THE PREMIER PARENTING MAGAZINE FOR CENTRAL ALABAMA — NOW IN OUR 15TH OF PUBLISHING
MARCH 2018
FREE
OUR SPRING SPECIAL NEEDS ISSUE CHALLENGES & BENEFITS OF HAVING A SIBLING WITH SPECIAL NEEDS THE EXCEPTIONAL FOUNDATION PROVIDES OPPORTUNITIES, INFLUENCES LIVES CANINE COMPANIONS MAKE A DIFFERENCE OUR SPRING SPECIAL NEEDS DIRECTORY
THERE IS
NO SAFE
LEVEL SECONDHAND OF EXPOSURE TO
SMOKE ALABAMAPUBLICHEALTH.GOV/TOBACCO
ed note HAPPY BIRTHDAY BIRMINGHAM PARENT! As we put the finishing touches on this issue of Birmingham Parent, we are celebrating the first issue of our magazine from February 2004. We are beginning our 15th year of publishing, and our commitment to the special needs community remains strong. Our first issue of Birmingham Parent was focused on special needs, and today we have grown to have two special needs issues each year – March and September, as well as creating our now annual Special Needs Expo. Be sure to read about The Exceptional Foundation on page 20 and the amazing work it does for families of those with certain special needs. Don’t miss Lori Pruitt’s story on Canine Companions on page 26. The bond humans have with dogs is even more special in the special needs community. Our story on having a sibling with special needs on page 22 is helpful to parents trying to help their children with the feelings that can arise with their different needs. And mark your calendars for our Special Needs Expo on Saturday, March 10, 2018, at the Exceptional Foundation in downtown Homewood from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is free. There will be fun things to do for the whole family, including free facing painting inflatables, giveaways and more! And a wealth of information about respite care, health care, recreation, education and so much more for children and adults with special needs will be all under one roof – rain or shine! We still have booths and sponsorships available to vendors. Call 205-987-7700, email info@birminghamparent.com or visit http://birminghamparent.com/content/special-needs-expo.html for more information, registration forms and more. Check out the website, too, to see who is going to be there! Be sure YOU are, too! Spring is just around the corner. I’m ready. How about you?
P.O. Box 326 (add 800 Hwy. 52 E. for pkg) Helena, AL 35080 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 ASSISTANTS Bethany Adams Hunley, Kate Hankins CALENDAR Lori Chandler Pruitt E-BLASTS Lacey Updegraff CONTRIBUTORS Dr. Brent Parnell, Emily Reed, Erin Chase, Sarah Lyons, Paige Townley, Dr. Vivian Friedman, Charles Ghigna
sales SR. MARKETING CONSULTANT Kayla Fricks MARKETING CONSULTANTS Stephanie Rodda, Michelle Awtry MARKETING CONSULTANT & SPECIAL EVENTS Amy Phillips WEB & SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR Bethany Adams Hunley
art & production Carol Muse Evans Publisher/Editor carol@birminghamparent.com
ABOUT THE EDITORS: Carol Muse Evans is the 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). Evans also serves on the board of directors of Childcare Resources. 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 | march 2018
ART DIRECTOR Hilary Moreno DISTRIBUTION T&P Deliveries 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 © 2018 by Evans Publishing LLC. Family Connections Media ©2018 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.
A L A B A M A DA N C E AC A D E M Y P R E S E N T S
Coppélia and excerpts from the musical
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APRIL 28TH AT 2:00 & 7:30
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Alabama's Premier Dance School . 3221 Old Columbiana Rd. Hoover, AL 35226 . 205-978-6830 . alabamadanceacademy.com birminghamparent.com | 5
contents Challenges and Benefits of Having
A Sibling with Special Needs page 20
Having a sibling with special needs is a unique experience that provides both challenges and benefits. While there is no doubt that they love their sibling
20
with special needs, the feelings that can arise during childhood are often complicated.
our focus
our features
our regulars
SPECIAL NEEDS ISSUE
CHECK IT OUT
EDITOR’S NOTE Happy Birthday Birmingham Parent............................4
Birmingham Parent’s 2018 Spring Special Needs Directory.............................................10
44
The Exceptional Foundation: Providing Opportunities, Influencing Lives..............................18
Short Stuff........................................... 8 DINING WITHOUT WHINING: $5 Dinners Comes to Birmingham Parent....................32
Challenges and Benefits of Having a Sibling With Special Needs..................................20 Setting Goals for Independence: The Full Life Ahead Foundation.......................................22 Canine Companions Provide Helping Dogs to Those with Special Needs.................................. 24
PARENTING with Dr. Friedman...............................7
ASK THE SPECIALIST Overcoming Female Urinary Incontinence.....................40 SUMMER CAMP: Camp Caglewood Provides Adventures for those with Disabilities ....................................... 34
DESTINATION GUIDE: Great Wolf Lodge, Laketown Wharf, The Gulf Coast Exploreum............................44
CALENDAR OF EVENTS...............49 POETRY PARTY Stormy................................................54
54
ON OUR COVER: Roger “R.J.,” age 6, is a Cover Kids winner from the 2017 Special Needs Expo, and he had a big smile while checking out the site of the 2018 expo, The Exceptional Foundation in Homewood on Oxmoor Road. Photo by His Hands Photographs, Samantha Ferguson, www.hishandsphotographs,com, 205-862-3374. 6 | birminghamparent | march 2018
PAR E N TI N G
Parenting with Dr. Friedman
Q:
I have a two month old baby boy and a 23-month-old son. The older child has developed bad behavior since
the new baby arrived. He threw a toy at the newborn that hit the baby and made the baby cry. I felt myself getting really angry. How should I handle his behavior? Your question sounds like you anticipate my telling you how to punish the older child. If you punish, his behavior is likely to get worse. Time out is a common technique of behavior management. Time out is typically time away from mom and mom’s attention. This is exactly the problem that is leading to his concerning behavior. He feels he is being sent away and replaced by the new baby who gets mom. He is reacting to abandonment with anger. To understand his feelings, just imagine that your husband said to you, “I love you just as much as always but I am bringing home another woman to live with us. I will love her just as much as I love you. For now, she will need more attention than you do because this home is new to her, but in the long run, I will treat you equally. Whenever I buy you a gift, I will buy one for her too. Whatever I cook for you, I will make for her too.” I suspect this would not be an acceptable arrangement for you and you just might want to throw something at the new woman, just as your son did to his competitor in the home. Instead of punishing your firstborn, pick him up and hug him. Tell him that you are still his mommy and that you love him very much. Go out of your way to give him attention when he is behaving appropriately. Reinforce good behavior when you see him doing something nice to the baby. When he is misbehaving tell him “no” and distract him to another activity. Do not separate him from your presence. Include him in the baby’s care and fuss over his being the big brother. Show him the things that he can do, that the baby cannot do. Make him proud of being a big boy.
Yet be realistic about what you can expect from a not quite two year old. He will not have the behavioral control that you might expect him to have when he is 6 or 10. Use loving restraint- that is holding him to prevent his harming the baby. Use distraction to redirect behavior that you cannot allow. Remember that he too, is your baby. Don’t expect more than he can give at his stage of development.
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.
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S H O RT STU FF Alabama Bicentennial PastPort Project Launches
Research and Treatment at UAB Eye Care Slows Nearsightedness in Children
Mercedes-Benz U.S. International, Inc. (MBUSI) and the Alabama Bicentennial Commission recently announced the launch of the Alabama PastPort Project. The official bicentennial publication is designed to be a guide to Alabama’s historic places, a passport to the past. Representatives from the Bicentennial Commission and MBUSI, along with co-sponsors Airbus, Verizon and Alabama News Center, highlighted the rewarding opportunities the program will provide to people of all ages who want to explore the state. “The bicentennial of Alabama is a once-in-a-lifetime moment and it demands a project that can make a lifetime of difference,” says Sen. Arthur Orr, chair of the Alabama Bicentennial Commission. “These unique opportunities will inspire a younger generation to learn about the great treasures of Alabama, while fostering education in a stimulating and exciting way.” The Alabama Bicentennial PastPort Project takes children – and parents, teachers, and out-of-state visitors – to every corner of Alabama. Each of the state’s 67 counties have at least one destination, and the content includes information about offerings in every region. There are two ways to travel with PastPort: a printed passport that includes destinations in every county where it can be stamped; it includes 174 pages spotlighting more than 300 places across Alabama. Or, via an app with links to the online Encyclopedia of Alabama and content provided by Alabama News Center. The app, supported by Verizon, ensures that anyone, anywhere can make a virtual visit to the state’s historic places. The Alabama Bicentennial PastPort Project will be active through December 2019. It is available at welcome centers, the Alabama Department of Archives & History and other commercial outlets, but it also will be available as a download to all Alabama teachers and students. Thanks to the support of Airbus, Alabama Master Teacher Lesa Roberts of Huntsville created a teachers’ guide that includes activities and applications for all grades, along with links to the state course of study. For more information about the Alabama PastPort Project and to learn more about plans and projects that help commemorate the state’s bicentennial, visit www.ALABAMA200.org or call 334-242-4537.
For about one-third of Americans, myopia – or nearsightedness – is a common, correctable vision impairment that impacts the way one sees everyday objects at distances. In extreme cases, these people may also have trouble seeing up close. As myopia cases are on the rise, faculty at UAB’s School of Optometry are researching ways to prevent and slow the progression of myopia, and are treating people in the Myopia Control Clinic at UAB Eye Care. Myopia often occurs from the eye’s growing too long in comparison to the rest of its parts, which causes images to be focused in front of the retina instead of on the retina itself. Scientists cannot pinpoint exactly how myopia develops or progresses. Even without myopic parents, children are susceptible to developing the condition. Common signs and symptoms include blurred vision when looking at distant objects and signs, eye strain, headaches from focusing on distant objects, driving difficulty; and for children, needing to be closer to the front of the classroom to focus or sitting closer to the television or computer to see. While there is not a cure for myopia, Andrew D. Pucker, O.D., Ph.D., says there are three key ways to slow myopia progression, all of which are offered in the Myopia Control Clinic: Orthokeratology contact lenses: Worn just during sleep, these corneal reshaping contact lenses temporarily change the shape of the cornea so that the patient can see all day without using glasses or traditional contact lenses. • Soft bifocal contact lenses: These lenses help people see up close and far away by bending light that enters the eye in a beneficial way. These work in a manner similar to orthokeratology contact lenses. • 0.01 percent atropine: Potentially the most effective treatment of the three, 1 percent atropine is an eye drop that makes light seem bright because it makes the pupil increase in size. Low-dose atropine (0.01 percent) has been shown to slow myopia progression by about 60 percent without increasing the pupil size or decreasing near vision dramatically. The UAB School of Optometry is one of only 10 sites across the country selected to study this treatment for the National Institutes of Health. Those in need of treatment should contact the Myopia Control Clinic at UAB Eye Care at 205-975-2020.
Specializing in feeding delays and picky eating, developmental delays, handwriting issues & more! www.boostbirmingham.com . (205) 767-9207 . office@boostbirmingham.com 1623 2nd Avenue North, Birmingham, Alabama, 35203
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY * YOGA * SUMMER CAMPS Visit Our Booth at the Special Needs Expo!
8 | birminghamparent | march 2018
Are You Washing Your Hands the Right Way? You may not be getting off as many germs as you think Washing your hands is one of the most important steps to avoid illnesses like the flu, but if you don’t do it the right way, you may not get rid of harmful bacteria. Caroline Cartledge, MSN, a nurse and instructor with the UAB School of Nursing, details the right way to make sure your hands are as clean as possible: Q: When and how often should you wash your hands? How does it help prevent the flu? Wash your hands as much as you can. We always recommend hand washing before you eat anything, before you make food for other people, and after you use the restroom. I wash my hands any time I touch a doorknob; if there is hand sanitizer around, I always use it. People touch their faces more often than they realize. Every time you touch a door handle and then scratch your nose, you are susceptible to contracting viruses like influenza. Q: How long should you wash your hands? You should lather your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. A good rule of thumb is to sing or hum “Happy Birthday” to yourself twice. Q: What is the best method of washing your hands? It is generally best to wash your hands with soap and water. The best method is to follow these steps: • Wet your hands with running water. • Put soap in your palm and lather. • Rub your hands, palm to palm, vigorously for at least 20 seconds. Scrub all surfaces, including the backs of your hands, wrists, between your fingers and under your fingernails. • Rinse well. • Dry hands with a clean paper towel. • Use the towel to turn off the faucet before you throw it away. Q: Many people think the water temperature should be hot to help kill bacteria, but does the water temperature matter? It doesn’t. Actually, what removes the germs when you wash your hands is the friction you create by rubbing your hands together and creating a lather, removing microbes from the skin. Hot water contributes to the dryness of your skin. Q: Does the type of soap matter? We recommend liquid pump soap. We do not recommend bar soap because it can harbor bacteria. Although, bar soap is better than no soap at all. Q: What about antibacterial soap versus regular soap? Antibacterial soap is reserved primarily for medical use and for those with weakened immune systems. We actually recommend using regular soap over antibacterial products for the general public in order to cut down on the rise of antibacterial resistance. Q: How effective is hand sanitizer? We absolutely recommend using hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available. It should have at least 60 percent alcohol in it for it to be effective.
Children’s Table to Benefit Nutritional Needs of Patients at Children’s of Alabama Chefs from around the Southeast will gather March 3 for Children’s Table, a new event to benefit the nutritional needs of patients at Children’s of Alabama. Some of the region’s best chefs will serve guests at the Time Inc. Food Studios, 4100 Old Montgomery Highway, Birmingham, 35209. The event is from 7 to 9 p.m. Individual tickets are $80 and $150 per couple. Tickets can be purchased at TheChildrensTable.org. Guests will be invited to taste different recipes prepared by the partner chefs and go behind the scenes in the Time Inc. Food Studios.
Bundles is growing and we need YOU!
PLEASE EMAIL info@bundlesdiaperbank.org to learn more about joining our team. We offer hope to families during times of financial hardship by providing their infants and toddlers with diapers. TOGETHER WE CAN KEEP BIRMINGHAM BABIES CLEAN & DRY!
205-607-2112
www.bundlesdiaperbank.org birminghamparent.com | 9
DIRECTORY SPRING 2018 Your One-Stop Source for Birmingham’s Kids with Special Needs Following is an abbreviated list of local and national resources and services made available to Alabama residents who have children with special needs. Several services are offered throughout the state for parents with children with disabilities, from inclusive school care programs to music and sports teams and classes. If you know of an organization or service that should be included in the next special needs directory online and in the September 2018 special needs issue, please e-mail editor@ birminghamparent.com or fax to 205-987-7600 for updating in the next directory. INFORMATION
Disability Rights & Resources
Ady’s Army
205-685-0570
404-957-0090
www.drradvocates.org We empower people with disABILITIES to fully participate in the community.
Adysarmy.org Serving God by serving special needs families. Ainsley’s Angels 256-565-4132 www.ainsleysangels.org A group of runners that assist those with disabilities to compete in road races by pusing them in our race chariots. Alabama Association for Parents of Children with Visual Impairments 205-422-5826 www.aapvi.org Provides educational, social and recreational opportunities for families with children who are blind or have low vision, including children with multiple disabilities. Alabama Council for Developmental Disabilities 334-242-3973 or 800-232-2158 www.acdd.org Provides educational resources for individuals with special needs and their families. Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program (ADAP) 205-348-4928 www.adap.ua.edu Provides free legal services for disabled individuals who qualify. Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections 205-943-5349 www.childrensaid.org/apac APAC is a collaborative effort between Children’s Aid Society of Alabama and Alabama Department of Human Resources. Autism Society of Alabama 877-428-8476 or 205-951-1364 www.autism-alabama.org A nonprofit advocacy group with the mission of improving services for those on the Autism Spectrum. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 21.
Parent Connection Network of Alabama 800-441-7607 or 334-293-7500 www.rehab.alabama.gov/crs A statewide network of families who have children with special health care needs or disabilities and who are willing to share their experiences with other families. United Way of Central Alabama - Information and Referral Center 205-251-5131 www.uwca.org
CHILDCARE/DAYCARE Childcare Resources, Birmingham 205-945-0018 or 800-822-2734 www.ccr-bhm.org Assists parents with children with special needs in locating childcare and information. Louise House of Angels 706-237-4176 louisehouseofangels.org Louise House of Angels provides day and after school services, as well as, respite care, to the special needs population, in a warm and nurturing setting. United Ability - Hand in Hand Early Learning Program 205-944-3939 www.unitedability.org A learning program for children 6 weeks through age 4 for children with and without disabilities to maximize each child’s intellectual, physical and emotional health.
EDUCATION Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind 256-761-3660 www.aidb.org
10 | birminghamparent | march 2018
Alabama Parent Education Center 334-567-2252 www.alabamaparentcenter.com APEC provides parent training, information, support to help them become meaningful participants in their children’s education and lives. Community Outreach Special Education PTA www.cosepta.org The Community Outreach Special Education Parent Teacher Association is a member of the Birmingham Council of PTAs. Down SyndromeAlabama
205-988-0810 www.downsyndromealabama.org Promotes lifelong Awareness, Acceptance and Advocacy for individuals with Down syndrome. DSA C.A.R.E.S. (connections – actionsresources- education-support.) Epilepsy Foundation of Alabama
251-341-0170, 800-626-1582 www.efala.org Epilepsy Foundation of Alabama improves the quality of life for persons with seizures. Information, referrals, emergency assistance, community education, camp for kids. Family Voices of Alabama 877-771-3862 www.familyvoicesal.org Family Voices of Alabama aims to achieve family-centered care for all children and youth with special health care needs and/or disabilities. The Horizons School 800-822-6242 www.horizonsschool.org The Horizons School is a post-secondary program that teaches independent living, social and career skills to young adults, ages 18-26, with learning disabilities. Jefferson County Child Development Council Inc. HeadStart/Early HeadStart 205-379-6067 jcochran@jccdc.com
Lindamood-Bell Learning Processes
205-870-4181 www.lindamoodbell.com/location/birmingham-alabama-learning-center Lindamood-Bell helps children & adults improve language processing and learning. Our intensive, research-validated, sensory-cognitive instruction has improved reading and comprehension for individuals with learning challenges including Dyslexia, ADHD and ASD. PAL – Alabama’s Parenting Assistance Line 866-962-3030 www.pal.ua.edu Provides helpful assistance to moms, dads, grandparents, and relatives whose children are age birth through adolescence. Southeastern Diabetes Education Services 205-402-0415 www.southeasterndiabetes.org Spring Valley School 205-423-8660 www.springvalleyschool.org Spring Valley School’s mission is educating students with learning differences, such as dyslexia and ADH. VSA Arts of Alabama 205-307-6300 ext. 3 www.vsaalabama.org A statewide, nonprofit organization dedicated to providing opportunities in the arts for people with chronic illnesses and disabilities.
FINANCIAL/ INSURANCE/LEGAL
Alabama Family Trust 205-313-3915 www.alabamafamilytrust.com A nonprofit special needs trust that holds and administers money for children and adults with disabilities, including the elderly in nursing homes, to help become eligible and maintain government benefits such as Medicaid and SSI. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 13. AllKids 888-373-5437 www.adph.org/allkids Provides insurance for eligible children younger than 19. BlueCross BlueShield of Alabama SNE SPONSOR www.alabamablue.com/ NewFamily SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 25.
Bradford & Holliman, LLC SNE SPONSOR 205-663-0281 www.bradfordholliman.com john@bradfordholliman.com Melanie@bradfordholliman.com Estate and long-term care planning for young families, blended families, the disabled, empty nesters & the elderly. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 13. Magnolia Special Needs Planning 205-440-4624 www.magnoliawealthstrategies.com Our mission is to help you make informed decisions to meet your protection and investment/income needs. Medicaid of Alabama 866-452-4930 www.medicaid.alabama.gov Special Needs Alliance Katherine Barr, Sirote and Permutt kbarr@sirote.com 205-930-45147 A nationwide educational organization for attorneys with advanced knowledge & experience in laws affecting persons with disabilities.
HEALTH AND REHABILITATION 4 Paws for Ability 937-374-0385 www.4pawsforability.org Service dogs (including seizure dogs, autism dogs, hearing dogs, and others) are made available to help increase community acceptance and participation of people with disabilities. Alabama Allergy and Asthma Center 205-871-9661 www.alabamaallergy.com A leading provider for patients who suffer from allergies, asthma, and immunological disorders, as well as food and drug allergies. Six convenient locations - Homewood, Hoover, Alabaster, Chelsea, Cullman, and Trussville. SEE OUR AD ON P. 15.
Services LLC is a specialized outpatient clinic providing occupational and speech therapy to children with special needs.
vices in behavior analysis, speech pathology and clinical psychology for children with Autism, developmental and learning disabilities.
Alabama Relay Center 800-676-3777 www.alabamarelay.com Communication systems for the visually impaired and hearing impaired
The Bell Center for Early Intervention Programs 205-879-3417 www.thebellcenter.org Provides early intervention services including physical, occupational and speech therapies and early childhood special education to children 3 and younger with special needs.
The Arc of Central Alabama 205-323-6383 www.arcofcentralalabama.org Focused on early intervention services for children from birth to three years and on day and residential programs for adults age 21 and older who have intellectual & developmental disabilities.
Alabama Head Injury Foundation 205-823-3818 or 800-433-8002 www.ahif.org
The Arc of Shelby County 205-664-9313 www.thearcofshelby.org We provide programs, services and support for infants, children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Alabama Pediatric Therapy Services LLC 205-274-2244 www.alpediatrictherapy.com Alabama Pediatric Therapy
Behavioral ONE 205-233-1414 www.behavioralone.com An assessment and treatment center offering evidence-based ser-
BOOST Kids Occupational Therapy & Yoga 205-767-9207 www.boostbirmingham.com We provide children with a “boost” towards independence through improved skills, learned strategies, environmental modifications, and caregiver education while always embracing their interests and passions. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 8.
continued on page 12
Fostering independence, development, and fun...
205.916.0670 www.mobilitycentralinc.com 400 Old Towne Road, Vestavia, AL 35216 Open Monday - Friday 9 to 5 and Saturdays 10 to 2 Located off of Highway 31 in Vestavia behind the bowling alley and next to Chuck-e-cheese birminghamparent.com | 11
DIRECTORY SPRING 2018 Brookwood Baptist Health Five locations in Central Alabama • Brookwood Baptist Medical Center Birminbgham, AL • Citizens Baptist Medical Center Talladega, AL • Princeton Baptist Medical Center Birmingham, AL • Shelby Baptist Medical Center Alabaster, AL • Walker Baptist Medical Center Jasper, AL www.bbhob.vom With five hospitals throughout central Alabama, hundreds of specialists and countless ways to customize your experience, Brookwood Baptist Health is a community of care dedicated to making your new beginning a happy one. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 41. The Charity League Hearing & Speech Center
205-638-9149
W W W.T H O M A S P E D I AT R I C D E N T I S T R Y. C O M 721 MONTCLAIR RD . BIRMINGHAM, AL 35213
2 0 5 - 8 79 - 6 15 0
Now offering pediatric counseling and play therapy services!
Get the help and support you need for children with • Behavior problems • Depression • Anxiety • Anger management • Trauma • ADD/ADHD • Bullying • Social challenges
Comprehensive Pediatric Therapy Services
…we’re just for kids!
www.ChildsPlayTherapyCenter.com Chelsea: 205-618-8095 • Hoover: 205-978-9939 12 | birminghamparent | march 2018
www.childresnal.org/hearingandspeech Provides speech and audiology services to patients having or suspected of having any of the communication or hearing disorders possible in the pediatric population. Child-Adolescent Partners, LLC 205-492-2426 www.childadolescentpartners.com Provides evidence-based professional counseling services to children, adolescents and adults throughout central Alabama. Child’s Play Therapy Center LLC Pediatric Occupational Therapy Services 205-978-9939 www.childsplaytherapycenter.com Occupational, physical, speech and music therapy, along with academic tutoring. Experienced loving staff and facility just for kids. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 15.
The Adolescent Health Center serves patients ages 11-21 years of age. Services include primary care, eating disorders, nutrition, reproductive health, acne and ADHD. Children’s of Alabama Hearing and Speech 205-638-9149 www.childrensal.org Diagnostic and rehabilitative speech/language and audiology services are provided to inpatients and outpatients suspected of having any of the communication or hearing disorders possible in the pediatric population. Medical Autism Clinic and The Developmental Medicine Clinic 205-638-5277 www.childrensal.org Medical Autism Clinic serves children with Autism Spectrum Disorders, offering a variety of special evaluations. Developmental Medicine Clinic serves children with concerns related to development, behavior, social skills & learning. Children’s of Alabama Newborn Follow-Up Clinic 205-638-6966 www.childrensal.org Provides follow-up care to children born less than 29 weeks and low birth weight, had major cardiac surgery, been on ECMO or cooling therapy. Special examinations to check developmental milestones. Children’s of Alabama Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine 205-638-9790 www.childrensal.org The Division of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine utilizes an interdisciplinary approach to manage conditions including cerebral palsy, spina bifida and acquired brain injury, among others.
Children’s of Alabama SNE PRESENTER 205-638-9100 www.childrensal.org Children’s of Alabama has provided specialized medical care for ill and injured children since 1911, offering inpatient, outpatient, and primary care services throughout Alabama. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 23.
Children’s of Alabama Regional Poison Control Center 1-800-222-1222 www.childrensal.org Provides free and confidential medical advice 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We help prevent the poisoning, treat and advise on medication overdoses and make recommendations on treatment.
Children’s of Alabama Adolescent Medicine Clinic 205- 638-9231 www.childrensal.org
Disability Determination Services 800-772-1213 http://ssa.gov
The therapy program at Easterseals offers an interdisciplinary team approach to treating the whole child. Our staff of speech-language pathologists, physical therapists, and occupational therapists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of various children’s disabilities. • Speech/Language Delays • Cognitive Impairment • Autism Spectrum Disorder • Down Syndrome • Seizure Disorders • Cerebral Palsy • Sensory Processing Disorder • Academic Difficulties • Feeding Disorders • Orthopedic Injuries & Needs • Handwriting/Fine Motor Challenges
Comprehensive Pediatric Therapy Services Pediatric Therapy South 240 Commerce Parkway Pelham, AL 35124 Phone: 205-314-2165 Fax: 205-783-1128 Pediatric Therapy East 300 Springville Station, Ste. 1300 Springville, AL 35146 Phone: 205-407-5292 Fax: 205-467-0221
www.eastersealsbham.org
...we’re just for kids!
REGISTER NOW FOR OUR
SUMMER PROGRAMS! Little Sticky Fingers
(fine motor/sensory skills)
Kindergarten Kick-Off
(kindergarten readiness)
Social Superheroes (social skills)
PROVIDING YOU CONFIDENCE
Friendship Factory (social skills)
IN PR EPA R ING
Printing Power (handwriting skills)
FOR THEIR FUTURE
Focal Point (ADD/ADHD treatment)
Ready, Move, Learn (gross motor skills)
Summer programs are offered in Hoover location only
PHYSICAL/ HANDWRITING OCCUPATIONAL HELP THERAPY
MUSIC THERAPY
Alabama Family Trust is a unique public service that helps families administer special needs trusts for their loved ones – providing a safe haven for financial resources and helping assure important government benefits for their future.
2820 Columbiana Road, Ste 103 Vestavia, AL 35216 205.313.3915 • 1.844.238.4630 info@alabamafamilytrust.com www.alabamafamilytrust.com
SPEECH THERAPY
READING THERAPY
FEEDING/ COUNSELING/ NUTRITION PLAY THERAPY THERAPY
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www.ChildsPlayTherapyCenter.com CHELSEA: 205-618-8095 HOOVER: 205-978-9939 birminghamparent.com | 13
DIRECTORY SPRING 2018 Dr. Sory “Chuck” Shannon Pediatric & Adolescent Dentistry 205-582-4508 www.shannonchuckmd.com Pediatric dentistry from infancy to college age. Our long-term and caring staff is very child-friendly, so trust us with child’s dental care. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 17. Easter Seals Pediatric Therapy SNE SPONSOR 205-314-2165 www.eastersealsbham.org Provides physical, occupational, and speech therapy to children with special needs ages birth to 21 regardless of ability to pay for services. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 13. Full Life Ahead 205-439-6534, 866-700-2026 www.fulllifeahead.org The Full Life Ahead Foundation exists to provide hope, knowledge, encouragement and connections for families who have a teen or young adult with a disability, helping them live the most independent and productive life possible. Glenwood, Inc. 205-969-2880 www.glenwood.org Glenwood offers Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) which is a type of intensive therapy that focuses on the principles and techniques of learning theory to help improve social behavior. Hands, LLC 205-951-1364 www.autism-alabama.org Services include one-on-one behavior based therapy for children 2 to 18, social skills groups, workshops and support groups. Lakeshore Foundation 205-313-7400 www.lakeshore.org Lakeshore offers adapted recreation, aquatics, fitness and athletic programs for children with a physical disability. For more about our activity, research and advocacy opportunities, visit lakeshore.org. Liberty Park Children’s Dentistry 704-502-7798 www.libertyparkchildrensdentistry.com We are a new start-up pediatric dental office in Liberty Park with a passion for providing exceptional oral health care for special needs children. Medical West, affiliate of UAB Health System 205-996-9378 www.medicalwesthospital.org SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 31.
Milestones Behavior Group, Inc. 205-253-6903 www.milestonesaba.com Milestones Behavior Group, INC provides Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and speech & language services to children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental and communication disorders.
The UAB Division of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine at Children’s of Alabama 205-638-9790 www.uab.edu/medicine/peds/rehab Treats children with conditions affecting development and function, trains tomorrow’s healthcare professionals and performs research to improve the lives of children with disabilities.
Mitchell’s Place – SNE SPONSOR 205-957-0294 www.mitchells-place.com Providing comprehensive, research-based, educational, social and therapeutic services for children, adolescents, and families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disabilities in a deeply caring environment. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 15.
Thrive Behavioral Services 205-624-2200 www.thrivebehavioralservices.com Behavioral services for children diagnosed with Autism and/or other developmental disabilities.
National TeleTherapy Resources 844-NTR-LINK www.ntrlink.com NTR offers virtual speech and occupational therapy for students all over the country. By utilizing our top-notch technology and combining it with our dedicated therapists, linking students to their success has become a reality! SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 17. Pediatric Therapy Associates, Inc. www.pediatricptot.com 205-823-1215 Providing outpatient pediatric physical and occupational therapy to children and teenagers with special needs, sports related injuries, medical/pain issues and educational challenges across a variety of settings. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 17. Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Dept. Children’s of Alabama Hospital: 205-638-9645 Clinic: 205-638-6289 www.childrensal.org/physicaloccupationaltherapy.org Provides hospital and outpatient therapy services for children to support development, movement, play and daily activities. Precision Chiropractic 205-988-9848 www.precisionchiro-al.com Precision Chiropractic provides neurologically based specific chiropractic care for the Greater Birmingham area. Our doctors specialize in the Gonstead method. Service Dogs Alabama 334-462-2463 www.servicedogsalabama.com Dedicated to providing trained medical and psychiatric service dogs to children and veterans with disabilities and school service dogs to educators.
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United Ability 205-944-3944 www.unitedability.org United Ability provides innovative services connecting people with disabilities to their communities and empowering individuals to live full and meaningful lives. University of Alabama at Birmingham - Civitan International Research Center, Sparks Clinics 205-934-8900 or 800-822-2472 www.circ.uab.edu Provides an extensive range of interdisciplinary clinics offering comprehensive diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of the needs of children and adults. University of Montevallo Speech and Language Center 205-665-6730 Assists children with communicative problems in obtaining diagnostic and therapeutic services; training of students majoring in speech language pathology. UNLESS U 205-215-5209 www.unlessu.org Committed to serving adults with developmental disabilities and their families through continuing education, life skills, and social skills. Vocational Rehabilitation Services 334-293-7500 or 800-441-7607 www.rehab.alabama.gov
Birmingham Zoo
205-879-0409 www.birminghamzoo.com Birmingham Zoo has worked to develop the Sensory Friendly Zoo Initiative to improve our capacity to serve visitors with sensory processing needs. For more information go to www.birminghamzoo.com/ visitor-info/accessibility. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 51. CAMP ASCCA - Easter Seals Alabama’s Special Camp for Children and Adults 256-825-9226 www.campascca.org Easter Seals Camp for children and adults with special needs. Camp WheezeAway 334-799-3449 www.campchandler.org, click on Camp WheezeAway A free camp for children ages 8-12 with moderate to severe asthma. C.A.S.T. for Kids 256-310-4323 www.castforkids.org Established in 1991 with a mission to host quality, outdoor recreational fishing events for children with special needs. Children’s Harbor 205-638-5948 www.childrensharbor.com Serving seriously ill children and their families through unique no cost services at the family center at Benjamin Russell Hospital for Children and the Lake MartinCamp Facility in Alexander City. The Dance Foundation 205-870-0073 www.childrensdancefoundation.org Movement to Music for school-age children with special needs is creative, includes a variety of colorful props and features live music. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 38.
Adaptive Aquatics 205-807-7519 www.adaptiveaquatics.org Provides opportunities for people to learn to water ski, no matter what their limitations.
Dance Without Limits 251-610-4969 www.dancwwithoutlimitsfoundation.org A 501c3 non-profit providing dance programs for children and young adults with special needs who may not otherwise have an opportunity to experience the joy of dance. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 21.
AMBUCS Birmingham 205-823-7800 www.trykes.org Pprovides custom therapeutic trykes to disabled children within a five county area. Our bikes give these amazing children an opportunity to be mobile and independent while spending time with their families.
The Exceptional Foundation SNE PRESENTER 205-870-0776 www.exceptionalfoundation.org The Exceptional Foundation is a nonprofit organization that strives to meet the social and recreational needs of children and adults with special needs. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 3.
RECREATION
Mitchell’s Place also offers an Early Learning Program for children on the autism spectrum and typical peers along with other social opportunities.
We believe in... saying yes to ice cream. Milk allergies can be hard on a kid. With Oral Immunotherapy treatments at Alabama Allergy, you can start saying yes to more things, like a yummy ice cream cone.
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205-871-9661 alabamaallergy.com Homewood • Hoover • Chelsea Alabaster • Cullman • Trussville
Weily Soong, MD Maxcie Sikora, MD John Anderson, MD Sunena Argo, MD William Massey, MD Carolyn Comer, MD Lorena Wilson, MD birminghamparent.com | 15
DIRECTORY SPRING 2018 The Helen Keller School of Alabama Summer Assessment Camp 256-761-3251 www.aidb.org This no-cost, six-day, life-skills camp is designed for students who are sensory impaired, multi-disabled, functioning significantly below grade level, and interested in enrollment into the HKS. Only twelve spaces are available. Moody Miracle League 205-225-9444 www.moodymiracleleague.org A full handicapped accessible baseball field for any special need player. More than 250 players range from 4-75. The Music Room Music Education – Music Therapy 205-702-6074 www.themusicroomleeds.com Drums and Disabilities is a unique percussion based music therapy program currently serving a large majority of the special needs community in Alabama. Oak Mountain Youth Baseball/ Softball Challenger League 205-223-6461 www.omybs.org Provides boys and girls with disabilities the opportunity to experience the emotional development and the fun of playing Youth League Baseball. RoofTop Friends 334-244-1385 www.rooftopfriends.org RoofTop Friends exists to love, serve, fellowship, share faith with those affected by disabilities by providing AL Family Retreat, fun activities and other respite care. Southern Breeze Travel 256-513-9874 www.southernbreeze.vacations Planning the best vacation some-
times can be hard work. I specialize in resort travel, honeymoons, family vacations and travel for families with members with special needs. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 47. Special Equestrians 205-987-9462 www.specialequest.org Provides high quality therapeutic horseback riding and equine assisted activities to persons with physical, cognitive, developmental and emotional disabilities.
RESPITE & SUPPORT
Aaron’s Staff Respite care Ministry 205-261-9914 www.aaronstaffrespite.org Respite care at Aaron’s Staff means supporting the spiritual, emotional and physical needs of children with disabilities and their families. Alabama Lifespan Respite Resource Network 256-859-4900 866-737-8252 www.alabamarespite.org Works to create and connect family caregivers to quality respite resources. Saint Mark United Methodist Church Respite 205-444-4696 www.saintmarkumc.org/#/ourministries/respite-care Shades Mountain Baptist Church Special Needs Ministry 205-822-1670 www.shades.org/connect/ministries/special-needs A ministry providing assistance to special needs children, adults and the elderly. Socks 4 Surgery www.socks4surgery.com Dedicated to providing a keepsake of a pair of socks; a reminder of overcoming the adversity of surgery.
Chelsia Massey M.S. BCBA
Owner - Board Certified Behavior Analyst
205-624-2200 ThriveBehavioralServices@gmail.com
g m inin Tra ntal gra l o e pme Pro o anc h B c velo bility V S sist e / / D t A en As Disa AB Par IEP Social Skills Training Com Autis Beh mun m Red avior icat 2685 Pelham Pkwy ucti i o n on
Ste C Pelham, AL 35124
ThriveBehavioralServices.com 16 | birminghamparent | march 2018
SUPPLIES/SPECIALTY ITEMS/TOYS Bath Fitter www.bathfitter.com 205-876-1760 Bath Fitter addresses mobility issues by converting traditional tubs to easy access walk-in showers with safety bars. BioTech Limb & Brace 205-324-7897 or 866-706-LIMB www.biotechlimbandbrace.com Biotech Limb and Brace has 6 fully certified orthotic and prosthetic practitioners serving Birmingham and Central Alabama for the last 15 years. Elrod Mobility SNE SPONSOR
800-693-5763 www.mytelrodmobility.com We understand the freedom and independence the right mobility product can provide. Our associates are trained to take all the time necessary to ensure you get the mobility product that’s perfectly suited to your needs. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 21. Griffin Mobility SNE SPONSOR 256-751-1365 www.griffinmobility.com Griffin Mobility is your source for wheelchair accessible vehicles, automotive adaptive equipment and home accessibility products. Family owned and operated for over 25 years. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 29. Mobility Central SNE SPONSOR 205-916-0670 www.mobilitycentralinc.com Mobility Central employs a team of highly trained and caring medical equipment professionals dedicated to the wellbeing of our patients. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 11.
Teacher’s Pet
205-783-5437 www.shopteacherspet.com Local teaching supplies including special needs, STEM resources and more. Weighted Hearts
205-258-8415 www.facebook.com/weightedhearts/ Weighted Hearts offers weighted blankets as a unique alternative therapy to aid those needing relief from Anxiety, Autism, Bipolar Disorder, CHARGE, PTSD, Restless Legs, sleep difficulties and more.
TRANSPORTATION Clastran 205-325-8787 www.clastran.com Transports persons who are elderly (60-plus), disabled or traveling to or from a rural area in Jefferson or Shelby counties. Kid One 800-543-7143, 205-978-1000 www.kidone.org Kid One Transport provides transportation for any child in need of reaching care that will better them medically, mentally or physically when they are without means of transportation.
RESIDENTIAL Montgomery Children’s Specialty Center 334-261-3445 www.montgomerychildrenscare.com A preferred children’s nursing and rehabilitation facility in Montgomery, AL. Providing services to children with severe developmental disabilities that require ongoing nursing care. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 22.
SEEING CLEARLY STARTS HERE 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
Pediatric Therapy Associates, Inc. Children Are Our Specialty! Individual Physical & Occupational Therapy, Early Intervention, Outpatient, Schools Specializing in: • • • • • •
Convenient, flexible and easy...
Developmental motor skills Neurological delay Orthopedic surgery rehab Yoga for special needs and scoliosis Pilates and rehab for strengthening related to sports injury Fine motor skills including handwriting
Over 35 Years of Pediatric Therapy Experience
205-823-1215
www.pediatricptot.com
National TeleTherapy Resources provides online speech therapy services for schools and individuals. All services are in real time with a licensed, certified speech and occupational therapist. SERVICES INCLUDE:
Articulation Language Reading Executive Functioning Fluency Occupational Therapy and many more!
Please contact NTR today if your child struggles in any of these areas. We offer one-on-one online therapy that is specifically designed with your child’s strength and needs in mind.
844-NTR-LINK . info@ntrlink.com . www.ntrlink.com
NTR - A Child’s Link to Success!
YOU DESERVE YOUR BEST SKIN. More than 30 Years of Experience
Sory “Chuck” Shannon, D.M.D. practices pediatric dentistry from infancy to college age within Birmingham, Alabama. Our long-term and caring staff is very child-friendly, so trust us with your child’s dental care. Dr. Shannon specializes in pediatric dental care to help your child relax and decrease anxiety. We teach your child good oral hygiene to give them the proper tools to continue to care for their mouth and teeth. As an active part of the Children’s Hospital of Alabama, we also perform hospital dentistry. For your convenience, we accept all insurance and are a preferred provider for Blue Cross™, Delta™, and Medicaid. BIRMINGHAM 813 Shades Creek Pkwy #205, Birmingham, AL 35209 205-578-1799 JASPER 300 North Airport Road, Suite 200, Jasper, AL 35504 205-578-1799
DR. KATE FLANAGAN
W W W. S H A D E S VA L L E Y D E R M .CO M
www.shannonchuckdmd.com | 205-995-8855 5113 Cyrus Circle, Suite A, Birmingham, AL 35242 chuckshannondmd@gmail.com birminghamparent.com | 17
THE EXCEPTIONAL FOUNDATION Providing Opportunities, Influencing Lives By Paige Townley
18 | birminghamparent | march 2018
Each day at the Exceptional Foundation is a little different. One day might be all about arts and crafts. Another may be full of athletic competition. Another day may entail a field trip to go bowling or to the movies. Whatever is going on each day, one thing is certain: there’s lots of excitement, plenty of smiles, and constant fun. And Executive Director Tricia Kirk can’t imagine it any other way. The Exceptional Foundation is a nonprofit organization that exists to serve mentally and physically challenged individuals, and they’ve been doing just that since it was first established in 1993. Initially, it started out as a group of special needs individuals who met up every day at Homewood Park. From there it grew, and by 1999, enough money was raised for the foundation to construct its own building near the park. At the facility, the foundation works to fill the gap of social and recreational needs of these individuals that aren’t being met by educational institutions or the community itself. Essentially, these individuals were getting educational knowledge at school – and even some job training after school – but not getting opportunities to participate in other activities like sports teams and social activities or even time to socialize with peers. “Special needs individuals may have their own unique challenges, but they still have the same wants as everybody else,” says Kirk. “They are also capable of seeing and understanding what others are doing. They see people playing on sports teams, hanging out with their friends, and getting their driver’s license. They want those opportunities too.” Providing those opportunities is exactly what the foundation exists to do. Participants can come in every day to socialize with peers or participate in all sorts of activities, like guitar lessons and exercise programs. Many of the foundation’s participants are already out of school, but for those who aren’t, there are after school activities they can partake in each afternoon. There are also summer camps, sports teams, and all sorts of field trips – from horseback riding and bowling to the movies and the nail salon. “We’ve even taken 36 of our participants to the beach the past few years because one of our participants told us that his sister got to go to the beach without their mother, and he wanted to do that too,” Kirk explains. “They want the opportunity to do these sorts of things, and we do our best to listen.” Since Kirk has been executive director of the foundation beginning in 2001, she has done her best to listen to the requests of each individual, and she and the rest of the staff at the foundation have seen participation grow from just 18 kids a day to now
an average of 180 participants per day. Annually, the foundation reaches almost 700 special needs individuals. “I still don’t call this a job,” she says. “I look at it as an opportunity that I have every day. I’m so blessed because I know that I wake up every morning for a reason. This is my purpose in life.” With the impact the Exceptional Foundation is having on the greater Birmingham area, other cities across the country have looked to the foundation as a model to implement. Today, there are similar foundations in Indianapolis, Memphis, Auburn, Fairhope, Atlanta, Charlotte and Parrish, FL. “People from these communities have traveled to Birmingham to train with us, and they’ve done so several times,” Kirk adds. “It’s amazing, and it doesn’t stop. People keep reaching out to us. How do you tell somebody no, that you can’t help their special needs children? So we always do whatever we can to help other communities model exactly what we do.” And while striving to help other communities take care of their special needs individuals, The Exceptional Foundation continues to do everything it can to provide social opportunities to those who need it in the Birmingham area. “These kids and adults need a place to be social and make friends and have fun like everyone else does,” Kirk says. “They want it, and that’s what we are providing. We will continue to do what we can to enhance their lives.”
Paige Townley is a freelance writer.
Come see the Exceptional Foundation at Birmingham Parent’s Special Needs Expo Saturday, March 10, 2018, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. as the Foundation hosts the event.
You make sure
they eat right, sleep, and brush their teeth.
Don’t forget
to make sure they are safe when you are gone.
Estate Planning, Elder Law & Special Needs
205.663.0281 205.663.0281 www.bradfordholliman.com www.bradfordholliman.com John & Melanie Holliman
2491 2401Pelham PelhamPkwy, Pkwy,Pelham, Pelham,AL AL35124 35124
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birminghamparent.com | 19
Challenges and Benefits of Having
A Sibling with Special Needs Having a sibling with special needs is a unique experience that provides both challenges and benefits. While there is no doubt that they love their sibling with special needs, the feelings that can arise during childhood are often complicated. The love, appreciation, and compassion they feel towards their sibling can be mixed with jealousy, worry, resentment, fear, responsibility and anger. Parents who are in tune to their children’s feelings can help them work through the negative emotions and turn these challenges into benefits.
Challenge: Insensitivity of others
Unfortunately, kids with special needs are often the target of teasing. Kids, or even adults, who don’t understand other people’s differences may make insensitive comments, ask inappropriate questions, or just make fun of someone who is different from them. Siblings of special needs kids may feel the need to constantly stand up for their sibling, explain their situation to others, or may be the brunt of teasing themselves. “One of the biggest challenges in growing up with my sister was watching her get laughed at.” says Justin Lyons, brother of Kara, who has cerebral palsy. Parents can help their kids work through this challenge by equipping them with the right answers for those awkward questions and teach them how to handle bullying in an appropriate way.
Benefit: Development of dependability, loyalty and compassion After years of watching someone they love get teased, siblings of special needs kids will naturally develop a strong sense of loyalty to those they care about as well as a strong compassion towards others. Even though watching Kara get teased was hard for Justin, he also notes, “I think it made me less likely to laugh at or tease other people.” Kids who grow up in a home with a special needs sibling typically become dependable, compassionate and loyal adults.
Challenge: Jealousy
Parents do their best to treat their children fairly and spend equal amounts of time caring for each child. When you have a child with developmental delays or significant medical needs, that balance can become extremely difficult to achieve and jealousy can develop. Kids may feel they get less attention or that their parents spend more time caring for the sibling. When these 20 | birminghamparent | march 2018
By Sarah Lyons
feelings develop, it is very common for kids to feel guilty that they have these thoughts, causing them to be more upset and resentful. As a parent, try to be understanding and patient about your child’s jealous feelings. Talking it through and having someone listen and take them seriously will help your child feel loved and included. If possible and appropriate, welcome your child to join you in caring for the sibling, but don’t push the issue.
Benefit: Self-control and thoughtfulness
First, it is important to remember that sibling rivalry and feelings of jealousy are normal in any sibling relationship. As your child learns to wait for their parent to be free to help them, they will learn patience and self-control. They will also learn to put others’ needs before their own.
Challenge: Worry and fear
When children are around a sibling with serious medical challenges, lowered immunity or special needs, kids may feel worried or afraid about the health of their sibling. They may not be able to express their feelings the same way that an adult would. Kids may act out, become overly emotional, or appear aloof to what is going on around them. Parents can help kids by being honest about health concerns in an age appropriate way. By including your child in this discussion, you can reduce their fear of the unknown and reassure them as well.
Benefit: Develop compassion and empathy for others
Kids who are exposed to someone with medical and developmental challenges naturally become more compassionate and empathetic to those who may have their own struggles. “I attribute my sense of understanding and compassion to growing up with my sister.” says Michelle Hupp, sister to Felicia, an adult with Down syndrome.
Challenge: Complicated and mixed feelings
As each person is different, kids have a variety of feelings related to their sibling with special needs. Some kids may feel pressure to “live up” to their parents’ expectations for themselves and for the sibling that may never reach certain milestones. Kids may also feel resentment, anger, frustration, or like they are “missing out” on activities or experiences because their sibling’s care puts restrictions on certain activities.
PHOTO COURTESY KATELYN MCINERNEY
“Siblings often feel guilty about any negative feeling such as jealousy.” says Hupp. “The rewards more than outweigh the negatives but sometimes the negatives are hard to talk about.” None of these feelings are fun to talk about and often result in guilt, causing the children to feel even more resentment against the sibling because they have these negative feelings. Some of these feelings may be difficult to overcome and a parent may not know exactly what their child is feeling or how to deal with them. If you feel that these feelings are becoming a problem, consider seeking professional help to support your child’s development in a healthy way and encourage an appropriate relationship between your children.
Benefit: A variety of positive characteristics develop
While all of these challenges are realistic, kids also develop a wide variety of wonderful characteristics from their experience such as kindness, patience, compassion, acceptance of differences, helpfulness, and empathy. All of these qualities are wonderful and valued in our society. Being a sibling of a special needs person is a unique and sometimes challenging experience but most people will tell you they have benefitted from the experience. As a parent, it helps to think of the long-term benefits and help your child shape their challenges into successes. Sarah Lyons is a freelance writer who has been published in more than 60 parenting publications.
Your source for pediatric mobility needs and home modifications.
Katelyn McInerney, right, is a high school junior and founder of the Special Siblings support group. Dr. Stephanie Stoll, a Birmingham child psychologist, is one of the speakers.
myelrodmobility.com 205-424-5858
1930 3rd Avenue North, Bessemer, AL 35020
Special Siblings Support Group Meets Monthly Special Siblings is a support group for children ages 5-18 that meets monthly to share ideas, experiences and the ever-changing needs of having a special needs sibling. Katelyn McInerney, a junior at Mountain Brook High School whose younger sister has special needs and learning disabilities, founded the group. It meets every month at the Homewood Public Library, and this month’s meeting is at 3:30 p.m. on March 4. “Special Siblings is extremely important to me both in the connection with other young people who have had some of the same experiences as me and in knowing that I am making a positive impact in many people's lives,” McInerney says. “One of the main topics we discuss is communicating about difficult feelings such as jealousy, guilt, embarrassment, and frustration, and participants learn valuable skills from licensed psychologists/psychiatrists about the most constructive manner to do so.” McInerney invites a specialist each month from local agencies that serve special needs children and families to speak on those issues. “Learning these skills has had a positive impact on participants' lives and that means a lot to me,” she continues. “The group means a lot to the participants as well, for many of the same reasons. For many, the group has provided an important space to discuss things with people who understand and receive help from professionals who can.” McInerney, a Girl Scout, wanted to find a project for her Gold Award. After she began volunteering at the special equestrian facility The Red Barn in Leeds and met several families with special needs children, along with their siblings, she was inspired to start the support group. Lori Pruitt
"The products you need from a source you can trust."
Dance classes exclusively for the
SPECIAL NEEDS COMMUNITY
Classes start January 3rd and meet Wednesdays from 4:30-5:15.
251-610-4969
at Exclusively Ballet & Dance
7154 Cahaba Valley Rd, Birmingham, AL 35242 www.dancewithoutlimitsfoundation.org
Bham Walk + 5K - April 7th FunkyFunRun.com birminghamparent.com | 21
Setting goals for independence Birmingham’s Full Life Ahead Foundation releases its updated workbook and guide for teens and young adults with disabilities and their families By Lori Chandler Pruitt
Teens and young adults with disabilities and their families have an updated, user-friendly resource to help set life goals and become independent. The Full Life Ahead Foundation of H.O.P.E, a Birmingham-based nonprofit, has released a newly revised and updated edition of its ground-breaking Full Life Ahead Workbook and Guide. This guide is used nationwide by states and universities as an education tool and is considered the only “user-friendly” transition guide available to institutions and families. “Our updated guide has more than doubled in size with resources for families,” says Tammy Moore, Full Life Ahead executive director and mom of a 24-year-old special needs daughter. “This guide has everything you need to help your child become more independent, and things you didn’t know to ask.” The guide has easy to navigate tabs for each chapter that guides families through several areas, including IEP and transition planning to adult living; employment, staying safe and healthy, managing money, driving and transportation, college or further training and a new section on adult healthcare. There are also hundreds of current resources for every possible disability, including websites and toll-free numbers that can lead users nationwide to local availability. The foundation also worked with other groups to update the book. The book was created by Judy Barclay and Jan Cobb, co-founders of the Full Life Ahead Foundation and moms of kids with disabilities.
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“We were just two moms, along with numerous contributors, who wanted to put together a workbook designed for students and parents to help guide teens into adult life,” they say. “It contains all the information we wish had been available to us as our own children faced this milestone. We realized how overwhelming it is just to survive every day dealing with a child with a disability, much less make any plans for the future.” The book also includes updated stories from those who have or are navigating the same paths to independence. “Our dream is to eventually make this guide into an app,” Moore says. Books can be purchased for $25 at www. fulllifeahead.org/store/ or by calling 205-4396534. Proceeds help benefit the foundation’s programs. Organizations that want to purchase more than four books can call for special pricing and shipping. Full Life Ahead itself offers many resources for families via its website and more, including: • Family weekends at Children’s Harbor on Lake Martin for families to get away, meet other parents and learn from experts and from one-on-one consultations. Teens or young adults can practice real life skills and make new friends. • H.O.P.E. Teams, where families and community are brought together to set goals and personally connect families with individuals, agencies and organizations that can help them reach those goals.
• Connecting families to other families to offer encouragement. • A newsletter, online helpful brochures, a blog and success stories from young people with disabilities. The guidebook is a vital tool for agencies who serve young people with disabilities. “As a social worker and a transition specialist, these workbooks have been an invaluable tool in helping the young people with disabilities we serve to start thinking about life goals and becoming independent,” adds Kathryn Chodkiewicz, transition coordinator for the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services. “Transition to adult life can be daunting, but the workbook gently guides them through the process. I am so excited about getting the updated workbook out to the individuals and families that I serve.” Lori Pruitt is associate editor of Birmingham Parent.
Children’s of Alabama is ...
Russell Campus
The third largest pediatric hospital in the United States
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Licensed for 332 beds & 48 NICU bassinets
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The first LEED-certified hospital building in Alabama
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One of the Top 20 employers in Alabama with more than 4,700 employees across the state
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The pediatric teaching hospital for the School of Medicine at UAB
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Home to the Pediatric & Congenital Heart Center of Alabama, where more than 450 cardiac surgeries are performed annually
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Site of the only pediatric kidney dialysis program in the state — one of the largest in the country
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Home to one of the largest burn units in the Southeast
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One of the largest pediatric rheumatology programs in the nation and the only one in Alabama
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Provides care for more than 90 percent of Alabama children with cancer and blood disorders
1600 7th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233
Benjamin Russell Hospital for Children Lowder Building McWane Building Children’s on Third Outpatient Center Children’s Park Place
Children’s South
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205.638.9100
1601 5th Avenue South 1600 7th Avenue South 1600 7th Avenue South 1208 3rd Avenue South 1600 5th Avenue South
1940 Elmer J. Bissell Road, Birmingham, AL 35243 205.638.4800
Outpatient surgery services, Pediatric Imaging Center, laboratory services and specialty care clinics
Pediatric Practice Solutions Primary Care Locations Alabaster (Greenvale Pediatrics) Bessemer (Pediatrics West) Birmingham (Midtown Pediatrics) Brook Highland (Greenvale Pediatrics) Clay/Chalkville (Pediatrics East-Deerfoot) Homewood (Mayfair Medical Group)
Hoover (Greenvale Pediatrics) McAdory (Pediatrics West) Montgomery (Physicians to Children) Mountain Brook (Over the Mountain Pediatrics) Pell City (Pell City Pediatrics) Trussville (Pediatrics East) Vestavia (Vestavia Pediatrics)
www.ChildrensAL.org
CANINE COMPANIONS Provide Helping Dogs to Those with Special Needs By Lori Chandler Pruitt
PHOTO COURTESY CANINE COMPANIONS
24 | birminghamparent | march 2018
Hanalei has made a huge difference in Makenzie McGuire’s life – so much so that she can leave home and go away to college with confidence. “When I have Hanalei with me, I feel much more confident and relaxed,” McGuire says. “I can go to college knowing I’ll be safe.” Hanalei is McGuire’s hearing dog – a yellow Labrador/golden retriever who alerts her to the telephone ringing, her alarm clock, dropped items, people calling her name, door knocks and doorbells, toaster popping, oven and microwave beeping and much more. “She also helps me relax much more in public as I can watch her body language, and that tells me a lot about what is happening around me,” McGuire adds. McGuire, of Alabaster, was diagnosed with moderate hearing loss in both ears when she was two years old. She now has cochlear implants, which isn’t a cure, but the implants and speech therapy has enabled her to speak like any normal hearing person and interact with others. As she began her senior year of high school, she and her parents knew she would need some extra support to go to college and live on her own. “I hadn’t even heard of hearing dogs before,” McGuire says. “I was doing some random research on Helen Keller and I saw that she supported hearing dogs. I was really curious and began researching it more and decided I wanted a hearing dog.” Hanalei was bred and trained by Canine Companions for Independence, a Santa Rosa, California-based organization with six regional centers. The southeast region headquarters is based in Orlando serving eight states, says Martha Johnson, regional public relations/ marketing coordinator. McGuire heard about the organization from a local volunteer puppy raiser. Canine Companions is the largest nonprofit provider of assistance dogs in the U.S., and is known worldwide. The organization provides expertly trained assistance dogs to children, veterans and adults with disabilities and the dogs serve people with a wide range of disabilities, including multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, hearing loss, spinal cord injury, stroke, developmental delay and more. There are 3,000 volunteers nationwide, and the group has graduated 5,672 teams since its founding. Canine Companions for Independence does not charge for assistance dogs or the lifetime of ongoing support it provides. The 501 (c) (3) non-profit depends on private funding through donations from individuals, corporations, foundations and community organizations. Its professional staff is supported by a national network of thousands of volunteers and donors, all committed to enhancing the quality of life for people with disabilities. Dogs are bred in Santa Rosa and when eight weeks old, they are placed with volunteer puppy raisers across the U.S. who teach them up to 30 basic commands. When the puppy is about 16 months old, the volunteer returns the dog to one of the organization’s regional
Canine Companions is the largest nonprofit provider of assistance dogs in the U.S., and is known worldwide. The organization provides expertly trained assistance dogs to children,
What you see are proud new parents.
veterans and adults with disabilities and the dogs serve people with a wide range of disabilities, including multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, hearing loss, spinal cord injury, stroke, developmental delay and more.
training centers for six months of professional training. In that training, the dogs are taught more than 40 commands, including retrieving items, pulling wheelchairs, turning light switches on and off, opening and closing doors and more. When the dogs complete the training, the dogs enter team training, where recipients are matched with their new assistance dogs and learn to work together as a team. “People apply for a dog, and we learn a whole lot about them in that time,” Johnson says. “We always say the dogs are trained…so now we need to train the people.” During training, the recipient can learn how to work with and benefit from an assistance dog, with daily lectures, exams, practices and public outings. A graduation ceremony is held at the end of the training that celebrates the new life together. There are 2,265 active graduate teams nationwide, with 403 teams graduating in 2017. There are at least 450 people currently on their waitlist for a dog. Since the group’s founding in 1975, more than 5,600 teams have graduated. “We did not get to choose the dogs at team training,” McGuire says. “I truly believe the dogs chose us. During the first three days of working with different dogs…I finished sound work with Hanalei and went to sit back down. Instead of going back to the trainer, she came over to me. So I truly believe she chose me.” McGuire plans to attend Auburn University this fall to become a veterinarian. “My parents are thankful for me to have her,” says McGuire of Hanalei. “My mom says all the time how she notices how much more confident I am. They also feel much more confident about me going to live on my own and be safe. I do not have to be constantly hyper vigilant since I know Hanalei will tell me what is going on. I can go to college knowing I’ll be safe in case of fire or tornadoes.” Lori Pruitt is associate editor of Birmingham Parent.
Thanks to the medical staff and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama employees who helped make this moment possible. We work hard behind the scenes.
AlabamaBlue.com/NewFamily
birminghamparent.com | 25
BIRMINGHAM PARENT’S 8TH ANNUAL
2018 PRESENTED BY
SATURDAY, MARCH 10, 2018, 10-3 AT THE EXCEPTIONAL FOUNDATION—FREE
JOIN US!
1616 Oxmoor Road, Homewood, AL 35209
• Fun activities for kids including free face painting, inflatables and more. • Great takeaways and information. • Many prizes to be given away including a set of luggage from Southern BreezeTravel and a trip to Gulf Shores/Orange Beach with Brett/ Robinson Property. • Swag Bags to the first 200 to visit the Birmingham Parent booth. sponsored by
MITCHELL’S PLACE | ELROD MOBILITY BRADFORD & HOLLIMAN | GRIFFIN MOBILITY
birminghamparent.com | 27
SPECIAL KIDS CLUB 2018 advertorial
BIRMINGHAM PARENT'S
CHILDRENS OF ALABAMA admissions. With more than 2 million square feet, it is the third largest pediatric medical facility in the U.S.
Since 1911, Children’s of Alabama has provided specialized medical care for ill and injured children. Ranked among the best pediatric medical centers in the nation by US News & World Report, Children’s provided care for youngsters from every county in Alabama, 45 other states and six foreign countries last year, representing more than 677,500 outpatient visits and more than 15,500 inpatient
Children’s offers inpatient and outpatient services across its Russell Campus on Birmingham’s historic Southside with additional specialty services provided at Children’s South, Children’s on 3rd and in Huntsville and Montgomery. Primary care is provided at more than a dozen medical offices in communities across central Alabama. Children’s of Alabama is the only medical center in Alabama dedicated solely to the care and treatment of children. It is a private, not-for-profit medical center that serves as the primary site of the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) pediatric medicine, surgery, psychiatry, research and residency programs. More information is available at www.childrensal.org
1600 7th Ave. South Birmingham, AL 35233 205-638-9100 www.ChildrensAL.org
MOBILITY CENTRAL Mobility Central was founded in Birmingham, Alabama in 2004 by Ben and Laurie Peters. Their goal then and now is to bring the best in home medical and mobility equipment to the people of Alabama. The trained and caring employs at Mobility Central works with medical personnel, the patient, the family and the caregiver to evaluate the home environment, assess equipment needs, and customize solutions that support the patient’s functional needs and therapeutic goals while addressing activities of daily living.
Count on Mobility Central when you need:
We encourage you to explore learn more about the products that we carry in both our online catalog and in our 6,000 square foot showroom located off Highway 31 in Vestavia. Our team of caring professionals at Mobility Central can assist you in finding, selecting and learning how to get the most benefit from your equipment. We strive to provide the customer service you deserve.
• Walkers and Rolling walkers/ Rollators
28 | birminghamparent | march 2018
• Daily living supplies • Respiratory nebulizers • Bathroom safety equipment and supplies • Hospital bed and bed accessories • Low air loss mattresses • Orthopedic bracing and supports • Lift chairs in many styles and colors • Canes and crutches
• Mobility scooters • Wheelchairs and accessories • Power wheelchairs • Wheelchair cushions and seating • Wheelchair ramps • Automobile wheelchair and scooter lift
400 Old Towne Rd., Vestavia, AL 35216 205-942-2534 www.mobilitycentalinc.com
BIRMINGHAM PARENT'S
SPECIAL KIDS CLUB 2018 advertorial
THE AUTISM SOCIETY OF ALABAMA An Information and Referral Line to answer family questions about ASD. Conferences throughout the state to educate parents, therapist, teachers and individuals about ASD issues. A communication hub for Alabama families living with ASD through enews, website, social media and ASA Network Support Groups in meetings. 33 Alabama cities. ASA Network Consulting with legislators, the Support Groups offer families guid- Governor's Office and Departments ance in the care of their loved one of Education, Rehabilitation Services, Medicaid and Public Health. with ASD. The Autism Society of Alabama (ASA) is a statewide advocacy group with the mission of improving services for persons with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families through education and advocacy. ASA provides:
Innovative programs including the Autism Friendly Alabama initiative that will provide businesses the tools and knowledge to be inclusive and accessible for ASD families. Please join us in April for Autism Awareness Month, as we Light It Up Blue on April 2nd and Walk for Autism, Saturday April 7, 2018 at Veterans Park in Hoover. The Walk is a great event and an opportunity to meet other families thriving in our community - www.walkforautismal.com
www. autism-alabama.org 1-877-4AUTISM follow us
SORY "CHUCK" SHANNON, D.M.D. When you have a child with special needs, having them practice good dental hygiene is another everyday activity that may be difficult for you and your family. A lot of developmental conditions can affect the health and placement of your child’s teeth and gums. There are some steps that you can follow that will make dental hygiene practices easier for your child.
If you child lacks the dexterity to work a toothbrush, attach a hair brush handle or a tennis ball to your child’s toothbrush. Another thing that you could do is make tooth-brushing time a more pleasurable experience. If your child refuses to keep up with their daily dental routine, try hanging fun pictures around the bathroom to a muse them or play music. You could also have your child pretend to be a lion and
“roar” to open wide so that he can clean his teeth well. It is also critical to find a dentist that has some experience with special needs patients and can see your child each time he visits that practice. Seeing a familiar face can be a huge help. Dr. Shannon specializes in pediatric dental care to help your child relax and decrease anxiety. Call to make your appointment today.
www.shannonchuckdmd.com 205-995-8855 5113 Cyrus Circle, Suite A, Birmingham, AL 35242
CHILD'SPLAY THERAPY CENTER Child’sPlay Therapy Center provides occupational, physical, and speech therapy services, along with nutritional therapy, music therapy, and psychological testing and counseling. Our experienced staff uses play and “kid approved” activities to help children reach their goals. We can help your child succeed in the areas of speech/language development, gross motor skills, fine motor skills, sensory processing, attention/concen-
tration, feeding concerns, and academic delays. Focal Point is our highly successful intensive treatment program for ADD/ ADHD. Our brightly colored, beautiful Hoover facility consists of 8,000 square feet of state-ofthe-art space designed just for kids! It includes two sensory motor gyms, kid-friendly and adult waiting areas, feeding therapy room, multi-purpose toddler/ preschool room, numerous private therapy rooms, and a space
just for teens and pre-teens. Our special programming includes Orton Gillingham reading therapy, the “SOS” approach to feeding therapy, Handwriting Without Tears, Interactive Metronome, and Integrated Listening. We are also excited to announce a new location now open in Chelsea, AL, located at 48 Chesser Crane Road, just off of highway 280. Make sure to “like” us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for regular updates!
protect assets for disabled loved ones of all ages – from children to the elderly – by placing those assets in a special needs trusts. Alabama Family Trust then manages the trust for your loved one.
your disabled loved one from financial exploitation and fraud.
www.childsplaytherapycenter.com Hoover: 205-978-9939 Chelsea: 205-618-8095
ALABAMA FAMILY TRUST
You want to take care of your disabled loved ones, and we want to help. As a unique public service created by state law, Alabama Family Trust allows you to shelter and
These trusts (also called supplemental needs trusts) may help your loved one achieve or maintain financial eligibility for government programs such as Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). In addition, our trust management helps protect
Alabama Family Trust offers the highest levels of professionalism, cost efficiency, and experience for all the special needs trusts we manage. We also have a proven track record of having all our trust documents accepted by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and Medicaid. Find more details at www.alabamafamilytrust.com, and then give us a call. We look forward to serving your family.
2820 Columbiana Road Ste 103, Vestavia, AL 35216 205-313-3915 www.alabamafamilytrust.com birminghamparent.com | 29
SPECIAL KIDS CLUB 2018 advertorial
BIRMINGHAM PARENT'S THRIVE BEHAVIORAL SERVICES THRIVE BEHAVIORAL SERVICES At Thrive Behavioral Services we believe all children are capable of learning! Many are in need of a different form of teaching. We believe we have that to offer. Using the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis and Verbal Behavior,we will design a program that targets your specific child’sindividual needs. Most programs include targeting behaviors wewant to increase such as communication, school
readiness,toileting, dressing oneself, andsocial skill development while at the same time targeting behaviorsthat we want to decrease such as biting, screaming, throwingobjects, hitting, and task refusal. At Thrive we believe in families, after all, the family is the child’s primary teacher. We offer both in- home, community, and clinicbased services. Ifyour child has difficulty when visitinggrocery
stores, restaurants,movie theatres, parks, daycare/school, we are here to accompanyyou and your child to that specific community setting to work on goals there. Services Include; IEP support, ABA/VB Therapy, NET, Discrete Trial, Assessment, Parent/Caregiver Training, Potty Training, Social Skills, Functional Assessment, Functional Analysis,School/Daycare Shadowing and Support/Training.
Chelsia Massey M.S. BCBA 205-624-2200 2685 Pelham Pkwy Ste C Pelham, AL 35124 ThriveBehavioralServices.com
have special needs. We offer Lite-Gait equipment for children who need extra support with standing. We have a teacher who is able to communicate in American Sign Language, and volunteers who are learning some simple signs. At the end of each session, participants perform in a recital for family and friends.Classes for students are divided into Movement and Technique. Movement classes are the main classes for Dance Without Limits and are great for students new
to the Dance Without Limits program. Students, who also require special one-on-one attention with a volunteer or additional assistance dancing, will benefit highly from the Movement program. We welcome students with any disability and move them in the best way they can participate.We create movement around his/her unique abilities. Classes start Jan. 3rd. Our class details are Wednesdays 4:30-5:15 at Exclusively Ballet and Dance (corner of 119 and 280).
251-610-4969 www.dancewithoutlimits foundation.org
Behavioral Services
DANCE WITHOUT LIMITS Dance Without Limits is a 501c3 Non-Profit organization that provides a dance program for children and young adults with special needs who may not otherwise have the opportunity to experience the joy of dance. Our fall and spring sessions are comprised of one-hour classes that are designed to suit each individual’s needs. During classes held once a week, a period of professional dance instruction is provided by instructors and volunteers trained to work with dancers who
THRIVE BEHAVIORAL SERVICES SOUTHERN BREEZE TRAVEL Beaches has partnered with The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), a global leader in online training and certification programs with representation in over 40 countries. Their certification programs are the benchmark for those who work with cognitive disorders worldwide.Enjoy an amazing Luxury Included® family vacation knowing that
your children are always in good hands. Our childcare professionals and staff are certified by the International Nanny Association, have a degree in early childhood education, are individually Autism Certified, and continuously receive competency training in the following areas: • Sensory Awareness • Motor Skills • Autism Overview • Program Development
• Environment • Social Skills • Communication • Emotional Awareness and Bullying We are proud to offer families with children with autism and other special needs specialized service and engaging activities, so that all families may enjoy a memorable, award-winning Beaches Luxury Included® experience.
Southern Breeze Travel 256-513-9874 www.SouthernBreeze.Vacations
CONNEC T 36 5/24/ 7 TO BIRMINGHAM PARENT www.birminghamparent.com www.twitter.com/bhamparent www.facebook.com/BirminghamParent www.instagram.com/birminghamparentmagazine www.pinterest.com/birminghamparentmagazine/
30 | birminghamparent | march 2018
Helping every kid find their beautiful smile!
WHEN SEC NDS COUNT
DON'T SPEND THEM IN A WAITING ROOM. Why are we here? We believe that orthodontics is more than “braces,” that our role in you and your child’s life is an important one… to enhance their health and appearance enriching their lives and sense of well-being.
99% patient satisfaction average wait time less than 30 minutes
How do we do this? We believe that we should work with you to define your vision… and we have multiple technologies designed to help us. We help you see and understand what the possibilities are. What do we do? We as a team, believe in this vision and it is our mission… every day! Smiles are important, but taking into account the overall appearance in terms of both the smile and facial appearance is what makes us stand out from other orthodontic offices.
FREESTANDING EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT The Medical West Freestanding Emergency Department (FED) is located off of Highway 150 in Hoover next to Sprouts. This 24,342 square foot facility is open 24/7 and consists of 10 exam rooms including: two trauma rooms, CT, X-ray, ultrasound, EKG, laboratory and room for expansion.
David M. Sarver DMD, MS 1705 Vestavia Pkwy., Birmingham, AL 35216
www.SarverOrtho.com • 205-979-7072
5300 Medford Drive • Hoover, AL 35244 • (205) 820-8416 medicalwesthospital.org In Case of Emergency, Dial 9-1-1 birminghamparent.com | 31
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$5 DINNERS COMES TO BIRMINGHAM PARENT If you’re on Facebook very often, you’ve likely come across a recipe by Erin Chase of $5 Dinners. Chase is the home chef behind of www.5DollarDinners.com and author of The $5 Dinner Mom Cookbook series. She’s on a mission to help busy, overwhelmed home chefs learn to spend less money on groceries and get organized in the kitchen. Beyond the money savings, she’s helped many people come to enjoy cooking again and help them stop feeling stressed and overwhelmed with feeding their families every single night. And she’s helping Birmingham cooks this month with a recipe that can be used with the Instant Pot, the latest cooking craze and the “it” gift for Christmas 2017. If you got one for Christmas and haven’t used it yet, get it out and try this delicious-looking, hearty twist on chili.
10% OFF
ANY ENTREE ENJOY DINING WITH US! JOIN DINE REWARDS FOR 50% OFF OF 4TH VISIT DINE-REWARDS.COM
We cater, let us make your life easier. (205) 980-1016 . 4503 Riverview Pkwy, Birmingham, AL 35242
Introducing
with
BIRMINGHAM PARENT
Recipes that are fast, flavorful and family-approved! 32 | birminghamparent | march 2018
Cooking with Birmingham Parent!
A great, interactive, online resource for recipes, cooking with kids and more! Share a recipe, and win some fun prizes. Use it for a resource when it’s time for something new in the kitchen. Visit http://birminghamparent.com/directory/cooking -with-birmingham-parent/ for more info.
Recipes that are fast, flavorful and family-approved!
Instant Pot Beef & Black Bean Chili Yield: 4 servings Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes plus pressure build and release time INGREDIENTS 1 lb. ground beef 1 Tbsp minced onion 1 tsp garlic powder 2 - 15 oz. cans black beans 2 - 15 oz. cans tomato sauce 2 Tbsp chili powder Salt and pepper 1 cup hot water Shredded cheddar cheese, garnish Sour cream, garnish Fresh veggies or salad, as side dish COOKING DIRECTIONS 1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with the minced onion and garlic powder. Drain and add the browned ground beef to the pressure cooker insert. Note: You can skip the skillet and brown the ground beef using the
Saute Mode of your Instant Pot. Tap on Saute, adjust to More/High, and brown the ground beef with the minced onion and garlic powder. Drain, if needed, and return the browned ground beef to the insert. 2. Stir in the black beans, tomato sauce, chili powder, salt and pepper with the hot water into the electric pressure cooker insert. Steam valve: Sealing. Cook on: Manual/High for 15 minutes. Release: Natural or Quick. 3. Prepare veggies. 4. Serve Instant Pot Beef & Black Bean Chili with optional garnishes and veggies. When not whipping up delicious, frugal meals in the kitchen or helping streamline work schedules, Erin Chase can be found out on a run, chasing her 4 boys around the neighborhood, or taking escape from the south Texas heat at the pool. She lives with her husband, four boys and one furry boy in San Antonio, TX.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF ERIN CHASE/$5 DINNERS)
DR. LAUTEN JOHNSON
www.alpediatricdentistry.com 205.982.0112 WELCOMING CHILDREN 6 MONTHS & OLDER
KIDS LOVE US, PARENTS TRUST US
TREATING CHILDREN, NOT JUST THEIR TEETH, FOR A LIFETIME OF HEALTHY SMILES Y.
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“May your heart be light and happy and
smile
MAY YOUR BE BIG & WIDE.” —part of an Irish blessing
DR. LAUTEN JOHNSON • 1015 Brocks Gap Parkway, Hoover, AL 35244 • www.alpediatricdentistry.com birminghamparent.com | 33
PHOTO COURTESY CAMP CAGLEWOOD
SUMMER CAMP 2018
Adventure of a lifetime Camp Caglewood provides adventures for those with disabilities
Many of the adventures vary, but often include outdoor activities such as camping, whitewater rafting (pictured), and much more.
By Emily Reed
Children and adults with developmental disabilities are challenged to work together and overcome obstacles through Camp Caglewood’s unique adventures program. “The Caglewood program is designed for campers with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, etc.,” says Paul Freeman, who founded the camp with his wife Jessica Freeman in 2001. “Campers range in age from 12 to 60, and we foster a family atmosphere.” Camp Caglewood, based in Flowery Branch, GA, is a 501 c3 non-profit and is funded through donations and tuition. “What makes us unique is that we have zero paid staff and zero fund-raising spending,” Freeman adds. “One hundred percent of donations go directly to improving the program and reducing the cost to campers.” Many of the campers come from Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee and West Virginia for mostly weekend trips set all across the southeast. Freeman says the trips vary, but can 34 | birminghamparent | march 2018
include camping in locations such as a cave, on a secluded island or in a swamp. Activities range from peaceful and educational to exhilarating, including art, museums, whitewater rafting, hiking, canoeing, theme parks and rock climbing. A complete list of trips can be found on the organization’s website (www.Caglewood. org). Freeman says many of the adventures are limited in the summer months and typically occur in the spring and fall. “There are many summer programs, so we try to offer our adventures in the non-summer months,” Freeman explains. “We’re giving parents and guardians more options when they need it the most.” On average, there are usually 15-20 campers and 5-10 adventure guides for a trip, with the goal being to keep the camper to volunteer ratio at two-to-one, Freeman says. “We hope that everyone, campers and volunteers alike, go away understanding that no matter what adventure comes next they
can thrive,” Freeman adds. “We want them to know that Camp Caglewood is part of their family.” The Freemans served at Camp Glisson, a camp in Georgia, as counselors and program leadership while in college, according to the organization’s website. Paul Freeman served on the board at Camp Glisson for a short time and studied special education and Christian education at Presbyterian College, and Jessica Freeman worked with two brain injury programs where she performed occupational and art therapy. Jessica Freeman also facilitated the move of several clients from group homes to independent living, according to the website. The Freemans worked together to develop the Caglewood business plan and established Caglewood Incorporated in September of 2001. In the spring of 2002, the first Caglewood Camping adventure was launched. “We were called by our Christian faith
At Camp Cosby children play hard, make new friends, and have the adventure of a lifetime in a safe, fun and structured environment.
REGISTER NOW!
1-800-85-COSBY • COSBY@YMCABHAM.ORG
birminghamparent.com | 35
SUMMER CAMP 2018
Regional Outdoor Day Camp at Hargis Retreat You’re the type of parent who wants your children to spend their summers outdoors, exploring their surrounds, making lifelong friendships, and having a blast. Unlike other summer day camps, Regional Outdoor Day Camp at Hargis Retreat is real camp situated on more than 200 wooded acres in Chelsea!
UPGRADE YOUR CHILD’S SUMMER AT REGIONAL OUTDOOR DAY CAMP AT HARGIS RETREAT.
Top: Camp Caglewood provides opportunities for children and adults with developmental disabilities to work together and overcome obstacles through various camping adventures. Bottom: Campers often range from 12 to 60 years old, and a family atmosphere is encouraged.
to serve populations in need by following the one command to ‘love one another,’” Paul Freeman says. “To this day, ‘love one another’ is the single guiding principle of the program. Our goal is to provide rich and memorable experiences while improving self-confidence and independence levels to our campers, and a respite experience for parents during which they can feel secure that their loved one is not only being well taken care of, but most likely having the time of their life.” Freeman says one of the most enjoyable aspects of running a camp is all of the friends he meets. “The campers of Camp Caglewood are some of the best friends of my life,” Freeman says. “As my kids have grown old enough to volunteer, I am blessed to see that they have found the same strong friendships. When we are off on an adventure we are certainly working hard, but it is a work of love. And, the love we get in return makes it the greatest work we could do.” Adventure costs range from $50-$350. For more information, visit www.Caglewood.org. Emily Reed is a freelance writer and stay-at-home mom to her son, Tobias.
36 | birminghamparent | march 2018
now open!
There’s a hidden world of science waiting to be discovered in the backyard
PRESENTED BY
200 19TH STREET NORTH – BIRMINGHAM, AL 35203 – 205-714-8300 – WWW.MCWANE.ORG
SUMMER CAMP 2018
JUNE 4-JULY 27 No camp the week of July 4th.
ENTERING 4K THROUGH 8TH GRADE
Check out our CIT (Counselor-in-Training) Program 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)
cheerleading • ropes course • ARTS & CRAFTS • soccer • sports • nature • drama
Recognized as one of the South’s favorite Christian summer camps for girls! Welcome to an award winning camp experience…
RIVERVIEW CAMP FOR GIRLS.
Just off DeSoto Parkway on top of Lookout Mountain in Mentone, Alabama…nestled in a bend of Little River. Adventure, inspiration, character & confidence-building are just a few of the benefits that go hand-in-hand with the activity choices. Riverview’s Christian emphasis & exciting programs are appreciated by both parents & campers! Call 800-882-0722 or visit www.riverviewcamp.com for a FREE DVD & Information packet
Only 2 short hours from Birmingham 1 & 2 week sessions! Mother-Daughter Weekends also Available
Dr. Larry and Susan Hooks, Owners/Directors Donna Bares, Assistant Director Accredited by American Camping Association Members of Christian Camping Conference Asso.
Check us out online at www.riverviewcamp.com 38 | birminghamparent | march 2018
swimming • beach volleyball • archery • riding • basketball • golf • much more!
chorus • gymnastics • Dance • canoeing • tennis • GOLF
Exciting Traditional Camp for girls ages 6 to 16!
B I R M I N G H A M PA R E N T ’ S
VIRTUAL
2018 View our Camp Expo camps online, see photos & videos and visit their sites!
www.birminghamparent.com/camp
SUMMER CAMP 2018
Camp Juliette Low On Lookout Mountain in Cloudland, GA CJL is an independent, residential summer camp for girls ages 7-17. 1 & 2 week sessions: June 3—July 28, 2018
Horseback
Ropes course Climbing wall Pottery/crafts Fire-building Platform tents
Canoeing Sailing Archery Pool Hiking Drama
www.CJL.org Preparing Girls for Confident Living and Leadership Since 1922
There is no place like Y Day Camp. A home away from home where your children laugh, learn, explore and grow in the outdoors while creating memories and friendships that last a lifetime.
birminghamparent.com | 39
ASK T H E S P E C I AL I ST
sponsored by
Overcoming Female Urinary Incontinence By Dr. Brent Parnell
A broken faucet can be a concern for alarm. The last thing that anyone wants is to see the damages and expenses needed for repairs. Unfortunately for women, similar problems may occur when unwanted leakage flows at the most inconvenient times. This is called urinary incontinence, and unfortunately is a very common condition among women after giving birth. According to the National Association for Continence, 1 in 4 women over the age of 18 experience urinary incontinence. There are different types of incontinence that affect women, but there are two that are much more common. Stress incontinence occurs when there is added pressure on your bladder such as lifting, coughing, sneezing, or simply going for a jog. Urge incontinence is a sudden desire to urinate without any sign of warning and the inability to make it to the bathroom in time. While often the result of childbirth, urinary incontinence can happen to anyone. Just like a faucet, some of the underlying causes are due to what’s going down the pipe. Certain foods, medications and drinks can activate the muscle that pushes urine out, including: • Caffeine or alcohol • Soda or any other carbonated drink • Sugary, acidic, spicy foods and fruits • Blood pressure medications or muscle relaxants Other causes might include urinary tract infections or simply the bladder’s dwindling ability to store urine because of aging. Some neurological disorders like Parkinson’s can also affect the bladder due to mixed nerve signals in the body. Also, being overweight can increase chances of leakage because of the added pressure on the muscles around the bladder. To help diagnosis, additional testing might be required to help select the best treatment option for you. There are a complete range of non-surgical and surgical options for incontinence. Treatment should begin with conservative therapies and can range from physical therapy to diet management. There are also a variety of medication options and treatment therapies for bladder control, including bladder Botox injections and bladder nerve stimulation which improves how often you go and the urgency to make it to the bathroom. Depending on your symptoms, surgery can also help alleviate leakage. If you are showing signs of incontinence, who do you need to see? Urogynecologists, urologists, and gynecologists all play some role in the treatment of a wide variety of pelvic floor disorders. The earlier the treatment, the better – so make your appointment today!
While often the result of childbirth, urinary incontinence can happen to anyone. Just like a faucet, some of the underlying causes are due to what’s going down the pipe. Certain foods,
Dr. Brent Parnell is board-certified urogynecologist at Brookwood Baptist Medical Center located in Homewood, AL.
40 | birminghamparent | march 2018
medications and drinks can activate the muscle that pushes urine out.
Every story has a beginning. When you’re pregnant, you learn a lot about what to expect. But no matter what, you know that having your baby is only the beginning of the story. With five hospitals throughout central Alabama, access to an entire network of specialists, and countless ways to customize your experience, Brookwood Baptist Health is a community of care dedicated to making your new beginning a happy one.
Find your happy beginning with us at BrookwoodBaptistHealth.com/OB birminghamparent.com | 41
Watch Alabama Cable Network programming on Spectrum Channel 80 STATEWIDE, online at www.alabamacablenetwork.com and even on your smart phone. We are your home for local programming, since 1981! Check our website for dates and times for programming. ACN SHOWS Legal Speak with Thomas Carmichael and Kim Davidson Scott Beason’s Reality Check The Joe Lockett Show The Voice of Alabama Politics with host Bill Britt Coosa Valley Magazine with host Jim Green Daybreak Live 5:30 a.m. daily from Sylacauga with Jimmy Dale Abrams The Rick and Bubba Television Show
Special People and Places with Margaret Lee The Time of Your Life with Bob and Janie Mosca Forgotten Treasures with Kendall Benson
RELIGIOUS
Church of the Air with Bobbie Gurley The Cullman First Baptist Church Dillworth Church of God with Pastor Nelson Kimberly God’s House of Prayer with Bishop Frank McCloud Good News with Pastor Ruel Phillips
Valley Happenings daily at 9 a.m. with Susie Wiley
Gospel Jubilee with Al and Sandy Jerkins
Alabama Car Show featuring clubs from all over Alabama
Gospel Music Southern Style from TV24 Anniston
Greater Visions Baptist Church with Pastor Wayne Ferguson Manna Fest with Perry Stone Pulpit LIVE with Apostle Willie Simmons Seeking the Lost with Earl Barnette Southern Gospel Show with Tommy Johnson and Kendall Benson Victory LIVE with Pastor Jim McCann
SPORTS Simply Fishing Tide TV Coach Avery Johnson Show Coach Bruce Pearl Show Jax State Coach Show
CELEBRATIONS
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D E ST I NAT I O N GUI DE
Think Strange. Think Monstrous. Think Prehistoric.
Photo courtesy of the Gulf Coasat Exploreum
Dinosaurs? Think Again!
Photo courtesy of Great Wolf Lodge
Great Wolf Lodge Georgia Set To Open Doors May 31
The Great Wolf Lodge is now accepting reservations for its first Georgia resort, the 16th in the family of Great Wolf Lodges, and will begin welcoming guests on May 31, 2018. An overnight stay at Great Wolf Lodge Georgia includes two days of play at the expansive indoor water park, along with numerous fun-filled activities families can enjoy together. Standard rates start at $199.99 per night. Inn addition, Great Wolf Lodge Georgia has extended its booking period for guests to take advantage of up to 30% off rates in celebration of the grand opening. Guests can use the code ‘GRAND’ through February 28, 2018 to claim the discounted rate. Great Wolf Lodge Georgia will have 457 guest suites and nearly 500,000 square feet of entertainment space and lodging amenities. The centerpiece of the resort will be the nearly 100,000 square foot indoor water park. With signature Great Wolf Lodge water rides and attractions including Fort Mackenzie, a multi-level interactive water fort treehouse with a massive tipping bucket, high thrill water slides, a relaxing lazy river, a huge wave pool, and several zero depth entry pools and kid water play areas, the new resort will feature water fun for everyone. The resort will also feature a massive outdoor resort pool with additional water attractions for families to enjoy together. Great Wolf Lodge Georgia will debut with an exclusive, adult-only oasis adjacent to the outdoor pool, complete with relaxing chaise lounge chairs and a private hot tub for parents to enjoy. Beyond the thrills of the water park, the resort will feature dozens of entertainment options under its massive roof. Families will find a wide variety of activities found throughout the entire resort for children of all ages. Featured attractions include the 40,000-square-foot Great Wolf Adventure Park, a full service family entertainment center featuring the Howlers Peak Ropes Course®, Howl In One™ Miniature Golf Course, Ten Paw Alley™ family bowling, Northern Lights™ Arcade, and Rustic Ridge, a multi-story rock wall. A fan-favorite of kids visiting Great Wolf Lodge is MaqiQuest, the brand’s exclusive live-action adventure game where guests scour the resort using magic wands to uncover relics and runes needed to defeat dragons and goblins. No Great Wolf Lodge experience would be complete without a trip to Scooops Kids Spa, the perfect place for ice cream-themed manicures and pedicures. Great Wolf Lodge Georgia will be located at 150 Tom Hall Parkway in LaGrange, GA. For more information on Great Wolf Resorts and its brands of indoor water park resorts, visit greatwolf.com. 44 | birminghamparent | march 2018
The Gulf Coast Exploreum in Mobile presents a brand-new adventure where guests can go way back in time – before dinosaurs – when bizarre-looking animals dominated land and sea. Permian Monsters: Life before the Dinosaurs, a unique traveling exhibition, brings the past back to life with full-size animatronic models of the animals that ruled the world millions of years before the age of dinosaurs, in a time known as the Permian Period. Meet the top predator of the time, the giant saber-toothed Gorgonopsid and find out what nearly killed them all to make way for Earth’s next rulers, the dinosaurs! The Gorgonopsid is one of seven life-size, realistic animatronic models in this new exhibit, which is making its first appearance on the Gulf Coast. Along with these animatronics, the exhibit features a hands-on dig pit, including rare and exciting fossils from giant insects, bizarre looking sharks and strange reptiles. The Permian period ended with the largest extinction Earth ever experienced, wiping out 90 percent of all species on the planet. The exhibit ends June 3. Visit www. exploreum.com for more information and ticket prices.
BEACH MEMORIES START WITH BRETT/ROBINSON. Our over 1,600 vacation rental properties, located in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Alabama, have given countless families their own unique beach memories for over 35 years. These are the resounding memories that families share throughout the years. Stories that live on through generations and bring families together. Now is the time to make your own Brett/Robinson beach memory. We will see you at the beach!
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PHOTO COURTESY ROYAL AMERICAN BEACH GETAWAYS
D E ST I NAT I O N GUI DE
Fun and relaxation
at Laketown Wharf, Panama City Beach Gorgeous views of the Florida Gulf Coast. Amazing weather. A three-bedroom, threebath, beautiful, well-appointed condo with a huge, private balcony. Excellent food, fun attractions and much more in a great vacation venue. I’m describing our experience at Laketown Wharf, a condominium development on South Thomas Drive in Panama City Beach, Florida. My husband and I, along with our youngest teenage son and a friend traveled to the beach in the fall to enjoy quieter beaches and the absolutely beautiful weather. Laketown Wharf is located between a huge private freshwater lake and the Gulf of Mexico and is in the heart of the best entertainment, shopping and dining attractions. You can choose between one, two and three-bedroom layouts, and each have a cozy additional bunk bed room and sofa beds for grandchildren or extra guests. There are private balconies and exterior corridor access. Condos have door codes for additional safety, and there is free covered parking. A very friendly and competent staff take care of your every need. 46 | birminghamparent | march 2018
By Lori C. Pruitt
Laketown Wharf has specials and can accommodate any budget. Condos are completely outfitted with everything you need, such as washers, dryers, free wi-fi, premium TV channels and more. You can choose Gulf views, golf course and lake views. We had a magnificent Gulf view, but also loved heading down to the lakeside boardwalk that meanders around the lake, where you can sit under gazebos or very comfortable sofas to read your favorite book. The development has Laketown Market for snacks and beach essentials, the Sunshine Bar & Grill for delicious casual food for all ages and the Splash Bar. And The Wharf Restaurant also features a popular, great local seafood buffet, where the food is wonderful and the kids will love watching a 9-foot aquarium with 60 fish and 735 gallons of saltwater. Speaking of watching, Laketown Wharf’s lake is outfitted with several fountains that light up and spray at night. You can walk right down to the beach for private access, but also enjoy five pools – one on the rooftop! – an outdoor spa tub,
fitness center, a kid’s playground and a putting green. You can enjoy quiet pursuits, but again, Laketown Wharf also is in the middle of it all. Attractions nearby include Gulf World, and you are less than a mile from Signal Hill Golf Course and only a few minutes to St. Andrews State Park, with snorkeling and kayaking. Restaurants, shopping and other beach fun are all around. We were hosted by Royal American Beach Getaways, a management company headquartered in PCB that represents hundreds of owners in 200-plus condos in more than 20 different resorts. It’s easy to find the perfect getaway for anyone’s budget or needs, from couples to family groups. Renting with Royal American ensures exclusive perks, attraction discounts, unique packages and more. Royal American has partnered with Choice Hotels™, so that guests can pick their own vacation rental options as well as earn Choice reward points. For more information about Laketown Wharf or Royal American, go to 800-224-4853 or RABeachGetaways.com.
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FIN LUCK Y D THE & YOU C EGG OU A PRIZELD WIN !
RIDE THE TRAIN COTTONTAIL EXPRESS
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Saturdays, March 24, 31 - 10AM, 1 PM, 3PM Sunday, March 25 - 1PM, 3PM for tickets & information
www.HODRRM.org • 205-757-8383 1919 9th St., www.HODRRM.org 1919 9th St.,Calera, Calera,AL AL35040 35040 •• www.HODRRM.org
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calendar highlights
March – the beginning of spring, daylight savings time, school spring vacations and much more. Get it off to a good start by taking advantage of all kinds of fun events. Not going out of town? There’s plenty to do at home. One
M A R C H
special event is our very own 8th Annual Birmingham Parent Special Needs Expo, held this year from 10am-3pm on March 10 at The Exceptional Foundation in Homewood. Also, it’s Women’s History Month, so check your library for special programming. And while Easter Sunday falls on April 1, the end of
22nd
March holds many events to observe and celebrate. Photo by His Hands Photographs
10th 8TH ANNUAL BIRMINGHAM PARENT SPECIAL NEEDS EXPO
MEET LEADING LOCAL WOMEN
Everyone’s welcome at this special event from 10am-3pm at The Exceptional Foundation in Homewood. Presented by the Exceptional Foundation and Children’s of Alabama. A free, day-long exhibition where families can learn about products, support groups, recreational activities, healthcare, therapy and many other services for children and adults with special needs. Lots of fun, too! Go to www.birminghamparent.com for more details
At 6:30pm on March 22, come to the Homewood Library and meet some of today’s leading local women and learn about female pioneers who helped shape the world. Part of the NASA@My Library grant. Free.
at the Birmingham Museum of Art
Register Today: artsbma.org birminghamparent.com | 49
calendar 01 THURSDAY Homewood Public Library Student Juried Art Contest March 1-March 22, Homewood Library. Open to any K-12th grader who is a resident of Jefferson County. Students may submit up to two original works of art produced within the last 12 months. For details and deadlines, contact Judith Wright, jrwright@ bham.lib.al.us. Rhythm of the Dance 7:30pm, Hoover Library Theatre. Produced in Ireland by the National Dance Company of Ireland, this two-hour performance features skilled choreography, dazzling costumes, new music, fresh multimedia and more. Tickets, information, 205-4447888, www.TheLibraryTheatre. com or in person, 200 Municipal Drive, Hoover.
02 FRIDAY Rhythm of the Dance 7:30pm, Hoover Library Theatre, see March 1. Swan Lake 7:30pm, BJCC Concert Hall. The Alabama Symphony Orchestra joins the Alabama Ballet in this timeless and classic ballet. Tickets, www.alabamaballet.org.
03 SATURDAY The Winter Market at Pepper Place 8am-noon, 2829 2nd Ave. S, Cantina event space on 29th Street. www.pepperplacemarket.com. Southeastern Outings Dayhike 10am, Oak Mountain State Park. A moderate dayhike around the largest lake in the park. Wellbehaved, properly supervised children 8-up welcome. Arrive at North Trailhead parking lot, 9:45am. Bring park admission, picnic lunch and a drink. David Shepherd, 205-240-4681. Swan Lake 2:30pm, 7:30pm, BJCC Concert Hall, see March 2. Third Coast Percussion 7pm, Alys Stephens Center, UAB. Third Coast is a Grammy award-winning, artist-run
quartet. Performing with Glenn Kotche and Iron Giant. Tickets, $25, students (limited availability), $10. www.uab.edu/cas/ music.
04 SUNDAY Swan Lake 2:30pm, BJCC Concert Hall, see March 2. Special Siblings 3:30pm, Homewood Library. A support group for kids 5-18 to share ideas, experiences and the ever-changing needs of having a special needs sibling.
Sponsored by
09 FRIDAY SCBWI Book Signing/Reception 3:30-5:30pm, Homewood Library. Join Newbery Award winner Linda Sue Park, Coretta Scott King Award winner Pat Cummings, author Irene Latham and more signing books for young readers.
10 SATURDAY
Taste of Teal Gala 6pm, Hyatt Regency Birmingham Wynfrey Hotel. Enjoy delicious food and drink, music, silent and live auctions and casino games while supporting the Laura Crandall Brown Ovarian Cancer Foundation. Tickets, information, www.thinkoflaura.org.
UAB Clarinet Symposium 2pm, UAB’s Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center. Free and open to the public. 205975-0558. UAB Faculty Recital 4pm, Alys Stephens Center. Featuring Kristine Hurst-Wajszczuk, soprano, and Yakov Kasman, pianist. Free.
05 MONDAY Knight Chess Tournament 5:30-7pm, Homewood Library. A monthly chess tournament for preschool-12th grade to learn strategy and have fun!
06 TUESDAY LEGO League 6-6:45pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Kids of all ages! Age 6-younger must be with an adult. UAB Faculty Recital 7pm, Alys Stephens Center. Featuring Lisa Wienhold, flute, and Kevin Chance, guest pianist. Free.
08 THURSDAY UAB Faculty Jazz Quintet Noon, UAB Hospital North Pavilion Atrium. Free. Homeschool Hour – Life on Mars 2pm, Homewood Library. Explore with the 4-H Extension Center. Suggested for ages 10-up. Online registration required. www. homewoodpubliclibrary.org.
50 | birminghamparent | march 2018
Alabama. Sponsored by Mobility Central, ACN, WDJC, Mitchell’s Place, Bradford & Holliman LLC, Elrod Mobility and Griffin Mobility. This free, day-long exhibition where families can learn about products, support groups, recreational activities, healthcare, therapy and many other services for children and adults with special needs. Lots of fun, too! www.birminghamparent.com.
Village 2 Village 10k and 7.5k Run 7:30-11am, 2525 Lane Park Road, Birmingham. Presented by Schaeffer Eye Center. Enjoy a fun-filled, family-friendly run through the beautiful neighborhoods of Mountain Brook. Stick around after the race for the party! Schaeffer Eye Center will provide eye exam services and eyeglasses to economically disadvantaged communities on behalf of registrants. Information, registration, www. Village2Village10k.com. The Winter Market at Pepper Place 8am-noon, 2829 2nd Ave. S, Cantina event space on 29th Street. www.pepperplacemarket.com. Southeastern Outings Dayhike 9am, Smith Mountain Alpine Trail, Lake Martin. A scenic, 3-6 mile moderate hiking route. Well behaved, properly supervised children age 8-up welcome. Optional dinner in Alexander City after hike. Depart 1-am from Publix in The Village at Lee Branch, Greystone. Doris Hatch, 205-901-8367. 8th Annual Birmingham Parent Special Needs Expo 10am-3pm, The Exceptional Foundation, Homewood. Presented by the Exceptional Foundation and Children’s of
Gershwin in Hollywood 8pm, Alys Stephens Center. This performance pays tribute to the famous George Gershwin’s popular Hollywood arrangements. A special solo by pianist Steve Beck in Second Rhapsody will contribute to captivating melodies made by the Alabama Symphony Orchestra. www. alabamasymphony.com.
11 SUNDAY
DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME BEGINS Southeastern Outings Dayhike 1pm, Oak Mountain State Park. Moderate four-mile walk. Well-behaved, properly supervised children age eight and up able complete the hike welcome. Optional dinner after hike. Depart 1pm from the Oak Mountain Park office parking lot. Bring park admission and a drink. Edd Spencer, 205-991-1045. Alabama Wildlife Center & Exploring Natural Alabama 1:30pm, refreshments, 2pm, program, Alabama Wildlife Center. Guest speaker: Chris Oberholster, Birmingham Audubon director of partnership and policy. Carnivorous plants are plants that derive some or most of their nutrients (but not energy) from trapping and consuming animals or protozoans, typically insects and other arthropods. Weather
Sponsored by
permitting, an informal nature walk follows the program so bring your camera, binoculars and field guides. Free after paid admission to Oak Mountain State Park. 205-663-7930x 4, www.awrc.org. Free.
12 MONDAY Homeschool Happening 10-11am, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Charity Battles from Shelby County 4-H will lead Stretch and Strengthen, a program that helps improve physical fitness. Children 6-younger must be with an adult.
14 WEDNESDAY Einstein’s Birthday & Pi Day 8am-5pm, McWane Science Center. Math has never been this much fun! www.mcwane.org.
17 SATURDAY
ST. PATRICK’S DAY The Winter Market at Pepper Place 8am-noon, 2829 2nd Ave. S, Cantina event space on 29th Street. www.pepperplacemarket.com. Southeastern Outings Dayhike 10am, Horseshoe Bend National Military Park, Tallapoosa River. Depart 10am from Publix parking lot, The Village at Lee Branch in Greystone. Randall Adkins, 205317-6969. Sensory Storytime 10:30am, Homewood Library. This monthly, all-ages storytime introduces stories and songs in an engaging ways in a sensory-friendly atmosphere. Writeshop 2pm, Homewood Library. Local author Jade Stewart will teach on how to become a writer. Suggested for ages 10-up. Online registration required; www. homewoodpubliclibrary.org.
20 TUESDAY
FIRST DAY OF SPRING Birmingham Sci Café 6-8pm, John’s City Diner. Join
other science geeks and novices for an exciting presentation, lively discussion and a little science trivia! www.mcwane.org. Dye-ing to Color Workshop 6:15pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. An EGG-citing time! $3 per half-dozen eggs. Sign up and pay in advance by March 19. All children must be with an adult. 205-664-6822.
21 WEDNESDAY Hippity-Hoppity Tales with the Easter Bunny 10:15-11am, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Young children accompanied by an adult can come for fun with “Miss Spring: and the Easter Bunny! Visit and get a goody bag! LEGO Club 3:30pm, Homewood Library. For K-5th grade. UAB Music Guest Artist 7pm, Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. Featuring Shane Reeves, percussion. Free.
22 THURSDAY Women Making History 6:30pm, Homewood Library. Meet some of today’s leading local women and learn about female pioneers who helped shape the world. Part of the NASA@My Library grant.
23 FRIDAY American Girls Club 4pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Celebrate Women’s History Month! Girls age 7-older can come with or without a doll. 205-664-6822.
24 SATURDAY The Winter Market at Pepper Place 8am-noon, 2829 2nd Ave. S, Cantina event space on 29th Street. www.pepperplacemarket.com. UAB Music Presents 7pm, Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. Zoe Willis, junior piano recital. Free.
birminghamparent.com | 51
Big Adventures, Bigger Memories!
Sponsored by
25 SUNDAY
PALM SUNDAY
All aboard for a
train ride with Thomas and so much more!
April 13-15 & 21-22 The Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum
April 13-15 & 21-22 Calera, AL
The Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum
FOR FORTICKETS: TICKETS:
Visit ticketweb.com/dowt visit ticketweb.com/dowt or call 866-468-7630 or call 866-468-7630 Day Out With Thomas™ © 2018 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. Thomas & Friends™ Based on The Railway Series by The Reverend W. Awdry. © 2018 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. Thomas the Tank Engine, Thomas & Friends and Day Out With Thomas are trademarks of Gullane (Thomas) Limited. ©2018 Mattel. All Rights Reserved. ® and ™ designate U.S. trademarks of Mattel, except as noted.
DENTISTRY FOR
CHILDREN & SPECIAL NEEDS PERSONS
Southeastern Outings Dayhike 2pm, Black Creek Trail, Fultondale. Rails to trails conversion route on an old railroad right of way. Smooth, wide, level four-mile trail. Children age 7-up able to walk the distance welcome. Depart 2pm from Black Creek Park, Fultondale. Dan Frederick, 205-631-4680, seoutings@bellsouth.net. UAB Voice Studio Recitals 4pm, 7pm, Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. Featuring students of Won Cho, Laura Doss, Patrick Evans and Kristine Hurst-Wajszczuk. Free.
26 MONDAY James Spann 10am, Homewood Library. Local meteorologist James Spann will explain what you and your family need to know about the weather and how it works. Part of the NASA@My Library grant.
27 TUESDAY Family Flix 10:30am, Homewood Library. The Looney Tunes seek the aid of retired basketball champ, Michael Jordan, to help them win a basketball match and earn their freedom. Refreshments provided. UAB Department of Music “Prism” Concert 7pm, Alys Stephens Center. Featuring faculty and student
Dr. Tabitha Jarman Gatrey, DMD
4823 Promenade Pkwy., Suite 101 Bessemer, AL 35022 p 205-230-9000 f 205-230-0188
www.psmilesal.com 52 | birminghamparent | march 2018
solo, chamber and ensemble performances. Tickets $25, $15 for UAB employees, free to all students. 205-975-2787.
28 WEDNESDAY UAB Student Recital 12:20pm, Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. Featuring advanced students in the Department of Music with Chris Steele, pianist. Free.
30 FRIDAY
GOOD FRIDAY 31 SATURDAY Breakfast with the Bunny 7:30am, 9am, Birmingham Zoo. The Easter Bunny is heading to the zoo for breakfast at 7:30am and 9am! Enjoy a yummy breakfast at the Kudzoo Café followed by a visit from the Easter Bunny! All children receive a special treat upon arrival and can enjoy making a craft. Event price covers zoo admission for the day, unlimited wristband, breakfast and activities. www.birminghamzoo.com. Eggstravaganza! 10am-2pm, Birmingham Zoo. Birmingham’s biggest egg hunt! Join the Easter Bunny and his friends during this rain or shine event! Children can collect 10 eggs and receive a pair of bunny ears while supplies last! 10-10:30am, ages 0-5; 11-11:30am, ages 6-12; 11:45am, adult egg hunt for prizes. More information, www.birminghamzoo.com.
PLEASE NOTE: Events may change after publication deadline; please phone ahead to confirm important information. The deadline for submitting calendar items for the April 2018 print issue is March 6. Mail calendar items to: Calendar, Birmingham Parent, P.O. Box 326, Helena, AL 35080; 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.
Sponsored by
n Aldridge Botanical Gardens Butch Oglesby Photography Exhibit. Oglesby, owner of BlueMoon Studios in Bluff Park, has had a camera in his hand since childhood. His work is on display in the Eddie and Kay Aldridge Arts and Historical Collections Museum. Through March. 3530 Lorna Road, Hoover. 205-682-8019, www.aldridgegardens.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 American Village Highway 119, Montevallo. 205-665-3535, www.americanvillage.org
n Barber Motorsports Park 6040 Barber Motorsports Parkway, Leeds. 205-298-9040, www.barbermotorsports.com
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 In addition to its regular schedule during the week, BCRI will be open on Mondays through February 29. 16th St. N., Birmingham. 205-328-9696, 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.
events & attractions • Bart’s Books. A storytelling program for children ages 4-7. 2000 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd., Birmingham. 205-2542565, www.artsbma.org
• Going Places. Planes! Trains! Rockets! Cars! Explore this exhibition and discover the technology of transportation. Fly a plane, ride a hovercraft, learn to fly an airship!
n Birmingham Public Libraries
• 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.
Find a library near you for all kinds of fun events and enrichment! www.bplonline.org
n Birmingham Zoo • In-park Special Attractions: Special Saturdays. On the second Saturday of each month from 10-11am for ages 8-up, the Birmingham Zoo and KultureCity will present a series of zoobased learning experiences for children and adolescents with cognitive or physical disabilities. Caregivers must attend all classes. FREE; space is limited to 10 students per class. Information, Roger Torbert, rtorbert@birminghamzoo.com. 2630 Cahaba Road, Birmingham. 205-879-0409, www.birminghamzoo.com
n Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum 1919 Ninth St., Calera. 205-668-3435, www.hodrrm.org
n Jefferson County Library Cooperative Find a library close to you for all kinds of fun events and enrichment! www.jclc.org
IMAX Movies: • Dream Big. This movie showcases engineering’s impressive impact on our world and our lives. From Dubai’s record-high skyscrapers to bridges soaring through clouds, experience the massive scale and forces of nature that challenge engineers. Through March 22. • Journey to the South Pacific. Adventure to the lush tropical islands of remote West Papua, where life flourishes above and below the sea. Through April 5. 200 19th St. N., Birmingham. 205-714-8300, www.mcwane.org.
n Moss Rock Preserve Preserve Parkway, Hoover. 205-739-7141, www.hooveral.org.
n Oak Mountain State Park n McWane Science Center • Spring Fever. Celebrate springtime at McWane Science Center as we usher in a season of fun events! Through April 15. • Brain Awareness Week. Students from the University of Alabama at Birmingham will be on hand for this brainy week of demonstrations and activities. March 26-30. • Backyard Adventures! From the biological interactions between plants and insects, and the zoology of nocturnal animals to the horticultural know-how that goes into growing giant vegetables, the mathematical genius needed to lay pavers and the feats of construction that can go on in the shed, the backyard is full of science.
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 Shelby County Public Libraries Find a library near you for all kinds of fun events and enrichment! www.shelbycounty-al.org
n Southern Museum of Flight 4343 73rd St. N., Birmingham. 205-833-8226, www.southernmuseumofflight.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 | 53
PO ET RY PARTY
stormy
Spring has sprung! Winter is fading away. Here’s a little poem that compares the spring rain to the arrival of a stallion who runs free from his winter corral.
STORMY Stormy, the spring stallion, stamps his thunderous hooves, shakes his cloudy mane, rears upon his dark hind legs and races the wind out of the West against the reins of winter. — © Charles Ghigna
Send us your poems and we will publish them here! Parents and teachers! Send us poems written by your children ages 4-14. Include the poet’s name & age and the name of person submitting the poem. Please include your relationship to the poet (parent, teacher, etc.). Send original poems to Father Goose at PaGoose@aol.com. For information on “How to Write a Poem,” visit the Father Goose® website at FatherGoose.com. 54 | birminghamparent | march 2018
Prescription opioids can be ADDICTIVE and DANGEROUS.
IT ONLY TAKES A LITTLE TO LOSE A LOT. www.alabamapublichealth.gov/pharmacy birminghamparent.com | 55
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