Birmingham Parent's September 2018 Issue

THE PREMIER PARENTING MAGAZINE FOR CENTRAL ALABAMA — NOW IN OUR 15TH YEAR OF PUBLISHING

SEPTEMBER 2018

SPECIAL NEEDS ISSUE FALL 2018

FREE

TIPS FOR PLAYDATES With Kids with Special Needs

EMPOWER THE SPECTRUM Local Non-Profit Helping Those with Autism OUR FALL

SPECIAL NEEDS

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Introducing

PARENTING PEOPLE

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SEPTEMBER IS FULL OF GREAT STUFF! I cannot say enough good things about this issue of Birmingham Parent. From our Special Needs Directory and stories, to the great Pumpkin Patch & Fall Festival Guide, it seems like this is one of our best.

This fall we are highlighting some of our special needs advertisers in our print directory, beginning on page 16, but you can still see that bigger, more complete list that includes government agencies and more online at www.birminghamparent.com.

We support our emphasis on special needs this month with a number of great stories we hope you will find useful as well! We have more expert columns than ever before, and some great “good reads” too, like Sean of the South and Poetry Party.

This month, we introduce a new column, “Parenting People,” on page 34. Doris Phillips and The Circle of Love Foundation is our first honoree. Look for this monthly, where we highlight people in the community making a difference in the lives of our children. If you have a suggestion for this column, we’d love to hear from you! E-mail us at editor@birminghamparent.com.

School is now in full swing, and we’ve got a great back-to-school product guide for you starting on page 36 with some fun and educational features. We also start a two-part series on “Road Rules for Teen Drivers” on page 32. The rest of the story will be in our October issue, so be sure to pick it up!

Happy Fall!

editorial PUBLISHERS David & Carol Evans EDITOR Carol Muse Evans ASSOCIATE EDITOR Lori Chandler Pruitt CALENDAR Lori Chandler Pruitt CONTRIBUTORS Dr. Vivian Friedman, Sarah Lyons, Emily Reed, Frances McGowin, Melanie B. Holliman, Erin Chase, Tiffani Hill-Patterson, Dr. Jitendra Sharma, Sean Dietrich, Charles Ghigna, Child'sPlay Therapy Center

sales SR. MARKETING CONSULTANT Kayla Fricks MARKETING CONSULTANT Natalie Julian WEB & SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR Bethany Adams Hunley

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

ART DIRECTOR Hilary Moreno DISTRIBUTION T&P Deliveries LEGAL COUNSEL Balch & Bingham LLP

ABOUT THE EDITORS: Carol Muse Evans is the publisher/editor/owner of Birmingham Parent magazine, a publication she and her husband David began in 2004. The Birmingham, Alabama-based parenting publication attracts more than 60,000 readers monthly in a four-county area and receives 10,000 hits per month on its website. The magazine has a 20,000+ print circulation, plus several thousand in readership of the digital edition online. It is the only independently audited free publication in our area. Evans is an award-winning writer and editor who has also has written for several other publications as a freelance writer since the late 80s. She is a graduate of Auburn University in journalism and is a graduate of Scottsboro High School. She is married with two grown children and lives in Alabaster. She is a member of the National Federation of Press Women, Alabama Media Professionals and Southeastern Advertisers and Publishers Association (SAPA).

Evans also serves on the board of directors of Childcare Resources.

Lori Chandler Pruitt is associate editor of Birmingham Parent, where she is responsible for the calendar and editorial editing. She also is a freelancer for Business Alabama magazine and has written/edited for several other publications. This award-winning writer and editor is a graduate of the University of Alabama in news/editorial and Hueytown High School. She is married with two children.

4 | birminghamparent | september 2018

BIRMINGHAM PARENT IS A PUBLICATION OF EVANS PUBLISHING, LLC. Publishers: Carol Muse Evans, David K. Evans Sr. Birmingham Parent (EIN200694149) is published monthly by Evans Publishing LLC. www.birminghamparent.com or editor@birminghamparent. com. Birmingham Parent is © 2018 by Evans Publishing LLC. Family Connections Media ©2018 by Evans Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Editorial submissions are welcome. For back issues, please send a self-addressed 10” x 13” envelope with $4 for postage and handling.

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contents

16

SPECIAL NEEDS DIRECTORY There are a number of services offered throughout the state for parents with children with disabilities, from inclusive school care programs to music and sports teams and classes. You can read an even more complete list that includes more government services and other businesses at http:// birminghamparent.com/directory/ article/birmingham-parents-2018special-needs-directory/.

our focus

our features

SPECIAL NEEDS FALL ISSUE

36

Tips for Playdates with Kids with Special Needs.......12

our regulars EDITOR’S NOTE September is Full of Great Stuff!......................................4 PARENTING with Dr. Friedman...............................7

Special Needs Directory Fall Highlights 2018.........................16 The Misunderstood Child: Sensory Processing 101.................18

The 16th Fiesta Comes to Linn Park Sept. 29........10

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

Talking to Kids About Disabilities............................20

Chatting With Child’sPlay: Picky Eaters......................................26

ASK THE ATTORNEY Should I Leave an Inheritance for My Sibling?..........28

Empower the Spectrum: Chelsea Nonprofit Seeks to Provide Communication Techniques.......................................22

Birmingham Teen: Road Rules for Teen Drivers........32

Could My Child Benefit from a Service Dog?................................ 24

12

Parenting People: Doris: Phillips & Circle Of Love Foundation....................... 34 2018 Back-to-School Product Guide.................................36

DINING WITHOUT WHINING Grilled Flank Steak.........................30 ASK THE SPECIALIST New Migraine Treatments............44 SEAN OF THE SOUTH Smile...................................................46

Family Travel: IronKids Alpharetta........................40

CALENDAR OF EVENTS..............49

Our Pumpkin Patch & Fall Festival Guide..................... 47

POETRY PARTY Goodbye Summer...........................54

ON THE COVER: Ellis, age 14 months of Birmingham, doesn’t let a little thing like a special need slow her down! Ever so happy.

Photo by Samantha Ferguson, His Hands Photographs, www.hishandsphotographs.com, 205-862-3374.

6 | birminghamparent | september 2018

PAR E N TI N G

Parenting with Dr. Friedman

Q:

My child will be starting school shortly and he is worried about it. He is entering the third grade in a new school because we moved him from private to public

school. How can we tell if his anxiety is a serious emotional problem or just a case of jitters about the upcoming change? How far in advance should you start talking about the new school? What are the best ways to prepare our son for the change?

Some children are simply afraid of the unknown. This may be the source of worry for your child who is starting a new school.

Moving to a new city, a change from public to private school or vice versa, or the switch from elementary to middle school are common times of change-related stress for children. A more serious disturbance, commonly known as school phobia, and technically known as separation anxiety disorder, is not a fear of school at all but a fear of separation from the mother.

Talking about the change too far in advance can add to a child’s anxiety if he is the worrying type. Starting preparation too soon may prolong the period of the unknown. If the child doesn’t think about going back to school until a few weeks before, the unknown becomes known sooner.

However, no preparation at all will leave him to struggle with his worries on his own.

The best time to discuss the subject is when the child mentions it. If you see your child becoming anxious, but not speaking about his worries, put his fears into words for him.

If your child has the more serious anxiety, you will have seen the symptoms each year at the start of school. It does not typically arise

in third grade with no previous symptoms.

Behind the child with school phobia or what psychologists call separation anxiety, there is always a parent who is ambivalent about allowing the child to separate. In other words, for every child who is afraid to separate from a parent, there is a parent who cannot let go.

These parents give the child the message that the world is a scary place and that the child cannot be safe without the parent. The child absorbs this message and behaves accordingly.

The parent of a child with separation disorder may need professional help in understanding the parent’s own fears. The child will not improve until the parent can give a clear message that the child is allowed to separate and to have fun without the mother being present.

In contrast to separation anxiety disorder, simple back-to-school fears tend to resolve quickly. They go away after the first day or two of school and lessen when you take your child on a school tour or when you allow him to play at the school playground over the summer.

Anything that makes the experience more familiar will help your child to relax.

Visit the school with your son over the summer, or just before school starts. Use

the playground for relaxed play with friends.

Many schools host camp programs over the summer. Enroll your child in one of these to make the school familiar to him. Practice walking the route to school if your child is going to be walking on his own. The more the experience is familiar, the less “fear of the unknown” he will have.

Vivian K. Friedman, Ph.D. is a child and family psychologist at UAB, Department of Psychiatry. Send questions for response in this column to Viviankf@gmail.com. No personal replies are sent.

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SH ORT ST U F F

SHERIFF’S CORNER:

Back to School Means Time to Discuss Safety

COME JOIN US FOR AN ENTERTAINING AGRICULTURAL EXPERIENCE!

By JEFFCO Sheriff Mike Hale

With school beginning again, it’s a great time to teach kids about danger from strangers.

This is one of the scariest topics for a parent. Here are some tips for child safety: • Teach your child to listen to their instincts no matter how nice, well-dressed, or harmless a stranger may appear.

• Instruct your child to use a “buddy system.” There really is safety in numbers.

• Boost your child’s confidence by teaching him or her to be aware of their surroundings.

• Make sure your child knows her telephone number and address.

• Emphasize to your children that they should not open the door when at home alone.

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• When answering the telephone, never say that a parent is not home.

As a parent, you can work with your child’s innate ability to sense danger. You will be surprised how your child responds to your teachings.

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Publishing company PaSH Publishing, an imprint of The Southern PaSH Company LLC, has released Izzy Spears’ debut children’s picture book, The Adventures of Jaylen Newman.

The new children’s book follows eight-year-old Jaylen Newman and his journey to a new city with his family. Spears’ premier picture book aims to shine a spotlight on an African American family’s story and to tell a brand new kind of story to audiences everywhere.

The Adventures of Jaylen Newman is the beginning of a long series of adventures with Jaylen and his family. Spears hopes to inspire young readers with fun plots, colorful graphics, and a relatable family that represents their own.

Spears is a UAB graduate, a business owner, and a loving wife.

The up-and-coming author says that her inspiration for the book came from the desire to represent children of color in children’s literature. “There are not many opportunities for children of color to see reflections of themselves,” she says. “I decided to start writing this series so our young children can see themselves, having something to relate to, and have something to be proud of.”

The book is available online on Amazon.

Tuskegee Grad Becomes Alabama National Guard’s First Black Female Pilot When 2nd Lt. Kayla Freeman wore her wings for the first time on the stage of Fort Rucker’s Army Aviation school, she didn’t consider how historically impactful the moment was.

Freeman, whose June 21 graduation made her the first black female pilot in the Alabama National Guard, graduated from Tuskegee University in 2016 with a bachelor’s degree in aerospace science engineering.

“I didn’t think about making history when I started this journey. I just wanted to do the best that I could do and hopefully inspire a few people along the way,” she says. That’s a goal she has also accomplished, with Freeman being inundated with congratulations, well-wishes, and messages of appreciation in the few weeks after her achievement.

Freeman says she was honored to have her wings pinned by a longtime hero and fellow history-maker, retired Col. Christine “Nickey” Knighton. Knighton was the second black woman in the Department of Defense to earn her aviator wings, the first from Georgia, and also the first woman in the U.S. Army to command a tactical combat arms battalion.

“Col. Knighton has been an inspiration to me since college,” Freeman says. “I felt that it was only right to have her pin me.” Freeman also lists Knighton as one of her main role models, along with her own grandfather, and pioneering female Tuskegee Airmen like Mildred Carter.

Like Knighton before her, Freeman’s inspirations led her to attend Tuskegee University and enroll in the historic institute’s ROTC program. She says she knew since she was a child that she wanted to fly, and says it was discipline, perseverance, and faith that helped her achieve that goal.

“You can’t let mistakes and setbacks keep you down,” she says. “Learn from them and continue moving forward. Most importantly keep God first and He will direct your path.”

Maj. Gen. Sheryl Gordon applauded Freeman’s historic accomplishment. Gordon is the first female general officer in the Alabama National Guard and is now the first female to serve as its adjutant general.

“We take the ideals of equal opportunity very seriously,” Gordon says, “and we’re extremely proud of 2nd Lt. Freeman’s achievements.”

Currently at Fort Hood preparing to deploy to the Middle East as a platoon leader in the Alabama National Guard’s 1-169th Aviation Battalion, Freeman’s mind is on the mission. After that, she said, her plans are simple: keep going. “I just plan to continue to develop my skills as an officer and aviator, as well as mentoring others,” she says.

In her civilian career, Freeman is an aerospace engineer at United States Army Aviation Development Test Activity at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville.

Alabaster Library Earns Grant New Kids Book Club to Launch The Albert L. Scott Library in Alabaster is the recipient of the 2018 Virginia Hamilton and Arnold Adoff Creative Outreach Grant awarded by the advisory board of the Virginia Hamilton Conference at Kent State University in Kent, Ohio.

The $1,000 grant is to launch the library’s new Wonder Kids’ Book Club. The monthly club will showcase the books of the late award-winning author Virginia Hamilton and her husband, award-winning author and poet Arnold Adoff.

“Your project titled ‘Wonder Kids’ Book Club’ is an excellent example of a multicultural program that will raise awareness of the need to respect and honor human diversity,” says Dr. Meghan Harper, co-director of the conference advisory board, in the congratulatory letter to the library.

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The club is for children age 6-10. The grant will support the book club exclusively. “The goal is to introduce the children to the books of Hamilton and Adoff as well as the works of other authors in a fun way,” says Frances Smith, Alabaster youth services librarian. “We plan to include music and art as well as poetry and biographies. We’ll discuss not only the themes and plots of the books but the illustrations and how the books relate to the children’s lives. “We also hope to improve children’s reading skills, vocabulary, imagination, social skills, and world view.”

The first session is called ‘Terrific Talents’ and will meet on September 11 at 6pm. A surprise guest will share balloon sculpting. Each club member will receive one of Hamilton’s books to keep.

Signup is ongoing and space is limited. Parents may check the library’s in-house calendar, the city’s newsletters, and www.cityofalabaster.com for more information. birminghamparent.com | 9

LO CAL E VE N TS

The 16th Annual Fiesta Comes to Linn Park Sept. 29

Fiesta, Alabama’s largest celebration of Hispanic culture and heritage, will present its 16th annual festival Saturday, Sept. 29, in Birmingham’s Linn Park from noon to 8 p.m.

Tickets are on sale now for $10. They are also available at the gate. Children ages 12 and under are admitted free with a ticketed adult.

To purchase tickets, visit www.fiestabham.com.

Fiesta provides the opportunity for visitors to learn about the Hispanic culture and community, with more than 20 countries represented. “They can experience the best of Hispanic art, music, food and dance,” says Vanessa Vargas, president of Fiesta.

“The event is colorful, and it is an opportunity for the community to learn that all these countries are more than just one culture,” Vargas adds. “What many people perceive as one culture is, in fact, many. We, as a board, take special care to create an event that will successfully represent each culture that Fiesta stands to celebrate, and it is truly a privilege to be part of such an effort.”

Fiesta 2018 is appropriately themed “Celebrando a Todo el Color” or “Celebrating in Full Color,” a nod to the vibrant culture characteristic of Latin America and the unique heritage of each Spanish-speaking country that Fiesta represents.

In addition, Vargas says, the festival raises money for scholarships, and more than $70,000 in scholarship money has been presented to students in the last 15 years. In fact, guests can and are encouraged to donate to the scholarship fund when purchasing tickets.

Fiesta features two music stages, authentic Latin food vendors, a cultural village, a community village, children’s activities, a health and wellness village and more. The Coca-Cola mainstage lineup of Hispanic artists performing at Fiesta 2018 will be announced closer to the festival.

Guests can also explore the McDonald’s Fiesta Tour, the Annual Latin Grammy Experience, a traveling 50-plus foot exhibit that pays tribute to McDonald’s passion for Latin music. The Fiesta Tour features trivia games, a photo booth, artist memorabilia, listening stations, social media wall and product sampling.

“Fiesta has become a beloved tradition – an opportunity for us to share our rich heritage with each other and with our fellow Alabamians,” says Vargas. “All of us in the Hispanic community embrace a deep, abiding pride for our countries and our cultures. And as we passionately share 10 | birminghamparent | september 2018

our stories and celebrate both our similarities and our differences, we continue to weave ourselves more intricately into the Birmingham community and the communities where we live.”

Fiesta was born when, in late 2001, several members of the Hispanic Business Council (HBC) of the Birmingham Regional Chamber of Commerce put in motion a plan to develop a yearly Hispanic festival in downtown Birmingham.

In 2002, Fiesta, Inc., was created as a not-forprofit organization whose board of directors produces the yearly event with the help of interested community volunteers. The mission of Fiesta is “to organize and manage a yearly festival that celebrates and educates the public on the diverse cultures within the Hispanic community in Alabama.” Since its inception in 2003, Fiesta has served as a bridge, celebrating the culturally diverse traditions of Latin America’s various Spanish-speaking countries right here in Birmingham. With attendees traveling from across the Southeast to experience Fiesta, the festival has become a fixture in Alabama.

Providing scholarships to Hispanic students was always a part of the Fiesta plan. Marsy Moreno, one recipient of a Fiesta scholarship, recently graduated from UAB. She received a $1,000 scholarship from Fiesta, and says it helped her continue her education while being a mom of a two-year-old child and working part-time. “It was a huge financial help for me, and I am super grateful for the organization’s existence!” Moreno says. “It’s nice to know programs like this are created for a purpose of reuniting the Hispanic community and for assisting future leaders financially.”

Fiesta helps to showcase that Birmingham is a community that encourages multiculturalism, sensitivity and acceptance. For more information about the festival, visit www.fiestabham.com.

Everyone is invited to like, follow and interact with Fiesta on social media, @FiestaBham, and join the conversation using the official hashtag #FiestaBham. Birmingham Parent is a proud sponsor of Fiesta.

WHAT:

Fiesta 2018

WHEN:

Saturday, Sept. 29 from noon to 8 p.m.

WHERE: Linn Park 710 20th St. N., Birmingham, AL 35203 TICKETS: www.fiestabham.com

celebrating years

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Tips for Playdates with kids with Special Needs Playdates are an important part of childhood.

They offer time for kids to interact socially without the structure of school or extracurricular activities. They also help kids learn to share, socialize, and play freely while still having support from their parents as needed.

Kids with special needs are no exception, and benefit from playdates as much as their peers.

While they may take a little more planning and patience, it is well worth the efforts for everyone involved.

“Playdates are a crucial part of every child’s development, whether special needs or typically developing,” says Brooke Williams, M.S. CCC-SLP, a speech-language pathologist with Easterseals Birmingham. “Play dates are a great time for children with disabilities to let loose and have fun in a comfortable environment with peers.” Often a child with special needs can learn many skills by simply watching other children model behaviors such as speaking, turn-taking and more, she explains. Playdates can help with that.

Here are some tips for hosting a playdate with kids with disabilities:

BE OPEN

Our natural reaction may be to avoid talking about any disabilities a child may have, but it is better to address any questions or concerns beforehand so everyone is more comfortable and knows what to expect.

“Parents should talk about activities their kids can do,” says Marliese Delgado, lead physical therapist with United Ability in Birmingham.

“You may have to adapt an activity, or find 12 | birminghamparent | september 2018

By Sarah Lyons

something that everyone likes to do. Be open about what makes your child comfortable.”

Another great strategy is to plan activities that unite the kids. Kids who struggle with talking to peers or sharing toys may find that a common interest helps them feel more at ease. Find out the interests of the kids you are hosting and offer an activity around one that excites all of those invited. Ideas could include a craft, a game, or visiting somewhere that fosters that interest.

Talk to your child with special needs about the playdate, and it is also a good idea to talk to your typical children openly about differences they may have with their friends. Explain that just because others may seem different or express their joy differently, it doesn’t mean they don’t enjoy playdates or making new friends as well.

“There are books you can read that will help children understand, and PBS has many shows that depict children with special needs that will help alleviate any anxiety,” Delgado adds.

“Actually, (playdates) are a wonderful way to teach all children to be comfortable with one another; that interacting with all kinds of people and situations is normal, and you will be helping your child become a more successful adult.”

BE STRATEGIC

Prior to the playdate, discuss with the other parents about what would be the best location to have the playdate. For some, their own home is more comfortable and successful. For others, staying at home may encourage the special needs child to say hello, then retreat to their room while company visits. In this case, it may be better to go to a public place that everyone can

PLAYDATE ACTIVITIES THAT UNITE • Build something – Legos, blocks, wooden train sets • Pick something they are both interested in and go do it • Arts and crafts • Outside play • Quiet stations for the quieter group – set up puzzles, coloring sheets, books or blocks • Set up a sensory bin • Pick a neutral location – museum, park or zoo

enjoy, such as a park, museum, or zoo.

“Look at your space and see if it will accommodate a wheelchair, walker, etc. depending on what the children need,” Delgado says. “Do you have steps? Work those things out ahead of time so that all the children can participate.”

On the other hand, parents who have a child prone to running away or hiding may find a public place overwhelming. Discuss your plans with all the parents involved and come up with the best solution for everyone.

BE PATIENT

Whenever kids are involved, patience is important. Try to understand that kids may have different reactions to situations, things may not

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“Actually, (playdates) are a wonderful way to teach all children to be comfortable with one another; that interacting with all kinds of people and situations is normal, and you will be helping your child become a more successful adult.” – MARLIESE DELGADO, UNITED ABILITY

go exactly as expected, and that it may take some time for kids with special needs to warm up to the situation.

Some children with special needs may prefer to participate in parallel play. Parallel play is when kids play beside each other, but do not interact with one another. Children who play alone during parallel play still enjoy the time together and are usually interested in what the other children are doing. If things do not go as planned, it is okay to cut the playdate short and try again in the future.

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It is most important to note that kids with disabilities or special needs are just like anyone else; they want to interact with friends and be loved and appreciated. When hosting a playdate with kids with disabilities, it’s important to greet them and interact with them as you would anyone else you meet.

“Children learn very young about social demands and most children thrive when given praise by others, whether it be a parent, peer, or caregiver,” Williams says. “What we also know is that children are eager to have the same opportunities and rewards that they see their peers receiving. Using peers during a playdate is an excellent way to facilitate play/social, learning, language and academic skills.”

BE UNDERSTANDING

Parenting is not easy, and we all struggle with different challenges when it comes to our children. Ask the parent if they need help with anything prior to the playdate. Try to be patient and understanding. The other parent may be overwhelmed or tired. It may have been challenging to get there. All parents have great days where everything goes as planned and tough days where it seems nothing does. Listen and offer a hand when needed and they will most likely offer the same in return.

“Playdates are great times to share experiences,” Delgado says.

“Parents can get really lonely because others think their child is so different, but all children have some shared experiences.”

The most important tip for having a playdate with a special needs child is just to have them. It may take a little more planning and patience than the average playdate, but it is so worth it to both the parents and kids involved. Playdates offer a great chance for kids to interact with peers and make friends in a non-stressful way, and they are also a great time for parents to connect and build each other up as well.

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

14 | birminghamparent | september 2018

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DIRECTORY FALL HIGHLIGHTS 2018

Your One-Stop Source for Birmingham’s Kids with Special Needs Following is an abbreviated list of local resources and services in this issue of Birmingham Parent for Alabama kids with special needs.

There are a number of services offered throughout the state for parents with children with disabilities, from inclusive school care programs to music and sports teams and classes. You can read an even more complete list that includes more government services and other businesses at http://birminghamparent.com/directory/article/birmingham-parents-2018-special-needs-directory/.

If you know of an organization or service that should be included in our online special needs directory, please contact us at editor@birminghamaparent.com or fax to 205-624-2415. The resources here have helped make this directory and issue of Birmingham Parent possible.

Alabama Department of Public Health www.alabamapublichealth.gov Promotes, protects and improves the health of individuals and communities of Alabama.

Alabama Family Trust 205-313-3915 www.alabamafamilytrust.com A nonprofit special needs trust that holds and administers money for children and adults with disabilities, including the elderly in nursing homes to help become eligible and maintain government benefits such as Medicaid and SSI.

Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind 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 nearly 25,000 infants, toddlers, children, and adults in Alabama each year.

AIM PLUS Medical Supplies Moundville and Tuscaloosa 866-919-1246 www.aimplusmedicalsupplies.com

We are able to fill both individual orders for clients with insurance (for diabetic testing supplies, catheters and insulin pump supplies), as well as a wide range of products both of small or large quantity through our governments contracts and business to business department.

Autism Society of Alabama 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.

BOOST Kids Occupational Therapy & Yoga 205-767-9207 www.boostbirmingham.com “BOOSTing” children’s function in motor skills, life skills, social skills, and wellness through attentive, family-centered services. Accepting most insurances! #HappyHealthyCalmStrong Bradford & Holliman, LLC 205-663-0281 www.bradfordholliman.com Estate and long-term care plan-

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Brookwood Baptist Health Four locations in Central Alabama BBHob.com • Brookwood Baptist Medical Center Birmingham, AL • Princeton Baptist Medical Center Birmingham, AL • Shelby Baptist Medical Center Alabaster, AL • Walker Baptist Medical Center Jasper, AL With four hospitals delivering throughout central Alabama, access to an entire network of specialists, and countless ways to customize your experience, Brookwood Baptist Health is a community of care dedicated to making your new beginning a happy one.

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

For a more complete directory of Special Needs Services and Products, visit:

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State-Level Advocacy & Representation Information & Referral Family Camps Respite Program 30+ Networking Groups for Support & Awareness Regional Conferences & Local Education/Training Autism-Friendly Business Designation Program Sensory Activities Library Resources Safety Net Campaign Transition Roadmap Celebrating Neurodiversity Promoting Acceptance Understanding Challenges 16 | birminghamparent | september 2018

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Children’s of Alabama 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.

Easterseals of the Birmingham Area 205-942-6277 www.eastersealsbham.org Our mission is to create solutions that change the lives of children and adults with disabilities or other special needs and their families.

Griffin Mobility 256-751-1365 www.griffinmobility.com Griffin Mobility is your source for wheelchair accessible vehicles, automotive adaptive equipment and home accessibility products.

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Horizon Medical Healthcare & Spa 205-733-6676 https://horizonmedicalnow.com/ We are an integrative medical practice, combining Family Medicine, Complementary and Alternative therapies, and Spa Medicine in one truly unique practice. What makes Horizon an innovative leader is our holistic and functional approach to health care.

Mitchell’s Place 205-957-0294 www.mitchells-place.com Providing comprehensive, research-based, educational, social and therapeutic services for children, adolescents, and families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disabilities in a deeply caring environment.

Mobility Central 205-916-0670 www.mobilitycentralinc.com Mobility Central employs a team of highly trained and caring medical equipment professionals dedicated to the wellbeing of our patients. ​ Montgomery Children’s Specialty Center 334-261-3445 www.montgomerychildrenscare.com A preferred children’s nursing and rehabilitation facility in Montgomery, AL which provides services to children with severe developmental disabilities that require ongoing nursing care.

Pediatric Therapy Associates, Inc. 205-823-1215 www.pediatricptot.com Providing outpatient pediatric physical and occupational therapy to children and teenagers with special needs, sports related injuries, medical/pain issues, early intervention and school therapy.

Service Dogs Alabama 334-676-3733 www.ServiceDogsAlabama.org

Training medical and psychiatric assistance Service Dogs for disabled children, adults, and Veterans. Assistance Dogs International (ADI) standards for Public Access and task training are met. Diabetic & Seizure Alert, Mobility/Wheelchair Assistance, PTSD, and Autism.

UAB Medical West 205-481-7000 www.medicalwesthospital.org United Ability 205-944-3939 www.unitedability.org United Ability provides innovative services connecting people with disabilities, of all ages to their communities and empowering individuals to live full and meaningful lives. We envision a world where disability is neither defining nor limiting.

Unless U 205-215-5209 www.unlessu.org Committed to serving adults with developmental disabilities and their families through continued education, life skills, and social skills.

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The Misunderstood Child:

Sensory Processing 101

By Sarah Lyons

A typical morning in my home begins with the words “My clothes hurt me. They are too loose. I need new clothes.” As a result, I begin the search for the “right” clothes for my 4-yearold daughter. After much time, many tears, lots of tight hugs, and a good dose of frustration, she begins her day in the same dress she wore the day prior and many days prior to that. The process of getting dressed, which seems simple to most, is the biggest challenge my child faces on a daily basis.

This situation is one example of what living with a child with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is like. “Imagine being in an environment where the noise around you is amplified to the highest level, the temperature is the coldest or hottest you have ever felt, you are wearing the most uncomfortable clothing that has ever touched your skin, and you are nauseated by a repulsive smell. All at the same time. What would be your response? Most would quickly escape the situation.” says Dana Lyons, occupational therapist at Boulder City Hospital.

“These are examples of what a child with SPD feels, but they cannot escape the symptoms.

As a result, these children may respond with anger, frustration, or ultimately avoid situations which may cause a breakdown.”

Sensory processing is a term that refers to the way the nervous system receives messages from the senses and turns them into appropriate motor and behavioral responses. “Everyone processes sensory input, but some people process it differently than others.” says Carrie Grosdidier, occupational therapist. “When the processing of this information interferes with our ability to function on a day-to-day basis is when we have a problem.”

Sensory Processing Disorder can be hard to diagnose because it affects each person differently. “Any of the five senses can be affected by being hypersensitive (overstimulated) or by being hyposensitive (under simulated).” adds Lyons.

A hypersensitive response to sensory input may include: • Distracted by noises that sound normal to others (flushing toilets, clanking silverware) • Fear of surprise touch or avoid hugs • Avoids swings and playground equipment that others enjoy • Has poor balance, falls often 18 | birminghamparent | september 2018

A typical morning in my home begins with the words “My clothes hurt me.

They are too loose. I need new clothes.”

A hyposensitive response to sensory input may include: • A constant need to touch people or textures • An extremely high tolerance to pain • May often harm other children and/or pets when playing, doesn’t understand own strength • Fidgety and unable to sit still, enjoys movement based play such as spinning, jumping, swinging etc.

• Seems to be a “thrill seeker” and can be dangerous at times Children can have one or many of these characteristics, as well as some from each category and in varying degrees of severity.

“Unfortunately, these responses are viewed by others as children behaving badly when in fact they are not,” Lyons says. “The most important thing to understand is that children with SPD are not “bad” children. They are simply trying to survive in their own skin, in a world with heightened or lowered sensations. Typical punishment for “bad” behavior is not optimal and can cause regression rather than progression.”

Stephanie Beaudry, mom of two children with SPD, says, “When trying to explain my son’s hyperactivity or clumsiness is due to SPD, we get told ‘Oh, it’s just his age,’ but it’s actually because his nervous system doesn’t respond as it should in certain situations.”

SPD may cause motor clumsiness, behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, or other impacts if not treated effectively.

SPD does create challenges for families, but there is treatment available for kids who struggle with it. “We had a fabulous occupational therapist that helped my son. She gave us tools and gave him permission to figure out what worked for him and what didn’t,” says Joy Alsup, mom of four. “He has a high need for tight, long hugs and we understand that this is what helps him. It’s a huge priority for us.”

With the help of an occupational therapist, kids with SPD can find tools that help them balance sensory input. Activities may include

swinging, wearing a weighted vest, pushing or pulling heavy objects across the room, or jumping on a trampoline. Many of these activities are fun for the child and can be integrated into playtime at home.

“The therapy helps more than just their physical strengths but also their emotional strengths,” explains Beaudry. “When my daughter first started therapy, she was extremely shy. She wouldn’t even talk to children her own age when they approached her. Now, four months later, she is a social butterfly.”

An occupational therapist’s main goal is to educate parents about SPD and give families tools they can use to help the child progress at home. Although families that deal with SPD may have struggles with things other people see as “normal” activities, many parents find hope in their child’s progress and support from other parents dealing with this disorder. “One thing I have learned after experiencing our journey is that I am not alone. There are so many others that understand what I am going through and we are there to support each other in many ways.” says Beaudry.

Parents should educate themselves about SPD and begin to approach the situation from the child’s perspective. Parents can then begin to use the tools needed to adjust their environment and celebrate as their child meets their goals and overcome challenges.

“When my son was diagnosed, I felt like he would be limited in his future,” Alsup says.

“He has worked through many of his issues and I see his SPD as part of what makes him unique. I wouldn’t have him any other way.”

It takes a lot of patience, persistence, and love to parent a child with SPD, but when a child feels acceptance and supported, they can work through their struggles, and thrive in school and at home.

Sarah Lyons is a wife and mother of six. The inspiration for this article came from her daughter, Grace, who was diagnosed with Sensory Processing Disorder. She writes from her home in suburban Kansas City.

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birminghamparent.com | 19

Talking to Kids about Disabilities

By Sarah Lyons

“Why do you talk like that?” I heard the question come from behind me as I helped another child in the Sunday school class.

“It’s just the way I am.” I heard my sisterin-law wisely answer the curious boy.

My sister-in-law, Kara, was born with cerebral palsy. She was helping me in the classroom that day when one of the kids noticed her speech is different. Kara has been taught to answer “It’s just the way I am.” after years of questions about her differences.

Our kids have grown up around their beloved Aunt Kara and accept her as she is, but there came a time when each of them have asked about Kara’s disability and why it makes her different.

Chances are, at some point your child will meet someone at school or in the community who has disabilities. It is normal for children to have questions about people who are different, which means parents should be prepared to answer their questions in an intelligent and appropriate way. Here are some tips to get the conversation started: Everyone is different but the same. All of us have unique gifts, personalities, and challenges. No two people are the same, and this is a great thing because diversity makes life interesting and fun. While we are all different, everyone has things in common too.

All people, including people with disabilities, want to have friends, be shown respect and have the desire to be accepted. Encourage your child to embrace the differences of others and

find common ground, as well. If your child is interested in a popular television show, book, toy or game, chances are a person with special needs is too.

Types of disabilities. Some disabilities are obvious and some are not. Some people may need a walker or wheelchair to help them move around. Others may have a cognitive (thinking) disability that is not as visible.

Explain in simple terms that people struggle with different things and may need a little extra help from a physical tool (like a wheelchair) or help from others. People can have impairments with sight, hearing, walking, speech, cognitive, or a variety of other things. It is important to note that just because someone is in a wheelchair, it does not mean they have a cognitive disability. Also, disabilities are not contagious and children are not going to “catch” the disability. These things may sound obvious to adults, but children process things differently and many have these questions.

Name calling is never okay. Emphasize that people with disabilities have feelings too.

Name calling is hurtful, disrespectful, and is a form of bullying. People with disabilities need others to stand up for them when they cannot stand up for themselves. Encourage your child to tell an adult if kids are teasing another child. Your child can be an example to others by being kind and respectful. Parents can set an example by using positive language and behavior towards others, as well.

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A note about “rude” comments. Kids are curious and love to ask questions. Many times they will speak exactly what is on their mind, without thinking about whether the comments will be hurtful. This can be very embarrassing to parents. So what do you do if your child blurts out a rude and embarrassing comment?

Start by answering calmly. If, for example, your child says “Why is that boy in a wheelchair?” simply answer, “He needs it to move around. Why don’t you say hello?” If the child is reluctant, say hello to him yourself along with something like “John likes trains. Do you like trains too?” If the person accompanying the child responds, follow their lead. It is always better to treat others as you would like to be treated than to hurry away in an embarrassing situation. Later, when you are at home, you can ask your child if they have any other questions about others with disabilities and reinforce the value of treating everyone equally.

My sister-in-law, now 38, has been asked many questions over the years, some rude and some just curious. She has learned to handle them well because she knows that, just like anyone else she has challenges to overcome and successes to celebrate. Kara loves watching movies, dancing to music, and taking care of animals. She loves eating candy, pizza, and tacos. She is fun to be around and loves to get out and explore new places. People with disabilities are just people. Sometimes that simple fact is all kids need to know.

Sarah Lyons is a wife and mother of six.

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Empower the Spectrum CHELSEA NON-PROFIT SEEKS TO PROVIDE COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUES FOR THOSE DIAGNOSED WITH AUTISM

By Emily Reed

For families with children and teens diagnosed with autism, the inability to communicate can often be a struggle.

Eva Lorusso and her daughter, Mia, are working to provide families throughout Birmingham and surrounding areas the opportunity to learn more about Soma Rapid Prompting Method, which helps the learner have the ability to express their thoughts, reasoning and opinions.

“Many autistic people, like my son, are non-verbal or have limited verbal outputs,” says Lorusso. “This method (Soma RPM) uses stimulating educational topics to engage the student and then teaches them to communicate their responses by pointing to letters on an alphabet board. The long-term goal is for independent typing.

“The principles of Soma RPM can be used to teach many other skills, all working toward helping people to achieve independence.”

Lorusso’s son, Donny, who likes to be called Umberto, had success with Soma RPM, so Eva wanted to help other families in Alabama with the opportunity to learn how to work with their own children and have a local provider help them with their journey.

Their nonprofit, Empower the Spectrum, was founded in September 2017. The organization provides Soma RPM to students. Both women are certified RPM providers out of their home in Chelsea. The two stay in contact with the developer of RPM, Soma Mukhopadhyay.

Currently, students working with Empower the Spectrum range in age from five to 25.

22 | birminghamparent | september 2018

“It is never too early to start and it is definitely never too late,” Lorusso adds. “Learning to express yourself at any age is life changing.

When we first started, it seemed that many families came to RPM after they had tried everything else to no avail, but recently we have noticed a lot of younger children starting and it is wonderful.”

Lorusso explains that one of the most common misconceptions about children diagnosed with autism is that they have an “intellectual disability.”

“We have encountered many, many, individuals that once they are able to fluently communicate with a letter board are able to show without a doubt that their disability has everything to do with a lack of control of their body and nothing to do with their intellect,” Lorusso says. “Soma RPM presumes competence, that the student can learn. Learning, understanding and reasoning must go together.”

When children and teens come to Empower the Spectrum, they are first presented with age appropriate lessons while they are assessed in areas such as visual, auditory, tactile and kinesthetic.

“Students usually started by making choices and quickly move to spelling their answers on stencils held by the teacher,” Lorusso explains.

“Learning to use their hands and eyes together and mastering the motor planning of touching each letter can take some time, but we are patient and continue to provide age-appropriate education as the student masters the navigation of the stencils. We continually work on

building the skills and move from stencils to letter boards and then devices.”

Lorusso says after the student is fluent on the letter board and is able to openly communicate thoughts, skills such as typing, handwriting and pairing purposeful speech with what the student spells are common goals for most students.

“We also work on daily living skills such as cooking and self-care, as well as hobbies and independent reading,” Lorusso continues. “Our main focus is quality of life for the student with the first goal usually being open communication, which then allows the student to have input as to what other goals they would like to master.”

Lorusso’s son is currently completing high school classes, and transferring his skills on the letter board to a keyboard and to a Dynovox Lightwriter (augmentative communication device).

Lorusso says her and her daughter hope individuals learning more about those diagnosed with autism will remember that it is important to presume competence and talk to autistic individuals just like anyone else.

For more information, email empowerthespectrum@gmail.com. Additional information about Soma can be found by visiting www. halo-soma.org.

Emily Reed is a freelance journalist living in Alabaster. She currently is a stay-at-home mom to her two children, Tobias and Lucy.

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Could My Child Benefit from a Service Dog?

By Frances McGowin

If you are thinking of getting a Service Dog for your child, there are many things to consider: Does your child really need a Service Dog? Service dogs can be life-changing for children and families who really need them. However, they are not appropriate for some lifestyles.

A service dog is not a pet. He does his job over everything. A service dog is focused on one person and expects to be with that person 24/7.

They require continued training. So if you don’t have the extra time or energy to devote to having a service dog around all of the time, maybe an “at home use only” emotional support dog trained for tasks but not public access would be a better option for you.

Other things to consider: Do you have toddlers in the house who drop food on the floor all the time? Are there toys everywhere? Do you travel all the time? Do you have a fenced yard? Can you afford high quality dog food, flea and heartworm preventative medicine, and veterinary visits? Can your child bathe a dog weekly and keep him clean?

Does your child want a service dog? Is he/she able to manage a service dog on his own and make safety decisions regarding the dog’s well-being (such as what to do if a fire alarm goes off OR know if the dog is getting too hot), etc.?

Where will you get your dog?

Best advice, do extensive research! Everybody can talk a good game, name drop trainers and training techniques, and promise whatever you want to hear, but you need to talk directly to several families who have your child’s same disability who have received a service dog from the organization that you are considering. Make sure they have a history and experience placing fully-trained service dogs.

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Is there a 100 percent guarantee?

What do you get for your money?

If an organization is selling service dogs or requiring fundraising, you want to make sure that your investment has a lifetime guarantee.

Do they provide/require continued training for the service dog and child, or does that stop once the dog is placed with your child?

Children need consistent reinforcements. Without continued training, it is likely that the once-trained service dog may be on the road to becoming a pet.

Is the service dog organization available to help problem solve with public access and tasks, especially with schools and hospitals?

Does the organization know the American Disabilities Act (ADA Law) and all that it entails?

Does the organization know public access protocols and provide this training for dog and

24 | birminghamparent | september 2018

recipient? Are they experienced service dog “educators” or do they threaten anyone who questions a service dog’s legitimacy?

Is this the right time to bring a service dog into your child’s life?

Consider your child’s age and abilities and needs compared to what they will be in another year or two. If you can pinpoint exactly what the dog should be trained to do and where the child will be taking his/her service dog for the next few years, it may be a good time.

If his/her diagnosis is changing or unstable and your family may be relocating, you may want to wait so you will know exactly what your child needs and how your family will accommodate a service dog.

Your research has to start somewhere. Service Dogs Alabama (a non-profit organization) has a wealth of information on their website: www.

ServiceDogsAlabama.org, and they are available to answer questions.

Service dogs are life-changers for children who need them. Make a checklist of pros and cons, talk to your child and your family, and above all, DO YOUR HOMEWORK. Acquiring a service dog should not be an emotional decision, but a well-thought-out treatment plan that requires a long-term commitment from your child and your family.

Service Dogs Alabama (SDA) was founded in 2010 by Frances McGowin and Ashley Taylor.

They are the largest and oldest Service Dog training organization in Alabama that trains Service Dogs for children with disabilities. SDA is an accepted Apprentice member of Assistance Dogs International (ADI), the international gold standard for service dog training.

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Lots of kids are picky eaters. They may not eat their vegetables, or they may prefer only a few of the same kinds of foods.

Children may even turn this into an uncomfortable power struggle at mealtime.

Some kids, however, can have a more difficult time with more extensive symptoms. They may have problems with various textures, tastes, or presentations of food. These issues can arise from poor sensory processing and can have behavioral components, as well. If you are concerned that your child may be experiencing a food aversion, ask yourself the following questions.

1. Does your child have trouble touching various non-preferred food items?

2. Does your child seem to become anxious around mealtime or when new foods are presented?

3. Is your child limited to less than one or two foods in each food group?

4. Is it difficult to achieve a balanced diet due to your child’s lack of choices?

5. Do you find yourself having to prepare the same foods or visit the same restaurants based solely on what your child will eat?

6. Has feeding and mealtime become a source of tension in your family?

7. Does your child gag or retch when presented with a new or non-preferred food?

8. Is your child limited to certain brands or packaging in the foods that he eats?

If you answer “yes” to more than two or three of these, then you may consider talking to your pediatrician about whether or not an occupational therapy evaluation is indicated. A Child’sPlay occupational therapist will work with you and your child to improve their tolerance of a variety of foods and make mealtimes more enjoyable for the whole family! If you think your child is a “problem feeder,” call Child’sPlay today for a free screening!

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Should I Leave an Inheritance for My Sibling?

By Melanie B. Holliman, Estate Planning & Special Needs Attorney, Executive Director of Alabama Family Trust

Now that’s a loaded question, and the answer is, “it depends”... on your sibling’s situation.

Most often, clients leave assets for a sibling in three situations: (1) the sibling is aging and has limited assets to pay for long-term care; (2) the sibling is disabled, and the client wants to provide funds help care for the sibling; and (3) the sibling has historically been a poor money manager, has few assets, and the client is worried about the sibling’s well-being long term.

In these cases, the client has the sibling’s wellbeing in mind. However, leaving an inheritance directly for the sibling will likely be a poor decision and not end the way the client intended.

benefits until those funds have been spent on her nursing home care. So, in the end, Sarah’s gift was misguided. If Sarah had put the money in a special needs trust account for Jane, the money could have been used for things Jane wanted and would not have disqualified her from Medicaid.

Aging senior sibling – An inheritance will now be part of a spend-down program if the sibling needs Medicaid. In fact, if the sibling is already receiving Medicaid benefits, the inheritance will cause the sibling to lose the Medicaid benefits until the inheritance has been spent.

For example, Jane is in the nursing home, and Medicaid pays the monthly nursing home bill.

Sarah leaves Jane $50,000 in her Will. This money will cause Jane to lose her Medicaid

Poor money manager sibling – Leaving money to this sibling is like throwing the money away. The assets will be spent quickly without the sibling having anything to show. In this case, a client can set up a trust that governs how much money the sibling receives putting some control over the assets. In fact, it may be best for the trustee to pay certain bills directly each month for the sibling so there is no chance the sibling wastes the money on unnecessary items.

Disabled sibling – The same is true if a disabled sibling is receiving SSI and Medicaid benefits. In both instances, a client should set up a special needs trust for the benefit of the sibling. With this strategy, the client has peace of mind that the sibling’s needs will be met without losing important government benefits.

If you want to leave your sibling an inheritance the best way possible, make sure you discuss the entire family situation with your attorney.

Holliman is Executive Director of Alabama Family Trust and Law Partner at Bradford & Holliman. www.alabamafamilytrust.com. This article is for educational purposes and is not intended for specific legal advice.

Plan Your Tomorrows Today Today is a good time to plan ahead for your estate and family members with special needs.

John R. Holliman, JD and Melanie B. Holliman, JD can help you plan your tomorrows.

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GRILLED FLANK STEAK WITH TOMATILLO SALSA Yield – 4 servings Prep Time – 10 minutes Cooking Time – 15 minutes INGREDIENTS 1 cup white rice

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11/2 lb. flank steak

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Salt and pepper

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6 small tomatillos, leaves removed

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1 small jalapeño, seeded and diced

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Leaves from 6 stems of cilantro

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Juice from 1 lime

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½ tsp. salt

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½ tsp. pepper

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Black beans, as side option

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DIRECTIONS Start the grill and start cooking the rice.

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Season both sides of the flank steak with salt and pepper. When the grill is hot, add steak to the grill and cook 6 to 8 minutes per side. Cooking time will depend on thickness of the filet, heat of the grill and how well cooked you prefer your steak.

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While the steak is grilling and the rice is cooking, add the tomatillos, jalapeno, cilantro leaves, salt and pepper to a small food processor and puree into fresh tomatillo salsa.

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Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing crosswise from the grain of the meat.

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Drain the black beans.

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Serve Grilled Flank Steak with Tomatillo Salsa on top with side of rice and black beans.

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Erin Chase is the home chef behind www.5dollardinners.com and author of The $5 Dinner Mom Cookbook series. She lives with her husband, four boys and one furry boy in San Antonio, Texas.

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B IRM I N G H A M T E E N

PART ONE OF TWO

ROAD RULES

for Teen Drivers

Parents, make sure you’re following the rules, too

By Tiffani Hill-Patterson

My daughter Riley, an incoming high school senior, loves the freedom she has gained since earning her driver’s license. Kate Mercer, a Spain Park High School graduate who is attending Birmingham-Southern College this fall, says freedom is the best part of having a license. “I can do more than when I didn’t drive, and I’m not relying on my parents to drive me everywhere.”

Although the 100 days between Memorial Day and Labor Day is considered the deadliest for teen driver accidents, climbing 15 percent compared to the rest of the year, any time is a good time to review road rules with our kids.

DRIVING HOME GOOD HABITS

Excellence behind the wheel starts years before teens smile for that license photo. And like most habits, good driving starts at home. After all, parents are teens’ first driving teachers, and they learn by watching us. A 2015 study from The Allstate Foundation showed that teens who engage in bad driving behaviors are likely mimicking their parents. For example, 79 percent of teens admitted to speeding, while 84 percent of parents said they drive over the speed limit. Eighty-seven percent of teens said they use phones while driving, as did 88 percent of parents.

32 | birminghamparent | september 2018

PHOTOS COURTESY OF TIFFANI HILL-PATTERSON

“Learning starts early,” says Curtis Summerville, Alabama State Trooper. “Start talking about driving when your kids are about 13. There are all these little things you can point out while you’re on the road. At a traffic signal, when the light turns green, tell them how you wait and make sure no one is running the red light before you pull into the intersection.

Demonstrate how you drive slower in the rain and tell them why. Always discuss situations as they happen. Everything can be a learning moment.”

Brad Grier, a longtime independent insurance agent, says, “Teaching a teen about driving shouldn’t begin with their learner’s permit. Instead, start talking to them earlier on your daily commutes. Show them the importance of defensive driving, paying attention to road signs, preparing to stop at traffic lights – real-world scenarios.”

“Any bad habits parents have, kids are likely to pick up,” adds Summerville. “So don’t teach them bad habits. Make sure you follow the speed limit – don’t tell them that 5 mph over is OK. Make sure you come to a complete stop at stop signs, so they don’t roll through them when they start driving.”

Auto insurance for teens: an eye-opener Parents also should research insurance plans before their teens hit the road – and be prepared for the increased cost. According to the Alabama Department of Public Health, young people ages 15-24 account for just 14 percent of the U.S. population, but they account for 30 percent ($19 billion) of the total costs of motor vehicle injuries among males and 28 percent ($7 billion) of the total costs of motor vehicle injuries among females.

Brad Grier, a longtime independent insurance agent who has a 16-year-old son, explains the reason for the increase – teens are more likely to be involved in accidents. “Because of this and other data, we see on average an 80 percent increase in overall insurance cost when a young driver is added,” Grier says.

Compare quotes from different agencies and ask about discounts. “The most common discounts for teen drivers are good grades, driver’s education completion, and usagebased driving devices,” Grier explains.

What are the most common claims that result in rate increases? “Tickets and accidents.

One speeding ticket can increase an insurance premium by 50 percent or more,” Grier says.

It’s not just driving rules that matter. Mercer says parents need to teach new drivers the basics: how to change a flat tire, how to check their oil and add a quart, how to check their tire pressure and add air. At the very least, install a roadside assistance app on their phone and teach them how to use it.

DRIVEN TO DISTRACTION

“The two distractions I see the most are drivers interacting with other passengers, and cell phone use,” Grier says. “Discussions with your teen about these dangers sometimes isn’t enough. The most successful teen drivers I see are ones that have limits early on.”

Summerville, who also is a dad, agrees. “A good rule is to put your phone away. Place it on silent to keep it from distracting you. Place it face down so you can’t see the screen. Wait until you park to check your phone.”

If your teen needs to leave the phone’s volume on, Summerville suggests that “teens and parents come to an agreement that if your child is driving, the phone should not be answered, no matter who is calling.”

SET BOUNDARIES

Mercer says having parents who set guidelines on where teens can go makes it easier on new drivers.

“It makes it so we aren’t driving all over town, and it makes it easier (to turn down requests) when all your friends start to ask you for rides everywhere.”

Summerville reiterated that the state has laws related to new drivers. “The Alabama Graduated Driver’s License Law states that a 16-year-old can have at least one additional teenage passenger in the vehicle with them. The law also states that a 16-year-old cannot drive between the hours of midnight and 6 a.m.”

Grier goes a step further and suggests that friends not be allowed to ride with new drivers for the first year, and that teens not be allowed to drive after 10 p.m.

When it comes to peer pressure, both experts say to talk about drinking and driving and plan ahead. Give them an easy out, no-questions-asked if they’re riding with a friend who is drinking, getting high, or driving recklessly. Don’t embarrass them – just go pick them up. Discussions can happen the next day.

“Don’t be in a hurry to cut your child loose just because they have a driver’s license. It’s a huge responsibility,” Summerville says. “Spend as much time with them as possible and let them drive with you in the car. Be patient, don’t yell, and be relaxed. Parent involvement is important.

“Build a good relationship with your child so they will know they can call you in any situation and you will be there to help. Always have a plan.”

a place of discovery.

Tiffani Hill-Patterson is a writer and editor with a day job and a teenage daughter. She writes about health, pop culture, and girlpower. Reach her at tiffanihill@icloud.com or visit her website at http:// tiffanihillpatterson.com. birminghamparent.com | 33

PARE N T I N G PE O P L E

Helping Children Succeed:

Doris Phillips, Circle of Love Foundation

By Lori Chandler Pruitt

Doris Phillips knows what it’s like.

Growing up, she was the kid who didn’t have what she needed to start the school year – like pencils and paper, among many other things.

At Christmas, when it came time for the kids to share what they received from Santa, she had little to say.

That’s exactly why Phillips, now part owner and chief operating officer of Lake Homes Realty and president/owner of RealSource, LLC, a title company in Pelham, started The Circle of Love Foundation. The 501(c)3 non-profit organization seeks to make sure children living in shelters and other tough circumstances have what they need for school, and Christmases to remember. The foundation began in 2004, and since then has been Santa to more than 5,000 children.

“Being poor, I was embarrassed at school,” Phillips explains. “If you aren’t excited about third grade because you have no school supplies, you sure won’t be excited about junior high or high school. If you can plant a seed of hope in these kids, letting them know that someone cares, we’ve done what we set out to do.”

Phillips has been successful in her businesses and wanted to give back. “I am very blessed, and I don’t see myself as a victim because of what I have been through. I believe life is what you make of it, and we want to do what we can to help others.”

The Circle of Love Foundation serves children who live in and around local shelters, such as Jessie’s Place, First Light, Olivia House, Grace House, The Lovelady Center, rural areas with families in need, and more. The foundation has donated more than 30,000 toys, and this year 34 | birminghamparent | september 2018

“If you aren’t excited about third grade because you have no school supplies, you sure won’t be excited about junior high or high school. If you can plant a seed of hope in these kids, letting them know that someone cares, we’ve done what we set out to do.” – DORIS PHILLIPS

hosted its 6th annual Back to School supply drive.

This year’s drive benefitted Olivia’s House, Jessie’s Place and First Light, Phillips says.

The foundation has two major fundraisers each year. It puts out boxes at the offices of customers, clients, friends and family for donations of school supplies and backpacks – “we make sure the backpacks are full,” she says – and at Christmastime for toys, winter clothing and other items, such as pajamas. The toy drive will have its 15th year this year.

The bulk of children served are from three to 13 years old, but it can vary from infants to teenagers, Phillips says. “Some years we have more teens than we expected, but it is really our last chance to speak to them to some degree before they age out,” she says. The shelters provide information on children, such as age, sex, their needs and the school supply list for the school they will attend.

When the boxes are filled, volunteers set up the contents like a store at each shelter being sponsored, by age group, and each child gets the same items, Phillips says.

The foundation also responds to specific needs that come up. For example, the foundation

and RealSource recently provided college dorm room necessities for five graduating seniors at Grace House Ministries. “We have people who call us with needs, and we love to fulfill them,” she says. “These ladies are going to college, and we’re so glad to be able to help.”

Most of all, she just wants to be there for those who need it. “If we don’t have it, I just go buy it,” she says. “We are trying to do the meaningful thing for each child.”

The organization is updating its website – http://thecircleoflove.org – and has a Facebook page, The Circle of Love Foundation. You also can reach the foundation at 205-985-2991 or email volunteer@circleoflove.com. Volunteers are always welcome and needed, she says.

Phillips has big plans for the foundation’s future – “one day, we’d love to be able to pay for college for children,” she says.

Lori Pruitt is associate editor of Birmingham Parent.

Help Alabama

Shine!

The Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) is a joint research project between the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Alabama Department of Public Health. Its purpose is to determine why some babies are born healthy and others are not in order to aid in the development and assessment of programs designed to identify high-risk pregnancies and reduce adverse pregnancy outcomes.

New mothers are randomly chosen from the state birth registry to participate in PRAMS. Surveys may be returned by mail or completed over the phone. Let your voice be heard!

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Moms who complete the PRAMS survey receive their choice of a cooler bag, diapers, or manicure set!

Responses are kept confidential to the extent of the law. For more information, please call us at 334-206-2923 or go to alabamapublichealth.gov/PRAMS ADPH does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, gender, age, religion, disability, genetic information, and other federal, state, or agency regulations and policies. Inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies may be directed to Civil Rights Coordinator: ADPH CRC, RSA Tower, 201 Monroe Street, Suite 1010, Montgomery, AL 36104, Tel. 334-206-5226, or email crcomplaints@adph.state.al.us.

2018 Back-to-School Product Guide Now that you are in the swing of things with school, here are some great products that may come in handy this school year.

Compiled by Bethany Adams Hunley

Crayola Kids@Work Activity Table (MSRP $49.99) This multi-functional 2-in-1 Activity Table is the perfect gift for aspiring artists and builders. Featuring a two-sided tray that hosts a writing surface on one side and a buildingblock base on the other, kids can spend hours building, coloring and creating their own masterpieces. This 40-piece set includes everything needed for any budding artist, and the folding design on the activity table provides easy and compact storage. Recommended for ages 3 and up. Available at Walmart.com.

Power Core E90 Electric Scooter (MSRP $129.99) Featuring a battery life of up to 70 minutes, a maximum weight capacity of 120 pounds and a 90 day warranty, you need look no further for the perfect electric scooter for your child. Including a lighter weight steel frame and increased torque, the Power Core E90 Electric Scooter takes fun to the next level.

Recommended for children ages 8 and older, this scooter reaches a max speed of 10 mph. Available at Razor.com.

Q Wunder by EQtainment (prices vary based on specific purchase) Q Wunder aims to teach emotional intelligence and mindfulness through starting conversations and play time with family via their games, books, toys and show available through the app. This wonderful resource for both children and parents also teaches manners, eye contact and appropriate ways to handle various emotions and tricky situations.

Recommended for children 2 and older. Available at qwunder.com.

36 | birminghamparent | september 2018

KiwiCo’s STEM themed Subscription Box (MSRP $16.95 a month for a year membership) KiwiCo’s STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) subscription boxes are perfect for young children of various ages. Boxes are available for children among a variety of ages, offering everything from their Critter Crate for young toddlers up to their Tinker Crate for kids ages 9-16.

Recommended for children birth to 16 years. Available at kiwico.com.

CleanWell’s Hand Sanitizer Sprays and Sanitizing Wipes Bundle (MSRP $15.00) Each new school year promises a variety of germs that your child will be exposed to throughout the day. Combat these pesky school germs by sending your child to school with CleanWell’s hand sanitizer sprays and sanitizing wipes.

Harsh chemical-free and moisturizing, these sanitizing products are safe and perfect for younger children.

Also, their small containers fit perfectly into backpacks, lunchboxes and purses. Recommended for all ages.

Available at cleanwelltoday.com.

Discountglasses.com’s Kids Prescription Eyeglasses (prices vary by frames) This large selection of top-quality optical products offers competitive prices featuring brands that children love, including Barbie, Hello Kitty, My Little Pony, Sketchers, SpongeBob Square Pants, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Tony Hawk Kids and more.

Also available is the website’s exclusive prescription eyewear brand for children: Picklez!

Featuring comfortable frames that are durable and flexible for young children, Picklez is definitely a brand worth checking out! Available at discountglasses.com.

ADVENT EPISCOPAL SCHOOL

birminghamparent.com | 37

2018 Back-to-School Product Guide Fiskars Color Change Kids Scissors (MSRP $ 4.49) This No.1 teacher-recommended brand of scissors is sure to be a hit with students this school year!

Activated by heat from little hands, these adorable scissors change colors during use. Featuring a safetyedge blade that provides the most precise cutting, while also utilizing a safer blade angle, these scissors are recommended for children ages 4 and older. Available wherever school and office supplies are sold.

Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Crayola Tree House Play Set (MSRP $14.97) Join Daniel Tiger and his friends on an exciting adventure in the Neighborhood of Make-Believe with this all new Crayola Tree House Set from Amloid. Children will have a blast with the building blocks, adorable stickers and an assortment of crayons.

Assembling the tree house only requires five easy steps, and the crayon tube provides the perfect storage container for all pieces. Recommended for children ages 3 and older.

Available at Walmart.com.

Post-it Die Cut Notes (MSRP $5.99) Available in new shapes, including emoji, floral, musical instruments, waffles + syrup and more, these sticky notes are the perfect way to encourage students to take notes and stay organized throughout the new school year. Great for teachers, too! Available wherever school and office supplies are sold.

Post-it Weekly Desk Calendar (MSRP $12.99) This calendar is the ideal way to keep up with daily and weekly tasks in an organized and minimalistic way. Write down your plans for the week, and when a new week arrives, simply tear off the old calendar and begin anew!

It is perfect for college students and teachers, too. Available wherever school and office supplies are sold.

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Nominations or testimonials submitted and/or written directly by practices will not be accepted.

Stephen Joseph Backpacks (MSRP $19.90) and Lunchboxes (MSRP $17.00) These unique and colorful backpacks and lunchboxes are sure to be a hit with younger students. Available in a variety of adorable designs, your child will certainly find a themed backpack and lunchbox that is perfect just for them. Recommended for children of all ages. Available at Stephenjosephgifts.com.

Creation Crate’s STEM Themed Monthly Subscription Box (Price varies according to the length of subscription) Creation Crate is technology education in a box, and the perfect gift for Math and Science enthusiasts! Providing a new STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) activity with each box, this monthly subscription will keep your child engaged and interested in learning within these crucial educational areas. Creation Kit Crates are available in 1, 3, 6 and 12 month options, with the price beginning at $29.99 for the one month option.

Recommended for children 12 and older. Available at creationcrate.com.

birminghamparent.com | 39

FAMILY TRAVEL

Check out Alpharetta’s IronKids Triathlon This Month Want a weekend of family fun? IronKids Alpharetta, one of the largest IronKids triathlons in the country, is returning to Alpharetta, GA on Sept. 15-16, 2018, at the newly renovated Wills Park Pool.

The IronKids event in Alpharetta has remained one of the largest youth triathlons in the country, with an expected 800 athletes competing. The race will include three divisions: Junior, ages 6 to 8; Intermediate, ages 9 to 11; and Senior, ages 12 to 15. All participants receive an Alpharetta IronKids shirt, finisher medal, chip timing and complimentary food and refreshments.

Saturday events include an expo and bike drop-off from 12-5 p.m. Sunday’s race day kicks off at 7:30 a.m. and runs until 11 a.m. Registration is now open for entrants.

The mission of IronKids is to inspire and motivate youth through sports to lead active, positive and healthy lifestyles.

It provides an interactive weekend experience for the entire family, showcasing the nation’s top youth triathlon talent as well as to positively introduce the realm of multi-sport to first-time triathletes.

IronKids is managed by Premier Event Management, a nationwide endurance race event organizer, who has partnered with the Alpharetta Convention & Visitors Bureau for nine years on this event.

For more information on registration and hotel accommodations in Alpharetta visit https://www.awesomealpharetta. com/ironkids-triathlon/. For information on more things to do in Alpharetta, call 678-297-2811 or go to awesomealpharetta.com.

Photos courtesy of IronKids Alpharetta

40 | birminghamparent | september 2018

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birminghamparent.com | 43

ASK T H E S P E C I AL I ST

sponsored by

New Migraine Treatments Enhance Quality of Life

By Jitendra Sharma, MD

If you have ever experienced a migraine, you know it is more than just a bad headache.

Migraines can be accompanied by intense, debilitating pain, nausea or vomiting, and increased sensitivity to light or noise. They are triggered by stress, hormones, bright or flashing lights, or diet. Some migraine sufferers have warning symptoms known as aura prior to the onset with visual, sensory, motor function, or speech disturbances.

Ten percent of the world’s population experiences migraines, and women are three times more likely than men to be impacted by the neurological disorder. Whether you or your loved ones suffer from migraines daily or periodically throughout the year, the disruption caused to family, personal, social or work time is significant.

Fortunately, many new treatments are entering the market to help prevent or reduce the severity of migraines. In May, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the first preventive migraine treatment for adults called Aimovig. The monthly self-injection is a new class of drug that blocks the activity of a molecule involved in migraine attacks.

Many migraine sufferers find relief with intravenous (IV) headache therapy, which combines several different medications to provide acute treatment, aimed to decrease pain and reverse or stop the progression of a migraine that has already started, and preventive treatment to reduce the frequency and severity of a migraine. IV therapies are administered in the comfort of our new infusion center, enabling patients to receive treatment in our office.

We have also seen great success with therapeutic Botox being injected around the head and neck to dull future headache symptoms. Toradol, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs) injection, and Dexamethasone, a corticosteroid injection, are extremely effective at treating chronic migraines as well.

Other treatment options include the following: • Over-the-counter pain or migraine medications, such as NSAIDs or acetaminophen (Tylenol) • Prescription migraine medications that can be taken every day to help prevent and reduce the occurrence of migraines

Ten percent of the world’s population experiences migraines, and women are three times more likely than men to be impacted by the neurological disorder. Whether you or your loved ones suffer from migraines daily or periodically throughout the year, the

• Prescription migraine medications that can be taken as soon as a headache starts, to keep it from becoming as severe

disruption caused to family, personal,

• Hormone therapy, if migraines occur in relation to menstrual cycles

social or work time is significant.

Migraines are often undiagnosed, causing many to suffer unnecessarily. With a combination of medication, lifestyle adjustments to avoid triggers, and stress management techniques such as meditation, there is hope of a better, pain-free life.

Jitendra Sharma, MD is an Interventional Neurologist with Brookwood Baptist Health Specialty Care Network.

44 | birminghamparent | september 2018

birminghamparent.com | 45

SE AN O F T H E S O U TH

Smile

By Sean Dietrich

Sixteen-year-old Ben Leary smiles too much.

That’s what they tell me.

“Ben’s smile could light up a room,” says his aunt. “It absolutely lights up the room.”

Tonight, Ben’s smile is lighting up a little room inside the Ronald McDonald house on Alabama Avenue, in Memphis. He’s been there since June.

Right now, he’s probably lying in bed, watching movies on his laptop. Or maybe he’s texting with friends, or watching YouTube.

This last year has been a doozy. Radiation treatments have taken his energy, and he’s been tired. Inside and out.

But he smiles a lot.

It all started with headaches last September.

Ben was getting ready for homecoming. He was going to take his neighbor, Julia, to a dance. It was going to be a good year. A very good year.

But headaches kept getting worse. Then came the bouts of anxiety. Then, exhaustion.

The symptoms seemed minor at first, but became crippling. One morning, he awoke with head pain too intense to bear. His mother took him to the emergency room.

Bad news. The MRI showed a tumor on his frontal lobe. A big one. Glioblastoma—one of the most aggressive brain cancers there is.

Stage four.

They rushed him to the hospital for surgery.

It was traumatic – not just for Ben, but for the whole family. And surgery was only the beginning of a long road.

More heartache came afterward. Another brain operation, a few months later. Hospital transfers. Medications. Recovery. Thirty-six radiation treatments. Thirty-six.

This is cancer in the twenty-first century, and it’s not cheap.

46 | birminghamparent | september 2018

You know the drill, the family’s world gets shaken upside down like a piggy bank. And it’s nothing but waiting rooms thereafter. His parents slept in vinyl chairs, his brother and sister lived on vending machine food. And Ben fought.

But the radiation wasn’t working. Soon: three new tumors. Two at the base of the brain, one on his spine. One growth so big it impedes Ben’s vocal cords – he can hardly swallow. But he can still smile.

“It’s not often,” says Ben’s sister, “that he doesn’t have a smile on his face.”

Maybe Ben smiles because he knows something most people don’t. Something big.

Something I wish I knew. Something that makes him unafraid.

Or maybe it’s because only six hours south of Memphis, 34,000 people are thinking of him. Praying for him. Hoping for him.

Ben’s hometown of Houma, LA is your average offshore oil town. It’s full of shrimpers, crabbers, fishermen, oystermen, oil-rig workers, and shipbuilders. And these hometown folks take care of their own.

The support has been staggering. The highschool choir performed at the local Italian restaurant to raise funds for Ben’s family. His classmates made bracelets that read: “Hope with Ben.” Then came the area-wide prayer service.

Over four hundred students, faculty, neighbors, friends, and family turned out. Then, there was the benefit auction.

And I’m just warming up.

Louisiana State Police Troop C sent Ben to New York City. Ben saw the skyscraper lights, Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, the Empire State Building.

There have been online fundraisers, hospital

visits, video messages from classmates, phone calls, texts, emails, voicemails, truckloads of stationery, chicken casseroles, plastic-wrapped gift baskets, colorful bouquets, and enough prayers to split Peruvian granite. And love.

Maybe that’s where his smile comes from.

Maybe. I don’t know. But I do know that news of Ben’s trademarked grin has traveled beyond Houma, outward to Tennessee, Alabama, Florida, Georgia and Texas.

One Dallas neighborhood, for instance, sold hot chocolate to raise money for a new laptop and headphones so Ben could watch movies and listen to music. It’s the same laptop he’s probably using to read this.

I hope he does read this. In fact, that’s why I’m writing it. Because yesterday, Ben told his aunt that he couldn’t wait to see his name in black-and-white print.

I hope he knows that this redheaded writer’s attempt to depict him in black-and-white is pathetic. That’s because Ben’s smile could never be described on a page. Not when it’s a smile like his. The smile of a kid who happens to be made of steel inside. A smile that lights up a room.

No. Not a room. The whole world. Forever.

I am praying for you, Ben.

Sean Dietrich is a columnist, and novelist, known for his commentary on life in the American South.

His work has appeared in Southern Living, The Tallahassee Democrat, Good Grit, South Magazine, Yellowhammer News, the Bitter Southerner, Thom Magazine, The Mobile Press Register, and he has authored seven books.

1

4 7 GEORGIA

2 3

6

PUMPKIN PATCHES & FALL EVENTS GUIDE 1 4D FARM CORN MAZE & PUMPKIN PATCH

Open Sept. 28 – Nov. 3 Hours: Thursdays 2-7, Fridays 2-7 (Hours extended until 9pm last 3 weekends of October), Saturdays 10-7pm (Hours extended until 9pm the last 3 weekends of October), Sundays 1-7.

7066 County Road 703, Cullman, AL 256-775-2924 www.4dfamilyfarm.com All new for Fall 2018 low ropes course and mechanical bull! Snow tube southern style on our Barnstormer tubing slide, Ride on our cow train, zoom down an 80 ft. slide or our 200 ft. zipline, pick a pumpkin, get lost in our corn maze, squeal at the pig races, jump on Johnny Jumper, see the Goats on the Barn and MUCH MORE! Admission $13.95 + tax, includes most activities.

Seniors 65+ are $10.95 + tax. Under 2 free.

Season Pass: $24.95+tax

2 BENNETT FARMS

Sept. 29-Oct. 28 Fri. 2-5pm, Sat. 9am-5pm, Sun. 1-5pm 1073 County Road 13, Heflin, AL 36264 256-302-1896 (cell) 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! We love sharing our farm with you!

5

3 BOO AT THE ZOO AT THE BIRMINGHAM ZOO

Oct. 11-14, 18-31 from 5-9pm 2630 Cahaba Rd. Birmingham, AL 35223 205-879-0409 www.birminghamzoo.com Make plans to head to the Birmingham Zoo for Boo at the Zoo, presented by Wells Fargo! Dress in your favorite family-friendly costume as the Zoo transforms into a destination of spooky attractions. Ride the Spider Slide, jump on the Eerie Express train, see a Wildlife Show, ride the ghost rollers, take a spin on the Scarousel, trick-or-treat throughout the Zoo and SO much more!

4 THE GREAT PUMPKIN PATCH

Open Sept. 29-Nov. 4 Mon-Thurs. 8am-4pm Fri.-Sat. 8am-6pm and Sun. 1pm-6pm 288 County Hwy 45 Hayden, AL 35079 205-616-6431 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.

5 PENTON FARMS

3595 County Road 59 Verbena, AL 36091 205-351-1480 www.pentonfarms.com

pentonfarms@gmail.com A fourth generation family owned farm with tons of activities for kids and adults! Please see our website for all the activities we have to offer!

6 PUMPKIN PATCH EXPRESS AT THE HEART OF DIXIE RAILROAD MUSEUM

Saturdays in October - 10am, 1pm, & 3pm Sundays in October - 1pm & 3pm 1919 Ninth St., Calera, AL 35040 www.HODRRM.org 205-757-8383 Board our vintage train for a beautiful autumn ride through the scenic forests of Shelby County to pick your perfect pumpkin from the Pumpkin Patch! Enjoy a hay ride, jump in the bounce house, and participate in a variety of other family-friendly activities! Get your train tickets, purchase your pumpkin, and find more info at www.

HODRRM.org.

7 STONE MOUNTAIN PUMPKIN FESTIVAL: PLAY BY DAY, GLOW BY NIGHT

Sept. 22-Oct. 28 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd.

Stone Mountain, GA 30083 www.stonemountainpark.com Take in the splendor of autumn while you enjoy park attractions, fun-filled games, live shows, and more! New for 2018, a family-friendly nighttime fall event with thousands of carved jack-o-lanterns lighting up each night!

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48 | birminghamparent | september 2018

Sponsored by

calendar highlights

Even with school back in full swing, there’s a lot to do in the month of September. Family festivals, fundraisers, outdoor

SEPTEMBER

activities and more await this month, giving families plenty of opportunities to build strong bonds and have fun.

27-29

29

SAINT GEORGE MIDDLE EASTERN FOOD FESTIVAL 10:30am-9pm, Saint George Melkite Catholic Church. An annual favorite!

Experience a wide variety of homemade Middle Eastern food. Drive-through food service between the hours of 11am-7pm. Live entertainment, church tours, shopping and more. A portion of the proceeds benefits local charities, and allows the parish to feed the homeless, prepare meals for women in shelters, provide diapers and other paper products and sponsor an angel tree at Christmas. Information, www.saintgeorgeonline.org and follow the festival’s Facebook page at St George 2018 Middle Eastern Food Festival.

Birmingham Parent is a sponsor!

FIESTA 2018 Noon-8pm, Linn Park, Birmingham. Fiesta, Alabama’s largest celebration of Hispanic culture and heritage, is celebrating its 16th year. Experience more than 20 represented countries and the best of Hispanic art, music, food and dance. Birmingham Parent is a sponsor! www. fiestabham.com.

at the Birmingham Museum of Art

Register Today: artsbma.org birminghamparent.com | 49

calendar

Sponsored by

September 24, get help in K-12 subjects from Homewood High School Peer Helpers and surprise guests from the Greater Birmingham Humane Society.

Knight Chess Tournament 5:30-7pm, Homewood Library.

Learn strategy and have fun!

Grades K-12.

11 TUESDAY Harvest of Hope Luncheon 10am silent auction, 11:30am auction, The Club. This event benefits Oak Mountain Mission Ministries, a non-profit organization that provides food, clothing, furniture and financial assistance to those in need in Shelby County and the greater Birmingham area. Speaker is Roddy Cooper, director of Oak Mountain Mission, who founded the mission from his basement in 2001. Janet Hall of WBRC Fox 6 is master of ceremonies. Reservations required. To sponsor a table or for more information, 205-685-5757, oakmtnmissions. com.

27th Alabama Symphony Orchestra Explorer Series 9:30am, 11am, Northpark Baptist Church, Trussville. The symphony presents a fun musical adventure for pre-K through 2nd graders! A great way to introduce your child to the symphony. Tickets $6. www.alabamasymphony.org.

1 SATURDAY

5 WEDNESDAY

9 SUNDAY

The Market at Pepper Place 7am-noon, Pepper Place, 29th St. S. Rain or shine! www.pepperplacemarket.com.

Sensory Storytime 10:30-11am, Homewood Library.

Join Ms. Laura for books, songs and activities that stimulate the senses and promote learning in a sensory-inclusive atmosphere.

GRANDPARENTS DAY

Mt Laurel Farmers Market and Craft Fair 8am-noon, Town of Mt Laurel.

Valleydale Farmers Market 8am-noon, 4601 Valleydale Road. www.valleydalefarmersmarket.com.

3 MONDAY

LABOR DAY

4 TUESDAY A Night in Budapest 7:30pm, Samford University Brock Recital Hall. The Alabama Symphony Orchestra presents selections by Brahms, Bartok, Lehar, Liszt and more. Tickets, information, www.alabamasymphony.org.

6 THURSDAY Family Yoga 6-6:45pm, Homewood Library.

Children, parents and caregivers can spend quality time together and practice yoga!

8 SATURDAY The Market at Pepper Place 7am-noon, Pepper Place. Rain or shine! www.pepperplacemarket. com.

Mt Laurel Farmers Market and Craft Fair 8am-noon, Town of Mt Laurel.

50 | birminghamparent | september 2018

4th Annual Graze: Birmingham 5-8pm, Avondale Brewing Company. This farm-to-fork fundraiser benefitting the Alabama Sustainable Agriculture Network celebrates the best in Birmingham local food. Live music, local beverages and more. Tickets, information, http://asanonline. org/graze and on Facebook.

10 MONDAY Homeschool Happening: The Science of Ice Cream 10-11am, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Charity Waldrep from Shelby County 4-H shows that ice cream is the fun side of dairy.

Make and taste! Grades 1-12.

Free Tutoring 3:30-4:30pm, Homewood Library. Mondays through

13 THURSDAY Gardendale Farmers Market 9am-1pm, Gardendale Civic Center.

Veteran Community Health Summit 9am-5pm, Hoover Library.

A summit to enhance the mental health and well-being of veterans and their families through increased collaboration between the VA and the community. Topics will focus on access to services and suicide prevention. Information, 205933-8101, x6774.

Mendelssohn’s Italian Symphony 6pm, Alys Stephens Center, UAB. For this event, the ASO is partnering with Desert Island Supply Co., a nonprofit dedicated to helping students develop the creative tools they need to explore and document their world. Tickets, www.alabamasymphony.org.

14 FRIDAY American Girls Club 4pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Girls age 7-up can learn about the character Lanie,

Sponsored by

who loves the environment.

Come with or without a doll.

Sign up requested.

Zoo Gala 2018 7-11pm, Birmingham Zoo. Dance party hits, dinner and cocktails. Age 21-up. Tickets, information, www.birminghamzoo.com.

15 SATURDAY The Market at Pepper Place 7am-noon, Pepper Place.

Rain or shine! www.pepperplacemarket.com.

Mt Laurel Farmers Market and Craft Fair 8am-noon, Town of Mt Laurel.

16 SUNDAY Trucks by the Tracks 11am-5pm, Railroad Park.

Lawn games, activities, live bands, food trucks and more.

Benefitting Railroad Park.

18 TUESDAY Family Night: The DIY Magician 6pm meal, 6:30pm show, Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest. The DIY Magician is an entertainer, traveler, do-it-yourselfer, author and YouTube enthusiast. His shenanigans onstage paired with his DIY props provide hilarious entertainment for all ages. 205-978-0155, http://vestavialibrary.org.

FREE. Birmingham Sci Café 6-8pm, John’s City Diner.

Join other science geeks and novices for an exciting presentation, lively discussion and a little science trivia! Event free to public. www.mcwane.org.

20 THURSDAY Homeschool Hour: Homewood Police K-9 Unit 2-3pm, Homewood Library.

Learn how the police department works with K9 dogs to fight crime! Register online, www.homewoodpubliclibrary.org.

American Girl Night with Luciana 2-3pm, Homewood Library.

Reach for the stars with Girl

of the Year 2018, Luciana Vega! Bring your favorite doll for a night of science inspired fun. All ages.

21 FRIDAY Birmingham Does Broadway 7pm, Samford University Wright Center. Part of the Red Diamond SuperPOPS series, hear talented local performers singing the best of Broadway with the Alabama Symphony Orchestra. Featuring the music of Stephen Sondheim, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Stephen Schwartz and more. Tickets, www.alabamasymphony.org.

22 SATURDAY FIRST DAY OF AUTUMN The Market at Pepper Place 7am-noon, Pepper Place.

Rain or shine! www.pepperplacemarket.com.

Head Over Teal 5K/10K Family Fall Festival 7am-noon, Hoover Town Hall at the Preserve. The Laura Crandall Brown Foundation presents this annual event.

Walk or run on people and pet-friendly courses through the wonderful neighborhoods of the Preserve. Free fall festival begins at 9am and includes food, live music, vendors, photo booth, inflatables, face painting and more. 205783-1285, www.thinkoflaura. org/HeadOverTeal.

Mt Laurel Farmers Market and Craft Fair 8am-noon, Town of Mt Laurel.

Adoption Bootcamp Seminar 8:30am-5pm, Oak Mountain Presbyterian Church. The UAB International Adoption Clinic at Children’s of Alabama will host a seminar for families interested in both international and domestic adoption. Parent panel discussion included. Continuing education credits available.

Free parking and snacks. $150 per family. Information, 205-638-6964, adoption@ peds.uab.edu.

family children newborn seniors couples maternity wedding boudoir photogenic modeling events engagement Family Favorite

2018

No Sitting or Session Fees!

In studio or outdoor photography available 205-902-0385 www.ChristyPiercePhotographyLLC.com birminghamparent.com | 51

calendar 23 SUNDAY Southeastern Outings Dayhike 2pm, Homewood High School.

Spend two hours on a moderately easy hike in the lower preserve. Well-behaved, properly supervised children 6-older welcome. Meet 2pm in the high school parking lot. Dan Frederick, 205-631-4680, seoutings@ bellsouth.net.

Special Siblings 3:30-4:30pm, Homewood Library, Room 101. A support group to share ideas, experiences and the ever-changing needs of having a special needs sibling. Grades K-12.

27 THURSDAY Gardendale Farmers Market 9am-1pm, Gardendale Civic Center.

Alabama Symphony Orchestra Explorer Series 9:30am, 11am, Northpark Baptist Church, Trussville. The symphony presents a fun musical adventure for pre-K through 2nd graders! Tickets $6. www. alabamasymphony.org.

Sponsored by

37th Saint George Middle Eastern Food Festival 10:30am-9pm, Saint George Melkite Catholic Church. An annual favorite! Experience a wide variety of homemade Middle Eastern food. Drive-through food service between the hours of 11am-7pm.

Live entertainment, church tours, shopping and more. A portion of the proceeds benefits local charities, and allows the parish to feed the homeless, prepare meals for women in shelters, provide diapers and other paper products and sponsor an angel tree at Christmas. Information, www.saintgeorgeonline.org and follow the festival’s Facebook page at St George 2018 Middle Eastern Food Festival. Birmingham Parent is a sponsor.

Taste of Trussville 5:30-8pm, Trussville Civic Center. Sample food from area restaurants and bakeries. Live entertainment and cash wine bar. A portion of the proceeds benefits the Trussville Chamber of Commerce’s scholarship fund.

Tickets $15 in advance; $25 at the door. 205-655-7535, www. trussvillechamber.com/chamber-events/taste/.

28 FRIDAY 37th Saint George Middle Eastern Food Festival 10:30am-9pm, Saint George Melkite Catholic Church, see Sept. 27.

29 SATURDAY The Market at Pepper Place 7am-noon, Pepper Place. Rain or shine! www.pepperplacemarket.com.

Mt Laurel Farmers Market and Craft Fair 8am-noon, Town of Mt Laurel.

37th Saint George Middle Eastern Food Festival 10:30am-9pm, Saint George Melkite Catholic Church, see Sept. 27.

Southeastern Outings at Oak Mountain State Park 11:30am, Beaver Lake, Oak Mountain State Park. Group potluck picnic, boating rentals, hiking. Information, please contact Acyenith Alexander, 205-529-2253 (picnic); Dan Frederick, 205-631-4680, seoutings@bellsouth.net (boating); Kerry Cooper, 205-541-5233, kkcooper22@gmail.com (hiking).

Fiesta 2018 Noon-8pm, Linn Park, Birmingham. Fiesta, Alabama’s largest celebration of Hispanic culture and heritage, is celebrating its 16th year. Experience more than 20 represented countries and the best of Hispanic art, music, food and dance. Birmingham Parent is a sponsor. www.fiestabham.com.

30 SUNDAY Southeastern Outings Dayhike 2pm, Black Creek Trail, Fultondale. Wide, level trail on an old railroad right of way. Well-behaved, carefully supervised children age 7-up able to walk four miles welcome. Depart 2pm from Black Creek Park, Fultondale. Dan Frederick, 205-6314680, seoutings@bellsouth.net.

Symphony 30 Picnic 4pm, Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Tickets, information, symphony30.org.

PLEASE NOTE: Events may change after publication deadline; please phone ahead to confirm important information. The deadline for submitting calendar items for the October 2018 print issue is September 7. Mail calendar items to: Calendar, Birmingham Parent, P.O. Box 326, Helena, AL 35080; fax to 624-2515; e-mail to calendar@BirminghamParent.com; or enter directly to the online calendar at www.birminghamparent.com. Entries added online after the print deadline will not appear in the print version. Information cannot be accepted over the phone. Birmingham Parent publishes a calendar 11 times a year. January events are included in the December issue.

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

Wagon Rides 5 1/2 Acre Corn Maze Animal Barn Cow Milking Station Large Corn Pit Cotton Picker Play Area Cow Train Playground Concessions Picnic Area Corn Cannon Human Hamster Wheel Super Slides Pumpkin Bowling

SEP 22-OCT 31 OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Monday-Friday 1-5 and Saturday 8-5

www.pentonfarms.com . 3595 Co Rd 59, Verbena, AL 36091 52 | birminghamparent | september 2018

Sponsored by

ALL ABOARD ABOARD THE THE ALL

events & attractions n Alabama School of Fine Arts 1800 Rev. Abraham Woods, Jr. Blvd., www.asfa.k12.al.us

n Birmingham Botanical Gardens 2612 Lane Park Road, Birmingham. 205-414-3900, www.bbgardens.org

n Birmingham Civil Rights Institute • Human and Labor Trafficking: A Conference on Law Enforcement and Civil Rights.

BCRI and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Birmingham Division, will sponsor their annual conference on human and labor trafficking on Sept 16-17. On Sunday, Sept. 16 from 3-7pm, the public is invited to a program at the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church that includes discussion of labor and sex trafficking and a tour of BCRI. The tour will include the photography exhibit, “Foot Soldiers: Profiles in Courage: Then and Now” by Chester Higgins. Then on Monday, Sept. 17 at BCRI there will be training sessions for community leaders from 8am-5pm.

Training is free; registration is required. www.bcri.org or www. bcri.org/fbi-conference-2/ 16th St. N., Birmingham.

205-328-9696, www.bcri.org

n Birmingham Museum of Art • Bart’s Art Cart! Free drop-in art program for kids and families features a different theme from galleries and art activity each month. Saturdays from 11am-1pm.

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

2000 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd., Birmingham. 205-2542565, www.artsbma.org

n Birmingham Zoo In-park Special Attractions: • Special Saturdays. On the second Saturday of each month from 10-11am for ages 8-up, the Birmingham Zoo and KultureCity will present a series of zoobased learning experiences for children and adolescents with cognitive or physical disabilities. Caregivers must attend all classes. FREE; space is limited to 10 students per class.

Information, Roger Torbert, rtorbert@birminghamzoo.com.

2630 Cahaba Road, Birming-

ham. 205-879-0409, www.birminghamzoo.com Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum 1919 Ninth St., Calera. 205-6683435, www.hodrrm.org McWane Science Center • Throwback Prices! On the 20th of every month this year, McWane will offer admission at the same price as it was when it opened 20 years ago!

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

• Dinosaurs in Motion.

Through 09/3.

• Itty Bitty Promotion Day. Did you graduate from kindergarten this May? Come to the promotion party! Graduates will receive a certificate, graduation photo and a special play time in the Bitty before McWane opens.

September 8. www.mcwane.org.

• Member Mondays. Every Monday, members receive extra perks while visiting! Includes a special gift for kids when checking in, 30% discount on gift shop purchases, $1 small popcorn at IMAX concession stand & a free members-only evening event each month. Second Monday of each month, McWane opens its doors from 5-8pm for its members.

• Blue Star Museums Military Discount. Blue Star Museums offers FREE admission to active duty military. To learn more visit bluestarfam.org.

IMAX Movies: • Pandas. This film follows a researcher at Chengdu Panda Base in China, where scientists are dedicated to protecting the species by breeding adult Giant Pandas in order to introduce cubs into the wild.

• Backyard Wilderness. Explore the unexpected wonders of nature right under our noses – in our own back yards!

• Everest. The dramatic true story of a team of climbers who found hope, strength and triumph in the wake of tragedy.

200 19th St. N., Birmingham.

205-714-8300, www.mcwane.org.

PUMPKIN PUMPKIN PATCH PATCH EXPRESS EXPRESS

RIDE THE TRAIN TO THE PUMPKIN PATCH EVERY SATURDAY & SUNDAY IN OCTOBER

Pick your perfect pumpkin, take a hay ride, play in the bounce house, and so much more!

GET YOUR TRAIN TICKETS, PURCHASE YOUR PUMPKIN & FIND MORE INFO AT

205-757-8383 www.HODRRM.org

A Sensory Friendly Concert with the Alabama Symphony Orchestra

Join the Alabama Symphony Orchestra for some harmonious hocus pocus in a welcoming and Sensory Sensitive environment!

Costumes are encouraged!

Sunday, 10.14.18 at 3pm Alys Stephens Center, Jemison Concert Hall

Tickets are $10. Scholarships available.

For more details, visit us at alsymphony.org/trickortreat

birminghamparent.com | 53

PO ET RY PARTY

By Charles Ghigna

morning September Sunrise Dawn breaks wakes turns the night into drops of dew that drip drip drip from the tip tip tips of swaying blades of morning grass that dance in the glow of the sudden sudden sun.

There’s magic each morning Before the sun begins to glow.

Look closely. You will see it.

Listen. You will know.

—©Charles Ghigna

Send us your poems and we will publish them here!

Parents and teachers! Send us poems written by your children ages 4-14. Include the poet’s name & age and the name of person submitting the poem. Please include your relationship to the poet (parent, teacher, etc.). Send original poems to Father Goose at PaGoose@aol.com.

For information on “How to Write a Poem,” visit the Father Goose® website at FatherGoose.com.

54 | birminghamparent | september 2018

s a m t s i r h C g n i th ery

Ev

lace

ary P n i d r o a r t x n One E

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November 9, 2018 – January 1, 2019

• NEW – ICE! featuring Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! in 2 million pounds of colorful, hand-carved ice sculptures and slides • NEW – A Trace Adkins Christmas featuring songs from The King’s Gift • NEW – Feast with The Grinch • NEW – SoundWaves, an upscale water attraction*

Tickets and Packages on Sale Now!

• Cirque Dreams Holidaze with NEW scenes • More than 3 million lights and 9 acres of stunning décor • Build-A-Bear Workshop® • Gingerbread Decorating Corner • Carriage rides, scavenger hunt, ice skating & more!

ChristmasAtGaylordOpryland.com | (888) 677-9872

NASHVILLE, TN

*SoundWaves indoor area opening Dec. 1; outdoor area opening spring 2019; guaranteed admission with exclusive SoundWaves overnight package only. PEPSI, PEPSI-COLA and the Pepsi Globe are registered trademarks of PepsiCo, Inc. TM & © 2018 Dr. Seuss Enterprises, L.P. All Rights Reserved. © & ® Build-A-Bear Workshop, Inc. Used with permission. All rights reserved

SATURDAY | SEPTEMBER 29

A CELEBRATION of

Hispanic Culture in Full Color DANCE | MUSIC | FOOD | FAMILY FUN Representing 20 Caribbean, Latin American and European Countries

¡Celebrando Nuestra Cultura Hispana A Todo Color!

BAILE | MÚSICA | COMIDA | Y MUCHO MÁS Representando A Más De 20 Países de America Latina, El Caribe y Europa

FIESTABHAM.COM #FiestaBham | @FiestaBham