Mobile Bay Parents Summer Camps Issue (April 2025)

April 2025

Summer Camp Guide

Find the perfect fit for your child in our listing of local and regional camps.

Changing Friendships

Expert advice about friendships and how they change in the teen years.

Gwenna Williams (9) and Georgia Williams (4), daughters of Michael and Jenny Williams. Granddaughters to Will and Beverly Wilkins, and Dennis and Jane Williams.

Gwenna is an avid dancer and takes ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary and hip hop. She also loves playing flag football each season with C-Sports at CUMC.

Georgia loves her ballet and tumbling class. She played her first season of soccer with C-Sports at CUMC and is looking forward to playing again this year.

FromthePublisher

I was walking through the store with my daughter at the beginning of her 7th-grade year when we ran into one of her friends she hadn’t seen since spring. I expected an excited greeting, followed by a flurry of summer stories, but instead, they exchanged only a slight wave and half-smile—just enough to acknowledge each other but not enough to truly engage.

Naturally, I asked my daughter if they were still friends. She shrugged and said, “Yeah, she’s really nice, but I don’t really know her anymore.” Her response caught me off guard. Later, I brought it up with her older sister, who matter-of-factly confirmed, “If you don’t talk over the summer, the friendship doesn’t automatically renew when school starts again.”

I suppose it makes sense, but it still felt strange. I initially felt guilty for not fostering those friendships more over the summer. But then I realized that she had stayed in touch with some friends and made plans with them. Maybe it wasn’t neglect—just the natural progression of a tween finding her group.

This shifting of friendships can be puzzling, and sometimes it’s hard on parents, too—especially when we’ve become friends with the other child’s mom. I’ve been in that situation. Fortunately, we recognized that our daughters were simply growing in different directions, and it didn’t mean our own friendship had to end.

If you’re navigating similar changes, this month’s feature, Expert Advice About Changing Friendships During the Teen Years by Cheryl Maguire, offers helpful insight into this common but often confusing phase.

Of course, friendships aren’t the only relationships that change over time. Sibling dynamics have their own ups and downs. Like my brothers and me, my daughters have had times when they were inseparable and times when you’d think a WWE title was on the line—over something as small as a favorite sweatshirt. My oldest once described someone by saying, “You can tell she doesn’t have a sibling. She doesn’t know what it’s like to have a sister you fight with, to the point of yelling, then sit down five minutes later and laugh while watching a movie together.”

Siblings share a complicated dynamic, and as parents, we strive to ensure each child feels equally valued and loved. In my family, my girls’ different interests helped avoid major comparisons, but I know that’s not the case for everyone. If your family is struggling with sibling rivalry, check out Reducing Sibling Rivalry: What to Do and Say by Dr. Tanni Haas for expert guidance on keeping the peace.

If you’re looking for ways to foster friendships over the summer—or to help your child find their thing—flip over to our expanded Summer Camp Directory. Whether your child loves sports, STEM, or the arts, we’ve gathered a huge selection of local and sleepaway camps to help them explore their passions and build new connections. And don’t forget to check out our Family Calendar for all the fun spring activities coming up. Wishing you all a safe and joyful Spring Break!

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

Research Editor

Lucy Green

Contributing Writers

Kimberly Blaker

Savannah Browning, MD Kristi Bush, LSW Tanni Haas Gabriele Jones

Cheryl Maguire

Dave Ramsey Works of Wonder Therapy

Cover Photography

Hannah Stinson Photography www.HannahStinsonPhotography.com

Mobile Bay’s Foremost Parenting Source Mobile Bay Visit us at www.mobilebayparents.com

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Anna Watson 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 2025 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 he view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

When Your Child Steals

You must accept that your child is going to steal something at least once. Typically, children do not know that stealing is wrong unless they do it and are corrected. You must avoid overreacting when you realize your child has stolen something. Parents often take extreme punitive measures because they are overwhelmed by the fear of raising a thief and a liar. However, punishments alone do not teach the necessary skills that will prevent the child from stealing again in the future.

How to Respond Appropriately

1. When you realize that your child has stolen something, simply have him return or replace the item. If he cannot afford to replace it with his own money, give him the money and create a repayment plan through chores.

2. If you know your child stole an item, do not ask questions. Address the situation by saying, “I know you took my bracelet. I did the same thing when I was a child, but it is wrong, and I need you to ask permis-

sion first.” You can also ask questions that will help your child think about how the theft impacts others. For example, “How do you think that would impact a store owner? or How do you think it made me feel when my grandmother’s bracelet was not in my jewelry box?”

3. If your child stole from a store, help them practice returning the item to the owner. Make sure you help her understand that she did something wrong, but returning the item will correct the wrong and strengthen her character.

4. Never assume that your child stole something maliciously because it may have been a mistake. A lot of children put things in their pockets and forget they are there. If they have a friend’s toy, simply say, “I know that your friend is going to be so sad when he realizes this is missing. I am going to call his mom and tell them we have it.”

5. If you suspect your child is stealing to support a gambling or drug habit, get professional help. This will require outside intervention.

How to Prevent Future Problems with Stealing

1. Discuss stealing before it happens. Help your child understand that it is wrong and what they should do instead.

2. Some children feel unloved, not cared for, and hurt so they feel justified in hurting others. Go out of your way to make your children feel loved by meeting physical/ emotional/social needs, spending time, buying tiny gifts, and consistently speaking encouraging words. When your children do something wrong, separate what they did from who they are.

3. Give your children opportunities to earn money so they can save up and buy what they want.

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

4. Decrease temptation at an age-appropriate level. Maybe an older sibling needs a place to lock up preferred items while the younger child is learning to ask permission.

5. Keep an open dialogue with your children about their feelings of your parenting and favoritism. Address their concerns and change your behavior if necessary. You may want to investigate the 5 Love Languages for Children by Gary Chapman.

6. Show unconditional love but do not rescue your child every time they make a mistake. Let them suffer the consequences of their actions so they learn to make better choices in the future.

Bellingrath Gardens & Home to Host Gulf Coast Chinese Lantern Festival

A mesmerizing new spectacle of light and artistry is arriving at Bellingrath Gardens & Home. The Gulf Coast Chinese Lantern Festival, presented in partnership with Tianyu Arts & Culture, will illuminate the Gardens from April 17 through June 15, 2025, offering a one-of-a-kind, interactive experience for the first time in the region.

This dazzling nighttime festival will showcase more than 40 enormous handcrafted light sculptures, each a vibrant work of art inspired by Chinese tradition, modern innovation, and local iconography. Visitors will step into a world of glowing wonder, where mythical creatures, whimsical animals, and towering floral sculptures create a breathtaking fusion of color, culture, and creativity.

Perfect for families, friends, date nights, and group outings, the festival will operate nightly Thursday through Sunday, including Easter and a special Monday opening on Memorial Day. In addition to the stunning lantern displays, guests will enjoy interactive elements and opportunities to learn about the rich history behind this centuries-old art form.

Don’t miss the chance to witness this unforgettable fusion of art and illumination at one of the Gulf Coast’s most beloved landmarks. Tickets and additional event details are available now at Bellingrath.org. We are encouraging guests to purchase tickets online in advance. Limited on-site ticket sales will be available, but an $8 per ticket additional charge will apply for purchases at the door. Flex tickets, valid for any night of the show, can be purchased for an additional $10 per ticket fee. Children 4 and under will be charged $2.

Local Goodness

Local Goodness, a farm-to-table experience, pays tribute to local cuisine and music while raising awareness and support for USA Health Children’s & Women’s Hospital. This year’s event will benefit the Department of Interventional Radiology. Join us Sunday, May 4, at Magnolia Manor for a night to remember! Visit www.usahealthsystem. com/localgoodness.

Cocktails with the Critters

Join us on May 1, 2025, from 6:00 pm until 9:00 pm at the Bluegill Restaurant for Cocktails with the Critters celebrating the sea life in our bay and the gulf. Come enjoy an exciting evening overlooking the Mobile River Delta featuring delicious hors d’oeuvres, beverages, and music. The Silent Auction will be virtual from April 27th to April 30th. Tickets are $60 in advance and $65 at the door. Tickets are available online at https://sealabfoundation.org/events/cocktails_with_ the_critters or by calling 251-307-5903.

Kites Over Mobile and Spring Fling

Join us on April 19, from 10am-5pm and April 20 from 12pm – 5pm at USS Alabama Battleship Park. Get ready for a soaring adventure at the Kites Over Mobile! Both days you will enjoy face painting, food trucks, watching breathtaking kite-flying demonstrations, marvel at stunning show kite displays, and even get your kite repaired at our kite hospital. On Saturday you can also enjoy a live band, DJ and Easter Bunny appearance; on Sunday, enjoy a DJ and Easter Egg Hunt. Bring your own kite or grab one on site, and let’s fill the sky with color! The day will be packed with family fun.

Little Black Dress Event

Fashion lovers can enjoy a fashion show while supporting charity at the Ronald McDonald House Charities’ Little Black Dress event on May 1, 2025 at Fort Whiting. Little Black Dress is our premier fundraiser of the year. This spectacular gala and a wildly fun runway show features 40 local women and men modeling the latest in 2025 fashion. Join us for an inspirational evening celebrating our community of families and supporters, this event will help to support families of hospitalized children by giving them a home away from home. Please visit https://rmhcmobile.org/newsevents/little-black-dress/ for more information.

10th Annual MudBottom Revival Music Festival

Organizers are excited to announce the 10th Annual MudBottom Revival Music Festival, hosted by Dog River Clearwater Revival. This fun afternoon of live music and community spirit will raise awareness and funds to improve public access and water quality for Dog River and its tributaries. This 10th Anniversary event is set for Sunday, May 4, from 1-6 PM at Bender Point, 3619 Riviere Du Chien Road, Mobile, Ala. Gates open at 12:30 PM. This year’s musical lineup features headliner, Jimmy Hall & Friends, Will Kimbrough & Friends and Red & the Revelers. Attendees are encouraged to bring friends and family, coolers, picnic blankets, and chairs to enjoy live music under the shade of beautiful oak trees on the banks of Dog River. Bathrooms and food vendors will be on-site, and MudBottom Revival swag is available for purchase. Attendees will arrive by car, bike, kayak, canoe, stand-up paddleboard, or boat. Boat taxis transportation will also be available.

Ticket Prices - $35.00 for general admission and $45.00 the week of the show. Children 12 and under are free. For more information, visit Dog River Revival website at www.dogriver.org.

Delta Woods & Waters Expo “Discover the Delta”

The Delta Woods and Waters Expo, an annual event sponsored by the City of Spanish Fort and held at 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, celebrates the beauty and diversity of the Mobile-Tensaw Delta. Featuring a variety of informative presentations, exhibitions and interactive displays by experienced outdoorsmen, professionals, educators and enthusiasts, the Delta Woods & Waters Expo includes numerous fun and exciting hands-on demonstrations which allow attendees to learn and practice new skills with one-on-one instruction. The 15th Annual Delta Woods & Waters Expo will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 9:00 am-4:00 pm at the 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center located on the Causeway. The expo is open to the public with FREE admission, free parking and shuttle service throughout the day. To find out how your organization can get involved with Delta Woods & Waters Expo, or to schedule school days on April 24 or 25, contact the City of Spanish Fort at 251-626-4884. For updates and more information, follow us on Facebook or visit our website, www.deltawoodsandwatersexpo.com.

Bald Eagle Bash

The 15th Annual Bald Eagle Bash, Alabama Gulf Coast’s Party for Preservation will be held Saturday, April 26, 2025 from 4–7 PM at Tonsmeire Weeks Bay Resource Center. Come celebrate, support conservation, and experience the best food, music, and atmosphere on the Gulf Coast!

Enjoy an evening of:

Fresh Gulf shrimp prepared by top chefs A classic low country shrimp boil Delectable desserts by local bakers Beer from local breweries

A great selection of wine Live music by Hannaward Pass Please visit https://southalabamalandtrust. org/bald-eagle-bash/ for more information.

Chris “I was able to start treatment much sooner, which eased my worry.”

Applications for Tillman’s Corner Area Learning Leadership Due April

30, 2025

The SouthWest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce makes instilling leadership skills into today’s youth a top priority. The Chamber has a Student Scholarship Program for high school seniors called the Tillman’s Corner Area Learning Leadership (T.A.L.L.) Program. Throughout their time in our eight-month program, students are given opportunities to volunteer in the community, tour local businesses and organizations, learn from financial experts, meet with elected officials at the Alabama State Capitol, visit with President Jo Bonner at the University of South Alabama, and more! Applications for the program are open between February and May each Spring. Following the application period, the top twenty to twenty-five applicants are brought in for an interview with our selection panel. Lastly, the top eight to eleven interviewees are then offered a spot in the program and given the opportunity to earn a scholarship. The complete application packet must be turned in together (application, photo, transcript, three references) by April 30 at the SWMCC office or by mail to 5055 Carol Plantation Rd, Mobile, AL 36619. Please visit https://www.swmcchamber. com/tall-scholarship-program/ for more information.

or

to schedule your appointment.

KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

Sports Physicals

As the school year comes to a close and students begin choosing their sports for the next year, it’s important to plan ahead for one essential step—their sports physical. To avoid last-minute stress, consider scheduling your child’s sports physical early, ensuring they are ready to go when the season begins.

A sports physical form is required for any student participating in school sports, typically beginning in 7th grade. Ensuring that your child’s sports physical is up to date at their pediatrician’s office will save you from unnecessary stress and, most importantly, will help keep your young athlete safe and healthy.

Research has demonstrated that a thorough medical interview, with appropriate questions tailored to the athlete, can detect up to 90% of medical conditions and nearly 70%

of potential injury risks. This highlights the importance of having your pediatrician conduct your child’s sports screening. The goal of a sports physical is not just to meet a requirement but to safeguard your child’s health, ensuring they can perform at their best while reducing the risk of injury.

One of the most critical components of a sports physical is the comprehensive physical examination. This should include a full head-to-toe assessment, growth chart updates, vital signs monitoring, and any necessary vaccinations. Having this exam conducted by your child’s primary care physician is crucial, as they are familiar with your child’s medical history and can easily track any changes. Early detection of potential health concerns allows for timely intervention.

Another vital aspect of the sports physical is the opportunity for your pediatrician to dis-

cuss healthy and potentially unhealthy habits with your child. Athletes, particularly at a young age, may pick up behaviors that could have long-term health consequences. These may include poor dietary habits, overtraining, or even the use of performance-enhancing substances. Regular checkups provide a safe space for these conversations.

Ultimately, a sports physical is about more than just filling out a form—it’s a fundamental step in safeguarding your child’s health. Scheduling a timely appointment with your pediatrician ensures that your athlete is in top condition, ready to excel, and protected from potential health risks.

Dr. Savannah Browning grew up in Fayette, AL. She moved to Mobile to attend Medical School at the University of South Alabama in 2009, and has been a proud Mobilian ever since. She joined Children’s Medical Group in 2016, and her office is at the Airport Boulevard location. She lives in Mobile with her husband, Andrew, and their three children: Jude, Luke, and Annie.

Moving from Michigan to Alabama wasn’t necessarily part of the plans for 21-year-old Jabari Jackson. However, in 2013 that is exactly what happened.

“While I was in college, my father retired as a unionized plumber. Once he retired, he said he wanted to go back home. So, he gave me a choice — stay in Michigan and figure it out or move with him to Mobile, and he could provide me a place to live until I figured it out,” shared Jabari. “I had told myself that I would move out of Alabama the second I graduated college because it did not feel like home. However, God saw a different plan for me.”

Jabari graduated from the University of South Alabama with a degree in Mathematics and Statistics and a minor in Spanish. He has been teaching for seven years now. At Ben Cato Rain High School, he teaches Algebra 1 and 2, and he is their percussion instructor. He is also an adjunct professor at Bishop State for Math098.

“Honestly, teaching was never in my intended plan. However, after running away from education for so long, God finally said it was time for me to answer my calling,” Jabari shared. “I was always in the teaching role because of my love for playing drums, and with my mother being an educator for years, becoming a teacher was going to happen.”

Jabari enjoys teaching students in high school and beyond because they are more relatable. The

Jabari Jackson

Ben Cato Rain High School

relationship he is able to build with these students allows him to not only teach math but also life skills.

“I would say my teaching style is extremely laid back. I personally call myself a “low-key” math nerd,” Jabari shared. “I am smart enough to understand where different mathematical ideas and concepts come from, and I do my best to make hard concepts seem easy. I have been told that I am one of the more approachable teachers that my students have.”

Staying motivated as a teacher is a lot more difficult than Jabari originally thought. Having a life outside of teaching helps to keep him balanced and stay motivated each school year.

“I think about what both my father and a colleague told me; do not bring yesterday into today,” reflected Jabari. “At first, I was not sure what that meant; however, as I began to teach more, I learned that it simply means, whatever happened yesterday — good or bad — do not allow it to mess up tomorrow.”

Jabari Jackson met his wife Pearl through work, and she was a huge reason why he stayed in Alabama. They have been married for five years and have two boys and a puppy. They love being able to raise their boys near family. When he isn’t teaching, Jabari enjoys playing drums, working out, traveling, and eating good food.

St. Luke’s Students Attend Auburn’s Youth Leadership Conference

Some of St. Luke’s sophomores and juniors attended Auburn’s High School Leadership Conference. The purpose of the conference was to give students the tools they need to become successful leaders in both their schools and communities accomplished with breakout sessions, guest speakers, service learning as well as team building exercises designed to develop each students’ character and challenge their leadership abilities with the goal of students leaving more confident in their leadership skills and to use these skills to make their school and community a better place.

Clark-Shaw Magnet School Hosts Mock Disaster Drill

On Valentine’s Day Clark-Shaw’s 9th grade Career Tech Education Health Science students saved the day in a hands-on, mock disaster drill when a “tornado” hit the school. Combined with community partners at the University of South Alabama and local EMS, ninth graders practiced life-saving skills that they have been learning under the instruction of their Health Science teacher, Mrs. Anh Nguyen. Yearbook students and Broadcasting students served as the press for the event, reporting the events to the school. This mockdisaster drill was a fantastic learning experience for the students at Clark-Shaw and one that will help prepare them for future careers in healthcare and other emergency services.

Davidson Students Are App Challenge Finalists

Owen Farmer, Kamden Raiford and Sean Mitteer of Davidson High have been selected as finalists for the 2024 Alabama Governor’s App Challenge. All three are members of the Computer Science pathway in Davidson’s EPIC Signature Academy.

Causey Middle Dance Team Are National Champions

The Causey Middle School Dance Team is bringing home the titles again! Competing in Orlando, Causey won the NDA national championships in pom and hip hop for the second year in a row, and also earned the showmanship award.

Vigor High School Basketball Team Wins State Championship

Congratulations to Vigor High School’s boys basketball team, which won the AHSAA 5A State Championship in Birmingham with a 71-53 victory over Guntersville in the final. The Vigor girls team also had a strong finish, making it all the way to the state semifinals. Go Wolfpack!

Clark-Shaw Dominates Regional Science Fair

Clark-Shaw Magnet School emerged as the standout winner at this year’s Regional Science Fair, taking home the majority of the awards across most categories. Best in Show was awarded to 7th grader, Corbin Perry, for the second year in a row. Brianna Sarceno-Xicay, 6th grade, earned Runner-Up Best in Show. Adalyn Persons, 9th grader, won First Place in Biomedical Engineering and Health Sciences in the Senior Division. Winners in the Junior Division were Beverly David, Adalynn Griffin, Sadie Milstead, Carleigh Spencer, Benjamin Andrews, Tristan James, Kaylee Harwell, Iris Piper, Layla Harper, Aisha Raza, Alice Jones, Landen Nelson, Corbin Perry, Nathaniel Truitt, Layla Elmore, Graham Langham, Cheyenne McCants, Bryson Reed, Brianna Sarceno-Xicay, Eleanor Fernandez, Corey Evans, and Emerson Stuart. All of the winners have earned the opportunity to advance to the State Science Fair, where they will represent Clark-Shaw and compete at a higher level. Great job to Clark-Shaw’s science program and these dedicated students! Way to go, Eagles!

Old Shell Road Magnet School “African Americans and Labor” Program

At Old Shell Road Magnet School this year during February, the student council partnered with the choir, dance company, and drum club to present the black history program, “African Americans and Labor.”

to State

Three Scholars Bowl teams recently advanced to state competition: The middle school teams from Barton Academy for Advanced World Studies and Causey Middle, an the Alma Bryant varsity Scholars Bowl team at the high school level. Congratulations to these dedicated scholars!

Celebrating Council’s Tech Team

A huge congratulations to all the incredible members of the Tech Team at Council Traditional School for their outstanding achievements at the 2025 ACTE Annual Region 7 Tech Fair. Sponsors, Ms. Claiborne and Ms. Asberry, took on the challenge and guided students in producing amazing outcomes. Your hard work, creativity, and dedication truly shine through, and we are incredibly proud of your performances across various categories.

St. Ignatius Holds Best Teachers Arctic Week 2025!

In February, St. Ignatius first graders took a journey to the Arctic! In social studies, they explored where the Arctic is located and learned about the Inuit people—their way of life, how they adapt to the cold climate, and their traditions. In science, they studied amazing Arctic animals. Each student researched an animal, learning about its adaptations, diet, and life cycle. To bring learning to life, students worked together on an Arctic diorama in art, creating a miniature version of this icy habitat. Students also marveled at the beauty of the northern lights, discovering how they illuminate the Arctic skies. It was a fun and engaging week of hands-on learning complete with an entire classroom takeover of all things Arctic! Special thanks to first grade teachers Mrs. Hodges, Mrs. Snead, Mrs. Wright, Mrs. Williams, Mrs. Ewing & Mrs. Abruscato for making learning fun at St. Ignatius!

St. Luke’s Celebrates Grandparents!

St. Luke’s recently hosted a joyous Grandparents Day Celebration, embracing the spirit of love and gratitude across both of its campuses. This special event provided a wonderful opportunity for students to honor their grandparents and grandfriends who have played such a significant role in their lives. At the Japonica Campus, students showcased their hard work and musical talents in a delightful musical performance. At the University Campus, students treated their grandparents and grandfriends to a warm, welcoming lunch with live music. It was a perfect and special day to celebrate love and appreciation!

LeFlore Magnet Shark Tank

Students at LeFlore Magnet High School recently participated in the school’s own version of Shark Tank! They prepared and showcased their innovative business ideas, impressing a panel of “sharks” with their creativity and passion. The winner was Daven Roland and Shot Creationz, a photography, media and entertainment company. Roland received a $500 contribution toward making that vision a reality.

Cottage Hill Christian Academy’s Newest NHS and NJHS Members

CHCA welcomed over 60 students into the National Honor Society and National Junior Honor Society for 2025! We are proud of how they exemplify the four pillars of scholarship, service, leadership, and character!

Government Street Christian School Values Literacy

At Government Street Christian School, we understand the value of literacy and we take every opportunity to inspire students to become excellent readers and great leaders, as the Lord leads them. We are proud of you, Chargers!

St. Paul’s Student Advances to MATHCOUNTS Nationals

Congratulations to Henry Gladden on his impressive third-place finish at the state MATHCOUNTS competition in Birmingham. Henry’s dedication and hard work have earned him a spot on the Alabama state team, qualifying him to compete at the MATHCOUNTS National Competition in Washington, D.C. This achievement highlights Henry’s passion for mathematics and his commitment to excellence. As he prepares to represent both St. Paul’s and the state of Alabama on the national stage, the school community looks forward to cheering him on.

Cultivate Studios Outer Space Movie Premiere

A Night Among the Stars! Cultivate Studios proudly hosted parents for an unforgettable Outer Space Movie Premiere—an original student production that took creativity to new heights! From script to screen, our young filmmakers dazzled with their cosmic storytelling!

Local Author Visits Little Flower Catholic School

Children’s author, Candice Marley Conner, came to Little Flower Catholic School and worked some special magic with her storytelling. The students were spellbound listening to her tell about her love for nature, especially her love for squirrels and fascination with alligators. Her “M is for Moon Pie” got everyone’s attention with Mardi Gras words we are all familiar with. We hope she comes back soon.

UMS-Wright Announces New Head Football Coach

UMS-Wright is thrilled to announce the appointment of Coach Sam Williams as our new Head Football Coach. After an extensive and comprehensive search and interview process, Coach Williams was selected from a group of highly qualified candidates to lead the UMS-Wright football program into its next chapter.

The search committee, led by Dr. Doug Barber, Head of School, and members of the Board of Trustees, focused on finding a coach whose values align with the strong traditions and culture of UMS-Wright. The committee sought a leader of high character who understands and embraces the mission and vision of UMS-Wright and has a proven track record of success. Sam’s experience and reputation for excellence—both as a current head football coach and a former collegiate athlete—make Coach Williams the perfect choice for UMS-Wright. We are eager to welcome Coach Williams and his family to UMS-Wright and the Mobile community.

“Sam embodies the values and tradition of excellence that define our school and our athletic programs. His leadership, passion for developing student-athletes, and keen awareness of the importance of building relationships, make him the perfect fit to continue helping our students reach their highest potential. We are excited for the future under his guidance and look forward to seeing the impact he will have on our players, both on and off the field.” - Dr. Doug G. Barber, Head of School

Old Shell Road School of Creative and Performing Arts Performs Aladdin

Old Shell Road School of Creative and Performing Arts 5th-grade students performed Aladdin Kids on March 11 and March 13. We are so proud of these outstanding performances. Hutchens

Elementary Named an Outstanding Elementary Science Teacher

Hutchens Elementary’s Nicole Baranov has been named the state’s Outstanding Elementary Science Teacher by the Alabama Science Teachers Association (ASTA). Baranov, who leads the STEM lab at Hutchens, received the honor on February 24 in Vestavia Hills at the ASTA Conference, along with a $1,000 monetary award. Baranov, a National Board Certified Teacher, has earned numerous accolades for her work. In 2022, she received national recognition for her classroom instruction when she received the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST), the highest honor bestowed by the United States government specifically for K-12 science, technology, engineering, mathematics and/or computer science teaching.

St. Ignatius Dominates

CYO Basketball!

Impalas lead the way to victory in CYO basketball! We had 5 champion teams and 1 runner up team in the 2025 basketball season. All CYO sports are surrounded by faith and moral development. Each practice and game with a prayer. Each CYO coach and representative agrees to uphold the standards of St. Ignatius and lead with Christ in the center. We are so proud of our teams and very thankful for all the coaches who dedicate their time to developing our talented student athletes. Way to go: 4th grade girls green (champion), 4th grade boys gold (champion), 3rd grade girls green (champion), 3rd grade boys green (champion), 3rd grade boys gold (runner up) and 2nd grade girls green (champion).

Cottage Hill Christian Academy Students Competes in Sonata Competition

CHCA third grader, Alek Brown competed in the 56th Annual Sonata Competition at the University of South Alabama recently! Alek competed against older students and earned third place for his performance of Sonatina in C Major by Timothy Brown.

St. Dominic Kindergarten Performs “Sing for the Red, White, and Blue”

The Music program at St. Dominic Catholic School produces multiple class programs each year. These adorable KIndergarten students were part of “Sing for the Red, White, and Blue” a program where students recited parts of the speeches of famous Americans and sang patriotic songs.

Council’s National Honor Society

Congratulations to new inductees into the Council Traditional School Taylor-Peek National Elementary Honor Society! This elite group of students has worked hard to reach the highest academic standards at CTS. The speaker for the prestigious occasion, Shayla Morgan Holloway, is the 2025 Distinguished Young Woman for Mobile County and the state of Alabama. Miss Holloway brought an awesome message that challenged the students to be “Super Heroes”.

E.R. Dickson’s Archery Team Hits the Bullseye

The archery team at E.R. Dickson shot at the Regional Archery Tournament to wrap up their season! Super proud of this group of archers, they have shown incredible dedication and perseverance! Go Tigers!

Corpus Christi Speech Contest Winners

Our middle school students participated in our annual speech contest with the powerful prompt, “Someone that is a true American hero to me is...”. The contestants showed incredible courage and passion in sharing their thoughts!

Congratulations to our winners!

1st Place: Mary Rose Spadafora

2nd Place: Ellen Wentworth

3rd Place: Emily Miller

We are so proud of all our participants for their hard work and dedication!

Davidson High School Student Wins BryantJordan Scholarship

Congratulations to Davidson High School’s Hudson Spivey on being named the 2025 Bryant-Jordan Scholarship winner for 7A, Region 1!

A senior at Davidson in the IB and EPIC programs, Hudson has been a force both on the field and in the classroom. As the starting quarterback for the past two seasons and a standout shortstop for three, he’s led Warrior football and baseball with skill and dedication. His incredible 5.02 GPA proves his academic excellence matches his athletic talent!

Hudson is heading to Auburn University this fall to study mechanical engineering, and we know he’ll continue to achieve great things. Best of luck at the Bryant-Jordan Awards Banquet on April 14 in Birmingham, where he’ll compete for the top 7A and state awards!

Scholars Bowl & Covenant Christian School

Covenant Christian’s Scholars Bowl Team has had an outstanding season, showcasing the school’s commitment to academic excellence. The Scholars Bowl allows students to compete in areas such as English, science, social studies, math, geography, and current events. The competition format includes three rounds: a 10-minute toss-up round followed by a bonus question, a rapid-fire round with 10 short-answer questions, and a final 9-minute toss-up round. The event encourages both individual and team participation, promoting a fun and educational challenge for all involved.

Government Street Christian Celebrates Read Across America

At Government Street Christian School, we are excited about motivating children to read. In late February, we joined in the celebration with READ ACROSS AMERICA, encouraging students of all ages to “Explore New Worlds Through Reading.”

2025 Bryant-Jordan

Thomas Jackson, who have been selected as regional winners of the 2025 Bryant-Jordan Student-Athlete Scholarship Program. The Bryant-Jordan Program honors students who are exceptional academically, as well as those who have overcome major obstacles to succeed.

Jackson was honored as the Class 5A, Region 1 Scholar-Athlete, and Spivey was selected as the Class 7A, Region 1 Scholar-Athlete. They’ll be honored at the Bryant-Jordan Awards Banquet on April 14 in Birmingham, where they’ll find out if they are selected for top statewide honors.

Mobile Christian Earns Superior Ratings

Mobile Christian earned all Superior Ratings at the Alabama Bandmasters Music Performance Assessment on February 25.

St. Paul’s Seventh Grade Gives Back on Service Day

On Tuesday, March 11, the entire seventh-grade class at St. Paul’s Episcopal School dedicated their day to serving children and families in need. With the guidance of their chaperones, students worked at three different sites, making a meaningful impact in the community. A large group at Wilmer Hall took on various tasks, including spreading pine straw, raking, clearing debris, cleaning porches and cars, setting up residential rooms, and packing food bags for the pantry. Meanwhile, two other groups assisted with food distribution efforts at Prodisee Pantry and the Love All food pantry, ensuring that struggling families received essential supplies.

The students’ hard work and dedication made a difference, showcasing their commitment to service and generosity.

Philips Preparatory National History Day Competition

Our National History Day participants had an outstanding showing at the South Alabama Regional Competition.

Junior Group

Documentary: 1st Place: Sephina Worrell and Leonor Hinojosa

3rd Place: Caitlyn

Zeine and Aniya Clark

Junior Individual

Documentary: 1st Place: Ava Wendt

Junior Individual Exhibit

1st Place:

Iyunna Williams

2nd Place: Brylan Bickerstaff

3rd Place:

Lillian Harvey

Bright Academy Hosts Career Day

Bright Academy hosted their annual Career Day. The students had a chance to visit with many local companies who came to share about their careers, talents, and skills. This year, we were honored to have Ensec Pest and Lawn, WKRG News 5, Village Animal Clinic, Harvey and Thomas, Spectrum Automotive, Landshark Promotions, and Cheryl McCormickHann from Edward Jones with us. This is always a fun day and encourages the students that with hard work and goal planning, they can become anything they want to become!

Davidson High App Challenge Finalists

Davidson High School is excited to announce that Owen Farmer, Sean Mitteer, and Kamden Raiford have been selected as finalists for the 2024 Alabama Governor’s App Challenge! All three of these students are juniors in DHS’s IB and EPIC programs. They are now preparing for the Alabama Computer Science Summit to be held in Montgomery, AL, on April 15th.

St. Luke’s Biomedical Sciences Student’s Immersive Exploration in Surgical Medicine: A Year of Learning

& Discovery

During St. Luke’s last Biomedical Sciences class, Interventions, students are required to choose one field of interest to research and immerse themselves in for the entire year. They conduct extensive research and write a 25-page APA paper while shadowing mentors who allow them to participate in patient care under their supervision. The class culminates with a Capstone Presentation.

Senior Avery VanAlstine’s chosen field of interest is general and trauma surgery. During her first job shadowing with Dr. Caleb Butts at University Hospital, she observed two surgeries, three trauma cases, and participated in post-operative rounds. Avery’s second job shadow focused on burn treatment, where she observed Dr. Butts and Dr. Ryan Deci handle two complex burn cases. Thank you to Dr. Butts for his gift of time and passion for teaching students, including those in St. Luke’s Biomedical Sciences Program. This mentorship ensured that Avery not only observed but also understood the complexities of medical care, enriching her educational journey.

Barton Student Leaders

The Sunrise Rotary Club recognized Elizabeth Jones from Barton Academy as one of the 8th graders in our district representing great character, leadership, and kindness. Elizabeth is athletic, artistic, a good friend to others, maintains strong academics, is a school ambassador, and runs a jewelry shop as a young entrepreneur. Way to shine, Elizabeth!

Government Street Christian School Student Masters

New Art Skill

Government Street Christian School art student, Rita Dees, has produced consistently creative works of art in 2025 and, recently, she has mastered matting and framing one of her most recent ink works. Great Job, Rita!

Covenant Christian Spring Track & Field

Track & Field is an exciting and dynamic way for students to showcase their athleticism and teamwork! With a mix of running, jumping, and throwing events, every meet is filled with energy and excitement. It’s a fantastic opportunity for students to challenge themselves, improve their skills, and build lasting friendships. Whether sprinting to the finish line or cheering on teammates, track is all about having fun and

achieving personal bests!

Covenant’s track team has competed against seven other local schools in three meets so far at Satsuma High. Colson S, Chakira H, Julia T, and Berkeley D have been top finishers at the meets. We’re proud of our Covenant track team.

Mobile Middle Schools Named CLAS Schools of Distinction

Booker T. Washington Middle School and Hankins Middle School are among 32 schools statewide to be named 2024 CLAS Schools of Distinction! This award recognizes school programs that serve as outstanding educational models for other schools in Alabama. Both schools were recognized for their Leadership Officer Training Corps (LOTC) programs.

They will be honored at an awards luncheon in May, when they’ll find out if they are among the eight schools to be named as a CLAS Banner School.

Second Annual Little Miss Dawes Pageant

Congratulations to all who competed in the Second Annual Little Miss Dawes Pageant! Nara Bateman was crowned Little Miss Dawes. Addy Davis was named first runnerup, with Emily Reich as second runner-up and Lily Black as third runner-up. Fourth-grade winners were Sadie Jernigan, Lydia Patterson and Charlie Woodcock Third-grade winners were Carleigh Wells, Kaleah Bateman and Ava Kruml Lilly Marie Paulk was named Miss Congeniality.

St. Dominic Catholic School Latin Class Hosts Roman Feast

St. Dominic Catholic School offers multilingual opportunities for their middle school students by incorporating both Latin and Spanish into their curriculum. The 8th grade Latin class held a traditional Roman feast to celebrate all they have learned about the culture of ancient Rome. Students wore traditional dress, ate traditional foods, and conversed only about topics they had learned about in their Latin classes.

Council’s Science Fair Winners

Congratulations to William Henderson, a 5th grader at Council Traditional Elementary School. We are so proud of your incredible achievement at the science fair. Your dedication and passion for engineering have truly paid off. Winning 1st place in the Engineering division and claiming the top award as the Best In Show is a remarkable accomplishment. The Council community is extremely proud of all the participates who contributed to the success of this year’s science fair. Other first place winners were Arnav JoshiChemistry, Julien Miller- Earth Science, Caleb Lofton- Physics, Richard Odom- Biology, and William Henderson - Engineering. Keep reaching for the stars and inspiring others with your love for science.

Cottage Hill Christian Academy Leadership

Representative

Sophomore, Carson Lilly Grimes was selected to represent CHCA at the University of Alabama Capstone Leadership Academy that was held last week. The Leadership Academy features dynamic speakers and group activities for students to develop leadership skills. We are so proud of Carson, and how she represents CHCA!

St. Ignatius Students Strive for 100% for Lent!

St. Ignatius forms students in mind, body & spirit. During Lent, the spirit is heightened as students prepare for Easter in and outside of the classroom. By sending your child to a Catholic school, you are welcoming the formation of character, service to others and faith development. St. Ignatius students were proud to kick off Lent with Ash Wednesday Mass and happily accepted Fr. Shields’ challenge “100% for Lent”. Lent is a time of prayer, fasting and almsgiving. 100% is attending Mass every Lent Sunday, fasting every Lent Friday and donating what you can to St. Ignatius’ partner charity Cross Catholic Outreach. Students who achieve “100% for Lent” are recognized at a special Mass as ambassadors. Learning is fun at St. Ignatius. Even learning about our beautiful faith!

E. R. Dickson’s National Elementary Honor Society Inductees

Congratulations to our E. R. Dickson Elementary School 2025 National Elementary Honor Society Inductees: 4th Grade: Giiuguulem Amarzaya, Marlie Barnes, Keith Gilchrist, Kaemani Rogers, and Scarlett Weaver 5th Grade: Isabella Beam, Ava Rembert, Sebastian “TJ” Hudson, Jaxon Jones, Samantha Lohn, Jacob Robertson and Michael Thigpen

We are looking forward to their exemplary demonstration of the 4 Pillars: Scholarship, Responsibility, Service, and Leadership. How do you celebrate such a momentous event? By continuing the fun at Top Golf, of course! We are proud of our scholars!

Please

St. Dominic Catholic School Science Fair

Middle School students at St. Dominic Catholic School completed some amazing projects for their annual Science Fair. Winners pictured with Middle School science teacher, Lincoln Womack, are seventh graders Braxton Crawford, Mason McEnery, Blake Karns, Max Crowe, Lily Crowe. Not pictured: Madison Ward, Mack McClure, Kyle Martin, John Mark Dunn. McKinley Gray, Natalie Moore, and Maggie York.

Mobile Christian Celebrates Famous Americans

Mobile Christian’s First Grade celebrated Famous Americans in February. The students each dressed and memorized a speech of a president, first lady, or other famous American. They had a performance during school and at Regency Church of Christ on February 21.

McGill-Toolen

Students Visit USA

45 members of the McGill-Toolen Catholic High School junior class embarked on a college visit to the University of South Alabama. They got to explore campus life and learned about academic programs.

Alabama School Social Worker of the Year

Lauren Henson, a District School Social Worker for the Mary G. Montgomery feeder pattern at Mobile County Public Schools, has been selected as the Alabama School Social Worker of the Year by the School Social Work Association of Alabama. Henson was praised for her work to empower students with the tools they need to overcome obstacles to academic success.

“Lauren is very passionate about not just removing, but obliterating barriers for students and families,” MCPSS Lead Social Worker Denise Riemer said. “She works closely with her fellow social work team members, school administrators, and community partners, including law enforcement, to bring innovative ideas and solutions to solve the often-difficult challenges her students and families are facing. At the same time, Lauren offers warmth, compassion and comfort to all those in her care.”

Henson helped organize a community forum in fall 2024 to address and discuss the fentanyl and other substance abuse and mental health issues, working with the Drug Education Council, the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office, Lifelines, the Mobile County District Attorney’s Office, the Mayor of Semmes. She has also played a key role in organizing the Royal Closet, a program that brings numerous community partners together to provide gowns, suits, shoes, makeup and accessories to students to attend prom.

At MCPSS, social workers serve as the link between school and community in providing services to students, families and school personnel to promote and support students’ academic and social success. Their duties include crisis intervention and conflict resolution; working with families to address problems affecting the child’s education; providing prevention programs to address destructive behaviors; and identifying and reporting child abuse or neglect. MCPSS employs 13 social workers, one in each feeder pattern and one transition specialist, who is a liaison for Strickland Youth Center. Each of the 12 social workers covers five to nine schools in the feeder patterns, all of which contain thousands of students.

Art Contest for Covenant Christian

Covenant students are showcasing their creativity in the “All Color by Kids” art contest, sponsored by Springhill Medical Center. With a wide range of media allowed, including watercolor, crayon, pastels, and more, students were free to choose th38950eir own subject, and wow, the submissions have been incredible! The winners, along with their families, art teachers, and school administrators, will be honored at an awards ceremony on May 1st at the Mobile Museum of Art. Winning artworks will be professionally framed and displayed at the museum, The Exploreum, and eventually at Springhill Medical Center. We’re so proud to highlight the amazing talent of our young artists!

Order of Little Flower Parade Sparks Joy

Middle School students at Little Flower Catholic School teamed up with the youngest students to put on the annual Order of Little Flower parade. Moon pies, beads, candy and stuffed animals were tossed to the crowds. Parents designed and constructed impressive Mardi Gras costumes and child sized floats. The “crowds” happily left with bags full of throws.

Mobile Robotics Successes

Robotics teams from Eichold-Mertz Magnet School of Math, Science & Technology and Tanner Williams Elementary competed at the Alabama State Elementary VEX IQ Championship in Hanceville, with one team from each school advancing to the finals. Meanwhile, teams from Alba, Barton Academy and Lott competed in the Alabama State VEX IQ Middle School Competition in Auburn. Alba robotics coach and LOTC instructor SSG (Ret.) Wesley Porter was named the state robotics Teacher of the Year.

Davidson High Penny Wars Fundraising

Davidson High School Sophomore Pre-IB student Thy Do raised an incredible $1,008.01 in a Penny Wars competition, designed to benefit USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital—all thanks to pocket change and a competitive spirit! Her AP Psychology teacher, Mrs. Van den Bosch, provided her with a space in her classroom for donations to be held. With the amazing support of students and administration, she also raised $487 through out-of-uniform passes! This fundraiser is part of Thy’s service project for Mobile United’s Youth Leadership program.

Cultivate Studios’ 2nd Annual Mardi Gras Ball

Let the Good Times Roll! Cultivate Studios’ 2nd Annual Mardi Gras Ball was a day of joy, creativity, and celebration—where our learners and families danced, laughed, and made unforgettable memories together! Even the Azalea Trail Maids made a visit!

UMS-Wright Middle School Students Named to National Junior Honor Society

We are so proud of the following UMS-Wright students on their induction into the National Junior Honor Society! Their hard work, dedication, and academic excellence deserve to be recognized!

Marley Jane Santana, Todd Watford Boehm, Mason Dat Bui, Norah Laxmi Burkett, Grady Mitchell Cook, Ana David, Sadie Mae Davis, Sara Caroline Dodson, William Chase Dodson, James Tatum Fillers, Charlotte Ruth Ford, Hayes Harrison Giddens, Elliott Guy Hagler, Kyleigh Adele Harbin, Caroline Lee Helms, William Christian Hines, Elizabeth Manly Howell, Aubrey Jones, Sophia Mayela Johnson, Caroline Ladd Lamar, Emily Grace Lawler, Madelyn Rae Massey, Bender Matthew McKean, Elizabeth Grace McMahon, Branson Garrett Miller, Emory Mattison Mitchell, Carson McMillan Moore, Jasmine Tuyetminh Nguyen, Cayden James Odom, Griffin Douglas Otto, Kate Elyss Tulao Pacheco, Aarya Vishal Patel, Heidi Elizabeth Peak, Jackson Porter Perdue, Bradley Gray Peterson, Ava Basham Pfeiffer, Madison Thien-An Phan, Emmit Matthew Quin, Celia Frances Reid, Elizabeth Louise Reynolds, Eleanor McRae Roberds, Jacob Preston Roe, Ava Leigh Rowell, Lillian Maragaret Smith, Joseph Douglas Stevens, George Rogers Seawell, Ruth Ellis Touchton, Emma Kaitlyn Trawick, Chase Logan Weaver, Ryann Elizabeth Whitman, Julia Clayton Wilkins, Matthew Beasley Wills, Kinley Grace Winter, Samuel Travis Winter, Bernard Augustine Wood and Bradley Alexander Wynn.

Alabama School of Mathematics and Science High School Research Team

Awarded Federal NOAA Grant

A high school research team at the Alabama School of Mathematics and Science (ASMS) was selected to receive a federal grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). ASMS Biology Department faculty members, Dr. Rebecca Domangue and Dr. Natalie Ortell, put together a team of 6 students who live at ASMS but hail from across Alabama. Theirs is the only high school-level team to receive the highly-competitive NOAA Ocean Acidification Program (OAP) Education Mini-grant Program award to increase ocean acidification awareness, grow ocean literacy, and foster interest in career pathways in NOAA mission disciplines. Through the ASMS Research Fellows Program, ASMS students are paired with a faculty member at the school to conduct college-level research projects. Students paired with Dr. Domangue and Dr. Ortell this year joined a research study called: “Alabama Oysters Taste Best with Tabasco, Not Ocean Acidification.” According to NOAA, “Ocean acidification refers to a reduction in the pH of the ocean over an extended period of time, caused primarily by uptake of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere” (web). Dr. Domangue and Dr. Ortell explain that the Alabama oyster industry is highly susceptible to ocean acidification while also being an essential part of the Gulf of America economy. By bolstering ocean and ocean acidification literacy among student populations and by connecting them to this community in Alabama, the faculty members aim to set the stage for Alabama youth to help work toward adaptive solutions. 6 individual student research projects were funded through the NOAA grant award, including:

- Calcium-binding proteins in Crassostrea virginica as indicators of in situ pH stress. Lillian Abernathy, senior from Geneva County

- Evaluating the impact of phytochemicals on reducing pathogenicity in Crassostrea virginica under ocean acidification.

Naria Khristoforova, senior from Shelby County

- Effect of ocean acidification, Perkinsus marinus, submerged aquatic vegetation on apoptosis of hemocytes in Crassostrea virginica. BoKyeong Kim, junior from Autauga County

- Ocean acidification's impact on the susceptibility of Perkinsus marinus in Crassostrea virginica. Hyerin Park, junior from Autauga County

- Effects of ocean acidification on Pif gene expression in Crassostrea virginica. Kayty Phan, junior from Mobile County

- Lower pH levels decrease the productivity of the nitrogen cycle in Crassostrea virginica pallial fluid. Emma Kate South, junior from Baldwin County

In addition to the research projects, the NOAA funding for the project also allowed Dr. Domangue and Dr. Ortell to connect students in the ASMS BL400-2 class to the direct importance of oysters in the coastal Alabama region. The course included a focus on career development, ocean acidification science, and stewardship. Students have conducted empirical laboratory research experiments under the theme of OA affecting oyster homeostasis, visited local oyster farm Bama Bay Oysters, and used NOAA weather and ocean monitoring data to understand the susceptibility of oysters to ocean acidification. Their course meets a need for a region that lacks ocean acidification education and also helps young people make a connection between the food web and industry impacts of ocean acidification in the region.

kids are hungry before meals, before bedtime when everyone is tired and exhausted after a long day?” Karen Stephens, the author of The Child Care Professional, adds that parents should pay attention to why their kids experience conflict: “Are the children jockeying for family position? Are they trying to get adult attention or distract them? Are they fighting over a particular toy, friend, or relative?”

Hold regular family meetings

Experts agree that one of the best venues for discussing conflict triggers is so-called “family meetings.” They suggest that families get together on a weekly basis to consider the most common conflict triggers

and what they can do to deal with them. Family meetings, Dr. Ryckman says, “allows the family to share their opinions, seek understanding, and find resolution to problems.” To make the meetings as productive as possible, Dr. Ryckman suggests that parents establish certain rules, including that everyone gets an opportunity to talk, one person talks at a time and doesn’t get interrupted, and that everyone has to listen without putting anyone else down. He also suggests that families set an agenda, determine priority issues, generate possible solutions, decide on

the best one, and make explicit plans to implement it.

Combine family meeting with fun

While it’s best to conduct family meetings in an organized manner, they don’t have to be serious affairs at the dining room table. Ashley Patek, a certified parenting coach, suggests that parents combine them with fun family activities like watching a movie or going on a hike. What matters, Ms. Patek says, is that they

represent “a safe place for all members of the family to share feelings and actively listen to one another.”

Engage in fun family activities

Don’t underestimate the importance of fun family activities in reducing sibling conflict. “Whether you’re watching a movie, throwing a ball, or playing a board game,” says Dr. Jennifer Shroff Pendley, a well-known child psychologist, ”you’re establishing a peaceful way for your kids to spend time together and relate to each other. This can help ease tensions between them and also keeps you involved.” Dr. Ryckman agrees. “If your kids have good experiences together,” he notes, “it acts as a buffer when they come into conflict. It’s easier to work it out with someone you share warm memories with.”

Spend alone-time with each kid

It’s also important for your kids to spend some alone-time with you, even if you’re very busy and only have a few minutes available here and there. It’s not the amount of time that matters but the act of taking the time to tend to their specific needs. “Children are less prone to engaging in conflict,” says Dr. Malini Saba, another well-known child psychologist, “if they believe their uniqueness is valued.” And you can demonstrate that uniqueness, Dr. Saba says, “by spending time with them individually.”

Don’t be afraid of sibling conflicts

Finally, remember that sibling conflicts are a natural part of family life and if handled properly, can teach your kids important skills. As kids cope with conflicts, Dr. Pendley says, they learn skills “like how to value another person’s perspective, how to compromise and negotiate, and how to control aggressive impulses.”

Tanni Haas, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Communication Arts, Sciences, and Disorders at The City University of New York –Brooklyn College. MBP

Camping is the ultimate in outdoor family fun and is loaded with benefits for parents and kids alike. It provides adventure and unlimited opportunities to experience the great outdoors. It’s also a great way for kids to learn about nature, from plants and animals to the weather and skies. Historical landmarks and different regions offer lessons in history. And parents get a break from daily responsibilities of life and some relaxation. Not to mention, it’s an affordable way for families to vacation.

What’s the best way to camp?

Your family can choose from a variety of camping options. If you love the experience of roughin’ it, pitch a tent, and haul the bare necessities. Tents come in many sizes and styles, some with dividers for separate sleeping quarters. When purchasing a tent, remember capacity doesn’t include luggage space. If you plan to keep belongings in your tent, opt for a larger capacity. Most importantly, don’t forget padding or a blow-up mattress to insulate against the cold, hard ground.

If you like the idea of roughing it, yet want some of the comforts of home, a popup camper is the best of both worlds. The canvas sides and pullout sections of popups are surrounded with screens and give the feeling of sleeping in the fresh outdoors. Pop-ups come in several sizes and often include an icebox or mini refrigerator, heater, air conditioning, portable toilet, shower, kitchen sink, stove, cabinets and storage space, dining table, and other necessities. Some families prefer going in style. Travel trailers and motor homes offer a luxurious nighttime retreat after a day of outdoor fun. The ease of loading and unloading these shelters is great for moving from campsite to campsite, making cross-country

camping less work. Motorhomes and travel trailers often have a full-size kitchen, living room complete with sofa and chairs, and separate bedrooms for comfort and privacy. Don’t overlook the option of a cozy cabin in the woods. Cabin rentals are sometimes found at campgrounds or in national forests at cabin resorts. Cabins range from basic single room shelters containing only beds to completely furnished three or four room units including kitchenettes. When reserving a cabin, ask what is furnished before you go so you’ll arrive prepared while avoiding unnecessary packing. And don’t forget to ask about electricity, lights, and water. Experienced campers with older children might try a hike-in shelter for a true wilderness experience. Check with state and national parks for shelters that are sometimes set up along extended trails. After a day of hiking, roll out your sleeping bags under one of these small shelters for a dry night’s sleep under the stars.

Camping costs

The cost of travel can make family vacations a rare treat. But the affordability of camping may allow for frequent getaways. Overnight fees range from a free night’s stay at some state park rustic sites (no show-

ers, toilets, electricity, or water) to $50 or more a night at many of the top KOA and Jellystone Camp Park-Resorts. These top of the line campgrounds are loaded with amenities from built-in swimming pools to live entertainment.

State park campgrounds vary from state to state. Still, these are often the best deal for families interested in experiencing all nature has to offer. Fees for overnight accommodations in state parks typically range from $15 to $35. Many state parks have modern facilities including flush toilets, showers, grassy or gravel sites, playgrounds, park stores for firewood and ice, and more. Furthermore, state parks frequently offer miles of wooded hiking or biking trails, natural wonders, historical sites, and much more that may not be found at private camp resorts.

Camping also helps keep other vacation expenses to a minimum. Many families prefer cooking over the campfire to eating out. Additionally, most outdoor camping activities are free or available at minimal cost.

Fun camping activities

Whatever your family’s interests, there is plenty to see and do. Trails offer ample activities such as collecting rocks, leaves,

or insects, scouting for wildlife, learning about plants and trees, and practicing survival skills, to hiking excursions, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

Lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams offer fishing, swimming, row boating or canoeing, sunbathing, and more.

Wildlife viewing is often a highlight. Look for animals early in the morning or at dusk on dirt roads and trails, in open fields surrounded by woods, and near water. Be patient, walk slowly and quietly, and don’t forget binoculars.

Other activities include nature programs, nature centers and historical sites, flying kites, rollerblading or bicycling on paved trails, and more.

When ready to relax, light a campfire and enjoy reading or storytelling, play cards or board games, watch the sunset, stargaze, and roast marshmallows.

Easy camp foods

There are many ways to cook. You can purchase a gas or liquid-fuel camping stove, or if electricity is available, a crockpot or electric griddle works well. You can also carry a charcoal or small gas grill or cook over an open fire.

Keep meals simple to minimize packing, preparation, and clean up. Easy

choices include: hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken, steak, sandwiches, eggs, bacon, sausage, crock pot meals, sweet corn, baked potatoes, canned foods such as baked beans, tuna, chicken, spaghetti, ravioli, and soup, fresh fruit, vegetables and dip, bagels, English muffins, cereal, fruit juice, and hot cocoa.

On the other hand, if you enjoy cooking and good meals are one of the highlights for your family, then make the most of mealtime. With all the options for cooking, you can easily enjoy a gourmet feast.

Camping tips

Camping is often a learn-as-you-go experience. But the following can alleviate hassles and keep your family safe.

Protect your food from animals and animals from your food by blocking access. Animals can find their way into nearly anything. Raccoons are known to lift lids right off coolers to snatch hot dogs and other treats. A cooler that latches is usually a safe bet. Any food that isn’t tightly contained should be stored in your vehicle overnight.

Poor weather can strike at any time and insect infestations can also make for

a miserable experience. Make additional shelter such as a screen tent or tarps and rope part of your camping gear.

Arrive at your camp destination ahead of the crowd. Every campsite is unique, and early arrival can assure a site that satisfies your needs.

When selecting a site look for proximity to restrooms, the playground, electricity, and water. If you have young children, make sure the site isn’t close to a river or lake. The amount of shade you’ll want will depend on the weather forecast. To avoid mud, a grassy or rock site may be preferred. Also, avoid a site backed up to outhouses, which can smell in the heat and wind.

Know what animals are found in the area and teach your children animal safety. Wild animals usually want to avoid humans as much as we want to avoid them. Still, they can pose risks. In bear country, those accustom to people sometimes get too close and result in injury. Even small animals that feel threatened may attack.

Kimberly Blaker is author of the kid’s book Horoscopes: Reality or Trickery? She also writes a blog, The Young Gma’s Guide to Parenting, at www.theyounggma.com.

Emergency Fund for Teens?

Q. Our daughter is in high school, and she has a car and a part-time job nights and weekends. We’ve worked with her on saving, spending and giving, but should a teenager have an emergency fund, too? If so, how much do you recommended them setting aside?

A. This is a great question! I’m glad to know you’re working with your daugther and teaching him wise financial habits. I always recommend an emergency fund of three to six months of expenses for adults, and I think that’s a fair expectation for teens, as well. He won’t need as big an

emergency fund as a married couple with kids if his expenses consist only of those connected to his car and social life. So, I’d suggest her saving up three months’ worth of what it takes to operate the car—gas, insurance and maintenance. I think those are fair financial responsibilities for a responsible teen in his situation.

Your Income is the Key

Q. I have $100,000 in student loan debt. Since the amount is so large, is there a special place in your Baby Steps plan for it?

A. I hope you have a nice, large income with which to fight that big pile of student

loan debt. I’ve seen even worse situations, though. I’ve talked to people who went $200,000 into debt for a four-year degree in a field where they’ll make $45,000. Yes, that kind of thinking and behavior is out there, and it’s ridiculous.

The fact that it’s a large amount of student loan debt doesn’t change anything. Baby Step 2 is where you pay off all debt except for your home. So, don’t let this student loan debt hang around for years and years. You’ve got to get focused and intense about getting control of your money. That means living on a strict, basics-only monthly budget. After that, start throwing every nickel and dime you can scrape together, and save toward paying off those student loans as fast as possible.

Your income is your largest wealthbuilding tool. You can’t save, and plan for the future, when all your money is flying out the door to pay off debt.

Art Camps

Coastal Makers, LLC

1260 Dauphin St Ste 121, Mobile, AL 36604 Send your kiddo on an art adventure this summer! Prepare to get messy, have fun, and create cool art! Designed for ages 6-up. Visit our website or Facebook page for camps in Mobile and Baldwin County.

251-455-2909 coastalmakers@gmail.com www.coastalmakers.com

Mobile Museum of Art - Summer Camps 4850 Museum Drive, Mobile, AL 36608 MMofA’s art camps offer in-depth art knowledge with fun hands-on art activities. Weekly Art Camp from 9:00am-12:00pm/1:00pm-4:00pm/9:00am4:00pm (all day and half-day options). Camps: June 2-6, 9-13, 23-27, July 14-18, 21-25, 28-August 1 (ages 5-7/8-11) Teen Camps: June 16-18, July 7-11 (12+) 251-208-5200 www.mobilemuseumofart.com/learn

Mobile Parks & Rec Community Camps offering arts, crafts, sewing and more. https://mprd.recdesk.com/Community/Home

Round But Square Studios

3304 Old Shell Road Suite C, Mobile, AL 36608 Art Camps, art classes, pop ups- one day fun days, pop-in art events, art parties, adult classes, and more. Visit our website/Facebook/ instagram for more information. 251-591-3425 roundbutsquarestudios@gmail.com www.roundbutsquarestudios.com

Dance/Gymnastics/ Cheer

Broadway South Dance

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7906 Westside Park Drive, Mobile, AL 36695

Broadway South Dance provides quality dance instruction in the West Mobile area for ages 2-adult. Be sure to check us out on the web to find out summer dance schedules and dance camps. 251-639-0660 michelle@broadwaysouthdance.com www.broadwaysouthdance.com

Gale’s Studio of Dance

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6345 Airport Blvd, Suite F, Mobile, AL 36608 2025 Summer Dance classes begin Tuesday, June 10. Online registration opens soon, or stop by the studio for our on-site registration on Thurs-

day, May 29, 2pm-6pm. Classes include: Tip Toes & Tumbling (2 and up) Enchanted Princess (2-5 yrs), Pop Star (6 and up) Teens & Tweens (10 and up) Summer Intensive (13 and up), Pre-school Hip Hop Acro, Back Handspring Class, and more! 251-343-9544 www.galesstudioofdance.com

Maccrossan Irish

Dancing Camp

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Azalea City Center for the Arts, 63 Midtown Park East, Mobile, AL 36606

Join the dance! Activities include music, dancing, arts & crafts, storytelling and more! Ages 3-10. June 9-13 from 8am - 12 noon. $125. 228-239-2422 maccrossanirishdance@yahoo.com

Mobile Ballet

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4351 Downtowner Loop North, Mobile, AL 36609

Offering Dance Camps and Intensives. Our summer Intensive is taught by world renowned guest instructors as well as outstanding Mobile Ballet faculty. Summer Intensive - (Ages 12 & up with one year of pointe training required) Ballet, Pointe, Variations, Jazz, Contemporary and more. June 2-20, 2025 // Junior Intensive - (Ages 10 and up, two years of ballet training required) challenges students to enhance skills and technique. June 9-20, 2025 // Dance Camps (Age 3-5) & (Age 6-9) Nutcracker Camp, June 2-5 & Cinderella Camp: July 28-31, 2025 251-342-2241 info@mobileballet.org www.mobileballet.org

Robinson’s School of Dance

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421 Highway 43 North, Saraland, AL 36571

Taking new students June 9 from 4-6pm. Summer Camp is held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays in June. Ages 2 and up. 251-675-5915 www.Robinsonsschoolofdance.com

Sheffield School of the Dance

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4570 Hermitage Road, Mobile, AL 36619 Magic Of Dance (ages 3-5), June 17-19 - [Ballet, Jazz, Hip Hop]. The Intensive (ages 6-9, 10-12, 13+), July 14-18 - [Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Strength Training & Acro]. Ballet Boot Camp (ages 6-9, 10+), July 28-31 - [Ballet, Pointe, Strengthen & Stretch]. 251-219-7877 sheffieldschoolofthedance@gmail.com www.sheffielddance.com

Cottage Hill Gymnastics Center 1711 Hillcrest Rd, Mobile, AL 36695 Gymnastics, Tumbling and Trampoline 251-367-6182 www.cityofmobile.org/parks

Classical Ballet Academy

4621 Spring Hill Ave, Suite C, Mobile, AL 36608 Twinkle Toes & Tea - Ballet & Etiquette Camp, Ages 3-7, July 7-11 (M-F) and/or August 4-8 (MF); 9:00-12:00, $250. Junior Intensive, Ages 8-11, July 28-August 1 (M-F), 9:00-12:00. $300. Summer Intensive, Ages 12+, July 28-August 1 (M-F), 12:00-4:00, $350. 251-410-4479 academy@classicalalletmobile.org www.classicalballetmobile.org

Debbie’s School of Dance

6429 Hillcrest Park Court, Mobile, AL 36695

Dance Camp themes and ages: Ballerinas Fun in the Sun! Ages 2-3. Barbie Dance Blast! Ages 4-5. Swiftie Dance Era - ages 6 and up. Gymnastics Meets Ninja, ages 4-6, boys and girls. 251-633-9559 www.debbiesdance.com

Empire Gymnastics

246-B Jacintoport Blvd, Saraland, AL 36571

Visit our website for more information. 251-620-9780 info@empireathleticstraining.com www.empireathleticstraining.com

Mrs. Lisa’s Gym and Cheer

144 East I-65 Service Road N, Mobile, AL 36607

Mrs. Lisa’s offers Recreational tumbling classes, Competitive Cheer Teams for ages 3-18 , School Cheer Teams Tumbling, Private Lessons ,& Choreography.

251-471-9708 www.facebook.com/alabamajags

Ms. Daphne’s Cheernastics

102 Baker Road, Satsuma, AL 36572

For current info, visit our Facebook Page: Ms. Daphne’s CheerNastics; Summer Schedule TBA. 251-599-2205 facebook.com/msdaphnescheernastics

Nasser Gymnastics

3055 Old Shell Road, Mobile, AL 36607 Camp for kiddos 3-12 yo. Campers enjoy a clean and safe environment with instructor-led gymnastics, games, and other fun gymnastics-themed camp activities.2025 Camp Weeks: June 6-13, July 7-11, July 21-25

251-479-9311 www.nassergym.com

Planet Gymnastics

900 Schillinger Road South, Mobile, AL 36695

We host a variety of themed camps over the summer. Ages 4 to 16 (4-5-year-olds limited to half days). Campers will have a variety of structured

activities and games during the day, and lots of open play.

251-650-0699 www.planetgym.org

Day Camps

Azalea City Montessori

Summer Camp

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18 W Pierpoint Drive, Mobile, AL 36606

Monday-Friday 8:00am-4:00pm. Elementary camp is back this year! Each themed week children will engage in fun, age appropriate play and learning. Ages 3-12, DHR licensed. 251-380-6923 angela@azaleacitymontessori.org www.azaleacitymontessori.org/summer-camp

Connect Camp

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Luke 4:18 Fellowship, 2664 Sollie Rd, Mobile, AL 36695

Connect Camps is a one-week, day camp for K-8th graders, filled with non-stop fun, engaging activities, daily faith-based lessons, and the chance to make lasting friendships. Your campers are sure to have an unbelievable week that they’ll never forget! Mark your calendars for June 16-20, 2025! Camp will be held Monday through Thursday 7:45 AM-5:00 PM and Friday 7:45 AM-12:00 PM. Register online at: https://connectcamps.com/ mobile/ Use code CONNECT60 through April 30th for $60 off per camper! (251) 281-1418 melanie@luke418fellowship.org www.connectcamps.com/mobile

Dauphin Island Sea LabSummer Day Camps

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101 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island, AL 36528 Ocean STEAMers- June 6 (ages 8-11); BIO BlitzJune 5 or July 11 (ages 10-13); Ocean Bytes- July 28 (ages 9-11); Oceans Alive - June 3 or June 13 (ages 5 - 8); Survivor: Dauphin Island - June 4, July 10, or July 25 (ages 10-13). Registration/ camp specifics are available online. 251-861-2141 DHPSummer@disl.edu www.disl.edu/dhp/summer-camps

YMCA North Mobile

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Main Branch-92 Saraland Loop, 251-679-8877 / Youth Youth Services Site-401 Shelton Beach Rd, 251-586-8396, Saraland, AL 36571

At camp, kids enjoy fun summer activities that include sports, swimming, and arts and crafts, park days and field trips while also learning the importance of healthy choices and active lifestyles under the supervision of our fully-trained staff. Ages 5-14yrs. bbrown@ysal.org www.southalabama.recliquecore. com/programs/117513/it-s-summer-time/?locations=-1

Boys and Girls Clubs of South Alabama Summer Enrichment Camp

Locations: Bernard Malkove Branch-35 Cody Road South, 251-343-4320, Kiwanis Branch-712 Rice Street, 251-478-7811, Semmes Branch-3810 Wulff Road East, 251-645-9027, Sonny Callahan Branch-6585 Carol Plantation Road, 251-6531188, Bishop State Community College-Hospital St, 251-432-1235, Foley Club, 1391 S. Cedar St., (251) 943-1483, Lott Middle School-17740

Celeste Rd, 251-432-1235, Tanner Williams Community Park-12855 Old Tanner Williams Rd, Kids will enjoy exciting summer activities that include Summer Brain Gain, field trips, sports, swimming, arts and crafts, while also learning the importance of a healthy lifestyle. Camp Dates: June 9 - July 25th, 2025. (No camp the week of June 30-July 4.) Register in person at the Club. 251-432-1235 www.bgcsouthal.org

Bright Beginnings Learning Center at Providence LLC

6803 Airport Blvd, Mobile, AL 36608

Ages 5 - 12. Monday-Friday at 8:00am-6:00pm. Before care available.

251-776-5540

Camp 3Circle | Mobile Campus 150 S Sage Avenue, Mobile, AL 36606

June 16-19; Camp 3Circle is a fun-filled week for kids ages 4 years-4th grade. We incorporate worship, Bible study, and games to point children to God’s great love for them. 251-990-3112 www.3circlechurch.com/camp

Evangel Christian School Summer Day Camp Fountain of Life Daycare & Pre-School 1277 Jubilee Drive, Saraland, AL 36571

Summer Day Camp. 6:30am-6:00pm daily M-F. Ages 4-Entering 6th Grade. Weekly and Daily. Many on campus activities available including special guests and vendors. Camp begins: June 2, 2025.

251-675-4619 daycare@folc.tv www.folc.tv

Exceptional Foundation Gulf Coast 28788 North Main Street, Daphne, AL 36526 June 2-July 24, 2025. M-Th 7:50am–5:30pm. (ages 10-High School Seniors) EFGC is a

nonprofit 501 (c) (3) program that provides social and recreational enrichment opportunities for the special needs communities of Baldwin and Mobile counties. Limited spots available. 251-625-8955 efgulfcoast@gmail.com www.exceptionalfoundationgc.org/summer-programs

Government Street Christian School Summer Camp

3401 Government Boulevard, Mobile, AL May 27 - June 30. Ages K4 through 5th grade. Join us for a summer full of fun activities, field trips, dedicated literacy and STEAM times, modern facilities, and fantastic staff! $180 per week. $50 registration fee. 251-660-7444 facebook.com/governmentstreetchristianschool

Kick Off to Summer Environmental Studies Center, 6101 Girby Rd, Mobile, AL 36693

Kick off to Summer - for students going into grades 3-5-May 29, May 30 8am-12pm. Watch the Environmental Studies Center’s facebook page for more information closer to the date. https://www.facebook. com/EnvironmentalStudiesCenterMCPSS 251-221-5000 www.mcpsesc.com

Knollwood Christian

Knollwood Christian, 1501 Knollwood Drive, Mobile, AL 36609

Summer camp will be open from 6am-6pm. Outdoor games, crafts, sports, water games, interactive games and more. Ages 5-11 years. 251-661-1987 https://www.knollwoodchristianacademy.com/summer-camp

Mobile Botanical Gardens NatureBLAST Mobile Botanical Gardens, 5151 Museum Drive, Mobile, AL 36608

June 9-12, 2025; 8:30-3:00. Outdoor discovery and nature studies. Rising 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders. Nature Hikes, Scavenger Hunts, Arts and Crafts, Games and Activities. $150 MBG members, $170 non-members. Limit 15. 251-342-0555 www.mobilebotanicalgardens.org/; facebook.com/mobilebotanicalgardensmbg/posts

Mobile Parks and Recreation Summer Camp Mobile, AL Camps offer a variety of recreational and educational opportunities including themed games, crafts, special events, virtual field trips, and more. Ages 4-13. Time: 7:30-4:30 with extended care available. Pre-registration is required. https://mprd.recdesk.com/Community/Home

North Mobile Christian School Summer Camp 1255 Industrial Parkway, Saraland, AL 36571 NCMS Summer Camp for K3 up to those entering the 6th grade starts May 27. Camp runs from

6:30am-6:00pm, Cost-$30 per day. Registration Fee is $75. Camp is open to the public. You can pick the days to attend. 251-679-3279 www.northmobilechristian.org

Semmes First Baptist CDCSummer Day Camp

4070 Wulff Road East, Semmes, AL 36575 Summer Camp program for ages K-5th grade. 251-649-2712 bridgetlovejoy@gmail.com www.semmesfirstbaptistcdc.com

St. Dominic Catholic School

4160 Burma Road, Mobile, AL 36693 Camp dates are Tuesday, May 27 through Wednesday, July 30, 2024 . Hours of operation are 7:30AM-5:30PM. Camp Eagles K-6th and Camp Little Eagles PK2-PK4. 251-661-5226 development@stdominicmobile.org www.stdominicmobile.org

The Watermelon Patch

6417 Hillcrest Park Court, Mobile, AL 36695

Come and join us for the summer to keep your children moving and having fun. 10 weeks of camp with weekly themes. Ages 12 months-6 years old or nursery for babies 6 weeks-11 months old. 251-633-3288 www.watermelonpatchkids.com

Trinity Kids Learning Center

309 Pinehill Drive, Mobile, AL 36606

Summer Day Camp will include fun and engaging activities for children ages 5 - 12. Monday through Friday, 7:30am - 5:00pm. 251-476-1844 www.tklclearning.com

University of South Alabama Student Recreation Center Summer Camp

University of South Alabama Student Recreation Center, 51 Jaguar Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36688 Camps focus on physical activities such as swimming, rock wall climbing, table tennis, crafts, outdoor games, sports, and more. Seven one-week sessions beginning June 9. All-you-can eat lunch is included in camp price. Ages: Rising 1st-8th graders. Dates/Hours/Rates online. 251-460-7268 srcsummercamps@southalabama.edu www.southalabama.edu/summercamps

Weinacker’s Montessori Summer Camp

227 Hillcrest Road, Mobile, AL

513 Georgian Drive, Mobile, AL

Summer Day Camp for ages 6-12 where young minds explore, create, and grow! Montessoriinspired summer camp for active, curious minds. Activities include: Summer Sports, Outdoor Art, Sunny Storytelling, World Explorers and Nature Care. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Hillcrest Road 251-344-8755 Georgian Drive 251-342-5399 www.weinackersmontessori.com

West Mobile Baptist CDC Summer Camp

7501 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36608

West Mobile Baptist CDC Summer Camp is for children K4-5th grade. 251-639-6868 jen@wemochurch.org www.wemochurch.org

Westminster Presbyterian Kids

Summer Camp

2921 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36606

Ages 3 months to 6 years. Runs June 2-July 18th (closed July 4h), Monday thru Friday from 9-1 (8 am dropoff available and 2 pm late pickup available) Fun activities including crafts, games, pizza and ice cream days!

251-207-8184 leah.hawarah@crcmobile.org www.crcmobile.org/westminsterpreschool

Horseback Riding

Riverview Camp for Girls

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757 County Road 614, Mentone, AL 35984 2025 Camps run from June 1-July 25. An all-girls overnight camp with short and long-term sessions for girls ages 6-16. Horseback riding, swimming, nature trails, arts and crafts, and much more! Also offering a weekend retreat for mother-daughter adventures on April 26-27, 2025. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

256-634-4043 info@riverviewcamp.com www.riverviewcamp.com

Mimi C. Peters Riding School at Silver Lining Farm – Summer Riding Camp 10727 El Nina Drive, Mobile, AL 36608 Day and Overnight Camps offered. Ages 5-16. Silver Lining Farm has one of the best summer camp programs in the country. Safety, fun and gentle horses are our priority.

251-634-1229 horses@silverliningfarm.net www.silverliningfarm.net

Sandstone Equestrian Center

9450-A Jeff Hamilton Road, Mobile, AL 36695 Summer Camps - visit our website for more information.

251-508-2759 sandstoneec@gmail.com www.sandstoneequestriancenter.com

Valley View Ranch Equestrian Camp for Girls

606 Valley View Ranch Rd, Cloudland, GA 30731 One, two or three-week sessions June 8 – July 25, 2025. Overnight camps for girls, ages 8-17 years. English, Western, Barrels, Vaulting, and Trails. Beginner and Advanced riders. CHA instructors.

706-862-2231 info@valleyviewranch.com www.valleyviewranch.com

Music & Theater

Azalea City Center for the Arts & Sunny Side Theater

Summer Drama Camps

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Azalea City Center for the Arts, 63 Midtown Park East, Mobile, AL 36606

Original Drama Camp - Put on full-length shows complete with sets, costumes, and fun! Activities include drama games, outdoor water games, set painting, and more! Drama Camp Jr - Our youngest performers learn a script in one

week. Camps focus on basics of acting skills by exploring costumes and characters! Musical Theater Intensive: Join a guest director as she takes campers through the process of producing an ENTIRE musical in one week complete with sets, costumes, and more! Rising Stars camp directed by Eric Browne for high schoolers only! Produce a hilarious comedy over the course of two weeks. Glee camp is for singers! Join us to be part of a concert full of Disney, Broadway, and pop songs!

251-510-1808 dramacamp@mindspring.com www.sunnysidedrama.com

Full Scale School Of Music

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Azalea City Center for the Arts, 63 Midtown Park East, Mobile, AL 36606

Summer music camps for ages 5-18! Come and join us at Full Scale for a great time of music making, theory, rhythm, harmony, and rock and roll! Students are welcome to join us any week this summer for Rock Band, Rock Band Jr, Hands on Instruments, and more!

251-454-6591 fullscaleschool@gmail.com www.fullscaleschool.com

BlueBird Music & Movement Camp 6157 Airport Blvd, Ste 205, Mobile, AL 36608

Get your little one moving and interacting with others! Children in this camp play instruments, sing songs, and play games to target coordination, balance, following directions and socialization skills. June 2-6 (Monday-Friday) from 8:15-9:15am. All abilities welcome. Ages 3 to 5. 251-287-0378 info@bluebirdtherapy.com www.bluebirdtherapy.com

Marcus Johnson Summer Jazz Camp

History Museum of Mobile, 111 S Royal Street, Mobile, AL 36602

July 14-July 25, 2025, 9:30am - 1:30pm -A blend of music education, cultural enrichment and team building. Talented, aspiring musicians are taught the fundamentals of jazz by seasoned local professionals under the direction of Mobile’s music icon, Hosea London. Celebrity guest artists in residence will be featured as instructors and perform with campt students at the Hosea London Jazz Music and Education Gala Concert. Camp tuition is $100. Scholarships available upon request. Students must have their own instrument and possess the ability to play music scales. 251-478-4027 www.gcehjazzfest.org

Mobile School of Piano

Summer Piano Lesson Program: Ages 4 to adult. This class is a great introductory as well as a great refresher course.

251-209-5352 www.mobileschoolofpiano.com

Mobile Symphony Summer Strings

257 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36602

Learn new music and skills, discover the secrets of your instrument, and have fun playing in a string ensemble! Music Theory, Chamber Ensembles, String Orchestras, Suzuki, Beginner Strings. Tuesdays and Thursdays June 17, 19, 24, 26 and July 15, 17, 22, 24 Cost: $85 251-432-2010 mobilesymphony.org/summer-strings

Springhill Baptist Church Music Camp

2 South McGregor Avenue, Mobile, AL 36608

Music day camp for ages completed PreK4-6th grade. Join us for fun-filled days of group singing, performing, instruments and music learning activities. Dates: July 21-25

251-342-5320 www.shbc.cc/smash

St. Paul’s Episcopal School –Summer Fun and Learning

161 Dogwood Lane, Mobile, AL 36608

See listing under Educational Camps for details. 251-342-6700 www.stpaulsmobile.net

Theatre Camp and Music Camp

Alabama School of the Arts, 5735 College Pkwy Mobile, AL 36613

Theatre camp-June 9-13 & 16-20 (ages 14-18)-Spend two weeks collaborating and growing with like-minded performers, with intensives in dance, music, and acting. Summer Music Camp-June 23-27 (rising 2nd – 6th graders) Daily activities will include introduction to instruments as well as exciting instruction of music theory, history, movement, and singing! 251-442-2420 asota.umobile.edu/summer-camps/

USA Piano Camp

5751 USA Drive South, Mobile, AL 36608

Summer Piano Camp-June 23-27, 2025, Ages 11+ 251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu

Overnight Camps

Alabama School of Math and ScienceSTEM

Leadership Academy Summer

Camp

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1255 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36604

June 2-6, and June 9-13, 2025, for rising 7th-9th graders. Overnight Cost: $500 Day Camp Cost: $375 (extra $100 with either option for Mini

Medical). Camp Registration opens on March 3. Registration Deadline: May 28, 2025. 251-441-2100 admissions@asms.net www.asms.net/summer-camps/alabama-stem-leadership-academy

Dauphin Island Sea LabSummer Overnight Camps

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101 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island, AL 36528 Barrier Island Explorer: Rising 5th-6th grades June 8-11 or June 22-25; Bay Voyager: Rising Grades: 9th-12th grades June 8-13 or July 20-25; Gulf Island Journey: Rising Grades: 7th-9th graders June 1-6, June 15-20, or July 13-18; Ocean STEM: For rising 7th-8th graders, July 6-9. Registration/camp specifics are available online.

251-861-2141 DHPSummer@disl.edu www.disl.edu/dhp/summer-camps

Dauphin Island Sea Lab

Residential Marine Science Class

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101 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island, AL 36528 June 22 - July 18. The Residential Marine Science Class is a 4-week academic class that introduces high school students to the field of marine science. Students live on the DISL campus and gain a better understanding and appreciation of the various disciplines in marine biology and oceanography. 251-861-2141 DHPSummer@disl.edu www.disl.edu/dhp/summer-camps

Riverview

Camp for Girls

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757 County Road 614, Mentone, AL 35984 2025 Camps run from June 1-July 25. An all-girls overnight camp with short and long-term sessions for girls ages 6-16. Horseback riding, swimming, nature trails, arts and crafts, and much more! Also offering a weekend retreat for mother-daughter adventures on April 26-27, 2025. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. 256-634-4043 info@riverviewcamp.com www.riverviewcamp.com

Aviation Challenge Camp

One Tranquility Base, Huntsville, AL 35805

We offer space, aviation and robotics camps to children between the ages of 9 to 18. Visit our website for session options, dates and registration. 800-637-7223 camps@spacecamp.com www.spacecamp.com/aviation

Camp ASCCA

5278 Camp Ascca Dr, Jacksons Gap, AL 36861

Camp ASCCA offers campers a wide variety of traditional recreational and educational activities with a unique design for accessibility. Summer sessions begin June 15, 2025.

256-825-9226 info@campascca.org www.campascca.org

Camp Beckwith

10400 Beckwith Lane, Fairhope, AL 36532

Join us for the “Best Week Ever at Beckwith, packed with sailing, swimming, arts & crafts, zip-lining, and so much more! Visit our website for information about dates and rates. 251-928-7844 www.beckwithal.com

Camp Cosby

2290 Paul Bear Bryant Road, Alpine, AL 35014

YMCA Camp Cosby is a week long sleepaway camp experience for boys and girls ages 6 to 16 with a first rate staff, activity variety, beautiful landscape and amazing views. 256-268-2007 cosby@ymcabham.org https://campcosby.ymcabham.org/

Camp Mac

Located in the Talladega National Forest - Cheaha Mountain, 2671 Cheaha Road, Munford, AL 36268

A traditional summer camp nestled in the Talladega National Forest where kids learn stuff, do things and have fun!

256-362-7449 office@campmac.com www.campmac.com

Camp Marannook

10425 Veterans Memorial Parkway, La Fayette, AL 36862

We have a whole summer packed full of awesome activities for you to enjoy. Several sessions to choose from. 334-864-7504 iwww.marannook.org

Camp Marymount

1318 Fairview Boulevard, Fairview, TN 37062

Camp Marymount offers four camp sessions for rising 1st through rising 11th graders—two for boys and two for girls. We create an atmosphere where children can be themselves without the distractions of technology and the outside world. 615-799-0410 info@campmarymount.com www.campmarymount.com

Camp Nakanawa

1084 Camp Nakanawa R, Crossville, TN 38571

Since 1920 Camp Nakanawa has been helping young ladies gain confidence and reach their full potential in a positive and fun-filled environment. 931-277-3711 campnak@campnakanawa.org www.campnakanawa.org

Camp Seale Harris

Various locations

Camp Seale Harris is for kids & teens with diabetes and their family members. Camps & programs are available in several cities. 205-402-0415 www.campsealeharris.org

Camp Smile Mobile, AL 36607

A residential camp for individuals with disabilities 5-50 years old. Space is very limited. Please apply as soon as possible 251-479-4900 campsmile@ucpmobile.org www.campsmilemobile.org

Camp Stanislaus

304 S Beach Boulevard, Bay St. Louis, MS 39520 Day and resident camp for boys and girls ages 8-15. Camp runs weekly from June 15-July 12, Father and Son: June 6-7, Water Sports: July 1418, Marine Biology: June 9 - 13 228-467-9057 camp@ststan.com www.campstanislaus.com

Camp Whispering Pines

7740 Union Street, Citronelle, AL 36522 Veritas Student Camp June 23-27 (6th-12th); Momentum Kids Camp- June 9-12, July 14-17 (1st - 6th grade), HOOPLA Day Camp June 2-6 (Completed Grades K-5th) 251-866-7868 www.campwhisperingpines.com

Camp Widjiwagan

3088 Smith Springs Road, Antioch, TN 37013

Overnight camps run from May 25 - August 1, 2025. Visit our website to see a full schedule of camps and age groups. 615-360-2267 www.campwidji.org

Camp Winnataska

260 Winnataska Drive, Pell City, AL 35218 2025 camps run from May 28 - July 26. Offering a variety of camp sessions for boys and girls in rising 1st-10th grades. Full week sessions and mini-camps. 205-640-6741 info@winnataska.org www.winnataska.org

Camp Woodmont

381 Moonlight Drive, Cloudland, GA 30731 ACA accredited camp-loads of activities: archery, climbing, horseback riding, canoeing, crafts, games and more! 1 & 2 week sessions for boys & girls 6 to 15. Season: June 1-July 25. 423-472-6070 www.campwoodmont.com

Cub Scout Resident Camp

Camp Maubila, 2332 Camp Maubila Rd, Grove Hill, AL 36451

Cub Scout Resident Camp will be held June 5-84, 2025. Maubila Summer Express Camp will be held May 29 – Jun 1, 2025 www.bsamac.org/camp-maubila

Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama

3483 Springhill Avenue, Mobile, AL 36608

All girls are welcome at Girl Scout camp – no membership required! Rising 2nd -12th graders can choose from 3 day/2 night or 6 day/5 night sessions with a variety of girl-led activities. GSSA resident camps are places where girls can build friendships, skills and confidence while creating life-long memories. 800-239-6636 summercamp@girlscoutssa.org http://www.girlscoutssa.org/summercamp

Lake Forest Ranch

5326 Lake Forest Road, Macon, AL 39341 Camps run from June 1-July 28, 2025. Visit our website for a complete schedule of camp schedules.

662-726-5052 info@lakeforestranch.com www.lakeforestranch.com

Lookout Mountain Camp for Boys 277 County Road 632, Mentone, AL 35984

Residential camp for Boys since 1928. Several session options available. Dates, times and additional camp information available online. 504-861-1534 www.lookoutmountaincamp.com

Mimi C. Peters Riding School at Silver Lining Farm – Summer Riding Camp

10727 El Nina Drive, Mobile, AL 36608 Day and Overnight Camps offered. Ages 5-16. Silver Lining Farm has one of the best summer camp programs in the country. Safety, fun and gentle horses are our priority. 251-634-1229 horses@silverliningfarm.net www.silverliningfarm.net

Rapahope Mobile, AL 36604

Rapahope has been bringing joy to children diagnosed with cancer and their families since 1985. We are a non-profit organization that offers free, year-round programming, including summer camp, as well as weekend and day-long opportunities for families and siblings. Camp Week 2025 will be June 1st-7th. 251-476-9880 info@rapahope.org www.rapahope.org

Twin Lakes Camp

155 Milner Road, Florence, MS 39073 Sessions: Overnight Sessions are : June 2-6, June 9-13, June 23-28, June 30-July 5, July 7-12, July 14-18. Day Camp Session : June 16-20, Family Camp: July 21-23 & July 24-26 Twin Lakes focuses on safety and fun while being intentionally grounded in Biblical teaching. 601-845-6858 info@twinlakescamp.org www.twinlakescamp.org

YMCA Camp Chandler

1240 Jordan Dam Road, Wetumpka, AL 36092

Since 1928 YMCA Camp Chandler has provided youth with the opportunity to build meaningful relationships, develop new skills, and create memories that last a lifetime.

334-229-0035 info@ymcamontgomery.org www.campchandler.org

Sports Camps

Inner Strength Taekwondo

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9120 Airport Boulevard, Suite H, Mobile, AL 36608

Summer Camp-Ages 4 and up will learn important life lessons about respect, confidence, and perseverance. Our Kids Taekwondo program is designed to set each student up for success and to give them the edge in life that only the martial arts can provide.

251-776-1978 www.InnerStrengthMobile.com

Auburn Swim Camp

664 Biggio Drive, Auburn, AL 36849

Camp focuses on technical instruction, skill development, training and a fun learning environment. Dates/Information on website. mds0110@auburn.edu www.auburnswimcamps.com/

Azalea City Track & Field Camps

University of South Alabama’s Jaguar Track Facility, 1209 Mitchell Center, Mobile, AL 36608

2025 Azalea City Summer Track & Field Camp - Camp 1 June 24-25, Camp 2 July 1-2, Camp 3: July 8-9, 2025. Time: 5:30pm-7:15pm. High Jump, Hurdles, Shot Put, Javelin, Hammer, Discus, Long

Jump, Triple Jump. All campers will have the option of which events they want to train.

251-460-7656 pbrueske@southalabama.edu www.jagfieldcamp.com

Brochu Tennis Academy - Tennis Camps

University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36688 Tennis Camps-May 27-30, June 9-13, July 7-11, August 4-8 (ages 5-17). All levels from beginner to advanced. Campers will receive instructions from the South Alabama head coach, assistant coaches, and current college players. Daily activitiestennis drills, strategies, games, and swimming. 251-709-2003 nbrochu@southalabama.edu www.brochutennisacademy.com

D-Bat Mobile - Summer Camps 1475 Hillcrest Rd., Mobile, AL 36695

At D-BAT Mobile we host more than 50 Camps, Clinics & Classes each year providing a great opportunity for players to improve while having fun at the same time.

251-444-3228 info@dbatmobile.com https://dbatmobile.com/

Jags Soccer Camps - University of South Alabama

5950 Old Shell Road, Mobile, AL 36608 Soccer camps and clinics are ran by The University of South Alabama Jaguars Soccer coaches and staff. Soccer Camp Week 1: June 2 – 5 (ages 5 – 12), Full day available to 9 - 12 year olds, Half Day time: 9am-11am, Full Day Time: 9am-3 pm. Soccer Camp Week 2: June 9 – 12 (ages 5-12) Half day only:- 9am-11am. kdirkse@southalabama.edu jagsoccercamps.com

JO Volleyball Camps at South Alabama University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36688 2025 Summer Volleyball camps are held in Jaguar

Gymnasium, Striplin Gym. We offer team camps, elite and all skills camps, and individual skills camps. Visit our website for more information. 616-644-5751 https://www.jovolleyballcamps.com/

McGill Toolen Summer Sports Camps 1501 Old Shell Road, Mobile, AL 36604

McGill-Toolen Catholic will be offering our popular summer sports camps including baseball, track & field, football, boys basketball, co-ed soccer, volleyball, girls basketball, boys and girls tennis and cheerleading. Please visit our website for details/ registration.

251-445-2900 www.mcgill-toolen.org

Michael Brisbane Golf Instruction 1000 Gaillard Road, Mobile, AL 36608 Golf lessons and clinics. 251-490-3812 michael@michaelbrisbanegolf.com www.michaelbrisbanegolf.com

Mobile Parks & Rec. Community Activities

Mobile, AL Many sports camps are offered in various locations around Mobile. https://mprd.recdesk.com/Community/Home

Mobile Tennis Center Mobile, AL 36608

Offering summer clinics. Please visit our website for more information or to sign up. 251-208-5181 www.mobiletenniscenter.net

St. Paul’s Episcopal School –Summer Fun and Learning 161 Dogwood Lane, Mobile, AL 36608 See listing under Educational Camps for details. 251-342-6700 www.stpaulsmobile.net

UMS-Wright

65 Mobile Street, Mobile, AL 36607

Offering athletic, academic, day, and specialty camps. Registration for UMS-Wright families opens mid-March. Registration opens for families outside of UMS-Wright May 1st. 251-479-6551 summerandauxiliary@ums-wright.org www.ums-wright.org/summerprograms

University of Mobile RAMS Soccer Camps 5735 College Parkway, Mobile, AL 36613 Rams Soccer Academy Camps offer partial, fullday and residential camp options. Co-Ed Camps (ages 8-15): 05/27/2025 - 05/30/2025, 06/17/2025 - 06/20/2025, 07/08/2025 - 07/11/2025 251-442-2396 www.ramssoccercamps.com

University of South Alabama Mark Calvi Baseball Camps

University of South Alabama -Stanky Field, Mobile, AL 36688

This camp is designed to help players take their game to the next level. Dates: June 9-13, June

23-27, July 14-19, July 28-Aug 1; Ages: 7-13 205-249-2031 www.jagbaseballcamps.com/markcalvi-baseball-camp.cfm

STEM, Educational and Miscellaneous

Alabama School of Math and Science-STEM Leadership

Academy Summer Camp

ad on page 18

1255 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36604 June 2-6, and June 9-13, 2025, for rising 7th-9th graders. Overnight Cost: $500 Day Camp Cost: $375 (extra $100 with either option for Mini Medical). Camp Registration opens on March 3. Registration Deadline: May 28, 2025. 251-441-2100 admissions@asms.net www.asms.net/summer-camps/alabama-stem-leadership-academy

Dauphin Island Sea Lab

ad on page 57

101 Bienville Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36528

See listing under Overnight Camps for details. 251-861-2141 www.disl.edu/dhp/summer-camps

Huntington Learning Center ad on Back Cover

2370-D Hillcrest Road, Mobile, AL 36695

A Huntington summer reading and/or math program can help your student gain new skills and avoid the summer slide. It’s also a great opportunity for struggling students and students with learning disabilities to get caught up. We offer reading, phonics and math programs for K-12 students and ACT Prep for high school students. Enroll today!

251-525-9239 MobileAL@hlcmail.com www.huntingtonhelps.com

USA Literary Center -

Tutoring and Summer Camp

ad on page 4

Mobile, AL 36608

Engage in literacy enrichment in a camp style settling. Rising 2nd - 6th grade Session 1: Monday, June 2- Friday, June 13 Session 2: Monday, July 7- Friday, July 18. 8:30am to 4:00pm. One week -

$225 | Two weeks - $300. K through 12th Reading and Writing Support - June 9- 27 and July 7-24. Monday - Thursday. 8:30am- 2:30pm. Assessment

$75. $40/hour session. 251-380-2891 jmholland@southalabama.edu www.southalabama.edu/colleges/ceps/literacy-center/

USS ALABAMA Anchor Academy

ad on page 8

2703 Battleship Parkway, Mobile, AL 36602

While at Anchor Academy, students will participate in art, STEM, and outdoor activities. Students will also explore the USS Alabama and USS Drum through fun and engaging lessons. Open to students having just completed kindergarten-fifth grade. Visit our website for dates and registration details. 251-433-2703 info@ussalabama.com www.ussalabama.com

Auburn University Youth Camps Auburn, AL 36849

An extension of University Outreach that sponsors and executes summer programs designed to educate and inspire youth in a variety of academic, athletic, and extracurricular endeavors. 334-844-4750 https://www.auburn.edu/outreach/ opce/auburnyouthprograms/index.htm

Aviation Challenge Camp

One Tranquility Base, Huntsville, AL 35805

More details under Overnight Camps. 800-637-7223 www.spacecamp.com

Bellingrath Gardens & Home NatureNauts Summer STEM Camps

Bellingrath Gardens, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road, Theodore, AL 36582

Summer Camps provide children with daily hands-on investigations and garden explorations that will spark their imagination in STEM and nature. 3-Day Camps are designed for children ages 5-7, and are offered June 16 and June 30, from 9 am-1 pm. 5-Day Camps are for children ages 8-11 and are offered June 2 and July 21, from 9 am-3 pm.

251-459-8987 education@bellingrath.org https://bellingrath.org/learn/youth-camps/

Bloom Play Studio

2561 Old Shell Road, Mobile, AL 36607

BLOOM Play Studio provides purposeful play through sensory and messy play, cooking classes, STEM activities, and much more! 251.298.6389 www.bloomplaystudio.com

BlueBird Handwriting Heroes

6157 Airport Boulevard, Ste 205, Mobile, AL 36608

Could your child’s handwriting use some improvement? Using fun and play, this camp helps develop the skills needed to improve handwriting and social skills! June 2-6 (Monday-Friday) from 10:15-11:45am. All abilities welcome. Ages 4 to 8. 251-287-0378 www.bluebirdtherapy.com

BlueBird Little Chef’s Camp

6157 Airport Boulevard, Suite 205, Mobile, AL 36608

Get your picky eater to try new things at Little Chefs Camp! Kids will “cook” with a feeding therapist and try new foods together! June 9-13 (Monday-Friday) from 10:15 to 11:45am. All abilities welcome. Ages 5 to 9. 251-287-0378 www.bluebirdtherapy.com

Bright Academy Summer STREAM Camp

Bright Academy , 3590 Pleasant Valley Road, Mobile, AL 36609

This camp will be open to all rising 1st-5th

graders. STREAM camp will include fun and engaging activities in science, technology, reading, engineering, art, and math with an exciting multi-sensory approach to learning. June 23rd-27th, 8am - 12pm. For more information, please contact Bright Academy at 251-5259105.

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

Exploreum Science Center

65 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36602

Soak up the science in our award winning Summer Academies. Get ready for a summer of discovery and adventure! Young explorers will dive into exciting STEAM activities, handson experiments, and educational adventures. June 2-August 1, 2025. 251-208-6892

sholland@exploreum.com www.exploreum.com/education/exploreum-academy/

Farm Adventure Summer Day Camp

Linda’s Learning Farm and Play Park, 2380 Havens Road, Semmes, AL 36575

Children will experience what farm life is like. There will be barn activities, garden fun, swimming, playtime and daily horse interaction. Ages 5-12. June 9 - 13.

251-649-1802 raefab@bellsouth.net

Flight Works Alabama

St. Luke’s Episcopal School

Camp Invention

3975 Japonica Lane, Mobile, AL 36693

Camp Invention® is bringing new, imaginative experiences for grades K-6 to St. Luke’s Episcopal School, June 16-19, 2025! Register for the all-new program, Discover, at invent.org/local. Use promo code MYC-

week). Camp themes this year include: Rise of the Bots, Minecraft Space Edition, Virtual Reality, Minecraft Egypt & Greece, Environmental Detective, The Space Frontier, Minecraft Gladiators & Knights, Robotics II, Minecraft Energy Carnival, and A Taste of STEM. Sibling discount is 5% using code MoreThanOne, You can choose how many

AMP25 to save $25! Payment plans available. 251-666-2991 aminiard@slesmobile.org www.slesmobile.org

2000 Aerospace Drive, Mobile, AL 36615

Skills-based camps will weave science, technology, engineering, and math (STEAM) into various activities uniting education and FUN! 251-512-2320 www.flightworksalabama.com

Mobile Parks and Rec Community Activities

Educational Camps and Classes. Tutoring, ACT Classes, Computer Classes and much more. https://mprd.recdesk.com/Community/Home

National Flight Academy

1 Fetterman Way, Pensacola, FL 32508

An 6 day overnight camp for rising 7-12th graders that inspires interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). Students live in a multi-story, 102,000 square foot facility experiencing theme-park style thrills surrounded by advanced technology, flight simulators and virtual reality games that ignite imagination and encourage learning.

Dates: 5/18-5/23, 5/25-5/30, 6/1-6/6, 6/8-6/13, 7/20-7/25, 7/27-81

877-552-3632 www.nationalflightacademy.com

Read Write Learning Center

4308 Downtowner Loop North, Mobile, AL 36609

Read Write Learning Center invites students kindergarten through 1st grade on a Summer Reading Safari! Safari 1: June 3-June 26 Safari 2: July 8-July 31 Price is $480 per Safari 251-287-1822 www.readwritelearningcenter.com

Revelation Christian Academy Summer Enrichment Program

1711 Taylor Lane, Mobile, AL 36605

Revelation Summer Enrichment Program will focus on the subject areas of Reading and Math in a fun and educational way for grades Kindergarten5th grade. 251-473-2333 www.revelationchristian.org

St. Luke’s Episcopal School

Camp Wildcat

3975 Japonica Lane, Mobile, AL 36693

St. Luke’s is having a Summer Day Camp, academic and specialty camps. St. Luke’s Summer Day Camp: Camp Wildcat registration is now open for students in rising K3 to rising 6th grade enrolled at St. Luke’s for the 2024-2025 school year. All others will be waitlisted pending availability. Camp starts June 2nd and ends August 1st (7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.) The camp is $200 a week and is open to the public. Enjoy weekly field trips and fun-themed weeks. Register now to reserve your spot!

251-666-2991 www.slesmobile.org

St. Paul’s Episcopal School –Summer Saints

161 Dogwood Lane, Mobile, AL 36608

We will offer summer school and enrichment classes, several athletic camps, and music camps. More classes and events will be added throughout the spring; please visit our website for updates and registration forms!

251-342-6700 www.stpaulsmobile.net

STEAMCamp for Kids

Locations: Cottage Hill Christian Academy, Alabama School of Math & Science 16 hours of screen-free, hands-on fun through daily STEM Challenges, camp relays, team building activities, STEAM projects, exploratory centers and outside time with new friends! Ages 5-13 for STEAMCamp and 8-13 for Robotics VEX IQ Camp. Visit our website for locations and dates.

251-518-8903 www.steamcampforkids.com

STEM for Kids Mobile Bay

Making STEM Fun & Real for children, camps from May 27-August 1, 2025 (no camp July 4

days you sign up for, half camps are 9:00-1:00 and full days are 9:00- 4:00. Or, register for the entire summer, it is only $190 per week! (251) 210-8781 almobilebay@stemforkids.net www.sfkmobay.com

USA Center for Forensics, Information Technology, and Security Summer Camps 150 Student Services Drive, Suite 2101, Mobile, AL 36688

Programming and Computer Knowledge (PACK) Camp-June 9-13, Ages: Rising 10th-12th grade; June 23-27, Ages: Rising 7th-9th grade; July 7-11, Ages: Rising 4th-6th grade; CYBER Camp–June 19, 20, Ages: 9th-12th grade 251-460-6390 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/ soc/summerofferings.html

Swimming & Water Fun

City of Mobile Swim Association

Mobile, AL The City of Mobile Swim Association offers lessons, training and practice groups for swimmers of all ages and ability levels. 205-802-9585 www.swimcmsa.com

Mobile Bay Sailing School

4295 Marina Drive North, Mobile, AL 36605

Week-long sailing camp summer sessions. Two different sessions: regular class includes day-long sessions (9am-5pm, ages 8-18), second type is a special opti class for beginner/young sailors (ages 8-10 half-days 9am-12pm, or 1pm-5pm). 251-209-1800 sailingschool@mobileyachtclub.com www.mobilebaysailingschool.com/

West Mobile Baby Fish

2423 Schillinger Rd S Ste 110 , Mobile, AL 36695

Teaching children aged 6 months – 6 years old ISR Self-Rescue techniques designed to help them survive should they reach the water. www.westmobilebabyfish.com MBP

Now that my daughter is a senior in high school, she seems to have found a core group of good friends. This is a drastic change from when she was a tween and had a new friend group every week. Most teens go through this developmental process of figuring out who their close friends are.

“By the time teens are in 10th or 11th grade, everyone is feeling a lot more grounded in who they are and where they belong,” says Maria Sanders, LSW, a clinical social worker and certified parent coach.

Here are some ways teen friendships can change and how you can best support these changes:

By discussing possible situations, you help your child to figure out how to respond. Sanders suggests saying, “It’s normal that kids are smoking pot, and you may have opportunities, and here’s where I stand; it’s not something I’m okay with.” She then discusses how to get out of a situation that they don’t want to be in. She says, “You can send me a text with a code word that lets me know you want my help in getting out of the situation.”

Less drama among friends

As tweens develop into teens, there tends to be more stability and less drama among their friend groups. “It may be helpful for parents to know that the drama starts around seventh grade, and if they just get through it for about three years, then they’ll be okay,” says Sanders.

ships on their own,” says Sanders. They are also able to spend more time with their friends since they can often drive or arrange meetings on their own without parental involvement. “Some of those freedoms bring them to different scenarios, different situations, like more access to alcohol and drugs,” says Sanders.

Possible risky behaviors

Teenagers tend to be impulsive as their brain continues to develop. “During the typical brain development for a teen, their brains are in that phase of having difficulty with self-control and taking risky behav-

When teenagers are with their friends, they tend to do more dangerous behaviors like using drugs or alcohol that they might not do on their own. “There are studies out there that show that when teens are with their peers, they are much more likely to engage in risky behavior than when they are alone,” says Sanders.

Ways you can be supportive

1) Set boundaries and expectations with friendships. It’s normal for teens to want to stay out late with their friends, but they also appreciate it (although they won’t admit it) when you set boundaries and expectations. “When our boundaries and expectations are clearly articulated, it helps them navigate those unsafe situations,” says Sanders.

When setting these expectations about spending time with friends, it’s important not to lecture them since that can hurt your relationship. “The more we lecture them and discipline them, the more we are held at arm’s length,” says Caroline Maguire, a family coach in Massachusetts

and the author of, Why Will No One Play With Me?

2) Discuss possible unsafe situations. It’s important to discuss with your teen risky situations like being offered drugs or alcohol before they happen. “Some kids know that it’s not in their best interest to take drugs, but they don’t know how to get out of those situations,” says Sanders.

Maguire also discusses the importance of avoiding unsafe situations, “Be sure that your child has a safety net and is not put in a situation where they have to make choices they are not ready for,” she says. By discussing possible situations, you help your child to figure out how to respond. Sanders suggests saying, “It’s normal that kids are smoking pot, and you may have opportunities, and here’s where I stand; it’s not something I’m okay with.” She then discusses how to get out of a situation that they don’t want to be in. She says, “You can send me a text with a code word that lets me know you want my help in getting out of the situation.”

Maguire also suggests creating a code or a safe word. “They need to have a safe word that they can text you, and when you

receive it, you will come to pick them up with no questions asked,” she says.

3) Identify your anxiety. Parents often feel anxiety about their teens’ increased time spent with friends and possibly engaging in risky behaviors. Sometimes, parents might not even know where their child is if they are able to drive. “There’s all these tracking opportunities that parents have like 360,” says Sanders. “If we’re feeling very concerned about our kids’ safety and whereabouts, and we find ourselves tracking them all the time, I think it’s important to have a conversation with our kids about that.”

Sanders suggests figuring out where your anxiety is coming from and what needs to change to decrease that anxiety. “Why are we so concerned? And what do we need so that we don’t feel that kind of anxiety? Is it more communication between the parent and the child? Is it just an acceptance from the parent that we’re going to have to let go a little bit?” she says. Maguire says that if you know you provided your child with the tools to handle situations, then you can trust that they will make a good choice. “The more you can

become your child’s guide and help them look at those peer relationships and understand their choices, the better prepared they will be to handle those risky situations,” she says.

4) Find support from other parents. When your kids were younger, it was easier to find support from other parents during playgroups. It may be more challenging to find those same support systems when your child is independent, and you might not know their friend’s parents. But Sanders says that it’s helpful to reach out to other parents for that support. “As a parent, having our own community of other parents can be really helpful. Because what you’ll find for the most part is that you’re not alone in your worries and concerns, and they’re all totally legitimate,” she says.

Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. She is married and is the mother of twins and a daughter. Her writing has been published in The New York Times, The Washington Post, Parents Magazine, AARP, Healthline, Your Teen Magazine, and many other publications. She is a professional member of ASJA and SATW. You can find her at Bluesky @CherylMaguire.

Alexandra Roussos Theris and her husband, Nate, live in historic Midtown Mobile with their silver lab puppy, Willow. They are also the owners of Midtown’s BLOOM Play Studio, a creative children’s indoor and outdoor play space offering sensory and messy play experiences, children’s cooking classes, birthday parties, camps, and special events.

Both Alexandra and Nate come from Greek families with a background in the culinary arts and love creating special recipes for family and friends to enjoy.

“I am formally a Montessori teacher, and my love of cooking carries over into our studio. I offer a variety of children’s cooking classes and camps for our community,” shared Alexandra. “With endless options and lessons for children of all ages, our studio has become a place where we can share our joy of cooking with Mobile’s families! Every camp at our studio includes a baking or cooking recipe.”

Alexandra learned to cook and bake with her Yiaya, which is the Greek name for grandmother, at a very early age. That special bond has stayed with her into adulthood and her favorite thing to do is to share that love and passion for culinary creativity with her students.

“Our puppy, Willow, has grown up in the studio and can often be seen waiting patiently on the floor for snacks during camps and classes,” Alexandra lightheartedly shared. “She is a true studio, pup and enjoys being around the kids as much as they love being around her!”

Alexandra and Nate wanted to share one of their favorite dishes to prepare. They often cook dinner together at

home because they enjoy quality time together and believe that life is sweeter when they eat around the dining room table.

“Greek spaghetti was always a staple in my Yiaya’s kitchen. I often think about how hectic and busy meal times can be for families with young children, and it doesn’t get much easier than Greek spaghetti,” Alexandra said. “This recipe is a beautiful blend of all the things we love most! Zesty Greek-style shrimp with the rich comfort of brown butter spaghetti and a touch of southern flair with Conecuh sausage, yum! This recipe is as easy as it is delicious and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser event with some of your pickiest eaters!”

Pan Seared Greek-Style Gulf Shrimp with Conecuh Sausage and Brown Butter Spaghetti

Ingredients:

• 1/2 package smoked Conecuh sausage

• 1 pound medium to large whole, peeled and deveined shrimp, fresh or frozen

• 8 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 tablespoons lemon juice

medium heat. Once the pan is hot, add the sliced Conecuh sausage. Cook the sausage for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until it is browned and cooked through. Set aside. Prepare the shrimp. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, garlic and oregano. Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and pan-fry for 3 minutes turning them as needed to get even color on both sides. Take the pan off the heat and let the shrimp sit in the hot oil for 30 seconds more then transfer to a plate. Add 2 tablespoons of the frying oil to a small bowl and mix with 4 tablespoons of lemon juice. Drizzle over the shrimp.

Prepare the Greek Spaghetti. Cook spaghetti until al dente. Drain spaghetti and leave in colander or drainer. Put the butter into the hot pan and put it back on the burner, making sure the heat is medium to medium-high. Stirring constantly, cook butter until it’s a nice, light to medium brown. Remove pan from heat. Quickly return the spaghetti to the pan, turning to coat the strands with the butter; the spaghetti should glisten with the light coating of butter. At this point, you can add a bit more butter if you like. Once butter coats the spaghetti, add cheese and mix well so that bits of the cheese stick to the spaghetti evenly. Transfer pasta to a serving dish. Add the Conecuh sausage and top with Greek-Style Shrimp. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges, extra cheese and parsley.

• fine sea salt, ground pepper, garlic powder, and oregano

• lemons wedges and fresh parsley

• 1 box linguine or spaghetti noodles

• 6 tablespoons salted butter

• 1-2 cup grated parmesan, asiago or romano cheese

Directions:

Prepare the Conecuh sausage. Remove the Conecuh sausage from the packaging and slice it into even pieces. Heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan over

Gabriele has been married to her husband Daniel for 17 years. Together they have three incredible children – two boys, ages 16 and nine, and a sweet girl who will be two in August. Gabriele is a full-time Sales Director for Mary Kay Cosmetics. When she isn’t spending time with family or building her business, she supports her husband who is the Lead Pastor and Planter of Forward Church in Gulf Shores.

Photos by Haley Ames Photography.

FamilyCalendar

Wednesday April 2

Sesame Street Live 6:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 The live show will bring the beloved characters from the iconic Sesame Street to life in a brand-new interactive production. www.mobilecivicctr.com/saenger-theatre

Thursday April 3

25th Annual Chef Challenge

6:00 PM Mobile Convention Center, 1 S Water St Mobile, AL, 36602 Chef Challenge brings together the area’s most talented chefs and restaurants for an unforgettable evening. Indulge in superb food and drink, enjoy live entertainment by Roman Street, and participate in a silent auction—all while supporting the mission to end hunger along the central Gulf Coast. feedingthegulfcoast.org/get-involved/chefchallenge

Vision Beyond Limits

6:30 PM MacQueen Alumni Center at the University of South Alabama, 100 Alumni Dr Mobile, AL, 36688 Join us at the MacQueen Alumni Center at the University of South Alabama for an exciting evening featuring live entertainment, silent auction, live auction sponsored by Goldstein’s Jewelers, heavy hors d’oeuvres and wine tasting, photo booth, and much more. It’s a night you won’t want to miss! www.CSVRfundraiser.org

Friday April 4

Food Truck Friday

11:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Semmes Honor Park, 4100 Wulff Road East Semmes, AL, 36575 Join us for food truck Fridays at Semmes Honor Park. https://cityofsemmesal.gov/community/events/

Boat Show on the Bay

12:00 PM - 6:00 PM, USS Alabama Battleship, 2703 Battleship Pkwy Mobile, AL, 36603 This family-friendly event features live music, over 100 vendors, food trucks, and boats of all kinds. Bring the whole family. www.boatshowonthebay.com

Southwest Chamber of CommerceSmall Business Expo

2:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Tillman’s Corner Community Center, 5055 Carol Plantation Rd Mobile, AL, 36619

Jerusalem (Free)

7:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Moffett Road Baptist Church, 5555 Moffett Rd. Mobile, AL, 36618 Take a journey through Jerusalem of scenes from the triumphal entry to the resurrection of Jesus Christ during Holy Week.

The Playhouse in the Park Presents A Midsummer Night’s Dream

7:30 PM Playhouse in the Park, 4851 Museum Dr Mobile, AL, 36608 playhouseinthepark.org

Joe Jefferson Players Present After Midnight 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 S Carlen St Mobile, AL, 36606 After Midnight taes the sexy, smoky glamour of the original Jazz Age and catapults it into a whole new era of heart-pounding, mind-blowing entertainment for modern Broadway audiences.

https://joejeffersonplayers.com/

Saturday April 5

Wilmer Hall Pancake Breakfast

7:00 AM Wilmer Hall, 3811 Old Shell Rd Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us on the front lawn of Wilmer Hall (3811 Old Shell Rd.) on Saturday, April 5, 2025 from 7 - 10 AM for pancakes, music by the Excelsior Band, appearances by USA Cheerleaders and Football Players, the Easter Bunny and MORE! All benefits go to Wilmer Hall.

Tour de LADR

7:30 AM Beckwith Camp & Conference Center, 10400 Beckwith Ln Fairhope, AL, 36532 Annual Tour de LADR Bike Ride to benefit rapahope. https://tourdeladr.com/

Boat Show on the Bay

9:00 AM - 6:00 PM, USS Alabama Battleship, 2703 Battleship Pkwy Mobile, AL, 36603 This family-friendly event features live music, over 100 vendors, food trucks, and boats of all kinds. Bring the whole family. www.boatshowonthebay.com

Antiques, Collectibles, Craft Show ($4, $5 for Credit Card) 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Abba Shrine, 7701 Hitt Rd Mobile, AL, 36695

Mobile Literary Festival 2025: Go All In 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government St Mobile, AL, 36602 The Gulf Coast’s top literary talent for a free, one-day writing conference. Enjoy industry panel discussions, workshops, The Haunted Book Shop Pop-up Shop, the Writing Away Refuge Pitch War, poetry readings, and more. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Reenactment of the Battle of Fort Blakely 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 34745 State Hwy 225 Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 www.blakeleypark.com

Easter in Wonderland

9:30 AM - 2:00 PM, Exploreum Science Center, 65 Government St Mobile, AL, 36602 This year’s festivities will bring an exciting and brand new take to our annual familyfavorite celebration with whacky illusions and STEM activities inspired by Disney’s Alice in Wonderland. Kicking off with the Exploreum Easter Egg Hunt, this event will bring the wonders of the holiday and the world of STEAM learning to life through hands-on activities and thrilling science experiments. www.exploreum.com

Discovery Day

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Dauphin Island Sea Lab, Dauphin Island, AL The open house event gives you the chance to learn about current research and and learn more about the coastal ecosystem we live in. The day includes a chance to explore real scientific laboratories, hands-on science lessons, and free children’s admission to the Alabama Aquarium. www.disl.edu/events/discovery-day/

Kid’s Market

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Double D’s Burgers, 29001 Bass Pro Drive Ste. 100 Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Bring your little entrepreneurs to showcase their talents and sell their handmade crafts, baked goods, and unique creations. It’s a fantastic opportunity for kids to learn about business and have a blast! Enjoy craft stations, games and more. Visit Double D’s Burgers Facebook page under events.

Volunteer Fest

10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Medal of Honor Park, 1711 Hillcrest Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us for a fun-filled day of opportunities! Volunteer Fest is a celebration of service, connecting individuals and families with local organizations and projects that make a difference in the City of Mobile.

Easter at Seward Farms ($16 – Children ages 3 & Up and Adults, Ages 2 & under are free) 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Seward Farms, 10836 Tanner Williams Rd Lucedale, MS, 39452 Immerse yourself in the vibrant Easter celebrations at Spring on the Farm! Dive into the thrill of exhilarating egg hunts where adventure awaits. Capture magical moments with the Easter Bunny and snap adorable photos with a host of cute baby animals. Our array of activities is designed to fill your day with joy and excitement. https://sewardfarms.com/spring-on-the-farm/

Hop on the Hill

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, The Village of Spring Hill, Mobile, AL, 36608 You do not want to miss this FREE family, fun-filled day of activities, a visit with the Easter Bunny and much more! www.facebook.com/springhillmerchantsassociation

Standing in the Rain Childcare Expo

11:00 AM Mobile Convention Center, Mobile, AL, 36602 The Standing in the Rain Childcare Expo is a dynamic event designed to support childcare providers, parents, and families with valuable resources, tools, and connections. It features workshops, and expert speakers. The expo will also have FREE developmental testing, vision testing, and hearing testing for the children ages 0 - 8 years of age. This expo empowers attendees to enhance the quality of care and education for children. It’s a day of learning, networking, and growth for everyone passionate about childcare and early childhood development. To register or sign up as a vendor, or for general information visit RainChildCareExpo.com or call 251-454-4640. https://www.rainchildcareexpo.com/

Jerusalem (Free)

3:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Moffett Road Baptist Church, 5555 Moffett Rd. Mobile, AL, 36618 Take a journey through Jerusalem of scenes from the triumphal entry to the resurrection of Jesus Christ during Holy Week.

The Playhouse in the Park Presents A Midsummer Night’s Dream

7:30 PM Playhouse in the Park, 4851 Museum Dr Mobile, AL, 36608 The Playhouse in the Park Presents A Midsummer Night’s Dream http://playhouseinthepark.org

Joe Jefferson Players Present After Midnight Details on April 4.

Mobile Symphony Presents The Best of The Best 7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 One of our favorite concerts each season explores great music from great motion pictures. This year we make our selections from the very best scores from the American Film Institute’s 100 Best Movies of All Time! mobilesymphony.org/event/the-best-of-the-best

Sunday April 6

Antiques, Collectibles, Craft Show ($4, $5 for Credit Card) 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Abba Shrine, 7701 Hitt Rd Mobile, AL, 36695 Antiques, Collectibles, Craft Show

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Keep Art in Mobile

11:00 AM 561 St. Francis St. Mobile, AL, 36602 This is a ticketed Sunday brunch and yard party where eats, drinks, frivolities and giggletries abound. Don your fancy hats and play a game of bizarre badminton or cornhole with anything but beanbags. alabamacontemporary.org/events/lawnparty

Joe Jefferson Players Present After Midnight 2:00 PM Details on April 4.

The Playhouse in the Park Presents A Midsummer Night’s Dream

2:30 PM Playhouse in the Park, 4851 Museum Dr Mobile, AL, 36608 http://playhouseinthepark.org

Mobile Symphony Presents The Best of The Best 2:30 PM Details on April 5.

Monday April 7

13th Annual Golf Classic “Fore the Kids”

9:00 AM Steelwood Country Club, Loxley, AL The YMCA of South Alabama is excited to announce the 13th Annual Golf Classic “Fore the Kids”! This event will raise funds for our annual scholarship fund for

Tuesday April 8

USA Flute Choir & Celtic Crúe Spring Concert

7:30 PM USA Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA S Dr Mobile, AL, 36608 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/upcomingevents.html#

Wednesday April 9

20th Annual Artys Awards

Renaissance Riverview Plaza Hotel, Mobile, AL, 36602 The 20th annual awards show will feature a catered dinner, cash bar, music by the Jimmy Roebuck Trio, and live performances by Bent Broadway, Mobile’s Poet Laureate, Charlotte Pence, and others. mobilearts.org

Thursday April 10

Toddler Time ($5 members per child per session | $10 non-members)

10:00 AM Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum Dr. Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us for single

chanting world of *The Magic Flute*, where Mozart’s masterful blend of fairy tale and music creates a spellbinding experience. This unique production offers a fresh perspective on the opera’s timeless themes of love, wisdom, and adventure. Discover a magical journey that redefines the classic story and leaves you mesmerized.

https://asota.umobile.edu/event/the-magic-flute-2/

Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents Murder on the Orient Express

7:30 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois St Mobile, AL, 36611 The winner of our second Chickasaw Civic Theatre Writers Project, I Miss You Already is a warm and funny look at loving families. https://cctshows.com/season/i-miss-you-already/

Friday April 11

Food Truck Friday

11:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Semmes Honor Park, 4100 Wulff Road East Semmes, AL, 36575 Join us for food truck Fridays at Semmes Honor Park. https://cityofsemmesal.gov/community/events/

Alabama School of the Arts Presents The Magic Flute

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Joe Jefferson Players Present After Midnight 7:30 PM Details on April 4.

Saturday April 12

Breakfast with the Bunny and Easter Eggstravaganza

8:00 AM Christ United Campus, 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 Everyone is invited for a wonderful day of fun as we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Reserve your spot for breakfast with the Easter Bunny (see login below). Then, join us for an Easter Egg Hunt at 9:30 a.m. Plus, we will enjoy inflatables, a petting zoo, games, crafts, and more from 9:00 a.m. - Noon.

https://eastermobile.com/

The Bunny Bolt 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run

8:00 AM 166 Mobile Infirmary Boulevard Mobile, AL, 36607 Join us for a 5K or 1-mile run and post-race celebration! All participants get an event shirt and armband for the party with music, food, and Easter Egg hunt.

https://raceroster.com/events/2025/99394/the-bunnybolt-5k-and-1-mile-fun-run

Living HIstory Drill

8:00 AM - 3:00 PM, 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, AL, 36602 World War II comes to life every other month aboard the BB-60 with the Living History Crew. These historical reenactors, dressed in WWII period Navy uniforms, demonstrate what life aboard ship was like during wartime. They share stories from our original crewmen, conduct weapons briefings, and demonstrate drills while aboard ship. https://www.ussalabama.com/

NAMI Walks Mobile

9:00 AM Langan (Municipal) Park, Mobile, AL, 36608 NAMIWalks is a vibrant gathering of proud participants, who will walk — and sometimes roll —together for mental health on 4/12/25 at Langan (Municipal) Park. www.namiwalks.org/mobile

Easter at Seward Farms ($16 – Children ages 3 & Up and Adults, Ages 2 & under are free) Details on April 4.

Mobile Chocolate Festival

10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, The Grounds, 1035 Cody Rd N Mobile, AL, 36608 Indulge in all that is Chocolate! Proceeds benefit Penelope House! Enjoy Live entertainment, superheroes, contests, children’s area, face painting, cupcake decorating, apron decorating and lots more!

https://mobilechocolatefestival.com/

Dauphin Island Easter Egg Hunt

10:00 AM Green Park, Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Green Park will be filled with eggs for kids of all ages to hunt! www.townofdauphinisland.org/calendar-of-events

Spring Egg Hunt

10:00 AM - 12:30 PM, Stotts Park, 2150 Demetropolis Road Mobile, AL, 36693 Be sure to join us for this family friendly event at Stotts Park that includes ageappropriate egg hunts, visits with the Easter Bunny, a variety of craft vendors, arts and crafts activities, food trucks, entertainment and so much more!

https://mprd.recdesk.com/

Bunnies & Baskets

10:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Downtown OWA, Foley, AL, 36535 Spring has sprung, and Bunnies & Baskets is bringing family-friendly fun to Downtown OWA on April 12th, 13th, and 19th! Get creative with hands-on crafts, snap the perfect photo with Mr. Bunny, and join in more egg-citing activities that bring the season to life.

https://visitowa.com/bunnies-baskets/

Spring Fling and Splash

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Semmes Municipal Park, 8108 Morris Hill Rd Semmes, AL, 36575 Enjoy egg hunts, Easter Bunny Photos, Crafts, Vendors, Wet Inflatables and Splash Pad Opening. https://cityofsemmesal.gov/community/events/

Preview Party For the Gulf Coast Chinese Lantern Festival

6:00 PM 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, AL, 36582 Join us for a one-nightonly Preview Gala on Saturday, April 12, where you’ll be among the first to stroll through the glowing wonderland of towering handcrafted lanterns before the festival opens to the public. Enjoy a signature cocktail and indulge in a selection of elegant heavy hors d’oeuvres.

https://bellingrath.org/event/preview-party-for-thegulf-coast-chinese-lantern-festival/

Easter Egg Hunt

10:30 AM 9050 Jeff Hamilton Road, Mobile Get your FREE ticket today for South Coast Church Easter Egg Hunt at southcoast.church/events. Inflatables, food trucks, petting zoo, egg hunt and more! southcoast.church/events

Alabama School of the Arts Presents

The Magic Flute

7:00 PM Lonnie & Lynne Burnett Event Center, Mobile, AL, 36613 Step into the enchanting world of *The Magic Flute*, where Mozart’s masterful blend of fairy tale and music creates a spellbinding experience. This unique production offers a fresh perspective on the opera’s timeless themes of love, wisdom, and adventure. Discover a magical journey that redefines the classic story and leaves you mesmerized. https://asota.umobile.edu/event/the-magic-flute-2/

Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents Murder on the Orient Express

7:30 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois St Mobile, AL, 36611 The winner of our second Chickasaw Civic Theatre Writers Project, I Miss You Already is a warm and funny look at loving families. https://cctshows.com/season/i-miss-you-already/

Joe Jefferson Players Present After Midnight 7:30 PM Details on April 4.

Sunday April 13

Bunnies & Baskets

10:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Downtown OWA, Foley, AL, 36535 Spring has sprung, and Bunnies & Baskets is bringing family-friendly fun to Downtown OWA on April 12th, 13th, and 19th! Get creative with hands-on crafts, snap the perfect photo with Mr. Bunny, and join in more egg-citing activities that bring the season to life.

https://visitowa.com/bunnies-baskets/

The Market at the Pillars

12:00 PM - 4:00 PM, The Pillars, 1757 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36604 The community comes

together to shop local and support talented farmers, makers, bakers, crafters, and artists! www.pillarsmobile.com/

Easter Egg Hunt

1:00 PM Dauphin Way Baptist Church, 3661 Dauphin St Mobile, AL, 36608 Get ready to gather 20,000 eggs in exchange for candy and surprises. In addition to the egg hunts, enjoy bouncy houses and free popcorn as we celebrate this special season together. This event is completely free! Pre-Register Link: https:// dwbc.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/2782296

Annual Bunny Hop

1:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Geri Moulton Children’s Park (between USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital and Ronald McDonald House), Come join us for a family friendly Easter Egg Hunt benefiting Ronald McDonald House. https://rmhcmobile.org/product/bunny-hop-2025/

Joe Jefferson Players Present After Midnight 2:00 PM Details on April 4.

Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents Murder on the Orient Express

2:30 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois St Mobile, AL, 36611 The winner of our second Chickasaw Civic Theatre Writers Project, I Miss You Already is a warm and funny look at loving families. https://cctshows.com/season/i-miss-you-already/

Alabama School of the Arts Presents The Magic Flute

3:00 PM Details on April 12.

Monday April 14

Mobile Pops Band Spring Concert

7:00 PM Langan Park, 4901 Zeigler Blvd Mobile, AL, 36608 Free admission! www.themobilepops.com/events

Tuesday April 15

USA Jazz Ensemble Spring Concert

7:30 PM USA Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA S Dr Mobile, AL, 36608 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/upcomingevents.html#

Thursday April 17

Family Art ($5 members per child per session | $10 non-members) 1:00 PM Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum Dr. Mobile, AL, 36608 This class is for families to create together. Each month will feature a different art medium with a project tied to the MMofA collection. Parents are encouraged to stay and create with their families. Registration online https://www.mobilemuseumofart.com/

Team Focus Presents 17th Annual Fundraising Banquet - “An Evening with Kalen Deboer” 5:30 PM Renaissance Riverview Plaza Hotel , 64 S. Water Street Mobile, AL, 36602 For the 17th year, Team Focus will hold its annual fundraising banquet featuring this year’s keynote speaker, Coach Kalen DeBoer, head coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide. Team Focus founder Mike Gottfried will speak and introduce Coach DeBoer. It will begin with a silent auction at 5:30 p.m. with dinner and program beginning at 6 p.m. Individual tickets are $125 with early registration encouraged, as seating is limited. 251-635-1515 teamfocususa.org

Friday April 18

Food Truck Friday

11:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Semmes Honor Park, 4100 Wulff Road East Semmes, AL, 36575 https://cityofsemmesal.gov/community/events/

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Movies in the Park-The Lion King

6:00 PM Medal of Honor Park, 1711 Hillcrest Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 What’s better than a free movie for you and your family? Enjoying the lovely spring weather in one of the City of Mobile’s parks while you watch it! Bring your chairs, blankets and snacks to enjoy the show!

Napoleon Dynamite Live

7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Napoleon Dynamite Live www.mobilecivicctr.com/saenger-theatre

Saturday April 19

Easter at Seward Farms ($16 – Children ages 3 & Up and Adults, Ages 2 & under are free) Details on April 5.

Hoppin Shop Family Day

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 29001 Bass Pro Drive Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Bring your family and friends for a day of shopping, entertainment, and Easter fun. Enjoy live music, vendors, Easter egg hunt, visit from the Easter bunny and more.

Easter Egg Hunt at Cadillac Square

10:00 AM Cadillac Square, Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Easter Egg Hunt at Cadillac Square www.townofdauphinisland.org/calendar-of-events

Bunnies & Baskets

10:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Downtown OWA, Foley, AL, 36535 Spring has sprung, and Bunnies & Baskets is bringing family-friendly fun to Downtown OWA on April 12th, 13th, and 19th! Get creative with hands-on crafts, snap the perfect photo with Mr. Bunny, and join in more egg-citing activities that bring the season to life. Don’t miss out on the Egg Hunt on April 19th where the little ones can race across the Festival Grounds to fill their baskets. Whether you’re enjoying festive activities or simply embracing the season’s joy, this event is the perfect way to celebrate the season with family and friends!

https://visitowa.com/bunnies-baskets/

Coastie the Safety Boat at the Exploreum 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Exploreum Science Center, 65 Government St Mobile, AL, 36602 Come join us on

select Saturdays at 11am, for a special visit from the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and their friend, Coastie, the animated robotic boat! Learn all about water safety through an interactive learning experience for the whole family. www.exploreum.com

Spring Fest

11:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Semmes City Hall, Semmes, AL, 36575 Spring Fest benefiting St. Jude-enjoy music, food, vendors, face painting, egg hunt and more. https://cityofsemmesal.gov/community/events/

Sunday

April 20

Easter at South Coast Church

8:30, 10:00, & 11:30 AM 9050 Jeff Hamilton Road, Mobile, AL South Coast Church invites you to join them for Easter services. southcoast.church

Easter Sunrise Service

6:30 AM 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, AL, 36582 Embrace the serenity of Easter at Bellingrath Gardens with our Sunrise Service on April 20, 2025. Gates open at 6:00 am, and the service commences at 6:30 am. https://bellingrath.org/

Easter Sunday

Christ United, 6101 Grelot Road Mobile, AL, 36609 We invite you to celebrate the Risen Christ with us on Easter Sunday. Whether you are looking to celebrate Easter Sunday outside (7AM-Medal of Honor Park), or enjoy an in-person traditional (9AM, 10:30AM)or contemporary service (9AM, 10:30AM), we have a place for you. https://eastermobile.com/

Tuesday April 22

USA Symphony Band and USA Wind Ensemble Spring Band Concert

7:30 PM 5751 USA S Dr Mobile, AL, 36608 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/upcomingevents.html#

Wednesday April 23

Springhill Medical Center’s For Boys Only Class (Free) 6:00 PM Gerald L. Wallace Conference Center (Building 2, 4th Floor), 3715 Dauphin St. Mobile, AL, 36608 Boys ages 10 and older can hear Dr. Mike Little, F.A.A.P., of Children’s Medical Group, P.A., discuss the physical changes to be expected as boys mature. Also, he will provide information on what girls are experiencing at the same age. Light meal provided. Parent must remain with their child during the class. FREE to attend, but you must register: springhillmedicalcenter.com http://springhillmedicalcenter.com/

Friday April 25

Food Truck Friday

11:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Semmes Honor Park, 4100 Wulff Road East Semmes, AL, 36575 https://cityofsemmesal.gov/community/events/

Saturday April 26

Delta Woods and Waters Expo

9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 5 Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527

Featuring a variety of informative presentations, exhibitions and interactive displays by experienced outdoorsmen, professionals, educators and enthusiasts, the Delta Woods & Waters Expo includes numerous fun and exciting hands-on demonstrations which allow attendees to learn and practice new skills with one-on-one instruction. https://www.deltawoodsandwatersexpo.com/

St. Francis Arts and Crafts Fair

9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 401 Key St. Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 There will be more than 50 artists and craftsmen selling their wares on the church grounds and the church women will be dishing up their famous chicken salad, baked goods, and homemade pickles. www.townofdauphinisland.org/calendar-of-events

4th Annual NAMI Baldwin Mental Health Fair

10:00 AM Honeybee Park, 22775 Chicago St Robertsdale, AL, 36567 Join us for the 4th Annual NAMI Baldwin Mental Health Fair, a free and family-friendly event dedicated to promoting mental health awareness and connecting our community to valuable

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resources! Resource Booths: Discover services, tools, and support from local mental health organizations and providers. Interactive Activities: Engage in wellness workshops, mindfulness exercises, and other fun, family-friendly activities. Live Entertainment: Enjoy live music and performances throughout the day. namibaldwincounty.org

Earth Day Celebration

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Chickasabogue Park, 760 Aldock Road Eight Mile, AL, 36613 Join us on April 26th at Chickasabogue Park for an Earth Day Celebration! From 10 AM - 2 PM, let’s come together for a day of fun and a celebration of our Earth! FREE admission to the public! There will be live music, food trucks, hands-on crafts, vendors, and much more!

Fantastical Forest Party

11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Mobile Museum of Art, Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us in celebrating our newly designed Fantastical Forest exhibition through a day full of fun all about art and our environment! The day will include activities for the whole family!

Independent Bookstore Day

11:00 AM The Haunted Book Shop, 9 S. Joachim St. Mobile, AL, 36602 Celebrate Independent Bookstore Day with the haints at The Haunted Book Shop! Our shop may not be haunted, but we are---by the books and authors we love! Show your love to your favorite indie bookstore by visiting with us on April 26, 2025, ALL DAY! We will have author appearances, book signings, in-store activities, exclusive merch, and, of course, Mr. Bingley, the coolest bookshop cat ever. www.thehauntedbookshopmobile.com/

Annual Bald Eagle Bash

4:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Weeks Bay Resource Center, 11525 US-98 Fairhope, AL, 36532 Come celebrate, support conservation, and experience the best food, music, and atmosphere on the Gulf Coast. https://southalabamalandtrust.org/bald-eagle-bash/

Mobile Symphony Presents Handel’s Messiah

7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Monumental. Inspiring. Epic. A breathtaking performance of one of the world’s most beloved masterpieces.

https://mobilesymphony.org/event/handels-messiah

Sunday April 27

Mobile Symphony Presents Handel’s Messiah

2:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Monumental. Inspiring. Epic. A breathtaking performance of one of the world’s most beloved masterpieces.

https://mobilesymphony.org/event/handels-messiah

Tuesday April 29

2025 Annual Hope for Healing

6:00 PM Mobile Convention Center, 1 S Water St Mobile, AL, 36602 The evening will showcase expert perspectives from Victory’s healthcare partners on overcoming challenges faced by uninsured adults seeking healthcare. Additionally, the event will feature impactful stories from patients whose lives have been impacted through Victory’s programs. Capping off the night will be an inspiring keynote address by Lt. Colonel Dan Rooney.

https://victoryhealth.org/hope-for-healing

Thursday May 1

Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival

5:00 PM - 9:00 PM, OWA , 101 S OWA Blvd Foley, AL, 36535 We are excited you are interested in coming to this year’s event that will feature balloons from across the country, enjoy food vendors, arts and craft vendors, and retail vendors. Join us at OWA for this fun-filled weekend.

www.gulfcoastballoonfestival.com

RMHC Little Black Dress

6:00 PM Fort Whiting Reception Hall, 1630 S Broad St Mobile, AL, 36605 Join us for an inspirational evening celebrating our community of families and supporters. Little Black Dress is our premier fundraiser of the year. This spectacular gala and a wildly fun runway show features 40 local women and men modeling the latest in 2025 fashion. rmhcmobile.org

Cocktails with the Critters

6:00 PM Bluegill Restaurant, 3775 Battleship Pkwy Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join us on May 1, 2025, from 6:00 pm until 9:00 pm at the Bluegill Restaurant for Cocktails with the Critters celebrating the sea life in our bay and the gulf. Come enjoy an exciting evening overlooking the Mobile River Delta featuring delicious hors d’oeuvres, beverages, and music.

https://sealabfoundation.org/events/cocktails_with_ the_critters

Spring Spectacular

7:00 PM Great Lawn at the University of Mobile Campus, 5735 College Parkway Mobile, AL, 36613 This evening is the perfect outdoor family event to bring your lawn chairs and blankets, grab a hotdog and cola from our concessions, and enjoy an amazing concert with a firework ending.

https://asota.umobile.edu/event/spring-spectacular-2025-2/

USA Concert Choir and University Chorale Spring Choral Concert

7:30 PM USA Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA S Dr Mobile, AL, 36608 USA Concert Choir and University Chorale Spring Choral Concert www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/ upcomingevents.html#

Friday May 2

Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival

11:00 AM - 10:00 PM, OWA , 101 S OWA Blvd Foley, AL, 36535 The Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival is approaching its 19th year of flying! We are excited you are interested in coming to this year’s event that will feature more than 50 balloons from across the country, enjoy food vendors, arts and craft vendors, and retail vendors. www.gulfcoastballoonfestival.com

Sunny Side Theater and Drama Camp Productions present Oliver! JR

7:00 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, AL, 36606 Consider yourself at home with Oliver! JR., the Broadway Junior version of Lionel Bart’s classic musical based on Charles Dickens’ novel, Oliver Twist. Time: 9 am, 11 am, 7 pm www.sunnysidedrama.com/

The Black Jacket Symphony - Jimmy Buffett

8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 The Black Jacket Symphony will return to the Mobile Saenger Theatre on Friday, May

2nd to perform Jimmy Buffett’s “Changes In Latitudes, Changes In Attitudes” in its entirety and all of Jimmy’s greatest hits!

https://www.mobilecivicctr.com/events/detail/theblack-jacket-symphony-2

Gator Cruise

8:00 PM Historic Blakely State Park, Join us for an evening adventure into some of the secluded reaches of the lower Delta as we look for alligators and other nocturnal Delta wildlife. www.blakeleypark.com

Saturday May 3

UCP Hooked Up Fishing Inshore Tournament

Ralph & Kacoo’s, Family, fishing, and fun for a great cause! Kids fish for just $1 with a paid adult entry. Make memories, reel in big catches, and support children and adults with disabilities. Register today! www.ucpmobile.org/hookedup

19th Century Cooking Demonstration

9:00 AM - 11:00 AM, Historic Blakely State Park, Learn about what might have been on the daily menu for the residents of the town of Blakeley, as well as how they gathered ingredients and prepared their meals. This enlightening, interactive and fun program will help visitors understand the lives of those who once resided at Blakeley by discovering one of the most fundamental aspects of their daily routines. Admission: $5 for adults; $3 for kids ages 6-12; To register, visit blakeleypark.com/events jwww.blakeleypark.com/events

Gulf Coast Suzuki Kids’ Play Day (Free)

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, McGill Field, located at the corner of Catherine Street and Old Shell Road, Mobile, AL, 36604 Kids’ Play Day-Interactive Activity Stations, Touch-A-Truck Experience, Nerf Gun Battle Zone, Vendors and Food Trucks. All activities are completely free, and everyone is welcome! Food and retail purchases will be available for those who’d like to enjoy snacks, meals, or shopping during the event.

Sunny Side Theater and Drama Camp Productions present Oliver! JR Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, AL, 36606 Consider yourself at home with Oliver! JR., the Broadway Junior version of Lionel Bart’s classic musical based on Charles Dickens’ novel, Oliver Twist. Time: 2 pm, 7 pm www.sunnysidedrama.com/

Great Strides Walk

10:00 AM Langan Park, Mobile, AL, 36608 Every Great Strides participant is committed to helping advance a cure for cystic fibrosis. By joining us at Great Strides you can help us reach this lifesaving goal. https://fundraise.cff.org/mobileal2025

Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival

11:00 AM - 10:00 PM, OWA , 101 S OWA Blvd Foley, AL, 36535 The Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival is approaching its 19th year of flying! We are excited you are interested in coming to this year’s event that will feature more than 50 balloons from across the country, enjoy food vendors, arts and craft vendors, and retail vendors. Join us at OWA for this fun-filled weekend. www.gulfcoastballoonfestival.com

One Love Block Party

4:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Langan (Municipal) Park, Mobile, AL, 36608 Enjoy live performances, delicious food

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from a variety of food trucks, horse back riding, a talented character artist, and more. In addition to the fun, we will also offer wraparound services providing helpful resources to support our community

Sunday May 4

Sunny Side Theater and Drama Camp

Productions present Oliver! JR

2:00 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, AL, 36606 Consider yourself at home with Oliver! JR., the Broadway Junior version of Lionel Bart’s classic musical based on Charles Dickens’ novel, Oliver Twist. Time: 2 pm, 7 pm www.sunnysidedrama.com/

Dog River Clearwater Revival

2:00 PM - 5:00 PM, 3619 Riviere Du Chien Road Mobile, AL, 36693 Dog River Clearwater Revival (DRCR) is proud to host the MudBottom Revival Music Festival – a fun afternoon created to raise awareness and funds for DRCR’s ongoing Dog River improvement projects. https://dogriver.org/events/fundraisers/sponsor-infomudbottom-revival-music-festival/

USA Health Children’s & Women’s Hospital

($150) 4:30 PM Magnolia Manor, 1624 Springhill Ave Mobile, AL, 36604 Local Goodness, a farm-to-table event, pays tribute to local cuisine, art and music while raising awareness and support for USA Health

Children’s & Women’s Hospital. Proceeds go toward hospital programs. usahealthsystem.com/localgoodness

Friday May 9

Roll Mobile

6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Bienville Square, Mobile, AL, 36602 We’re turning the block along Bienville Square into a pop-up skating rink! Kids Only skating begins at 6 p.m. and ends at 7:30 p.m., and Adults Only skating begins at 7:30 p.m. and ends at 9 p.m.

Friday May 16

Movies in the Park-Inside Out 2

6:00 PM Mardi Gras Park, Mobile, AL, 36602 What’s better than a free movie for you and your family? Enjoying the lovely spring weather in one of the City of Mobile’s parks while you watch it! Bring your chairs, blankets and snacks to enjoy the show!

Saturday May 17

The Mobile Symphony Orchestra Presents Symphonie Fantastique

7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 The Berlioz classic and one of Mobile’s all-time favorite pianists – Charlie Albright – returning to perform Saint-Saëns’ Piano Concerto No. 2. mobilecivicctr.com/events/detail/symphonie-fantastique

Sunday May 18

The Mobile Symphony Orchestra Presents Symphonie Fantastique 2:30 PM Details May 17.

Every Monday

Read and Sign (ASL) Storytime at West Regional Library

3:30 PM West Regional Public Library, 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us in the Meeting Room for books, songs, sign language and for ages 3 - 5! 251-340-8571 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every Tuesday

Read and Play Storytime

10:00 AM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government St Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us in Bernheim Hall for a socially distant storytime event. Masks are required. Children enjoy 20 minutes of books, songs, manipulatives, and rhymes, with an emphasis on repetition for their developing minds. Story and book time is followed by a time of free play with a sensory activity. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Good Listener Storytime

10:00 AM Parkway Branch, 1924 Dauphin Island Pkwy B Mobile, AL, 36605 Join us for fun with stories, words that rhyme, games and crafts too! This storytime event is designed for ages 3 – 7. Registration is required. To register, or for more information, please email Me. Get at lafayette@mplonline.org. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Tuesday Time Out Storytime at Grand Bay

11:00 AM Grand Bay Library, 10329 Freeland Ave Grand Bay, AL, 36541 Entertaining storytime designed for preschool-aged children! Join us in the Meeting Room at the Grand Bay Library for fun stories, song and crafts. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

FamilyCalendar

Read and Sign (ASL) Storytime at West Regional Library

3:30 PM West Regional Public Library, 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us in the Meeting Room for books, songs, sign language and for ages 3 - 5! 251-340-8571 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every Wednesday

Good Listener Storytime

10:00 AM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 McGregor Ave Mobile, AL, 36608 Good Listener Storytime 251-494-4140 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Wonderful Wednesday Storytime

10:00 AM - 10:30 AM, Theodore Oaks, 5808 US-90 West E Theodore, AL, 36582 Join us for stories and songs and lots of fun! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Shake, Rattle, & Read Storytime at West Regional Library

10:00 AM West Regional Public Library, 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us in the Meeting Room every Wednesday and Thursday morning at 10:00 a.m. for this storytime program designed for infants and children up to age three. Help stimulate their early literacy skills and enjoy meeting other parents! 251-340-8571 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Preschooler Storytime

10:30 AM Saraland Public Library, 111 Saraland Loop Saraland, AL, 36571 Preschooler Storytime 251-675-2879 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Good Listener Storytime at Semmes 10:30 AM Semmes Regional Library, 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, AL, 36575 Join us for stories, songs, and dances! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Listen & Learn Storytime

11:00 AM West Regional Public Library, 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Storytime has many benefits for children such as promoting early literacy, language development, help develop concentration, social skills, communication skills, and encourages their imagination and creativity. Join us in the Storytime room at West Regional for fun stories and songs. Ideal for ages 3-5 years. 251-340-8571 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every Second Wednesday

Learning Lunch (Free)

12:00 PM History Museum of Mobile, 111 S Royal Street Mobile, AL, 36602 This series allows guests to enjoy free presentations on a wide range of historical and cultural topics. Admission to Learning Lunch is free. Bring your lunch and enjoy complimentary beverages. 251-208-7569 www.historymuseumofmobile.com

Every Thursday

Shake, Rattle, & Read Storytime at West Regional Library

10:00 AM West Regional Public Library, 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us in the Meeting Room every Wednesday and Thursday morning at 10:00 a.m. for this storytime program designed for infants and children up to age three. Help stimulate their early literacy skills and enjoy meeting other parents!

251-340-8571 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Story Time

11:00 AM The Haunted Book Shop, 9 S Joachim St Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us for a story time each Thursday at 11:30 am in our children’s section. Free event, no registration is required. (251) 348-7668 thehauntedbookshopmobile.com

Chess Club

3:00 PM - 5:30 PM, Semmes Regional Library, 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, AL, 36575 Semmes Regional Library Chess Club is designed for children and teens ages 6 - 18. Playing chess improves concentration and problem-solving skills. No experience is necessary www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Throwdown Thursday - Video and Board Games for Teens at West

3:30 PM West Regional Public Library, 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 This is a laid-back meetup to unwind playing games with other teens. We will have various board games, nintendo switch, playstation and xbox games for multiplayer matchups that include various genres - puzzle, racing, fighting, shooting, and open-world-type games. Sometimes there will also be additional activities like 3d pens and fuse beads for expressing your creative side! 251-340-8571 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every Thursday-Sunday April 17-June 15, 2025

Gulf Coast Chinese Lantern Festival

5:00 PM - 10:00 PM, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, AL, 36582 Join us for the inaugural Gulf Coast Chinese Lantern Festival as Bellingrath Gardens & Home transforms into a breathtaking display of light and artistry. As night falls, the Gardens will turn into a luminous dreamscape, where 41 towering, handcrafted light sculptures glow with vibrant colors, lighting the landscape with interactive artistry and imagination. https://bellingrath.org/event/gulf-coast-chineselantern-festival/

Every other Friday

Beginner Guitar Lessons for Kids (Free)

4:00 PM Semmes Regional Library, 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, AL, 36575 Is your child interested in learning to play the guitar? Now’s their chance! Join us in the Semmes Meeting Room for FREE lessons. Lesson books will be available. However, Please bring your own guitar. For children ages 6-11. Registration is required. To register and for more information, please call 251-494-4935. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every Second Friday

LoDA Artwalk

6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL, 36602 Celebrating the arts in downtown Mobile! Explore this free monthly showcase of visual and performing arts. www.mobilearts.org/art-walk/

Every Saturday

Chess Club for Everyone

2:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 McGregor Ave Mobile, AL, 36608 Beginners and experienced players welcome! Playing chess improves concentration and problem-solving skills. Join us at Monte L. Moorer/Spring Hill Branch for chess club designed for ages 6 and up. 251-494-4140 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every Saturday from April 26 - June 28, 2025

Spring/Summer Market in the Park

7:30 AM - 12:00 PM, Cathedral Square, 300 Conti St. Mobile, AL, 36602 This spring/summer, Market in the Park will run every Saturday from April 26 through June 28. Explore a wide variety of fresh, locally-grown produce, artisanal goods, and handcrafted items from local vendors while enjoying live entertainment in Cathedral Square. www.cityofmobile.org/events/events/springsummermarket-in-the-park-1/

Every Saturday and Sunday thru April 19

Cottontail Express at Wales West Light Railway 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Wales West RV Resort and Light Railway, 13670 Smiley Street Silverhill, AL, 36576 Guests will ride an authentic locomotive down to the “bunny hutch” to visit and take pictures with the Easter Bunny, hunt easter eggs, and complete an easter craft. Refreshments, mini train rides, hay-less hayride, playground, and bounce house are also included in your tickets! Enjoy the potato cannon for a slight fee. Food will be available for purchase at our Café (traditional fare) and our Concessions Stand (Kettle Corn and other treats). We also have a gift shop, perfect for the train enthusiast! Reservations can be made online.

251-232-2322 www.waleswest.com

First and Third Saturday from April-December 15, 2025

Jubilee Youth Service Leadership Academy (J.Y.S.L.A.), Inc. and the City of Mobile Parks & Recreation Department present the Knight Life Christian Leadership, Discipleship Development and Mentoring Program.

8:30 AM 5310 Colonial Oaks Drive, North Mobile, AL, 36618 Our program is a unique, exciting, Christcentered, male-focused, group mentoring and Bible study small group, 12-month journey designed for boys ages 12 to 18 eager to deepen their faith and develop a personal relationship with Christ. We gather twice a month on the 1st and 3rd Saturday, from April through December 15, 2025. Our first meeting will be held on April 5, 2025, from 8:30 AM to 1:00 PM. 251-591-8041 www.jysla.org

Every other Saturday

Snuggling Stories

10:30 AM Saraland Public Library, 111 Saraland Loop Saraland, AL, 36571 Join us at the Saraland Public Library to enjoy fun stories, songs, movements, and a craft.

251-675-2879 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

First Sunday of the month

Free First Sunday - History Museum of Mobile (Free) 1:00 PM History Museum of Mobile, 111 S Royal Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Free admission for all visitors sponsored by Wind Creek Hospitality every first Sunday of the month!

251-208-7569 www.historymuseumofmobile.com

Please send your calendar events to lynn@mobilebayparents.com.

Please check with each venue prior to attending the event to verify the information provided is still accurate and up to date.

Grading Family Movies: Streaming,

Rule Breakers

The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie

Night of the Zoopocalypse

A Sloth Story

Theaters

Digital Rentals, and Theatrical Releases

The first female tech entrepreneur in the history of Afghanistan, Roya is determined to help other women find the opportunities available in the world of technology. So she starts the country’s first female robotics club – and aims high, fighting protective fathers, cultural misogyny, national stereotypes, and bureaucratic roadblocks to take the girls to international competitions. This is a touching story that celebrates courage, unity, persistence, dignity, ambition, and the power of education. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone who wants an uplifting movie night.

Theaters

Desperate for cash, foster brothers Daffy Duck and Porky Pig take jobs at the local chewing gum factory, only to learn that something fishy is taking place. Something dangerously out of this world…Fans of Looney Tunes cartoons will be relieved to know that the wit, slapstick, and clever animation that made the old toons so enjoyable are back. There’s minimal negative content; principally slapstick violence which won’t stop viewers from laughing out loud at this goofy, funny film. Photo © Ketchup Entertainment

When a meteor falls on Culpepper Zoo, it’s eaten by a rabbit, which becomes a zombie that spreads its mutation across the zoo. In the chaos, a group of animals huddles in the veterinarian’s office to survive the night. This is supposed to be a zombie horror movie aimed at kids, but it’s a bit too scary, with some disturbing transformation scenes that could easily become nightmare fuel. The story comes with some genuine laughs and sweet messages about teamwork, bravery, and loyalty but parents need to seriously consider the fear factor. Photo

With her brother’s consciousness inhabiting a robot named Cosmo, Michelle embarks on a dangerous road trip to save him from a terrible fate. Set in a dystopic, tech-dominated world still rebuilding after a war waged by rebellious robots, this movie raises some big questions about technology, virtual reality, equality, and selfdetermination, but it is often derivative. Not surprisingly, there are frequent scenes of human/robot violence and some profanity, but overall the film is suitable for teen sci-fi fans who want two hours of action with a side of issues

After their family home was destroyed by a fire, the sloth family moved to the city with their food truck and a book of family recipes, hoping to make a go of it. Luckily, their daughter Laura is a fast-moving sloth, which Is an asset for the business…until her impulsiveness puts it all at risk. The animation is amateurish, the frame rate slow, and there’s an unnecessary zombie plotline, but this is an earnest, heartfelt story about family, life balance, and living in the moment. Photo ©Blue Fox Entertainment

Photo ©Angel Studios

Understanding Physical Impacts of Device Use

As we know, in today’s tech-driven world, it’s nearly impossible to escape the influence of smartphones and other devices. While we are increasingly aware of the psychological concerns associated with excessive screen time—such as anxiety, depression, and social isolation—there’s another pressing issue that often goes unnoticed: the physical effects of prolonged device usage. As children and teenagers spend more time on their gadgets, issues like phone pinky deformities, tech neck, hand and joint pain, and eye problems like myopia are becoming increasingly common. I think parents need to be informed about these physical manifestations and take proactive steps to prevent long-term damage.

describes the neck pain and discomfort that arises from consistently looking down at phones and tablets. We have all seen it, kids (and adults) sitting hunched over phones in waiting rooms, in restaurants, on living rooms couches. It is almost more common to see someone leaned over a device than it is to actually SEE someone’s eyeballs while sitting up straight, simply taking in their environment. With increased online learning and gaming, many children are adopting poor posture that can lead to chronic pain. Over time, this can contribute to spinal issues and long-term discomfort, affecting their overall quality of life.

hands a rest but also provides their eyes with a break from the screen. Or, even better, simply cut back on device time.

Eye Issues and Myopia: Perhaps one of the most alarming consequences of increased screen time is the rise in myopia or nearsightedness. Studies show that children who spend more time on screens and less time outdoors are at a higher risk of developing vision problems. The American Academy of Ophthalmology has linked excessive screen use to eye strain and worsening eyesight.

Encouraging outdoor play and reducing screen time can significantly impact children’s eye health. It’s important to promote balanced activities that include time away from devices. Regular eye check-ups can help catch any issues early. Or, even better, simply cut back on device time.

Phone Pinky Deformities: Have you noticed your child gripping their phone with a certain rigidity? The “phone pinky deformity” is a growing concern among heavy smartphone users, particularly teens. This condition arises when individuals constantly support the weight of their phone with their pinky finger, causing it to bend and potentially lead to permanent deformity over time. As parents, it’s crucial to recognize this issue and encourage better habits. Remind your children to use devices in a way that minimizes strain on their hands. For instance, using a pop socket or a phone case with a built-in grip can help alleviate pressure on the pinky and reduce the risk of developing such deformities. Or, even better, simply cut back on device time.

Tech Neck: Another common issue among young device users is “tech neck.” This term

Encouraging children to maintain good posture while using devices is important. Remind them to sit up straight, keep screens at eye level, and take regular breaks to stretch and move. Implementing ergonomic practices will not only improve their comfort but also prevent further issues down the road. Or, even better, simply cut back on device time.

Hand, Thumb, and Joint Pain: Frequent device use is also linked to hand, thumb, and joint pain. Known as “texting thumb,” this condition arises from repetitive motion and can lead to tendonitis and strain in the joints. Kids and teens often don’t realize the long-term implications of their daily habits until they start to experience pain. Unfortunately, these issues can become irreversible if not addressed early on.

To combat this, encourage your child to take regular breaks when using their devices. The 20-20-20 rule is a great way to remind them to step away—every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This not only gives their

As parents, we must not only discuss the psychological implications of excessive device use but also acknowledge the physical challenges facing our children. Many of these issues, once developed, can be irreversible. However, with proactive measures, we can mitigate the damage caused by excessive screen time. Or, for what seems to be an incredibly logical and effective approach, simply cut back on device time.

Kristi Bush serves as a national education consultant and social media safety advocate. She is a licensed social worker with greater than 15 years of clinical practice and health care experience. She attended Troy and Auburn University where she studied social work and counseling. Kristi travels nationally and has spoken with thousands of children, parents, professionals and organizations about the benefits and threats associated with social media. You may reach Kristi through her website at www.knbcommunications.com.