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THE PREMIER PARENTING MAGAZINE FOR CENTRAL ALABAMA
JUNE 2016
ULTIMATE BIRTHDAY PARTY GUIDE
10 IDEAS FOR
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VETERANS PARK HOOVER Grab a blanket, your family and friends and head on out to Veteran’s Park in Hooverfor a free, family-friendly film every Friday night starting June 3rd. Come out early and enjoy: The Free Kids’ Zone Fun activites with GOLD’S GYM and picnic with food & drinks available from food vendors. Movies start at dusk. FREE!
Come smile with us!
For complete movie line up visit WBRC.com Visit Alagasco’s Facebook page for weekly chances to win The Good Heat VIP seat package! Follow us on Twitter for any weather updates affecting a movie @BYMovieParties Like us at www.facebook.com/freefridayflicks
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editor’s note
Editing Your Life As a write this note mid-May for our June issue, I’m halfway through an interesting book someone recommended. A Million Miles in a Thousand Years by Donald Miller is described as a writer “editing his life.” It’s a cool idea – if only we could learn to do it as we go. If only we would do it. Ironically, as I’m thinking about Father’s Day for this issue, and I’m deep in my book, my thoughts keep going back to my dad’s life. My relationship with my late dad was certainly less than ideal. He was a tough man to love, when I was a child and an adult. While many times I thought he didn’t love me as I was growing up, now that he’s gone, and I think back on that part of my life, I realize who he really didn’t love was himself, which made everything else in his life so much harder. Miller talks about how, as you live your life, you are writing your own story. When I read, “People who say life is meaningless usually mean their life is meaningless,” I thought of Daddy. I think that might be how he felt. I think he thought he wasn’t writing his story but that it was writing itself, and he had no control. I don’t think he chose it or searched out happiness in the life he had. He never edited his life into a story he wanted to read. Though he never earned millions or wrote anything profound, nor played in the NFL or had fame, he had a family that still loved him, warts and all, and a child who always sought his approval, though it could never be attained. He could have written a very different story. It was all in his hands. Despite what life dealt him, he was still the writer. This Father’s Day I hope you dads reflect on the story you are “writing,” and if it’s the story you want to live out. It’s not too late to do some editing, if you need to, and being a great dad will be one of the best story lines you can choose. You don’t have to be a celebrity; just be dad. Happy Father’s Day! (This was previously printed in the June 2010 issue of Birmingham Parent.)
3590-B Hwy. 31 S. #289 Pelham, AL 35124 205-987-7700 205-987-7600 FAX www.birminghamparent.com
editorial Publishers David & Carol Evans Editor Carol Muse Evans Associate Editor Lori Chandler Pruitt Office Assistant Bethany Adams Hunley Calendar Lori Chandler Pruitt Contributors Charles Ghigna, Dr. Vivian Friedman, Pam Molnar, Gerry P. Smith, Claire Yezbak Fadden, Heather Lee Leap, Becky J. Beall
sales Account Executives Kayla Fricks, Brittani Ellison Webmaster Digital Doo-Wop
art & production Art Director Hilary Moreno Distribution T&P Deliveries E-blasts Simple Southern Lace Designs Legal Counsel Balch & Bingham LLP
Carol Muse Evans, Publisher/Editor carol@birminghamparent.com
ABOUT THE EDITORS: Carol Muse Evans is an award-winning publisher/editor/owner of Birmingham Parent magazine, a publication she and her husband David began in 2004. The Birmingham, Alabama-based parenting publication attracts more than 60,000 readers monthly in a four-county area and receives 10,000 hits per month on its website. The magazine has a 20,000+ print circulation, plus several thousand in readership of the digital edition online. It is the only independently audited free publication in our area. Evans is an award-winning writer and editor who has also has written for several other publications as a freelance writer since the late 80s. She is a graduate of Auburn University in journalism and is a graduate of Scottsboro High School. She is married with two grown children and lives in Alabaster. She is a member of the National Federation of Press Women, Alabama Media Professionals and Southeastern Advertisers and Publishers Association (SAPA). Lori Chandler Pruitt is associate editor of Birmingham Parent, where she is responsible for the calendar and editorial editing. She also is a freelancer for Business Alabama magazine and has written/edited for several other publications. This award-winning writer and editor is a graduate of the University of Alabama in news/editorial and Hueytown High School. She is married with two children. 4 | birminghamparent | june 2016
BIRMINGHAM PARENT IS A PUBLICATION OF EVANS PUBLISHING, LLC. Publishers: Carol Muse Evans, David K. Evans Sr. Birmingham Parent (EIN20-0694149) is published monthly by Evans Publishing LLC. www.birminghamparent.com or editor@birminghamparent.com. Birmingham Parent is © 2016 by Evans Publishing LLC. Family Connections Media ©2016 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.
Our new office will open in JUNE! 721 Montclair Road
www.alpediatricdentistry.com DR. CLARK THOMAS & DR. LAUTEN JOHNSON
Right down the road from our previous Montclair location Monday-Friday 8-5
KIDS LOVE US, PARENTS TRUST US!
Welcoming children 6 months & older.
Treating children, not just their teeth, for a lifetime of healthy smiles. DR .S DS ON
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HOOVER LOCATION
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1015 Brocks Gap Pkwy Hoover, AL 35244
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721 Montclair Road Birmingham, AL 35213
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Pre-School Dance • Ballet • Pointe • Jazz • Lyrical • Contemporary • Hip Hop • Tap • Clogging • Acrobatics • Voice
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Located off Hwy 31 in Vestavia BDT SUMMER CAMP SCHEDULE June 6 & 8 and 13 & 15 Summer Jamm For Tots - Ages 2-5 June 6-9 Tots In Motion - Ages 2-4 Cheer Camp - Ages 5-18 June 13-16 Hip Hop Camp - Ages 5-18 June 20-23 Princess Camp - Ages 3-5 Pop Star Camp - Ages 4-6 June 27-20 Minnie Mouse Clubhouse Camp - Ages 3-5 All Boys Hip Hop Camp- Ages 4-10 July 11-13 Twilight Tots - Ages 2-6 July 18-21 “Frozen” In July- Ages 3-5 July 25-28 Tiny Tumblers- Ages 2-5 Acro Camp - Ages 5-8 SUMMER INTENSIVE June 6-17 Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Clogging
BOOK YOUR BDT DANCE PARTY TODAY! Are you looking for a fun way to celebrate your child’s birthday? BDT is proud to host dance themed birthday parties for girls and boys of any age! We can take care of all the hard work while you sit back & enjoy! H 2 hour time slot H 45 minutes of themed dance instruction H Instructor and music H Tables, chairs and clean-up H We can provide cake, candles, beverages & favors THEME IDEAS: Little Ballerina • Princess • Hip Hop Black Light • Tiny Tumblers • Frozen Minnie Mouse
ACCEPTING BCBS, ALL KIDS AND MEDICAID (Medicaid-Ages 21 & under only) ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS AT ALL LOCATIONS
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Psychological Evaluations and Therapeutic Services for children & adults Speech Therapy ADHD Testing & Medication Management Court Evaluations & Co-Parenting Classes
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Colonnade 3500 Blue Lake Dr., Suite 340, Birmingham, AL 35243 Bessemer 517 18th St. N., Bessemer, AL 35020 Trussville 1976 Gadsden Hwy., Suite 206B, Birmingham, AL 35235 Gardendale 2603 Decatur Hwy., Suite 207, Gardendale, AL 35071
table of contents FREE
THE PREMIER PARENTING MAGAZINE FOR CENTRAL ALABAMA
JUNE 2016
12 18 14
ULTIMATE BIRTHDAY PARTY GUIDE
10 IDEAS FOR
PARTY BAGS HAVE A
"LATE-OVER"PARTY
26
PARTY
THEMES
departments Note 04 Editor’s Editing Your Life
07
PAGE 20
ULTIMATE BIRTHDAY PARTY GUIDE PAGE 12
SIMPLE CELEBRATIONS FROM A TO Z:
26 THEMES FOR YOUR CHILD’S NEXT BIRTHDAY
Parenting with Dr. Friedman
8 Short Stuff 0 in a Book: 30 AThePage Power of One Word 33
June Calendar Highlights
34
June Calendar of Events
Party: 38 Poetry Wild Flowers
features
28
18
14
16 Girls Rock! A “Late-Over” Party for Your Tween-age Daughter
Oh Boy! Host a “Late Over” Party for Your Son
It’s in the Bag: 10 Ideas for Party Bags and Favors
ON THE COVER: Illustration by Melissa Schultz-Jones of Birmingham, http://melissashultz-jones.com.
6 | birminghamparent | june 2016
24 DESTINATION GUIDE Taking on San Diego with Your Family
28 EFFECTIVE STEP-FATHERING
20
parenting
Parenting with Dr. Friedman
Q:
Our 14-year-old child has recently been diagnosed with juvenile diabetes. She is upset about the changes in her life, the hospitalizations, the painful procedures and the fact that she is now different from her friends. How can I best help her adjust to this news?
While some parents assume that their child is devastated by a diagnosis, for some children the diagnosis comes as a relief. Typically, the child has felt ill and has had low energy for some time before the diagnosis is made. She might have even been seen as faking her frequent symptoms. The child feels vindicated to have an illness that has a name. With a defined disease, the unknown future becomes somewhat more predictable. This is not to say that either parent or child is happy about the news. At the time of the diagnosis, both parent and child revise their goals for the future. There is a mourning period as some goals and hopes are abandoned before new goals are set. There may be an over-reaction to the illness, giving up on things that are still possible, such as marriage and children. The process of accepting a chronic illness is not unlike the KublerRoss stages of accepting death. There is denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and finally, if all goes well in the process, acceptance. “Chronic” by definition means that you will be living with the illness for a long time. There is no need to make sudden changes in life goals. Deal with the present one day at a time and leave long-term goals for a time down the road when both you and your child have had a chance to work through feelings about the disease and what it means to you. By then you will have a better understanding of the limitations imposed by the disease but also of the fears that are unfounded. For young children, the way the parent feels about the illness is the way the child will feel. While this still holds true for adolescents, the need for peer acceptance makes the issue somewhat broader. Still, a parent who calmly accepts the hand he is dealt will have a child who is not thrown off the tracks by the news. Parental anxiety is easily communicated. Parental disgust or rejection is even more potent. The best predictor of long-term adaptation for the chronically ill child is school attendance. The child who goes to school tends to have a normal social and academic life while the child who retreats from the world lives his handicap. As much as possible, use vacation time
Mon-Fri
10-4
FRIDAYS JUNE/JU IN LY
for hospital admissions and try to set up doctor’s appointments after school. Honesty about the disease, the prognosis, and the symptoms that your child is likely to experience will allow her to have some control over her illness and will allow her to trust her major supporters – her parents. However, you should spare a child from the remote possibilities that she might never encounter or won’t encounter for many years. Send her to the disease foundation summer camp so that she can meet peers who share the same issues and symptoms. Support her but don’t pity her. Focus on what she can do, not what she has lost. Vivian K. Friedman Ph. D. is a child and family psychologist at UAB, Department of Psychiatry. Send questions for response in this column to Viviankf@gmail.com. No personal replies are sent.
Celebrate America at AMERICAN VILLAGE
Where revolutionary stories of history come to life!
• Red, white and blue family fun • Just 30 minutes south of Birmingham
3727 Highway 119 • Montevallo 205-665-3535 • www.americanvillage.org
birminghamparent.com | 7
short stuff
Where all the dental needs of your child can be met under one roof! Dr. Olga Sanchez-Hernandez is dual trained as a pediatric dentist and a board certified orthodontist
SERVICES INCLUDE: Dentistry for children and adolescents Dentistry for patients with disabilities Orthodontics for children and adults We offer traditional metal brackets, as well as clear We also do Invisalign
4814 Bell Hill Rd. Bessemer, AL 35022 205-477-8004
mccallasmiles.com like us on facebook WE FILE ALL INSURANCE AS A COURTESY. WE ARE PROVIDERS FOR MOST INSURANCE COMPANIES.
Official Book for the Alabama Bicentennial Released Alabama’s rich history is featured in the new book 100 Things You Need to Know About Alabama, written by Montgomery author Randall Williams. The colorful 224-page hardcover book, produced as part of the upcoming Alabama bicentennial celebration, covers the history of Alabama from prehistoric times through the Civil War and Civil Rights Movement to football championships and modern industries. “This book is the beginning of the discussion about our bicentennial,” says Sen. Arthur Orr, chair of the Alabama Bicentennial Commission. “These are the stories of the people and places that shaped our state.” The book will serve as a guidebook for the state’s bicentennial celebration that will begin in March 2017 and continue through 2019, says Jay Lamar, executive director of the bicentennial celebration. “The history of Alabama is more than just the history of our one state.” The 12-inch by 9½-inch hardcover book is available for $29.95.
Lemonade Days, Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation’s National Fundraiser, Hopes to Hold 25,000th Stand Alex’s Lemonade Days Returns June 10-12, 2016
We are excited to announce our partnership with Christian Service Mission, an organization dedicated to connecting resources with needs!
Let us help your business, organization, or group host a diaper drive. #diaperneed
205-607-2112 www.bundlesdiaperbank.org info@bundlesdiaperbank.org sponsored by
8 | birminghamparent | june 2016
Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF), a nonprofit dedicated to finding cures for all kids with cancer, invites volunteers of all ages across the country to take a “stand” against childhood cancer when Alex’s Lemonade Days returns June 10-12. The national volunteer fundraiser commemorates 8-year-old Alexandra “Alex” Scott’s challenge to help her raise $1 million for childhood cancer cures, one cup of lemonade at a time. Volunteers are invited to host lemonade stands over the course of three days in June to continue Alex’s mission and bring renewed attention to the fight against childhood cancer. Since 2004, more than 22,000 Lemonade Days stands have been held nationally, raising over $12 million. This year the Foundation hopes to reach the 25,000th Lemonade Days stand. Alex’s Lemonade Days began in 2004 when Alex set her sights on raising $1 million to fight childhood cancer, the disease she had been fighting since she was an infant. Alex invited volunteers to join her in hosting lemonade stands to help achieve her ambitious goal, one dollar and one lemonade stand at a time. With help from these volunteers, Alex would reach her million dollar goal before losing her life to cancer in August 2004. Now every year on the second weekend of June, Alex’s mission of raising $1 million returns when supporters everywhere contribute to a cure during Alex’s Lemonade Days. For more information on Alex’s Lemonade Days and to sign up to host a lemonade stand visit AlexsLemonadeDays.org.
short stuff
ASFA Student Wins First Place in Publishing Contest
Celebrate Your Smile Seeing patients of all ages.
PHOTO COURTESY OF ASFA
Alabama School of Fine Arts has another first place winner of the Books-a-Million Publishing Contest. Freshman Daniel Blokh won with his submission, In Migration. It was chosen unanimously by the judges as the most outstanding submission. Joyce McKinnon, BAM! publishing coordinator says, “Daniel’s writing demonstrates talent and, more importantly, a keen insight into the human experience. We are excited to reward Daniel and ASFA for this excellent work.” The book will be available for sale at the Books-A-Million in Brookwood Village and online at booksamillion.com. All royalties from the book will go to the school, and $3,000 in gift cards will also be given to ASFA to supply the school’s library and classrooms. Blokh’s book is a collection of creative non-fiction essays about his life and memories. It includes eight essays. Each essay he based around a theme that he had associated with certain images. He then dug into the imagery to find the memories and experiences that related to them. Blokh credits his teacher Iris Rinke-Hammer with helping the book and essays come to life.
205.822.7277 KaseyDavisDentistry.com
RECEIVE A FREE Educational Grant as Part of Thank America’s Teachers Program
Farmers Insurance® announced that Elise Skellie, Thompson Sixth Grade Center teacher, has been awarded a $2,500 educational grant as part of the insurer group’s Thank America’s Teachers℠ program. “Teachers across the country are so passionate about what they do, and they are committed to improving their schools in any way they can,” says Kelly LaMar, managing leader of Thank America’s Teachers for Farmers Insurance. The grant will go toward the purchase of an Epson interactive projector to offer innovative experiences for students, which will better prepare them to be successful 21st century citizens. The projector will transform the existing whiteboard into an interactive tablet. Students will now be able to annotate on projected images from an iPad or iPod, display work from their own devices onto the whiteboard and collaborate with their peers.
IN-OFFICE WHITENING TREATMENT
Amputee Coalition Urges Parents to Keep Children Inside While Mowing
Includes a FREE take-home tray and belaching gel for maximum results.
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) statistics are shocking: Each year, 800 children are run over by riding mowers or small tractors and more than 600 of those incidents result in amputation; 75 people are killed, and 20,000 injured; one in five deaths BIRMINGHAM involves a child. For children under age 10, major limb loss is most commonly caused by lawn mowers. Brett and Jodi Bainter from Orlando recently organized the filming of a public service announcement bringing together a group of brave families who have had children injured by lawn mowers. Twelve years ago, their 15-year-old son, Jake, lost his right leg in a lawn mower accident. Brett was operating the mower on that day. In an instant, the Bainters’ lives were changed forever. “At the hospital, I was told it was a freak accident but I continued to learn of accidents year after year,” Brett says. “Even though our accident happened a long time ago, the pain never goes away. We just felt like we could no longer stand by. We decided to do something.” According to results presented at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons annual meeting in March, injuries were caused most often when children ran behind a mower; slipped under the mower while riding as a passenger; collided with mower blades when machines were steered in reverse; or were struck by a mower that rolled over due to an uneven and/or wet surface. In many cases, adults did not realize children were near the mower when injuries occurred. For more information about limb loss, please call 888-267-5669 or visit the Amputee Coalition website at amputee-coalition.org.
Offer valid for all new patients. Must complete a teeth cleaning and exam to receive offer. Some restrictions may apply.
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ULTIMATE BIRTHDAY PARTY GUIDE ANTIQUE FIRE TRUCK PARTY 205-478-6082 www.doodleshomemadesorbetsandices.com Fire Truck & Frozen Treats AUTOBAHN INDOOR SPEEDWAY 5960 Greenwood Pkwy. Bessemer, AL 35022 205-235-6230 www.autobahnspeed.com/ birmingham-al-indoor-gokarts Indoor go kart racing birthday party in a 53,000 square ft. state of the art facility. They also have junior karts for racers at least 48” tall. BACKYARD MOVIE PARTIES 205-595-3549 www.backyardmovieparties. com Celebrating over 20 years of blockbuster fun. Outdoor movies for private parties, churches, schools and largescale events. You name it, we can do it! BIRMINGHAM DANCE THEATRE 100 Olde Towne Rd., Suite 100 Vestavia Hills, AL 35216 205-822-3012 BDTdance5678@gmail.com www.BDTdance.com BDT is proud to host dance themed birthday parties for girls & boys of any age! We take care of everything while you sit back & enjoy! BIRMINGHAM ZOO 2630 Cahaba Rd. Birmingham, AL 35223 205.879.0409 ext. 257 party@birminghamzoo.com www.birminghamzoo.com The Birmingham Zoo is a great party idea! With over 950 animals, a carousel, playground and train rides, we have the best party entertainment in town!
BRICKS 4 KIDZ/ IKIDZ PARTY PLACE 2154-B Pelham Pkwy. Pelham, AL 35124 334-462-5054 jwade@bricks4kidz.com www.bricks4kidz.com/hoover Parties include a LEGO art activity and racing activity, Beam indoor playground games, completely decorated party room, bottled water, paper products and party favors. CHILDREN’S HANDS-ON MUSEUM OF TUSCALOOSA 2213 University Blvd. Tuscaloosa, AL 205-349-4235, ext. 24 carla@chomonline.org www.chomonline.org Enjoy our fabulous, colorful Party Palace... the best party place designed just for children! CHOM, where children Explore, Create and Discover every time they visit. THE DANCE FOUNDATION 1715 27th Court S. Homewood, AL 35209 shellie@thedancefoundation.org www.dancefoundation.org Creative Movement birthday celebrations, in the theme of your choosing, are adventures in movement and music to celebrate your special day. Recommended for ages 3-6. DO-IT-YOURSELF CRAFTS 1909 Oxmoor Rd. Homewood, AL 35209 205-868-4346 www.doityourselfcrafts.com We offer craft parties so you can enjoy creating with friends or learning something new. Our regular offerings include Glass Fusing, Paint-Your-OwnPottery, Tie-Dye and More! FACE PAINTING FAIRY 205-527-2131 thefacepaintingfairy@yahoo.com www.facebook.com/ thefacepaintingfairy Amazing designs for your next party.
SPONSORED BY
HEAD OVER HEELS GYMNASTICS 500 Caldwell Mill Trace Birmingham, AL 35242 205-981-2720 office@headoverheelsgyms.com www.headoverheelsgyms.com Parents love our no-hassle birthday celebrations! Festivities include activities in the gym, food & drinks in the party area with party favors for all participants! FIRST AVENUE ROCKS 2417 1st Ave. S. Birmingham, AL 35233 205-320-2277 www.firstaverocks.com First Avenue Rocks is Birmingham’s premier rock climbing facility located in the heart of downtown. Parties are filled with energy and are for children ages 8 and up. FUN SOURCE 205-854-2022 funsourceinc.com Fun Source has over 300 items to choose from, including moonwalks, slides, interactive inflatables, rides, water attractions, movie screens, tents, etc... HEART OF DIXIE RAILROAD MUSEUM 1919 Ninth St. Calera, AL 35040 www.HODRRM.org 205-668-3435 Come enjoy exciting Saturday train rides, seasonal special events, train-themed birthday parties and educational field trips. IDLEWILD ADVENTURE COMPANY 205-861-7260 www.goidlewild.com Mobile Rock Climbing Wall JAMM ENTERTAINMENT SERVICES 205-856-5266 www.jamm.net DJ,k specialty parties and more. LEGACY LIMOUSINES PRINCESS PARTY 459 Main St., Suite 201-124 Trussville, AL 35173 205-655-4321 info@legacy-limousines.com www.legacy-limousines.com Make your child’s party a magical one. Birmingham’s premier birthday party package for girls 5 and up. Create a memory that will last a lifetime.
MCWANE SCIENCE CENTER 200 19th St. N. Birmingham, AL 35203 205-714-8414 info@mcwane.org www.mcwane.org McWane Science Center has birthday parties down to a science! Enjoy a private party with your friends along with admission to the Adventure Halls. MAGIC BY KEVINALABAMA ILLUSIONS 205.663.6702 www.alabamaillusions.com Kevin’s magic will keep your children entertained with flashy magic with a few doves thrown in here and there. PAINTBALL IS GOOD 8651 Serene Dr. McCalla, AL 35111 205.477.6067 www.paintballisgood.com Outdoor paintball park for ages 7 and up! Party packages include use of paintball gun, mask, 2 hours of playtime, 1 hour in picnic area and access to grill. PAINTING WITH A TWIST 701 Doug Baker Blvd., Suite #106 Hoover, AL 35242 205-637-7777 paintingwithatwist.com/ birmingham-hoover Invite your friends, and enjoy step-by-step instruction with our experienced & enthusiastic local artists. Leave with a one-of-a-kind creation to cherish for years! PARTYOLOGY 123 Fun St. Birmingham, AL 205-386-5676 www.partyologyevents.com bookthefun@partyology.net Party Planning, Entertainment, Inflatables, Characters, Face painting, Magicians, Set up & Clean up, Concessions, Party Accessories and MORE!! PUMP IT UP PELHAM 205-663-4646 Pump It Up Trussville 305-661-5557 Pumpitupparty.com We’ll make your party epic with huge inflatable indoor playgrounds, games galore, and even a blow-up birthday throne. Unleash your inner party animal with Pump It Up!
SKATES 280 7043 Meadowlark Dr. Birmingham, AL 35242 205-991-3611 www.skates-280.com Come roll with Skates 280 for your next birthday party. SPARE TIME TRUSSVILLE 3600 Roosevelt Blvd. Trussville, AL 35235 205-655-4500 www.sparetimetrussville.com Bowling, Games, Laser Tag, Food & Fun! Birthday parties for kids of all ages. STARSHINE FACES 256-504-5977 www.starshinefaces.com Starshine Faces specializes in bringing fun and color to your events through fabulous full face painting, Balloons & Clowns. STOMP N SHOUT FAMILY FUN ZONE 3945 Vanderbilt Rd. Birmingham, AL 35217 205-808-1234 stompnshout@gmail.com www.stompnshout.com Birthday parties, after school
enrichment, summer camp, bounce rentals, characters, face painting and more. The fun place for kids and the convenient choice for parents. ULTRA BLAST LASER COMBAT CENTER 157 Resource Center Pkwy., Suite 107 Birmingham, AL 35242 205-968-1740 www.lasercombatcenter.com Laser tag in a HUGE 9,000 sq. ft. combat area, including a complex 2-level arrangement and stateof-the-art cyber-blast equipment! VULCAN PARK 1701 Valley View Dr. Birmingham, AL 35209 205-933-1409 event@visitvulcan.com www.visitvulcan.com Host your Birthday Party at Vulcan Park! And come to our Big Birthday Bash on June 5th as we celebrate the Big Guy’s 112th Birthday with fun family activities.
JAMM Entertainment Services
DJ parties
free bubble machine DJ for two hours $299
Photo booth parties
including printing and fun dress up props for two hours $399
205.856.5266 • 800.264.5266 greatparties@JAMM.net • www.JAMM.net
Birthdays in Birmingham YOUR LOCAL BIRTHDAY PARTY RESOURCE Loved by Parents since 1997
Places to Go Entertainment Party Supplies & Rentals Facilities Coupons
birthdaysinbirmingham.com birminghamparent.com | 13
ULTIMATE BIRTHDAY PARTY GUIDE
GIRLS ROCK!
A “LATE-OVER” PARTY FOR YOUR TWEEN-AGE DAUGHTER By Pam Molnar 14 | birminghamparent | june 2016
Your daughter asked to have a sleepover for her birthday party, but you just don’t think you can make it until morning with a group of hyper tweens. No need to worry – have a late-over party instead. A late-over party has all the benefits of a sleepover, but with a good night’s sleep. It is great for girls who may not be ready for a full-blown first sleepover, and it works well for parents who would like a party with less of a time commitment. Late-over parties usually run from 6:00 until 10:00, giving you plenty of time for food, activities and fun with your BFFs. Here are some great ideas for a fun party:
Get it started. Ask all the girls to come over in pajamas. Serve up some pizza, soft drinks and snacks like nachos or popcorn. During dinner you can play “How well do you know the birthday girl?” Ask your daughter 20 questions ahead of time. Some examples are, “What softball league does Delaney play for?” or “On a scale of 1 to 10, how much does the birthday girl like One Direction?” Have a small prize for the girl who got the most answers correct or hand out a piece of candy for each correct answer.
Activity: Lip-sync Videos – Split the girls up in teams of two or four. Let them choose a song and ask them to make a video to go along with it. Supply a box of props for the girls to use with things like hats, sunglasses, feather boas, and of course, microphones. Give the girls time to work on their choreography and then let them perform for everyone. Be sure to get it all on video and then give a copy of it to the girls to take home. Activity: Fashion Show – Provide girls with rolls of duct tape and plenty of newspaper. Break the girls up into teams of three or more. One girl will be the model and the other girls are the designers. See what outfits, hats and accessories the girls can make from the tape and newspaper. Have the girls model their creations and vote for the winner. This is a great photo opportunity!
Activity: My Friend, The Mirror – This is a fun makeover game for tween girls. Have everyone choose a partner. One girl sits in a chair with makeup (lipstick, eye shadow, and blush) in front of her. She will attempt to put on the makeup using only her partner’s guidance for a mirror. Another variation of this game is to have the makeover girl keep her arms at her side. Her partner sits behind her on the chair and uses her own arms to put makeup on the model without the benefit of a mirror. Birthday cake – or not: Tired of the same old sheet cake? Mix it up a little. Why not have birthday cookie and ice cream sandwiches, chocolate fondue or an easy trifle made with cake, whipped cream and fruit? You can’t go wrong with an ice cream sundae bar with whipped cream, candy sprinkles and crushed cookies. Or, if you are looking for another activity, let the girls decorate their own cupcakes.
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Let’s Play Musical Gifts – Everyone wants their gift opened first so to avoid hurt feelings, let’s make a game of it. Have the girls sit in a circle holding their gift. Turn on some music and start passing the gifts around. When the music stops, the birthday girl opens the gift she has in her hand. Keep playing until all the gifts are opened.
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Goody Bags – Avoid the candy or plastic trinkets. Personal gifts have more meaning. Make a CD of the birthday girl’s favorite songs – they’re probably the guests’ favorite songs, too. Take pictures during the party of all the girls eating and doing the activities. Print out the pictures at a local drugstore (for quick turnaround) and put them in mini photo albums that you find at the dollar store. The girls will have a great keepsake to take home from the party. Pam Molnar is a freelance writer and mother of three teens. She enjoys party planning as much as the kids enjoy the party.
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ULTIMATE BIRTHDAY PARTY GUIDE
OH BOY!
HOST A “LATE-OVER” PARTY FOR YOUR SON By Pam Molnar
When my son turned 10, it seemed like all of his friends had sleepover parties to celebrate their birthday. My son prefers to sleep in his own bed, so I always picked him up from the parties at 10:30 p.m. The next day I would hear horror stories about a house full of preteen boys on a sugar high. The hosting mom would tell me, “You picked your son up at the right time.” When his birthday rolled around in the spring, my son asked to have a late-over party instead. He wanted to invite a dozen boys over for food, fun and four long hours. After choosing the menu, my son left the entertainment up to me. Having two older daughters, my birthday party arsenal was filled with spa treatments, karaoke and chick flicks. Thankfully, I came up with some different things for the boys. 16 | birminghamparent | june 2016
Video Games: My son’s favorite pastime is playing video games, and it was easy to incorporate them into a birthday party. Set up a couple of video game stations (borrowing if necessary) in your basement or family room. As the boys arrive, let them play at the video game station and then rotate them around to whatever other activities you may have like foosball, ping pong, air hockey or knee hockey. It gives the boys something to do until everyone arrives and keeps them occupied without supervision while you greet at the door. Dodgeball: Time to go outside! Gather six cheap poly balls. Line them up in the center of your yard and split the boys into two teams. On go, the boys charge the line and try to get a ball. The object of the game is to throw the balls at each other and try to tag someone out. If the other team catches the ball that you throw, you are out and one of their tagged players may come back in. Play a couple of rounds and get some of that energy out. Target practice: Save empty plastic water or soda bottles and line them up on the deck railing or table edge. Fill water guns and let the boys try to knock them down. If it is a windy day, add a little water to each bottle to keep them from tipping over. Filling the bottle with a little water also makes them more of a challenge to knock down.
Carnival Game Balloon Darts: Head to the local hardware store and pick up a precut piece of Sheetrock. Inflate 24 balloons and stick them to the Sheetrock using pins or tacks. Determine points for each color and let the boys try to pop the balloons with darts. Note: For safety reasons, I used the rounded darts for this game. Another variation is to fill the balloons with a paper number that the boys turn in for a prize. Sling shot water balloon bowling: Purchase a sling shot and fill dozens of water balloons. Set up 10 empty plastic two-liter bottles in the street like bowling pins. (Again, fill with a little water to keep them from tipping over in the wind.) Have two boys hold the sling shot while one boy pulls back and releases the balloon. Try to knock over the pins and score like you would for bowling. Survivor Games: The boys will love to prove how brave they are, so this is a fun time for all. Try challenges like finding a coin in a deep bowl of applesauce or mayo, pick up a key from a jar filled with feeder crickets or see how long you can keep your hand in a bucket of ice water. If there are no food allergies in your group, challenge the boys taste yucky food like a kale smoothie, limburger cheese, liverwurst or creamed spinach.
Pam Molnar is a freelance writer and mother of three teens. She enjoys party planning as much as the kids enjoy the party.
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Paint war: This is a good way to end the night. Purchase goggles, non-toxic paint and white t-shirts for everyone. Fill cups with paint and send the boys to the middle of the yard. Set rules like no paint on the face and set boundaries to protect your yard. Then shout, “Go!” and stand back. It is a good idea to warn the parents before the party so they can send the kids in clothes that can be ruined. Ask the parents to provide a change of clothes for the ride home.
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ULTIMATE BIRTHDAY PARTY GUIDE
IT’S IN THE BAG 10 IDEAS FOR PARTY BAGS AND FAVORS By Claire Yezbak Fadden
As the mother of three, I have frequently taken on the role of party planner over the past several years. I’ve hosted (or been involved in) every type of party imaginable. Some good, some I’m still trying to forget. I still shudder to think about when my husband, Nick, and I hosted a bubble-themed party. With a dozen 6-year-olds all slick and slippery, we learned that a wading pool full of bubbles and first graders don’t mix. The darkest memory of all, though, was when a naive young mother invited the entire soccer team plus neighborhood kids to a costume party. To say that the afternoon was chaotic wouldn’t even begin to explain it. I hit success with an All Things Dinosaurs party. The kids loved the dinosaur parade when they marched around the backyard toting their stuffed dinosaur to the tune of Baby Elephant Walk. Since then, I’ve learned a few things. Never invite more guests than the age of the birthday child, plus one or two. Don’t send invitations to school to be disbursed. And most importantly, keep the focus on fun, not the amount of money spent. Kids just want to be together and play. That means you don’t have to break the bank to have a great time. With these thoughts in mind, I’ve put together some creative and inexpensive party favor ideas that might help you stay on track when planning your next birthday event. Just a word of caution, though. When filling your guests party bags, consider what items you wouldn’t want coming home with your child. Don’t include guns, live animals (like goldfish), blowers or other loud noisemakers. Other parents will appreciate it and they’ll return the favor when it’s their turn to host their child¹s birthday party.
18 | birminghamparent | june 2016
Puzzler – Send each guest home with a boxed, 100-piece puzzle, matched to the theme of the party. With the resurgence in popularity of superheroes like Spiderman and Batman, these inexpensive puzzles are in ample supply. You can also shop for boxed puzzles with fewer pieces (24 to 64). They’re perfect for guests younger than your birthday boy. The Sky’s the Limit – Kids love to fly kites. Send your partiers out the door with their own kite, complete with string spool. A Bag of Tricks – Everyone has a little bit of magician in them. Put together a bag of tricks that can include a deck of cards, a rabbit’s foot and even a magic wand.
yarn, stickers, confetti, or whatever you have handy. Take an instant photo of each guest with the guest of honor. Glue a magnet to the back of the photo and date it.
guests decorate the buckets and write their name. Add sunglasses, visor, water bottle, deflated beach ball or other water-related items.
How Big Am I? – Kids love to see how big they are. Invest in a roll of butcher paper and have each guest lay down on the paper and strike a pose. Draw their outline. Your guest can then color their shape in and take it along when mom or dad comes to pick him up.
Do-It-Yourself Party Bag – Sometimes the most fun is having the kids decorate their own party bag. You can purchase inexpensive paper lunch bags for your guests to color or paint. Use stencils for patterns and add stickers, glitter, sequins, feathers and buttons for a personalized touch. Don’t forget to have each child write their name on their bag. If you are planning to have a piñata, the kids will enjoy filling their bags with all the goodies that fall out when the piñata is broken.
Sleepover Sacks – Provide each guest with a new pillowcase and allow her to decorate it with fabric paints. Let dry overnight. A fun variation on this favor is T-shirts. All the guests can wear them the next day.
See It Grow – Shop for small terra cotta pots. Add a garden spade, seeds or a small plant. The parents will admire your creativity and the kids will be eager to go home to plant their seeds. Extra bonus: No cavities with these favors!
Edible Necklaces – What’s more fun than candy hanging from your neck? Party guests can make their own necklaces (or Hawaiian lei) from a variety of candies. Some ideas include: LifeSavers, gum drops, Cheerios, mini-pretzels. Pre-thread the string on to a blunt needle before you begin this activity. You can make matching bracelets, too.
Frame It – Glue four Popsicle sticks in a square to make a frame. Have the party guests decorate their frame with glitter, lace,
Water-bound – Shop for plastic sand buckets (assorted shapes and sizes) with the attached shovels for party favors. Have your
No matter which party bags and favors you decide to use, the most important part of the day will come when you see a loving smile on your child’s face. That’s when you know that all the planning and fuss was worth the effort. Happy Birthday! Claire Yezbak Fadden is an award-winning freelance writer, mother of three sons and a veteran party planner. Follow her on Twitter @claireflaire.
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ULTIMATE BIRTHDAY PARTY GUIDE
SIMPLE CELEBRATIONS FROM A TO Z: 26 THEMES FOR YOUR CHILD’S NEXT BIRTHDAY By Heather Lee Leap
Struggling to come up with a fresh idea for your child’s next party? Bigger isn’t always better, and a party shouldn’t cut into your college savings fund. Get creative, be inspired and make one or more of the following ideas your own: Abracadabra spells magic. Invite guests with a welcome letter to Hogwarts or break out the top hats and card tricks. Bowling, with or without bumpers, means casual fun that keeps everyone moving. On-site food allows parents to relax – just bring the cake to celebrate your next big day. Clowning around. Face paint, juggling and dressing up. Kids can create their own acts and entertain one another. Donation to a cause. In lieu of gifts, request that guests contribute funds to an organization the birthday child is passionate about. Develop a theme around the cause, such as a pet theme for an animal shelter donation. Extraterrestrial explorations. Is there life on Mars? Plan a space-themed party for your future astronaut. Fairy Tale Theater. Raid the dress-up bin for costumes, clear a space for a stage and let the kids enact their favorite stories. Simple, familiar tales mean everyone knows the story and can embellish at will without a script. Golf, in miniature. Get outside and laugh as your group makes its way around the mini-golf green. Hawaiian Luau. Eat pineapple and serve fruit punch in tall glasses with tiny umbrellas. Find leis at your local party store. Ice Cream Truck. Did you know you can arrange to have them come by your home? Call your local company, set a date and time and let the birthday child have first pick for a treat. Jammies. If you’ve been putting off that much-requested sleepover, now is the time to say yes to pizza, popcorn and late-night giggling. Kitchen creations. Seek out local cooking classes for children. Most locations that teach classes also offer party packages. continued on page 22 20 | birminghamparent | june 2016
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ULTIMATE BIRTHDAY PARTY GUIDE
continued from page 20
Local park fun. For a low-budget, relaxed party, bring cake and a picnic to your neighborhood playground. Music for all. Create shakers or rain sticks from beans, paper tubes and masking tape. Dance to favorite tunes, sing and march around the block with your creations and other rhythm instruments. Nature Hike. Have a slice of cake at the trailhead and then explore the landscape. Party favors can include bug boxes and small magnifying glasses. Obstacle course. Get creative in your back yard with hula hoops, old cardboard boxes, benches and anything else you have lying around. Kids can climb, jump and crawl over, under and around. Time their circuit as part of a friendly competition. Older kids will have as much fun running the course as they will creating and improving it. Puppets. Make sock puppets with button eyes or design simple stick puppets. Read a short story or fable for inspiration and kids can work together to create their own puppet show. Quidditch anyone? All you need is a wild imagination, hula hoops for goals, a soccer ball for the quaffle, smaller soft balls for bludgers and a speedy runner for the snitch. Rock climbing or bouldering. Head to a local rock gym to learn new skills together and get moving. Science Experiments. Instead of the usual party crafts, take chances, get messy and explore the laws of physics or the states of matter. Find books of experiments at your local library. Tea Party. Fancy cups and fancy food are just the beginning. Dress up, wear hats and invite guests to bring their favorite doll or teddy bear to tea. Uniquely you. What does your child’s dream party look like? How can the theme reflect something special about what is important to your child or your family. Make it happen. Volunteer for a cause. One child volunteering at the food bank or animal shelter with her family may not feel like she is accomplishing much. Invite a group of her friends to join her for a work party and her gift will grow exponentially. Water Fun. Rent the party room at your local pool for a splashing good time. X-men and friends. A superheroes theme can include capes, masks and feats of derring-do, well-supervised, of course. Yard games. Time to teach your kids and their friends all the old favorites. Croquet, badminton, bocce and horseshoes will keep a crowd entertained and active all afternoon. Zip line. You know your kids have been asking for this. If you have the space, install one in your back yard and let the flying begin. Heather Lee Leap is a freelance writer and mom. Her favorite parties involve active kids, ingenuity and ice cream. Find her at HeatherLeeLeap.com 22 | birminghamparent | june 2016
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Evans Publishing LLC, DBA BIRMINGHAM PARENT is looking for a motivated individual who likes to help businesses market themselves to families for an outside sales account executive position. You must be driven, hard-working, dependable, work well independently, comfortable talking to strangers and making warm and cold calls, able to use web and Word-based programs for reporting and customer management, comfortable taking on the phone, and available to work at least 30 hours per week. Generous commission based pay with bonuses for success. Your success each month increases your paycheck! Flexible hours, but must be able to make sales calls in person, go to staff meetings and special events. Can sell print advertising, web, event and sponsorships. Advertising sales experience strongly preferred. Can work from home base, but not a “work from home” position. E-mail your resume to carol@birminghamparent.com, or fax to 205-987-7600. Health insurance, dental and life insurance after 90-day successful probationary period.
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DESTINATION GUIDE
PHOTO BY MIKE AGUILERA/SEAWORLD® SAN DIEGO
Mom and baby Atlantic bottlenose dolphins swim alongside one another at SeaWorld® San Diego. The marine park has one of the best marine mammal breeding programs in the world, with 80 successful births in its 50-year history.
Taking on San Diego with Your Family By Becky J. Beall
San Diego is a fabulous choice for family travel in Southern California for several reasons. A great west coast destination, San Diego is perfect for families offering lots of adventure, a subtle climate and something a little out of the ordinary. When considering a destination that will involve booking an airline flight, San Diego is an excellent choice with major carriers (Delta, American, United and Southwest) offering multiple flight options from Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport. Birmingham’s airport offers parking options and quick lines at security which is super helpful with kids in tow. Take advan24 | birminghamparent | june 2016
tage of early boarding at the gate when they call for those needing a little extra time (i.e. those with kids!). After the airline tickets are booked, check out San Diego hotels at www.sandiego.com (click on HOTELS) to choose something family-friendly preferably with a nice pool. I am partial to the Gaslamp Quarter, a downtown neighborhood covering 16 blocks and listed as an historic district on the National Register of Historic Places boasting 94 historic buildings, most of which were constructed in the Victorian era. This area is known as the site for entertainment, festivals, and night life as well as being close
to PETCO Park, home of the San Diego Padres. There are lots of shopping and unique venues in this area as well. I always tell folks to take the day of travel off; don’t plan a bunch of stuff that same day. Find your hotel, unpack, get settled, let the kids hit the pool, have dinner and get some rest before hitting the tourist trail. This has always been a plan that has served me well and avoids the crankiness from wee travelers.
Don’t miss these San Diego sights…
The eighth largest city in the country, San Diego is sometimes called “America’s Finest City” because of all there is to see and do
there. A few of my family favorite options are the zoo, PETCO Park, SeaWorld, LEGOLAND, Knott’s Berry Farm and Seaport Village! A good start, though, is to go to www. sandiego.com/go-san-diego-card and look at San Diego Go Cards – a pass that you purchase in advance that gives you a pretty good discount for various attractions eliminating the need to stand in line for tickets. There are different options and one is sure to be perfect for your family! The San Diego Zoo is fabulous and voted No. 1 on Trip Advisor’s 2015 Traveler’s Choice Awards! The San Diego Zoo Safari Park offers camps and educational programs to teach about the animals in the zoo, and the zoo itself is on conservation which helps with endangered animals. From the African Plains to the Gorilla Forest, enjoy seeing animals in a more natural environment than your typical zoo; they have lots of room to roam because exhibits are designed large in vast areas. Take the tram and your sunscreen for an awesome time! One of the most popular attractions in San Diego is PETCO Park! If the Padres are in town, be sure and take in a game at this
The eighth largest city in the country, San Diego is sometimes called “America’s Finest City” because of all there is to see and do there. beautiful stadium where it’s okay to bring your own food in! Yep, you heard me right, you can bring in your own food! You can also enjoy their amazing ballpark cuisine, but the choice is yours. What’s more fun than rooting for the home team? SeaWorld San Diego is definitely a family fun activity that has something for everyone. Enjoy a thrilling theme park ride or take in the shows. SeaWorld has plenty of adventure, but also is a park dedicated to helping wildlife and providing education to visitors. Rescue and conservation programs are in full force at SeaWorld ensuring that wildlife is not only protected, but also preserved. Does your party include 2-12 year olds? If so, LEGOLAND San Diego is a MUST! A park totally devoted to LEGOs, this venue offers 60 attractions and rides. The younger
ones will love that there are so many opportunities to ride without a height restriction on fun adventures such as Swabbies Deck – Pirate Shores, The Whimsical Ride, The LEGOLAND Express, Playtown and so much more while the older kids can enjoy Volvo Driving School: Fun Town, Aquazone Wave Racers, Treasure Falls and more. And, don’t worry parents, you’ll have plenty to keep you busy as well, like the Miniland USA for scale replicas of famous American cities that you’ll recognize. Knott’s Berry Farm is a fun attraction for families that won’t break the bank. Enjoy Camp Snoopy (six acres of rides for the youngest travelers), rollercoasters for the thrill seekers in the group, and top it off with a funnel cake and some great entertainment. It’s interesting to note that this is the cumula-
Family amenities with you in mind birminghamparent.com | 25
ANNOUNCING FALL 2016 CLASSES FOR CHILDREN A N D A D U LT S
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PHOTO BY BECKY J. BEALL
tive efforts of Walter Knott and the park’s humble beginnings as a fruit stand in 1920. As Knott’s Berry Farm grew and gained popularity, it evolved into a Western-themed park charging a whopping 25 cents admission. Today, it’s the perfect family destination! My very favorite thing to do in San Diego is spend time walking around Seaport Village. It’s a unique blend of shops, dining and live musical events. There’s a carousel for the kiddos and lots of great boutique shopping for mom. Admission is FREE and I highly suggest plenty of time to meander so as to not miss the San Diego Harbor’s beauty. All of these attractions have links and detailed information at www.sandiego.com (click on ATTRACTIONS). Isn’t it time you took a plane for vacation instead of a car? San Diego will make you happy that you did! Becky J. Beall is a freelance travel journalist. Follow her at www.TheTravelVoiceByBecky.com.
Tips for flying with kids will vary depending on ages, but it’s a good idea to have a bottle for babies on takeoffs and landings when ear-popping is the worst as well as gum for toddlers and children. Sucking and chewing motions tend to help with that. I have always found it helpful to give each child a small bag or backpack that they can manage (except for babies, obviously) packed with their favorite snacks, some hand wipes, a few books, a favorite blanket or stuffed animal and perhaps a fully-charged iPad or other electronic device. Avoid heavy meals prior to flying and offer easy-to-digest snacks onboard such as pretzels, crackers, gummies and the like. Also, take a picture of your child on your phone every morning when traveling. In case of an emergency, you’ll have an accurate picture including what they were wearing.
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EFFECTIVE STEPFATHERING:
Patience, Time and Love Helps Make it Work By Lori Chandler Pruitt
When Joe Sumners married Lynn Cantrell in 1992, he gave a wedding band to her and a ring to Lacey, Lynn’s 9-year-old daughter. “I understood from the start that I was not just marrying Lynn, I was also making a full commitment to Lacey,” he says. “We were a family.” Becoming a stepfather can be a challenge under the best of circumstances. The sheer challenge of it in some cases can make some stepfathers disconnect from their stepchildren emotionally, or withdraw from daily responsibilities. But given plenty of work and patience, stepfathers can have profound and important leadership roles with their stepchildren, says Ron L. Deal, president of Smart Stepfamilies (www.smartstepfamilies.com). “Stepfathers can offer guidance, love and encouragement to the children under their care,” Deal says. 28 | birminghamparent | june 2016
Whether it is a case where the biological father is active in the child’s life or not, entering an existing family dynamic can be done with plenty of work and patience.” Sumners agrees that even with positive situations, it takes work. “In order to develop trust, you have to give your time, listen, forgive and love unconditionally,” he says. “Having a new parent is a big change for everyone. For the child, they have suffered the loss of a parent from their everyday lives that can leave an empty spot. It is important to spend time with your new child, listen and let them know that they are loved and valued. “I understood that I was not Lacey’s father. Her father was still in her life and I respected that relationship. But I knew that I would be her parent in our home and that I was responsible for loving and supporting her and making sure she had a happy life.”
Sumners says adjusting to a new marriage also needs to include the children. “Make sure you focus on the needs of the child and not just get too caught up in the love you have for your new spouse,” he says. Andrea Hendricks, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist with a private practice in Birmingham who also teaches part-time in the UAB psychology department, says those first few months in the home can set the tone. “I think it is important to remember that the things that you say and do matter and will impact the children,” she says. “This can be a positive or a negative. Some stepfathers think of themselves as just an outsider living in the home, but having a stepfather can be a wonderful way for children to learn that unconditional love can come from a non-biological relative. They have the opportunity to leave behind a legacy of warmth and love and positivity.”
Deal says that gaining respect and leadership from stepchildren is a process; it is earning the right to lead by developing trust and connecting with stepchildren. It’s hard for many men, understandably so, to realize that the stepchildren mainly get to determine the pace at which their stepdad finds acceptance, and will open their heart when they are ready. The speed of that process is often determined by the child’s age and family situation. To help make the adjustment smoother, Deal outlines on his website several “tools” for new stepfathers: Get the lay of the land. All stepparents need to understand their stepchildren’s emotional climate. Be aware of the child’s emotional wounds and hurts from past losses so that you can cope with the sometimes angry attitude of children in stepfamilies.
Be a spiritual leader. Share your faith, which is not only spiritual training for the children, but a good way to connect emotionally. Show them you are a person worthy of respect, and they’ll eventually give you respect. Be approachable. Don’t become hurt and defensive by stepchildren’s every reaction. Most of a child’s negative reactions to stepparents are really about the child’s losses, and you can be an easy target. Work through it, show you aren’t easily offended and are able to deal with their ups and downs. Show appreciation. Compliment them, show appreciation for what they do, and be cautious with criticism. Help them become comfortable in your presence. Spend time together and do so with wisdom. It may mean joining your son’s life at a distance at first – going to the soccer game and cheering him on, but not being too much of a coach. Find out what’s important to him and talk about it. If you promise you will be somewhere, be there. Manage stress and anger. Stress and conflict are a given; don’t overreact. Communicate through your emotions that it is safe for the child to be around you and they will soften with time. Sumners and his wife had a son of their own when Lacey was about 13, and their children are grown with their own families. “Parenting is the relationship, regardless of the DNA,” Sumners says. Lori Chandler Pruitt is associate editor of Birmingham Parent.
every Thursday mornng mornng ininJuly for for the the every Thursday July ThrowbackThursday Thursday Kids Club Throwback Kids Club 9 AM kids’ activites, face painting, prizes & pre-show fun
9 AM kids’ activites, face painting, prizes & pre-show fun 10 PM Mighty Wurlitzer sing-along & TBT classic film
10 PM Mighty Wurlitzer sing-along & TBT classic film
ENJOY Free kid’s admission to The Birmingham Zoo after eachFree moviekid’s (withadmission full-price adult when wearing ENJOY to admission) The Birmingham Zoo after your Throwback Thursday Kids Club sticker! each movie (with full-price adult admission) when wearing
your Throwback Thursday Kids Club sticker! PRESENTS PRESENTS PRESENTS PRESENTS PRESENTS
Communicate your role. Stepchildren need to hear that you know you’re not their dad, and won’t try to take his place. Tell their father the same, if he is in their lives. This can help both of you cooperate in the children’s lives.
The Theatre TheAlabama Alabama Theatre
PRESENTS PRESENTS
Express your commitment. Make sure your wife knows you are committed to the family, knowing this may not sit well with your stepchildren at first. Many children hope for their parents to reconcile, and they may see your arrival as a loss, not a gain.
Join us at Join us at
July 7 Aladdin (G)
July 7 July 14 (G) Aladdin
The Land Before Time (G)
July 14 The21Land Before July Snow TimeWhite (G) & the Seven Dwarfs (G)
July 21
July 28 Snow White & Pocahontas (G)
the Seven Dwarfs (G)
$5 adults, $3 kids, 2 and under FREE www.alabamatheatre.com July 28 www.facebook.com/TBTKidsClub #TBTKC Pocahontas (G) PRESENTS
Initially provide indirect leadership. Lead through your wife, who likely already has set boundaries, expectations and the values that govern the home. As your relationship with the children grows, your relational power grows because the children care about you personally.
All children must be accompanied by an adult Field trips welcome. Please call in advance.
$5 adults, $3 kids, 2 and under FREE www.alabamatheatre.com www.facebook.com/TBTKidsClub #TBTKC All children must be accompanied by an adult birminghamparent.com Field trips welcome. Please call in advance.
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book review
A Page in a Book
©
RECOMMENDING THE BEST BOOKS FOR CHILDREN AND TEENS By Gerry P. Smith
The Power of One Word Words have power – some more than others. While “chair,” “green” and “pencil” are words that generate a narrower range of imagery among those who hear them, there are also words that call to mind special images and feelings for everyone who hears them. Single words like “Mom,” “home” and “love” are powerful and can mean something unique to each person. The following books are powered by a solo word title. And even though just a single word sets the stage, these titles make the one word speak volumes!
STAY!
By Alex Latimer (Peachtree Publishing) Ben believes his dog, Buster, is the best in the world. But in truth, Buster is a real handful. Wild at heart, hard to control, and powered with excess energy, he’s almost more than a family can handle. So when Ben’s parents plan their vacation, they realize it will be best for all concerned to leave Buster with Grampa. This decision spurs Ben to begin writing down some helpful tips that will aid Grampa in the care and keeping of a dog like Buster. But as he writes, he thinks of more things Grampa needs to know and his initial note becomes an endless stream of pages (and later postcards) with helpful tips for Buster management. Delightfully illustrated by Latimer (and Ben) the epistolary style of this laugh-out-loud picture book will keep it in top rotation for young readers!
WHOOPS!
By Suzi Moore, Illustrated by Russell Ayto (Candlewick Press) The problem is simple enough. A cat, a dog and a mouse are not able to make their trademark sounds. In search of their “meow,” “woof ” and “squeak” respectively, the three are advised by the owl to seek out a spell from the old lady in the tumbledown house. Hoping for the “spell to make them well,” the voiceless trio travel to the old lady for help. But her skills are a little rusty and the right spell might be harder to cast than anyone expects. Ayto’s spare line drawings enjoy powerful color treatment as the story progresses, and Moore’s on-point rhyming text is punctuated with sound effects that the read-aloud set will enjoy sharing with the reading partner. As unintended consequences generate a fair number of “Whoops!” the final result of the “spell to make them well” truly defines the title word. 30 | birminghamparent | june 2016
SWAP!
By Steve Light (Candlewick Press) A grizzled sailor and his young companion with a peg leg are forlorn and shore-bound with an old ship that needs a massive overhaul to become seaworthy. As they wander along the quayside marketplace, a loose button sparks an idea in the enterprising boy. The two sailors begin to trade for the things they need to bring the ship back into shape. Their button is offered to a woman for two teacups and the first swap is made. Teacups are swapped for coils of rope and their journey of trade continues. Readers will begin to discern hints in the highly detailed illustrations that explain how each swap serves each trader’s needs. This early introduction to economics may spur some creative bargaining from kids who demand repeat reading of this book.
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birminghamparent.com | 31
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JUNE
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calendar highlights
Keep your child’s reading skills up to par during the summer by registering them for your local library’s summer reading program! Libraries not only have the books, but offer all kinds of fun events that will hold your child’s interest all summer long. There’s just too many library events to list in this calendar, so be sure to check with your own library for dates and times. And while you’re at it, many libraries offer adult summer reading programs too! June celebrates dads, the beginning of summer and more. Take a look at all the fun this month. IT’S SUPERHERO SATURDAY AT THE MCWANE SCIENCE CENTER! From 10 am to 6pm June 18, McWane becomes the Hall of Justice and the Legion of Doom! Meet some of your favorite superheroes (and villains). Check out the new Hall of Heroes exhibit and discover your superpowers! 205-714-8300, www.mcwane.org.
18
3, 10, 17, 24 It’s summer movie time again! Alagasco Fox 6 Free Friday Flicks start on June 3 at 6:30 p.m. at Veterans Park and last through July. Enjoy the Benton Nissan FREE kid zone. Bring a picnic, or purchase food and drink. Birmingham Parent is a sponsor. Take a look in our calendar for the movies being shown, or go to www.facebook.com/ freefridayflicks.
Kick off the summer in musical style with the Alabama Symphony Orchestra with three days of FREE concerts. Symphony in the Summer concerts will be held June 10, 11 and 12 at 8pm at Railroad Park. www.alabamasymphony.org.
10-12
The Iron Man is turning 112! On June 5, come to Vulcan’s 112th Birthday Bash from noon to 4 pm at Vulcan Park. It’s the biggest birthday bash in Birmingham! Games, activities, face painting, bounce house, sports arena, helicopter display, take-home craft, Birmingham Zoo animals, Thomas the Tank Engine, a fire engine, live music, Italian ice, food trucks and more! Join Birmingham Mayor William Bell in singing “Happy Birthday.” Birmingham Parent is a sponsor. www.visitvulcan.com.
5
birminghamparent.com | 33
calendar
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Summer Luau at CHOM! 10am-4pm, Children’s Hands-On Museum, Tuscaloosa. Dance with DJ Chuckie, learn to hula and do the limbo dance! Sip fruity drinks and wear colorful leis. All activities included in admission. 205-349-4235, www.chomonline.org. Hikes for Tykes 10am, Birmingham Botanical Gardens. A hands-on program for preschool children and their families. Make leaf boats with Miss Anwen! www.freshairfamily. org. FREE.
JUNE 4-5
43rd Annual Gem, Mineral, Fossil and Jewelry Show, Tannehill State Park.
Fairy Tale Ball and Festival 5-7pm, Roy Downs Memorial Library, Calera. Rides, dancing, face painting, moonwalks, pony rides, princesses, action characters and more! Birmingham Barons vs. Chattanooga Lookouts 6:30pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.
5 SUNDAY 43rd Annual Gem, Mineral, Fossil and Jewelry Show 9am-5pm, Tannehill State Park, see June 4.
1 WEDNESDAY 21st Annual Rickwood Classic 12:30pm, Rickwood Field. Celebrating the 1967 Birmingham A’s baseball team featuring guest of honor, Baseball Hall of Famer Rollie Fingers. The Barons will play the Chattanooga Lookouts. www.barons.com.
2 THURSDAY Birmingham Barons vs. Chattanooga Lookouts 7:05pm, Regions Field. www. barons.com.
3 FRIDAY Alagasco Fox 6 Free Friday Flicks 6:30pm, Veterans Park, Hoover. Family-friendly film series! Enjoy the Benton Nissan FREE kids zone. Families can bring picnics or purchase food and drink. Movie: Inside Out. Birmingham Parent
is a sponsor. Information, www. facebook.com/freefridayflicks. Birmingham Barons vs. Chattanooga Lookouts 7:05pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.
4 SATURDAY Pepper Place Market 7am-noon, 2829 2nd Ave. South. Fresh produce, vendors and more. Rain or shine. Maker’s Village opens! www.pepperplacemarket.com. Valleydale Farmers Market 8am-noon. www.valleydalefarmersmarket.com. Mt Laurel Market and Craft Fair 8am-noon, Manning Place, Hwy. 41, Mt Laurel. Local fresh eggs, cheeses, honey, fresh fruits and vegetables, plants, crafts. 205-408-2717.
Indian Springs Village Farmers Market 8am-noon, Indian Springs First Baptist Church. 43rd Annual Gem, Mineral, Fossil and Jewelry Show 9am-5pm, Tannehill State Park. Two-day show sponsored by the Alabama Mineral & Lapidary Society. Kid friendly. More than 30 vendors from Alabama and surrounding states. The show is free with paid admission to the park. Information, www.lapidaryclub.com. 14th Annual Alabaster CityFest Municipal Park, Alabaster. One of the state’s premier family festivals! Live musical entertainment, KidsFest area, arts and crafts, science/magic shows, car show, fun run, the Flying K-9s Dog Show and much more. Information, www.alabastercityfest.com.
Vulcan’s 112th Birthday Bash! Noon-4pm, Vulcan Park. It’s the biggest birthday bash in Birmingham! Games, activities, face painting, bounce house, sports arena, helicopter display, take-home craft, Birmingham Zoo animals, Thomas the Tank Engine, a fire engine, live music, Italian ice, food trucks and more! Birmingham Parent is a sponsor. www.visitvulcan.com. Birmingham Barons vs. Mobile BayBears 6pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.
6 MONDAY Birmingham Barons vs. Mobile BayBears 11:30am, Regions Field. Kids Day. www.barons.com. Kids in the Kitchen 3:30-4:30pm, Homewood Public Library. Age 3-up. Learn some
PLEASE NOTE: Events may change after publication deadline; please phone ahead to confirm important information. The deadline for submitting calendar items for the July 2016 print issue is June 6. Mail calendar items to: Calendar, Birmingham Parent, 3590B Hwy 31 S #289, Pelham, AL 35124; fax to 987-7600; e-mail to calendar@BirminghamParent. com; or enter directly to the online calendar at www.birminghamparent.com. 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 11 times a year. January events are included in the December issue. 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 987-7700 or e-mail calendar@birminghamparent.com. 34 | birminghamparent | june 2016
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great techniques for assembling summer meals. 205-332-6619, www.homewoodpubliclibrary. org. FREE.
7 TUESDAY Birmingham Barons vs. Mobile BayBears 7:05pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.
8 WEDNESDAY Birmingham Barons vs. Mobile BayBears 11am, Regions Field. www.barons.com.
9 THURSDAY TASTE Trussville Art Show & Tasting Event 5:30-8pm, Trussville Civic Center. Sample food from area restaurants and bakeries, art demonstrations, live musical entertainment, cash wine bar. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Trussville Chamber of Commerce’s scholarship fund. Tickets $25 in advance; limited number of $35 tickets available at the door. Tickets, 205-655-7535, www.trussvillechamber.com. Family Game Night 6:30-7:30pm, Homewood Public Library. Sports, board games and more! 205-332-6619, www. homewoodpubliclibrary.org. Birmingham Barons vs. Mobile BayBears 7:05pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.
10 FRIDAY Coasterthon 2016! 3-9am, Alabama Splash Adventure. A coaster marathon to benefit Children’s of Alabama! Those who register to ride will compete for a seat on the Rampage wooden roller coaster, with the top fundraisers earning a seat on the coaster. They will compete to see who can last the longest during six hours of continuous riding, with bathroom and snack breaks. Prizes and more! Checkin and breakfast is 2-3am and the Coasterthon begins at 3am. To sponsor or donate as a rider, www.alabamasplash.com/events. Alagasco Fox 6 Free Friday Flicks 6:30pm, Veterans Park, Hoover. Family-friendly film series! Enjoy the Benton Nissan FREE kid zone. Families can bring picnics or purchase food and drink. Movie: Minions. Birmingham Parent is a sponsor. Information, www.facebook.com/freefridayflicks.
Symphony in the Summer 8pm, Railroad Park. Kick off the summer in musical style with three days of FREE concerts by the Alabama Symphony Orchestra! www.alabamasymphony.org.
11 SATURDAY Pepper Place Market 7am-noon, 2829 2nd Ave. South. Fresh produce, vendors and more. Rain or shine. www.pepperplacemarket.com. Valleydale Farmers Market 8am-noon. www.valleydalefarmersmarket.com. Mt Laurel Market and Craft Fair 8am-noon, Manning Place, Hwy. 41, Mt Laurel. Local fresh eggs, cheeses, honey, fresh fruits and vegetables, plants, crafts. 205408-2717 Indian Springs Village Farmers Market 8am-noon, Indian Springs First Baptist Church. Native American Festival 9am, DeSoto Caverns Park, Childersburg. This two-day festival features several Native American groups performing various styles of dance in their vibrant regalia along with demonstrations of many Native American traditions. Food and craft vendors. www.desotocavernspark.com.
12 SUNDAY Native American Festival 8:30am, DeSoto Caverns Park, Childersburg, see June 11. Symphony in the Summer 8pm, Railroad Park, see June 10.
14 TUESDAY
FLAG DAY The Buddy Bowl 10:30-11:30am, Homewood Public Library. Learn about dogs’ athletic abilities and afterward, test out your agility skills on our obstacle course. 205-332-6619, www.homewoodpubliclibrary. org. FREE.
15 WEDNESDAY Birmingham Barons vs. Mississippi Braves 7:05pm, Regions field. www. barons.com.
16 THURSDAY Iron Giant Percussion 6:30-7:30pm, Homewood Public Library. Unique percussive collaboration! 205-332-6619, www.homewoodpubliclibrary. org. FREE. Birmingham Barons vs. Mississippi Braves 7:05pm, Regions field. www. barons.com.
17 FRIDAY
Dairy Day at CHOM! 10am-4pm, Children’s HandsOn Museum, Tuscaloosa. Bring your friends and make a cow mask, churn fresh butter, sample chocolate milk, have an ice cream float and more. Included in paid admission. 205-349-4235, www. chomonline.org.
Alagasco Fox 6 Free Friday Flicks 6:30pm, Veterans Park, Hoover. Family-friendly film series! Enjoy the Benton Nissan FREE kids zone. Families can bring picnics or purchase food and drink. Movie: Hotel Transylvania 2. Birmingham Parent is a sponsor. Information, www.facebook.com/ freefridayflicks.
Hikes for Tykes 10am, Birmingham Botanical Gardens. A hands-on program for preschool children and their families. What’s your favorite weather? www.freshairfamily.org. FREE.
Birmingham Barons vs. Mississippi Braves 7:05pm, Regions field. www. barons.com.
Hydrangeas Under the Stars 6-9pm, Aldridge Gardens, Hoover. Be a part of the gardens’ premier annual fundraiser and gala. Food, entertainment and silent/live auction. Reception/silent auction begins at 6pm, dinner/ live auction at 7pm. Tickets, information, www.aldridgegardens.com. Symphony in the Summer 8pm, Railroad Park, see June 10.
18 SATURDAY Pepper Place Market 7am-noon, 2829 2nd Ave. South. Fresh produce, vendors and more. Rain or shine. www.pepperplacemarket.com. Valleydale Farmers Market 8am-noon. www.valleydalefarmersmarket.com. Mt Laurel Market and Craft Fair 8am-noon, Manning Place, Hwy. 41, Mt Laurel. Local fresh eggs, cheeses, honey, fresh fruits and
vegetables, plants, crafts. 205-408-2717 Indian Springs Village Farmers Market 8am-noon, Indian Springs First Baptist Church. Superhero Saturday 10am-6pm, McWane Science Center. McWane Science Center becomes the Hall of Justice and the Legion of Doom! Meet some of your favorite superheroes (and villains). Check out the new Hall of Heroes exhibit and discover your superpowers! 205-7148300, www.mcwane.org. Hikes for Tykes 10am, Birmingham Botanical Gardens. A hands-on program for preschool children and their families. Join Fresh Air Family storyteller Verna Gates for a magical mystery tour. Build fairy houses and forts! www.freshairfamily.org. FREE. Block Party and Health Festival 5-8pm, St. Vincent’s One Nineteen. Live music by Act of Congress, kid activities, free health screenings, hot air balloon rides, rock climbing wall, inflatable obstacle course. Birmingham Barons vs. Mississippi Braves 6:30pm, Regions field. www.barons.com.
19 SUNDAY
FATHER’S DAY Birmingham Barons vs. Mississippi Braves 3pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.
20 MONDAY
SUMMER BEGINS 21 TUESDAY Water Play Day 10:30-11:30am, Homewood Public Library. Grab a towel, bathing suit and sunscreen and enjoy water sliding, watermelon and water play. In case of rain, indoor activities are planned. 205-332-6619, www.homewoodpubliclibrary.org. FREE. birminghamparent.com | 35
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the Benton Nissan FREE kids zone. Families can bring picnics or purchase food and drink. Movie: Cinderella. Birmingham Parent is a sponsor. Information, www. facebook.com/freefridayflicks.
22 WEDNESDAY “Wicked” June 22-July 3, BJCC Concert Hall. Award-winning musical back by popular demand. The story of how these two grow to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good. Tickets, information, 205-458-1022, 800-7767469, theaterleague.com.
Pippi Longstocking 7pm, The Dance Foundation, see June 23.
25 SATURDAY
23 THURSDAY
Pepper Place Market 7am-noon, 2829 2nd Ave. South. Fresh produce, vendors and more. Rain or shine. www.pepperplacemarket.com.
Pippi Longstocking 7pm, The Dance Foundation, 1715 27th Ct S, Homewood. StageDoor Youth Theatre presents this classic. Tickets $8. 205-870-0073, stagedoor.eventbrite.com.
Valleydale Farmers Market 8am-noon. www.valleydalefarmersmarket.com.
Ninja Night 6:30-7:30pm, Homewood Public Library. Learn some karate chopping moves and channel your inner ninja for a night of family fun! 205-332-6619, www.homewoodpubliclibrary.org. FREE.
Mt Laurel Market and Craft Fair 8am-noon, Manning Place, Hwy. 41, Mt Laurel. Local fresh eggs, cheeses, honey, fresh fruits and vegetables, plants, crafts. 205408-2717.
24 FRIDAY Alagasco Fox 6 Free Friday Flicks 6:30pm, Veterans Park, Hoover. Family-friendly film series! Enjoy
Indian Springs Village Farmers Market 8am-noon, Indian Springs First Baptist Church.
Dental Insurance providers for: BCBS of Alabama, Southland, MetLife, Delta Dental, Guardian, and Cigna
2045 BROOKWOOD MEDICAL CENTER DRIVE, STE 21 • BIRMINGHAM, AL 35209
(205) 870-0892 • DR. ANGELICA R. ROHNER • WWW.DRROHNER.COM
FUN-FILLED SUMMERS START HERE
JUNE 6-AUGUST 5
ENTERING KINDERGARTEN THROUGH 8TH GRADE Contact Gabe McCool at gmccool@highlandsschool.org or 205.956.9731 ext 105 Located on Old Leeds Rd. (I-459 exit at Grants Mill Rd) 36 | birminghamparent | june 2016
Ability Academy 2016 8:30am registration, 9:30am-1pm, Samford University. Day-long mini-academy for kids who have an intellectual/developmental disability, hosted by NFL player Matt McCants of the Oakland Raiders. Coaches include NFL players, former Alabama/Auburn players. Participants will be exposed to football fundamentals, skill basics and more. Space limited to 200. $20 includes a hearty lunch and a player T-shirt. Register at www. arcojeff.ortg/event/ability-academy-2016/. Hikes for Tykes 10am, Birmingham Botanical Gardens. A hands-on program for preschool children and their families. Talk about bugs! Read the book On Beyond Bugs! www. freshairfamily.org. FREE. Pippi Longstocking 7pm, The Dance Foundation, see June 23.
26 SUNDAY Pippi Longstocking 2pm, The Dance Foundation, see June 23.
28 TUESDAY Aesop’s Fantastic Fables 10:30-11:30am, Homewood Public Library. That Puppet Guy will bring a magical and fantastical show of some classic fables! 205-3326619, www.homewoodpubliclibrary.org. FREE.
29 WEDNESDAY Birmingham Barons vs. Biloxi Shuckers 7:05pm, Regions field. www. barons.com.
30 THURSDAY Super Science Show 6:30-7:30pm, Homewood Public Library. Fizz Boom Wow! Jan Mattingly shows how cool science can be. 205-332-6619, www.homewoodpubliclibrary.org. FREE. Birmingham Barons vs. Mississippi Braves 7:05pm, Regions field. www.barons.com.
events & attractions n Aldridge Botanical Gardens 3530 Lorna Road, Hoover. 205-682-8019, www.aldridgegardens.com n Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame 1631 Fourth Ave. N., Birmingham. 205-254-2731, www.jazzhall.com n Alabama School of Fine Arts 1800 Rev. Abraham Woods, Jr. Blvd. n Alabama Sports Hall of Fame 2150 Richard Arrington Blvd. N., Birmingham. 323-6665, www.ashof.org n Alabama Wildlife Center 100 Terrace Drive, Pelham. 205-663-7930. www.awrc.org n Albert L Scott Alabaster Public Library Story Times: • Tunes & Tales: Wednesdays at 3:30pm in Library Meeting Room, all ages • Toddler Tales: Fridays at 10:30am in the Library Meeting Room, 2 and 3 year olds. • Summer Reading program! Check with the library for fun events from Iron Percussion to Skin & Bones Comedy Circus! 100 9th Street NW, Alabaster, AL, 35007. 205-664-6822, www. cityofalabaster.com/departments/ library n American Village Highway 119, Montevallo. 205-665-3535, www.americanvillage.org n Birmingham Botanical Gardens When visiting the Gardens, be sure to download the treasure map to take with you. www.bbgardens. org/documents/treasuremapforweb.pdf 2612 Lane Park Road, Birmingham. 205-414-3900, www.bbgardens.org n Birmingham Children’s Theatre 1001 19th St. North, Birmingham, AL, 35203, 205-458-8181, www.bct123.org n Birmingham Civil Rights Institute • Juneteenth “Celebration of Freedom” Saturday, June 18. BCRI will commemorate this historical event with several artistic and educational activities, free to the public and will run from 10am to 4pm. 6th St. N., Birmingham. 2 05-328-9696, www.bcri.org n Birmingham Museum of Art • Bart’s Art Cart! Free drop-in
art program for kids and families features a different theme from galleries and art activity each month. Saturdays from 11am-1pm. • All the Colors of the Rainbow: Uzbekistan Ikats from the collection of Peggy Slappey. The BMA has hosted and originated many Asian art exhibitions over the years, but never one about Central Asia and Uzbekistan. See the beautiful colors and workmanship of these garments. 2000 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd., Birmingham. 205-254-2565, www.artsbma.org n Birmingham Zoo • Dino Discovery! The zoo’s newest exhibit features 12 life-sized, North America-native animatronic dinosaurs at heights of nearly 20 feet, weighing almost seven tons and measuring 85 feet in length! Explore a trail filled with these magnificent creatures. Additional fees apply. Through July 31. • Dinner with the Dinos! Join Dr. Dino for a roaring good dinner and tour at the zoo! June 11, 7:309:30pm, learn about new dinosaur research and surprising facts about these amazing animals. Pre-registration required; family rates. In-park Special Attractions include: • Giraffe Feedings, 9:30-11:30am; 1-3pm, daily. $3. • Train Rides, 9am-5pm MondaySunday, $3. • Children’s Zoo Fountains daily. • Carousel Rides, 9am-5pm daily. • Sea Lion Training, Daily 10am & 2pm • Lorikeet Feedings, 10am-4pm, daily. $1.50. • Predator Zone, Saturday & Sunday 11:30am & 3:30pm. • Children’s Zoo Goat Show, 2pm daily. 2630 Cahaba Road, Birmingham. 205-879-0409, www.birminghamzoo.com n Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum 1919 Ninth St., Calera. 205-6683435, www.hodrrm.org n McWane Science Center • Hall of Heroes: Discover Your Super Powers. Learn the circumstances that create superheroes, discover the ideals that heroes uphold and push boundaries as to what it truly means to be heroic! Exhibit features the five disciplines that are the basis for all super powers: body, mind, mastery, gadgets and the elements; and a half scale replica of the 1960s Barris Kustoms’ Batmobile and much more. • Member Mondays. Every Monday, McWane Science Center
members receive extra perks while visiting! Includes a special gift for kids when checking in, 30 percent discount on gift shop purchases, $1 small popcorn at IMAX concession stand and a free members-only evening event each month. Also, on the second Monday of each month, McWane opens its doors from 5-8pm for its members. IMAX Movies: • Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice. Mankind faces a new threat as Batman embarks on a personal vendetta against Superman. In the meantime, “Doomsday” is created by Lex Luthor, and it’s up to Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman to stop them from destroying Metropolis. • National Parks Adventure. A trio of adventurers’ quest to experience America’s wildest, most historic and most naturally beautiful places becomes the ultimate off-trail adventure. Narrated by Robert Redford. • Wild Africa. Come on a spectacular ride across, over and through the magical realms of the most dramatic continent on earth. Robots. Today’s robots are nothing short of astonishing. Get a sneak peek into the future. Through September 30. 200 19th St. N., Birmingham. 205-714-8300, www.mcwane.org. n Oak Mountain State Park 200 Terrace Drive, Pelham. 205-620-2520, www.alapark.com. n Ruffner Mountain Nature Center 1214 81st St. S., Birmingham. 205-833-8264, www.ruffnermountain.org. n Southern Museum of Flight • The Jennys to Jets: Birmingham’s Military Aviation History. In conjunction with the museum’s 50th anniversary celebration, this exhibition commemorates and pays tribute to 100 years of worldwide aviation service by the men and women of the Alabama (Air) National Guard. Through August 1. 4343 73rd St. N., Birmingham. 205833-8226, www.southernmuseumofflight.org n Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park 12632 Confederate Parkway, McCalla. 205-477-5711, www.tannehill.org n Vulcan Park 1701 Valley View Drive, Birmingham. 205-933-1409, www.vulcanpark.org
the
TRAVEL
VOICE
BY BECKY The only voice in travel that MATTERS! Catch The Travel Voice by Becky on Saturday’s in Shelby County on FM 99.9 APH Radio at 11 a.m. and anytime on iHeart Radio! Great travel information, special deals, awesome guests, spectacular on location LIVE events and amazing giveaways!
For more information, visit thetravelvoicebybecky.com birminghamparent.com | 37
poetry party
by Charles Ghigna
Wild Flowers
JUNE IS FULL OF FLOWERS! WILD FLOWERS! Queen Anne’s Lace
Roses After The Rain
Above a field of Queen Anne’s Lace Butterflies fan my morning face. I watch the signs of spring unfold As sunshine spins her lace to gold.
Diamonds on the petals, Silver on the stems, Early morning sunrise Turns roses into gems!
Morning Glory
Wisteria
A purple morning glory Unfurls her sleepy head As dawn withdraws her shadow Across the garden bed.
Looks like grapes And smells like roses, Springtime’s To eyes and noses!
NOW YOU TRY IT! Look outside. Which wild flowers do you see?
Mushrooms From Heaven Along the garden path, Like parasols from heaven, Mushrooms magically appear, This year I counted seven. Silver, gold, white and tan, They stand as in a trance, Providing shade for a parade Of busy little ants.
For more poetry activities, visit the Father Goose website at FatherGoose.com. Want to submit YOUR poems for publication? Parents, here are some magazines
Pick one for your poem
that publish poems written by children: http://www.ckmagazine.org • http://www.
and write some poetry!
magicdragonmagazine.com, http://www.cricketmag.com
38 | birminghamparent | june 2016
IT’S ALL ABOUT THE KIDS!
BIRMINGHAM PARENT’S
happyhealthykidsfair2016 RIVERCHASE GALLERIA, Birmingham
SATURDAY, AUG 6th 10-4 GREAT GIVEAWAYS, FACE PAINTING WITH FACE PAINTING FAIRY ALL DAY AND MAGIC CITY FACE & BODY ART FROM 10AM-2PM. GREAT VENDORS WITH HEALTH, EXERCISE, EDUCATION, SPORTS, EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES, LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT, BLOOD DRIVE WITH LIFESOUTH AND MORE
Joe Lockett, radio host for WYDE, "Lock and Learn," will be giving away 1,000 school backpacks & supplies at 10 a.m. on Aug. 6 in the food court, specifically targeting single parents. First come first served. Don't miss it! OUR SPONSORS Shelby Pediatric Dentistry
IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN BEING PART OF HAPPY HEALTHY KIDS FAIR CONTACT 205-987-7700 OR INFO@BIRMINGHAMPARENT.COM
HULK SMASH!
NOW OPEN! AVENGERS ASSEMBLE!
200 19th STREET NORTH • BIRMINGHAM, AL • (205) 714-8300 • WWW.MCWANE.ORG