September/October 2020 edition of Birmingham Parent

THE PRE MIE R PARE NTING MAGA ZINE FOR CE NTR AL AL ABAMA

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

3 Tips

FOR A GREAT SENSORY-SENSITIVE HALLOWEEN/FALL

9 SURPRISING WAYS TO FIND AN AWESOME SITTER

FREE

TAKING YOUR PREEMIE HOME FROM THE NICU

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOUR CHILD SEES THE ORTHODONTIST

McWane

ALABAMA CHILD PASSENGER SAFETY QUICK SAFETY TIPS

• RIGHT SEAT: Check the label on your car seat to make sure it’s appropriate for your child’s age, weight and height.

• RIGHT PLACE: Keep all children in the back seat until they are 13.

• RIGHT DIRECTION: Keep your child in a rear facing position for as long as possible! When he or she outgrows the seat, move your child to a forward-facing car seat.

• INCH TEST: Once your car seat is installed, use your non-dominate hand and shake the seat at the belt path. A properly installed seat will not move more than an inch.

• PINCH TEST: Make sure the harness is tightly buckled and coming from the correct slots. Now, with the chest clip placed at armpit level, pinch the strap at your child’s shoulder. If you are unable to pinch any excess webbing, you’re good to go!

DID YOU KNOW? • Motor vehicle injuries are a leading cause of death among children in the US.

ALABAMA CHILD RESTRAINTS LAW REQUIRES CHILDREN UNDER 6 TO BE PROPERLY BUCKLED IN AN APPROPRIATE CAR SEAT OR BOOSTER SEAT. CAR SEAT RECOMMENDATIONS: • Infant only seats and convertible seats used in the rear facing position for infants until at least 1 year of age or 20 pounds.

• Convertible seats in the forward position or forward-facing seats until the child is at least 5 years of age or 40 pounds.

• Booster seats until the child is 6 years of age.

• Seat belts until 15 years of age. *American Academy of Pediatrics recommends children remain in a rear-facing car safety seat as long as possible, until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by their seat.

FREE CAR SEAT CHECK Still have questions or concerns? For help (or to even double check your work), contact:

• Car seat use reduces the risk for injury in a crash by 71-82% for children, when compared with seat belt use alone.

Michelle Richardson (Perry, Walker, Lamar counties): (205) 554-4529

• An estimated 46% of car seats and booster seats are misused in a way that could reduce their effectiveness.

Anna Odom (Washington, Clarke, Baldwin counties): (251) 946-8012

Penny Roney (Madison, Marshall, Morgan counties): (256) 533-8712 Sharon Franklin (Macon, Elmore, Bullock counties): (334) 322-8431 Elizabeth Payne (St. Clair, Etowah, Calhoun counties): (256) 533-8712

birminghamparent.com | 3

ed note FALL IS DIFFERENT, BUT CAN STILL BE FUN! Soon it will be happy fall! But boy, does fall look different in 2020!

Our calendar of events is full of some good stuff, but much of it is virtual right now. We’ve lost a number of great events, either postponed or canceled due to Covid-19 this year. We still have a number of Pumpkin Patches that WILL open for business, so please be sure to check them out throughout the issue and on page 38. Be sure to check out the calendar and our list of attractions.

As always, be sure to check out any event venue ahead of time for cancellations, restrictions, etc., as well as all our friends with Pumpkin Patches. Fall can still be enjoyed – just with adjustments!

We hope you will enjoy this issue of Birmingham Parent, now making one year since we went bi-monthly! This month we have some great features for you, from fall, to special needs, to baby. Check out our directory that includes both special needs and baby resources, starting on page 16.

If you are considering braces for your child (October is National Orthodontic Health Month), we have a story about what to do in advance on page 12. Need a sitter for your new baby or even an older child?

We’ve got “9 Great Ways to Find an Awesome Sitter” on page 30.

There’s so much more in the issue, and don’t forget to read our articles online, as well, as www.birminghamparent.com. You’ll find informative pieces that you may have missed in print, and there’s a handy search engine, too!

Hope your family has a fun fall. Be safe out there!

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

editorial PUBLISHERS David & Carol Evans EDITOR Carol Muse Evans ASSOCIATE EDITOR Lori Chandler Pruitt CONTRIBUTORS Elena Epstein Christa Melnyk Hines Sarah Lyons Kerrie McLoughlin Rachel Ashcraft, OTR/L Pam Moore Dr. Mackenzie Rodgers Tanni Haas, Ph.D.

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

art & production Carol Muse Evans publisher/editor carol@birminghamparent.com

ART DIRECTOR Keith Dunn DISTRIBUTION T&P Deliveries LEGAL COUNSEL Balch & Bingham LLP

CORRECTION: In the July/August 2020 issue of Birmingham Parent, we said the “Favorite Place to Have a Baby” and “Favorite Women’s Health Care Facility” was Brookwood Baptist Health. It should have said Brookwood Baptist Medical Center for each. We are happy to correct this error. We should also have included this website instead: www.brookwoodwomens.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 Alabama Press Association and Southeastern Advertisers and Publishers Association (SAPA).

Lori Chandler Pruitt is associate editor of Birmingham Parent. 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 | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

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 © 2019 by Evans Publishing LLC. Family Connections Media ©2019/2020

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.

Help Them Learn and Grow

To: 227744444488

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A free service featuring activities, games, and resources for people who care for young children. tailored to your child’s age from pregnancy to 5 tips cover developmental milestones, brain development, social-emotional behavior, nutrition, and more messages from trusted sources like:

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PBS KIDS and the PBS KIDS Logo are registered trademarks of PBS. Used with permission. The contents of this ad were developed under a grant from the Department of Education. However, those contents do not necessarily represent the policy of the Department of Education, and you should not assume endorsement by the Federal Government. The project is funded by a Ready To Learn grant (PR/AWARD No. U295A150003, CFDA No. 84.295A) provided by the Department of Education to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.

TUTOR CTR

birminghamparent.com | 5

contents

28

Newborn Care 101: 10 Tips Transitioning to life with a newborn can be as gratifying as it is overwhelming. Read on for time-tested tricks and expert tips that will help your baby – and you! – thrive during the first few weeks postpartum.

our focus

our features

babybook 16

Birmingham Parent’s Fall Special Needs and Baby & Me Directory 2020........................16

our regulars EDITOR’S NOTE: Fall is Different, But Can Still Be Fun!................................4 PRODUCTS WE LOVE: From Books to Puzzles and More...................7

3 TIPS FOR A GREAT SENSORYSENSITIVE HALLOWEEN/FALL.....18

SHORT STUFF..........................................8

UNITED ABILITY ANNOUNCES THE DEATH OF DR. GARY EDWARDS...........................................20

BRACE YOURSELF: What You Need to Know Before Your Child Sees the Orthodontist............................................. 12

REENTERING SCHOOLS WITH TRAINED INTERVENTION DOGS ...............................................................24

CHATTING WITH CHILD’S PLAY: Children and Anxiety...............................22

NEWBORN CARE 101: 10 TIPS........28

ASK THE SPECIALIST: Bringing Your Premature Baby Home from the NICU NICU..........................................................32

9 SURPRISING WAYS TO FIND AN AWESOME SITTER.........................30

BIRMINGHAM TEEN: Teaching Your Teen Safe Driving .......................36

DO’S AND DON’TS OF PREPARING YOUR CHILD FOR A NEW SIBLING.....34

34

FAMILY TRAVEL: Memphis: Fun for the Whole Family....38

24

OUR GUIDE TO Area Pumpkin Patches & Fall Festivals..............................................40 SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER Calendar of Events and Attractions..................................................41

ON THE COVER: Britton, age 15 months, and her mom of Helena are celebrating fall at the playground.

Photo by Christy Pierce photography, 205-902-0385, https://www.christypiercephotographyllc.com.

6 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

PROD U CTS W E LOV E

FROM BOOKS TO PUZZLES AND MORE, HERE ARE SOME FUN NEW PRODUCTS TO TRY

By Elena Epstein, Director of the National Parenting Product Awards

A Smart Girl’s Guide: Making a Difference From protecting our planet to helping animals to saying hello to someone who seems lonely, this book offers young readers a lot of ideas – both big and small – on how to spark change. $12.99, ages 10+, americangirl.com

THE RANK GAME A super-fun game about you and your family and friends – your likes and dislikes. How well do you know each other? $29.99, ages 8+, storyastic.com

Baby Showering and Bathing Glove Featuring double-sided terry cotton, an adorable design and providing a secure grip for your slippery baby. $15.95, ages birth+, amazon.com

For more product reviews, please visit nappaawards.com

StickTogether Mosaic Puzzle A fun collaborative activity with a beautiful reward.

Like paint-by-numbers, but with stickers! Includes 3,996 colored 1/2" square stickers, 40" x 36" poster, color key instructions and tips. $36, ages 5+, letsticktogether.com

Disney Villainous: Perfectly Wretched Welcome Cruella de Vil, Mother Gothel, and Pete to the Disney Villainous family in this new expansion. You’ll race to complete your own devious objective, while dealing twists of fate to your opponents. $24.99, ages 10+, ravensburger.us birminghamparent.com | 7

S H O RT STU FF

UAB Callahan Eye Hospital & Clinics Certified Sensory Inclusive UAB Callahan Eye Hospital & Clinics has partnered with KultureCity to make its facility sensory inclusive. This new initiative will promote an accommodating and positive experience for all guests with a sensory issue that visit the clinics and hospital.

“Our organization is humbled to partner with a group that brings inclusivity to all,” says Rett Grover, CEO of UAB Callahan Eye Hospital & Clinics.

Hospital and clinic staff were trained by leading medical professionals on how to recognize guests with sensory needs and how to respond to a sensory overload situation. Sensory bags, equipped with noise canceling headphones, fidget tools, verbal cue cards and weighted lap pads will be available to guests who may feel overwhelmed by the environment. Patients also will have access to a dedicated sensory room.

Sensory sensitivities are often experienced by people with autism, dementia, PTSD and other similar conditions.

Prior to visiting, families can download the free KultureCity app where they can view which sensory features are available and where they can be accessed.

Registering for 2020-21 Classes ages 4-high school briarwood.org/ballet 205-776-5284

thefacepaintingfairy@yahoo.com facebook.com/Thefacepaintingfairy

205-527-2134

8 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

SH ORT ST U F F

Children's of Alabama Adoption Experts to Host Virtual Seminar Sept. 12 Adoptive parents, social workers, teachers, occupational therapists and other healthcare professionals are invited to participate in a virtual seminar on Saturday, Sept. 12, led by experts from The Adoption Clinic at Children’s of Alabama.

The live, interactive seminar will be held via Zoom from 8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. The cost is $200 per family, up to four adult attendees. Registration for healthcare professionals is priced differently.

For more information or to register, call 205-638-6964 or email adoption@peds.uab.edu.

This seminar is for anyone considering adoption, already in the adoption process or works with children who have been adopted. Attendees will receive a comprehensive prospective on the unique challenges and rewards of building a family through adoption. Specific topics include medical challenges, emotional and behavioral challenges, and development (ages and stages) of the adopted child.

“Certainly the effects of COVID and quarantines have been felt globally. Our adoptive families have been impacted on multiple levels. For those who are waiting to travel to other countries in order to meet their new additions, travel has been suspended until each country opens up again to receive international visitors. The waiting is a painful process for these expectant parents,” says Karen Belcher, clinical program coordinator and pediatric nurse clinician. “Fortunately, The Adoption Clinic has remained open and available to come along side of these families during this crisis and provide the services needed to help them.”

The Adoption Clinic at Children’s of Alabama has been helping adoptive families since 2002.

Staff have served the needs of children from more than 55 countries beyond the United States such as China, Kazakhstan, Russia, Ukraine, South Korea, Guatemala, Peru, Vietnam, India, Thailand, Ethiopia, Uganda and many more.

New App Makes Finding a Place to Park Easier It’s great to go places, but where do you park?

ParkMobile is an app that lets you reserve parking wherever you are going, such as a sporting event, concert or other venue. You also can use it for day-to-day needs, such as on-street parking, garage parking and more.

You can find lots with onsite security, covered parking, charging stations for an electric car, gated parking, valet parking, parking for disabled and oversized vehicles, and more.

The app even lets you know when you are getting close to getting a ticket because of an expired meter – ParkMobile sends alerts so you can easily extend the time straight from the app.

ParkMobile lets you pay for parking through several methods – credit card, Apple Pay or PayPal. You also can opt to add extra services to the app for a small monthly fee. The app is available through the Apple Store and Google Play.

For more information, go to www.parkmobile.io

birminghamparent.com | 9

10 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

A JOURNEY THROUGH TENNESSEE PIONEER LIFE

Take a road trip to Clarksville, Tennessee and wander through the mid-19th Century. A self-guided, open-air tour of Historic Collinsville’s 16 restored log structures and 40 sprawling acres means a safe and memorable experience for your family.

This Tennessee farm demonstrates life before and after the Civil War for an ultimate historic learning experience. Bring along a picnic or explore a walking trail for a full day of safe family fun.

HistoricCollinsville.com 20 MINUTES FROM DOWNTOWN CLARKSVILLE

Open Weekends Through October 4711 Weakley Road, Southside, TN 37171 | 931.245.4344 Please check www.HistoricCollinsville.com for up-to-date hours of operation.

For your safety and ours, masks are currently required at all public places in Tennessee.

October is National Orthodontic Health Month

BRACE YOURSELF: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU CHILD SEES THE ORTHODONTIST

By Kerrie McLoughlin

Just when you think you have everything down as a parent, you find out it’s time to take your child to his first orthodontist visit.

“It’s best to see children by age 7 to advise if orthodontic treatment is required and the best time for that patient to be treated,” says Dr. Jay Oltien. Basically, the earlier any orthodontic treatment is started, the easier it will be to correct problems in the long run, he adds.

There are many different reasons for kids to need orthodontic care, including overbite, underbite and crowded or overlapping teeth.

Some of these problems can be caused by things like thumb sucking, accidents or tooth decay and some can even be inherited. Benefits of having straight teeth include making maintenance easier, which can prevent cavities; preventing wear on the surfaces of teeth; reducing stress on supportive teeth bones and gum tissue; and alleviating jaw joint problems that can cause headaches.

Your child’s first trip to the orthodontist (who has two to three years more education than your family dentist) is nothing to be feared. A local orthodontist says, “At your

child’s first orthodontic visit (about 45 minutes in length), the pain-free examination will include digital photos, an X-ray and evaluation. Any questions you have will be explained thoroughly.” A mold of your child’s teeth may need to be taken. Your child may end up needing no orthodontic care for a few years, if at all.

FOODS TO AVOID WHEN YOU HAVE BRACES: ·Chewy foods like bagels, hard rolls, licorice ·Crunchy foods like popcorn, ice, chips ·Sticky foods like caramels and gum ·Hard foods like nuts and candy ·Foods you have to bite into like corn on the cob, apples, carrots These days there are many different options for orthodontic care. Eva Gavin, mom of four boys, says her 9-year-old son wears a

12 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

retainer that she can adjust at home myself weekly, which saves a lot of time going to the orthodontist. Her 7-year-old son wears a permanent spacer.

Braces are, of course, a possibility, and they have come a long way. Your child can get clear, gold or tooth-colored braces instead of just silver metal. Many local orthodontists allow you to choose the color of ties that hold the wire brackets. You could even decide to choose Invisalign, which is like a set of clear retainers (changed about every 2 weeks) that can be removed for eating, drinking, brushing and flossing.

If your child does need braces or some other dental device, he can still play sports and musical instruments. And while kids used to dread the prospect of braces, now many of them actually look forward to it. It’s completely worthwhile in the end when they see their beautiful new smiles.

Kerrie McLoughlin (TheKerrieShow.com) makes regular trips to the orthodontist with 3 of her 5 kids in braces.

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

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

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

Instagram @mopdsmiles

WE FILE ALL INSURANCE AS A COURTESY. WE ARE PROVIDERS FOR MOST INSURANCE COMPANIES.

Specializing in Pediatric & Adolescent Dentistry

Starting First Visits at age 1 Dental Insurance providers for: BCBS of AL, Southland, MetLife, Delta Dental, Guardian, and Cigna.

www.drrohner.com (205)870-0892

birminghamparent.com | 13

PT ORTHODONTICS

2020 2021

At PT Orthodontics we know that a smile can change a life! We have been providing affordable, state-of-the-art orthodontic care since 1990. We have eleven convenient locations in Hoover, Homewood/Mountain Brook, Cahaba Heights, Greystone, Leeds, Pell City, Oxford, Hueytown, Gardendale, Jasper and Tuscaloosa.

Because we want to make braces easy and affordable we offer: Free Initial Consultations, Choose Your Own Payment Plan, Same Day Braces, Before & After School Appointments, Friends Referral Program, Lifetime Smile Guarantee, Smile Savings Program, We File Your Insurance, No Hidden Fees – all records & first set of retainers are INCLUDED!, Free retainer check up appointments for one year. For more details check us out at PTortho.com or give us a call at 205.979.9480.

We offer a full range of braces to meet your individual needs and desires, including metal braces and clear ceramic braces.

We also offer Invisalign clear aligners and are an Invisalign Platinum Provider! We would love to help you achieve a beautiful PT Ortho Smile! Call us today at 205-979-9480 to schedule a free consultation or visit www.PTortho.com to learn more.

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

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14 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

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

DISCOVER

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

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

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

Our lessons can be tailored to your class.

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

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

birminghamparent.com | 15

Special Needs & Baby Directory From Babies to Special Needs, we’ve combined two of our best directories into one great one in our combined issue!

SPECIAL NEEDS Alabama Family Trust 2820 Columbiana Rd. Suite 103 Vestavia, AL 35216 205-313-3915 844-238-4630 www.alabamafamilytrust.com A nonprofit special needs trust that holds and administers money for the disabled so they are able to become eligible and maintain government benefits for which they would otherwise be financially ineligible.

Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind 205 South St. E. Talladega, AL 35160 256-761-3284, www.aidb.org AIDB is the world’s most comprehensive education, rehabilitation, and service program for individuals of all ages who are deaf, blind, deaf-blind and multi-disabled. Serving over 26,000 infants, toddlers, children, and adults in Alabama each year.

Autism Society of Alabama 4260 Cahaba Heights Court Suite 188 Birmingham, AL 35243 877-428-8476 or 205-951-1364 www.autism-alabama.org The Autism Society of Alabama is a nonprofit advocacy group with the mission of improving services for those on the Autism Spectrum.

Child’s Play Therapy Center Hoover: 205-978-9939 Chelsea: 205-618-8095 Huntsville: 256-837-2470 www.childsplaytherapy.com Occupational, physical, and speech therapy, along with a variety of special programs.

Two beautiful, fully equipped facilities. Our experienced, loving staff will exceed your expectations.

Giant Medical Bed Movement Alarm www.bedmovementalarm.com An advanced movement sensing alarm that alerts caregivers & family members to those who, during sleep, may experience irregular movements such as: muscle spasms, unusual twitching actions or prolonged shaking movements. On Sale NOW! The Learning Tree Inc. 334-533-3733 www.learning-tree.org The Learning Tree serves children with intellectual disabilities and autism throughout Alabama.

Early intervention, educational, residential, clinic-based behavioral analysis and consultation. Services are available in Birmingham, Anniston, Jacksonville, Auburn, Tallassee, Montgomery and Mobile.

Service Dogs Alabama 8365 Mobile Hwy. Hope Hull, AL 36043 334-676-3733

16 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

www.ServiceDogsAlabama.org Training highly skilled medical and psychiatric assistance Service Dogs for disabled children, adults, and Veterans. Public Access and task certified for Diabetic & Seizure Alert, Mobility/ Wheelchair Assistance, PTSD, and Autism.

HEALTHCARE Alabama Department of Public Health www.alabamapublichealth.gov The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) is the primary state health agency for the state of Alabama.

Brookwood Baptist Health Four locations in Central Alabama www.BrookwoodBaptistHealth.com

*Brookwood Baptist Medical Center, Birmingham, AL www.BrookwoodWomens.com *Princeton Baptist Medical Center, Birmingham, AL www.PrincetonBaptistMedicalCenter.com *Shelby Baptist Medical Center, Alabaster, AL www.ShelbyBaptistMedicalCenter. com

*Walker Baptist Medical Center, Jasper, AL www.WalkerBaptistMedicalCenter.com With four hospitals offering OBGYN services, 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.

Children’s of Alabama 1600 7th Ave. S. Birmingham, AL 35233 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.

Grandview Medical Group OB/GYN 3686 Grandview Pkwy.

Suite 320 Birmingham, AL 35243 205-971-5499 www.grandviewobgyn.com Our board certified OB/GYNs are passionate about helping women achieve their goals and offer care that is compassionate and personal.

Grandview Medical Center Women’s and Children’s Center 3690 Grandview Pkwy.

Birmingham, AL 35243 205-971-1000 www.grandviewhealth.com Whether becoming a new parent or adding to your family - our dedicated team at Grandview Medical Center will make your experience memorable.

Special Needs & Baby Directory Urgent Care for Children *Birmingham Locations Hwy 280, Vestavia Hills, Trussville 205-848-CARE (2273) *Madison, AL 256-724-3587 *Tuscaloosa, AL 205-614-5628 www.childrensurgent.com Urgent Care for Children is open 365 days a year, serving patients ages 0 to 21 after-hours and weekends. We take pride in offering quality care with less waiting in Central, North, and West Alabama.

Women’s Health Specialists of Birmingham 3686 Grandview Pkwy., Suite 300 Birmingham, AL 35243 205-536-7676 www.whsbham.com Our physicians have created an environment for women that is calm, respectful and supportive.

Visit whsbham.com for more information.

DENTISTS & ORTHODONTISTS Angelica Rohner Pediatric Dentistry 2045 Brookwood Medical Center Dr., Suite 21 Birmingham, AL 35209 205-870-0892 www.drrohner.com Dr. Rohner is a mother of four and has been a Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist for almost two decades. With a background in education, she understands that each child needs individualized care.

McCalla Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry 4814 Bell Hill Rd. Bessemer, AL 35022 205-477-8004 www.mccallasmiles.com Dentistry for children, adolescents and patients with disabilities. Orthodontics for children and adults. We offer traditional metal brackets as well as clear Invisalign option.

child achieve and maintain a beautiful, healthy smile! Providing dental care for children of all ages, including those with special needs. Now accepting new patients and most insurance accepted.

PT Orthodontics Locations in Hoover, Homewood/Mountain Brook, Cahaba Heights, Greystone, Leeds, Pell City, Oxford, Hueytown, Gardendale, Jasper & Tuscaloosa 205-979-9480 www.PTortho.com If you have always dreamed of a beautiful smile, PT Orthodontics has several affordable options to get you there. We offer metal and ceramic braces as well as Invisalign treatments. Free consultations!

Thomas Pediatric Dentistry 721 Montclair Rd. Birmingham, AL 35213 205-879-6150 www.thomaspediatricdentistry.com As one of Birmingham’s most trusted children’s dentists, Dr. Thomas offers a safe, nurturing environment in a state of the art oral health facility for infants, children, teenagers and those with special needs.

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

Odyssey Early Sch​ools *Inverness Campus 104 Heatherbrooke Park Dr. Birmingham, AL 35242 205-991-0039 *Trace Crossings Campus 401 Emery Dr. Hoover, AL 35244 Pediatric Smiles, LLC 205-988-8829 Dr. Tabitha Jarman Gatrey www.odysseyearlyschool.com 4823 Promenade Pkwy., Ste.101 Created by educators featuring ​ Bessemer, AL 35022 state-of-the-art facilities​, 205-230-9000 nurturing teachers ​with www.psmilesal.com Education degrees, and comOur top priority is helping your prehensive curriculum ​that

provides your child with age appropriate exploration into the world of learning. Voted Family Favorite Childcare/Preschool for 2020!

EDUCATIONAL SERVICES Alabama Public Television (APT) https://aptv.org/ Alabama Public Television is a state network of Public Broadcasting Service member television stations serving the U.S. state of Alabama.

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

The Tutoring Center 2804 John Hawkins Pkwy.

Suite 100 Hoover, AL 35244 (near Academy Sports) 205- 987-9577 www.hoover.tutorcenter.com One-to-one tutoring designed to help your child develop stronger academic skills, earn better grades, score higher on standardized tests, while gaining confidence, motivation, and focus.

DANCE, MUSIC AND PERFORMANCE ARTS Briarwood Ballet 2200 Briarwood Way Birmingham, AL 35243 205-776-5284 www.briarwoodballet.com Briarwood Ballet has been investing in lives for 40 years by offering quality instruction in classical ballet and dance education within a Christ-centered environment. We welcome students ages 3 - high school.

The Dance Foundation 715 27th Place S. Homewood, AL 35209 205-870-0073

www.thedancefoundation.org The Dance Foundation is a non-profit organization teaching dance to all, inspiring creativity and confidence. A place of discovery for ages one and up since 1975.

Head Over Heels Gymnastics 500 Caldwell Trace Birmingham, AL 35242 205-981-2720 www.headoverheelsgyms.com Helping children gain fitness, gymnastics skills, confidence and self-esteem for over 20 years! Offering gymnastics, tumbling, aerial silks & circus arts, trampoline, cheer, Ninja classes plus fantastic camps & birthday parties!

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

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

Visit Clarksville Tennessee www.VisitClarksvilleTN.com Discover more to see and do in Clarksville, Tennessee - a legendary place only 40 minutes from Nashville. Outdoor recreation, museums, family attractions and weekly concerts are waiting for you here. Plan your trip today!

• For a more complete list of Special Needs Services, visit https://birminghamparent.com/directory/special_needs_resources/. birminghamparent.com | 17

3Tips for a Great

Sensory-Sensitive Halloween/Fall

By Sarah Lyons

Costumes, Halloween parties with sugary treats, trick-or-treating and spooky decorations are fun and exciting for most kids, but for a child with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), Halloween celebrations can be very overwhelming.

A child with SPD has trouble processing input from any of the five senses in a normal way. For example, what is background music to others may be loud and distracting to a kid with SPD. Costumes may feel too itchy, makeup may feel sticky, and masks may have a strong scent or may be too restricting.

As a mom of a child with SPD, I have learned first-hand how challenging Halloween can be. My daughter struggles daily to find clothes that are comfortable and are not too distracting. Typically, if we find a pair of pants she likes, I buy as many pairs as we can find.

Loud noises or new situations can also be very stressful for her. She has the desire to be part of the fun on Halloween, but as the day approaches the pressure is too much, the costume is uncomfortable, and walking around in the dark knocking on strangers’ doors is scary. I end up frustrated and she ends up disappointed.

This year we are taking a different approach to the holiday, and I hope these tips help other families dealing with SPD enjoy Halloween and fall festivals too:

1

Prepare your child. Prior to Halloween, talk about how you will celebrate the day. Discuss what situations may be challenging and talk about what will help them feel more comfortable. If going door to door trick-or-treating is scary, do a practice run. Ask neighbors, friends, or family if your child can practice knocking on their door before the day of Halloween so they know what to expect. Try on the costume and make any adjustments needed so that they can feel as comfortable as possible.

2

Costumes. Costumes are usually a huge challenge for the child with SPD, but luckily there are a lot of options. My daughter prefers to wear her favorite clothes and paint her face. This is what makes her feel comfortable. Other kids may like wearing their favorite pajamas or other soft clothing under a costume so they cannot feel the itchy fabric on their skin. If your child does not want to dress up at all, try letting them ride in a wagon and decorating 18 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

the wagon like a car so that they can be part of the fun without having to actually dress up. Other simple ideas may be using a prop, wearing a silly T-shirt, or incorporating tools, such as noise cancelling headphones, into your child’s costume. Never make your child feel that they are odd because they don’t like to dress up or go trick-or-treating.

3

Plan for the unexpected. Try to be flexible and prepare a backup plan just in case things do not go as planned. My daughter was very excited about Halloween and even wore her costume to school, but when the time came to go trick-or-treating with her siblings, she was overwhelmed. It is okay if your child decides to stay home and hand out candy, needs to take a break during trickor-treating, or wants to head home early. Parents may also look for alternative activities that are just as fun. Many communities or churches offer fall parties that are not scary, are offered during the day, and where costumes are optional.

Halloween can be fun for everyone if families work together to find a way to celebrate that works for all of them. It is understandable that these traditions do not always sound appealing or make sense to kids that have SPD. Consider coming up with your own Halloween traditions such as painting pumpkins, baking treats, or going to dinner or a movie. With a little extra effort, planning, practice and flexibility, Halloween can be something your whole family enjoys.

Sarah Lyons is a freelance writer whose work has been published in more than 130 parenting publications.

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UNITED ABILITY ANNOUNCES THE DEATH OF DR. GARY EDWARDS

Beloved “Dr. E” Led the Organization for 38 Years

By Carol Muse Evans

Dr. Gary Edwards served United Ability, formerly United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Birmingham, for 38 years. He recently passed away at 72 after an extended illness.

The entire United Ability family and all who had been touched by Dr. Edwards mourns his passing. “Dr. E” was the voice of “possibilities,” and he was considered a “larger-than-life” presence at United Ability over the years.

Alison Berman, United Ability chief development officer, says Dr. Edwards “built this,” referring to United Ability. “He was a visionary who has touched the lives of more than 4,000 people each year at United Ability, from birth to adult, and he knew them all by name.

“He had the innate ability to envision what could be, and he never stopped,” Berman says.

Tina E. Shaddix, United Ability chief operating officer, adds, “The passing of Dr. Edwards is an indescribable loss for United Ability and people everywhere living with disabilities. His reach was far and wide.

Our executive team and board of directors will follow the example set

by Dr. E and carry on his passion for creating a world where disability is neither defining or limiting. His vision of empowering people to dream new dreams will forever live in our hearts and guide us as we move forward.”

Dr. Edwards was well-known, respected and loved throughout the special needs community. Dr. John Mascia, president of the Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind, says he has many wonderful memories of him. “Walking with him at United Ability on any given day meant we would stop and speak with so many of the participants he felt so blessed to know. He knew each person by name, and his smile and warm embraces made him a ‘rock star’ in the eyes of his people,” Mascia says. “I wake up every day and try to be a leader that Dr. Gary Edwards would be proud of,” Mascia adds. “I try to lead by his example. I miss my friend.”

Doug Marshall, former CFO for Untied Ability and CEO of the Presbyterian Home for Children, says, “Dr. Edwards believed that every child and adult with a disability had immeasurable value and great purpose, and he walked out fully his calling on this earth to help provide hope and ability for these individuals along with their caregivers. Dr. E was a servant leader with solid integrity and the biggest heart ever!”

United Ability provides early intervention and early learning programs that build the right foundation for lifelong, family-focused medical care and therapy that contribute to great independence, improved mobility and enhanced quality of life, to adult programs and employment services that lead to successful employees. A lifelong advocate for people living with disabilities, Dr. Edwards served on multiple local, state and national boards.

Dr. Edwards’ funeral was held June 9. The family requests donations be made to United Ability in his memory at www.unitedablity.org/give.

Carol Muse Evans is editor/publisher of Birmingham Parent.

20 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

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CHAT T ING WIT H CHILD' SPLAY

Comprehensive Pediatric Therapy Services

…we’re just for kids!

Children and Anxiety

By Rachel Ashcraft, OTR/L Children feel stress and anxiety just like adults! They just express it in different ways.

When children express anxiety or fears about the pandemic, there are some things parents can do to help.

• Model a positive outlook and be aware of what you discuss in front of your children. Children will take their cues from you.

• Model positive talk about other families and people who make different choices. Make statements like “everyone is doing the best they can right now, and what is best for our family isn’t what is best for everyone.” Don’t model divisive statements.

• Stick to a predictable routine and create a calendar or visual where kids can see what the plan for the day is. Create “sameness” in a time of community chaos.

• Build in things to look forward to. These don’t have to be expensive, but just a special time that children can see on their calendars. This could be as simple as Friday movie nights, Taco Tuesdays, or a family scavenger hunt. We all need some tangible hope and joy that we see in the future.

• Have a plan for some “stress relieving” activities when needed. These could include Play-Doh, unstructured play outside, free style art, or something repetitive like making a bracelet out of beads. For older kids/teens it could be taking a walk/jog, playing an instrument, working jigsaw puzzles, or painting.

• Show lots of grace! Your child is not regressing if they have big feelings right now. You might see an increase in temper tantrums or even behavior issues with teens. Children don’t always know how to appropriately channel their fears and disappointments. Show an extra portion of patience and understanding as we all work through this together!

Child’sPlay Therapy Center in Hoover, Chelsea, and Huntsville AL provides speech, occupational, and physical therapy, along with counseling services, to children of all ages, in a kid-friendly, non-clinical environment. Call us today for a free phone consultation.

22 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

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At Children’s, we’re safely serving children — providing essential care just as we have since 1911.

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REENTERING SCHOOLS WITH TRAINED INTERVENTION DOGS

By Service Dogs Alabama

Photos courtesy of Service Dogs Alabama

Photos courtesy of Service Dogs Alabama

“I do not know of any cases of Covid in dogs reported in Alabama, nor have I seen any evidence that Covid can be transmitted to a human through contact with a dog. Given today’s research, it is my opinion that it would be safe to take Facility Dogs back into schools to work.”

-Cade Armstrong DVM, Official Veterinarian for Service Dogs Alabama Service Dogs Alabama has a contract with the Alabama State Board of Education to supply fully-trained Facility Intervention Dogs to Alabama public schools.

These “school dogs” are trained to recognize a vulnerable student and intervene with non-disruptive behaviors which include nudging, head snuggle in the lap, or compression to the student’s feet or legs.

These specialized dogs are trained to work off-leash on their own as well as to take direction from the teacher to comfort a student or prevent a meltdown. They are utilized to disrupt behaviors before they can escalate, maintain order in the classroom, and promote inclusion and participation.

Re-entering the schools this year will be a challenge to all, however, this challenge will be much less stressful with the assistance of a trained intervention dog because the dog will be allowed to have personal and intimate contact with the students and faculty in the schools. The dog eases the trauma of isolation and the perception of exclusion (by distancing) for students who are already struggling with

the need for peer and adult acceptance and inclusion.

According to child psychologists, children are especially vulnerable to abuse during the pandemic due to increased stress levels among parents and operational changes that have led to many child abuse and neglect reporting inaccuracies. To add to the tension, children are also experiencing their own stress and uncertainty about the pandemic. There have been concerns that incidents of stigmatization and bullying may increase when children return to school, due to some of the misinformation around COVID-19.

Research has already indicated that dogs can impact school performance by reducing stress and increasing motivation, focus, and task persistence. In addition to academic performance, emotional and behavioral impacts are achieved. Studies show that professionally trained dogs in a classroom can decrease anxiety and depression, while increasing self-esteem, expression of feelings, and ability to trust. A 2013 study determined that students exhibited fewer problem

24 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

behaviors such as aggression and hyperactivity when a dog was placed in the classroom.

Service Dogs Alabama understands that Facility Intervention Dogs will be needed this year more than ever. However, as schools reopen, there are guidelines that should be followed to keep everyone safe.

SDA RECOMMENDATIONS:

1. Follow all guidelines provided by your state and your school.

2. Sanitize your hands and your student’s hands frequently when interacting with the dog.

3. The top of the dog’s coat will be cleaned with a Baby Wipe throughout each day (it will not kill Covid but will keep the dog clean). No chemicals, alcohol, or disinfectant will be used on the dog.

4. Dogs should wear collars and leashes that can be disinfected.

5. Dog will be allowed to “visit” and be petted when everyone is seated.

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babybook

Newborn Care 101: 10 Tips

By Christa Melnyk Hines

Transitioning to life with a newborn can be as gratifying as it is overwhelming. Read on for time-tested tricks and expert tips that will help your baby – and you! – thrive during the first few weeks postpartum.

• Expect a learning curve. No, it’s not just you. New parenthood is rife with uncertainty. “As the mother of a newborn, I know from recent experience that every little thing can be challenging – from burping to changing diapers to breastfeeding and even trimming tiny nails, no matter if it’s your first or third child,” says family medicine physician Jenna Eschol, MD. • Gather information wisely. In the midst of a perplexing dilemma, what parent hasn’t turned to Google or an online parent support group for quick answers?

But, proceed with caution. “If it doesn’t seem like that online advice really fits your baby, maybe it really doesn’t. Talk to your pediatrician or at least a trusted relative who has seen the baby and knows the situation a little better than generic online advice,” says pediatrician Dr. Elizabeth Simpson.

• Make it a date. Don’t skip your newborn’s well-baby checkups. Your baby’s physician will assess their overall health and ensure they are gaining weight. A newborn should have regained their birth weight by around 10 to 14 days of age.

Your baby’s appointment is also a good time for you to ask questions and raise any concerns.

• Tiny renegades. Newborns don’t understand schedules. Plan to sleep when your baby sleeps. “Babies are little rebels.

They don’t follow rules,” Simpson says.

“Babies are the schedulers and the parents are the people that get scheduled.”

• Hungry? Just as babies don’t care about clocks when it comes to sleep, they also eat on demand, anywhere between eight and 12 times in a 24-hour period.

“Babies eat a lot during their first weeks, thanks in part to their tiny tummy size, and the rapid physical and mental growth

28 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

they experience in the first couple months of life,” Eschol says. If you are breastfeeding, how do you know if your baby is eating enough? “If your baby seems happy and your doctor has assured you that weight gain is commensurate with age, and enough dirty diapers are being produced (eight to 12 a day), then your baby is probably getting plenty to eat,” she adds. If you participate in a breastfeeding support group at an area hospital, lactation consultants usually conduct weigh-ins too.

• Dry skin. Because a baby’s skin is sensitive and thin, they are more susceptible to dry, chapped skin. Avoid long baths. Bathe your infant in lukewarm water only two or three times a week using fragrance-free hypoallergenic soaps.

“And no bubble baths!” Eschol says.

• Power bonding. For a newborn, nothing is as comforting as mom or dad’s arms.

“Babies have been held for the last nine months, so they don’t understand having to be in their own crib. They like to be held whenever they are awake,” Simpson says.

In addition to skin-to-skin contact, talk and sing to your baby, and show her storybooks with high contrast colors like red, black and white.

• Sleep safe. While you should cradle your baby as much as possible, don’t fall asleep while holding him. “The number one thing that causes sudden infant death (SIDS) is unsafe sleep practices,” Simpson warns. Place your infant on his back in his bassinet near your bed at night. Do not use fluffy blankets, pillows, stuffed animals or crib bumpers.

• Baby tears. Babies often cry when they’re hungry, tired or if they have a dirty diaper. Other times they seem to cry for no apparent reason. “Colic isn’t caused by

pain,” Eschol says. She suggests these tips for a colicky baby: • Try a pacifier • Hold your baby while rocking in

a rocking chair or glider • Place your baby in a mechanical swing • Softly talk or sing or play soothing

lullabies at a low volume • Cuddle your baby or try carrying

them in a sling or baby carrier • Take them for a stroller or car ride • Give your baby a warm bath Sometimes tears can signal a health issue. Call your doctor if your baby seems sick, has difficulty breathing or isn’t feeding. And if you find yourself becoming increasingly frustrated with your crying baby and no one is around to help, take a time out.

“Lay the baby safely on their back in their crib and hop in the shower for a sec to get out of earshot or use headphones to get out of earshot for a short period of time and give yourself a little break,” Simpson says.

• Find support. Without taking time for self-care, attending to your baby’s needs

can become exceptionally challenging and overwhelming. “A good support system is essential for all moms and can include friends, families, counselors or support groups,” says Kelli Knapp, a board-certified women’s health nurse practitioner.

Sleep deprivation can exacerbate depression and anxiety. Sleep while your partner, a relative or a friend watches the baby. Or hire a nanny, baby nurse or postpartum doula. Taking breaks away from your baby, like a shower or a walk outside are also beneficial. “Even finding 10 to 15 minutes for yourself each day can improve your outlook,” Knapp says.

Know that postpartum mood disorders are common and curable. Contact your healthcare provider if you are struggling.

“A mom who admits she needs help is an amazingly strong woman and mom,” Knapp says. “Women who experience disorders during pregnancy or after a baby often feel like they are failing as a mom.

A mom who reaches out for help is giving her child a huge gift, and they are already making a big step to the road to recovery.”

Christa Melnyk Hines is an internationally published freelance journalist who frequently covers pregnancy and postpartum issues.

She is the author of Confidently Connected: A Mom’s Guide to a Satisfying Social Life.

birminghamparent.com | 29 birminghamparent.com | 29

babybook

9 Surprising Ways to Find an Awesome Sitter

By Pam Moore

I have 20 sitters listed in my phone. My friends sometimes wonder how I've acquired so many. I sometimes wonder why my friends don’t have more. Babysitters are everywhere, if you keep your eyes open!

Here are nine places to find great sitters: 1 | The Internet. If you live in a college town, online university

job boards may be free and available to the public. Other free ways to find childcare online include your local moms’ Facebook group or other social media group.

Many apps offer help. Wyndy, an app developed by a Birmingham couple, enables parents to quickly and easily connect with background-checked, full-time college student sitters. Other apps include Care.com and SitterCity. Some charge a monthly fee for access to sitters, and others are free to download and the app charges a percentage of your payment to the sitter.

2 | On-Site Services. Sometimes it’s easier to bring the kids to the childcare, rather than bringing the childcare to the kids. Ask your friends and search to see if any centers or churches offer on-site sitting.

3 | Through Friends. While many search online, some prefer their

potential sitter to be vetted by a friend. One of my best sitters was a friend of a friend. Though she had zero childcare experience, she had a fantastic character reference. I didn’t need a baby whisperer.

I needed someone I could trust to follow instructions, and to be punctual and kind. Because of her relationship with my friend, I was (relatively) relaxed about returning to work after my maternity leave.

4 | In Your Neighborhood. Post a message in your neighborhood

email list, Facebook group, or Nextdoor, or tack a “help wanted” note to a physical bulletin board, if you have one. If those fail, take a walk in your neighborhood with your kiddo(s). If anyone so much as smiles in your direction, introduce yourself and ask if they or anyone they know would be interested in watching your little angels.

5 | Restaurants. While you may have the Happy Hour menu at the

forefront of your mind, the quest for potential sitters should always be in the back of it. Barring a creepy vibe, be ready to strike up a conversation with anyone who throws a peek-a-boo, a silly face, or a wink in your kids’ direction. Be open to anyone who offers a sympathetic smile when your kid throws food or a tantrum.

6 | The Park. Be on the lookout for anyone with kids who appears

well rested and patient; this should limit your chance of mistakenly targeting another parent instead of a sitter or nanny. While the person in question may already be employed as a nanny, you never know what her situation is. Perhaps her employer is about to relocate, or she needs a few extra hours. Wear dark sunglasses if you feel more comfortable eavesdropping behind them. If the nanny seems responsible, kind, and more interested in the little ones in her charge than her phone, just ask. Worst case, she turns you down.

7 | Traveling? Ask the Hotel. Maybe you’re traveling with your kids

for an adult-only wedding, or you want to enjoy dinner at a place with tablecloths on your vacation. Many resorts have a list of names to share with their guests. When our eldest was eight months old, we traveled to Aspen for our friends’ wedding, where we rented a VRBO. One quick phone call to the wedding venue (a hotel), yielded multiple phone numbers of local preschool teachers. The first one we called was available, and she turned out to be awesome.

8 | Your Kid’s Preschool or Your Gym’s Childcare. The care-

givers at the gym childcare or your child’s preschool may be looking for extra hours. A major plus is that you and your kid already know and them. If you go this route, you save yourself the initial interview, in which you determine that the caregiver is neither sketchy nor flaky. As a bonus, the gym or childcare facility has probably already completed a background check.

30 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019

Grandview Medical Center

9 | Your Kid’s Classes. Music, dance, art, swimming lessons,

Whether you are about to be a new parent or adding

and karate are also options. If your child is enrolled in an activity, consider asking the instructor if he or she is available for babysitting. Such instructors tend to be great with kids, and many are students who would love to earn extra income through babysitting.

And if it doesn’t work out, keep an open mind. My daughter’s gymnastics instructor was happy to watch our kids, but she wasn’t available on the date I needed. She introduced me to her roommate, who ended up being a great fit for our family.

to your family, you have much to look forward to with

The world is full of babysitters. Your next sitter could be the hostess who chats up your preschooler as she sets the crayons and the kids’ menu down, or the friendly lady working the front desk of your gym. (I have found sitters in both of these situations). They say when the student is ready the master will appear. I say, when the parents need a few hours to themselves and start thinking outside the box, the sitters will appear.

variety of prenatal classes including Comfort Measures

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

the birth of your child. At Grandview Medical Center, we want your experience to be memorable. From helping you find an OB/GYN to the day you meet your new bundle of joy, we’re with you each and every step of the way. To prepare for the arrival, we also offer a in Childbirth, The Gift of Motherhood, Infant CPR, Breastfeeding, and Daddy Boot Camp.

Inside our beautiful women’s center you will find the staff focused on mother/family bonding with the baby.

Every effort is made to keep the baby and mom together and our open visiting hours allow siblings and other family members to be part of the experience. And should the need arise, our private NICU suites are designed for parents to stay right in the room with their little one.

Your well-being, and your newborn’s, is our top priority.

And you can be confident that at Grandview Medical Center, we are dedicated to giving your baby a wonderful welcome to the world.

For more information, visit www.grandviewhealth.com.

birminghamparent.com | 31

ASK TH E S P E C I AL I ST

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Bringing Your Premature Baby Home from the NICU

By Dr. Mackenzie Rodgers

A new baby requires significant time caring for their needs, but it is also important for parents to care for themselves. While in the NICU and at home, new parents should ask for help from close friends and family.

A premature baby is one who is born early, before 37 weeks of pregnancy. In the US, each year about 1 in 10 babies are born prematurely.

The earlier infants are born, the more likely they are to have health problems and require NICU care.

Babies born very prematurely require weeks to months of care and may need to stay in the NICU until their due date or beyond.

Slightly premature babies, sometimes called late pre-term, may require only days of NICU care and may be ready for discharge several weeks prior to their due date.

All NICU parents want to know when their baby will come home from the hospital. While the exact timing will be different for every baby, they must all meet some basic criteria.

To be discharged home from the NICU, each baby must be able to maintain their temperature, take all their food by mouth, no longer require respiratory support, and be growing.

Premature babies typically require heat from a warmer or incubator during their NICU course. For discharge, they must be able to maintain their body temperature in a crib for at least 24-48 hours.

Feeds may be given with a nasogastric or orogastric tube (a tube that passes through the nose or mouth to the stomach) while they are

learning to coordinate sucking, swallowing and breathing while feeding. Babies must be taking all of their milk by breast or bottle without supplemental tube feeds in order to go home. Not all NICUs have a weight minimum for discharge but many require infants to weigh at least 4 pounds with good weight gain.

Some premature babies have breathing problems and may require oxygen or a ventilator to assist with their breathing. Premature infants need to be breathing on their own without oxygen or prolonged pauses in their breathing, called apnea, for discharge.

In addition to discharge criteria, babies undergo screening exams, including a state newborn screen, a hearing screen, and an eye exam (if indicated). Most NICUs require a car seat test. During this test, the infant’s oxygen levels are monitored with them secured in their car seat. Immunizations according to age should be given as well as the RSV prophylaxis, if baby meets specific criteria.

As the premature infant is nearing discharge, parents should participate in caring for them with the NICU nurses as often as possible to assure they are comfortable providing care.

Parents should call their health insurance company and have the baby added to their policy. Parents should also consider enrolling

32 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

in a CPR course if it is not provided by their NICU. It is important to pick out a pediatrician to care for your preemie after discharge and call them to assure they are accepting new patients. Most premature infants need to be seen by their pediatrician within two to four days after discharge.

Once home, parents should plan to limit visitors and avoid public places until their preemies immune system is stronger, and discuss specific recommendations with their baby’s doctor at discharge.

A new baby requires significant time caring for their needs, but it is also important for parents to care for themselves. While in the NICU and at home, new parents should ask for help from close friends and family. A NICU stay can be an emotional and stressful time, and some women experience baby blues or more serious postpartum depression.

It important for new moms to contact their obstetrician if they have any concerns or need additional support.

Dr. Mackenzie Rodgers is a neonatologist affiliated with Brookwood Baptist Medical Center.

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babybook

The Do’s and Don’ts of Preparing Your Child for

By Sarah Lyons

A New Sibling

Transitioning your child to becoming an older sibling is both exciting and challenging. While adding another child to the family provides your older child with a lifelong friend and playmate, the soon-to-be big sibling may feel reluctant to share their turf. Many parents worry about how their child will react to a new baby in the house and do their best to reassure their big kid that they are still very much loved and an important part of the family. There are some things you can do to make the transition easier for everyone. Here’s some simple do’s and don’ts for each stage of the process of adjusting to a newborn in the home.

DURING PREGNANCY What to expect: Your child may anticipate that a change is coming as they watch you prepare the nursery and get things in order.

They may start to act up because they don’t fully understand what is going on and the idea of a new baby seems abstract.

• Do put off big changes like potty training or transitioning to a big kid bed.

• Do get a baby doll for big brother or sister to practice baby care.

• Do read books about families who add a new baby to the house.

• Do take the siblings class at the hospital, if offered and age appropriate.

• Do spend extra time with your child and reassure them that you love them.

• Don’t blame your limitations on the baby or the pregnancy which can create negativity associated with the baby.

• Don’t promise an instant playmate.

AT THE HOSPITAL What to expect: When your child visits you at the hospital, expect him to be off their routine and possibly out of sorts. Your child may feel scared because she sees mom in bed and may worry you are sick. Some kids will seem aloof, worried, or act up because they are unsure of their surroundings. They may also feel nervous about meeting the baby everyone is excited about.

• Do greet them excitedly.

• Do make a big deal about the baby and the new big sibling.

• Do give them some undivided attention.

• Do take lots of photos of the big sibling moments.

• Do have some items to play with during the visit.

• Don’t frighten them when it comes to holding the baby.

• Don’t stay too long, know your child’s time limitations.

AT HOME What to expect: It is normal for your child to feel left out and jealous. Your child may go out of their way to get extra attention in both a positive and negative way. It’s normal for your child to have a variety of emotions – excitement, joy and pride, but also sadness, frustration and jealousy. It takes time to adjust to a new family member.

• Do set up for distractions – have some books available to read while you are nursing or busy with baby care.

• Do make baby wait while you help your big kid.

• Do show them the benefits of being a big kid – big kids eat ice cream, play at the park, watch movies, and stay up later.

• Do reassure them you love them.

• Don’t place expectations that are too high.

• Don’t expect things to be exactly the same as before. Whenever you add another person to the family, it is a big transition. Things will be different.

• Don’t be surprised if your child has some behavior issues; try to be patient.

Adding another child to the family is a huge transition for any family. In time, things do fall into a routine and you will not remember when your newborn wasn’t part of the family.

Sarah Lyons is a freelance writer who has been published in more than 150 parenting publications.

• Do let them help with baby care (bring a diaper to mom, go get a clean blanket, sing a song to baby).

• Do set aside time to spend time alone with your big kid.

• Do let them know baby loves them and looks up to them.

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BIRMINGHAM TEEN

Teaching Your Teen Safe Driving:

TIPS FOR PARENTS

By Tanni Haas, Ph.D

Parents often like to supplement their teen’s official driving lessons with their own lessons behind the wheel, and that’s a great idea.

Studies show that teens who receive additional driving instruction from their parents have fewer accidents than teens who don’t get any extra help.

What can parents do to ensure that their teens get the most out of their time together in the car? Here’s what the experts say: Let them take the lead. Once you’ve told your teens that you’re willing to give them driving lessons, back off a bit and don’t push the issue. “If your teen isn’t driving you crazy about teaching her to drive,” says Carleton Kendrick, a family therapist who works with teens, “she’s probably too nervous to begin the process.” Wait patiently until they’re ready for your help. As Wayne Parker, a certified life coach and author of Power Dads, puts it, “an overly anxious teen driver can be a dangerous thing.”

Give them advance warning. Talk with them about the first lesson – where you’re going and what you’re going to do. Teens don’t like surprises, especially from their parents.

Plan the route and the skills you’ll be working.

It’ll put you on a more equal footing.

Put yourself in their shoes. Studies also show that many parents focus their instruction more on skills that they had difficulty mastering when they themselves learned how to drive than on the skills that best prevent teen accidents. Instead of spending much of your time teaching your teens how to parallel park (a maneuver that can make many parents break into a sweat), focus on skills like how to safely merge on and off highways, which is in fact a major source of teen accidents.

Treat them like adults. That includes when they’re learning how to drive. Kendrick says that parents should avoid talking down to their teens, making any negative comments, or treating them like little children. She suggests that parents “praise specific progress and improvement, while offering non-judgmental, optimistic, and encouraging words.” The goal is to make your teens more aware drivers, not to make them feel shamed or judged.

Another way to guide your teens is to ask them questions instead of giving commands. Instead of saying slow down or “you’re going to get a speeding ticket,” Parker suggests asking “what’s the speed limit here?” Studies show that teens whose parents ask questions rather than make critical statements get into fewer accidents.

36 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

Be a good role model. All kids, including teens, learn more from what they watch their parents do than from anything parents tell them. Be a good role model and drive safely when you’re in the driver’s seat and your teens are the passengers. Jen Stockburger, director of operations at Consumer Reports’ Auto Test Center, puts it well: “The example you set for them behind the wheel may be the most important in terms of actually keeping them safe, more so than any other safety message you’ve given them in their entire life.”

Tanni Haas, Ph.D. is a professor in the Department of Communication Arts, Sciences & Disorders at the City University of New York – Brooklyn College.

FAMILY TRAVEL

Take a Weekend in Memphis – Fun for the Whole Family

By Carol Muse Evans

Looking for a family destination a little different? Try Memphis, Tennessee, Home of the Blues and the Birthplace of Rock and Roll, and just a 3½-hour drive on Interstate 22 from Birmingham. There’s plenty to see and do here for families and folks of all ages to enjoy.

A great place to stay – and visit – is the Big Cypress Lodge and Bass Pro Shop that now lives in the famous “pyramid” at the edge of the Mississippi River in downtown Memphis. It first opened as a sports arena in 1991. It didn’t last too long as a sports arena and was shuttered about 2004. (For a fascinating look at its history, visit www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-01-29/ how-memphis-made-a-kind-of-great-american-pyramid.)

In 2005, Johnny Morris, founder of Bass Pro Shops and Big Cypress Lodge, was fishing on the Mississippi with a friend and made a bet about catching a 30-pound catfish. If they caught one, Morris said he’d build a Bass Pro Shop in the pyramid. His buddy Jack caught a 30-pounder near the end of the fishing trip.

Carol Muse Evans is publisher and editor of Birmingham Parent.

Photo courtesy of Big Cypress Lodge.

38 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

The pyramid is home to much more than a Bass Pro Shop, although it’s a fun place to visit on its own. There are numerous restaurants, a 600,000-gallon Cypress Swamp, an alligator habitat, shooting gallery, Ducks Unlimited Waterfowling Heritage Center, an ocean-themed bowling alley and aquarium and fish feeding. The pyramid also boasts the nation’s tallest 28-story freestanding glass elevator, where you can take a ride – for a fee – to the top of the pyramid and see an amazing view of Memphis and the Mississippi River, as well as eat at the Lookout restaurant there.

The Cypress Lodge, which lives above the store, is an amazing homage to the outdoors and the beautifully put together rooms feel like a mountain lodge, a little piece of the outdoors inside.

For more general information about all Memphis has to offer, visit https://www.memphistravel.com/.

Courtesy of Memphis Travel

WHERE TO STAY:

Big Cypress Lodge, www.big-cypress.com, 901-620-4600 Packages: https://big-cypress.com/packages-offers/ (some attractions limited due to Covid-19).

By Carol Muse Evans

PLACES TO VISIT:

There are SO MANY places to visit in Memphis, we cannot list them all. Here are some of our favorites. Be sure to check out https://www.memphistravel.com/tourist-attractions for many more great museums and other attractions to suit you.

Big River Crossing, www.bigrivercrossing.com/ Enjoy an evening walk across the largest pedestrian bridge to cross the Mississippi River. FREE. Open 7 a.m.-10 p.m.

Shelby Farms Park, www.shelbyfarmspark.org/, Located in the heart of Memphis, this outdoor park has so much to offer. Paddle boat, kayak, canoe and more on the lake. Take a horseback riding tour or walk some of the great trails. Sit on the porch of the visitors’ center and just enjoy the beautiful views. A great place to ride bikes. Check the website for hours when you visit, as they vary.

Courtesy of Memphis Travel

Backbeat Ghost Walking Tour, www.backbeattours.com/ tours/ghost.cfm, Older teens and adults may enjoy hearing the history and ghost stories of Memphis long ago in this walking tour. It lasts a few hours and there is lots of walking, so be wary with younger children.

Elvis Presley’s Graceland, www.graceland.com/, If you’ve never been, no trip to Memphis is complete without a visit here! Experience all things Elvis!

National Civil Rights Museum https://www.memphistravel.com/national-civil-rights-museum This museum is housed at the historic Lorraine Motel where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated. It gives a comprehensive overview of the Civil Rights movement, from slavery to the present. It is temporarily closed due to Covid-19; check before visiting.

WHERE TO EAT:

Westy’s, www.westysmemphis.com, 902-543-8646 Westy’s might be what you would affectionately call a “hole in the wall,” but their food and service is amazing! It's a brief walk from the pyramid, and they also deliver there.

By Carol Muse Evans

Sunrise Memphis, https://sunrise901.com/ Also a brief walk from the pyramid, Sunrise has delicious made-to-order breakfast and brunch specials you can take out or eat in the colorful café. From their “biscuit sammies” to plates, bowls and the kitchen sink, it won’t be hard to find something here to please everyone in your group!

Coastal Fish Company, www.coastalfishcompany.com/, 901-266-9000, If you make it to Shelby Farms Park, Coastal Fish Company is right there on the lake, and this “white tablecloth” restaurant doesn’t disappoint with great seafood and more, and a lobster bisque not to be missed.

Central BBQ, https://eatcbq.com/, 901-672-7760

No trip to Memphis is complete without eating barbecue.

Central has everything you want – fast service, casual dining and delicious, award-winning barbecue. Be sure to get their banana pudding! birminghamparent.com birminghamparent.com | | 39 39

Hartselle

BACK TO SCHO O L

3

BIRMINGHAM PARENT’S 2018

happyhealthykidsfair 2 5 Hayden

Heflin 1

Grandview

PUMPKIN PATCHES & FALL EVENTS GUIDE 1 BENNETT FARMS

Open the month of Oct. *Check FB for additional weekday hours Fri: 2 - 5, Sat: 9 – 5, Sun: 1 - 5 1073 County Rd. 13 Heflin, AL 36264 256-302-1896 (cell) Blaker

By Kimberly 256-463-3344 (farm) lexi@bennettfarms.com www.bennettfarms.com The greatest rewards are the smiling faces and the sound of laughter as new and old friends visit the pumpkin patch. Enjoy Hayrides, Farm animals, Pipe Slide, Country Cooking, Live Entertainment and more! You can buy a pumpkin anywhere and we realize that, but it is about the family experience and memories that are made at Bennett Farms!

2 4D FARM

Open Sept. 26 – Nov. 7 Check our website for hours!

7066 County Rd. 703 Cullman, AL 35055 256-775-2924 www.4dfamilyfarm.com The only pumpkin patch around with a barnyard roller coaster! Enjoy our western town obstacle course, mechanical bull, cow train, 80 ft. slides, and the 200 ft. zipline!

Pick a pumpkin, get lost in our corn maze, squeal at the pig races, jump on Johnny

Verbena 4

Jumper, and see the Goats on the barn!

Do a little snow tubing southern style on our Barnstormer tubing slide! Admission $14.95 + tax, includes most activities.

Seniors 65+ are $10.95 + tax. Under 2 free. Season Pass: $24.95+tax.

3 HIDDEN RIVERS FARM

Open Sept. 18 - Nov. 1 Fri: 3 – 7, Sat: 10 – 7, Sun: 10 - 7 298 Goose Pond Rd. Hartselle, AL 35640 hiddenriversfarm@gmail.com Facebook.com/HiddenRiversFarm www.hiddenriversfarm.com Escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life to enjoy the beautiful outdoors with sunshine, fresh air, and activities for the whole family! Run, play, explore, picnic, and relax in the shade. Let your day be fueled by childhood imagination and visit the perfect place to breathe deep, laugh loud, run hard, and make memories. Attractions include animal petting/feeding, pumpkin patch, corn maze, tailgating/private event tents, food truck, bouncy houses, multiple playground areas & more. Make memories here!

4 PENTON FARMS

Sept. 26-Oct. 31 Mon-Fri. 12p – 6pm; Sat. 9am-6pm; Closed Sun.

4040| |birminghamparent 2020 birminghamparent| |SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

3595 County Road 59 Verbena, AL 36091 205-351-1480 PentonFarms@gmail.com www.pentonfarms.com We plant the seeds, you harvest the memories! We are a family-owned farm in Verbena. Our season starts with a U Pick Farm in April and ends with our Pumpkin Patch. We have a variety of activities for the whole family to enjoy including wagon rides, corn maxes, concessions, a human hamster wheel and super slides@ Our admission is $10 and includes the price of the pumpkin.

5 THE GREAT PUMPKIN PATCH

Open Sept. 26- Nov. 15 Thurs – Sat: 8 – 6, Sun: 1 - 6 288 County Hwy 45 Hayden, AL 35079 205-616-6431 www.greatpumpkinpatch.com FREE Admission! You pay for each activity or just enjoy sitting in the shade listening to music, watching kids play or tasting the wonderful food from the Red Barn Kitchen or famous Pie House. Activities include Hayride to the Pumpkin Patch, Inflatables, Petting Zoo, Pony Rides, Extreme Bungee, Hay Pyramid, Country Store, Live Entertainment, Arts & Crafts.

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2020

CALENDAR OF EVENTS In this issue of Birmingham Parent, you’ll find a calendar that is once again heavy on the virtual events, as we transition from quarantine to possibly opening up many attractions, services and the like. Unfortunately, the pandemic continues!

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

If you are checking the online calendar, please check ahead to see if advertised events are still happening.

HIGHLIGHTS Sept. 2 Free Zumba at Railroad Park

Sept. 10 Virtual ZooRendezvous Presented by IberiaBank

Sept. 18 11th Annual Head Over Teal 5K/10K Virtual Run/Walk

Sept. 25 Red Shoe Run: Rockin' 5K 2020

Oct. 10 Dynamite Hill Walking Tour

Oct. 29 Hoover Hayride & Family Night

birminghamparent.com birminghamparent.com || 41 41

sept/oct calendar

September 1 TUESDAY Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting 5:30-6:30pm, Online. These meetings are open to anyone seeking recovery. Zoom meeting ID: 869\-456\-6003, www.calendar. uab.edu.

Bootcamp 6-7pm, Railroad Park. FREE exercise class. No pre-registration required; come 15 minutes prior to class time to register. Bring a friend. www.birmingham365.org.

FREE Budgeting/Finance 101 Webinar 7-8pm, Webinar. www.eventbrite. com.

Speed Reading Class 1-2 pm, Online. Learn speed-reading techniques and how to improve UAB Connections Support Group 10:30am-noon, Callahan Eye Hospital. UAB Connections provides a combination of educational, social and recreational/leisure activities for adults with various eye disorders as well as their family and close friends. 205-488-0778, www.calendar.uab.edu.

2 WEDNESDAY A Woman's Place 5:15-6:15pm, Magnolia Office Park Plaza Building. A weekly support group for women, led by EACC counselors Dondra Goldsby and Kourtney Young, offers an encouraging, confidential environment to discuss topics important to women and to promote personal self-improvement. Register, 205934-2281.

Lunch & Learn: Native Perennials 11:30am-12:30pm, Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Bring your lunch to Birmingham Botanical Gardens for a FREE informational

seminar. Identify some of the best native perennials to grow in your gardens. Drinks provided and desserts courtesy of Bud's Best Cookies. No reservations required.

205-414-3950, www.bbgardens. org.

Music Department - Student Recital 3-4:40pm, Alabama School of Fine Arts Recital Hall, www.asfa.k12. al.us.

Zumba 6-7pm, Railroad Park. FREE exercise class. No pre-registration required; come 15 minutes prior to class time to register. Bring a friend. Zumba is a Latin-inspired dance fitness class that blends basic dance moves with aerobic steps. Special thanks to Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama. www. birmingham365.org. FREE

3 THURSDAY African American Moments 10:30am-Noon, Birmingham Museum of Art. Join Anthony Bingham, a visual artist and instructor in the Department of Humanities at Miles College, on an exploration of processes, histories and ideas that have led to transformative images and objects inspired by his life’s journey as an African American in the South. 205-254-2565, www. artsbma.org.

Gardendale Farmers Market 2pm, City of Gardendale. Every Thursday through September 24 at the Gardendale Farmers Market to grab fresh vegetables and support local farmers. www.facebook.com/ GardendaleFarmersMarket/.

Yoga 6-7pm, Railroad Park. FREE exercise class. No pre-registration required; come 15 minutes prior to class to register. Bring a friend! www.birmingham365.org. FREE

4 FRIDAY Family Fun Friday 6-7pm, Railroad Park. FREE exercise class. No pre-registration required; come 15 minutes prior to class to register. This class invites collaboration and a little friendly competition with team activities like kickball, soccer and whiffle ball. www.birmingham365.org.

FREE

5 SATURDAY America's Musical Journey Noon, McWane Science Center. In America's musical cities, musical stories come together to create a soundtrack that showcases the nation's diversity and its collision of cultures, culminating in a unique blend of sound, music and innovation unlike anywhere else in the world. 205-714-8300, www.mcwane.org.

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

scenes animal areas, time to ask the experts any questions you have and more. www.birminghamzoo.com Friends of the Chelsea Library Meeting - 10-11am, Chelsea Library. The Friends of the Chelsea Library meets the first Saturday of each month to discuss upcoming events, new members and new business. All meetings are open to the public. www.cityofchelsea. com/calendar.

Guitar: The Instrument that Rocked the World Noon, McWane Science Center.

Experience the science of sound and the cultural impact of the guitar by exploring more than 70 instruments and 100 historical artifacts, ranging from the rare and antique to the wildly popular and innovative. This special exhibition from The National GUITAR Museum features hands-on interactives for all ages, video performances, x-ray images of guitars' inner workings and plenty of opportunities to strum and jam. 205-714-8300, www.mcwane.org.

PLEASE NOTE: Please enter your special events directly to the online calendar at https://birminghamparent.com/directory/events/. Entries added online after the print deadline will not appear in the print version. Information cannot be accepted over the phone. You may also e-mail to calendar@birminghamparent.com.

Birmingham Parent publishes a calendar 6 times a year. January events are included in the November/December issue. Deadline for the November/December 2020 issue is October 10, 2020.

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, space restrictions or what we may deem advertising. For questions regarding calendar entries, call 205-624-2405 or e-mail calendar@birminghamparent.com.

Due to the pandemic, all events may not be up to date nor have accurate times. Some may be canceled. Note, many of the events we are listing are VIRTUAL. Be sure to check ahead.

42 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

13 SUNDAY Birmingham African-American Genealogy Group Meeting 3-5pm, Linn-Henley Research Library, 4th floor, Birmingham Public Library. Discussion focuses on plantation and farm life of ancestors. A guest lecturer will discuss researching West Indies genealogy. www.birmingham365.org. FREE Broadcast LIVE! Birmingham Arts Drive-In 4pm, Alys Robinson Stephens Performing Arts Center, 205-975-2787, www.alysstephens.uab.edu.

16 WEDNESDAY Lunch & Learn: Ask the Experts 11:30am-12:30pm, Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Led by Andy Baril, Jim Jacobi and Sallie Lee of the Alabama Cooperative Extension System (ACES); James Horton, John Nabors, and executive director of the Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Tom Underwood. Bring your lunch. No reservations required. 205-414-3950. FREE to bring a lunch. http://www.cityofchelsea.com/calendar.

7 MONDAY – LABOR DAY Hip Hop Cardio 6-7pm, Railroad Park. FREE exercise class. No pre-registration required; come 15 minutes prior to class to register. Bring a friend. www. birmingham365.org. FREE How to Improve Your Memory 1-2pm, Online. Learn tips, strategies and techniques to help remember more. Ideal for students, professionals and lifelong learners, www.eventbrite.com.

8 TUESDAY 3rd-5th Grade Music and Books 5:30-6:30pm, Chelsea Library. 3rd5th graders will join Ms. Carter as they explore music and instruments with crafts and books. www.cityofchelsea.com/calendar.

10 THURSDAY Adult Book Club Noon-1pm, Chelsea Library. Each month the adult book club will read and discuss books. Please feel free

Virtual ZooRendezvous Presented by IberiaBank 6:45-8pm, Birmingham Zoo. The Birmingham Zoo cordially invites you to join us for our first-ever virtual luau with ZooRendezvous. Dine, dance and toast from the comfort of your home as we celebrate our 65th zooversary with IBERIABANK as our ZooRendezvous Presenting Sponsor. Virtual pre-show starts at 6:45pm and the main event luau begins at 7pm. Visit luau.givesmart. com or register by mobile device, text LUAU to 76278, 205-879-0409. www.birminghamzoo.com.

Patriot Day Remembrance Ceremonies 8:30-9:30am, Fire Station 2, Hoover.

The Hoover Fire Department will be conducting our annual 9/11 Patriot Day Remembrance Ceremony at Fire Station 2. www.hooveral.org.

12 SATURDAY Infant CPR 9-10am, Grandview Medical Center.

Infant CPR teaches the basics in first aid for CPR and choking for infants. www.eventbrite.com. $10 Lego Day! 10am-2pm, Chelsea Library. Come create and build with your imagination and Legos. www.cityofchelsea. com.

17 THURSDAY Hydrangeas Under the Stars 6-9pm, Aldridge Gardens. Rescheduled from June 6. Hoover's social event of the year! Make plans now to be a part of our premier annual fundraiser and garden gala. Enjoy a special evening of great food, entertainment, with both silent and live auctions, all to benefit Aldridge Gardens. http://www.hooveral.org/ calendar.

18 FRIDAY 11th Annual Head Over Teal 5K/10K Virtual Run/Walk 8am-7pm, Virtual Run. Keep the tradition and join Laura Crandall Brown Foundation (LCBF) from September 18-26 as we virtually host our 11th annual Head Over Teal 5K/10K. Create your own FUNdraising page or lead a team of supporters as you prepare to hit the road in your neighborhood, park, or favorite trail anywhere in the world! Runners can honor survivors and remember those who fought gynecological cancer by documenting their race times on RunSignup, sharing photos of family support, and by connecting with other participants and the LCBF staff via social media during race week by using the hashtags #headoverteal and #headovertealgoesvirtual. All proceeds go to support LCBF's mission of early detection research, awareness education, and support services for GYN cancer patients and families.

Information, Doris Moody, 251802-2668, www.thinkoflaura.org.

Children and team members receive a discount. $20-$30.

19 SATURDAY Body, Mind and Spirit Mental Health Expo 2020 11am-7pm, Boutwell Municipal Auditorium. Family-friendly event provides information about mental illnesses. Several individual vendors that will be on site to share their products for pampering yourself and relaxing the body. www.facebook.com/events/the-boutwell-auditorium/body-mind-and-spirit-mental-health-expo. $1.

Game Day 10am-2pm, Chelsea Library.

Board games, table top games and video games available for all ages all throughout the library. www.cityofchelsea.com/calendar.

The Gift of Motherhood 9am-4pm, Grandview Medical Center. The Gift of Motherhood is a childbirth education class designed to help prepare expectant mothers & their partners for parenthood. www.eventbrite.com. $50 PAWsitive Education Reading Buddies Book Club 10:30am-12pm, Greater Birmingham Humane Society. Enjoy a good book with an adorable dog! www.eventbrite.com.

21 Monday Genealogy Class 5:30-6:30pm, Chelsea Library. The library and the Chelsea Alabama Historical Society presents this genealogy class for all skill levels.

Beginners will learn how to start mapping their history, and advanced researchers will learn what comes next in their journey! Please register at www.cityofchelsea.com.

24 THURSDAY Dining Out For LifeÂŽ 7am-10pm, Various Birmingham area restaurants. Contribute to the local fight against HIV/AIDS by simply dining out at a participating restaurant and at least 25 percent of your bill will be donated to AIDS Alabama. All funds raised in Birmingham enable us to continue providing critical services to Alabamians living with HIV and their families. Follow Dining Out For Life-Birmingham's Facebook event page and Instagram page for the latest information about the event, www.birmingham365.org. birminghamparent.com | 43

Mental Health First Aid Training 8am-5pm, Online. Participants will learn how to recognize the signs and symptoms that suggest a potential mental health or substance use challenge, how to listen non judgmentally and give reassurance to a person who may be struggling, and how to refer a person to appropriate professional support and services. This free program is open to all UAB, UAB Medicine, VIVA and Homewood City School employees and members of their immediate household. Email uabeacc@uabmc. edu to register. Course is limited to 30 participants. Participants will be mailed course training manual.

25 FRIDAY After Hours on the Plaza: Game Nite, 7-10pm, Hoover Public Library.

Team up with your friends and fellow gamers and heed the call of the tabletop! Bring your own games or borrow one from our Game Nite collection! 205-444-7800, hoover. libnet.info. FREE Creative Writing Department My Favorite Poem & Reception 7-9:30pm, Lecture Hall & Alabama School of Fine Arts Lobby, www. asfa.k12.al.us.

26 SATURDAY Head Over Teal 5K, 10K & Virtual Option 8am-noon, The Preserve Town Hall, Hoover. The Laura Crandall Brown Foundation's 10th Annual Head Over Teal Race Day & Fall Festival.

The 10k and 5k race courses are people and pet-friendly with some hills. The Fall Festival is a FREE event. You do not have to race to come and join the fun. Family activities include food, live music, a crazy photo booth and children's activities from 9am until noon. http://www. hooveral.org/calendar.

Downtown Churches Walking Tour 9:30am, Vulcan Park and Museum. Birmingham’s downtown churches reach back to the city’s founding days – and now are contributing to the renewed vitality of the city center.

Registration $10 for Vulcan Park and Museum members and $12 non-members. Space is limited and advance registration is required. www.visitvulcan.com

Red Shoe Run: Rockin' 5K 2020 8am-noon, Ronald McDonald House. New date, same rockin’ good time! Rock n' roll and fundraise for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama. https://runsignup.com/Race/AL/Birmingham/ RedShoeRun2020.

29 TUESDAY Evensong at IPC 4pm, Independent Presbyterian Church. A select group of singers from the IPC Choir, the IPC Camerata, is the resident ensemble for these services. These services last about 40 minutes followed by an extended organ postlude. This liturgy has been offered for nearly a thousand years. www.birmingham365.org.

Hopeful Healing Support Group 5:15-6:15pm, Magnolia Office Park Plaza Building. If you are coping with a chronic illness such as diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, celiac disease, multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s disease, join EACC Counselor Khoi Bishop for a confidential, member-led group discussion. To enroll, call the UAB Employee Assistance & Counseling Center at 205-9342281, www.calendar.uab.edu.

October 3 SATURDAY Free Fencing 10am, Birmingham Fencing Club.

Learn fencing basics, and then everyone will put on fencing gear and give it a try for 30-45 minutes.

We provide a relaxing environment to try fencing before you make a decision to join classes. www.fencing club.org. FREE

44 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

Kitty Kat Haven & Rescue 5K Meow-A-Thon and 1 Mile Whisker Walk 8am-Noon, Veterans Park. The Kitty Kat Haven & Rescue 5K Meow-AThon and Whisker Walk is a 5k race and one mile fun run/walk benefiting Kitty Kat Haven & Rescue, a nokill, cage-free shelter for cats and kittens. www.hooveral.org/calendar or https://kittykathavenrescue.org/.

Mutt Strut 2020 7am, Homewood Central Park. Benefitting Hand in Paw! Dog-friendly 5K and 1-mile fun run. www.handinpaw.org.

8 THURSDAY Mega Job and Veterans Fair & Diversity Expo 10am-1pm, Hilton Birmingham at UAB. www.eventbrite.com.

Visual Arts Department - Fall Exhibition Opening & Reception 5-7pm, Alabama School of Fine Arts, ASFA Lobby. Featuring Genny Fine. www.asfa.k12.al.us.

10 SATURDAY AGCA Gun Show 9am-4pm, Hoover Met Complex.

This event showcases new and antique firearms, historic weapons, knives and edged weapons, ammo, firearm accessories and military memorabilia, trade guns, rare rifles, pistols and custom shotguns, western and cowboy firearms and products from security/defense, sporting goods, toys/games. http:// www.hooveral.org/calendar.

Dynamite Hill Walking Tour 9:30am, Vulcan Park and Museum.

Walking up Center Street, which came to be known as “Dynamite Hill” in the 1950s, be guided by people who grew up in the neighborhood and lived its history. From them, you’ll get to know the people, the effects of red-lining and the conditions that changed both the neighborhood and the future of Birmingham. Registration $10 for Vulcan Park and Museum members and $12 non-members. Space is limited and advanced registration is required. www.visitvulcan.com.

17 SATURDAY Hoover High School Band Festival Noon, Hoover Met. Band Festival hosted by Hoover High School. www.hooveral.org.

PKD Walk 9am, Patriot Park, Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) Walk. The walk is one mile long. There will also be a kids’ penny dash that starts at 9:30 am. This event is FREE and open to anyone who is affected by PKD in any way. www.calendar.uab.edu.

24 SATURDAY Parkside Walking Tour 9:30am, Vulcan Park and Museum.

Parkside is a standout example of how a well-designed public space such as Railroad Park can be a catalyst for new development and economic growth. This first installment of the walking tour series offers participants a fun, invigorating way to experience the history and architectural beauty of Birmingham’s neighborhoods and cultural districts. Registration $10 for Vulcan Park and Museum members and $12 non-members. Space is limited and advance registration is required. www.visitvulcan.com

25 SUNDAY Pink Up the Pace 5k and Dolly Dash 1-Mile Fun Run 3:30-6pm, Crestline Field. The 3rd annual Pink Up the Pace 5k and 1-Mile Dolly Dash Fun Run, presented by Vulcan Materials, invites attendees to enjoy food, drinks, activities and live music along with two exciting race options! Tickets are $30 for adults (ages 13+) and $20 for children (ages 4-12). Children 3 and under are free. www.birmingham365.org.

29 THURSDAY Hoover Hayride & Family Night 5-8pm, Veterans Park. Family-friendly event featuring hayrides around the park and large exhibitor area where Hoover Chamber members distribute candy and giveaways to children dressed in their favorite costumes. www.hooveral. org. FREE

HMC Fall Tennis Challenge Noon, Hoover Met Complex, www. hooveral.org.

16 FRIDAY DCB Elite Academy Softball Showcase Noon, Hoover Met Complex, www. hooveral.org.

31 SATURDAY – HALLOWEEN

events & attractions

American Village

Due to the pandemic, many attractions may not be open or may have abbreviated times.

Some may be closed.

Be sure to check ahead. nAldridge Botanical Gardens 3530 Lorna Road, Hoover.

205-682-8019, www.aldridgegardens.com

nAlabama Jazz Hall of Fame 1631 Fourth Ave. N., Birmingham.

205-254-2731, www.jazzhall.com

nAlabama School of Fine Arts 1800 Rev. Abraham Woods, Jr. Blvd., www.asfa.k12.al.us

nAlabama Sports Hall of Fame 2150 Richard Arrington Blvd. N., Birmingham. 323-6665, www. ashof.org

nAlabama Wildlife Center 100 Terrace Drive, Pelham. 205663-7930. www.awrc.org

nAmerican Village Colonial Christmas Lunches and Tours. 10:30am-noon (tour, lunch); noon-2:30pm (lunch, tour), Monday through Friday, from December 3-7. Pre-reservations required; 205-665-3535, x1031, www.americanvillage.org.

Highway 119, Montevallo. 205665-3535, www.americanvillage.org

nBarber Motorsports Park 6040 Barber Motorsports Parkway, Leeds. 205-298-9040, www.barbermotorsports.com

nBirmingham Botanical Gardens www.bbgardens.org/docu-

ments/treasuremapforweb.pdf 2612 Lane Park Road, Birmingham. 205-414-3900, www. bbgardens.org

nBirmingham Children’s Theatre 1001 19th St. North, Birmingham, AL, 35203, 205-458-8181, www. bct123.org

nBirmingham Civil Rights Institute BCRI is open and free to the public on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Monday, January 20.

16th St. N., Birmingham. 205328-9696, www.bcri.org

nBirmingham Museum of Art Black Out: Silhouettes Then and Now. Before the selfie, before the Polaroid and even before the photograph, there was the silhouette, a profile portrait made from cut paper. Through January 12, 2020. FREE. Celestia Morgan: REDLINE. This exhibit features photos and small sculptures by local artist Celestia Morgan that explore redlining in Birmingham. Through February 16, 2020. FREE. 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.

Bart’s Books. A storytelling program for children ages 4-7.

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

nBirmingham Zoo Zoolight Safari. This December favorite is coming soon! For dates and details, www.birminghamzoo.com.

Special Saturdays. On the second Saturday of each month from 10-11am for ages 8-up, the Birmingham Zoo and KultureCity presents a series of zoo-based 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. 205-8790409, www.birminghamzoo.com

nHeart of Dixie Railroad Museum Ride the Santa Special! Train rides and more! Nov. 30-December 14. Tickets, information, www.hodrrm.org.

Ride the North Pole Express!

Train rides and more! November 15-December 8. Tickets, information, www.hodrrm.org.

1919 Ninth St., Calera. 205-6683435, www.hodrrm.org

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

nMcWane Science Center Home School Day! On the first Monday of each month, home school students and their families can come for special programs, live science demonstrations, giveaways and a discounted ticket price. FREE for home school parents, $7 kids, $6 for accompanying adults.

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.

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

nMoss Rock Preserve Preserve Parkway, Hoover. 205739-7141, www.hooveral.org.

nOak Mountain State Park 200 Terrace Drive, Pelham. 205620-2520, www.alapark.com.

nRuffner Mountain Nature Center - 1214 81st St. S., Birmingham.

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

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

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

205-833-8226, www.southernmuseumofflight.org

nTannehill Ironworks Historical State Park 12632 Confederate Parkway, McCalla. 205-477-5711, www. tannehill.org

nVulcan Park 1701 Valley View Drive, Birmingham. 205-933-1409, www. vulcanpark.org

birminghamparent.com | 45

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ADMISSIONS

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SEPTEMBER 1

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• Early College Experience • Dedicated Instructors • Diverse Community • Leadership Opportunities • Experiential Learning

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48 | birminghamparent | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

Look Forward.