatur Award and member of the Robotics Team.

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Spring Hill College Performs Day of Service at Little Flower

We are grateful for the abundance of generosity that comes to Little Flower Catholic School from so many sources.

Faculty and staff from Spring Hill College, participating in an IGNATIAN DAY OF SERVICE, came to Little Flower to offer help wherever it was needed. Not afraid to get their hands dirty, Colleen Lee (Campus Minister) and Joe Niland (Athletic Director) pitched in to clean desks and other surfaces in all the classrooms in the middle school wing.

Mobile Bay Parents I September 2019

Autauga County Schools

St. Mary Catholic School Welcomes New Faculty!

St. Mary Catholic School welcome new faculty members to the Mustang Team! Welcome Alison Gray, Third grade teacher; Victoria de la Campa, PreK-3 teacher; Joe Treacy, Middle School Science teacher; and Hannah Mansfield, Drama Teacher. All are looking forward to getting to know all of the students, parents, and fellow faculty and staff for an exciting new school year!

Cottage Hill Christian Academy Welcomes Highest Enrollment

For the third consecutive year, Cottage Hill Christian Academy is excited to welcome the highest enrollment in school history.

The goal of the faculty and staff of Cottage Hill is to develop servant leaders who will change their world for Christ.

Students and faculty alike enjoyed a wonderful start to the academic year.

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E.R. Dickson’s New Teachers for 2019

E.R. Dickson Elementary School would like to welcome its newest team members: Back row: Gabrielle Sicard -- Kindergarten Teacher, Aja Jenkins -- First Grade Teacher, Paula McWilliams -- First Grade Teacher, Meredith Fondren -- Special Education Teacher, Kayli Johnston -- Special Education Teacher, Amy Giddens -- Special Education Teacher.

Front row: Vanessa Caballero -- Third Grade Teacher, Tracey Turner -- Fifth Grade Teacher, Lauren Lee -- Fifth Grade Teacher, Melissa Davis -Special Education Teacher, Sarah Manske -- Second Grade Teacher, Dionica Davis -- Pre-K Teacher.

North Mobile Teachers Enjoy First of the Year Treat

The North Mobile Christian teaching staff was treated by their Headmaster, Mr. Christopher Reed. He joyfully treated them to Aztecas in Saraland for the start of the new school year!

Please email School News and Photos to Lynn@ mobilebayparents.com.

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Autauga County Schools St. Luke’s Girls Pledge to be

2019 St. Mary Middle School Peer Helpers

Ladies of Honor

St. Luke's hosted the Annual Finding Kind Pajama Party for 4th and 5th Grade girls to learn about being a young lady of honor, faith, and integrity. The varsity cheerleaders, Wildcat Mascot and Azalea Trail maid joined in on the discussions, dancing, eating, and laughing! Each 4th and 5th grade girl pledged to be a young lady of honor, faith, responsibility, and integrity and received a pink carnation for their very important commitment.

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The St. Mary Catholic Middle School Peer Helper Team is trained and ready to serve. These inspiring young leaders are ready to assist fellow students and welcome newcomers to St. Mary!

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Please email School News and Photos to Lynn@mobilebayparents.com.

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Cottage Hill Students Selected for T.A.L.L. Program

Congratulations to Miss Elizabeth Bryson, Miss Katelyn Johnson, and Miss Anne Morgan Swearingen for being selected for the T.A.L.L. ( Tillman's Corner Area Learning Leadership) Program sponsored by South West Mobile County Chamber of Commerce. T.A.L.L. Program participants are selected based upon academic performance, school activities and community involvement and upon completion of the program will be eligible for scholarships. The participants receive first-hand knowledge of local economic, political, and social issues impacting the community and they will garner leadership skills by building relationships with community leaders. T.A.L.L. is an exclusive program offered to hard-working, exemplary high school students with a desire to expand their horizons and their exposure to businesses and organizations around Southwest Mobile County. We are super proud of our three selected seniors!

Mobile Schools Back in Session

Nearly 54,000 students returned to classes as Mobile County Public Schools opened for the 2019-20 school year. Fonde Elementary, the system’s only yearround school, opened on July 24, while the rest of the system’s schools held the first day of classes on Aug. 6.

“The kids are excited, the faculty and staff are pumped, morale is high,” said MCPSS Superintendent Chresal Threadgill, who visited several schools on the first day. “I’ve challenged the faculty and staff to tell our own story, to be positive, to tweet and Facebook and tell all the great things that are happening in Mobile County Public Schools.”

Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson joined Threadgill at Dunbar School for the Creative and Performing Arts in downtown Mobile and said he’s excited to see where MCPSS can go under Threadgill’s leadership.

“After getting to know Mr. Threadgill, I am convinced that he has a mission, he has a vision, and he’s going to implement a plan to make sure that he succeeds and that our children have the opportunities they deserve,” Stimpson said.

Stimpson also joined Threadgill at Teachers Institute held on Aug. 2 at the Mobile Civic Center, an event designed to inspire and energize teachers and employees for the school year. Teachers were entertained by singers Rod Stokes and Kirk Jay from NBC’s The Voice and school choral and dance groups and were challenged by motivational speaker Ole Pete Key. At the Institute, the system also unveiled its new slogan: Learning Today. Leading Tomorrow.

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Autauga County Schools

St. Ignatius New Family Pizza Party

St. Ignatius students are kicking off the new year by welcoming our new families at a New Family Pizza Party. Each new family was invited to join us and meet other new families and their buddy family.

They were welcomed by some of our veteran 7th and 8th grade students. Pictured here are Mimi Strain, Ella Porter, Grayson Robinson and Frances Katz.

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The faculty and staff of CHCA served neighboring Fonde Elementary School as a part of the new “Love Where You Live� service campaign. CHCA faculty members partnered with teachers, painted murals, organized the library, and provided needed landscaping tasks. The partnership between the Owls and Warriors will continue throughout the year as Cottage Hill students and teachers seek to serve the Mobile community.

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Corpus Christi Catholic School Teacher Wins Nappie Award

Congratulations to Corpus Christi Catholic School teacher, Mrs. Candice McLaughlin, who won the 2019 Nappie Award for Best Preschool Teacher. Mrs. McLaughlin is a 4-year old teacher and has been at Corpus Christi Catholic School since 2014. "The best thing about teaching young children is their curiosity," said Mrs. McLaughlin.

St. Mary Parish Welcomes New Director of Youth Ministry!

Drew Donovan is beyond excited to serve as St. Mary's new Director of Youth Ministry. Drew comes to Mobile from the small New England town of Somers, Connecticut where he served as a Regional Youth Coordinator. Before that Drew served as a Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS) Missionary on two different campuses including The University of Rhode Island and Georgia Tech in Atlanta. Drew also met his now fiance', Alli Griffin, (a native of Fairhope, Alabama) while on staff with FOCUS. Drew notes, "I am a big time sports fan and love being active. If there is music playing odds are I will be swing dancing. I would have to say my favorite snacks are tortilla chips and hot salsa and Reese's peanut butter cups. Looking forward to getting to know you all (y'all?) and walk with you through this coming year!"

Drew will kick off the new year in youth ministry at St. Mary Parish on Sunday, September 8 with Edge for middle school students from 4 to 5:30 p.m. and Lifeteen for high school students from 7 to 8:30 p.m. With a 6 p.m. Kick Off Mass for Youth Ministry in between events in St. Mary Church, both youth group meetings will take place in St. Mary's Seton Center located at 1413 Old Shell Road. For more information, contact Drew at ddonovan@stmarymobile.org or (251) 432-8678.

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The 12 Best Podcasts for Kids

Book Club for Kids: This excellent biweekly podcast features middle schoolers talking about a popular middle-grade or YA book as well as sharing their favorite book recommendations. Public radio figure Kitty Felde runs the discussion, and each episode includes a passage of that week’s book read by a celebrity guest. Best for: Tweens and teens

As screen time concerns are on the rise, many parents are turning to podcasts as a fun (and often educational) way to engage kids -- without the screen. But as children’s audio content has flooded the airwaves, it can be a challenge to find the good stuff that’s also appropriate. Luckily we’ve discovered some excellent kid-friendly podcasts that you and your family will love listening to.

Bedtime Podcasts

Be Calm on Ahway Island: Thanks to the hosts’ soothing voices and a pre-story meditation, your kid might fall asleep to this podcast before the story even gets underway. But if not, the gentle adventures on Ahway Island will also sweep them off to dreamland. This podcast teaches kidfriendly mindfulness practices like “deep dragon breaths” that can be carried into waking life as well. Best for: All ages

For the Whole Family

But Why: A Podcast for Curious Kids: Kids are always asking seemingly simple questions that have surprisingly complex answers, such as “Why is the sky blue?” and “Who invented words?” This cute biweekly radio show/podcast takes on answering them. Each episode features several kid-submitted questions, usually on a single theme, and with the help of experts, it gives clear, interesting answers. Best for: All ages

What If World: With wacky episode titles such as “What if Legos were alive?” and “What if sharks had legs?,” this series takes ridiculous “what if” questions submitted by young listeners and turns them into a new story every two weeks. Host Eric O’Keefe uses silly voices and crazy characters to capture the imaginations of young listeners with a Mad Libs-like randomness. Best for: Kids

Smash, Boom, Best: This fun and fast-moving spin-off of the popular Brains On! podcast is a familyfriendly debate podcast. A kid judge listens to and scores the rousing, factbased arguments of two contestants.

With episodes like “Dragons versus Unicorns” and “Pizza versus Tacos,” kids will be hooked, and they won’t even notice that they’re learning how to defend their ideas along the way.

Best for: Big kids

Stories Podcast: One of the first kids’ podcasts to grasp podcasts’ storytelling capabilities, this podcast is still going strong with kid-friendly renditions of classic stories, fairy tales, and original works. These longer stories with a vivid vocabulary are great for bigger kids past the age for picture books but who still love a good bedtime story.

Best for: Big kids

Best Podcasts for Music Fans

Noodle Loaf: A delightful offering from a music education specialist and his co-host daughter will get kids of all ages singing, rhyming, moving, and engaging in all kinds of musical games. The segments, games, and songs are so silly and upbeat that the whole family will enjoy participating. Little listeners can even add their voice to the theme song in the podcast’s electronically compiled kid’s choir! Best for: All ages

The Two Princes: This charming fantasy adventure will have listeners of all ages glued to the speakers until the very end. Two young princes seek to save their kingdoms and in the process face villany, dragons, romance, and a magical forest full of danger. Though kissing happens, it is treated with sweetness and humor. A fairy tale for our times, this audio drama is a great introduction to the world of fiction podcasts. Best for: Tweens

Saturday Morning Cereal Bowl: Kids’ music can be … well, annoying.

But “kindie rock” (aka, indie rock for kids) is here to help. This two-hour podcast styled like a DJ radio show features new and old songs that kids will love, many by parents’ favorite musicians. Selections are generally high-energy rock, folk, or even punk-inspired songs, but listeners will also hear mellower tunes. Best for: All ages

Great for Learning

Ear Snacks: The catchy soundtrack is the star in this delightful podcast from children’s music duo Andrew & Polly. But this funny program also covers a range of topics by talking to actual kids as well as experts, providing thoughtful fun for young ones and their grown-ups. Best for: Preschoolers and little kids

Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child Families can enjoy rock and roll without the downsides with this fun radio show/podcast. Each week there’s a new playlist combining kids’ music from artists such as They Might Be Giants, with kid-appropriate songs from artists that grown-ups will recognize, such as Elvis Costello, The Ramones, and John Legend. It’s a perfect compromise for parents tired of cheesy kids’ music. Best for: Kids

KiDNuZ: Kids like to be informed and engaged, but talking to kids about the news can be a challenge. This podcast, created by moms who are broadcast journalists, offers young listeners five minutes of kid-friendly news (followed by a quick quiz) each day, five days a week. Perfectly timed for waking up, KiDNuz lets you start the day off on a worldy note.

Best for: All ages Mobile Bay Parents I September 2019

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Kids & Money Q. We’ve followed your advice and put our kids on commissions instead of allowances. The problem is our 8-year-old.

He never buys anything, and he seems to be very frugal by nature. Do you have any advice for teaching him it is okay to spend money sometimes?

A. You’re ab-

solutely right for wanting to teach him wise spending habits. Each of us has the personality of being either a saver or a spender. As parents, we should help our kids grow in areas where they have weaknesses, and find ways to enhance their strengths.

Give him praise for being such a good saver, but gently encourage him to spend a little, too. Spending is one of the rewards

of work and disciplined saving. You might urge him to pick out something he really wants, and help him make a plan to save enough money to buy that item. Once he has enough money for the purchase, turn it into a celebration of reaching that goal.

There are three things you can do with money—spend it, save it, and give it to others.

Focusing too much, or too little, on any of these is not financially or spiritually healthy.

Getting Motivated Q. My wife is so charged up after reading your books, and now she is determined to get us out of debt. I know this is good idea, but I just don’t have the passion for it she does. There are also some things I really don’t want to give up. Do you have some suggestions for getting motivated?

A. Goals and dreams always have a better chance of coming true if you have a written game plan. Sit down with your wife at the beginning of each month, and help her do a written budget. Give every dollar a name on paper before you spend anything.

Contrary to popular belief, doing a budget is not torture. It’s also not just a math exercise. It’s an opportunity for you both to have input on what you want to accomplish in life and how to make it happen. After two people are married they become “as one.” And that’s how decisions should be made in a marriage—facing all the problems, dreams, and fears together.

Once you sit down and do a budget, I think you’ll see where you can cut back and make things happen that you thought were impossible before. You may have to give up a few things for a little while, but when you see how quickly you can get ahead by making your money behave, I’ve got a feeling you’ll get excited about the possibilities!

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School is your child’s work, but like most jobs, there are good days and bad, great bosses (teachers) and not so great ones, and classes that are easier than others. For some of even the brightest kids, however, like my youngest daughter, every test can seem difficult, every teacher hard, and every assignment a major hurdle.

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How can you help your aspiring scholar reach her potential? We asked educators and learning experts for their top tips. Here are five of their best answers.

1) Seek out testing early.

If your student gets extra help at school but isn’t making progress academically, seek out an evaluation at school and/ or at a private neuropsychology assessment center.

Studies suggest that 15 to 20 percent of the population has a learning disorder of some type, such as dyslexia, a specific reading or language comprehension issue, or a math disorder.

“Learning disorders occur throughout the range of intelligence. Even very highly functioning students can have them,” says E. Mark Mahone PhD, ABPP, a pediatric neuropsychologist director of the Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center at the Kennedy Krieger Institute at Johns Hopkins University.

A learning disorder is when a child or anyone who has had adequate opportunity for instruction and has the adequate intelligence to be able to learn specific skills, isn’t learning those skills in a way that’s appropriate for his or her age. Learning disabilities are biological conditions that lead to a set of behaviors that can be challenging. They tend to run in families. “Kids can’t help it,” Dr. Mahone says.

If your child has a learning disorder, it’s important to diagnose it early, if possible, to prevent harmful repercussions. Continually tanking on tests and quizzes or not understanding the material can affect your child’s selfesteem and brain development. “The average child with a reading disability doesn’t get identified until the second or third grade. By then, that child has two, three or four years of failure before getting the appropriate intervention,” Dr. Mahone says.

Intervention, which may include medication and behavioral treatment, can help the brain reorganize more efficiently so that academic skills build naturally over time, making school easier and less stressful.

It’s important to note that learning disabilities don’t typically occur in isolation. For example, 35 to 40 percent of

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students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) also have dyslexia and vice versa. Learning disabilities should be treated concurrently. “Whenever you find one learning disability, you should look for others,” Dr. Mahone says. “For the best outcome, everything should be treated concurrently.”

2) Teach kids to make oatmeal. “Learning is like driving a car. You have to keep filling the gas tank,” says Sharon Rose Sugar, an academic interventionist and author of Smart Grades: Every Day an Easy A. “It takes tremendous energy to learn, but many kids are running on empty.” Cold cereal for breakfast doesn’t cut it. “What can make a big difference in the morning is just a bowl of oatmeal,” Sugar says, topped with nutritious add-ons like walnuts, blueberries, cinnamon, honey or maple syrup.

Kids should fuel homework sessions with wholesome study snacks too, such as an apple or rice cake with peanut butter or carrots and hummus and water.

The brain is a power tool. To boost performance, “after every homework assignment, kids should eat something healthy,” Sugar says.

3. Preview homework, then take a brain break. If your child is typically anxious about homework, teach her to go over her homework assignments when she gets home from school,

Mobile Bay Parents I September 2019

including the questions she needs to answer, then to take a break before diving in. “Kids aren’t under any pressure to answer those questions right away.

But their brain starts working. When they come back to their homework, it’s a lot easier for them to start their work because they’ve previewed it,” says Katherine Firestone, founder of the Fireborn Institute and “The Happy Student” podcast.

4. Turn reading into a workout. Kids have so many facts coming at them in every class and homework assignment. To help them retain key ideas they’ll later need for the test, they need to be active readers. Before reading a chapter in their textbook, students should read the chapter title, all of the headings and subheadings and the questions at the end. “Reviewing chapters first helps kids understand the key ideas,” says Firestone. Then, while they’re reading, they should underline the main idea and jot down notes to review for the test. These techniques can make all the difference, as Firestone knows firsthand. (She was diagnosed with ADHD in high school.)

Active reading takes more time and effort, but it helps the facts sink in. “It resulted in a huge transformation for me,” Firestone says.

5. Talk yourself into better grades. “When you get As or Bs,

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school is more enjoyable, but some kids, especially those with learning disorders, have emotional roadblocks to getting good grades,” says Paul J. Hughes, a college professor and author of Change Your Grades. Change Your Life. Early on, kids can form negative self-perceptions, such as “I’m bad at taking tests,” which gets hardwired into their subconscious, programming them for failure. “Our thoughts affect outcomes,” Hughes says.

To help his struggling students talk themselves into doing well on tests, Hughes teaches them to write and recite “afformations,” which are questions that address their specific academic concern, but stated as a positive, such as: “Why am I so comfortable and confident taking an exam?” and “Why do I always perform up to my expectations on an exam?”

“The why at the beginning is what the brain picks up and runs with, reprogramming the subconscious to believe what you’re telling it,” Hughes says. He advises his students to read their afformations every day. “I say to my students, ‘I know afformations are weird but they can change everything.’ The more you read them to yourself, the sooner they kick in.” MBP

Sandra Gordon is an award-winning freelance writer who delivers expert advice and the latest developments in health, nutrition, parenting and consumer issues.

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ParentingToday’sTeens

by Mark Gregston

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The Power of a Good Question Most parents can agree that talking to a teenager sometimes feels like pulling teeth. You try to engage in conversation with your teen, and all you receive in response are grunts, eye-rolls, or oneword answers. You try everything you can to drag information out of your son or daughter, but the harder you pull, the deeper they dig in their heels. The conversation becomes a stressful game of tug-of-war, and after ten minutes of trying to pull words out of your child’s mouth, you’re exhausted and ready to quit.

Can I suggest a different strategy?

The power of a good question is remarkably effective in the hands of a parent.

Think about it from your own point-of-view.

When someone asks for your opinion, you feel valued. You feel appreciated. You feel like you’ll be listened too. When asked in a non-condemning and non-prying way, a good question conveys a sense of worth and relationship that is unparalleled by any other action a parent can make.

When you ask your teen what they think, you’re letting them know you have an interest in them and that their opinion has significance to you.

A good question can also act like an X-ray into the heart and mind of your teen.

Most kids in high school will not voluntary give insights into what they’re thinking or doing, especially if they feel like they’ll be judged or criticized by mom or dad. But ask a question aimed at understanding your teen’s thoughts and feelings about a subject, and you’ll naturally draw out an honest report on where they are spiritually, emotionally, or mentally. As parents, it’s easy to observe what’s happening to our kids on the outside, but to see what’s happening on the inside, we need a good question. If we don’t ask questions, we could be missing serious, hidden situations in the life of their teen.

Let me offer a few tips for asking good questions: Mobile Bay Parents I September 2019

Avoid simple “yes” or “no” questions.

If your teen could answer with “yep”, try to find a way to phrase the question that makes a complete sentence necessary. Try to ask “who, what, when, where, or how” questions that inspire further thought. Find out what your son thinks about an issue, how your daughter would do something differently than you, where he would go, and why she thinks a certain way. Talk about controversial subjects as you would a friend or co-worker for whom you have respect.

I can almost guarantee you’ll be pleasantly surprised by what comes out of your child’s mouth.

Ask questions, but don’t give answers until you’re asked yourself. Stop lectur-

ing and start listening. A Sunday school teacher once asked the ten-year-old in her class, “What’s wrong with grown-ups?” A boy responded, “Grown-ups never really listen because they already know what they’re going to answer.” Your teens won’t be ready to listen until they become the initiator of a discussion, so just hush and get out of the way and let them take the lead. As moms and dads, we want our teens to carefully think about their decisions before they act. You can help them along by stimulating their developing minds and hearts. Ask good questions that stoke a teen’s thought process. For example, take the recent trend of young female musicians pushing the envelope. Ask your teen daughter about her thoughts on the issue. Are these young artists simply being creative? What message are they projecting? Do their actions help or hurt them? You’re preparing them to approach situations and ideas with a wise heart and mind.

Watch your body language. Whether

your question succeeds or not depends not only on what you say, but how you say it! What is your face, your hands, your entire demeanor telling your teen? Are you 36

inviting your child to open up, or is your body language shouting, “keep quiet”? A good way to prevent hostile body language is to avoid asking questions when you’re overly angry, disappointed, or upset. When you’re in a bad mood, what comes out are phrases like, “Do you know how stupid that was? What were you thinking? Or “How could you?” Instead, take time to cool down and find a nice, quiet place to engage your teen in conversation.

Stay relaxed and aware of the messages you are sending through your tone, posture, and volume of your voice.

Ask questions that develop your kid’s opinions, and not your own. Our job

as parents is not to recreate our minds and beliefs in our children’s lives. While this might be appropriate when they are young, as teenagers we need to train them to start thinking critically, to apply what they have been taught to the situations and circumstances in their own lives.

They need to develop their own thoughts and feelings and learn to process them.

Sometimes you empower teens to apply the values you taught them just by asking questions. Your questions might also encourage your teens to ask questions of you. And if they do start asking questions, they might be inviting you to a dark and shameful corner of their world. Don’t be afraid to go there!

If a teen shares what is on her heart, but you’re more concerned with fixing her problems or telling her how to act than with listening, that teen will eventually quit sharing. Find opportunities to let your teen talk, even if they seem a bit forced at first. Eventually, with diligence on your part, your teen will again learn to trust their dreams, thoughts and questions with you.

Mark Gregston is an author, speaker, radio host, and the founder of a residential counseling center for struggling teens located in Longview, Texas. Mark’s passion for helping teens can be seen in his 40 years of involvement with families as a youth pastor, Young Life area director, and now, as the Executive Director of Heartlight, where he has lived with and helped over 2,700 teens. To find out more about Mark and his ministry to parents and teens, you can visit www.HeartlightMinistries.org or www.ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

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• Early College Experience • Dedicated Instructors • Diverse Community • Leadership Opportunities • Experiential Learning

Find out how the Alabama School of Mathematics and Science can lead you on a path to success. Applying to ASMS is FREE – and so are tuition, room, and board if you are admitted! Start your online application September 1, 2019 at www.asms.net.

ASMS students have access to hands-on, experiential learning focused on research and collaboration. Students take a variety of college-level courses in Math, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science, History, English, Communication, Physical Education, and Fine Arts.

Many people ask, “Do I have to be a ‘genius’ to be accepted to ASMS?” Answer: Absolutely NOT! ASMS is made up of students who are intelligent and work hard for academic success. Current Alabama 9th or 10th graders can apply. Questions? Email admissions@asms.net or call 251.441.2100.

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Kids with special needs are no exception and benefit from playdates as much as their peers.

While they may take a little more planning and patience, it is well worth the efforts for everyone involved. Here are some tips for hosting a playdate with kids with disabilities.

Playdates are an important part of childhood.

They offer time for kids to interact socially without the structure of school or extracurricular activities. They also help kids learn to share, socialize, and play freely while still having support from their parents as needed.

Mobile Bay Parents I September 2019

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Another great strategy is to plan activities Our natural reaction may be to that unite the kids. Kids avoid talking about any disabilities who struggle with talkChoosing activities that encourage common a child may have, but it is better to interests will help foster friendships. ing to peers or sharing address any questions or concerns beHere are some ideas: toys may find that a forehand so everyone is more comfortcommon interest helps able and knows what to expect. “I am * Build something - Legos, blocks, wooden train sets them feel more at ease. * Do arts and crafts upfront and honest about my daughter Find out the interests of * Quiet stations for the quieter group before we go to anyone’s house for a the kids you are hostset up puzzles, coloring sheets, books, blocks playdate,” says Barb Walker-Shapiro, * Go outside and play ing and offer an activity mom of six. “Her brain doesn’t work like * Set up a sensory bin around one that excites other kids. She may have a seizure and * Pick a neutral location - museum, park, or zoo all of those invited. is prone to major meltdowns. I find that Ideas could include a when other parents know what’s ‘wrong’ craft, game, or visiting with my daughter, they are more tolerant somewhere that fosters that interest. For example, if they are and compassionate towards her.” It is also a good idea to interested in nature, visit the Overland Park Arboretum or go talk to your children openly about differences they may have on a backyard scavenger hunt. If they are interested in tracwith their friends. Explain that just because others may seem tors and farm animals, visit a farm. different or express their joy differently, it doesn’t mean they don’t enjoy playdates or making new friends as well. Prior to the playdate, it is also a good idea to check in with the other Whenever kids are involved, patience is important. Try to parents about whether there are any food allergies or restricunderstand that kids may have different reactions to situations and anything important you should know. tions, things may not go exactly as expected, and that it may take some time for kids with special needs to warm up to the situation. Some children with special needs may prefer Prior to the playdate, discuss with the other parents the to participate in parallel play. Parallel play is when kids play best location to have the playdate. For some, their own home beside each other, but do not interact with one another. Chilis more comfortable and successful. For others, staying at dren who play alone during parallel play still enjoy the time home may encourage the special needs child to say hello then together and are usually interested in what the other children retreat to their room while company visits. In this case, it may are doing. If things do not go as planned, it is okay to cut the be better to go to a public place everyone can enjoy, such as a playdate short and try again in the future. park, museum, or zoo. On the other hand, parents who have a child that is prone to running away or hiding may find a public place overwhelming. Discuss your plans with all the parents It is most important to note that kids with disabilities or involved and come up with the best solution for everyone.

Be open

Playdate Activities That Unite

Be patient

Be strategic

Be inclusive

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special needs are just like anyone else; they want to interact with friends and be loved and appreciated. When hosting a play date with kids with disabilities it’s important to greet them and interact with them as you would anyone else you meet. “Please say hi to my son. Smile at him, even if he doesn’t smile back,” says Marie Taylor, mother of two. Even if the child is nonverbal or doesn’t seem to hear you, it is important to speak to them. Angela Leever, special education teacher and mother of three says, “Encourage the parents and children to speak to the child with special needs, not about them. If the child with special needs does something your child isn’t happy with or that isn’t appropriate, allow them to use words to tell them.

Sometimes that is more powerful than the adults intervening.”

Be understanding Parenting is not easy and we all struggle with different challenges when it comes to our children. Ask the parent if they need help with anything prior to the playdate. “I almost always have a few extra things to carry, so please don’t be shy about asking if I need help,” says Taylor. “I also need a lot of grace.” Try to be patient and understanding. The other parent may be overwhelmed or tired. It may have been challenging to get there. All parents have great days where everything goes as planned and tough days where it seems nothing does. Listen and offer a hand when needed, and they will most likely offer the same in return.

The most important tip for having a playdate with a special needs child is just to have them. It may take a little more planning and patience than the average playdate, but it is so worth it to both the parents and kids involved.

Playdates offer a great chance for kids to interact with peers and make friends in a non stressful way, and they are a great time for parents to connect and build each other up as well. MBP

Sarah Lyons is a freelance writer and contributor to numerous parenting magazines.

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Through SHIP, certified counselors and volunteers are available to help you make informed choices about health benefits. Counselors and volunteers are not affiliated with any insurance company and will not attempt to sell insurance.

SHIP Can Help You: n Understand your Medicare n Determine which Part D Plan best fits your needs n Enroll in a plan of your choice n File a Medicare claim or appeal n Answer questions about your health insurance

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Civitan International Research Center

1719 6th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35294 A volunteer organization improving the well-being and quality of life for individuals and families affected by intellectual and developmental disabilities. Located on the campus of the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

(205) 934-8900

www.uab.edu/medicine/circ/

Governor’s Office on Disabilities

Alabama Resources AltaPointe Intellectual Disabilities (formerly Mobile Arc) ad on page 29

2424 Gordon Smith Drive, Mobile, AL 36617 AltaPointe Intellectual Disabilities serves individuals in the south Alabama region who have intellectual disabilities such as autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and other conditions. We offer a variety of programs.

(251) 479-4855

mobilearc.org / altapointe.org

Alabama Lifespan Respite Resource Network

1856 Keats Drive , Huntsville, AL 35810 A statewide program offering information for caregivers and service providers about activities and programs. An interactive database of agencies providing respite services to Alabama counties is available online.

(256) 859-4900 or (866) RESTALA info@alabamarespite.org www.alabamarespite.org

Alabama Public Library for Blind and Physically Handicapped

6030 Monticello Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117 We provide formated materials and playback equipment. Books can be checked out for 90 days and renewed for 30 days Free for those who qualify.

(800) 723-8459 or (334) 213-3900 www.statelibrary.alabama.gov

Alabama Special Education Services

50 North Ripley Street , Montgomery, AL 36104 Through leadership and service, the vision of Special Education Services (SES) is to foster positive educational outcomes for all students with special needs.

(334) 694-4782

vm@alsde.edu

www.alsde.edu

ALL KIDS Insurance

201 Monroe Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 ALL Kids is a low-cost, comprehensive healthcare coverage program for children in Alabama under age 19.

(888) 373-5437 allkids

www.alabamapublichealth.gov/

Mobile Bay Parents I September 2019

602 South Lawrence St, Montgomery, AL 36104 Visit our website for excellent resources and information concerning disability issues. Join our email list for updates.

(888) 879-3582 or (334) 293-7228 marlene.word@ good.alabama.gov www.good.alabama.gov

John 9:3 Foundation

P.O. Box 884, Daphne, AL 36526 We work to aid and assist those who are on the Autism Spectrum and their families, as well as identify and serve the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces.

(251) 298-7346 info@john93foundation.com www.john93foundation.com

Southeast ADA Center (Americans with Disability Act)

Education, training, and guidance on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and disability access tailored to the needs of business, government, and individuals. Serving Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi and more.

(800) 949-4232 or (404) 541-9001 www.adasoutheast.org

Speech and Hearing Association of Alabama 3416 Primm Lane, Birmingham, AL 35216 We aim to advance the disciplines of speechlanguage pathology and audiology in order to provide support for professionals while advocating quality service.

(205) 823-6106 Info@AlabamaSHAA.org www.alabamashaa.org

STAR (Statewide Technology Access and Response)

Providing free access to information, referral services, educational programs, and publications related to disability rights, laws/policies, and funding opportunities for assistive technology.

(800) 782-7656 or (334) 293-7143 www.rehab. alabama.gov/individuals-and-families/star

Vocational Rehabilitation-Department of Rehabilitation Services (251) 479-8611 or (800) 671-6842 www.rehab.alabama.gov

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Financial Resources

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Enable Savings Plan Alabama

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Nationwide tax-exempt savings accounts for individuals with disabilities.

(866) 833-7949 clientservices@enableal.com www.EnableAL.com

Family Support

1050 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36604 We help families in south Alabama help themselves, and do so by offering emotional support, information, referrals, flexible financial assistance, and special project assistance, all provided through local area volunteer councils.

(251) 438-1609 go@famsupport.com www.famsupport.com

Individual & Family Support

1050 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36604 Our mission is to enhance the lives of Alabamians with disabilities and their families.

(251) 438-1609 go@famsupport.com www.famsupport.com

Medicaid Waiver Program

2800 Dauphin St (Suite 105), Mobile, AL 36606 The Alabama Medicaid Agency administers a comprehensive program of long term care services that offers eligible patients care choices and opportunities to receive services at home or in the community.

(866) 371-4078 or (251) 472-4365 rhonda.peters@ medicaid.alabama.gov www.medicaid.alabama.gov

NORD (National Organization for Rare Disorders )

55 Kenosia Avenue, Danbury, CT NORD is committed to the identification, treatment, and cure of rare disorders through programs of education, advocacy, research, and service.

(800) 999-6673 or (203) 744-0100 www.rarediseases.org

The Rileigh and Raylee Angel Ride Foundation

Montrose, AL The mission of the Rileigh and Raylee Angel Ride Foundation is to provide financial assistance to families of children with unforeseen health problems. Angel Ride fundraising event information available online. www.angel-ride.org/Home.aspx

Focus-MD at Mobile Pediatric Clinic

6321 Piccadilly Square, Mobile, AL 36609 Medical practice for kids and young people with ADHD and related problems. Focus provides objective testing, medical treatment as well as behavior modification strategies.

251-308-8099 www.focus-md.com/adhd-cliniclocations/mobile-pediatric-clinic-focus-in-practice/

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General Resources AltaPointe Health Systems – Children’s Outpatient Services ad on page 29

301 Bishop Lane, Mobile, AL 36608 13825 Tapia Avenue, Bayou La Batre, AL 36509 AltaPointe Children’s Outpatient provides treatment and specialized care for children with mental illness ages 3-19, and their families with the goal of helping them maintain stability in the community.

AltaPointe’s therapists specialize in treating trauma, bereavement, child sexual abuse, emotional and behavioral problems or significant schoolrelated issues. Treatment focuses on problem resolution, symptom reduction and stabilization.

(251) 450-2211 or (888) 335-3044

www.altapointe.org

ad on page 29 AltaPointe Intellectual Disabilities

(formerly Mobile Arc) ad on page 29

2424 Gordon Smith Drive, Mobile, AL 36617 AltaPointe Intellectual Disabilities serves individuals in the south Alabama region who have intellectual disabilities such as autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and other conditions. We offer a variety of programs.

(251) 479-4855

mobilearc.org / altapointe.org

BayView Professional Associates ad on page 29

1015 Montlimar Dr (Ste A-210), Mobile, AL 36609 BayView Professional Associates’ confidential and supportive, solution-focused counseling can help children and families with problems, such as

erratic behavior, aggression, difficulty concentrating, unexplained weight loss, even physical symptoms like headaches. Our child/adolescent board-certified psychiatrist, psychologists, and psychotherapists provide complete evaluations and testing in addition to psychotherapy and treatment for children, adolescents and adults.

(251) 660-2360 or (888) 335-3044 www.bayview-associates.org

ad on page 16

22 North Florida Street, Mobile, AL 36607 Providing Neurodevelopmental and Psychoeducational evaluations that make a difference.

Autism/ADOS-2 testing, ADD/ADHD, vocational, LD/IQ, diagnosis and recommendations.

(251) 300-2743

Bridge Program at USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital The program supports pregnant patients struggling with fetal anomalies, which are conditions that affect a fetus or embryo and may be fatal or cause ongoing health issues after birth. These conditions include fetal heart defects, skeletal dysplasia, chromosomal abnormalities, and brain/neural tube defects. A high-risk pregnancy also may require surgical intervention or a prolonged NICU stay for the baby after delivery. The goal of the Bridge Program is to ensure that pregnant patients and their families are fully educated on their infant’s diagnosis and the associated risks, what a NICU stay entails, and if necessary, end-of-life plans.

(251) 415-1636 cwhdevelop@southalabama.edu www.usahealthsystem.com/bridge-program

ad on page 15

6101 Grelot Road, Mobile, AL 36609 Join us for our inclusive, accessible, and sensory friendly worship experience. This month’s service is Sunday, September 8, 3:30pm in Building F. (251) 342-0462 www.christunited.com/joy

Be Better Clinical Psychology

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PASSAGE USA ad on page 34

307 University Boulevard Office (UCOM 3402), Mobile, AL 36688-0002 PASSAGE USA is the University of South Alabama’s new, post secondary two-year certificate program for students with intellectual disabilities.

It focuses on providing individual supports and services for academic and social inclusion of students with intellectual disabilities in academic courses, extracurricular activities, and other aspects of the University’s regular post secondary program.

(251) 460-7674 ceps/passage/

www.southalabama.edu/colleges/

Alabama Council for Developmental Disabilities

100 North Union Street, Montgomery, AL 36130 We promote and support independence, advocacy, productivity and inclusion for Alabamians with disabilities. Live, learn, work, and play in your community!

(334) 242-3973 www.acdd.org

email@mh.alabama.gov

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Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services

602 South Lawrence St, Montgomery, AL 36104 “The Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services is the state agency providing services to Alabamians with disabilities from birth to late adulthood through four major programs: • Alabama’s Early Intervention System – services for children birth until age 3 with developmental delays and their families • Children’s Rehabilitation Service – services for children birth to 21 with special health care needs and their families • Vocational Rehabilitation Service – educationand employment-related services for teens and adults with disabilities • State of Alabama Independent Living (SAIL)/ Homebound Service – services for individuals with the most-significant disabilities. Please call for more information about these programs.”

(800) 441-7607 Kathleen.McGehee@rehab.alabama.gov www.rehab.alabama.gov

Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program

ensure quality partnerships.

(407) 522-3300 or (800) 572-2275 www.cci.org

info@cci.org

Community Services for Vision Rehabilitation 29653 Anchor Cross Blvd, Daphne, AL 36526 Professional evaluations for those with low vision and blindness. Doctors, occupational therapists, technicians and computer specialists work in collaboration with state, regional and national agencies.

(251) 928-2888 visionrehab@bellsouth.net www.csvrlowvision.org

Community Services for Vision Rehabilitation

600 BelAir Boulevard (Ste 110), Mobile, AL 36606 We are dedicated to helping those with low vision and blindness. The clinics provide professional evaluation by a Medical Doctor or an Optometrist, Occupational Therapists, Ophthalmic technicians, Computer Specialists and others.

(251) 476-4744 visionrehab@bellsouth.net www.csvrlowvision.org

624 Paul W Bryant Drive, Tuscaloosa, AL ADAP provides free legal advocacy services to Alabamians with disabilities to protect and promote their civil rights.

Easter Seals Alabama

Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind

(334) 395-4489 info@al.easterseals.com www.easterseals.com/alabama/

(205) 348-4928 adap@adap.ua.edu www.adap.ua.edu

1050 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36604 Our Mission is to provide comprehensive education and service programs of superior quality to children and adults who are deaf, blind, deafblind and multidisabled and their families.

(251) 432-7777

www.aidb.org

Alabama Scottish Rite Learning Center

2081 Alton Road (Suite C), Birmingham, AL We provide support to Alabama’s children with dyslexia through providing free dyslexia evaluations and professional development for teachers at no cost to schools. Find us on Facebook.

(205) 957-2424

www.alsrlcenter.org

Alabama Speech-Language-Hearing Association

3416 Primm Lane, Birmingham, AL 35216 ASHA is committed to ensuring that all people with speech, language, and hearing disorders receive services to help them communicate effectively.

(205) 823-6106 info@alabamashaa.com www.alabamashaa.com

Bay Area Clinical Associates, LLC

3925-B Springhill Avenue, Mobile, AL 36608 We provide psychological assessment and treatment to families, adults, adolescents and children with a variety of problems. Services are available for a broad range of emotional, behavior, cognitive and adjustment problems affecting children and their families.

(251) 316-0060 vicki@bayareaclinical.com www.bayareaclinical.com

Bay Area Psychology & Counseling

3929 Airport Blvd (Ste 2-413), Mobile, AL 36609 We offer mental health care services to children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients.

(251) 343-0566 info@mobilebayareapsychology.com www.mobilebayareapsychology.com

Canine Companions for Independence

8150 Clarcona Ocoee Road, Orlando, FL 32818 A non-profit organization that enhances the lives of people with disabilities by providing highly trained assistance dogs and ongoing support to Mobile Bay Parents I September 2019

5960 East Shirley Lane, Montgomery, AL 36117 Our services include: Medical Rehabilitation, Early Intervention, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech and Hearing Therapy, Job Training and Employment, Child Care & Camping and Recreation.

Emerald Coast Pediatric Sleep Consultants

400 Gulf Breeze Parkway (#204), Gulf Breeze, FL 32561 Providing comprehensive sleep diagnostic and treatment services to children from birth to age 21 years. A philosophy of health and wellness is the foundation for treatment.

850-932-3830

www.emeraldcoastsleep.com

Goodwill Easterseals of the Gulf Coast

2440 Gordon Smith Drive, Mobile, AL 36617 Education (GED), Job Training & Employment, Medical Assistance and Adult Day Programs for those with disabilities, low income, etc. Other programs include free parenting classes, support groups, Child Development, Early Intervention, preschool readiness and teen activities.

(251) 471-1581

www.gesgc.org

Hurley Counseling, LLC

26 North Florida Street, Mobile, AL 36607 Counseling for children, adolescents and adults.

(251) 222-8880

www.hurley-counseling.com

Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities The ARC of Alabama Advocacy, Information and Referral services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (334) 262-7688 info@thearcofal.org www.thearcofal.org

Krew of Kindness

Mobile, AL Our mission is to provide assistance and support to families with special, non-medical needs to enable them to lead healthy and active lifestyles while emphasizing the importance of inclusion and acceptance within the community. www.kreweofkindness.com

Learning Disabilities Association of Alabama

We strive to advance the education and general welfare of children and adults with learning disabilities. www.ldaamerica.org/lda-chapters/alabama

44

March of Dimes Alabama Chapter

March of Dimes leads the fight for the health of all moms and babies.

(205) 824-0103

www.marchofdimes.com/alabama

Mental Health – National Alliance on Mental Illness

Our purpose is to provide support, education, and advocacy for persons with mental illnesses, their families, and others whose lives are affected by these brain disorders.

(251) 461-3450 namimobile1@gmail.com www.namimobile.org

Montgomery Children’s Specialty Center

2853 Forbes Drive, Montgomery, AL 36110 Services for children with severe developmental disabilities requiring ongoing nursing care. Our healthcare professionals understand individual circumstances and help create a plan of care promoting an environment of growth and healing.

(334) 261-3445 or (877) 988-8372 www.montgomerybytutera.com

Mulherin Custodial Home

2496 Halls Mill Road, Mobile, AL 36606 Our primary purpose is to provide a home for individuals with developmental disabilities in a loving and family environment. Our foremost concern is the happiness, comfort, and welfare of our residents.

(251) 471-1998

www.mulherinhome.com

NuView

1120 Hillcrest Road, #2G, Mobile, AL 36695 Counseling for adults, groups, families, adolescents, and children. With a Christian vantage point and using tools like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapies, we will search for answers to life’s questions.

(251) 450-3560 cbrowncounselor@bellsouth.net www.nuviewcounseling.com

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Pediatric Developmental Medicine

1601 Center Street, Mobile, AL 36604 Whether you need an autism specialist in Mobile or treatment for developmental disorders or behavioral issues with your child, our pediatric specialists at USA Health can help.

(251) 410-5437 www.usahealthsystem.com/ pediatric-developmental-medicine

Phase III Vans

130 Industrial Boulevard, Pensacola, FL 32505 Offering new and pre-owned accessible vans.

Lowered floor Ramp vans available in Chrysler, Honda, Dodge and Toyota. Our trained staff has over 22 years of experience!

(850) 378-8914

www.phaseiiivans.com

Santa America

A national volunteer organization with over 200 hundred Santa’s, (All having extensive background checks), across America visit children and families in crisis. Serving Coastal Alabama, the Mississippi coast and the Western Florida Panhandle. www.santa-america.org

Sibling Support Project

A national program dedicated to the life-long and ever-changing concerns of millions of siblings with family members having special needs, developmental, and mental health concerns. Find a program near you! emilyholl@siblingsupport.org

www.siblingsupport.org

www.mobilebayparents.com

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Sight Savers America

337 Business Circle, Pelham, AL 35124 We assist children with obtaining eye exams, glasses, and other needed eye care from local eye care providers and clinics at no cost to the family.

(877) 942-2627 info@sightsaversamerica.org www.sightsaversamerica.org

Support Group for Siblings of Special Needs www.autism-alabama.org/sibshops/

The Centre

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1290 Main Street (Suite B), Daphne, AL 36526 Therapy for individual and family issues from trained clinicians using a wide range of techniques for quality comprehensive care.

(251) 625-0118

www.thecounselingcentre.com

Music listening therapy that trains the auditory system to accurately process sound. Auditory processing problems are often found in children and adults with Autism, Spectrum Disorders, ADD, dyslexia and more.

801-622-5676 info@advancedbrain.com www.advancedbrain.com

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Tommy Hilfiger Adaptive Clothing

Tommy Hilfiger proudly partnered with Runway of Dreams™ to create a very special collection addressing the challenges the differentlyabled community faces each day when getting dressed. info@runwayofdreams.com

Alabama Parent Education Center (APEC)

10520 US Highway 231, Wetumpka, AL 36092 APEC provides families with training, information and support to help ensure their children become productive, well-educated citizens.

(866) 532-7660 or (334) 567-2252 apec@alabamaparentcenter.com www.alabamaparentcenter.com

Family Voices of Alabama

1050 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36604 We provide families tools to make informed decisions, advocate for improved public and private policies, build partnerships among professionals and families, and serve as a trusted resource on health care.

(877) 771-3862 info@familyvoicesal.org www.familyvoicesal.org

www.tommy.com

Dance...

niques and purposeful postures to strengthen the body, calm the nervous system, and teach a fun way to exercise. All poses can be adapted to meet the needs of each child. Pre-registration is required for classes which will run 1 day per week for 4-6 weeks.

(251) 287-0378 info@bluebirdtherapy.com www.bluebirdtherapy.com

Dance Without Limits ad on page 7

4715 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36609 Improving the lives of special needs individuals through the power of dance! Any kid. Any adult.

Any disability. Ages Preschool - adult.

(251) 610-4969

www.dancewithoutlimitsfoundation.org

Dauphin Island Sea Lab Sea Stars Camp ad on page 16

Parent to Parent USA

The Listening Program

of

Organizations for Parents

P.O. Box 9054, Austin, TX 78757 A national nonprofit organization committed to promoting parent peer support across the country.

(484) 272-7368 memberinfo@p2pusa.org www.p2pusa.org

101 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island, AL 36528 This three-day buddy camp is designed for students with special needs and their guardians to explore the Gulf of Mexico. Come discover the marine habitats on and around Dauphin Island by boat and bus, including Mobile Bay, the salt marsh, and the beach.

Recreation & Social

(251) 861-2141 ext. 7515 seastars@disl.org disl.org/dhp/sea-stars-camp

BlueBird Pediatric Therapy, Inc. – Kids Yoga

Exceptional Arts Drama by Sunnyside Theater

ad on page 18

6157 Airport Blvd, Suite 205, Mobile, AL 36608 Yoga for children with and without special needs.

Yoga classes incorporate poses, breathing tech-

ad on page 3

63 Midtown Park East, Mobile, AL 36606 Sunnyside Theater proudly presents Exceptional Arts Drama. Drama and Theater classes for

its about more than the steps.

Confident, Ambitious, Focused and Happy!

Call

633-9559

Register for FALL at debbiesdance.com

to Register.

Register for Fall Gymnastics Meets Ninja is the entry level to the all-new sports discipline inspired by gymnastics, martial arts, obstacle training and freestyle movement. Class goals include listening skills, confidence, trying new things, working through frustration, and manners. We do all this through a strategic mix of skills and performance.

633-9559 MON-THUR 2-6 pm

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6429 Hillcrest Park Ct. • Mobile, AL • 251.633.9559 Ballet • Pointe • Tap • Jazz • Tumbling • Contemporary • Hip Hop

Debbie’s School of Dance • 6429 Hillcrest Park Ct. • Mobile, AL • 251.633.9559 45

www.facebook.com/mobilebayparentsmagazine

adults and children with special needs ages 8 – 80! We are committed to providing fun and creative theater opportunities for children and adults with special needs! Classes meet on Tuesday nights from 6 - 8 pm.

(251) 510-1808 azaleacity@mindspring.com www.azaleacityarts.com

Access To Recreation

Adaptive recreation equipment for the physically challenged. Wheelchair accessories, daily living, replacement parts, bath and shower accessories, Lifts, safety equipment, ramps, manual and power chairs, etc.

(800) 634-4351 customerservice@accesstr.com www.accesstr.com

Camp ASCCA

5278 Camp ASCCA Dr, Jackson’s Gap, AL 36861 Camp ASCCA is Alabama’s Special Camp for Children and Adults. ASCCA is a nationally recognized leader in therapeutic recreation for children and adults with both physical and intellectual disabilities.

256-825-9226 or (800) THE-CAMP cca.org www.campascca.org

info@campas-

2701 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36608 We offer a summer camp, teen weekend, sibling weekend, family fun day, deep sea fishing trip, winter exchange program, and hospital outreach program for children who have been diagnosed with cancer.

(251) 476-9880 info@camprapahope.org www.camprapahope.org

Captains for Kids

A free day on the water for kids with special needs and illnesses. Fishing, sailing, dolphin cruises and more. Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, Pensacola Beach, Ft. Walton Beach and Panama City. Limited spots. Registration required. Date September 7 (850) 438-5555 spotate@aol.com www.captainsforkids.com

Celisse’s School of the Equestrian Arts

2568 Sollie Road, Mobile, AL 36695 CSEA provides horseback riding instruction and personal development opportunities for all students regardless of their ability. We provide Therapeutic Horseback Riding.

(251) 289-1244 kcequestrianarts@gmail.com www.CSEAMobile.org

Camp Bridges

1600 7th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233 A fun and educational environment for heart, kidney, liver and lung transplant recipients. Camps & educational programs for children, young adults and families in Alabama and neighboring states. info@campbridges.org

Camp-Rap-A-Hope

www.campbridges.org

Camp Frog - Autism Society of Alabama

Lake Martin, AL Camp is for children on the autism spectrum to enjoy traditional camp activities in a supportive environment with their families. Applications and camp dates are available for download on the website.

(205) 951-1364 bamah@autism-alabama.org www.autism-alabama.org/camps

Camp Mash

P.O. Box 850548, Mobile, AL 36685 Camp M.A.S.H. is a weeklong recreational program for children ages 7 to 17 with a form of juvenile arthritis or a related autoimmune disease.

(251) 599-5688 campmashmobile@gmail.com www.campmash.org

Camp Seale Harris

Camp Seale Harris is the founding program of Southeastern Diabetes Education Services.

Overnight & Day Camps for Elementary - Senior High. Teen Leadership, Fall, Spring & Summer Family Camps.

CHope Health Services

P.O. Box 2302, Mandeville, LA 70470 We provide quality therapeutic recreation/leisure activities with a purpose to solve problems and teach new skills for anyone. Services are tailored to meet each individual need specifically.

(985) 590-0859 wecare@chopehealthservices.com c-hope-health-services-llc.business.site/

City of Mobile Parks and Rec Center Special Activities Therapeutic Recreation

261 Rickarby Street, Mobile, Therapeutic Programs for Special Needs. Classes vary so call or check our website for more information.

(251) 208-1651

www.cityofmobile.org/parks

Hope Outdoors

(205) 323-8427 or (888) 500-7920 www.smileamile.com

Mobile Bay Parents I September 2019

mobilecospecialolympics@gmail.com www.facebook.com/MobileAreaSpecialOlympics

SNAP (Special Needs Athletes Program)

1952 E Clarke Rd, Mobile, AL 36695 S.N.A.P. Giving developmentally disabled citizens an opportunity to participate in the recreational sport of bowling.

(251) 366-9978 joe@snapofalabama.com www.snapofalabama.com

Space Camp

Space camp for Interested Visually Impaired Students and Deaf and Hard of Hearing.

(800) 637-7223 or (256) 837-3400 www.spacecamp.com

The Exceptional Foundation of the Gulf Coast

28788 North Main Street, Daphne, AL 36526 We provide social and recreational opportunities to the special needs community of Baldwin and Mobile counties. We offer art, cooking, dance, sign language, yoga, Special Olympics, community field trips & so much more.

(251) 625-8955 efgulfcoast@gmail.com www.exceptionalfoundationgc.org

Turning Point Dance Academy

4880 Lakeland Drive (Suite D), Mobile, AL 36619 TPDA welcomes all dancers with special needs!

We will place your child in a class and assign them their own personal buddy to assist them.

(251) 422-0262 or (251) 602-8900 www.tpdadancefamily.com

(850) 230-6030 info@waterplanetusa.com www.waterplanetusa.com

Inner Strength Martial Arts

9120 Airport Boulevard #H, Mobile, AL 36608 Taekwondo for children and adults of all levels.

Offering program for special needs children.

Kallie’s Cheer & Gymnastics

1600 2nd Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233 Smile-A-Mile’s mission is to provide hope, healing of the spirit and love for the whole family during the childhood cancer journey.

Our mission is to provide year-round sports training and competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for people with intellectual disabilities who wish to participate.

(251) 769-5642 ksansing15@gmail.com www.hopeoutdoors.org

Camp Smile

Camp Smile-A-Mile

Mobile Area Special Olympics

Water Planet Dolphin Therapy

(251) 776-1978 info@ismartialarts.com www.ismartialarts.com

(251) 479-4900 campsmile@ucpmobile.org www.campsmilemobile.org

4901 Zeigler Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36608 This is a Boundless Playground. The Boundless Playground is designed so that children of all abilities can enjoy the park.

P.O. Box 1421, Chatom, AL 36518 Spreading the love of God and the great outdoors to those with special needs. Fishing, deer and bird hunts. Free to participants and their families. Apply at http://hopeoutdoors.org/ applynow.

(205) 402-0415 info@campsealeharris.org www.campsealeharris.org

3058 Dauphin Square Connector, Mobile, AL 36607 Our mission is to empower children and adults with disabilities to live their lives without limits by providing an inclusive summer camp experience where there is no limit to the adventure.

Langan Park

670 Zeigler Circle West, Mobile, AL 36608 Cheer/gymnastics/dance studio. Special Needs Dance class on Thursdays from 4-5pm (no age requirement).

(251) 401-5841 kalliescheerandgymnastics@gmail.com www.kallieetheridge.wixsite.com/cheerandgymnastics

Lakeshore Foundation

4000 Ridgeway Drive, Birmingham, AL 35209 Lakeshore Foundation is a fitness, recreation, sport and research organization for people with physically disabling conditions. Find us on Facebook!

(205) 313-7400 info@lakeshore.org www.lakeshore.org

46

203 Greenwood Dr, Panama City Beach, FL 32407 Dolphin encounters, expressive art, massage and music provide experiences for children with physical disabilities, spectrum disorders, depression, ADHD, head and spinal cord injuries and developmental delays.

We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym

1802 A US Highway 98, Daphne, AL 36526 A sensory-safe gym for kids of ALL abilities to play and grow together! Occupational therapy equipment, unique classes, birthday parties, trampoline, zipline, arts and crafts.

(251) 355-6178 info@werockthespectrumdaphne.com www.werockthespectrumdaphne.com

Westside’s Buddy Ball League

1001 Schillinger Road , Mobile, AL 36695 Westside Buddy Ball is a program for mentally and physically challenged youth between 5 – 21 years of age in an athletic environment structured to their abilities.

(251) 680-2744 zabu01@bellsouth.net www.westsidebaseball.com

Kaleidoscope, Goodwill Easterseals of the Gulf Coast 2440 Gordon Smith Drive, Mobile, AL 36617 A recreation and socialization day program for young adults, age 19 and older, with disabilities.

(251) 375-2177

www.gesgc.org

www.mobilebayparents.com

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Schools and Educational Resources Huntington Learning Center ad on page 23

2370 Hillcrest Road #D, Mobile, AL 36695 Our mission to give every student the best education possible has been our mantra since the beginning, and we love to see students realize “I can” when it comes to school success.

(251) 525-9239

www.huntingtonhelps.com

USA Children’s and Women’s Mapp Child and Family Life Program ad on Inside Front Cover

Offering school services to all children who are receiving healthcare services at USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital. We partner with Mobile County Public Schools and credentialed teachers in the Class Act program to provide instruction to school-age children in the hospital’s classrooms or at bedside. We also provide services to ease a child’s transition back into school and community. Our teams even provide special events and services to help normalize the hospital environment for our young students.

(251) 415-1406 extension 1507 kwagner@health. southalabama.edu www.usahealthsystem.com/ amenities/childrens-womens-hospital

Augusta Evans School

6301 Biloxi Avenue, Mobile, AL 36608 Augusta Evans School was organized to provide a quality education, appropriate for mentally handicapped students of Mobile County and individualized to meet each of these student’s needs.

(251) 221-5400

evans.mce.schoolinsites.com

Bright Beginnings Academy

3590 Pleasant Valley Road, Mobile, AL 36609 It is the mission of Bright Beginnings Academy to enable dyslexic students to overcome individual learning differences in order to achieve their full potential in a Christian environment.

(251) 525-9105 info@brightdyslexics.com www.brightdyslexics.com

Callahan School for the Deaf and Blind

3980 Burma Road, Mobile, AL 36693 Our mission is to create a positive, supportive educational environment that provides opportunities for sensory impaired students to reach individual potential in the areas of academics, independence, responsibility and social competence.

(251) 221-5454

http://regional.mcs.schoolinsites.com/

Career Awareness and Preparation Program, Goodwill Easterseals of the Gulf Coast

2440 Gordon Smith Drive, Mobile, AL 36617 CAPP helps high school seniors with Autism and living in foster care prepare for a career goal. Services include: career exploration and guidance; continued support for educational attainment; and opportunities for skills training.

(251) 380-7149 www.gesgc.org

tmatthews@gesgc.org

Gordon Smith Child Development Center

2448 Gordon Smith Drive, Mobile, AL 36617 Inclusive Child Development Centers. Children of all abilities receive high quality instruction with small child-staff ratios.

(251) 471-1581 www.gesgc.org

Christy@gesgc.org

Kumon Learning Center

3964-B Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36608 Kumon is the world’s largest after-school math and reading enrichment program, unlocking the potential of children so they can achieve more on their own.

(800) ABC-MATH

www.kumon.com

Lindamood-Bell Learning

2864 Dauphin Street (Suite D), Mobile, AL 36607 Lindamood-Bell helps children and adults improve language processing—the foundation of all communication and learning.

(251) 473-6808 or (800) 300-1818 www.lindamoodbell.com

15 Midtown Park West, Mobile, AL 36606 Educational consulting, testing, academic therapy for learning disabilities such as Dyslexia. Offering remote therapy for those that cannot attend our center. Academy for those needing alternative school instruction.

(251) 287-1822 mobileoffice@readwritelearningcenter.com www.readwritelearningcenter.com

Renaissance School of the Eastern Shore

10526 County Road 64, Daphne, AL 36526 Classes are structured in a small group setting with subject areas taught using integrated, multisensory applications. We are a Full Curriculum, Non-Profit School meeting State Standards.

Grades K - 9th, Dyslexia therapy and tutoring.

(251) -990-0041 admin@esrenaissance.org www.esrenaissance.org

Schoolworks

1811 Old Shell Rd (Building B), Mobile, AL 36607 Tutoring from PreK-College, ADHD Coaching of all ages, All subject areas, ACT Prep, Iowa Testing Center, homeschool services and Summer camps! Find us on Facebook! michaelann@schoolworksedu.com

Springhill Child Development Center

10 Westminster Way, Mobile, AL 36608 Inclusive Child Development Centers. Children of all abilities receive high quality instruction with small child-staff ratios.

(251) 342-3122

www.gesgc.org

47

5465 Able Court, Mobile, AL 36693 Growing Independence Behavioral Services now offers clinic-based ABA services. Services include comprehensive early intensive behavioral intervention for preschool-aged children and focused clinical services to address challenging behaviors for school-aged children. Clinic hours are Monday – Friday, 8 am – 5 pm. Services are available in Mobile, Anniston, Birmingham and Montgomery.

(251) 331-8021 jstarr@learning-tree.org www.learning-tree.org

The Learning Tree – Little Tree Preschool

Read-Write

(256) 252-8374

The Learning Tree – Growing Independence Behavioral Center

1176 Azalea Road, Mobile, AL 36693 We offer high quality preschool education for children ages 2 ½ - 5. Low student –teacher ratios.

Children are encouraged to grow as learnings by building on individual strengths to establish a strong foundation for school success. The preschool is a blended preschool model, including services for children with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities.

(251) 288-8916 cmcspadden@learning-tree.org www.learning-tree.org

The Learning Tree - Woody’s Song School 5465 Able Court, Mobile, AL 36693 Woody’s Song School serves children ages 5 – 21 with autism spectrum disorder. The private, nonprofit school is a tuition-based, year-round day school built on the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). The school helps children with autism increase their skills in the areas of language, socialization and cognition, while decreasing behaviors that interfere with their learning.

(251) 331-8021 jstarr@learning-tree.org www.learning-tree.org

The Learning Tree Residential School

5459 Able Court, Mobile, AL 36693 We provide educational and residential services for children and adolescents, ages 6 – 21, with developmental disabilities, including autism.

The residential school provides each child with 24 - hour care in a homelike setting that is suited to their unique and special needs. Their IEP are

www.facebook.com/mobilebayparentsmagazine

provided in a community school setting. The organization also provides individual and professional consultation training services.

(251) 649-4420 vmitchell@learning-tree.org www.learning-tree.org

The Think Tank

Mobile & Baldwin County, One on-one in-home tutoring for general education, learning disabled and homebound students. We work directly with the student’s teachers to ensure we follow the IEP for special needs students and the student’s current classroom curriculum. We have qualified educators to work with ADD, ADHD, hearing impaired, MR, Dyslexic, and speech impaired students.

(251) 414-4494 thinktank minds@gmail.com www.thinktankminds.com

Tutor Doctor

identification and diagnosis, as well as to provide educational outreach.

(251) 410-5437 www.usahealthsystem.com/services/pediatric-development-medicine

Alabama Autism & Asperger’s Statewide Info & Support Network A hub for Autism related info, events, videos, & support. Free Resources, Guidance, Rights & Connections. www.alabamaautism.org

Autism Society of America

We provide advocacy, education, referral information, and community support at national, state and local levels through our strong nationwide network of Affiliates.

(800) 328-8476 info@autism-society.org www.autism-society.org

In-Home tutoring for special needs students. We know students with special needs can succeed given the right tools and personalized attention—which is exactly what our tutoring program aims to provide.

Autism Speaks

Specific Resources - Autism

(888) 288-4762 familyservices@autismspeaks.org www.autismspeaks.org

(251) 580-6802

www.tutordoctor.com

American Autism and Rehabilitation Center ad on page 11

8909 Rand Avenue, Daphne, AL 36526 A facility aimed at treating a variety of special needs in one convenient location. Speech, occupational and physical therapy, ABA therapy, psychological/diagnostic services and more.

Serving patients & families of all ages affected by Autism, Aspergers, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, etc.

(251) 210-1632 info@americanautismcenter.com www.Americanautismcenter.com

Autism Society of Alabama ad on page 43

205 Lambert Avenue (Suite C), Mobile, AL 36604 The Autism Society of Alabama is a nonprofit advocacy group with the mission of improving services for those on the Autism Spectrum.

(251) 259-5553 or (877) 4AUTISM info@autismalabama.org www.autism-alabama.org

Autism Society of Alabama Sibshops ad on page 43

Sibshops are fun events where kids who have a sibling with a disability can play fun games, share and meet other “sibs” who get it!

(251) 259-5553 michelle@autism-alabama.org www.autism-alabama.org

Be Better Clinical Psychology ad on page 16

22 North Florida Street, Mobile, AL 36607 Providing Neurodevelopmental and Psychoeducational evaluations that make a difference.

Autism/ADOS-2 testing, ADD/ADHD, vocational, LD/IQ, diagnosis and recommendations.

(251) 300-2743

USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital Pediatric Developmental Medicine ad on Inside Front Cover

1601 Center Street (Suite 1F), Mobile, AL 36604 Our mission is to improve the lives of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders through early Mobile Bay Parents I September 2019

Promoting solutions, across the spectrum and throughout the life span, for people with autism and their families. The Autism Response Team provides connections to information, tools and resources.

FSU Center for Autism & Related Disabilities (FSU CARD)

Pensacola, FL 32503 FSU CARD serves individuals with autism across the lifespan by providing free consultation, resources, and educational support to build knowledge, sustainability, and capacity within the community.

(850) 324-6245 christine.ogilvie@med.fsu.edu www.fsucard.com

Mobile ABA Autism Center

1903 Springhill Avenue, Mobile, AL 36607 Our Mission is to provide the highest quality and most effective Applied Behavior Analysis therapy using a whole child approach to individuals of all ages and developmental levels diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

(251) 287-2442 info@mobilebayaba.com www.mobilebayaba.com

Operation Autism for Military Families

Operation Autism is sponsored and maintained by the Organization for Autism Research (OAR).

See more information in this directory under Organization for Autism Research (OAR).

(866) 366-9710

www.operationautismonline.org

Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital Autism Center

5154 Bayou Boulevard, Pensacola, FL 32503 A family-centered approach to learning for children on the autism spectrum. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy improves social skills and behavior. Parent instruction and hands-on training for families and professionals.

(850) 416-4681 soman@ascension.org www.facebook.com/SacredHeartAutismCenter

Sesame Street and Autism

Specific Resources - CdLS CdLS Foundation (Cornelia de Lange Syndrome)

We are a family support organization that exists to ensure early and accurate diagnosis, promote research, and help people with a diagnosis of CdLS make informed decisions throughout their lives.

(800) 753-2357 or (800) 223-8355 info@cdlsusa.org www.cdlsusa.org

Specific Resources -

Cerebral Palsy Cerebral Palsy.org

CerebralPalsy.org provides information, resources, support and unlimited inspiration to all those touched by cerebral palsy, and other neurological conditions.

(800) 692-4453 contactus@mychildwithcp.com www.cerebralpalsy.org

United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile

3058 Dauphin Square Connector, Mobile, AL 36607 The primary mission of UCP of Mobile is to promote the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with cerebral palsy and other disabilities.

(251) 479-4900 lluckie@ucpmobile.org www.ucpmobile.org

Specific Resources -

Cystic Fibrosis

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Alabama Chapter

200 Office Park Drive (Suite 115), Birmingham, AL 35223 The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is the world’s leader in the search for a cure for cystic fibrosis.

(205) 870-8565 alabama@cff.org www.cff.org/Alabama

Specific Resources -

Down Syndrome

Down Syndrome Alabama

1929 Canyon Road, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216 We promote awareness, acceptance and advocacy for individuals with Down syndrome of all ages.

(205) 988-0810 downsyndromealbama@gmail.com www.downsyndromealabama.org

Down Syndrome Society of Mobile

Mobile, AL Our mission is to provide enrichment through education, networking opportunities, advocacy, and emotional support for individuals with Down syndrome, their families and the greater community.

(888) 454-0317 downsyndromesociety@gmail.com www.dssmobile.org

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Helping kids grow smarter, stronger, and kinder, using the power of media to meet children’s development needs with early education and social impact programs.

Specific Resources -

Dyslexia

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TACA (Talk About Curing Autism)

Alabama Branch of the International Dyslexia Association

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A national non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to educating, empowering, and supporting families affected by autism. TACA aims to speed up the cycle time from the autism diagnosis to effective treatments.

(855) 726-7810 or (949) 640-4401

48

www.tacanow.org

1716 Triple H Ranch Road, Bessemer, AL 35022 IDA Alabama works to improve the lives of individuals with dyslexia through education, legislation, and services.

(205) 533-4523 gladys.schaefer@gmail.com al.dyslexiaida.org

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Bright Beginnings Academy

3590 Pleasant Valley Road, Mobile, AL 36609 It is the mission of Bright Beginnings Academy to enable dyslexic students to overcome individual learning differences in order to achieve their full potential in a Christian environment.

(251) 525-9105 info@brightdyslexics.com www.brightdyslexics.com

Read-Write

15 Midtown Park West, Mobile, AL 36606 Educational consulting, testing, academic therapy for learning disabilities such as Dyslexia. Offering remote therapy for those that cannot attend our center. Academy for those needing alternative school instruction.

(251) 287-1822 mobileoffice@readwritelearningcenter.com www.readwritelearningcenter.com

Renaissance School of the Eastern Shore

10526 County Road 64, Daphne, AL 36526 Classes are structured in a small group setting with subject areas taught using integrated, multi-sensory applications. We are a Full Curriculum, Non-Profit School meeting State Standards. Grades K - 9th, Dyslexia therapy and tutoring.

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Spina Bifida

Spina Bifida Association of Alabama

Birmingham, AL 35202 To develop and provide current information about Spina Bifida and promote public awareness as well as advocate for educational, vocational and community support.

(256) 617-1414 info@sbaofal.org www.sbaofal.org

Specific Resources -

Tourette Association of America

The Tourette Association of America has emerged as the premier national non-profit organization working to make life better for all people affected by Tourette and Tic Disorders.

support@tourette.org

Advanced Health Solutions Dr. Renee Lopez, D.C. ad on page 9

8301 Professional Place East (Suite 200), Landover, MD 20785 A non profit program with nearly 50 local organizations nationwide. We work to prevent, control, and cure epilepsy through community, education and research for new treatments and therapies.

(800) 332-1000 ContactUs@efa.org lepsyfoundation.org

www.epi-

Epilepsy Foundation of Alabama

3100 Lorna Rd., Ste. 300, Birmingham, AL 36216 Our mission is to educate and support individuals with epilepsy and their families, to increase awareness in the general community and to facilitate prevention and management of epilepsy.

Helpline - (800) 332-1000 (205) 453-8205 bjones@efa.org www.epilepsy.com/local/alabama/

Specific Resources -

Muscular Dystrophy

Alabama Muscular Dystrophy Association

700 Century Park S (#225), Birmingham, AL 35226 MDA is dedicated to finding treatments and cures for muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases. We also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education.

(205) 823-8191 or (800) 572-1717 birmingham@ mdausa.org www.mda.org/office/birmingham

Specific Resources -

Sickle Cell

720 Oak Circle Drive East, Mobile, AL 36609 Neurofeedback, Functional Nutrition, Lab Analysis, Chiropractic, Oxygen Therapy and more.

(251) 301-0875 www.YourAdvancedHealthSolutions.com

ad on page 16

22 North Florida Street, Mobile, AL 36607 Providing Neurodevelopmental and Psychoeducational evaluations that make a difference.

Autism/ADOS-2 testing, ADD/ADHD, vocational, LD/IQ, diagnosis and recommendations.

(251) 300-2743

ADHD Medical Clinic of Mobile

2651 Old Shell Road , Mobile, AL 36607 We specialize in treatment of adolescents (12 and up) and adults with ADHD. We offer state of the art specialty testing and comprehensive solutions to the complex problems related to ADHD. (251) 243-7058 office@adhd-medical.com www.adhd-medical.com

Information, resources and network opportunities to help adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder lead better lives. Find us on Facebook! www.add.org

Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Disorders (CHADD) CHADD Provides support and education for individuals with AD/HD. (301) 306-7070 or (800) 233-4050 vice@chadd.org www.chadd.org

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Sickle Cell Disease Association of America-Mobile Chapter, Inc.

Feingold Association of the United States

(251) 432-0301 info@scdmobile.org www.scdmobile.org

(631) 369-9340 help@feingold.org www.feingold.org

1453 Springhill Avenue, Mobile, AL 36604 Our mission: empowering our clients and families with knowledge, through quality comprehensive programs and services.

Foods & synthetic additives can cause behavior, learning and health problems. We Help families introduce low-additive diets and techniques for better behavior, learning and public awareness.

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(251) 210-1632 info@americanautismcenter.com www.Americanautismcenter.com

8909 Rand Avenue, Daphne, AL 36526 A premier Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) treatment facility. HBOT reduces inflammation, promotes healing, repairs cells and heals wounds as well as treating symptoms of Autism, Multiple Sclerosis, Lyme, TBI/PTS, Stroke, RSD/CRPS, Fibromyalgia, Diabetic Foot Wounds, Radiation Injury, Failed Grafts/Flaps, Concussions and other Sports Injuries, Migraine Headaches, Cancer, Crohn’s/Colitis, Cerebral Palsy, Neuropathy, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Chronic Fatigue and much more.

BayPointe Hospital ad on page 29

5800 Southland Drive, Mobile, AL 36693 BayPointe Hospital is a free-standing psychiatric hospital specializing in child and adolescent acute inpatient and long-term residential care.

Our 15-acre west Mobile campus offers shortterm crisis stabilization and long-term treatment in a residential setting for ages 5-18.

(251) 450-2211 or (888) 335-3044 www.baypointehospital.org

BlueBird Pediatric Therapy, Inc. ad on page 18

Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA)

info@add.org

8909 Rand Avenue, Daphne, AL 36526 A facility aimed at treating a variety of special needs in one convenient location. Speech, occupational and physical therapy, ABA therapy, psychological/diagnostic services and more. Serving patients & families of all ages affected by Autism, Aspergers, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, etc.

(251) 210-1496 info@americanhbot.com www.americanhbot.com

Be Better Clinical Psychology

(800) 939-1019

Therapy

ad on page 11

Specific Resources Epilepsy Foundation

adhdmobile.com

American Hyperbaric Center

Specific Resources -

ADD-ADHD

Epilepsy

(251) 378-8635

ad on page 11

Tourette Syndrome

(888) 4-TOURET (486-8738) www.tourette.org

2560 Old Shell Road, Mobile, AL 36607 Medical practice for kids and young people with ADHD and related problems. Focus provides objective testing, medical treatment as well as behavior modification strategies

American Autism and Rehabilitation Center

(251) -990-0041 admin@esrenaissance.org www.esrenaissance.org

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Specific Resources -

6157 Airport Blvd, Suite 205, Mobile, AL 36608 Occupational therapy, speech therapy, feeding therapy, social skills groups, summer camps and adapted kid’s yoga. Each session addresses the individual child’s needs through play that is grounded in child development while also teaching the parents what to do at home.

(251) 287-0378 info@bluebirdtherapy.com www.bluebirdtherapy.com

Pediatric Physical Therapy of Mobile ad on page 15

881 Hillcrest Road, Mobile, AL 36695 Our mission is to provide pediatric patients with options for outpatient physical therapy services.

Treatment will be individualized, assertive, and aggressive to maximize functional outcomes. We strive to have child-friendly, play-based treatment programs which are family centered.

(251) 450-0070 ppt_llc@hotmail.com www.pptmobile.com

www.facebook.com/mobilebayparentsmagazine

Pediatric Therapy Services at USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital ad on Inside Front Cover

1610 Center Street, Mobile, AL 36604 We offer a collaborative, team-oriented program with physical, occupational and speech language therapies for our pediatric patients.

(251) 415-1670 www.usahealthsystem.com/locations/pediatric-therapy-services-clinic

Anchor Therapy Services

424 F Saraland Blvd. North, Saraland, AL 36571 Speech language therapy close to home. A pediatric, private, clinic based therapy center located in Saraland.

(251) 316-4882

Buckaroo Barn, L.L.C

39821 Duffee Lane, Bay Minette, AL 36507 Hippotherapy uses the movement of a horse to influence the patient’s posture, balance, strength, stability & sensory processing. Therapists direct the movement of the horse, analyze the patient’s response and adjust therapy.

(251) 604-3904 buckaroobarn@gmail.com www.buckaroobarnllc.com

Dyslexia Referrals

Kids Always Kount Therapy Services, LLC 3512 Godwin Court, Suite A, Mobile, AL 36693 Our therapy techniques skillfully weave sensory experiences and practical application into activities of daily living. We provide speech, occupational, and physical therapy as well as audiology and educational services for children from birth to 21 years.

307 University Boulevard North (UCOM 2000), Mobile, AL 36688 As a training clinic for the USA Clinical and Counseling Psychology doctoral training program, USA Psychological Clinic also offers low-cost services for children, adults, and families.

(251) 586-8040 shannon@kidsalwayskount.net www.kidsalwayskount.net

(251) 460-7149 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/ artsandsci/psychology

North Baldwin Infirmary Pediatric Rehabilitation

USA Speech and Hearing Clinic

1815 Hand Avenue, Bay Minette, AL 36507 We provide comprehensive care to children who require occupational, physical and speech therapy.

(251) 937-5521 rich.rammel@infirmaryhealth.org www.infirmatryhealth.org

Springhill Medical Center Rehabilitation

100 Memorial Drive (Suite 1-C), Mobile, AL 36608 We offer Physical, Occupational and Speech therapy services from Pediatric to Geriatric, all ages welcome.

(251) 340-0688

www.Springhillmedicalcenter.com

Baldwin County & Mobile areas, Please contact Holli Hinton, M.Ed., CALT-QI, CDT, for references to private dyslexia therapy for students or therapy level training for teachers or other qualified adults in Baldwin County and Mobile areas.

Thomas Hospital Pediatric Therapy

(601) 319-9332 wmcarey.edu

(251) 928-2375 rich.rammel@infirmaryhealth.org www.infirmatryhealth.org

hhinton@neuhaus.org or hhinton@

University of South Alabama Psychology Clinic

750 Morphy Avenue, Fairhope, AL 36532 Providing comprehensive care to children who require occupational, physical and speech therapy.

5721 USA North Drive, HAHN 1119, Mobile, AL 36688 The Center provides services in speech, language, and hearing to citizens of the greater Mobile community, as well as supervised clinical experiences for students earning advanced degrees in speech-language pathology and audiology.

(251) 445-9378 speechandhearing@southalabama. edu www.southalabama.edu/colleges/alliedhealth/ speechandhearing/clinic.html

Websites and Publications The Picky Table - Podcast

Occupational therapist, Amber Miller-Walker interviews parents and professionals regarding therapy techniques, diagnoses, and community resources for people with disabilities through a podcasts. Available on ITunes, Stitcher and Libsyn!

(251) 802-8033 thepickytable@gmail.com www.thepickytable.com MBP

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Mobile Bay Parents I September 2019

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Finding Their Own Fashion: Kids and Clothes Before they develop their own style, most parents enjoy a grace period when we can dress our children up in a range of fashion that usually expresses our own idea of what suits our child. But the day always comes when kids take their clothing choices into their own hands and emerge from their room in a unique ensemble featuring color combinations that blind the senses, or is upside down, or is inside out, or includes a cape. And that’s cool. The power of expression kids may ascribe to their clothing choices supports their individual evolution and allows them to celebrate their individual style. The following titles explore how kids clothing helps them be comfortable with who they are in what they wear.

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Green Pants

by Kenneth Kraegel (Candlewick Press) Jameson can do anything when he’s wearing green pants. His basketball dunk is the highest, his dive is the deepest, and his dance moves are unmatched when his pants are green. Jameson has green pants that make the best of every occasion. But when he’s given the honor of being in his cousin’s wedding, the required tuxedo comes with a problem - black pants. Can Jameson do his best at the wedding if he gives up his green pants for the ceremony? For every child who has that favorite piece of clothing that defines their daily wear (and every parent who has to keep it in priority rotation for laundry), Green Pants is both a fashion love story and reassuring guide for options when signature garb has to take seat, just for a little while.

Willbee the Bumblebee

by Craig Smith & Maureen Thomson, Illustrated by Katz Cowley (Scholastic) Flying among the flowers in the garden, Willbee has an important job moving pollen from plant to plant. Even though his days start early and end late, he’s got his fuzzy striped jersey to keep him warm while he works. But when a thorn snags a thread on his jersey, his work clothes unwind, exposing his bare bee bum and leaving Willbee out in the cold. Unable to fly for help, other garden helpers step in with their own unique skills to get Willbee back into flying fashion. With rhyming couplets that follow a bee’s trajectory through the garden, this sweet title knits together a journey from unraveling confidence to a community effort that restores comfort (and style) to one of its hardest workers.

Ogilvy

by Deborah Underwood, Illustrations by T.L. McBeth (Henry Holt and Company) It’s Ogilvy’s first day in a new town and he’s ready to join activities and make new friends. Donning his signature sweater he visits the park where all the bunnies are playing games. When he starts to join in, Ogilvy discovers that his sweater style dictates the games that he’s allowed (or not allowed) to participate in. By simply changing what he calls his sweater, Ogilvy finds the avenue that allows him to do all the things he loves. But when the bunnies start to chafe against his revolving description of ‘sweater’, it’s up to Ogilvy to ultimately define fashion and fun. Empowering young readers to own their individual sense of style and take a sartorial stand among the masses, this title celebrates the Ogilvy in all of us.

Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

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FamilyCalendar Sunday August 25

Anniversary of Fort Mims 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Fort Mims, 1813 Fort Mims Road Stockton, AL, 36579 The annual reenactment of the Battle of Fort Mims will be held on August 24-25, 2019. www.fortmims.org Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents A Gentleman’s Guide To Love & Murder 2:00 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Mobile, AL, 36611 Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents A Gentleman’s Guide To Love & Murder 251-457-8887 cctshows.com Joe Jefferson Players present “Matilda” 2:00 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, AL, 36606 Joe Jefferson Players present “Matilda” joejeffersonplayers.com Sunday Matinee, Geological History of Alabama (Free) Five Rivers Delta Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 As far back as the eighteenth century, geologists from other countries were attracted to Alabama by reports of the region’s diverse geology. Since then, researchers have pieced together the history of how the landscape and life forms found in Alabama have changed over time.

This film follows these changes from the Earth’s formation through the major geological eras – Paleozoic, Mesozoic, and Cenozoic – of the fossil record. www.outdooralabama.com/activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center

Thursday August 29

21st Annual Chef Challenge 6:00 PM Fort Whiting, 1630 S Broad St Mobile, AL, 36605 Join us as we celebrate our 21st year hosting Chef Challenge. Experience a night of culinary magic as some of the area’s most celebrated chefs come together to fight hunger in their community along with a little friendly competition. Guests will also get to enjoy live music by Roman Street, silent auction, and complimentary beer and wine. www.feedingthegulfcoast.org

Friday August 30

City of Mobile Fire-Rescue is presenting “Friday at the Firehouse” (Free) 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM, 4710 Airport Boulevard Mobile, AL, 36608 Please join us for Friday at the Firehouse, as we welcome you into the MFRD fire stations for an openhouse-style evening of family fun! You will have the chance to tour the stations, explore the fire engines, and meet our crews. There will also be coloring stations, kids games, and water provided by Coca-Cola.

Joe Jefferson Players present “Matilda” 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, AL, 36606 Free Family Movie Night (Free)

West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. Movies start at dusk (around 8pm). Snack vendor will be on site during movies. Bring your own folding chairs or beach towels for seating and bug spray, just in case. Admission is free, but please no pets, grills or glass allowed.

Weather permitting! townofdauphinisland.org

Mobile Bay Parents I September 2019

Saturday August 31

Joe Jefferson Players present “Matilda” 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, AL, 36606 Joe Jefferson Players present “Matilda” joejeffersonplayers.com

Sunday September 1

Kids Studio (Free) 4:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Kids Studio is a weekly program that encourages children ages 3-10 to explore contemporary art. Activities are designed to stimulate young minds while offering cross-curriculum learning opportunities with hands-on projects. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Free First Sunday History Museum of Mobile (Free)

1:00 PM - 5:00 PM, History Museum of Mobile, 111 S. Royal St Mobile, AL, 36602 Joe Jefferson Players present “Matilda” 2:00 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, AL, 36606 Joe Jefferson Players present “Matilda” joejeffersonplayers.com 2019 Sunset Concerts West End Beach, Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 The popular Sunset Concert series, sponsored by the town of Dauphin Island, will be getting underway in just over a month and the first (and last) event will once again be held at historic Fort Gaines. townofdauphinisland.org

Tuesday September 3

Create Play Learn (Free) 10:00 AM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Children Ages 18 Months to 5 Years. Join us for some hands on fun and learning.

Wear play clothes because things might get messy! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Teen Tuesdays (Free) 4:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us in the Teen Spot to create Beaded Earrings. Supplies and snacks provided. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Andra Bohnet, Faculty Flute Recital 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/ music/upcomingevents.html

Wednesday September 4

Gulf Coast Classic Dog Show 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, The Grounds, 1035 Cody Road Mobile, AL, 36608 The annual Gulf Coast Classic Dog Show will be returning to Mobile after a decade! More than a thousand dogs and their owners will get the chance to strut their stuff in the show ring Wednesday, September 4th through Sunday, September 8th. The event is great for the whole family with free admission and free parking.

Information Session - Guest Curator and Artists (Free) 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM, Alabama Contemporary Art Center, 301 Conti Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Come here about our Guest Curator Program as well as a proposal process for artist-led site-specific Independent Projects. www.alabamacontemporary.org/events/informationsession/ Old Crow Medicine Show 8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 www.mobilesaenger.com

Thursday September 5 Gulf Coast Classic Dog Show Details September 4.

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exhibition www.MobileMuseumofArt.com

Art Talk 6:30 PM Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 Guests are invited to “Join the one and only NALL at MMofA for an exciting and irreverent conversation about his life, his work, and the

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Peter Cooper, Guest Artist Oboe Recital with pianist Doreen Lee 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/ music/upcomingevents.html

Friday September 6 Gulf Coast Classic Dog Show Details September 4.

After School Special (Free) 3:30 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Come celebrate National Read a Book Day by creating your own bookmark! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Crafting with Mr. Butch (Free) 4:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Join Mr. Butch to make your own Fall Leaf Wreath. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Saturday September 7 Gulf Coast Classic Dog Show Details September 4.

Swampfest 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Coastal Response Center, 7385 Hwy 188 Coden, AL, 36523 Annual Fundraiser to support the South Bay Food Pantry. With your generous donations of canned & dry goods, together, we are helping families have food on their tables. Activities include Gumbo Cook-off, Car show, Swampkids contest and more.

Endurance & Resiliency of Mobile & It’s People 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Hurricane Frederick changed Mobile forever when it arrived on the night of September 12, 1979. Scott Corcoran from the History Museum of Mobile will discuss the development of the storm, its impact on the Mobile area, recovery efforts and Frederick’s lasting legacy on the area. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Reading Paws (Free) 12:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Come meet the Pet Therapy dogs and their owners. Learn all about the dogs and the services they provide the community. Practice your reading skills with a four-legged friend. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

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FamilyCalendar Stem Saturday (Free) 2:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us for some STEM, (science, technology, engineering and math) fun and exploration at the Library! Ages 5 and up. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Hurricane Run 5K and Fun Run 6:30 PM Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 101 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 allevents.in 2019 Brett Robinson Alabama Coastal Triathlon Gulf Shores Main Public Beach, 101 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 Enjoy a beautiful gulf swim and a fast, flat bike and run course at a great venue!

615-415-3520 www.team-magic.com 7th Annual Captains for Kids Event (Free) Various Locations, Fun, free day on the water for kids with special needs and illnesses. Activities include: dolphin cruises, fishing charters, pirate cruise, parasailing, airboat rides, eco tours, sailing excursions and more. We have many different locations along the Gulf Coast and Florida Keys. www.captainsforkids.com

Sunday September 8

2019 Walk to End Alzheimer’s - Mobile Bay Area 12:30 AM Bienville Square, Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us for the 2019 Mobile Bay Area Walk to End Alzheimer’s. When you participate in Walk, your fundraising dollars fuel our mission, and your participation in the event helps to change the level of Alzheimer’s awareness in your community. act.alz.org/site/TR?fr_id=12048&pg=entry Dead Head Ride 6:30 AM 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 A challenging ride to support brain injured veterans and provide lifesaving care www.eventbrite.com/e/annual-deadhead-ride-tickets-62257082610 Gulf Coast Classic Dog Show Details September 4.

Weddings to Brag About Bridal Show 2019 11:30 AM Azalea Manor, 751 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL, 36602 One of the south’s longest running bridal and special event shows is getting ready for another great year! Join us September 8, 2019 from Noon-4:30PM at Mobile’s beautiful Azalea Manor!

One lucky couple will win a FREE wedding, reception, and honeymoon!

The Market at The Pillars 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM, The Pillars, 1757 Government St Mobile, AL, 36604 A fun afternoon of shopping local farmers, makers, bakers, crafters and artists! Live music. Local eats and specialty drinks. Best Bloody Mary Bar in town. Pet friendly and kid approved! The Market at The Pillars boasts over 50 local vendors. Shop local!

251-307-5382 Gulf Coast Steinway Society Orchestra : Winners Concerto Concert 2:30 PM Murphy High School, 100 S Carlen St Mobile, AL, 36606 The Gulf Coast Steinway Society Orchestra : Winners Concerto Concert www.gulfcoaststeinwaysociety.org

Monday September 9

Boredom Buster (Free) 4:00 PM Saraland Public Library, 111 Saraland Loop Saraland, AL, 36571 Looking for something fun to do? Join us for karaoke, crafts and so much more! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Tuesday September 10

Tinker Tuesday (Free) 4:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Learn how to make DIY Stamps. Space and supplies are limited.

Registration is encouraged. For more information or to register, please call 494-4140 or email eenglish@ mplonline.org. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Mad Scientist Club (Free) 5:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us for Kid

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FamilyCalendar Friendly Experiments and discover the outcome and results of the scientific methods we use. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Auditions for A Christmas Story: The Musical 6:00 PM 3995 Cottage Hill Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 The PACT Theatre Company is excited to announce auditions for A Christmas Story: The Musical performed at The Steeple on St. Francis on December 4-6, 2019. Register for auditions online at www.thepactmobile.com/a-christmas-story www.thepactmobile.com

Alabama Contemporary Art Center Kids Studio (Free)

4:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Join staff from the Alabama Contemporary Art Center to explore contemporary art and music through hands-on and minds-on activities that stimulate and deepen their understanding of art. (Ages 8-13) www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Archduke Piano Trio 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/ music/upcomingevents.html

Auditions for A Christmas Story: The Musical 6:00 PM 3995 Cottage Hill Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 The PACT Theatre Company is excited to announce auditions for A Christmas Story: The Musical performed at The Steeple on St. Francis on December 4-6, 2019. Register for auditions online at www.thepactmobile.com/a-christmas-story www.thepactmobile.com

Wednesday September 11

Friday September 13

Original Oyster House Free Lunch for First Responders 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Original Oyster House, The Original Oyster House restaurants will honor Mobile and Baldwin county law enforcement, firefighters, paramedics and sheriff officers by offering a free “Never Forget” Lunch at either the Gulf Shores or Mobile Causeway location on Wednesday Sept. 11, 2019 from 11 am to 4 pm.

D.I.Y. Do It Yourself Day! (Free) 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM, Semmes Public Library, 9150 Moffett Rd Semmes, AL, 36575 Learn something new – hands on activities in Art, Gardening, Cooking and so much more! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Thursday September 12

13th Annual Girls Just Wanna Have Fun 5:30 PM Government Street Plaza, Mobile, AL, 36602 This event is an evening for ladies 21 years of age and older, complete with heavy hors d’oeuvres from local area chefs and restaurants, McTini’s, and an unforgettable evening of manicures, makeovers, shopping and more. rmhcmobile.org/news-events/girls-just-wanna-fun/

Word/Play (Free) 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Staff from the Alabama Contemporary Art Center join us for Family Storytime on the 2nd Thursday of the month.

Preschoolers will explore contemporary art and music through hands-on and minds-on activities that stimulate and deepen their understanding of art. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Word/Play (Free) 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Word/Play is a program that encourages children ages 2-5 to create works of art inspired by contemporary children’s literature. www.alabamacontemporary.org/events/informationsession/ Teen Art Scene - Artistic Acrylics (Free) 2:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Want to create beautiful paintings but have no idea how to begin? Join us and learn how to paint with acrylics. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Mobile Bay Parents I September 2019

ArtWalk 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL, 36602 LoDa ArtWalk is a monthly event where in the community is invited to come downtown and enjoy local art, artists, galleries, and other great venues.

The Black Jacket Symphony presents The Eagles Hotel California 7:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 The Black Jacket Symphony offers a unique concert experience through recreating classic albums in a live performance setting. www.mobilesaenger.com

Saturday September 14

Fort Gaines Event 10:00 AM Fort Gaines, 51 Bienville Blvd Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Come and see the Pirates as they pilfer and pillage Isle Dauphine and fight against Spanish and British Galleons. Who knows, you may even find a pirate’s treasure. dauphinisland.org/fort-gaines/ Maps, Maps, Maps (Free) 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 In partnership with the African American Genealogical & Historical Society of Mobile, the Mobile Public Library is hosting another session of African American Genealogy workshops. The free genealogy workshop will focus on the use of maps as valuable resources for genealogical research. A light lunch will be provided.

Registration is required. For more information or to register, please call 251-494-2172 or email mainlhg@mplonline.org. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Sew and Tell (Free) 10:00 AM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Visit with friends and learn how to Stitch on Burlap. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Eddie Griffin 7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 A popular comedian turned actor who started his career on-stage as a dare, funnyman Eddie Griffin has built an ever-growing fan base since jumping onto the comedy scene in 1990. www.mobilesaenger.com

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Tuesday September 17

Teen Tuesdays in the Teen Spot! (Free) 4:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us in the Teen Spot to learn how to write in cursive. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Family Bingo (Free) 6:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us for a Family Night of Bingo and snacks too! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Auditions for Mamma Mia! 7:00 PM Azalea City Center for the Arts, 63 Midtown Park East Mobile, AL, 36606 Auditions for Mamma Mia! www.sunnysidedrama.com/index www.azaleacityarts.com

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Thursday September 19

Word/Play (Free) 10:00 AM Alabama Contemporary Art Center, 301 Conti Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Word/Play is a program that encourages children ages 2-5 to create works of art inspired by contemporary children’s literature. www.alabamacontemporary.org/events/informationsession/ Talk like a Pirate Day (Free) 4:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Come make eye patches and watch The Goonies while enjoying Grog (lemonade) and Hardtack (Popcorn). www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Food and Folly 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM, Fort Whiting, 1630 S Broad Street Mobile, AL, 36605 Enjoy carnival music by the Excelsior Band, a wine grab, silent auction, wine tasting and sample some of your favorite local cuisine. www.ucpmobile.org Auditions for Mamma Mia! 7:00 PM Azalea City Center for the Arts, 63 Midtown Park East Mobile, AL, 36606 Auditions for Mamma Mia! www.sunnysidedrama.com/index www.azaleacityarts.com 2nd Breakfast Celtic Band – Autumn Equinox Concert 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/ music/upcomingevents.html

Friday September 20

The Throwdown!

6:00 PM USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial , 2703 Battleship Pkwy Mobile, AL, 36602 Mark your calendars for the most action-packed arts event in Mobile: The Throwdown! Five local artists will compete to create works of art in just 90 minutes, which will then be auctioned off LIVE at the end of the evening.

While these artists work, guests will enjoy libations, musical performances, a fantastic silent auction, and delicious eats. mobilearts.org

Saturday September 21

Alabama Coastal Cleanup 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Various Locations, You or your organization can volunteer to clean Alabama’s coastal waterways and beaches alabamacoastalcleanup.com

www.mobilebayparents.com

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FamilyCalendar Smithsonian Museum Day Live (Free) 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, AL, 36602 Battleship Memorial Park is participating in Smithsonian Magazine’s 2019 Museum Day Live. This yearly event gives the public the opportunity to tour participating museums and historical sites free of charge with a Smithsonian Museum Day Live tickets.

To receive your free tickets go to www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday/museum-day-2019/ Two free admission tickets will be issued per email. www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday/museumday-2019 2019 Gulf Coast Hunting and Fishing Expo 9:00 AM 5:00 PM, The Grounds, 1035 Cody road North Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us for Hunting, Fishing, and Outdoors Products and Services, Guest Speakers, Live Music, Possible Celebrity Appearances, Prize Giveaways and good ole’ Family Fun Entertainment! gchuntfishexpo.com Abba Shrine Craft & Attic Show ($3) 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Abba Shrine Center, 7701 Hitt Road Mobile, AL, 36695 We will have amazing crafts, vendors, antiques and attic items for sale. Something for everyone.

Drop in Make and Take (Free) 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Stop by the Library and make your own Tassel Jewelry. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Fall Festival (Free) 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Let’s Celebrate Fall! Pet the animals from Uncle Joe’s Rolling Zoo, participate in a sidewalk chalk competition, enjoy popcorn and see how you do at pumpkin bowling and other outdoor games. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Reading Paws (Free) 12:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Come meet the Pet Therapy dogs and their owners. Learn all about the dogs and the services they provide the community. Practice your reading skills with a four-legged friend. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org If You Give a Mouse a Cookie Party! (Free) 3:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Come celebrate the classic children’s book, If You Give a Mouse a Cookie with games, crafts and snacks! Registration required. For more information or to register, please call 340-8571 or email westyou@mplonline.org. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org An Evening of the Carol Burnett Show 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 S Carlen Street Mobile, AL, 36606 One Weekend Event Only!! Do not miss your chance to come relive the comedy classics of Carol Burnett!

251-471-1534 joejeffersonplayers.com Mobile Symphony presents “Olé” 7:30 PM Mobile Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 The Mobile Symphony opens its 2019-2020 season with sizzling Latin heat

on Saturday, Sept. 21, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Sept. 22, at 2:30 p.m., at the Saenger. Cuban pianist Aldo López-Gavilán performs Ravel’s Concerto in G Major in a program filled with beloved tributes to the music of Spain and Cuba. www.mobilesymphony.org

Sunday September 22

2019 Gulf Coast Hunting and Fishing Expo 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, The Grounds, 1035 Cody road North Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us for Hunting, Fishing, and Outdoors Products and Services, Guest Speakers, Live Music, Possible Celebrity Appearances, Prize Giveaways and good ole’ Family Fun Entertainment! gchuntfishexpo.com Abba Shrine Craft & Attic Show ($3) 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Abba Shrine Center, 7701 Hitt Road Mobile, AL, 36695 We will have amazing crafts, vendors, antiques and attic items for sale. Something for everyone.

An Evening of the Carol Burnett Show 2:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 S Carlen Street Mobile, AL, 36606 One Weekend Event Only!! Do not miss your chance to come relive the comedy classics of Carol Burnett!

251-471-1534 joejeffersonplayers.com Mobile Symphony presents “Olé” 2:30 PM Mobile Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 The Mobile Symphony opens its 2019-2020 season with sizzling Latin heat on Saturday, Sept. 21, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Sept.

22, at 2:30 p.m., at the Saenger. Cuban pianist Aldo López-Gavilán performs Ravel’s Concerto in G Major in a program filled with beloved tributes to the music of Spain and Cuba. www.mobilesymphony.org Faculty Clarinet Recital 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/ music/upcomingevents.html

Boredom Buster (Free) 4:00 PM Saraland Public Library, 111 Saraland Loop Saraland, AL, 36571 Looking for something fun to do? Join us for karaoke, crafts and so much more! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Tuesday September 24

Business Expo 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Heron Lakes, 3851 Government Boulevard Mobile, AL, 36693 Join us Tuesday, September 24th from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. for a great opportunity to network your business, meet local business owners, and create brand awareness.

Tinker Tuesday (Free) 4:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Design & Create.

Learn how to make T-Shirt Bags. Please bring one of your favorite T-Shirts. Space and supplies are limited. Registration is encouraged. For more information or to register, please call 494-4140 or email eenglish@mplonline.org. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Disneys Frozen JR: The Musical presented by The PACT Theatre Company 7:30 AM The Steeple, 251 Saint Francis Street Mobile, AL, 36602 thepactmobile.com

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Doing The Most Good Annual Luncheon 12:00 PM Riverview Plaza, 64 S Water Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Annual Salvation Army Luncheon. This is an event to raise funds and awareness for the Good that is being done in Baldwin and Mobile Counties.

Our special guest for this year is the legendary Terry Bradshaw app.mobilecause.com/form/tLFj_w?vid=1bu3x&f bclid=IwAR0TG9n75sQjkuclj7reZsJ6WThXI2T08 mf4_pg13cvAnhwJIzQMRMXRL6g Mobile Ducks Unlimited Annual Banquet 6:45 PM Moes BBQ, 701 Spring Hill Ave Mobile, AL, 36602 Mobile Ducks Unlimited Annual Banquet is September 25. Mark your calendars because we will have great raffle and auction! www.ducks.org/alabama/events

Thursday September 26

Disneys Frozen JR: The Musical presented by The PACT Theatre Company 7:30 AM The Steeple, 251 Saint Francis Street Mobile, AL, 36602 The PACT Theatre Company presents Disneys Frozen Jr: The Musical at The Steeple on St. Francis this September 25-27 thepactmobile.com USA Symphony Band and Wind Ensemble Concert 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608251-460-6136 www. southalabama.edu/colleges/music/upcomingevents. html

Friday September 27

Monday September 23

Wednesday September 25

PAW Patrol Live 10:00 AM Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, AL, 36602 PAW Patrol Live www.mobilecivicctr. com

Disneys Frozen JR: The Musical presented by The PACT Theatre Company 7:30 AM The Steeple, 251 Saint Francis Street Mobile, AL, 36602 The PACT Theatre Company presents Disneys Frozen Jr: The Musical at The Steeple on St. Francis this September 25-27 thepactmobile.com Pop-Up Maker Lab (Free) 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Come see what new and exciting things you can make at our Maker Lab. Parental supervision is required for anyone under age 10. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Movie Night at The Loblolly ($10 per car) 4:00 PM Loblolly Farm, 9930 Stone Road Semmes, AL, 36575 Gate opens at 4 PM with food and beverages from local vendors, jump castle and games for the children. Movie Night at The Loblolly starts at 7:00pm.

251-288-8302 www.loblollyfarm.com Live at Five Concert Series 5:00 PM Coastal Alabama Community College, Fairhope, AL, 36532 The Tip Tops will be back at the Live at Five Concert Series on Friday, September 27th!

Saturday September 28

GO Run 8:00 AM USA Moulton Tower, Mobile, AL, 36608 Lace up your running shoes for this 5K and 1-Mile

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FamilyCalendar Fun Run presented by the Catranis Family Charitable Foundation. This family-fun event includes children’s activities, and prizes for individuals and teams with proceeds benefiting gynecologic cancer research at the USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute. Registration starts at 6:30 a.m www.usahealthsystem.com/events/go-run Gulf Coast Multiple Sclerosis Avenger “Amazing Taste Of Mobile 5K Run & Fun Walk” 8:00 AM University of Mobile Campus, 5735 College Parkway Mobile, AL, 36613 Amazing Taste of Mobile 5K and 1 Mile runsignup.com/Race/AL/Mobile/AmazingTasteofMobile5Kand1Mile Girls Rock Workshop (Free) 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM, Lifelines Counseling, 4904 Oak Circle Drive Mobile, AL, 36609 Key objectives-self esteem, social media, relationships, academics, leadership, power commitments and more.

251-229-2860 www.compassiilife.com 31st Annual Jubilee Festival of Arts 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Main Street, Olde Towne Daphne, Daphne, AL, 36526 The 31st Annual Jubilee Festival of Arts is set to attract thousands to the oak-lined Main Street of Daphne, Alabama September 28th and 29th. Art, music & seafood meet southern charm at this annual festival set along the Eastern Shore of Mobile Bay. The Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce hosts this family-friendly festival each year in coordination with the City of Daphne. www.thejubileefestival.com/festival-info Artist Panel (Free) 2:00 PM Alabama Contemporary Art Center, 301 Conti Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us as we discuss Religious Iconography in Southern Art with Urban Wild artists, Merrilee Challiss, Byron Sonnier, Madison Faile, and Greg Skaggs. www.alabamacontemporary.org/events/informationsession/ Race for the Fallen Glow Run 6:30 PM The Grounds, 1035 Cody Road North Mobile, AL, 36608 The Race for the Fallen Glow Run is a night time family-fun race for participants of all ages & speeds! Register for the 5K, 1 Mile or as a Phantom Runner. www.raceforthefallen.com Rod Stokes 7:00 PM St. Luke’s Episcopal School, 1400 South University Boulevard Mobile, AL, 36609 We are so excited to host a community event with Rod Stokes on September 28th! bngn.smarttuition.com/?id=epojwudk1j1 St. Jude Walk/Run to End Childhood Cancer USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial , 2703 Battleship Pkwy Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us for the St. Jude Walk/Run during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in September, to raise money for the kids of St. Jude, where families never receive a bill for anything. Let’s end childhood cancer. Together fundraising.stjude.org/site/TR/Walk/ Walk?pg=entry&fr_id=107583

Sunday September 29

31st Annual Jubilee Festival of Arts 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Details September 28. www.thejubileefestival.com/festival-info

Mobile Bay Parents I September 2019

Wednesday October 2

16th Annual John L. Borom Alabama Coastal BirdFest: A Birding & Nature Festival Various Locations, Join us Oct. 2 – 5 for the 16th annual Alabama Coastal BirdFest, a birding and nature festival, and experience many opportunities to see birds, alligators, wildflowers, dolphins, and other wildlife. And learn about their habitats! weeksbay.org/events/alabama-coastal-birdfest/

Thursday October 3

16th Annual John L. Borom Alabama Coastal BirdFest: A Birding & Nature Festival Details October 2.

Friday October 4

2019 Focus Women’s Conference 8:00 AM Arthur R. Outlaw Mobile Convention Center, 1 South Water Street Mobile, AL, 36602 A full day of speakers, workshops, panels, networking, vendors, and a career expo to give you the tools and network you need. Platinum VIP includes a signed book and photo-op with Elizabeth Smart. focusWC.com Danny Gokey-The Hope Encounter Tour 7:00 PM Dauphin Way Baptist Church, Mobile, AL, 36608 Danny Gokey in concert. www.ticketfly.com/purchase/event/1853384 16th Annual John L. Borom Alabama Coastal BirdFest: A Birding & Nature Festival Details October 2.

Saturday October 5

Mobile Heart Walk 8:00 AM USA Moulton Tower, Mobile, AL, 36608 The 2019 Mobile Heart Walk will honor survivors of cardiovascular disease and stroke in our community.

Enjoy FREE activities like a Kids Zone, CPR demo, and healthy snacks. www2.heart.org Rubber Ducky Regatta 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Cooper Riverside Park, Mobile, AL We are dropping 10,000 Rubber Ducks into the Mobile River at 11:00am. The lucky ducky’s adopter can win a cruise for two on the Carnival Fantasy! The event will have sweet treats and kids’ activities. You do not need to be present to win.

Proceeds benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile. www.rubberduckyregatta.com/#Tickets 16th Annual John L. Borom Alabama Coastal BirdFest: A Birding & Nature Festival Details October 2.

Sunday October 6

Special Needs Expo (Free) 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM, GulfQuest Maritime Museum, Mobile Bay Parents and Eastern Shore Parents will hot their 3rd Annual Special Needs Expo, on Sunday, October 6 from 2pm - 5pm at GulfQuest Maritime Museum. Admission is FREE and attendees will have the opportunity to visit with exhibitors and learn about products, support groups, recreational activities, healthcare, therapy and other services for children and adults with special needs. This is a family friendly event that will include face painting,

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ballon animals, live creatures from Animal Tales and more! Guests will also have an opportunity to tour GulfQuest and enjoy the hands-on activities and exhibits. A big thank you to our sponsors, Thomas Hospital/Infirmary Health, Palmer’s Toyota, High Hopes 4 Autism, NBC 15 and Publications Press. For more information or to become an exhibitor please call 251-929-2099 or email lynn@easternshoreparents.com 251-929-2099

Every Monday Starting September 9

Mystery Monday (Free) 3:15 PM Parkway Branch, 1924 Dauphin Island Pkwy B Mobile, AL, 36605 Join us after school for fun, games, arts & crafts, prizes and surprises! Ages 6 and up. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every 1st and 3rd Tuesday

5 Rivers StoryTime (Free) 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 The 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month is StoryTime at 5 Rivers. Children under the age of 6 are welcome to stop by for a free reading of a nature based story followed by arts and crafts. 10-11am, free, no registration necessary.

251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/ activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center Introductory Piano Class (Free) 4:00 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 This is an introduction to piano class for those who have no experience or need a review of the basics. Ages 8-18. Participants will learn how to read music, find notes on the piano, and discover other essentials to begin playing pieces.

Registration is required. For more information or to register, please call the Children’s Department at 340-1507 or email crhodes@mplonline.org.

251-340-1535 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every Tuesday

Games and More! (Free) 3:00 PM Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Road Mobile, AL, 36617 Enjoy board & video games, movies, puzzles and so much more! Ages 7 and up. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

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Movie Tuesday (Free) 3:15 PM Parkway Branch, 1924 Dauphin Island Pkwy B Mobile, AL, 36605 Movie Tuesday www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every Wednesday

Brown Bag in Bienville for Fall (Free) 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM, Bienville Square, 150 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Fall is back and so is live jazz!

Brown Bag your lunch and sit under the swirl of the oak trees in Bienville Square. Live music provided by the City of Mobile Special Events Dept. and Catt Sirten. www.specialeventsmobile.org Learn to Knit (Free) 2:00 PM Toulminville Branch, 601 Stanton Road Mobile, AL, 36617 Learn to knit. Ages 8 and up. Bring your own supplies. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org What’s up Wednesday (Free) 3:15 PM Parkway Branch, 1924 Dauphin Island Pkwy B Mobile, AL, 36605 Enjoy Bingo, Karaoke, LEGO challenges and so much more! Refreshments will be served. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

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FamilyCalendar Every Thursday

Call Lifelines Counseling Services to schedule a 30 minute appointment before attending the group 251431-5100. COH is a support group for victims of sexual violence to share in their struggles and learn ways to begin to cope with the pain and daily stressors that trigger the hurt. This group is free to attend.

Every Saturday

The Family Center The Family Center’s classes in Mobile and Daphne are free and offer free childcare WITH minimum 24HOUR RESERVATION. Night class includes supper and giftcards. All classes provide a certificate of completion.

The Family Center of Mobile *Nurturing Parenting course teaches parenting skills such as teaching cooperation and peaceful bedtimes. Wednesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., 12-week rotating series. Call 251-479-5700 to register. *The Responsible Fatherhood Program (RFP) classes are Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6-8 p.m., but REQUIRE ADVANCE INTAKE APPOINTMENT. See daily listings for class topics. *Mondays: Together We Can, a cooperative parenting course, 8 weeks. *Tuesdays: Quenching the Father Thirst, (Four things every dad needs to know), 12 weeks. *Thursdays: Chill Skills Stress/Anger Management training, 4 weeks.251-479-5700 for information on all Family Center classes. All held at 601 Bel Air Blvd, Suite 100, Mobile. www.familycentermobile.org or www.

Facebook.com/FatherhoodMobile.

TGIT Hangout! (Free) 4:00 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Have fun with LEGO challenges, arts & crafts, games and more.

251-340-1535 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Art & Rhyme Wiggle Time Storytime (Free) 10:30 AM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Simple stories and music introduce the sounds and rhythms of language and play to your little learner. Join us for a wiggle, rhyme, read and sing, active story time – and a craft too!

(Ages 18 months-3 years) 251-340-1535 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Classes/Meetings APAC - Mobile County Adoptive Family Group Meets the 4th Friday of each month from 6 - 7:30 p.m.

Christ Fellowship Baptist Church in Mobile, 445 Azalea Road. Parent, Youth/Teen Group and Childcare Is Provided. Topic Discussions & ceu’s for foster families are offered. For more information please call 251-4602727 * 1-800-489-1886 * or estokes@childrensaid.org.

Autism Support Group in North Mobile We have a social play room for higher functioning children (4 and up) to engage and relate. The idea is to have a safe place for parents of Autistic children in our community to link up and network with other families. 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month, 6 7:30 p.m., Saraland United Methodist Church, 415 McKeough Ave., Saraland. For more info or to RSVP contact Chris Gibson. Email Chrisgibson4149@gmail. com, or 251-281-7312.

Breast Feeding Friendly Group (The BFF Group) A place where new moms can get one-on-one breastfeeding help. Get to know other moms within the same community and possibly become a mentor. Breastfeeding professionals are able to provide newborn weight checks before and after feeding to help you to know if your baby is getting enough to eat. Nurses and other medical personnel can answer general questions. All are welcome, even if you haven’t delivered yet. Spouses and other support partners are also welcome. Every Monday from 5:30 pm to 7 pm and Thursdays from 9 am to 11 am. (Except major holidays).

We meet at The Allen Cox Building Conference Room, 205 Lambert Avenue, Mobile.

Bridge Support Group The Bridge support group is a place where parents with similar experiences come together to share stories, advice and love. These families have had babies who: were stillborn, born with a lethal anomaly (such as Trisomy 13, Trisomy 18, skeletal dysplasia, anencephaly) or had a baby that only lived in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Our families are from all over the Gulf Coast and all have beautiful stories to tell. 1st Tuesday of every month, 5:30pm-until. Dinner is served. Meets in 1st floor conference room of Strada Center, 1601 Center Street, Mobile. Contact information: Rene Sprague RN, MSN rgilstrapsprague@health.southalabama.edu 251-6105264. Please RSVP if you plan to attend.

Circle Of Hope, Sexual Assault Support Group Group meets every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month.

La Leche League Mobile Bay Area Breastfeeding support meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month at 10:30 a.m. Meetings are free and open to all women with an interest in breastfeeding. Babies and children are welcome. For information or support contact a leader. 251-689-2085, amandaLLLmobile@yahoo.com, meghanLLL@yahoo. com, or michelleLLLmobile@yahoo.com. Facebook: La Leche League Mobile Bay Area.

Survivors of Suicide Support Group Meets the 2nd & 4th Friday of each month from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Lifelines Counseling Services, 705 Oak Circle Drive, Mobile. SOS is here to provide a supportive and judgement-free environment for you to express yourself and share your story.

Mobile Infirmary Hospital For complete information about class dates, times, and locations, or to schedule a tour of our maternity center, please call childbirth education office at (251) 435-2000.

• Birthing Basics Class This course is for parents who either have already experienced childbirth or who prefer to attend just one class because of time constraints. The four-hour weekend session (with breaks) includes a tour and all birthing information. The fee is $30 for patients delivering at Mobile Infirmary. Pre-registration is required; call 435-2000. Every last Sunday of the month. 3:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

• Cancer Support Group Meets every 4th Tuesday of the month from 10-11 a.m.

• Gastric Band Support Meets every 3rd Thursday of the month from 6-7 p.m.

• Preparation for Childbirth Series This series of classes includes all aspects of labor including natural coping skills and epidural anesthesia.

Class participants will practice comfort measures and learn about post-delivery and newborn care.

Providence Hospital: www.providencehospital.org Providence Hospital offers a variety of classes on Childbirth Preparation. All classes meet in Conference Room 1, (located just inside the front doors in the main lobby of the hospital by the gift shop), unless otherwise specified. Preregistration is required for all classes, and fees are collected in class. To register for classes,

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please visit our website at www.providencehospital. org, Women’s Services and click “Childbirth and Breastfeeding Classes. If you have any questions, please email us at maternityservices@ascension.org or call 251-266-1749.

Spring Hill Medical Center: www.springhillmedicalcenter.com • Better Breathers Support Group Meeting For people with pulmonary disorders. Meets on the fourth Monday of each month. 2-3 p.m. Gerald Wallace Auditorium. For more information, call 461-2438.

• Breastfeeding Class One Wednesday per month. 6:30-8:30 p.m. at The Family Center. Benefits of breastfeeding, getting started, going back to work and FAQs are covered. Call 340-7770 early to pre-register.

• Childbirth Preparation Classes Four consecutive Mondays (6:30-9 p.m.) at The Family Center. Register early. The class covers onset of labor, inductions, Cesarean sections, relaxation, anesthesia and postpartum. Includes a tour of the maternity units.

Cost: $25 if delivering at Springhill Hospital. Call 3407769 early to pre-register.

• Childbirth Preparation: Accelerated Course: One Saturday per month. 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. at The Family Center. Ideal for those who live out of town or will be delivering soon. $25. Call 340-7769 early to pre-register.

• Me, Too! A Tour for Siblings: Noon on the First Sunday of the month. Join us for an individualized tour and instruction for siblings ages 9 and younger.

The event includes a tour of the maternity areas and tips on helping parents with the new baby. Parents must remain with their children. By Appointment. Call 340-7769.

• Infant CPR: Learn this potentially life-saving technique while you are pregnant or soon after your baby’s birth.

Covers infant CPR and choking. $5 if delivering at SMC. 6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. The Family Center (Bldg. 2, Fourth Floor). Call 340-7769 early to pre-register.

• Resolve Through Sharing: For parents who have lost a child before or immediately after birth. Meets the fourth Monday of every month, 7-8 p.m. Gerald Wallace Auditorium. Call 460-5323.

USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital www.usahealthsystem.com/usacwh Classes: Advance reservations are required and may be made by calling 251-415-1685 or at www. usahealthsystem.com/usacwh. No children at classes, please. Class size is limited. Classes are free if you are delivering at USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital.

All classes will meet in the 1st floor conference room next to the surgery waiting room. If you are expecting multiples or having a c-section, call for class information.

• Preparing for Childbirth: All-day Saturday class for the expectant mother and her support person (coach). Topics include: pregnancy changes, labor, role of the support coach, relaxation and breathing techniques, vaginal and cesarean births, postpartum care, and a tour of the maternity areas. . You should plan on beginning the 3-week series when you are approximately 28 weeks pregnant. Offered monthly from 9 am to 2 pm.

• Childbirth in a Nutshell: This class includes a brief overview of labor and a tour of the maternity areas.

Class meets one Wednesday per month, 6-8:30 p.m.

• Breastfeeding: This two-hour class is for expectant and newly delivered mothers and their support persons who want to learn about breastfeeding. Classes meet one Thursday per month from 6:00-8:00 p.m. and one Saturday per month from 10:00-Noon.

• Classes on Preeclampsia, Developmental Milestones, Child Safety/Head Injury and Infant Safety are also available throughout the year. Call for details.

We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of this information.

However, you should always call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information.

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Get a Grip! Toys for Building Hand Dexterity

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

In an increasingly digital landscape of play, some children may be losing some development of their actual digits. Touchscreens don’t offer the same kind of strength and dexterity building for little hands that tactile toys provide. To better prepare kids for regular manual tasks, it’s smart to include toys and games that encourage them to use their hands in challenging and creative ways. Along with cultivating fine motor skills, tactile toys can also improve grip strength and hand-eye coordination. The following items jump start improved finger dexterity and build confidence as kids prepare to take everyday tools in hand.

by Gerry Paige Smith

Kinetic Sand Box

Basic Skills Board

For every parent who’s dealt with the impossible-toremove remains of sandbox play, Kinetic Sand is a wonderful mess-free alternative.

It feels a bit like wet beach sand, but this unconventional blend of sand and polymers creates a putty-like sand with increased versatility and reduced residue. Selfcontained in a case that opens up into a play surface, the Kinetic Sand Box includes forms and tools that invite kids to dig in. Intensely malleable, small fingers will find it hard to resist squeezing, poking and twisting through a cool version of wet sand. No matter what shape this tactile medium takes, there’s always a big workout for little hands as they explore every creative potential within the Kinetic Sand Box.

Before they take on the task of dressing themselves, kids can master manual connection tasks with the friendly bear on Melissa & Doug’s Basic Skills Board.

Each of the six puzzle pieces features a different hands-on skill -- a snap, a button, a zipper, a belt buckle, a plastic press-and-release buckle, and a lace (a broader variety of connections than similar toys).

Getting the puzzle parts in place is just the prelude to fastening each piece’s connection on the way to a well-dressed bear. Every activity on the board helps kids develop manual dexterity, fine motor skills, and hand-eye coordination. Getting ready to get dressed is a snap, zip and a click with the Basic Skills Board.

(Melissa & Doug)

(Kinetic Sand)

TANGLE Jr. Classics

Toddler Bee Hive

Composed of a series of connected ninety degree curves, Tangle joins the potential for continuous motion with an infinity of outcomes. Whether kids are exploring freeform possibilities or focused on creating a specifically shaped outcome, hands and fingers are building fine motor control and strength along the way.

Crafted from colorful plastic, this set of three Tangles is lightweight, quiet and easily stored in a pocket or backpack for solo or group spontaneous play. Ideal for kids (and adults) who have fidget energy to work out, the endless twists and turns of the Tangle Jr. combine stress relief with building manipulative skills and hand coordination.

The Toddler Bee Hive cultivates counting, color learning and hand coordination, all in one delightfully decorated wooden frame. Six colorful bees have a specific matching home in the hive, but they need some help to get where they belong. Tasked with plucking up each bee and returning it to its place in the hive, kids combine concentration with digital control to master the hive. Perfect for shaping proper grip, the tweezers are the real MVP as they cultivate hand strength and fine-tune finger coordination. When the time comes to master pens, paintbrushes and other tools, these little beekeepers will be ready with the hand dexterity they need to excel.

(Tangle)

(XREXS)

Gerry Paige Smith is a syndicated columnist recommending the best products for kids and their families. Discover more at www.PageBookMedia.com

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The Art of Racing in the Rain

Dora and the Lost City of Gold

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B+ Violence: B Sexual Content: A Profanity: AAlcohol / Drug Use: C+ Enzo, perfectly voiced with Kevin Costner’s warm, gravelly tones, is a dog who wants to be human. He believes that, if he learns everything he needs to in his life, he can be reincarnated as a man. Luckily for him, he’s adopted

by Denny Swift (Milo Ventimiglia), a racecar driver who names him after Enzo Ferrari, founder of the famous Ferrari company. The two bond immediately, with a shared love for watching races on TV. In fact, Enzo watches lots of television and credits it for teaching him about people. His love of racing and study of humans leads Enzo to use racing metaphors to explain his life and that of the people around him.

The bond between Enzo and Denny is briefly tested when Denny marries Eve (played with big-eyed, waif-like fragility by Amanda Seyfried). But soon Enzo connects with Eve and eventually baby Zoe (Ryan Kiera Armstrong). And then the road of life takes a sharp curve and Enzo throws himself into helping Denny steer the course. As Enzo tells the audience, “A true champion can accomplish things a normal person would consider impossible.”

Parents looking for clean family entertainment can comfortably take older kids or grandma to see this film without worrying about uncomfortable moments.

Small children, however, will likely find a few parts of the film disturbing. This is a film that unabashedly celebrates marriage, parenting, and families. If you love the dog movie genre, you’ll love The Art of Racing in the Rain.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: BViolence: BSexual Content: AProfanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: BIn this live-action adaptation, the perky preschooler of television fame only graces the screen for a few minutes as we’re filled in on Dora’s adventurous upbringing in the Peruvian jungle. But soon, we’re introduced to teenage Dora, (Isabela Moner) whose idyllic lifestyle amongst the flora and fauna is brought to an abrupt halt when her parents announce that they’re off to investigate Inca ruins in the wilds and she’s not invited. Instead, she’s being shipped off to the big city to live with her cousin Diego, (Jeff Wahlberg.)

Any homeschooled kid from a different culture would have a rough go in a crowded high school, but Dora’s even more a fish out of water.

Unfortunately, a class field trip ends in Dora, Diego and two other kids being drugged, kidnapped, and dumped in remotest Peru. With the help of a klutzy professor, (Eugenio Derbez) they escape their captors and venture into the jungle in search of Dora’s missing parents.

What follows should be a fun adventure story, or, at the very least, a heartwarming lesson in friendship and teamwork. Instead, it’s a hodgepodge of childish jokes, slapstick antics, and legitimately perilous situations that left me wondering what age group the filmmakers had in mind when they put the thing together. When things finally concluded in a celebratory musical number, I felt like singing along with the words, “Lo hicimos! We did it!” Just reaching the end of this movie felt like an accomplishment.

Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark

Angry Birds 2 MPAA Rating: PG Overall: AViolence: B+ Sexual Content: AProfanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: A The birds of Bird Island and the pigs of Piggy Island are sworn enemies who spend their days playing pranks on each other. But their cartoon antics come to a halt when the pigs discover a third island, which is being overtaken by ice. Led by Zeta, the eagles who inhabit the frozen rock are yearning for warmer climes. Instead of planning winter cruises to the tropics, Zeta sets in motion her plans to conquer Bird and Piggy Islands by lobbing frozen ice balls at them. Nothing unites enemies like a common peril, so the pigs call a truce with the birds and they band together to defeat the eagles.

The plot sounds way more serious than the film – which is saying a lot.

The Angry Birds 2 is full of silly birds acting like eight year old boys – including potty jokes and goofy pranks. But this approach certainly seems to pay off in terms of audience satisfaction.

Parents will note that this film manages to include some positive messages amid the animated high jinks. Fortunately, these messages are delivered without too much negative content. There are some “butt” jokes and there’s minor slapstick cartoon violence. The explosions and moments of peril may scare young children, but this movie is safe for most older elementary school kids.

The Angry Birds 2 isn’t a film that adults will seek out for their own amusement. But it does have some compensations. There are jokes kids won’t get and the bouncy, nostalgic soundtrack is aimed straight at the adults in the audience. The Angry Birds 2 may not be Oscar bait, but it’s a harmless, fluffy piece of kids’ cinema. It might not soar, but at least it doesn’t crash.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: BViolence: CSexual Content: B+ Profanity: C+ Alcohol / Drug Use: C Halloween comes to Mill Valley, Pennsylvania, and Auggie Hildebrandt (Gabriel Rush) and Chuck Steinberg (Austin Zajur) are trying to convince their friend Stella (Zoe Colletti) to join them in a nefarious prank against the high school bullies. Unfortunately, the thugs react poorly to being the targets of the prank, and proceed to chase them around with a baseball bat. The terrorized youth find shelter with Ramon (Michael Garza) in the local haunted house formerly the mansion owned by the Bellows family, who ran the paper mill in town. Locked in by the bullies, the three friends find an ancient book, written by the Bellows’ mysterious (and allegedly murderous) shut-in daughter Sarah. The only problem? The book seems to be writing grisly deaths for everyone who came into the house.

Somewhere around the third grade, everyone I knew in elementary school found one of the Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark books in the school library. Doing the logical thing, they read it, frightened themselves half to death, and then passed it around to share the scare with as many other kids as possible.

PG-13 is just about the perfect rating for this movie. It could have done with less profanity but the violence is mostly vague enough to be absolutely terrifying without trying to just gross you out. Obviously, this film is wildly unsuitable for kids because it is white knuckle terrifying. Don’t bring easily frightened or nightmare prone movie viewers into this one. Brave teens and young adults looking for a good scare can find one here.

Mobile Bay Parents I September 2019

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