Birmingham Parent's March 2019 issue by Birmingham Parent

THE PREMIER PARENTING MAGAZINE FOR CENTRAL ALABAMA â&#x20AC;&#x201D; NOW IN OUR 16TH YEAR OF PUBLISHING

Birmingham FREE

MARCH 2019

LIVING WITH

MARFAN SYNDROME INCLUSION TAKES FLIGHT

AT THE BIRMINGHAMSHUTTLESWORTH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT HELPING KIDS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS HAVE A GOOD

DENTAL VISIT 28

DIRECTORY

AIDB: WHERE STUDENTS

HAVE LIMITLESS POSSIBILITIES

SPECIAL

NEEDS

ISSUE

FAMILY & FUN

TALLAHASSEE ALL IN ONE

Tallahassee is a destination sure to ﬁll your family’s hearts with wonder. From meandering along beautiful nature trails and splashing in Cascade Park’s Centennial Fountain to enthralling spring festivals like the Red Hills International Horse Trials, Springtime Tallahassee, Southern Shakespeare Festival, LeMoyne Chain of Parks Art Festival and Word of South Festival, Tallahassee truly has it all. Plan your trip at VisitTallahassee.com

VisitTallahassee.com

While practicing a motocross jump, Brayden (BB) Butler fell and suffered a brain bleed. It would take half a year and surgeons, physicians, nurses and therapists to help him recover. Fortunately, for BB and thousands of other children, Children’s of Alabama is ranked among the top hospitals for children by U.S. News & World Report.

CHILDREN’S OF ALABAMA DOWNTOWN RUSSELL CAMPUS 1600 7th Avenue South Birmingham, AL 35233

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1940 Elmer J. Bissell Road Birmingham, AL 35243

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PEDIATRIC PRACTICE SOLUTIONS PRIMARY CARE LOCATIONS Alabaster (Greenvale Pediatrics) Bessemer (Pediatrics West) Birmingham (Midtown Pediatrics) Brook Highland (Greenvale Pediatrics) Clay/Chalkville (Pediatrics East-Deerfoot) Homewood (Mayfair Medical Group) Hoover (Greenvale Pediatrics) McAdory (Pediatrics West) Montgomery (Physicians to Children) Mountain Brook (Over the Mountain Pediatrics) Pell City (Pell City Pediatrics) Trussville (Pediatrics East) Vestavia (Vestavia Pediatrics) www.ChildrensAL.org

ed note SPECIAL NEEDS – ONE OF OUR MOST IMPORTANT ISSUES March marks our recurring special needs issue. Ironically, our very first issue of Birmingham Parent in March 2004 was dedicated to special needs. Today is no different! In fact, we now do two special needs issues a year, in addition to our Special Needs Expo, this year on March 16 and March 30 in Huntsville. We try to make every issue meaningful, and I believe that is why our advertisers and readers stay with us year after year. But for me, March and September – special needs – are especially important, because it really serves our readership and community with news parents need. Parents in the special needs community are hungry for information, because information is power. When you have a child with any type of special needs, you are always looking for ways to enhance and enrich their lives, and honestly, maybe make yours a little easier. That’s the idea behind this issue and our Special Needs Expo: To inform and empower parents. And though it is mostly dedicated to children with special needs, there is plenty of information for all parents this month, including our travel story and our popular March calendar of events. There’s something for EVERYONE! Don’t miss our Birmingham Special Needs Expo at the Exceptional Foundation on Saturday, March 16, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. or the newest in our lineup, the Special Needs Expo Huntsville at the Jaycees Community Building on Saturday, March 30, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. (See back cover for more.) And be sure to check out my story on the Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind, beginning on 10. I feel like I didn’t really do it justice – there is SO MUCH to say, and I’m limited by the pages of this issue. If your heart is touched as mine was, there is an envelope for donations for AIDB in this issue, should you feel inclined. Also with this issue, Birmingham Parent is officially 16 years old – we are beginning our 16th year of publishing! Thanks for reading and supporting us through the years! Carol Muse Evans publisher/editor carol@birminghamparent.com

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

4 | birminghamparent | march 2019

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

editorial PUBLISHERS David & Carol Evans EDITOR Carol Muse Evans ASSOCIATE EDITOR Lori Chandler Pruitt CALENDAR Lori Chandler Pruitt CONTRIBUTORS Dr. Vivian Friedman, Paige Townley, Melanie B. Holliman, Emily Reed, Erin Chase, Rebecca Mason, Dr. Calvin Spellmon Jr.

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

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

BIRMINGHAM PARENT IS A PUBLICATION OF EVANS PUBLISHING, LLC. Publishers: Carol Muse Evans, David K. Evans Sr. Birmingham Parent (EIN200694149) is published monthly by Evans Publishing LLC. www.birminghamparent.com or editor@birminghamparent.com. Birmingham Parent is © 2019 by Evans Publishing LLC. Family Connections Media ©2019/2020 by Evans Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Editorial submissions are welcome. For back issues, please send a self-addressed 10” x 13” envelope with $4 for postage and handling.

contents AIDB: WHERE STUDENTS HAVE

LIMITLESS POSSIBILITIES

Photo by Christy Pierce Photography

our focus Ways to Help Children with Special Needs Have a POSITIVE DENTAL EXPERIENCE ...................................10

our features

AIDB: Where Students Have Limitless Possibilities .......... 14

our regulars EDITOR’S NOTE Special Needs – One of Our Most Important Issues.............4 PARENTING with Dr. Friedman ..............................7 SHORT STUFF ................................. 8

Living with MARFAN SYNDROME ..................18

ASK THE ATTORNEY How Can I Give my Special Needs Child the World? ...............30

INCLUSION TAKES FLIGHT at Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport ......................20

PET PAGE: Taming That Tiny Terror ...............36

Birmingham Parent’s SPECIAL NEEDS DIRECTORY Spring 2019......................................25

DINING WITHOUT WHINING: Instant Pot Herbed Turkey Breast .................................. 37 CHATTING WITH CHILD’SPLAY: Using Books to Encourage Language Development ...............31

“Deaf. Blind. Limitless.” This is the mantra of the Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind (AIDB) in Talladega, Alabama. AIDB serves approximately 26,354 infants, toddlers, children and seniors at five campuses and eight regional centers across the state of Alabama.

FAMILY TRAVEL: DoubleTree by Hilton at SeaWorld, Orlando ................... 34

ASK THE SPECIALIST What About Sports Nutrition for Kids? ..........................38 CALENDAR OF EVENTS .............. 41 PARENTING PEOPLE: Junior League of Birmingham ....46

ON THE COVER: ON THE COVER: Grayson, age 6, of Shelby is in Kindergarten at the Alabama School for the Deaf on the AIDB campus in Talladega. PHOTO BY CHRISTY PIERCE PHOTOGRAPHY, http://www.christypiercephotographyllc.com, 205-902-0385. 6 | birminghamparent | march 2019

PAR E N TI N G

Parenting with Dr. Friedman Q: My husband and I have very different styles of parenting our 6- and 8-year-old boys. He is harsh and militaristic while I tend to nurture and understand the reason for the children’s behavior. He wants them to “stand at attention,” while I think standing at ease is OK. Before we had children we never quarreled. Now we are irritated with each other much of the time that we are together. What can we do to blend our parenting styles so that the children don’t hear all this bickering?

When two parents come together, they bring with them experiences from two different families of origin. The styles of the family each was born into are carried through in the next generation. Sometimes even the parents’ parents didn’t agree on parenting. Often the dad copies his father’s style while the mom copies her mom. Some of the differences in style between you and your husband are gender-typical ways

Family Favorite

2019

of parenting. Although this stereotype won’t hold for all men or all women, dads tend to be more rule bound, while moms tend to be more nurturing and understanding. The dads tend to want time alone with the wife, while the wives tend to want to be with their children. If you understand these differences as common ones, then you won’t take the conflict personally. This type of conflict between parents is not always a negative one for the children. Although parental bickering is not healthy, the differences may actually create a balance for children who need both nurturing and limits. When mom says, “I understand how you feel,” and dad says, “I don’t care what led to this behavior you still have to behave” the child gets a balanced upbringing and can thrive. Similarly, when mom says, “Be careful,” and dad says, “Go ahead and try it,” the child learns to both try new things and to be cautious. In our grandparents’ generation, there was less bickering between spouses over parenting because there was more division of responsibility. Mom generally raised the children and made the day-to-day decisions. Dad was the ultimate authority on discipline. Mom

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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generally deferred to dad when he was home, but he was mostly out of the home earning a living. Clear roles led to less vying for decision-making power. In some cases, it may be possible to help your husband understand how you think. Explain to him that you think that Johnny is cranky because he is tired and hungry and that feeding him will work better than making him stand in the corner and miss dinner. On the other hand, you might want to listen to his reasoning too. Maybe he feels that you always make excuses for your children and that they might be better off with some consequences for their transgressions. Remember to keep the issues in perspective. Whether or not Johnny wears a jacket on a cool day may be less important than the fact that the child is hearing his parents fight about it. Some issues are worth fighting about. Some are not.

THE WINNER WILL ENJOY: • A two-night stay at OWA’s on-site TownePlace Suites by Marriott • Tickets for 4 to The Park at OWA • Dinner at one of Downtown OWA’s restaurants. OWA has already been named Alabama’s Top Attraction of the Year. Visit www.visitowa.com. TWO 2nd prizes will be awarded. We will give away two one-year family passes to McWane Science Center.

birminghamparent.com | 7

S H O RT STU FF Enter the Homewood Public Library Student Art Contest The Homewood Public Library seeks to encourage and recognize the artistic talents of students throughout Jefferson County in kindergarten through 12th grade with its annual student art contest. Students may submit up to two original works of art produced within the last 12 months. Pieces must be exhibition ready, and weigh less than 50 pounds. Artwork should be dropped off in the library’s children’s department by Friday, March 22, with an entry form attached to the back of the work. Artwork will be judged by a panel of local artists, with first, second and third place winners in various grade categories. Due to limited space, not all artwork will be selected for display. Accepted entries will be displayed in Homewood Library’s Ellenburg Art Gallery from April 1-April 26. An opening reception will be held on Monday, April 1, at 6 p.m., where winning artwork will be revealed. Entry forms can be downloaded from the library’s website at https://homewoodpubliclibrary.org/. For more information, please contact Judith Wright at jrwright@ bham.lib.al.us.

Children’s of Alabama Behavioral Health Offers Free Workshop Series for Parents and Caregivers A series of free educational sessions offered by Children’s of Alabama Behavioral Health assists parents, caregivers and community members as they care for children with various emotional, behavioral or mental health needs. Under the direction of the CARES Program (Caregiver, Advocacy, Resources, Education and Support), the quarterly CARES Talks will be held at Children’s of Alabama in the Lowder Building (1600 7th Avenue South). Each session is from 5-7 p.m. Topics and dates for upcoming CARES Talks are: • Thursday, May 2 – Your Child’s Mental Health: Knowing the Signs and Asking for Help • Thursday, Aug. 1 – Overcoming Trauma, Grief and Other Childhood Challenges • Thursday, Nov. 7 – Nutrition and Mental Health “Our team of pediatric behavioral health experts understands the challenges that parents and caregivers of children with a mental or behavioral health condition face. Through the CARES Program, we want to help caregivers by providing them with the information, resources and support they need to understand and cope with their child’s challenges,” says Beth Rocker, MSW, LMSW, Family Care Coordinator at Children’s of Alabama. The CARES Program was developed to educate caregivers, providing critical and helpful information about treatment; to equip caregivers, teaching skills and tools to help them care for the child; and to empower caregivers, connecting them with appropriate resources and services. Registration is available at give.childrensal.org/CARESTalks. For more information, email CARES@childrensal.org or visit www.childrensal.org/behavioral-health. 8 | birminghamparent | march 2019

Foundations in Personal Finance Program Reaching Area Students Pleasant Grove High School and Corner High School in the Birmingham metro area are teaching Foundations in Personal Finance – the same timetested curriculum that has been taught in one-third of all high schools in the U.S. The curriculum, Ramsey Education, was developed by personal finance expert Dave Ramsey. It includes information about student loans, credit cards and budgeting, teaching students the value of saving, spending and giving to guide them down the path of financial literacy. Pleasant Grove and Corner are two of 250 schools across the country teaching Foundations. Jackson Charitable Foundation, the charitable giving arm of Jackson National Life Insurance Company in Lansing, Michigan, recently announced a $500,000 contribution to Ramsey Education that ensures the program reaches more students. The new partnership with Ramsey Education adds to the growing number of financial literacy programs the foundation already supports across the country. For more information about Foundations in Personal Finance, go to ramseyeducation.com.

Alabama Organ Center Becomes Legacy of Hope The leadership of the Alabama Organ Center, the nonprofit organization federally designated to evaluate and recover deceased donor organs for transplant in the state of Alabama, has changed the organization’s name to Legacy of Hope. “Legacy of Hope is a better reflection of the spirit and purpose of our organization,” says Chris Meeks, executive director. “Since our founding in 1979, we’ve had a dedicated purpose. We provide comfort to families in the midst of great loss by offering at least one positive result from their tragedy: an opportunity for their loved ones’ legacy to live on through the lives of others. And through their generosity we extend hope to those waiting for the precious gift of life. Our new name is more in line with that goal. “Legacy of Hope is about what happens next: opportunity and potential and hope,” he explains. “The organization’s mission has not changed, just the name; our operations continue seamlessly.” One in three Alabamians is a registered organ and tissue donor. Meeks says the goal is to increase those numbers. “The need for donors is more critical than ever,” he says. “One person is added to the transplant waiting list every 10 minutes. And each day, 20 people die because an organ does not become available in time. Legacy of Hope educates people about the importance of organ and tissue donation. We want to inspire and empower people to create a legacy that extends hope to people in need.” For more information, visit LegacyofHope.org.

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Tips for Dealing with Bullying From Children’s of Alabama It’s estimated about two out of ten children get bullied. Bullying is defined as an unwanted, aggressive behavior that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. It can cause lasting issues for both the victims and the bullies themselves. Dan Marullo, Ph.D, is a child psychologist at Children’s of Alabama. He says it’s important for parents to be in tune with what is going on in their child’s life so they can help recognize when a child is being bullied versus when they’re dealing with regular conflict. Marullo identifies four different types of bullying: • Physical aggression • Cyberbullying • Social bullying • Verbal bullying While physical aggression is the type of bullying most adults think of, Marullo says cyberbullying is becoming much more prevalent. Social bullying involves isolating children and excluding them from certain activities. Verbal bullying is more emotional and involves name calling or continuous teasing. How should a parent respond if they believe their child is the victim of bullying? Marullo says it all depends on the circumstances. “You want to teach your children how to cope and deal with conflict,” he says. “But you also want to protect your child if there’s a need to step in, certainly if it’s systematic or physical.”

When does it get to be a problem? “Any time you see a systematic behavior, then it’s a problem,” Marullo explains. “Certainly, if you’re seeing an ongoing issue and signs of struggle.” Signs to look for include: • Change in sleep habits • Change in appetite • Change in behavior • Withdrawal from activities they enjoy While physical bullying can be especially alarming to a parent, it’s important not to overlook the pain that emotional bullying can cause. Marullo says constant teasing and exclusion can be very painful for a child and parents may need to take steps to ensure the school is aware of the situation. He also recommends parents help their child build self-esteem. “Make sure your child is in an environment they can feel good about to build their self-esteem in a real way,” he says. “Being engaged in things that are meaningful for the child and the family are important like church, sports, or the arts.” Parents can play an important role in helping their child navigate conflict. Provide a listening ear to hear about their day, but also encourage children to talk about the positive things that are happening in their life. If a parent has concerns, they can always talk to their pediatrician or a child psychologist for additional help. birminghamparent.com | 9

WAYS TO HELP CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

HAVE A POSITIVE DENTAL EXPERIENCE

“Whether our patients understand our words or just understand the compassion in our voice, we believe communication is essential to alleviating fear.” – Dr. Stephen Mitchell

By Emily Reed

Visiting the dentist can often come with various challenges, but routine dental care for children with special needs is essential. “There are lots of ways to help children have successful visits, but we always try to be positive when talking about the dentist,” says Beth Cross, with Thomas Pediatric Dentistry in Birmingham. “Each child is different, so it never hurts to let us know what works best for your child. For example, storyboards are great for children with autism.” The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) both recommend all children establish a “dental home” by age 1. Additionally, the AAPD defines pediatric special needs dentistry as “the practices that treat children with physical, emotional, developmental, cognitive, sensory or mental 10 | birminghamparent | march 2019

impairment, as well as those affected by an orofacial disorder or condition.” Olga M. Sanchez-Hernandez, a dentist with McCalla Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry, says that as pediatric dentists, it is a unique position to provide services to special needs patients. “Our office treats special needs patients on a daily basis,” Sanchez-Hernandez says. “We treat them up to age 21. After that age, their dental needs might be such that they exceed the scope of what pediatric dentists do so, depending on their dental needs we refer them to an adult dentist.” Sanchez-Hernandez says that dental care for those with special needs often requires specialized knowledge since the array of disabilities is so vast. “During our initial interview with parents or caregivers we inquire about their

medical history, and presence of any special needs that the patient might have,” SanchezHernandez explains. “Once documented, the doctor is alerted so that we can be prepared for them in terms of allocating more time on the schedule and having adequate auxiliary personnel available.” Sanchez-Hernandez says it is crucial for parents to be as honest and thorough as possible to adequately prepare the dentist for what kind of care they will need to offer. “We have encountered that some parents are afraid to share the extent of their child’s disability because they are concerned that they will not be treated,” Sanchez-Hernandez says. “It is important to make patients feel from that initial contact that they are welcomed in our office and that we will be able to work with them to address their needs.”

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Dr. Stephen Mitchell, with Sparks Dental Clinic at UAB, says his office is dedicated to patients with developmental and cognitive disabilities. “We talk in our office to help alleviate fears in the office,” Mitchell adds. “Whether our patients understand our words or just understand the compassion in our voice, we believe communication is essential to alleviating fear. “We also will sing, listen to music, watch videos or any number of other crazy things to help our patients cope. We can schedule desensitization visits and create social stories that families can rehearse at home prior to their visits.” Mitchell admits that parents of children with special needs or challenging behaviors can often feel overwhelmed with dental visits, but he tries to let parents know everything will be OK. “We are here because of the challenging cases,” Mitchell says. “Communication is key to calming fears. Parents are

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Pediatric Therapy Associates, Inc. Children Are Our Specialty! welcome in our operatory and are free to ask questions and offer suggestions on how best to manage their child. Our attending dentists have close to 100 years of combined experience treating special needs patients, and we hope that experience is reassuring to parents.” Cross adds it is important for children with special needs to have a good experience at the dentist, so they encourage both children and parents to not get overwhelmed prior to the dental visit. “We see children 18 and under with special needs, but if you have been a patient for years with Dr. Clark Thomas, then he will continue to see them as long as he can,” Cross adds. Dr. Angelica Rohner with Angelica Rohner Pediatric Dentistry says if a child has specific sensory needs, there are options that can be offered such as a private room, referred to as the “sandcastle” room, which is calm and relaxing for them. “Our office also has sensory bags filled with different items such as sound-bending headphones, fidget toys, sunglasses and weighted blankets to help children feel more comfortable,” Rohner says. “Our entire staff is trained on the latest ways to be able to provide that extra level of care to make our patients comfortable. We partnered with Kulture City to get our Sensory Inclusive Certification, which ensures daily accessibility not limited by time and location thus creating an accepting and inclusive community for all of our patients and their families.”

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Photo courtesy Dr. Rohner

Positive Dental Experience continued from page 11

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While dental visits can cause anxiety for some patients, Sanchez-Hernandez says help from the parents or caregiver is key. “Dental anxiety and the lack of understanding dental care can cause children with disabilities to exhibit resistant behaviors that can interfere with the safe delivery of dental treatment,” she says. “With parental help, most patients with physical and mental disabilities can be managed in the dental office.” Mitchell adds his practice is unique in Alabama because they exclusively see a developmentally and/or cognitively challenged population. “Our clinic is often filled with laughter and cries, joyous cheers and anxious shouts, and everything in between,” he says. Whatever the child’s needs, it is important for parents to establish a routine, positive and consistent pattern at home. “Toothbrushing can be challenging for some of our sensory sensitive patients,” Mitchell says. “But consistency and praise can go a long way. Also, set realistic goals. While many typically developed children have all of their teeth brushed every time, some of our patients may only be able to tolerate one side of the mouth being brushed at one time, and the other side the next time. Give time for the child to develop more comfort having things done in their mouth.” Additional tips for a positive dental experience for those with special needs can include “playing dentist” at home, reading books about dentists to your child, or discussing what will happen at the appointment prior to the child’s visit.

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

AIDB WHERE STUDENTS HAVE LIMITLESS POSSIBILITIES By Carol Muse Evans

Photo courtesy AIDB

Dr. John Mascia leads the AIDB.

Photo courtesy AIDB

14 | birminghamparent | march 2019

“Deaf. Blind. Limitless.” This is the mantra of the Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind (AIDB) in Talladega, Alabama. AIDB serves more than 26,254 infants, toddlers, children and seniors at five campuses and eight regional centers across the state of Alabama. Five schools are housed within AIDB in Talladega – Alabama Institute for the Deaf, Alabama Institute for the Blind, Helen Keller School, E.H. Gentry and the Alabama Industries for the Blind, and there are programs such as the AIDB Regional Center and the Outreach to public schools statewide. While the schools here are for students who are deaf and/or blind, they are schools academically just like any other and follow the Alabama Course of Study. Some students may have additional disabilities, but it doesn’t stop them. Some believe it may even empower them to do even more, thus the idea of “limitless possibilities.” A walk through this lovely campus makes you feel like you are on any other school campus, though you may see kids talking with sign language or using a cane. Some students may have varying levels or vision or hearing loss, and some have multiple disabilities. With a 98 percent graduation rate, the educators and students must be doing something right. The AIDB serves toddlers through 12th grade, as well as vocational education for adults and senior citizens.

AIDB serves nearly 24,500 infants, toddlers, children and seniors at ďŹ ve campuses and eight regional centers across the state of Alabama.

In addition to educational services, the school offers great extracurricular activities for students such as sports, music and agri-science. AIDB is also known around the state as a sports powerhouse, particularly in wrestling, competing against regular public schools statewide. Alabama School for the Deaf offers both traditional and non-traditional education for students ages 3-21. Housed on the institute campus, the school is somewhat different as it offers a 24/7 residential and educational experience. Students have opportunities to participate in several enriching extracurricular activities that include clubs, organizations, math team academic bowl, Junior National Association of the Deaf membership, sports, field trips and more. There is no charge for room or board for this program designed for students from Alabama. The Alabama School for the Blind, led by President Dr. John Mascia since 2012, is a fully-accredited residential and day school. Just like any other school, it strives to create well-rounded students not just academically, but socially, artistically and in sports. In fact, ASB athletes compete at a high level against state public schools, even traveling to other states to compete with other schools for the blind. Most of all, the school strives to create students who can live independently. Every ASB teacher has a state certification in his subject area plus a visually impaired certification at a masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s level. All teachers also receive the Library of Congress Braille Transcription certification. As the teachers here say, math and science can be particularly difficult to teach to students with vision loss, but they are amazingly creative about finding continued on page 16

Photo by Christy Pierce Photography

birminghamparent.com | 15

Limitless Possibilities continued from page 15

alternative methods to teach these subjects. Students in this school use all types of technology such as laptops, iPads, the Voice Notes app and Braille. The ASB’s graduation exam is considered one of the most rigorous high school exit exams in America. The Helen Keller School offers functional-based instruction to sensory-impaired students who have multiple disabilities. Using methods like caring for farm animals, the school has an individual approach to living and work skill development. Because their students have multiple sensory impairments and may need help with mobility, classes tend to be smaller here and are even more specialized for these students. For many of them, the main educational goal is daily living skills such as dressing, feeding themselves, grooming and other skills. Traditional academics are also taught. The institute also serves as a statewide resource and library. The first-floor library here can print any textbook in Braille. In fact, it is a clearing house for Braille textbooks throughout the state. It is also part of a STEM partnership across nine states within the Southeast.

Photo by Christy Pierce Photography

The AIDB is the state’s largest employer of adults who are blind, deaf or deaf/blind. AIDB operates supply stores on military bases at Redstone Arsenal and Fort Rucker, as well as bases in Georgia.

In 1968, AIDB partnered with the Alabama Department of Rehabilitations Services to create the E.H. Gentry Technical Facility, an independent living and job training programs for adults who are deaf, blind or both. Interestingly, former Alabama Gov. James “Big Jim” Folsom was among the students there when he lost his eyesight. The program is considered one of the top such programs in the country. The main focus of E.H. Gentry is vocational and educational rehabilitation, providing quality job skills and education so that its students can become employed and independent. The AIDB is the state’s largest employer of adults who are blind, deaf or deafblind. AIDB operates supply stores on military bases at Redstone Arsenal and Fort Rucker, as well as bases in Georgia. Manufacturing is a vital part of the industries program at AIDB, and blind employees make flight bags, biodegradable deck mops for the U.S. Navy, note pads, brushes and safety vests for the Alabama Highway Department, screen printing and biscuit mix bags for Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q, and embroidered hats for Honda Manufacturing of Alabama. For more information about any of the AIDB schools or programs, visit www.aidb.org.

Carol Muse Evans is publisher of Birmingham Parent.

Photo by Christy Pierce Photography

16 | birminghamparent | march 2019

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www.ChildsPlayTherapyCenter.com Chelsea: 205-618-8095 • Hoover: 205-978-9939 birminghamparent.com | 17

PHOTO COURTESY THE TRAHAN FAMILY

LIVING WITH MARFAN SYNDROME By Paige Townley

Carter Trahan never really seemed sick. He was surprisingly tall, and he did have to get glasses at a young age, but his mother, Chanda, never suspected he might be showing signs of any potential problems. “It’s easy to shrug off a child having to get glasses when so many family members wear them already,” she says. “We thought nothing of it. Thankfully his pediatrician wanted to be safe and suggested we take a further look.” Carter’s pediatrician sent him to a pediatric cardiologist to have his heart looked at, and while it looked fine, the cardiologist agreed that he should go on to UAB/Children’s of Alabama’s Marfan Syndrome and Related Disorders Clinic to be tested for Marfan syndrome. “It was a grueling several weeks waiting on the results to come back,” Trahan adds. “And when they did, it revealed he did have Marfan.” Marfan syndrome is a genetic condition that affects the body’s connective tissue, which is what holds the body’s cells, organs, and tissue 18 | birminghamparent | march 2019

together and helps the body grow properly. Because connective tissue is found throughout the body, the syndrome can cause problems in various places, including the heart, eyes, joints, bones, and blood vessels. The lungs, skin, and nervous system can be affected as well. Some of the most common issues caused by Marfan syndrome causes are aortic enlargement, which can be life threatening, and eye problems, including severe nearsightedness, dislocated lens, and detached retina. “We’ve been very fortunate in that Carter hasn’t really had any problems,” says Trahan. “But we’re cautious and make sure he goes for checkups with his cardiologist and eye doctor. You just never know when something could change.” According to the Marfan Foundation, about one in 5,000 people have Marfan syndrome and about 200,000 people in the U.S. have the syndrome or a related condition. Typical visible features of Marfan syndrome are long arms, legs, and fingers, curved spine, flexible joints, flat feet, tall and thin body type, and

The Marfan Foundation is hosting the 2019 Birmingham Walk for Victory Saturday, March 9 from noon until 3 pm at Railroad Park. For more information or to register, visit marfan.org/ walkbirmingham19.

the chest either sinks in or sticks out. Anyone with Marfan syndrome is born with it, but conditions aren’t always immediately present, so many people have it and don’t know it until problems arise. “Marfan syndrome is so much more common than people realize,” says Dr. Nat Robin, a geneticist and co-director at the Marfan Clinic. “It’s also something that doesn’t always have obvious symptoms. That’s why early detection is so key. There are so many possible cardiac complications that you want to diagnose early to prevent a tragic event from ever occurring.” Early detection is one of the many reasons that led Robin and a group of other doctors to start the clinic a few years ago. “There was a

great need that we recognized in which a large number of patients were either being referred for evaluation for Marfan syndrome or another related condition,” explains Fallon Levine-Brewer, a genetic counselor at the clinic. “At that time, they would have to go from one specialist to another to get all of the evaluations done. We knew providing one place where they could see multiple providers and get a thorough and comprehensive consultation was really needed.” The doctors at the Marfan Clinic strive to serve as a medical hub for patients who have – or think they may have – Marfan syndrome or some sort of related disorder. “There is hope that if we recognize patients early and treat them properly, we could slow down the process of watching the aorta get bigger with time,” says Dr. Walter Johnson, a pediatric cardiologist and clinic co-director. “Surgery isn’t a cure and medication isn’t a cure, but we think patients have a better chance of doing well if we find them early and watch them frequently.” While no two patients are the same, many Marfan patients do end up having some sort of heart surgery. Under the best scenario, it’s a corrective surgery that prevents a major problem from ever occurring. The Marfan Foundation, a nonprofit group founded in 1981, supports those with Marfan and their families, educates medical professionals and the public to be aware of the signs, and raises money to fund research. “When we first started, there was no social media or any way for patients to communicate, and they felt really alone,” says Maya Brown Zimmerman, a member of the Marfan Foundation board of directors and a Marfan syndrome patient. The foundation has helped Amber Harbison, whose husband and daughter Libby both have Marfan syndrome. After the family moved back to Alabama after a brief time in Georgia, Harbison felt it important to become even more involved in the foundation, eventually being leader of the foundation’s Alabama community group. “I feel blessed that I get to talk to people just starting their journey because I remember how hard it was for me when we started our journey when Libby was diagnosed,” she says. “I appreciate the opportunity to help people walk through it and see it’s not always as scary as it seems and there are a lot of options.” The foundation also has helped Libby through its various programs for kids, such as the annual kids camps. “As adults, we tend to focus more on sharing medical information and tackling the problems, but for our kids it’s very different,” she says. “For them it’s so much about building relationships with other kids who are facing similar issues. They have a bond. It’s amazing to see the kids supporting each other just like the adults.”

PHOTOS COURTESY THE HARBISON FAMILY

Paige Townley is a Birmingham-based freelance writer.

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INCLUSION TAKES FLIGHT

KultureCity partners with Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport to create sensory-friendly space. By Paige Townley

Since it first started, KultureCity has been doing everything it can to make those with special needs more comfortable in public places. The nonprofit organization has worked with sports arenas, zoos, science centers, museums, and even universities. Now KultureCity is adding one more public space to the list thanks to its new partnership with the Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport. “The core of our mission is really about inclusion and accessibility for all individuals,” says Michele Kong, co-founder of KultureCity, along with her husband and fellow doctor Julian Maha. “We focus on public places to make them as inclusive and accessible as possible, so airports were a logical next step.” KultureCity reached out to BirminghamShuttlesworth International Airport to work with them to create a sensory room where those with special needs and invisible disabilities 20 | birminghamparent | march 2019

– such as autism, dementia, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) – can retreat to when the atmosphere starts to get too overwhelming. “The airport can be very overwhelming and loud,” explains Kong. “It can be difficult for those with sensory sensitivities to navigate. We thought we could help provide a reprieve for them as they go through the airport process, a safe space they could visit to decompress before they continue on with the boarding process or airport experience.” Kong and Maha know firsthand the issues that can arise with traveling with someone who has sensory issues. Their son, Abram, was diagnosed with autism at an early age. Visiting any public place presented problems to the family, which led to the foundation of KultureCity and partnerships with all sorts of public institutions to create better ways for those with sensory issues to participate.

“The airport can be very overwhelming and loud,” explains Kong. “It can be difficult for those with sensory sensitivities to navigate. We thought we could help provide a reprieve for them as they go through the airport process, a safe space they could visit to decompress before they continue on with the boarding process or airport experience.”

It was a natural progression to take on the challenges of an airport as it presents all sorts of challenges for someone with special needs. First of all, it’s something outside of their typical routine, so that already creates a level of anxiety and stress for the individual. “Beyond that, airports are busy, loud and crowded with long lines,” Kong adds. “All of that combined means there are different senses hitting you from different angles, whether visual, sense of smell, or sense of hearing. That can be extremely dysregulating, which can be a huge trigger for someone with sensory issues.” continued on page 22

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Inclusion Takes Flight continued from page 20

4260 Cahaba Heights Court Suite 188 Birmingham, AL 35243 For over 35 years, Joseph Bruno Montessori Academy has offered a high-quality, private school education to children from Toddlers through 8th grade from across the Jefferson and Shelby County area. JBMA offers a unique nurturing learning environment designed to meet the needs of each individual child, equipping them with the essential skills and knowledge to thrive as a joyous child today, as a successful high school and college student tomorrow and a thoughtful adult for a lifetime.

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To offset those stresses, the new sensory room at the airport focuses completely on sensory sensitivity for individuals if they become overwhelmed with sensory inputs. The components of the room will vary, but it will include a touch wall for individuals with textile sensitivity and a bubble wall that features columns of bubbles, which is soothing to the senses. It will also be a room that’s much quieter than the rest of the airport. “We know that air travel can often be a stressful and overwhelming experience for individuals with autism or other sensory sensitivities,” says Sylvester Lavender, Birmingham Airport Authority’s interim president and CEO. “The opening of our sensory room is one of the ways we’re showing our commitment to passengers by making time spent at the BirminghamShuttlesworth International Airport an easy, convenient, comfortable, and calming experience. We hope this new room will aid in breaking down the barriers that can prevent families from flying.” The sensory room is located towards the end of Concourse B, near the area where it connects to Concourse A. “We’re so excited that Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport is going to be our first airport,” says Kong. “They will be the pioneers from an airport standpoint. We are proud to partner together to provide a room for the community that is going to help so many individuals with a range of special needs. The impact is going to be wide, and we’re thrilled it’s going to be in Birmingham.”

Paige Townley is a Birmingham freelance writer. 22 | birminghamparent | march 2019

SPECIAL KIDS CLUB 2019 advertorial

BIRMINGHAM PARENT'S

CHILDRENS OF ALABAMA With more than 2 million square feet, Children’s of Alabama is among the largest pediatric medical facilities in the in the U.S. Children’s offers inpatient and outpatient services across its Russell Campus on Birmingham’s historic Southside with additional specialty services provided at Children’s South, Children’s on 3rd and in Huntsville and Montgomery. Primary care is provided at more than a dozen medical offices in communities across central Alabama. Children’s of Alabama is the only medical center in Alabama dedicated solely to the care and treatment of children. It is a private, not-for-profit medical center that serves as the primary site of the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) pediatric medicine, surgery, psychiatry, research and residency programs. More information is available at www.childrensal.org

Since 1911, Children’s of Alabama has provided specialized medical care for ill and injured children. Ranked among the best pediatric medical centers in the nation by US News & World Report, Children’s provided care for youngsters from every county in Alabama, 42 other states and seven foreign countries last year, representing more than 677,300 outpatient visits and more than 15,600 inpatient admissions.

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Griffin Mobility provides sales and service for wheelchair accessible vans, SUVs and trucks, wheelchair & scooter lifts, handicap driver controls, and many other products. We also provide residential equipment to eliminate barriers in and around your home such as stair lifts, vertical platform lifts, portable ramps, track systems, and handicap accessible stepin or roll-in tubs and showers

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DANCE WITHOUT LIMITS Dance Without Limits is a 501c3 Non-Profit organization that provides a dance program for children and young adults with special needs who may not otherwise have the opportunity to experience the joy of dance. Our fall and spring sessions are comprised of one-hour classes that are designed to suit each individual’s needs. During classes held once a week, a period of professional dance instruction is provided by instructors and volunteers trained to

work with dancers who have special needs. We offer Lite-Gait equipment for children who need extra support with standing. We have a teacher who is able to communicate in American Sign Language, and volunteers who are learning some simple signs. At the end of each session, participants perform in a recital for family and friends. Classes for students are divided into Movement and Technique. Movement classes are the main classes for Dance Without Limits and are great for

24 | birminghamparent | march 2019

students new to the Dance Without Limits program. Students, who also require special one-on-one attention with a volunteer or additional assistance dancing, will benefit highly from the Movement program. We welcome students with any disability and move them in the best way they can participate.We create movement around his/her unique abilities. We offer a Hoover class on Mondays at 4pm at The Pointe and a Chelsea class on Tuesdays at 4:30 at Dance South.

251-610-4969 www.dancewithoutlimits foundation.org

DIRECTORY SPRING 2019 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, inclusive list that includes more government services and other businesses not advertised in this issue or at www. birminghamparent.com. 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 205624-2415. The resources here have helped make this directory and issue of Birmingham Parent possible, as well as the Special Needs Expo this month! AIM PLUS Medical Supplies BIRMINGHAM SNE SPONSOR 866-919-1246 www.aimplusmedicalsupplies.com We are a local company providing quality medical supplies for a variety of needs. Our main product offerings for children are pediatric urinary catheters, diabetic testing, and insulin pump supplies. Contact us today for free home delivery! SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 27. Alabama Department of Public Health www.alabamapublichealth.gov The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) is the primary state health agency for the state of Alabama. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 31. Alabama Dept. of Rehabilitative Services 334-293-7500 www.rehab.alabama.gov ADRS is a state agency that provides services to children and adults with disabilities through a seamless system of service delivery. Alabama Family Trust 205-313-3915 www.alabamafamilytrust.com A nonprofit special needs trust that holds and administers money for children and adults with disabilities, including the elderly in nursing homes to help become eligible and maintain government benefits such as Medicaid and SSI. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 26. Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind 256-761-3284 griffin.mandy@aidb.org www.aidb.org AIDB is the world’s most comprehensive education, rehabilitation and service program for individuals of all ages who continued on page 26

are deaf, blind, deaf-blind and multi-disabled. Serving nearly 25,000 infants, toddlers, children, and adults in Alabama each year. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 27. Alabama Pre-Post Adoption Connections (APAC) 205-719-0496 www.childrensaid.org/apac Alabama Pre-Post Adoption Connections (APAC) is a collaborative effort between Children’s Aid Society of Alabama and the Alabama Department of Human Resources. Alabama Respite 256-859-4900 www.alabamarespite.org Alabama Respite’s mission is to increase access to and availability of respite resources for caregivers. Respite is a temporary break for family caregivers of individuals of any age who have disabilities, chronic or terminal illnesses. Autism Society of Alabama 877-428-8476 205-951-1364 www.autism-alabama.org www.makingconnectionshsv@ 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. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 22. Bath Fitter - Birmingham www.bathfitter.com 205-208-0564 Bath Fitter addresses mobility issues by converting traditional tubs to easy access walk-in showers with safety bars. Behavioral ONE 205-991-2584 behavioralone.com Behavioral ONE offers a range

of services and support for children, adolescents, and their families including: Applied Behavior Analysis, Cognition Behavior Therapy Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, as well as family and individual counseling. Biotech Limb and Brace 205-324-7897 www.biotechlimbandbrace.com BioTech Limb and Brace works diligently to provide the finest in prosthetic and orthotic needs for your loved ones. Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport 205-595-0533 www.flybirmingham.com BHM hosts 5 airlines to 18 airports in 15 cities, connecting Birmingham globally! For over 80 years Birmingham-Shuttlesworth has been Alabama’s gateway to the sky! SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 35. The Bell Center for Early Intervention Programs 205-879-3417 www.thebellcenter.org Provides early intervention services including physical, occupational and speech therapies and early childhood special education to children 3 and younger with special needs. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama BIRMINGHAM AND HUNTSVILLE SNE SPONSOR 205-220-2100 www.bcbsal.org Since 1936, we have been doing our part to provide quality, affordable healthcare coverage to each and every one of our members at every stage of their lives. We are proud to be the number one provider of healthcare benefits in Alabama.

BOOST Kids Occupational Therapy & Yoga 205-767-9207 www.boostbirmingham.com We provide children with a “boost” towards independence through improved skills, learned strategies, environmental modifications, and caregiver education while always embracing their interests and passions. Bringing Up Down Syndrome 330-690-3565 www.budsonline.org Bringing Up Down Syndrome BUDS - Our group in Northern AL that supports all the families with children/adults with Down Syndrome. 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. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 47. Child’s Play Therapy Center Hoover: 205-978-9939 Chelsea: 205-618-8095 Huntsville: 256-837-2470 www.childsplaytherapy.com Occupational, physical, and speech therapy, along with a variety of special programs. Two beautiful, fully equipped facilities. Our experienced, loving staff will exceed your expectations. SEE OUR ADS ON PAGES 13 and 31. Children’s Aid Society of Alabama-APAC Program 866-803-2722 A collaborative effort between Children’s Aid Society of Alabama and the Alabama Department of Human resources, APAC recruits & supports adoptive families for Alabama’s Waiting Children. birminghamparent.com | 25

DIRECTORY SPRING 2019 Children’s of Alabama BIRMINGHAM AND HUNTSVILLE SNE SPONSOR 205-638-9100 www.childrensal.org Children’s of Alabama has provided specialized medical care for ill and injured children since 1911, offering inpatient, outpatient, and primary care services throughout Alabama. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 3. Children’s of Alabama Adolescent Medicine Clinic 205-638-9231 www.childrensal.org The Adolescent Health Center serves patients ages 11-21 years of age. Services include primary care, eating disorders, nutrition, reproductive health, acne and ADHD. Children’s of Alabama Hearing and Speech 205-638-9149 www.childrensal.org Diagnostic and rehabilitative speech / language and audiology services are provided to inpatients and outpatients suspected of having any of the communication or hearing disorders possible in the pediatric population. Children’s of Alabama Intensive Feeding Program 205-638-7590 www.childrensal.org The Intensive Feeding Program is a trans-disciplinary team that offers diagnostic and treatment interventions for children with feeding difficulties that have affected their feeding experience and their ability to grow and develop normally. Children’s of Alabama Nutrition & Lactation Services 205-638-9204 www.childrensal.org Provides comprehensive nutrition care and education to the pediatric population in an inpatient and outpatient setting. Children’s of Alabama Patient Health & Safety Information 205-638-3218 www.childrensal.org Provides health and safety information for families and staff in the hospital. The department also coordinates several in house and community programs. Children’s of Alabama Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine 205-638-9790 www.childrensal.org The Division of Pediatric Rehabil-

itation Medicine utilizes an interdisciplinary approach to manage conditions including cerebral palsy, spina bifida and acquired brain injury, among others. Children’s of Alabama Pediatric Simulation Center 205-638-9100 222.childrensal.org The Pediatric Simulation Center exists to create a safe, realistic learning environment allowing health care providers, students, and patient families to increase their knowledge and hone their skills in the context of real life scenarios. Children’s of Alabama Physical Therapy & Occupational Therapy Dept. 205-638-9645 www.childrensal.org Our trained therapists evaluate and treat a broad range of conditions that may impair strength, mobility, coordination, balance, feeding, cognitive/behavioral function, fine motor skills, and/or overall function from birth to age 21 in inpatient/outpatient settings. Children’s of Alabama Psychiatric Intake Response Center (PIRC) 205-638-7472 www.childrensal.org/PIRC A confidential phone response center linking adult callers to mental health resources for children and teens. Children’s of Alabama Regional Poison Control Center 800-222-1222 www.childrensal.org Provides free and confidential medical advice 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We help prevent the poisoning, treat and advise on medication overdoses and make recommendations on treatment. The Dance Foundation 205-870-0073 www.thedancefoundation.org Our non-competitive dance education nurtures creativity, engages the imagination, and promotes social and developmental skills in a safe and enriching environment for self-expression and collaboration. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 22. Dance Without Limits 251-610-4969 www.dancewithoutlimitsfoundation.org Dance Without Limits is a 501c3 Non-Profit organization that

26 | birminghamparent | march 2019

provides a dance program for children and young adults with special needs who may not otherwise have the opportunity to experience the joy of dance. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 19. Down Syndrome Alabama 205-988-0810 www.downsyndromealabama.org Down Syndrome Alabama promotes lifelong Awareness, Acceptance and Advocacy for individuals with Down syndrome. DSA C.A.R.E.S. (connections actions - resources - education – support) Easterseals of the Birmingham Area Adult Program and Administrative Office 205-942-6277 Easterseals of the Birmingham Area Pediatric Programs • Ped’s East (Springville): 205-407-5292 • Ped’s South (Pelham): 205-314-2165 Easterseals of the Birmingham Area Community Health Clinic 205-338-4806 www.eastersealsbham.org Our adult program assists individuals with choosing an appropriate vocational goal and finding and maintaining competitive employment. The therapy program offers an interdisciplinary team approach to treating the whole child. Our staff of certified speech-language pathologists, physical and occupational therapists specialize in the treatment of various disabilities providing medical rehabilitation to children ages 0-21 regardless of ability to pay. In St. Clair County, we provide primary health care, counseling services, and health and wellness education. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 29. The Exceptional Foundation SNE BIRMINGHAM PRESENTER 205-870-0776 www.exceptionalfoundation.org The Exceptional Foundation is a nonprofit organization that strives to meet the social and recreational needs of children and adults with special needs. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 17. Family Voices of Alabama 877-771-3862 www.familyvoicesal.org Family Voices of Alabama aims to achieve family-centered care for all children and youth with special health care needs and/or disabilities.

Footsteps of Change 815-981-8012 footstepsofchange.com Footsteps of Change, Inc. provides high-quality Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services for families and professionals in Huntsville, Alabama and surrounding areas. Foster Academy 256-945-0664 www.fosteracademy.org Foster Academy in Huntsville provides an inclusive and supportive environment to help students with high functioning Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome and other learning differences achieve success. Griffin Mobility BIRMINGHAM SNE SPONSOR and SNE HUNTSVILLE PRESENTER 256-751-1365 www.griffinmobility.com Griffin Mobility is your source for wheelchair accessible vehicles, automotive adaptive equipment and home accessibility products. Family owned and operated for over 25 years. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 13. The Horizons School 205-322-6606 www.horizonsschool.org The Horizons School provides a residential, community-based educational program promoting successful transition to paid employment and independent living for young adults with learning disabilities. Inquiring Minds 256-666-0477 www.inquiringmindsbds.com Exceptional, comprehensive and culturally-sensitive, one-onone care through education, acceptance and evidence-based interventions to enhance the well-being and lifestyle of individuals and families living with autism and related developmental disorders. McCalla Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry 205-477-8004 www.mccallasmiles.com Dentistry for children, adolescents and patients with disabilities. Orthodontics for children and adults. We offer traditional metal brackets as well as clear invisalign option. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 16. continued on page 28

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www.eastersealsbham.org birminghamparent.com | 27

DIRECTORY SPRING 2019 Miracle League of Helena 205-378-8385 www.helenamiracleleague.com A nonprofit founded to serve Helena and the surrounding community, they are currently fundraising for a field to play on! You can donate on their website or Facebook page! They have the determination, the drive, the heart, and with your help they will have the field! Miracle League of Moody 205-225-9444 www.moodymiracleleague.org A full handicapped accessible baseball field for any special need player. More than 250 players range from 4-75. 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. SEE OUR AD ON THIS PAGE. 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. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 15. Quest for Health Chiropractic 205-537-1161 www.questforhealthchiro.com At Quest for Health Chiropractic, we are a neurologically-based office, using stateof-the-art technology to get to the root cause of your health concerns. Regional Autism Network • University of Alabama Birmingham 205-934-1112 uabran@uab.edu • University of Alabama Huntsville 256-824-5700 uahran@uah.edu Alabama’s RAN is staffed by experts in the field of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Each RAN strives to connect people with ASD, their families, educators,

and service providers to the information and/or services that best meet their needs. Reignbows 205-222-6895 http://reignbowhandmadeonline.com Reignbows are handcrafted hair accessories and knitwear made with the special needs community in mind. They are as unique as your little ones. Silver Linings Neurodevelopment HUNTSVILLE SNE SPONSOR 256-489-1583 www.silverliningsclinic.com We provide comprehensive behavioral & developmental evaluations, and caring, effective treatment/recovery for adults and children in Madison County and the surrounding areas. Special Siblings 205-568-7919 www.specialsiblingsbham.org A support group for children with special needs siblings. Dr. Clark Thomas Pediatric Dentistry 205-879-6150 www.thomaspediatricdentistry.com SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 15. UAB Civitan Sparks Dental Clinic 205-934-1115 www.uab.edu/civitansparks/ dental Sparks Dental Clinic specializes in providing safe, quality dental care for individuals who lack developmental and cogni-

tive ability to understand or cooperate for traditional dental treatment. We provide preventative treatment, fillings, and simple extractions for children and adults with special needs. 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 Unless U is committed to serving adults with developmental disabilities and their families through continued education, life skills and social skills. SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 19. Vulcan Park & Museum 205-203-4818 www.visitvulcan.com SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 21.

Want to know more about some of the advertisers you see here? Go to our website at www.birminghamparent.parenthood.com/directory/listing/ and type in ADVERTISER PROFILE or search that advertiser at www.birminghamparent.com to find their profile.

28 | birminghamparent | march 2019

Congratulations to

Brian aiyana Velazquez Escobar winners of the second annual ““Share Share Your Smile Alabama Department of Public photo Health Oral Health Office with Alabama”contest

For smiles like aiyana and Brian that last a lifetime: • Children ages 1-17 years old need to have preventive dental visits twice yearly • Optimal levels of Community Water Fluoridation should be present where you live

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ORAL HEALTH OFFICE Promoting Smiles Across a Lifetime

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What About Sports Nutrition for Kids? By Dr. Calvin Spellmon Jr.

A healthy diet is essential to meet an athletic child’s energy needs. All children, regardless of athletic ability, should eat a balanced diet. However, those with a higher level of activity need the right combination and amount of food to perform at their best levels. Game-day meal content and timing can directly impact a young athlete’s performance on the field. A full stomach requires energy to digest, so it is important to stop eating two hours before activity in order to save energy levels for the event. Although highfiber foods are nutritious, they also may cause stomach upset and should not be eaten before activity. High-fat foods take longer to digest and should also be avoided up to three hours before a game or event. Instead, kids should eat an ample amount of carbohydrates, found in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, along with a moderate amount of proteins, such as those found in meat, eggs and dairy. Fluids are critical in preventing dehydration during activity and should be consistently consumed before, during and after exercise. Experts recommend athletes drink water or other fluids in 15-minute to 20-minute intervals as well as after the activity to replenish fluid levels lost through sweat. The body depletes its readily available energy supply after one hour of exercise, so sports drinks are a good option for kids are active for 60 minutes to 90 minutes. These drinks also help replenish the electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, lost through sweat. For optimal performance, young athletes need a variety of vitamins, protein and carbohydrates. The food guide pyramid is a good source of information for the types of food and drinks a well-balanced diet requires. Even during off-season, it is important for kids to maintain a balanced to create a solid foundation for game season. Athletic kids need calcium and iron in their diets to build strong bones and sustain energy. These nutrients can be found in dairy products, green leafy vegetables, meat, dried beans and

38 | birminghamparent | march 2019

fortified cereals. It is especially important for girls to replenish the iron lost during their menstrual cycles. Meal and snack suggestions include: Breakfast: low-fat yogurt with some granola and banana or whole-grain cereal and milk with sliced strawberries Lunch: bean burritos with low-fat cheese, lettuce and tomatoes or a turkey sandwich and fruit Dinner: grilled chicken breasts with steamed rice and vegetable or pasta with red sauce and lean ground beef with a salad Snacks: pretzels, raisins, crackers, string cheese or fruit. Many children participate in sports that place a heavy emphasize on appearance and weight. This can cause pressure and potentially an unhealthy obsession with weight gain or reduction. It is usually not a good idea for kids to diet because athletic children need the additional calories to sustain high energy levels for activity. Dieting also can prevent a child who is still growing from reaching his or her intended height. Unhealthy eating habits can cause serious repercussions that could last a lifetime, so parents should discuss diet options with a doctor or nutritionist if a coach recommends that a child lose weight.

Dr. Calvin Spellmon Jr., M.D. is a board-certified family primary care sports medicine physician and board-certified pediatrician in Alabaster; and Chelsea with Precision Sports Medicine & Orthopedics, affiliated with Shelby Baptist Medical Center. To visit the Alabaster or Chelsea location, please call (205) 663-8590.

Fluids are critical in preventing dehydration during activity and should be consistently consumed before, during and after exercise. Experts recommend athletes drink water or other ﬂuids in 15-minute to 20-minute intervals as well as after the activity to replenish ﬂuid levels lost through sweat.

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calendar highlights MARCH March – a month known to bring us everything from near-summer weather to snow and ice! But whatever the weather, there’s always a lot to do both inside and outside. One fantastic event is Birmingham Parent’s Special Needs Expo 2019 on March 16 at The Exceptional Foundation! Come learn and have fun! This year, we’re having a Special Needs Expo on March 30 in Huntsville, too! March also is Spring Break for most school systems in the area. Make some great family memories!

MARCH 16

MARCH 30

Birmingham Parent’s Special Needs Expo 2019 10am-2pm, The Exceptional Foundation, Homewood. Presented by The Exceptional Foundation and Children’s of Alabama. A free exhibition where families can learn about products, support groups, recreational activities, healthcare, therapy and many other services for children and adults with special needs. www.birminghamparent.com. FREE.

Birmingham Parent’s Special Needs Expo Huntsville! 10am-3pm, The Jaycee Community Building, 2180 Airport Rd., SW, Huntsville. Our first Expo event in Huntsville! www.birminghamparent.com. FREE.

MARCH 23 Spring Walking Tour: Vulcan Trail 9:30am-noon, Kiwanis-Vulcan Trail. Join the Freshwater Land Trust for a special tour of the trail as part of the planned 750-mile Red Rock Ridge and Valley trail system. Learn about the Birmingham Mineral Railroad, early ore mining on Red Mountain and more.

birminghamparent.com | 41

march calendar

SPECIAL SIBLINGS 3:30pm, Homewood Library. A support group for kids grades K-12 to share ideas, experiences and the ever-changing needs of having a special needs sibling.

1 Friday The Revolutionary: Beethoven’s Third Symphony 11am, 7pm, Alys Stephens Center. Carlos Izcaray, conductor. The Alabama Symphony Orchestra performs. Tickets, information, www.alabamasymphony.org.

2 Saturday Pepper Place Indoor Winter Market 7am-noon, 2901 2nd Ave. S. Southeastern Outings Dayhike 9:15am, Porter Gap, Pinhoti Trail. Moderate hike. Bring water and picnic lunch. Optional dinner afterward. Meet 9:15am at Leeds Highway 78 gravel parking lot. No dogs or smoking allowed at SEO activities. Francis Rushton, 205-290-5557. Hikes for Tykes 10am, Vulcan Kiwanis Trail. Critters and Creepy Crawlies! What’s in the dirt? Under that rock? Fresh Air Family naturalist Carl Sloan leads preschool children and their families on a discovery hike. Slimy salamanders, worms and bugs can all be found along the trail. A partnership with

Vulcan Park and Museum. FREE. Suggested donation of $5 per family.

ADHD – Making Things Better at Home & School. FREE. More information, www.popcatholic.org.

The Revolutionary: Beethoven’s Third Symphony 7pm, Alys Stephens Center, see March 1.

Lego League 6-6:45pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Kids of all ages can play with bricks of all sizes! Kids age 6-younger must be with an adult.

4 Monday Free Tutoring 3:30-4:30pm, Homewood Library. Grades K-12. Get help from Homewood High School Peer Helpers and surprise guests from the Greater Birmingham Humane Society. Knight School Chess Tournament 5:30-7pm, Homewood Library. Learn strategy and have fun! Grades K-12.

5 Tuesday ADHD/Parenting Series Prince of Peace Catholic Church. Dr. Dale Wisely, the church’s director of family life and wellknown mental health professional in Birmingham, will offer two different series of free parent education sessions. Dates/times: March 5, 6pm, 10 Things to Say to Your Child; March 8, 8:15am,

42 | birminghamparent | march 2019

6 Wednesday

ASH WEDNESDAY

8 Friday Alabama Ballet Presents The Sleeping Beauty 7:30-9:30pm, BJCC Concert Hall. This classic and beloved fairy tale is full of enchantment, romance and charm. Choreographed by Marius Petipa, and the beautiful score by Tchaikovsky performed by the Alabama Symphony Orchestra. Tickets, information, 205-322-4300, https://alabamaballet.org/the-sleeping-beauty/.

7 Thursday

9 Saturday

UAB Faculty Brass Quintet Noon, UAB Hospital Atrium. FREE.

Pepper Place Indoor Winter Market 7am-noon, 2901 2nd Ave. S.

Homeschool Hour: Microscopes 2-3pm, Homewood Library. Zoom into science with the library’s new microscopes, purchased with a grant from the Homewood Rotary. All supplies provided. Register online, https://homewoodpubliclibrary.org/. Family Yoga 6-6:45pm, Homewood Library. Children, parents and caregivers can practice yoga together and have fun! All ages.

Shelby Humane Society Paws for the Cause 8am, Veterans Park, Hoover. A certified 5k off-road, cross-country race. Benefitting the only open-admission animal shelter in Shelby County. Information, 205669-3916, bestfriendsofshelbyhumane@gmail.com. 2019 Birmingham Walk for Victory Noon-3pm, Railroad Park, Birmingham. Benefiting the Marfan Foundation. For more information or to register, visit marfan.org/ walkbirmingham19.

Alabama Ballet Presents The Sleeping Beauty 2:30-4:30pm; 7:30-9:30pm, BJCC Concert Hall, see March 8. Taste of Teal Gala 6pm, Hyatt Regency Birmingham-The Wynfrey Hotel, Hoover. Benefitting the Laura Crandall Brown Ovarian Cancer Foundation. Enjoy delicious food and drink, music, silent/live auctions and casino games. Tickets, information, www.thinkoflaura.org. The Children’s Table 7-9pm, Meredith Food Studios, Birmingham. Some of the state’s most celebrated chefs gather to benefit patients at Children’s of Alabama. Enjoy signature dishes, desserts and drinks. The event raises funds for and awareness of the nutritional needs of patients. Tickets, TheChildrensTable. org. Presented by Alabama Power.

10 Sunday

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME BEGINS Southeastern Outings Dayhike 1:45pm, Oak Mountain State Park. Moderate 4-mile walk. Children 8-older able to walk the distance welcome. Bring water. Meet 1:45pm in the park office parking lot. Bring $5/ person park admission ($2 seniors). No dogs or smoking allowed at SEO activities. Randall Adkins, 205-317-6969. Bicentennial Forgotten Alabama 2-3pm, North Shelby Library. Speaker Glen Wills has visited all of the state’s 67 counties, logged 30,000 miles and taken nearly 15,000 photographs. Wills is working on his third book in a series. Register, www.northshelbylibrary.org. FREE. Alabama Ballet Presents The Sleeping Beauty 2:30-4:30pm, BJCC Concert Hall, see March 8. Special Siblings 3:30pm, Homewood Library. A support group for kids grades K-12 to share ideas, experiences and the ever-changing needs of having a special needs sibling.

11 Monday Homeschool Happening 10-11am, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Students grades 1-12 are invited to a special youth forum with a visitor from the David Mathews Center for Civic Life. Sign up at 205-6646822.

12 Tuesday Beginning Ukelele Jam 6-7:30pm, Homewood Library. Want to learn the ukulele? Come to learn simple songs and strumming techniques. All ages.

13 Wednesday LEGO Club 3:30-4:15pm, Homewood Library. Use your creativity! K-5 grade.

14 Thursday The Altamont School Spring Open House 4:30-6pm, The Altamont School. 205-445-1232. St. Patrick’s Day Science Show 6-6:45pm, Homewood Library. Come for a luck-filled night of science experiments, crafts and snacks! All ages.

FIND LUCK Y THE TO EGG SPECIAWIN A L PRIZE !

RIDE THE TRAIN COTTONTAIL EXPRESS

HOP ABOARD for a train ride to Peter Cottontail’s meadow for an Easter Egg Hunt and fun activities!

Saturdays April 13 & 20 - 10AM, 1PM, 3PM Sunday April 14 - 1PM, 3PM for tickets & information

www.HODRRM.org • 205-757-8383

1919 9th St., www.HODRRM.org 1919 9th St.,Calera, Calera,AL AL35040 35040 •• www.HODRRM.org

Super Smash Bros. Tournament 6:30pm, North Shelby Library. For 6th-12th graders. Who will come out on top? All welcome to watch. Must register to play. www.northshelbylibrary.org.

15 Friday Sensory Storytime/Play Day 9:30am story, 10:30am play, Homewood Library. Preschool. Books, songs and activities that stimulate the senses and promote learning.

16 Saturday Pepper Place Indoor Winter Market 7am-noon, 2901 2nd Ave. S. 15th Annual Red Shoe Run 8am, Ronald McDonald House. A Rockin’ 5K course, 1-mile course, and a celebratory block party following the run/walk. Get your team together and register to raise funds for the Ronald McDonald House at 205-638-7264, https://www. redshoerun-bham.org/.

March 29-31 & April 6-7

The Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum Calera, AL

FOR TICKETS:

Visit dayoutwiththomas.com or call TicketWeb at 866-468-7630

birminghamparent.com | 43

march calendar Birmingham Parent’s Special Needs Expo 2019 10am-2pm, The Exceptional Foundation, Homewood. Presented by The Exceptional Foundation and Children’s of Alabama. A free exhibition where families can learn about products, support groups, recreational activities, healthcare, therapy and many other services for children and adults with special needs. www.birminghamparent. com. FREE.

17 Sunday

ST. PATRICK’S DAY 35th Annual St. Patrick Catholic Church Springfest 11am-3pm, St. Patrick Catholic Church. Lots of activities for children and adults alike! Kids get to enjoy fun games and inflatables and parents can shop in our Trash and Treasure area, our plant sale, or with multiple vendors who will be selling their products and services. Bingo, food, grand prize raffle, live auction! 205-798-5326, http://www.saintpatrickcc.com. FREE admission. Southeastern Outings Dayhike 1:45pm, Moss Rock Preserve, Hoover. Moderate 2-4 hike. Children age 7-up able to walk the distance welcome. Bring water. Meet 1:45pm at Simmons Middle School parking lot. No dogs or smoking allowed at SEO activities. David Shepherd, 205-240-4681, davidshep2@yahoo.com. UAB Clarinet Symposium Finale Concert 2:30pm, Alys Stephens Center. FREE.

19 Tuesday St. Patrick’s Day Science 10:30am, North Shelby Library. Preschoolers will enjoy demonstrations using the colors green, gold, rainbows and more! Registration required; space limited. www. northshelbylibrary.org.

Iron Giant Percussion Ensemble 7pm, UAB Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. FREE.

21 Thursday Trussville Job Fair 11am-2pm, Trussville Civic Center. Presented by the Trussville Area Chamber of Commerce; presenting sponsor, AtWork Personnel Services. Free admission for job seekers. Companies will be present. Other services planned include resume review and development, and helpful information for interviews. To register, call 205-655-7535.

22 Friday American Girls Club 4pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Girls 7-older can learn about the character Molly from the 1940s. Read, learn and play old-fashioned games. Sign up at 205-664-6822. Masterworks: Appalachian Spring 7pm, Alys Stephens Center. Christopher Confessore, conductor. Performed by the Alabama Symphony Orchestra. www.alabamasymphony.org.

23 Saturday Pepper Place Indoor Winter Market 7am-noon, 2901 2nd Ave. S. Southeastern Outings Dayhike 8:45am, Bankhead National Forest. Six-mile moderate hike. Children 10-older welcome. Bring picnic lunch and water. Optional dinner afterward. Meet 8:45am at Hayden/Corner Park and Ride, or at 9:20am at the Mile 300 rest area on I-65. No dogs or smoking allowed at SEO activities. Dan Frederick, 205-631-4680, seoutings@bellsouth.net.

Spring Walking Tour: Vulcan Trail 9:30am-noon, Kiwanis-Vulcan Trail. Join the Freshwater Land Trust for a special tour of the trail as part of the planned 750-mile Red Rock Ridge and Valley trail system. Learn about the Birmingham Mineral Railroad, early ore mining on Red Mountain and more. Beyond Books: Ernestine’s Milky Way 10:30-11:15am, Homewood Library. Author Kerry Madden reads from her new book. Crafts, snacks and other activities planned. All ages. Masterworks: Appalachian Spring 7pm, Alys Stephens Center. Christopher Confessore, conductor. Performed by the Alabama Symphony Orchestra. www.alabamasymphony.org.

24 Sunday Spring Walking Tour: Vulcan Trail 9:30am-noon, Kiwanis-Vulcan Trail, see March 23. Southeastern Outings Wildflower Walk 1:45pm, Shades Mountain. Spend a relaxing and moderately easy two-hour walk. Children 6-older welcome. Meet 1:45pm in Homewood High School east parking lot, off Lakeshore Drive in Homewood. No dogs or smoking allowed at SEO activities. UAB Department of Music Faculty Recital 4pm, Alys Stephens Center. FREE.

25 Monday Garden Gates: Beautiful Spring Blossoms 4pm, North Shelby Library. Learn how to press flowers to preserve spring beauty and make pressed-flower notecards. Ages 5-up. Registration required: www. northshelbylibrary.org.

UAB Department of Music PRISM Concert 7pm, Alys Stephens Center. Featuring faculty and student solo, chamber and ensemble performances. Tickets $25, $15 for UAB employees, free to all students. 205-975-2787.

26 Tuesday UAB Young Performing Artist 7pm, Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall, Featuring Fred Song. FREE.

27 Wednesday Have a BLAST at Aldridge Gardens! 9-11:30am, Aldridge Gardens. Habitat hike around the lake, feed the ducks and fish and build rockets! $25 per student. Parents invited to play along! Bring a picnic for after! Register at aldridgegardens.com.

28 Thursday UAB Young Performing Artist 7pm, Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. Featuring Zoe Willis. FREE.

30 Saturday Pepper Place Indoor Winter Market 7am-noon, 2901 2nd Ave. S. Birmingham Parent’s Special Needs Expo Huntsville! 10am-3pm, The Jaycee Community Building, 2180 Airport Rd., SW, Huntsville. Our first Expo event in Huntsville! www.birminghamparent.com. Dodgeball 6:30pm, North Shelby Library. The library’s teen council is hosting a dodgeball night for 6th-12th graders. Information, 439-5512 or nsyouth@shelbycounty-al.org.

PLEASE NOTE: Events may change after publication deadline; please phone ahead to confirm important information. The deadline for submitting calendar items for the April 2019 print issue is March 9, 2019. 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.

44 | birminghamparent | march 2019

events & attractions n Aldridge Botanical Gardens 3530 Lorna Road, Hoover. 205-682-8019, www.aldridgegardens.com n Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame 1631 Fourth Ave. N., Birmingham. 205-254-2731, www.jazzhall.com n Alabama School of Fine Arts 1800 Rev. Abraham Woods, Jr. Blvd. n Alabama Sports Hall of Fame 2150 Richard Arrington Blvd. N., Birmingham. 323-6665, www.ashof.org n Alabama Wildlife Center 100 Terrace Drive, Pelham. 205-663-7930. www.awrc.org n American Village Highway 119, Montevallo. 205-665-3535, www.americanvillage.org n Barber Motorsports Park 6040 Barber Motorsports Parkway, Leeds. 205-298-9040, www.barbermotorsports.com n Birmingham Botanical Gardens When visiting the Gardens, be sure to download the treasure map to take with you! www. bbgardens.org/documents/ treasuremapforweb.pdf 2612 Lane Park Road, Birmingham. 205-414-3900, www.bbgardens.org n Birmingham Children’s Theatre 1001 19th St. North, Birmingham, AL, 35203, 205-458-8181, www. bct123.org n Birmingham Civil Rights Institute 16th St. N., Birmingham. 205-3289696, 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. 205-254-2565, www.artsbma.org n Birmingham Public Libraries Find a library near you for all kinds of fun events and enrichment! www.bplonline.org

n Birmingham Zoo In-park Special Attractions: • Special Saturdays. On the second Saturday of each month from 10-11am for ages 8-up, the Birmingham Zoo and KultureCity presents a series of zoo-based learning experiences for children and adolescents with cognitive or physical disabilities. Caregivers must attend all classes. FREE; space is limited to 10 students per class. Information, Roger Torbert, rtorbert@birminghamzoo.com. 2630 Cahaba Road, Birmingham. 205-879-0409, www.birminghamzoo.com n Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum Day Out with Thomas: The Steam Team Tour 2019. Take a ride with Thomas the Tank Engine, star of the popular Thomas & Friends™ series. Meet Sir Topham Hatt, controller of the railway and enjoy a day of Thomas-themed activities including toy play, photo ops, and more. March 29-31, April 6-7. Tickets, 866-468-7630, www. dayoutwiththomas.com. 1919 Ninth St., Calera. 205-668-3435, www. hodrrm.org

IMAX Movies: • Dream Big. This movie showcases engineering’s impressive impact on our world and our lives. From Dubai’s record-high skyscrapers to bridges soaring through clouds, experience the massive scale and forces of nature that challenge engineers. Through March 22. • Journey to the South Pacific. Adventure to the lush tropical islands of remote West Papua, where life flourishes above and below the sea. Through April 5. 200 19th St. N., Birmingham. 205-714-8300, www.mcwane.org. n Moss Rock Preserve Preserve Parkway, Hoover. 205-739-7141, www.hooveral.org. n Oak Mountain State Park 200 Terrace Drive, Pelham. 205-620-2520, www.alapark.com. n Ruffner Mountain Nature Center 1214 81st St. S., Birmingham. 205-833-8264, www.ruffnermountain.org.

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

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

n McWane Science Center • Genome: Unlocking Life’s Code. An immersive, high-tech exhibit that captures the revolutionary nature of genomic science. Through May 5.

n Southern Museum of Flight 4343 73rd St. N., Birmingham. 205-833-8226, www.southernmuseumofflight.org

• Speed: Science in Motion. This exhibit, developed by Scitech in Perth, Australia and produced by Imagine Exhibitions, replicates the high-octane action of the Formula 1 racetrack, complete with pit lane, workshop and physical testing environments. Challenge yourself! Through May 5. • Member Mondays. Every Monday, McWane Science Center members receive extra perks while visiting! Includes a special gift for kids when checking in, 30 percent discount on gift shop purchases, $1 small popcorn at IMAX concession stand and a free members-only evening event each month. Also, on the second Monday of each month, McWane opens its doors from 5-8pm for its members.

n Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park 12632 Confederate Parkway, McCalla. 205-477-5711, www.tannehill.org n Vulcan Park • Alabama Justice: The Cases and Faces that Changed a Nation. Vulcan Center Museum will host this exhibit that tells the story of eight Alabama-based, landmark U.S. Supreme Court cases and profiles three U.S. Supreme Court justices from the state. Through May 13. 1701 Valley View Drive, Birmingham. 205-933-1409, www.vulcanpark.org

the

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BY BECKY The only voice in travel that MATTERS! Catch The Travel Voice by Becky on Saturday’s in Shelby County on FM 99.9 APH Radio at 11 a.m. and anytime on iHeart Radio! Great travel information, special deals, awesome guests, spectacular on location LIVE events and amazing giveaways!

For more information, visit thetravelvoicebybecky.com birminghamparent.com | 45

PHOTO COURTESY JUNIOR LEAGUE OF BIRMINGHAM

PARE N T I N G PE O P L E

Providing Diapers to Children in Need: Junior League of Birmingham By Lori Chandler Pruitt

In 2016, the Junior League of Birmingham became aware of the great need for diapers for children whose parents could not afford them. That first month of the league’s pilot diaper bank program, just from word-of-mouth collections, the league was able to distribute more than 33,000 disposable diapers to agencies that work directly with those in need. “The need is so great,” says Elizabeth Burgess, league president. “Day cares either require a child be potty trained, and if not, parents must provide disposable diapers, and not having that many times means parents cannot go to work or school.” Nearly a third of children in Alabama under age 3 live in families with incomes below the federal poverty threshold, and diapers are not covered by government assistance programs such as SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and WIC (Women, Infants and Children). About 26 percent of Alabama WIC funding recipients are infants. About a third of Alabama children are likely to benefit from diaper donations, which is in line with the national average. “I don’t think many people realize the huge need,” Burgess adds. “It really affects people’s lives more than just the child’s physical needs.” Today, the league distributes about 100,000 diapers a month to 233 organizations across the area through a partnership with the Community 46 | birminghamparent | march 2019

Food Bank of Central Alabama, which stores the diapers and vets the organizations that can participate. Considering that a baby can require 10 to 12 diapers a day on average, that represents a lot of diapers. The program also helps with immediate community needs. Recently, the league distributed diapers for area families impacted by the federal government shutdown, Burgess says. There are many ways to help. The league has a large annual diaper/fundraising drive in the fall, and there are “pop-up” diaper drives throughout the year at businesses and other locations, Burgess says. Last fall’s drive raised more than 14,000 diapers from public donations and drop-offs. “We take all sizes. If you have disposable diapers at home that you may have bought in bulk that you are no longer using for your child, or the child has grown out of them, we will take the opened package of the remaining diapers,” Burgess says. “We will take individual diapers, and we will take baby wipes as well.” Those who wish to donate diapers can take them to the Junior League’s offices at 2212 20th Ave. South in Birmingham, or go on the group’s website at https://www.jlbonline.com/ diaper-bank to find out how to make a donation toward diapers. Money donations helps the league purchase diapers in bulk, to save money and to provide

“The need is so great,” says Elizabeth Burgess, league president. “Day cares either require a child be potty trained, and if not, parents must provide disposable diapers, and not having that many times means parents cannot go to work or school.”

more diapers. “We want to increase our funding pipeline, because the cost to buy diapers in bulk has increased, as well as freight,” Burgess says. Right now, the diaper bank is attempting to determine the diaper sizes most needed for different programs, such as JCCEO’s Head Start, Burgess says. “We want to help provide that service, along with other daily essentials,” she says. The Junior League of Birmingham, a volunteer agency of about 2,300 women, offers several programs to help the community and develop women’s potential, from education and financial stability, to health and nutrition. For more information on the group’s programs and mission, go to www.jlbonline.com. Lori Pruitt is associate editor of Birmingham Parent.

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