Auburn Opelika Parents September 2018 by KeepSharing

September2018 24

Volume 9 Number 7

Columns 2

Publisher’s Note Kendra Sumner

Living With Children

Learning Disabilities and ADHD

What you need to know to best advocate for your child.

Advice for Parenting Today’s Teens

A crash course in teen drug use.

John Rosemond

Kids Health Watch

sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn

20 Parenting, Media &

Everything in Between Common Sense Media

Get This!

Gerry Paige Smith

Dave Says Dave Ramsey

Special Needs Siblings With the challenges of having a sibling with special needs, the benefits are even greater!

Special Needs Guide

Our guide details local and national resources to assist in caring for your child.

On The Cover Joseph Cooper is the son of Chris and Heather Cooper and brother of Elizabeth and Noah, of Auburn. Joseph is a kindergartener at Richland Elementary. He was officially diagnosed with Autism at age 4, as well as Sensory Processing Disorder at age 3. Through many hurdles and obstacles, he always gives his all with a smile. Joseph enjoys Legos, playing soccer, riding his scooter and singing. He loves watching the Auburn Tigers play every fall and cheering them on in the Tiger Walk.

Parenting Today’s Teens Mark Gregston

Departments 6

Bits and Pieces 10

School Bits 46

Family Calendar 52

Movie Reviews www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

Publisher’sNote

Auburn Opelika Lee County’s Foremost Parenting Source

With school back in session, it is perfect timing for us to publish the annual Special Needs Edition of our magazine. Each fall, we diligently plan this edition, to find all the local and regional groups, programs and research organizations, that dedicate their lives to helping the special needs community. In doing so, we hope that this can be a beneficial resource for those with special needs and their families. Also, another goal being, that it is an informative tool and inspiring force for more local involvement and volunteerism in the Auburn and Opelika area. It is very exciting each September to find new programs, events and support groups that I can add to the list and share with readers! Being able to see this part of our community grow and to learn more about all needs is what makes my career so rewarding. The beginning of a new school year can bring challenges associated with learning and success in the classroom. Of course, there is always that adjustment period for most kids. However, if once things settle in, you find that there are still some concerns associated with learning or doing homework, there might be something else going on. You might be seeing stress related to working a few math problems, frustration with understanding the last paragraph they read, or an inability to focus or sit still for 30 minutes of vocabulary review. Maybe you are noticing their letters or numbers are getting mixed up or they are easily distracted by noise in their environment. These could be cues you are picking up on at home and maybe teachers have seen examples of these in the classroom too. This month we have a great read, our feature article, Learning Disabilities and ADHD: What You Need to Know, in which the author suggests that if you think your child may have a learning disability or ADHD, to really tune into their cues and reach out to the education specialists in your child’s life. Your student’s teacher, school counselor or other professionals who spend a large part of their day with them, will have insight into any questions or concerns you might be noticing at home. Some examples of cues the author mentions are poor handwriting, an awkward way of holding a pencil, having difficulty with spelling or comprehension, being unable to make friends, problems with processing sounds and hyperactivity/impulsiveness. She goes on to show how even the smallest cue could be a larger problem and could be linked to a learning disability. Her article only touches on a fragment of school relate cues, so for more research related to various special needs, check out our 2018 Special Needs Resource Guide. Included you will find disability specific organizations that have national, regional, and local resources, professionals and support groups. There are also new outreach programs offered by Parks and Recreation, The Exceptional Foundation and Auburn University (just to name a few), that serve the special needs community, and are always in need of volunteers. I say it all the time, and I will say it again…we are lucky to live in an area that values education, support and growth in our community. Here’s to settling into your September school days and really staying connected with your kids during these crucial first weeks of school, new lessons being taught and homework structure. Remember that working as a team with your school, teachers, physicians and other persons in your child’s life can be the key to success this year…both inside the classroom and at home.

Kendra

kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com

Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2018

Auburn Opelika Parents Magazine is founded on the principle that parenting is an exciting, diverse, challenging, and significant role in our community. Auburn Opelika Parents Magazine is a community advocate for families and the parenting process.

Publisher Kendra Sumner Kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com Editor DeAnne Watson Associate Editor Kelly Watson Contributing Writers Kimberly Blaker Mark Gregston Sarah Lyons Dave Ramsey John Rosemond Ellen Royal, MD Gerry Paige Smith Cover Photography Lauren Beesley Photography www.lbeesleyphoto.com

President Jason Watson Director of Sales Justin Sumner (334) 209-0552 Ad Design Tim Welch

Visit us online at www.auburnopelikaparents.com Auburn-Opelika Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: 475 Bennington Ct, Auburn, Alabama, 36830. The phone number is (334) 209-0552 and fax is (334) 826-7303. Auburn-Opelika Parents is copyrighted 2018 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Auburn-Opelika Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

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LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond

The Marriage Must Come First Q: I am stepfather to my wife’s only child, age 8, from her first marriage. My wife always and in every way puts her son before our marriage. We went through counseling several years ago and things got better for a while, but then began slipping back into child-comes-first mode. Believe me, we have a near-perfect marriage outside of her putting her son first and not supporting me when it comes to discipline. My wife struggles constantly to make him happy and it’s really hurting our relationship. Do you have any advice for me or us? A: You’ve described what is in my estimation the number one reason why the divorce rate is so high (relatively speaking) for marriages where at least one party brings a child or children with them into the union. Specifically, either the male parent cannot shift out of dad and into husband or the female cannot shift out of mom and into wife. Said another way, for

Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2018

the person or people in question, being a parent trumps being a spouse. A parent-child relationship of this sort is defined by the lack of an emotional boundary between the two parties. Your wife experiences her son’s emotions as if they were her own. Any unhappiness on his part makes her anxious and kicks her into high-enabling. Furthermore, his unhappiness is, from her perspective, indication of her failure as a parent. The solution, she thinks, is more enabling. A vicious and mutually destructive cycle has developed. The more she enables, the more helpless he behaves, and the more she enables. And around and around they go. That is, in a word, codependency. Since the prior round of counseling had a positive effect, it makes sense for the two of you to give that another try. Know, however, that this is one of the most intractable problems a counselor will ever encounter. My question, therefore, to you:

Are you prepared to hang in there another ten years or so, in the hope that when said son goes off on his own, the “near-perfect” marriage you now have will realize its full potential? That would certainly be my recommendation. By the way, the problem of one or both spouses putting parenting in front of being husband or wife is not only the single biggest problem in step- and blended families; it is also the single biggest problem in first marriages where there are children. Unfortunately, the child-centric family has become the norm. That’s why so few husbands and wives these days are found on the same parenting page, or even in the same parenting book, or even in some cases in the same parenting library. It may sound counterintuitive, but agreement concerning parenting issues requires being married first, parents second.

Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.

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Football, Fans and Feathers

Auburn UPC Homecoming Concert: Jon Pardi and Chris Lane

Join the Southeastern Raptor Center, Auburn before all home football games: September 7, 14, 21, 28. Tickets are $5 per person (ages 4+) and purchased upon entry or in advance online. The hour-long program begins at 4 p.m. at the 350-seat Edgar B. Carter Educational Amphitheater, located at 1350 Pratt-Carden Drive off Shug Jordan Parkway. During the show, hawks, falcons, eagles and other birds of prey are free-flown from towers and around the amphitheater, enabling visitors to see these raptors flying close. This educational presentation is appropriate for all ages. www.vetmed.auburn.edu.

The University Program Council is thrilled to announce that Jon Pardi and Chris Lane will be performing at the UPC Homecoming Concert on September 27. The concert will take place on the Campus Green and the show will begin at 7:30 p.m. Admission for Auburn students is free, and UPC has partnered with the Beat Bama Food Drive to encourage students to bring canned food goods to donate. Those not enrolled with the University will be able to buy tickets on pardiinauburn.com, which will be available on August 22. Any questions, concerns, or comments can be directed to Kyleigh McGrail, VP of Marketing (kyleigh@auburn.edu), or Caroline Scott, Director of Major Entertainment (ccs0055@auburn.edu).

PEERS™ For Teens

Lee County Special Olympics

PEERS (Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills developed at UCLA) is a 16week evidence-based social skills intervention course. PEERS is a great way to engage your child in learning ways to help them make and keep friends. During each group session, students are taught important social skills and are given the opportunity to practice these skills in session during socialization activities. Parents attend separate sessions at the same time and will learn how to assist their teens in making and keeping friends by helping to expand their teen’s social network. Parents will also learn about providing feedback through coaching during weekly socialization homework assignments. Enrollment is limited to 16 students. Parent participation is required. The cost is $175 and is payable to the Auburn Advisory Board. For course information, please contact Dr. Doris Hill at hilldol@auburn.edu. Elizabeth Kaufman • (334) 501-2930 ekaufman@ auburnalabama.org.

Auburn Parks and Recreation supports Special Olympics by sponsoring teams for many of the Special Olympic events. Practices take place throughout the year with the help of local Special Olympics’ volunteer coaches. You must be at least 8 years of age and meet the requirements of the Alabama Special Olympic Guidelines in order to participate. We currently need Coaches for our Special Olympic Athletes. If you have the time and the interest to help coach these dynamic and fun-loving kids, please contact the Lee County Special Olympics Director or the State office today! Registration is required. Elizabeth Kaufman, Lee Co. Special Olympics Director • (334) 501-2939 • ekaufman@auburnalabama.or.

Sensory-Friendly Performance of “The Magic School Bus”

Sensory-Friendly Story Time at Opelika Public Library

When the class gets lost on the way to the planetarium, Ms. Frizzle saves the day by blasting into outer space for an epic, interplanetary field trip! But when rivalries, both old and new, threaten to tear the students apart, our young heroes must learn to pull together or risk getting forever lost in the solar system. Hop on The Magic School Bus for a ride in Theatreworks USA’s new musical adaptation based on the original book. “The Magic School Bus: Lost in the Solar System”, September 29, 10:00 AM at the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, Columbus. www.rivercenter.org. Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2018

Sensory-Friendly Storytime engages participants using story, music and movement. Programs offer educational, literacy and social opportunities for children of all ages with differing abilities, their siblings, parents/caregivers and their typically developing peers. FREE. 9:30 AM, Sept. 15, Oct. 20, Nov. 17 and Dec. 15. library@opelika-al.gov. 6

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Save the Date! Strum & Strive 2018

Don’t miss the Strum & Strive Music Festival at Pick Elementary School Sunday, October 7th, from 1:00 - 4:00! Free admission and open to the entire Auburn/Opelika Community! Live Music, including Martha’s Trouble, Justin Rivers from The Voice, and more! Food Trucks, Giveaways, special guest appearances, and tons of fun activities for the entire family! (Rain date will be October 14th.) Pick Elementary School (PES) is continuing the tradition of educating future leaders for the Auburn community with great fundraisers like this.

Volunteer Opportunities Available with Exceptional Foundation of East Alabama

The Exceptional Foundation of East Alabama is a nonprofit organization established to serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and provide opportunities for those participants to thrive and be engaged in social and recreational activities. The Exceptional Foundation of East Alabama provides year-round services for up to 40 hours per week to individuals that are no longer served in the school system. Participants enjoy educational and recreational activities, creative art expression and age-appropriate field trips. The Exceptional Foundation of East Alabama is always looking for energetic volunteers who have a desire to make a difference! Involvement with The Exceptional Foundation of East Alabama is a rewarding experience, no matter how much (or little) time you’re able to give. We love working with caring individuals who support our mission for individuals with special needs. If you’re interested in volunteering, contact us, www.efofea.org.

AUsome Amphibians & Reptile Show

Join the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center staff for a one-hour (4:30 PM) presentation on the AUsome amphibians and reptiles found in our state and beyond. Children and adults will enjoy this entertaining hands-on program with live animals. Admission is $5/person. Children 3 and under are free. Proceeds benefit the nature center. Sponsored by Auburn Opelika Tourism Bureau. Sept. 14, 21. www.auburn.edu/preserve.

Keep your benefits and save for the future. Enable Savings Plan labama. Enable Savings Plan Alabama provides tax-free savings accounts for eligible individuals with disabilities. You can save for current and future expenses without impacting your resource-based benefits. To find out more about Enable Alabama and to sign up for updates, visit us at EnableAL.com. Investments Are Not FDIC Insured* | No Bank, State or Federal Guarantee | May Lose Value *Except the Bank Savings and Checking Investment Options ©2017 First National Bank of Omaha

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn

Is My Child’s Sore Throat Strep? Sore throat is a common complaint in the pediatrician’s office. The most common cause is viral infection resulting in a sore throat, low grade temperature and usually accompanied by a runny nose or cough. Strep throat usually presents with a triad of symptoms: fever between 101 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit, sore red throat and swollen lymph nodes in the neck. Children with strep throat are often more ill appearing than those with viral infection. It is important to differentiate between viral throat infection and Strep throat because antibiotics are needed to treat Strep. Group A Streptococcus is the name of the bacteria causing the infection. Strep throat infections occur most commonly in school age children. Winter and spring seasons tend to be when we see the most Strep infections, though we do see it throughout the year. Common viral causes of sore throat are Coxsackie virus, which causes Hand Foot and Mouth illness, and adenovirus, which can cause conjunctivitis or “pink eye” along with the sore throat. A variety of other viruses can cause sore throat as well. Strep throat and viral throat infections are spread through contact with the infected per-

Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2018

son’s saliva or other secretions that are expelled when coughing or sneezing. This transmission is aided by kids being close together while at school or daycare centers. The rate that the infection is passed is about 35% of the time when close contact occurs between infected and non-infected people. We all know how frequently kids come into close contact with each other, so it does make it easy for the infection to spread. Signs of infection occur 2-4 days after contact with the infected person. The symptoms of Strep throat are most commonly sore throat, fever, headache, and difficulty swallowing. Kids often complain of stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting as well. When we check the throat, it is often a “beefy” red with or without pus on the tonsils. The lymph nodes in the neck are also swollen and sometimes a rash may be present. When the rash is present it often feels like running your hand over sandpaper and is called the “scarlet fever rash”. Symptoms of runny nose, cough and diarrhea are less likely to be related to a strep infection and more often a result of a virus. Diagnosing Strep can be done quickly and easily with a swab of the throat and a rapid strep test. Treatment of strep throat with antibiotics is necessary to both shorten the course of illness and to prevent complications. We use either

a Penicillin type antibiotic, such as Amoxil, or a Cephalosporin, such as Keflex, as first line treatment. In spite of using these antibiotics for many years, they are still effective in killing Strep germs the majority of the time. These antibiotics should be taken for a full 10 day course. An injection of long acting penicillin can be given as an alternative to oral medication. One penicillin shot equals 10 days of oral antibiotics. Penicillin allergic patients can be given Azithromycin or clindamycin instead. If a viral infection is suspected as the cause of the sore throat, symptom care is all that needs to be done. Antibiotics are not helpful in the treatment of viral infections. Finally, here are some tips to help avoid infections this fall and winter: wash your hands frequently and especially before meals, cover mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, get plenty of rest and eat a healthy diet. Also make sure to get a flu vaccine! We wish you the very best health this fall. Dr. Ellen Royal attended the University of South Alabama College of Medicine for her medical degree and graduated in 1994. She returned to Alabama the summer of 1998 to join the pediatric practice of Dr. Richard M. Freeman. Dr. Royal is a member of the Lee County Medical Society, Medical Association of the State of Alabama, American Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics. She is board certified in Pediatrics. Dr. Royal is married to Dr. Kevin Royal who practices Internal Medicine in Opelika and they have three children.

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Autauga County Schools

Extended Year Summer Program Ends on Positive Note

Auburn HS Student Named DYW of Lee County

Congratulations to Auburn High’s Camille Anders for being named the 2019 Distinguished Young Woman of Lee County! Three AHS students finished in the top 3 of the pageant: Camille Anders (1st place, middle), Michelle Zhuang (1st runner up, on right), and Daleya Scaife (2nd runner up, on left). Photo by Lauren Beesley.

The Extended School Year program came to a close recently! On their last day the students were greeted with live music by Mr. Adam Byrd of Auburn High and his dad Neil Byrd. Mr. Byrd and his dad traveled to each of the rooms to celebrate the completion of the summer program by jamming out with students and their teachers. Then, students had the opportunity to create Lorax potted plants thanks to Mrs. Lucinda Cleaver, Ag Teacher from AHS. Students learned what plants need to survive and how to take care of the flowers they planted.

Oh The Places You'll Go

Auburn City Schools channeled their inner Dr. Seuss for the 2018 New Teacher Breakfast at Ogletree Elementary! With more than 70 new incoming faces, ACS wants them to know working in education can take one so many places.Upbeat attitudes and welcoming smiles will hopefully carry these new teachers for miles. We wish you all the best as you set out to engage, just know to take a breath from time to time to avoid unwanted teacher rage. Here is to an awesome school year in 2018-2019!

Free Little Library

Mrs. Katy Conradson, RES Assistant Principal said, “I love catching community members using our Free Little Library! Thank you FACES for providing our school with the opportunity to spread the love of reading!”

AEEC Ready for a Great Year Thanks to an amazing PTO and energetic, dedicated faculty, AEEC has set the stage for another wonderful year!

Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2018

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Drake Middle School 50th Class Reunion

ACS Administrators Attend Advanced Preparedness Workshop

Classmates of the J.F. Drake High School Graduating Class of 1968 celebrated their 50th Reunion in Auburn! Traveling from places all over the country including Ohio, Michigan and Georgia, they all spent the day on what is now known as J.F. Drake Middle School participating in ambassador-led tours, lunch in the cafeteria and ended the day with a Positive Behavior Support (PBS) Celebration with the entire student body. This was an unique opportunity for local 6th graders to meet Drake alumni and learn more about the history of the campus. With a graduating class of 55, the members of the Class of 1968 were impressed with the changes and growth of the campus, as DMS currently serves more than 670 students.

The Lee County Emergency Management Agency hosted Auburn City Schoolsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; administrators for an Advanced Preparedness Workshop on how to protect yourself and others in the event of an active shooter as well as how to stop bleeding before medics arrive. This series is designed to provide the citizens of Lee County with an opportunity to discuss and receive in-depth information on preparedness for events that exceed the standard planning guidelines at no cost!

Please send school news to: Kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com.

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New Year at St. Michaelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s PreK and Kindergarten

Autauga County Schools

Jeter Primary First Day

Students at Jeter Primary were excited for the first day of school!

Everyone at Saint Michaelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Christian Preschool & Kindergarten is excited to kick off the new school year. We welcome new student, Samantha Moye who will start kindergarten at SMCP&K and her mom, Lacey Moye, as the new teacher for our PK-3 class!

Please send school news to: Kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com.

Morris Avenue First Day

Morris Avenue Intermediate students spent some time organizing their school supplies on the first day of school.

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Northside First Day

We love seeing happy faces at Northside Intermediate on the first day of school!

Auburn Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. supported 4 area seniors in their college plans, with scholarships. The recipients were: Jada Luckey (pictured, left), Opelika High School, Niya Strum (pictured, right), East Memorial Christian Academy, Cammy Smith, Auburn

College Bound Seniors Receive Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Scholarships

High School, and Daisha Smith, Auburn High School. Cammy Smith is also the recipient of the sorority’s state of Alabama’s Foundation Scholarship, Alpha Sigma Alpha, $1,500. Congratulations, ladies! Pictured, below: (L-r) Edwinna Robinson, Cammy Smith, Daisha Smith, Andrea Muir-Brown.

AHS Ladies Football Clinic

Mrs. Sarah Armstrong: “Awesome night at the @ahstigerfootball Ladies Football Clinic tonight! We are fired up for football in a few weeks! Very impressed with the fine young men who wear the AHS Tiger football uniform and the AHS coaching staff!”

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Autauga County Schools Auburn City Schools Summer Graduation

Auburn City Schools celebrated five students at Auburn High School during the 2018 Summer Graduation Commencement Ceremony! This event is always meaningful for the students, families, and school staff involved, as one chapter ends and another begins for the young people graduating and preparing to take the next step in their lives.

ACS Honors Nutrition Program Employees with Special Brunch

ACS was honored to serve a special brunch to the Auburn City Schools Child Nutrition Program employees! These hardworking men and women serve our children all year long, and we are thankful for their commitment and service to the betterment of this community and kids.

Growing Independence Behavioral Services

Announcing a new opportunity to access applied behavior analysis services (ABA) in a clinic setting. Growing Independence Behavioral Services is now available in Anniston, Birmingham, Montgomery, and Mobile locations. ABA therapy is available for preschool and school-age children with a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). ABA is a scientifically based process for teaching and changing behavior, proven effective for children with autism. Licensed Behavior Analysts and Registered Behavior Therapists will conduct assessments and manage all aspects of behavioral programming. Assistance with private insurance billing is also available. To inquire about Growing Independence Behavioral Services, mbusick@learning-tree.org or (205) 718-9519.

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Southview Primary First Day

Southview Primary schools were all smiles on the first day of school!

Carver Primary School students had an awesome first day of school!

West Forest First Day

The first day of school was a success at West Forest Intermediate School!

Please send school news to: Kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com.

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Carver Primary First Day

Opelika Middle School First Day

6th graders at Opelika Middle School had their Google Chromebooks out and were ready to learn on the first day of school!

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Autauga County Schools

Opelika City Schools Welcome New Teachers

The Opelika City Schools welcomed 56 new teachers for the 2018-19 school year. Elementary teachers (pictured left) include: Pictured first row (l-r): Sara Schiller, Caitlyn Daniel, Alyson Rogers, Nicole Roach, Elizabeth Messina, Cristina Caple, Katherine Jenkins, Lacey Basgier, Ashley Anne Cahalan, Meagan Shelnut, and Susan Kirk. Second row (l-r): Kristina Griffin, Maggie Fox, Stephanie Cervantes, Michelle Hughes, Davis Ann Speigner, Maria Gilleland, Courtney Green, Taylor Foutz, Crystal Agar, Laken Dennis, Nicole Beasley, Zuri Lepper, and Bethany Keel. Third row (l-r): Abby Posey,

Lauren Stewart, Haley Thornhill, Bethany Barnes, Laura Spina, Paige Mitchell, Kathleen Arnold, and Ashlee Newton. Not pictured: Ann Collins, Lorie Evans, and Olivia Rider. Secondary teachers (pictured right) include: First row (l-r): Shannon Dickey, April Neese, Anna Laura Campbell, Tamekia Torbert, Garvin Edwards, Sierra Stiles, and Samantha Gilson. Second row (l-r): Thomas Traylor, Jeremy Pickens, Hannah Carroll, Kristyn Bush, Maria Ray, Hannah Olson, Heather Barksdale, Kelsie Nabors, and Stephen Nesmith. Third row (l-r): Kelvin Philpot, Brett Hazelrigs, and Corey Harris. Not pictured: Marta Harrison and Hibisca Kimura.

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Creekside Elementary New Campus

Creekside Elementary held an open house for the community. The Creekside HAWKS are ready for Meet the Teacher.

Institute Day 2018

Auburn City Schools held their Institute Day sessions to officially establish the start of the new

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Auburn City Schools Welcome Back Their Teachers/Staff school year! Check out all the smiling faces as they prepared for the return of students for the first day of school. Thank you to everyone involved in making this day special for our new and returning educators!

Teachers returned to work to prepare for the start of school on August 8th. From orientation to ice breakers, the day was filled with fun at all 13 campuses.

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Autauga County Schools

Auburn City Schools go Back To School Check out all the smiling faces on the first day of the 2018-2019 school year!

Come see us at our new office! thamesorthodontics.com

719 North Dean Road â&#x20AC;˘ Auburn Proudly serving the community for over 10 years Call us today to schedule your complimentary evaluation! Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2018

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Autauga County Schools

Boykin, Welcome to Yarbrough!

State Runner-Ups!

We enjoyed getting to know some of our new students as we shared popsicles and books at Boykin! We are so excited to welcome all of you to the Yarbrough family!

Front Row: Russell Copous, Taylor Fields, Judson Cherry, Ethan Lewis, D'Andre Smith, Jackson Killcreas. Back Row: Coach Adam Littleton, Coach Trey Fields, Max Littleton, Jake Cummings, Carter Dees, Jackson Sanders, Jack McKay, Jackson Killcreas, Manager Jerome Sanders.

Please send your school news to: kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com.

Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2018

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Help Tweens and Teens Clean Up Their Feeds

that bolsters positive social connections, supportive relationships, and validation of their inner qualities. Encouraging your kids to see and appreciate their individual strengths has always been a part of parenting. And learning to stop comparing yourself to others is a part of growing up. By helping kids clean up their feeds, you’re bringing together two critical aspects of raising kids in the digital age. Try these tips:

You know that girl from TV -- the one whose Instagram always looks perfect even with #nofilter? Or what about that amazing singer on musical.ly whom you can’t believe is only 14? And then there’s that kid whose Snapchat stories of Coachella got 500 views. Your kids may be following people like this right now. Obsessing. Over. Every. Detail. And starting to feel kind of crappy about it. Keeping tabs on the rich, famous, and just-plain-cool is nothing new, of course. But social media can take that fixation to a pretty dark place. The feeling is common enough that some doctors are calling it social media anxiety disorder (SMAD) -although what most kids have is more like FOMO … on steroids. While it’s tough to see your kid in despair, there’s a good solution that doesn’t require an all-out social media ban: Just help your kid clean up their feed. Self-comparison is a natural part of the tween and teen years. And for most kids, so is social media. While there are plenty of good things kids get out of their online connections, sometimes the combo can lead to a negative feedback loop that gnaws away at them. Depending on whom they’re following and what’s going on in their lives, their overall self-assessment can cycle from wistful (“I wish I was like that”) to highly critical (“What’s wrong with me that I can’t be like that?”). Even for kids who know when to close their laptops and move on, their selfesteem may take a hit. And for the more self-critical, anxiety and depression are real risks. If your kid mostly enjoys social media but suffers the occasional bout of self-doubt, help them find a healthier balance. Ask if -- or what -- they’re already doing to take care of themselves. They may already be tweaking their social media feeds to limit posts that make them feel bad. Or they may be intentionally trying to curb the endless scrolling through the cool kid’s Insta. Work together to prune out the parts of their social media feeds that trap them into judgy comparisons, and encourage the stuff Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2018

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Identify the triggers. Maybe it’s a certain couple who always look happy and in love, when your kid really wants a romantic relationship. Maybe it’s ads from a dog-toy delivery service that makes your kid miss your old mutt. Explore what’s behind their emotions. Sharing your own FOMO-induced feelings will likely get your kid to open up. Once they recognize the cause of their emotions, they can take steps to manage triggers.

Fine-tune levels of engagement. All social media offers ways to see and hear less from your contacts -- without totally unfriending them. Check out settings such as these from popular platforms like Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram, and Twitter: unfollow (you’re still friends, but their posts won’t show up in your feed); hide post (see fewer posts from someone); snooze (temporarily stop seeing posts); mute (turn them off for a while); and do not disturb (temporarily block the person).

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Turn off notifications. Most social media apps send updates -- and none of them are life-and-death. To prevent your kid from interruptions -- especially ones that might trigger negative thoughts -- you can encourage your kid to check their social media once or twice at a certain time of day -- say, 4 p.m. That might be a stretch, but you can still encourage them to turn off notifications either in the app itself or on their phone. Follow people who nourish your soul. Kim Kardashian may be all over social media, but there are lots of folks who post uplifting, life-affirming, thoughtful, inspiring things that get kids thinking -- and maybe even behaving -- in ways that make them feel good about themselves. Follow these kinds of people. Suggest apps to help with focus. Just as you can use technology to excess, you can use it to rein yourself in. These productivity apps help keep kids on task, boost concentration, and remind you to stop doing stuff that’s not good for you. 22

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Spouse won’t follow the plan Q. What can someone do if they can’t convince their spouse to begin planning and saving? I’ve tried for years to persuade my wife to join me in following your plan, but I can’t get her to start thinking about our financial future and stop living in the moment.

A. It sounds like your wife, for whatever reason, is not willing to pay a price for a short period of time. I’m sorry to say it, but that kind of thinking is a one-way ticket to a lifetime of mediocrity. If you’re unwilling to pay a price to win, then you’re going to end up paying the price that comes with never having paid a price. In essence, you’re asking me how to get her to grow up. I’m not sure there’s a way to convince her at this point. If she’s not willing to delay getting or doing things she wants, that’s a sign of immaturity. You can’t change that within another person. It must be a conscious, willing decision on their part.

Maybe you could try letting her know that being careful with your money and planning for the future doesn’t mean you can’t have any fun. It just means you may have to delay certain things for a little while. My wife and I do and have lots of cool things now, because we saved like crazy and sacrificed years ago. We lived like no one else, so now we’re able to live like no one else. In other words, we paid a price to win!

A burden to help? Q. Do you believe the adult child of a senior citizen, who is physically and mentally healthy but has neglected to plan for retirement, should be burdened with providing financial assistance to that parent?

A. Based on the wording in your question, I can only believe you don’t think the adult

child should be “burdened” to provide this assistance. My guess is you’re talking about one of your own parents. I understand that you might be aggravated with a parent who has been irresponsible with their money. But in my mind, there’s a bigger question. How big is the burden? I talked to a guy recently who was making $1.5 million a year. He was questioning whether he should help his dad — an older man in poor health, who didn’t handle his money well — by giving him $1,000 a month. There’s no question you give that guy money. But if you bring home $2,000 a month, and your family is barely getting by, you’re not morally required to financially take care of a parent who was irresponsible with their money.

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One thing parents and kids should realize is that those with LDs are often average or above average in intelligence. In fact, it isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t uncommon for a child with a learning disability to excel in one subject, while struggling in another. Or perhaps a child does well under certain conditions while in other situations having great difficulty. Though depending on the LD and severity of it, a child might struggle in all areas.

Approximately 10% of American school-age children suffer from a learning disability (LD) and/or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), according to a report by the Centers for Disease Control. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s estimated

Forms of learning disabilities

that 4% of children have both. But for many

There are several forms of LDs. Some pose input problems, which means a child struggles with either sound or visual input. Information isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t processed correctly or gets stored incorrectly in the brain. This can pose problems with retrieval as well as short or long-term memory. An LD can also cause output problems. This can sometimes be seen in motor skills such as handwriting difficulties. Another common problem is verbal output. This is usually evident in that the child has trouble organizing

children, these disorders go undetected despite ongoing struggles with school work and behavior issues that often accompany these disorders. Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2018

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thoughts either in writing or orally. Punctuation, grammar, and spelling also often suffer.

Visual Processing Disorders (VPD) are also a problem with input. Similarly, they aren’t a vision problem. Rather, VPD is a problem with the brain processing what the eyes see. It can result in a child bumping into things or not being able to distinguish the shapes they see. It can also pose difficulty in identifying letters or numbers or result in problems with visual sequencing among other symptoms.

Dyscalculia is a math learning disability. With this disorder, children have may have difficulty learning to tell time, counting money or counting in general, learning math facts, calculating, understanding measurement, or performing mental math. Dyslexia is a reading disability, though the symptoms are not exclusive to reading. Children with this disorder may have difficulty with spelling, vocabulary, or comprehension. They may read slow, have trouble learning left from right, or have organizational problems both with written and spoken language.

Nonverbal Learning Disorder (NLD) is similar to Asperger Syndrome and shows up as difficulties with social skills. Academic problems are sometimes present as well but often don’t show up until kids reach higher grade levels. Those with NLD may be afraid of new situations, struggle to make friends, lack common sense, and experience social withdrawal. Academic problems can include reading comprehension and working out math story problems.

Dysgraphia is a writing disability. Poor handwriting and often an awkward style of holding a pencil or even contorting the body while writing are hallmarks. A child may also have trouble drawing lines. With dysgraphia, children can often better express their understanding of material through speech than in writing.

ADHD is marked by attention problems and/or hyperactivity and impulsivity. Girls often have only attention issues while boys are more commonly impulsive or hyperactive. Symptoms can include difficulty staying on task or paying attention yet often hyperfocusing on stimulating activity. Children with ADHD may fidget or have trouble staying seated, interrupt, and act without thinking.

Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) is a problem with input. It isn’t a problem with hearing but rather the brain has difficulty processing sounds. As a result, kids with APD may be distracted by loud noise or have difficulty following conversations. It tends to be especially problematic when there’s a lot of background noise which makes it difficult to distinguish sounds.

The symptoms listed above for each of the LDs aren’t exhaustive. To learn more, visit Learning Disabilities Association of America https://ldaamerica.org/types-of-learning-disabilities/.

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What to do if you suspect your child has an LD or ADHD

Allen Orthodontics is pleased to be moving to Moores Mill in Spring 2019. is move will improve our patient experience by accommodating our expanding orthodontic services and technology, greatly increasing space for treatment and allowing easy parking and access to our oﬃce for all of our patients. Allen Orthodontics is thrilled to be joining a great mix of signature businesses that will be steps away from our new location.

The first step is to talk with your child’s teacher, and find out what the teacher has observed. Then talk to the school principal, and request an evaluation. Public schools are required by law to provide an evaluation. This should include an IQ test, assessments of math, reading, and writing, and testing processing skills. If your child is in a private school and the private school doesn’t offer this service, you can request it through your public school district. Once your child has received a diagnosis, your school psychologist should be able to recommend and help you set up services or accommodations for your child. Depending on the specific learning disability, your child may qualify for special education services under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) or accommodations through Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Bear in mind, you are your child’s best advocate. So read books and articles on your child’s LD and learn how you and your school can help. Talk to your child’s teacher about additional ways the teacher can assist your child. Most teachers are eager to help, though depending on student ratio and school resources, it’s sometimes challenging for teachers to do as much as they’d like because they likely have other children with special needs in the classroom as well. If you feel your child isn’t getting the help he or she needs, talk to the school administrator. AOP

Kimberly Blaker is the author of a kid’s STEM book, Horoscopes: Reality or Trickery? containing fun experiments to help kids understand the scientific method and develop critical thinking skills.

Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2018

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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston

A Crash Course in Teen Drug Use Maybe you saw the title of this article, and thought, “Well, this is one I don’t need to read. My kid would never do drugs!” I’m not here to frighten you, but if you believe your son or daughter will never be tempted to use harmful substances, you’re only setting yourself up for disappointment. We might like to think it’s the other kids who are using, and not our own. But according to recent studies, 1 out of every 5 teens is abusing alcohol, illegal, or legal drugs on a regular basis. Even high school students who aren’t presently using are telling researchers that they get offered prescription narcotics at least twice a day! In a world that increasingly embraces drug and alcohol use, moms and dads need to understand that this issue will come up in their child’s life. Parents also need to learn how to identify and discuss with their teens the many social pressures they will face to participate in substance abuse.

What’s Out There?

What would you say is the number one drug abused by teenagers today? Marijuana? Nicotine? In reality, more common than both of these are prescription drugs! Narcotics like Vicodin, Oxycotin, Ativan, Valium, Ambien, Adderall, and even Ritalin are popular medications being used recreationally among today’s adolescents. There is a huge market for sedatives, painkillers, and anti-depressants, so keep a tight lid on your medicine cabinet, and realize that those bottles on the shelf can be just as damaging as the dealers on the corner. Next to prescription drugs, marijuana is the second most common drug abused among teens. And you can’t turn on the television, listen to music, or read the newspaper without seeing prominent people coming out in support of legalizing this drug. As pot use becomes more common, teens who’ve never tried it may start to think, “Well, it can’t be too bad if that person is promoting it!” Parents, it’s not enough anymore to say, “It’s illegal!” We need to learn how to engage in a conversation about the dangers of marijuana in a different way. Another growing trend in narcotics is designer drugs. These are fairly common subAuburn Opelika Parents I September 2018

stances that have had their chemical structure altered in order to create a new product. These drugs are often sold in powder form, including LSD, PCP, Ecstasy, and Ketamine. This list of drugs and narcotics is not an exhaustive collection by any stretch of the imagination. But it’s a crash course for the uninformed on what’s being offered, pushed, and abused in our culture. The more you know about what is out there, the better prepared you will be to handle a teen who is caught in addiction, or tempted to experiment.

What Are the Signs?

Here are telltale signs to keep watch for: Constant use of eye drops. Smoking pot dries out the sinuses and causes bloodshot eyes. If your teen is going through bottles of eye drops, it might be a sign that they are using marijuana. Use of Goldenseal vitamins. Goldenseal is an herb that aids in fighting in the common cold and may help with digestive disorders, as well. But this herb is commonly believed to mask the presence of illegal drugs in urine. Overuse of air fresheners or incense. If you get into your teen’s car, or walk into their room, and it’s perfumed with heavy aromas, it may be a sign your child is trying to hide the smell of smoke. Drinking vinegar. Many people use vinegar for medicinal reasons, but for a teen using drugs, consuming vinegar could be an attempt to mask the smell of drugs on their breath, or hide the presence of narcotics in their urine. Small burns on their fingers. If you regularly notice small burns on a teen’s forefinger and thumb, that’s a strong indicator of drug use. Rapid weight loss, lack of energy, heavy perspiration, or small bruises on the arms, legs, or feet, are also signs of drug use. Emotional changes. Does your son seem to be depressed or angry? Is your daughter avoiding her friends or seem listless all the time? While these are signs of normal adolescence, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Wild swings in your child’s emotions could be a sign that they are turning to drugs or alcohol to cope.

What Do I Do?

If you’ve discovered that your teen has a problem with drugs, your next question is, “Now what do I do?” 28

First, if you’ve had a history with drugs in your past, don’t be afraid to share that with your son or daughter. Many parents are extremely hesitant to volunteer that kind of information to their kids, in fear that acknowledging mistakes gives kids license to repeat history. But that is simply not the case. Admitting why mom and dad know what they’re talking about actually adds credence and value to their words. Don’t glorify your past, but rather share the mistakes and regrets you have in this particular area. Second, don’t engage in an argument about the morality of using of drugs. Yes, marijuana is an herb; yes it’s been successfully used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. Yes, many people want to legalize it. And yes, many successful and prominent people in society openly admit to smoking pot. But these are not the arguments that matter. What’s important is your son or daughter’s relationship to drugs. Always bring the discussion back to that personal level. The fact is, all drugs are addictive and can be destructive. Explain that you care for your teen, and don’t want them to be held captive to any substance. Narcotics are designed to dull our senses and trick our minds into feeling a certain way. Drugs don’t improve our lives in any way. Their purpose is simply to alter our emotions, and eventually they hold us prisoner. Many teens have told me that after using drugs for awhile, it got to the point where they needed those crutches to go to school, deal with their family, or relax. As you talk to your teens about drugs, put yourself in the same scenario. What would your teen say if you needed a couple of beers for breakfast before going to work? Or you needed to pop a pill in order to sit down at the dinner table and relax? Wouldn’t they be concerned for you? Lastly, seek help. Drugs have the capability to sink their claws into our kids so deep that it can be extremely difficult to pry them loose. If your child is caught in the snare of drugs, enlist some allies to help you free them. Find sponsors or programs that give them tools to overcome cravings and addictions. Read books or articles that delve deeper into counseling teenagers dealing with drugs. You don’t have to face this alone. Mark Gregston is an author, speaker, radio host, and the founder of a residential counseling center for struggling teens located in Longview, Texas. Mark’s passion for helping teens can be seen in his 40 years of involvement with families as a youth pastor, Young Life area director, and now, as the Executive Director of Heartlight, where he has lived with and helped over 2,700 teens. To find out more about Mark and his ministry to parents and teens, you can visit www.HeartlightMinistries.org or www.ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

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Many people ask, “Do I have to be a ‘genius’ to be accepted to ASMS?” Answer: Absolutely NOT! ASMS is made up of students who are intelligent and work hard for academic success. The 2018 senior class earned $10 million in merit-based scholarships and scored a composite 29.7 on the ACT. Current Alabama 9th or 10th graders can apply. Questions? Email admissions@asms.net or call 251.441.3250.

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Having a sibling with special needs is a unique experience that provides both challenges and benefits. While there is no doubt that they love their sibling with special needs, the feelings that can arise during childhood are often complicated. The love, appreciation, and compassion they feel towards their sibling can be mixed up with jealousy, worry, resentment, fear, responsibility, and anger. Parents who are in tune to their childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s feelings can help them work through the negative emotions and turn these challenges into benefits.

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Challenge: Insensitivity of others

Unfortunately, kids with special needs are often the target of teasing. Kids, or even adults, that don’t understand other people’s differences may make insensitive comments, ask inappropriate questions, or just make fun of someone who is different from them. Siblings of special needs kids may feel the need to constantly stand up for their sibling, explain their situation to others, or may be the brunt of teasing themselves. “One of the biggest challenges in growing up with my sister was watching her get laughed at.” says Justin Lyons, brother of Kara, who has cerebral palsy. Parents can help their kids work through this challenge by equipping them with the right answers for those awkward questions and teach them how to handle bullying in an appropriate way.

Benefit: Development of dependability, loyalty, and compassion After years of watching someone they love get teased, siblings of special needs kids will naturally develop a strong sense of loyalty to those they care about as well as a strong compassion towards others. Even though watching Kara get teased was hard for Justin, he also notes, “I think it made me less likely to laugh at or tease other people.”

Kids who grow up in a home with a special needs sibling typically become dependable, compassionate, and loyal adults.

Challenge: Jealousy Parents do their best to treat their children fairly and spend equal amounts of time caring for each child. When you have a child with developmental delays or significant medical needs that balance can become extremely difficult to achieve and jealousy can develop. Kids may feel they get less attention or that their parents spend more time caring for the sibling. When these feelings develop it is very common for kids to feel guilty that they have these thoughts, causing them to be more upset and resentful. As a parent, try to be understanding and patient about your child’s jealous feelings. Talking it through and having someone listen and take them seriously will help your child feel loved and included. If possible and appropriate, welcome your child to join you in caring for the sibling, but don’t push the issue. Benefit: Self control and thoughtfulness First, it is important to remember that sibling rivalry and feelings of jealousy are normal in any sibling relationship. As your

child learns to wait for their parent to be free to help them, they will learn patience and self control. They will also learn to put other’s needs before their own.

Challenge: Worry and fear When children are around a sibling with serious medical challenges, lowered immunity, or special needs, kids may feel worried or afraid about the health of their sibling. They may not be able to express their feelings the same way that an adult would. Kids may act out, become overly emotional, or appear aloof to what is going on around them. Parents can help kids by being honest about health concerns in an age appropriate way. By including your child in this discussion, you can reduce their fear of the unknown and reassure them as well. Benefit: Develop compassion and empathy for others Kids who are exposed to someone with medical and developmental challenges naturally become more compassionate and empathetic to those who may have their own struggles. “I attribute my sense of understanding and compassion to group up with my sister.” says Michelle Hupp, sister to Felicia, an adult with Down Syndrome.

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Challenge: Complicated and mixed feelings As each person is different, kids have a variety of feelings related to their sibling with special needs. Some kids may feel pressure to “live up” to their parents’

expectations for themselves and for the sibling that may never reach certain milestones. Kids may also feel resentment, anger, frustration, or like they are “missing out” on activities or experiences because their sibling’s care puts restrictions on certain activities. “Siblings often feel guilty about any negative feeling such as jealousy.” says Hupp. “The rewards more than outweigh the negatives but sometimes the negatives are hard to talk about.” None of these feelings are fun to talk about and often result in guilt causing the children to feel even more resentment to the sibling because they have these negative feelings. Some of these feelings may be difficult to overcome and a parent may not know exactly what their child is feeling or how to deal with them. If you feel that these feelings are becoming a problem, consider seeking professional help to support your child’s development in a healthy way and encourage an appropriate relationship between your children.

Benefit: A variety of positive characteristics develop While all of these challenges are realistic, kids also develop a wide variety of wonderful characteristics from their experience such as kindness, patience, compassion, acceptance of differences, helpfulness, and empathy. All of these qualities are wonderful and valued in our society. Being a sibling of a special needs person is a unique and sometimes challenging experience but most people will tell you they have benefitted from the experience. As a parent, it helps to think of the long term benefits and help your child shape their challenges into successes.

Sarah Lyons is a contributing writer.

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ADA Center- Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services

602 S Lawrence St , Montgomery, 36104 ADA Center- Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services- (800) 205-9986. DBTAC - Southeast ADA Center; 1419 Mayson Street, Atlanta, GA. 800949-4232; www.sedbtac.org 334-613-3471

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Alabama Resources Enable Savings Plan Alabama ad on page 7

• Tax-Free Accounts for Individuals with Disabilities • Keep Your Disability Benefits and Save for Your Future Enable Savings Plan Alabama provides tax-free savings accounts for eligible individuals with disabilities., its features include: • An individual with an eligible disability can open one account. The owner and beneficiary are the same. • Any person can contribute to the account. • Three risk-based investment options, an FDICinsured bank savings option and FDIC-insured check writing option with a debit card. Created in partnership with the Alabama State Treasurer’s Office, the State of Nebraska Treasurer’s Office and First National Bank of Omaha. (866) 833-7949

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Alabama’s Early Intervention System

602 S Lawrence St , Montgomery, Alabama 36104 Provides supports and services for infants and toddlers birth through age 2 (0 to 36 months of age) who have a medical diagnosis that can delay normal development or who have a developmental delay causing the child to not meet developmental milestones. Early intervention supports and services focus on teaching the parents and other caregivers ways to help the child learn and participate in everyday activities. AEIS also prepares infants and toddlers with disabilities and developmental delays for transition to the Alabama State Department of Education’s and local school systems’ preschool program for 3- to 5-year-olds by providing specialized instruction; physical, occupational, and speechlanguage therapies; service coordination; and parent and family education. Additionally, AEIS provides training to local school system teachers to ensure a smooth, seamless transition to school for infants and toddlers with developmental disabilities. 800-543-3098 www.rehab.alabama.gov/individualsand-families/early-intervention

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205 South Street E, Talladega, Alabama 35160 Is the world’s most comprehensive education, rehabilitation and service program serving individuals of all ages who are deaf, blind, deaf-blind and multidisabled. Founded in 1858 by a young medical doctor who wanted to educate his deaf brother, AIDB now serves more than 22,500 infants, toddlers, children, adults and seniors with hearing and vision loss throughout Alabama each year. Our services literally span a lifetime including five campuses in Talladega, eight regional centers located in Birmingham, Dothan, Huntsville, Mobile, Montgomery, Talladega, Tuscaloosa and Tuscumbia with programs that range from early and senior intervention, traditional and nontraditional education services and a manufacturing facility that is the state’s largest employer of adults who are blind and deaf. 256- 761-3238

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Career and Technical Education

Alabama Department of Education, 50 North Ripley Street , Montgomery, Alabama 36130 Focused on helping students achieve success through leadership development, career awareness, and academic excellence. This division also provides service to Alabama’s teachers, education administrators, and counselors through professional development that works to further K-12 student achievement and project-based learning. 334-242-9111

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Children with Disabilities

Alabama Department of Education, 50 North Ripley Street , Montgomery, Alabama 36130 Ages 3 through 5- Contact Special Education. Transition Services/ Special Education Services -Alabama State Department of Education 334-242-8114

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Developmental Disabilities

Alabama Department of Education, 50 North Ripley Street , Montgomery, Alabama 36130 provides a comprehensive array of services and supports to individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families in the state through contractual arrangements with community agencies, five regional community services offices, and three comprehensive support service teams that assist with behavioral, medical, psychiatric and dental services and supports. 334-242-3107

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Developmental Disabilities Council

Alabama Department of Education, 50 North Ripley Street , Montgomery, Alabama 36130 Has a mission to support independence, advocacy, productivity, and inclusion for Alabamians with developmental disabilities 800-232-2158

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Mental Health Rep for Children/Youth

Office of Children’s Services/Ala Dept of Mental Health, 100 N Union, Montgomery, Alabama 36130 Mental Illness services are comprised of a comprehensive array of treatment services and supports through four state-operated facilities and contractual agreements with community mental health centers across the state. The MI/SA Central Office staff provides oversight and support for the continuum of care through its offices of quality improvement, consumer relations, deaf services, community programs, certification, facilities management, and the indigent drug program. 334-353-7110

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The University of AL, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35487 800-826-1675

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Respite Care/Alabama Lifespan Respite Resource Network

1856 Keats Drive, Huntsville, Alabama 35810 Respite Care- is temporary short-term relief for caregivers of individuals with special needs such as: developmental and physical disabilities or other chronic illnesses that are related to health concerns, medical fragility, or for those at risk of abuse and neglect. 1-866-RESTALA

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Special Education Services-Alabama Department of Education

50 North Ripley Street, Montgomery, Alabama 36104 800-392-8020

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Special Format Library: Alabama Regional Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped 6030 Monticello Dr, Montgomery, Alabama 36104 www.statelibrary.alabama.gov

Special Health Care Needs - Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services/Children’s Rehabilitation Service

602 S Lawrence St , Montgomery, Alabama 36104 Serving children and teens from birth to 21. CRS provides services for children and adolescents from birth to age 21 with special health-care needs and their families. Every county in Alabama is served through a network of 14 community-based offices. Staff members work closely with local school systems to enable children with disabilities to participate fully in school. 800-441-7607

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Technology- STAR (Statewide Technology Access and Response for Alabamians with Disabilities)-Montgomery, AL.

602 S Lawrence St , Montgomery, Alabama 36104 STAR has been and continues to be a resource to provide Alabamians free access to information, referral services, educational programs, and publications in accessible format on extensive topics related to disability rights, laws/policies, and funding opportunities for assistive technology 800-782-7656

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The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

Committed to ensuring that all people with speech, language, and hearing disorders receive services to help them communicate effectively. www.asha.org/ public. www.asha.org

University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Civitan International Research Center

UAB, 1719 6th Ave S, Birmingham, Alabama 35233 Through partnerships with consumers, professionals, organizations, and agencies, the Civitan Center seeks to shape policy decisions related to research and to increase the opportunities for inclusion, independence, productivity, and personal life satisfaction for individuals with developmental disabilities 800-822-2472

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Vocational Rehabilitation-Department of Rehabilitation Services

education-related services and training to assist teens and adults with disabilities in becoming employed. The VRS-Blind/Deaf program provides assistance to Alabamians statewide through its Blind Services, Deaf Services and OASIS (Older Alabamians System of Information and Services) programs. 334-281-8780

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Learning Disabilities-Learning Disabilities Association of Alabama

Disability-Specific Organizations

Main purpose is to make sure that those who do have special educational needs are given the help and support they need to go on to achieve everything they have always wanted while also making sure that everything is done to unleash their true potential. Idaal work to help children and adults of normal intelligence, but who have coordinated, conceptual or perceptual difficulties.

Autism- Autism Society of Alabama

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4217 Dolly Ridge Rd, Birmingham, Alabama 35243 ASA collaborates with various state and local agencies to increase awareness in the community, schools, and in the medical and professional arenas to promote education, understanding, resources, and to encourage the early diagnosis of autism. ASA maintains a website that provides up to date information and provides direct links to other important informational sites. Our website also acts as a source of support for families and parents of individuals with autism spectrum disorders. 877-4-AUTISM contact@autism-alabama.org www.autism-alabama.org

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Speech and Hearing- Speech and Hearing Association of Alabama

PO Box 238, Capshaw, Alabama 35742 Advance the disciplines of speech-language pathology and audiology in order to provide support for professionals while advocating quality services. 256-325-8885 Info@AlabamaSHAA.org www.alabamashaa.org

Spina Bifida- Spina Bifida Association of Alabama

PO Box 35, Gadsden, Alabama 35902 Provide families affected by Spina Bifida with the most up-to-date medical and social information related to this birth defect. 256-325-8600

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Epilepsy- Epilepsy Foundation of Alabama

602 S Lawrence St , Montgomery, Alabama 36104 Serving teens and adults. The department’s largest division, VRS provides specialized employment- and

advocating for funding for epilepsy programs, research, and a cure; to policies that promote research and innovation; to improving access to and coverage of quality care and essential services; and to the protection of the rights of individuals with disabilities.

Congratulations to the Liles Smiles no cavity winners! CHOROM, GRAEME DAVIS, BRAYDON FORD, KHYLEE FORDHAM, HUNTER HALL, MARGARET HARGRAVE, KINMAN HARTSELL, LUCY HARTSELL, VIOLET HERRING, ISAIAH HERRING, REESE HOLCOMB, JACOB HOLCOMB, LINDSEY HOWELL, ANNABELL L HOWELL, JAMES C JONES, KINGSTON NICHOLS, WAVERLY ANN NIX, MILLIE SCHWEIGER, WYATT SENN, BRISTOL SMITH, AUSTIN SMITH, KYLIE STAHL, MARGARET STAHL, WILLIAM STAHL JR, WALTER L TAUSCH, JAMES M WARE, REID WARE, WILL WAYMAN, BENTLEY WILLIAMS, BENTLEE YOUNG, MASON ALVARADO, DAVID BATTLE, BROOKLYN BATTLE, MCKENZLIE BRIDGES, JAKAIDEN FENN, JAMES HUGULEY, DEMARRION NASH, KAI NGUYEN, DAVID NGUYEN, MINH OSBORNE, MAKAYLEE OWSLEY, KACIN PATE, CASH PEVEHOUSE, ANNABELL

PEVEHOUSE, CAIDEN SMITH, BRODY TOWNS, LAMAR CHAPMAN, CAROLINE COCHRAN, KAYDEN COLLEY, SINDI ESTES, RAYLEE HERRING, MADILYN LASHLEY, HARPER MOORE, MARY BRENTLEY OBRIEN, ELLA OBRIEN, WILLIAM REDDITT, JOHNSON SIMMONS, SAWYER VALENTINE, LORENZO ANGEL AZUL WALKER, EVELYN ZACHERY, AYVION ZHAN, AUSTIN ZHAN, IRVING ALEXANDER, ASIA ALEXANDER ILL, JOSEPH BEASLEY, HUNTER BUNN, BROOKLYN CARMACK, DANICA CAUSEY. WILLIAM COULTER, LINDSEY K DUNHAM, ANNA GARCIA, LYLA GARCIA, ROSALINA HAMILTON, ROSALIE JACKSON, NORAH LAMB, ADDISON LANCASTER, EVE LINDSEY, RICHARD MCCAY, BAILEY MCCAY, OWEN PERDUE, JOSEPH T RHODES, ZACHARY M TUCKER, CANYON TUCKER, CORY WILLIAMS, JACK CARTER WILLIAMS, SARAH KATE WRIGHT, CROSSE K

YOUNG, JACE BEENE, EMILY K BEENE, KIMBALL E BRYANT, ABBIGAIL CARSON, GRAY CLAYTON, RYLIE COOK, NORAH CORBITT, EMILY KATHERINE CORBITT, THOMAS E CROWE, BRAYLEN W DEAN, REMINGTON DENNEY, BRAYDEN DENNEY, MAKENZIE DOBBS, ANDERSON DOBBS, PARKER DOHERTY, KAMERON ECHOLS, PRESTON HAM, JENNINGS HAM, WILLIAM HUGHES, BRAXTON HUGHES, BRYCEN W KING, JOSEPH LAMON, LUCY MATZ, GEORGE MATZ, REID OWENS, BECKHAM PORTER, CARTER S PORTER, MARSHALL REIF, CASH SAVAADRA, JOHN MOORE SCHMIDT, ARI (FINN) SCHMIDT, EVERLY SCHMIDT, NORA SMITH, PETER STEWART, BENJAMIN H STEWART, JAMES STEWART, MILES WATERS, CHARLES R WATERS. MARGARET WILLIAMS, ELLA WILLIAMS, RANKIN ZAPP, OWEN ZAPP, RYAN

ZAPP, WALKER AIKENS, DESTINY BOLT, COURTNEY BOSWELL, KAYDEN CALLOWAY, MA!EKAI CRUZ, ISABEL DUNN, JALYIAH (LYIAH) T GABBERD, SERENITY GREEN, MAKAYLA GREGG, CANNON GROCE, HARMONI HARRIS, CORTEZ JOHNSON, ALLISTER KANG, AARON MACKEY, HOLLI WHITLOW, DARIUS WOODY, LEVI ADAMS, BENTLEY ALFORD, JAMIYA BAKER, WILLIAM BOATNER, CALIE BOATNER, LILY BROWN, REECE BROWN, REED BYRD, KAMIYAH CRUM, HENRY DOWLING, LANA ESHELMAN, ELLA GRACE HARRY, EMMA KIM, ELIANA CHAERYN KINCAID, AUBREY MARTIN, MILLS MCPHERSON, JACK MILLS, JAMIYA PERRY, GRANT PIMIENTA, KEAN ROBERTSON, JOHN ROLAND, BENTLEY ROLAND, EMERI SANTA ANA, DANICA SAXION, ABIGAIL SOSEBEE, NICHOLAS STONE, GABRIEL STONE ILL, MANUEL TYSON, ROBERT WALKER V, JOHN D DENSON, WILLIAM Q DONALDSON, ADDY J DONALDSON, LUKE DONALDSON, RYAN GARDNER, GAVIN

GRAYS, KYLEE GUIZAR, PHOENIX HANCY, BROOKS HANCY, HENLEY HANCY, LYDIA HUSSEY, BREWER HUSSEY, CHARLEE KIM, JULIANNE KINCAID, VIVIAN KIRK, HALLIE KIRK, PAISLEY KIRKLAND, MARY MADDOX, LAILEE MCGLYNN, BRYSON MORRIS. JAKOBE NAPPIER, DIANA C NAPPIER, JOSEPH NAPPIER, MALTY R OWENS, ZARAH PICKARD, GRAYSON PUCKETT, COOPER PUCKETT, LILLY QIN, SEAN QIN, TINA SMITH, BANKS SMITH, LANDON TAYLOR. CHARLIE KATE TAYLOR, REECE TOLBERT, GAINES TOLBERT, PARKER TORBERT. ALEXANDRIA TORBERT, JEREMIAH TORBERT, JOSHUA TORBEN, MAY TORBEN, MICAH TORBETT, NOAH WATERS, JOHN C WEBSTER, KAELYN WHITTENBURG, JOHN WILSON, BEN WILSON, KYLE YOUNG, ABIGAIL E ANDERSON, TRISTIN BAILEY, CHARLI BAILEY, LIAM BRUCE, EMMA G BRUCE, ZOEY COX, BENTLEY COX, NOAH DAVIS, COLT A DAVIS, HARPER

FAIRCLOTH, CHARLOTTE GARNETT, ADDISON GILBERT, WILLIAM G GILMORE, ALI HARE, JACOB R HELM, ABIGAIL KIZZIAH, WAKE LEE, HUDSON MATHIS, AYLAH MOORE, CHARLOTTE MOORE, COOPER MOORE, EVELYN GRACE NEVELS, JAK PARKER, JACOB PATTON, STUART PATTON, THOMAS RASMUS, KYLAR SEGREST, AUDREY SEGREST, ETHAN SIMPSON, LILY SIMPSON, SOPHIA VARDMAN, RAMSEY VARDMAN, RILEY WILLIAMS, KALEB WRIGHT, MALIYAH YEARTA, JACOB BOWEN, PHILLIP CHATMAN, JAYDEN HARRIS, DONALD HENNESSEY, KEVIN HOLBROOKS, SAVANNA LONG, KARRINGTON MALIK, MICHAELA MILLER, BLAKELEE PARETTE, DAYLEN WASHINGTON, PRINCEXNICHOLAS WILSON, KYNNEDI BOYLES, RICHARD CARBAJAI, MICHAEL CARBAJAL, REBECCA COBB, SKYLAR CODGILL, RYLAN COGDILL, HADLEY CRAFT, BRODY DABBS, ELIJAH DABBS, JONAH DEMYAN, BENJAMIN DEMYAN, CARTER EVANS, ZACHARY GODWIN, HARRISON GODWIN, MEREDITH E

HALLMARK, MERCY HARRIS, BRAELIN HUGHES, WYATT JESSIE, MAHARANI JOHNSON, JORDAN F KINCAID, AARON LINDSEY, COOPER LOWE, CANER LOWE, HUDSON LOWE, SAMUEL LUFKIN, GABRIEL LUFKIN, HARPER MEADOWS, LAWLER MEADOWS, LILLIAN PERDUE, GAIGE PERDUE, REED RAY, LANDON RAY, LAURA KATE RIGGS, ISAAC SALIBA, CAITLIN S SMITH, CHAMBLESS SMITH, LANE STANFORD, HUDSON TOWNSEND, BRYCE WILSON, BRADLEY ACEVEDO, LORRAINE ACEVEDO, SOPHIA APLIN, AVA APLIN, NOAH ASH. RILEY E BEASLEY, PARKER BEASLEY, PAYTON BOWEN, KADEN COPELAND, KENNEDI DAVIS, TAYSHAWN L DEES, EVAN DEES, JOHN DEES, MARY P DUNNAM, AVERY ESFANDIARY, MARYAM FOWLER, AVERY FRIEND, CLAYTON GRIFFITH, PIERCE HANSELL, REESE HANSEN, AYDEN HANSEN, NOLAN HAWKINS, WHITMAN JACKSON, KENLEY JOHNSON, AMANDA JONES, BRAYLEN JORDAN, LINDEN

LEON, EMILY LINDSEY, EMME CAROLINE LOVE, KA•MOREIA LOVE, KHALANI MCCARLEY, BRANTLEY MCGRAW, MATTHEW MICHEL, FRITZ ROBINSON, SHERRI K THOMPSON, TRENT THOMPSON, TUCKER THRASH, HANNAH TRIMBLE, JASMINE S TURNER, GRAYSON TURNER, LIZZIE TURNER JR, JOHN WILL WALDREP, ADDISON YANG, KAITLYN YEARTA, BRAXTON BELL, BRANDON BHANDARI, KALPANSH BODY, ALEX BUTTON, MALIYAH COX, NATALIE HENDERSON, HAILEY MILFORD, KAELYNN MOLINA, MICHELLE OSORIO, CRISBELL RAHMAN, SUBA ROBERTS, ZOEY SMITH, MADISON THOMAS, ZANIYA BOUTWELL, MADISON CARNEY, MOLLY E CHAHINE, JEAN PAUL FULLER, COLLYNS GLAZIER ILL, GARY JENKINS, BRANDT JENKINS, WES KIM, ELLIOT LANGLEY, LOCKER LANGLEY, LUKE PENTON, EMMA KATE PENTON, SAWYER POPE, BROOKLYN PUMROY, MAKENZIE ROBERTS, IZABELLA RUSSELL, ADDISON SKIPPER, ADALYNN STANFIELD, ISABELLA TEW, BRYSON TEW, TUCKER

WEED, ANIYIA WILSON. MALLIE WILSON, MILLER WILSON, TUCKER ADKINS, AVA ADKINS, JAMES B ADKINS, MARY B BLOODWORTH, CATHERINE CAPONETTO, EVA CHESSER, SCARLETT CHOI, YERIN CREEL, HARRISON DAVIS, CHARLIE DAVIS, CHASE FOXX, JEREMY GAMBLE, LAWSON HAYNES, EMME HEPTINSTALL, CARMEN KAMATH, SAAHIL LOPEZ, MARIANA LUMPKIN, ALLISON LUMPKIN, JALYN LUMPKIN, NATALYN MANGRAM. KHLOE NOWELL, CARLYNN O BARR, EMMA R PACHECO, MIA PAGE, JAMES RACE, GENEVIEVE RACE, JAMES REDDICK, ETHAN SCHMITT, HADDON SMITH, ANDREW J STANDRIDGE, BENTLEY STANDRIDGE, CLIFFORD TREADWELL, STEPHEN TRUETT, AMY TRUETT, JESSICA TRUETT, RACHAEL TUMER, HENRY VOSS, EMMA ALQAHTANI, SHATHA ALSOBROOK, CLAIRE AMBROCIO, JOHN ]ARMSTRONG, EMMA ARMSTRONG, KATHERINE ALDWELL, ANNE CRAFT, GENTRY CURTIS, GRAYSON CURTIS, NICHOLAS DOOLEY, JACKSON

DOOLEY, MATTHEW DOOLEY, WILLIAM FALLIN, TRISTON FOSTER, KINZLEE HAM, CHARLES HAYES, MERRIT HEISLER, KNOX HEISLER, SARAH HOWARD, MILES HUTCHINSON JR, JAMES KINGSTON, HENRY LACKEY, TANNER LEDBETTER, SADIE LUCKIE, LOGAN MAPLES. RYLIE MOFFETT, DESTINY MUMMA, KIPTYN PARK JR, BRENT RHODES, LILEIGH TUCKER, WILLIAM UPTON, JOHN BERRY B YARBROUGH , ADISONN YEH, RYAN BARRESI, NEVAEH BRONSON, KEY'ONTAY BURCH, BRIAR BURGANS, CONNER CANNON, CARTER D CANNON, CHRISTOPHER D DICKINSON, BRADY DICKINSON, MADELYNN GOODWIN, MARLEIGH JONES, JACOREUS LAMAR, THOMAS ROBERTS, BELLA ROBERTS, BELLE ROBERTS, PRESTON ROBERTS, SIMON SHEALEY JR, CORDARRYI R SMITH, TYKERIA TIRADO, JAYDEN TOREZ, DAVID C WHITEHEAD, KELSEY

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Tourette Syndrome-Tourette Association of America Bayside, New York The premier national non-profit organization working to make life better for all people affected by Tourette and Tic Disorders 888-4-touret

www.tourette.org

Asthma & Allergies-Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America

Landover, Maryland AAFA is dedicated to improving the quality of life for people with asthma and allergic diseases through education, advocacy and research. 800-727-8462

www.aafa.org

Attention Deficit Disorder/Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Lanham, Maryland Children with ADHD are eligible for special education services or accommodations within the regular classroom when needed, and adults with ADHD may be eligible for accommodations in the workplace under the Americans with Disabilities Act. CHADD is a success story, inspired by the desire of countless parents to see their children with ADHD succeed. 800-233-4050

www.chadd.org

Blind/Visual Impairments- American Foundation for the Blind

New York, New York Sees a world where people with vision loss have equal access and opportunities to excel at school, at work, and in their communities.

Each day, we come a step closer to creating that world. Our award-winning programs and services address the most pressing needs of people with vision loss. 800-232-5463

www.afb.org

Downs Syndrome- Down Syndrome Alabama- Birmingham

1929 Canyon Road, Vestavia Hills, Alabama 35216 Down Syndrome Alabama’s mission is to promotes lifelong Awareness, Acceptance and Advocacy for individuals with Down syndrome. 205-988-0810 www.downsyndromealabama.org

Food Allergies- The Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network

McLean, Virginia Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) works on behalf of the 15 million Americans with food allergies, including all those at risk for life-threatening anaphylaxis. This potentially deadly disease affects 1 in 13 children in the United States – or roughly two in every classroom. 1-800-929-4040

www.foodallergy.org

Head Injury-Alabama Head Injury Foundation

3100 Lorna Rd, Suite 203, Hoover, Alabama 35213 To improve the quality of life for survivors of traumatic brain injury and their families. 800-433-8002

www.ahif.org

Intellectual & Developmental DisabilitiesThe Arc of Alabama, Inc.

557 S Lawrence St, Montgomery, Alabama 36104 To advocate for the rights and protections of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/ DD) and their families. This advocacy is provided through Information and Referral services, educational opportunities like the annual Alabama disAbility Conference, and public policy initiatives. 866-243-9557 info@thearcofalabama.com www.thearcofal.org

Mental Health- NAMI Alabama

1401 I-85 Pkwy, Ste A, Montgomery, Alabama 36106 To provide support, education, and advocacy for persons with mental illnesses, their families, and others whose lives are affected by these brain disorders. 800-626-4199

www.namialabama.org

Sensory Processing Disorder

Greenwood Village, Colorodo STAR Institute is the premier treatment, research and education center for children and adults with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). This includes feeding disorders and other disorders with sensory issues such as autism and ADHD. 303-221-STAR (7827)

www.spdstar.org

United Cerebral Palsy

Washington, DC Educates, advocates and provides support services to ensure a life without limits for people with a spectrum of disabilities. 800-654-4483

www.ucp.org

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Local Community Resources

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2408 E University Dr, Suite 109. Auburn, AL 36830 Our mission is to empower and encourage functional daily living skills for all ages, specifically focusing on providing the highest quality treatment to improve those skills pertaining to communication, fine motor skills, sensory integration, and feeding difficulties. We are conveniently located in Auburn, Alabama and also service the surrounding communities. Our clinicians are fully licensed and trained to provide quality treatment in Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Feeding Therapy. We welcome clients of all ages who are in need of our therapeutic services. We do require a referral by your doctor prior to evaluation. (334) 734-5511

www.auburntlc.com

Autism Society of Alabama ad on page 11

4217 Dolly Ridge Rd, Birmingham, Alabama 35243 The Autism Society of Alabama (ASA) responds daily to requests for information. Parent SupportASA has support groups to address a variety of issues. Monthly meetings in a variety of settings throughout the state provide support and information, guest speakers, informative topics, and question and answer sessions. Lending Library- ASA has over 400 books and media on autism spectrum disorders that are available to our members. Items can be checked out through the office. If you have books on autism that you are willing to donate or for info on our lending library, please call. ASA collaborates with various state and local agencies to increase awareness in the community, schools, and in the medical and professional arenas to promote education, understanding, resources, and to encourage the early diagnosis of autism. 1-877-4AUTISM

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www.autism-alabama.org

Easter Seals Alabama ad on page 25

5960 E Shirley Lane, Montgomery, Alabama 36117 Consists of eight community rehabilitation program sites and the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest barrier free recreational camp, Camp ASCCA. Easter Seals Alabama services include: Medical Rehabilitation, Early Intervention, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech and Hearing Therapy, Job Training and Employment, Child Care & Camping and Recreation. Easter Seals Achievement Center- 510 W Thomason Circle, Opelika, AL. 334-745-3501 Camp ASCCA Easter Seals- 5278 Camp ASCCA Drive, Jacksonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gap, AL 256-825-9226 or 800-843-2267. A special place where campers with disabilities have the opportunity to express their individuality and independence within a carefully supervised setting. Their families also are provided with a chance to relax in the knowledge that over thirty years of experience goes into providing a safe environment where fun can be had by all. The activities offered at Camp ASCCA include horseback riding, swimming, canoeing, fishing, arts and crafts, repelling, zip-line, water tubing, archery and rifle range, mini-golf course, paved nature trails, and more. www. campascca.org 334-395-4489

www.easterseals.com/alabama

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Lee County Youth Development Center ad on page 27

1109 Spring Drive, Opelika, Alabama 36801 Times Change, Our Commitment Remains the Same. The Lee County Youth Development Center is uniquely set apart - singular in its design of offering a broad continuum of services and care for youth and families. Our agency strives to maintain the highest standards of quality care and innovative practices with expertise in the areas of prevention, intervention and residential care. One area served is Psychological Services:Comprehensive clinical support for all residents admitted to our Intensive Residential Treatment Facility, Residential & out-patient psychological assessments, therapies, and other clinical services for children, adolescents, and families served under the LCYDC umbrella, 24-hour/7-days a week/365-days a year On-Call Emergency Psychological Services to clients, residents, and programs at LCYDC, Emergency Mental Status Examinations, Psychiatric Clinic for all program clients, with ongoing psychiatric consultation with clinical staff, Psychological Staffing for all program clients, with ongoing psychological consultation for clinical staff by licensed professionals and Referrals accepted from the Department of Human Resources, the Alabama Department of Youth Services, and the Juvenile Court System. 334-749-2996

www.lcydc.org

The Little H.A.P.I.E. Tree Preschool (Helping Auburn Parents-Intervening Early) ad on page 24

721 E. 14 Drive, Auburn, Alabama 36830 The preschool program is designed to provide intensive early intervention services for children with developmental disabilities ages 3-5 years old. We utilize strategies based on the science of applied behavior analysis (ABA) in teaching our children. We also offer speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy as needed for children enrolled. The primary focus of intervention is language acquisition but additional areas such as self-care skills, play skills, social skills, and pre-academic skills in preparation for kindergarten are also important. Our teachers plan developmentally and age appropriate lessons for children enrolled and utilize thematic teaching. Additional teaching procedures used at Little H.A.P.I.E. Tree include but are not limited to the following: discrete trial teaching, incidental teaching, least-to-most prompting sequences, most-to-least prompting sequences, shaping, reinforcement and differential reinforcement. There are four classrooms, each of which is supervised by a Lead Teacher certified in Early Childhood Special Education. Each Lead Teacher has the support of a full-time Teacher Assistant. Through a partnership with Auburn University we provide training at both the undergraduate and graduate level for a number of disciplines including Education, Human Development and Family Sciences, and Psychology.

network of speech/language pathologists, available to perform this free service. Children from all over Alabama are evaluated at various locations as time and funding permit. If you have a child at least 7 years old (and has been in a structured reading program for at least 6 months) that is exhibiting signs of learning language deficits, the speech, language and literacy evaluation will facilitate early identification and intervention for language learning differences. www.alsrlcenter.org/ALSR_Learning_Center/Welcome

All For Children

2290 Moores Mill Rd, Ste 400, Auburn, 36830 A pediatric, private practice offering speech, language, auditory, and literacy services to children of all ages. Our practice consists of speech-language pathologists, auditory-verbal therapists, and special educators. 334-209-2009

www.all-forchildren.com

American Cancer Society

3054 McGehee Road, Montgomery, Alabama 36111 Support Groups-Bossum Buddies: EAMC Health Resource Center, Opelika. 334-288-3432. Caregiver Support- Oak Park Dining Room, 1365 Gatewood Drive, Auburn. 3rd Thursday of the month. For more information or to reserve your spot, contact Cheri Rudgers 334-826-1899. TOUCH (Today Our Understanding of Cancer is Hope)- This general cancer support group is for survivors and their family and caregivers. East Alabama Health Resource Center, Opelika. 334-288-3432. I Can Cope- EAMC Health Resource Center, Opelika. 334-288-3432. General cancer educational program for recently diagnosed cancer patients. Look Good, Feel Better- 334-288-3432. Free program conducted by cosmetologists to improve appearance related side effects of cancer. Sessions conducted as cancer patients request services and as cosmetologists are available. 334-288-3432

www.cancer.org

Auburn University

offers evaluations for Alabama school age children, generally age 7 through 9th Grade. Program has a

Auburn, Alabama 36849 Autism Center was established in August 2003 with the vision of providing much needed services to individuals with autism spectrum disorder, their families, schools, and other agencies whose goal is to optimize the potential of individuals with autism. This vision translates into a model demonstration site for best practice; diagnostic services for children with autism spectrum disorder; training for families, teachers, and related professionals; outreach consultation; and research opportunities relative to effective intervention strategies. The Autism Center provides: a model demonstration site for best practice education of persons with autism spectrum disorder, diagnostic services for children with autism spectrum disorder, outreach consultation services for families, schools and agencies that serve people with autism spectrum disorder, training for families, teachers and related professionals, and research opportunities relative to effective intervention strategies for people with autism spectrum disorder. Best Buddies- The largest chapter of Best Buddies International, an international organization that promotes one-to-one friendships between college students and buddies. Founded in 1989 by Anthony Kennedy Shriver, Best Buddies is a vibrant, international organization that has grown from one original chapter to almost 1,500 chapters worldwide. Best Buddies programs engage participants in each of the 50 United States, and in 50 countries around the world. As a result of their involvement with Best Buddies, people with IDD secure rewarding jobs, live on their own, become inspirational leaders, and make lifelong friendships. The chapter won the Most Outstanding Chapter Award at the Best Buddies International Leadership Conference, held in July 2013.

Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2018

334-887-4956

www.auburnschools.org/Page/2503

Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind

Talladega, Alabama Alabama School for the Blind- 256-761-3260. Alabama School for the Deaf- 256-761-3278. Helen Keller School of Alabama- 256-761-3377. The Marianna Greene Henry Special Equestrian Program- Talladega, Alabama has a covered indoor arena and a 3/4 mile Sensory Trail for students from preschool age to middle age for both therapeutic and recreational riding year round. mgheques@aidb. state.al.us 256-345-2883

www.aidb.org

Alabama Scottish Rite Foundation Learning Center

The Summer Learning Clinic is an intensive fourweek program that the Department of Rehabilitation and Special Education offers for students with mild learning problems, learning disabilities, behavioral difficulties and/or autism spectrum disorders. Since 1990, over 2,900 such students have received individually designed tutorial instruction through this outreach program. Instruction for students ages 6-13 is offered in reading, math, and language arts, with emphasis on areas of concern for individual students. 334-844-2004. Speech and Hearing Clinic- Haley Center, 844-9600. offers screening tests for the general public free of charge each semester. The clinic performs audiological and speech-language evaluations, aural rehabilitation support and other clinical services for children and adults. Speech and language assessments related to language/speech delay, developmental delay, autism, cleft palate, stuttering, voice disorders, feeding/ swallowing, and literacy. Auditory treatments include hearing aid selection and dispensing, assistive listening devices, and auditory rehabilitation. Motor Behavior Lab- in the Department of Health and Human Performance provides a motor development program for kindergarten children with low motor proficiency. 334-844-4483. The Center for Disability Research and Service215 S. Donahue Dr. in the Dawson Building, Auburn University Campus. offering additional resources to improve the lives of Alabama citizens with significant disabilities. Housed in the Dawson Building, the center is an extension of the Department of Special Education, Rehabilitation, Counseling/ School Psychology in the College of Education and will focus on developing initiatives in autism and developmental disabilities, assistive technology, program evaluation and employment and community support. Research relating to autism spectrum disorder will expand on the work previously conducted by the Auburn University Autism Center, which has been absorbed by the new center. In addition, the new center will collaborate on projects with the Auburn Transition Leadership Institute, which provides support to youths with disabilities by providing continuous improvement resources to assist with their transition to adulthood.

www.auburn.edu

Autism Hope Center

Columbus, Georgia The Autism Hope Center is a free resource to both families and professionals throughout the Chattahoochee Valley. Since 2005, we have been instrumental in bringing programs, services, and support to individuals and their families in our area. We host a monthly support group and a number of monthly inclusive events. Additionally, the center helps connect families to advocates and helps promote self-advocacy. 706 604 6333 autismhopecenterllp@gmail.com www.autismhopecenter.com

Benson Behavioral Services

Auburn, Alabama 36830 “From Challenge to Change”. Practical behavior therapy for parents and teachers. Offering in-home or school-based behavior therapy for autism and developmental disabilities. Hours and availability determined on a case-by-case basis. 334-452-1709

jnbenson1@hotmail.com

Brain Jogging & Camp Academia-

1507 Vernon Road, LaGrange, Georgia 30240 Areas of focus: Dyslexia, language processing deficiencies, ADD/ADHD, autism spectrum disorders and processing speed. Camp Academia has four primary programs designed to help your child achieve his or her potential: Consultation / Testing Services– Full evaluation of your child’s strengths and weaknesses in learning utilizing both formal and informal methods and recommendations for charting their educational path. Brainjogging– Camp Academia’s research-based learning tool is designed to enhance learning ef-

www.auburnopelikaparents.com

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ficiency and proficiency by “exercising” weak areas of the brain. Camps– Three-day residential camps and Summer Booster Sessions are designed to evaluate and prepare your child for the upcoming school year. 706-884-4492 info@campacademia.com www.campacademia.com

Cast Ministries

Auburn, Alabama 36830 Amputee Support- If you or someone you love has suffered a loss of limb, we invite you to join our “team” as we learn to turn our weaknesses into our strengths. The Christian Amputee Support Team is committed to: “pursuing abundant life for amputees through the love of Christ.” 334-332-8411

www.castministries.org

East Alabama Mental Health

2506 Lambert Drive, Opelika, Alabama 36801 We provide services for persons with mental illness, substance abuse problems, and intellectual disabilities. It is our vision to provide a continuum of comprehensive, outcome-oriented, and cost effective services to the residents of Lee, Russell, Chambers, and Tallapoosa counties. We strive for these services to be driven by consumer and family needs and to be readily accessible, and continuously improving. We are here as a public safety net for persons who need us. CHINS Intervention Program-The Center provides a range of services for children residing in Lee County who have been, or are at risk of being adjudicated CHINS (Child in Need of Supervision). These children display behavior problems such as truancy, breaking curfew, and refusing to follow the rules at school and at home. ABC Child Development Center- The ABC (Actively Believing in Children) Child Development Center provides intensive services for toddlers and preschool children with autism or pervasive developmental disorders in an integrated child care setting. Godparent Project -The Godparent Project provides parenting education, life skills training, and referral to community resources for pregnant and parenting adolescents. Special Deliveries-The Special Deliveries program provides parent education, support, and referral services for families of infants and toddlers. The program also provides intensive in-home family support services for at risk families of children ages 0 to 5. Other programs-Substance Abuse Prevention Programs, Parent Power, In-School Programs, After-School and Summer Alternative Programs, Family Strengthening Programs, Mommy and Me, & ACATA: Alliance Counteracting Alcohol and Tobacco Advertising. 334 -742-2700

www.eastalabamamhc.com

Hospice of East Alabama Medical Center

665 Opelika Road, Auburn, Alabama 36830 Hospice treats the whole person instead of the disease. Its focus is on the family as well as the individual. Hospice emphasizes quality of life rather than duration. The patient’s pain is treated aggressively, and suffering is recognized and dealt with by members of the interdisciplinary team. The patient’s final wishes are attended to, and efforts are made to allow terminally ill patients and their families to remain together in peace, comfort, and dignity as they experience the end of life. Hospice services extend to any location: a home, the hospital, an assisted living facility, Bethany House, or a nursing home. Our goal at Hospice of EAMC is to help our patients live fully by managing pain and symptoms so that their days are filled with more joy and comfort. We seek to provide patients and their families with physical, emotional, social and spiritual support throughout their journey. Hospice of EAMC now serves parts of eight counties within a 50-mile radius of its office in Auburn, AL. Hospice of EAMC is the only area hospice linked directly with the services and support

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of East Alabama Medical Center. We can offer seamless transitioning of patients from inpatient care to their own homes or to a nursing home if needed. 334-826-1899

www.eamc.org

In His Hands: Special Friends Ministry

Lakeview Baptist Church, 1600 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn, Alabama 36830 Program designed to help families who have children with special needs be able to worship together while their children are shown and taught about the love of Christ by familiar adults. Our goal is to form teams of buddies for each special friend that will assist them on Sunday mornings. Buddies will volunteer on a weekly or monthly rotation. 334-887-7094

www.lakeviewbaptist.org

Lee County Autism Resource & Advocacy

601 South 7th Street, Opelika, Alabama 36801 After realizing the need for a local non-profit for the benefit of the autism families in Lee County, a group of dedicated parents has worked to develop Lee County Autism Resource & Advocacy. Together with educators, business professionals and parents we hope to bring the communities of Lee County a better understanding of autism spectrum disorders and how families are affected as well as provide workshops, trainings and support for educators and parents. Monthly meetings will be held the 2nd Tuesday of each month. Age appropriate social groups are also available. Like us on Facebook (Lee County Autism Resource & Advocacy. 334-740-0716 info@leecountyautism.com www.leecountyautism.com

March of Dimes Alabama

Birmingham, Alabama We help moms have full-term pregnancies and healthy babies. If something goes wrong, we offer information and comfort to families. We research the problems that threaten our babies and work on preventing them. The March of Dimes helped to conquer polio by funding the research and development of the Salk vaccine. AllKids insurance, newborn (30) screening test, and more. 205-824-0103 al307@marchofdimes.com www.marchofdimes.org/alabama

RehabWorks 4 Kids

2450 Village Professional Pkwy, Opelika, 36801 A service of East Alabama Medical Center. We offer pediatric physical, occupational and speech therapies to children 0-18 yrs of age with a variety of diagnoses including: cerebral palsy, autism spectrum disorders, developmental delay, receptive-expressive language delays/disorders, feeding/swallowing disorders, sensory integration disorders, torticollis, augmentative communication needs, sensorymotor group that meets weekly for 3-week sessions throughout the year & referrals to other community resources. 334-528-1964 kelly.shaw@eamc.org www.rehabworks.eamc.org/Kids

Smith Group Behavioral Consulting

2206 Executive Park Drive, Opelika, Alabama 36801 Autism, Developmental Disabilities, Organizational Behavior Management, and Education. 1) Working with Educators: Behavioral observation and consultation, functional assessments and functional analyses of maladaptive behavior, skill assessments, social skills training, development and monitoring of behavior reduction plans, competencybased training in ABA for teachers and school sys-

tem staff, and classroom set-up and modifications to maximize learning. 2) Working with Families: ABA intervention programs for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders, helping parents maximize their child’s learning at home by evaluating the home environment and home schedule, academic tutoring, development of behavior plans to reduce maladaptive behaviors at home, potty training programs, and training for immediate family members, extended family members, church staff, babysitters, etc.... on Autism Spectrum Disorders, ABA or other related topics. 334-332-9077 info@smithgroupbehavioralconsulting.com www.smithgroupbehavioralconsulting.com

Storybook Farm

300 Cusseta Road, Opelika, Alabama 36801 The year-round equine assisted activities are tailored to serve children ages 2 years to young adults who are challenged with life-threatening illnesses, disabilities, mental and/or emotional trauma, and grief. The gentle nature of our horses provides hope and healing. In addition to our “hope on horseback” riding programs, Storybook Farm also provides weekly Enrichment Classes for local school system’s inclusive special education classes, “Forever Families” quarterly events for families created by adoption or fostering, as well as annual events such as Easter Eggstravaganza, SBF Horse Show, Fall Festival, and the Christmas Celebration. 334-444-5966

The Exceptional Foundation of East Alabama

300 N Dean Road, #5-177, Auburn, Alabama 36830 A program for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities that will meet regu-

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Video Security Healthy Meals Character Education Summer Camp Low Child:Teacher Ratios

Dr. Keri Miller Most major insurance accepted including BCBS and Southland. 742 N. Dean Road, Auburn, AL 36830 (334) 321-0780 www.gatorgrins.com Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2018

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Growing Room Auburn 334-501-2044 644 North Dean Road Auburn, AL 36830 Growing Room Opelika 334-748-9020 1755 Thomason Drive Opelika, AL 36801

Build it! Grow it! Know it! ...The Growing RoomWay! www.growingroomusa.com

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larly and experience a broad range of social and recreational activities designed to promote healthy living, support social relationships, explore the arts, improve functional skills and foster community involvement. 334-728-4727 ExceptionalFoundationofEastAl@efofea.org www.efofea.org

The Exceptional Outreach Organization (E.O.O.)-

Auburn, Alabama 36830 Organized in 2000, the Exceptional Outreach Organization is a nonprofit 501 (c) 3 organization whose mission is to provide programs for exceptional individuals with special needs by fostering growth through recreation, education, and social activities. Comprised of a volunteer Board of Directors with zero administrative costs, E.O.O. works to raise funds and awareness to sponsor and support Special Olympics of Lee County, the City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Therapeutic Summer Camp, Best Buddies of Auburn University, Premier Athletics Shining Knights Therapeutic Cheerleading Team, and other therapeutic related programs. E.O.O. hosts the annual Love Your Heart Run and Crank Your Heart Ride as its sole fundraising event. www.loveyourheartrun.com

Organizations for Parents Family Voices of Alabama

Encourages families to develop individual partnerships with their children’s care providers, and to look for opportunities to impact systems change by working collaboratively with the many agencies in the

state that care about services for children and youth with special needs www.familyvoices.org

May Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders

Columbus, Georgia 31904 Pathways Educational Series: Guiding families after an autism diagnosis. This FREE education series runs for eight consecutive weeks. Meetings last 90 minutes. Childcare is provided. The first four weeks are designed for parents of children newly diagnoses with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The second four weeks are designed for parents struggling to manage problem behaviors at home. 706-571-7771

www.mayinstitute.org

Parent Training and Information Center / Early Intervention Family Alliance- (APEC)

10520 US Highway 231, Wetumpka, Alabama 36092 Formed to provide parents with training and information to help them become meaningful participants in their children’s education. We operate projects such as the Alabama Parent Training & Information Network for Children with Disabilities (AL PTI NCD) and provide Youth Transition Services, School Improvement Services, Cooperative Parenting assistance and work with the Imagination Library. 866-532-7660

www.alabamaparentcenter.com

Partners in Policymaking of Alabama

100 N Union Street, Montgomery, Alabama 36104 Tp support independence, advocacy, productivity, and inclusion for Alabamians with developmental disabilities. ACDD is dedicated to the vision that all Alabamians, regardless of disability, will live, learn, work, and play in inclusive communities. 800-846-3735

www.acdd.org

Recreation/Social Events Auburn Parks and Recreation ad on page 15, 39

307 South Dean Road, Auburn, Alabama 36830 Offers recreational activities, programs/leagues, social activities and field trips for citizens who have mental and physical disabilities. We provide an opportunity for children and adults to build friendships in a fun, encouraging and safe environment. The programs are designed to strengthen and “show off” the participants’ abilities, rather than their disabilities. All programs are free, unless otherwise noted. The Therapeutics Program also supports the Lee County and State of Alabama Special Olympics programs and the Auburn University chapter of Best Buddies.

Fall Activities Include:

PEERS For Teens® (Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills developed at UCLA) is a 16-week evidence-based social skills intervention for motivated teens in middle and high school who are interested in learning ways to help them make and keep friends. During each group session, teens are taught important social skills and are given the opportunity to practice these skills in session during socialization activities. Parents attend separate sessions at the same time and will learn how to assist their teens in making and keeping friends by helping to expand their teen’s social network, parents will also learn about providing feedback through coaching during weekly socialization homework assignments. Enrollment is limited to 16 students. Parent participation is required. The cost is $175.00 and we are in the planning stages for the fall sessions (we may focus on young adults or younger students if enough participants show an interest in those age ranges). $175.

DRAWING, PAINTING, PRINTMAKING, SCULPTURE AND MORE!

ART CLASSES

group Workshops 118 N ROSS STREET IN AUBURN

@theartstudioauburn

THEARTSTUDIOAUBURN.COM

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Aquatic Practice: Swimming is one of the most popular sports in the world. Aquatics covers a great variety of swimming skills, from short sprints to longer events and relays. Athletes will prepare for the early spring meets and State Games. Basketball Practice: Basketball is one of the top sports at Special Olympics. Players of all ages and abilities will enjoy this sport, from young players learning to handle the ball to older, more experienced players learning the strategies. Athletes will

attractive to all types of players, from competitive to recreational, young and old. To play volleyball players need to acquire a few basic skills, learn a few rules, require very little equipment, and can play the game almost anywhere-from the beach to the gym. The aim of the sport is to score more points by hitting the ball with the hands and sending it over the net to the opponent’s court. Athletes will prepare for fall tournaments. Bingo & Fitness: Let’s get healthy together! After

Therapeutic Summer Camp- A seven week summer day camp designed for young adults with various special needs. The Summer Camp is a joint project created and sponsored by Auburn Parks and Recreation and the Exceptional Outreach Organization. The curriculum program includes life skills training such as handling money, team work, social skills, Zumba, swimming, and other physical recreation activities. The campers also participate in cultural experiences, such as attending a Montgomery Biscuits baseball game and the Wild Animal Safari, Pine Mountain, GA. 28th Annual Love Your Heart Run / 10th Annual Crank Your Heart Ride- The annual Love Your Heart Run is sponsored by the Exceptional Outreach Organization and the City of Auburn Parks and Recreation department. The Love Your Heart Run is the premier fundraising event benefiting children and adults with special needs that participate in Special Olympics of Lee County, Best Buddies of Auburn University and City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Therapeutic Summer Camp. 334-501-2930

www.auburnalabama.org/specialolympics

Lee County Special Olympics ad on page 12

prepare for the early spring basketball tournaments. Bowling: Although Bowling does not belong to the Olympic sports, it is among the most popular sports in Special Olympics. It is a particularly beneficial sport to people with intellectual disabilities, irrespective of their age or sports abilities, since it ensures physical exercise and at the same time participation and social integration. Plus, it’s great fun! Athletes will prepare for the early spring tournament and State Games. Tennis Practice: Tennis is a popular sport played at all levels of skill and by players of all ages. Every athlete aims in passing the ball to the opponent’s side of the net, striking it with a tennis racquet. The sport emphasizes values, such as fair play, sportsmanship and respect for fellow competitors. Tennis is not only fun to play, but it is a lifetime sport activity that is fun to practice and fun to learn. Athletes will prepare for the late spring tournament. Track and Field Practice: The sport of athletics encourages athletes of all abilities and ages to compete at their optimum level. Through the trackand-field-based athletics training program, participants can develop total fitness to compete in any sport. As with all Special Olympics sports, athletics offers athletes the opportunity to learn through skill development and competitive settings and to be involved in large social settings. Athletes will prepare for the spring tournament and State Games. Unified Flag Football Practice: Flag football is a popular sport for all athletes. This sport is a non-tackle take on traditional football, and offers athletes an opportunity to increase their skills in several areas. This sport is played unified with other local football player athletes. Athletes will prepare for fall championship games. Volleyball Practice: The game of volleyball is Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2018

we have enjoyed some exercise we will play bingo and take home fun prizes. FREE to Therapeutic Program Participants Game Night: Join us for board games, video games, cards, and coloring! Refreshments will be served, and the night will be filled with fun and friendship! FREE to Therapeutic Program Participants. Mystery Trip: October 6.Who knows where we will go! A movie? Dinner? A special event? Sign up to find out! This trip is guaranteed to be fun. Trip time and details to be confirmed 1-2 weeks prior to the event date. Plan for a late afternoon/early evening event. Meet at Dean Road Recreation Center-transportation is provided. Trip is limited to 10 participants. $5 for Therapeutic Program Participants. Guy’s Night In: September 21. Join the guys for a night of basketball, video games, and snacks. FREE to Therapeutic Program Participants. Girls Night In: October 26, Join the gals for an evening of nail painting, movies, girl talk, and treats. FREE to Therapeutic Program Participants. Cooking Course 1: Join us to learn basic kitchen prep skills and some easy no bake snacks such as banana wheels. Class is taught by Pampered Chef retailer Julie Stanley. Program is limited to 10 participants. $25/ class (includes take-home recipe booklet). Cooking Course 2: Participants will learn how to make pizza from scratch and how to prepare various toppings. Class is taught by Pampered Chef retailer Julie Stanley. Program is limited to 10 participants. $25/class (includes take-home recipe booklet). $45 class fee includes a pizza stone. Afternoon Play Group: Join us for games, puzzles, and more! Activities will be geared towards physical and social development. FREE to Therapeutic Program Participants.

Auburn Parks and Recreation supports Special Olympics by sponsoring teams for many of the Special Olympics events. Currently we support athletes for aquatics, basketball, bowling, flag football, golf, power lifting, softball, track and field, and volleyball. Practices take place throughout the year with the help of local Special Olympics’ volunteer coaches. You must be at least 8 years of age and meet the requirements of the Alabama Special Olympics Guidelines in order to participate. We currently need Coaches for our Special Olympics Athletes…if you have the time and the interest to help coach these dynamic and fun-loving kids, please contact the Lee County Special Olympics Director or the State office today! 2018-19 Deadline and Event Dates will be posted to our website and to our Facebook page (www.facebook. com/specialolympicsalleeco) in September 2018. Practice dates and tournaments will also be listed in our bi-weekly newsletter. If you would like to receive the e-newsletter, please send your name and e-mail address to ekaufman@auburnalabama.org. www.facebook. com/specialolympicsalleeco

Opelika Parks and Recreation

1001 Andrews Road, Opelika, Alabama 36801 Discover Group- Discover is an opportunity for high-functioning, intellectually disabled citizens that are no longer enrolled in school. We will discover together through various activities and will travel once a month. Scheduled trips may change meeting times. There are costs associated with this program. Expressions of a BraveHeart Program- Braveheart is a fine arts program offering art, music and dance classes to youth and young adults with moderate to severe disabilities. The schedule will be given out on the first day of class. Special Olympics Swim Team: Competitive swim team for children and adults with special needs. Fee: FREE 334-705-5560

www.opelikasportsplex.com

The Miracle League of East Alabama

1600 Covington Avenue, Opelika, Alabama 36801 “Every Child Deserves A Chance to Play Baseball.” West Ridge Park, Opelika. The Miracle League is an organization that provides the opportunity for persons of ALL AGES with cognitive or physical disabilities to play baseball. Giving ability a chance The Billy Hitchcock Miracle Field Complex -the largest of its kind in the country-will serve disabled people of all ages and their families from the East Alabama and West Georgia area. The complex is located alongside the other base-

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ball fields and the playground area at West Ridge Park. The playground includes slides, tunnels, a sandbox and swings all completely accessible for the disabled. The baseball field includes a dugout, a handicap-accessible announcers’ box, as well as picnic tables and a pavilion. eamiracleleague@gmail.com

www.miraclefield.org

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5278 Camp ASCCA Rd, Jackson’s Gap, AL 36861 Alabama’s Special Camp for Children and Adults. ASCCA is a nationally recognized leader in therapeutic recreation for children and adults with both physical and mental disabilities. Providing weekend and week sessions, open year-round. Located in Alabama on Lake Martin, offers campers a wide variety of recreational and educational activities. Activities include horseback riding, fishing, tubing, swimming, environmental education, arts and crafts, canoeing, a “splash pad”, outdoor adventure elements like the zip-line, and much more. 256-825-9226

Trinity offers a complete K – 12 classical, Christian education, including many enriching activities such as sports, band, choral ensemble, performing arts, and various student organizations.

www.campascca.org

Camp Frog ad on page 11

A Classical and Christian Academy

5278 Camp ASCCA Rd, Jackson’s Gap, AL 36861 ASA hosts 35+ families at the annual September Family Camp ASCCA, Camp FROG. Children on the autism spectrum enjoy traditional camp activities in a supportive environment with their families. The Autism Society of Alabama. Camp ASCCA, Jackson’s Gap. September 15-17; Ages 6-18 years and their families. Scholarships available. 205-951-1364

745-2464

www.tcsopelika.org

www.autism-alabama.org

Camp Shocco for the Deaf

Talladega, Alabama This camp gives every hearing impaired student, ages 8-high school, an opportunity to have an unforgettable week of fun, games, and spiritual growth. Not only that, they learn the essence of teamwork, while also developing their own unique abilities and talents that can often be overlooked. There is no language barriers, therefore, they are never excluded. 256-761-1100

www.campshocco.org

Camp Smile-a-Mile

Children’s Harbor, Alexander City, Alabama 35010 Year round challenging, recreational and educational experiences for young cancer patients, their families as well as young adult survivors from Alabama at no cost. Our purpose is to provide these patients, families and survivors with avenues for fellowship, to help them cope with their disease, and to prepare them for life after cancer. 1-888-500-7920

www.campsam.org

Camp Sugar Falls & Camp Seale Harris

500 Chase Park S, Birmingham, Alabama 35244 Provides kids with the chance to learn about effective diabetes management, while at the same time allowing them to interact with other children living with this same illness. 205-402-0415 info@campsealeharris.org www.southeasterndiabetes.org

Lakeshore Foundation

4000 Ridgeway Drive, Birmingham, Alabama 35209 Offers a wide range of fitness, recreation, athletic and education programs to children and adults who experience diagnostic conditions including spinal cord injuries, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, stroke, amputation, and visual impairment. 205-313-7400

www.lakeshore.org AOP

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Positively Prehistoric Playtime

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Long before kids discover the enormous catalog of creatures living on earth, most children cultivate an outsize appreciation for the rare and wonderful creatures that roamed the earth long before our time. The marvel of sloths the size of grizzly bears, visions of sharks that could swallow whales whole, the notion of an earth populated by dinosaurs of every size and shape - these creatures offer a vast imaginative landscape for kids to explore. In addition to feeding their fascination with animals from the ancient past, prehistoric-themed toys and games provide an educational avenue for kids to learn about the origins and history of life on earth. The following toys provide hours of prehistoric play that satisfies both the child with an appreciation for the giants of the past as well as the obsessive dinosaur aficionado!

by Gerry Paige Smith

Prehistoric Mammals

Ultimate Dino Dig (Discover with Dr. Cool)

The lives of dinosaurs remain an unfolding mystery. Evidence and clues that continue to emerge from our fossil record continuously evolve our understanding of prior millenia. Children who question what we know about dinosaurs soon discover that there are answers that remain hidden in the earth beneath our feet. Dr Cool’s Ultimate Dino Dig lets kids sample the thrill of paleontological sleuthing by excavating a block of matrix that hides a sample of dino poop, a fossil bone and tooth, as well as a replica T-Rex skeleton. Using the kit’s digging tools and magnifier, children carefully unearth the block’s secrets. The included activity book offers teacher-written dinosaur facts plus puzzles, mazes and and challenges that enhance the discovery experience. Offering young dino enthusiasts a real hands-on feel for paleontology, Ultimate Dino Dig is treasure hunter’s delight.

(Safari Ltd)

While dinosaurs often feature unimaginable and exotic differences from known creatures on earth today, prehistoric mammals generate a different type of excitement in young explorers. Early mammals share some broad appearance with their descendants of today, but display some stunning differences that anchor them in the past. Kids recognize the shape of a modern elephant hiding in the DNA of the ancient Ambelodon and the woolly mammoth, observing the changes that have developed over time. These toys offer children an opportunity to investigate captivating distinctions between modern mammals and their early ancestors. From giant sloths to sabretooth cats, Safari Ltd. has a versatile selection of prehistoric mammals for kids building their own stable of these amazing animals. Crafted from lead-free and phthalate-free materials and hand painted, these durable figures transport kids into a time that’s positively prehistoric!

Plush Stegosaurus

Fossil Collection Sorting Kit

(Melissa & Doug)

One of the most distinctive dinosaurs to walk the earth 155 million years ago, the Stegosaurus with its fin-like back plates and spiked tail set it apart from the other massive marvels of the age. Stegosaurus is typically one of the first dinosaur types that very young children are able to identify. Brought to lovable life by Melissa & Doug, this plush replica of the giant Jurassic vegetarian is rendered with bright color contrasts, detailed design and super-sized soft contouring. Perfect for prehistoric pretend play, Melissa & Doug’s huggable plush Stegosaurus is a sweet beginning to a child’s life-long love affair with dinosaurs.

(Dancing Bear)

Fossils, the stone remnants of organic materials, are some of the most important clues that teach us about the earliest life on earth. From shark teeth and plant impressions to fossilized shellfish and petrified poop, these rocky remains reveal a slice of life from millions of years ago. The Dancing Bear Fossil Sorting Kit comes with one hundred actual fossils from twenty different categories. Equipped with a detailed guide book, ID cards and illustrations, kids get first hand experience identifying fossil characteristics and learning how to classify their different forms. For the child who is fascinated by fossils, this hands-on activity is the real deal for prehistoric sleuthing!!

Gerry Paige Smith is a syndicated columnist recommending the best products for kids and their families. Discover more at www.PageBookMedia.com

Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2018

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FamilyCalendar Thursday, August 23 The Market at Ag Heritage Park Auburn. 3:00-6:00 PM. Held at Ag Heritage Park on the Auburn University campus, the Market features area vendors offering fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables, herbs, ornamental plants and cut flowers as well as locally produced jams and jellies, baked goods, soaps, honey, goat cheese and more. Gamers Society Auburn Public Library. The Programming Room will be open every Thursday, 4:00-5:00 p.m. for Yu-Gi-Oh, Pokemon, and video games. Gamers must bring their own materials. The Auburn Public Library will provide materials for video game play. Games must be rated E, E10, or T; no rated M games. Ages 1018 years. www.auburnalabama.org/library. Preschool Time Preschoolers and their favorite adults enjoy 30 minutes of interactive stories, songs, movement rhymes, and a fun craft during Preschool Time. Stay afterwards to socialize and play! 3 – 5 years. 9:3010:00 a.m., 10:30-11:00 a.m. or 1:00-1:30 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library.

Friday, August 24 The Great Affairs Eighth & Rail, Opelika. Concert event. 9 PM. www.bandsintown.com. Friday On the Green: Kendall Street Company Russell Crossroads, Alexander City. Grab your cooler and come listen to some great music and have a great time! www.russellcrossroads.com.

Saturday, August 25 Young Eagles Day Columbus Airport, 3250 W. Britt David Road, Columbus, G. 8:30-11:30 AM (weather permitting). All kids ages 8-17 are invited to take a Free airplane ride over Columbus! Most flights last 20 minutes. The goal is to provide a fun and educational aviation experience. 706-324-2453. Saturday STEM Storytime Auburn Public Library. Preschoolers–2nd grade children and their caregivers are invited to join us for a storytime on Saturday mornings that is all about STEM. 10:00-11:00 a.m. STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math This storytime will focus on these concepts in a fun, interactive, story-driven format Please note: Some activities may involve messy fun! (334) 501-3296. Market Days on Broadway Aug. 25, Sept. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29. Columbus, GA. 9:00 AM - noon. With over 100 local vendors, the Market features many local and organic farmers selling produce, soap, home goods, jewelry and baked goods. Visit the Market Days on Broadway Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/MarketDaysOnBroadway/

Sunday, August 26 Author Talk and Book Signing: Becky Albertalli Auburn Public Library. 3:00 PM. Join us for a conversation with Becky Albertalli, award-winning author of “Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda”,

Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2018

now the major motion picture “Love, Simon”. Books will be available for purchase by the Auburn University Bookstore, and the author will be available to sign books.

Tuesday, August 28 O Grows Farmers Market The O Grows Farmers Market will be held every Tuesday from 3-6 PM at 1103 Glenn St. in Opelika. www.facebook.com/opelikagrows. Baby Time Auburn Public Library. Babies and their favorite adults enjoy 20 minutes of stories, songs, bounces, and tickles during Baby Time. Stay afterwards to socialize and play! Ages birth - 24 months. 9:3010:00 a.m., 10:00-10:30 a.m. or 1:00-1:30 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library.

Wednesday, August 29 Toddler Time Auburn Public Library. Toddlers and their favorite adults enjoy 30 minutes of interactive stories, songs, movement rhymes, and a fun craft during Toddler Time. Stay afterwards to socialize and play! Ages 18 months-3 years. 9:30-10:00 a.m. or 10:30-11:00 a.m. or 1:00-1:30 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/ library.

Thursday, August 30 Auburn/Opelika MOPS & MOMS A community for moms with kids ages 0-15. Meet us at George’s Farmers Market for a fun day on the farm. This is a free event! For more information about this event and our group visit our facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ AuburnOpelikaMOPS/ The Market at Ag Heritage Park See August 23 for details. Gamers Society See August 23 for details. Preschool Time See August 23 for details.

Friday, August 31 Jake Owen’s “Life’s Whatcha Make It Tour 2018” Riverwalk Stadium, Montgomery. With Special Guest Chris Janson & Rising Star Jordan Davis. Tickets range in price from $34.50 to VIP tickets for $247.50. You can purchase your tickets at biscuitsbaseball.com, calling 334-323-2255 or in person at the Riverwalk Stadium Box Office. 334323-2255. www.milb.com/biscuits. Pre-Labor Day Blues Show Montgomery Performing Arts Center. www.mpaconline.org. Lynyrd Skynyrd: Last of the Street Survivors Farewell Tour Oak Mountain Amp. www.ticketmaster.com. Summer Movies On the Beach: “A Wrinkle in Time” See August 24 for details. Friday On the Green: The Bank Walkers See August 24 for details.

Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival August 31 - Sept. 2. Labor Day Weekend. Callaway Gardens, Ga. See hot air balloons soar, or take a tethered ride yourself in our picture-perfect farewell to Summer. Highlights include: Tethered balloon rides, night-time balloon glows, live music and performances all weekend, food and drink specials, Kids Zone, beach activities, classic car show, disc dog demonstrations and more!

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Sunset Celebration Ariccia Trattoria, Auburn. www.auhcc.com. Spend your Friday evenings watching the sun set on the AT patio. Starting at 5:00 PM, enjoy drink specials and live music on the patio until sunset. There will also be a complimentary toast at sunset.

Saturday, September 1 Sensory-Friendly Saturday The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. 9:00 AM. The first Saturday of every month, the Museum will open at 9 AM for families with children on the autism spectrum or children with sensory processing disorders. Sensory modified setting, limited admission and sound and lighting adjustments. Admission will be $6 per person for non-members and free for members. www.childrensmuseumatlanta.org. Dragon Con Night at Georgia Aquarium 7 PM. www.georgiaaquarium.org. The US Navy Band Country Current RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, Columbus. The United States Navy Band Country Current is the Navy’s premier country-bluegrass ensemble. This seven-member ensemble utilizes banjo, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, mandolin, fiddle, electric bass, upright bass, dobro, pedal steel guitar and drum set. This concert is FREE!, but you must have a ticket for admission. Contact the RiverCenter box office at 706-256-3612. Saturday STEM Storytime See Aug. 25 for details. Brick Builders Club Opelika Public Library. If you love creating with Lego bricks, then this is the place to be! Open to all ages, but geared towards school-aged children, your creativity will take the spotlight as you build whatever you can imagine. Lego bricks provided. library@opelika-al.gov. Market Days on Broadway See Aug. 25 for details.

Sunday, September 2 Labor Day Weekend Concert: Sister Hazel The Amp, Lake Martin. www.theAMPonLakeMartin.com.

Monday, September 3 Story Time Opelika Public Library. Join us for an interactive and engaging preschool program that is sure to delight and entertain. They won’t even know they are learning! Meets weekly.library@opelika-al.gov

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Toddler Time See Aug. 29 for details. Code Club Jr. Opelika Public Library Code Club at the Lewis Cooper Jr Memorial Library is going to teach your kids how to make website, apps, and games in a fun environment. Give them much needed exposure to STEM education and let them get ahead of the crowd. Bring your own laptop if you have one, but it is not required. 3:30 p.m. library@opelika-al.gov.

Thursday, September 6 Mommy and Me: We Make Leaf Bowls Dean Road Rec Center. Mommy and Me classes are designed for parent and child to work together to create beautiful works of art. Projects are intended for the toddler/pre-school age group. $20/ Mommy and Child pair ($5 each additional child) + $10 materials fee. 9:30-11:00 a.m. (334) 501-2944 • ccleckler@auburnalabama.org.

THE FACE OF A

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ChildrensAL.org/committedtoacure

THE ALABAMA CENTER FOR CHILDHOOD CANCER AND BLOOD DISORDERS is committed to finding a cure for Ben and the more than 1,500 children each year who come to us for care. At our Center, more than 300 dedicated pediatric healthcare professionals provide exceptional patient care, education and research. We are a founding member of the Children’s Oncology Group * — a worldwide clinical trials organization supported by the National Cancer Institute.

Preschool Time See August 23 for details.

PROGRESS IN THE FIGHT FOR A CURE l 84% of children diagnosed with cancer in 2018 will be cured. l State-of-the-art screenings have reduced the rate of stroke in sickle cell patients by 90%. (Sickle cell disease is the leading cause of stroke in children). l Expanded programs help children re-enter school and normal life. l We are limiting the late effects of treatments and developing innovative therapies — making real progress in the fight against childhood cancer and blood disorders.

Code Club Jr. Opelika Public Library See Sept. 5 for details.

We are COMMITTED to a CURE for all children — down the street and around the world.

Gamers Society See August 23 for details.

Imagination Lab Opelika Public Library. The Imagination Lab is for young minds to explore and create. From magnetic circuits making sound to programming a small robot, the lab is waiting for BRAIN power to create a spark! 3:00-4:00 p.m. library@opelika-al.gov.

Friday, September 7 Friday On the Green: Charity Bowden See August 24 for details. Homeschool Day Biblical History Center, LaGrange, Ga. We will have weaving and arts & crafts, bread making, grape smashing, pottery, and more for the children to learn about life in the ancient world! Geared mostly to children between the ages of 5 - 12, though all are welcome. 10 AM - 4 PM. $10 per adult and $6 per child (ages 6-12). You must provide some form of advertisement to receive the HS Day discount. To register, contact Morgan Cantrell at 706-885-0363. Football, Fans and Feathers Southeastern Raptor Center, Auburn. www.vetmed. auburn.edu. $5 per person (ages 4+) and purchased upon entry or in advance online. The hour-long program begins at 4 p.m. at the center’s the 350seat Edgar B. Carter Educational Amphitheater, located at 1350 Pratt-Carden Drive off Shug Jordan Parkway. Hawks, falcons, eagles and other birds of prey are free-flown from towers and around the amphitheater, enabling visitors to see these raptors flying close.

*The Children’s Oncology group is a clinical - translational trials organization with more than 9,000 experts worldwide dedicated to finding better cures and improving the outcomes for all children with cancer.

Maybe April in Concert at Sundilla AUUF, Auburn. 7:30 PM. Advance tickets are $12 and can be found at Spicer’s Music, Blooming Colors, World Cup Coffee, and online at sundillamusic.com. Admission at the door will be $15. Free coffee, tea, water and food, and attendees are welcome to bring whatever food or beverage they prefer. Maybe April is a Country Americana trio made up of Kristen Castro, Katy DuBois (Bishop), and Alaina Stacey. Story Time See Sept. 3 for details.

Saturday, September 8 Second Saturday at Pioneer Park Loachapoka. History re-enactors gather at the LCHS Museum monthly in period attire to demonstrate their arts and crafts. Crafts and seasonal activities are scheduled, and someone is always cooking up a

meal in the fireplace or outdoors. The Whistle Stop Pickers dulcimer group meets at the Museum at 1 PM. www.leecountyhistoricalsociety.org. Second Saturday at Columbus Museum 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus. 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM. Free Admission. Drop by the art cart with your children and grandchildren each month to explore various mediums of art, enjoy art related stories, and participate in gallery hunts at the Museum. Children of all ages are welcome and encouraged to participate. www.columbusmuseum.com. CSO: Rachmaninoff Meets the New Piano RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, Columbus. Brilliant young American Pianist Claire Huangci will christen the orchestra’s new Steinway piano with a performance of one of the most popular of all piano concertos. Brahms’ masterpiece rounds out the concert program. www.rivercenter.org.

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FamilyCalendar Tinglewood Festival Montevallo. www.tinglewoodfestival.com. Events scheduled include live chainsaw wood carving exhibitions, demonstrations of wood working techniques, a whittling contest, and live music. There will also be a classic car show—the 17th Annual Cars by the Creek—a variety of children’s activities, artist vendors, and food vendors on site. The chainsaw carving exhibition begins at 10 a.m. An auction of the items carved throughout the day will be held at 5 p.m. to benefit various community groups and charities. The day’s events wrap up with live music from 6-10 p.m. Star Light Star Bright FDR State Park, GA. Join the Columbus Coca-Cola Space Science Center staff for a night sky talk and night sky viewing. Telescopes will be set up. Bring a chair/blanket for sitting in grassy field. 706-6634858. Saturday STEM Storytime See Aug. 25 for details. Brick Builders Club See Sept. 1 for details. Market Days on Broadway See Aug. 25 for details.

Sunday, September 9 Auburn BBQ Fest Graystone Mansion, Auburn. 11 AM - 5 PM. The Auburn BBQ Fest is a BBQ festival featuring the area’s restaurants with the best BBQ, along with live entertainment, bar service, games, giveaways and other featured vendors. Your ticket includes Admission, Samples of the Best BBQ in the Area, Live Entertainment, Family Activities and Drink Specials. Tickets Events@AuburnFest.com

Thursday, September 13

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Zoobilation at The Montgomery Zoo Dance to the groove, delight in drinks and food samplings from the finest eateries in the River Region, try your luck at the vast collection of auction items and rub elbows with the area’s finest animal lovers. All guests must be 21 years old or older to attend (ID will be checked at entry). Tickets are $50 per person. www.montgomeryzoo.com.

Decorative Gourd Workshop Hills and Dales Estate, LaGrange, GA. Join Tom Westmoreland for an exciting morning learning how to create decorative gourds. $25 per person. Call 706-882-3242 or email info@hillsanddales.org to register.

Mommy and Me Christmas Ornament Workshop Dean Road Rec Center. Mommy and Me classes are designed for parent and child to work together to create beautiful works of art. Projects are intended for the toddler/pre-school age group. $20/ Mommy and Child pair ($5 each additional child) + $10 materials fee. 9:30-11:00 a.m. (334) 501-2944 • ccleckler@auburnalabama.org. Pizza Pizzazz Mamma Mia! Opelika Parks and Rec. Prepare pizza in three different styles! Resident Fee: $15, Non- Resident Fee: $17; 3:30-4:30 PM. PLipscomb@opelika-al.gov. Rothschild Distinguished Speaker Series: Mark Dion Columbus Museum. 6 PM. World-renowned artist Mark Dion will present a visual overview of his many installation projects, as well as insights into his working process. The Columbus Museum has commissioned the artist to create a cabinet about the natural history of the local region. www. columbusmuseum.com. Gamers Society See August 23 for details.

Imagination Lab See Sept. 6 for details.

Saturday STEM Storytime See Aug. 25 for details.

Nature Walks: Wildflowers Krehler Preserve and Nature Center. 8:30 AM. FREE to the public. www.auburn.edu/preserve.

Brick Builders Club See Sept. 1 for details.

Story Time See Sept. 3 for details.

Friday On the Green: Pierce Edens See August 24 for details.

Tuesday, September 11

Big Daddy Weave: Jesus I Believe Tour First Baptist Church Opelika. Big Daddy Weave is heading back out the road beginning this September for the Jesus I Believe Tour with special guest, Brandon Heath. www.transparentproductions.com.

Wednesday, September 12 Toddler Time See Aug. 29 for details. Code Club Jr. Opelika Public Library See Sept. 5 for details.

Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2018

Unicorn Camera Scavenger Quest FDR State Park, GA. Assemble a team of 2-4 persons with cameras to capture photographic evidence of the illusive Unicorn. A Unicorn Quest Checklist and Rules will be handed out. Photos will be evaluated, and a winning team will be announced. 706-663-4858.

Code Club Jr. Opelika Public Library See Sept. 5 for details.

Friday, September 14

Family Discovery Hike: Wildflowers Krehler Preserve and Nature Center. 3:30 PM. All are welcome for our family friendly hike through the trails focusing on wildflowers. No fee or registration. FREE to the Public. www.auburn.edu/ preserve.

Sensory-Friendly Story Time Opelika Public Library. Sensory-Friendly Storytime engages participants using story, music and movement. Programs offer educational, literacy and social opportunities for children of all ages with differing abilities, their siblings, parents/caregivers and their typically developing peers. Fee: FREE. 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. library@opelika-al.gov.

Super Saturdays at LaGrange Art Museum 112 Lafayette Pkwy, LaGrange, GA. 1:00 - 4:00 PM. Free family art day! Spend the afternoon at the Museum. Families, neighbors, and friends can tour the current exhibit and explore an art activity. www. lagrangeartmuseum.org.

Preschool Time See August 23 for details.

Monday, September 10

Baby Time See Aug. 28 for details.

6th Annual Tri-City Latino Festival Columbus, GA. This festival will allow opportunities for local and surrounding businesses to express their appreciation to the community and expose their business to potential customers. FREE to the public. We are featuring local and internationally acclaimed performers as the main attraction on a main stage and a local stage. We welcome and seek participants from all cultural groups, not just Hispanics. Featuring a Kidz Zone, Food Vendors, Gift Vendors, and live performances. www.trifestival.com.

Football, Fans and Feathers See Sept. 7 for details. Story Time See Sept. 3 for details. AUsome Amphibians & Reptiles Join the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center staff for a one-hour presentation on the AUsome amphibians and reptiles found in our state and beyond. Children and adults will enjoy this entertaining hands-on program with live animals. Admission is $5/person. Children 3 and under are free. 4:30 p.m. preserve@ auburn.edu.

Market Days on Broadway See Aug. 25 for details.

Monday, September 17 Story Time See Sept. 3 for details.

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Fall Forest Friends Kreher Preserve & Nature Center. A unique educational experience for pre-school children and their parents that incorporates hands-on activities with nature and environmental awareness. 9:30-11 a.m. 6-week session fee is $45 per child. Topics include: Beautiful Butterflies; Icky Sticky Worm; Spotty Salamanders; 123, What do I see?; Hairy Scaly, Squishy; Wesley, the Amazing Alligator. Membership with the Kreher Preserve at the Magnolia level ($35) or above is required. www.auburn.edu/preserve.

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Wednesday, September 19 Toddler Time See Aug. 29 for details. Code Club Jr. Opelika Public Library See Sept. 5 for details.

Thursday, September 20 Fall Sundown Concert Series Kiesel Park, Auburn. Bring your lawn chair, blanket, kick back and enjoy the music. Inflatables will be available for children and food vendors will be on site. Pets (on leashes) are welcome, as well. FREE to the Public. 6:00-7:30 PM. www.auburnalabama.org/parks. Gamers Society See August 23 for details. Preschool Time See August 23 for details. Code Club Jr. Opelika Public Library See Sept. 5 for details. Imagination Lab See Sept. 6 for details.

Friday, September 21 Ballet and the Beasts The Montgomery Zoo. 6:00-10:00 PM. FREE performance under the stars at the Montgomery Zoo. Picnic blankets, lawn chairs, and coolers are welcome. Side show performers will be performing prior to the main show. Also, there will be a live animal presentation held during intermission. www.montgomeryzoo.com. Aqua Vino 2018 Georgia Aquarium. Aquarium’s 13th annual Aqua Vino food and wine social event. Sample wines from around the world and taste the best cuisine Atlanta has to offer. You also won’t want to miss our amazing silent auctions! www.georgiaaquarium.org. Football, Fans and Feathers See Sept. 7 for details. Story Time See Sept. 3 for details. AUsome Amphibians & Reptile Show See Sept. 14 for details. Fall Forest Friends. Kreher Preserve & Nature Center See Sept. 18 for details.

Saturday, September 22 Johnny Ray Century Bicycle Ride Trinity United Methodist Church, Opelika. All riders will tour the lightly trafficked rural roads of Lee,

Chambers, and Randolph Counties of East Alabama. Riders on the Johnny Ray Metric and Roanoke Express will ride over a World War II-era steel Bailey Bridge and a rare wood truss bridge. Riders on the Roanoke Express have the option to race the historic Johnny Ray train; check out the time tables. www. eastalabamacyclingclub.com. Free Fishing Day Adventure FDR State Park, Ga. No fishing license is required all day long to cast your line in any Georgia Public Fishing area including our Lake Deleanor. We have fishing helpers and a limited number of free loaner rods and reels available. Use artificial lures or bring cut hotdogs or buy worms at the park office. 706663-4858. Saturday STEM Storytime See Aug. 25 for details. Brick Builders Club See Sept. 1 for details. Market Days on Broadway See Aug. 25 for details.

Monday, September 24 Story Time See Sept. 3 for details.

Tuesday, September 25 Auburn Parks and Recreation Monthly Market Harris Center, Auburn. Held the fourth Tuesday of each month beginning in September, from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. Produce, jams, jellies and bounty of Lee County! This event is FREE and open to the public. www.auburnalabama.org. Community Resources Workshop Harris Center, Auburn. 5:30-7:00 PM. Discover the different resources available in our community for people of all ages to get active, get healthy and get the support they need! Attendees will be able to visit with presenters, get information for programs and benefits that they can take advantage of to help them on their journey to better health. FREE and open to the public. A complete list of presenters and a schedule of events will be posted at activeauburn. org by September 15. 334-501-2930.

Fall Sundown Concert Series See Sept. 20 for details.

Friday, September 28 Brätoberfest Birmingham. A Two-Day General admission ticket to Brätoberfest is only $20 and includes two-days of entertainment, contests, and fun for the entire family! Two-Day VIP (must be 21 or older to purchase) tickets are $50. Children 12 and under enter FREE when accompanied by an adult and have access to the General Admission area. Pets are allowed in the General Admission area but must be on a leash. www.bratoberfest.instagift.com. Football, Fans and Feathers See Sept. 7 for details. Story Time See Sept. 3 for details.

Saturday, September 29 Brätoberfest See Sept. 18 for details. Crimson Tailgate Opelika Parks and Rec. Come watch the game and cheer on the Tide as they take on Arkansas State. Resident Fee: $10, Non-Resident Fee: $11. PLipscomb@opelika-al.gov.

opelika-al.gov.

Tiger Tailgate Opelika Parks and Rec. Come watch the game and cheer on the Tigers v. Southern Mississippi! Resident Fee: $10, Non- Resident Fee: $11. PLipscomb@

Young Eagles Day See Aug. 25 for details. Saturday STEM Storytime See Aug. 25 for details.

Baby Time See Aug. 28 for details.

Brick Builders Club See Sept. 1 for details.

Wednesday, September 26

Market Days on Broadway See Aug. 25 for details.

Toddler Time See Aug. 29 for details.

Sunday, September 30

Code Club Jr. Opelika Public Library See Sept. 5 for details.

Jamey Johnson’s 7th Annual Homecoming Benefit Concert Outdoor concert open to the public, led by Johnson and friends. Surprise guest performances by country music stars have included Lee Ann Womack, Alison Krauss and Randy Travis. Tickets are $20 at the door or $10 with a new, unused toy of at least a $10 value for the Toys for Tots Foundation. Tickets available online. Show starts at 5 PM. https://www.facebook.com/JameyJohnsonGolf/

Thursday, September 27 Gamers Society See August 23 for details. Preschool Time See August 23 for details. Code Club Jr. Opelika Public Library See Sept. 5 for details. Imagination Lab See Sept. 6 for details.

Brunch and Browse Downtown Auburn. 9:30 AM - 5 PM. Keep the tailgate going all weekend long and join us downtown for extended hours and merchant specials. Brunch at some of your local favs and then go browse the streets of Magnolia and College at a variety of boutiques and gift shops.

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FamilyCalendar October Oct. 1: Alabama Tale Tellin’ Festival Selma. Visit website for exact event date. Food can be purchased on site and we will again have Swappin’ Ground (where the audience can come up on stage and share their stories.). Swapping Ground will begin at 6 p.m. and Tale Tellin’ at 7:00 each night. www.artsrevive.com. Oct. 2 - 6: Lee County Fair Lee County Fair Grounds, LaFayette Pkwy, Opelika. For more information, contact Jim Sadler at hjsadler@charter.net.

admission and open to the entire Auburn/Opelika Community! Live Music, including Martha’s Trouble, Justin Rivers from The Voice, and more! Food Trucks, Giveaways, special guest appearances, and tons of fun activities for the entire family! (Rain date will be October 14th.)” Oct. 7 - 9: The 2018 Georgia Built Golf Invitational Fundraiser RTJ Grand National, Opelika. Oct. 9: Discovery Hikes & Nature Walks: Hummingbirds Krehler Preserve and Nature Center. 3:30 PM. FREE to the public. www.auburn.edu/preserve. Oct. 19: 25th Biannual On the Tracks Food and Wine Event Downtown Opelika. 6:00 - 11:00 PM. Come join us in downtown Opelika for great food, live music, and fun. www.facebook.com/ onthetracks.

Oct. 4: Fall Sundown Concert Series See Sept. 20 for details. Oct. 5: Fright Nights at the Arboretum Donald E. Davis Arboretum. Fright Nights movie series, with headlining films by Alfred Hitchcock! From music, kid’s activities and an evening of spooky movies to get you in the mood for Halloween, there’s plenty for everyone! A schedule of events is as follows: 5:30 p.m. – Music and activities at the Pavilion, 6:30 p.m. – Kid-friendly film: Tom and Jerry Halloween Night, 7 p.m. – Feature Hitchcock film: Vertigo. www.auburnalabama.org/parks. Free event. Oct. 6: Oktoberfest Ag Heritage Park, Auburn. www.auburnoktoberfest. com. 3:00-7:00 PM. Attendees will choose from more than 150 beers from local craft breweries and national brand favorites. If beer isn’t your drink of choice, selection German wines will be up for sampling as well. Food trucks will be set up offering a variety of festival fare. Oct. 6: Girls in Aviation Day Auburn University Regional Airport. 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM. Free outdoor event, hosted by the Women in Aviation, War Eagle Chapter and sponsored in part by Chicken Salad Chick. Fun activity booths, static display aircraft, and vendors from various aviation companies. There will be food trucks and restrooms available onsite. Please RSVP online at waiwareagle. org under the “Girls in Aviation Day” tab. www. waiwareagle.com. Oct. 6: Fall Family Fun Day Krehler Preserve and Nature Center. 10 AM - 2 PM. Enjoy this fun event for the whole family at the preserve celebrating fall with some music, nature hikes, animal encounters, face painting, and craft with the art museum. Pre-registration is required. Entry is a $1 donation to the Preserve for Adults and Youth, Children 3 and under are free. • preserve@ auburn.edu. Oct. 6: Book It for Books 5K and Fun Run Town Creek Park, Auburn. 8 AM. All proceeds will benefit students at Drake Middle School. In an effort to cultivate students’ love of reading, DMS will enhance its book club program. Entry Fees: 5K Auburn City Schools employees and students: $15 (you will receive your discount prior to checkout), 5K General public: $25, Fun Run $15, and Race day registration (all groups): $30. Register before Sunday, September 23 to receive a race t-shirt! Oct. 7: Strum & Strive 2018 Don’t miss the Strum & Strive Music Festival at Pick Elementary School Sunday, from 1:00 - 4:00! Free

Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2018

Oct. 23: Tour de Fright Haunted Bike Ride Opelika SportsPlex. 6 - 8 PM. Bicyclers beware! Parents and children 12 and younger are invited to take a ride on the haunted walking trail behind the Opelika SportsPlex! FREE and open to the public! Bikes, trikes and scooters are welcome. 334-705-5560. Oct. 25 - 26: Halloween Enchanted Forest Krehler Preserve and Nature Center. Hike the Kreher Preserve trails and visit some costumed characters on the path. Pumpkin bowling, campfire, fortune telling and face painting! Buy tickets and sign up online at www.auburn.edu/preserve for scheduled hike times starting October 1. Admission is $5, children 2 and under are free. Registration is required. (334) 844-8091 • preserve@auburn.edu. Oct. 27: Fall Movie at the Plex: “Halloweentown” Opelika SportsPlex. Free event. 334-705-5560. Oct. 31: 2018 Downtown Trick-or-Treat 6 – 8 p.m. in downtown Auburn. This is a fantastic alternative to door-to-door trick-or-treating, with downtown merchants handing out candy and plenty of treats for everyone! There will be music, provided by our special spooky entertainment for the evening, and the annual Costume Contest. auburnalabama. org/parks. This event is FREE and open to the public.

Ongoing/Multiple Dates Expressions of a BraveHeart Program A fine arts program for teens and young adults with special needs (ages 11–21), sponsored by Opelika Parks and Recreation, utilizing Auburn University faculty and students, as well as community volunteers. Two 30-minute sessions of art, dance/ creative movement and music will be offered and participants will select 2 of the 3 classes. Expressions meets every 2nd and 4th Monday twice a month for 1.5 hours. Opelika Sportsplex, 334.705.5560. www.opelikasportsplex.com. XXth Annual Juried Art Exhibition Oct. 15 - Nov. 16. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. A competitive exhibition open to regional artists and craftspersons. Entries due Oct. 10.

Art Gallery Fall 2018 Exhibition Sept. 20 - Oct. 7. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. Works by selected Alabama artists and craftspersons as part of the annual Adventures in Art Program. www. auburnalabama.or/parks. Blue Morpho Butterfly Month Sept. 1 - 30. Callaway Gardens, GA. Enjoy our monthlong display of nature at its finest! Each September, marvel at the Blue Morpho as hundreds of these tropical butterflies fill the Day Butterfly Center with their iridescent-blue splendor. www.callawaygardens.com. The Fall Invitational Sept. 12 - Oct. 10. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. New works and special projects by invited Alabama artists. www.auburnalabama.org/parks. Chick-fil-A Family Night at Tigertown Every Thursday night. Meditation Garden and Labyrinth Come and Find the Quiet Center... in the Meditation Garden and Labyrinth, provided as a community service by Village Christian Church, 700 East University Drive, (across from Auburn Early Ed.). 334-887-5111. Try the practice of walking meditation or simply sit and enjoy the sights and sounds. The garden and labyrinth are always open and guests are always welcome.

Music Blackberry Smoke Aug. 30. Montgomery Performing Arts Center. www. mpaconline.org. Pre-Labor Day Blues Show Aug. 31. Montgomery Performing Arts Center. www. mpaconline.org. Black Jacket Symphony presents AC/DC Back in Black Sept. 8. Montgomery Performing Arts Center. www. mpaconline.org. Lynyrd Skynyrd: Last of the Street Survivors Farewell Tour Aug. 31. Oak Mountain Amp. www.ticketmaster.com.

Plays “The Magic School Bus: Lost in the Solar System” Sept. 29. RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, Columbus. When the class gets lost on the way to the planetarium, Ms. Frizzle saves the day by blasting into outer space for an epic, interplanetary field trip! Hop on The Magic School Bus for a ride in Theatreworks USA’s new musical adaptation based on the original book. www.rivercenter. org. “Mamma Mia! Sept. 21 - Oct. 7. Springer Opera House, Columbus. Must-see theatre with all of your favorite ABBA songs, non-stop laughs, and explosive dance numbers. www. springeroperahouse.org. “Something Rotten!” Sept. 19. RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, Columbus. Set in 1595, this hilarious smash tells the story of Nick and Nigel Bottom, two brothers who are desperate to write a hit play. When a local soothsayer foretells that the future of theatre involves singing, dancing and acting at the same time, Nick and Nigel set out to write the world’s very first MUSICAL! www.rivercenter.org. “Sometimes…Patsy Cline Sept. 22 - 23. Alabama Shakespeare Festival. Originally

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FamilyCalendar premiering in New York with rave reviews, songstress Jacqueline Petroccia presents a show-stopping performance with powerhouse tunes featuring songs made famous by Patsy Cline, Bette Midler, Rosemary Clooney, The Carpenters, and more. After each performance, there will be a meet-and-greet with Jacqueline in the Grand Lobby. www.asf.net. “The Wizard of Oz” Oct. 16 - 17. RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, Columbus. 7:30 PM. www.rivercenter.org

Support & Parenting Groups A2Z Local Homeschooler’s Association For homeschooling families in the Auburn/Opelika Lee County area of Alabama. A2Z Loop is an all-inclusive support group open to all homeschool families in the Auburn/Opelika area regardless of differences in beliefs, cultures, nationality, race, religion, or method of home schooling. For more information call 334-728-1162 or email: momofpnk@gmail.com. Alabama Mentor’s Foster Parent Training Classes Offered in the Opelika Auburn area. Call 334-705-8877 x 18 to register or email: Deanna.Hand@thementornetwork.com. Auburn UMC Children’s Day Out Program Every Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m.–12 noon. $10 per child for the entire morning, $2 each additional child. Attendance will be on a first come-first served basis. Contact Barbara Dawsey at 826-8800 for more information. Auburn United Methodist Church. Auburn Mommies, a fun group of moms in the Auburn/Opelika area that meet weekly for playgroups and Mommy and Me walking twice a week. We also have a Mommies Night Out once a month. Http:// groups.yahoo.com/group/auburnmommiesinalabama/. Auburn Mommy and Me Big Dog Running Co, Auburn. 10–11 a.m. Social time, story time, music/movement, arts & crafts. Ages 9 months–3 years. Free! 334-209-2580. Auburn/Opelika MOPS & MOMSnext We meet the first and third Thursdays of the month at Trinity United Methodist Church in Opelika. We offer fellowship and fun for moms of kiddos from infancy through age 15. We offer play dates, moms nights out, and special events! For more information check us out on Facebook at Facebook.com/AuburnOpelikaMOPS or email us at auburnopelikamops@gmail.com. Bible Study Fellowship Held at Parkway Baptist Church, Thursdays at 10 a.m., (334) 546-1386. Bosom Buddies (a breast cancer support group) Meets at The Health Resource Center the first Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. (334) 528-1260. www.eamc.org. Breast Feeding class meets the second Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon on EAMC’s third floor. Call 528-1260 to register. Caregiver Support Group Caring for a family member or friends can be rewarding, but it’s not easy. Whether you are the caregiver for your parents, spouse or a dependent child, this group is for you! Learn ways to cope with every day stresses of caring for someone you love. Gain tools and resources to help you on your journey. This program is supported by the Opelika Sportsplex, Lee-Russell Agency on Aging and HomeInstead Senior Care. This group is open to the public. Meets the last Monday of each month at 12:30

p.m. at Opelika Sportsplex AAC. Instructors are: Valeri White (Sportsplex), Bridgette Sager (Home Instead Senior Care), Lisa Askew (Lee-Russell Council of Gov). Food Allergy Support of East Alabama The Food Allergy Support of East Alabama group offers support through the sharing of information and resources. We are also working to increase awareness of food allergies in the state of Alabama. For more information, visit our website at www. foodallergysupporteastal.org or call Barbara at 334-8263082; bkg2007@bellsouth.net. GRACE - Post-Abortive Support Group Would you like to find healing and forgiveness? You are not alone. Women’s Hope Medical Clinic wants to help you! You are invited to take part in our GRACE abortion recovery group. This confidential group gives you the opportunity to process the grief of your termination in a safe and non-judgmental setting. If you would like more information about the times, dates and location for this group, call or e-mail Sherry at Women’s Hope: 334.502.7000 or sherry@womenshope.org Grandparents and Non-Parent Relatives or Friends Raising Children Support Group For grandparents or any non-parent involved in raising younger children. Meetings first Monday of every month @ Auburn United Methodist Church Annex, Room D134, 6 - 7 p.m. Various speakers and lots of support from others in your same situation. Childcare is provided. Phone Lisa @ 334-421-7163 or Debra @ 334-332-9703. La Leche League, a support group for nursing moms, meets the 2nd Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. @ Cornerstone Family Chiropractic, Airport Plaza, 323 Airport Road Suite E, Auburn. For more information call LLL of Auburn/Opelika, Leader, Josie Ettinger (h)334257-3950 or (c)334-740-8780. Lee County Department of Human Resources Now recruiting foster/adoptive families. To learn more about fostering and adoption please call our office at 334-737-1100. Please join us in this endeavor to help our foster children. Lee County Parents of Chinese Children helps children understand, see and grow up with other families that look like their family (white parents/Asian child). The group is 100% free! We try to eat out at Asian establishments monthly and have playdates. Families that are waiting to adopt are welcome! We accept any families with adopted children from all Asian countries. Contact Melody at mmhilyer@bellsouth.net for more information. Miracle League To volunteer or for more information, www.miraclefield. org or eamiracleleague@gmail.com. MOMS Club of Auburn, a group of stay-at-home moms that meets about twice a week to provide support for each other and fun interaction for kids. New website is www.auburnmoms.com. MOPS of Auburn We meet the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month at Auburn United Methodist Church from 9:30 - 11:30. Childcare is provided, although we ask that you make reservations if possible. Meetings are open to mothers with children ages 5 and under. www.facebook.com/ mopsofauburn mopsofauburn@gmail.com.

Opelika-Auburn Newcomers Club A club for new women in town which offers fun social activities, meets for lunch on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Call Joan at 501-4974. Parent Educational Workshop - Autism Lee County Autism Resource and Advocacy. 2nd Tuesday of each month, 6:00-7:30 p.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church, 800 2nd Avenue, Opelika. Parent Support Group - Autism Lee County Autism Resource and Advocacy meets the 1st Monday (unless national holiday), 9:00-11:00 a.m. and the next evening (Tuesday) from 6-7:30 p.m. Visit www.leecountyautism.com for complete information. Email info@leecountyautism.com or call 334-740-0716. Single Moms Outreach of East Alabama Single Moms Outreach of East Alabama offers 2nd Saturdays, group classes, and more. Contact Penny Messer at 334-444-6827. Email smoea@bellsouth. net. Website www. smoea.vpweb.com or find us on facebook. Teen Moms (for moms under 20) is a ministry that connects trained adults with pregnant girls and teenage moms. Support meetings, classes, job preparation, devotions and games. Call Laura Fuller at laura@insideyfc.com or 334-501-5637. www.insideyfc.com. Therapeutic Foster Care Program Foster a Child’s Future Today - Become a Therapeutic Foster Parent! Certification classes are free. Please call Joanna Fisher Champagne at Lee County Youth Development Center’s Therapeutic Foster Care Program. (334) 749-2996, Ext. 311. Trinity UMC (Opelika) Mom’s Morning Out Wednesdays and Fridays from 8:45–12. $15 per child, $5 each additional. Trinity United Methodist Church.

Sports Auburn University Football Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game. Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Sept. 1. Home Games, Sept. 8, 15, 22, 29. Auburn University Equestrian Sept. 28, Oct. 12, 19. Auburn University Soccer Aug. 24, 26, Sept. 9, 14, 16, 23, Oct. 18 Auburn University Volleyball Aug. 24, 25, Sept. 16, 21, Oct. 3, 7, 26, 28, 31. Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Aug. 19-28.

Please send your calendar events to Kendra@ auburnopelikaparents.com! We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of this information. However, you should always call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information.

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Alpha

The Meg

MPAA Rating: PG 13 Overall: B+ Violence: B Sexual Content: A Profanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: A Alpha is a slow movie. I don’t mean that as a criticism but as a statement of fact. Alpha moves at a deliberate pace, gradually unfolding the plot, carefully building up relationships between the human and animal characters, and lovingly sweeping over its awe-inspiring locations in Canada and Iceland. The story begins 20,000 years ago in Ice Age Europe. Our protagonist, Keda (Kodi Smit-McPhee) is the son of Tau, the chief, played with dignified assurance by Johannes Haukur Johannesson. It is time for the annual buffalo hunt, and Keda is finally old enough to join the other hunters and become a man. Tau’s assurance is tested quickly. Luckily for Keda, aid comes in an unexpected package when he is stalked by wolves and knives one of the creatures in the leg. The teen develops a sense of fellow feeling for the injured animal, who he names Alpha, and nurses it back to health. The relationship that develops between Keda and Alpha is critical to their mutual survival. When it comes to family viewing, Alpha has some unusual considerations. It is almost entirely free of objectionable content, aside from hunting related violence and situations of extreme danger. That being said, this film is not likely to be a smash hit with family audiences. Its biggest drawback for kids and teens comes from its dialogue. Spoken in an invented Cro-Magnon language, the film is subtitled throughout. through a barren (albeit beautiful) landscape. On the flip side, filmgoers of any age who enjoy survival movies, history or nature documentaries, and who are prepared to be patient, will find their niche with Alpha.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: B+ Violence: C Sexual Content: B+ Profanity: C+ Alcohol / Drug Use: B In the depths of the Pacific Ocean lurks a sharp-toothed predator, ready to chomp on your desire to go swimming this summer! When a deep-sea research station, funded by Morris (Rainn Wilson) and operated by Zhang (Winston Chao) and his daughter, Suyin (Bingbing Lao), discovers a lower level of the ocean, they encounter some unexpected creatures. After their submersible pod is damaged, it is up to Jonas Taylor (Jason Statham), a burned-out rescue diver with a dark past, to save the crew from what lies beneath. Fortunately, the monsters of the deep are contained by a band of icy water near the ocean floor...for now. As you might expect from a movie about a 75-foot-long prehistoric shark (the Megalodon), there is a lot of blood and gore. Dismembered limbs, an accidental stabbing, and various injuries associated with damaged ships and submarines are seen throughout. However, the violence is not overly gratuitous and is used mostly to further the plot. The sexual content is even less of an issue. One sexual pun is made between several adult characters, and Jason Statham is seen without his shirt. And, for such an intense movie, there is less profanity than expected, although you will hear frequent mild swear words, terms of deity and scatological slang, along with a couple of moderate curses. All in all, The Meg is well placed at PG-13, and it markets itself to that demographic of teenagers and young adults. If your teen is especially sensitive to suspense or violence, this may be one to avoid. However, more thick-skinned viewers may enjoy taking a bite out of this thriller from the deep.

Crazy Rich Asians

The Darkest Minds

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: BViolence: BSexual Content: C Profanity: C Alcohol / Drug Use: BIn the familiar Cinderella story, Prince Charming falls in love with a beautiful woman, not knowing that she is really a scullery maid. Add a tiny glass slipper, true love and...presto... they all live happily ever after. Crazy Rich Asians puts a spin on the traditional formula. In this modern re-telling for adults and older teens, Chinese-American university professor and regular girl, Rachel Chu (Constance Wu) falls in love with Nick Young (Henry Golding), who she believes to be a regular guy. Unbeknownst to her, Nick is the scion of a Singaporean property dynasty – the next thing to Asian royalty. Getting to happily ever after is going to be a bit more complicated. Nick loves his family matriarch, despite her attempts to control his life. And Rachel is very close to the loving single parent (Kheng Hua Tan) who raised her and worked hard to lift them out of poverty. This positive message comes alongside some negative content issues, the biggest one of which is alcohol consumption. Characters imbibe constantly. The single most visible issue in this movie, however, is money. Enormous amounts of cash are spent so lavishly that “conspicuous consumption” sounds like an understatement. Rachel initially views the family’s wealth with apprehension. Yet eventually she has to decide if she is going to remain who she has always been or play the same games as the rest of the Singaporean social elite. Will she have a happy ending or will she become just another “crazy rich Asian”?

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: BViolence: C Sexual Content: CProfanity: B Alcohol / Drug Use: A Teens with special powers. Adults who try to stop them. Sound familiar? That’s because it is. The Darkest Minds isn’t blazing any new trails for Hollywood but it ticks all the boxes for a teenage sci-fi action movie. The beginning of the movie is disturbing, especially when protagonist, Ruby Daly, (played with big-eyed luminosity by Amandla Stenberg) is taken away to the camps at the age of ten, where the inmates are separated by their color-coded gifts. Six years later, Ruby escapes, meets up with three other fugitives - Liam Stewart (Harris Dickinson), Chubs (Peyton Wich), and Zu (Miya Cech). The group goes on the run looking a rumored children’s settlement where they can live without fear. When they find it, they discover that everything isn’t what it seems. Parents will want to be aware of issues around violence and sexual content. These are significant enough that the movie is not suitable for younger children, although teens will likely enjoy it. The most upsetting episodes involve the intersection of mind control and violence. A male teenage character in a position of authority attempts to sexually assault a teenage girl. It isn’t clear if the abuser is inside her mind or is assaulting her physical body. The attack is not graphic, no clothing is removed, and she escapes from him very quickly. The relationship between Ruby and Liam illustrates the most positive messages found in The Darkest Minds. This media portrayal of an adolescent love story is unusually wholesome.

Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2018

www.auburnopelikaparents.com

Help Alabama

Shine!

The Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) is a joint research project between the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Alabama Department of Public Health. Its purpose is to determine why some babies are born healthy and others are not in order to aid in the development and assessment of programs designed to identify high-risk pregnancies and reduce adverse pregnancy outcomes. New mothers are randomly chosen from the state birth registry to participate in PRAMS. Surveys may be returned by mail or completed over the phone. Let your voice be heard!

“Happy to be part of this survey.”

“Thank you for checking on us!”

Actual comments from survey responses.

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