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The Fitness Issue Mommy & Me Time Fitness Pure Barre The Dance Foundation Villager Yoga
Baby Travel Gear Infant Safety at UAB Womens & Infants Center JULY/AUG/SEPT 2015 PRICE $2.95
www.ALBabyMag.com
Inside:
FAMILY-FRIENDLY EVENT CALENDAR
We’ve ADDED to our
FAMILY
CCS Homewood is now open! We’d love for you visit our new campus located near Old Columbiana Road and Carr Avenue in Homewood. We will also welcome a new infant center at our Trace Crossings location in 2015. For more information or to schedule a tour, please visit us online at www.ccslion.com. ®
PELHAM
TRACE CROSSINGS
VALLEYDALE
HOMEWOOD
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J U LY / A U G U S T / S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5
contents
ALBabyMag.com
PUBLISHER & EDITOR IN CHIEF Cecilia Pearson EDITOR AT LARGE LaTanya Bayles DESIGN Amy Heise Murphree EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Kim Hildenbrand Sherrel Stewart PROJECT MANAGER Erin Hamby CALENDAR EDITOR Gabrielle Barbee PHOTOGRAPHY Meredith Rowlen SPECIAL EVENTS TEAM Naomi Jones Nicole Jones
features 22 Villager Yoga 26 Fitness Mommy Style 30 Infant Safety at UAB Womens & Infants Center
departments 06 Baby Stages: Milestones 16 Partner’s in Kids Health: Diaper Rash 18 Childcare Resources: Safe Sleep 36 Family Travel: Baby Travel Gear
in every issue 04 Editor’s Letter 08 News & Notes 40 Event Picks
baby alabama
GRANDPARENTS TO PRECIOUS & THE GOOSE Cecil & Francine
&child
Th Fitneess Issue
Momm y Time Fit & Me ness Pure Ba rre The Da nce Fou ndation Villager Yoga
Lifestages Publishing Inc., Copyright 2004-2015. Lifestages Publishing Inc. publishes Alabama Baby & Child quarterly.
July/A ug/Sept 2015
price
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
Travel with Ba by Infant Sa UAB Wo fety at Childrensmens & Center
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Inside:
contact us
FA MI lY-
Fr Ien
DlY eV en
www.a lbabym ag.com
T CA len DA
r
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
LifeStages Media t. (205) 445-1345 www.albabymag.com www.babypaloozatour.com www.familyphonepages.com www.birthdays4babies.com
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.
ALBabyMag.com 1
letter
From the
Editor HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MAJOR MURPHREE, pictured below with his siblings, Major
turns eleven in September. At less than a month old Major was our very first cover baby, also pictured below with his mom Amy. Amy is our Creative Director and was designing the very first issue while expecting Major. I shake my head thinking of how many times we’ve gone through the crazy dance of designing an issue together. Amy was sent from heaven to help me get this magazine going and to keep it going now into year twelve. The stories and pictures say nothing until Amy gets her hands on it. She never fails to make the stories come alive exactly as they were envisioned. Amy you know I love you and your family, I could have never have done this without you guys. Hopefully I’ll be calling Major when he’s in his twenties asking for a picture to celebrate the next twelve years.
Major (center) with his sister Belle and little brother, Asher.
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baby stages
Milestones
Mobility 0-3 Months
3-6 Months
Supports his/her own head by 3 months. Holds head off mat if lying on his front by 4-5 months (never leave him unsupervised on his front or lay him on his front to sleep). Sits (supported) by 6 months. Sits unsupported by 8 months.
6-12 Months
Short, happy squealing sounds. Says ah-goo. Blows bubbles by 6 months.
Crawls at 8-10 months. Stands (supported) at 10-12 months.
Babbling by 12 months.
ALBabyMag.com
Handling Skills
Social Skills
Mental Development
Holds a rattle placed in his/her hand by 3 months.
Smiles by 6 weeks.
Watches her hands and learns about movement.
Shakes a rattle by 4 months.
Starts to be shy with strangers at around 6 months.
Curiosity about surroundings emerges by 4 months. May start to look at things very closely.
Transfers objects from one hand to the other by 6 months.
Touches your face as a greeting by 6 months.
Interested in books. Starts to respond to his own name.
Drops one toy to pick up another. Says da and ma by 6-8 months and double syllables like dada by 8-10 months.
May cruise round the furniture from 11-12 months.
6
Speech and Hearing
Feeds himself with finger food by 8 months. Picks up small objects (peas, raisins) with finger and thumb by 12 months.
Enjoys a joke from around 8-10 months. Cuddles and holds on to you from around 12 months
Copies some of your actions. Points to objects from around 10 months.
W O N
!
PEN
O
Discover the Difference at the New
FREESTANDING EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT
How is A Freestanding Emergency Department (FED) different from an Urgent Care Center?
While the FED is equipped to handle 'urgent' medical needs, we are not an "urgent care" facility. The primary difference between the Medical West FED and most urgent care facilities is the following: • Open 24/7
• CT Scan
• Board-Certified Emergency Physicians
• General & Vascular Ultrasound
• Full-Service Laboratory
• Direct Hospital Admitting
• X-ray
• Helipad for Air Transport
Located on Highway 150 in Hoover next to Sprouts MAIN HOSPITAL CAMPUS 205.481.7000
BESSEMER 205.481.8650 205.481.8670
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FED Main Number 205.820.8416
THE SHOPPES OF HOOVER 205.820.8416
VANCE 205.481.8510
www.medicalwesthospital.org • Discover the Difference • Physician Referral 996.WEST
news & notes
hot off the Press C O M P I L E D BY S H E R R E L S T E W A R T
favorite foods from its 100% naturals line into the organic line such as carrots and sweet potatoes, which contain just carrots and just sweet potatoes, and nothing else. It also added more unique combinations to the organic line for mom and baby to enjoy, including apple, raspberry & avocado, peas & spinach, and butternut squash & sweet corn. Yes,
1
butternut squash, kale, avocado and quinoa are part of real food for babies™.
BEECH-NUT NUTRITION INTRODUCES ORGANIC FOOD FOR BABIES
ALBabyMag.com
The organic line uses the same just gentle
cooking™ process that doesn’t add any excess water or cook the nutrients away, resulting in food
Beech-Nut Nutrition Company (Beech-Nut) has
with textures, colors and flavors.
made its debut into USDA organic baby food with
its new organic line. The new taste bud-enticing
glass jars, and features the USDA-certified organic
line is real food for babies™ with the same bright
seal, an indication of GMO-free food. Parents can
colors and bold flavors of homemade foods.
check the verification status of their favorite flavors
Beech-Nut incorporated some of parents’
8
The organic line comes in transparent honeypot
at www.nongmoproject.org.
2
Pure Barre Baby on Board
This program is a healthy exercise option because it is
Locations:
low-impact, with no bouncing and jostling. Pregnancy is
Birmingham - 280
a time filled with physical changes. The program can help
5426 Highway 280 #6
keep extra pounds at bay, boost waning energy levels,
Birmingham, AL 35242
and tone legs, arms, hips, and bottom.
205-991-5224
Baby Bounce Back
Birmingham - Homewood
Pure Barre special three-month “Baby Bounce Back”
2826 18th Street South
program can help new moms get back in shape after
Birmingham, AL 35209
pregnancy. Along with helping promote postpartum
205-870-7279
weight loss, the program helps tone the body parts that benefit from attention after birth: abs, hips, and thighs.
Birmingham - Riverchase
It’s also a great way to carve out alone time during those
Chace Landing, 1870
busy first months after the baby’s birth.
Chace Drive #100
Birmingham, AL 35244
More details may be found at www.PureBarre.com
205-982-8366 (Note: Always check with your physician before beginning an exercise program. Pure Barre recommends Baby on
Tuscaloosa
Board programs for women who participated in Pure
1520 Mcfarland Boulevard North
Barre before pregnancy.)
Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 205-349-0011 ALBabyMag.com 9
news & notes
3
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama’s Baby Yourself APP The Baby Yourself Maternity Program APP helps ensure expectant mothers and their babies receive the best possible healthcare during pregnancy by allowing mothers to track their pregnancy and baby’s development. This program is available to expectant mothers, regardless of
Features include:
whether or not their pregnancy is normal or high risk. The
• Daily Journal
app provides features available to those mothers both
• Timeline view
registered in the Baby Yourself Maternity Program or for
• Mood entry
those seeking a customized experience, within a person-
• Hospital bag checklists
alized pregnancy and parenting resource.
• Weekly checklists throughout your pregnancy • Kick counter • Contraction counter
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• Belly Circumference Tracker • Convenient access to scheduled doctor visits • Baby size guide
ELEMENT’S FLOAT SPA
• Customizable reports on your progress
Alabama’s first float spa is opening in August. The spa will
• Photo gallery
be located on Cahaba River Road, just down the street
• Pregnancy related health articles
from Lifetime Fitness and will provide floatation therapy utilizing a float tank or pod. The tank is filled with 8-10 inches of water and 900 pounds of Epsom salt. This hyper-buoyant environment is often used to relieve pain from the spine and core and can even be used to promote a deeper sleep. Owners state that this environment can be extremely beneficial in relieving the pain and discomfort associated with pregnancy.
More details can
be found at www. ElementsFloatSpa.com.
10
• Important phone numbers at a glance
ALBabyMag.com
• Daily pregnancy and parenting tips
news & notes
5
Covenant Classical Schools & Daycare Announces New Infant Center Covenant Classical Schools & Daycare (CCS) will have a grand opening for its state of the art Infant Center for the Trace Crossings (Hoover) campus. Situated adjacent to the current building, the new 6,700 square foot facility provides seven additional classrooms built to specifically accommodate infants 6 weeks to 18 months. Construction will include a soccer field and a splash pad for water play in the summer. This center’s grand opening will be held on Saturday, August 1, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
For more information about Covenant Classi-
cal Schools & Daycare visit www.ccslion.com.
Five wonderful OBs. One wonderful place to have your baby. LEWIS SCHULMAN, M.D.; NATALIE REDDINGTON, D.O.; MARGARET MIKLIC, M.D.; VIRGINIA WINSTON, M.D.; ANDY LEMONS, M.D.
Just like you, we want the best for you and your baby. And the OBs at Trinity OB/GYN have devoted their lives to providing attentive, individualized care. They’re supported by leading-edge technology and dedicated professionals who care for new moms and babies in our beautiful Women’s Center. We even have a Level III NICU for babies who need a little extra help. For an appointment with an experienced OB, call 205-592-5499. We have satellite offices in Chelsea, Hwy. 280, Liberty Park, Pell City, and Trussville. For directions, visit TrinityMedicalClinics.com.
82178_TRIN_OBgyn_7x4_75c.indd 1
Members of the Medical Staff at Trinity Medical Center
ALBabyMag.com 1/7/15 11:43 AM
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news & notes
6
UAB MEDICAL WEST’S FREESTANDING EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT OPENS IN HOOVER In May Medical West, an affiliate UAB Health System, opened the first Freestanding Emergency Department (FED) in the state of Alabama. The 24,342 square foot development is located next to the Sprouts grocery store, near the intersection of Highway 150 and Interstate 459 in Hoover.
The FED is staffed with board-certified emergency physicians and nurses, services
include CT scanning, ultrasound and digital X-ray, as well as a full-service lab- all provided 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
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partners in health
Preventing and Treating
Diaper Rash
To sign up for the Partners in Kids Health Newsletter and for more information on this or other health and safety topics, visit www.childrensal.org.
Parners in
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Everyone wants a happy, healthy baby, but if your little one is in diapers, then it’s inevitable at some point he or she will likely have a diaper rash. Diaper rash is a common condition that usually occurs because a baby’s sensitive skin has been irritated by diapers that are left on too long. The same plastic that prevents diapers from leaking also prevents air circulation, thus creating a warm, moist environment where rashes and fungi can thrive. Diaper rash can be very uncomfortable for a little one, and in some cases may
require medical treatment. Some signs of a diaper rash can include soreness, redness and red bumps, peeling, and irritability. IDENTIFYING INFECTION:
Sometimes a diaper rash can also result in an infection due to yeast or bacteria. Seek medical care if your baby has any of the following symptoms: • Blisters or open sores • Pus filled sores • Fluid seeping from red areas Traci Duncan is a Certified Nurse Practitioner at Children’s of Alabama
with a focus on pediatric dermatology. She says the best way to treat and even prevent diaper rash is to use a barrier cream. Specifically, she says look for diaper rash creams that contain Zinc Oxide to heal and protect your baby’s skin. Duncan recommends smearing the cream on in a thick layer, as if icing a cake at each diaper change. TREATMENT:
Diaper rash can usually be cleared up by checking your baby’s diaper often and changing it as soon as it’s wet or soiled. With treatment, the rash should usually go away within 2 or 3 days with home care. If the rash persists, or if sores appear talk to your baby’s doctor. You should also seek medical advice if the rash is accompanied by a fever, if there is pus draining from the rash, or if your child is irritable. PREVENTION:
Duncan says in some cases, when a baby has sensitive skin, diaper wipes may cause irritation. She recommends only using wipes in the case of a soiled diaper, not when it’s wet. Instead, she says use a soft cloth and warm water when it’s just a wet diaper. Then allow the baby’s skin to dry completely before putting on a new diaper. Consider using a barrier diaper cream with each change, if the baby is prone to getting diaper rash. The following are tips to help prevent diaper rash: • Keep the skin dry • Allow your baby time without a diaper • Change diaper frequently • Use warm water and diaper cream with each change With these simple tips you can help ensure your baby stays comfortable and rash free, which makes for a happy baby and a happy mom and dad.
childcare resources
Sleep
Tight
Creating A Safe Sleeping Environment for your Child
BY AMANDA CA RG O PARE NT E DU C ATION COOR D IN ATOR, C H ILD CA R E RESOU RC ES
THERE IS NOTHING MORE PRECIOUS THAN WATCHING A TINY BABY, CURLED UP, FAST ASLEEP. But let’s face it – they are the only ones getting
enough sleep! As a parent or caregiver, there are several things that you need to know to ensure safe, healthy sleep and reduce the risk of SIDS. Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the leading cause of death in children under a year old. Here are 10 tips to help you keep your baby safe during sleep times. 18
ALBabyMag.com
children’s health
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Babies should always be placed on their backs to sleep. Every time is important – even short naps.
9 10
Always use a firm sleep surface that is approved for infant sleeping. Never let a baby sleep on soft surface like a sofa or an adult bed. Make sure your baby is up-to-date on all vaccines and checkups. Keeping your baby healthy will reduce the risk of SIDS. Your baby should never co-sleep with you or any adult. If you bring your baby to bed to feed, always return him to his sleeping area afterwards. Make sure to keep yourself healthy – especially if breastfeeding. Breastfeeding can help reduce the risk of SIDS, however any germs can pass from parent to baby through a variety of ways.
Keep the baby’s sleep space free of all soft objects and furnishings. Do not use crib bumpers or blankets and never leave any stuffed animals or pillows in the crib. We don’t recommend purchasing the products that claim to reduce the risk of SIDS. Wedges, positioners, and similar products have not been tested for safety and effectiveness or proven to be helpful in the reduction of SIDS occurrences.
8
Babies don’t need extra layers or blankets to keep them warm for sleep. If they are comfortable during the day, they will be comfortable at night. Keep the temperature at a comfortable level for adults.
If your baby uses a pacifier, make sure to give them one at night that is not attached to a string, stuffed animal, or other type of pacifier holder. Finally, give your baby plenty of “tummy time” when he is awake to help strengthen his neck muscles and reduce flat spots on the back of baby’s head. As parents, it’s our job to do the best we can for our children and that includes providing the safest sleep environment possible. While there is no definite way to prevent SIDS, following these 10 simple tips will reduce your baby’s risk. For more information, please visit the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health website at www.nichd.nih.gov/ SIDS.
We make quality child care happen! Please visit us online at www.ccr-bhm.org, Facebook page or Twitter.
Childcare Resources, a national quality assured child care resource and referral agency helps families locate quality child care, trains child care professionals, provides parent education services, and offers child care financial assistance to low-to-moderate income working families. A 501 (c) (3) nonprofit and partner agency of United Way of Central Alabama since 1984, Childcare Resources provides services to help make quality child care available and affordable in Blount, Jefferson, Shelby and Walker counties. For more information, call (205) 945-0018 or visit www.ccr-bhm.org.
ALBabyMag.com 19
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ALBabyMag.com 21
It Takes a
Village
f
This Birmingham studio offers yoga for everyone in the family.
BY K IM HIL DE NBRAND
FOR BUSY MARKETING PROFESSIONAL ANNIE DAMSKY,
yoga was a way to bring calm and steadiness into her hectic work week. She began doing yoga in 2004, and as she practiced more regularly, she realized she had never before felt so refreshed, invigorated, and centered in her body and in her heart. As Damsky’s passion grew, so did her dreams. By 2009, she completed the 200-hour Yoga Alliance instructor certification program through Birmingham Yoga. She next received
her kids yoga certification with YogaFit. After teaching her first kids yoga class Damsky says, “I was inspired by how much fun the kids had,” she says, “and by how many parents, many of whom had never practiced yoga, wanted their kids to learn tools to find inner strength and peace.” In 2011, feeling confident and ready to pursue her dream, Damsky began planning for her new family-oriented yoga studio. Villager Yoga opened its doors in January 2012. The verdict? “We have been blessed,” Damsky says, “with excited, loyal, and eager students ever since.” YOGA FOR EVERY FAMILY MEMBER
Damsky always knew she wanted Villager Yoga to be a studio for the whole family. “I wanted to provide accessible options for starting yoga at any life stage,” she says. Villager Yoga offers various programs for
villager yoga
every family member: Choose from several classes geared toward adults, kids, parent/toddler, family, yoga camps, yoga birthday parties, and more. Damsky encourages community members to give yoga a try. “Each day we want people to feel welcomed, comfortable and empowered to go off of their mat and lead their lives authentically,” she says.
LEFT: phot ogr aphy by M o rga n Reave s; RIG HT: pho togr ap hy by Li esa Col e
1. PRENATAL YOGA
Pregnancy can be uncomfortable at times. During yoga class, one goal is to ease pregnancy discomfort by targeting issues such as back pain or round ligament pain. “Once the moms introduce themselves and share how they are feeling that day, I can tailor the class to increase their comfort,” Damsky says. The classes also can improve the birth experience. “Moms learn tools to bring to the delivery room, such as breath work, developing stamina, and focus and concentration,” Damsky says. “This helps reduce anxiety and stress.” An unexpected benefit is new friendships. Damsky emphasizes the powerful connections that moms forge in each class. “It’s all about sharing,” she says, “and about making great connections with other moms in the community.” 2. POSTNATAL YOGA
Postnatal yoga offers specific benefits geared toward moms who have given birth. For instance, the Yoga for New Moms six-week course focuses first on finding your core: “Muscles have shifted and your body has changed over nine months,” Damsky says. Next comes strengthening and relaxing, especially the shoulders, neck, and upper back. “New moms carry a baby, carry gear, and feed a baby,” Damsky says, “so the focused work on shoulders, neck, and upper back helps.” Other key benefits include the
Annie Damsky, owner Villager Yoga ALBabyMag.com 23
“EACH DAY WE WANT PEOPLE TO FEEL WELCOMED, COMFORTABLE AND EMPOWERED TO GO OFF OF THEIR MAT AND LEAD THEIR LIVES AUTHENTICALLY,” restorative calm that helps class goers recharge and the check-in time with classmates. “If you need someone to talk to—or vent to— who’s not your best friend or your sister,” Damsky says, “you have a whole room of women to listen if you need to do emotional unburdening. For this class, moms can leave their infants in the provided childcare area. For many brand-new moms, this special me-time is the first time they leave their baby with someone. “The studio is small,” Damsky says, “so for a mom, having her child nearby can help with her comfort level.”
For starters, yoga increases attentive listening skills and promotes focus and concentration, both of which can lead to better grades in school. It also boosts mind-body awareness and physical and spatial coordination—a positive for kids on the playground or on the soccer field. Damsky says she often hears people lament that they should have started yoga earlier in life. “That was a big reason I wanted to build a studio community where our kids can have exposure to these tools for self-empowerment and self-care,” she says. “Even if a child comes once, I believe that they will have been given a positive point of entry to return to yoga when they are seeking support 20 years later.” Villager Yoga 3150 Overton Road
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3. YOGA FOR CHILDREN
Birmingham, AL 35223
Children can gain a whole host of benefits from taking yoga classes.
205-262-2012 villageryoga.com
Learn. Play. Hurray WHAT’S NEW!
200 19th STREET NORTH • BIRMINGHAM, AL • (205) 714-8300 • WWW.MCWANE.ORG
ALBabyMag.com 25
Fitness,
y
MOM STYLE
By Kim Hildenbrand
Get in shape, enjoy time alone, and make new friends with these fun and fabulous fitness options that let children come too.
YOU’RE A NEW MOM— and you’re
busy, tired, and maybe even a bit lonely. Carving out time for yourself each day, whether to exercise or chat with a friend, is so important. But it is not always easy to find a sitter for an hour or two. Mommy and Me classes to the rescue! These fun classes incorporate your baby into the class so you can have fun, exercise, reduce stress, and connect with other moms.
MOMMY & ME TIME FITNESS
Always check with your doctor before embarking on a new fitness program.
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Created by a mom for moms, the Mommy & Me Time fitness program brings a unique fitness option to women in Birmingham. You can choose from a variety of options, including fitness classes (with children), prenatal and postnatal classes, plus fitness boot camps. The indoor classes are a great choice for moms of children who are crawling or walking, while the outdoor classes are ideal for babies and toddlers in strollers.
Owner Stacey Jernigan says the benefits of the fitness program for prenatal moms include appropriate weight gain, building pelvic floor and core muscles to aid in delivery and recovery, easier weight loss post pregnancy, and overall stress reduction. For new moms, Jernigan stresses the importance of the emotional and mental support system, along with the physical benefits. “You find other moms to talk to about all topics motherhood,” she says. “There’s a support system and a fellowship.” Another unique benefit is participation by the children who attend. “The children are learning fun ways to be active and healthy,” Jernigan says. “We may bunny hop to the yellow cone, sprint to the blue cone…they get to be a part of it with mom.” Mommy & Me Time Fitness Class schedules are listed on Facebook. Facebook.com/MommyAndMeTime MommyAndMeTime.com
y & Me Momm
Time
THE DANCE FOUNDATION
Creativity and confidence—these are the two main goals for the Dance Foundation. Founded in 1975, the not-for-profit organization is home to a variety of unique programs, including a series of “Moving Together” classes designed for adults and infants and toddlers. The Moving Together program for infants focuses on creative play, including sensory stimulation through music and movement that supports developmental milestones. The Moving Together class series for toddlers (aged 12 to 24 months), led by a dancer and musician team, centers on music and movement activities that promote developmental growth. If you love babywearing, consider a class called “Moving Together: Baby-Wearing Ballet,” which is designed specifically for an adult wearing a baby (six weeks or older) in a carrier.
The D
ance F ounda
tion
The Dance Foundation 1715 27th Court South Homewood, AL 35209 205-870-0073 Facebook.com/TheDanceFoundation TheDanceFoundation.org The Dance Foundation
ALBabyMag.com 27
VILLAGER YOGA
Annie Damsky knows what parents need. “By finding your own peace and calm,” says the owner of Villager Yoga, “you empower yourself to provide better support for you and your family.” The popular studio (featured in this issue on page 22) offers various classes geared to every family member. The Parent & Baby drop-in class (for infants four weeks to crawling) focuses on interactive yoga movements that help r Yoga Village mom regain strength and balance and release tension, all while enriching baby’s development. The Toddler Playtime Yoga & Signing drop-in program (for 4 months to 3 years) is about creative movement and fun. Instruments, music, and storytelling merge with yoga poses, sign language, and play for a one-of-a-kind experience. Family Yoga series (for ages 3+) is an energetic class featuring individual and partner yoga poses, storytelling, songs, and relaxation. A focus is on promoting strength, bone density, flexibility, and balance. Villager Yoga 3150 Overton Road Birmingham, AL 35223 205-262-2012 Facebook.com/VillagerYoga VillagerYoga.com
Villager Y oga
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INFANT SAFETY EDUCATION AT
UAB Women & Infants Center
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w
Women and their babies get complete personalized medical care 24 hours a day, every day of the week at the UAB Women & Infants Center, located in the heart of Birmingham’s medical community
WHILE THE STATE-OF-THE ART FACILITY offers
Top 5 Recommendations:
everything from inpatient surgical care to routine outpatient office visits, it also provides recommendations that can help children have safe and healthy lives.
• Don’t lift your baby if you are feeling weak, faint or unsteady. • Keep your bed at its lowest position. • Never sleep with your baby on your chest or next to you—always put your baby in the crib. • If you’re feeling sleepy, put your baby in her crib. • Never walk in the hall holding your baby, keep your baby in his crib.
FALL PREVENTION
Mom and infant falls in hospital maternity units have been an identified problem throughout the country. UAB tries to help prevent parents and their babies from falling through educating parents on practices for keeping babies safe during the hospital stay.
ALBabyMag.com 31
LIGHTS OUT
After studies revealed that moms were not getting adequate rest in the hospital after birth due to constant interruptions from health care workers and family, UAB instituted a mother baby bonding time. Every day from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and again from 12 a.m. to 4 a.m., lights on the units are dimmed and interruptions by staff are limited to medicines, emergent needs, or maternal requests. Visitors are welcomed if mom chooses. SAFE INFANT SLEEP PROJECT
UAB instituted the Sleep Project for the prevention of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) after receiving grants from the March of Dimes and McDonald’s. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends putting babies on their backs to sleep to help prevent SIDS. The SIDS rate dropped by 50 percent since this announcement in 1992, but African American babies die at twice the rate of Caucasian
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babies. There was speculation about the cause of this disparity, but there has been no definitive reason for the difference. UAB wanted to see if having knowledge about putting your baby on his back to sleep would mean that more moms would continue this practice after going home. There were three parts to the project. 1. Education
UAB teaches all new parents about ‘safe infant sleep’. Infants should always be put to sleep on their backs, in their own crib, with nothing but the baby and a well-fitting mattress and mattress cover in the crib. After the lesson mother’s can take a brief test about what she has learned. When she turns in the test, she gets a baby T-shirt that says “This Side Up” on the front and “Back to Sleep” on the back. In the first few months after discharge, UAB does a follow-up call to moms to ask which side their babies’ were placed for sleep on the previous night.
2. Outreach
The second part of the project consisted of outreach events at predominantly African American churches in the Birmingham area. UAB partnered with the Birmingham Black Nurses Association for many of these events. The events included safe infant sleep presentations, literature, and gift bags.
correctly. Parents take the kits home and are encouraged to teach infant CPR to all adults in the baby’s environment. On the Mother Baby Unit, kits are given to parents of late pre-term babies who are born between 34 weeks and 37 weeks of pregnancy.
3. Promotion
The third part of the project focused on advertising on the back of 25 MAX buses in Jefferson County from May to June. INFANT CPR
UAB partnered with the American Heart Association to teach infant CPR to all NICU parents. Taught by newborn ICU nurses, parents provided given individual infant CPR kits that include an instructive DVD, written CPR steps, and a blow up infant doll whose chest clicks when chest compressions are done
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family travel
Baby
ON BOARD
By Kim Hildenbrand
DISCOVER GEAR THAT CAN MAKE TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN JUST A LITTLE BIT EASIER.
Flight Vest
This comfortable cotton vest, which can be put on after takeoff, keeps your baby secured to you in case of turbulence. Your seatbelt goes through the loop on the back of the vest so baby can be safely held, changed, and fed while you remain buckled. It is available in infant and toddler sizes. Baby B’air Flight Vest, $34.95, www.babybair.com
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Lightweight Baby Carrier
Baby carriers always come in handy—especially when they’re this portable and weigh less than a pound. Comfortable and ergonomic, the lightweight Boba Air stows easily in a diaper bag or carry-on luggage and unfolds in seconds when you need it. Boba Air, $65, www.boba.com
Travel Stroller
Tipping the scales at less than 11 pounds, this lightweight stroller is easy to take anywhere. It folds easily using fingers only (no feet needed), stands on its own for convenient storage, and can be carried with one hand thanks to the strap. Spill something? The removable fabric is machine washable. UPPAbaby G-LITE, $159.99 to $179.99, uppababy.com
FAMILY TRAVEL SPONSOR
Find more family-friendly travel tips and destinations from The Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport at AlBabyMag.com/Travel.
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Travel Crib
Ideal for naptime, nighttime, and even playtime, this take-along crib features a zippered side door for easy access. It packs into its carry case (which is small enough to serve as a carry-on item) and even turns into a backpack for hands-free travel. The materials are non-toxic and breathable. Guava Family Lotus Everywhere travel crib, $190 to $250, www.guavafamily.com
Inflatable Booster Seat
Leave your bulky booster at home but still have a way for your child to travel in safety in taxicabs and rental cars. The first-ever inflatable car booster seat weighs less than one pound and deflates in minutes. Bring it along for children ages 4 to 11 who weigh 40 to 100 pounds.. BubbleBum, $29.99, www.BubbleBum.us
Car Pillow System
Car rides just got more comfortable. This pillow system attaches to the seatbelt shoulder strap for kids who want to get cozy during long drives. It also converts into a big pillow and has a pocket to hold a phone. BubbleBum Sneck, $14.99, www.BubbleBum.us
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Organizer
Goodbye, messy backseat. This clever organizer features a sharing mount for tablets, handy activity trays, and a compartment with a removable tote bag to carry gear. BubbleBum Junkie, $39.99, www.BubbleBum.us
Travel Games
These games are ideal for on-the-go fun because the innovative flipping pieces are attached and won’t get dropped or lost. Choose from various favorites such as hangman, memory game, and bingo. Melissa and Doug travel games, $12.99 to $19.99, www.melissaanddoug.com
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family calendar C O M P I L E D BY G A B R I E L L E B A R B E E
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JULY 1 – SEPTEMBER 7 TOYTOPIA MCWANE SCIENCE CENTER
Toytopia is an immersive and interactive exhibition focusing on the various histories and legacies of toy makers throughout the past century of toy making. Learn about the origins of toys, who made them, and why they are fun and dear to us. Explore a larger than life doll house, get retro in the arcade featuring video games from the 80’s and 90’s, stroll down memory lane with classic toys from the 1900’s, and create new structures with legos and Lincoln logs. JULY 10 – AUGUST 2 MARY POPPINS RED MOUNTAIN THEATRE
Disney and Cameron Mackintosh create everyone’s favorite practically-perfect nanny in this Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious musical adventure. If you love the movie, you’ll love seeing the musical live on stage. Every Saturday, from 12:30 -1:30 p.m. Mary Poppins will be available for pictures in the lobby and each child will receive a free gift sponsored by HOAR Construction following the show. Use code ALBABY for $5 off each ticket. For tickets call 205-324-2424 or visit RedMountainTheatre.org.
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JULY 17 – JULY 19 DISNEY’S 101 DALMATIANS KIDS RED MOUNTAIN THEATRE
In a loving home in the city of London, Dalmatian parents, Pongo and Perdita, happily raise their Dalmatian puppies, until the monstrous Cruella De Ville plots to steal them for her new fur coat! Young artists (age 7-12) perform in this adorable adaptation. For tickets call 205-324-2424 or visit RedMountainTheatre.org.
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JULY 23 - 26 FANTASTIC MR. FOX DANCE FOUNDATION
Join the Dance Foundation for the journey of Fantastic Mr. Fox and his family and their struggle to find food. Based on the Ronald Dahl children’s novel. www.childrensdancefoundation.org
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JULY 21 – AUGUST 1 THE GINGERBREAD BOY BIRMINGHAM CHILDREN’S THEATRE 9:30 AM AND 11:00 AM
Miss Annie Allspice is a world-class cookie baker, making all types of cookies for her friends. One day, her baking takes an unexpected turn when she ends up with her own gingerbread boy! Gerry gingerbread is so excited to be alive that he runs right out of the house and straight into trouble. Can Miss Annie save him before he gets gobbled up? Recommended for ages 2 – 6. Tickets are $9 for children, $11 for adults. www.bct123.org and phone is 205-458-8181.
JULY 31 – AUGUST 2 HAIRSPRAY JR. RED MOUNTAIN THEATRE
It’s 1962, and spunky, plus-size teen Tracy Turnblad has one big dream-to dance on the popular Corny Collins Show. When she finally gets her shot, she’s transformed from social outcast to sudden star and is forced to balance her newfound power with her desire for justice. Young artists (age 10-18) perform in this charming adaptation. For tickets call 205-324-2424 or visit RedMountainTheatre.org.
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AUGUST 7-9
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TAX FREE SHOPPING HOLIDAY
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Beginning Friday August 7 through Midnight on Sunday August 9, Alabama residents can shop for back-to-school items tax-free. Tax-free savings applies to the following items: clothing under $100, school supplies under $50, books under $30, computer(s) equipment under $750. Visit www.AlBabyMag. com for special sale announcements and promotions.
AUGUST 15 BIRTHDAYS 4 BABIES KIDSFEST BJCC NORTH EXHIBIT HALL 9:30 AM – 2:30 PM
Need new ideas for your child’s next birthday party? Join us at the Birthdays 4 Babies Kidsfest. Held in conjunction with Babypalooza this is a fun filled day for the entire family. It’s like one big birthday party with face painters, cupcakes, game trucks, photographers, party planners and more. Let us make planning the next birthday party fun and easy. Details at www.Birthdays4Babies.com
AUGUST 15 BABYPALOOZA BABY & MATERNITY EXPO BJCC NORTH EXHIBIT HALL, 9:30 AM – 2:30 PM
Parents don’t miss The BlueCross BlueShield of Alabama Babypalooza Tour when it comes to Birmingham on Saturday, August 15. Babypalooza is a FREE baby and maternity experience for new, expectant and hopeful parents. It’s a day full of fun and information with exhibitors highlighting everything from health and fitness to nursery design, infant and maternity fashion, mommy and me classes and more. Details at BabyPaloozaTour.com.
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AUGUST 28-30 SIDEWALK FILM FESTIVAL DOWNTOWN THEATRE DISTRICT
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AUGUST 22 CHILDCARE RESOURCES
Dubbed one of the best film festivals in the south, Sidewalk caters to enthusiastic crowds eager to devour new independent cinema. Children’s films will be screened in the Rushton Theatre at the McWane Science Center. Details at SideWalkFest.com.
FAIRYTALE BALL CAHABA GRAND BALLROOM 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Children and adults can dance the night away with fairy tale characters like Cinderella and Robin Hood; enjoy magicians, jugglers and other entertainment at the 9th annual fundraising gala, presented by the Junior Board of Childcare Resources. The black tie optional event will feature live music, a dance floor, hor d’oeuvres, cocktails for grown-ups, a candy “bar” for children, and a silent auction. Individual and family ticket packages available. Details at CCR-bhm.org
Find more than 300 more local familyfriendly events at AlBabyMag.com. Login from your iPhone or iPad and the calendar becomes an App to help you find events on the go!