Birmingham Parent Magazine - The Guide 2019

2019

CENTRAL ALABAMA’S RESOURCE FOR PARENTS & FAMILIES

odysseyearlyschool.com

www.mobilitycentalinc.com

MARK BENFIELD, M.D. Over 25 years experience in caring for children & young adults with kidney disease.

www.pednephal.com

205-477-8004

www.disl.org

mccallasmiles.com

Empowering Children to Reach their Potential

www.tutoringcenter.com

Call for a FREE 15 minute consultation!

205-987-9577

2804 John Hawkins Pkwy Suite 100, Hoover, AL

www.RMHCA.org www.RMHCA.org

Let me help you & your child get a better nights sleep!

205-618-9266 “Many parents struggle with kids www.tonjabsleepconsulting.com who cannot sleep through the night and

Questions about have trouble self-soothing themselves your baby’s sleep? back to sleep. Did you know that there I’ve got answers!

Learn more today!

205-726-2739 www.samford.edu/go/aota

See inside for a SPECIAL OFFER from Kumon Math and Reading of Hoover

SoundWavesGO.com

are evidence-based techniques that can be applied in these situations without using "cry it out”? Let me help you teach your child healthy sleep habits so that they fall asleep, and stay asleep, on their own!”

- Tonja B., Sleep Consultant

www.tonjabsleepconsulting.com

Dancewear & Accessories www.applausedancewear.net

Your FREE year-round guide for community information, family activities, educational resources and special events. www.birminghamparent.com

Tickets Start at $15!

Restrictions, exclusions and additional charges may apply. Subject to availability. Purchase tickets at venue box office, ticketmaster.com or call 800-745-3000.

LEGACY ARENA AT BJCC © 2018 MARVEL

MarvelUniverseLive.com

FEB 7 – 10

For 40 years, Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Alabama (RMHCA) has been keeping families like the Leveretts together when they need it most. Six-year-old Christian has an aggressive form of cancer and to get the best care possible, he and his parents have to travel three hours from their home in Mobile to Birmingham.

“It’s been a relief staying here.

If your child is sick and you’re far from home, the best place to be is the Ronald McDonald House.

- Vanessa Leverett

Thanks to RMHCA and its supporters, families like the Leveretts don’t have to face these challenges alone! Families have a free, welcoming place to stay one block from the hospital with a private room, volunteer-provided meals and activities and many comforts of home.

Come see our mission in action!

NEW DATE. NEW LOCATION. SAME GREAT MISSION. Our Red Shoe Run is moving to the Ronald McDonald House on March 16, 2019!

Register at redshoerun-bham.org

Connect with us! @rmhcalabama

When you volunteer or donate, you make an immediate, positive impact for guest families facing tough medical situations.

There are opportunities to help all year long!

Learn more at RMHCA.org

205.638.7263 1700 4th Avenue South Birmingham, AL 35233

ed note THE GUIDE 2019 KICKS OFF A GREAT YEAR WITH BIRMINGHAM PARENT

P.O. Box 326 (add 800 Hwy. 52 E. for pkg) Helena, AL 35080 205-624-2405 205-624-2415 FAX www.birminghamparent.com

This is our 7th edition of The Guide, Birmingham Parent’s Resource Directory for Birmingham-area families for 2019. We hope it is helpful to the reader as a “parent handbook” to have all year long. And we’ve sprinkled in a few great stories here, as well.

You can pick up THE GUIDE most of the year at regular Birmingham Parent distribution locations, as it is overprinted and put out all year as a companion to our other 11 great issues throughout the year.

You can also access it at www.birminghamparent.com all year long.

If you enjoy this issue, please thank the cover sponsors and advertisers in this issue who make it possible. As a free publication, we rely on great sponsors and advertisers to bring this information to you, along with Birmingham Parent, all year long. And if you have suggestions or ideas for the 2020 Guide, please let us know at info@birminghamparent.com. We love suggestions!

In the same vein, watch for our SUMMER FUN GUIDE in June 2019, as it will be somewhat similar to this issue, and chock full of summer fun activities and places to go around Birmingham and a short drive beyond. If you have a business or service and are interested in being in the Summer Fun issue, please contact us to ensure great placement.

Don’t miss our upcoming events! Birmingham Parent’s annual Camp Expo is Saturday, Feb. 23, 2019, at McWane Science Center from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. You don’t have to pay admission to come, just come in the events entrance, but it’s a fun time and we’ll be giving away a BUNCH of McWane Science Center tickets for that day. See page 47 for details.

This year we are offering TWO Special Needs Expos! The first on is Saturday, March 16, 2019, at the EXCEPTIONAL FOUNDATION in Homewood from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. (A typo in the December 2018 issue gave an incorrect location.) The second one is Saturday, March 30, 2019, at the Jaycee Community Building in Huntsville from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. See page 47 for details.

And of course, our Happy Healthy Kids Fair which launches the back-to-school season is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, August 24, 2019 at the Riverchase Galleria. Sponsorships and vendor booths for all these events are available online at www.birminghamparent.com, by contacting your marketing representative, e-mailing us at info@birminghamparent.com or calling 205-624-2405.

Thanks for reading and have a terrific 2019! Keep Birmingham Parent nearby for great stories, calendar of events and so much more. And be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!

editorial

Carol Muse Evans, Publisher/Editor carol@birminghamparent.com www.birminghamparent.com www.twitter.com/bhamparent www.facebook.com/BirminghamParent www.instagram.com/birminghamparentmagazine www.pinterest.com/birminghamparentmagazine/

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.

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PUBLISHERS David & Carol Evans EDITOR Carol Muse Evans ASSOCIATE EDITOR Lori Chandler Pruitt CALENDAR Lori Chandler Pruitt CONTRIBUTORS Paige Townley, Emily Reed, Becky Beall, Denise Yearian, Children’s of Alabama

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

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

BIRMINGHAM PARENT IS A PUBLICATION OF EVANS PUBLISHING, LLC. Publishers: Carol Muse Evans, David K. Evans Sr. Birmingham Parent (EIN200694149) is published monthly by Evans Publishing LLC. www.birminghamparent.com or editor@birminghamparent.com. Birmingham Parent is © 2019 by Evans Publishing LLC. Family Connections Media ©2019/2020

by Evans Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Editorial submissions are welcome. For back issues, please send a self-addressed 10” x 13” envelope with $4 for postage and handling.

Bringing quality and value to homes since 1983!

DSLD Land Management has built an excellent reputation in landscape construction as a prominent design/build company that services central Alabama. Over the past 35 years, DSLD has been recognized and featured in publications such as Southern Living Magazine and Builder’s Architect Magazine.

DSLD welcomes projects of any scope and size, and stands ready to serve our clients with one of Alabama’s most credentialed professional staffs for a combined 350+ years of landscape design/build experience!

L AN DSC APE D ES I G N HAR DSC APES SO F TSC APES WATERSC APES LI G HTI N G I R R I GATI O N D R AI NAG E SO LUTI O N S

I have used DSLD numerous times and I am always 110% satisfied with the attention to detail and the final product of their work. The DSLD team is always courteous, professional and respectful. If you’re like me and don’t have a vision for your lawn, call DSLD and let them handle it—you will not be disappointed.

—Jason C.

(205) 437-1012

.

w w w.d sldland .com

1178 Dunnavant Valley Rd, Birmingham, AL 35242

2019

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Local Emergency Authorities

07

Meet our Cover Sponsors

08

Area Hospitals

14

Health Departments

18

Area Libraries

24

Driver’s License Offices/License Plates

28

Area Attractions

30

Area Public School Systems

34

An Overview of Area Municipalities

36

Our 2019 Resource Guide

38

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04 12

Editor’s Note

16

Chatting with Child’sPlay: Finding the Facts, Avoiding the Fads

20

It’s Tax Time: Tips for Families with Dependent Children

22

Protecting Your Family During Cold and Flu Season

26

9 Quick Tips to Prepare for Camp

27

5 Benefits to Attending Summer Residential Camp

42

Alabama the Beautiful Offers Great Attractions

How Working Parents Deal with Sick Child Daycare

27

30

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

Local emergency authorities in any area

911

American Association of Poison Control Centers www.aapcc.org 800-222-1222 Alabama Emergency Management Agency disaster, bad weather, etc. www.ema.alabama.gov 205-280-2312 Parenting Assistance Line – PAL stressed out parents, child abuse, etc. www.pal.ua.edu 866-962-3030

SERVING THE COUNTIES OF CENTRAL ALABAMA Crisis / Suicide Line 24 hours /7 days www.crisiscenterbham.org 205-323-7777 or 800-273-8255 UTalk for Teens Call or text about anything 3-10 pm during the school year 10 am-10 pm in the summer www.crisiscenterbham.org/ crisis-intervention-prevention/ utalk.htm/ 205-328-5465

UTalk for Kids Ages 6-12. Call about anything: friends, school, family, feelings, etc. Any day from 3-10pm www.crisiscenterbham.org/ crisis-intervention-prevention/ utalk.htm/ 205-328-5465 Senior Talk Line Free, confidential telephone reassurance service for senior citizens, caregivers, retirees,widowed persons, grandparents and others. www.crisiscenterbham.org/ crisis-intervention-prevention/ senior-talk-line/ 205-328-8255

Rape Response Available 24/7 www.crisiscenterbham.org/ sexual-assault-services/ rape-response/ 205-323-7273 Highway Emergencies Using Cellular Phones *HP (*47) The program is operational in most areas of the state, and other providers are expected to participate in the future. If your cellular phone company is not a part of this valuable service, please ask the company to call 334-242-4384, DPS Headquarters, Montgomery.

Veteran’s Crisis Line Free, confidential support.

Services for deaf and hard of hearing individuals offered.

Available 24/7 800-273-8255 (then press 1) or text 838255 Recovery Resource Center The program provides information about drug and alcohol abuse, as well as details on how to obtain help for yourself or a loved one. A list of various treatment options and available resources are also provided to callers. Available 8:30am-5pm https://recoveryresourcejeffco.com/ 205-458-3377

Call for a FREE 15 minute consultation!

Let me help you & your child get a better nights sleep!

205-618-9266

Questions about your baby’s sleep?

I’ve got answers!

Learn more today!

“Many parents struggle with kids who cannot sleep through the night and have trouble self-soothing themselves back to sleep. Did you know that there are evidence-based techniques that can be applied in these situations without using "cry it out”? Let me help you teach your child healthy sleep habits so that they fall asleep, and stay asleep, on their own!”

SICK CHILD CARE & EMERGENCY CARE

www.tonjabsleepconsulting.com

Huggs & Kisses Sick Child Care/Mission Hugs Foundation 1716 Fifth Ave. N, Birmingham, AL 35203 . 205-324-8447

- Tonja B., Sleep Consultant

When schools close or other issues arise!

Kids with chronic medical conditions & illnesses, premature newborns, and special needs children. * nurse-assisted, medically trained staff

www.missionhugs.org

birminghamparent.com | 7

meet our cover sponsors ODYSSEY EARLY SCHOOLS 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.

Honors. While serving as Chief Resident, Dr. Gatrey also completed her residency in Pediatric Dentistry at the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Dentistry. During residency Dr. Gatrey completed training with special needs persons and medically compromised children at the Sparks Dental Clinic.

Visiting the dentist at Pediatric

Smiles is a fun adventure. We like dental visits to be a positive experience for future visits that last through adulthood.

Feel free to contact us with any questions you may have.

trained and highly skilled in the services they provide. The staff works with medical personnel, the patient, the family and the caregiver to evaluate the home environment, assess equipment needs, and customize solutions that support the patient’s functional needs and therapeutic goals while addressing activities of daily living. At Mobility Central, we strive to build relationships with our customers by adhering to a “customer-centered, needs

based” philosophy that ensures a perfect equipment fit every time and exceptional customer service for the life of the equipment.

Mobility Central was founded in Birmingham, Alabama in 2004 to serve the people of Alabama with medical equipment needs while demonstrating the utmost care and professionalism. When the simple act of living becomes really complex, trust Mobility Central to help you every step of the way!

www.odysseyearlyschool.com INVERNESS CAMPUS 205-991-0039 TRACE CROSSINGS CAMPUS 205-988-8829

PEDIATRIC SMILES Dr. Tabitha J. Gatrey, a native of Muscle Shoals, Alabama, is a board-certified pediatric dentist. She is a graduate of Xavier University in New Orleans cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. She went on to receive her Doctorate of Dental Medicine from the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Dentistry with Research

​ 823 Promenade Pkwy.

4 Suite 101 Bessemer, AL 35022 205-230-9000

205-230-9000 info@psmilesal.com www.psmiles.com

MOBILITY CENTRAL Mobility Central is a local, family-owned medical equipment provider offering state-of-the-art equipment and therapies to improve the quality of life for both children and adults with special needs.

We are dedicated to helping each patient regain and secure freedom and independence for daily living; as well as fostering development in our younger patients. Mobility Central employs a team of caring professionals who are thoroughly

400 Old Towne Road Vestavia, Alabama 35216 205-942-2534 www.mobilitycentalinc.com

THE DANCE FOUNDATION The Dance Foundation’s unique approach to teaching the art of dance inspires imaginative learning in young dancers and cultivates technique and artistry as they mature. They offer classes for ages one to adult including Movement-to-Music, “just for boys,” dance especially for children with special needs, Ballet, Modern, Jazz, Tap, and Acting. The Dance Foundation has an extensive outreach program that brings

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dance with live music to children at dozens of social service agencies, child care centers and schools throughout Birmingham.

Additionally, The Dance Foundation is home to artists and organizations who need space to rehearse, perform, and hold classes. Visit thedancefoundation.org to register for classes and summer camps and to take a virtual tour of their studios and 100-seat theatre.

www.thedancefoundation.org

meet our cover sponsors ANGELICA ROHNER PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY Dr​. Angelica Rohner is ​​ a specialist in the field of Pediatric and Adolescent Dentistry.

What’s so special? Pediatric dentists are the pediatricians of dentistry, dedicated to the oral health of children, ranging from infants to teens.

Dr.​Rohner and​her highly trained staff work hard to make each child’s dental visit fun and exciting, resulting in a great attitude toward dentistry and, ul-

timately, oral health. On a daily basis we hear our patients say, “I love the dentist!”

We take pride in great clinical and conversational experiences with our patients. We realize that taking care of our patient’s guardian is equally important.

Our office works with you to schedule appointments that work best for your child and their schedule. Our convenient location makes a trip to the

dentist easy. We also supply text, email and/or phone confirmations and communication pathways.

It is an honor for our patient’s parents to trust us with the well being of their children. This is never taken lightly and is evident in the time that the doctor takes to speak with each parent at every dental visit. Let Dr. Rohner ​and her dental team take care of you​and your child.

Private cabanas and adults-only pools and bars take the fun up another notch.

For guaranteed admission to SoundWaves, the resort offers a SoundWaves Experience Package including room accommodations, passes to the water experience and an exclusive early arrival so you can enjoy the fun even longer!

Party rooms are also available to reserve for up to 30 people

and includes a party coordinator and all day access to SoundWaves – perfect for birthdays, reunions and bachelor/bachelorette celebrations.

This is not a waterpark; this is the place you’ve been dreaming of! Indoor experiences are open now, and seasonal outdoor attractions open in May 2019. For more information and to reserve your SoundWaves Experience Package today, visit SoundWavesGO.com

205-870-0892 www.drrohner.com

GAYLORD OPRYLAND Shake off your preconceptions and your old expectations and get in tune with Nashville’s newest water experience. SoundWaves at Gaylord Opryland Resort is an unexpected aquatic attraction for hotel guests that unites extraordinary environments, exclusive upscale amenities and relaxing water features with energetic rides, immersive music and an indoor/outdoor oasis for people of all ages to enjoy.

SoundWavesGO.com

THE TUTORING CENTER At The Tutoring Center, an individualized, direct, one-to-one instruction combined with the Rotational Approach To Learning (RATL) is used very successfully. Children move through differentstations during their tutoring sessions working on different tasks at each station. Children withADD or ADHD benefit greatly from this system, which is what Dr. Thalheimer, a child psychologist and founder of the Tutoring Center, had intended to

do when he developed the system.

We offer Free Diagnostic Assessments and a variety of programs that fit all students’ needs. We help struggling children as well as advanced children in math, reading, writing, Algebra I and II, Geometry, AP math, enrichment and study skills, and SAT/ACT prep courses.

The Tutoring Center offers tutoring sessions Monday-Friday 3:30 PM7:30 PM. We also offer ACT/SAT tutoring on weekends and conduct

Free Diagnostic Assessments all week. Our prices are surprisingly very low and our results are guaranteed or we tutor at no charge (call for details).

You can visit our national website www.tutorincenter.com to know more about us. You can also find us on Google search to read customers’ reviews. Located in Hoover on Hwy 150 near Academy Sports. Call us at (205) 987-9577 to schedule a Free Diagnostic Assessment today.

Empowering Children to Reach their Potential

www.tutoringcenter.com

2804 John Hawkins Pkwy, Suite 100 Hoover, Alabama, 35244 (near Academy Sports) (205) 987-9577

THE DAUPHIN ISLAND SEA LAB The Dauphin Island Sea Lab (DISL) is Alabama’s marine research and educational institute.

The DISL covers education and outreach for all ages through its University Programs, Discovery Hall Programs, and the Estuarium, a public aquarium.

Discovery Hall Programs includes academic year classes for K-12 students, summer overnight and day camps, professional development workshops, and

public outreach. The BayMobile, DISL’s traveling science classroom, visits underserved schools throughout the state of Alabama which do not have the opportunity or the means to visit the DISL on a field trip.

The Estuarium, the DISL’s public aquarium, highlights the four key habitats of coastal Alabama: the Mobile Tensaw River Delta, Mobile Bay, the Barrier Islands and the Northern Gulf of Mexico.

University programs at DISL consists of two parts: summer undergraduate programs and year-round graduate programs.

The summer undergraduate program consists of three summer sessions with 24 courses offered. The graduate program offers a variety of disciplines for PhD and master students to choose from as they continue their studies.

www.disl.org, 251-861-2141 101 Bienville Boulevard, Dauphin Island, Alabama 36528

birminghamparent.com | 9

meet our cover sponsors MCCALLA ORTHODONTICS & PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY At McCalla Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Olga Sanchez Hernandez and staff, provide dental care for patients from the ages of 1 to 18 years of age, and handicapped patients.

Our services include preventive, restorative, and emergency treatment. Dr. Sanchez Hernandez also provides orthodontic treatment for children and adults.

We combine pediatric

dentistry and orthodontics to allow for all the dental needs of our patients to be met under one roof. The dental services needed are provided, while at the same time the development of an adequate occlusion is monitored closely. This allows for orthodontic treatment to be provided in a timely manner increasing the quality of service.

Our staff operates as a team and is committed to high quality

service with emphasis on individual needs in a comfortable environment. Our hygienists are especially qualified to deal with children and adolescent specific needs. All of our personnel are kept abreast of the latest developments through continuing education courses. Come visit our website at www.mccallasmiles.com and take a virtual tour of our office.

Dr Olga Sanchez Hernandez 205-477-8004 www.mccallasmiles.com

RONALD McDONALD HOUSE CHARITIES OF ALABAMA Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama (RMHCA) serves 73 families every night, providing them with a “home-away-fromhome” while their children receive medical care in Birmingham. In addition to providing a comfortable bedroom with a private bathroom, we surround families with love and support from volunteers, staff and other guest families who share the same hopes and fears. We provide volunteer-provided meals, family

program and activities, indoor and outdoor play areas, laundry facilities, WiFi and much more so that our guest families can concentrate on what is most important – their child’s health.

Our two Ronald McDonald Family Rooms, located at UAB Women & Infants Center and DCH Regional Medical Center (Tuscaloosa), provide an inviting oasis of calm for families, while increasing their ability to advocate for their child.

They can find comfort, care and support without leaving their child’s side.

We may not be able to make the medicine taste better or take away painful treatments. But by keeping families together and close to their child’s medical team, RMHCA and its supporters can help lessen the burden and ensure families have the stability and resources to get and keep their child healthy and happy. Learn more at RMHCA.org

RMHCA.org

www.RMHCA.org

PEDIATRIC NEPHROLOGY OF ALABAMA The doctors and staff of Pediatric Nephrology of Alabama seek to provide the best care available in the most compassionate and efficient way possible. When children have kidney disease it is sometimes scary and stressful. We provide you and your child with prompt care and a consistent team of providers who know you, your child and their illness.

We will spend whatever time necessary to help you understand their kidney problems and treatment. Our

highest priority is to provide care in a compassionate, personalized, family oriented way that is convenient for your child, family, and referring physicians with offices in Birmingham, Huntsville, and Montgomery.

Dr. Benfield worked at UAB/ Children’s Hospital for 20 years, eventually becoming the Director of Pediatric Nephrology. Under his direction the division developed programs in dialysis, transplantation, chronic kidney disease and

general nephrology that garnered national recognition being named as one of the top 25 programs in the country. In 2010 he opened Pediatric Nephrology of Alabama. He brought the same energy and pursuit of excellence to the private practice and has received national and local recognition being named to Best Doctors in America, Birmingham Best Doctors, Birmingham Super Doctors, and Parents’ Choice Award.

pediatric Nephrology of Alabama

(205) 558-3200

www.pednephal.com 205-558-3200

APPLAUSE DANCEWEAR Applause Dancewear, a retail dancewear store has just celebrated its 38th year in business, located in the same place it opened in 1981, and still family owned and operated since the first day.

They carry everything a dancer could possibly want for any kind of dancing. Applause also carries liturgical wear for church groups, amazing gymnastics leotards for every age, and batons, boots and rhinestones for

dancelines and majorettes.

The store was originally opened by Buddy and Cindy Wade when Cindy was the choreographer of The Star Spangled Girls at Homewood High School.

After managing the store while receiving her marketing degree at UAB, their daughter Katie set her sights on owning Applause and building the business. With her parents’ permission, Katie took over the store in 1992.

10 | birminghamparent | THE GUIDE 2019

She has continued to staff the store with dancers, knowing that having employees who have practical application in the items they are selling and the experience to back the products will always make a customer more comfortable and secure when purchasing specialty items. She knows as a mom, how overwhelming it can be to purchase items for your children that you may not have had your own experience with.

205-871-STEP www.applausedancewear.net 1629 Oxmoor Road Homewood, AL 35209

meet our cover sponsors CHILD’SPLAY THERAPY CENTER Child’sPlay Therapy Center provides occupational, physical, and speech therapy services, along with counseling, nutritional therapy, and music therapy.

Our experienced staff uses play and “kid approved” activities to help children reach their goals. We can help your child succeed in the areas of speech/ language development, gross motor skills, fine motor skills, sensory processing, attention/

have experienced trauma, or are currently struggling with depression, anxiety, behavior problems, bullying, and other social challenges. Choose from either of our two state of the art, conveniently located facilities in Hoover and Chelsea! Make sure to “like” us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to stay informed!

concentration, feeding concerns and academic delays. Focal Point is our highly successful intensive treatment program for ADD/ADHD. Other special programming includes Orton Gillingham reading therapy, the “SOS” approach to feeding therapy, Handwriting Without Tears, Interactive Metronome, and Integrated Listening. We are excited to now offer counseling services to help children who

www.childsplaytherapycenter.com Hoover: 205-978-9939 Chelsea: 205-618-8095

TONJA B’S SLEEP CONSULTING While most books and programs dealing with child sleep issues take philosophical stands (based largely around the issue of “crying it out”), I believe that your child’s sleep is more important than my personal views on this subject. That’s why my method places so much emphasis on accommodating different parenting styles. The bottom line is that you, as a parent, need to be comfortable with your new

sleep plan in order for it to work for your child.

My approach to improving your child’s sleep is pretty simple:

make some choices about what is the right approach for your child. (All children are different, and nobody knows your child better than you do.)

• I’ll give you honest information about WHY sleep is so important for your child’s well-being. (This will give you all the motivation you need to make changes to your child’s sleep habits.)

• I’ll show you how to measure success. (No, you shouldn’t expect your child to sleep 12 uninterrupted hours on the first night — although it does happen!

I’ll tell you what you should expect along the way…)

• I’ll lay out an easy-to-follow, step-by-step plan that lets you

www.tonjabsleepconsulting.com

KUMON OF HOOVER Kumon is an after-school math and reading enrichment program that unlocks the potential of children, so they can achieve more on their own. Through daily practice and mastery of materials, students increase confidence, improve concentration, and develop better study skills. Kumon has 26,000 centers in 50 countries and more than four million students studying worldwide.

As the world’s largest after-school math and reading pro-

gram, Kumon accelerates your child’s learning – from as young as three years old all the way through high school. Kumon goes beyond tutoring, by actively developing critical thinking skills as children progress independently through a carefully crafted math and reading curriculum. Kumon’s time-tested self-learning program uses engaging worksheets and guidance from an on-site instructor to present new concepts and materials, giving children

an academic advantage in the classroom – and throughout life.

As a result, many Kumon students study above grade level.

Parents are encouraged to attend a free orientation at the Kumon Math & Reading Center of Hoover to find out more about enrolling their children in the Kumon Program. For a limited time, enjoy 50% OFF REGISTRATION! Call for details: 205-444-9485, visit our website, www.kumon.com/hoover-al or email hoover_al@ikumon.com.

WE MAKE YOUR SMART KID EVEN SMARTER! Kumon Math and Reading of Hoover 205-444-9485 205.444.9485 • kumon.com/hoover-al www.kumon.com/hoover-al

ACADEMY OF THE ARTS AT SAMFORD UNIVERSITY The Samford University Academy of the Arts combines former Preparatory Music and Samford After Sundown programs, offering a wide variety of classes for adults and children. Check out our listing and see our website for registration and class details. Academy of the Arts offers: · Antiques · Art for Children & Teens

· Creative Writing · Culinary · Drawing · English as a Second Language Classes · Foreign Language Classes · Music Lessons · Painting · Photography · Piano Classes: Children and Adults · Pottery · Summer Camps

205-726-2739 www.samford.edu/go/aota

birminghamparent.com | 11

YOU R C H I L D’ S HE A LTH Photo courtesy of Hugs & Kisses

How Working Parents Deal with Sick Child Daycare

By Paige Townley It’s a problem all working parents face at some point: their child has gotten sick and can’t go to school or daycare, meaning that the parent can’t go to work either. For some parents, it can be a serious situation – they have no more vacation or personal time left to take, they have something scheduled that day that they just can’t miss, or perhaps one more day away from work means serious repercussions.

That’s exactly why Huggs & Kisses Sick Child Daycare was established.

Dr. Jacqueline Stewart, a local pediatrician, founded Huggs & Kisses in 1990, and it all started because of the problems she frequently heard parents mention. “I was seeing through my practice that parents were losing job time because their kids were sick,” she says. “Parents were saying that they were using their sick time or vacation time or even personal leave because their child was sick over and over. Some were even saying if they missed work again, they would lose their job. So I started looking for a resource for parents.”

While she was hoping to find a solution to alleviate those problems for parents, she didn’t find any options. Yet she did come across a center in Minnesota, the first of its kind in the nation, that took care of sick children so that parents wouldn’t have to miss work. “I liked what they were doing, so I knew I had to go there and see it,” Stewart says. “After seeing it in person, I knew exactly what I wanted to do.”

She came back to Birmingham and put her plan into motion: to set up a licensed daycare center that could look after sick children while parents were at work, and that’s what Huggs & Kisses has done since it opened more than 20 years ago. The daycare accepts children who are sick with illnesses regular daycares won’t take, and they have a variety of rooms to

divide the children by types of illnesses. They even have a non-contagious room. “Sometimes parents are in a bind with childcare even though their child isn’t sick,” Stewart explains.

“Perhaps a babysitter fell through or school closed unexpectedly. That poses the same kind of problem for parents.”

Further separating itself from other centers is the fact that Huggs & Kisses has registered nurses on staff to care for the children – caretakers who are trained to look for various symptoms that may indicate worsening of symptoms or perhaps indicate improvement.

The RNs monitor the children during the day, including taking their temperatures and managing their meals – and call the parents if anything changes. Parents are also encouraged to call and check on their children as well.

“We do everything we can to make parents feel comfortable because it’s not comfortable at all to leave your sick child with anybody,” Stewart says. “But if parents know they are leaving them with a competent staff that is trained, it hopefully makes the parent feel much better.”

Understanding the impact that sick children have to working parents, Children’s of Alabama has also set up its own mildly ill care center for its employees, Near-n-Dear. Housed in the hospital, Near-n-Dear is for emergency back-up childcare and mildly ill children for kids of hospital workers when they can’t go to school or their regular daycare. “We’re set up to care for children who may be too sick for regular childcare centers but not so sick that a parent needs to stay home with them,” says Paige Larkin, center director.

Near-n-Dear has three care rooms, with the children separated based on illness. Generally, the center provides one-on-one care for each child along with a nurse supervisor who manages

medication, treatments, vitals, and communication with parents for all children. “We typically have one child with one caregiver,” Larkin adds. “We don’t keep the kids in bed, we let them move around and play like a typical daycare center, and since parents are onsite at the hospital, we let parents come check in on them and visit as they have breaks to do so.”

Sick child daycare has been so helpful to families and employers across Birmingham that a number of companies have contracted with Huggs & Kisses for their employees, such as St. Vincent’s Health System, Protective Life Insurance Company, and Spire. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama actually has its own sick child daycare facility, the Caring Corner, which is operated by Huggs & Kisses.

“We have tried to make sure that we are set up to help parents in many situations with the help they need, whether it’s simply a sick child that needs a place to stay while they are at work, a healthy child when the babysitter bailed, or a special needs child that isn’t old enough for school and can’t go to a regular daycare, Stewart says. “It makes me happy to be there to help the parents and take care of these children.”

Paige Townley is a Birmingham-based freelance writer.

Huggs and Kisses: 205-324-8447

IS YOUR CHILD TOO SICK TO GO TO SCHOOL? Sometimes it’s not very obvious if a child is too sick for school or daycare or just a little under the weather and still able to attend their regular routine. Children’s of Alabama shares its tips on what common symptoms and sicknesses mean and whether or not that should keep kids home.

Sore throat, cough, mild congestion: While these symptoms could be leading to other illnesses, oftentimes on their own they might not mean the child is too sick for school. Children’s suggests checking with the school or daycare center to see if they have any guidelines for keeping a child home with these symptoms.

Strep throat: After a child has a couple of doses of antibiotics, typically they should be well

12 | birminghamparent | THE GUIDE 2019

enough to get back to their usual routine, but they should stay home at least the first day after diagnosis.

Cold or cough: If the child doesn’t have a fever, usually they can go on to school of daycare. However, if the sickness is making the child lethargic and therefore would require extra care or attention from the teacher/childcare worker, it would be best to keep them home.

Pinkeye: Typically, there are guidelines in place at schools and daycares about pinkeye.

Oftentimes a doctor’s note is required for pinkeye, so check with your school or daycare on their specific policy.

Vomiting and diarrhea: A child that has a fever and is nauseated, vomiting, or experiencing diarrhea shouldn’t be sent to school or daycare.

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St. Vincent’s East 50 Medical Park E. Dr. Birmingham, AL 35235 205-838-3000 https://healthcare.ascension.org St. Vincent’s Blount 150 Gilbreath Dr. Oneonta, AL 35121 205-274-3000 https://healthcare.ascension.org Encompass Health Lakeshore Rehabilitation Hospital 3800 Ridgeway Dr. Birmingham, AL 35209 205-868-2000 www.encompasshealth.com

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Special needs parenting can be daunting. In addition to all the things parents of typical children have on their plates, parents of special needs children also have to navigate the special education system at school, extra medical visits, medication management, outside academic support, therapy sessions, and much more. When you have a child with special needs, you are always looking for that “just right” method, person, specialist, or perhaps even medication that will help your child be more successful at school and at life.

Unfortunately, there are numerous “fads” available that might appear very tempting to a parent of a special needs child. Parents should be vigilant in researching any group, business, person, or methodology before enrolling their child.

Red flags to look for include: • Any provider who does not have credentials such as degrees in their field, national board certifications, and/or state licensure.

Beware of “certifications” without researching them. Many types of treatments (both valid and invalid) allow individuals to attend their trainings and become “certified.” But a certification alone does not prepare the individual to provide expert advice or services to your child.

• Any group or business that utilizes non-credentialed individuals to provide services.

• Any program that guarantees success or implies they can “cure” your child.

• Any group or business that requires a large amount of money up front.

• Any methodology that you cannot find scientific evidence to support. If the company’s website only has parent testimonials or their own research, be very wary!

Tried and true therapies and treatments that are research-based include speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and behavioral therapies. Licensed professionals in these areas, along with licensed counselors, psychologists, etc., are qualified and equipped to help meet the needs of these unique individuals. When in doubt, consult with your child’s pediatrician for guidance and direction.

Fads can be alluring, but usually only leave you with a smaller bank account. If it sounds too good to be true, proceed with caution!

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HEALTH DEPARTMENTS Alabama Department of Public Health The RSA Tower 201 Monroe St. Montgomery, AL 36104 General Information 334-206-5300 (8am-5pm) 800-252-1818 Emergency Preparedness Information 866-264-4073 Hours of Operation Central Office: Weekdays 8am-5pm County Health Departments: weekdays 8am-5pm in most locations www.alabamapublichealth.gov Chilton County Health Department 301 Health Center Dr. Clanton, AL 35046 205-755-1287 www.alabamapublichealth. gov/chilton Monday-Friday: 8am-5pm

Cullman County Health Department 601 Logan Ave. S.W. Cullman, AL 35055 Monday-Friday: 7am-5pm www.alabamapublichealth. gov/cullman Main Office: 256-734-1030 Environmental Office: 256-734-0243 Home Health Office: 256-734-0258 or 888-734-0258 Jefferson County Health Department Locations: Central Health Center 1400 Sixth Ave. S. Birmingham, AL 35233 205-933-9110 Eastern Health Center 601 West Blvd. Roebuck Birmingham, AL 35206 205-591-5180 Western Health Center 631 Bessemer Super Hwy. Midfield, AL 35228 205-715-6121

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Shelby County Health Department 2000 County Services Dr. P.O. Box 846 Pelham, AL 35124 Clinic Phone: 205-664-2470 Environmental Phone: 205-620-1650 St. Clair County Health Department 1175 23rd St. N. Pell City, AL 35125 205-338-3357 www.alabamapublichealth. gov/stclair Satellite Clinic: 31675 U.S. Highway 411 Box 249 Ashville, AL 35953 205-594-4919 Tuscaloosa County Health Department 2350 Hargrove Road E. Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 Office: 205-562-6900 www.alabamapublichealth. gov/tuscaloosa Monday-Friday: 8am-5pm

Vital Records To apply for birth, death, marriage or divorce certificates you may print the application at http://adph.org/vitalrecords/ assets/hs14eng.pdf and take it to any local county health department in Alabama, or mail it along with the appropriate fee to: Alabama Department of Public Health Center for Health Statistics P.O. Box 5625 Montgomery, Alabama 36103-5625 24-Hour contact number for reporting public health emergencies 205-933-9110

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FAM ILY M AT T E R S

It’s Tax Time:

Tips for Families with Dependent Children

By Emily Reed As parents of a newly turned one-year-old, Michael and Karis Watts say filing their income tax returns have not changed much after having a child.

“We weren’t worried about filing with our child for the first time, because we knew we would get a deduction, so I think we were both a little excited about it, to be honest,” Karis Watts says. The Shelby County couple will be filing their income taxes for the second year with a child, and typically use an H&R Block web program to help them file.

The couple doesn’t anticipate having any issues with filing, even with the changes including a new child tax credit. Now, the Child Tax Credit has gone from $1,000 to $2,000 per qualifying child; however, the previous dependent exemption is going away.

According to Cris Nelson, enrolled agent with Essential Solutions, there is a change in the tax code for 2018, which includes an additional benefit on the tax return for parents with dependent children and the increase in the child tax credit.

“The dependency exemption did go away, however, we are seeing that on average, it does not negatively affect the taxpayer,” Nelson explains. “The child tax credit is $2,000 per child, depending on the Adjusted Gross Income.

There is also an Earned Income Credit that is available to the taxpayer, depending on their income that increases with the number of children in the household.”

Steve Emerson, CPA with Zippy, says for many parents there isn’t much of a difference when filing, compared to filing without children.

“People usually don’t have problems filing their taxes with children,” Emerson says.

“Sometimes we see challenges come up if it is a child that someone had with a previous marriage and they have a divorce agreement. Or you may have one parent of a divorced couple that will claim something they shouldn’t and that can cause some confusion, but for the most part it usually isn’t that different.”

Nelson said taxpayers should always save anything “income related” for the preparation of their return, regardless of if they are filing with children or not. “With the change in the 2018 tax code, many households will not be able to itemize due to the increase in the standard deduction, but that will only be on the federal return,” Nelson explains. “They may still be able to itemize on Alabama returns so they still need to keep their receipts for their charitable 20 | birminghamparent | THE GUIDE 2019

deductions, and if they have high medical bills paid out of pocket and all medical receipts.”

Emerson adds that another item parents should know about when filing is that they will need to have social security numbers for both themselves and their children, and parents should have a driver’s license or valid form of identification.

“There has been a lot of identity theft lately, so one way to cut down on that is requiring everyone to show proof of identification,” Emerson says. “Identity theft is a constant problem. It used to be that people would claim dependents on just about anything. Some people even claimed their pets as dependents, or they would claim different family members as dependents, so that has really been cut down on with the requirement of identification.”

Emerson says technology now allows items on tax documents to be checked for issues immediately. “Now, if there is something that is a red flag, it will automatically come back,” Emerson says. “It used to be that with paper filing it would take longer to come back, but nowadays you can pretty much know right away if something isn’t right.”

According to information from Investopedia.com, a child can be claimed as a dependent if they are under the age of 19 at the end of the calendar year and younger than the claimant; under the age of 24 at the end of the calendar year, a student and younger than

claimant (of the claimant’s spouse when filing jointly); or any age if the child is permanently and totally disabled.

A common mistake parents can sometimes make when it comes to taxes is not taking into consideration the income that a teenager or college-aged child might be making if they are employed, and how it may affect their own personal return, according to Nelson.

The best piece of advice for new parents filing for the first time with a child is to try and file as early as possible. “Really, it is a good idea for anybody to file as early as they can, but if you are unsure about things as a new parent it is probably best to not wait until the last minute,” Emerson explains. “If there are any issues or if people need additional information about something you can have more time to research or address it, than waiting until the deadline of April 15.”

Both Nelson and Emerson recommend consulting a tax professional regarding any questions about income taxes. For more information about the new child tax credit, or information about filing, visit irs.gov or consult a CPA or tax accountant.

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

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YOU R FA M I LY ’ S HE A LTH

IDENTIFYING THE FLU Flu feels worse than a cold Higher fever Body aches May have diarrhea or vomiting

TREATING THE FLU Get plenty of sleep and stay home Drink lots of liquids to prevent dehydration Take ibuprofen or acetaminophen to relieve fever and aches

Protecting Your Family During Cold and Flu Season Flu season is in full swing. How can you protect your family from the illness, and what should you do if your child gets sick?

Delphene Noland, manager of infection prevention and control at Children’s of Alabama, recommends getting the flu shot every year. “It’s good for the entire season.

We know the flu is most prevalent through the fall and winter,” Noland adds. The flu shot is recommended for everyone 6 months of age and older.

Influenza, or “the flu,” is a very contagious viral infection of the respiratory tract. The flu 22 | birminghamparent | THE GUIDE 2019

can often have some of the same symptoms as the common cold, but more severe.

Noland says it is extremely important to stay hydrated during the flu. “Most flu deaths are related to complications of the flu, not necessarily the flu itself – for instance, things like dehydration and pneumonia,” she says. “If they’re not eating and drinking, if babies are not having wet diapers, those are hallmarks that you may need to seek medical attention.”

The flu is easily spread, but there are ways to prevent it. “Hand washing is the number one thing you can do to prevent any viruses

including the flu,” Noland says. She encourages parents to teach their children to wash their hands often, including throughout the day when they are at school. “There’s no such thing as too much hand washing,” she adds.

Because the flu is so contagious, it’s important to keep your child home when they are sick until they are fever free for at least 24 hours. The flu usually lasts about a week.

—Children’s of Alabama

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Homewood 1721 Oxmoor Rd. Homewood, AL, 35209 205-332-6600

North Birmingham (BPL) 2501 31st Ave. N, Birmingham, AL, 35207 205-226-4025

Eastwood (BPL) 4500 Montevallo Rd. Birmingham, AL 35210 205-591-4944

Hoover 200 Municipal Dr. Hoover, AL 35216 205-444-7800

Pinson (will reopen winter 2019 to Rock School Center) 4509 Pinson Blvd., Pinson, AL 35126 205-680-9298

Emmet O’Neal 50 Oak St. Mountain Brook, AL 35213 205-445-1101

Hueytown 1372 Hueytown Rd. Hueytown, AL, 35023 205-491-1443

Ensley (BPL) 1201 25th St., Ensley Birmingham, AL, 35218 205-785-2625

Inglenook (BPL) 4100 40th Terrace N. Birmingham, AL 35217 205-849-8739

Five Points West (BPL) 4812 Ave. W, Birmingham, AL 35208 205-226-4013

Irondale 105 20th St. S Irondale, AL 35210 205-951-1415

Pratt City (BPL) 509 Dugan Ave. Birmingham, AL 35214 205-791-4997

Central (BPL) 2100 Park Pl. Birmingham, AL 35203 205-226-3600

Fultondale 500 Byrd Ln. Fultondale, AL 35068 205-849-6335

Leeds 8104 Pkwy. Dr. SE Leeds, AL 35094 205-699-5962

Smithfield (BPL) #1 8th Ave. W, Birmingham, AL 35204 205-324-8428

Clay 7257 Old Springville Rd. Clay, AL 35126 205-680-3812

Gardendale 995 Mount Olive Rd. Gardendale, AL 35071 205-631-6639

Midfield 400 Breland Dr. Midfield, AL 35228 205-923-1027

Southside (BPL) 1814 11th Ave. S, Birmingham, AL 35205 205-933-7776

East Ensley (BPL) 900 14th St., Ensley, Birmingham, AL, 35218 205-787-1928

Graysville 315 S Main St., Graysville, AL 35073 205-674-3040

North Avondale (BPL) 501 43rd St. N, Birmingham, AL 35222 205-592-2082

Springville Road (BPL) 1224 Springville Rd., Birmingham, AL 35215 205-226-4081

(Birmingham Public Libraries indicated as BPL) Adamsville 4825 Main St. Adamsville, AL 35005 205-674-3399 Avondale (BPL) 509 S 40th St. Birmingham, AL 35222 205-226-4000 Bessemer 400 N 19th St. Bessemer, AL 35020, 205-428-7882 Botanical Gardens 2612 Lane Park Rd. Birmingham, AL 35223 205-414-3950

24 | birminghamparent | THE GUIDE 2019

Pleasant Grove 501 Park Rd., Pleasant Grove, AL 35127 205-744-1731 Powderly (BPL) 3301 Jefferson Ave. SW Birmingham, AL 35221 205-925-6178

Woodlawn (BPL) 5709 1st Ave. N, Birmingham, AL 35212 205-595-2001

Titusville (BPL) #2 6th Ave. SW Birmingham, AL 35211 205-322-1140

Wylam (BPL) 4300 7th Ave., Wylam,, AL 35224 205-785-0349

Trussville 201 Parkway Dr., Trussville, AL 35173 205-655-2022

SHELBY COUNTY LIBRARIES www.shelbycounty-al.org

Vestavia Hills 1221 Montgomery Hwy. Vestavia Hills, AL 35216 205-978-0155

Mildred B. Harrison Library 50 Lester St., Columbiana, AL 35051 205-669-3910

Walter J. Hanna 4615 Gary Ave., Fairfield, AL 35064 205-783-6007

Albert L. Scott Library 100 9th St. NW Alabaster, AL 35007 205-664-6822

Warrior 10 1st St. E, Warrior, AL 35180 205-647-3006

Roy Downs Memorial Library 9700 Hwy. 25 Calera, AL 35040 205-668-3514

West End (BPL) 1348 Tuscaloosa Ave. SW, Birmingham, AL 35211 205-226-4089

Chelsea Public Library 16623 Hwy. 280 Chelsea, AL 35043 205-847-5750

Columbiana Public Library 50 Lester St. Columbiana, AL 35051 205-669-5812

Pelham Public Library 2000 Pelham Park Blvd.

Pelham, AL 35124 205-620-6418

Harpersville Public Library 39414 Hwy. 25 Harpersville, AL 35078 205-672-8336

Vincent McGraw Public Library 42850 Hwy. 25 Vincent, AL 35178 205-672-2749

Jane B. Holmes Library 230 Tucker Rd. Helena, AL 35080 205-664-8308

Westover Public Library 3312 Westover Rd. Westover, AL 35147 205-678-3375

Mt Laurel Library 111 Olmsted St. Birmingham, AL 35242 205-991-1660 North Shelby Library 5521 Cahaba Valley Rd Birmingham, AL 35242 205-439-5500

Vernice Stoudenmire Public Library 9905 N. Main St. Wilsonville, AL 35186 205-669-6180

Parnell Memorial Library 277 Park Dr. Montevallo, AL 35115 205-665-9207

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LIBRARIES

Tarrant 1143 Ford Ave. Tarrant, AL 35217 205-841-0575

S U M M E R CAMP

9 Quick Tips to Prepare for Camp

By Denise Yearian

riences and are a good choice for the child who wants different activities or enjoys constant

American Camping Association or the National Camp Association. While this is not imperative, organizations like these have guidelines camps must meet before they can become accredited.

stimulation. Specialty camps provide concentrated instruction in one or two areas and are

7

When it comes to choosing a camp for your child, there are a host of options. Both residential and day camps have traditional and specialty offerings. Traditional camps offer a variety of expe-

a good option for those who are extremely focused on a given activity and can maintain their attention span. Following are a few things to consider when selecting a camp for your child.

1

Personal interests and preferences.

Talk with your child about his expectations for summer camp. What are his interests? Does he want to focus on one activity or try a variety of experiences? Would he like to try something new? If so, summer camp is the perfect opportunity to do so.

2

Camp readiness. If this is your child’s first experience with camp, consider a day or residential program close to home. If your child wants to attend an overnight camp, schedule a trial run.

Send him to a relative’s house for the weekend.

How did he do away from home? Was he able to take care of his personal needs? Did he adjust to different foods? Did he sleep well?

3

Duration. Talk with your child about how long he would like to stay at camp. Is this a reasonable length of time for his age and developmental level? First-time campers would do well starting in a partial-week to full-week program. Even if your child decides to stay at camp all summer, allow a few weeks break between school and camp for down time.

4

Cost. When considering a camp, be sure you know what the total cost is. Some camps have a base price but charge additional fees for trips, special events and activities. If the camp you want to send your child to is more than you can afford, ask about scholarship programs. Also ask about the refund policy in the event your child gets sick or there is a family emergency.

5

Camp Counselors and staff. Find out what the camper-to-counselor ratio is. Six campers to one counselor is recommended by the American Camping Association. What is the camp’s return rate? What experience and/ or training do the counselors have? How are counselors chosen? What is the camp’s discipline policy? Can they accommodate health concerns such as asthma, allergies and dispensing medicine?

6

Referrals. When considering a camp, ask for individuals you can call whose children have attended the camp. Find out what those children’s experiences have been. Also check to see if the camp is accredited by organizations such as the

Pre-visit. Once a camp has been chosen, arrange to visit with your child. Does the camp have an open house? If not, can you drop by on a given weekend? If visiting isn’t an option, get onto the camp’s website or look at a brochure with your child so he can familiarize himself with the campground, buildings and sleeping quarters.

8

Supplies, rules and regulations. Several weeks before camp, get a list and begin gathering the supplies your child will need. Also ask the camp what the child is not allowed to take (iPods, videogames, etc.). Find out about other rules and regulations and familiarize your child with these rules.

9

Communicate. Several weeks before camp begins, talk with your child about the upcoming experience. Does he have any apprehension? If your child is afraid he will be homesick, remind him these are normal concerns. Reassure him of the positive experience he will have. Since fear of the unknown is the greatest cause of worry, the more information you have about camp, the better off your child will be. Consider sending letters and care packages before your child arrives so he will have something to open during mail call on his first day.

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

B I R M I N G H A M PA R E N T ’ S

VIRTUAL

JUNE 3-JULY 26

2019

No camp the week of July 4th.

ENTERING 4K THROUGH 8TH GRADE

Check out our CIT (Counselor-in-Training) Program Contact Gabe McCool at gmccool@highlandsschool.org or (205) 956-9731 ext 105 Located on Old Leeds Rd. (I-459 exit at Grants Mill Rd) 26 | birminghamparent | THE GUIDE 2019

View our Camp Expo camps online, see photos & videos and visit their sites!

www.birminghamparent.com/camp

LEARN SOMETHING NEW AT

SAMFORD ACADEMY OF THE ARTS Register now for Spring 2019 classes Music – Photography – Languages ESL – Art – Antiques- Cooking Private lessons available year-round

5 Benefits

to Attending Summer Residential Camp

Camp registration opens Jan. 15 Samford.edu/go/aota 205-726-2739

Day camps are a summer staple for many families, but sleep-away camps provide an iconic outdoor setting with a wealth of ways to help children grow, expand their horizons and make memories that will last a lifetime. Here are five benefits to sending your child to residential camp this summer:

1 Foster Independence. Residential camp is an ideal place to learn independent living and self-responsibility. Out from under their parents’ shadow, campers are expected to get up, go to bed and attend scheduled events on time, as well as keep their cabin area clean. And for those who have never spent the night away from their parents, it enables them to embrace the experience as their own, without having to filter it through what Mom and Dad think or feel.

Camp Juliette Low On Lookout Mountain in Cloudland, GA CJL is a private, residential summer camp for girls ages 7-17.

2

Practice Kindness. Sleep-away camp is a good way to put character-building skills learned at home into practice. Here, kids have an opportunity to show empathy toward others in need, such as sharing shampoo or toothpaste with someone who forgot a toiletry item, or extending kindness to a camper who feels left out.

3

Make Diverse Friendships. The residential camp community is the perfect platform for children to step outside their normal social circle and forge friendships with kids from other parts of the state, country – even the world. And with the widespread use of electronic communication, it’s easier than ever for these friendships to continue to grow long after camp is over.

4

Venture Out. Many residential camps offer atypical activities that may not be available at day camps, such as overnight hiking trips, mountain boarding, wilderness adventures, etc.

Activities such as these challenge kids to take risks under trained supervision, using appropriate safety gear.

1 & 2 week sessions: June 2—July 27, 2019

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5

Take a Tech Break. More often than not, children are instructed to leave their tech devices at home before coming to camp. This can turn into a big bonus, as it gives campers the opportunity to work on other communication skills, such as letter writing, and real “facetime” with other campers, as well as ample time to enjoy planned camp activities.

CJL.org Preparing Girls for Confident Living and Leadership Since 1922

birminghamparent.com | 27

DRIVER’S LICENSE OFFICES/LICENSE PLATES

Driver’s License Offices and License Plates Every county in the state has its own office that issues tags for vehicles, boats, trailers and other vehicles that are required to be registered.

Go to the office in the county where you live to buy tags, or renew tags online through your county’s website.

As to driver’s licenses, the following is a list of locations in Birmingham Parent’s circulation area that give the written and road test for a driver’s license. Many courthouses throughout the state also have driver license division offices, but they are for license renewals or replacements only.

Some are only open certain days of the week. We have listed days and times at publication, but please check in advance for possible changes.

Contact your county’s driver license office for further information.

Drivers also have an online option to renew their valid Alabama driver’s license. Go to https://www.alabamainteractive.org/dl_renewal/welcome. action for details and restrictions.

Jefferson County

Cullman County

Bessemer Courthouse 1801 Third Ave. Bessemer, AL 35020 Hours: 8am-4:30pm 205-426-7958

Cullman County Courthouse 500 2nd Ave. S.W. Cullman, AL 35055 Hours: 8am-4:30pm Lunch: 11:30am-12:30pm 256-775-4822

Birmingham Trooper Post 908 Bankhead Hwy. W. Birmingham, AL 35201 Hours: 7am-4pm 205-252-7445 Shelby County Shelby County Courthouse Annex 1018 County Services Dr. Pelham, AL 35124 Hours: 8am-4:00pm 205-620-5891 Columbiana Office 104 Depot St. Columbiana, AL 35186 Hours: 8am-4:00pm Lunch: Noon-1:30pm 205-669-2614 Inverness Corners Shopping Center Suite 310 Hoover, AL 35242 205-670-6826

St. Clair County St. Clair County Courthouse 1815 Cogswell Ave. Pell City, AL 35125 Hours: 8am-4:30pm Lunch: Noon-1pm 205-338-0526 Ashville 48 Court St. Ashville, AL 35953 Hours: 8am-4pm 1st Tuesday of the Month Lunch: Noon-12:30 205-594-2442 Tuscaloosa County Trooper Post 2645 Skyland Blvd. E. Tuscaloosa, AL 35405 Hours: 7am-5pm Lunch: 12:30pm-1:30pm 205-553-0729

Chilton County Chilton County Courthouse 500 2nd Ave. N. Clanton, AL 35045 Hours: 9am-4:00pm Lunch: Noon-1:00pm 205-280-7207

9

SEEING CLEARLY STARTS HERE Call and schedule an appointment today.

Now accepting Blue Cross, Davis, Superior, Spectera, Met Life, All Kids, Cigna, Tri Care, Avesis and many other insurance plans.

205-987-2308 | www.dayeyecenter.com 2122 Old Montgomery Hwy. | Pelham, AL 35124 28 | birminghamparent | THE GUIDE 2019

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AREA ATTRACTIONS McWane Science Center

Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Birmingham Zoo Aldridge Botanical Gardens 3530 Lorna Road, Hoover.

205-682-8019, www.aldridgegardens.com

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

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

205-254-2731, www.jazzhall.com

Birmingham Botanical Gardens www.bbgardens.org.

2612 Lane Park Road, Birmingham.

205-414-3900, www.bbgardens.org

Alabama School of Fine Arts 1800 Rev. Abraham Woods, Jr. Blvd.

Alabama Sports Hall of Fame 2150 Richard Arrington Blvd. N., Birmingham. 323-6665, www.ashof.org Alabama Wildlife Center 100 Terrace Drive, Pelham.

205-663-7930. www.awrc.org American Village Highway 119, Montevallo. 205-665-3535, www.americanvillage.org 30 | birminghamparent | THE GUIDE 2019

Vulcan Park

Birmingham Children’s Theatre 1001 19th St. North, Birmingham, AL, 35203, 205-458-8181, www.bct123.org Birmingham Civil Rights Institute 16th St. N., Birmingham.

205-328-9696, www.bcri.org Birmingham Museum of Art 2000 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd., Birmingham. 205-254-2565, www.artsbma.org

Birmingham Civil Rights Museum

Birmingham Public Libraries www.bplonline.org Birmingham Zoo 2630 Cahaba Road, Birmingham. 205-879-0409, www.birminghamzoo.com Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum 1919 Ninth St., Calera.

205-668-3435, www.hodrrm.org Jefferson County Library Cooperative www.jclc.org McWane Science Center 200 19th St. N., Birmingham.

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

Moss Rock Preserve Preserve Parkway, Hoover.

205-739-7141, www.hooveral.org.

Birmingham Museum of Art

Barber Motorsports Park

Heart of Dixie Railroad

Southern Museum of Flight birminghamparent.com | 31

AREA ATTRACTIONS

Oak Mountain State Park 200 Terrace Drive, Pelham.

205-620-2520, www.alapark.com.

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

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

Shelby County Public Libraries www.shelbycounty-al.org Southern Museum of Flight 4343 73rd St. N., Birmingham.

205-833-8226, www.southernmuseumofflight.org Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park 12632 Confederate Parkway, McCalla.

205-477-5711, www.tannehill.org Vulcan Park 1701 Valley View Drive, Birmingham.

205-933-1409, www.vulcanpark.org

Oak Mountain State Park

32 | birminghamparent | THE GUIDE 2019

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1720 Oxmoor Road, Homewood, AL Call and ask about our Shadow Days for 1st through 7th grades

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TRAVEL

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The only voice in travel that MATTERS! Catch The Travel Voice by Becky on Saturday’s in Shelby County on FM 99.9 APH Radio at 11 a.m. and anytime on iHeart Radio!

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AREA PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEMS JEFFERSON COUNTY Jefferson County Board of Education 2100 18th St. S. Birmingham, AL 35209 205-379-2000 205-379-2311 Fax www.jefcoed.com Bessemer City Schools 1621 Fifth Ave. N. P.O. Box 1230 Bessemer, AL 35021 205-432-3000 205-432-3085 Fax www.bessk12.org Birmingham City Schools 2015 Park Place N. Birmingham, AL 35203 205-231-4600 www.bhamcityschools.org Fairfield City Schools 6405 Ave. D Fairfield, AL 35064 205-783-6850 205-783-6805 Fax www.fairfield.cyberschool.com Homewood City Schools 450 Dale Ave. Homewood, AL 35209 205-870-4203 205-877-4544 Fax www.homewood.k12.al.us Hoover City Schools 2810 Metropolitan Way Hoover, AL 35243 205-439-1000 www.hoovercityschools.net

Leeds City Schools 1404 Eighth St. P.O. Box 1083 Leeds, AL 35095 205-699-5437 205-699-6629 Fax www.leedsk12.org Midfield City Schools 417 Parkwood St. Midfield, AL 35228 205-923-226 205-929-0585 Fax www.midfield.k12.al.us Mountain Brook City Schools 32 Vine St. Birmingham, AL 35213 205-871-4608 www.mtnbrook.k12.al.us Tarrant City Schools 1318 Alabama St. Tarrant, AL 35217 205-849-3700 205-849-3728 Fax www.tarrant.k12.al.us Trussville City Schools 113 N. Chalkville Rd. Trussville, AL 35173 205-228-3000 205-228-3001 Fax www.trussvillecityschools.com Vestavia Hills City Schools 1204 Montgomery Hwy. Vestavia Hills, AL 35216 205-402-5100 205-402-5134 Fax www.vestavia.k12.al.us

34 | birminghamparent | THE GUIDE 2019

SHELBY COUNTY Shelby County Board of Education 410 E. College St. P.O. Box 1910 Columbiana, AL 35051 205-682-7000 www.shelbyed.k12.al.us Alabaster City Schools 1953 Municipal Way Suite 200 Alabaster, AL 35007 205-663-8400 205-663-8408 Fax www.acsboe.org Pelham City Schools 3113 Cummings St. Pelham, AL 35124 205-624-3700 205-624-3980 Fax www.pelhamcityschools.org CHILTON COUNTY Chilton County Schools 1705 Lay Dam Rd. Clanton, AL 35045 205-280-3000 www.chilton.k12.al.us CULLMAN COUNTY Cullman County Schools 402 Arnold St. NE P.O. Box 1590 Cullman, AL 35056 256-734-2933 256-736-2486 Fax www.ccboe.org

Cullman City Schools 301 First St. NE Cullman, AL 35055 256-734-2933 256-737-9621 Fax www.cullmancats.net ST. CLAIR COUNTY St. Clair County Schools 410 Roy Dr. Ashville, AL 35953 205-594-7131 205-594-4441 Fax www.sccboe.org Pell City School System 3105 15th Ave. N. Pell City, al 35125 205-884-4440 205-338-7999 FAX www.pellcityschools.net TUSCALOOSA COUNTY Tuscaloosa County Schools 1118 Greensboro Ave. Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 205-758-0411 www.tcss.net Tuscaloosa City Board of Education 1210 21st Ave. Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 205-759-3700 205-759-3542 Fax www.tuscaloosacityschools.com

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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.

Voted Best Private School in Shelby County 2 0 5 .9 91. 5963 • o lv bi r m i n g h a m . co m 5 5 1 0 D o uble O a k L a n e, B i r m i n g ha m , A L 3 5 2 4 2

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OUR CITIES

An Overview of Area Municipalities The following is a listing of most of the cities in the Birmingham Parent circulation area of Jefferson, Shelby and Chilton counties.

The information below is a resource for anyone needing to get in touch with city services and information where they live. City of Clay 2441 Old Springville Rd. Birmingham, AL 35215 205-680-1223 www.clayalabama.org

City of Homewood 2850 19th St. S. Homewood, AL 35209 205-332-6107 www.cityofhomewood.com

City of Moody 670 Park Ave. Moody, AL 35004 205-640-5121 www.moodyalabama.gov

City of Fairfield 4701 Gary Ave. Fairfield, AL 35064 205-781-6961 https://fairfieldal.org

City of Hoover 100 Municipal Drive Hoover, AL 35216 205-444-7500 www.hooveral.org

City of Mountain Brook 56 Church St. Mountain Brook, AL 35213 205-870-3532 www.mtnbrook.org

City of Fultondale 1210 Old Walker Chapel Rd. Fultondale, AL 35068 205-841-4481 www.fultondale.com

City of Hueytown 1318 Hueytown Road Hueytown, AL 35023 205-491-7010 www.hueytownal.org

City of Pinson 4410 Main St. Pinson, AL 35126 205-680-5556 www.thecityofpinson.com

City of Brighton 3700 Main St. Brighton, AL 35020 205-425-8934

City of Gardendale 925 Main St. Gardendale, AL 35071 205-631-8789 www.cityofgardendale.com

City of Irondale 101 20th St. S. Irondale, AL 35210 205-956-9200 https://cityofirondaleal.gov/

City of Pleasant Grove 501 Park Rd. Pleasant Grove, AL 35127 205-744-1720 www.cityofpg.com

City of Center Point 2209 Center Point Pkwy.

Center Point, AL 35215 205-854-4460 www.thecityofcenterpoint.org

City of Graysville 246 South Main St. Graysville, AL 35073 205-674-5643 www.graysvillecity.com

City of Leeds 1040 Park Dr. Leeds, AL 35094 205-699-2585 www.leedsalabama.org

City of Vestavia Hills 1032 Montgomery Hwy. Vestavia Hills, AL 35216 205-978-0100 https://vhal.org

JEFFERSON COUNTY City of Adamsville 4828 Main St. Adamsville, AL 35005 205-674-5671 www.cityofadamsville.org City of Bessemer 1700 Third Ave. N. Bessemer, AL 35020 205-424-4060 www.bessemeral.org City of Birmingham (county seat) 710 20th St. N. Birmingham, AL 35203 205-254-2000 www.birminghamal.gov

36 | birminghamparent | THE GUIDE 2019

City of Tarrant 1604 Pinson Valley Pkwy.

Tarrant, AL 35217 205-849-2800 www.cityoftarrant.com City of Trussville 131 Main St. Trussville, AL 35173 205-655-7478 www.trussville.org SHELBY COUNTY City of Alabaster 1953 Municipal Way Alabaster, AL 35007 205-664-6800 www.cityofalabaster.com

City of Columbiana (county seat) 107 Mildred St. Columbiana, AL 35051 205-669-5800 www.cityofcolumbiana.com Town of Harpersville 83 Town Hall Lane Harpersville, AL 35078 205-672-9961 https://townofharpersville.com City of Helena 816 Hwy. 52 W. Helena, AL 35080 205-663-2161 www.cityofhelena.org

City of Calera 7901 Highway 31 Calera, AL 35040 205-668-3500 www.cityofcalera.org

Town of Indian Springs Village 2635 Cahaba Valley Rd. Indian Springs, AL 35124 205-982-1755 www.indianspringsvillage.org

City of Chelsea 1611 Chelsea Rd. Chelsea, AL 35043 205-678-8455 www.cityofchelsea.com

City of Montevallo 541 Main St. Montevallo, AL 35115 205-665-2555 www.cityofmontevallo.com

Town of Vincent 25 Florey St. Vincent, AL 35178 205-672-2261 www.townofvincent.com

City of Jemison 14 Padgett Lane Jemison, AL 35085 205-688-4492 www.jemisonalabama.org

Town of Westover 3312 Westover Rd. Westover, AL 35147 205-678-3375 westoveralabama.org

Town of Maplesville 9400 AL Hwy. 22 Maplesville, AL 36750 334-366-4211 www.townofmaplesville.com

Town of Wilsonville 9905 N. Main St. Wilsonville, AL 35186 205-669-6180 www.wilsonvilleal.com

Town of Thorsby 21060 U.S. Hwy. 31 Thorsby, AL 35171 205-646-3575 www.thorsbyal.com

Town of Wilton 100 Depot St. Wilton, AL 35187 205-665-2021 Townofwiltonal.homestead.com CHILTON COUNTY City of Clanton 505 Second Ave. N. Clanton, AL 35046 205-755-1105 www.clanton.al.us

AIDB invites you to experience

Deaf.Blind.Limitless.

Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind is the world’s most comprehensive education, rehabilitation and service program serving individuals of all ages who are deaf, blind, deafblind and multi-disabled and their families.

To schedule a tour, contact the AIDB Admissions Office | (800)532-4622 | www.aidb.org Birmingham | Dothan | Huntsville | Mobile | Montgomery | Talladega | Tuscaloosa | Tuscumbia

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

Joseph Bruno Montessori Academy 5509 Timber Hill Rd. Birmingham, AL 35242 205-995-8709 www.jbma.org For over 30 years, JBMA has equipped children with the essential skills and knowledge they need to thrive as a successful adult. Enrolling toddlers - 8th grade.

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.

SACS accredited.

Our Lady of the Valley Catholic School 5514 Double Oak Lane Birmingham, AL 35242 205-991-5488 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.

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

PRESCHOOLS & DAYCARE 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.

Woodland Park Christian Learning Center 1800 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. Birmingham, AL 35211 ​205-250-1488 www.woodlandparkclc.net Serving children ages 6 weeks - 5 years old. Open year-round, nutritious meals, and a healthy balance of play & academics. Employee background checks with state of the art facilities.

EDUCATIONAL SERVICES Kumon of Hoover River Oaks Village 3744 Lorna Rd. Birmingham, AL 35216 205-444-9485 www.kumon.com/hoover-al Kumon is an after-school math and reading enrichment program that unlocks the potential of children in preschool through high school. Students increase confidence, improve concentration and develop better study skills that last a lifetime.

The Tutoring Center 2804 John Hawkins Pkwy., Suite 100 Hoover, AL 35244 (near Academy Sports) 205-987-9577 www.hoover.tutorcenter.com One-to-one tutoring designed to help your child develop stronger academic skills, earn better grades, score higher on standardized tests, while gaining confidence, motivation and focus.

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

Medplex Pediatric Dentistry Dr. Baker Chambliss 3000 Southlake Park, Suite 200 Birmingham, AL 35244 205-453-0314 www.Drbakerchambliss.com Our team of highly trained dental specialists takes a comprehensive and caring approach with every patient. We have comfort pets, TVs, and games to help ease anxiety and make visits fun.

Accepting new patients!

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

pregnancy and birth with evidence-based, choice-centered care. Continuous support during labor leads to improved outcomes and a more positive experience. Schedule a free consult to learn more.

Grandview Medical Group OB/GYN 3686 Grandview Pkwy. Suite 320 Birmingham, AL 35243 205-971-5499 www.grandviewmedicalgroup.com Our board certified OB/GYNs are Pediatric Smiles, LLC passionate about helping women Dr. Tabitha Jarman Gatrey achieve their goals and offer ​4823 Promenade Pkwy., Suite 101 care that is compassionate and Bessemer, AL 35022 205-230-9000 personal. www.psmilesal.com Grandview Medical Center Our top priority is helping your Women’s and Children’s Center child achieve and maintain a beau3690 Grandview Pkwy. tiful, healthy smile! Providing denBirmingham, AL 35243 tal care for children of all ages, in205-971-6349 cluding those with special needs. www.grandviewhealth.com Now accepting new patients and Whether becoming a new parent most insurance accepted. or adding to your family - our dedicated team at the new Grandview Thomas Pediatric Dentistry Medical Center will make your 721 Montclair Rd. experience memorable.

Birmingham, AL 35213 205-879-6150 Pediatric Nephrology www.thomaspediatricdentistry.com of Alabama, P.C. As one of Birmingham’s most 1425 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. S. trusted children’s dentists, Dr. Suite 206 Thomas offers a safe, nurturing Birmingham, AL 35205 environment in a state of the art 205-558-3200 oral health facility for infants, chilwww.pednephal.com dren, teenagers and those with With over 25 years of experience special needs. in caring for children with kidney disease, Dr. Mark Benfield estabHEALTH & WELLNESS lished Pediatric Nephrology of Alabama in 2010. Accepting new Brookwood Baptist Health patients.

Four locations in Central Alabama BBHob.com Small Steps Pediatrics • Brookwood Baptist Medical Center Dr. Shameza Boyd 2010 Brookwood Medical Center Dr. St. Vincent’s East Professional Bldg.

Birmingham, AL 35209 52 Medical Park Dr. E., Suite 201 • Princeton Baptist Medical Center Birmingham, AL 35235 701 Princeton Ave. S.W. 205-868-3486 Birmingham, AL 35211 www.smallstepspediatrics.com • Shelby Baptist Medical Center Providing exceptional health 1000 1st St. N. care and compassionate service Alabaster, AL 35007 to the families we serve.We • Walker Baptist Medical Center offer a full range of pediatric 3400 Hwy. 78 E. care including prenatal visits for Jasper, AL 35501 expecting parents, well–child With four hospitals delivering check–ups, immunizations and throughout central Alabama, sick appointments. access to an entire network of Tonja B’s Sleep Consulting specialists, and countless ways to 205-618-9266 customize your experience, Brookwww.tonjabsleepconsulting.com wood Baptist Health is a communiAs a Certified Sleep Sense™ ty of care dedicated to making your Consultant, I’ve undergone a new beginning a happy one. comprehensive training and Children’s of Alabama mentoring program, which has 1600 Seventh Ave. S. given me the very best tools Birmingham, AL 35233 and knowledge available to help 205-638-9100 you get your little one sleeping www.childrensal.org through the night!

Children’s of Alabama has providWomen’s Health Specialists ed specialized medical care for of Birmingham ill and injured children since 1911, 3686 Grandview Pkwy. Suite 300 offering inpatient, outpatient, and Birmingham, AL 35243 primary care services throughout 205-536-7676 Alabama. www.whsbham.com Our physicians have created an Di Nixi Doula environment for women that is 256-337-7415 calm, respectful and supportive. www.dinixidoula.com Visit whsbham.com for more Christian Montgomery supports and educates families through information.

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

Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind 205 South Street E. Talladega, AL 35160 256-761-3284 / www.aidb.org AIDB is the world’s most comprehensive education, rehabilitation and service program for individuals of all ages who are deaf, blind, deaf-blind and multi-disabled.

Serving nearly 25,000 infants, toddlers, children, and adults in Alabama each year.

Child’s Play Therapy Center • Hoover: 205-978-9939 3057 Lorna Rd. Birmingham, AL 35216 • Chelsea: 205-618-8095 48 Chesser Crane Rd, Suite I Chelsea, AL 35043 www.childsplaytherapy.com Occupational, physical, and speech therapy, along with a variety

of special programs. Two beautiful, fully equipped facilities.

Our experienced, loving staff will exceed your expectations.

advocacy, epilepsy awareness, community and professional education, Camp Evoked Potential, summer camp. www.efala.org

Children’s Aid Society of Alabama - APAC Program 2141 14th Ave. S. Birmingham, AL 35205 866-803-2722 A collaborative effort between Children’s Aid Society of Alabama and the Alabama Department of Human resources, APAC recruits & supports adoptive families for Alabama’s Waiting Children.

Huggs & Kisses Sick Child Care /Mission Hugs Foundation 1716 Fifth Ave. N. Birmingham, AL 35203 205-324-8447 www.missionhugs.org Providing sick child care & emergency care when schools close or other issues arise. We work with children with reverse isolation, premature newborns, and provide help for children with chronic medical conditions and childhood illnesses.

Dance Without Limits Locations in Chelsea & Hoover 251-610-4969 www.dancewithoutlimitsfoundation.org Dance Without Limits is a 501c3 Non-Profit organization that provides a dance program for children and young adults with special needs who may not otherwise have the opportunity to experience the joy of dance.

Epilepsy Foundation of Alabama 3100 Lorna Rd. Ste. 300 Birmingham, AL 35216 205-453-8205 www.efala.org Strives to improve the quality of life for individuals with seizures.

Services include: information, emergency assistance,

Your doctor is in, and in the neighborhood.

Mobility Central 400 Olde Towne Rd. Vestavia Hills, AL 35216 205-916-0670 www.mobilitycentralinc.com Mobility Central employs a team of highly trained and caring medical equipment professionals dedicated to the wellbeing of our patients.

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama 1700 Fourth Ave. S. Birmingham, AL 35233 205-638-7263 / RMHCA.org RMHCA keeps families close to each other and the care they need at area hospitals by providing them with the comforts of home and resources for the entire family.

ART, DRAMA & MUSIC The Academy of the Arts at Samford University 1939 South Lakeshore Dr. Birmingham, AL 35229 205-726-2739 www.samford.edu/academy-ofthe-arts Offering a variety of noncredit courses & workshops in the arts for all ages: calligraphy, drawing, photography, painting, pottery, creative writing and summer camps. Music lessons in piano, strings, theory, voice, woodwinds & harp.

Alys Stephens Center’s ArtPlay 1006 19th St. S. Birmingham, AL 35205 205-975-4769 AlysStephens.org/connect ArtPlay is the education and outreach department of UAB’s Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center.

We provide lifelong learning through the arts to members of our community of all ages, incomes and geographical areas.

Kindermusik with Michele & Friends Locations in Homewood, Vestavia Hills & Oak Mountain 205-568-6702 Developmentally appropriate music classes for children 2 months to 7 years old. Visit our website for more information at kmwithmichele.com.

No matter your age, good health starts with your primary care provider. The person who knows your history, your family and your health needs better than anyone. Someone who can coordinate care with a specialist if you need one.

And someone conveniently located close to home. So take the smartest approach to your family’s health. Call or click for an appointment today.

Call 844-692-2401 or visit bbhcarenetwork.com to book an appointment.

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BIRM 01.00.19 BP Network

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DANCE & FITNESS Alabama Ballet​ 2726 First Ave. S Birmingham, AL 35233 205-322-4300 www.alabamaballet.org Providing the highest quality training to aspiring artists of all ages that is developmentally appropriate both physically and artistically.

The school’s instruction is based on the syllabus provided by the Royal Academy of Dance.

Birmingham Dance Theatre 1694 Montgomery Hwy., Suite 200 Hoover, AL 25216 205-822-3012 Bdtdance.com BDT is devoted to aspire all ages to excel in dance. We nurture, educate, guide and encourage all to their personal best. New state of the art building with 6 spacious studios including a theatre.

The Dance Foundation 1715 27th Court S. Homewood, AL 35209 205-870-0073 www.thedancefoundation.org Our non-competitive dance education nurtures creativity, engages the imagination, and promotes social and developmental skills in a safe and enriching environment for self-expression and collaboration.

Pure Fitness LLC 1425 Montgomery Hwy. #115 Vestavia Hills, AL 35216 205-420-1054 www.purefitnessllc.com

Personal Training, Group Fitness Classes and Nutrition on your schedule with Certified Personal Trainers. No memberships, No extra fees. We specialize in weight loss, strength training, athletes, special needs, Pre/Post Natal and Post injury rehab.

RETAIL Applause Dancewear 1629 Oxmoor Rd. Birmingham, AL 35209 205-871-STEP www.appausedancewear.net Applause has the largest selection of dancewear in the Southeast. Clothing, shoes and accessories for all types of dance that fit toddler to plus size, teams and individuals.

HOME SERVICES DSLD Land Management 1178 Dunnavant Valley Rd. Birmingham, AL 35242 205-437-1012 www.dsldland.com A full service design/build landscape contractor firm, family owned & operated for over 35 years. We pride ourselves in quality workmanship, constantly striving to deliver exceptional results for our clients.

SUMMER CAMPS Camp Juliette Low 321 Camp Juliette Low Rd. Cloudland, GA 30731

Family Favorite

2019 Voting ends at midnight April 26, 2019.

40 | birminghamparent | THE GUIDE 2019

770-428-1062 www.cjl.org Dates: 1 & 2 wk sessions June 2- July 27 Ages: girls 7-17 Platform tents, outdoor adventure, traditional camping, fun and friendship since 1922! CJL is a private, residential camp for girls that fosters self-confidence, independence, teamwork, and leadership. On Lookout Mountain, just 2 hours north of Birmingham.

Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, including Soundwaves 2800 Opryland Dr. Nashville, TN 37214 615-889-1000 www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ bnago-gaylord-opryland-resort-and-convention-center.

See our ad on page 41 for the new Soundwaves indoor/outdoor resort water attraction. Learn more at www.soundwavesgo.com.

Highlands School Summer Camp 4901 Old Leeds Rd. Birmingham, AL 35213 205-956-9731 www.highlandsschool.org June 3–July 26 (except July 4th week) Ages: 4K-8th Arts, sports, science and more for elementary-8th grade. Campers continue to learn while having a great time! Traditional day camps.

Morning and afternoon extended care. Check out our Counselor-in-Training program!

McWane Science Center 200 19th St. N. Birmingham, AL 35203 205-714-8300 www.mcwane.org Fun and learning never end at McWane Science Center, a nonprofit, hands-on museum with aquarium and IMAX® Dome Theater. Four floors of interactive exhibits celebrate science and wonder.

ATTRACTIONS & TRAVEL 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.

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.

CAST YOUR VOTE

in the 2019 Birmingham Parent’s Family Favorites Awards!

Visit www.birminghamparent.com/directory/familyfavorites-survey.html to vote online for your favorite party place, kids meal, toy store, radio station & more.

TELL US YOUR FAMILY’S FAVORITES & WIN!

Prize to be announced

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GET IN TUNE WITH NASHVILLE’S ONLY RESORT WATER EXPERIENCE birminghamparent.com | 41

D E STI NAT I O N GUI DE

Gulf State Park

Alabama The Beautiful Offers Great Attractions:

Great Things to See and Do, Just a Short Drive Away

Fort Morgan Historical Site

By Becky J. Beall Alabama has mountains, lakes, plains and beaches, and many here realize what we natives have known forever – Alabama is beautiful.

Outside of our central Alabama cities are a number of attractions for families, just a short drive away.

Alligator Alley 19950 Hwy. 71, Summerdale 251-946-2483 https://gatoralleyfarm.com Check out more than 450 alligators from the elevated boardwalk at Alligator Alley.

Hanging out in their natural habitat, you’ll see them sunbathing and relaxing along with other friends such as turtles, ospreys, owls and bull frogs.

Ave Maria Grotto 1600 St. Bernard Dr., Cullman 256-734-4110 www.avemariagrotto.com Ave Maria Grotto has been a popular visitor attraction in Alabama for many years. It is a four-acre park in an old quarry located on the St. Bernard Abbey grounds. The garden setting houses 125 miniature reproductions of famous religious structures (known as Jerusalem in Miniature) and is listed on the Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage as well as the National Register of Historic Places.

Bellingrath Gardens and Home 12401 Bellingrath Gardens, Theodore 251-973-2217 . https://bellingrath.org Stroll through the beautifully-landscaped, 65-acre garden and visit the historic home (now a museum) of Walter and Bessie Bellingrath located on the Fowl River near Mobile. As one of the first Coca-Cola bottlers in the Southeast, Walter built the 42 | birminghamparent | THE GUIDE 2019

estate garden and home from his amassed wealth. It is listed on the Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage as well as the National Register of Historic Places.

Carnival Cruise Line via the Port of Mobile 201 South Water St., Mobile 866-857-7234 . www.carnival.com Plan your next vacation on a fabulous cruise ship and leave right from the Mobile Cruise Ship Terminal. Carnival Cruise Line currently has a ship available on Alabama’s coast and is poised to deliver a fun time for the whole family with kid’s clubs aboard as well as tons of activities for parents and grandparents.

Dauphin Island Sea Lab 101 Bienville Blvd., Dauphin Island 251-861-2141 . www.disl.org Dauphin Island Sea Lab is a great place to learn and explore about marine science. Don’t miss the estuarium highlighting Mobile’s estuary system through interactive exhibits.

DeSoto Falls 7104 DeSoto Pkwy. NE, Fort Payne 256-845-5380 www.alapark.com/desoto-state-park Family adventures are the best when spent outdoors exploring DeSoto Falls, a 104-foot waterfall located near Mentone in DeSoto State Park. It’s neat to observe how the falls have carved their own little canyon.

Foley Railroad Museum and Model Train Exhibit 125 East Laurel Ave., Foley 251-943-1818 . www.foleyrailroadmuseum.com Visit the days of yesteryear in this free museum featuring a large remote-controlled model railroad along with train cars and exhibits perfect for the entire family.

Fort Morgan Historical Site 110 State Hwy. 180 W., Gulf Shores 251-540-7127 . www.fort-morgan.org Learn about the role in Alabama history that Fort Morgan played by touring the facility, seeing living history and soaking in the information given by tour guides. The most famous battle that occurred at Fort Morgan was in the summer of 1864 when Confederate and Union naval forces were in conflict over the bay entrance. A living history program is conducted each year in June/July by uniformed tour guides re-telling the story of Alabama’s Fort Morgan Historical Site.

Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center 65 Government St., Mobile 251-208-6893 . www.exploreum.com Discover science through special handson exhibits, learning experiences, IMAX films and lots of family fun at the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Museum.

Gulf State Park 20115 AL-135, Gulf Shores 251-948-7275 . www.alapark.com Many families visit and/or vacation at Gulf

Located on the campus of the University of Alabama, the Paul W. Bryant Museum houses the history of legendary Alabama football coach Bear Bryant.

Point Mallard Park 2901 Point Mallard Dr., Decatur 256-341-4900 www.pointmallardpark.com Point Mallard is home to America’s first wave pool and a great family experience.

Enjoy ice skating, golfing, camping, batting cages and more. Please note that the waterpark is seasonal.

Rosa Parks Museum 252 Montgomery St., Montgomery 334-241-8615 https://troy.edu/rosaparks Housed within Troy University, the Rosa Parks Museum is chock-full of informational exhibits and artifacts from the world-changing 1955 Montgomery bus boycott.

U.S. Space & Rocket Center One Tranquility Base, Huntsville 800-637-7223 . www.rocketcenter.com Space education is as close as can be at one of the state’s most popular attractions — the U.S. Space & Rocket Center. Take in the museum, historic Shuttle Park, Rocket Park, exhibits, hands-on demonstrations, simulators and a high-definition film in the National Geographic Theater at the Davidson Center for Space Exploration.

The Wharf at Orange Beach 23101 Canal Rd., Orange Beach 251-224-1000 https://www.alwharf.com Shopping, dining, an amphitheater, marina, entertainment and more greets visitors at The Wharf at Orange Beach. Ride one of the South’s largest Ferris wheels, play a friendly game of Putt-Putt or take in a movie (great rainy day activity), there is something for everyone at The Wharf.

DeSoto Falls

State Park, each year. Situated on the beautiful Gulf of Mexico, the state park encompasses some 6,500 acres with white sandy beaches, three fresh water lakes, a campground, nature trails, fishing, swimming, golf (including a pro shop and snack bar) and other water recreation.

Ivy Green 300 North Commons St. W., Tuscumbia 256-383-4066 www.helenkellerbirthplace.org The birthplace of Helen Keller is Ivy Green, a popular attraction also noted to be the place where Anne Sullivan finally broke through the darkness of Keller’s world and gave her the gift of communication. The last week of June is a good time to visit during the annual Helen Keller Festival.

Mobile Bay Ferry 51 State Hwy. 180 W., Gulf Shores 251-861-3000 . www.mobilebayferry.com A fun, family adventure awaits on the Mobile Bay Ferry. A passenger and vehicle ferry that operates between Fort Morgan and Dauphin Island daily (every 45 minutes), kids and adults will get a kick out of this unusual commuting opportunity.

OWA 1501 South OWA Blvd., Foley 251-923-2111 . https://visitowa.com Alabama’s Gulf Coast has a new treasure with OWA – a theme park, shopping and dining mecca. You’ll find lots of rides for all ages and unique restaurants like Groovy Goat and Wahlburgers.

Paul W. Bryant Museum 300 Paul W. Bryant Dr., Tuscaloosa 205-348-4668 www.bryantmuseum.com

Dauphin Island Sea Lab Talladega Superspeedway 3366 Speedway Blvd., Lincoln 877-462-3342 www.talladegasuperspeedway.com Talladega is a motorsports complex hosting several large racing events per year. Folks may campout for these events in several ways: infield RV camping, tent/ car camping, outside camping and other opportunities as listed on the website.

USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park 2703 Battleship Pkwy., Mobile 251-433-2703 . www.ussalabama.com This family-friendly park features the Battleship USS ALABAMA, Submarine USS DRUM, numerous rare and historic aircrafts, tanks and other military equipment.

The open lawns of the Mobile Bay park offer great viewing areas for shorebirds as the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail loops through the park. There is also a paved walkway which leads to a nice nature observatory.

Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge 3121 Visitor Center Rd., Decatur 256-350-6639 www.fws.gov/refuge/wheeler/ Established as a habitat for migrating birds, Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge is comprised of some 35,000 acres along the Tennessee River. Visitors enjoy wildlife and birding, and recently the area has attracted a large number of Sandhill Cranes and Whooping Cranes. The birds are wintering in the area and join Canadian Geese along with ducks and even some alligators.

Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge birminghamparent.com | 43

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855-382-0257 Receive a free American Standard Cadet toilet with full installation of a Liberation Walk-In Bath, Liberation Shower, or Deluxe Shower. Offer valid only while supplies last. Limit one per household. Must be first time purchaser. See www. walkintubs.americanstandard-us.com for other restrictions and for licensing, warranty, and company information. CSLB B982796; Suffolk NY:55431H; NYC:HIC#2022748-DCA. Safety Tubs Co. LLC does not sell in Nassau NY, Westchester NY, Putnam NY, Rockland NY.

44 | birminghamparent | THE GUIDE 2019

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CELEBRATIONS

Birthdays in Birmingham Your local birthday party resource Loved by Parents since 1997

birthdaysinbirmingham.com thefacepaintingfairy@yahoo.com facebook.com/Thefacepaintingfairy

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A new picture book from award-winning author

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Tumblebus

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WHERE EXERCISE, LEARNING, AND FITNESS ARE FUN!!!

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46 | birminghamparent | THE GUIDE 2019

DO YOU KNOW WHAT YOUR KIDS WANT TO DO NEXT SUMMER? SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2019 10-3 MCWANE SCIENCE CENTER

SPONSORED BY

2019

PRESENTED BY of Greater Birmingham

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

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THE EXCEPTIONAL FOUNDATION IN HOMEWOOD . 10AM-2PM

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birminghamparent.com | 47

At 200 km/h, a Formula 1 car produces enough aerodynamic downforce to stick to a ceiling.

Like to know more?

Motor racing is powered by science and technology. From Newton’s laws of motion to space-age communications, from high-performance engines to human endurance, this interactive exhibition, SPEED: SCIENCE IN MOTION, reveals the secrets of going very fast.

Call (205) 714 - 8300 or visit our website at www.mcwane.org for more details.