Birmingham Parent November 2018 issue

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

NOVEMBER 2018

WHEN YOUR CHILD IS ADOPTING A CHILD

FREE

CELEBRATING VETERANS DAY IN AND AROUND BIRMINGHAM

FOUR REASONS TO CONSIDER

OUR 2018 PRIVATE SCHOOL DIRECTORY PAGE 22

PRIVATE SCHOOL PRIVATE EDUCATION: A CHOICE DECISION

Alabama School of Mathematics and Science

Free Tuition, Room, and Board

Visit ASMS.NET to Apply Now Alabama 9th & 10th Graders are Eligible to Apply

Alabama’s Public High School Educating Alabama’s Future Leaders since 1989

Come find out if ASMS is right for you by attending a statewide informational meeting and visiting our campus for ASMS Day on Saturday, November 10 or Saturday, December 1.

Register for the meeting you plan to attend as well as ASMS Day at www.asms.net.

ASMS Informational Meetings ALBERTVILLE Thursday, Oct. 11, 6:00 PM Albertville High School

FLORENCE Wednesday, Oct. 17, 6:00 PM University of North Alabama

MONTEVALLO Monday, Oct. 8, 6:00 PM Montevallo University

ALEXANDER CITY Tuesday, Oct. 23, 6:00 PM Central Alabama Community College

GREENVILLE Thursday, Oct. 4, 6:00 PM Beeland Park Community Center

MONTGOMERY Thursday, Oct. 18, 6:00 PM Alabama Association of School Boards

ANNISTON/OXFORD Wednesday, Oct. 24, 6:00 PM Oxford Civic Center

HAMILTON Thursday, Oct. 18, 6:00 PM Bevill State Community College

ROANOKE Thursday, Oct. 18, 6:00 PM Roanoke Public Library

ATMORE Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018, 6:00 PM Coastal Alabama Community College

HUNTSVILLE Monday, Oct. 22, 6:00 PM University of Alabama in Huntsville

SELMA Tuesday, Oct. 2, 6:00 PM Wallace Community College

AUBURN Thursday, Oct. 11, 5:30 PM (Central) Auburn University

JASPER Thursday, Oct. 25, 6:00 PM Bevill State Community College

THOMASVILLE Thursday, Oct. 11, 6:00 PM Coastal Alabama Community College

BIRMINGHAM Tuesday, Oct. 23, 6:00 PM University of Alabama at Birmingham

LIVINGSTON Tuesday, Oct. 9, 6:00 PM University of West Alabama

TROY Thursday, Oct. 18, 6:00 PM Troy University

BOAZ Wednesday, Oct. 10, 6:00 PM Snead State

MOBILE-OPTION 1 Thursday, Oct. 4, 6:00 PM ASMS Campus

TUSCALOOSA Wednesday, Oct. 24, 6:00 PM University of Alabama

ENTERPRISE Tuesday, Oct. 23, 6:00 PM Dauphin Jr. High School

MOBILE-OPTION 2 Thursday, Oct. 25, 6:00 PM ASMS Campus

Register for an ASMS Informational Meeting at www.asms.net.

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ed note IS PRIVATE EDUCATION THE CHOICE DECISION FOR YOU? If you’ve ever considered private school for your child, this is the Birmingham Parent issue for you!

We’ve got several great stories on how to choose a private education and why, and then there’s our great directory of private schools to keep as a resource, should you decide to explore this option for your child.

My children are grown, but they have run the educational gamut. They have attended public school, private school and were even homeschooled for a time. We had good experiences in all three! We made big sacrifices to send our children to a Christian school for a few years, but we don’t regret it. The lessons and environment there were perfect for them at that time.

But when our daughter was diagnosed with scoliosis and put in a large brace to wear 22 hours a day, we made another decision, another sacrifice, for me to become their teacher, and we homeschooled for a time. After two years of a brace, our daughter still had to have major back surgery. We were blessed to be able to school her at home so she maintained her grades and studies and didn’t have to be left back. In fact, she ended up doing early enrollment at junior college and graduating as a homeschooler.

Our son, four years younger, was pulled out of private school and homeschooled with his sister. It was a money decision for us, and he even completed two grades in one year! But when his sister graduated high school, our son wanted to return to public high school, which he did, with great success and plenty of friends.

So I understand that so many issues face parents today with their educational decisions for their children. Every child and family is different. We at Birmingham Parent hope that this information will help you make an informed decision if you decide to explore private education. While it’s not for every child/every family, it might be for you.

November is National Adoption Month. Don’t miss our feature on Adoption, another family decision that you may be considering.

In this special holiday season, we at Birmingham Parent are thankful for YOU our readers and YOU our advertisers and sponsors who make Birmingham Parent possible every month and who encourage us and read the magazine month after month, year after year. Thank you for loving “our baby.”

Happy Thanksgiving!

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.

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, Denise Yearian, Melanie B. Holliman, Erin Chase, Stephanie Rodda, Sean Dietrich, David Hardin, MD, Jan Pierce, M.Ed., Charles Ghigna, Childcare Resources

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 (EIN20-0694149) is published monthly by Evans Publishing LLC. www. birminghamparent.com or editor@ birminghamparent.com. Birmingham Parent is © 2018 by Evans Publishing LLC. Family Connections Media ©2018

by Evans Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Editorial submissions are welcome.

For back issues, please send a self-addressed 10” x 13” envelope with $4 for postage and handling.

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birminghamparent.com | 5

contents

PA R EN T IN G

Parenting with Dr. Friedman What Should Children Know About the Finances?

PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE When it comes to being a parent, there are dozens of decisions that have to be made every day in regards to what is best for your children. And as the child gets older, those questions don’t get any easier – in fact, they can get more challenging.

10 our focus

our features

EDITOR’S NOTE Is Private Education the Choice Decision for You?................4

PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE FOUR REASONS TO CONSIDER Sending Your Child to Private School...................................10

PARENTING with Dr. Friedman...............................7

PRIVATE EDUCATION: A Choice Decision........................... 14 STEPS TO LOCATING CHILD CARE...............16 How to Make the Most of PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES...............................18 PRIVATE SCHOOL DIRECTORY.....................................22

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

32 ADOPTION When Your Child is Adopting a Child.........................32

________ ________

How to Celebrate Veterans Day In & Around Birmingham...................36

18

our regulars

2018 Gift Guide............................... 27

ASK THE ATTORNEY Powers of Attorney......................... 24 PARENTING PEOPLE: Operation School Bell...................26 ASK THE SPECIALIST It’s Not Too Late to Get Your Flu Shot............................28 DINING WITHOUT WHINING Winter Cobb Salad.........................30 SEAN OF THE SOUTH Young Minds....................................38 CALENDAR OF EVENTS............... 41 POETRY PARTY November..........................................46

ON THE COVER: Army dad Christopher and Children Israel, age 3 and Arianna, age 2, of Sterrett, are celebrating Veterans Day as a family. Photo by Samantha Ferguson, His Hands Photographs, www.hishandsphotographs.com, 205-862-3374.

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Q:

My husband is making a change from a salaried position to self-employment.

This will result in a cut in our income for at least the first one to two years.

Then, if successful, we might do better than we did before. How much of this should we share with the children? In general, how much should children know about their parent’s finances? At what age can children understand financial matters?

Children can be included in the facts of family financial changes, but should be spared from the worry as much as is realistically possible.

This is not to say that you cannot say, “We cannot afford a new toy now” when the child asks for something that he wants but doesn’t necessarily need, but he should not be a part of the parental anxiety about making ends meet.

Financial changes are an opportunity to teach your children both about money and about delayed gratification. This is a psychological term that means that children have to learn that they cannot have what they want, when they want it. Whether or not the money is available, no child should have unlimited and immediate access to goods.

Children are quick to absorb attitudes from their parents. If you are excited about the new opportunity, even if you are also scared of flying without a safety net, your children will feel upbeat about the change. If you are angry at your husband for giving up financial security, your children will worry.

Tell your children the plans in words and concepts that they can understand. An

appropriate explanation will be different for each age group. A two-year-old might not need to know at all. He will be more concerned with how many hours mom or dad are working than with how much money is coming in. He will be affected by jittery parents but probably won’t be affected by the financial change.

A 10-year-old may need to know that dad is starting his own business and that may mean that for a while, the family will be careful about how much money they will spend. A teenager might want to be more involved in the process, even to the point of working with dad to get the business going.

Understanding of money parallels overall mental development. Young children think concretely, while teenagers of average or above intelligence have abstract thought.

Young children can consider only one dimension, while teens can weigh multiple factors. Preschool-age children don’t give much thought to money beyond the fact that the parent provides it and they can exchange the money in their hand for a toy or candy.

Their understanding is concrete and in the

here and now. Preschoolers don’t plan ahead.

Beginning at about age 11, with the onset of abstract thought, they become able to plan for the future.

From about age six, children should be taught the concept of saving – that you don’t spend money immediately just because you have it, but you put some away for later.

Teenagers should additionally be taught the concept of investing.

Including your child in some of the information about the change in finances will lead him to cooperate. If he understands WHY he cannot have tennis lessons this year, he will be less likely to resent the change.

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

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SH O RT STU FF Button Battery Dangers

Bennie Goes Up! Up! Up!

Parents of small children are usually on guard against potential choking hazards, but one item that is often overlooked is the button battery or disc battery. These batteries are about the size of a quarter or smaller and pose a dangerous risk to children if ingested.

Ann Slattery, managing director of the Regional Poison Control Center at Children’s of Alabama, says the center has received 60 calls related to disc batteries in the last three years. Thankfully, none resulted in a fatality, but swallowing a disc battery can be extremely dangerous. Not only do they pose a choking hazard, but they can result in actual burns resulting in tissue damage and internal bleeding.

When ingestion occurs, it’s crucial for the child to have an X-ray to determine where the battery is located and if surgery is needed.

Between 1985 and 2009, more than 56,000 disc battery ingestions were reported to the National Poison Data System. Because these batteries are small, often hidden and used in so many devices, they can often be overlooked. “These are in so many different products,” Slattery says. “They are in greeting cards, remotes, hearing aids and watches, even in children’s toys.”

More often than not, parents do not see the child ingest the battery. The symptoms of possible poisoning by disc battery ingestion include coughing, choking, loss of appetite, irritability and fever.

In some cases, if the battery is small and moves beyond the esophagus, it may pass uneventfully through the rest of the digestive system within a matter of days. “However, if it’s lodged in the esophagus, it is considered an emergency and requires immediate removal,” she adds.

If you suspect your child has swallowed a disc battery, call the poison control center at 800-2221222. If it’s an obvious medical emergency, call 9-1-1.

When Brynn Welch adopted her infant son in August 2013, she thought she was set for children’s books. She had shelves and shelves full of books at home and had been collecting them for some time.

But an issue arose that she did not expect: None of the books featured characters of color. Welch is white, and the child she adopted, Ben, is black.

“I became sort of manic,” says Welch, an assistant professor in the UAB Department of Philosophy. “I was tearing through every book in the house. It was a bad moment for me, this feeling of having filled my house with books where he couldn’t see himself in them and feeling guilt for not having noticed that.”

So began the story of “Bennie Goes Up! Up! Up!” which was published in February.

Welch and Joy Eastridge, a friend from Welch’s hometown in northern Tennessee who works as a parish nurse and writes Bible studies and devotionals, are co-authors. A colleague in the UAB Department of English, Jill Clements, was her proofreader.

The book is illustrated by Mary Ruth Pruitt, a former student of Welch’s who had just completed her master of fine arts degree at the Memphis College of Art. The book follows the adventures of Bennie and his dreams of soaring and reaching for the stars. The book is full of details that Welch says often are not present in popular children’s literature. Much like the real-life family that inspired them, the book’s mother-son duo are unconventional, with her red hair and his dark skin. In an illustration of Bennie’s room, a costume tiara can be seen sparkling from inside his toybox – in homage to real-life Ben, who loves anything that sparkles or twirls. In a playground scene, a family pushes their son in a wheelchair on an adaptive swing set.

The book is available for purchase on Amazon and at Barnes and Noble.

7 Hoover Schools Named to the 2018 list of “America’s Healthiest Schools” Seven Hoover City Schools were named to the 2018 list of “America’s Healthiest Schools” by the Alliance for Healthier Generation.

The alliance identified 461 of the nation’s healthiest schools based on the school’s ability to meet a rigorous set of criteria – including serving healthier meals and snacks, getting students moving more, offering high-quality health and physical education, and empowering school leaders to become healthy role models.

The alliance recognized Bluff Park Elementary School, Deer Valley Elementary School, Greystone Elementary School, Harriette Gwin Elementary School, Riverchase Elementary School, Rocky Ridge Elementary School and Spain Park High School.

Three other schools in the state also made the list. They are W.O. Parmer School in Butler County, and Lincoln Elementary School and Munford High School, both in Talladega County. For more information, visit healthiestschools.org.

How Schools Are Achieving Quality Physical Education Quality physical education is the cornerstone for schools invested in teaching the whole child, and it is the time during a school day to develop motor skills as well as address fitness and social development.

“All activities and games in physical education classes should be designed to meet three main goals: motor development, fitness development and social development,” says Sandra Sims, Ph.D., associate professor in the UAB Department of Human Studies. “To do this, teachers need to focus on three areas: modification, inclusion and safety.”

Modification: Teachers should design games that increase the opportunities needed for motor development, fitness development and social development. “Maximum participation of all students is critical,” Sims says. “For example, instead of playing one large kickball game where students may touch a ball only once, the teacher should organize the class to play several games at the same time.”

Sims adds that teachers also can modify the rules of the game. Instead of playing a volleyball game with a regulation height net, the teacher can lower the net and play multiple “two versus two” volleyball games. This allows for more students to participate with others of the same level skill set.

Inclusion: All students should be included in activities for the entire class time. A popular elimination game is “knock out,” where two students shoot a basketball at the same goal and try to be the first to ring the goal. After students are “knocked out” of the game, they sit and wait for the game to end.

“Instead of having students sit out, the teacher can include stations or areas where students can move to a new game to play or practice skills used in the game instead of sitting and watching others play,” Sims explains. “Students who are not athletically inclined or who have disabilities are often at a disadvantage during elimination games.”

Safety: “Games that target hitting other students create unnecessary safety risks,” Sims says. “Games that cause students to feel inferior, humiliated and isolated have no place in physical education classes.

It is important that we create a safe and inclusive environment by providing opportunities for each student to learn and succeed, no matter their skill level.”

Infant Walkers Pose Risk for Injuries A new study published in the journal Pediatrics finds that on average, more than 9,000 children are injured each year by infant walkers.

Additional details of the study conducted by the Center for Injury Research and Prevention at Nationwide Children’s Hospital include: • An estimated 230,676 infant walker-related injuries among children younger than 15 months old were treated in U.S. emergency departments during the 25-year study period.

• Most children (74.1 percent) were injured by falling down stairs in an infant walker and 90.6 percent of injuries were to the head/neck.

• Among the 4.5 percent of patients admitted to the hospital, 37.8 percent had a skull fracture.

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• During 1990 through 2003, overall infant walker-related injuries and stair fall-related injuries decreased by 84.5 percent and 91.0 percent, respectively.

• The average annual number of injuries decreased by 22.7 percent during the 4-year period following implementation of the federal mandatory safety standard, compared with the 4-year period prior to the standard.

Gary Smith, MD, PhD, director of the Center for Injury Research and Policy of The Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital is the senior author of the study. Despite the decline in injuries, Smith says infant walkers remain an important and preventable source of injury among young children, which supports the American Academy of Pediatrics’ call for a ban on their manufacture and sale in the U.S.

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Private School Issue

“We enrolled 80 new students for this school year, and they came from 40 different academic programs in Birmingham and beyond. This creates an ethnic diversity, and in today’s increasingly global community, it’s important for students to understand, appreciate, and collaborate with a wide range of perspectives and experiences.”

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Photo courtesy The Altamont School

—THOMAS GOLDSMITH, DIRECTOR OF ADMISSION AT THE ALTAMONT SCHOOL

• Bible Teaching & Training

• Absolute Academic Excellence

FOUR REASONS TO

Consider Sending Your Child to Private School When it comes to being a parent, there are dozens of decisions that have to be made every day in regards to what is best for their children.

And as the child gets older, those questions don’t get any easier – in fact, they can get more challenging.

For example: should you send your child to public school or private school? Like with any decision, there are always pros and cons. Here, we talked with private school experts who share the top four reasons why you should be thinking about private school.

Smaller Class Sizes

A lower student to teacher ratio is rather typical in any private school, and there are many benefits to that, such as greater interaction between students and more opportunities 10 | birminghamparent |

november 2018

By Paige Townley

for collaboration between students and their teachers, notes Thomas Goldsmith, director of admission at The Altamont School. “It also means that your child is truly going to be known by his or her teacher,” Goldsmith says. “At a private school, students aren’t going to slip through the cracks. They will be known and cared for.”

For example, at The Altamont School, the administration and staff is given the opportunity to get to know students, and a specific faculty advisor is assigned to each student to meet with daily. “They meet daily for about 10 minutes and talk about information for the day, go over any questions the student may have talk about academic schedules, and social opportunities around campus,” adds Julie Beckwith, director of communication. “That’s just one

example of a greater level of personal interaction between students and teachers that can happen with smaller class sizes.”

The smaller class sizes also mean that students have an easier opportunity to develop communication skills, says Dr. Melinda Bray, co-founder/education director of The Hillsboro School. “Students develop their voice because classrooms are small,” she says. “Children learn how to communicate with other people and often talk in class more.”

Individualized Learning

Each student learns differently, and often private schools can capitalize on that and provide more individualized learning opportunities. “Children learn in different ways, and private schools often employ a variety of

learning approaches that accommodate the varying needs of children,” notes Rebecca Little, head of school for Joseph Bruno Montessori Academy.

The Hillsboro School was founded on the idea of teaching children based on how they learn, so that means the school doesn’t teach children simply based on their age, adds Bray. “We teach kids where they are ready to learn and not how old they are,” she says. “So as they learn concepts, they move on to the next concepts. They don’t have to sit around and wait for other children who may be taking a little longer.”

Diverse Curriculum Options

Oftentimes a private school provides a greater opportunity to access more educational programs, specifically the arts. For instance, at Advent Episcopal School, every student from pre-K through eighth grade take art, French, and music. There is no requirement to select just one per year or semester.

“We know the benefits that having access to the arts as part of early foundation education is really helpful later on,” says Claire Cassady Vaughn, Advent’s director of advancement. “More often than not, in private schools you have a more equitable access to those different programs because the schedule is designed to make sure it accommodates those important programs.

“Often, either due to volume or funding, public schools aren’t in a position to allow students to take that many at a time. Public

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Private School Issue schools may have the options, but students usually have to pick. They can’t take them all,” Vaughn adds.

Private school curriculums also often allow more opportunities for off-campus learning experiences, instead of just being a few pre-selected destinations for entire classrooms. For example, The Hillsboro School allows students to take all sorts of field trips, and they can be for just one or two students and not an entire classroom. “Our students actually help plan their field trips,” Bray says. “They start that in elementary school, and they report back on the places they go.

“For us, field trips are field experiences,” Bray adds. “Students go with a purpose and know the goals of the visit. We take a lot of field trips because we believe in getting the students out in the real world to apply their learning and see that learning doesn’t just happen in the classroom.”

The classroom, reimagined.

Diverse Student Body

In addition to a diverse curriculum, private schools also offer diversity within the classroom. At private schools, students aren’t limited to living within a particular community or zip code.

“We enrolled 80 new students for this school year, and they came from 40 different academic programs in Birmingham and beyond,” says Goldsmith. “This creates an ethnic diversity, and in today’s increasingly global community, it’s important for students to understand, appreciate, and collaborate with a wide range of perspectives and experiences.”

Oftentimes a private school provides a greater opportunity to access more educational programs, specifically the arts.

Photo courtesy The Altamont School

Paige Townley is a Birmingham freelance writer.

To learn more, visit

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Private School Issue QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN CONSIDERING A SCHOOL: ✚ What is the school’s philosophy on teaching reading?

BIRMINGHAM’S PREMIER DAYCARE & PRESCHOOL

✚ What kinds of books are the children expected to read?

Who chooses them?

FAVORITE PRE-SCHOOL/ DAYCARE

✚ How and when is writing and composition taught? Is there time for creative writing?

FAVORITE DAY CAMP

✚ Is the curriculum established or does it emerge from the students’ interests? ✚ How often do the children use textbooks? Workbooks?

Worksheets?

Photo courtesy The Hillsboro School

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✚ How are the children assessed?

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✚ What extracurricular activities are offered? Is it open to all children? ✚ How much time is spent on art, music and crafts? ✚ Are there many opportunities for cooperative learning? ✚ How is discipline for improper behavior carried out? ✚ What kind of qualifications do the teachers have? ✚ Who makes decisions about the school? ✚ What level of parental participation is allowed?

PRIVATE EDUCATION:

There are a host of reasons why parents send their children to private schools. For some, it is a smaller teacher-student ratio and more individualized attention. For others, it is the religious grounding their children receive.

For still others, it is to better address their student’s needs and cater to his academic timetable, be it a late bloomer or one who is gifted in math or art. But since no two schools are alike, where do parents begin their search for the right academic setting?

“Most families start by talking with someone they know,” says private school admissions director Connie Ernsberger. “It may be someone in the community or at work. What’s important is that you ask people whose opinions you trust.”

While investigating the options, avoid trying to find the “perfect school,” but rather look for a good fit – one that meets the child’s needs. “When it comes to schools, there is no one-size-fits-all,” says Maria Barber, private school headmistress. “Every academic setting has a different flavor, and one is not necessarily better than another. It’s that one may be a better fit for your child than another.”

For this reason, look at your child’s needs, noting his strengths, weaknesses, interests and

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✚ When do children start getting homework? How much at what grades? ✚ When does computer education start? How much exposure per week do they get?

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By Denise Yearian

talents. Also consider what sort of learning environment he would be most comfortable in.

A self-motivated learner, for example, may do well in a program where he gets to direct and carry out his own learning. But a child in need of constant direction might be more suited to a structured environment.

Next, make a list of what you want in a school. Be specific about ambiance, class size, teaching style, curriculum, the role of art and music, homework and where parents fit in the running of the school.

“I suggest the list be prioritized,” says Ernsberger. “Some things may be non- negotiable to parents, such as class size, a strong art program or religious affiliation. Other things would be nice but not necessarily mandatory.”

After the list has been made, call schools that are potential candidates and ask for information to be sent. Consider each one’s program, mission, services, faculty and administration.

What makes the school unique? What is its teaching philosophy? Is there a vision for the future? Is there anything the school does particularly well? What about the curriculum? Will it cater to your child’s talents and interests?

While cost and commuting distance are factors, experts agree these are hurdles that

can be overcome. “It’s okay for parents to look at a school even if they don’t think they can afford it,” says Ernsberger. “Most have financial aid based on need, so it’s no big deal to ask about it.”

As for commute, Barber suggests a ride as far as 30 minutes may be worth it if the school has an environment where your child will be happy and thrive. “Parents may be able to find someone to carpool with,” she says. “Or they may use that distance to let their child study or spend quality time together.”

Next, arrange to visit those schools that meet your initial criteria. This will give you a feel for the school’s educational and developmental philosophy. Note, however, that even schools which adhere to like-minded philosophies can be tremendously different.

“A school that seemed to be the perfect fit on paper or over the phone may prove otherwise once parents have visited,” adds Ernsberger.

“And the school they weren’t initially drawn to may be the ‘one.’ That’s why it’s important that you go. Test it. Feel it. See what it is like.”

While visiting, spend a few minutes talking with the principal or school administrator.

Discuss your child’s needs and ask if the school can meet those needs.

If possible, sit in on classes and observe the teachers and students. Record obvious facts such as school and class size, ambiance as a whole and within individual classrooms, absence or presence of a dress code and general demeanor of the students and teachers. Also record the students’ reactions. Did they feel comfortable and relaxed, or anxious and uptight?

Ask for names of several parents whose children attend the school and would be willing to talk with you. Find out what they do and don’t like about the school. If you can, obtain a few names of parents who were not happy with the school and enrolled their children elsewhere. All schools have success stories, but no school works for every child. Get a balanced perspective.

Once your have visited several schools and narrowed your selection, return with your child. Have him meet the teacher, and if possible, spend time in the classroom with the other students.

What was his reaction? Did he seem comfortable with the school?

The teacher? Other students?

Finally, and most importantly, follow your intuition. You know your child better than anyone else. If you have done your homework, you’ll know if it’s the right school for your child.

“Sometimes it’s not necessarily a specific program or academic feature that lets parents know it’s a good match,” explains Ernsberger. “It’s that intangible feeling – that visceral reaction.

They know this is a place where their child can grow and academically succeed.”

Denise Yearian is the former editor of two parenting magazines and the mother of three children and six grandchildren.

www.disl.org 251-861-2141

101 Bienville Blvd.

Dauphin Island, Alabama 36528 birminghamparent.com | 15

Private School Issue

Steps to Locating Child Care Whether it is public or private, finding quality affordable child care is often a challenge.

ADVENT EPISCOPAL SCHOOL

Childcare Resources, a non-profit 501(c)(3) child care resource and referral agency based in Birmingham, Alabama, is a great place to start when searching for quality child care in the area. The mission of Childcare Resources is to make quality care and education of children happen by providing information, education and assistance to families, providers of child care and the communities of Blount, Jefferson, Shelby and Walker counties.

EDUCATING BIRMINGHAM'S BRIGHTEST STUDENTS PREKINDERGARTEN THROUGH 8TH GRADE SINCE 1950.

Join us for our 50th Anniversary Service of Lessons & Carols Thursday, December 6 Noon Cathedral Church of the Advent 2019 6TH AVENUE NORTH | WWW.ADVENTEPISCOPALSCHOOL.ORG | 205.252.2535

Childcare Resources offers these tips for finding child care.

• Start Early! Finding the right child care option for your family can take time.

• Visit child care programs and ask questions..

- What is your staff to child ratio?

- What is your classroom or group size?

- What is your caregiver education and turnover?

- How do you make sure you’re addressing the children’s health and safety?

- Is your program accredited?

- How much family involvement do you allow?

• Make an Informed Choice. Be sure to visit and tour the program.

• Stay Involved! Your child care provider and you are partners, and you should participate in your child’s program regularly.

Checklist and Questions to Ask Documents You Should See Posted: • Most recent DHR license, if licensed • Most recent licensing evaluation form, if licensed

• Most recent deficiency report, if applicable • Corrective or adverse action notices, if applicable • Most recent fire inspection report • Most recent health department inspection report and food permit or written permission from health department to cater food • Menu for meals and snacks • Emergency names and numbers for fire department, law enforcement, medical assistance, poison control center and substitute help • Emergency procedures

Caregivers and Teachers: • Do the caregivers seem to really like children?

• Do the caregivers get down on each child’s level to speak with the child?

• Are children’s needs quickly met even when things are busy?

• Are caregivers trained in CPR, first aid and early childhood development?

• Are parents’ ideas welcomed?

• Are there ways for you to get involved?

• Are caregivers trained and experienced?

General Questions to Ask: • Are you licensed or exempt from licensure?

• Is your program Nationally Accredited?

• Are background checks required for all staff members?

• How long has the program been in operation?

• What is the staff to child ratio?

• How many children will be in my child’s group?

• What is your discipline policy?

• How do you handle medical, fire and weather emergencies?

• May I drop in and visit at any time?

Environment: • Is the atmosphere bright and pleasant?

• Is the outside play area fenced and does it have safe and age-appropriate equipment?

• Is the environment clean and orderly?

Activities • Are children involved in a variety of activities with a balance of quiet and busy time?

• Is a daily schedule or a lesson plan posted?

• Are there plenty of age-appropriate, clean, safe toys, books and materials?

• Are toys within reach of the children?

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“My daughter has been a student here for just a month, but we are already in love with this place and this staff! Master Scarsella knows kids and he gives so much energy and encouragement in each class. I am impressed that he is present and teaching every single class we've had. I love that He knows every single students name and highlights their growth in class. The other teachers are also incredible and they are always plenty of them in class to provide extra tips, or correct things the kids might be doing wrong. They always have a smile and uplifting word. The overall attitude, feeling, and impression we get every time we come in this door is ‘We care about your child, we know they can succeed, and we will help them get there.’ Can't say enough good things....So THANK YOU!!!!!”

- PARENT OF A 6 YEAR OLD GIRL

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Courtesy of Childcare Resources, 205-945-0018, ext. 317. Visit www.ccr-bhm.org for a FREE customized listing of child care options.

16 | birminghamparent |

november 2018

birminghamparent.com | 17

Private School Issue

PRE - K - 8 TH GRADE ALTAR SERVERS • ART • ATHLETICS • BAND • CHEERLEADING CHOIR • DEBATE • PERFORMING ARTS SCIENCE OLYMPIAD • SPANISH • TECHNOLOGY

How to Make the Most of Parent-Teacher Conferences

AC ADEM I C EXC ELLEN C E • PO SI TI V E M O R AL DEV ELO PM EN T • C O M M U N I T Y SERV I C E

At Our Lady of the Valley Catholic School our mission is to provide an environment in which God’s children become self-directed, lifelong learners.

Schedule a visit today and discover why for more than 30 years parents have partnered with OLV to give their children a faith-filled future.

(and when to ask for another one)

Voted Best Private School in Shelby County

205.991.5963 olvbir mingh am.com • 5510 D ouble O ak L ane, Bir mingh am, AL 35242

By Jan Pierce, M.Ed.

Whether it’s your first parent-teacher conference or the twentieth, you probably get sweaty palms upon entering the classroom at your assigned timeslot. After all you’re on the teacher’s turf and you’re about to hear news about your own flesh and blood’s progress or lack thereof. The language used routinely in school settings might not “compute” and you may have real concerns about any number of issues related to your child’s placement and daily life at school.

If it helps at all, I know from personal experience that teachers also get a bit stressed at conference time. From their perspective they have a ton of data from each subject area to put into a format that can be conveyed and discussed in about eighteen minutes time. It’s a tall order and has to be done in back to back sessions. Teachers have been known to call the child by the wrong name after nine or ten conferences when they’re exhausted and just longing to go home and put their feet up.

But back to you, the parent. You need information. You want to know how your child is doing in relation to the rest of the class. You want to know if there are problems on the horizon and whether or not your child is working up to his or her ability. And, you deserve that information.

It’s important that you understand the purpose of parent conferences. In general the fall conference held several months after the beginning of the term is a broad overview of the child’s standing. In this initial conference you’ll hear 18 | birminghamparent |

november 2018

about progress in each subject area and maybe a few of the highlights of your child’s performance.

You’ll probably be given work samples that give evidence of success levels or areas of need. You may get some test scores that serve to set goals for the rest of the year. If all systems are “go” you may not need further time with the teacher, you’ll just await the next report card.

But, there may be significant problem areas.

Your child may be unhappy in school or frustrated by one of the subject areas. The teacher may indicate he is behind in reading or she is struggling with math. There isn’t time in that 15 or 20 minutes to design a plan to address the problems.

And your child’s success is worth the time it takes to make a workable plan and then follow through toward a clear goal. So go ahead and schedule another conference in the near future. Set a time when the teacher can meet only with you to begin a separate goal-setting, problem-solving session.

Scheduling another conference gives the teacher time to gather further information and ensures that you’ll be given an open-ended time slot rather than having to rush through information to make way for the next set of nervous parents.

It’s vital that you understand the best way to approach these conference times is as members of the same team. Nothing is gained by confrontational conversations. It’s tempting to want to place blame for poor behavior or poor performance on other people or circumstances, but the best result for your child will happen when everyone

works together to make a solid plan. While you await the next conference session, write down your questions and concerns. Document what you see at home in relation to homework assignments, grades on specific assignments, your child’s attitudes and complaints—anything that will help clarify the issues at that next meeting.

Your second conference, set up to address specific problems or issues, might include some of the support staff at your school. There may be specialists in reading or math, school social workers, speech therapists or specialist teachers in music or art. These support persons may have additional information and perspective that will bring new light to your child’s needs.

You are your child’s best advocate. It’s important you get the best information available to help your child succeed in school. Come to parent-teacher conferences ready to gather information, take a few notes, ask questions and then determine whether or not another conference would be beneficial. Good things happen when parents and teachers work together to benefit your child’s success in school.

Jan Pierce, M.Ed., is a retired teacher and freelance writer living in the Pacific Northwest.

She has been on both ends of the parent-teacher conference experience. Find her at www. janpierce.net.

Join us for an Open House! altamontschool.org 205-445-1232

birminghamparent.com | 19

Birmingham/Central Alabama Private School Issue November 2018

Birmingham/Central Alabama Private School Issue November 2018

The Altamont School

Odyssey Early Schools

Joseph Bruno Montessori Academy

The mission of The Altamont School is to improve the fabric of society by graduating compassionate, well-educated individuals capable of independent thinking and innovative ideas. To this end, the school attracts, nurtures, and challenges students whose commitment to truth, knowledge, and honor will prepare them not only for the most rigorous college programs, but also for productive lives.

Altamont is a small family of approximately 370 students in grades 5-12 with socio-economic, ethnic, and religious diversity.

Altamont is a good choice for students excelling in their present schools who want greater breadth and challenge in all areas of school life. We combine an intensive, college preparatory academic program with a personalized college search program.

There are many opportunities for students to develop multiple talents by participating in arts, world languages, community service, clubs, class projects, and athletics. Students also benefit from a 1-to-1 laptop program, an advanced computer science curriculum, and unparalleled service leadership opportunities through Altamont’s C. Kyser Miree Ethical Leadership Center.

Altamont is located five minutes from downtown Birmingham on the crest of Red Mountain. Our campus features CabanissKaul Center for the Arts, Pharo Art Studio, Lacey-Day Photography Studio, newly renovated athletics spaces, two science wings, a study garden, a 14,000-volume library, and much more.

Experience all that Altamont offers by attending an Open House or scheduling a campus tour.

Visit www.altamontschool.org.

Odyssey was created by educators who dreamed of opening an early learning center where children could be nurtured and taught by a highly trained and loving staff. That dream was realized when our Inverness school opened in 1995, and then again in 2001, with the opening of our second school in Trace Crossings.

Odyssey’s goal is to create a life-long love of learning.

We have developed our own age-appropriate curriculum, specifically designed to introduce each age grouping to language, reading, math, science and more, so that your child will possess a strong foundation for Kindergarten and beyond. Additionally, we guarantee teachers with four-year education degrees in all preschool classrooms and offer exceptional child-to-teacher ratios.

At our schools, you can watch your child’s entire day in live, streaming, HD video over the Internet, through an individual, secure connection linked directly to your child’s classroom. We want our parents to know what happens during their child’s day, and Odyssey is the only Over-theMountain daycare to offer this service.

Our team works tirelessly to earn its reputation as the best childcare option for Birmingham parents, and we invite you to visit today to witness for yourself what so many other families have known since 1995!

Visit www.odysseyearlyschool.com for more info.

Our educational practices are built around the belief that children are born with the strong need to discover and learn. We treat their curiosity and creativity with great care, allowing them to explore their interests from an early age.

We provide lessons, even the most challenging ones, that make learning exciting and stimulate the desire to know more. Lessons are given to small groups and individually, so that they can understand the concepts presented.

Our students are our first priority, and we take time to listen and help them find answers. Older students learn through seminars, laboratory experiments, and hands-on projects.

Reading, research, and discussion are important parts of our curriculum. At Bruno Montessori Academy, students are encouraged to develop independence,

Dauphin Island Sea Lab

Holy Family Cristo Rey Catholic High School

The Dauphin Island Sea Lab blends all levels of education onto one campus. Everyone can find something new in their adventures to the Dauphin Island Sea Lab whether visiting with a school group, for summer programs, a professional workshop, or to visit the public aquarium, the Estuarium.

“Our message is how valuable the ocean is to the citizens of the state of Alabama,” Executive Director Dr. John Valentine explained. “And when I say valuable, I’m talking about cultural history, economic future, quality of life. All of this is tied to a clean environment, and a clean Gulf of Mexico.”

Located at the foot of the Mobile Bay estuary, researchers, students, and educators can access both fresh and saltwater environments helping to broaden scientific knowledge.

“Our education philosophy is one of ‘do’,” Dr. TinaMiller-Way of Discovery Hall Programs said. “Giving our visitors a true hands-on experience in field, the salt marsh, on the boat, collecting and analyzing data. It’s these experiences that give all of our visitors a better understanding of our ocean.”

Plan your adventure to the Dauphin Island Sea Lab at disl.org today.

An education at Holy Family Cristo Rey combines a high quality college preparatory academic curriculum with the real world experience of the Corporate Work Study Program. However, it also combines the hard work of students, their families, our faculty and staff, corporate partners from across Birmingham, and benefactors from around our city, region, and nation. Through our mutual work and collaboration unprecedented successes are formed and young people grow up prepared to transform their lives and that of their communities.

Birmingham has hosted the Cristo Rey brand of education for more than ten years. There is no more important place in this country to demonstrate the transformative power of education than here in the post-industrial heart of the American South. We invite students and families to learn more about the opportunities we afford as well as partners and benefactors who seek to join in this improbable work of grace.

20 | birminghamparent |

november 2018

Our faith instills hope.

Our academics prepare life-long learners.

Our Corporate Work Study Program shares the culture of success.

Our community builds gumption. www.hfcristorey.org

responsibility, resourcefulness, and organizational skills. In the Lower Elementary, students use individual work plans listing their goals for the week.

Visitors will see our students working individually and cooperatively to get their work done, enjoying the total learning experience. The enthusiasm must be seen to be believed. Children learn the importance of respect for one another and for their classroom environment. We have high expectations for our students, and they learn to set higher and higher standards for themselves.

Accredited by The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and The American Montessori Society To schedule a tour of our school, call 205-995-8709 or visit jbma.education

Our Lady of the Valley Catholic School reputation for excellence in academics, athletics and fine arts. It has twice been named a Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education and most recently was named Best Private School in Shelby County by Shelby Living magazine.

Students thrive at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic School From the moment we become parents, doing the best for our children becomes paramount. And choosing the right learning environment that will allow our children to thrive becomes one of the most important decisions we can make.

At Our Lady of the Valley Catholic School, we offer an environment steeped in Christian values and high academic goals that helps students rise above and beyond expectations. The small private pre-k-through-eighth-grade school, located in Indian Springs Village, has a stellar

School highlights include: • The OLV Science Olympiad program is consistently among the top three in the state.

• The OLV drama department is one of only nine schools in Alabama that holds a Junior Troupe membership in the International Thespian Society and the only one to regularly compete on a national level.

• OLV students are consistently recipients of honors in academic competitions such as the Spelling and Geography Bee and Science Fair.

• A high percentage of OLV seventh-graders qualify each year for the Duke Talent Identification Program based on their standardized test results.

In addition to strong academic excellence, OLV offers dozens of clubs, organizations and athletics for students

ALTAR SERVERS • ART to explore their SCIENC options and find their niche, including soccer, basketball and volleyball teams; chess and debate teams; AC A D EM I C EXC EL L EN C E • P O SI T I V E M O R A L D EV ELO P M choir, band and individual piano and At Our Lady the Valley Catholic School our mission is to provide voice lessons; Spanish Club; andof cheerenvironment in which God’s children become self-directed, lifelong lear leading. Students begin each day with Schedule a visit today and discover why for more than 30 years paren prayer, attend weekly Mass and with regularly partnered OLV to give their children a faith-filled future. participate in community service.

Voted Our Lady of the Valley is fully ac205.991.5963 credited by AdvancEd/SACS o l v b i r m i n g(Southern h a m . c o m • 5 5 1 0 D o u bl e O a k L a n e, B i r m i n g h a m Association of Colleges and Schools), an important indicator of a school’s quality.

We begin enrolling students at 3 years old, where they participate in specialty classes including Spanish, music, art and computer lab. After school care is available to all students in 3K through eighth grade.

See what OLV has to offer and whether it is a good fit for your child. Call 205-9915963 or visit www.olvbirmingham.com to learn more or schedule a tour.

birminghamparent.com | 21

Birmingham/Central Alabama PRIVATE SCHOOL DIRECTORY 2018 AREA PRIVATE SCHOOLS Advent Episcopal School 2019 Sixth Ave. N. Birmingham, AL 35203 205-252-2535 sfawal@ adventepiscopalschool.org www.adventepiscopalschool.org Advent Episcopal School, located in downtown Birmingham, offers a highly accelerated curriculum for bright students in prekindergarten through 8th grade. Before-school and after-school care is available.

The Altamont School 4801 Altamont Rd. S. Birmingham, AL 35222 205-445-1232 tgoldsmith@altamontschool.org www.altamontschool.org The Mission of the Altamont School is to improve the fabric of society by graduating compassionate, welleducated students capable of independent thinking and innovative ideas.

Briarwood Christian School • Lower School (Grades K4-6) 2204 Briarwood Way Birmingham, AL 35243-2900 • Upper School (Grades 7-12) 6255 Cahaba Valley Rd. Birmingham, AL 35242 205-776-5812 Kmooney@bcsk12.org www.BriarwoodChristianSchool.org Providing excellence in education in a Christ-centered environment through impactoriented leadership that will challenge and inspire the whole student. Accredited

by AdvancEd/ Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).

Cornerstone Schools of Alabama • 118 55th St. N., Birmingham, AL 35212 and • 959 Huffman Rd., Birmingham, AL 35215 205-591-7600 info@csalabama.org www.educatebirmingham.org A Christ-centered school in the inner-city that provides school choice for families in the Woodlawn and Roebuck communities. Students receive 22 | birminghamparent |

an affordable education in a learning community that is committed to excellence in faith, academics and character.

Evangel Classical Christian School 423 Thompson Rd. Alabaster, AL 35007 205-216-0149 rharrington@evangelclassical.org www.evangelclassical.com ECCS seeks to educate children to spiritual maturity through the classical model and Biblical training using the Christian worldview as our foundation for all learning.

Heritage Christian Academy 2290 Old Tyler Rd. Hoover, AL 35226 205-978-6001 admissions@hcachristian.org www.hcachristian.org Heritage Christian Academy offers a challenging academic curriculum in a Christ centered environment. Enrollment opportunities for K3 through 12th grade. Eight Varsity Sports. College Prep Honors diploma tracks. Before and after school care available.

The Hillsboro School 73 Elvira Rd. Helena, AL 35080 205-864-7330 admissions@ thehillsboroschool.org www.thehillsboroschool.org Nestled on 30 acres, Hillsboro provides a strong experiential, inquiry-based education to prepare our students for purposeful life in the 21st century. Visit the classroom, reimagined: Community Open House, Tuesday, November 27th 5:30 – 7:30 pm.

Hilltop Montessori School 6 Abbott Square Birmingham, AL 35242 205-437-9343 hms@hilltopmontessori.com www.hilltopmontessori.com AdvancED, SAIS, NCPSA and AMS accredited. Serving students with a love of learning from 18 months through 8th grade.

Holy Family Cristo Rey Catholic High School 2001 19th St. Ensley Birmingham, AL 35218 205-263-0133

november 2018

admissions@hfcristorey.org www.hfcristorey.org Combining academic rigor and a corporate work-study program to empower students from economically challenged families to graduate high school prepared to persist in college ​and flourish in life.

Transforming Birmingham, One Student At A Time.

Hoover Christian School 2113 Old Rocky Ridge Rd. Hoover, AL 35126 205-987-3376 office@hooverchristianschool.org www.hooverchristianschool.org Hoover Christian School believes in educating the whole child-- the mental, physical, and spiritual/ emotional domains. HCS supports a low student/teacher ratio in their multi-grade classrooms.

Integrity Christian Academy 216 Roebuck Dr. Birmingham, AL 35215 205-833-4416 secretary@ integritychristianacademy.org www.integritychristianacademy.org Preschool, kindergarten and elementary classes. ABEKA academic, Bible curriculum and training. Character development and discipline.

After school care available.

Indian Springs School 190 Woodward Dr. Indian Springs, AL 35124 205-988-3350 admission@indiansprings.org www.IndianSprings.org Guided by our motto, Learning through Living, Springs fosters a love of learning and creativity, a sense of integrity and moral courage, and an ethic of participatory citizenship with respect for individuality and independent thought.

Joseph Bruno Montessori Academy 5509 Timber Hill Rd. Birmingham, AL 35242 205-995-8709 www.jbma.org JBMA provides children & families with an education according to the Montessori philosophy. At JBMA, we treat

each child as individuals, building on their strengths to become lifelong global learners. Enrolling toddlers 8th grade.

N.E. Miles Jewish Day School 4000 Montclair Rd. Birmingham, AL 35213 205-879-1068 RWeinberger@nemjds.org www.nemjds.org The NEMJDS is a community which integrates Judaic and General studies, empowering students to impact the world with courage and compassion.

Odyssey Early Sch​ools • INVERNESS CAMPUS 104 Heatherbrooke Park Dr. Birmingham, AL 35242 205-991-0039 • TRACE CROSSINGS CAMPUS 401 Emery Dr. Hoover, AL 35244 205-988-8829 www.odysseyearlyschool.com Created by educators featuring ​state-of-the-art facilities​, nurturing teachers ​ with Education degrees, and comprehensive curriculum ​ that provides Your child with age appropriate exploration into the world of learning.

Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic School 1720 Oxmoor Rd. Homewood, AL 35209 205-879-3237 www.olsschool.com Fostering a Christ-centered environment that includes strong academics, technology, and enrichment opportunities.

Educating young minds in K3-8th grades. AdvancED accredited.

Our Lady of the Valley Catholic School 5514 Double Oak Ln. Birmingham, AL 35242 205-991-5488 olv@olvsch.com www.olvbirmingham.com Our Lady of the Valley Catholic School is Christ-centered learning community that fosters academic excellence, positive moral development, and community service. We encourage students to reach their full potential in a creative and nurturing environment that promotes Gospel values.

LEARNING CENTERS The Tutoring Center 2804 John Hawkins Pkwy.

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

FIELD TRIPS AND EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES Birmingham Museum of Art 2000 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd.

Birmingham, AL 35203 205-254-2565 www.artsbma.org Bart's ArtVenture combines high tech art-making tools with hands-on creation stations to let kids and families develop their art education in a creative, communal environment.

Children’s Hands-on Museum 2213 University Blvd.

Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 205-349-4235 www.chomonline.org CURIOSITY! CREATIVITY! DISCOVERY! Best Field Trip Ever. Highly qualified educators, two floors of hands-on exhibit, classroom level and demonstration area mean students participate in learning experiences not available in a traditional classroom setting!

Dauphin Island Sea Lab 101 Bienville Blvd.

Dauphin Island, AL 36528 251-861-2141 www.disl.org The Dauphin Island Sea Lab’s (DISL) mission encompasses the pursuit of excellence in marine science education, marine

research, coastal zone management policy and educating the general public through the Estuarium, our public aquarium.

DeSoto Caverns 5181 DeSoto Caverns Pkwy.

Childersburg, AL35044 256-378-7252 info@desotocavernspark.com www.desotocavernspark.com Regular tours every hour allow guests to learn about caverns and their history.

More than 20 attractions on the land above, making DeSoto Caverns fun for those seeking adventure, the great outdoors, and fun with family or friends.

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

Vulcan Park and Museum 1701 Valley View Dr. Birmingham, AL 35209 205-933-1409 www.visitvulcan.com Birmingham's beloved icon, Vulcan, is the world's largest cast iron statue.

Featuring breathtaking views of the city, an interactive history museum and a beautiful public park.

World Class Taekwondo 268 Inverness Center Dr. Birmingham, AL, 35242 205-981-9636 info@worldclasstkd.com www.alabamatkd.com Our Kids Martial Arts Classes are designed to help students of all ages and abilities find success.

Using a foundation of traditional martial arts training, these classes can help your child stay active, develop confidence and take on vital social skills that will serve them for years to come! birminghamparent.com | 23

ASK T H E AT TO R N E Y

sponsored by

WHEN SEC NDS COUNT

Powers of Attorney – Plans A and B

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

One of the most frequently used parts of any estate plan is the power of attorney (POA). A question I often get from clients is: What do I do if I feel that my mother who has POA for my father does not have the capacity to carry out her POA responsibilities and may need a power of attorney for herself?

Start by making sure your father’s POA has a successor agent. That’s a Plan B, and your mother is Plan A. Ideally, your father’s POA lists you as a successor agent. If so, you may want to talk to your mother about letting you take on more responsibility to give her more support. She may be glad to resign as the agent and let you assume the role.

She may also be agreeable to giving you power of attorney over her affairs. Just make sure her power of attorney has a successor agent (Plan B), too.

If your mother is not agreeable to “handing over the reins,” the situation becomes more difficult.

You will want to talk to an elder law attorney who will likely recommend you file for guardianship and/or conservatorship of your father in the probate court. The court will decide if your mother has the capacity to handle the POA role or if you should

be named as guardian and/or conservator. If the court determines your mother is not competent to serve as POA for your father, you may also consider petitioning the court to be named guardian and/or conservator for your mother.

From a practical standpoint, a Power of Attorney with competent agent and successor agents allows your parents to maintain dignity and relative independence. Family harmony is better if you and your mother can handle the decision outside of the court system.

And that’s using a POA as it should be – so you can smoothly transition into supporting both your parents as needed during their golden years.

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

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november 2018

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PA R E NTI NG P E O P L E

Happy Holidays!

Our November advertisers have

Operation School Bell

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DIDI MANLEY, ASSISTANCE LEAGUE® BIRMINGHAM

some great offerings for your

By Lori Chandler Pruitt

Volunteers with the Operation School Bell program of the Assistance League of Birmingham love to see the faces of children with an armful of brand-new school clothes. Before then, they had little or no hope of getting them.

“When kids feel good about what they’re wearing, they will be more productive,” says Didi Manley of Assistance League® of Birmingham.

“It is wonderful to see the look on their faces when they realize those new clothes are theirs.”

Through Operation School Bell, which runs from August through November, more than 42 schools in the Birmingham area will bring children by bus to the league’s offices in Homewood. School counselors identify children who are in need.

“We are stocked and ready, and we are informed ahead of time each child’s sizes from their parents, or they can try on clothes to make sure they fit – we have 12 private changing rooms,” Manley says. “All of our clothes for Operation School Bell are brand new.”

Since 1985, the non-profit organization has clothed more than 35,000 Birmingham area school children. The program is funded through grants, philanthropy and donations, plus 100 percent of the sales from its Encore Thrift Store. The organization has an annual spring gala and other fundraisers, including one this month, the Little Black Dress Luncheon & Fashion Show.

The group also receives a portion of sales from its PrimeTime Treasures store, featuring beautiful handmade crafts from senior artisans. Items sold in PrimeTime Treasures also helps senior citizens meet their financial needs, Manley says.

The league purchases clothes in bulk from different stores, including major department stores. Storage rooms are neatly organized with boys and girls jeans in every size, shirts, hoodies, underwear and socks. Kids also can pick out a new book and pencils.

Volunteers make sure each child has a new shirt in their favorite color or depicting their favorite sport. They also receive two pairs of jeans, three t-shirts, a hoodie, six pairs of underwear, six pairs of socks and a hygiene kit. If kids are required to wear uniforms, they receive two pairs of uniform pants, three uniform shirts, a casual jean/T-shirt outfit and all the rest.

“We buy in big groups of clothing from lots of places,” Manley explains.

“That way, we have different styles, sizes and choices for the kids. They are excited about having a field trip and looking at new clothes, but when they discover that they get to keep the clothes in the tote bag, they are even more excited. For some students, it is the first time they have had brand-new clothes that were not handed down.”

Kids also are provided an area to draw, color and have fun during the clothing event, “and they write such sweet thank-you notes,” Manley says.

“We laminate them and display them.”

As soon as the event is over for the school year, volunteers begin replenishing the neat, organized storeroom for the next year.

The group also helps middle school students who need clothing by meeting them at stores to help them choose the clothing they want to wear, 26 | birminghamparent |

november 2018

gift-giving needs this season, and

Gift Guide

following are some great ideas for that hard-to-buy for teacher,

B I R M I N G H A M PA R EN T ' S

friend, aunt or family. From gift cards, to memberships to event tickets, there’s something to please everyone and every budget.

And look for another expanded gift guide in the December issue of Birmingham Parent.

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EACH

"The kids are excited about having a field trip and looking at new clothes, but when they discover that they get to keep the clothes in the tote bag, they are even more excited.

For some students, it is the first time they have had brand-new clothes that were not handed down.”

Manley says. “We think it’s better to let them shop, since they are older and know what the kids wear,” she says.

The league also has a program called Operation Literacy, where students receive books, can participate in ESL (English as a Second Language) pen pals and tutoring. “We are a working organization,” she says. “We are available to speak to groups and clubs about the Assistance League and what we do. It is worth it to see these kids so happy.”

To help, volunteer or become a member, call 205-870-5555, or go to www.assistanceleaguebhm.org or the group’s Facebook page, Assistance League of Birmingham.

Lori Chandler Pruitt is associate editor of Birmingham Parent.

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Seasonal flu activity typically begins in October and November, peaking between December and February. The best protection against getting the flu and spreading the virus to your family, friends, and community is getting vaccinated.

Although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend getting vaccinated in early fall – before flu season begins – getting a flu shot in November, December or even in January is still beneficial in reducing the severity of the flu. As long as flu viruses are circulating, it is not too late to get vaccinated.

In addition to getting a seasonal vaccine, there are many precautions you can take to reduce your chances of getting the flu. Wash your hands to reduce the spread of germs and keep your distance from people you suspect may be sick. If you are sick with flu, stay home from work or school so you don’t spread the virus to others. Contact your primary care physician to inquire about antiviral drugs that can be used to treat the flu upon initial onset.

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november 2018

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D IN IN G W I T H O U T WH I N I N G

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THOMAS PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY GIVES THANKS TO ALL OUR WONDERFUL PATIENTS AND STAFF AS WE CELEBRATE OUR FIRST ANNIVERSARY!

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november 2018

birminghamparent.com | 31

YOU R FA M I LY

When Your Child is Adopting a Child

be theirer.

By Stephanie Rodda What has surprised you most as you grandparent your child’s adopted child?

Adoption can be a beautiful way to build a family. When a child is adopted, he doesn’t only gain parents, he may possibly gain grandparents.

Grandparents aren’t a part of the decision to adopt, but they can be an instrumental part of the process of bonding and belonging to a new family. They may want to provide support and yet be unsure what their role is. They may want to understand and yet be unsure about boundaries. They may want to feel hopeful and yet find themselves feeling afraid or anxious about what to expect.

Every family’s dynamics are different, but there are concerns that are common ground for extended family members when an adoption is underway. Feelings of guilt might cast a shadow on the budding relationship if grandparents find themselves wondering if they can love the adopted grandchild the same as a birth grandchild. They may face a sense of dread that somehow along the way, their children will face tremendous heartache and grief. They may feel ill-equipped and hesitant to invest into a relationship that is so different than what they’ve experienced before.

I asked three women who became grandmothers by adoption to get their insight. K works in child therapy and has granddaughters who were adopted internationally. S is a retired business owner and has grandsons who were adopted through the foster care system. V is an office manager and has a grandson that was adopted through a private adoption.

K We found out our daughter and son-in-law planned to adopt internationally about three years ago, two years before the adoption became finalized and they brought the girls home. We were excited and not surprised. Ever since they had taken several mission trips to Africa, we knew they had a heart to adopt internationally from a developing country.

S My daughter and her husband had tried for

years to have a baby. One Sunday morning in 2003, a couple attended our church who were foster parents of two little boys. My daughter fell instantly in love with the boys. She and her husband began classes to become foster parents which eventually led to them adopting the boys.

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K The first big surprise was when we found out we were getting twin girls, instead of one boy! We have been so pleasantly surprised at how quickly they have adapted. The first few weeks were very, very difficult on the new parents. And there are still struggles. But the rate at which the girls have learned English, gained preschool academic concepts, and accepted us as their family has been amazing.

S I think my biggest surprise has been the feelings of rejection adopted children may continue to struggle with. No matter how much love they are shown, each of them may face emotional trauma.

V I guess the surprise is how much our grandbaby is loved and accepted by our community! A lot of people ask me – “How is that grandbaby? He is so cute and smart!” This gives me an opportunity to brag on him and tell them what a blessing he is to us. Everyone knows the struggle the parents went through, so this makes him even more special to all those around him! And there is no jealousy whatsoever between my other grandchildren and their baby. He is that loved and important to our family.

Adoption

866-803-2722

childrensaid.org/apacadoption

How has adoption changed who you are and your perspective?

2019

When did you first know your child would be adopting? What was your initial reaction?

forev

K We have a niece who was adopted from China over 10 years ago, so our family was already an “adoptive” family. We knew some of the ups and downs we would face from that experience.

But being a grandparent to two precious girls who needed a forever family is the greatest joy imaginable.

V We found out our son and daughter-in-law

would be adopting a couple of years before they actually adopted. I was very excited because of our desire for them to have a child. But the initial reaction when they announced they would be going to the hospital to get their son was overwhelming joy!!

What were some of your fears?

K As a pediatric occupational therapist,

I think my biggest fear was that the child might have special needs for which we were not prepared. I knew that if that was the case, we would lovingly deal with these challenges and get the child all the help they needed. But there is so much “unknown” when you adopt, especially from an orphanage in a developing country. We also knew that multi-racial

families have unique challenges that would have to be faced.

S I didn’t initially have concerns. I was not

a grandmother at the time. There were times during the adoption process that I became very concerned that we wouldn’t be able to keep the boys.

V My fears only came after they talked to

the attorney and started the process. I feared for their hearts to be broken if an adoption fell through. I feared for them bringing a baby into the family only to be taken away! I never feared not loving him/her! I knew this would be our baby and he would always be special! I had no fear of this child not fitting in or bonding because we are a loving, affectionate family and we wouldn’t allow this child to not feel a part of us.

S Adoption has shown me that blood doesn’t make you love one child over another. I never look at my grandchildren and differentiate which are the adopted ones.

V Adoption hasn’t changed my perspective about interracial families or “non-biological” children. I have always felt that love and people make a family; not blood and being of the same ethnicity.

What words of wisdom would you share with grandparents who are just beginning this journey as their children begin the process of adoption?

K Adoptive parents are typically advised to “cocoon” with the

adopted child for several weeks, meaning they have minimal to no interaction with the outside world. This is to allow the child time to learn who his parents are and bond with them before introducing other “strangers” into the mix. It was very difficult, after waiting for two long years, to continue to wait after the girls were here. Especially knowing how difficult things were for our daughter and knowing how they were struggling those first few

A LIST OF ALL THINGS

BIRMINGHAM! OUR JANUARY 2019 ISSUE Advertisers, contact us about being part of The Guide 2019!

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YOU R FA M I LY

Be prepared for the biggest blessing, but don’t be surprised that there may be issues for the children to overcome, especially with older-child adoption.

weeks. But we understood the purpose and tried to be supportive. It’s important for adoptive grandparents to understand their role in those initial weeks is to allow that time for bonding and know that your turn will come soon. There will be other ways you can support and encourage your child during that time.

S Be prepared for the biggest blessing, but don’t be surprised that there may be issues for the children to overcome, especially with older-child adoption.

V Be supportive and pray hard!! Be there for the ups and downs and assure them that God has a plan. Be involved in the process as much as they will allow. They need to know that their family is behind them and that you will love this child with all your heart.

As my husband and I began our adoption journey, we didn’t always meet with support and understanding.

My own grandmother, who was one of the kindest, most loving people I’ve ever known, struggled with adoption misconceptions from past years when it was considered secretive and certainly didn’t cross racial boundaries. She grew to love my children and treated them with tender care. But I don’t think she was ever

able to overcome her apprehensions of what difficulties might be ahead.

There are unfortunate examples of extended family members who could never accept the truth that adoption is not the consolation prize for not birthing children. There may be times when there will be necessary healthy boundaries with certain family members. Thankfully, time and experience can often mend these relationships as eyes and hearts are opened to the beauty of adoption.

If your child is adopting a child, educate yourself, follow their lead and be prepared to embrace the joy of grandparenting the unique child that has been lovingly and purposefully placed into your lives.

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Stephanie Rodda is an adoptive mom of seven and a freelance writer who lives in the Birmingham area. She blogs at StephanieRodda.wordpress. com and has authored fiction books that are available at Amazon.

Using a lead-safe certified renovation contractor is the law.

Home repairs that create even a small amount of lead dust are enough to poison your child and put your family at risk. Make sure you renovate right with a contractor that is Lead-Safe Certified.

34 | birminghamparent |

november 2018

5. Hearing loss 6. Brain damage 7. Memory loss 8. Headaches

For more information, visit alabamapublichealth.gov/lead or call 1-800-819-7544 birminghamparent.com | 35

H OLIDAYS

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 4

• Veterans Day Tribute

1pm. Alabama Veterans Memorial Park, 100 Overton Access Road, Birmingham. More information, www.alabamaveterans.org.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 11

• The Poppy Service…a Veterans Day Service of

Thanksgiving and Remembrance The American Village, Montevallo. Service in the Colonial Chapel at 2 p.m., followed by a wreath laying at the National Veterans Shrine.

The American Village will lay a poppy wreath in honor of all veterans, and the public is invited to place a poppy in remembrance of a loved one. Gates open at 1 p.m. Free event.

Comprehensive, compassionate care, close to home.

Life is busy enough already. But when you or a loved one is sick, it makes everything harder. That’s why Brookwood Baptist Health offers an expansive primary and specialty care network, with convenient locations all over central Alabama.

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For convenient care, backed by all the resources and expertise of Brookwood Baptist Health, let our family care for yours.

Book online at bbhcarenetwork.com or call (205) 967-1772.

• Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony

11 a.m., Tuscumbia. Ceremony at the Colbert County Courthouse following.

• Veterans Appreciation Week

Montgomery Zoo. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, November 11-17. All veterans, active duty military and their immediate family members receive a 50 percent discount on regular daytime admission to the zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum. www.montgomeryzoo.com.

How to Celebrate Veterans Day In and Around Birmingham

By Lori Chandler Pruitt Birmingham is the home of America’s first Veterans Day parade, and the tradition is still going strong. Veterans Day is held to honor all military veterans, both living and deceased, and their families.

National Veterans Day Birmingham established the nation’s first Veterans Day parade in the city in 1947. Raymond Weeks, a Birmingham resident and World War II veteran, wanted a national holiday set aside to honor all veterans. At that time, Armistice Day honored World War I veterans. President Dwight D. Eisenhower officially changed the designation of Armistice Day to make Veterans Day, November 11, a federal holiday.

Take note: This year’s Veterans Day Parade in Birmingham will be held at 1:30pm on Monday, November 12, with a new route this year to accommodate road construction. The parade is a major part of several other events to be held in the city on Sunday, November 11 and Monday, November 12 to honor veterans.

The November 12 parade begins at 1:30pm at Rainbow Bridge at Second Avenue S, and proceeds to 3rd Avenue, turning west to 14th Street. It then turns north to 2nd Avenue, where it turns east and end at 20th Street.

Veterans Day is the focal point of many events around our state. Below is just a sampling of events announced statewide by press time that are scheduled to honor our veterans during the month of November.

In addition, some local attractions offer free or discounted admission to veterans, active military and immediate family members. As always, check with the chosen venue or event for updates, as details may change.

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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 12

• National Veterans Day Parade, Birmingham.

1:30 p.m. Part of several events in the city. The National Veterans Day organization plans the National Veterans Awards dinner and luncheon as well as the parade. See Nationalveteransday. org or on Facebook.

• Free Fee Day, Bankhead National Forest,

Double Springs and Shoal Creek District Tuskegee National Forest, Tuskegee. Alabama’s national forests offer a “free fee” day for all activities, including camping, fishing, trail riding, shooting or horseback riding. All veterans, members of the U.S. armed forces and their family members are encouraged to come. https://www.fs.usda.gov.

• Veterans Day Celebration and Parade of Flags

Mobile. 3 p.m.-4:30 p.m., USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park. A parade of flags by area fourth grade students from Mobile and Baldwin counties. Patriotic music, special presentations and more. www.ussalabama.com.

• Veterans Day Concert, Mobile.

7-9 p.m., USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park. A patriotic concert by the Mobile Pops. www.ussalabama.com. birminghamparent.com | 37

CELEBR ATIONS

SE AN O F T H E S O U TH

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By Sean Dietrich

The sun rose over the Alabama highway, and it was pure majesty. The sound of birds was music.

I was on my way to speak to a book club.

I don’t usually speak to book clubs, namely because I’m no good at it. I’ve found that avid readers are smarter than I am. Most often, it goes like this: A man in steel-rimmed glasses stands and asks a question like: “What was your subjective motivation within the pretext of the outlined apparatus of your — dare I suggest? — almost quasi-static prose?”

I usually just mumble something about current tax laws, take a sip of water, and say my closing remarks: “It’s been a bona fide treat, folks. A bona fide treat.”

Then it’s off to KFC for some bona fide supper.

This book club, however, is different. These are thirteen-year-olds.

A girl named Claire emailed me several weeks ago. She told me their group of friends formed a club that reads books instead of playing with phones. At club meetings, members store cellphones in a locked safe. Their mothers serve pimento cheese sandwiches and juice boxes.

And the kids talk about, say, Leo Tolstoy.

They are smart kids. They read authors like Robert Frost, Carson McCullers, Walt Whitman, and one redheaded writer whose truck has needed new brake rotors since 2002.

I arrived in a residential neighborhood of manicured lawns. I wasn’t sure whether I should wear my tweed jacket with the elbow patches. I decided against it.

Their mother invited me inside. I shook hands with kids and parents. A kid named Brad held his hand out and said, “Cellphone, please, sir.”

He locked my cellphone in a fireproof safe with the other phones, then showed me to the den. The living room was full of kids sitting on the floor.

The round table started by discussing the Mark Twain book they’d been reading, “A Yankee in King Arthur’s Court.” I sipped a 38 | birminghamparent |

november 2018

First times are FUN times!

A new picture book from award-winning author

Charles Ghigna

aka Father Goose.

juice box and listened to them talk to each other like regular kids did before cellphones ruled the world.

It was beautiful. Today, many children use cellphones to communicate more than they use eye-contact. My cousin’s kids, for instance, don’t know how to say “What’s for dinner, Mama?” without thumb-typing it.

Subsequently, after a brief discussion on Mark Twain, it was my turn to speak. I made sure I used the word “subsequently” a few times.

And, I tried my best. But, to be honest, I didn’t know WHAT to say to these young faces. There is nothing more honest than the face of a young person looking at you. They know when you’re being authentic and when you’re not.

These kids had read four of my books. For crying out loud, I haven’t even read four of my OWN books. In fact, I’m not even reading what I’m writing at this exact moment. Which is why you’ll find lotz of missspppellings all ovfer tha placee.

After my speech, a kid named Beau started some author questions and remarks. He raised his hand. He said, “I like your story about the man who leaves twenty dollars at gas pumps.”

So we talked about it.

Another girl raised her hand. “My favorite story is when you pooped your pants while you were fishing.” Ah, yes.

All in all, I’m afraid I might’ve disappointed these bright children. They probably expected someone brilliant. Instead they got me.

Still, I did my best. What I didn’t tell them

was about my failed childhood. It was not the kind of childhood that involved book clubs. I didn’t tell them I was an academic failure in grade school.

And if you’ve read anything I’ve written, you know I didn’t attend high school, either.

The fact is, kids, I’m not the kind of man who should be instructing the young minds of tomorrow. I’m just being honest. But I do, however, appreciate a good juice box.

Anyway, before I left, I got twenty hugs in total, and one pimento cheese sandwich for the road.

Young Claire hugged me and said, “I SO didn’t think you’d actually come. I kinda thought you’d be way too busy for us. You made my day.”

I didn’t mean to get misty eyed. But you can’t always control these things.

If you’re reading this, Claire, there’s something I want to tell you: It was a treat. A bona fide treat.

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

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

thefacepaintingfairy@yahoo.com facebook.com/Thefacepaintingfairy

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calendar highlights

Sponsored by

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nation, right here in Birmingham! We also give thanks for our many blessings on Thanksgiving Day, November 22. Take a look at all the wonderful events happening this month.

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12 NATIONAL VETERANS DAY PARADE 1:30pm, downtown Birmingham. New route: The parade will begin at Rainbow Bridge at 2nd Avenue S. It will proceed South to 3rd Avenue where it will turn west to 14th Street. It will then turn north to 2nd Avenue where it will turn east and will end at 20th Street. Remember, the parade is on Monday, Nov. 12 this year! Honoring our veterans, celebrating the freedom that their dedication and sacrifice afford us each day. For more information on the parade and other related events, go to nationalveteransday.org or check the group’s Facebook page.

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40 | birminghamparent |

november 2018

2pm, The American Village, Montevallo. Service in the Colonial Chapel at 2 p.m., followed by a wreath laying at the National Veterans Shrine. The American Village will lay a poppy wreath in honor of all veterans, and the public is invited to place a poppy in remembrance of a loved one. Gates open at 1 p.m. Free event.

Birmingham Museum of Art

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BEST

the state, including the oldest Veterans Day parade in the

PHOTO COURTESY THE AMERICAN VILLAGE

ANNOUNCEMENTS

The Original Makers: Folk Art from the Cargo Collection has been made possible by grants from the Henry Luce Foundation, Alabama State Council on the Arts, the National Endowment for the Arts, the Alabama Power Foundation, and The Lydia Eustis Rogers Fund. We also extend our gratitude to the City of Birmingham for their sustained support for the Museum and its mission.

Angel Choir with Director (detail), 1983–1987, painted wood; Collection of the Art Fund, Inc. at the Birmingham Museum of Art; Robert Cargo Folk Art Collection; Gift of Caroline Cargo, AFI.239.2013.1–.3a–g

birminghamparent.com | 41

calendar 17

Sponsored by

Trussville Fall Carnival 1-5pm, Holy Cross Episcopal Church grounds, see November 1.

ASYO FALL CONCERT 2pm, Alys Stephens Center, UAB. The Alabama Symphony Youth Orchestra performs works by Beethoven, Tchaikovsky and Grieg. All ages! FREE.

5 Monday Free Tutoring Help 3:30-4:30pm, Homewood Library. Get help in K-12 subjects from Homewood High School Peer Helpers and surprise guests from the Greater Birmingham Humane Society!

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

K-12 graders can have fun and learn strategy!

UAB Percussion Ensemble in Concert 7pm, Alys Stephens Center, UAB. Led by Gene Fambrough. www.uab.edu/cas/music. FREE.

6 Tuesday

ELECTION DAY PHOTO COURTESY ALABAMA SYMPHONY YOUTH ORCHESTRA

1 Thursday Trussville Fall Carnival 5-9pm, Holy Cross Episcopal Church grounds. Rides and activities for all ages, fun foods and more. Four-day event. Sponsored

by Amari & Gray Legal Consulting. Information, www.trussvillechamber.com.

2 Friday Trussville Fall Carnival 6-10pm, Holy Cross Episcopal Church grounds, see November 1.

Food for the Soul 7pm, DJD Theater at Alabama School of Fine Arts. Featuring ASFA’s orchestra, ladies’ vocal ensemble, choir and jazz ensemble. Tickets $10 adults, $5 students.

Steve Vai with the Alabama Symphony Orchestra 8pm, Alys Stephens Center, UAB. Vai, guitarist, composer and producer who consistently lands among the best in various lists

42 | birminghamparent |

of the top guitarists of all time, performs. Tickets, 205-975-2787, alabamasymphony.org.

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

BTC Vulcan Run 10k 8am, new location TBD. The 44th year of one of the most popular road races in the Southeast.

Information, www.birminghamtrackclub.com.

Southeastern Outings Dayhike 8:45am, Cloudland Canyon State Park, Trenton, GA. Fall color! Hiking, waterfalls and more. Bring picnic lunch, water and $5 per vehicle park entry fee. Optional dinner afterwards. Meet 8:45am at Applebee’s Trussville. Well-behaved, carefully supervised children age 10-up welcome.

Dan Frederick, 205-631-4680, seoutings@bellsouth.net.

november 2018

13th Eco-Creative Festival – Moss Rock Festival Noon-5pm, The Preserve, Hoover. Original art and design festival attracts more than 10,000 annually! Live music, market, kids’ activities and more. www.mossrockfestival.com.

Trussville Fall Carnival 1-5pm, 6-10pm, Holy Cross Episcopal Church grounds, see November 1.

4 Sunday

Tutus, Blues & Brews 3-5pm, Red Hills Brewing Company, Homewood. A family-friendly event to benefit The Dance Foundation. Live music by Automatic Slim Blues Band, food

by Taco Mama and Edgewood Creamery. Free admission; tokens may be purchased at the event for food and chances to win prizes! Come dressed in your best tutu or cape, and join a parade at the event. The Dance Foundation is a non-profit organization. Information, thedancefoundation.org.

13th Eco-Creative Festival – Moss Rock Festival 10am-4pm, The Preserve, Hoover, see October 3.

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME ENDS

Out of the Darkness Walk 1-4pm, Veterans Park, Hoover.

Join the effort as an individual or as a team to raise awareness and funds that allow the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention to invest in new research, educational programs, survivor

UAB Student Recital 12:20pm, Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. Featuring advanced music department students.

Chris Steele, pianist. www.uab. edu/cas/music. FREE.

8 Thursday Young People’s Concerts: Out of this World!

10am, Samford University’s Wright Center, see November 7.

UAB Music Jazz Faculty Concert Noon, UAB Hospital Atrium.

FREE. Homeschool Hour: Dissection Day 2-3pm, Homewood Library.

Discover science in a whole new light. All supplies provided. Register online at www. homewoodpubliclibrary.org.

BOOTHS & SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE CALL 205-624-2405 OR INFO@BIRMINGHAM PARENT.COM SPONSORED BY

9 Friday

Holy Family Cristo Rey School Info Session 6pm, Holy Family Cristo Rey Catholic High School library, 2001 19th St., Ensley. Learn all about the school and what it offers students. 205-263-0133, www.hfcrisorey.org or email admissions@hfcristorey.org.

Fall Repertory 7pm, DJD Theater at Alabama School of Fine Arts. ASFA’s professionally trained dancers perform classical ballet and contemporary choreography.

Tickets, $10, $5 students.

Sensory Storytime 10:30am, Homewood Library.

Books, songs and activities that stimulate the senses and promote learning in a sensory-inclusive atmosphere.

Preschool ages.

LAKESHORE FOUNDATION IN HOMEWOOD . 10AM-2PM PRESENTED BY

Tween Camp Half-Blood 4pm, Homewood Library. Calling all Percy Jackson fans! See if you and your demigod friends can survive the legendary Camp Half-Blood. Register, www. homewoodpubliclibrary.org.

Young People’s Concert: Out of this World!

10am, Samford University’s Wright Center. Geared towards 3rd-6th grade and featuring music from Holst’s The Planets performed by the Alabama Symphony Orchestra. Tickets $8. 205-314-6936.

BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA SATURDAY, MARCH 16, 2019

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

Children, parents and caregivers can practice yoga and have fun!

Lego League 4-4:45pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. All ages!

Kids 6-younger must be with an adult.

7 Wednesday

2019

support and more. All ages event. Register at walk or online at www.afsp.org/Birmingham. Free to participate.

!

EW

N

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

Southeastern Outings Hike 8:45am, Flagg Mountain, Coosa County. Moderately strenuous loop hike of about 4-6 miles. Meet at 8:45am at Publix, The Village at Lee Branch in Greystone. More information, Dan Frederick, 205-631-4680, seouting@bellsouth.net.

Fall Repertory 7pm, DJD Theater at Alabama School of Fine Arts, see November 9.

HUNTSVILLE 2019

HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA SATURDAY, MARCH 30, 2019 THE JAYCEE COMMUNITY BUILDING ON AIRPORT ROAD FROM 10AM- 3PM

SPONSORED BY

CHILDREN’S OF ALABAMA

BOOTHS & SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE CALL 205-624-2405 OR INFO@BIRMINGHAM PARENT.COM birminghamparent.com | 43

calendar 11 Sunday

pajamas and enjoy exciting stories, crafts and a bedtime snack.

All ages. 205-978-0155, http:// vestavialibrary.org. FREE.

VETERANS DAY Southeastern Outings Dayhike 1:45pm, Oak Mountain State Park. Enjoy a moderate 4-mile walk with some ups and downs.

Well-behaved, properly supervised children 8-up able to walk the distance welcome. Optional dinner after hike. Meet 1:45pm in park office parking lot. Bring park admission and drink. Doris Hatch, 205-901-8367.

Fall Repertory 2:30pm, DJD Theater at Alabama School of Fine Arts, see Nov. 9.

12 Monday National Veterans Day Parade 1:30pm, downtown Birmingham.

New route begins on Rainbow Bridge on 2nd Avenue South.

Honoring our veterans, celebrating the freedom that their dedication and sacrifice afford us each day. For more information on the parade and other related events, go to nationalveteransday.org.

Wonder Kids’ Book club 6pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Funded by a 2018 Virginia Hamilton and Arnold Adoff Creative Outreach grant, this new club is for kids ages 6-10 and will feature musical storyteller Mr. Mac and making instruments.

Register, 205-664-6822.

UAB Music Jazz Combo 7pm, Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. FREE.

14 Wednesday Market Noel 8am-9pm, The Finley Center at the Hoover Met. Through Saturday. Premier shopping event presented by the Junior League of Birmingham. Tickets, information, 205-879-9861, www. marketnoel.net.

Sensory Story Time 3:30pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. An interactive and educational program for all children, but mainly designed for children with sensory integration challenges.

UAB Music Jazz Ensemble 7pm, Alys Stephens Center.

Guest artists: Jacksonville University Jazz Ensemble. FREE.

15 Thursday Chamber Music @ AEIVA 5pm gallery viewing, 5:30pm, concert, Abroms-Engel Institute for the Visual Arts, UAB. Enjoy art, music and refreshments. FREE.

Magic Christmas in Lights 5-9pm, Bellingrath Gardens and Home. 23rd annual event.

Through December 31. www. bellingrath.org.

n Aldridge Botanical Gardens

n Birmingham Zoo

3530 Lorna Road, Hoover.

205-682-8019, www.aldridgegardens.com

24 Saturday

n Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame

Alabama Symphony Youth Orchestra 2pm, Alys Stephens Center, UAB. Featuring works by Beethoven, Tchaikovsky and Grieg. All ages!

FREE.

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

2150 Richard Arrington Blvd. N., Birmingham. 323-6665, www.ashof.org

• 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 Alabama Wildlife Center

n Heart of Dixie

100 Terrace Drive, Pelham.

205-663-7930. www.awrc.org

Railroad Museum 1919 Ninth St., Calera.

205-668-3435, www.hodrrm.org

18 Sunday Special Siblings 3:30-4:30pm, Homewood Library.

This support group for siblings of special needs children is a place to share ideas, experiences and the ever-changing needs of having a sibling with special needs.

20 Tuesday Painting ROCKS! 4-5:30pm, Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest. Learn to paint mandala rocks or paint inspirational messages on lucky stones for your friends. For teens grades 6-12.

22 Thursday

Tannehill Crafters Open House 10am-4pm, Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park, see November 23.

25 Sunday Southeastern Outings Easy Walk 1:45pm,Vulcan Trail. An easy walk on a level trail on an old mining railroad right of way. Meet 1:45pm in the Vulcan Park and Museum parking lot. Well-behaved, carefully-supervised children 7-up welcome. Optional dinner afterward. Dan Frederick, 205-6314680, seoutings@bellsouth.net.

26 Monday Monday at the Movies: White Christmas 2-4:30pm; 6:30-9pm, Hoover Library. Watch a classic on the big screen! Refreshments provided.

FREE.

16 Friday

29 Thursday

American Girls Club 4pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Learn about and make ice cream with Charity Waldrep of Shelby County 4-H.

UAB Neuroscience Café 6:30-8pm, Homewood Library.

Program centers on Rett syndrome. FREE.

17 Saturday

13 Tuesday

Southeastern Outings Dayhike 8:45am, Pinhoti Trail, Shoal Creek Ranger District, Talladega National Forest. Moderate 4.5-mile

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

THANKSGIVING DAY 23 Friday

30 Friday

Tannehill Crafter’s Open House 10am-4pm, Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park. Craft cabins along the plank road come to life with artisans producing pottery, quilts, cane chairs and artwork.

Park admission $5 adults 12-up; $4 seniors (62-older) and $3 children 6-11; ages 5-under, free.

The Mutt-Cracker 7:30pm, Alabama Theatre. Performed by the Birmingham Ballet, this show has been featured all over the world. A new twist on a “classic tail,” dogs perform alongside the dancers. Tickets, information, 800-745-3000, tickets@birminghamballet.com.

PLEASE NOTE: Events may change after publication deadline; please phone ahead to confirm important information. The deadline for submitting calendar items for the December 2018/January 2019 print issue is November 7. Mail calendar items to: Calendar, Birmingham Parent, P.O. Box 326, Helena, AL 35080; fax to 624-2515; e-mail to calendar@ BirminghamParent.com; or enter directly to the online calendar at www.birminghamparent.com. Entries added online after the print deadline will not appear in the print version.

Information cannot be accepted over the phone. Birmingham Parent publishes a calendar 11 times a year. January events are included in the December issue.

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

44 | birminghamparent |

november 2018

events & attractions

Sponsored by

hike. Well-behaved, properly supervised children 7-up welcome.

Optional dinner after hike. Meet 8:45am at Leeds Highway 78 gravel parking lot. Information, Francis Rushton, 205-290-5557, ferushton@gmail.com.

Family Night of Wonder 6-6:45pm, Homewood Library. All ages. Crafts and activities centered around the book Wonder

by R.J. Palacio.

Indian Springs School Open House 9am, Indian Springs School.

Boarding and day school, grades 8-12. RSVP, admission@indiansprings.org.

PJ Storytime 6:30-7:15pm, Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest. Wear your

Sponsored by

1631 Fourth Ave. N., Birmingham.

205-254-2731, www.jazzhall.com

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

n Alabama Sports Hall of Fame

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 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.

205-328-9696, www.bcri.org

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

Bart’s Books. A storytelling program for children ages 4-7. 2000 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd., Birmingham. 205-254-2565, www.artsbma.org

n Birmingham Public Libraries Find a library near you for all kinds of fun events and enrichment! www.bplonline.org

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

n McWane Science Center • Throwback Prices! On the 20th of every month this year, McWane will offer admission at the same price as it was when it opened 20 years ago!

• Home School Day! On the first Monday of each month, home school students and their families can come for special programs, live science demonstrations, giveaways and a discounted ticket price. October’s theme: Earth and Beyond. FREE for home school parents, $7 kids, $6 for accompanying adults.

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

• Blue Star Museums Military Discount. Blue Star Museums offers FREE admission to active duty military, including Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Marines, National Guard and Reserve members, with up to five family members. To learn

Kelly Ingram Park in front of the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. more visit bluestarfam.org. Offer does not include IMAX movies or parking.

IMAX Movies: • 2001: A Space Odyssey. In celebration of the 50th anniversary of Stanley Kubrick’s 1968 masterpiece. November 9-15.

• Oceans. New ocean science and technology has allowed us to go further into the unknown than we ever thought possible.

Discover a spectacular world of life beneath the waves.

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

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 Ruffner Mountain Nature Center 1214 81st St. S., Birmingham.

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

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

n Southern Museum of Flight 4343 73rd St. N., Birmingham.

205-833-8226, www.southernmuseumofflight.org

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

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

n Oak Mountain State Park 200 Terrace Drive, Pelham.

205-620-2520, www.alapark.com. birminghamparent.com | 45

PO ET RY PARTY

DO YOU KNOW WHAT YOUR KIDS WANT TO DO NEXT SUMMER?

By Charles Ghigna

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2019 10-3 MCWANE SCIENCE CENTER

2019

SPONSORED BY

For booths & sponsorships, contact info@birminghamparent.com or 205-624-2405. http://birminghamparent.com/directory/camp-expo-exhibitors/

november

NOVEMBER MORNING Cool and cunning The morning Comes running Down from the hills Into town.

She hides All the stars In a basket of jars And brings us the dawn In her gown.

Here We Grow!

BIRMINGHAM PARENT/EVANS PUBLISHING IS LOOKING FOR A FULL TIME ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE TO REPRESENT OUR MAGAZINE. We are accepting resumes from both seasoned sales professionals and the right entry-level sales person if they have the job commitment, focus, attention to details and passion for the magazine.

—©Charles Ghigna

Send us your poems and we will publish them here!

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

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

46 | birminghamparent |

november 2018

JOB DESCRIPTION: An advertising account executive is responsible for generation of new business and advertising sales, as well as sponsorships and event sales for Birmingham Parent. Tasks include warm calling, developing advertising campaigns and proposals, networking and developing successful sales promotions, attention to detail, great listening skills, persistence, professionalism and helping clients grow their businesses. The position thrives with a goal-oriented personality with strong ambition and work ethic. Both positions are commission-based. We will train the right people! If you need a flexible work schedule but can still put in the time and work, this position will work for you. Medical and dental insurance and vision discount package available after a successful probation period.

Email or fax your resume to carol@birminghamparent.com / fax 205-624-2415 with a cover letter that sells us on YOU! birminghamparent.com | 47

Holidays at McWane HOLIDAY SEASON PRESENTED BY

FEATURING SANTA VS. THE SNOWMAN

MAGIC OF MODEL TRAINS

SANTA’S GINGERBREAD WORKSHOP

200 19TH STREET NORTH • BIRMINGHAM, AL • (205) 714-8300 • WWW.MCWANE.ORG