Alabama Baby & Child Summer 2013

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There’s only one way to decide where to have your baby: Ask a mother. There are certain things only a mother can know. Like why kisses are the best medicine for boo-boos. Or how a tiny pair of socks can break your heart in the best way. Or most of all, how it feels to carry a life inside you—then welcome it into the world. That’s why, if you’re deciding where to have your baby, there’s only one recommendation you should trust: a mother’s. So don’t take our word for it. Ask your friends.

#ichooseb Tag your Twitter or Instagram photos with #ichooseb so we can collect and curate them for our photo gallery on iChooseB.com, or upload them directly to iChooseB.com/photo.

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baby alabama

July/August/September 2013

contents www.albabymag.com

& child

22

PUBLISHER & EDITOR IN CHIEF Cecilia Pearson

26

30

EDITOR AT LARGE LaTanya Bayles DESIGN Amy Heise Murphree

features

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Kim Hildenbrand Jane Longshore

22 26 30

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Becky Abernathy Bonnie Goodman

Carried Away: Babywearing 101 Brookwood Women’s Center Seaside

departments 08 12 16 18

AD DESIGN Terry Gamble Karyn Hallman BABYPALOOZA EVENT DIRECTOR Kassady Gibson

News & Notes Parents’ Choice Awards: Covenant Classical Preschool Children’s Health: Summer Safety Tips Children’s Health: Pool Safety

in every issue 04 40 44

INTERNS Holland Bayles Jacey Stanton

Editor’s Letter Family Event Picks Backpage

Lifestages Publishing Inc., Copyright 2004-2013. Lifestages Publishing Inc. publishes Alabama Baby & Child quarterly. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Publisher assumes no liability for unsolicited art, photographs, manuscripts, or other material. Disclaimer: Statements and opinions expressed in Alabama Baby & Child are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Lifestages Publishing Inc. Information provided should not be interpreted as medical instructions;

editorial

content is not intended as medical advice. Consult appropriate healthcare professionals prior to taking any action. Although great care has been taken in compiling and checking the information given in this publication to ensure accuracy, the authors, Lifestages Publishing Inc., and its servants or agents shall not be responsible or in any way liable for the continued currency of the information or for any errors, omissions, or inaccuracies in this magazine, whether arising from negligence or otherwise or for any consequences arising therefrom. The appearance of an ad in Alabama Baby & Child does not constitute an endorsement of that product or service.

contact us LifeStages Media 130 Wildwood Pkwy. Suite 108-204 Birmingham, AL 35209 t. (205) 445-1345 www.albabymag.com www.babypaloozatour.com www.albabymag.com 1




from the editor THIS IS A SPECIAL ISSUE for us because of the amount of input we received about what readers wanted

us to cover. One item that resulted from reader input particularly moved me, as I hope it will move you as well. We had many posts on our Facebook page of fans asking us to publish something honoring the life of Thomas Sullivan, a child who had recently passed after a long and difficult battle with cancer. I think losing a child has to be the hardest thing any parent, or any person, can endure. It is our honor to print a tribute to Thomas Sullivan, which you will find on page 44. Everything else in the issue came from reader suggestions, from the practice of “babywearing” to family-friendly vacation destinations. We love reader input and respond as often as we can to your requests for stories. If you have a story you would like for us to consider please visit our website and look for “your stories” on the right hand side to complete the form. Our staff reviews these on a weekly basis. We also have an advisory board, guest mom blogger opportunities, and other ways for you to get involved with us. Look for all of this and more at www.albabymag.com.

Until next time,

Cecilia “CC” Pearson

24/7 @ albabymag.com

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This is a bathtub. Because the moment you learn you’re having a baby is the moment when everything changes.

That’s why St. Vincent’s is with you every baby step of the way with a variety of classes such as Preparing for Parenthood. After all, we’re not just where babies come from, St. Vincent’s is where parents are born.

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hot off the press C O M P I L E D BY A L A B A M A B A BY & C H I L D S TA F F

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FAMILY FRIENDLY FAMILYFRIENDLY ENHANCEMENTS AT BIRMINGHAM AIRPORT

The announcement of the completion of the first phase of modernization at the Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport was accompanied by good news for nursing mothers and parents of small children. A number of new features have been designed specifically to enhance the comfort and convenience of traveling parents and their children. Four family bathrooms at the Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport make it easier to get everyone ready to catch a departing flight or make a quick pit stop after arrival. Family bathrooms are located on each concourse: at Concourse A between gates A3 and A5; at the A/B node between Chick-fil-A and gate B1; and on Concourse B near the checkpoint across from gate B5 and pre-security near exit door 1. The family bathroom located beyond security is equipped with changing tables and kids’ size commodes. Nursing mothers can take advantage of private rooms that are now available to nurse a baby or express breast milk. The Nursing Rooms are located on Concourse B across from gate B4 adjacent to the family restroom and to the left of the exit lane located at the A/B node across from gate B1. Each room is equipped with ample counter space and includes a sink, a comfortable glider, and electrical outlets. Designed and funded by the McWane Science Center, two children’s play areas help keep kids occupied while waiting at the airport. These Kidzones, located on Concourse A next to gate A2 and on Concourse B between gates B2 and B3, were established by the Birmingham Airport Authority’s Terminal Modernization Project, Art and Cultural Attractions Committee. The Concourse B Kidzone features an airplane, a rainbow slide, and a luggage cart for kids to enjoy. The Concourse A Kidzone features three different dinosaurs with slides. Each kidzone is also equipped with televisions programmed with child-friendly programming. To learn more, visit www.flybirmingham.com. www.albabymag.com 7


news & notes

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KID PLAY AT REGIONS FIELD Opened in April 2013, the new Regions Stadium in downtown Birmingham, home of the Birmingham Barons, has quickly become a favorite family destination. The state-of-the-art 8,500 seat facility in the heart of downtown replaced Hoover Metropolitan Stadium, the home of the Barons since 1988. The crown jewel of Birmingham’s newly developed Parkside District features a variety of unique seating areas, creating an intimate atmosphere and offering unique views of the downtown skyline, UAB, Children’s Hospital, Vulcan, and Red Mountain. With an emphasis on providing most fun and affordable family-friendly entertainment, Regions Field features a variety of unique attractions for fans of all ages including the Power Force Sports Zone, which features a mini wife ball ďŹ eld that looks just like the main ďŹ eld where kids can take a swing and run the bases just like their big league heroes. The Bright House Family Fun Park features slides, inatables, and play equipment, while the Power Force Batting Cage, located in right ďŹ eld, allows fans to take their cuts in the same batting cage used by the Barons. Grassy berms that surround the outďŹ eld offer perfect spots for kids to take in the game or play games of their own on the gently rolling hills, while rocking chairs positioned strategically around the main concourse offer parents a place to relax while keeping an eye on both their little ones and the game at the same time.

The Right Foundation for Learning and Life. Just Ask a Mom or Dad. ´$IWHU YLVLWV WR YDULRXV VFKRROV ZH Ă€ QDOO\ GHFLGHG RQ VHQGLQJ KHU WR 3ULPURVH EHFDXVH RI LWV HPSKDVLV RQ TXDOLW\ OHDUQLQJ , ZRXOG FHUWDLQO\ UHFRPPHQG LW WR SDUHQWV ORRNLQJ IRU D SODFH WKDW RIIHUV TXDOLW\ FDUH HGXFDWLRQ DQG DOO DURXQG GHYHORSPHQW Âľ Kitu, Primrose Mom Primrose School of Meadowbrook | 205.991.3020 Primrose School at Liberty Park | 205.969.8202 Primrose School at Riverwoods | 205.685.1905

Each Primrose School is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools and The Leader in Educational Child Care are trademarks of Primrose School Franchising Company. Š2013 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved.

8 www.albabymag.com


BIRMINGHAM NAMED ALL-AMERICA CITY

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The city of Birmingham was recently named an “All-America City” by the National Civic League (NCL), the first time the city has received the distinction in 42 years. The NCL recognizes 10 communities each year for outstanding civic accomplishments. To win, each community must demonstrate innovation, inclusiveness, civic engagement, and cross sector collaboration by describing successful efforts to address pressing local challenges. More than 600

communities have won the award, some as many as five times. According to the NCL website, “All-America Cities have shown the ability to innovate in such areas as job creation, neighborhood revitalization, crime reduction, new housing for low income people, improving education, and engaging youth.” To be considered for the award, participating cities must list three examples of significant community change and planning over the last five years. Other cities named as 2013 winners include Downey, California; Montrose, Colorado; Peoria, Illinois; Dubuque, Iowa; Owensboro, Kentucky; Dunn, North Carolina; Garner, North Carolina; Thomasville, North Carolina; and Norfolk, Virginia. Birmingham touted such recently completed improvements as Regions Field, the newly opened downtown home of the Birmingham Barons; Railroad Park, which received the 2012 Urban Land Institute’s Urban Open Space Award; and numerous neighborhood park renovations, including the rebirth of Avondale Park and the re-emergence of the surrounding area as a dining and entertainment destination.

Six wonderful Six wonderful O OBs. Bs. O ne e wonderful wo onderful p lace tto o One place have baby. h ave yyour our b aby y. Lewis Schulman, M.D.; Natalie N Reddington, D.O.; Andy Lemons, Lemon ns, M.D.; J.C. Brock, M.D.; Margaret Miklic, Mar rgar g ret e Mikl ic, M.D.; Robert A. DeSantis, DeSantis, M.D. Members of tthe he Medical Me edical Staff Stafff at Trinity Trinity Medical Medical Center

Just like you, we e want the best for you and yo your our baby. And the OBs at Trinit Trinity ty OB/GYN have h d devoted d their h i lives li to providin providing idi g attentive, i individualized i di id li d care care. e. They’re support supported ted by leading-edge technolo technology gy and dedicated professiona professionals ls who care for ne new ew moms and babies in our beautiful b Women’s Center. We W even have a Lev Level vel III NICU for babies who ne need ed a little extra help. À > >«« Ì À > >«« Ì i Ì Ü Ì > iÝ«iÀ i Vi` " ] V> Óäx x Ó x{ ° 7i >Ûi Ã>Ìi Ìi vwVià i Ì Ü Ì > iÝ«iÀ i Vi` " ] V> Óäx x Ó x{ ° 7i >Ûi Ã>Ìi Ìi vwVià Chelsea, Libertyy Park, Pell City, Pinson and Trussville. T For directions, visitt TrinityMedicalClinics.com. www.albabymag.com 9


news & notes

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Mommy/Delivery BFFLBag Now Available

Packed and ready to go at a moment’s notice, the Mommy/Delivery BFFLBag® is full of all the essentials for a C-section or traditional birth. Made of lightweight, stain-resistant pack cloth, and featuring metal feet to keep the bag off the hospital floor, Mommy/Delivery BFFLBag is roomy enough room for clothing and other essential personal items. The bag contains a specially designed axillapilla® pillow for recovery and nursing support; a collapsible water bottle; perineal ice packs; soft, washable nursing pads; wound/incision care pack, toiletries, amusements, KIND healthy snack bars, and more. The retail price is $120. For more information, visit bfflco.com/product/mommydelivery-bffl-bag.

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Dr. Jesanna Cooper Joins Princeton BMC and Simon Williamson Clinic

Princeton Baptist Medical Center recently announced that Dr. Jesanna Cooper, OB/ GYN, has joined its medical staff. Dr. Cooper has practiced obstetrics and gynecology in Birmingham for more than 10 years. She received her undergraduate degree from the University of Texas and her medical degree from UAB. She completed her residency at Beth Israel Medical Center at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine. “I chose the field of OB/Gyn because I am a passionate advocate for women’s health,” says Dr. Cooper. “As a physician I enjoy helping women make informed choices and empower themselves when it comes to their health. I also love being able to help bring new life into the world and never cease to be humbled and amazed each time I deliver a new baby.” She is now accepting new patients and can be reached for an appointment at 205-206-8477. To learn more about Princeton BMC’s Women’s Center, visit princetonbaby.org.

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parents’ choice

covenant classical school & daycare Covenant Classical Schools and Daycare Offering Alabama parents award-winning Christian child-care and education

Best Preschool 2013

IN 1999, A GROUP OF BIRMINGHAM BUSINESSMEN WERE SEEKING TO INVEST IN CHRISTIAN BUSINESS.

They had three goals: a sound financial return on investment, Christian employment for their children, and most important, to help parents shape the moral values of their children. After discussing the possibilities and praying for guidance, they visited a child-care center in Florida. There they learned that preschool children can learn to read and write, as well as some basic arithmetic. They were also impressed with the Bible teaching the students received each day. Inspired, the men returned to Alabama determined to invest in childcare. They pooled investment funds to start three child-care centers, two in Birmingham and one in

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section name Huntsville, and named the enterprise Covenant Classical Schools, LLC. Classical refers to a way of teaching brought to the American Colonies by the Puritans that stressed rigorous academics including early reading. These devout Christians wanted their children to become Christians, and reasoned that the best way to achieve this goal was to give their children the ability to read the Bible for themselves. In recent years classical education has made a comeback—today there are more than 200 schools that claim to teach classically. Covenant Classical Schools opened their doors in January 2000, offering Christian child-care and preschool education for children six-weeks through kindergarten. “We challenge our students in a more structured school-like atmosphere rather than a typical daycare/play-care environment with a focus on Biblical characteristics” says CEO John LaBreche. The centers launched with just a handful of students, but today there are five Covenant Classical Schools, two in Huntsville, at Research Park and off Madison Pike, and three in the greater Birmingham area, two in Hoover and one in Pelham. Each campus boasts many classes that are fully enrolled, and some with waiting lists. School tours result in enrollments more than 80 percent of the time, if space allows. Classrooms are structured around a balance of controlled play time and academic class time with well-trained teachers who teach the A Beka curriculum in the classical tradition. LaBreche credits the commitment of the instructors for much of Covenant Classical Schools’ success: “It is our staff that allows us to provide the excellent service that we offer to our families with a safe and secure environment.”

DETAILS Interested parents can complete and submit a form online to get more information, or call or stop by to request a school tour. For more information, visit www.ccslion.com. Covenant Classical School Pelham Campus 450 Huntley Parkway Pelham, AL 35124 205-620-2626 Covenant Classical School Valleydale Road Campus 25 Southlake Lane Hoover, AL 35244 205-444-5437 Covenant Classical School Trace Crossings Campus 5390 Magnolia Trace Hoover, AL 35244 205-733-5437

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children’s health

summer safety for your baby

For additional information on how to make a difference in the life of a child visit Childcare Resources http://www.ccr-bhm.org/community/ and Children’s Trust Fund of Alabama http://ctf.alabama.gov/Awareness.htm

Summer brings with it a different set of safety precautions than other seasons, especially for infants. BY DONNA GODBE E, IN FAN T/TOD D LER SPECIALIST, C H ILD CA R E RESOU RC ES

1 2 3 16 www.albabymag.com

SUN EXPOSURE:

Infants have much thinner skin and need to be protected from sun exposure. Infants under six months should have minimal sun exposure with little sunscreen. Older infants need to wear sun screen of at least 30 SPF and be kept in shady areas, under umbrellas or wearing large brimmed hats. HYDRATION:

The America Academy of Pediatrics discourages giving water to children less than six months old, even in hot climates. Moms can expect their babies to drink more milk/formula during warm weather. Older infants can be offered small amounts of water or diluted fruit juice. HOT VEHICLES:

According to NBC news, June 9, 2013, 7 children have died so far this spring from being left in hot vehicles. “A child’s body heats up far faster than an adult’s and children don’t handle heat as well. Pediatric emergency experts say it can take as little as 15 minutes in an overheated car for a child to suffer lifethreatening brain or kidney injuries. When body temperature reaches 104 degrees, internal organs shut down. At 107 degrees, children die.” Always

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check the back seat and don’t assume another adult has taken the child out of the car. INSECTS, SPIDERS AND OTHER CREEPY CRAWLIES: Prevention is the

best medicine. Keep children out of these critters’ favorite hangout places. Bees love flowers, mosquitoes hang out around standing water and ticks love bushy areas. Enjoy a stroller walk with your baby by draping insect netting over the stroller. Insect repellent is not recommended for infant’s skin. A repellent with low concentrations of DEET may be lightly applied to your baby’s clothing if they are older than two months.


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WHEN SCHOOL SC CHOOL IS OUT AND THE SUMMERTIME SUMM MERTIME HEAT HEA AT ARRIVES, ARR RIVES, KIDS OF ALL AGES AGES WILL L BE CLAMORING POOL. CLAMORI NG TO O SPEND THEIR TIME AT AT THE T WHILE THE THE POOL CAN BE A FUN AND RELAXING RE ELAXING RETREAT RETREA AT FOR FAMILIES, FAMILIES A , IN THE BLINK OF O AN EYE IT CAN TURN TU URN INTO O A NIGHTMARE.

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Nearly 1,000 kids die every year by drowning drrowning and it is the second seecond leading cause of accidental accidental death for people between bettween the ages of 5 - 24. It is important im mportant to remember remembber b that h drowning d i is i preventable preventab bble bl if people l take the time tiime to learn and utilize the proper prooper safety precautions. precaution ns. Supervision Superv vision for swimmers is the most important element ooff pool safety safety.. “There really isn’t isn’t an age for someone to t swim unsupervised, even wh when hen you’re an adult, it i is always best to swim with a buddy buddy,” ,” said Karen Coc Cochrane, chrane, patient health and safet safety ty expert at Children’ss of Alabama. “In case somethin Children’ something ng happened, there wou would uld be somebo somebody dy there to help you. yyou.”

pool ppoo ol safety saff tyy P R OV I D E D BY

CHILDREN’S OF ALABAMA

Here aree just a few safety measures that t will helpp keep your family’s family family’’s time at the th he pool enjoyable enjoyabl le and safe: Invest in n proper-fitting, proper-fitting, Coast Guard-approved Guard-aapproved flotation n devices (life vests) and use them th hem whenever a child is i near water. water. Check the weight weigh ht and size recommendations recomm mendations on the label, then have h your child try it on n to make sure it fits snugly. snugly. Forr kids younger than 5 years y old, choose a vest with a strap s between the legs and head support — the collarr will keep the child’ss head child’ h up and face out of the water. watter. Inflatable vests andd arm devices such as water wings wiings are not effectivee protection against drowning. If youu don’t don’t already, already, it’s it’s a good good ideaa to learn how

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to swim, and a children older than 4 yearss should learn too (check the local recreation center learn, ceenter for classes taught tauught by qualified instructors). Kids K who are younger youngger (but older than age 1) also might m benefit from froom swimming lessons, but check checck with your doctor doctoor first. Don’tt assume that a child who knows Don’ know ws how to swim isn’t isn’t at risk for drowning. All kids need to be supervisedd in the water, water, no matter what their swimmingg skill levels. And infants, toddlers, todd dlers, and weak swimmers swim mmers should have an adult swimmer sw wimmer within arm’s arm m’s reach to provide “touch supervision.” suppervision.” To T o lea learn rn more about how to keep thee pool safe for your family, faamily, visit www.childrensal.org. www.childrensal.org.


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away

carried

Babywearing Basics BY K I M H I L D E N B R A N D

WHEN CRYSTAL KNEZEK’S DAUGHTER WAS BORN PREMATURELY, THE BUSY MOM TURNED TO BABYWEARING TO BOND WITH HER BABY, KEEP HER CLOSE AND WARM, AND MONITOR HER. WHEN HER TWINS WERE BORN TWO YEARS LATER, BABYWEARING BECAME A NECESSITY.

“I now have someone on my back or hip every day,” Knezek says. “I can go to the grocery store, take a hike in the woods, or go to a sporting event and know that my kids will be safe and happy.” Now a volunteer babywearing educator with Babywearing International of Birmingham, Knezek and her fellow educators enjoy sharing their knowledge of babywearing with moms throughout the greater Birmingham area. Consider these tips to get started.

Cristina and Charley. Susie’s husband hiking. BWI group picnic.

CHOOSE A CARRIER THAT WORKS FOR YOU. Your

neighbor may love her carrier, but that doesn’t mean it’s the best option for you. Consider your needs: How old is your baby, and how much does she weigh? Would you prefer to wear your little one on your front, your hip, or your back? Do you have special circumstances such as back pain or a shoulder injury? How do you plan to use the carrier: for quick errands, on long hikes, or playing at the beach? Do you want a carrier that facilitates breastfeeding? Jot down your thoughts so you can begin to research and shop. POSITION YOUR BABY PROPERLY. For your baby’s

comfort and safety, proper positioning is vital. Rule No. 1: To ensure your baby can breathe freely, be sure her head is not curled against her chest and that her face is not covered in fabric or pressed against your body. An infant should be mostly upright and close enough that you can kiss the www.albabymag.com 23


CARRIER T TYPES Y YPES pouc h pouch

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tube worn over tube ffolded olded in half and w orn o ver shoulde er; some pouches pouches are one shoulder; adjustable. adjustable. ring sling: a piece of fabric fabric with two rings o n one end; the ffabric abric two on is threaded through the rings to po ouch where bab y rides produce a pouch baby and an adjustable adjusstable ttail. ail. wraparound d

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top of o her head. Respect each carrier’s carrier’s age and a weight limits, and only usee them m as directed. For instance,, your you y ur baby should never be worn on yourr back in a stretchy wraparound sling sling. g.

on the market, but babywearing babbywearing with simple pieces of cloth or o straps has been practiced p byy people peop p pple throughout g history and around thee globe,” says Susie Spence, master babywearing b educator with Babywearing Babyweaaring International of Birmingham. Birmin ngham. “I have been known to carry caarry babies in bed sheets, small tablecloths, tabblecloths, and beach towels.”

BE SA SAFE AFE WHEN BABYWEARING. BAB BYWEARING. One O rule of o thumb is that if you would not participate p in an activity while pregnant, pregn nant, you should not do so while whiile wearing wearing a baby. baby. Avoid Avvoid babywearingg during durin ng activities that could lead to a fall or shake sh h k your baby—examples hake b b l include iincllude d skating, skatin ng, jumping on a trampoline, or o riding ridin ng a bicycle or horse. Inspect your yoour carrier carrieer frequently for tears or weak spots, spotss, and check on your baby often. often n.

SEEK OUT OTHER OTHER BABYWEARERS. BAB BYWEARERS.

One off the O h best b ways to to meet other h babywearers, get hands-on handss-on help, and try new carriers is to find a Babywearing International Internatiional chapter or other nonprofit babywearing babyywearing group near you. If you can’t can’t make m it to a meeting, you may wish h to join an online forum such as TheBabywearer T TheBabywearer.. com. The Internet is also a a great source for how-to how to videos and informative articles. And don’t don’t be shy—if you see a caregiver wearing a baby, b , strike up a baby conversation about it. You You just might make a new friend.

mei tai: a carrier c rier that ffeatures car eatures a body panel with w waist waist and shoulder

CONSIDER CON SIDER BABYWEARING BABYWEARING A SKILL. SKILL L.

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Wheether you own a commercial baby Whether baaby carrier carrie er or a simple piece of cloth, once you get the hang of the basic babywearing babyw wearing positions, you can wear weaar your baby with ease. “There are many maany high-tech high-tech commercial baby carrierss

soft sof ft structu structured ured car carrier: rrier: r a carrier carrier thick that features featuress a body panel, a thic k waistband, w aistband, and shoulder straps buckle. that buc kle.

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WOOD

BY K I M H I L D E N B R A N D

Medical Center:

High-Risk Pregnancy and Neonatal Services

Opposite Page: (Left to Right) Wahib Mena, MD; Antonio Gonzalez-Ruiz, MD; Martha Strange, MD; Vick DiCarlo, MD www.albabymag.com 29


30 www.albabymag.com


NEONATIAL INTENSIVE CARE UNIT SERVICES

Newborns facing health challenges may end up in Brookwood’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU): a state-of-the-art facility, with a dedicated floor, featuring private rooms and family-oriented spaces. Open around the clock, the level 3 NICU offers private rooms and is staffed by board-certified neonatologists, neonatal respiratory therapists, and RNs who are certified in infant CPR, drug intervention, and advanced life support. While most newborns admitted were born at Brookwood, patients in outlying hospitals not equipped with the necessary services can take advantage of a neonatal/maternal transport program, which is conducted by a specially trained team. “We take care of babies from 12 ounces up to 14 pounds,” says neonatologist Dr. Wahib Mena. “And the 12-ounce baby is 21 years old now.” Brookwood’s major remodel transformed the facility from a 5,000-sqare-foot open space to a 33,000-square-foot that offers private rooms for 29 patients. “Private rooms decrease infection and provide a better environment to promote bonding and breastfeeding,” Dr. Mena says. “We promote kangaroo care and skin-to-skin contact as soon as possible. We are open 24 hours a day and encourage parents to spend time with their babies anytime.” The new facility, says Sara Henderson, NICU Director, is a “home away from home” for parents of babies who require care. Along with the private rooms, a spacious, elegant family lounge offers a getaway where parents and siblings can gather to eat, watch cartoons, or simply relax together. Ideal for family meals, the space features tables, microwaves, and refrigerators. The stone fireplace, windows with views, and special sound-absorbing floors make it a relaxing retreat.

For Dr. Mena, the best part of his job is sending his patients home. “I love sending babies home with their parents, seeing their joy,” he says. “They may laugh or cry—but if they cry, it’s tears of joy.” But that is often not the last the physicians and nurses see of their tiny patients. Each year, Brookwood hosts a NICU reunion and invites all the NICU “graduates” to attend. “It’s a huge turnout,” Henderson says. “The families come and eat cake, play games, and talk to the doctors. Everyone loves it. Some of the babies are teens now, and they still come back.” BREASTFEEDING ASSISTANCE

Because they are facing special health challenges, newborns in the NICU especially benefit from breastmilk. Dr. Mena notes that regardless of infants’ size and health, they receive colostrum or breastmilk. “We take breastfeeding very seriously here at Brookwood,” he says. The numbers reveal he’s right. With breastfeeding rates in the 75 to 85 percent range, Brookwood Women’s Medical Center exceeds the national standards. Long-term breastfeeding rates (at one, three, and six months) also reveal higher-than-average percentages of nursing mothers. NICU Director Sara Henderson credits Brookwood’s excellent lactation program as well as the top-notch training the nurses receive. “Nutrition is so important,” she says. “We try to get baby to the breast as soon as possible and promote skin-to-skin contact.” LEARN MORE Want to learn more about the many options at Brookwood Women’s Center? Visit iChooseB.com to learn more about the facility and staff, get a listing of classes and events, and read personal experiences from Alabama families.

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32 www.albabymag.com


T he One, the Only—

SEASIDE A family vacation destination like no other

t

BY J A N E L O N G S H O R E

TRADITIONAL NEIGHBORHOOD DEVELOPMENTS (TNDS) HAVE SPREAD LIKE WILDFIRE ACROSS THE COUNTRY SINCE THE CONCEPT WAS FIRST INTRODUCED IN THE 1980S.

The form, also called New Urbanism, emphasizes a pedestrian scale, public green spaces, and a variety of dwelling types and mixed retail/residential structures. It has been adopted with particular zeal by coastal vacation community developers, whose clientele is eager to arrive, park the car, and get down to the business of relaxing with family and friends in a cozy, home-like atmosphere. If one were to crown the king of New Urbanist communities, an obvious and apt choice would be

Seaside, located on northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast in the South Walton area between Panama City and Destin. Founded in 1981, Seaside is credited as the country’s first New Urbanist community, and its cheerful pastel color palette, traditional Florida panhandle architectural style, and intentionally walkable/bikeable layout became instantly recognizable signatures. While Southeasterners have been aware of Seaside’s charms almost from the start, the rest of the country (and indeed the world) fell under its spell when it was featured as the primary filming location in the 1998 Jim Carrey movie The Truman Show. The town is now the topic of lectures in architectural and design schools

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around the world, but that means little to the scores of families who call Seaside their vacation home away from home. For them, what makes Seaside special is its unique ability to inject new life into notions of community, comfort, and ease. Today the town is home to more than 500 individual dwellings, most of which are available to rent. Cottage Rental Agency (CRA) (1-866-2819783, www.cottagerentalagency.com) offers the largest selection of rentals, with more than 200 cottages, town homes, and penthouse suites in its portfolio. Each rental is individually owned, reflecting an upscale and diverse selection of architectural styles and décor. Rental sizes range from quaint and eclectic beachfront honeymoon cottages to spacious, fully appointed homes that sleep up to 14 guests. Rentals are located throughout the community, from cozy wooded lanes to beachside dunes to the charming-yet- sophisticated town center. A variety of benefits are included with a CRA rental, including two complimentary bike rentals at CRA Bike Shop, a complimentary bottle of wine upon arrival, complimentary use of beach toys, including bodyboards and skimboards, and more.

Dining

Dining options are plentiful and diverse at Seaside— the town center is home to more than 15 restaurants, cafes, and food, snack, and beverage stands. The granddaddy of Seaside eateries is Bud & Alley’s (850-231-5900, www.budandalleys.com), the town’s

34 www.albabymag.com

Dining options are plentiful and diverse at Seaside— the town center is home to more than 15 restaurants, cafes, and food, snack, and beverage stands. oldest restaurant and a beloved South Walton gathering spot, not least for its rooftop bar overlooking the Gulf of Mexico and white sand beaches. People travel from surrounding communities (and farther afield) to sample the restaurant’s menu of Florida panhandle classics and unique twists on classic Southern cuisine. The seemingly bottomless appetite among visitors for Bud & Alley’s has spawned two additional eateries in recent years— a Taco Bar and a Pizza Bar, both of which met with instant success. Renowned Executive Chef Jim Shirley owns several restaurants throughout the panhandle, but Seaside’s Great Southern Café (850-231-7327, www.thegreatsoutherncafe.com) is the only one where you can sample his signature Grits a Ya Ya—smoked Gouda cheese grits smothered with a sauce of fresh cream, sautéed Gulf shrimp, spinach, portobello mushrooms, applewood-smoked bacon, garlic, and shallots. With an emphasis on locally harvested produce from area farms and fresh caught seafood, the restaurant’s menu proudly displays its Southern roots and includes daily seafood selections, organic burgers, Gulf Coast oysters, and a handpicked wine list. Eating in is a breeze—and a pleasure—thanks to Modica Market (850-231-1214, www.modicamar-


ket.com), which bills itself as a “gourmet grocery with Southern hospitality.” The family-owned and operated gourmet and specialty market has served Seaside since 1988. Sarah and Charles Modica began in the grocery business more than 50 years ago in Bessemer, Alabama. In 1988, the Modicas moved to Seaside with their son, Charles Modica, Jr. to open Modica Market, now an indispensable gourmet market serving fine food and wine. Modica Market has been highlighted in CNN’s “On the Menu” and featured in magazines such as Vogue, Travel & Leisure, and Conde Nast Traveler.

Shopping

From art galleries and home furnishings to sophisticated beach apparel and toys and sports gear, there’s plenty to charm a shopping fanatic at Seaside. Sundog Books (850- 231-5481, www.sundogbooks. com), an independently owned bookstore, is a Seaside institution, packed to the rafters with books for every taste and interest. The shop also hosts regular booksigning events with national and local authors, and an associated music store, Central Square Records, has opened next store for the more musically inclined. Perspicasity (850-231-5829, www.theseasidestyle. com/perspicasity), a popular, open-air clothing bazaar, provides fashionable clothing crafted of natural fibers. Each of the shop’s individual 56-square-foot huts is arranged in a vignette to offer customers ideas

for how to wear the styles on display. In addition, Perspicasity offers a wide assortment of bohemian accessories ranging from straw cowboy hats, French market totes, espadrilles, leather sandals, handmade jewelry, batik sarongs, and sunglasses. Kids will be enchanted by Duckies Shop of Fun (850-231-4800, www.shopduckies.com) which carries toys, kids’ clothing, and “just plain silly stuff” in a brightly decorated, whimsical space. Children of all ages will delight in watching toys spin and parachute from shelves, a parade of ducks overhead, and giant tree of ducks. Perhaps the only thing you can’t buy at Seaside, but which is available everywhere you look, is the opportunity to disconnect from the frantic pace of modern life and reconnect with the one true commodity—family.

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36 www.albabymag.com



Family F a amily Event E Eve ve ent Pic Picks cks ck k

{July, {J {Ju uly ly, A August u stt ugus C O M P I L E D B Y H O L L A N D B AY AY L E S

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MEMBER DAY MEMB BER D AY ATTRACTIONS A TTRACTIONS AROUND AR ROUND THE CITY CITY

1

JULY J JUL Y1 13 3

MCWANE MC CWA CW ANE ROCKS R MCWANE SCIENCE MCW WA ANE SC CIENCE C CIENCE CENTER 10:00 4:00 1 0:00 A.M. A.M. – 4: 4:00 P.M. .M.

3

The McW The McWane a ane Science Center cele15 with the McWane brates 1 5 years years e McWane Rocks Rocks Birthdayy Party. Birthda Partty. The The Celebration will feature feature Travis T rravis Taylor, Taylor, star star of National Geographic’s Geographic’’s show, hit sho w, Rocket Roc o ket City City Rednecks, Rednecks, bringing his unique st sstyle yle of southern charm charm and technol¬ogy live tec hnol¬ogy y with liv e demonstrations on activities include “rock” the plaza. Other O “rock” “rock” climbing walls, walls, a “rock” ‘n’ ‘n’ roll music and “rock” candy. k” can “roc ndy. Birthday Birthday activities are included in the t price of regular admission and free ffor or members.

AUGUST 10 A UGU UST 1 0 BABYSTEPS BAB YSTE EPS 5K AND 1K MEMORIAL RUN N TANNEHILL IRONWORKS HISTORIC STATE TA T ANN NEHIL LL IR ONW WORKS O HIS TORIC O STATE T PARK PARK A RACE RA CE STARTS STAR A TS AT AT 8:15 8:15 A.M.

A special mem members-only mbers-only da dayy of free admission and a ffamily-friendly amily-friendly activities at at ttractions around attractions the cit y. One valid valid membership city. card and/ or p ostcard in vitation postcard invitation admits 2 adults aand nd up to 4 cchildren hildren anyy and every into absolutely an ever y participating vvenue en nue all day day long. long. Participating organizations P articipating orga anizations include: McWane Center,, Birming Birming-McW ane Science e Center ham Museum of of Art, Vulcan Vulcan Park Park Birmingham Historyy and Museum, Bi rmingham Histor Center,, Birmin Birmingham Botanical Center ngham B otanical Birmingham Public Gardens, Birm mingham P ublic Library, L ibrar y, Birmingham Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, Instit ute, Alabama Alabam ma Sports Hall of Fame, F ame, Southern Museum of Flight, Barbers and B arbers Vintage Vintage Motorsports Museum.

Find over over e 400 400 more local ffamily-friendly amily il -ffriendly f i dl events events t att AlBabyMag.com. AlBa abyMag.com. Login Login ffrom rom your your iPhone or iPad iPad and the calendar becomes an App to help you you find events events on the go!

Founded b Founded byy two two families families that had lost children, children the mission of the Baby Steps eps Memorial Run R un is to o assist families families who have have lostt children children in the healing process proce ess and to raise money money and Center is a non-profit aawareness warenes ss ffor or The The Amelia Center. Center. The The Amelia A non-profit program pro ogram of Children’s Children’s of Alabama, which serves children whic h ser r ves as a place of hope ffor or grieving grieving v children and parents. Over Over the past four four years years the Baby Baby Steps Stteps Run over Memorial R un has raised o ver $50,000 $50,000 for for o The The Amelia Center. Center. Visit http://www.babystepsal.org/ http:://www.babystepsal.org/ to register. register.

Family F ami a ly Ca Calendar C lendar brought brroouughht to yyoo u by Birm Birmingham minnghham Coc Coca-Cola a-C Cola 38 www.albabymag.com


& September} 4

AUGUST 17 BABYPALOOZA BABY & MATERNITY EXPO BJCC EAST EXHIBIT HALL 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM WWW.BABYPALOOZATOUR.COM

Produced by Alabama Baby & Child magazine this is the must attend festival for all new, expectant, and hopeful parents!

5

AUGUST 21-25 UNIVERSOUL CIRCUS UNDER THE BIG TOP AT LEGION FIELD

UniverSoul’s Turn’t Up Tour features new acts, including a neck-breaking head balancing act from Vietnam, Comedy Cat Illusions featuring a live Tiger, and a bountiful bevy of female contortionists from Ethiopia. Other performers include artists from the United States, Trinidad and Tobago, Colombia, Vietnam, South Africa, Russia, Ethiopia and West Africa. Tickets range from $16 to $30 and are available at www. ticketmaster.com or 1-800-745-3000. Children under 1 are free.

www.albabymag.com 39


Family Event Picks

{July, August

6

AUGUST 23-25 SIDEWALK FILM FESTIVAL

C O M P I L E D B Y H O L L A N D B AY L E S

7

Dubbed one of the best film festivals in the South, Sidewalk and caters to enthusiastic crowds eager to devour new independent cinema. Films are screened in multiple venues located within Birmingham’s historic Theatre District for one low-priced weekend pass. The FREE Family Festival will be hosted in the McWance Science Center’s Rushton Theater and offers classic children’s stories as well as films selected for children and teen audiences. Details at http://sidewalkfest.com

AUGUST 24 CHILDCARE RESOURCES FAIRYTALE BALL SHERATON BALLROOM 6:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M.

Children and adults can dance the night away with fairy tale characters like Cinderella and the Big Bad Wolf and enjoy magicians, jugglers, and other entertainment at the sixth annual gala, presented by the Junior Board of Childcare Resources. The black tie optional event will feature live music, a dance floor, hors d’oeuvres, cocktails for grown-ups, a candy “bar” for children, and a silent auction. Individual and family ticket packages available. Details at www.ccr-bhm.org

Family Calendar brought to you

40 www.albabymag.com


& September} 8

SEPTEMBER 7 READ & ROMP RAILROAD PARK 9:00 A.M. - 12:00 P.M.

Read and Romp Birmingham is free and open to the public and families who want to foster a love of reading in their children ages 3-5 years old. Free Children’s book, story and activity station, as well as games and fun.

9

SEPTEMBER 29 VULCAN AFTERTUNES VULCAN PARK & MUSEUM

Enjoy cool tunes, fresh brews and sweet views on Sunday afternoons with your favorite cast iron statue, Vulcan. This three-part series features local and national singer/ songwriter acts often heard on Reg’s Coffee House and Birmingham Mountain radio. Bring the kids and enjoy the America’s First Federal Credit Union Kid Zone with Alabama Baby & Child. There will be face painting, coloring pages, and other activities. General Admission tickets are $15 nor non-members and $7.50 for members. Children 12 and under get in free. Details at http://visitvulcan. com/VulcanAfterTunes.html.

by Birmingham Coca-Cola

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