Issuu

ALABAMA CHILD PASSENGER SAFETY QUICK SAFETY TIPS

• RIGHT SEAT: Check the label on your car seat to make sure it’s appropriate for your child’s age, weight and height. • RIGHT PLACE: Keep all children in the back seat until they are 13. • RIGHT DIRECTION: Keep your child in a rear facing position for as long as possible! When he or she outgrows the seat, move your child to a forward-facing car seat. • INCH TEST: Once your car seat is installed, use your non-dominate hand and shake the seat at the belt path. A properly installed seat will not move more than an inch. • PINCH TEST: Make sure the harness is tightly buckled and coming from the correct slots. Now, with the chest clip placed at armpit level, pinch the strap at your child’s shoulder. If you are unable to pinch any excess webbing, you’re good to go!

DID YOU KNOW? • Motor vehicle injuries are a leading cause of death among children in the US.

ALABAMA CHILD RESTRAINTS LAW REQUIRES CHILDREN UNDER 6 TO BE PROPERLY BUCKLED IN AN APPROPRIATE CAR SEAT OR BOOSTER SEAT. CAR SEAT RECOMMENDATIONS: • Infant only seats and convertible seats used in the rear facing position for infants until at least 1 year of age or 20 pounds. • Convertible seats in the forward position or forward-facing seats until the child is at least 5 years of age or 40 pounds. • Booster seats until the child is 6 years of age. • Seat belts until 15 years of age. *American Academy of Pediatrics recommends children remain in a rear-facing car safety seat as long as possible, until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by their seat.

FREE CAR SEAT CHECK Still have questions or concerns? For help (or to even double check your work), contact:

• Car seat use reduces the risk for injury in a crash by 71-82% for children, when compared with seat belt use alone.

Michelle Richardson (Perry, Walker, Lamar counties): (205) 554-4529

• An estimated 46% of car seats and booster seats are misused in a way that could reduce their effectiveness.

Anna Odom (Washington, Clarke, Baldwin counties): (251) 946-8012

Penny Roney (Madison, Marshall, Morgan counties): (256) 533-8712 Sharon Franklin (Macon, Elmore, Bullock counties): (334) 322-8431 Elizabeth Payne (St. Clair, Etowah, Calhoun counties): (256) 533-8712 1

www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

Let us help you spring into your new home Call us today for your next home purchase or refinance! Montgomery Branch 334.513.8113

Prattville Branch 334.380.4315

Jimmy Parsons

Shelley Faulkner Sales Manager NMLS #470443

Branch Manager NMLS #415554

Ansley Apperson

Kylee Hogan

Originating Loan Officer Assistant NMLS #1553675

Loan Officer NMLS #1710918

Christy Cronier

Illiana Byrd

Loan Officer NMLS #1071506

Originating Loan Officer Assistant NMLS #1743232

Rusty Russell

Loan Officer NMLS #459590 Guild Mortgage Company, Montgomery Branch 6719 Taylor Circle | Montgomery, AL 36117, Prattville Branch 705 McQueen Smith Road South Prattville, AL 36066. Guild Mortgage Company is an Equal Housing Lender; NMLS #3274 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org/). Montgomery Branch NMLS #1566723. Prattville Branch NMLS #1570020. Photo by sheri silver on Unsplash.

River Region Parents I July 2020

www.riverregionparents.com

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

Montg Parents FP.qxp_Layout 1 3/4/20 7:44 PM Page 1

N E W PA R K

A NEW HOME COMMUNITY F E AT U R I N G

H St

Lo ha

New Homes Starting in the Mid $200s 334.215.9215 | newparkliving.com

Between Ray Thorington Road and Taylor Road

SALES OFFICE LOCATED AT 1361 BARRET PARK WAY River Region Parents I July 2020

www.riverregionparents.com

July2020 44

Volume 25 Number 7

Columns

8 Therapeutic Parenting Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP

14 Montgomery Education Matters

Help Them Conquer Stress

Raising emotionally intelligent kids.

by Dr. Ann Roy Moore, Interim Superintendent

Road Trippinâ€™

20 ideas and activities to keep children busy and content.

58 72

32 Pike Road Education Matters by Superintendent Charles Ledbetter, Ed.D.

38 Elmore Education Matters by Superintendent Richard Dennis

48 Parenting, Media & Everything in Between Common Sense Media

Summer Activities

Local day camps and activities have geared up for summer fun!

Homeschool Guide

Curriculum, cover schools and other info you need to get started.

On The Cover Caleb Craft (front cover) is eight years old and has been doing gymnastics for four years (two at Prattville YMCA). This past season he was the Level 4 State champ on floor, p-bar, and rings. His favorite event is floor. Calebâ€™s parents are John and Beth Craft. The Prattville YMCA boys gymnastics team members to the left are: Back row, left to right: Treyton Thompson, Aidan Cheshire, Hunter Porath. Front row, left to right: Christian Wilcox, Caleb Craft

63 Get This! Gerry Paige Smith

Departments 12 Teacher of the Month 16 School Bits 64 Mom to Mom

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

Editor’sNote After the last several months, I think we are all ready for some summer fun! While we normally publish our Birthday Issue in July, we know many of you are wondering what’s open for your kids to attend this summer. They need the activity after being cooped up since March, and you need a break, right? So we are bringing you our Summer Fun Guide. It’s true that some local camps and activities have cancelled operations, but many are open and ready for your children to come and have some fun! Turn to page 52 to see the variety available in our area and call or visit the websites listed to register. For our family, nothing says “summer” like a road trip! We started this tradition about five years ago and have been to Northern California, New England, Michigan, Southern California and are heading back to the Great Lakes of Michigan this summer to do some “glamping”! Each year, I’ve made it my goal to provide Grace, our youngest, with things to do in the car besides constant screen time. Before we leave, I go to Dollar Tree and TJ Maxx to buy discounted activities like puzzle books, jewelry making kits, fake nails, etc. and hide them in a backpack. Two or three times a day, on long driving days, I reach in and hand something back to her. Grace is always excited for her new gift. Now, every year, she looks forward to her “backpack of fun” and it has made long trips much more pleasant. In this month’s issue, Jan Pierce shares her article, Road Trip? 20 Ways to Keep the Kids Entertained. I plan to use several of her ideas for this summer’s drive and hope you will too! It’s hard to believe that some version of school will be starting in another month or so. The end of the 2019-20 school year was one for the books...to say the least! While many parents struggled to homeschool their kids and didn’t particularly enjoy it (#homeschoolingisnotforme), others of you realized you were up to the challenge and may now be considering homeschooling going forward. With that in mind, we wanted to provide you with resources and tips for getting started...if that’s your plan or if you are on the fence and need a little more information to decide. Our Homeschool Guide is on page 58 and shares local cover schools, curriculum, support and more! With the craziness and unpredictability of the last few months, it’s been our goal to provide pertinent articles and resources for all of you. We hope this month will be no exception. Lastly, please support our advertisers whenever possible. Our local businesses need us now more than ever. Wishing you and your family a safe and healthy July!

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

Founder Marty Watson (1950-2006) Editor DeAnne Watson editor@riverregionparents.com

Associate Editor Alison Rouse Research Editor Wendy McCollum Contributing Writers Katie Blair Richard Dennis Dr. Charles Ledbetter Cheryl Maguire Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP Dr. Ann Roy Moore Jan Pierce, M.Ed. Sandi Schwartz Gerry Paige Smith

Cover Photography Judy Barranco www.judybarrancophotography.com

Publisher Jason Watson jason@riverregionparents.com

Advertising Accounts Manager Savannah Bowden (334) 213-7940 ext. 704 adservices@keepsharing.com Digital Manager Scott Davis Advertising Opportunities (334) 213-7940 ext. 703 ads@riverregionparents.com

Ad Design Tim Welch

DeAnne

Member

editor@riverregionparents.com

River Region Parents I July 2020

River Region Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing LLC, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, Alabama, 36123. River Region Parents is copyrighted 2020 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. opinions expressed in River Region Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

www.riverregionparents.com

rinciple d signifigazine is process.

g LLC, nts is ction in ssed in necesement

Visit www.classicalconversations.com to find an information meeting near you!

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

TherapeuticParenting by Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP

Your Kids Are Always Watching This month we are introducing a guest columnist, Justin Martin – the 18yo son of Sonia Martin. Justin is a freshman at Auburn University and will be seeking a degree in social work before moving on to law school. He has apparently learned a thing or two by listening to his mother…

Everyone has had the moment wherein all day you have been looking forward to something, and it gets swiped away from you right underneath your nose. It could be anything from an event you were attending that got spoiled by a babysitter who flaked, someone eating the last bit of dinner you were hoping to have for leftovers, or even something as trivial as a favorite spot on the couch at the end of the night. For me, it was late at night, and I had just gotten back from working a long shift in 90-degree heat at my local Chick-Fil-A. Nothing sounded better than unwinding with a cold bowl of my favorite chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream. I told each and every one of my brothers to save some for when I get home, so I was feeling pretty good when I opened the door to the freezer. But then, disaster. As I began to search, I discovered that there was no ice cream, and slowly, a creeping feeling of dread and despair fell upon me. OK - maybe not the dramatic, hopeless, despair I’m describing - but you get the idea.

River Region Parents I July 2020

Imagine this had happened to you instead. Let’s take the leftovers example: You get home from a long day at work and they are gone – so you get back in your car, drive to town and are about to dig into your favorite fast food spot, only to discover that the restaurant has forgotten your order. How do you go from there? Do you berate the restaurant for forgetting the order? Do you get upset and take it out on others? Do you just go back out again and re-order? Instead of immediately lashing out and getting upset at the situation, consider the impact this could have on your child who is certainly watching (whether you know it or not). The way you react to a bad circumstance has a direct effect on your child’s future. Your reactions, as a parent, are instrumental in determining and shaping your child’s future reaction to these sorts of scenarios. Whether it be how you talk to strangers at the supermarket, the way you treat your family members, or even your own table manners, it is important to understand that the way you carry yourself is key in how your child develops in the future. You simply have to realize the lasting impact of the decisions you make and how you engage with and react to those around you – whether good or bad. The important

standards you teach your children like saying thank you, shaking hands (well, I guess not right now), looking others in the eye, and treating others with respect under any circumstances are something you want them to carry with them for the rest of their lives. Though certainly children and young adults have autonomy and can, and sometimes do, choose to go a different route – that doesn’t negate the impact you have. If you choose to side with rage and get upset over everyday stressors, chances are your son or daughter will act the same way in the future. Choosing a peaceful response, one that demonstrates key values like patience, respect, and kindness are important to ensuring that your child can look up to you as someone they want to be like when they grow up. And, for the love, please do not eat the last of the ice cream... it just isn’t fair. Sonia is a licensed social worker and holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work. Her clinical focus is on helping parents and professionals understand the role of the brain in behavior and how to adopt therapeutic parenting techniques to mitigate negative behaviors. She is the Director of Central Alabama for Lifeline Children’s Services and is a mother to 7 sons, 3 of which were internationally adopted and she is a foster parent.

www.riverregionparents.com

Baptist Health On Call Care connects people with the care they need, wherever they are. Using sophisticated and secure technology, care professionals and specialists can consult, diagnose and treat patients through a phone, tablet or computer. Whether you’re looking to schedule an appointment or limiting public interaction during the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth appointments let you see a Baptist Health or local UAB Medicine provider from the comfort of your own home.

s o,

to y er

r’s n he

tor

and

T E L E H E A LT H S E RV I C E S  Breast Health  Convenient Care  Endocrinology  Family Medicine  Gastroenterology  Neurology  Neurosurgery  Primary Care/General Medicine  Rheumatology

y t i l a u Q , e r a c h Healt ly l a u t r i V . e r e h Anyw

 Urology Need to schedule an appointment? Contact your healthcare provider to find out if Baptist Health On Call Care is right for you!

Call (334) 747-4010 to get started!

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

Montgomery Zoo’s Animal Enrichment Day HELD VIRTUALLY

10 a.m.-2 p.m. * July 18 Tour the Montgomery Zoo during our enrichment event and observe how animals respond to an assortment of new creative and behavior-stimulating enrichment. This Animal Enrichment Day will be a little different because we will tour the Zoo VIRTUALLY. More than 15 species will take part in the semi-annual event, including the tigers, elephants, chimpanzees, and jaguars. Presented in the form of special toys, unique scents, puzzles, boxed goodies or food treats, the enrichment items provide Zoo animals with both mental and physical exercise. To see this event, please tune into our Facebook page and YouTube Channel, at facebook.com/ montgomeryzooandmannmuseum or https://www.youtube.com/channel/ UCPLE4m2av53-QM16jLWK-4Q?view_ as=subscriber. For more info, call (334) 625-4900 or e-mail zooinfo@ montgomeryal.gov.

Wetumpka Depot Offers Summer Theatre Camp

River Region Parents I July 2020

August 1, 10 a.m. 3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook. Take a look at some of the cool things that can only be found in the creek! This is a chance to cool off and maybe even find some animals that call the creek home! Bringing a change of clothes is suggested, shoes or sandals (chacos or tevas) are required, no flip flops. General admission applies! For more info, visit www. alabamawildlife.org/ or call (334) 285-4550.

Help State Archives Document Alabama During CoVid-19

Juy 20-31 * 9-10 a.m. for group sessions with individual rehearsals scheduled for each student.

The Depot is looking for 20 young artists (ages 8-16) to participate in Super Happy Awesome News!, a musical written by Denver Casado, with book by Jessica Penzias and directed by Kristy Meanor. All that is needed is an internet connection to zoom into rehearsals. The final program will be recorded. In Super Happy Awesome News, two siblings launch rival good news networks and find themselves competing for the title of happiest news show. Soon, their correspondents are in a whirlwind of ecstatic musical reporting – from joyful weather forecasts, to cheerful cooking segments and blissful political updates! But, when vulnerability starts peeking through the euphoric facade, they’re left wondering: is there room for raw honesty on a super happy broadcast? This new virtual musical (designed specifically to be rehearsed and performed remotely), incorporates real stories from kids and offers a positive outlet for them to express their emotions. Enrollment fee is $75. Please contact kmeanor@wetumpkadepot.com for enrollment details.

Still Creek Trek at Alabama Nature Center

Area Farmers’ Markets

Millbrook Tuesdays through Aug. 11 from 8 a.m.noon. on the Village Green at the corner of Main Street and Grandview Road. For more info, call (334) 285-0330. Prattville Saturdays through Aug. 29 from 7 a.m.noon on Doster Road in the Grove across from Pratt Park. Follow us on Facebook. For more info, call (334) 595-0850 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov. EastChase Saturdays from 7 a.m.-noon. Visit www. theshoppesateastchase.com/ for details.

The CoVid-19 pandemic has affected the lives of every Alabamian. From public health to the economy, it has transformed everyday life in our state. The Archives is seeking to document this unprecedented time in our history by acquiring a variety of materials that tell the story of Alabamians’ experiences. We are asking the public to contribute materials including photographs, audio recordings, video, journals, blogs, social media posts, three-dimensional items and more. Materials may be donated in digital or print formats. Examples include (but are not limited to): photographs documenting the activities of families while practicing social distancing; journals and diaries written by adults or children; artwork or special projects completed in quarantine; materials documenting the experiences of healthcare workers and CoVid-19 patients; and materials reflecting the economic effects of the pandemic on businesses and communities, such as protest signs, correspondence to public officials, or guidance for safe business operations upon reopening. If you are interested in donating materials, please visit www.archives.alabama. gov, or contact ADAH Registrar Haley Aaron at (334) 353-4726 or haley.aaron@ archives.alabama.gov. www.riverregionparents.com

im m

c 6

o s C 6

C a

e a

d d

f ’

AUM Offers ACT Prep Classes Online

AUM’s ACT Test Preparation classes help students prepare for the exam and helps improve test scores. Even if your ACT score is high enough for college admission, a few more points may put you in the running for more scholarship dollars. Our ACT Test Prep classes can make a difference in your choice of college and the cost of your education. To ensure the safety of our students during this time, we have moved all of our summer ACT Review classes online. We are using the ZOOM web application to host our classes. Below is the schedule of classes that are still open for registration. All of these sessions meet online, Mondays through Thursdays from 6-8 p.m. We will contact students for book pick-up times before each session. ACT Science Review: July 6-9; and ACT Language Review: July 13-16. Contact Brittany Thomasson at (334) 244-3804 or bthomass@aum.edu. Visit http:// outreach.aum.edu/act-review-courses.

Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday

Alabama’s 15th annual sales tax holiday for school-related items begins at 12:01 a.m. Friday, July 17, and ends at midnight Sunday, July 19, giving shoppers the opportunity to purchase certain school supplies, computers, books and clothing free of the state’s 4% sales or use tax.

Free Concert Series Begins in Millbrook

This is the second year of “Tunes on the Green,” a free summer concert series in Millbrook’s Village Green Park. Concerts will be held July 2 and 16 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Events may include food vendors. Coolers are welcome, but no alcohol is allowed. Bring blankets and lawn chairs. Local bands will perform for the event. Performers include Kay & Tommy, and Trey Gothard. For more info, call (334) 290-2047.

Annual AWF Youth Fishing Rodeo

August 8 beginning at 7 a.m. Join us at the Alabama Nature Center in Millbrook for our annual youth fishing rodeo! Bring the kids, a few fishing poles, and a cooler and join us early down at the catfish pond. Children 15 and under can catch and take home up to five catfish each (catfish only), but can catch and release all they want! Each child will receive a free T-shirt and a chance to win a door prize. Make sure to call ahead (334-2854550) and put your name on the list, as space fills up quickly. Admission is free; snacks and drinks will also be available. For more info, visit https://www.alabamawildlife.org/youth-fishing-rodeo/.

al ls

. e-

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

Jana Timmons MacMillan International Baccalaureate

It is that desire for perfection that motivates Timmons in the classroom, where she teaches music and piano and is the founder of the MIB Chorus that performs frequently in the local community. “Music is not a ‘job’ for me, it’s what I was created to do. It is a joy to give back all the experiences, skills and life lessons I was so blessed to be able to encounter and learn. When you are blessed with gifts and talents, it’s no good to keep them to yourself, but to use what God has given you to build up, encourage and help nurture the gift of others.” That enthusiasm for teaching spills over to her students and motivates them to learn. “Students know when you love what you do and they show it through their excitement and understanding of what was taught to them. Simply put, students feed off the energy you display!” Timmons says her favorite teaching moment comes from her love for teaching. “I just love teaching music, period! Pulling out of students musically what they didn’t believe they had inspires me to constantly keep doing what I do!”

One could say that Jana Timmons has music flowing through her veins. The MacMillan International Baccalaureate Music Specialist comes from a long line of musicians and credits her mother for her love of music, as well as her passion for teaching music to children. “I come from a musical family and the gift of teaching and music was simply God given. I absolutely love teaching music and know that this was a calling on my life,” says Timmons, who has been teaching students for 14 years, with the last 13 years in Montgomery. Timmons holds a Bachelor’s of Arts degree in Music with a concentration in Piano from Morgan State University in Baltimore, Maryland and a Master’s in Music Education from Alabama State University. While pursuing her degrees she traveled extensively performing music. In addition to her world travels, Timmons has also appeared on television and on stage with some well-known names. “I was blessed to share the stage with gospel superstars such as Yolanda Adams, Shirley Ceaser and Donnie McClurkin along with musical icons Stevie Wonder and Sheila E. to name a few. I also had the privilege of lending my voice on a few recordings. These experiences shaped my desire to strive for perfection in all my musical endeavors that I serve on to this day.”

River Region Parents I July 2020

Jana Timmons serves as the Music Specialist at MacMillan International Baccalaureate in Montgomery, Alabama. Ms. Timmons also serves as the Minister of Music at Maggie Street Baptist Church and teaches piano lessons to area students.

www.riverregionparents.com

Youâ€™re Doing A Great Job, Parents.

MyGuardianCU.com

334.244.9999 13

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents Federally insured by NCUA.

Dear MPS Graduate: Congratulations on your recent graduation! The entire Montgomery Public Schools family is incredibly proud of you. This unprecedented year has proven to us that life is unpredictable and that we must all learn to adjust our plans when unexpected circumstances arise. The threat of COVID-19 meant that we were not able to have traditional graduation ceremonies this year, which we all would have preferred. As it was, I was proud to be able to celebrate your wonderful milestone with you in an altered format. As a superintendent, graduation ceremonies are among the many moments I look forward to celebrating with my students. As you start your next journey in life, I hope you enjoy every moment and remember the lessons you learned while attending our schools.

River Region Parents I July 2020

This accomplishment means you’re one step closer to your future goals. To parents, you have done a fantastic job, and I hope you take this moment to reflect on time spent with your graduates through the years. As you prepare for life after graduation, remember the importance of setting goals for yourself. You are about to write a new chapter in your life, and you will encounter some unfamiliar experiences. If you are on your way to college, your parents will not be there to remind you of the little things you tend to forget. If you are heading straight into the workforce, your new boss will expect you to complete all of your tasks thoroughly and on time. Although all of this will be new to you, you are well prepared. Remember to write down your short-term and long-term goals to help you stay on track. Goal-setting is a fantastic habit to form as you work towards your new career, whether that’s college or the workforce. Still, setting goals is just part of what you need to succeed. Hard work will take you the rest of the way. As I like to remind my staff, putting in the work will put you in

the position to fulfill your goals. You’ve put in countless hours of hard work for the past four years of your high school career. This amount of effort alone is preparation for your future’s next steps. Be diligent in setting proper expectations for yourself when planning your goals. Please aim for the sky, but keep in mind the steps it takes to reach the sky’s limits. Finally, I want you to stay encouraged. Life is not easy and there are several hard life lessons to learn. Remember that no one is perfect, learn from your mistakes, and give yourself time to grow. Be patient with life’s lessons, explore new ideas, and never give up. You are destined to do many great things. And as you grow through life, do not forget to thank your teachers and parents when you achieve your goals. For more than four decades, Dr. Moore has educated the children of Alabama. From her first post as a pre-school teacher, to her administrative work as a principal, central office curriculum specialist, superintendent, and her mentoring the next generation of teachers as an adjunct professor at colleges and universities, teaching is her passion.

www.riverregionparents.com

ng nt e

r t ot

the ol

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

Montgomery County Schools

TEA Academy Holds Graduation

Montgomery Catholic Key Club Members Give Back to the Community

One of the mottos of Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School is “Faith. Excellence. Service. This is Catholic.” The Key Club, a community service club at the Montgomery Catholic High School Campus, takes this commitment very seriously and dedicates countless hours to helping local organizations and events. Before the transition to distance learning in the spring, the Key Club volunteered more than 1,000 hours of community service by helping at the Camp Chandler Halloween Carnival; the Alabama National Fair; fundraisers for Spina Bifida, Alzheimer’s Research, Arthritis Foundation and Life on Wheels; VEX Robotics Competitions; school concession stands; Montgomery Zoo Boo; Montgomery Area Council on Aging; Christmas Clearinghouse; and the Rooftop Friends Joy of Giving Respite Event. While all members of the Key Club work hard and are dedicated to community service, several students went above and beyond the call of duty and served for 50 or more hours this year. These students are Matthew Barranco, Mary Carley, Maria Cervantes, David Dean, Daniel Gacha, Emma Garrison, Angeles Gonzalez-Ansaldi, Ines GonzalezAnsaldi, Alex Hines, Cecilia Hoffpauir, Sofia Izer, Savannah Johnson, Myles Jordan, Katie Perkins, Darian Riley, Kinley Tadlock, Ja’Michael Washington and Clare Wilson.

TEA Academy’s graduating senior Ty’Sean Davis Thomas was a part of the TEA Academy family for six years, excelling in academics, the Student Intervention Program and the choir. Thomas is a positive example of what hard work, determination and dedication are all about, which resulted in him becoming the valedictorian. As Thomas delivered his speech, he asked his classmates to not forget to pray and seek God; and know they can do anything they put their minds to. He recited one of his favorite biblical verses from Deuteronomy 31:6, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”

The Rock School Graduates Class of 2020

Most students experience challenges, but few like the Class of 2020. The Rock School faculty and staff are proud of their graduates as they’ve accomplished much and contributed greatly to our school’s success. Valedictorian and SGA President Zach Williams will be attendIng the University of Alabama in Huntsville. He is the recipient of the Charger Scholar Award and will major in computer engineering. SGA Secretary, volleyball captain and Lady Warrior Award recipient Kayla Reuben will attend Trenholm State Community College, majoring in computer information systems. SGA Treasurer and sound engineer Jared Brooks will attend Trenholm State Community College, majoring in automotive manufacturing. The Rock School is a private, Christian, K-12 school, providing college preparation curriculum, with low teacher-to-student ratios, in a safe environment. Our alumni have been accepted to more than 50 colleges and universities nationwide. Find us on Facebook or visit www.rockwarriors.org.

River Region Parents I July 2020

MacMillan Honors Kindergarten Graduates

MacMillan International Academy celebrated its kindergarten graduates with a socially distanced promotional parade. Parents decorated cars and loved ones watched and cheered in the parking lot as students drove by and music played. Principal Faith Goshay, shown, used a loudspeaker to announce students’ names as they drove by. Students received their promotional certificates as well as trophies, picture magnets and souvenir cups handed to them through the window of their car.

www.riverregionparents.com

Congratulations, Graduates! We congratulate the Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School Class of 2020! Our 145th graduating class includes 80 members who earned $6.4 million in scholarship offers from 23 colleges and universities. The top 20 percent of the class achieved an ACT composite score average of 31 and an average GPA of 4.28. Meet the Class of 2020: A National Merit Scholarship Winner · An AP Scholar with Distinction · An AP Scholar with Honor · 30 members of National Honor Society · 7 collegiate athletes · A future member of the Armed Forces and a future Firefighter · A member of the Great American Marching Band · A State Champion Wrestler · Members of the VEX Robotics World Championship Team · 3 Football Players of the Year · Volleyball Player of the Year · Male Basketball Player of the Year · Wrestler of the Year · Members of the All-District and All-State Honor Bands We are so proud of our graduates who exemplify what it means to be built by Catholic.

, d

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School

Grades K4-12 www.montgomerycatholic.org 17

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

Photo: Jake Crandall / Montgomery Advertiser

Montgomery County Schools

Local Teen Competes in National Scholarship Competition - Digitally! Dominique Verville, a 2020 graduate of LAMP High School (Loveless Academic Magnet Program), competed in the 63rd Distinguished Young Women National Finals! Verville is the Distinguished Young Woman of Alabama for 2020 and joined 49 other state representatives as they showcased their intelligence and talent in a three-night free broadcast on DistinguishedYW.org. The national program typically takes place in Mobile, Ala., but was moved online due to COVID-19 safety protocol.

Verville began the competition through a series of video submissions and video conference calls. The program’s evaluation process includes scholastics, interview, fitness, talent and public speaking. This year, participants submitted videos for the talent and fitness categories. Verville participated in public speaking via recorded video conference call. She also completed an individual interview with a panel of five judges over video conference and her scholastic performance has been scored through an evaluation of her high school academic record and standardized test scores. The program was broadcast for free June 25, 26 and 27 on DistinguishedYW. org in place of the in-person showcases. The video submissions were compiled, and the three-night event was hosted by Distinguished Young Woman of America for 2019 Dora Guo. Each night scholarships were awarded and on Saturday, June 27, eight finalists were selected

from the group of 50 young women. One of the eight was selected to represent the program as the Distinguished Young Woman of America for 2020. In total, $125,000 in college scholarships was awarded to the Class of 2020. “These young women are intelligent, ambitious and ready to take their place as leaders in their communities,” said Kendra Haskins, executive director of Distinguished Young Women. “We are excited to highlight Distinguished Young Women by highlighting these participants and celebrating the thousands of others who have been impacted by this incredible program throughout the year.” For her talent presentation, Verville performed ballet en pointe to the piece “3rd Odalisque” by Adolphe Adam. Verville is the daughter of Alannah and Jaques Verville. She plans to attend Auburn University and major in pediatric physical therapy. At press time, the event had not yet aired.

S R 1-

E E Y

e e t t O e c c a p

b f f t Z o t River Region Parents I July 2020

www.riverregionparents.com

STJ Congrats Roundtree Saint James soccer player Micah Roundtree has been named to the 2020 1-3A Boys All State 2nd Team!

ECAâ€™s K4 Class Enjoys Virtual End of Year Countdown

Each year Evangel Christian Academyâ€™s four-year-old kindergarten class ends with an alphabet countdown. Even though COVID19 forced schools to move to online instruction, K4 teacher Libby Oswald decided to continue the annual event. Students were given a list of special activites for each day. They were encouraged to take pictures of themselves as they celebrated each day and post the pictures to the class website. Some of the days included blowing bubbles for the letter Bb, making cookies for the letter Cc, and making lemonade for the letter Ll. For the last five weeks, the students worked their way from A to Z. The children enjoyed seeing pictures of their classmates and felt connected through the virtual activity. 19

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

Montgomery County Schools

Montgomery Catholic Campuses Hold Completion Ceremonies The Middle School, Holy Spirit, and St. Bede Campuses had a very unusual end to their school years due to facilities being closed to prevent the spread of Co-

vid-19. While the students never returned to their classrooms, teaching continued through distance learning. The 8th-grade and 6th-grade students are usually celebrated during the last week of school with

completion Masses at the Holy Spirit and St. Bede Parishes. Fortunately, due to relaxed restrictions on public gatherings, the students were allowed to receive a sendoff that they had worked hard to earn. While many students and families were in attendance, others chose to stay at home as a safety precaution. A limited number of seats were available, and attendees were seated with responsible distances in between them. All students were formally recognized, and several scholarships were awarded. In the 8th grade, the Padre Pio Scholarship was awarded to Isabella Shin and Lily Coulombe. The Helen Faircloth & Charles “C.J.” Gross Endowed Scholarship and Coach Ralph Furlong Scholarship went to John Scott Jackson. The Tim Turner Memorial Award went to Mally Barranco and Ryan

Parker. The Ben & Alice Tokarz Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Ella Castanza and Ryan Parker. In the 6th grade, the Knights of Columbus Council 12150 Scholarship was awarded to Evan Parker at the Holy Spirit Campus. At the St. Bede Campus, the Ben and Alice Tokarz Memorial Scholarship was given to Anna Marie Hill and Aidan Fleet. Sixth-grader Benjamin Castanza and 4thgrader Michael Castanza were awarded the Anna and Harold Paige Scholarship. One added measure to ensure the completion Masses included everyone, even those not in attendance, was the addition of a live stream of the events through Facebook Live. The Holy Spirit and St. Bede Parishes had already incorporated this technology into their daily Masses, and the live streams allowed the students who stayed at home to participate in their completion ceremonies. Additionally, this enabled families to share the festivities with relatives who would not have been able to attend even in normal times.

R C

A ki a b “S

A A S

a b S

o U M D D a U a to U to e m w re o

d e p sh to tio

ily G River Region Parents I July 2020

www.riverregionparents.com

Resurrection Artists Chosen by WSFA

Artwork from Resurrection Catholic School kindergarten student Timaya Robinson, above, and fourth-grader Lily Molake, below, was recently selected for WSFA’s “Sketch the Sky” contest.

GOD HAS A PLAN AND A PURPOSE FOR ME

Evangel Christian Academy

Encouraging each child to achieve their God-given potential

ACA Welcomes New Associate Head of School

Josh Roberts, dean of student affairs at Auburn University at Montgomery, has been named the new Associate Head of School at Alabama Christian Academy. Roberts formerly served as the Dean of Students, Diversity & Inclusion at Auburn University Montgomery, the Dean of Student Development at Lipscomb University, and as an administrator at Faulkner University. Prior to his career in education administration, he was an attorney focusing on education law, representing dozens of schools and boards of education in litigation and mediation. Roberts’s passion is for equipping students to discover their created purpose and embracing their place in God’s story. He is passionate about building strategic partnerships and operations that enable educators to thrive and the ministry of Christian education to soar. He will join the Alabama Christian Family with his wife, Cristen, and five children: Graydon, Ensley, Blythe, Lawson and Webb.

AISA Blue Ribbon School “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord... Jeremiah 29:11

3975 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36106 ecalions.org 334-272-3882

Accredited: ACTS, AISA, SACS, Advanced ED, NCPSA

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

E Montgomery County Schools

m w T s r p s

Resurrection Catholic Holds End of the Year Transitional Parade

Resurrection Catholic School’s pre-kindergarten and kindergarten classes celebrated their year-end accomplishments with an “End of the Year Transitional Parade.” Father Manuel, along with the faculty, staff and family members waved and applauded as the students arrived in cars that were decorated in their honor. “Pomp and Circumstance” played as they drove by with each child’s name being announced. At the end of the parade, students received their diplomas and gifts from Dr. Johnson, Mrs. Waddles and Ms. Gray (pre-K) and Mrs. Berry (kindergarten) teachers.

s s f s d

ACA Featured on Katie’s Krops

The Alabama Christian Academy elementary garden was recently featured on Katie’s Krops web site. Katie’s Krops provides ACA with a grant each year and, in return, we use those funds to purchase seeds, plants and tools to teach students how to care for and grow their own food. ACA students look forward to working in their garden every year.

River Region Parents I July 2020

www.riverregionparents.com

Eastwood Congratulates Class of 2020 The evening of Friday, May 15, marked the commencement of the Eastwood Christian School Class of 2020. The outdoor ceremony took place under strings of lights as excited graduates received their diplomas and delighted parents and grandparents looked on: some in lawn chairs, others in cars. It is an Eastwood tradition for every senior to deliver a speech in their final semester to faculty, family, students and friends. Three of those students are chosen by the faculty to give their speeches during the commencement ceremony,

and this year the student speakers were Charles Schaupp, Daphne Swavely and Elizabeth Cowden. Dawn Geiger charged the graduates with words of encouragement for these “unprecedented times,” and teacher Greg Teal, along with seniors Will Reed and Elle Foxx, performed the musical prelude and led the singing of the hymn, “Be Thou My Vision.” Although the Class of 2020 experienced some changes in their graduation plans, the week proved to be unique and celebratory. The night before graduation, the seniors participated in a boisterous

parade in which they rode through the parking lot lined with decorated cars and exuberant friends and family. Talented caterer Jenny Weller prepared a boxed dinner for each of the graduates and their families to enjoy at home, after which they met in a live Google Meeting so parents could share a blessing for their students. The Class of 2020, though not great in number, were accepted to 22 colleges and universities, including Auburn University, AUM, Belmont University, Clemson University, Florida State University, Liberty University, Middlebury College, Moody Bible Institute, Mississippi College, New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts, Northwestern Oklahoma State University, Ohio State University, Point Park University, Purdue University, Samford University, Troy University, University of Alabama, University of Hartford, University of North Alabama, University of Texas at Arlington, University of Texas, Tyler, and Western Carolina University. “You can come back, and we will welcome you with open arms,” said Geiger in her charge. “But, you’ll be coming back for a visit . . . as alumni . . . and that is as it should be. You’ve got a race to run and soon you’ll hear that little word, ‘Go,’ and you’ll commence. Forever.”

Passion for Women’s Health Established in 1991, OB-GYN Associates of Montgomery provides comprehensive obstetrics and gynecologic services. The practice also offers gynecological surgical services and the most innovative up-to-date Robotic Davinci Surgeries. The OB-GYN team of physicians, midwives, and nurse practitioners strive to provide excellence in women’s healthcare and are welcoming new patients.

S E RV I C E S O F F E R E D :

Gynecology • Obstetrics • Nurse Midwifery

Urodynamics

Routine Mammograms

4D Ultrasounds

Bone Density • Weight Loss

PTNS (Percutaneous Posterior Nerve Stimulation) A low risk, non-surgical treatment for overactive bladder and similar symptoms.

Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation A treatment of bladder, bowel, and pelvic pain disorders.

(New) Mona Lisa Touch Laser A novel laser therapy for vaginal health that can be “life changing”

We Have Five Locations to Serve You

Montgomery (334) 279-9333 • 495 Taylor Rd. Troy (334) 770-4801 • 1320 Highway 231 South, Suite 2 Prattville (334) 365-6088 • 630 McQueen Smith Road Wetumpka (334) 279-9333 • 525 Hospital Drive, Suite B Midwife Office (334) 395-6969 • 7020 Sydney Curve, Montgomery

W W W. O B G Y N M O N T G O M E R Y. C O M 23

Gregory Waller M.D. Allen Dupre M.D. Keith Martin M.D., Joseph Desautels M.D. Matthew Phillips M.D. Benjamin Griggs M.D. Paula Sullivan D.O. Dana Moorer CNM Vicki Brooks CNM Charla Smith CNM Hayley Carnes CNM Della Fuller CRNP Brittney Mount CRNP Tracey Mendelsohn CRNP Michelle Aplin CRNP Terri Singletary CRNP Fran Rutledge CRNP www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

Montgomery Montgomery County Schools

Montgomery Catholic Students Accepted to Summer Leadership Programs Several Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School students were selected to attend prestigious summer leadership conferences around the state and around the country. Due to social distancing guidelines in response to Covid-19, many summer programs were postponed, moved to a virtual venue, or canceled. Nevertheless, we are proud to recognize the outstanding students who were chosen to represent Montgomery Catholic. Upcoming juniors Catherine Aaron, Cecelia Crawford, Will Noell and Patrick Ryan were selected as ambassadors for HOBY (Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership) at Troy University. HOBY is the nation’s foremost Youth Leadership Seminar that more than 10,000 deserving high school students from across the country attend each year. Their mission is to inspire and develop the global community of youth and volunteers to a life dedicated to leadership, service and innovation. Senior John Niemi was selected to attend the American Legion Alabama Boys State convention and senior Ellie Pool was selected to attend the American Legion Auxiliary Alabama Girls State convention at The University of Alabama,

Tuscaloosa. Alabama Boys State and Girls State are leadership and government training programs and are among the highest honors granted to high school senior boys and girls. Students from around the state are chosen based on their demonstration of leadership, hard work, strong morals and motivation in school and community activities. These programs enable students to try their hands at politics and community service. Senior Mary Carley was selected for the 33rd Alabama Governor’s School at Samford University. This annual conference brings together around 90 gifted Alabama high school seniors to learn about various professions and majors and provides a variety of academic, creative and leadership experiences to attendees. Senior Ines Gonzalez-Ansaldi was selected to represent Montgomery Catholic at the Congress of Future Medical Leaders in Lowell, Mass. The Congress is an honors-only program for high school students who want to become physicians or go into medical research fields. The purpose of this event is to honor, inspire, motivate and direct the top students in the country interested in these careers, to stay

true to their dream and, after the event, to provide a path, plan and resources to help them reach their goal. Class of 2020 graduate Theo Hornsby, below, was selected to attend the Boston University Tanglewood Institute for music. Run by the BU College of Fine Arts and affiliated with the Boston Symphony Orchestra and Tanglewood Music Center, this prestigious program features world-class instructors for workshops and one-on-one instruction that enrich and inspire talented young musicians from around the country.

A E

A 2 t A n t

k s E

d p s d

s a r a

Catherine Aaron

Cecilia Crawford

Will Noell

Patrick Ryan

John Niemi

Ellie Pool

Mary Carley

Ines Gonzalez-Ansaldi

River Region Parents I July 2020

www.riverregionparents.com

TEA Academy Celebrates Graduation

ACA Graduate Receives Exchange Club Award

Alabama Christian Acadmey Class of 2020 graduate Aidan Dickson received the Exchange Club Youth of the Year Award for the State of Alabama. In the near future, he will represent Alabama at the national level.

The sun was shining and the rain stayed at bay, as Talent, Education & Art Christian (TEA) Academy, Inc., celebrated another milestone of touching the lives of students, by holding its 8th graduation ceremony. The event took place on the grounds of the school with a small crowd as they practiced social distancing in compliance with the COVID-19 pandemic. Commencement speaker was the Honorable Frank Lee, from Tuskegee. He indicated that the last nine weeks of school were a very challenging time, but because of the hard work and dedication from school founder Mrs. McElroy-Washington, the students were able to have an actual graduation ceremony. “Always remember, not only did you graduate, but, you made history as we all are learning to adjust to the new norm,” Lee said. He also encouraged the graduates to always do their best, and never settle for less, and he reminded them of the school’s motto, which is “Taking an Extra Step towards Educational Excellence.” Lee asked the graduates to always go the extra step in order to obtain their goals in life. Lee is a strong pillar in his community, with his commitment to social services. He is a graduate of Tuskegee University, with a Master’s in education, personnel administration and education management. He is also the voice of the announcer you hear when attending any of the Golden Tigers games, he is certified as an emergency management expert, mitigation analyst, post disaster coordinator and federal and state liaison. Lee is a former elected commissioner for Macon County, and is presently employed as the director of emergency management with the Department of Homeland Security. He’s married to attorney Tamara Lee, and the father of two children, Frank Christopher Lee and Alphonso Walker Young Lee.

ECA Holds Drive-Through Kindergarten Graduation

Evangel Christian Academy holds a graduation program each year for the five-year-old kindergarten class complete with caps and gowns. When COVID19 forced schools to observe safer at home guidelines, a traditional graduation program was no longer possible. However, ECA wanted to provide the kindergarten class with a special event. K5 teacher Vickie Cole and K5 teacher’s aide and art teacher LaDonna LeMaster organized a drive-through graduation. One by one, each student, along with his or her immediate family members, pulled up in cars decorated in honor of the graduate and got out to visit the graduation booth. The students were dressed in their graduation caps and gowns as they came to receive their awards and diplomas. Songs the students had planned to sing at graduation were playing in the background. The elementary teachers volunteered to help make the night more memorable by holding signs and cheering for each child. Evangel Church Pastor and ECA President Michael Rippy, and ECA Headmaster Bobby Johnson, also joined the celebration. Even in spite of unexpected rain and COVID19 restrictions, ECA’s teachers and administrators showed their school spirit and created an unforgettable night for the young graduates.

SAFER AT HOME

SUMMER CAMP Campers, ages 6 to 12, will be inspired by works of art in the Museum’s collection and learn to use varied materials and techniques. The ten recorded lessons, led by familiar camp instructors, will be available for campers to view at their convenience. Whether your child already has a love of art or is just getting started, everyone will enjoy virtual art-camping. Learn more and register at mmfa.org/camp.

Support for Summer Camp is provided by Susan and Bob Runkle.

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

M Montgomery County Schools

Montgomery Academy Speech & Debate Coach Recognized by National Association

STJ Teacher Appreciation Bright gold teacher appreciation signs popped up on lawns from Greenville to Ramer this spring—sharing the love to Saint James faculty, staff and administrators! The STJ family is so grateful for our amazing team.

Montgomery Academy speech & debate coach Jay Rye is being recognized by the National Speech & Debate Association for his exemplary volunteerism to promote speech and debate. Rye serves on the Deep South (AL) District Committee and goes above and beyond in service to the speech and debate community at large. This spring, Rye has been tapped to help make difficult decisions about tournament operations for the safety and well-being of students. “In these challenging times, the leadership and input that Mr. Rye offers the national organization is more valuable than ever,” said NSDA Executive Director Scott Wunn. “While this spring hasn’t gone the way we expected, one thing we know for sure is that Mr. Rye has made a big difference in the lives of students this year. “This week is National Volunteer Week, and we are proud to celebrate the commitment that James has made to help students in your area access speech and debate. Without Mr. Rye, our community would not be what it is today. Moreover, the future of our activity would not be as bright,” Wunn concluded.

Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@riverregionparents.com.

S d A D D in b a re M C C c 2 g (c y

n s c g n w in T g J fo D V H M K Z k W

a fr th

River Region Parents I July 2020

www.riverregionparents.com

Montgomery Catholic Recognizes Outstanding Students at Awards Ceremony Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School honored its top high school students and student-athletes at the annual Academic Awards Ceremony held in the Dolly Barranco Activity Center on May 13. Due to the restrictions on public gatherings, the event was broadcast via Facebook Live, and attendance was limited to award presenters and the Harbin Award recipient. After an introduction from MCPS Middle and High School Principal Justin Castanza and invocation by Theology Chair Tom Riello, President Anne Ceasar commenced the evening by presenting the 24th annual Charles T. Harbin Distinguished Service Award to Linda Belsterling (class of 1978) Anderson, recognizing her years of volunteer service to the school. The President’s Education Award, a national program, is given to graduating seniors who demonstrate academic success in the classroom by achieving a high grade-point average and score highly on nationally-normed standardized tests, and who also demonstrate high motivation and integrity, intellectual depth, and character. This award was presented to Lorissa Algarin, Ryan Avery, Sarah Rose Burden, Jack Burt, Tanner Carter, Bobby Crawford, Ansley Dean, Nate Downes, Lainie Doyle, Patrick Flores, Jason Flowers, Victoria Hall, Ashley Hayes, Michael Hodges, Sofia Izer, Savannah Johnson, Maddie Kille, Jayla Milam, Scott Nation, Katherine O’Connor, Charlie O’Donnell, Zack Pappanastos, Katherine Rose Perkins, Anna Sadie, Kinley Tadlock, Chad Waite and Clare Wilson. The students with the top-grade point averages were also recognized t. In the freshman class, several students tied for the top GPA: Michael Algarin, Cannon

Bach, Max Barranco, Evy Bosko, Hannah Chitlik, Kayleigh Everage, Matthew Galvin, Esa Gancayco, Kaylee Holmes, Harrison Howell, Audrey Trant, Alana Wilkinson, and Laura Thomas Zhavania. In the sophomore class, the highest GPA honors went to Christopher Lathram. Emma Garrison topped out the junior class, and senior Clare Wilson has the highest GPA for the class of 2020. Next were the President’s List and the Principal’s List. Students recognized on the President’s List achieved a 4.0 or higher GPA. This included 33 seniors, 25 juniors, 19 sophomores, and 17 freshmen. The Principal’s List recognized students who earned between a 3.8 to 4.0 GPA and included 12 seniors, five juniors, four sophomores, and five freshmen. The top athletes from each sport are nominated for the Knights of the Round Table Award, an honor that recognizes the top male and female athlete of the year. These students both excel in their sports and display leadership that sets an example for their peers. The winners of the Montgomery Catholic 2020 Knights of the Round Table award were Katherine O’Connor and Jack Burt. The evening culminated with three of the highest awards given at Montgomery Catholic: Leader of the Year, the Ideal Montgomery Catholic Graduate Award, and the Sister Martha Belke Servant Leader Award. The Leader of the Year award was presented to Anna Sadie. No stranger to leadership, the spotlight, or Montgomery Catholic, Sadie said in her leadership es-

say, “Ever since I was little, being a leader was ingrained in my mind from my family.” She is a member of the National Honor Society, Young Women’s Leadership, Youth in

Government, SGA, and the Varsity Cheer team. She is the daughter of John and Lisa Sadie of Montgomery. The Sister Martha Belke Servant Leader Award was presented to Sarah Rose Burden. She was selected for this award based on her commitment to serving those around her in her school and her community. She carries on the tradition of excellence started 147 years ago by the founders of our school, the Sisters of Loretto. Burden is the daughter of Perry and Ellie Burden of Montgomery. The Ideal Montgomery Catholic Graduate award was given to Sofia Izer. She is a scholar-athlete, a passionate artist, and a selfless servant. She was recently awarded the National Merit Scholarship, a highly competitive honor that is only given to 2,500 high school students nationwide. Izer is the daughter of Jim and Gina Izer of Montgomery.

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

M D LAMP Student Wins Nat’l Merit Scholarship

A LAMP High student joined an elite national group when she was named a National Merit Scholarship winner. Sun Mee Choi is one of just 7,600 students nationwide to win a $2,500 scholarship. LAMP had 12 National Merit semifinalists and six finalists. LAMP had the fourth highest total of Merit semifinalists in the state despite having a relatively small number of seniors.

Montgomery Academy Student Places Second in Poster Contest

Montgomery Academy fifth-grader Tara Samant won second place in this year’s “Be Kind to Animals Poster Contest.” The contest is sponsored by the Montgomery Humane Society. She worked on her poster while at home and took her poster to the Humane Society for the judging. River Region Parents I July 2020

www.riverregionparents.com

o Y t c a w

i o l a

i m r F H t e s h s s c C a B h p m 1 A s l A e s s g o r p s

u c

i v

u p i t h i

p t b i M

K4 — 12

Montgomery Catholic Student Attends Dixie Electric Cooperative Program

Montgomery Catholic junior Gracie Barranco had a unique opportunity in the spring to attend the Dixie Electric Cooperative Youth Tour. As one of eight high school juniors selected to attend the program, she was able to learn not only about how electrical cooperatives provide services to customers around the state, but also had an opportunity to meet with state legislators and connect with youth from all over Alabama. “Ever since I started participating in Youth In Government in 7th grade, I’ve had an interest in our laws and where they originate,” said Barranco. “I loved getting to meet with the different legislators. It was really cool to hear them speak and get to learn about their various backgrounds.” Barranco and the rest of the delegation toured historical sites in downtown Montgomery including the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, the State Capitol, the Civil Rights Memorial, and the First White House of the Confederacy. The students heard from several speakers, including Cea Cohen Elliott and Wanda Battle, and had an opportunity to meet around 15 different Alabama state legislators. And while every guest speaker had something great to offer, Barranco was particularly struck by one legislator. “Jeremy Gray really stood out to me,” she said. Gray represents District 83 in the Alabama House of Representatives. “He is young and is an athlete, and it was inspiring to all of us to see someone so young making a difference and making change.” This tour enabled Barranco to see some of the inner workings of the Alabama legislature, solidifying her already strong views on the involvement of youth in the lawmaking process. “My friends don’t know how laws are made, they don’t understand how the process works, and I really think that’s a problem,” she said. “Our voting is down in our youth, and I think it’s because they don’t know how to vote, they don’t know who they’re voting for, and they don’t know what offices are being held. I feel that educating our youth about politics is extremely important.” The Dixie Elective Cooperative Youth Tour provides opportunities for students to learn about the history of Alabama and the United States. They also learn about the cooperative form of business and the legislative process while networking with other interested youth from Barbour, Bullock, Lee, Lowndes, Macon, Montgomery, Pike and Tallapoosa Counties.

Variable Tuition Now Available WE’RE MAKING IT EVEN EASIER TO

GIVE YOUR CHILDREN THE QUALITY EDUCATION THEY DESERVE.

Christian Faith Instruction Specialized Extracurriculars

including Music, Robotics, Visual and Performing Arts

Rigorous Academics

serving multi-faceted students, with honors and college-credit AP courses available

Mission Work opportunities to aid education, healthcare, and wildlife in underdeveloped countries Over 30 Athletic Teams with

foundational skills taught at the elementary level

APPLY ONLINE NOW

montgomerycatholic.org/admissions

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

U 2

Montgomery County Schools

ACA Student Places in Writing Contest

Four months ago, Alabama Christian Academy 3rdgrade teacher, Ms. Hogan, videoed one of her students, Janie Kate Taggart, reading a story in class that Taggart had written in her free time. Hogan saw something in her writing and encouraged Taggart to enter the Alabama Public Television’s Young Writers Contest. Hogan used her free time to work with Taggart, whose book was mailed out right before the quarantine began. Judging was delayed, but Taggart recently received an e-mail from APT letting her know that her book won third place in the state!

TEA Academy Guest Speaker @ Graduation

TEA Christian Academy board member La’Porsha McElroy welcomed the crowd to the 8th annual graduation ceremony, which took place on May 30, on the grounds of the school. McElroy acknowledged that high school graduation is an exciting chapter in the continuing story of a family’s legacy, and it is also a moment to celebrate accomplishments, share memories and look toward the future. McElroy reminded the graduates that they have been well prepared to take on the next chapter in their lives and to put God first and always pray.

BTW Holds Drive-through Cap and Gown Pickup

Booker T. Washington Magnet High seniors had a drive-through cap and gown pickup in order to follow social distancing guidelines, and faculty members were there to greet them. They came in shifts according to last name to ensure safety. The PTSA decorated and gave each student a personalized yard sign to commemorate their accomplishment. A representative from the BTW Alumni Association was also there to encourage and support the seniors.

b a R “ t t o m

R c t a

o a M a t (

s P t a U p

Y S H e a F r

L W t

River Region Parents I July 2020

www.riverregionparents.com

U.S. Representative Roby Announces 2020 Service Academy Appointees

U.S. Representative Martha Roby (R-AL) has announced the 2020 appointments to the United States service academies from Alabama’s Second District. Students from the Second District received appointments to the United States Air Force, Naval, and Military Academies. “These students are to be applauded for their willingness to serve our country, their academic excellence, and their exceptional leadership abilities,” Representative Roby said. “I join their families, friends, teachers and communities in congratulating these outstanding students on this momentous achievement.” The following River Region students have received official appointments to the United States service academies: Theresa Kim, daughter of Anthony Kim, is a graduate of LAMP High School in Montgomery. She received an offer of appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy. (pictured bottom right) Alejandro Pickart, son of Vanessa and Damien Pickart, is a graduate of Prattville High School. He received an offer of appointment to the U.S. Air Force Academy. (not pictured) Daniel Shon, son of Youngmi Yoo and Hyunmin Shon, is a graduate of LAMP High School in Montgomery. He received an offer of appointment to the U.S. Air Force Academy. (pictured top right) Brennan Worrell, son of Leslie Worrell, is a graduate of Wetumpka High School. He received an offer of appointment to the U.S. Air Force Academy. He is shown top left.

A DVA N C I N G STUDENTS TO THEIR FULLEST POTENTIAL

$40.4M in Scholarships over the past 5 years

Numerous Ministries

supported worldwide, from the River Region to Guatemala and Uganda 2 Jimmy Hitchcock Award Winners

for Christian leadership in athletics in the past 3 years

36 All-State Honor Band Members

and 86 All-District Honor Band members in the past 5 years

1 World Robotics Competition Team,

1 State Finalist team, and 8 State Competition teams in the past 3 years

Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@riverregionparents.com.

APPLY ONLINE NOW

montgomerycatholic.org/admissions

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

July brings warmer weather, family vacations, and time to reflect on the past school year. The past school year certainly had a very unexpected ending. As parents and guardians some of you may be feeling this same sentiment as you watched your child promote from one level to another such as elementary to middle school or middle school to high school, while for others it may be just the completion of Kindergarten that has you reflecting on how quickly and differently this school year ended due to COVID-19. July also brings full planning mode for Pike Road Schools (PRS.) Our team remains proactive in developing plans for the 2020-2021 school year that are

focused on health and safety as we engage teaching and learning. We will have a virtual option for learners that are not comfortable with face to face instruction due to COVID. Additionally, our plan will contain multiple frameworks in the event health conditions do not permit for traditional learning. Our administrators will share more information as plans are finalized. To further plan for next school year PRS administration we will be analyzing student learning data and identifying trends and data points which can better help us ensure that our schools are serving all students.Â Our goal will always be to create high levels of learning and achievement for all PRS learners.Â This focus will be laser sharp as we move into the coming school year of 2020-2021. To help in this effort we are excited to announce we have several new faces in leadership and in the classroom ranks

at Pike Road Schools. We have hired a very strong group of leaders and teachers to join us in this critical work. Pike Road Schools is committed to bringing out the best in each and every student and recognizes that strong schools are the foundation of a strong community. We look forward to working with all members of our schools and community as we continue to lead the way in education. Wishing you all a safe and enjoyable summer!

Think. Innovate. Create. The Pike Road Way. Chuck Ledbetter has been an educator for 30 years. He earned a B.A. in history from Auburn University; a Masters of Education in history from AUM; and a doctorate in educational leadership from Auburn University. Ledbetter was a history teacher for 11 years, an assistant principal, a middle school principal, a high school principal, assistant superintendent for curriculum and for finance, and is in his 11th year as a superintendent. He is married to Kim and has three daughters, two sons-in-law, and five grandchildren.

P F

n D A te w c

g A 2 in h s fo jo S 2

T R

P C

en in w de

K T

C 2 g A M C A S o K G a s River Region Parents I July 2020

www.riverregionparents.com

a he

t e

nt is has .

PRHS Teacher Finalist For Teacher of the Year

Pike Road High School teacher Hannah Bradford has been selected as the District Five Secondary Teacher of the Year! A state committee will now select the state teacher of the year from the 16 finalists, for which Bradford is a candidate. Bradford graduated from Auburn University in 2009 with a degree in English. She has been teaching secondary English for ten years. She joined the Pike Road Schools team in 2018. Bradford makes the third District Teacher of the Year and state finalist in Pike Roadâ€™s five years of existence.

PRS Special Ed Teacher Chosen for Training

Jennifer Veres of the Pike Road Schools Special Education Department was selected for Cohort 1 of the Alabama State Department of Educationâ€™s Neuhaus Multisensory Structured Language Education Training for 2020-2021. Upon completion, this training leads to a dyslexia therapist certificate endorsement. PRS is committed to supporting Veres as she pursues multi-year coursework and adheres to the guidelines of the job description of an MSLE-trained educator.

Kenny Chosen STEM Teacher of the Year

Catherine Kenny has been selected the 2020 K-8th grade Air Force Association Montgomery Chapter 102 Aerospace/ STEM Teacher of the Year. Kenny is a Gifted Specialist and robotics instructor at PRS. 33

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

P N Pike Road Schools Adds More Classrooms to the Historic Campus

Pike Road Schools is proud of the progress being made at our Historic Campus as it pertains to the addition of classroom space. The Historic Campus will transition from Pike Road Middle School to Pike Road Intermediate School next year and serve learners in grades 4-6. Some of the highlights on the additional space at the Historic Campus include: 12,252 square feet of additional classroom space; ten classrooms are roughly 820 square feet each; Two additional classroom are smaller and may be used for special needs children and study areas; the addition includes a storm shelter that consists of 3,400 square feet of space that covers the main corridor, one large classroom, and restrooms; the storm shelter has storm rated doors and a power back-up system that will maintain power to the shelter area for up to two hours; and the construction incorporates 12” poured concrete and steel reinforced rebar walls with 5.5” of concrete for the ceiling lid reinforcement and steel bar joist. The project is scheduled to be complete prior to the start of the 2020-2021 school year. Once complete, this campus will serve all 4th6th graders attending Pike Road Schools.

Pike Road Welcomes Duncan as Assistant High School Principal

Dr. Brittney Duncan is joining the Pike Road Schools family as the assistant principal for Pike Road High School. Duncan has ten years of educational experience. She began her teaching journey in Auburn City Schools, where she spent eight years as a 3rd, 4th and Title One Interventionist teacher at Wrights Mill Road Elementary School. During the 2018-2019 school year, Duncan was chosen as one of sixteen finalists for Alabama Teacher of the Year. She began her instructional leadership journey two years ago when she joined Alexander City Schools as the assistant principal at Radney Elementary School serving 5th- and 6th-grade students. She serves as an adjunct assistant professor at Auburn University teaching educational leadership courses to aspiring and currently serving administrators. Duncan received her education from Auburn University obtaining a bachelor’s and master’s degree in elementary education followed by a master’s, educational specialist and doctorate degree in elementary and secondary administration. Outside of school, Duncan and her husband cherish spending time with family and friends and love traveling to new places.

River Region Parents I July 2020

www.riverregionparents.com

s o in A A fo h p A P fi 3 ru ru in H a re th fo to F P

L b a y c P J

Pike Road Welcomes New Baseball Coach

Pike Road Schools welcomes new Varsity Baseball Coach Allen Ponder. A native of Auburn, Ponder was selected Mr. Baseball in 2002 by the ASWA while at Lee Scott Academy. He pitched for the University of Alabama before finishing his collegiate play at AUM. At AUM, Ponder finished with 31 home runs and 133 runs batted in two years. He also had a 9 -1 career record on the mound for the Senators. He was inducted into the AUM Hall of Fame in 2017. Ponder was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2008. He is coming to Pike Road from Pike Liberal in Troy, where he led the team to back-to-back state championships in 2018 and 2019, and compiled a 15 -1 record this year before baseball was suspended. Ponder coached at Lakeside before his tenure at Pike Liberal. Ponder takes over for Skipper Jones, who retired after the 2020 season.

Pike Road Student Earns Pilotâ€™s License

Mary Stengell, a senior at Pike Road High School (PRHS), recently received her pilotâ€™s license. Stengell demonstrated her flying skills during cap and gown pick-up when she performed a flyover of PRHS. Stengell graduated in the top ten percent of her class at PRHS and plans to attend Auburn University in the fall. 35

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

Autauga County Schools

Boy Scouts Build GaGa Pit for Prattville Elementary Prattville High School student Cleveland Stockman gathered members of Boy Scout Troop 25 to build a GaGa pit for Prattville Elementary School. Students from Prattville Junior High and High School worked to build this new outdoor activity for students as a way to say thank you to their former teachers and staff.

P of gl W w no sh

School Resource Officer Reads Books Online for PJHS

Prattville Junior High School Resource Officer Rusty Jacksland made use of the Virtual Learning time to read to students several evenings a week. His Facebook tagline, â€œBooks with the Badge, with Officer Rustyâ€? has been a big hit with students young and old. He also holds a weekly design contest for the front cover of the book to help students remain engaged.

River Region Parents I July 2020

P T

www.riverregionparents.com

Prattville Students Provide Face Shields

During the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, students at Prattville Junior High and High School partnered together to provide face shields for local medical agencies. After learning to use 3-D printers, students were able to provide several hundred shields to those in the local area to help with PPE.

PCA Seniors Graduate

PCA celebrated its 16th graduating class of 52 students at Panther Stadium amid a global pandemic and, at times, pouring rain. While this year ended in the most unusual way, the awards and honors were earned nonetheless. Nearly $3.5 million in scholarships was offered to members of this class.

PCA Senior Commits to Play Softball at Chipola

Prattville Christian Academy upcoming senior Landyn McAnnally has committed to play softball at Chipola College, a NJCAA college in Marianna, Fla. The Lady Indians are the defending National Junior College Champions and have earned multiple championships in the last few years. McAnnally was also named to the Alabama High School Athletic Associationâ€™s All-Star Softball Team. She has recorded 722 career strikeouts with a record of 58-23 on the mound for the PCA Lady Panthers.

PJHS Drive-Through Teacher Appreciation

Help Them Learn and Grow

To: 227744444488

ABRPIGTHVT w! Sign up no

A free service featuring activities, games, and resources for people who care for young children. tailored to your childâ€™s age from pregnancy to 5 tips cover developmental milestones, brain development, social-emotional behavior, nutrition, and more messages from trusted sources like:

ply. data rates ap Message and 4448 to stop. 27 to OP ST Text lp. 274448 for he Text HELP to

PBS KIDS and the PBS KIDS Logo are registered trademarks of PBS. Used with permission. The contents of this ad were developed under a grant from the Department of Education. However, those contents do not necessarily represent the policy of the Department of Education, and you should not assume endorsement by the Federal Government. The project is funded by a Ready To Learn grant (PR/AWARD No. U295A150003, CFDA No. 84.295A) provided by the Department of Education to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

It seems impossible that we will be ready to begin the 2020-2021 school year in just a few short weeks! The “normal” 2019-2020 school year was cut short due to COVID-19, and all our students had to finish their instruction virtually. Without the necessary technology, virtual instruction is not possible. Thankfully, we were able to check out devices to students who did not have them at home. Our students and staff are extremely resilient and met the challenges presented in this difficult situation in excellent Elmore County Public Schools fashion! With the end of this past school year in mind, we have been working diligently to prepare for the 2020-2021 school year. We have evaluated virtual instruction in all grade levels and identified areas for improvement. We continue to build our technology infra-

River Region Parents I July 2020

structure to ensure that we have a robust system in place for virtual learning for all our students in grades K-12. The “big question” we face now is whether we will open school in August for face-to-face instruction, and if so, what that will look like. District superintendents in consultation with local public health officials will determine whether and how schools can reopen safely for the 2020-2021 school year based on the status of the virus in their local community. The Alabama State Department of Education assembled a Task Force to undertake the daunting task of developing a roadmap to reopen schools across the state. All aspects of school operations are addressed in the ALSDE roadmap including wellness (mental, physical, and social-emotional health), instruction, facilities, operations (budgets, food, enrollment, staffing), transportation, and technology. Any teacher, school principal, or district superintendent will tell you that returning to school under normal circumstances is hard. Doing so considering the current health crisis with the associated uncertainty is exponen-

tially more difficult. Getting our students back in school, “like normal,” is critically important for their academic, social-emotional, and mental health. Right now, we are preparing to welcome students and staff back on campus in August based on the guidance from the ALSDE, Alabama Department of Public Health, and the Alabama High School Athletic Association. We will also provide a Chromebook for every K-12 student with plans to utilize grade-appropriate virtual platforms for inperson, blended, and virtual instruction. Elmore County is committed to doing everything possible to provide high-quality instruction and the necessary academic, social-emotional, and mental health support for our students and staff during this difficult time. Our goal remains: Every Student Empowered – Every Student Succeeds. Richard Dennis is the Superintendent of Education for Elmore County Schools. He is a 1983 graduate of Holtville High School. He served 21 years as a high school principal at Holtville High, Wetumpka High and most recently, Prattville High. He and wife, Leslie (also an educator) have three sons and a daughter.

www.riverregionparents.com

n S-

t ult

at lle ons

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

Elmore County Schools

Peyton Cox Memorial Scholarships Awarded to Five Elmore County Graduating Seniors

The Peyton Elizabeth Cox Scholarship of the Elmore County Community Foundation was established in memory of Peyton Cox, an athletic, adventurous and outgoing Wetumpka Middle School student who lost her life to suicide in 2016. This year Cox would have graduated from Wetumpka High School, making this year’s awards especially meaningful to her family and the Elmore County Community Foundation. This following students were this year’s recipients, based on the students’ character, impressive potential, and a commitment and passion to the game of softball. Those receiving $500 awards are Markie Philan Hicks, above left, of Wetumpka High School and Emily Tucker, above right, of Wetumpka High School. Those receiving $1,000 awards are, bottom from left, Madison Elmore of Wetumpka High School, Katie Henley of Holtville High School, and Eleanor Watts of Elmore County High School.

Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@riverregionparents.com.

River Region Parents I July 2020

www.riverregionparents.com

TAKE ON SUMMER at the Prattville YMCA Elmore County Homeschoolers Practice Line-up Drills

Before Academy Days Homeschool Co-op closed due to the COVID-19 threat, these first- and second-graders practiced a lineup drill in case of fire or other emergency. Lining up is something homeschoolers never encounter, but with teacher Kathy Abrams leading and teacher Rachel Meeks bringing up the rear, homeschoolers Abbie Dannelley, Lilly Chappell, Obi Ward, Rebecca Hand, Sutherlin Halbrooks and Ethan Tapia learned to walk quietly in a line from their history classroom to the designated spot outdoors. The line-up drill is part of various precautionary measures intended to keep students and parents safe and healthy at co-op. In addition to history classes, the Academy Days Co-op in Millbrook will offer more than 40 homeschool classes this coming fall in such subjects as psychology, German, speech, creative writing, art, STEM, science and PE for preschool through high school. Visit AcademyDays.com for more information.

• Fitness for Everyone • Summer Sports Camps • Day Camps • • Swimming Lessons • Gymnastics • Ability Programs •

prattvilleymca.org • (334) 365-8852

Tech Center Grads Hired by Montgomery Fire and Rescue

Three former Elmore County Technical Center students in Public Safety & Law started their first day with Montgomery Fire & Rescue in May. Because we were unable to host a traditional signing day for them due to the school year closures, we were given permission to visit them on their first day. 41

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

R A

Elmore County Schools

Wetumpka Theatre Instructor Receives State Award

ECTC Students Work on Building Design

Wetumpka High Theatre Guild director Jeff Glass was chosen as the 20192020 Alabama Thespians Theatre Teacher of the Year!

Redland Holds DriveThrough Graduation for Sixth-Grade Class

Back in February, a team of pre-engineering, drafting & design students at Elmore County Technical Center contributed to the design and layout of a new building of classrooms and labs on our campus in Wetumpka. Students took the drawing of the structure from McKee & Associates, then added equipment, tools, and needed implements throughout the space based on teacher interviews and input.

e w T B h A

Redland Elementary held a drive-through parade to honor its graduating sixth-graders before they start middle school in the fall. Many have spent seven years at this school.

t s

f e t d

Connect With Us f bcprattville.org @fbcprattville

River Region Parents I July 2020

www.riverregionparents.com

Redland Teacher Named Among State Finalists

Redland Elementary School special education teacher Meredith Mitchell was selected District Three Elementary Teacher of the Year by the Alabama State Board of Education. Her selection placed her among 16 finalists for the 2020-2021 Alabama Teacher of the Year. Mitchell was awarded Elmore County’s Elementary Teacher of the Year in November. Mitchell said the state will pick four finalists and eventually announce a winner and an alternate. Regardless if she wins or not, she said it is an honor just to be recognized. “It is humbling to be recognized for the work,” Mitchell said. “Special education teachers are kind of behindthe-scenes teachers and we wear many different hats.”

Elmore County Career & Technical Education Senior Signing Day Highlight

Stanhope Elmore High School senior Anna DelPrincipe completed all three years of the Computer Technology / IT program at Elmore County Technical Center and achieved multiple certifications through TestOut and CompTIA. She first entered employment with the Elmore County Board of Education Office of Technology through her Senior Pathway Project in the Fall of 2019 and is continuing after graduation.

WMS Student Places in History Poster Contest

Wetumpka Middle School fifth-grader Brady Grindle came in second place for a poster contest sponsored by Sons of the American Revolution. He won $50!

N O W E N R O L L I N G F O R 2020 2011

TH E LEARNING TREE C H I L D D E V E L O P M E N T C E N T E R S , I N C . Your children deserve the best, why not give it to them. We pride ourselves at The Learning Tree in having the best child care program for ages 6 wks. to 12 yrs. We are D.H.R. Licensed and provide transportation to and from public school. Full Day Care and Half day (morning or afternoon).

ENROLL NOW, CALL TODAY!

3 Convenient Locations:

1816 Glynwood Dr. Prattville - 365-1451

6wks-12yrs available at all locations but Carmichael Rd.

3335 Woodley Rd. - 284-5560 I 4120 Carmichael Rd. - 271-4733

SPECIAL OFFER

FREE REGISTRATION With this coupon and new enrollment only. Up to $85 Value! 43

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

tio (w the ar ad pre po pa by at ter ins rea for thi wo the be pa

str sio su ing at he like ac

Life is filled with stress, and thereâ€™s really no way for our children to avoid it. Whether it be worrying about school work, making friends, or even choosing what outfit to wear to fit in, it is inevitable that children will experience the ups and downs of stress. Although stress can be beneficial in short-term situations, it can become problematic when it gets too intense and frequent. By teaching children how to tap into their emotional intelligence (EQ)â€”the ability to recognize, direct, and positively express emotionsâ€” they will be able to better handle stressful situations throughout their lives.

River Region Parents I July 2020

www.riverregionparents.com

GOOD AND BAD STRESS Stress is our body’s natural reaction to a challenging or negative situation (whether real or imagined), which triggers the fight-or-flight response. This involves a rush of hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, that cause a rise in blood pressure and heart rate. Good stress—or positive stress—is a normal and essential part of healthy development, as explained by the Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University. This type of shortterm stress is part of our natural survival instinct. It can keep us alive when we react to a threat, make us accountable for our actions, and motivate us to get things done. Without a little stress, children wouldn’t look both ways before crossing the street or study for tests in school—or be afraid of getting in trouble by their parents. On the other hand, experiencing strong, frequent, and/or prolonged tension can lead to toxic stress as hormones surge throughout the body without allowing it to rest and recover. This can take a toll on children’s mental and physical health, causing bothersome symptoms like headaches, stomachaches, dizziness, aches and pains, and a whole host of

other issues. Toxic stress has also been associated with serious health problems like immune deficiencies, infections, heart disease, and even cancer. Unfortunately, stress that continues for months or years can also lead to mental health problems like anxiety and depression, which can be detrimental to a child’s long-term development and even debilitating if not addressed.

How Emotional Intelligence Can Help Children Manage Stress EQ is a powerful skill that can help us better understand ourselves, overcome challenges, and build strong relationships with others. People with a high EQ can tolerate and constructively manage challenging feelings like sadness, anger, and fear. They also accept themselves and empathize with others. According to Wendy Baron of the Chopra Center, children with higher EQ have less anxiety because they have the ability to respond rather than react, and to understand what triggers their stress. By learning to express emotions, listen actively, and consider multiple perspectives, children will develop more positive,

caring, respectful relationships with others; resolve conflicts more easily; and become less stressed and more optimistic. When children are able to effectively manage their emotions related to stress and anxiety, they can regulate their nervous system so they can stay happy and healthy.

How To Build Emotional Intelligence Fortunately, EQ is a skill that we can all learn at any time in our life. Here are some ways that you can help your children grow their EQ muscle:

1. Be Available and Open-Minded. Although there are probably many topics you hope to never have to discuss with your children, letting them know they can talk to you about anything will greatly expand their EQ. If children feel ashamed or scared to talk about certain topics, they may build up repressed emotions that could come out later in negative behavior. It is better to be an open and honest book now to keep the chains of communication going between you and your children for a lifetime.

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

2. Provide Tools To Express Emotions.

Expressing emotions thoughtfully requires us to first be aware that we are having them and then to be able to communicate them effectively to ourselves and others. One of the best ways to help young children express their emotions is to teach them easy, appropriate vocabulary to describe their feelings. Suggest phrases like: “I’m feeling scared because,” or “When this happens, I feel,” or “I don’t like when”. From a young age, help your children identify emotions through games, creative activities like drawing and writing, and reading books together. As they get older, a stress diary can be very helpful to track what triggers their strong emotions.

3. Listen Actively.

Listening helps diffuse intense feelings. When we listen deeply to another person, we let them know that we hear them and care about them. Active listening requires you to be fully present so that you can understand what the other person is thinking and feeling. You can foster active listening by using eye contact, acknowledging what they say, and asking questions that show you are interested, such as “What was that like for you?” or “How did that make you feel?”

4. Accept Their Emotions. Teach kids that they can’t choose their emotions, but they can choose what to do with those feelings. By accepting how they feel, you let them know they are safe and it is alright to feel that way. Even if you don’t agree with them, you can still let them know you understand how and why they feel that way. Just by acknowledging how they feel, you can guide them in finding a calm, productive solution.

5. Explore Multiple Perspectives. Experiencing other people’s perspectives broadens our thinking, builds empathy and compassion, and reduces hurtful behavior toward others. To build this skill in your child, you can ask questions about characters while reading a story or watching a show together. Explore how different characters feel and why they may feel that way. Talk about conflicts the characters experienced. With older children, you can ask them about different views on current events, looking at all sides of an issue. As children are exposed to more perspectives, they become more flexible in their thinking, making them more accepting and tolerant of others and themselves.

6. Let Them Know It’s Okay To Fail: Mistakes help us learn and grow. Children who never experience failure can end up feeling anxious and helpless down the road. Teach your children the importance of learning from mistakes, and that they don’t need to be good at everything or liked by everyone to be happy and successful in life.

7. Love Them Unconditionally.

Children need to feel that their parents will support and protect them. Giving unconditional love means having your children’s back whenever they feel threatened, unsafe, bullied, or vulnerable. Even if you don’t agree with their position or feeling, you can still give them unconditional love.

8. Teach Stress Management Tools. Identify ways for them to respond to stress by using creative calm-down strategies like meditation; mindful exercises; yoga; breathing exercises; visualization; and distraction techniques like music, art, or going for a walk outside in nature. rrp

Sandi Schwartz is a freelance writer/blogger and mother of two. She has written extensively about parenting, wellness, and environmental issues. You can find her at www.happysciencemom.com and www.sandischwartz.com. Get her free course on raising happy, balanced kids at bit.ly/2i53TDV.

Worship with us by TV and streaming.

Find Hope.

WATCH ON YOUR TV • WFRZ-TV: Channel 13 (cable) or Channel 33 (antenna) • Download the Frazer Channel for Roku, AppleTV or FireTV WATCH ON YOUR COMPUTER OR MOBILE DEVICE • frazer.church/live • facebook.com/frazerchurch SUNDAY WORSHIP • Contemporary 11:00am & 7:00pm • Sanctuary 9:15am & 8:00pm IN-PERSON WORSHIP PLAN • Get the latest news on our plan to return to in-person worship, hopefully in early July, at frazer.church

DOWNLOAD OUR APP | 6000 ATLANTA HWY | WWW.FRAZER.CHURCH | FOLLOW US

River Region Parents I July 2020

www.riverregionparents.com

ail:

nts

iled, u

ls.

wo.

e on

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

For Summer Learning

teens looking to learn more about the history and legacy of slavery. Best for: Teens Code Switch: Another excellent resource for learning about race and culture, this NPR podcast looks at news and history through a multiracial, multigenerational, and multicultural lens. Although some episodes might not be appropriate for younger listeners, the creators of the podcast have created a playlist of kid-friendly episodes. Best for: Teens Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls: Based on the bestselling book series about extraordinary women from history, this audio series features inspiring modern women like actress Jameela Jamil and ballerina Yuan Yuan Tan reading biographies of influential movers and shakers. Best for: Little kids and big kids The Past and the Curious: History meets humor in this silly series that introduces little-known stories (like the origin of Typhoid Mary) and unsung heroes from the past. There’s even a quiz at the end of every episode to test how well kids have paid attention. Best for: Big kids and tweens Stuff You Missed in History Class: With an emphasis on forgotten stories, strange happenings, and underrepresented communities such as the indigenous people and immigrants of Cannery Row, this series connects the dots between the past and present. Best for: Tweens and teens

Press Play on Podcasts

Summer slide is no joke, and for many kids, school closures due to the coronavirus have made those slides pretty slippery. If you want to keep your kid learning this summer in a fun way, or you’re simply looking for a kid-approved way to keep them busy for half an hour, try educational podcasts. From incredible science shows that answer kids’ real questions to story times that boost reading comprehension, podcasts can strengthen kids’ grasp of core subject areas like math, science, language arts, and social studies, while encouraging deep thinking, curiosity, and self-awareness.

English and language arts

Circle Round: Fascinating and full of positive messages, this story time podcast expands kids’ worldviews by introducing them to folktales from around the world. Stories include “Sweet and Sour,” a South African tale about brothers who are polar opposites, and “Chief Know-It-All” about a Hawaiian chief who learns his lesson. Best for: Little kids Greeking Out: Inspired by a National Geographic children’s book series, this podcast shares kid-friendly adaptations of classic Greek myths, sprinkled with facts about Greek mythology’s influence on modern stories and language. Best for: Big kids and tweens Julie’s Library: Julie Andrews and her daughter, children’s book author Emma Walton Hamilton, read stories like The Wolf, the Duck, and the Mouse and From the Stars in the Sky to the Fish in the Sea together and help foster a love of reading in young listeners. Best for: Little kids Smash Boom Best: This family-friendly debate podcast introduces kids to persuasive techniques and the finer points of forming an argument, all while discussing the merits of aliens vs. robots, chocolate vs. cheese, and sharks vs. skunks. Best for: Big kids The Story Seeds Podcast: In this innovative series, award-winning children’s authors including Jason Reynolds and Dan Gutman interview a kid or tween with a great story idea, and then write and read aloud a story inspired by the kid’s idea. Best for: Big kids and tweens

Science

Brains On: This silly science series is a big hit with kids (and grown-ups) for taking real questions from young people and answering them with the help of experts. They also have online resources to help kids take part in science experiments discussed on the show. Best for: Big kids and tweens But Why: Take the pressure off having to answer kids’ seemingly simple but surprisingly complex questions like, “What is sound?” and “Why do we sometimes see the moon during the day?” Best for: Little kids and big kids Earth Rangers: Animal lovers will enjoy this fun nature series that introduces kids to the earth’s biodiversity and sustainability habits, as well as kid-submitted animal jokes. Best for: Little kids and big kids Science Friday: With timely topics and guests who are experts in subjects across scientific disciplines, this radio-program-turnedpodcast tackles everything from earth science to ethics in a winning way for teens and their parents alike. Best for: Teens Wow in the World: The learning comes easy in this fast-paced series that uses lively segments like “Two Whats!? and a Wow!” and hilarious hosts to explore kid-friendly scientific concepts like bird behavior and toilet technology. Best for: Little kids and big kids

History and social studies

1619: Part of the New York Times’ Pulitzer Prize-winning project observing the 400th anniversary of American slavery, this audio series is challenging, thought-provoking, and well worth a listen for River Region Parents I July 2020

www.riverregionparents.com

gh me rs t

g es al-

he om ry

erto

gly nd tle

while you stay safe at home. To protect yourself and others during this pandemic, The Jackson Clinic encourages the use of telehealth visits. Telehealth is a face-to-face or by phone visit with your healthcare provider through digital technology. Call for an appointment today!

d d

334.293.8888 49

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

wh an tak the qu

U.S sta Fin

top sto inc dri tur col

Us de by ap sen nin

Th tel Wh ne Th pa

8. an

oth ne wo

Here are 20 ways to entertain your young ones as you travel:

This summer many families are opting for road trips rather than air travel vacations. Road trips are fun. Road trips are exciting, but…how to entertain the kids?

1. Gift a Day: One tried and true method is to purchase small gifts and toys ahead of time. Wrap them and number them—one for each day of driving time. They can either be distributed at the beginning of each driving day or at the end of one day to be used the next. It gives the children something to look forward to.

It takes a bit of planning and some ingenuity to solve the problem of what to do during those long hours of driving. It helps to prepare some games and activities ahead of time because you know best what your kids love to do, and we all know it’s hard to sit still for long hours. River Region Parents I July 2020

2. Car Ride Bingo: Make bingo cards ahead of your trip.

Make a five by five or six by six grid with a free space here and there. Write in objects kids can find while looking out the car window. Be creative and include things like animals, vehicles, certain shapes or colors, etc. Add at least one funny object.

www.riverregionparents.com

3. Twenty-one Questions: The person who is “it” thinks of an object. It can be anything in the world. The rest of the players take turns asking questions to narrow down the categories, but be careful, twenty-one questions can go by very quickly. 4. Color the Map: Print off maps of the U.S. Kids will look for license plates from each state and color in that state when they find it. Find a printable map at Nationalatlas.gov. 5. Small Tins: Find small tin cans with

tops such as breath mint cans. Use them to store small toys for the road trip. You might include: Crayons and sticky notes for hours of driving fun. Tiny Legos to build small structures. A Tic Tac Toe handwritten board with colored buttons to use as x’s and o’s.

6. I Went to Town and I Bought…

Use the name of the city that will be your final destination of the day. The first player begins by saying I Went to (town) and I bought an apple. The next player has to say the same sentence, but finish it with an object beginning with the letter B. Can you make it to Z?

7. And Then…Players tell a story.

The first person begins Once upon a time and tells as much of the story as he or she likes. When it’s time to pass the story on to the next person, finish by saying, “And then….” The next play continues the story until time to pass it on. And then…

8. Metal Tray with Magnetic Letters and Shapes: Find an old cookie sheet or other small metal tray and pack some magnetic letters and shapes. Encourage writing words that rhyme, words that are five letters

long, color words, names, etc. Ask if the children can make a picture that looks like an animal, a building, or a toy.

9. Magnetic Animal Homes: From

Purple Cow, this fun matching game matches animals to their habitats.

10. Wikki Stix Travel Pak: Wikki Stix

are fun to use and easy to take along on your road trip. These come in a handy plastic box and come with an activity book offering many ideas to spark creativity as kids bend the stix.

11. Tangrams: This travel version of tan-

gram puzzles is called Tangoes and is perfect for hours of puzzle-making in the car.

12. Wooden Toy Magnetic Puzzle Pieces: This toy is a combination of a white board that is also magnetized to take puzzle pieces. It will entertain young children for hours at a time.

13. Ed Emberley Drawing Books: Ed

Emberley Drawing books are a treasure trove for little ones. Take your pick of Animals, Trucks and Trains, or things you can make from your own Thumbprint.

14. Take N Play Hangman: This favorite word game is easy to pack and fun to play. Get Hangman before you go. 15. Busybag: This travel bag is filled with small toys and games to keep your kids happy for many hours. It comes in bags for boys or girls. 16. Scavenger Hunt: Choose from the

Highways or City and Suburbs deck of Scav-

enger Hunt cards. Play individually or in teams to find designated objects as you travel.

17. Yellow/Pink Game: In this I Spy

game everyone looks for either yellow or pink vehicles. Yellow are worth one point and pink are worth two. The first to spy the vehicles wins the points and you go to a decided number—maybe twenty-five or fifty. The winner gets to pick the restaurant for the evening meal, or perhaps gets a special dessert.

18. Read Aloud Chapter Books: Bring

along several really good family-friendly chapter books and read one chapter or more a day. Kids really look forward to hearing what happens next. Another option is to listen to a family friendly book on Hoopla or Audible.

19. Would You Rather? This super-silly

game can be a life-saver when the kids get restless, but be prepared for a lot of giggles. Ask, “Would you rather kiss a pig or lick a snake? Or some other improbable activity. Give each person several chances to come up with their own “Would you rather” question.

20. Sticker Book Fun: Time for a bit

of quiet? Bring along several sticker/activity books. Kids love them, especially if they are on the current topic of choice. Dinosaurs, superheroes, favorite movie themes—all of them have sticker books available and they’ll bring some quiet travel when you need it. While some of these ideas are homemade or require no supplies, others can be found by Googling and ordering from sites like Amazon, or visiting your local craft store. rrp

Jan Pierce, M.Ed., is a retired teacher and the author of Homegrown Readers and Homegrown Family Fun. Find Jan at www.janpierce.net.

Alabama Dance Theatre

Kitty Seale, Founding Artistic Director

Kate Seale Smith, Artistic Director

SUMMER CLASSES, Age 3 to Professional Level

June 8 - July 9

Tutus & Tiaras! Ages 3 - 8

June 1 - 5

Stars on the Riverfront

July 26 & 27

Summer Dance Seminar

July 13 - July 25

at the Armory Learning Arts Center 1018 Madison Avenue

www.alabamadancetheatre.com

(334) 625-2590 Photo by David Robertson, Jr.

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

Art/Music/Theater Armory Learning Arts Center 1018 Madison Ave. Montgomery Abrakadoodle Preschool Camp#2 Ready, Set, GO! Tue, Wed, Thu, 9am-noon, July 7-9 for ages 3 - 5; Summer Ceramic Class, July 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28, 30, August 4, 6 for ages 16+; Elementary Camp #2 Extreme S.T.E.A.M. Tue, Wed, Thu; 9:00am-noon, July 7-9for ages 6-12; Monet to Matisse & Masters in the Summer, (July 20-24), K, 8-12; UpCycling Camp: Turning Trash into Treasure, July 6-10 for K and 10-17; (334) 625.ARTS (2787) funinmontgomery.com/ parks-items/Armory or on Facebook under Armory Learning Arts Center

P’zazz Art Studio 138 W. Main St. Prattville Variety of summer camps offered thru August. Please visit our website for Art Camps and times. (334) 354.1975

pzazzart.com

Wetumpka Depot Offers Summer Theatre Camp 300 South Main Street, Wetumpka Juy 20-31 * 9-10 a.m. for group sessions with individual rehearsals scheduled for each student. The Depot is looking for 20 young artists (ages 8-16) to participate in Super Happy Awesome News!, a musical written by Denver Casado, with book by Jessica Penzias and directed by Kristy

River Region Parents I July 2020

Meanor. All that is needed is an internet connection to zoom into rehearsals. The final program will be recorded. Enrollment fee is $75. (334) 868-1440

kmeanor@wetumpkadepot.com

Dance/Gymnastics/ Cheer Alabama Dance Theatre ad on page 51

1018 Madison Avenue (The Armory Learning Arts Center) Montgomery The Alabama Dance Theatre will be offering summer classes in Classical Ballet (pre-ballet to the professional level), Modern, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Contemporary, Composition/Choreography and Broadway. Highlights of summer classes include a new class Broadway, classical ballet training and creative movement classes open to ages 3 to 8. Classes will include pre-ballet, creative movement, crafts, and story time. (334) 241.2590

alabamadancetheatre.com

United Gymstars & Cheer ad on page 34

6100 Brewbaker Blvd. Montgomery Thru July 31; Summer Camp, Weekly themed activities, gymnastics, trampoline, rope climbing,

crafts and more. Time: 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Ages: 5 and up. (334) 284.2244

C.J.’S Dance Factory (home of Prattville Ballet) 145 South Court Street Prattville Princess Ballerina Camp - Ages 3-8, princess dance activities with a different princess each week! Power Tumble- Ages 5 and up, polish your tumble skills! Classical Ballet Technique- Intermediate/Advanced level (pointe work and variations) Camps will end with a performance! (334) 467.8603

unitedgymstarsandcheer.com

cjsdancefactory.com

Montgomery Ballet 2101 Eastern Blvd. Suite 223 Montgomery JoJo Siwa Dance Party, July 13-16 from 2-4 p.m. (ages 5-10); Princess Ballerina Camp, July 13-16 from 9-10:30 a.m. for ages 2/3 year olds and 11:30-1 p.m.for age 4/5 year olds. Summer Intensive - July 20-24, Intermediate Level for 8-11 and Advanced for ages 11 and up. (334) 409.0522 info@montgomeryballet.org montgomeryballet.org

Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection 3370 Harrison Rd. Montgomery Summer Fun Day-camp dates: One-week sessions. June 29 - July 10. Time: 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. (4-12 years). Summer dance classes for all ages beginning June in Ballet, Contemporary, Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Baton and Tumbling. (334) 277.1098 Facebook under Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection

www.riverregionparents.com

YM ad

600 and (Br *S boy Mo 6p ava and info Ch *C Frid and For tac 358

Sm Eas ww

Ala 305 Ca Au and are

)

di-

ns.

s p,

Day Camps

park, horse barn, athletic fields, hiking trails, mud pits, disc golf, archery, riflery, Re Hall, and historic lodge. Transportation is available from Montgomery at no extra cost.

YMCA Prattville ad on page 41

600 E. Main Street (Smith Branch) and 972 McQueen Smith Road (Bradford Branch) Prattville * Summer Day Camp, girls and boys ages 6-12. Thru August 7. Mon. – Friday from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m. Summer Day Camps are available at the Daniel Pratt, Main and Pine Level locations. For more information contact the YMCA Childcare Branch 358-1446. * Camp 2:22 (Jr. High): MondayFriday from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m. Boys and Girls entering 7th-9th grades. For more information Please contact the YMCA Bradford Branch at 358-9622 Smith Branch, (334) 365.8852 East Bradford Branch, (334) 358.9622 www.prattvilleymca.org

(334) 290.9622 ymcamontgomery.org

the exception of Tadpole Camp. (334) 285.4550

Alabama Wildlife Federation 3050 Lanark Road Millbrook Camp dates and sessions offered through Thru August 7. Please visit our website for session dates and descriptions for each camp. All camp sessions are co-ed and full day, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; with

alabamawildife.org

Camp Grandview — YMCA 4700 Camp Grandview Road Millbrook Dates: Thru August 7 Length: Weekly basis; Located on 190-wooded acres, YMCA Camp Grandview includes two beautiful lakes, a water-

Gross Out Camp takes Science Outdoors Alabama Nature Center (Lanark) Millbrook July 20-24; Cost: $200 Yuck...if it’s gross we’ve got it! This award-winning science camp focuses on hands-on biology. Activities include: creek stomping expeditions for macro-invertebrates, meet-a-tree style scientific observation, and creativity such as making your own bird-poop paint (not from birds). Kids will meet live snakes in a reptile program. Learning has never been this much fun! Sponsored by Fresh Air Family. The camp combines science experiments, exploring, journaling, and nature-inspired arts and crafts

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

to address a variety of learning styles. (205) 540-6642 alabamawildlife.org GrossOutCamp.org

Montgomery Zoo Summer Camps 2301 Coliseum Parkway Montgomery Make summer vacation a wildlife adventure that you will never forget. Join kids of similar ages and interests for a fun-packed, educational experience themed around the animals of our planet. See daily live animal presentations; get up close and personal with some of the Educational animals at the Montgomery Zoo; enjoy scavenger hunts; craft time; classroom time; playtime, splash time, and games at our playground; train, Stingray Bay, and sky lift rides; participate in animal encounters with the giraffes, river otters, parakeets and our collection of petting zoo animals; see behind the scene tours and visits with our zookeepers, and other staff members. July 6-10, 7-8 year olds; July 13-17, 5-6 year olds; July 20-24, 5-6 year olds. Cost: Non- members, $199 and Members, $179 . Full day includes lunch and two snacks. (334) 240.4900

montgomeryzoo.com

Prattville Parks & Recreation Summer Youth Program Weekly Field Trips, Games, Crafts and Swimming Until the Friday before school starts, 7a.m. until 6 p.m.; Ages 5 going into K-6th grade. Registration begins April 1st at the Doster Center. Parent Orientation Date: May 23 Registration Fee â€“ Nonrefundable $75 registration per child; $75/week.

River Region Parents I July 2020

YMCA Cleveland Branch 1201 Rosa L. Parks Avenue Montgomery Summer Camp Dates, Thru August 7. (334) 265.0566

ymcamontgomery.org

YMCA East Branch 3407 Pelzer Ave. Montgomery Summer Camp Dates, Thru August 7. (334) 272.3390

ymcamontgomery.org

YMCA Goodtimes 2325 Mill Ridge Drive Montgomery Summer Camp Dates, Thru August 7. (334) 279-8666

ymcamontgomery.org

YMCA Kershaw 2225 West Fairview Ave Montgomery Summer Camp Dates, Thru August 7. (334) 265.1433

ymcamontgomery.org

YMCA Wilson 1445 New Park Drive Pike Road Summer Camp Dates, Thru August 7. Please call for more information on times and fees. (334) 356.8471

ymcamontgomery.org

YMCA Wetumpka 200 Red Eagle Road Wetumpka Day camp, 6:30 a.m. - 6 p.m., Mon. - Fri. Thru August 7. Ages: Ages 5-13 (334) 567-8282

www.ymcamontgomery.org

Educational/Training/ Miscellaneous Huntington Learning Center ad on page 30

3251 Malcolm Drive, Montgomery Individual testing and tutoring in reading, study skills, writing, phonics, spelling, math and ACT/SAT prep, GED and exit exam. Students ages 5 - adult. In Center and Online. (334) 277.1108

www.huntinghelps.com

Summer School & Tutoring at Success Unlimited 4500 Vaughn Road Montgomery Tutoring offered Thru July 23. All grade levels. One on one time and Small Groups. $40 an hour. (334) 213-0803

www.suacademy.com

Sylan Individualized Tutoring Camp ad on page 20

4240 Lomac Street Montgomery 5 Week Summer Session, Thru July30. Choose your 5 week session or come for the whole summer. 2 hour session twice a week. Monday-Thursday from 9:30-11:30, 1:30-3:30 and 4:30-6:30. $120 per week with a $95 Registration fee and 50% Assessment Testing for New Students. (334) 262.0043

sylvanlearning.com/montgomery

www.riverregionparents.com

Sy ad

424 4-D from Thi Su dow Re wit sub of s pra 5W $60 cou and ses cou obs add ten We com Thi ma hou aliz and let, inte com

(33

AT t.

mer.

per s-

Sylvan Summer ACT Prep ad on page 20

4240 Lomac Street Montgomery 4-Day ACT Prep Camp, July 13-16 from 1:30-5:30; $249/No registration This 4-day course is designed to prepare for the Summer ACT test dates. The class will be broken down into subject focused sessions: English, Math, Reading, and Science. Each session will begin with a subject specific pre-test. Focusing on one subject per session allows for an in-depth analysis of strategies and content. Course booklet and practice tests provided. 5 Week Individualized ACT Prep, Thru July30; $600 with a $95 Registration fee.This 5-week course begins with a pre-test and has many date and time options available. Choose 2/2 hours sessions for 5 weeks. We build this individualized course using your student’s pre-test analysis and observations. Course includes: course booklet, additional practice tests, test taking strategies, intense content review. 6 Week Full Access ACT Prep with SylvanPrep. com, Thru July 30; $795/NO registration fee This 6-week course begins with a pre-test and has many date and time options available. Choose 2/2 hours sessions for 6 weeks. We build this individualized course using your student’s pre-test analysis and observations. Course includes: course booklet, additional practice tests, test taking strategies, intense content review AND unlimited SylvanPrep. com access. (334) 262.0043

sylvanlearning.com/montgomery

Sports Clinics Barber Elite Soccer

Faulkner Baseball Camps Faulkner University, Atlanta Highway Montgomery Youth Baseball Camp Youth Baseball Camp: June 29-July 2, July 6-9, 9 am- 2:00 pm. All registration is online. faulknerbaseballcamps.com

ad on page 42

Summer Elite Camp, July 21-23, 12-4pm, $125 Summer Fun at Arrowhead Country Club, July 6-10, July 13-17, July 27-31, 9 am to 1 pm, $175 Fall Development League, Sept 14-October 29, Ages 3-12. Register online.

FC Montgomery Soccer Futsal Capital City Sportsplex, 1555 Eastern Blvd Montgomery (indoor/air conditioned) Coach Bruno (Former pro & College coach Masters Phy. Ed.) July 6-10 and July 27-31.

barberelitesoccer.com/ home

(334) 207.5442 brunomr@fcmontgomery.com www. fcmontgomery.com

O’Connor Tennis Camps ad on page 38

500 Anderson Street Montgomery Dates: July 13-16, 20-23, 27-30 (All classes Monday thru Thursday from 9 am to 11 am) Advance registration, $100 per week. (334) 240.4884 bbradshaw10s@gmail.com www.oconnortenniscenter.com

YMCA Montgomery Soccer Complex 300 Brown Springs Road Montgomery Capital City Streaks Camp, July 27-31; Recreational Indoor Soccer League, Ages 3 -17, July 6-August 28. Please check our website for Soccer Camp dates and details. (334) 396.9754 msanchez@ymcamontgomery.org www.ymcamontgomery.org rrp

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

at Co Co un of so lov he

mo clin Bra to ing loo

rel

tha ah ex 15 “W

fee ab thr

R A

ca ity, ind tee

em situ ap Na au

“You have been playing video games for two hours, can’t you find something else to do?” I asked my son. He rolled his eyes, gave a half huff and half grunting sound as he turned off the TV and then moped by me.

rul ab

the an mu

Being a parent of a teen can be challenging due to their lack of communication with you and their testing of your rules. River Region Parents I July 2020

wit to go Yo pe www.riverregionparents.com

Dr. Kenneth Ginsburg, a physician at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and Co-Founder of Center for Parent and Teen Communication says, “We want parents to understand that this is a wonderful phase of development. There are going to be some puddles, but it is your unconditional love of your child that is their platform to help launch them into adulthood.” Another expert Dr. Alexandra Solomon, a Northwestern University professor, clinical psychologist, and author of Loving Bravely says, “The parent of a teen’s job is to shift from controlling to sideline coaching. So, a lot of the parent’s work is about loosening that control.” Some ways you can have a healthy relationship with your teen is to:

Remember That You Were A Teen Once Too

Asking yourself open-ended questions that create empathy can help you to have a healthy relationship with your teen. For example, if a parent is struggling with their 15-year-old son, Dr. Solomon would ask, “What was going on for you at age 15?” This allows you to remember how it feels to be a teenager and reminds you about some of the struggles they are going through.

Remember Adolescences Is About Gaining Independence

When your child is being stubborn it can feel as if it is an afront to your authority, but it may be their attempt at gaining independence which is a normal phase of teen development. “Teens may be struggling with strong emotions, challenging social and academic situations, and exploring who they are apart from their parents,” says Dr. Carla Naumburg, clinical social worker and author.

Remember That Teens Rebel Against Us Because They Love Us

When your child rebels against your rules it might feel as if they don’t care about you or your expectations. “Teens are pushing us away because they need to become more independent and that is hard as heck because of how much they love us,” says Dr. Ginsburg. “I think teens feel safest experimenting with the people they know are not going to go anywhere,” says Dr. Ginsburg. He goes on to say, “It’s almost a compliment. You’ve got to reframe this. If our kids experimented this way in other places of their

life it might not be safe for them. But with you it’s safe.”

Remember Your Child’s Good Characteristics

When you are feeling upset with how your teen is acting or treating you try to remind yourself about all their good characteristics. Dr. Ginsburg says, “Even during those moments of tension say to yourself, ‘there is so much that is good about my child.’” He goes on to say, “By remembering the good characteristics this will allow you to go back to the place that you need to be which is strategic. Taking a deep breath, creating a space, approaching this from a place of love instead of hostility or anger.”

Move To A “Yes” Space

Dr. Solomon explained that the moment a parent feels anger they need to pay attention because they have moved from a “yes” space to a “no” space. A “yes” space is when you are on the same team as your teen and a “no” space is when you are in fight or flight mode, leading you to try to control the situation. “If a kid is doing something that they know is going to get under their parent’s skin, a parent should think, ‘My kid loves me, I love my kid, we are happier when we are connected,’” says Dr. Solomon. After a parent recognizes they feel angry, it’s important to pause before reacting. If necessary, envision a stop sign in front of you or walk away. This step is the most difficult one because the moment can feel like it demands a response right now. When you experience conflict with your teen, like any relationship, try to resolve it together by discussing it. Enlist the idea that “we” have the same goal. “Teens are more inclined to work with us when they also feel like we are working with them,” says Dr. Naumburg. Dr. Solomon stressed the importance of not telling your teen that they are doing something wrong. She said, “When our language has a hint of ‘you are doing it the wrong way’ that is an invitation to a power struggle.” She goes on to say, “Parents need to have compassion and help their kid make healthy choices from a place of love and healthy boundaries verses fear and control.” rrp This article was originally published on Grown and Flown.Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. She married and is the mother of twins and a daughter. Her writing has been published in The New York Times, Parents Magazine, Upworthy, Chicken Soup for the Soul: Count Your Blessings and Your Teen Magazine. You can find her at Twitter @ CherylMaguire05.

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

Apologia Educational Ministries

Along with our award-winning creation-based science courses, Apologia Educational Ministries offers biblical worldview and apologetic titles, online classes, inspirational books and homeschooling tools. (888) 524.4724 www.apologia.com

Bob Jones Curriculum BJU

BJU Press exists to encourage Christian character in students and promote academic excellence through the provision of K–12 educational materials and support services. (800) 845-5731 bjupinfo@bjupress.com www.bjupresshomeschool.com

Calvert Education School

Church/Cover Schools Dayspring Academy

246 Tucker Lane Maplesville, AL 36750 DaySpring Academy/High School is a church school in Alabama offering a family-based educational program for grades K-12. (Alabama Code Section 16-28-1). The law is clear on what is required by parents and church schools so please read over this information. We believe in the right of parents to make all the educational choices for their children. (334) 518-9181 dayspringacademy@yandex.com www.dsacademy.org

Evangel Family Christian Academy

Attn: Homeschool Office, 3975 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36106 EFCA serves as a ministry of Evangel Church to enable and assist Christian parents who desire to directly supervise their children’s education in order that their children be given the best preparation to fulfill their God given purpose. EFCA also offers a variety of opportunities for member families including academic, athletic, and social activities. (334) 272.3215 www.evangelfamily.net

Everest Academy

1035 Jenkins Road Hayden, AL 35079 Everest Academy is a ministry of Everest Family Church. Our purpose is to assist parents in providing their child/children with the freedom, resources, and support to home educate in a safe and loving environment. Everest Academy believes that parents have the best interests of their children at heart. We wish to support you in your efforts to lead and guide your children in the direction and at the pace that you feel is best suited to the needs of your family. (205) 433-9828 everestacademy1@gmail.com www.alabamahomeschooling.com

Ezekiel Academy

8191 Seaton Place Montgomery, AL 36116 Ezekiel Academy is established to glorify God in all things by facilitating families in the Kingdom of God who are acting in obedience to God’s call to teach their children within the framework of God’s Word and their personally held Biblical-based convictions and beliefs, primarily the affirmation of the deity of Christ. Ezekiel Academy functions as a church school as defined in the law of Alabama (Code 16-28-1:3) and serves the purposes of legal accountability as well as a system of support and encouragement for its member families. Ezekiel Academy also offers a wide range of athletic venues under the direction of its Athletic Director. River Region Parents I July 2020

Our office is open Tuesday-Thursday from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. (334) 315.0010

www.ezekielacademy.org

New Hope Academy

301 Water Street Prattville, AL 36067 New Hope Academy provides a homeschool covering for those parents choosing to homeschool their children. We are a “hands-off” cover school, requiring only the basic enrollment procedures and attendance policies. (334) 361.9505

newhope4kids.com

Outlook Academy

Millbrook, AL 36054 Outlook Academy is an Alabama church school as defined in Alabama legal code 16-28-1. By enrolling your child/children, homeschooling parents comply with the compulsory school attendance law for children ages 6 to 17. Outlook Academy accepts members statewide. (334) 290-0919 info@outlookacademy.com www.outlookacademy.org

River Crest Academy

305 Wasden Road Hope Hull, AL 36043 River Crest Academy is a church cover school for residents of Alabama, who wish to homeschool their children. It is required to be registered with your county if your child is compulsory age (6-17). Our commitment is to the children in the home school community. (334) 398.2008 rivercrestacademy@gmail.com www.rivercrestacademy.com

Curriculum Options A Beka Curriculum

A Beka Curriculum has a Christian and traditional approach to education. Options for teaching include: DVD (fully accredited college preparatory program with A Beka Academy), Traditional ParentDirected option with A Beka Academy and the third option is textbooks and materials for homeschooling you pick and choose from. (877)223.5226

www.abeka.com/homeschool/

All in One Homeschool (AKA Easy Peasy) We enable families to homeschool who thought they couldn’t because of a lack of finances, a lack of time, or a lack of know-how. www.allinonehomeschool.com

Alpha Omega Publications

Alpha Omega Publications has the right Christian homeschool curriculum for you and your family. (800) 622.3070 www.aop.com

Calvert Education’s comprehensive homeschool curriculum uses a blend of traditional textbooks and online learning. Whether you are new to homeschooling, or a seasoned homeschool veteran, Calvert Education can work with you to tailor a program to fit your child’s needs. Calvert School provides you with all of the textbooks, tools and support you need. (888) 487-4652 www.calvertschool.org/home-school/

Heart of Dakota

Heart of Dakota publishes a Christ-centered homeschool curriculum that is easy to use, flexible, and educational. It can also be used with multiple ages at the same time. (605) 428-4068 carmikeaustin@msn.com www.heartofdakota.com

Keystone National High School

Flexible learning starts at Keystone. We are an online Accredited High School and Middle School to earn your diploma online. (800) 255-4937

www.keystonehighschool.com

Khan Academy

Khan Academy offers practice exercises, instructional videos, and a personalized learning dashboard that empower learners to study at their own pace in and outside of the classroom. We tackle math, science, computer programming, history, art history, economics, and more. Link on website www.khanacademy.org

My Father’s World

My Father’s World believes in helping parents raise generations who see the world through God’s eyes and live according to that knowledge. We utilize hands on, unit studies with daily lesson plans that are easy to teach. My Father’s World enables families and multi-age groups to learn together. (573) 202-2000 info@mfwbooks.com www.mfwbooks.com

Oak Meadow

Oak Meadow offers many different options to meet individual family needs for education. We offer a complete curriculum for at home use or you can enroll online to receive academic credit. (802) 251-7250 info@oakmeadow.com www.oakmeadow.com

Sonlight Curriculum

Sonlight uses a classical Christian approach to education. It is literature rich and focuses on teaching children to seek God’s kingdom and to create a learner’s heart. (800) 903-1675

www.sonlight.com

Tapestry of Grace

Tapestry of Grace’s products focus primarily on teaching tools for the subject of History as a guided unit study approach. This curriculum does not include a phonics program, science, math, grammar, spelling, or foreign language. (800) 705-7487

www.tapestryofgrace.com

www.riverregionparents.com

Tim

Ou sch Ou thin ricu for

(80 ww

At tion We cur exp

(80 ww

WinterPromise

WinterPromise strives to provide activities that are exciting for kids and realistic for parents! If you want a “wake up and go” curriculum that will build your own unique family culture, Winter Promise is certainly for you. Our package choices include Language Arts, Science, Note booking and Math.

ine

als

ed es

l to

Timberdoodle Company

Our goal is to offer unique and innovative homeschooling items that are fun for kids and parents. Our special emphasis is engineering, hands-on and thinking-skills products that kids love. We offer Curriculum Kits containing our company’s favorite picks for each grade level. (800) 478-0672 customerservice@timberdoodle.com www.timberdoodle.com

Veritas Press

At Veritas Press we specialize in providing educational materials for a classical Christian education. We offer scripted lesson plans with a complete curriculum package or choose online classes with expert teachers available. (800) 922-5082 info@veritaspress.com www.veritaspress.com

gmail.com www.winterpromise.com

(802) 372-9200 winterpromise@

Suport Groups and Supplementation Classical Conversations (CC) ad on page 7

CC is a community based homeschool program in the form of support groups that get together weekly. Group leaders help to equip parents to homeschool through a series of academic services, tutors, and meetings. CC offers kindergarten through 6th grade and 7th through 12 grade. https://www.classicalconversations.com

The School at Sylvan Learning Center ad on page 20

4240 Lomac Street Montgomery, AL 36106 The School at Sylvan Learning Center is a SACS (Southern Association of Colleges & Science) Accredited school program which offers an individualized education experience. By offering a low student to teacher ratio, we are able to individualize and meet the educational needs of each student. We partnership with Homeschool organizations to provide support services (sports etc), degreed teachers, science lab. Call 334262-0043 or email cd@montgomerysylvan.com for more info. (334) 262.0043 cd@montgomerysylvan.com www.sylvanlearning/Montgomery

Academy Days Homeschool Co-op

Please visit our website for a list of classes being offered for the upcoming school year. Held weekly during the school year at Grace Community Church in Millbrook, this affordable co-op is designed for students (preschool through high school) to gather for subjects difficult to teach at home or best taught in group setting. Carren Joye, carren@outlookacademy.com http://www.academydays.com

Central Alabama Homeschool Co-op

CAHC is a Christian academic cooperative for compulsory age children that meets once a week for 15 weeks in both the fall and spring semesters. We also offer a nursery and Pre-K class. We will offer four 55 minutes classes as well as one 30 minute grade level math lab. Tanya Murphy, (334) 398.2008 centralalabamahomeschoolcoop@gmail.com www.rivercrestacademy.com (under co-op tab)

se es

t mi-

ar,

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

Elmore County Homeschool Organization (ECHO)

Elmore County Homeschool Organization is a social/support group for homeschooling families. We provide a positive socialization environment for homeschooled children, and support & encourage their parents in the homeschooling process. Membership is free. ECHO offers field trips, holiday parties, enrichment activities, social activities, teen only events, and a yearly awards ceremony. elmore.co.homeschool.org@gmail.com www.onlineecho.com

Fellowship of Home Educators (FHE)

FHE is a group of families in Prattville and surrounding area who support one another in the area of home education. We offer many educational opportunities as well as social gathering for our children. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/fhenewsandinfo/

Homeschooling in the River Region

A local Facebook page with other Mothers like you. They list any local events and activities geared towards homeschoolers and support. A great place to meet new homeschooling families. Facebook under Homeschooling in the River Region

L.I.F.T.

LIFT is a supplemental program to homeschooling your students. It was developed with the intention of assisting parents of students 12 years old through students 19 years old in areas they may not feel fully confident to teach. Sharon Hubbard, 286.9957

www.liftmontgomery.org

Virtual Schools Alabama Connections Academy

21465 Alabama Highway 99 Athens, AL 35614 Tuition-free online school for grades K-12 with caring, certified teachers trained to teach online. We offer high-quality curriculum with electives at every grade level and teachers and parents who work together to support learning. (866) 485-1385 learn.connectionsacademy.com

Alabama Destinations Career Academy

A great program for K-1st repeaters

Tuition Free Online learnging. A statewide school program for learners with a passion for knowledge. Our educators are dedicated to inspiring and empowering students in grades K–9 to reach their full potential. An engaging, highly interactive curriculum allows students to “dive deep,” and includes traditional core subjects, art, music, and world languages. Alabama Online School is available for students in grades K–9 with plans to add grades 10–12 in subsequent school years. (877) 703-8816 start.k12.com

The Edge

Call 334-549-8955

517 Micanopy Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 Edgenuity’s online curriculum and learning solutions are designed to support all educators and students to meet the unique needs of any school, classroom, and student. The EDGE Virtual Program is open to students all students in Alabama. Parents will be responsible for transporting students to Elmore County for course mid-terms, finals, and mandatory state testing. Available for students in grades 3-12. (334) 514.3931, ext. 27001 virtual@elmoreco.com edgealabama.com rrp

River Region Parents I July 2020

Trin stu bib Trin com me as

www.riverregionparents.com

If y Dir jmc

Tui

Tri

d ial s

g n of h

ma es

. nts d n

Extraordinary Academics. Extraordinary Arts. Extraordinary Athletics. Extraordinary Faculty. Accredited K3 through 12th Grade Independent College-Preparatory School Trinity School is Montgomeryâ€™s foremost educational institution providing students the highest quality college-preparatory education, training them in the biblical world and life view, enabling them to serve God in spirit, mind, and body. Trinity offers a rigorous academic program, award-winning fine arts program, committed educators, outstanding athletics, and a nurturing family environment. The Trinity Experience is extraordinary in every wayâ€”an education that is as unique as your child. If you have questions or would like additional information, please contact Director of Admission Jenny McClinton at 334.213.2213 or jmcclinton@trinitywildcats.com. Tuition assistance is available. Discount offered to our military families.

Trinitywildcats.com

AT TRINITY, WE... Discover the brilliance within each child. Surround him/her with a strong family atmosphere. Show him/her how to excel in more than one area. Encourage students to strive for excellence. Emphasize Christ-like character above all else. Build leaders who possess mental, physical, and spiritual strength.

One World. One School. One Family. 61

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

FamilyCalendar Wednesday, July 1

Michael’s Kids’ Club Online: Paper Plate Llama and Alien 3 p.m. RSVP for this FREE class. The first 1,000 participants to join the Zoom call will be admitted to the class. Crafts use Crayola supplies and items you already have on hand. Recommended for all ages and all skill levels. For more info, visit https://www. michaels.com/.

Thursday, July 2

Michael’s Kids’ Club Online: Animal Bookmark and DIY Spinner 3 p.m. For details, see July 1 listing. Free Summer Concerts in Millbrook -Also July 16 6:30-8:30 p.m. Millbrook’s Village Green Park. This is the second year of “Tunes on the Green,” hosted by the City of Millbrook’s Parks and Recreation Department. Food vendors available, but no alcohol is allowed. Bring your blankets and lawn chairs. Local bands will perform for the event. For more info, call (334) 290-2047.

Friday, July 3

City of Wetumpka Fireworks 8:30 p.m. Gold Star Park, downtown Wetumpka. Arti Gras at Russell Crossroads -- Also July 4 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Town Green at Russell Crossroads, Lake Martin. Artisans and patrons from all over gather for this vast annual display of handmade goods. Artisans feature everything from jewelry, soaps, paintings, pottery, woodwork, lotions, furniture, and much more! For more info, e-mail tmitchell@russelllands.com. Friday On The Green -- Also July 10, 17, 24 & 31 6:30-8:30 p.m. Town Green at Russell Crossroads, Lake Martin. Free outdoor music event. We do ask that you social distance, just look for the circles! Performers include: July 3 Jessie Lynn; July 10 Murray Brown; July 17 Cameron DuBois; July 24 Shadowood; and July 31 John Bull. For more info, visit https://www.russelllandsonlakemartin.com/ or call (256) 397-1019.

Saturday, July 4

Prattville Independence Day Fireworks Celebration After sundown in the area near the Homeplace Clock Tower off Highway 82. There will be parking available in the nearby parking lots. For more info, call (334) 595-0850. Prattville Farmers’ Market -- Saturdays through August 29 7 a.m.-noon on Doster Road in the Grove across from Pratt Park. Fresh locally grown fruits and vegetables, along with local honey, grass-fed beef, homemade baked goods, jams, jellies, eggs, handmade bath and body products, plants and more! Throughout the season, there will be live music by local and regional musicians, surprise giveaways, artists painting on site, guest speakers, and more. Follow us on Facebook. For more info, call (334) 595-0850 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov. Fourth of July Boat Parade at Lake Martin 10 a.m.-noon. For more info, visit http://russellmarine.net/kowaliga-marina/ or call (256) 472-5665. Fourth of July Fireworks and Concert at Lake Martin Amphitheater 5 p.m. gates open; 7 p.m. The Bank Walkers perform; 8 & 9:30 p.m. The Vegabonds; 9 p.m. National Anthem performed by Jessie Lynn, followed by fire-

River Region Parents I July 2020

works. As we social distance, tickets are limited so get yours now. Then, find your spot on the grassy lawn. For more info, visit www.theamponlakemartin.com/events/july-fourth.html. EastChase Farmers Market -- Every Saturday 7 a.m.-noon. Now is the most important time to shop locally and support your Alabama farmers! Our market boasts more than 30 vendors, located near Dillard’s. Featuring fresh fruits, vegetables, breads, jams and more! Visit www.theshoppesateastchase.com/ for details.

Monday, July 6

AUM Offers ACT Prep Classes Online Mondays through Thursdays from 6-8 p.m. To ensure the safety of our students during this time, we have moved all of our summer ACT Review classes online. We are using the ZOOM web application to host our classes. We will contact students for book pick-up times before each session. ACT Science Review: July 6-9; and ACT Language Review: July 13-16. Contact Brittany Thomasson at (334) 244-3804 or bthomass@aum.edu. Visit http:// outreach.aum.edu/act-review-courses.

Tuesday, July 7

Millbrook Farmers’ Market -- Tuesdays through August 11 8 a.m.-noon. on the Village Green at the corner of Main Street and Grandview Road. Fresh from the farm regional fruits, vegetables and honey, Master Gardener demonstrations and more. For more info, call (334) 285-0330.

Saturday, July 11

Alabama Nature Center Rocks! 10 a.m. 3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook. Come visit us to search for and paint some nature scene rocks. This program will be informal and will be good for children and adults alike. All materials supplied. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (334) 285-4550. Second Saturdays at Old Alabama Town 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Second Saturdays bring special programs for the whole family including crafts, music and lectures! Children are free with a paid adult. For more info, call (334) 240-4500 or visit www. oldalabamatown.com/.

Tuesday, July 14

Creek Walk Concert Series -- Also July 28 6:30 p.m. on the Creek Walk behind City Hall. Come out with your lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy free live concerts with local and regional musicians. Local shops and eateries will be open and there will be vendors with snacks and cool treats on sites. For more info, call (334) 595-0850.

Friday, July 17

Back-to-school Sales Tax Holiday -- Through July 19 Alabama’s 15th annual sales tax holiday for schoolrelated items begins at 12:01 a.m. Friday and ends at midnight Sunday, giving shoppers the opportunity to purchase certain school supplies, computers, books and clothing free of the state’s four percent sales or use tax.

Saturday, July 18

Radical Raptors at Alabama Nature Center 10 a.m. 3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook. Come learn about birds of prey! The Alabama Wildlife Center will be out with their raptors. Learn about these fascinating creatures and their conservation concerns and threats. General admission applies and includes

this awesome program! For more info, visit www. alabamawildlife.org/ or call (334) 285-4550. Montgomery Zoo’s Animal Enrichment Day HELD VIRTUALLY 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Tour the Montgomery Zoo during our enrichment event and observe how animals respond to an assortment of new creative and behavior-stimulating enrichment. This Animal Enrichment Day will be a little different because we will tour the Zoo VIRTUALLY. To see this event, please tune into our Facebook page and YouTube Channel, at facebook.com/ montgomeryzooandmannmuseum or https://www. youtube.com/channel/UCPLE4m2av53-QM16jLWK4Q?view_as=subscriber. For more info, please call (334) 625-4900 or visit zooinfo@montgomeryal. gov.

Monday, July 20

Wetumpka Depot Offers Online Summer Theatre Camp -- Through July 31 9-10 a.m. for group sessions with individual rehearsals scheduled for each student. The Depot is looking for 20 young artists (ages 8-16) to participate in Super Happy Awesome News!, a musical written by Denver Casado, with book by Jessica Penzias and directed by Kristy Meanor. All that is needed is an internet connection to zoom into rehearsals. The final program will be recorded. Enrollment fee is $75. Please contact kmeanor@ wetumpkadepot.com for enrollment details.

Saturday, July 25

Bees are Buzzing and Honey Extraction at Alabama Nature Center 10 a.m. 3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook. Learn about pollination, beekeeping, and the equipment used in bee keeping. Guests will get to taste some local honey as well! Come learn more about the makers of delicious honey! Honey jars will be for sale in the bear den gift shop. General admission applies and includes this awesome program! For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (334) 285-4550.

Saturday, August 1

Still Creek Trek at Alabama Nature Center 10 a.m. 3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook. Take a look at some of the cool things that can only be found in the creek! This is a chance to cool off and maybe even find some animals that call the creek home! Bringing a change of clothes is suggested, shoes or sandals (chacos or tevas) are required, no flip flops. You will not need a life jacket.General admission applies and includes this awesome program! For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife. org/ or call (334) 285-4550.

Saturday, August 8

Annual AWF Youth Fishing Rodeo 7 a.m. Bring the kids, a few fishing poles, and a cooler and join us early this morning down at the catfish pond! Children 15 and under can catch and take home up to 5 catfish each (catfish only), but can catch and release all they want! Each child will receive a free t-shirt and a chance to win a door prize! Make sure to call ahead (334-285-4550) and put your name on the list. Admission is free, snacks and drinks will also be available. Visit www. alabamawildlife.org/youth-fishing-rodeo/.

Please send calendar info to editor@riverregionparents.com. www.riverregionparents.com

L Il

acc 3-D ad its thro be orig wit exp cre and Sta

S Li

the lay as ple seg to co pla co ca ac rac rul the

Building Better with Light

w. Kall

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Building toys are always ideal resources to introduce kids to scientific principles like gravity, kinetics, motion, geometry and more. But when you add illumination to the mix, that hands-on learning gets new layers that light up imaginations. Light sources are often used by childcare experts to comfort children in stressful situations (medical procedure, sensory overload). Glowing light creates a mesmerizing effect that both focuses attention, while limiting other distractions. The following toys combine gentle light with constructive elements creating brilliant opportunities for focused, educational and dedicated play time.

by Gerry Paige Smith

ot rical

ut d cal ers

)

Light Stax Illuminated Blocks

Glow-in-the-Dark Crazy Fort

Building blocks remain one of most accessible manipulatives for kids exploring 3-D design. Light Stax Illuminated Blocks adds an extra dimension of appeal with its LED base which channels light upward through every new construction! With 36 beautifully-colored translucent bricks, kids can craft structures, robots, or original forms that glow with gentle light throughout assembly. Compatible with most other traditional building bricks, there are inexpensive Light Stax expansion kits that can send builds soaring even higher. Every Light Stax creation can also be used as a custom night light with adjustable modes and a 15 minute auto-shutoff. With cool battery-powered LED lighting, Light Stax Illuminated Blocks put a whole new shine on building brick design!

Blanket forts, a cornerstone of kid construction adventures, get an illuminating upgrade with Glow-in-the-Dark Crazy Fort. Each fort kit contains 25 geometrically precise ball-shaped toggles and 44 sticks that connect to create a multitude of possible play structures. Just charge the toggles with normal light and let a child’s imagination guide the shape of fort construction. Ideally, a dark-colored sheet provides best covering, though the rod and toggle frame can support a light-weight blanket as well. From pirate ships to geodesic domes, the potential for design is wide open. With the gentle interior illumination provided by the glowing toggles, the Everest Glow-in-the-Dark Crazy Fort promises to become the most popular retreat in the house!

Snap N’ Glow Trax Light Speedway

Glow-in-the-Dark Marble Run

Driven by illuminated race cars, the Snap N’ Glow Trax Light Speedway lays the groundwork for endless fun in a snap! This 360-piece set includes plenty of flexible rainbow-colored track segments that are easy for little hands to manipulate and connect. And while it seems like a lot of pieces to corral, finished track sections can be rolled up for storage and repeated play. With additional ramp, intersection and bridge pieces, the track construction options are supremely versatile. The battery-powered race cars provide the light as they zip around the raceway. For additional action, this set includes two Trax Spheres that can be propelled by the race cars’ momentum. While the set features a few roadway signs, traffic rules are suspended as kids build their own racing venue that lights up the road ahead!

Marble runs always offer an exciting combination of constructive play and kinetic movement for kids, With more than 80 pieces (track and action pieces),the Glow-in-the-Dark Marble Run adds glowing brilliance to countless imaginative configurations. The translucent track pieces fit snugly together creating a structure that’s sturdy enough for long-lasting play. Once the run is constructed,15 glow-in-the-dark marbles light up the maze, tracing their looping path with illumination as they race through the dark. The kit includes a small UV light keychain to charge the marbles for longer, brighter light effects. With a detailed learning guide, young builders pick up peripheral information about the physics of motion, gravity, and more. The whole set stores in a mesh bag for portable play on any level surface. Perfect for young engineers, the Glow-in-the-Dark Marble Run lights up playtime with bright building options!

(Everest)

(Light Stax)

ok d

ek d, ral

ife.

e nd ut will

, ww.

(USA Toyz)

(National Geographic)

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

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

ing, basic housekeeping, time management, and prioritizing what you need to do before doing what you want to do. RRP: What is something that you hope your sons are learning by watching you? Joscelyn: I want my boys to know you can always do something with what you have to help others. It doesn’t have to be a huge thing, but it should be something.

Joscelyne Cutchens

RRP: You grew up in Hawaii. What are some things you miss about Hawaii that you wish your kids could experience here? Joscelyne: Food and family, food with family, and food. The beaches in Hawaii are beautiful and there are definitely more opportunities to connect with our Hawaiian culture at home.

RRP: You are a mom to boys in high school and college. How would you describe your parenting style now that your children are older?

RRP: What advice do you have for new parents? Joscelyne: Take lots of pictures and write down the stories when they happen or you will forget them. If you can’t commit to a scrapbook, maybe a private Instagram. Be in the pictures with your babies; you and baby will never be this young again. Capture it!

Joscelyne: While my parenting style is still love filled, I feel like I have stepped back a little to give them room to become who they are meant to be. Don’t get me wrong, I still correct, guide, and encourage, but it’s definitely more relaxed than when they were toddlers. We discuss motivation and possible outcomes of choices. I also ask their permission before posting about them on social media, something I didn’t think about when they were little.

RRP: If you could go back and spend one season with your children when they were younger, which time would you go back to? Joscelyne: I loved the days of reading stories together. We would discuss what the characters might be thinking, what might happen next, what our favorite funny parts of the story were. Those were simple times. RRP: What is the hardest thing about being a mom? Joscelyne: Have we taught them all they need to know? Will they be prepared for life without us?

RRP: If you could go back to when you first became a mother, what would you say?

RRP: What has been the easiest?

Joscelyne: (To myself) Don’t forget to breathe and pray during that hyper-vigilance. Also tell everyone not to pick up or swing your children by their arms, nursemaid’s elbow will lead to ER visits, and don’t balance your car seat on top of the shopping cart. (About my parenting style) My most important job is to keep the baby safe, well fed, and clean.

Joscelyne: Loving these incredible humans with my whole being. Learning things together, going on family adventures, cultivating a curiosity of how things work. RRP: What one “mom chore” would you forever outsource if you could?

RRP: During this pandemic, you have been sewing masks using your sewing skills. What skills would you like to know that you have passed down to your sons?

Joscelyne: Cleaning the floors. Our dog generates tumbleweeds daily.

Joscelyne: I want my sons to know how to take care of themselves and others. They definitely are learning laundry, cook-

Joscelyne and her husband Troy have been married for 24 years and are the parents of two sons: Jalen (19) and Jordan (15). She is the owner of Bossy Joscie Crafty Goods and you can visit her at joscie.com.

River Region Parents I July 2020

www.riverregionparents.com

River Region

MEDICAL · COSMETIC · LASER

DERMATOLOGY & LASER

Love

the skin you’re in. Dr. Porcia Love Brittany Boylan, CRNP Jo Shuford-Guice, MSN, FNP-BC

PROVIDING THE HIGHEST QUALITY OF CARE TO OUR PATIENTS IN A COMPASSIONATE AND PERSONALIZED MANNER. ACNE · DISCOLORATION · ECZEMA · HAIR LOSS · SKIN CANCER PREVENTION AND TREATMENT · PEDIATRIC DERMATOLOGY BOTOX · CHEMICAL PEELS · FILLER · FACIAL REJUVENATION · LASER SERVICES · MICRONEEDLING

COOLSCULPTING

River Region Dermatology & Laser 2060 Berryhill Road · Montgomery, AL 36117 (334) 676-3366 · RRDermatologyLaser.com 1 www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

CHAMPIONS OF HONOR, RESILIENCE & THE JUNGLE GYM [ PORTRAIT OF A GRADUATEâ€”THE BEGINNING ]

What does an MA graduate look like? Diverse in every way, yet sharing surprisingly similar qualities. As early as kindergarten, The Montgomery Academy looks ahead to the kind of qualities a young adult needs to succeed. Programs are structured and experiences are designed around creating life-long learners who challenge themselves. Co-curricular involvement is planned to champion honor, ethics, diversity, and service. We do all this. But if you ask a third grader what they did in school today, theyâ€™ll probably tell you about the amazing playground.

Th e M o n t g o m e r y A c a d e m y The Pursuit of Excellence in K-12 Education Contact Rachael Gallagher, admissions@montgomeryacademy.org | 334.272.8210 | montgomeryacademy.org 1