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ADMISSIONS
“Alabama’s High School ”
DEADLINE FEBRUARY 14
Alabama 9th & 10th Graders Can Apply Free at www.asms.net
FREE
TUITION, ROOM, AND BOARD
ASMS is a public residential high school for academically talented sophomores, juniors, and seniors seeking advanced studies in mathematics, science, computer science, and humanities.
• Early College Experience • Dedicated Instructors • Diverse Community • Leadership Opportunities • Experiential Learning
Find out how the Alabama School of Mathematics and Science can lead you on a path to success. Applying to ASMS is FREE – and so are tuition, room, and board if you are admitted! Start your online application at www.asms.net. ASMS students have access to hands-on, experiential learning focused on research and collaboration. Students take a variety of college-level courses in Math, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science, History, English, Communication, Physical Education, and Fine Arts.
COGNIA ACCREDITED
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. Current Alabama 9th or 10th graders can apply. Questions? Email admissions@asms.net or call 251.441.2100.
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OFFICE OF ADMISSIONS AND OUTREACH MOBILE, AL 36604 I 251.441.2100 I ADMISSIONS@ASMS.NET 1
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January2021 34
Volume 13 Number 8
Columns
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4 Publisher’s Note Lynn Knighton
Setting Intentions in the New Year
Take a fresh approach in 2021.
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6 Therapeutic Parenting
Choosing a Daycare
Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP
Top 10 questions to ask when making the decision for your child’s care.
12 Kids Health Watch
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sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics
36 Parenting, Media & Everything in Between Common Sense Media
2021 Child Care Guide Our detailed listing of daycares, preschools, and MMO programs.
Kids and Winter Blues Learn how the power of nature can help!
52 Dave Says Dave Ramsey
Departments 8
On The Cover Abigail Sanders - (23 months), daughter of Brad and Amy Sanders. Abigail loves reading books, playing with her baby dolls, being outside, and going to the zoo! She will also soon be a big sister!
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Bits and Pieces 13
School Bits 46
Book Reviews 51
Movie Reviews
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Publisher’sNote The Eastern Shore’s Foremost Parenting Source
Ohhhhh 2020... where do I even begin? We welcomed you with open arms, as we naively anticipated the “excitement” that you would bring. On paper, you looked great. The economy was rolling strong, we were moving into a new house, we had plans to go on a “real” vacation for our 25th anniversary in April! Little did we know of your plans. As much as I would love to bid 2020 adieu and never look back, I feel compelled to reflect on some of the lessons learned and growth experienced during what became a very unique year. This control freak of a girl has learned to try to let go a bit and enjoy the ride (even if that means screaming as the ride goes downhill while still maintaining hope because there will be an up at some point). I have learned how to make a killer banana crème cheesecake, which leads to my next lesson... no amount of walking around my neighborhood will burn as many calories as the arc trainer at the gym, and a home gym is a great way to...well...collect dust. So, right under letting go of things I can’t control, being more intentional with my exercise routine is on the top on my New Year’s resolutions list. What lessons have you learned by living through 2020? Are they part of your New Year’s resolutions? As you set your resolutions for 2021, I encourage you to read Sarah Lyons feature, Setting Intentions in the New Year, on page 18. She helps us set some realistic goals without setting ourselves up to “fail”. No resolution is needed for Eastern Shore Parents to work hard each and every month to provide you with the news, information and resources you are looking for. While 2020 was a bit of a challenge with events constantly changing and distribution locations temporarily closed, we worked around those obstacles by providing subscriptions, direct mailings, listings of virtual events, while continuing to provide helpful articles; because pandemic or not, parenting takes a village and we thank you for your continued support! Speaking of villages, every year we publish our January “Childcare” issue. In this issue you will find information to help you in the decision making process of choosing the right childcare for your family. For example, on page 38 you will find Sandra Gordon’s feature, 10 Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Daycare. We also have our annual Childcare Guide on page 42. Whether you are looking for full-time daycare, mom’s day out or preschool, you will find a list of area facilities in this guide. As we kick off 2021, I encourage you not to just throw 2020 in the garbage, but look back and find the special blessings. I know in our home we have had some really great family time, bringing our girls closer than ever. We have had some deep and meaningful conversations on diversity, unity and how to care for others. And we have been able to encourage one another as we weather the storms (pun intended). As for 2021, I wish each and every one of you a healthy, prosperous year filled with joyous laughter, family reunions, neighborhood BBQs and a sea of bright smiles that I have missed so much being hidden by masks. Don’t get me wrong, I am not expecting things to instantly change just because the calendar changes, but I am filled with hope for the future.
Lynn
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Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@easternshoreparents.com Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@easternshoreparents.com Associate Editor Kelly Watson Research Editor Christa Weinberg Contributing Writers Sandra Gordon Sarah Lyons Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP Dave Ramsey Robert L. Rux, M.D. Sandi Schwartz
Cover Photography Jenn Glies Photography www.jenngliesphotography.com
President Jason Watson jason@easternshoreparents.com Advertising Opportunities Lynn Knighton ads@easternshoreparents.com (251) 929-2099 Ad Design Tim Welch
Visit us online at www.easternshoreparents.com
lynn@easternshoreparents.com
Eastern Shore Parents I January 2021
Eastern Shore Parents Magazine, is founded on the principle that parenting is an exciting, diverse, challenging, and significant, role in our community. Eastern Shore Parents Magazine is a community advocate for families and the parenting process.
Eastern Shore Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: P.O. Box 374, Montrose, Alabama, 36559. The phone number for voice and fax is (251) 929-2099. Eastern Shore Parents is copyrighted 2021 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Eastern Shore 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.
www.easternshoreparents.com
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TherapeuticParenting by Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP
Small Changes for Huge Impact At the risk of sounding outrageously cliché as we enter into a new year – allow me to encourage you with this: New year, new you. And yes, before you roll your eyes at me – and before I roll my eyes at myself for that matter - I realize and recognize we hear that everywhere. I know we see that on every diet commercial, billboard and ad for the magic whatever that promises to change our life. I also know that, much like other piercing platitudes, there does tend to be a ring of truth buried somewhere in there, and a fresh start to a new year really is no different. Sometimes we need markers in time wherein we can set goals or restart or refresh our focus, and parenting is certainly no different. As the chaos of the Christmas season passes us by, the new year really can be a time for a new beginning. Grab hold of that opportunity. Allow it to help you reset and reconsider some parenting approaches that haven’t worked or take a fresh look at the same old behaviors that just keep coming at you. There is hope – there is help, and
a new year is the perfect time to welcome in a refreshing change. My encouragement to you would be to make a list of the top three areas of parenting or behaviors that you are struggling with right now and make solution-seeking to those three things your focus. When we feel discouraged and overwhelmed we tend to think that “everything” is bad. “Everything” isn’t working and “nothing” will ever, ever get better. But before you cascade into a pit of emotional chaos, pause and identify your top three. Is every day in carpool the absolute hardest part of your day because your typically wellmannered children suddenly become feral and begin arguing and whining the minute those seatbelts are engaged? In response to that, can you make a small change in your routine wherein you have a snack and water bottle waiting for them on their seat and a children’s book on CD from the library that everyone listens to on the way home? Small change, huge impact. Can you purpose to shift your morning routine just a bit and build in five
minutes to snuggle with and rock that toddler first thing in the morning; the toddler who is in the midst of the “terrible” twos and who seems to do nothing else except whine 17 hours a day demanding your attention? Small change, huge impact. Can you posture yourself in a manner wherein you are willing to grab a $5 Hot-nReady pizza on your way home from work and quietly drop it at the bedroom door of that grumpy teenager for no reason at all, other than to communicate that you are here for him? Small change, huge impact. We can’t fix it all, and parenting will always be the hardest thing we do. But also remember that hard does not equal bad. Hard is just sometimes…well, hard. But by trouble shooting manageable bits and pieces at a time, we can turn around a year from now, as we usher in 2022, and see just how far we’ve come. After all, we survived 2020 – so clearly anything is possible. Sonia is a licensed social worker and holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work. Her clinical focus is on helping parents and professionals understand the role of the brain in behavior and how to adopt therapeutic parenting techniques to mitigate negative behaviors. She is the Director of Central Alabama for Lifeline Children’s Services and is a mother to 7 sons, 3 of which were internationally adopted and she is a foster parent.
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Never Fear the Girl Scout Cookie Program is Almost Here!
Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama Announces Details for the 2021 Cookie Season! Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama is excited to kick off the 2020-21 Cookie Program with a NEW cookie! Joining the lineup this year is the Toast-Yay!™, a French toast–inspired cookie dipped in delicious icing and full of flavor in every bite. Also new this year, consumers will be able to order Girl Scout cookies through the Grubhub app and have them delivered directly to them. In the 2021 season, Girl Scouts in southern Alabama will embrace their entrepreneurial spirit by selling cookies through online platforms and innovative “virtual cookie booths” on social media (with parental supervision). Many girls will offer socially distant or contactless sales and delivery options. If local guidelines allow, in-person booth sales may also be available in certain areas, keeping girls’ safety top priority. To learn more about the Girl Scout Cookie Program, and to find out when Girl Scouts will be selling near you, visit girlscoutssa.org.
2021 Membership Drive for Impact 100
Impact 100 is kicking off their 2021 membership campaign through March 31, 2021. In an abundance of caution, all events at this time will be virtual. Impact 100 is a nonprofit organization comprised of women with a desire to make a difference in the lives of others and to make Baldwin County a better place to live. Membership is open to all women (18 years and older) who have these same goals. Since our beginning in 2008 we have now given over $4 million in grants to Baldwin County nonprofits. To find out more about this organization and how you can help make a difference in our community visit the Impact 100 website, www.Impact100BaldwinCounty.org.
Website Offers Opportunities to Fill Needs of Community Members
Neighborhood Bridges is a national non-profit charity advocating for children/families/residents in need and engaging the community in support and care. Since August 2019 and with our exciting growth in Ohio and Alabama, Neighborhood Bridges communities have been able to offer support and care to over 16,000 children/families! With Neighborhood Bridges #Fairhope this platform offers opportunities to fill needs in a technology-based system. Trusted advocates post needs and local donors help fill the needs of clothes, food or household goods. It's that simple! Visit neighborhoodbridges.org/community/fairhope-al to see the current opportunities and subscribe to our newsletter. Fairhope school counselors and social workers will also be able to submit needs of students and families to the website, where they will then be shared via email and social media alerts to people who are interested in filling those needs. The program will go beyond food to necessary items like clothes, shoes, mattresses, infant car seats, furniture and more for families that are low-income or have a sudden need, such as after a house fire or medical emergency. Once a community member confirms they will fulfill a particular need, items can be dropped off at The Nix Center and will then be taken to the families. You can sign up for weekly giving opportunities and get more information at www.neighborhoodbridges.org.
Annual Piano Virtuoso Competition
The annual Piano Virtuoso Competition (PVC) sponsored by the Mobile Music Teachers Association was held on November 7 at the Steinway Piano Gallery in Spanish Fort. A total of 45 students competed by grade level. First place winners received $l00, second place winners $75 and third place winners $50. Honorable mention students received a ribbon and all students received certificates and a critique of their performance from the judge, Dr. Kadisha Onalbayeva of the University of Mobile. Baldwin County students receiving first place were Katie Smith (8th grade), Caroline Robinson (9th grade), Hunter Wittenborn (10th grade) and Evan Ren (12th grade). Students placing second were Redford Bethea (7th grade), Michael Klimjack (8th grade), Jonah Drach (10th grade) and Ty Hartman (11th grade). Third place winners were Marygrace Sebastian (8th grade), Emily Adamson (9th grade) and Jennifer Tan (12th grade). Honorable mention recognition went to Sam Hecker (7th grade) and Lydia Van Cleave (10th grade). Teachers of these winning students are Tammy Dennis, Bob Holm, Lindsey Hughes, Amy Morgan and Vincentine Wiliams. Eastern Shore Parents I January 2021
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Metro-Mobile Literacy Council Accepting Submissions for Annually-Published Magazines
Metro-Mobile Literacy Council is now accepting submissions for their both of their annual magazines, Anthology (grades 3-5) and Both Sides of the Bay Teen Magazine (grades 6-12). We know this is a difficult time for our students, teachers, and parents, but this is a wonderful way to celebrate all the hard work done by all of you. It is FREE to submit writing. Metro-Mobile also recognizes those teachers and schools that have high participation rates each year. Metro-Mobile Literacy Council is also thrilled to announce that our guest author at the 2021 Young Authors' Conference is Watt Key. We are currently planning an in-person event. However, if that is unable to take place in March we will have a virtual conference with Mr. Key. You can find a submission form along with more information about the publications and the 2021 Young Authors' Conference on our website, https://metromobilelit.weebly.com/news--events.html and Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/MetroMobileLit. This opportunity is available to all students in Mobile and Baldwin Counties. Deadline is January 22. We appreciate the sponsorship from Mobile Public Library and Friends of the Mobile Public Library.
Reese’s Senior Bowl Sold Out
The Reese’s Senior Bowl would like to thank the City of Mobile and our friends of the game that live in the Mobile Bay region. The Reese’s Senior Bowl has been sold to capacity for its first game to be played in Hancock Whitney Stadium on the campus of the University of South Alabama in Mobile, on January 30, 2021. As is true for all large sporting events played during the current Covid-19 pandemic, seating capacity for 2021 Reese’s Senior Bowl has been significantly reduced to comply with local and state government public heath orders. Practices will be closed to the public this year and we are unable to host events such as Friday’s Meet the Players, Game Day Tailgating, or the Friday Night Players Parade and Free Concert. However, the game will air live on NFL Network January 30, 1:30 PM CT Kickoff. The Reese’s Senior Bowl greatly values our loyal Mobile Bay community support and we look forward to a complete sellout at Hancock Whitney Stadium in 2022. For more information, please visit www.seniorbowl.com.
Discover with the Dauphin Island Sea Lab. Discovery Hall Programs K-12 Education and Outreach programs can come to you virtually or you can come to campus. We also offer programs for non-traditional groups. Let us help you create an educational experience to remember.
Book your class today! Scheduler@disl.edu 251-861-2141 ext. 7515 101 Bienville Blvd. Dauphin Island, Alabama 36528
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Boston Butts Fundraiser Helps GFWC Jubilee Woman’s Club Deliver Needed Help to Local Groups
Donating breakfast items and snacks to first responders and healthcare workers, delivering meals to the homeless, and giving comfort to dementia patients are just a few of the projects of the GFWC Jubilee Woman’s Club this past year. Funding these projects requires resources and the club hopes you can help. GFWC Jubilee Woman’s Club members are selling Boston butts for a Super Bowl delivery. The Boston Butts are $35 each and must be preordered from club members. The deadline for orders is Jan. 26 and Boston Butts can be picked up Feb. 4 between 4-6 p.m. from Fastime in Daphne. “We appreciate the community helping us fund our many projects,” said Sherri Killam-Albee, president of GFWC Jubilee Woman’s Club. “2020 has been a challenging year for everyone, including our club. We’ve had to get creative to find ways to help while keeping our club members and community safe. We were able to collect old jewelry that will be refurbished and sold to help support homeless women, make blankets for victims of domestic violence, and distribute fidget pillows to people who benefit from sensory activities.” Another new project of the club has been cleaning and maintaining the garden at the Marietta Johnson Museum in Fairhope. Additionally, the club donated gifts to North Baldwin Helping Hands, an organization that provides presents for children in need during the holiday season. “Even with the hurdles, we are hoping to help more people in 2021,” Killam-Albee said. GFWC Jubilee Woman’s Club has been part of the Baldwin County community for more than 25 years. Its members come from all walks of life and all ages, truly living the General Federation of Women’s Clubs motto of unity in diversity. For more information about buying a Boston butt or the club’s activities, please contact jubileegfwc@gmail.com.
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Big Brothers Big Sisters Encourages Adults to Become Volunteer Mentors in Celebration of National Mentoring Month
January is National Mentoring Month and the perfect time to become a part of the force for positive change in our community. Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Alabama seeks adult mentors who are ready to ignite, empower and defend the potential of local children. Each January, the President as well as Governor Kay Ivey declares January as Mentoring Month. In 2020, many surrounding cities followed in their footsteps including Atmore, Bay Minette, Daphne, Mobile, Monroeville and Prichard. Each proclamation encouraged citizens to seek out opportunities to make a difference in a child’s life. The children we serve have shown resilience in overcoming life's obstacles, persevered, and like us all, benefit from a friend, a caring adult willing to invest time in them. We are not saviors or heroes. Instead, we create and professionally support meaningful match relationships to help children ignite and harness their own potential—the potential they have had all along. Big Brothers Big Sisters provides caring, adult mentors who we call “Bigs” to children ages 6 to 18 who we call “Littles.” Our matches are in 58 schools across Baldwin, Escambia, Mobile and Monroe Counties. In the 2019-2020 school year, Big Brothers Big Sisters served nearly 600 children in South Alabama. In March of 2020, we quickly adapted to a virtual program and now include virtual mentoring options. Our Littles have the potential to change the world, and we are standing together to defend them, no matter what. Please join us. To learn more about our School-based or Community-based program, please contact us at (251) 344-0536 or www.bbbssa.org. All programs are free for both the adult volunteer and child.
Inspiration Home Tours in January
Mobile Bay magazine has teamed up with renowned local architectural designer Robert McCown, Reehlco Custom Homes and North Hills at Fairhope to present a show-stopping Inspiration Home. This Inspiration Home, which features 4,046 square feet of custom design and stunning decor, is located in the new master-planned custom home community of North Hills at Fairhope. The home’s address is 140 Mount Pleasant Boulevard, Fairhope. Tours are open to the public with January tour dates being January 7 - 24, 2021 from 10 AM – 5 PM, Thursdays through Saturdays and 1 PM – 5 PM on Sundays. Tickets are $10 and may be purchased at mobilebaymag.com/inspiration-home/#about. Proceeds from the ticket sales will benefit USA Children's and Women's Hospital.
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KidsHealthWatch
Sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics
New Year’s Resolutions: Kids Edition Well, 2020 is finally over! It doesn’t mean that everything that has happened in the past year will magically disappear, but at least we can move onto a new calendar year! As we navigate this continuously evolving time, one thing I try to think about is resolutions. I know this is an old cliché— everyone vows to run ten miles a day, give up junk food and save the planet. While these goals are worthwhile, they often fall by the wayside within a few weeks. So this year, I want to challenge you to do something different. While I often think of great ideas that will improve my relationships, health, and my community, the execution oftentimes gets in the way. Today, we are going to talk about some ideas that you and your kids can do that are realistic, fun, and will bring you together more as a family. First let’s think about some goals as a whole family. In this day and age of running to school, practice, homework, video games, and smartphones, we miss some of the most important memories of childhood. Meals with your family, playing board games, reading books together, and even talking about your day is so important to the relationships in a family. I recently heard a wonderful speaker describe this as “margin.” That is creating time to just spend with your family and not
Eastern Shore Parents I January 2021
running around crazy! I had a parent try and tell me that their “perfect” child who was suspended from school could only have learned the language and behaviors from other bad influences at school. Wrong! Children learn their basics from their parents and family when it comes to respect for adults, each other, property, and themselves. Sure, they can be influenced by others, but that’s where parenting steps in as well. Developing a trusting relationship between children and parents is vital to their success. If a child is having a difficult time at school or with another person, they need to be able to come to you and talk. If you feel you and your child don’t have that relationship, then work on it. Talk to them, spend time, and be good role models for your children. When it comes to some specifics, let’s look at some New Year’s resolutions that help the body and mind. First, let’s teach ourselves and our kids to practice good hygiene. Washing hands, covering you nose and mouth when you cough and sneeze, trimming your nails and brushing your teeth are basic, but oftentimes forgotten personal hygiene traits. Not only can you significantly reduce the spread of illnesses, but you feel better and are more confident about yourself. Along similar lines is our diet.
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I understand how hard it can be to have the mealtime food battle (I have three kids and we go through it all the time). But the excuse that my child “has to have something (even if it’s not healthy)” before they go to bed or “my child only eats cheese” is full of junk. First, who buys the food that is currently in the house? What do you as a parent eat at meals and snacks? How do you respond when your child refuses to eat the meal you prepared? Healthy eating habits for a child are all about expectations! If you get unhealthy food, you expect unhealthy food! You will be surprised that the answer is not “my child is a picky eater!” So take the New Year to focus on family relationships, personal hygiene, and the food we put into our bodies, and try and create some margin. You might be surprised how much better you and your children feel!
Robert L. Rux, M.D. is a Board Certified Pediatrician at Magnolia Springs Pediatrics. Originally from Mobile, he attended medical school at The University of Alabama School of Medicine (UAB) and completed residency at The Children’s Hospital of Alabama (UAB). He is married to Jaime and has three children, Adler, Walker and Mary McAtee.
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Autauga County Schools Computer Science
Spanish Fort ES Spelling Bee Winners
Congratulations to all our Spanish Fort Elementary School students who participated in our school spelling bee! All the students did such an amazing job. Our winner was 3rd grader Eliza Jane from Mrs. Montee’s class. Our runner up was 3rd grader Norah from Mrs. Prater’s class. Huge shout out to Mrs. Catherine Boehm for organizing!
Week at Fairhope West
Mrs. Bumpers’ 4th grade class at Fairhope West Elementary had so much fun during Computer Science week! They participated in some pseudo coding by playing the board game Robot Turtles. Some students were also able to discuss the connections between software development and the engineering design process with a technology executive.
Spanish Fort HS Student Leadership Team
We would like to congratulate and welcome the newest members of the Spanish Fort High School student leadership team! After an extensive interview process, these amazing students made the cut and are on their way to refining their leadership skills and helping to change our school... and our world! Congratulations you guys! Elle Caroline Blackmon, Lexi Mroczko, Aubrey Fagan, Tucker Wilson, Stella Jeffcoat, Ethan Sikes.
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Autauga County Schools
Elberta All-American Cheerleaders
Florence B. Mathis Students Dress as Famous Persons
Cheerleaders from Elberta High school traveled to Orlando to be a part of the Varsity Spirit All-American Team! Congratulations to Tyla Haines, Matalyne Kroll, Ava Brewer, Morgan Kroll, Kynzie Bonner, Ellie McConnell.
Mrs. Randall’s 6th grade social studies classes at Florence B. Mathis Elementary School have been researching a person they discussed during the 1st semester. The students dressed as their person and walked around the school presenting the information they gathered.
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Belforest Angel Tree
Even though the Grinch made an appearance at Belforest Elementary that did not stop the sleigh from being loaded down to deliver gifts from the Angel Tree. Thank you for supporting needy kids in our own Baldwin County community!
Scientific Ornament-Making at J. Larry Newton
SFHS Swim Qualifies for State
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Mrs. Brown’s class at J. Larry Newton designed an ornament under specific parameters, constructed the ornament out of pipe cleaners and used borax and hot water to create a chemical reaction to “crystallize” their ornaments! They were thrilled with the end result!
Congratulations to the SFHS swimmers that qualified for the state meet in Huntsville!
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Toys for Tots at Stapleton School
Stapleton School National Elementary Honor Society set a goal to collect 150 toys to donate to Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. They blew by that goal and collected a total of 175 toys! We're so proud of the NEHS students for leading such a successful drive and grateful to our families and community for lending their support to such a worthwhile cause. 14
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FHS Student Wins Best Speaker at Model UN
Fairhope High School IB Junior Rafael OlivierVelasquez won Best Diplomat and Best Speaker at Model UN. Congratulations Rafael!
Lego Challenge at Fairhope East ES
Fairhope East Elementary students are working hard as engineers to complete the Lego challenge on our awesome Lego Wall!
Answers, treatment and personalized care from adolescence into adulthood. Dr. Tracy Roth and Dr. Nicolette Holliday introduce the new Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology Division to Mobile and Baldwin counties. This designation serves adolescents under the age of 18 as they receive treatment for gynecologic needs in a comfortable environment. OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY
OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 1700 Center Street, Mobile | (251) 415-1496
STEAM Lab at Foley ES
Mrs. Stevens’ 3rd grade class at Foley Elementary enjoyed the STEAM lab this week. Students used the engineering process to create a home that would withstand wind storms all while keeping their 3 little pigs safe and sound.
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Ozobots at Fairhope East ES
All Aboard The Ozobot Express! Fairhope East Elementary Students explored Ozobots while designing their own train track.
Bayshore Equestrian Club
Bayshore Christian School Equestrian Club with Mrs. Haynes enjoyed a great day at Destiny Farms LLC! It was a beautiful day for riding lessons!
Renaissance School Holds Toys for Tots Drive
Renaissance School’s annual Toys for Tots toy drive coordinated by student Adam Stroecker (pictured) collected 46 toys! Congratulations on another successful year of giving, even in the midst of so many obstacles.
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St. Michael Ugly Sweaters St. Michael celebrated the season on December 14 with their traditional "Ugly Sweaters and Carols with Mr. Weber". Megan Williams, Barbara Williams and Isaac McBane were the three finalists in the award for the ugliest sweater of all, which was voted on by the student body.
Bayside Academy Kindergartners Have Christmas Surprise
Bayside Academy kindergartners followed the Gingerbread Man on a Christmas scavenger hunt around campus, ending at an outdoor celebration with their parents on the bluff. Pictured, Anna, John, and Max Bruckmann.
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Admissions for 2021-22 opens JAnuAry 4 For more information on our Admissions process visit ctkcsdaphne.org or call 251.626.1692 #FaithKnowledgeIntegrity
Makerspaces at Spanish Fort MS
8th grade gifted students at Spanish Fort Middle School had a blast in Mrs. Ramirez’s class with STEAM based makerspaces.
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Daphne ES Receives Grants from SEEDS
We were so excited to receive classroom and block grants from SEEDS (Supporting Educational Excellence in Daphne Schools). Daphne Elementary School was awarded $6,000 to fund the Leader in Me broadcast room and multiple student clubs. Classroom grants were awarded to: Rebecca Johnson (School Counselor)—Bully Prevention Unit and The Safe Place; Ginny Clayton (Instructional Coach)—Tutoring Kit and Kaboodle; Cindy Odom (First Grade)—For the Love of Reading; Joyce Garrison (Art)—DES Beautification. Thank you for supporting our school! (Today was Hawaiian Christmas Day, thus our floral attire).
Learning about Electricity via Zoom at Fairhope West ES
4th grade students in Mrs. Workman’s class at Fairhope West Elementary learned virtually with Ms. Andrea Johnson from Alabama Power Company. They were reminded about electricity, how it travels, and safety protocols to use when around electricity.
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Toys for Tots at Spanish Fort ES
Spanish Fort Elementary School collected over 400 toys for Toys for Tots! It was the most toys we have ever collected! Amazing!
Goody Bags for New Students at Daphne East
Peer Helpers at Daphne East Elementary made goodies bags to help welcome new students.
WJ Carroll Receives Grants from SEEDS
Congratulations to the WJ Carroll recipients of SEEDS grants for 2020-2021. Special thanks to SEEDS for their support of Daphne schools. We appreciate you! *Not pictured is Arrington Keys who received $500 for STEM Bins.
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Bayside Academy Fifth Graders Hold Parade of States
In their study of US geography, Bayside Academy fifth graders were each assigned a state to research. Their quarter project was to build a float with symbols and facts related to their state. After the floats were graded, some of the students were very curious to test how fast they would roll and held a parade around campus. The project was a collaborative effort of the entire fifth grade teaching team. Pictured, Bayside Academy fifth grade student Arabella Rowland shows off her Nebraska float.
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Foley HS Participates in Baldwin Model UN Conference
Congratulations to our students who represented Foley Lions High School at the Baldwin Model United Nations conference. Model UN was a little more complicated this year due to COVID-19, but they held their virtual meetings several evenings at 7:30 p.m. after a lot of these students were leaving other school related activities. It is a BIG deal to be one of the 8 people out of over 100 who wins an award. Students who won awards: Premier Delegate for Sochum—Ariana Crepeau (this is the most prestigious award at BUN)—this is the person in the entire committee who was most able to bridge the gap between the issues and all the other committee members—Premier Speaker for Sochum—Ariana Crepeau; Premier Delegation—Ariana Crepeau, Tyler Sutton, and AJ Mitchell—represented the country New Zealand.
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Engineering Class at St. Michael
The Engineering class at St. Michael has been busy in the last few weeks building dragsters! Thanks to Mr. Jon Hall for guiding these students in this project.
Family Farm Day
Renaissance students enjoyed Family Farm Day with John 9:3 Foundation.
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Bayshore Christian School Students Wins 1st Place in Bookmark Contest
Congratulations to BCS 6th grade student, Miss MaryClaire, on winning 1st Place for the Daphne Public Library Bookmark Contest Overall Winner "2020 Back to School Bookmark Contest!"
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Toys for Tots at Daphne Middle School
Designing Hurricane-proof Houses at Florence B. Mathis
Daphne Middle School had several special guests today, and we were excited that representatives from the Marine Corp Toys for Tots stopped by! Our National Junior Honor Society sponsored a toy drive to benefit the Toys for Tots program. Our boxes were overflowing! Thank you NJHS and DMS for supporting children in need!
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Mrs. Lindell's 3rd grade class worked hard on their "hurricane-proof 'houses'", but in the end...there was only one winner!
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Baldwin County HS Shops with a Cop
Congratulations to Baldwin County Virtual Elementary School Mrs. McCann for receiving the Baldwin EMS Starlight grant that will be used for online science resources for our students! Congratulations, also, to Mrs. Farias for being named the 2020 Teacher of the Year for BCVES! Thanks, ladies, for all you do for our school!
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BC Virtual ES Teacher Receives Grant
Baldwin County High School school raised $1,375 for the Shop with a Cop. This was a collaborative effort with the Bay Minette Police Department to help provide Christmas to the needy families in our community.
Bayshore Advent Chapel
Bayshore Christian School celebrated their Christmas Performance with Advent Chapels! Students in each grade sang Christmas songs and praised the Lord with their sweet voices!
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Autauga County Schools
Robertsdale Teams Shop for Needy Families
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Robertsdale High School volleyball was blessed to team up with RHS softball this morning for Shop with a Golden Bear! Students and teachers at Robertsdale High School came together to provide Christmas presents and groceries for our most needy local families. Such an amazing experience for all!
Daphne HS Girls Wrestling Places 2nd in Tournament
STEAM Lab at Fairhope East ES
We are MERRY & BRIGHT in the STEAM lab at Fairhope East Elementary School! Our students created an abstract piece of art after learning about Jackson Pollock. They used their knowledge of coding and robotics to create a custom piece. They used their Sphero robots to paint their masterpieces. They learned about robotics and coding during this lesson!
Congratulations to the Daphne HS Girls wrestling team! The team placed second in a very close competition in the first AHSAA Girls Tournament!
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Spanish Fort HS Loves Their PTA!
Spanish Fort High School’s PTA treated teachers with a hot dog truck for lunch to show appreciation in December.
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St. Michael Receives Award for Art Department
Congratulations to St. Michael art teacher, Mrs. Jesse Pippin, for being the recipient of a Baldwin EMC Operation Round Up Star Light Award! These funds will help her purchase the supplies needed to start a ceramics program within the art department! Thank you Baldwin EMC!
Belforest ES Receives Donations
Thank you State of AL Representative Matt Simpson for stopping by and providing Belforest Elementary $2750 to help with our school operations!
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Bayside Academy’s Girls Swim Team Brings Home a State Championship In early December, Bayside Academy’s girls swim team brought home the State Championship for Class 1A–5A for the first time in school history! Go Admirals! Pictured, Bayside Academy’s state champion girls swim team: Marlee Moore, Kat Burns, Mia Bindon, Grace Steele, Ayelen Bodnar, Sophie Kiryk, and Elizabeth Chen.
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Alexa Chapman, Bella Sallin, Carleigh Jurkiewicz, Gulf Shores Middle School cheerleaders, and Alex Davis, Orange Beach Middle School cheerleader, were selected to participate in the All-American Parade at Walt Disney World. The girls competed at UCA summer camp and were chosen to be an All-American Cheerleader. They traveled to Disney during Thanksgiving break to perform with cheerleaders from all over the southeast.
Renaissance School STEM Learning
Pictured are students participating in STEM project based learning at Renaissance School of the Eastern Shore.
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J. Larry Newton Principal Named Distinguished Principal of the Year
Congratulations to Ms. Patrice Wolfe, principal at J. Larry Newton Elementary School. Ms. Wolfe was recognized as AAESA’s Distinguished Principal of the Year.
Daphne ES Poinsettia Fundraiser
Peer Helpers at Daphne Elementary School assisted with the arrival of 116 poinsettias they sold to fund our Peer Helper Program! This year our goal is to create a virtual school tour for new and transitional students as well as creating "Get Well Soon" and grief and loss bags to support our school families during COVID pandemic.
Spanish Fort ES Receives Donation
Daphne East ES Receives Donation
State Representative Matt Simpson popped by Spanish Fort Elementary School yesterday afternoon with a donation. This “Little School on the Hill” is so grateful!
Thank you State Representative Matt Simpson for your donation to Daphne East Elementary!
Daphne ES Secretary of the Year
A BIG congratulations to Daphne Elementary School District #1 Secretary of the Year, Mrs. Melodie Brown!
Ozobots at Daphne East ES
Miss Holton’s students at Daphne East Elementary School are using Ozobots to practice technology and coding in science. The students programmed the Ozobots to follow a path, turn, and rotate based on a color code.
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Daphne Middle School Receives SEEDS Grants
Exciting Friday morning here at Daphne Middle! Three of our very deserving teachers were awarded classroom grants from SEEDS! In addition, our school received funds for our outdoor classroom and professional development. What a great day to be a Trojan! Thank you SEEDS for supporting our school and enriching the lives of our amazing students!
Fairhope HS Club Cleans up Beachfront Park
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FHS Marine Life Club had a cleanup at Beachfront Park north of the pier. Twelve students participated. Over 24 lbs of mostly cigarette butts and micro plastics were collected! The City of Fairhope donated trash bags and Mobile Baykeeper met us to provide safety vests, pickers, and gloves. It was a really nice morning on the beach!
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Fairhope High School Premier High School Delegation
Best Chairpersons: Hannah Grissett – Social and Humanitarian Committee; Kailey Mooney – Economic and Finance Committee; Grayson McKean – Security Council; Ellie Herrick/Senegal – premier speaker for ECOFIN; Ryder Burk /USA – premier speaker for Security Council; Rafael Oliver-Velasquez /China – outstanding speaker for POLSEC; Molly Hagood/Germany– outstanding speaker for SOCUM; Rafael Oliver-Velasquez/China – premier diplomat for POLSEC; Zack Cooper/Germany – premier diplomat for Security Council; Ryder Burk/USA – outstanding diplomat for Security Council.
Daphne HS Donates Turnip Crop to Prodisee Pantry
What a blessing! Thank you to Dr. Anderton's class at Daphne High School Trojans for the first crop of turnips that were given to Prodisee Pantry! We are blessed to have this partnership and receive the Baldwin County produce that is grown by the students.
Spanish Fort Senior Signs Softball Scholarship
Congratulations to Spanish Fort High School Senior softball player, Ainsley Lambert who signed a softball scholarship to Oregon State University! We’re proud of Ainsley and looking forward to watching her pitch this season. Shown with Ainsley is AD Coach Blackmon, Principal Williams and SFHS Coach Stewart.
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Autauga County Schools
Bayside Academy Service Club Donates Presents for Christmas
The Bayside Academy Service Club raised funds through a wrapping paper sale to enable the purchase of gifts for children on Ecumenical Ministries’ Angel Tree. The Service Club members went on a shopping spree at Target. Pictured, Bayside Academy Service Club members John Will Kirkland, Blai Cebrian-Claramunt, JT Neill, Joe Howell, and Joseph Lilley.
St. Michael Student Finishes 2nd at State Track Championship
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Congratulations to the St. Michael Cross Country teams for a great meet at the State Championship. The Boys team finished 4th in the state in 4A, and the girls were 8th. A special congratulations to Tripp Miller for finishing second overall. Pictured here are the senior runners: John Michael Davis, Hunter Stevens, Edward Cowles, Dyson Crooker, Andres Christiansen, Betty Hemby, Claire Blythe, Rebecca Schott, Anna McBane.
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Foley Students Create Winter Poems
Ms. Smith’s 2nd grade class at Foley Elementary School celebrated the winter season by creating Cinquain poems. The students reviewed nouns, verbs, and adjectives by describing the fun things you can see and do during the winter season.
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Fairhope HS Environmental Science
J. Larry Newton Veterans Day Parade J. Larry Newton students welcomed veterans during a Veterans Day Parade. The veterans were able to line up in carline and parade around the school while students waved flags and thanked them for their service. We are thankful for all those who serve and have served our country!
Renaissance Tea Party Fundraiser Renaissance School students had fun assisting with Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo’s tea party fundraiser.
Mrs. Janyes' AP Environmental Science class is doing a virtual Tragedy of the Commons activity by "fishing" out of a pond and trying to survive for many years while sustaining the fish population.
Save the Date! Bayshore Benefit
Bayshore Christian School will hold its 13th Annual Bayshore Benefit March 13th, 2021 @ The Grand Hotel! Tickets on sale now!
Fairhope West Students Code in Language Arts Class Students at Fairhope West is coding Ozobots in English Language Arts. Great use of technology in Language Arts!
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BLOW UP II INFLATABLE CONTEMPORARY ART Engaging humor, scale, and surprise, the artworks in this exhibition will take you on a whimsical journey. Open six days a week, the Museum is free and open to all. Plan your visit at mmfa.org. FriendsWithYou, Never Ending Story, Spider Man’s Eye, 2019, ripstop nylon fabric, electric fan, 150 x 108 x 168 inches. BLOW UP II: Inflatable Contemporary Art was organized by Bedford Gallery at the Lesher Center for the Arts, Walnut Creek, CA.
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Autauga County Schools
DMS Mentoring Group Donates to Toys for Tots
Learning Coding at Fairhope West ES Ms. Kearney’s first grade kiddos at Fairhope West Elementary discovered learning to code is not only practical, but also lots of fun. They programmed Bee-Bots to model subtraction on a number line, interviewed a cyber security executive, and wrote their own code on Tynker!
The Girls Mentoring Group at Daphne Middle School donated to Toys for Tots! They had a blast! A big thanks to our sweet girls.
Send School News and Photos to: lynn@easternshoreparents.com!
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Daphne Middle School Spelling Bee Winner
Growing Plants at Fairhope East ES
Congratulations to Carter Fraley for winning the Daphne Middle School Spelling Bee two years in a row! It was a tough competition that started with 28 and ended with 11 rounds of spelling! Carter's championship word was franchise. Congratulations to all of our classroom spelling bee winners. Carter will compete in the county bee in February.
Second graders at Fairhope East Elementary have been learning more about what plants need to survive. They each created a plant pet to watch it grow.
Daphne HS Receives Donation
Big Trojan thank you to Representative Matt Simpson who stopped by Daphne High School to present a donation to the school. We appreciate you and your support!
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A New Year, A New Start.
Set realistic and reachable intentions If 36% of people give up on their New Year’s Resolutions by February, it is likely they are not setting goals that are realistic or reachable. When setting resolutions, choose intentions that make sense. Goals that are interesting, fun, and that you are motivated to keep are more likely to end in success. If you want to read more, set a goal of reading a certain number of books or completing a challenging, but interesting, book series. If weight loss is a goal, choose a fun way to reach your goal weight. If you despise running, don’t plan to shed pounds on the treadmill. Pick an activity you love and incorporate it into your exercise routine while choosing healthy meal options. “I made a reading goal this year to read my age in books,” says Stephanie Loux, mom of three. “It was a
Each year 62% of Americans make New Year’s Resolutions hoping to make positive and healthy changes. Statistics show that within the first two weeks 25% of those same Americans have given up on their goals and only 8% reach their ultimate goal by the end of the year. (www.statisticbrain. com) These numbers are not encouraging. In 2019, try focusing on setting positive intentions rather than unrealistic resolutions that may fizzle out faster than you can say Happy New Year.
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fun self care resolution which made it easier to reach. It also helped me discuss books with friends.”
Set measurable and specific intentions How will you know if you have reached your goals? Many people give up on their resolutions because they don’t know how to achieve them or when they have been completed. Examples of immeasurable goals include “Get healthy”, “Become more organized” or “Save money”. Be specific when setting intentions. How will you become healthier? Does that include changing your eating habits? Incorporating exercise? What type of exercise and how often? Your goals need to be both measurable and specific so that you know how to achieve them. Goals such as “Raise my grade in science class from a B to an A”, “Read one book a month” or “Save x amount of dollars for a family vacation” are all goals that are both specific and measurable. These type of intentions are great because you know exactly how to reach them, when you have reached them, and when to celebrate your success.
Reward yourself Speaking of celebrating, don’t forget to set some rewards for yourself as you are choosing your New Year’s intentions. This will help motivate you to follow through when things get challenging. Some ideas could include - “If I lose 15 pounds, I will buy three new outfits” or, for your child, “If you complete your reading goals, you can pick a special toy.” Pick a reward that is enough to motivate you or your child and work together towards your goal.
Don’t overdo it Many people make the mistake of setting too many intentions or goals that are not attainable, setting themselves up for failure. When you are creating your intentions, list all the areas that you would like to work on. Once you have a list, narrow it down to the items that are realistic, measurable, and come with a reward. Prioritize and categorize your goals. Can you consolidate any? Do you see a theme? Which goals are you most excited about? Make your list again and try to be as specific as possible in order to give yourself the best chance of success. If you have several that you would like to achieve, keep your list around so that you can move onto another goal after you complete one of your resolutions. “I find that setting goals for shorter terms, say three months, is easier to stick to than a year long endeavor,” says Kelly Lawton. “It allows me to reevaluate my progress and reset or restart as I need without the guilt.” While coming up with a list of intentions for the year, keep them positive. Give yourself permission to create intentions that are fun rather than a punishment or chore. When we create goals that are actually accomplishable and set rewards for our completion of them, we are much more likely to be successful. ESP
Sarah Lyons is a part time freelance writer and a full time mom of six living in the Midwest. 35
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Best Family Movies of 2020
Wolfwalkers, age 8+ This gorgeously animated, emotionally resonant film from the creators of The Secret of Kells and Song of the Sea is a hopeful, if bittersweet, story about what the enduring folktales of Ireland represent. It promotes courage, empathy, perseverance, and teamwork.
This may have been a year like no other, but at least 2020 still brought us memorable movies for kids, teens, and families, from exciting adventures to inspiring, moving real-life stories. They entertained us, made us think, and gave us plenty to talk about. At the same time, they offered worthwhile messages, modeled important character strengths, and left us smiling, sometimes through tears. All also earned the Common Sense Seal, which means they offer an exceptional media experience to families with kids of all ages. Look for these movies on DVD or in your streaming queue, and here’s hoping we get back to the theater in 2021!
John Lewis: Good Trouble, age 10+ Dawn Porter’s poignant, powerful documentary is both a tribute to a civil rights legend and a call to action, arguing that the work of fighting racial injustice is far from done.
Hamilton, age 11+ The filmed version of the original Broadway production about America’s founders has plenty of inspiring, empowering messages. And casting all-White historical figures with a diverse group of actors offers new role models for young people studying U.S. history and thinking about what it means to be an American.
Dino Dana: The Movie, age 5+ Dino Dana asserts that “science is magic,” and the same could be said for this film adaptation of her popular TV series, which is a heartfelt, relatable, educational, and exciting STEM adventure that’s remarkably entertaining, even for adults.
Mulan, age 11+ Powerful performances and intense battle sequences make this take on Mulan more mature, stressing the story’s themes of female empowerment and family devotion.
Emma, age 12+ Gorgeous details plus a funnier-thanexpected screenplay and a wonderful ensemble make this one of the best Jane Austen adaptations in many years.
Elephant, age 6+ This stunning nature documentary celebrates the mighty elephant and its resourcefulness and resilience in surviving against significant odds. The film also promotes wildlife conservation, and the elephants’ dedication and loyalty to their families will inspire viewers of all ages.
Enola Holmes, age 12+ Fast-paced, clever, and hugely entertaining, this book adaptation will delight fans of star Millie Bobby Brown. Parents couldn’t ask for a better role model for their tweens and teens than strong, independent Enola, who models courage, intelligence, and integrity.
Over the Moon, age 6+ Set in China, this beautifully animated fantasy combines magical locations, impressive visuals, memorable musical numbers, sweet characters, and positive life lessons in a fairy tale about the boundless love of family.
Love and Monsters, age 13+ For an uplifting view of humanity, even at what seems like the end of the world, check out this understated adventure about a guy who survives and thrives against all odds. The Prom, age 13+ This teen coming-out tale based on the Broadway show is filled with splashy numbers and positive messages about acceptance. With its all-star cast and feel-good vibes, it’s a musical comedy that both dazzles and warms the heart.
Terra Willy, age 6+ This animated space adventure is full of positive messages about friendship, kindness, and adapting to new environments. With peril kept mild -- and always dealt with in a reassuring tone -- this one is fun for the whole family.
Rising Phoenix, age 13+ Relevant and inspiring, this documentary
Onward, age 7+ With messages about teamwork, getting along with
about the Paralympic Games helps counter stereotypes and prejudice. The profiled athletes are strong role models who are defined by their drive, perseverance, and competitive spirit, rather than their disabilities.
siblings, and acting selflessly and courageously, Onward is a heartfelt movie that’s sweet and optimistic and a reminder that everyone could use a little more magic in their lives.
River City Drumbeat, age 13+ This is a touching, powerful documentary about a program that has empowered and educated generations of young Black musicians and students. With themes of communication, empathy, perseverance, and teamwork, it’s a story of triumph and cultural awareness.
My Octopus Teacher, age 8+ A man finds his humanity by spending time with a charming and intelligent invertebrate in this stunning nature documentary. It’s a must-see for animal lovers and their families, with messages about friendship, compassion, and perseverance woven into the inspiring story. Eastern Shore Parents I January 2021
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If you’ll be returning to work after your baby is born, you probably know that open daycare spots can go faster than ice cream melts on a hot day. Still, for your child’s wellbeing and your own peace of mind, it pays to get picky. Starting about a few months before you’re ready, “visit three to five daycare programs,” says Kris Murray, author of The Ultimate Childcare Marketing Guide and a consultant to the childcare industry. To narrow your selection, here are the top questions Murray suggests asking daycare providers that can help you know if you’ve found the right place--or if you need to keep looking. Eastern Shore Parents I January 2021
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1 What activities will my child do? The code word to listen for is “curriculum.” With emerging research about early brain development, top childcare programs aren’t glorified babysitters. They’re full-featured learning environments, even at the infant level because learning starts from birth. “There are all sorts of age-appropriate curriculums available now, from baby sign language in an infant room to early reading, nature, science, art, technology and drama programs for toddlers,” Murray says. Each program is typically organized into themes. If the theme is insects, for example, your toddler might be asked to dress up as his favorite bug for the drama unit, paint a bug for the art unit and learn about insects in the computer lab for the technology unit. To you though, it may all just look like fun and games. But that’s the idea. “Children learn best through play,” Murray says.
4 How will I know what my child did all day? Some daycare centers will distribute a daily activity sheet
detailing what each child experienced that day, such as what she had for snack and how often her diaper was changed. Even better is paperless communication. Many daycare centers offer e-mail or texting messages two to four times daily. It’s a big plus. Imagine sitting in a meeting and getting a text from your child’s daycare or preschool with a video or photo of a picture he just painted. “Real time streaming helps you stay connected to your child’s day,” Murray says. When you pick your child up, you can say “Look at the cute pictures I got from you today” and talk about them together.
5 What are the qualifications of your caregivers? “Ask for a list of the teachers, which includes the
2 What’s the teacher to child ratio? It’s
important for your child to get plenty of attention, especially the younger she is. Babies and toddlers 12 months old and younger need an adult to child ratio of no more than 1:4 (one adult per four infants). For toddlers 12 to 28 months old, the ratio should be 1:3, one instructor per three children. Small class sizes of 10 to 12 children or less is preferred too. Even if there are plenty of adults to children, a larger group of toddlers can feel chaotic.
number of years of experience they’ve had in the field, their degree (in early childhood education for the lead teacher) or the training they’ve had,” Murray says. Lead teachers should also have five to seven years of experience. With practice comes the competence to handle challenging issues, such as fighting and other behavioral problems or potty training in a toddler program.
6 Are drop-off and pick-up hours flexible?
3 What’s your policy about unannounced visits? The best answer is, “No problem. We have an open
If you work from home sometimes or need a half-day help here and there, look for a daycare option works with your nontraditional schedule. Daycare that’s less than fulltime is a growing trend. “For a monthly membership fee, many daycare centers will allow you to drop off your child whenever you want,” Murray says.
door policy.” Impromptu parent visits should always be welcome, Murray says. After signing your child up, you should be able to drop by anytime.
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7 What’s the security situation like? Most
9 What’s your disaster recovery and emergency policy? If there’s a fire or disaster at the
childcare programs are safer than they were five years ago. Some now, for example, have biometrics at the entrance. Instead of punching in a code at the door, you’re be required to place your finger on a pad to enter the building. “Stricter regulations on safety and background checks are now required in many states,” Murray says. When touring a daycare center, ask whether the children are monitored by a secure webcam. Is the feed distributed to the director’s office so there’s oversight of what’s happening in the classroom? (Good.) Can you have access to the feed as well? (Double good.) Not only does camera surveillance provide peace of mind because you can see what’s going on, it allows you to engage in your child’s day (“I saw you help Sam pick up his crayons. That was so nice of you.”) “You get to spy with a positive purpose,” Murray says.
school, you want to know that teachers have been properly trained to respond quickly and effectively to get every child out. Every teacher should be trained in CPR too.
10 Ask yourself: Am I comfortable with the environment? After you’ve narrowed it
down to your top picks, spend an hour or two hour observing a classroom when the kids are awake (not at nap time). What’s the vibe? The daycare center should feel open and warm-hearted. Teachers should look like they’re happy to be there and engaged with the children. If you get a good feeling about the place, chances are your child will like it too because he’ll pick up on your satisfaction. Finally, confirm your selection by finding out what everyone else has to say. Review testimonials from other parents on the daycare center’s Facebook page and review sites such as Yelp. “Sometimes there are disgruntled employees or an occasional unhappy parent,” Murray says. If you see 10 great reviews and one negative one, you’re probably fine. “Look for a preponderance of positive.” ESP
8 How often do the kids get to go outside? Beyond extremely hot or cold weather, “there’s no excuse for children not to get outside every day,” Murray says. Your childcare center should support the full health of the child, which includes spending time in nature and being active.
Eastern Shore Parents I January 2021
Sandra Gordon is an award-winning freelance writer who delivers expert advice and the latest developments in health, nutrition, parenting and consumer issues.
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Bay Minette First Baptist Church Child Development Center
1201 Hand Avenue, Bay Minette 36507 Hours: Monday - Friday 6:00am - 6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks – PreK4 Cathy@fbcbm.com www.FBCBM.com
Kinder-Kastle
115 North Dobson Avenue, 36507 Hours: Monday - Friday 6:00am - 6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks - 6 years lsmith@kinder-kastle.net www.facebook.com/ KinderKastleLLC
Visions of North Baldwin Child Development Center
801 West 14th Street, 36507 Hours: Monday - Friday 6:30am - 5:30pm Ages: 6 weeks - 5 years
Daphne
Ascension Christian School ad on page 26
8888 County Road 64, Daphne 36526 Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 12:00pm; Extended Care 12pm-530pm Ages: PreK3 - PreK4 ascension.schooldaphne@gmail.com www.christian.school
Bayside Academy ad on page 41
303 Dryer Avenue, 36526 Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 3:00pm Ages: PK 3 - 12th grade advancement@baysideacademy.org www.baysideacademy.org
Daphne United Methodist Preschool ad on page 21
2401 Main Street, 36526 Hours: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 5:30pm (full time); 9:00am - 1:00pm (part time) Ages: 2 years – 4 years preschool@dumc.org www.dumc.org Eastern Shore Parents I January 2021
God’s Living Sea Jubilee Baptist Church ad on page 24
9264 Pleasant Road, 36526 Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00am - 1:00pm (Extended hours 7:30am - 4:30pm) Ages: 12 months - 4 years godslivingsea@jubileebaptist.com www.jubileebaptist.com
Weinacker’s Montessori School
Eastern Shore Montessori School
980 Main Street, 36526 Hours: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 5:30pm Ages: 16 months – Kindergarten esmontessorischool@gmail.com www.easternshoremontessori.com
Eastern Shore Preschool @ Eastern Shore Baptist Church
6847 Park Drive (Building C), 36532 Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00am - 2:00pm (Extended Care 7:30am – 3:00pm) Ages: 6 weeks – 4 years espreschool@myesbc.net www.myesbc.net
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28765 North Main Street, 36526 Hours: Monday - Friday 6:00am - 6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks - 12 years dpowe@weinackersmontessore.com www.weinackersmontessori.com
Good Beginnings Community Center
3Circle Church Mom’s Day Out
Hermes Enchanted Garden (RPC)
10080 County Road 64, 36526 Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00am - 1:00pm Ages: 2 years - K4 aquapink@mchsi.com www.3circlechurch.com
Abiding Love Preschool & Childcare
1030 Stanton Road, 36526 Hours: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 6:00pm Ages: 3 months - 5 years www.facebook.com/abidinglovepreschool
AUC Resource Center, After School and Daycare 8355 Jonesboro Road, 36526 Hours: Monday - Friday 6:00am - 6:30pm Ages: 6 weeks - 14 years www.africanuniversalchurch.org
Coastal Kids Academy
11101 County Road 64, 36526 Hours: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 6:00pm Ages: 12 weeks – PreK4 cka@coastalchurch.tv www.coastalchurch.tv/coastal-kids-academy
Color Us Kids Learning Center
26000 Nelson Street, 36526 Hours: Monday - Friday 6:30am - 6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks – 6 years coloruskids@ymail.com www.coloruskidslearningcenter.com
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26120 Equity Drive, 36526 Hours: Monday - Friday 6:00am - 6:30pm Ages: 6 weeks – 12 years www.goodbcc.com
28186 Highway 98, 36526 Hours: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 5:30pm Ages: Infant - Pre-K hermesenchantedgarden@gmail.com www.facebook.com/hermesenchantedgarden
Hope Academy
29964 Saint Basil Street, 36526 Hours: Monday - Friday Pre-K 9am-2:30pm; Kindergarten-6th: 8:30am-2:30pm. *Before & After Care available. Ages: PreK3 - 6th Grade info@hopeacademy.cc www.hopeacademy.cc
Kid’s Kabin Daycare
27730 Main Street , 36526 Hours: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 5:30pm Ages: 10 weeks - 6 years kidskabindaycare@gmail.com www.facebook.com/daycareKidsKabinDC
KinderKids Learning Center
10142 County Road 64, 36526 Hours: Monday - Friday 6:30am - 5:45pm Ages: 6 weeks - 4 years director@kinderkidslc.com www.kinderkidslc.com
Little Crusaders Learning Center
9023 Lawson Road, 36526 Hours: Monday - Friday 6:30am - 5:30pm Ages: 6 weeks – 12 years littlecrusadersllc@yahoo.com www.littlecrusadersllc.com
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The Learning Cove Preschool
28848 North Main Street, 36526 Hours: Monday - Friday 6:30am - 6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks to 5 years info@thelearningcovepreschool.com www.learningcovepreschool.com
The Neighborhood School
26481 Kensington Place (Suite A), 36526 Hours: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 6:00pm Ages: Infant - After School Program tnsdaphne@gmail.com www.facebook.com/ TheNeighborhoodSchoolDaphne
Tiny Tots Academy, LLC
25478 Friendship Road, 36526 Hours: Monday – Friday 6:30am - 6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks – 5 years tinytotsac@att.net www.tinytotsacademy.net
Saint Paul’s Episcopal Church Preschool
28788 North Main Street, 36526 Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:30pm Ages: 12 months – PreK4 stpaulspreschooldaphne@gmail.com www.stpaulseasternshore.com
Elberta Good Shepherd Lutheran School
13220 North Main Street, Elberta 36530 Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 3:00pm (Extended hours available) Ages: PreK3 - 5 years gsls2017@yahoo.com www.facebook.com/gslselberta
Saint Benedict Catholic School
12786 South Illinois Street, 36530 Hours: Monday - Friday 7:45am - 3:00pm Ages: PreK3 - 8th Grade rkrehlingsbcs@gmail.com www.saintbenedict.net
Fairhope
Bayshore Christian School ad on page 22
316 Presbyterian Drive, Fairhope 36532 Hours: Half-day program three days per week for PreK Ages: K4 - 12th grade BCSadmin@bayshorechristian.org www.bayshorechristian.org
Country Day School ad on page 15
23800 US Highway 98, 36532 Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9am - 12pm and Wednesday 9am - 1pm Ages: 18 months - Kindergarten countrydayfairhope@gmail.com www.countrydayfairhope.com
Fairhope-Point Clear Rotary Youth Club Pre-K ad on page 7
19128 Young Street, 36532 Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 2:30pm Ages: 4 years by September 1st sseitz@rotaryyouthclub.org www.rotaryyouthclub.org
St. James Episcopal School ad on page 10
860 North Section Street, 36532 Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:30pm (Full Day); 8:00am - 2:30pm (School Day) Ages: 30 months - 2nd Grade 2021 -2022 schooldirector@stjamesfairhope.org www.stjamesfairhope.school
Eastern Shore Academy of Excellence 23946-B US Highway 98, 36532 Hours: Monday - Friday 6:30am - 6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks to 12 years jamie.snowden76@gmail.com www.facebook.com/EasternShoreAcademy
Eastern Shore Early Childhood Center 1090 Fairhope Avenue, 36532 Hours: Monday – Friday 6:30am – 5:30pm Ages: 18 months - 12 years csaltz04@bellsouth.net
Eastern Shore Kids Kastle, Inc.
10291 B County Road 48, 36532 Hours: Monday - Friday 6:00am - 5:00pm Ages: 6 weeks - 5 years eskki@bellsouth.net
Fairhope UMC Preschool Ministry
155 South Section Street, 36532 Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00am - 12:00pm Ages: 2 years - PreK terry.lowell@fairhopeumc.org www.fairhopeumc.org
Jubilee Head Start Center
24044 Highway 98, 36532 Hours: Monday - Friday 8:30am - 2:30pm Ages: 3 years - 5 years jubileeheadstart@grecs.org www.facebook.com/JubileeHSFairhope/
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Jubilee Shores WeeSchool
17261 State Highway 181, 36532 Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:00pm Ages: 10 months – 5 years amberjones@jubileeshores.net www.jubileeshores.net
Marietta Johnson School of Organic Education
8 Marietta Drive, 36532 Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00am - 3:00pm Ages: PreK - 8th Grade marietta.school@mchsi.com www.fairhopeorganicschool.com
The Learning Tree Preschool at First Fairhope
300 South Section Street, 36532 Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00am - 3:00pm Ages: 6 months - 4 years tlt@firstfairhope.org www.firstfairhope.org
Foley
The Stepping Stone Academy
230 West Laurel Avenue, 36535 Hours: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks - 4 years foleyssa@gmail.com www.thesteppingstoneacademy.com
Heavenly Sent Learning Center, Inc.
12710 County Road 65, 36535 Hours: Monday - Friday 6:00am - 6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks - 14 years poohbear64@gulftel.com www.heavenlysentlearningcenter.com
Kid Plus Child Development Center 900 South Bay Street, 36535 Hours: Monday - Friday 6:00am - 6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks - 11 years kidpluscdc@gmail.com www.facebook.com/kidplusfoley
Open Door Christian Child Care
507 West Rose Avenue, Foley 36535 Hours: Monday - Friday 6:00am - 6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks - 12 years cradle2crayons@gulftel.com www.cradle2crayonsinc.net
20774 County Road 12 South, 36535 Hours: Daycare: Monday - Friday 6:00am 6:00pm; School: 8:00am - 3:00pm Ages: 6 weeks - 3 years and PreK - 12th Grade opendoor@gulftel.com www.opendoorchurchfoley.com
Snook Christian Academy
Swift Church Christian Preschool
Cradle 2 Crayons, Inc.
18930 County Road 28, 36535 Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 3:30pm Ages: Prek3 - 12th Grade sca@snookchristian.org www.snookchristian.org
23208 Swift Church Road, 36535 Hours: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 5:30pm Ages: 12 months - Pre-K4 swiftchurchpreschool@gmail.com www.swiftchurch.org/preschool
Gulf Shores
South Baldwin Christian Academy ad on page 13
6900 Highway 59, Gulf Shores 36542 Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 5:30pm Ages: K3 - 12th Grade info@southbaldwinca.org www.southbaldwinca.org
First Baptist Child Development Center – Gulf Shores
2200 West 1st Street, 36542 Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:30pm Ages: 6 weeks – PreK4 www.fbcgulf.com/child-development-center
Gulf Shores United Methodist Church Preschool and Mother’s Day Out 1900 Gulf Shores Parkway, 36542 Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00am - 2:45pm Ages: 12 months - 4 years www.gulfshoresumc.org/mothers-day-out
Holy Spirit Episcopal Day School
616 West Fort Morgan Road, 36542 Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:30pm Ages: 1 1/2 years - 5 years www.hseds616.com
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Kidz Learning Center
1074 North Hickory Street, 36551 Hours: Monday - Friday 6:30am - 5:30pm Ages: 6 weeks – 12 years kidz@gulftel.com
Milestones Child Care Center
1074 South Cypress Street , 36551 Hours: Monday - Friday 6:30am - 5:30pm Ages: 6 weeks - 5 years milestones@melcorp.net
Orange Beach Bright Beginnings Preschool Orange Beach UMC
28751 Canal Road, Orange Beach 36561 Hours: Monday - Friday 8:10am - 2:30pm (Extended care 2:30pm - 5:30pm) Ages: 12 months - 4 years brightbeginnings@orangebeachumc.org www.orangebeachumc.org/brightbeginnings
Discovery Island Child Development 24843 Commercial Avenue, 36561 Hours: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks - 5 years www.discoveryislandcdc.com
Robertsdale Central Christian School
17395 Highway 104, Robertsdale 36567 Hours: Monday-Friday 6:30am-5:30pm Ages: K3 - 12th grade central@gulftel.com www.ccssaints.com
Children’s Learning Center
22305 Palmer Street, 36567 Hours: Monday - Friday 6:30am - 5:30pm Ages: 6 weeks – 5 years
Little Anchors Preschool
18200 Hwy 104, 36567 Hours: Monday - Friday 8:15am - 2:15pm; Extended hours available Ages: 6 weeks - 4 years www.firstrobertsdale.com
Saint Patrick Catholic School
New Life Assembly of God
23070 Highway 59 North, 36567 Hours: Monday – Friday 7:45am - 3:00pm Ages: PreK3 - 8th Grade school@stpatcatholic.com school.stpatcatholic.com
10424 Old Highway 31, 36527 Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 9:00am - 1:00pm; After care Monday - Friday 3:00pm 6:00pm Ages: 12 months - 4 years ferronsmith@hotmail.com www.newlifeagspanishfort.com
Spanish Fort
Spanish Fort UMC Preschool
6690 Spanish Fort Boulevard, 36527 Hours: 2 day, 3 day, and 5 day availability. Hours 9:00am - 12:00pm Ages: 2 years - Pre-K4 preschool@spanishfortumc.org www.sfumpreschool.com
Faith Family Fellowship Preschool ad on page 9
7100 Spanish Fort Boulevard, Spanish Fort 36527 Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30am – 3:00pm (Extended hours 7:00am – 6:00pm) Ages: 2 years - PreK4 tracey@faithfamilyonline.com www.faithfamilyonline.com
Spanish Fort Presbyterian Preschool
Other www.bcbe.org/Page/9446
6620 Spanish Fort Boulevard, 36527 Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00am - 1:00pm; Extended care 7:30am - 4:30pm Ages: Toddler - 4 years sfppreschool@gmail.com www.spanishfortpresbyterian.com
11065 US Highway 31, 36527 Hours: Monday - Friday 6:00am - 6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks - 5 years beansproutsdaycarellc@gmail.com www.facebook.com/beansproutsdaycareAL
9543 Stagecoach Commercial Park Circle, 36527 Hours: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 5:30pm Ages: 8 weeks - K4
Baldwin County Public School System First Class PreK
ad on page 32
Bean Sprouts
Eastern Shore Academy
Community Action Agency of South Alabama Head Start
Baldwin County area, Other Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 4:00pm Ages: PreK - Headstart info@caaofsa.org www.caaofsa.org
Nature Connect
Classes in Daphne & Fairhope, Hours: Tuesday - Friday 9:00am - 1:00pm Ages: 2.5 years - 6 years info@natureconnectalabama.org www.natureconnectalabama.org
Jubilee Early Child Development Center
8930 Spanish Fort Boulevard, 36527 Hours: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 5:45pm Ages: 9 weeks - PreK4 www.jubileechildcare.com
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To have your childcare listed in a future issue and on our website, please email lynn@easternshoreparents.com.
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• Wisdom Tooth Extraction • Implants • Intra-oral Bone Grafting • Office-based Anesthesia • Oral Pathology • Facial Trauma 19748 South Greeno Road - Fairhope, AL 36532 • 251.990.5959 • www.MOMFS.org 47
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Experts aren’t 100 percent sure what triggers SAD, but some theories include environmental factors like the change in the amount and intensity of light exposure we get during the colder, darker months. Additionally, levels of serotonin—a neurotransmitter linked to depression—has been shown to shift with the seasons and may be linked to SAD.
Some people love the winter season and enjoy snow, warm clothes, and ski trips, while others are affected emotionally by the cold dreary weather, shorter days, and being stuck inside all of the time. For some people, including children, winter can cause them to feel down in the dumps or even depressed. Fortunately, once we understand what is going on, we can help our kids overcome their winter blues.
When It’s Time To Get Help
Sometimes SAD can get pretty serious and start impacting your child’s daily life. They might start crying often, withdrawing from activities that they used to enjoy, and experiencing changes in their appetite. If SAD is not addressed, your child’s self-esteem can suffer and they may start to struggle socially and academically. If you start to notice these changes, then it’s important to seek professional help by calling a licensed therapist. A professional will be able to assess the changes you observed and provide feedback and an action plan for how to address the situation. Be sure to note whether these symptoms fluctuate with the season and weather so that you can inform the therapist. Also, remember to discuss these issues with your child in a gentle, understanding manner and let them know that you love them and want to help them feel better.
What Exactly Are The Winter Blues?
We often hear the term Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, to describe when someone is unhappy during wintertime. It is a form of depression that follows a seasonal pattern. The most common type occurs in the winter, but some people do experience SAD during other seasons depending on the weather and where they live. As winter approaches, 10 to 20 percent of people experience mild symptoms of SAD and about 6 percent have considerably worse symptoms. Typical symptoms of SAD include: • • • • • • • • •
Craving comfort foods like pasta, breads, and sugar Fatigue; wanting to sleep more Having difficulty waking up in the morning Irritability and moodiness Increased crying Difficulty concentrating Depression Hopelessness Low self-esteem
How Nature Can Help
Another way to help manage wintertime depression is through nature. Spending time in and around nature is so beneficial to our health and well-being. It calms us down when we are feeling stressed and boosts our mood when we are feeling down. When we think about nature, we tend to only consider that
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it’s outside, but we can also capture the essence of what nature has to offer through images, sounds, and plants inside our home. By bringing nature indoors during the cold, dark, rainy, snowy months, we can help our kids beat the winter blues.
consistently found that even a simple plant in a room can have a significant impact on improving mood. Plants actually boost healing, according to a study at Kansas State University, in which researchers learned that viewing plants during recovery from surgery can lead to a significant improvement in physiological responses.
Nature Imagery
Amazingly, just looking at pictures of nature scenes can make us feel similar to actually spending time outdoors. Spending time in nature can also make us feel more compassionate and connected to others. Scientists have observed brain activity using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and discovered that when we view scenes from the natural environment, the parts of their brain associated with empathy and love light up.
How To Bring More Nature Inside
If your kids are experiencing the winter blues, try some of these ideas to brighten up their day: • Display plants and colorful flowers throughout your house. • Decorate your house with awe-inspiring images of nature. Collect gorgeous pieces from famous photographers like Ansel Adams and Philip Hyde or start a family hobby of taking pictures of nature that you love to display throughout your house. • Start an indoor garden of herbs and flowers. • Play nature sounds in your home, especially at bedtime. • Visit indoor sanctuaries of nature such as an arboretum, butterfly garden, botanical garden, greenhouse, science museum, or aquarium. • Watch nature shows, movies, and documentaries as a family. • Hang out in places with large windows and skylights to allow more natural light in. ESP
Nature Sounds
Listening to nature can also help relax us and improve our mood. One study explored how nature sounds affect people’s mental and physical health and found that those who listened to ocean waves had considerably lower muscle tension, heart rates, and stress. These positive changes occurred quite rapidly–within five to seven minutes of listening to the sounds of nature. Keep in mind that the best sounds are those that give a sense of natural space and mimic the biorhythms of an ecosystem like a forest. Loud chirping and croaking is just not going to cause the same calming feelings as sounds of water, which are very soothing because of their slow, rhythmic whooshing noises.
Plants
Sandi Schwartz is a freelance writer/blogger and mother of two. She has written extensively about parenting, wellness, and environmental issues. You can find her at www.happysciencemom.com.
Plants and flowers have long been known to cheer people up. Research done in hospitals, offices, and schools has
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Grading Family Movies: Streaming, Digital Rentals, and DVDs The Croods: A New Age
ng
100% Wolf
Overall
Violence
Sex
Profanity
Alcohol/Drugs
PG
A-
B
A
A-
A
Digital on Demand
Rating
Overall
Violence
Sex
Profanity
Alcohol/Drugs
PG
C
B
A-
A-
A
Freddy Lupin is heir to a long line of werewolves and has anticipated transforming for the first time when he turns 13. Something goes terribly wrong on the big day, and the light of the moon turns Freddy into a poodle instead of a wolf. Shunned by his family, Freddy heads out to prove that he has what it takes. This film comes with an engaging premise which is sadly sabotaged by terrible writing and subplot overload. Photo ©Viva Pictures
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ly. -
om
Rating
Seeking a new home, the Croods are delighted to discover a walled in paradise, full of food and free from predators. Already living there are the Betterman family, who consider themselves more evolved than the new arrivals. This is a perfectly adequate (sometimes funny) kids’ movie with solid themes of overcoming prejudices, acquiring humility, and cooperating with others. Photo ©Universal Pictures
.
itan
Digital on Demand
Greenland
Digital on Demand
Rating
Overall
Violence
Sex
Profanity
Alcohol/Drugs
PG-13
B+
C
B+
C-
A-
John Garrity’s bad year is about to get worse – a cluster of asteroids are on a collision course with earth. When they make impact, civilization starts to collapse. As disaster movies go, this is a good choice for teens given its relatively low levels of onscreen death and its solid character development. Photo ©HBO
A California Christmas
Netflix
Rating
Overall
Violence
Sex
Profanity
Alcohol/Drugs
PG-13
C
B
C+
B
C
Handsome and rich, Joseph has a cushy job with his mom’s business – and one critical task. He’s got to persuade a beautiful young farmer to sell her family’s land. Since normal strategies have failed, Joseph poses as a ranch hand to get to know her better. This is great for confirmed fans of the Christmas romance genre but it’s probably not going to be a big hit for anyone else. Photo ©Netflix
Modern Persuasion
Digital on Demand
Rating
Overall
Violence
Sex
Profanity
Alcohol/Drugs
PG-13
B-
A-
B-
B+
C
Wren is a successful PR professional who’s faced with a daunting task – creating a marketing campaign for a new app designed by the man she broke up with after college so she could focus on her career. Based on Jane Austen’s classic novel, “Persuasion”, this story of steadfast love and second chances lacks Austen’s wit and irony but serves up a fairly unremarkable romance flick. Photo ©Samuel Goldwyn Films
Monster Hunter
Digital on Demand
Rating
Overall
Violence
Sex
Profanity
Alcohol/Drugs
PG-13
D
D
A
C
B
While searching for the missing members of Team B, the US Army Rangers of Team A get sucked into an electrical storm that whisks them away to a new world. And it’s not just any world – this one is filled with giant, bloodthirsty monsters. Violent, bloody, and excessively gory, this isn’t a good choice for viewers of any age. . Photo ©Screen Gems Grades range from: A= absence of content concerns to D= excess of content concerns Detailed reviews available at www.parentpreviews.com 51
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Making Your Financial Resolutions Stick in 2021 Q. One of my resolutions last year was to start living on a budget, and gain control of my money. I never realized how easy it would be to get discouraged early on. Can you give me some encouragement to help make my financial resolutions stick in 2021? A. The secret to making a goal into a reality is getting started. It’s really that simple. You also have to be realistic and accept the fact that nothing—especially things you’ve never done before—works out perfectly the first time around. That leads to the next step, which is patience. Most people think about losing 20 pounds, and immediately feel it needs to happen in the next month or so. It doesn’t. And mostly likely, it won’t. Like almost everything else worth doing,
Eastern Shore Parents I January 2021
it’s something that requires sacrifice and focus each day over an extended period of time. Crash courses are usually painful and rarely work out well. But once you’ve done something a few times, it becomes an easier and easier part of your daily routine. Pretty soon, it’s not a chore or something you’re afraid of. Making a budget and gaining control of your finances works the same way. When you first create a money plan, it probably won’t work out exactly as you hoped. That’s okay. It will barely work the second month, but it won’t be as
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scary, because you’ve already done it once. By the third month, you’ll have a much better feel for it, and your stress levels will go way down because you already know the basics. It just takes determination, patience, and intensity to get through the rough patches that go along with starting anything new. Don’t fall into the same old trap. Give yourself a little grace, but keep your eyes on the prize. It may feel like things are beginning slowly, but you can make this happen if you’ll just stick with it!
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