November/December 2020 Birmingham Parent

TH E PR E M I E R PA R E NTI N G M AG A Z I N E F O R C E NTR A L A L A BA M A

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

4 REASONS TO CONSIDER

OUR ANNUAL

GIFT GUIDE ANNOUNCING OUR

FAVORITE KIDS' DOCS 2020 SALUTE A VETERAN

PRIVATE SCHOOL

PRIVATE, SPECIALTY & CHARTER SCHOOL DIRECTORY

Escape into a

Magical Wonderland From natural beauty and worldly cuisines to craft culture and historic preservation, explore what makes Clarksville a must visit destination. Plan your trip today at visitclarksvilletn.com/holidays.

As you plan a safe, fun and memorable trip to Clarksville, know that we have been taking extra precautions so you can travel safely. Please help us keep Clarksville a safe destination by doing your part to observe recommended guidelines for masks, social distancing and frequent handwashing.

birminghamparent.com | 3

ed note

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays & Happy New Year from the staff of Birmingham Parent:

P.O. Box 326 (add 800 Hwy. 52 E. for pkg) Helena, AL 35080 205-624-2405 205-624-2515 FAX www.birminghamparent.com

editorial PUBLISHERS David & Carol Evans EDITOR Carol Muse Evans ASSOCIATE EDITOR Lori Chandler Pruitt

CONTRIBUTORS Christa Melnyk Hines Pam Moore Sarah Lyons Rachael Moshman Dr. Evan Carstensen Denise Yearian

Carol Muse Evans Publisher/Editor

David Evans Publisher

Lori Pruitt Associate Editor

sales BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Tom Gonzales SR. MARKETING CONSULTANT Kayla Fricks MARKETING CONSULTANT Stacey Spence

art & production ART DIRECTOR Keith Dunn DISTRIBUTION T&P Deliveries

Kayla Fricks Senior Marketing Consultant

Stacey Spence Marketing Consultant

Tom Gonzales Business Development Consultant

Carol Muse Evans Publisher/Editor carol@birminghamparent.com

Keith Dunn Art Director

Don't miss THE GUIDE in January 2021, your one-stop resource for everything in central Alabama!

4 | birminghamparent | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

LEGAL COUNSEL Balch & Bingham LLP

BIRMINGHAM PARENT IS A PUBLICATION OF EVANS PUBLISHING, LLC. Publishers: Carol Muse Evans, David K. Evans Sr. Birmingham Parent (EIN200694149) is published monthly by Evans Publishing LLC. www.birminghamparent.com or editor@birminghamparent.com. Birmingham Parent is © 2020 by Evans Publishing LLC. Family Connections Media ©2020-2021

by Evans Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Editorial submissions are welcome. For back issues, please send a self-addressed 10” x 13” envelope with $4 for postage and handling.

ChildrensAL.org

(Still) Serving Children Safely It has always been our priority to ensure the safety and well-being of each child in our care — and that remains our commitment as we continue our mission during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Here’s how we have redesigned our operations to keep our patients and their families as safe as possible: q All visitors are screened immediately for signs of illness and fever. q We follow Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting our facilities. q Our staff practices safe hand hygiene. q We are wearing masks for your safety.

Thank you for wearing your face covering. q All visitors to campus are required to wear masks. q Waiting rooms have been reconfigured to accommodate social distancing guidelines.

contents 4 REASONS TO CONSIDER PRIVATE

SCHOOLS We caught up with experts in the education field to help you make an informed decision when it comes to one of the most important choices of all – your child’s education.

16 our focus Is Foster Care or Adoption Right for Your Family?................................7 10 Ways to Salute a Veteran......10

Your Favorite Kids' Docs 2020..............................28

our features

our regulars EDITOR’S NOTE Happy Holidays .................................4

BIRMINGHAM PAR-

Gift Guide

Birmingham Parent’s 2020 Gift Guide.................................12

SHORT STUFF.................................. 8 ASK THE SPECIALIST Sports Injuries and Rehabilitation...................................36 Opportunities to Serve with Your Kids.........................................38 FAMILY TRAVEL: Blairsville, Georgia.........................40

Schools

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 & JANUARY 2021 CALENDAR OF EVENTS AND ATTRACTIONS ............................................................. 43

4 Reasons to Consider Private School .........................................16 8 Tips to Find the Right Pediatrican .....................................32

10 Tips for Choosing the Right Tutor for Your Child ............................................18 Birmingham Parent’s

Private, Charter and Specialty School Guide............24 ON THE COVER: Cover Kid Winner Madison, age 4, of Irondale, is ready for Christmas. Santa and Mrs. Claus are courtesy of Bama Claus, https://bamaclausandk.com/; bama.kay.claus@gmail.com. Photo by Christy Pierce photography, 205-902-0385; www.christypiercephotographyllc.com.

6 | birminghamparent | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

IS FOSTER CARE OR ADOPTION RIGHT FOR

By Rachel Moshman

YOUR FAMILY

It may seem that adopting from the foster care system would be an easy process. After all, we hear that there are millions of children in the United States waiting for homes all of the time.

With all of these children waiting for homes, many people assume adopting from foster care is quick and easy.

My husband and I were surprised to find it is actually a very long and complicated process. It took a year to have a child in our home. Here's how to get started: • Consider your family's strengths and weaknesses. Most foster children waiting for adoptive homes are over the age of eight, have special needs, are of a minority or are part of a sibling group. Are you only willing to accept an infant or toddler? Are you comfortable parenting a child of another ethnic background? Are you open to adopting more than one child? There are no right or wrong answers, but it is important that you are honest with yourself.

care adoption as special needs adoption. This is because the trauma most of the children in foster care have endured causes emotional and behavioral challenges. Research common mental health conditions in foster children, such as bipolar disorder, reactive attachment disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, oppositional defiant disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

• Look into the rules and regulations in your area. These vary by state and even county. For example, couples may need to be married at least two years or single parents may need to have been divorced for a minimum of one year. You may need to prove you have enough bedrooms to separate boys and girls. There may be qualifications regarding the amount of square feet in a home, minimum household income or legal history. It's better to know if you meet the qualifications before investing too much time in the process.

• Determine if special needs adoption is right • Make sure you understand your county's for your family. Most states also refer to foster position on foster children. Some states separate

families who wish to be foster parents from parents who are hoping to adopt. The licensing is the same in other states. If you want to adopt a child, it is important that you are clear with the licensing agents and social workers that you are looking for a child that is legally free for adoption. The goal of foster care is typically to reunite the child with the biological family up until the time when parental rights are severed and the child becomes legally free for adoption.

You are now ready to officially start the process!

You will most likely need to take training classes and complete a home study. The process could take a year or more. Stay tuned for more information and tips on adopting from foster care.

Rachael Moshman is a mom, freelance writer and blogger. She and her husband adopted their daughter from foster care when she was nine.

Find her at www.rachaelmoshman.com.

birminghamparent.com | 7

S H O RT STU FF New Program Helps Patients Transition from Pediatric Care at Children’s of Alabama to Adult Care at UAB A new collaboration between Children’s of Alabama and the University of Alabama at Birmingham is helping adolescent patients with chronic and complex childhood medical conditions transition to adult healthcare.

The Staging Transition for Every Patient (STEP) Program opened September 2 in the Whitaker Clinic of UAB Hospital. The two initiatives included in STEP are: Individualized transition planning for adolescent patients (beginning around age 14) with complex and chronic healthcare needs currently treated at Children’s of Alabama to prepare them for adult healthcare.

A primary care clinic that will serve as an adult medical home to facilitate referrals to specialists, ensuring timely uninterrupted transition and access to other support services including physical therapy, social work, nutrition and emergency planning.

“Children diagnosed with chronic conditions often need to continue managing these diseases into adulthood. Many of these conditions were historically associated with shortened lifespans – for example, cystic fibrosis, spina bifida, sickle cell disease – but now these patients have increased life expectancy due to treatment advances. Therefore, we see an increasing need to develop adult healthcare specialty clinics for these patients as they grow older,” says Carlie Stein, MD, lead physician and medical director for the STEP Program.

Children’s and UAB already share staff and facilities, but the STEP Program is the first formal program of its kind in Alabama and the surrounding region. This transition of care ensures that patients are matched with primary care physicians who are prepared to handle complex medical conditions, because not all primary care physicians are experienced in treating chronic diseases stemming from childhood, and patients with chronic diseases don’t always need to see a specialist.

Patients can get a referral to the STEP Program from their Children’s specialist or their pediatrician. Patients with a complex or chronic disease of childhood and at least 18 years old can call the UAB Primary Care Access Center to schedule a new patient appointment with the STEP Clinic at 205-801-7474. To begin transition planning from the Children’s side, patients can contact 205-638-5281.

Does Soft Drink Consumption Contribute to Aggressive Behavior?

A study from the University of Alabama at Birmingham has shown that frequent soft drink consumption by adolescents may contribute to aggressive behavior over time.

Previous studies have shown associations between soft drink consumption and mental health problems in adolescents. The UAB study, led by Sylvie Mrug, Ph.D., professor and chair of the College of Arts and Sciences’ Department of Psychology, identified soft drink consumption as a likely predictor of aggressive behavior. It was published in the Journal of Adolescent Health.

“Despite public health policies designed to reduce children’s consumption of sugarsweetened beverages, such as soda taxes and school soda bans, the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages by youth in the United States remains a significant public health problem,” Mrug says.

Reciprocal relationships were analyzed showing soft drink consumption predicted an increase in aggressive behavior over time. Soft drink consumption at ages 11 and 13 predicted more aggressive behavior at the next time point, the study showed. Aggressive behavior at age 13 also predicted more soft drink consumption at age 16. Soft drink consumption at age 13 predicted fewer depressive symptoms, but depressive symptoms did not predict soft drink consumption. Findings from this study suggest that reducing adolescents’ intake of soft drinks may reduce aggressive behavior, but not depressive symptoms.

Although the results are typically interpreted in terms of soft drinks’ contributing to emotional and behavioral problems, it is equally likely that mental health problems may be driving the consumption of sugar-sweetened soft drinks, Mrug says.

Experimental studies show that some individuals consume more sugary foods in response to stress and negative emotions.

SEEING CLEARLY STARTS HERE Day Eye Care Call and schedule an appointment today.

Now accepting Blue Cross, Davis, Superior, Spectera, Met Life, All Kids, Cigna, Tri Care, Avesis and many other insurance plans.

205-987-2308 | www.dayeyecenter.com 2122 Old Montgomery Hwy. | Pelham, AL 35124 8 | birminghamparent | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

Birthdays in Birmingham Your local birthday party resource Loved by Parents since 1997

birthdaysinbirmingham.com Places to Go  Entertainment Party Supplies & Rentals  Facilities  Coupons

S HO RT ST U F F

LIVE ANIMALS

INTERACTIVE EXHIBITS

ENGAGING ACTIVITIES

New COVID-19 Testing Site Opened Recently at Cooper Green Mercy Health Services Authority A new COVID-19 testing site is open at Cooper Green Mercy Health Services Authority, in partnership with Live HealthSmart Alabama and the Minority Health & Health Disparities Research Center at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Both walk-up and drive-through testing will be conducted MondayThursday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on the top floor of the Cooper Green parking deck. Participants are encouraged to call 205-975-2819 to make an appointment. Walk-up participants will be welcomed.

Funding is provided by the Jefferson County Commission through the CARES Act, with the goal of increasing community-based testing in the county, particularly in areas serving vulnerable populations.

cookmuseum.org

Glow wild An Animal Lantern Celebration at the Birmingham Zoo!

Children’s of Alabama Wins Excellence Award

Select dates from Nov. 18 - Jan. 18 Presented by

Featured Sponsors

Children’s of Alabama was recognized recently by NRC Health as a recipient of its 2020 Excellence Award, which recognizes top-performing hospitals and health systems in overall patient-experience ratings.

Children’s was named the top performing hospital among 23 eligible facilities for Excellence in Patient Experience-Pediatric, earning top experience ratings from patients and their families for the time period April 2019 through March 2020.

For nearly four decades, NRC Health has helped healthcare organizations illuminate and improve the moments that matter most to patients, residents, physicians, nurses, and staff.

Purchase tickets in advance at birminghamzoo.com birminghamparent.com | 9

10 WAYS FAMILIES CAN

SALUTE A VETERAN VETERANS DAY IS WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11

By Christa Melnyk Hines

10 | birminghamparent | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

During this month of Thanksgiving, don’t forget our military service members.

Many organizations and veterans’ groups offer ways to help support and show gratitude to members of the armed forces. Help a veteran, a deployed service member and military families know that you appreciate their sacrifices. Here’s how: 1) Help an expectant military mom.

Nothing relieves a soldier’s worries than knowing his family is supported back home. Soldiers’ Angels Baby Brigade (formerly Operation Top Knot), an organization started by college student Audri Cid in 2003, is a nationwide network of individuals who sew, knit and create gift baskets to support new and expectant mothers whose husbands are deployed. To donate baby blankets, diapers, bottles, clothing and other items, visit https://soldiersangels.org.

2) Write a letter. Remind veterans and their families that you’re thinking about them and appreciate their commitment to our nation. Write a letter to a deployed soldier, a wounded warrior or a veteran who has served in past wars through www.operationgratitude.com or www. operationwearehere.com.

3) Support their furry friends. Raise money to go toward fostering pets of active duty service members, wounded warriors and homeless veterans. Guardian Angels for Soldier’s Pet is a non-profit organization that finds qualified foster families to care for pets while soldiers are deployed or when military families transfer overseas. The foster families also care for pets whose warriors have died. Go to www.gafsp.org.

4) Contribute to Paralyzed Veterans of America. This organization supports veterans who suffer from a

spinal cord injury. Participate in one of the organization’s sporting events or fundraisers, make a monetary donation or collect and donate bags of clothing, shoes, belts, hats, books, CDs and small household goods. For more information, visit www.pva.org.

5) Assist disabled and wounded veterans. Volunteer at your local Veterans Affairs (VA) hospital or help disabled veterans whether running errands, doing yard work or assisting them with transportation. Contact www.dav.org for more information. Also, check out the Wounded Warrior Project for other ways to help injured service members.

6) Share your points. Fisher House Foundation, which builds homes where military and veterans’ families can stay while their service member is receiving treatment at a nearby VA hospital, also runs programs called Hero Miles and Hotels for Heroes. Consider donating your frequent flyer airline mileage or hotel points to help loved ones be near their sick or injured service member. Visit www. fisherhouse.org to learn more.

7) Aid service dogs. Patriot Paws trains dogs to serve disabled veterans. You can volunteer to help the organization by bathing and walking dogs, running errands or fundraising. For more information visit www.patriotpaws.org.

8) Donate DVDs. DVDS4Vets is a nonprofit organization started by Dr. Richard Landis, an orthopedic surgeon who helped build clinics in Afghanistan, and James F. Nicholson, who served as an Air Force pilot in Korea between 1950 and 1953.

Landis and Nicholson saw a need to provide basic entertainment for veterans who returned home with traumatic brain injuries and other serious wounds and were undergoing long-term rehabilitation.

To donate used or new DVDs to veterans, visit www.dvds4vets.org.

9) Send a care package. Soldiers who are serving far from home look forward to receiving mail. Visit www.anysoldier. com to learn how to send a letter and what is appropriate for care packages. If you’d like to help support a veteran who does not have family to assist in the transition to home and civilian life, check out the Adopt a Veteran program through www.

SoldiersAngels.org. Those who volunteer to be an Adopting Angel make a 12-month

Veterans Day Quiz Veterans Day originated after which of the following wars: A. WWII B. Revolutionary War C. WWI Answer (C): Veterans Day originated as “Armistice Day” on November 11, 1919, to mark the one-year anniversary when Germany signed the Armistice to formally end WWI. What year did Veterans Day become a national holiday?

A. 1919 B. 1938 C. 1945 Answer (B): Veterans Day became a national holiday in 1938.

Which U.S. president changed the name of the holiday from Armistice Day to Veterans Day? A. Dwight D. Eisenhower B. John F. Kennedy C. Franklin D. Roosevelt Answer (A): In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed legislation to change the name of the holiday to Veterans Day, to honor all those who served in American wars. commitment to send a letter each week and a small gift once a month, tailored to the individual veteran’s specific needs.

10) Say thank you. If you see a soldier in uniform or a veteran, a simple “Thank you for your service” is a considerate way to express your gratitude. For more ways to thank a vet, visit www.kidsthankavet.com.

Did you know that Birmingham also is home to America’s first and largest Veterans Day event, beginning in 1947?

This year’s parade will be virtual.

For more information, go to https:// nationalveteransday.org.

Freelance journalist, Christa Melnyk Hines, daughter of retired USAF SMSgt. Walter Melnyk, is thankful for all of our veterans and their families for their sacrifices and service.

This year's Birmingham Veterans Day Parade is virtual.

Visit https://nationalveteransday.org for the 4:30 p.m parade. See page 44-45 of calendar for more details. birminghamparent.com | 11

BIRMINGHAM PARENT'S

Gift Guide For kids of all ages, and maybe some adults: The Unofficial Hogwarts for the Holidays Cookbook With The Unofficial Hogwarts for the Holidays Cookbook (9781646040728, Ulysses Press, October 2020), you’ll stupefy your tastebuds with 75 magical recipes for every occasion from tasty train snacks on your way to Hogwarts to full, Muggle-worthy holiday meals. Because some of the most iconic moments happened around mealtimes and holidays at the castle, this cookbook offers step-by-step instructions for the dishes from those scenes that you can recreate in your own kitchen.

With 75 delicious recipes, easy-to-follow instructions, and spellbinding full-color photographs, this cookbook is sure to have everyone – no matter their skill level – whipping up magic in the kitchen. Tuck in!

Where: Available wherever books are sold..............Price: $19.95

For Mom, young women and teens: The Druzy Bracelet The Druzy bracelet is lovely and handmade in the USA using Druzy agate beads which feature windows of quartz crystals popping through the surface. Elasticized for a perfect fit. Ten colors.

(There is also a child’s version for $20).

Where: The Spa at the Grand Bohemian Hotel, Birmingham, and online at www.monicamauro.com ................................... Price: $38 12 | birminghamparent | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

Unique Gift Ideas for Everyone on Your List

Whether you’re looking for a gift for the kid who seems to have everything, a gift for the hard-to-buy-for teen in your life or a teacher, uncle or aunt or other adult in your life, these gifts are sure to please. Check them out!

Prices may vary.

Compiled by Carol Muse Evans

For Dad, and any gadget lover: A.I.R. Solo We’re living in a COVID-19 world, and for anyone who has to wear a mask for work, the A.I.R. Solo is a high-tech disinfecting mask that effectively helps disinfect favorite face masks in real time as we wear them. This mask uses A.I.R. Device technology – short-wave ultraviolet LED light exposure that’s intentionally directed away from the user – to actively neutralize harmful germs that can be trapped in a traditional cloth face mask (such as live viruses, pathogens, bacteria, etc.) The A.I.R. Solo is worn underneath a traditional face covering, including N95 masks, cloth masks, bandannas, head socks and other fabric filtering covers.

Where: www.theairdevice.com ..........................................Price: $119.95

Fun Items for Kids: Baby Elvis This adorable book celebrates the King of Rock n’ Roll with babies and little ones in this vibrant, playful and fun board book.

Where: Wherever books are sold. .... Price: $9.99

Fun Item for Kids: Loog Mini Acoustic Guitar The Loog Mini Acoustic Guitar is the ideal first guitar. Designed to make it fun, easy and stimulating for kids to play music, the guitar comes with flashcards that teach you how to form chords and an app that gets you playing songs on day one! Loog's slim neck is perfect for little hands, and because it only has three strings, chords are reduced to the basic triad – just three notes – allowing for an easier and faster learning process.

Real wood, real guitar, perfect intonation, low string action for enhanced playability and classical nylon strings. The Loog Mini is about the same size as a ukulele, but plays, tunes and sounds like a classical guitar.

Where: www.Loogguitars.com ............................Price: $79 Fun Item for Kids: Giant Hug Me Chicken Want to make someone's day? The Giant Hug Me Chicken – literally a GIANT rubber chicken that's almost three feet tall and screams for up to 45 seconds – is sure to generate some belly-aching laughs.

This irresistible chicken has gained a massive social media presence with viral videos by TikTok celebrity Caylus and television host Howie Mandel. Available in multiple colors.

Where: https://hugmechicken.com and some retail stores ........... Price: $46.99

Fun Item for Kids: Scoot – Hands-Free Hover Drone Duo Set Fly these drones together and watch them use high-tech sensors to detect obstacles for hands-free flying. Includes two 4.75” Scoot drones of red and blue, a USB charging cable, a mini screwdriver and a user manual for multiplayer fun.

Where: www.amazon.com Price: $49.99 Age Range: 8+

Fun Item for Kids: Paint by Sticker Kids: Dinosaurs Paint by Sticker Kids: Dinosaurs is the ultimate activity book for young dinosaur enthusiasts and aspiring paleontologists. Kids will love piecing together images of the prehistoric creatures they love, including a ferocious T-Rex, an armored Ankylosaurus, an agile Velociraptor and more! The way it works is simple: Find the numbered sticker, peel it, and place it in the correct space. From a sparkling Christmas tree to a fluffy snowman, this activity book is packed with 10 playful illustrations that will get every kid in the holiday spirit!

Where: www.amazon.com......................Price: $.9.95 - Ages: 5-10 Fun Item for Kids: Snow Pets Snow Pets hide in the snow until kids come along and bring the snow to life! Just pour water into the snowball and watch the snow burst open the snowball to reveal the mystery pet! Collect them all: SCOUT, Saint Bernard; CHARLIE, Snow Leopard; SKYE, Snow Owl; HOLLY, Husky; POPPY, Polar Bear; HARRIET, Snow Hare; FRANKIE, Arctic Fox; WILLOW, Fawn.

Where: www.amazon.com Price: $13.99 for 3 pack and $4.99 for individual - Age Range: 4+

Fun Item for Kids: Eloise the Elephant Eloise is knit with a luxe marl grey yarn and has the sweetest baby trunk and a little tasseled tail. She has a sweet peach and gold ruffled romper with whimsical bows, too! Each cuddle+kind doll provides 10 meals to children in need (to date, cuddle+kind has provided more than 13 million meals in 66 countries around the world), and empowers more than 750 artisans in Peru with fair trade income. Every doll is handmade with love using natural, premium cotton yarn.

Where: www.cuddleandkind.com and www.amazon.com Price: From $79 birminghamparent.com | 13

AN IMMERSIVE POP-UP EXPERIENCE

WALK THROUGH YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE SCENES IN AN ALL-NEW, MULTI-SENSORY EXPERIENCE

iLoveChristmasMoviesExperience.com OPENING NOVEMBER 13 A CHRISTMAS STORY, NATIONAL LAMPOON’S CHRISTMAS VACATION, THE YEAR WITHOUT A SANTA CLAUS and all related characters and elements © & ™ Turner Entertainment Co. (s20) ELF and all related characters and elements © & ™ New Line Productions, Inc. (s20) THE POLAR EXPRESS and all related characters and elements © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. (s20)

14 | birminghamparent | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

Generosity of space. Millions of twinkling lights and our soaring 48-foot Christmas tree.

Hundreds of enhanced cleaning protocols. Boundless family-friendly holiday events, from tubing, ice skating and Breakfast with Charlie Brown™ & Friends to our brand-new I Love Christmas Movies™ immersive pop-up experience featuring ELF™, THE POLAR EXPRESS™, and more!

November 13 – January 3 | ChristmasAtGaylordOpryland.com Peanuts© 2020 Peanuts Worldwide LLC · ELF and all related characters and elements © & ™ New Line Productions, Inc. (s20) THE POLAR EXPRESS and all related characters and elements © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. (s20)

Schools

4 REASONS TO CONSIDER

PRIVATE SCHOOL

By Pam Moore

From the moment our kids are born, we’re tasked with deciding what’s best for them.

All that decision-making can be exhausting.

We caught up with experts in the education field to help you make an informed decision when it comes to one of the most important choices of all – your child’s education. We asked why parents should consider private school. Here’s what they had to say.

SMALLER CLASSES One of the greatest strengths of any private school is smaller class sizes. At Nativity: Faith and Reason in Broomfield, Colo., smaller classes ensure each child is being met where they are at and encouraged to meet their potential. “Every child is known and loved in a safe environment that is more conducive to learning by way of smaller class sizes, more challenging curriculum and more individualized attention and teaching,” says principal Holly Peterson.

SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL LEARNING Social-emotional learning (SEL) gives children the skills to manage their own emotions so that they can ultimately make better decisions and be better citizens. According to the Collaborative for Academic, Social and Emotional Learning, it’s based on five core competencies: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.

And data show it’s effective. According to a 2011 meta-analysis published in Child Development, students who were exposed to school-based SEL curricula demonstrated notable improvements in social and emotional skills and behaviors as well as improved academic performance.

Meanwhile, a 2017 Society for Research in Child Development study showed that children who participated in school-based SEL programs had higher graduation rates and safer sexual behavior than their peers,

16 | birminghamparent | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

even 18 years post-intervention.

Many private schools emphasize SEL curricula. At Temple Grandin School in Boulder, for example, SEL is valued just as much as academics. "Of equal importance [to academics] is integrated social-emotional learning, so their children can develop meaningful friendships,” says Lea Anne Paskvalich, the school’s director of admissions and public relations. Similarly, at Colorado’s Boulder Valley Waldorf School, there’s a focus on creating “a student-focused environment for the whole child,” adds Ruth Godberfforde, director of advancement. She described an emphasis on “the academic, social-emotional and the physical,” or “head-heart-hands” that is foundational to every aspect of the Waldorf curriculum.

EXTRACURRICULAR OPPORTUNITIES Oftentimes, parents gravitate toward pri-

Find out why our student families love us!

Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic School empowers students to help them reach their full potential with a Christ-centered education in a safe and loving environment.

Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic School NOW TAKING APPLICATIONS FOR THE 2021-2022 SCHOOL YEAR!

vate education because of the extracurricular activities it offers.

Because private schools tend to specialize in specific areas (e.g. math and science or the arts), students get to enjoy more specialized afterschool activities. That said, private school can also offer opportunities for a wide range of extracurriculars. According to Susan Boyle, the director of admission and marketing at Boulder Country Day School, the chance to expose kids to a wide array of experiences, starting at a young age, is a key advantage of private school. She listed a diverse range of activities, offered at Boulder Country Day, including world language, visual and performing arts, and science/STEM. COMMUNITY One of the top reasons many parents choose private school is the strong community it offers. According to Tom Mecsey, principal at the Broomfield, Colo. Sacred Heart of Jesus School, “The community and level of parental involvement in private schools is very special. Families who choose this option often have a lot in common, as they have made an intentional decision to send their child to a particular school (often for similar reasons) rather than base it on a neighborhood, etc.”

Meanwhile, he says, that enhanced sense of community fosters deepens children’s learning experiences. “We have found that there tends to be greater parental interest and involvement in the day-to-day activities of their children. This, in turn, fosters greater communication,” Mecsey explained. “The communication between school and home enables the school to be more responsive to students’ needs.”

Pam Moore helps women push through fear to become their best selves. To get her free guide to crushing Impostor Syndrome, visit pam-moore.com

Visit our website at olsschool.com or call 205.879.3237 for more information Facebook: olsschoolhomewood | Instagram: our_lady_of_sorrows_catholic

Altamont is one of the nation’s premier college preparatory schools for students in grades 5-12.

Learn more at altamontschool.org/admissions Photo taken before COVID

birminghamparent.com | 17

Schools

10 TIPS FOR CHOOSING

THE RIGHT TUTOR FOR YOUR CHILD

By Denise Yearian

Tutors offer a wealth of educational resources for students who need remedial work, as well as for those who want academic enrichment and maintenance. To choose the right tutor for your child, consider these 10 tips: 1. Pitch & persuade. Before searching for a tutor, discuss it with your child. Keep the conversation positive: “You know how reading is kind of hard sometimes? We are going to find someone who can help you.”

Most students don’t like to struggle, so if your child is aware that there is a problem, he may be more likely to want help. Even so, expect apprehension and offer encouragement.

2. Ponder priorities. There is no one-sizefits-all when it comes to tutoring. It depends on your child’s needs, setting, convenience and cost. Some people choose a private tutor. Others go with a tutoring center. Still others opt for an online service. When choosing a setting – either small group or one-on-one instruction – determine which is the best fit for your child. If you choose a group setting, find out the maximum number of students per class. Convenient location is important too. Studies show that

SIGNS YOUR CHILD NEEDS A TUTOR There are a number of indications a child needs a tutor. If you see any one of the following signs, your child may be a good candidate for tutoring: Doesn’t want to go to school Difficulty doing homework Gaps in learning Poor test grades Hiding test scores from parents Teacher reports missing assignments Unable to keep up Multiple wrong answers Unfinished assignments Frustration and possibly tears Decreased self confidence Parents are frustrated and don’t know how to help

18 | birminghamparent | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

more frequent tutoring sessions yield greater results. When it comes to cost, bear in mind that one-on-one tutoring may be more costly than group sessions and in-home tutoring more expensive than traveling to a center.

3. Reach for recommendations. Begin your search by asking your child’s teacher, principal, guidance counselor or others within the school unit. Some school districts have a list of tutors and are willing to make recommendations. Also, check ads in your local parenting magazine or newspaper.

Other parents are a good resource too. Is there someone they have had success with?

4. Check credentials. Find out if the tutor has experience teaching the subject your child needs help with. Although the instructor may not be credentialed for your child’s grade level, it’s a good idea to find one who holds a college degree and has completed a tutor training program. This will ensure he understands educational theory, instructional strategies and remedial approaches. Graduate students with strong content knowledge may be a good option too. Equally important is experience and teaching style. Ask if the tutor has taught children of similar age Continued to page 20

?

QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN CHOOSING A TUTOR • What age do you tutor?

• Is it for remedial work only? Or do you do enrichment and maintenance too?

• What subjects do you offer?

• Do you have summer programs?

• Can my child go during school hours?

• Do you offer diagnostic testing? Is it required?

• Do you teach in small group sessions or one-on one?

• Where does tutoring take place?

• What qualifications do you/your teachers have?

• What if my child has a personal problem with the tutor, can I get another one?

• How often is the child required to go?

• Can you work sessions around my family’s schedule?

• How often will I receive progress reports? Will they be written for verbal?

• What is the duration of the contract?

• How much do you charge?

• Are there any hidden fees?

birminghamparent.com | 19

Schools

Continured from page 18

and learning style as your child. Likewise, consider personality and attitude. Is he patient, upbeat and encouraging? Is he congenial with children?

5. Tally the track record. Equally important to check references and track record.

Does the tutor you are considering have satisfaction surveys from past parents and students that prove he has helped them raise test scores, improve classroom grades, and/or experience better homework completion?

6. Time it right. Although extracurricular activities and parents’ work schedules often

dominate the clock, try to be flexible so tutoring sessions are held at a time when your child is most open to learning. Some students need a half hour or so break after school.

But if you give other kids that same down time, it will be a battle to get them to work.

Know what timing works best for your child and adjust your schedule accordingly.

9. View policies. Clarify policies before signing on the dotted line. Some tutors charge clients if an appointment is canceled without a 24-hour notice. Others have detailed policies for scheduling makeup sessions. Also ask about substitutes. How much say will you have in who teaches your child, in the event your tutor is out due to illness?

7. Collaborate on goals. When formulating tutoring goals, get everyone on board – teacher, tutor, parent and child. Teachers and tutors are aware of what the goals should be, but parents know their child best and should be involved in the goal-setting process. It’s ideal if the tutor and teacher work toward a common goal and communicate regularly to reinforce each other’s techniques. The teacher may also be willing to give feedback on your child’s progress in the classroom.

10. Show support. Remember, parents play an important role in the whole learning process, so look for practical ways to support your child’s academic endeavors. At the end of each tutoring session, find out what he is expected to do before the next one – whether it’s memorizing his multiplication facts or completing all of his classroom assignments – and couple those learning efforts at home.

8. Request progress reports. Many tutors offer periodic progress reports and will check off goals and redefine them, if necessary. Ask for a sample of progress reports to see if they are clear and helpful. Also inquire how often reports will be given.

Denise Yearian is a former educator and editor of two parenting magazines, and the mother of three children and four grandchildren.

DISCOVER

Give your students an adventure, virtually or in person, with the Dauphin Island Sea Lab's Discovery Hall Programs.

Your students can experience what it's like to be a scientific researcher. They can explore the marshes, collect samples in Mobile Bay, and discover the changes on our beaches.

Our lessons can be tailored to your class.

Reach out today to book a virtual or in person field trip with us.

Email: scheduler@disl.org Call: (251) 861-2141 x7511 disl.edu/dhp

20 | birminghamparent | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

birminghamparent.com | 21

2020 PRIVATE, SPECIALTY AND CHARTER SCHOOL DIRECTORY Advent Episcopal School

Give the gift of mailed straight to your door!

Visit to purchase: https://birminghamparent.com/directory/subscribe-to-print/

Or send your check or money order for home subscriptions, $28 per year, and back issues are $4 each, based on availability to subsriptions@birminghamparent.com or P.O.Box 326 ,Helena, AL 35080

Every parent wants the best education for their child. At Advent, we provide a rigorous and supportive learning environment to build a strong academic foundation so that every child is successful in high school, college and beyond. Advent is small by design, allowing us to ensure that all students are loved, supported, and known—both for who they are now and who they are yet to become. Our school community of faculty, staff, students, and parents fosters a feeling of family that encourages personal growth and helps children develop a strong sense of responsibility and positive sense of self.

We believe each child is unique and in a constant process of change so we involve students in the total learning process by engaging their physical, social, emotional, and spiritual well-being to meet high standards. Students are encouraged through varied educational approaches to question, challenge, and explore in their discovery of knowledge and truth.

2019 6th Avenue North Birmingham, AL 35203

(205) 252-2535 www.adventepiscopalschool.org

NOW ENROLLING FOR ENROLLING THE 2019-2020 SCHOOL YEAR NOW

byinAdvancED, SAIS, AMS and NCPSA Proud to beAccredited the only school Alabama accredited

by SAIS, AMS, Cognia & NCPSA.

a tourCONVENIENTLY of our 7-acre campus in Mt. today!

7 Schedule ACRE CAMPUS LOCATED OFFLaurel HIGHWAY 280 WWW.HILLTOPMONTESSORI.COM

205-437-9343

thefacepaintingfairy@yahoo.com facebook.com/Thefacepaintingfairy

205-527-2134

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22 | birminghamparent | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

PRIVATE SCHOOLS 2020 2020 PRIVATE, SPECIALTY AND CHARTER SCHOOL DIRECTORY Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic School Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic School (OLS) recognizes that knowledge enlightened by faith and realized through service is at the heart of a Christian education. We not only understand and meet the needs of the individual, but also teach through example the ideals of the Catholic faith.

Established in 1896, OLS fosters the religious, academic, and social development of every child in a safe environment. As teachers and administrators, we are prepared to adapt to the unique realities of our community and the requirements needed to serve our OLS family.

Accredited by AdvancED, we offer a Wee-K3 and Wee-K4 preschool in addition to two classes at each grade level, kindergarten through 8th grades. Our comprehensive academic Christ-centered curriculum presents a variety of enrichment opportunities for each student, including such resources as advanced math, innovative technology, robotics, Spanish, Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (Atrium), art, music, leadership possibilities, private and group counseling, Resource Center capabilities, an exclusive Ultimate Author Day event, competitive athletics, and more. Before and after school care are offered, as well as other additional after school programs. OLS is committed to following all local health guidelines and recommendations as we emphasize prevention, protection, and preparedness in every action we take. Visit our website today at olsschool.com for an online application for the 2021-2022 school year.

www.olsschool.com • 205-879-3237

Odyssey Early Schools Odyssey wasEarly createdSchools by educators who Odyssey

dreamed of opening an early learning Odyssey was children created by educators who center where could be nurtured dreamed opening early learning and taughtofby a highlyantrained and lovcenter childrenwas could be nuring staff.where That dream realized when tured and taught by a highly trained and our Inverness school opened in 1995, loving staff.

Thatindream was realized and then again 2001, with the opening of our second school when ourCrossings.

Inverness school opened in in Trace 1995, and then goal againisinto2001, the opening of learning. our second Odyssey’s createwith a life-long love of school in Trace Crossings.

We have developed our own age-appropriate curriculum, Odyssey’s goal istotointroduce create a life-long love of learning. specifically designed each age grouping to lanWe have developed own age-appropriate guage, reading, math,our science and more, so thatcurriculum, your child will specifically designed to introduce each age grouping to lanpossess a strong foundation for Kindergarten and beyond. guage, reading, math, science and more, so that your child will Additionally, we guarantee teachers with four-year education possess ainstrong foundation for Kindergarten beyond. degrees all preschool classrooms and offer and exceptional Additionally, we guarantee teachers with four-year education child-to-teacher ratios. degrees all preschool classrooms andchild’s offer exceptional At ourinschools, you can watch your entire day child-to-teacher in live, streaming,ratios.

HD video over the Internet, through an At our secure schools,connection you can watch your child’s day individual, linked directly toentire your child’s in live, streaming, HDour video overto theknow Internet, classroom.

We want parents whatthrough happensanduring individual, connection directly to your child’s their child’ssecure day, and Odyssey linked is the only Over-the-Mountain classroom.

We want our parents to know what happens during daycare to offer this service. theirOur child’s day, and tirelessly Odyssey to is earn the only Over-the-Mountain team works its reputation as the best daycare tooption offer this service. childcare for Birmingham parents, and we invite you to team works tirelessly to earn the best visit Our today to witness for yourself whatits soreputation many otherasfamilies childcare option Birmingham parents, and we invite you to have known sincefor1995! visit today to witness for yourself whatfor somore manyinfo. other families Visit www.odysseyearlyschool.com have known since 1995!

Visit www.odysseyearlyschool.com for more info.

Samford University Academy of the Arts at Samford University The Samford University Academy of Offering in person and virtual classes themusic Arts combines formerour Preparatory in and art. Check website Music After Sundown for theand mostSamford up to date class listings. programs, offering a wide variety of classes for adults and children. Check our listing see our website for •out Private musicand lessons all year registration and class details. Academy ofround for all ages the Arts offers: •• Art for children and teens Antiques •• Photography and Art for Children and Teens Photography Certificate Program • Creative Writing • Pottery • Drawing • Stained Glass • English as a Second Language Classes • Calligraphy • Foreign Language Classes • Painting • Music Lessons • Creative Writing • Painting • Foreign Languages and ESL • Photography • Check our website for Piano Classes: & Adult • Summer Camp Children 2021 updates • Pottery • Summer Camps 205-726-2739

205-726-2739 academyofthearts@samford.edu academyofthearts@samford.edu Samford.edu/go/aota www.samford.edu/go/aota SPRING 2021 CLASSES COMING SOON!

The Altamont School The Altamont School

The mission of The Altamont School is to improve the fabric of society by The missioncompassionate, of The Altamontwell-educated School is to improve the fabric of society by graduating individuals capable of graduating well-educated of attracts, independentcompassionate, thinking and innovative ideas.individuals To this end,capable the school independent andstudents innovative ideas.commitment To this end,tothe school attracts, nurtures, andthinking challenges whose truth, knowledge, nurtures, students whose commitment to truth, knowledge, and honorand willchallenges prepare them not only for the most rigorous college and honor will prepare them not only for the most rigorous college programs, but also for productive lives. programs, but also for productive lives.

Altamont is a small family of approximately 360 students in grades 5-12 is a small ethnic, family ofand approximately 360 students in isgrades withAltamont socio-economic, religious diversity.

Altamont a good5-12 with socio-economic, ethnic, in andtheir religious diversity. a good choice for students excelling present schoolsAltamont who wantisgreater choice students excelling in their schools who wantangreater breadthforand challenge in all areas of present school life.

We combine intensive, breadth and challenge in all areas of school We combinecollege an intensive, college preparatory academic program withlife. a personalized search college program.preparatory academic program with a personalized college search program.

There are many opportunities for students to develop multiple talents are many opportunities for students to develop multiple talents

by There participating in arts, world languages, community service, clubs, by participating in arts, world languages, community service, clubs, class projects, and athletics. Students also benefit from a 1-to-1 laptop class projects, and athletics.

Students alsocurriculum, benefit from 1-to-1 laptop program, an advanced computer science anda unparalleled program, an advanced computer through science curriculum, and unparalleled service leadership opportunities Altamont’s C. Kyser Miree Ethical service leadership Leadership Center.opportunities through Altamont’s C. Kyser Miree Ethical Leadership AltamontCenter. is located five minutes from downtown Birmingham on the crest Altamont is located five minutes fromCabaniss-Kaul downtown Birmingham crest of Red Mountain.

Our campus features Center for on thethe Arts, of RedArt Mountain.

Our campusPhotography features Cabaniss-Kaul for theathletics Arts, Pharo Studio, Lacey-Day Studio, newlyCenter renovated Pharo Studio, Lacey-Day newly renovated athletics spaces,Arttwo science wings, aPhotography study garden,Studio, a 14,000-volume library, and spaces, two science wings, a study garden, a 14,000-volume library, much more. Experience all that Altamont offers by attending an Openand House much more. Experience that Altamont offers by attending an Open House or scheduling a campus all tour. or scheduling a campus tour.

4801 Altamont Road South 4801 Altamont South Birmingham, ALRoad 35222 Birmingham, AL 35222 205-879-2006

205-879-2006 Visit www.altamontschool.org.

Visit www.altamontschool.org.

birminghamparent.com | 23 birminghamparent.com | 23

2020 PRIVATE, SPECIALTY AND CHARTER SCHOOL DIRECTORY self-control and self-direction from 18 months through eighth grade. Students learn at their own pace, under the thoughtful guidance of a professionally trained Montessori teacher.

Evangel Classical Christian School 423 Thompson Rd. Alabaster, AL 35007 205-216-0149 www.evangelclassical.com ECCS aims to teach children to think clearly, listen carefully reason persuasively, articulate precisely, evaluate every experience through the lens of scripture and do so with eagerness and joyful submission to God. Integrity Christian Academy 216 Roebuck Dr. Birmingham, AL 35215 www.integritychristianacademy.org Preschool, kindergarten, and elementary classes. ABEKA academic, Bible curriculum and training. Character development and discipline. In-person and virtual classes are being offered for this 2020-2021 school year.

SCHOOLS

Advent Episcopal School 2019 Sixth Ave. N. Birmingham, AL 35203 205-252-2535 www.adventepiscopal school.org Advent Episcopal School, located in downtown Birmingham, offers a highly accelerated curriculum for bright students in prekindergarten through 8th grade.

Before-school and after-school care is available.

Alabama School of Mathematics and Science 1255 Dauphin St. Mobile, AL 36604 251-441-2100 www.asms.net ASMS is a public, residential high school accepting applications from highly motivated 9th and 10th graders seeking advanced studies in math, science, computer science and the humanities.

The Altamont School 4801 Altamont Rd. S. Birmingham, AL 35222 www.altamontschool.org The mission of the Altamont School is to improve the fabric of society by graduating compassionate, well-educated students capable of independent thinking and innovative ideas.

Creative Montessori School 2800 Montessori Way Homewood, AL 35209 205-879-3278 www.cmskids.org CMS cultivates a life-long love of learning and fosters 24 | birminghamparent | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

Hilltop Montessori School 6 Abbott Square Birmingham, AL 35242 205-437-9343 www.hilltopmontessori.com Accredited with SAIS, AdvancED, AMS and NCPSA. Offering daily foreign language, technology, and fine arts. Educating children age 18 months through 8th grade with early and after care available.

Odyssey Early Sch​ools *INVERNESS CAMPUS 104 Heatherbrooke Park Dr. Birmingham, AL 35242 205-991-0039 *TRACE CROSSINGS CAMPUS 401 Emery Dr. Hoover, AL 35244 205-988-8829 www.odysseyearlyschool.com Created by educators featuring ​state-of-the-art facilities​, nurturing teachers ​with Education degrees, and comprehensive curriculum ​that provides Your child with age appropriate exploration into the world of learning.

Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic School 1720 Oxmoor Rd. Homewood, AL 35209 205-879-3237 www.olsschool.com Fostering a Christ-centered environment that includes strong academics, technology, and enrichment opportunities. Educating young minds in K3-8th grades.

AdvancED accredited.

The Academy of the Arts at Samford University 1939 South Lakeshore Dr. Birmingham, AL 35229 205-726-2739 www.samford.edu/academy-of-the-arts Offering a variety of noncredit courses & workshops in the arts for all ages: calligraphy, drawing, photography, painting, pottery, creative writing, and summer camps.

Music lessons in piano, strings, theory, voice, woodwinds & harp. Spring 2021 classes coming soon!

EXTRACURRICULAR ACCTIVITIES The Dance Foundation 715 27th Place S. Homewood, AL 35209 205-870-0073 www.thedancefoundation.org The Dance Foundation is a non-profit organization teaching dance to all, inspiring creativity and confidence.

A place of discovery for ages one and up since 1975.

FIELD TRIPS AND EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES Birmingham Zoo 2630 Cahaba Rd. Birmingham, AL 35223 205-879-0409 www.birminghamzoo.com Experience up-close animal encounters, science activities and nature play at the Zoo, where we offer enriching educational opportunities for people of all ages! Our engaging on-grounds and virtual programs encourage and promote lifelong learning.

Cook Museum of Natural Science 133 Fourth Ave. N.E. Decatur, AL 35601 256-351-4505 www.cookmuseum.org The Cook Museum of Natural Science is a state-of-theart natural science museum in downtown Decatur, AL. It provides a hands-on, immersive experience where kids can explore, interact with and learn about nature.

Dauphin Island Sea Lab 251-861-2414 www.disl.edu The Dauphin Island Sea Lab is the state of Alabama's marine science education and research center. We offer programs throughout the year for K-12 students, professional development, undergraduate and graduate studies and a public aquarium. Learn more at www.disl.edu.

Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center 2800 Opryland Dr. Nashville, TN 37214 615-889-100 www.marriott.com Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center gives you access to a playlist of the premier entertainment, restaurants and shopping options inside the resort while being minutes from downtown Nashville.

McWane Science Center 200 19th St. N. Birmingham, AL 35203 205-714-8414 www.mcwane.org Fun and learning never end at McWane, a nonprofit, hands-on museum with aquarium and IMAX® Dome Theater. Four floors of interactive exhibits celebrate science and wonder.

Visit Clarksville, Tennessee www.VisitClarksvilleTN.com Discover more to see and do in Clarksville, Tennessee - a family-friendly and affordable destination only 40 minutes from Nashville. Indoor and outdoor recreation, museums, family attractions, and great food are waiting for you here. Plan your trip today!

TUTORING Antwine's Academics LLC 205-578-8635 wwww.antwinesacademics.com Antwine's Academics provides individualized reading and math instruction and special education consulting services to students in grades K-6. We also provide virtual learning organization and task completion assistance to students in grades K-12.

2020 2021 SEASON Our teaching approach and curriculum engage the imagination and nurture creativity. Live music is an essential component to classes for young children to develop the students’ musicality and to allow for spontaneity and creative freedom.

Visit our website for class schedule for ages 1 and up health and safety protocols faculty bios

REGISTER ONLINE TODAY! thedancefoundation.org | 870.0073 | Homewood

CELE

BRAT

ING

45 yea rs

a place of discovery. birminghamparent.com | 25

UAB Callahan Eye Hospital & Clinics would like to congratulate our very own Dr. Parisa Dudley, who has been nominated among Birmingham Parent Magazine’s Favorite Kids’ Docs for 2020.

Dr. Dudley has been with the UAB Department of Ophthalmology since 2018, when she joined the team as a Clinical Assistant Professor. She brought more than a decade of private practice experience to Callahan - experience she gained after graduating from Auburn University in 2000 and UAB School in Optometry in 2004.

For Dr. Dudley, this nomination adds to her long and ever-growing list of career accomplishments, which Dr. Parisa Dudley

includes being nominated for the same award last year and being named “Best Pediatric Doc” for Birmingham in 2014.

Dr. Dudley is one piece of our very impressive team at Callahan, which is one of only two Level 1 Ocular Care Centers with a 24/7 eye emergency department in the United States. When getting your or your child’s eyes checked at Callahan, you can expect to receive the full spectrum of care provided by some of the top ophthalmologists and optometrists in the country.

Along with excellent doctors, surgeons and staff members, our hospital and many of our clinics offer a complete optical shop stocked with an impressive variety of eyeglasses, sunglasses and eye care accessories, as well as an optician to help during the fitting process.

With 15 satellite clinics across the state, it is never difficult to find exceptional eye care with Callahan.

Since opening our doors in 1963, quality eye care has been our top priority, and Dr. Dudley is a great example of our mission to provide an exceptional patient experience.

If you think you or your child might benefit from an eye exam, or if you have any questions or concerns, please call or text us at (844) UAB-EYES. 26 | birminghamparent | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

CALLAHAN EYE HOSPITAL & CLINICS PEDIATRIC OPHTHALMOLOGY AND OPTOMETRY SERVICES UAB Callahan Eye Hospital & Clinics is committed to providing comprehensive pediatric eye care. Our experienced ophthalmologists and optometrists provide a wide variety of eye care services, including: eye exams, eyeglasses and contact lenses, cataract and strabismus evaluations, and a full-service optical store where all patients receive 15% off.

PEDIATRIC LOCATIONS UAB Callahan Eye Hospital 1720 University Blvd., Birmingham, AL 35233

Cahaba River 2801 Old 280 Court, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243

Children’s South 1940 Elmer J. Bissell Road, Suite B, Birmingham, AL 35243

Gardendale 960 Rocket Way, Suite 120, Gardendale, AL 35071

Hoover 501 Emery Drive West, Suite 1101A, Hoover, AL 35244

Pell City 7067 Veterans Parkway, Suite 240, Pell City, AL 35125

To schedule an appointment, please call or text 844.UAB.EYES, or visit UABMEDICINE.ORG/EYE.

birminghamparent.com | 27

Birmingham Parent Announces Your Favorite Kids’ Docs for 2020 There’s nothing better than finding a great doctor for you child, and often these leads come from fellow parents who have “been there, done that.”

Imagine a big binder of names of doctors for all the needs your child may have – pediatrician, dentist, orthodontist or multiple specialists. Now you have the idea behind “Birmingham Parent’s Favorite Kids’ Docs,” now in our seventh year.

The process is totally reader driven, like all our “favorites” contests. We call for nominations, and moms, dads and grandparents and other caregivers go online, nominate a favorite kids’ doc and tell us 28 | birminghamparent | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

why. And there’s no prize for nominating – just the opportunity to tell readers why you love your child’s doctor and give them the chance to be honored in our magazine.

When you sese our little logo in your doctor’s office, know that your doctor is a “Birmingham Parent Favorites Kids’ Doc!” Watch for a new promotion in 2021. And you can read it online all year at www. birminghamparent.com.

Listed in alphabetical order here are the Favorite Kids Docs 2020 and what some of you had to say about them (only one comment per doctor listed, though many doctors received multiple nominations): Dr. Hilary Anderson, Urgent Care for Children “Dr. Anderson is an excellent pediatrician with very effective communication skills with parents and bedside manner. Any pediatric exams are so easy to encounter with her calming attitude. Very thorough in her assessments and patient care. Always ready to go the extra mile for patients and families.”

– Lal Allury Dr. Allury Arora, Urgent Care for Children “One of the best pediatric leaders around. Pediatric skills are amazing. So are leadership skills and is leading Urgent Care for Children to grow very rapidly.” – Will Matt

Dr. Courtney Baxley, Over the Mountain Pediatrics “Dr. Baxley is always willing to help. She and her staff are excellent and do a great job caring for patients.”

– Amy Sanders Dr. Bassam Babi, Babi Pediatrics “One of the most caring physicians that I have seen in practice. Cares deeply about his patients and makes his own calls after hours. I cannot give him enough stars for what he does.”

– Shelia Porter Dr. Manci Balas, Liberty Mountain Pediatrics “Very experienced and knowledgeable pediatrician. She has improved the Liberty Peds practice since her arrival.” – Will Matt Dr. Ashley Beasley, Midtown Pediatrics “I feel very blessed to know Dr. Ashley Beasley. I was impressed by her professional skills. She is also kind and compassionate. Her friendly smile made me and my kids feel welcome. My two boys love going to the doctor. Thank you, Dr. Beasley, for all you do.” – Michael Raspberry Dr. Anne Byers, Liberty Mountain Pediatrics “Dr. Byers is the Best!” – Megan Allen Dr. Carolyne Craig, Urgent Care for Children “Dr. Craig is a fantastic pediatrician with a work ethic that is above par. She makes a family so comfortable, especially in stress times. Her examination skills on children are always comforting and friendly.” – Allury Lal Dr. Diane Deitlien, Pediatrics East Deerfoot “Dr Deitlien is never dismissive. She always listens to any problems or concerns I have about my boys’ health and comes up with a solution. We are so thankful to have her as our boys’ pediatrician, and she definitely deserves to be recognized for her hard work and dedication.” – Jarica Cornelius Dr. Brian Dudgeon, Greenvale Pediatrics “Dr. Dudgeon was my pediatrician when I was growing up.

Now he is my daughter’s. I wanted him to be her doctor because I recall all the times he sat and listened to my mom about her kid’s needs. He’s gone above and beyond for us!”

– Evan Minas

for him as the best obstetrics gynecologist doctor ever!”

– Lisa Sumlin Dr. Max Hale, Birmingham Pediatrics “Dr. Hale has been my daughter’s pediatrician since birth, 11 years ago. My daughter was born with an incurable chronic disease. Dr. Hale has been a patient, knowledgeable, understanding advocate for her health” – Alicia Hart-Wilson Dr. Erik Henninger, Tender Care Pediatrics “We’ve used Dr. Henninger for 8-plus years. We have taken many foster children to him and he has never turned us away.”

– Christy Sattler Dr. David Lozano, Pediatric Pulmonology / Pediatric Asthma Pulmonology, Pediatric Sleep Medicine, Dothan, AL “Listens to parents’ concerns. He's great." - Jannica Harris Dr Elizabeth Luke, Over the Mountain Pediatrics “Dr. Luke has been phenomenal with my son since birth. Dr. Luke has listened to what I had to say and thoroughly looked into the problem each time.” – Amethyst Moormann Dr. Tamara Mason, Horizon Medical Clinic, Oneonta, Alabama “Dr. Mason is one of the best pediatricians I’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing. She’s caring, kind and spends time listening. We’ve followed her from Pinson to Hwy. 280 and to her new practice in Oneonta. None better! My girl will be 9 soon and she’s been with us since birth! – Karen Saxon Dr. Jennifer McCain, Mayfair Medical Group “She has been my kids’ pediatrician for years. Very good and knowledgeable about what needs to be done for your kids’ health. Don’t mind taking her time to listen to you and all the questions you may have and provides you with the best answers and solutions.” – Erika Stallworth Dr. Rosalyn Morgan, Morgan Pediatrics “Superb and quality service with special needs patients.”

– Jannica Harris

Dr. Parisa Dudley, OD, Callahan Eye Foundation “We have used Dr. Dudley for years. She is a very kind and compassionate doctor that really listens. We drive from Pell City to see her at the Hoover location.” – Desiree Jenkins Dr. Vera Egorshin, Western Health Center, Midfield “She is beyond excellent and extraordinary doctor. She takes her time with each one of her patients. My children and I love Dr. Egorshin.” – Lisa Sumlin Dr. Jeffrey Gunnells, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Henderson & Walton Women’s Medical Center “He knows and goes beyond expectations. I will always vote birminghamparent.com | 29

and knowledgeable about the health care of your kids’ teeth.

Polite and makes the kids feel welcome and makes their dentist visit enjoyable.” – Erica Stallworth Dr. Sarah Novara, Children’s of Alabama Neurology "Dr. Novara is fantastic! She goes above and beyond what other doctors do to make sure her patients are doing well!

She has called me after hours, on her own time, just to check on my baby’s well-being. She truly cares about her patients and their families!” – Christy Sattler Dr. Charlotte Prejean, Pediatrics West - McAdory “Dr. Prejean (Bryant) was my doctor when I was growing up, and now she is my son’s and nieces’ and nephews’ doctor!

She is attentive and caring. Amazing doctor hands down!”

– Eureika Bishop Dr. Angela Redmond, Children’s of Alabama, Trussville “Dr. Redmond is great and very patient. She shows great concern and relatable experiences.” – Vershundra Cissell Dr Angelica Rohner, Pediatric Dentistry “She has been my kids’ dentist for over 15 years. Very good

30 | birminghamparent | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

Dr Fadell Savany, Gardendale “Love, love him and his whole staff!” – Gina Sitz Dr. Richard Stone, Vestavia Pediatrics “Dr. Stone is the best! He is so patient, kind and encouraging!” – Candace Glass Dr. Rebecca Thompson, Purohit Pediatric Clinic “She is so sweet! She makes sure everything is okay with your child. She is very thorough and is kind when having to explain things to you. She made my first-time parent anxiety melt away. We love her so much!” – Elizabeth White Dr. Ryan Walley, Redmont Pediatrics “A wonderful doctor who takes his time during every visit and is very understanding and compassionate. Very thankful to have a doctor to take care of my child in his different seasons of life.” – Laura Decker Otwell

DOTHAN PEDIATRIC SUBSPECIALTY CLINIC

PEDIATRIC SUBSPECIALTY CARE CLOSE TO HOME

D Dr. David Lozano

r. David Lozano is a Pediatric Pulmontreats pediatric sleep disorders of all types. ologist and Pediatric Sleep Specialist “State-of-the-art equipment allows us to test who cares for children with breathing the most complex pediatric patients. Paissues and chronic lung disease. tients with a variety of diagnoses, including Dr. Lozano practiced 13 years as a pediatric autism, ADHD, ventilator support, tracheospulmonologist at Children’s of Alabama (COA) tomy dependence, and oxygen dependency and eight years as Medical Director of the can receive a sleep study with us,” says Dr. Sleep Disorders Center at COA. Dothan PeLozano. “Our sleep center will provide the diatric Healthcare Network warmly welcomed highest quality care for every infant, child, and Dr. Lozano as a physician at Dothan Pediatric adolescent who spends a night with us.”

Subspecialty Clinic in January 2018. Families “I am confident this clinic and sleep center in Southeast Alabama and the tri-state area will reflect my personal passion, two decades sincerely value having Dr. Lozano’s pediatric in the making, to provide excellent subspesubspecialty care close to home. cialty care to the children of Alabama and His clinical interests include Bronchopulmosurrounding areas.” nary Dysplasia (BPD), Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy, Technology-DeDothan Pediatric Subspecialty Clinic pendent patients/Pediatric Home Ventilation, 5565 Montgomery Highway, Dothan, AL 36303 Asthma, and Pediatric Sleep Medicine.

334-699-3733 As Medical Director of the subspecialty clinic’s Pediatric Sleep Center, Dr. Lozano

www.dothanpediatricsubspecialty.com

Dr. Manci Balas is now

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! Well Child Checks Same-Day Sick Visits Immunizations Sports Physicals New Born Care On-site Labs COVID-19 Testing

Call Today To Schedule An Appointment!

205-900-7337

3735 Corporate Woods Drive Suite 105 Vestavia, AL 35242

www.libertypeds.com

birminghamparent.com | 31

8 Tips to Find the Right Pediatrician For Your Child

By Denise Morrison Yearian

Looking for a doctor for your child?

Following are 8 ways to help you find a family doctor you can feel both confident in and comfortable with.

1. GATHER NAMES. Get recom-

mendations from local parents and/or your obstetrician. Or go online to the American Academy of Pediatrics [AAP] for a listing of local doctors. Birmingham Parent’s Favorite Kids’ Docs nominees is another great resource. Once you have several, log onto your health care provider’s website to confirm these doctors are covered under your plan.

2. CHECK POSITION AND STATUS. Most pediatrician’s websites list where the doctor received his undergraduate degree, did is residency and pediatric training, and if he is board certified.

Certification through the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP) isn’t required in some states but it shows the doctor has obtained the ABP Maintenance of Certification standard and is following established guidelines. An FAAP (Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics) title means the doctors has passed ABP boards at least once and practices according to AAP standards. Likewise, log onto the state board of medical practice website to see if there are any complaints lodged or disciplinary action taken against any of the doctors on your list.

3. DETERMINE YOUR PRIORITIES.

Location and office hours are important,

but so is the size of the practice. Some parents want a solo practice with one doctor and a small staff who knows their family well. A small practice will, however, have limited hours and call upon other practices to help when he is out. Other parents opt for a group practice, which offers more availability in hours. Here, a doctor is always present, though the child may not be seen by his own pediatrician during sick visits.

Larger practices may also have sub-specialists with whom doctors can consult if a specific need arises. Parents may also want a pediatrician who is directly affiliated with a local children’s hospital.

6. SCHEDULE CONSULTS. Narrow

contacting prospective pediatricians, create a list of questions, leaving space to jot down answers given by the staff.

research, you feel comfortable with the doctor and the staff and are confident in their ability to care for your child, chances are you’ve found the right fit.

your list and set up interviews. Watch how the staff interacts with patients and people on the phone. Check out the reception area for cleanliness and safety.

Look for good flow: When you meet the physician, find out his philosophies regarding circumcision, breastfeeding, use of medications, alternative treatments, preventive care and other health matters that are important to you. Do they line up with your views? Also note if she listens attentively to your concerns, is patient with explanations, and interacts with your child on his level.

4. PREPARE QUESTIONS. Before

7. FOLLOW YOUR INSTINCT. If, after

5. CONSIDER POLICIES AND

8. SAVE INFORMATION. Once you

PROCEDURES. Find out how questions are addressed during and after office hours. In some larger practices, a phone nurse takes care of over-the-counter questions to make the best use of everyone’s time. Parents can get their questions answered quickly, and it gives doctors time to do what they need to do. Also find out the practice’s policies regarding illnesses and after-hours emergencies – when pediatricians are available by phone and if they have a call-in period each day to take questions. Moreover, ask how quickly sick visits can be scheduled and the procedure if there is an after-hours emergency.

32 | birminghamparent | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

have selected a pediatrician, hold onto the information you gathered about other practices. Since health care plans often change and physicians sometimes move in and out of plans, you may need to find another physician in the future.

Denise Yearian is the former editor of two parenting magazines and the mother of three children and six grandchildren.

Dr. Anna Magliolo

Dr. Ryan Walley

Dr. Christina Cordell

At Redmont Pediatrics we believe in excellent pediatric care in a warm and friendly environment.

We focus on knowing our patients well and believe that the best quality pediatric care is achieved through a family centered approach that emphasizes the importance of a child as an individual and as and integral member of his or her respective family.

We also believe that it is a joy and a privilege to be able to care for patients from birth through adolescence and every step of the way in between. Watching a child grow and realize their full potential is an amazing honor. We value the relationships with our families and strive for our patients to be as healthy and happy as possible.

We invite you and your family to come grow with us!

Located on the 4th floor of the Ortho Sports Tower at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Birmingham.

805 St. Vincent’s Drive, Suite 430, Birmingham, AL 35205

Phone: 205-939-1250 www.redmontped.com Visit us on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/RedmontPediatrics birminghamparent.com | 33

Dr. Manci Balas 205-900-7337 3735 Corporate Woods Drive, Ste 105 Vestavia Hills, AL 35242 www.libertypeds.com

Liberty Pediatrics has been open since the Fall of 2018, servicing Liberty Park and surrounding areas. Since January 2020, Dr. Manci Balas has become their full-time Pediatrician!

Manci Balas , MD is a highly qualified board certified pediatrician with over 20 years of experience. She was born in San Diego, California and raised the daughter of a Naval Flight Surgeon /Anesthesiologist. She's lived in California, Guam, Chicago, Memphis and attended college in Tampa Florida where she graduated from the University Of South Florida College of medicine where she met her Husband Craig. Together they moved to Birmingham, AL where Dr. Balas completed her Pediatric Internship and Residency at Children’s Hospital of Alabama.

She went on to complete a fellowship in Critical Care Transport.

Since completing her training, Dr. Balas has compiled over 20 years of clinical experience. Her husband is an Infectious Disease specialist at UAB and is a senior dean at UAB School of Medicine.

Together they have raised four boys. In their spare time, they enjoy watching baseball, soccer, playing cornhole & enjoying time outdoors with family and friends.

Dr. Balas is beyond grateful for the welcome she has received from this community and for this gracious nomination. She says that this has been by far the most pleasant atmosphere to work in with her wonderful team, which she credits this clinic's success!

She loves her patients dearly and it shows in the care that families and patients receive. Liberty Pediatrics is currently accepting new patients and would love to care for your child and any needs that may arise.

THANK YOU!

34 | birminghamparent | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

Where all the dental needs of your child can be met under one roof!

Dr. Olga Sanchez Hernandez is dual trained and board certified as a pediatric dentist and orthodontist.

4814 Bell Hill Road, Bessemer, AL 35022 205-477-8004 like us on facebook Follow us on

Instagram @mopdsmiles

WE FILE ALL INSURANCE AS A COURTESY. WE ARE PROVIDERS FOR MOST INSURANCE COMPANIES. birminghamparent.com | 35

ASK T H E S P E C I A LI ST

sponsored by

Sports Injuries and Sports Rehabilitation

By Dr. Evan Carstensen

Signs of chronic injuries include: • Pain during activity • Swelling • Aches when at rest

Without the proper training, equipment and warm-up exercises, your body is susceptible to injuries, such as muscle strains and ligament sprains, dislocated joints and fractured bones

Signs of acute injuries such as a sprained wrist or fractured foot include: • Sudden onset of pain • Swelling • Inability to place weight on a limb • Extreme tenderness Regular exercise through sports can develop strong bones, control weight, improve sleep and build self-confidence – but it can also be dangerous.

Without the proper training, equipment and warm-up exercises, your body is susceptible to injuries, such as muscle strains and ligament sprains, dislocated joints and fractured bones. These injuries can be classified in two categories – acute and chronic. Chronic sports injuries result from overuse of a specific area of the body.

If an injury occurs, it’s important to take a break to let your body heal and seek medical attention if necessary. Depending on the severity of the injury, you may need surgery, or you may benefit from participating in a rehabilitation program.

A complete sports rehabilitation program should include exercises that will decrease pain, develop strength, flexibility and endurance as well as provide education on the proper body mechanics for the specific sport you play.

A physical therapist will determine your rehabilitative exercises

36 | birminghamparent | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

depending on your injury. For example, if you have a sprained ankle, the physical therapist may ask you to participate in range-of-motion exercises, such as gently tracing letters in the air with your big toe.

Rehabilitation will begin slowly and gradually build up as you regain strength. To prevent further injury, do not return to strenuous activities until your body has healed. If you continue to feel pain or experience swelling, tell your primary care physician or physical therapist.

Although you may feel anxious to return to your favorite pastime – you must be patient during the rehabilitation process so that you can return to your same level of skill as before your injury. To be evaluated by a fellowship trained orthopedist or for more information about sports rehabilitation or to find a program near you, call Alabama Bone and Joint Clinic at 205-621-3778.

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A COMMUNITY BUILT ON SUPPORT We never forget that there’s more to care than medicine.

Things like compassion, attentiveness and kindness are important too. So, rest assured that when it comes to your health, all of us are here to treat you well.

Find a physician at BrookwoodWomensMedicalCenter.com birminghamparent.com | 37

OPPORTUNITIES

TO SERVE

WITH YOUR KIDS

Volunteering Helps Kids Learn to Help Others

By Sarah Lyons

When children have the opportunity to serve in their community, they develop a desire to help others and make a difference. Not only do they become more aware of others who are less fortunate, they learn to appreciate the blessings in their own lives. And they often grow into adults who want to continue helping others.

Parents can play a big role. “By involving their children when they volunteer, parents are modeling the importance of community as an extension of the family and that by working together, we improve all of our lives,” says Benga Harrison, director of United Way Hands On in Birmingham, an agency that provides flexible, local hands-on volunteer opportunities for individuals and families.

A family service project is a great way to start, even with younger children. Pick something that excites or interests your children because they are much more likely to become invested in the project.

“Volunteering is a fantastic way for parents to not only bond with their children but also broaden their understanding of what it means to serve the community,” says Kate Hollingsworth, director of engagement for the Greater Birmingham Humane Society.

Here are some ideas to get you started. Remember to check first with any agency that you wish to volunteer with or donate to for their Covid-19 policies.

38 | birminghamparent | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 2019

ORGANIZE A DRIVE. Collect coats, hats and gloves, blankets, toys or clothing to donate to those in need. Have the kids clean their rooms and sort through items that are in great shape but are no longer needed. Many organizations will collect these items to give to shelters, foster care, or victims of fire.

FILL THE FOOD PANTRY. Talk with your kids about others who may not have enough to eat. Take them shopping to choose their favorite nonperishable items for meals and snacks to donate to a local food pantry. Try going door to door in your neighborhood to collect even more items.

WORK OUTDOORS. Help a neighbor, friend, or family member who may be unable to do their own yardwork. Offer to rake leaves, shovel snow, or mow the lawn. Ask if there are other projects like painting, gardening, or maintenance that your family can help with.

WORK IN THE KITCHEN. Everyone loves cookies. Get the kids to help out in the kitchen by baking up some tasty treats to share with friends and neighbors. Consider taking them to a local police or fire station to show your appreciation for their hard work in the community. If you know a family in need, consider taking them a meal and, if appropriate, deliver it as a family.

SEND CARDS. Words of encouragement, handmade cards, or coloring pages are a great way to brighten a soldier’s day and show your appreciation for the sacrifice they are giving for our country. This is a great way to talk to kids about soldiers, veterans, and our country’s freedom they defend. Nursing homes also appreciate delivery of encouraging items like these for their residents.

HELP A FOUR-LEGGED FRIEND. Typically, animal shelters need help walking dogs, cleaning cages, and giving lonely animals attention. “We have programs such as Reading Buddies where parents can bring their young emergent readers into the shelter or offsite at a library visit to read to our shelter dogs and cats,” Hollingsworth adds. “Families also can be trained to walk, socialize and bathe dogs at the shelter.”

Contact your shelter to see if there are things your family can donate as well.

Families can organize donation drives for shelter pets, collecting food, treats, toys, beds, blankets and newspaper. One family recently set up a dog washing stand in their yard for neighborhood pets and donated several hundred dollars of proceeds to the humane society, Hollingsworth says.

GIVE BACK TO NATURE. Kids who love nature may enjoy cleaning up a local park, adopting a street to pick up trash, or cleaning up the green space

in your own neighborhood. Contact your local school or church to see if there is landscaping that needs attention. Kids can help plant trees, flowers, pull weeds, and lay mulch. They will see the beauty of their hard work in no time.

“Families can call us and join an existing scheduled litter cleanup event, or they can just pick a park or other area that needs some care,” says Gordon Black, education director for the Cahaba River Society. “We can even recommend locations throughout the metro area that need care. Any cleanup project you can come up with really helps.” Families who go on their own to clean up can take photos and send them to the society’s website if they wish, Black says.

DONATE PROCEEDS. Do you have a budding entrepreneur in the family? Consider hosting a lemonade stand, garage sale, or bake sale and donating the proceeds to the charity of your choice. This is a great way to teach kids money management and business skills while helping others in need.

These are just a few ideas of how you can serve your community. When parents take the time to serve others, their kids will see volunteering as a priority and will develop a desire to give back as they become adults.

Sarah Lyons is a freelance writer. Lori Pruitt, associate editor, contributed to this story.

birminghamparent.com| |3939 birminghamparent.com

FAMILY TRAVEL

Laid-back

BLAIRSVILLE Makes a Perfect Family Getaway

By Lori Chandler Pruitt

40 | birminghamparent | November/December 2020

What better way to social distance than at a state park? Only four hours away from Birmingham is Blairsville, GA – home to Vogel State Park, a picturesque downtown square with unique shops and restaurants, lots of outdoor and water activities – all with the Blue Ridge Mountains as a backdrop.

Whether you want a laid-back experience or an action-packed vacation, Blairsville is a great choice. It’s only two hours north of Atlanta, too. It’s a perfect destination for families, couples and friend getaways.

My husband and I stayed at the 233-acre Vogel State Park (https://gastateparks.org/Vogel), located in the heart of the Chattahoochee National Forest, one of Georgia’s oldest parks and one of the state’s most popular destinations. The historic park has some of its original facilities built during the Great Depression, and an on-site museum gives you all the details.

Vogel is home to the beautiful 22-acre Trahlyta Lake, where you can paddleboard, pedal boat and kayak, and hike to a stunning waterfall. It’s a great park for hiking or biking a short distance, or for taking the challenging 13-mile Coosa Backcountry Trail or the 4-mile Bear Hair Gap Loop.

Vogel has updated, beautiful cabins and cottages, several campsites and primitive backpacking sites. There also is a mountain view beach area and playground. The park’s general store is an added plus, and for a fee, you can play ADA-accessible miniature golf. On the way to Blairsville, Sunrise Grocery, serving the area since the 1920s, features locally-made products from pottery to jams to candles and fresh produce.

There are so many recreation areas that offer all kinds of water and outdoor activities. The Appalachian Trail winds through this area. Lake Winfield Scott Recreation Area is a popular destination, and Brasstown Bald is the highest natural point in Georgia. Boat rentals are available in many areas. There are so many great parks, too.

Only a few miles away from Vogel is downtown Blairsville, with a very walkable town square and home to many boutiques and restaurants. You can get a lot of shopping done in all of the shops with great gifts for all ages and stages. Mountain Life Mercantile, From Me to You, Rustic Mountain Décor, Keen Creations & Co., Sunflowers on the Square, Rebecca’s Off the Square, and Logan Turnpike Mill are just a few. The historic Union County Courthouse also has a museum of county and Native American history.

You can enjoy great coffee, pastries and sandwiches from Cabin Coffee Co., Abide Coffee, Melissa’s Custom Cakes, Dixie Confexions, and many more. We enjoyed a wonderfully fresh, local farm-to-table lunch from The Sawmill Place Kitchen + Market; and a delicious dinner at Lala’s Kitchen in the Mountains, which features dishes from all over Latin America and much more – my husband may never order French onion soup anywhere else again; it was just that good.

Cook’s Country Kitchen serves up great comfort food. And for a change of pace, sit outside and enjoy the mountain beauty at The View Grille at the Butternut Creek Golf Course.

This is a close-knit, friendly community with many fun events – and if you are here for the holidays, there are tree lightings, special shopping markets, a Christmas parade and more. As always, check beforehand.

Another great way to social distance and enjoy the outdoors is a nice trail ride. Track Rock Stables (https://trackrock.com), family owned for decades, offers 60 horses for trail riding, a horse camp, lesson horses and horse boarding.

The campground has 100 shaded, level, private campsites and five cabins. As a horse-riding novice, they took excellent care of me. You also can learn all about alpacas at Lasso the Moon Alpaca Farm and its store/gallery, Farm, Felt & Glass.

This area also is known as the “Napa Valley of the South,” with several vineyards in the area.

Blairsville stole our hearts, and we’re already planning our next visit!

Check out www.VisitBlairsvilleGa.com for much more information on this beautiful place.

Lori Pruitt is associate editor of Birmingham Parent.

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 & JANUARY 2021

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Photo by Christy Pierce Photography

In this issue of Birmingham Parent, you’ll find a calendar that is once again heavy on the virtual events, thanks to the Covid-19 pandemic.

We’ve highlighted a few events for you, some that have a charity or fundraising component. Be sure to check our online calendar for constantly-changing opportunities.

Please note that you should check ahead for ANY event to be certain times and locations have not changed, and check out our most up-todate calendar online at https:// birminghamparent.com/ directory/events for current and new events that have recently been added.

If you are checking the online calendar, please check ahead to see if advertised events are still happening. This calendar goes through January 2021, due to no calendar in the January issue – The Guide 2021.

HIGHLIGHTS Nov. 5 Inspiration Home 2020 Tour

Dec. 20 Jim Brickman: Comfort & Joy at Home LIVE! Meet & Greets and Christmas Gifts delivered to your door. Tickets, www.jimbrickman.com.

BIRMINGHAM ZOO Nov. 18, 2020 – Jan. 18, 2021 GLOW WILD: AN ANIMAL LANTERN CELEBRATION Mark your calendar for the Birmingham Zoo’s new wild illuminated experience starting in November! Details were not readily available at print date, but be sure to check out www.birminghamzoo.com for more information including dates, hours and tickets.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

Happy Holidays nov/dec/jan calendar

November 2 MONDAY

Ignite Women's Bible Study 12-1:30pm, UAB Mini Park, A group of women from Ignite gather to study the Bible and have discussions about passages. www.calendar.uab.edu.

3 TUESDAY

Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting 5:30-6:30pm, Online. These meetings are open to anyone seeking recovery.

Zoom meeting ID: 869-456-6003, www.calendar.uab.edu.

Line Dancing- Improver 11am-noon, Pelham Recreation Center.

A class for experienced beginners (between beginner and intermediate). http://pelhamalabama.gov/calendar.

Birmingham Botanical Gardens: At this time, for your own safety and the safety of others, we ask that you please bring your own mat and yoga props. The Birmingham Park and Recreation Board has implemented heightened daily disinfection of Gardens facilities in response to public health concerns surrounding COVID-19. Friends, $8; non-members, $10. 205-414-3950, https://bbgardens.org/vinyasa-yoga,

5 THURSDAY

Inspiration Home 2020 Tour Noon, Firefighter Lane Homewood.

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama is proud to be the charity partner for Birmingham Home & Garden’s Inspiration Home for 2020.

Willow Homes is builder. Tickets, information, www.rmhca.org.

Line Dancing- Intermediate 9:30-10:30am, Pelham Recreation Center. A class for those who have been dancing for some time and have mastered complicated steps and upper body movements. Open to ages 18-plus. http://pelhamalabama.gov/ calendar.

Vettes4Vets Salute to Veterans Ball Noon, Hoover Met Complex. www.hooveral.org/calendar.

UAB Connections Support Group 10:30am-noon, Callahan Eye Hospital. UAB Connections provides a combination of educational, social, and recreational/leisure activities for adults with various eye disorders as well as their family and close friends.

205-488-0778, www.calendar.uab. edu.

Behind-the-Scenes Encounter: Southern White Rhinoceros 1:15pm, Birmingham Zoo. Get close to and meet our animals, all while learning from the Zoo’s expert animal care professionals.

Encounters include a tour of behindthe-scenes animal areas, time to ask the experts questions and more.

Members, $50 per person; nonmembers, $65 per person. 205-8790409, www.birminghamzoo.com.

4 WEDNESDAY

Yoga at the Gardens: Vinyasa 8:30am, Birmingham Botanical Gardens. A note from Friends of

7 SATURDAY

2D Sports Fall Championship Noon, Hoover Met Complex. www. hooveral.org/calendar.

Friends of the Chelsea Library 10-11am, Chelsea Public Library.

Meeting the first Saturday of each month to discuss upcoming events, new members and new business. Open to the public. www. cityofchealsea.com/calendar.

Moss Rock Festival 10am-4pm, The Preserve Town Hall.

The Preserve in Hoover will be a regional focus for art, design and environmental lovers everywhere as the 15th annual Moss Rock Festival kicks off. This one-of-a-kind outdoor fall festival welcomes 10,000 visitors annually. Admission charged. www. mossrockfestival.com.

Birmingham Out of the Darkness Walk 1-5pm, Veterans Park. Join the AFSP Alabama Chapter at the 2020 Birmingham Out of the Darkness Walk and join the effort with hundreds of thousands of people to raise awareness and funds that allow the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) to invest in new research, create educational programs, advocate for public policy, and support survivors of suicide loss. www.hooveral.org/calendar.

Thank A Vet Kickoff 2-4pm, Aldridge Gardens. Join the gardens for a Veterans Kickoff! www. hoover.al/calendar.

8 SUNDAY

Moss Rock Festival 10am-4pm, The Preserve Town Hall, see November 7.

9 MONDAY

Kaizen R2T Game Begins

Noon. Kaizen is an app-based, educational gaming platform built to provide a fun, yet competitive learning environment. Developed as an innovative quiz game, the aim is to provide a fun and flexible way to learn new competencies and test retention.

Registration closes the Wednesday before the start of each game. www. calendar.uab.edu.

My Grandfather Would Have Shot Me: A Black Woman Discovers her Family's Nazi Past Noon-1:30pm. UAB via Zoom. On the anniversary of Kristallnacht in Germany, Jennifer Teege will be lecturing. Teege, an Afro-German woman, was adopted into a white family and grew up comfortably in West Germany. As an adult she discovered that her maternal grandfather by birth was Amon Goeth, the commandant of a brutal labor concentration camp. (Goeth was played by Ralph Fiennes in Schindler’s List). She reflects on her struggles to deal with her lineage and the legacies of the Third Reich. www.calendar. uab.edu.

SOPH COVID-19 Virtual Journal Club Noon-1pm. Join the SOPH Office of Research for a virtual COVID-19 journal club. www.calendar.uab.edu.

10 TUESDAY

Birmingham Career Fair 11am-2pm, Holiday Inn BirminghamAirport. Free registration. www. eventbrite.com.

11 WEDNESDAY

Virtual National Veterans Day Parade 4:30pm. In order to honor social

PLEASE NOTE: PLEASE NOTE: Calendar information should be uploaded to our website at https://portal.cityspark.com/EventEntry/EventEntry/BirminghamParent and may appear in print if uploaded by deadline. You may also go to www.birminghamparent.com and simply click on the calendar icon. Entries added online after the print deadline will not appear in the print version. Information cannot be accepted over the phone.

Birmingham Parent publishes a calendar 6 times a year. January events are included in the November/December issue. Deadline for the February 2021 issue is January 8, 2021.

Guidelines: Birmingham Parent’s calendar is intended to be a resource and service to the community and our readers. Events which are open to the public, fundraisers, free classes, etc., are events that may be included in our monthly calendar. We reserve the right to reject any event or listing due to rules or space restrictions. For questions regarding calendar entries, call 205-624-2405 or e-mail calendar@birminghamparent.com.

Due to the pandemic, all events may not be up to date nor have accurate times. Some events may even be canceled. Note, many events currently are VIRTUAL. Be sure to check ahead with the actual venue.

44 | birminghamparent | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

distancing and other impediments to hosting a parade, organizers announce the Birmingham event will be live and online only. Fireworks will follow from Regions Field. More details at https://nationalveteransday. org.

12 THURSDAY

Adult Book Club Noon-1pm, Chelsea Library. Monthly book club. Feel free to bring a lunch. http://www.cityofchelsea.com/ calendar.

Disney's Frozen Jr. 7:30pm, Virginia Samford Theatre. (shows Nov. 12-22). The enchanting modern classic from Disney is based on the 2018 Broadway musical, and brings Elsa, Anna and the magical land of Arendelle to life onstage.

Check website for tickets, times and additional dates. $15 reserved seating. www.virginiasamfordtheatre. org.

13 FRIDAY

Sloss Metal Arts Workshop Weekend 6pm, Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark. Sloss Metal Arts offers a series of monthly workshops that introduce the basics of casting, blacksmithing and welding.

Intermediate and Open Studio workshops are available for more advanced students. Student discounts available with a student ID. www. slossmetalarts.com

14 SATURDAY

A Southern Christmas Bazaar 9am-5pm, Pelham Civic Center and Ice Arena. More than 50 craftsman, artisans and merchants from Alabama and surrounding states will participate in this premier shopping event to benefit Alabaster-Pelham Rotary Club projects. Christmas themed items, clothing, food, collectibles, decorations and much more. Photos with Santa Claus from 1-3pm.

Adults $7, children: $3, children 6 and younger, free. Discount of $1 with donation of one canned food item for Manna Ministries, a local food rescue mission. www. rotarysouthernchristmas.com.

Lego Day! 10am-2pm, Chelsea Library. www. cityofchelsea.com/calendar.

Monkey Up Lacrosse Tournament Noon, Hoover Met Complex, www. hooveral.org/calendar.

Thunderbolts Softball Tournament Noon, Hoover Met Complex, www. hooveral.com/calendar.

15 SUNDAY

Sloss Metal Arts Workshop Weekend 4pm, Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark, see November 13.

16 MONDAY

Genealogy Class 5:30-6:30pm, Chelsea Library. Join the Chelsea Public Library and the Chelsea Alabama Historical Society for a genealogy class for all skill levels. Register, www.chelsealibrary. readsquared.com.

20 FRIDAY

Flag Football Tournament Noon, Hoover Met Complex. www. hooveral.org/calendar.

Game Day 10am-2pm, Chelsea Library. Every third Saturday is Game Day with board games, table top games, and video games available for all ages all throughout the library. www. cityofchelsea.com/calendar.

PAWsitive Education Reading Buddies Book Club 10:30am-noon, Greater Birmingham Humane Society. There's nothing better than a good book. Well maybe, a good book with an adorable dog! https://gbhs.org.

Vocabby's World: Dinosaur Discover 10:30-11:30am, UAB's Alys Stephens Center. Join Vocabby's World® and ArtPlay friends to learn more about dinosaurs! We will explore new words through song, movement and creativity. Perfect for children ages 0-5 years. Register for this free and virtual event at https://bit.ly/33M0och.

26 THURSDAY – THANKSGIVING DAY

28 SATURDAY

N2 Track Days – Barber 7am-5pm, Barber Motorsports Park.

Come and see for yourself how N2 Track Days can help you ride your motorcycle the way it was intended!

You may have heard about track days, heard the myths, heard the hype…now it’s time to ride on many world-class, closed course race tracks with our expertly trained instructors showing you the way. 205-967-4745, https://barberracingevents.com.

December 1 TUESDAY

Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony 5pm, Hoover City Hall. The Christmas Tree Lighting is an annual city event that officially kicks off the holiday season. A Hoover City School choir performs and a student lights the Christmas tree during the ceremony.

Santa makes a grand entrance on a fire truck and takes pictures will all the children. www.hooveral.org/calendar.

5 SATURDAY

GBHS Adoption Appointments 9am-5pm, Greater Birmingham

Humane Society. GBHS moves to appointment-based adoptions, https:// gbhs.org.

meetings are open to anyone seeking recovery. Zoom meeting ID: 869-4566003, www.calendar.uab.edu.

19 SATURDAY

UAB Connections Support Group 10:30am-noon, Callahan Eye Hospital. UAB Connections provides a combination of educational, social, and recreational/leisure activities for adults with various eye disorders as well as their family and close friends.

205-488-0778 for more information. www.calendar.uab.edu.

Virtual Holiday Party 2-3:30pm, UAB's Alys Stephens Center. Jingle bells and ArtPlay's holiday family day. Let ArtPlay provide you with festive supplies needed to celebrate the holiday season with us via Zoom! Register for this jolly event at www.alysstephens.org to secure your spot! Supplies for activities can be picked up from the ArtPlay porch at a date closer to the event. Be sure to register so we may get this date to you in advance.

Vocabby's World: Space 10:30-11:30am, UAB's Alys Stephens Center. Join Vocabby's World® and ArtPlay friends to learn more about space! We will explore new words through song, movement and creativity. Perfect for children ages 0-5 years. Register at www. alysstephens.org.

20 SUNDAY

Jim Brickman: Comfort & Joy at Home LIVE! 7pm, Lyric Fine Arts Theatre.

Grammy-nominated songwriter and piano sensation Jim Brickman will present “Comfort & Joy at Home 2020” Virtual Tour. A portion of each ticket purchased to this LIVE event will benefit the Lyric Theatre. Watch from home and enjoy a one-of-akind personal concert experience.

Tickets $40, $75 and $125 and include Interactive Zoom Room, Meet & Greets and Christmas Gifts delivered to your door. Tickets, www. jimbrickman.com.

24 THURSDAY CHRISTMAS EVE 25 FRIDAY CHRISTMAS DAY 31 THURSDAY NEW YEAR’S EVE

January 2021 (limited events at time of print due to Covid-19)

1 FRIDAY NEW YEAR’S DAY 2 SATURDAY

Friends of the Chelsea Library Meeting 10-11am, The Friends of the Chelsea Library meet discuss upcoming events and new business. Open to the public. www.cityofchelsea.com/calendar.

Lego Day! 10am-2pm, Chelsea Library. Come create and build with your imagination and legos! www.cityofchelsea.com/ calendar.

10 SUNDAY

Micro Wrestling Returns: Trussville Civic Center 6-8pm, Trussville Civic Center, $15$500, https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ micro-wrestling-returns-trussvillecivic-center-tickets-92301336783.

The Price is Right Live!

8pm, BJCC Concert Hall. Originally scheduled for March 31, 2020.

Previously purchased tickets will be honored for the new date.

Ages 2-plus require a ticket. www. ticketmaster.com/the-price-is-rightlive-birmingham-alabama-01-12-2021/ event/.

15 FRIDAY

Creative Writing Senior Showcase for ASFA 1:30-3pm, DJD Theatre, www.asfa.k12.al.us.

16 SATURDAY

Game Day 10am-2pm, Chelsea Library. Game Day every third Saturday with board games, table top games and video games available for all ages all throughout the library. www. cityofchelsea.com/calendar.

Summer Intensive Auditions: Alabama Ballet 1-3pm. Alabama Ballet Center for Dance. Registration starts at 1pm, audition starts at 1:30pm, www. alabamaballet.org.

18 MONDAY

Genealogy Class 5:30-6:30pm, Chelsea Library. Join the Chelsea Public Library and the Chelsea Alabama Historical Society for a genealogy class for all skill levels. Register at www.chelsealibrary. readsquared.com.

5 TUESDAY

Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting 5:30-6:30pm. Alcoholics Anonymous is hosting online meetings. These birminghamparent.com | 45

EVENTS AND ATTRACTIONS

NOV./DEC. 2020 AND JAN. 2021

Photo by Christy Pierce Photography

Due to the pandemic, many attractions may not be open or may have abbreviated times and a limited number of visitors at a time. Be sure to check ahead.

Aldridge Botanical Gardens 3530 Lorna Road, Hoover.

205-682-8019, www. aldridgegardens.com Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame 1631 Fourth Ave. N., Birmingham. 205-254-2731, www.jazzhall.com Alabama School of Fine Arts 1800 Rev. Abraham Woods, Jr. Blvd., www.asfa.k12.al.us Alabama Sports Hall of Fame 2150 Richard Arrington Blvd.

N., Birmingham. 323-6665, www.ashof.org Alabama Wildlife Center 100 Terrace Drive, Pelham.

205-663-7930. www.awrc.org American Village Highway 119, Montevallo.

205-665-3535, www. americanvillage.org

Barber Motorsports Park 6040 Barber Motorsports Parkway, Leeds. 205298-9040, www. barbermotorsports.com Birmingham Botanical Gardens www.bbgardens. org/documents/ treasuremapforweb.pdf 2612 Lane Park Road, Birmingham. 205-414-3900, www.bbgardens.org Birmingham Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Theatre 1001 19th St. North, Birmingham, AL, 35203, 205458-8181, www.bct123.org Birmingham Civil Rights Institute 520 16th St. N., Birmingham.

205-328-9696, www.bcri.org Birmingham Museum of Art 2000 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd., Birmingham. 205-2542565, www.artsbma.org Birmingham Public Libraries Find a library near you for all kinds of fun events and enrichment! www.bplonline.org

46 | birminghamparent | November/December 2020

Birmingham Zoo Zoolight Safari. This December favorite is coming soon!

For dates and details, www. birminghamzoo.com.

2630 Cahaba Road, Birmingham. 205-879-0409, www.birminghamzoo.com

205-739-7141, www.hooveral. org.

Oak Mountain State Park 200 Terrace Drive, Pelham.

205-620-2520, www.alapark. com.

Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum 1919 Ninth St., Calera. 205668-3435, www.hodrrm.org

Ruffner Mountain Nature Center 1214 81st St. S., Birmingham.

205-833-8264, www. ruffnermountain.org.

Jefferson County Library Cooperative Find a library close to you for all kinds of fun events and enrichment! www.jclc.org

Shelby County Public Libraries Find a library near you for all kinds of fun events and enrichment! www.shelbycounty-al.org

McWane Science Center Blue Star Museums Military Discount. Blue Star Museums offers FREE admission to active duty military, including Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Marines, National Guard and Reserve members, with up to five family members. To learn more visit bluestarfam.org. Offer does not include IMAX movies or parking.

Southern Museum of Flight 4343 73rd St. N., Birmingham.

205-833-8226, www. southernmuseumofflight.org

Moss Rock Preserve Preserve Parkway, Hoover.

Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park 12632 Confederate Parkway, McCalla. 205-477-5711, www. tannehill.org Vulcan Park 1701 Valley View Drive, Birmingham. 205-933-1409, www.vulcanpark.org

• Expanded online directory listing with photos video, links to your website • Giveaways • Virtual swag bag download for visitors • Group and dedicated e-blasts • Live chats with potential campers • Great giveaways • Much more!

Contact us for more info at 205-624-2405; info@birminghamparent.com or visit https://birminghamparent.com/directory/2021-camp-expo.

birminghamparent.com | 47

Sparking wonder and curiosity about our world through hands-on science experiences.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest on whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s happening at McWane Science Center.

48 | birminghamparent | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

mcwane.org