Eastern Shore Parents - January 2022

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SOMETHING TO SMILE ABOUT At Glass Orthodontics, you’re more than just another face you’re a unique person and our team values that. With one dedicated doctor and a hands-on team, everyone will know your name! Consultations are always complimentary and we offer flexible appointment and interest free payment plans.

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With four locations to serve you, there is always something to smile about at Glass Orthodontics.

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D A P H N E • A T M O R E • B AY M I N E T T E • B R E W T O N Eastern Shore Parents I January 2022

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Volume 14 Number 8

Columns 4 Publisher’s Note Lynn Knighton

Parenting Teens

New Year’s resolutions to improve relationship with your teen.

Help Your Child Enjoy Daycare or Preschool A prescription for smooth days.

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8 Kids Say the Wisest Things Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA

16 Kids Health Watch

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Sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics

42 Tweens, Teens and Screens Kristi Bush, LSW

2022 Child Care Guide Our detailed listing of daycares, preschools, and MMO programs.

Fun Games That Teach

15 games that teach kids spelling and reading comprehension.

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60 Dave Says Dave Ramsey

Departments On The Cover Hayes Naman (2) and Jackson Naman (4), sons of Jake and Danielle Naman. Grandparents are Phil and Laurie Lemonds, John and Kim MacNaughton, and Steven and Julie Naman.

Jackson likes dinosaurs, superheros and loves playing outside.

Hayes enjoys riding his bike, music, and snack time.

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Bits and Pieces 18

School Bits 52

Book Reviews 54

Family Calendar

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Publisher’sNote The Eastern Shore’s Foremost Parenting Source

I hope everyone had an amazing holiday season filled with lots of family and friends. After having more limited holiday celebrations last year, it certainly was wonderful to attend more parties, and gather with extended family. One of our favorite things to do as a family is to play games. Every year we make sure we get at least two new games for Christmas, usually some type of board game and a smaller one we can keep in the “game bowl” on the coffee table (cards, Bananagrams, Dog Pile, Bells, etc). Last year we bought Rummikub and Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza.

I was excited to play Rummikub because I love numbers and felt I could do pretty well. Boy, was I wrong!

My kids beat me every.single.time! It is a great game of strategy, math and memory, all skills I feel I have. Apparently, I need a lot more practice. When we pulled out Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza I thought, “This is where I will get them.” After all, adults pay way better attention than kids, right? WRONG! They skunked me at that game too! It was absolutely hilarious though. I laughed until I cried. Win or lose, playing games with the family is always a fun time and great for young brains... and my aging brain! Playing games not only creates fun family memories, but also encourages different skills like math, reading, memory, communication and more. In this month’s issue, we have included Kimberly Blaker’s feature, 15 Games That Teach Kids Spelling & Reading Comprehension, on page 50. She has some great suggestions for games at home or on the go!

Speaking of education, the month of January typically kicks off the season of school registrations. Many schools, daycares and preschools open registration for the next school year this month. Some families may be getting ready to enroll their children in preschool for the first time, while others may be starting a new job or moving to the area and are looking into daycare options. This decision can be a really tough transition for families, but once everyone is settled into the new routine, it can be a very positive experience for both the parents and the children. For some encouraging news on the benefits of childcare and tips to help your family transition through this change more smoothly, check out Sandra Gordon’s feature, Help Your Child Make the Most of Daycare and Preschool on page 44.

One of the first steps in choosing a center is to make a checklist of your must haves, hope to haves, and additional questions to ask when you visit the center for a tour. Once you have your checklist you will want to flip over to page 47 where you will find a list of local centers in the Child Care Directory. This directory includes every daycare, preschool, and mom’s day out program that we could find in the area. As I say every year, child care is not a one size fits all. Make sure you do your research to find a good fit for you and your child.

Whether you are researching daycares, checking out the latest local activities or looking for family game night suggestions, I hope you enjoy this month’s issue.

Wishing you and your family a year filled with peace, health and joy!

Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@easternshoreparents.com Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@easternshoreparents.com Associate Editor Kelly Watson Research Editor Christa Weinberg Contributing Writers

Kimberly Blaker Kristi Bush, LSW Sandra Gordon Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA Cheryl Maguire Dave Ramsey Robert L. Rux, M.D.

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

lynn@easternshoreparents.com

Eastern Shore Parents I January 2022

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.

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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 2022 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.

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by Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA

“Who Made Communication So Hard?” (Part 1) Steven Covey coined the famous phrase, “The biggest communication problem is we do not listen to understand.

We listen to reply.” Communication is the number one problem I encounter in family therapy. This obstacle was clearly expressed in a text I received from an exasperated teenage client, “Who made communication so hard?” Such a wise question. I simply responded, “Everyone sweet girl, everyone.”

Miscommunications tend to occur in families for two reasons. First, parents are not communicating on the developmentally appropriate level of their child. Second, parents are talking more than they are listening.

If you want to communicate better with your children, you need to understand how children at each age and stage best receive information. To fully appreciate this, we have to explore the cognitive and emotional

development at each stage. This month, we are going to focus on birth to age 6.

Talking alone is not how children at this age learn. Think about teaching a 6-month-old to play “peek a boo”. You hold his little hands in yours and go through the motions. One day, the child starts to cover his eyes on his own. It took your words and physical guidance for him to learn. Apply this approach to everything done with a child of this age. Do not simply say what you want them to do. Getting dressed, picking up toys, homework, etc. are all going to require your words and physical guidance for the child to fully understand and comply.

We all want an obedient toddler. There is no better way to teach your child to comply than to physically help them follow through and praise them for doing what you asked.

We Are Open!

Indoor Walking Track: 7am - 5pm Mon - Fri Pickleball (Open Gym - all are invited): Tues. 8am-11am, Thurs. 8am-11am, & Sun. 2:00 - 4:30pm.

The Fitness Room 7am - 5pm Mon.-Fri.

Children at this age are just becoming aware of their emotions and do not know how to communicate them without screaming or crying. It is NORMAL for them to be overly emotional and illogical.

It takes time to learn how to communicate and handle these complex feelings. How do we teach them? The same approach: words and physical guidance. When your child is sad that she can’t have a cookie, pick her up and say, “I am so sorry you are sad that you can’t have the cookie, but you have to eat the chicken first.” That way you are teaching her to name her emotion and express it calmly with words. In teaching children to handle emotions you can also use games. Say an emotion and have your child make a face to express it. Have them practice “healthy” ways to express emotions by acting and saying their feelings in appropriate ways. Just say, “Pretend you are angry, what could you do?” Give them verbal hints to use calm words to express what made them angry and then physically encourage them to scribble, take a walk, or throw pillows to get out their frustration.

The bottom line to communicating well with children this age…do not just talk. You are going to have to use lots of gestures and physical guidance to ensure they fully understand what you are saying.

Dr. Beth Long received her education in Counseling Psychology from Chapman University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Certified Behavior Analyst.

Beth has worked in six unique clinical environments across the country and currently owns Works of Wonder Therapy in Montgomery. Beth utilizes the knowledge from a variety of different disciplines to give her patients the best care possible. To learn more visit www.worksofwondertherapy.com.

Tuesdays, 8am-11am, Thursdays, 8am-11am & Sundays from 2pm -4pm Come check out our refurbished Gym floor, with freshly painted lines and adjusted courts to assist in avoiding the baskeball goals! There are three weekly options available to play and learn!

See the days and times above. Pickleball is a great sport for all ages and playing levels.

155 South Section St • Fairhope, AL • 251-928-1148 • www.fairhopeumc.org • CLC Hours: Monday - Friday, 7am - 5pm Eastern Shore Parents I January 2022

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Fairhope Girls Softball Registration

Fairhope Girls Softball will be registering for the new season in January.

Registration is open to girls 4 - 18.

For more information or to register visit www. fairhopegirlssoftball.com. Also, "Like" on Facebook for updates: www.Facebook.com/ fairhopegirlssoftball

Fairhope Public Library Announces FREE Mini Maestros Program

Beginning January 2022, Fairhope Public Library will be offering a FREE Mini Maestro program. Dr. Rachael Hendricks, Youth Services staff member, has a PhD in music and she will begin teaching a music theory class for K-5th at the library every other Saturday from 10:00-10:45 AM. Dr. Rachael will introduce new instruments, different sounds, music theory, music history, and highlight our music-themed books. The idea is not to teach kids HOW to play one instrument, but to introduce them to a variety of music concepts in a fun group setting. Being a library program, it’s completely free and open to anyone in kindergarten – fifth grade. For more information visit www.fairhopelibrary.org or call (251) 929-1465.

2022 Living History Crew Schedule Announced

The USS ALABAMA and USS DRUM Living History Crew schedule has been set for 2022. These WWII historical reenactors drill at Battleship Memorial Park six times a year, bringing the stories of the crewmen who served during WWII to life. Among the activities presented during drill weekend are posting of the Colors aboard the USS ALABAMA, special displays, presentations, weapon demonstrations, and a mock battle attack. The highlight of the drill is the 1:00 p.m. call to battle stations and mock battle attack. Be on the main deck of the USS ALABAMA to watch vintage airplanes attack the battleship and the crew defend her. The men will fire the 20mm and 40mm guns, defending the ship.

The 2022 dates are Saturdays: February 19, April 16, June 4, August 13, October 1, December 3.

Living History Crew drill is included in regular admission to the park. uss.alabama.com/get-involved/living-history-crew/.

USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park opens at 8:00 a.m. and closes at 5:00 p.m., with the last ticket of the day sold at 4:00 p.m.

Fairhope Elementary School Pirate Dash 2022

Register today for the 2022 Pirate Dash 5K & 1-Mile Fun Run to benefit Fairhope East Elementary, Fairhope West Elementary and J. Larry Newton Elementary Schools. In its 7th year, the 5K route takes place February 12, 2022. Participants will be taken through the Fruit & Nut District of downtown Fairhope and finished along beautiful Mobile Bay. The 1-Mile Fun Run is an out and back route along Bayview Avenue. Visit runsignup.com and search Pirate Dash 5K to register by February 4. For more information find us on Facebook, Instagram or contact us at thepiratedash@ gmail.com or call 251-648-2122.

Young Authors' Conference and Magazine Publications

The Metro-Mobile Literacy Council is now accepting submissions to our 2022 Young Authors’ Anthology (grades 3-5) and Teen Magazine (grades 6-8). The deadline to submit writing is January 28th. We know this has been a tough year, but we hope these publications will offer students a chance to participate in something positive that celebrates their talents. You can find the submission forms on our website at https://metromobilelit.weebly.com/ Eastern Shore Parents I January 2022

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ES Medical Alliance King Cake Sale

King Cakes are a unique part of the Mardi Gras season and The Eastern Shore Medical Alliance (ESMA) members are selling king cakes through February 4th. These aren’t just any king cakes but delicious, fresh, cream cheese filled DELICACIES from New Orleans. Individuals or companies can purchase their king cake(s) from an ESMA member or email esmakingcakes@ gmail.com. You may also check out their Facebook page at ESMA King Cakes for more information. The cakes are $30 and must be pre-ordered. They will be available for pick up February 14th and 15th.

The Eastern Shore Medical Alliance is an organization that brings together physicians and their spouses to support the local needs of the Baldwin County community. www.easternshoreparents.com

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Fly High Goose Foundation Makes Donations

The Fly High Goose Foundation has enjoyed a very busy and fulfilling month in support of local students and a non-profit organization. The Foundation was formed in the memory of Adrian “Goose” Johnson, a 19-year old Stockton resident who died in a tragic vehicle accident in 2019.

Members of the Foundation delivered 70 copies of the book “The Day the Goose Got Loose” to Loxley Elementary School second graders.

Each student received their very own copy of the book.

“It was Goose’s favorite book when he was young,” his mom Amber Johnson said. “I read it to him all the time and wanted to share with other kids who might not be aware of such a cute book.”

The Foundation also made a $6,000 donation to Camp ASCCA which enables children/adults with disabilities to enjoy the outdoors through activities such as boat riding, tubing, canoeing & fishing, among others.

Although Camp ASCCA is in Jackson’s Gap, they have served nearly 150 Baldwin County families in the past few years. It’s a cause that the family feels would have been important to Goose. “Goose loved the outdoors. He would have lived outdoors if we would have let him,” his mom said. “We wanted to give other children or adults – who might not have the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors because of their disability – a chance to experience what Goose loved so much.”

Earlier this year, the Foundation made a donation to the Baldwin County High School Fishing Team and raised funds to award a 16- by 7-foot wrapped enclosed trailer to Hope Outdoors, a local non-profit organization that ministers to individuals with special needs through outdoor experiences such as hunting and fishing at no cost to the participant or their family. To learn more about this service, visit hopeoutdoors.org.

The mission of the Fly High Goose Foundation is “To inspire generations and enrich the lives of youth by demonstrating and supporting activities for those who love the outdoors. We give back to the community and surroundings areas to honor and respect the life of one who had a heart for service and helping others.” Since its inception, the Foundation has provided funding to several local projects, schools and non-profit organizations with plans to continue that legacy of giving in the future.

His mom said that the Fly High Goose Foundation is “committed to picking up where Goose left off and committed to making a difference no matter how big or small. Thank you to ALL of our supporters -without you we would not be able to do what we do!” Members of the Foundation’s Board of Directors include Amber Johnson, Kelly Johnson, Bridget Wilson, Carla Stewart, Sandra Lynn, Madison Steel and Tanner Boots.

To learn more about the Foundation, visit flyhighgoose.com.

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Fundraiser Helps GFWC Jubilee Woman’s Club Deliver Needed Help to Local Groups

Whether it is funding a new shelter for human trafficking victims, helping veterans or supplying toys for children at Christmas, GFWC Jubilee Woman’s Club is on the front lines offering community support to those in need.

Funding these projects requires resources, and the club hopes you can help it continue to make a difference. GFWC Jubilee Woman’s Club members are selling Boston butts for a Super Bowl delivery.

The Boston butts are $45 each and must be preordered from club members. The deadline for orders is Feb. 1 and Boston butts can be picked up from 4 to 6 PM February 10 at Fastimes in Daphne.

One of the new projects adopted by the club this year was support for Camille Place, a new shelter for victims of human trafficking.

“We are excited to help with Camille Place,” said Rachel Seiselmyer, GFWC Jubilee outreach chairman.

“This new shelter will provide housing and medical and psychological services. In addition, the young women, ages 12 to 18, will be taught life skills and academic subjects.“

Camille Place is just one of the projects GFWC Jubilee assists with funds and in-kind donations and services. In 2020 and 2021, the group worked with the veterans’ cemetery in Spanish Fort to supply and decorate wreaths, created fidget pillows for people with sensory impairments, worked to improve the garden at the Marietta Johnson Museum and supplied two little free libraries, one in Silverhill and one in Fairhope. Club women donated toys for North Baldwin White Christmas the past two years and furnished meals for homeless women. The group also participated in the Diabetes Walk for Camp Seale Harris this past year.

For more information about buying a Boston butt or the club’s activities, please contact jubileegfwc@gmail.com Photo: Rachel Seiselmyer, club member and chairman of The Camille Place Project, has her vehicle loaded with snacks and water donated by GFWC Jubilee club members. The club provided these supplies several times throughout the year for volunteers and crew members working on the new shelter that will be used to offer housing for human trafficking victims. You may also leave a message on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/505998122818975

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FEEF Holds Ground-breaking Ceremony

The Fairhope Educational Enrichment Foundation recently held their ground-breaking ceremony at their site on the Historical Fairhope K-1 Center property. FEEF’s goal is to “Preserve the Past” and “Prepare the Future.” FEEF plans to “Preserve the Past” by renovating and expanding FEEF’s signature project, the award-winning Pelican’s Nest Science Lab. The Pelican’s Nest has a rich 25-year history of engaging Baldwin County K-6 Students in STEAM learning opportunities by visiting, researching and learning the ecology of Mobile Bay. Other preservation plans include an Alabama Certified Wildlife Federation Outdoor Classroom and learning center to include a butterfly garden, turtle habitat, bird sanctuary and many other hands-on learning stations.

The plans for “Preparing the Future” include building an outdoor classroom structure and renovation of four former classroom buildings targeted to students in grades 7-12 with unique possible learning opportunities to include: an energy canopy, climatology, robotics, eco art, living art wall, an innovation center to be used for creative arts, teacher and community education space.

Renovation and expansion will create one central location, repurposing of a historic site in downtown Fairhope, giving Baldwin County students more hands-on learning opportunities and resources thereby giving a new generation the creative and scientific tools to tackle the future.

For more information about the “FEATHER THE NEST” Capital Campaign or Building Project, please visit FEEFonline.org.

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IMPACT 100 Kicks off 2022 Membership Campaign

Impact 100 is now recruiting women to join its organization for 2022. The nonprofit is comprised of women who believe in improving our communities through action. Since its inception in 2008, Impact 100 has awarded over $4 million in grants to Baldwin County nonprofits.

“Our members come from diverse backgrounds, are of different generations and have varying financial means,” said Membership Chair Lucy Smith. “Joining is a wonderful way to not only give back but also to learn more about our area and to meet new people along the way.”

Membership is open to all women at least 18 years old who can make a $1,000 membership donation by March 31st. Every penny of the donation goes toward grant awards, and payment installments are an option. To find out more about this organization and to join, visit the Impact 100 website, www.Impact100BaldwinCounty.org.

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Reese’s Senior Bowl Week

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The Reese’s Senior Bowl is excited to announce our public events for Senior Bowl Week 2022. Practices are again open to the public Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday at Hancock Whitney Stadium. Practice times each day are as follows; National Team 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM and American Team from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM. Join us Tuesday February 1st at the annual Senior Bowl Summit held at the Saenger Theatre at 6:00 PM. This event brings together top college coaches from Alabama, Auburn, Penn State, Texas, and more! This is a fun and lighthearted panel discussion with coaches sharing stories from life in football including recruiting stories, best players, favorite memories and more. This is going to be a family friendly event and a MUST for the rabid college football fan! More info at https://www.seniorbowl.com/fan-events/game-day/ Friday, February 4th starting at 6:30 PM, we host the annual Mardi Gras Player Parade followed by a FREE concert at 7:30 PM downtown featuring Portugal the Man. The parade will proceed from the Renaissance Hotel, North on Royal to Dauphin where we will turn West on Dauphin.

Saturday, February 5th, join us on-campus beginning at 11:00 AM for tailgating, Senior Bowl Fan Fest, The Florida A&M Marching 100, Senior Bowl Team Walk, and the 73rd annual Senior Bowl kicking off at 1:30 PM. Purchase your tickets now at www.seniorbowl.com/tickets.

Girl Scouts Kicks Off 2022 Girl Scout Cookie Season

Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama kicked off the 2022 Girl Scout Cookie Season in Southern Alabama. Girl Scouts are now selling the new Adventurefuls, an indulgent brownie-inspired cookie with caramel-flavored crème and a hint of sea salt, and an incredible taste of adventure in every bite. Adventurefuls joins the whole portfolio of iconic Girl Scout Cookies.

This season, many Girl Scouts will run outdoor cookie booths that follow local, state, and CDC guidelines while still getting everyone’s favorite cookies to their customers. Consumers can enter their zip code to purchase cookies online from a local troop for direct shipment or donation to local causes. • If you don’t know a Girl Scout, visit www.girlscoutcookies.org, text COOKIES to 59618*, or use the official Girl Scout Cookie Finder app for free on iOS or Android devices to find socially distant or contact-free cookie booths if they are available in your area. • Find a cookie booth near you at local retail stores beginning January 14.

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Mobile and Baldwin County’s Board Certified Allergy Experts coastalallergyasthma.com

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8th Annual Run for Shep

On August 23, 2013 our lives were forever changed by hearing the words “Shephard has cancer.” No child should ever have to suffer from such a horrible disease!

Though some view it as not the most ideal of circumstances, we knew from the very beginning that God was going to use Shep’s cancer for His glory. We’ve been blessed every step of the way.

We are passionate about helping families in the area who have a child battling cancer, therefore we started Shephard’s Flock, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. The families we support have childhood warriors who are battling cancer at USA Children’s and Women’s hospital in Mobile. The Run for Shep is currently our largest fundraiser. We have been overwhelmed by all of the support from local businesses and families for the past 8 years of the race (we missed last year because of COVID.) The money raised has always helped local families with the non-medical expenses (food, gas cards, groceries, etc.) related to treatment. We have also been able to provide the patient treatment areas at the hospital with iPads and several other distraction therapies. We are really excited about the opportunity to give back to the community that has blessed us by giving so much during Shep’s time in treatment.

The Run for Shep will be held in downtown Daphne on Saturday, January 22, 2022. There will be jump houses, food, face painting, corn hole, games, characters and much more! 5K start time: 9AM, ½ mile Fun Run: 10AM. Early packet pickup for participants and late registration will occur at the Bounds Family YMCA from 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM on Friday, January 21. Race Day packet pickup/ registration and check-in will occur at the Registration tents located in front of Daphne City Hall from 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM on January 22. All 5K registrants will receive a short-sleeve shirt. In order to guarantee a shirt, all registrations must be completed and received by January 7, 2022.

Winter Wednesdays

10:30 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore , AL, 36582 Even during the cold season, Bellingrath Gardens is filled with blooms and beauty.

Gulf Coast residents and visitors are invited to join us at our Winter Wednesdays series in January and February for sessions on gardening, history and more. Environmental filmmaker Ben Raines – The award-winning director and environmental writer will give an update on his latest adventures, including the discovery of the Clotilda, the last known slave ship to arrive in the United States.

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics

A Current Age Debate: Preschool or Not? Hey guys! All of you have talked with your child’s health care provider about milestones, and there are milestones for lots of different areas: gross motor, fine motor, social, and speech. We all think about sitting up, walking, babbling, smiling and talking.

But what about some group social skills and exposures to stressors and illnesses? For example, how does a child learn to share or take turns? What about separation anxiety and learning how to cope when a parent is not there? And what about illness exposure and your child’s immune system? Let’s address some ideas about getting young kids exposed to other kids and some pros and cons about the exposure!

First, it is vitally important for kids to have peer exposure at all ages. Whether it’s through large group daycares, inhome daycares, half-day preschools, full day preschools, Mother’s Day Out, church nurseries or play groups, they have to learn how to interact with others in terms of playing, speech and communication, sharing, and creative play. One of my favorite things I used to ask my kids was what they did at school that day. I oftentimes got fantastic stories of playing Batman on the playground or playing “baby doll” with Annie and Mrs. Becky! And what about things like art projects, music and dancing. I love to see how kids express themselves both individually and in the group when they do projects.

Eastern Shore Parents I January 2022

Finally, it’s critical for all kids to learn expected social behaviors. Taking turns, waiting in line, sharing, not hitting or biting, and not always getting your way or what you want are all so important in the development of a child. I’ve been asked time and time again how to stop temper tantrums when a child wants something. Here’s the trick: it’s expectations! If you give them everything they want, then they will expect it every time. So…stop doing that! I believe that group exposures can help temper unreasonable expectations and let them have a more reasonable outlook!

So, you’ve decided to send your kid to get some group/peer exposure. You walk them in to the classroom on the first day and your kid freaks out. I mean FREAKS OUT. The non-stop crying, flailing of arms and legs, giving you those terrified puppy eyes. So what should you do? Take them home immediately right?? Wrong! It is a normal response for a child to have some separation and stranger anxiety and for them to be upset. But, it is very important for them to learn how to adjust to these exposures in a healthy way. Just think, it’s the first day of kindergarten and you walk them in, and as you leave, it’s meltdown city! Believe me, it’s much, much easier to deal with a two year old not wanting to be at Mother’s Day Out than a 5 year old in kindergarten. I’ve seen both, trust me!

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Finally, an article was recently published in the journal Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine by Sylvana M. Cote basically stating that kids who attend daycare or preschool get more colds when they are young, but have less colds when they are school age. And, the flipside is true: kids who do not attend any daycare or preschool have less colds when they are young, but have more colds when they are school age. So, from an academic standpoint, it’s better to miss daycare or preschool then actual kindergarten and first grade!

I’m not saying you have to put your kids in daycare. All I’m saying is it is a really good idea to get your kids exposed to other kids so they can learn vital social behaviors, figure out how to react when you are not with them, and finally, to catch a cold or two! If you have questions, please talk to your healthcare provider and check out resources at AAP.org.

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 SFHS Students Attend Baldwin County Hour of Code at Model UN Conference J. Larry Newton

Students from Spanish Fort High school had a great experience at the Baldwin County Model United Nations Conference.

Ashleigh Bock chaired ECOFIN (Economic and Financial Committee) and won best chair; Eren Kacar chaired SOCHUM (Social and Humanitarian); Carolyn Lippold-Vice President of the General Assembly; Krista Hull (not pictured) won Premiere Speaker delegating for Russia on the Security Council.

J. Larry Newton students recently celebrated Hour of Code, a onehour introduction to computer science that promotes critical thinking, problem solving and collaboration. Olivia Speer, a second grader in Mrs. Bowman’s class is pictured walking Avery Bishop, a first grader in Mrs. Vivar’s class, through her first coding challenge.

BCHS Holds Scavenger Hunt for Food Items

Baldwin County High School National Honor Society members held a food drive scavenger hunt recently. The students were divided into groups and each was given a list of items to collect from friends and neighbors. All items collected will be donated to Prodisee Pantry for distribution to families in Baldwin County during the holiday season. The NHS members appreciate all who contributed to the success of this community service project.

SFHS Volleyball Team Wins Academic Award AGAIN

BMMS Spelling Bee Winners

Congratulations to Damien Langham on winning first place at the Bay Minette Middle School Spelling Bee! Noelani Raybon was the runner-up.

Damien will now represent BMMS at the countywide spelling bee early next year!

Reno’s Reptiles Visits Cub Scout Pack

Congratulations to Volleyball Coach Gretchen Boykin for winning the ACVA Team Academic Award. She has actually won this award several years in a row for having a team GPA above 3.5.

Most measure the success of a coach in win and losses, but when you win, you make a difference in the lives of your players, AND you hold them to a high academic standard, that is truly what all desire from those who coach our children.

Congratulations Coach Boykin! So thankful to have you there to get the best out of our students! GO TOROS!

Cub Scout Pack 177 of Spanish Fort had special guest Reno's Reptiles visit. Dad and den leader, Tim Dozier, with son, Oliver Dozier, of Tiger scouts got to learn about and hold a skink.

Health Science Classes Offer Hands-on Practice at NBCT

Health Science students at North Baldwin Center for Technology are participating in hands-on practice in order to perfect their phlebotomy skills, under the guidance of teacher Jessica Stanford. NBCT serves students from Baldwin County High, Daphne High and Spanish Fort High Schools as well as the Baldwin County Virtual School Program. Applications are available now for those interested in taking Health Science courses at NBTech for the 2022-23 school year. To apply visit www.bcbe.org/nbct and then scroll down to 'NBCT School News' and choose the appropriate tab.

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UWA Seeking Non-Education Candidates with Passion for Teaching

The University of West Alabama is launching Project REACh, a program ideal for those with a bachelor’s degree without teaching certification, but who are interested in improving children’s futures through education. Project REACh is a teacher residency program that aims to improve the critical teacher shortage in high-need schools in Alabama. The program was developed to address challenges such as increasing teacher turnover, teaching outside of qualified content areas and low student achievement in three Alabama counties. Qualifying teacher residents will receive a $45,000 stipend during the residency, which funds the cost of living in one of three school districts as they take part in an immersive learning experience. Learn more about the Project REACh program from UWA by clicking this link Project REACh not only provides a $45,000 stipend to teacher residents, it also incorporates an M.Ed. degree, a rigorous professional development training component and an induction program thereafter, which supports teachers in their new roles. Based on content areas of interest, the Master of Science in Education degree can include an emphasis in one of the following areas: • Early Childhood Education • Elementary Education • English Language Arts Education • History Education • Mathematics Education • Science Education • Special Education • Teaching residents will gain content knowledge and teaching experience coupled with inquiry-based instruction methods.

Daphne HS Students Visit Federal Courthouse

Students in Daphne High School Trojans Mrs. Hudgins’ history classes toured the Federal Courthouse in Mobile. They were able to sit in on a court hearing, tour the holding cells, and participate with a Q & A with a defense attorney, federal judges, prosecutors, probation officers, and US Marshals.

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St. James Episcopal Christmas Program

Autauga County Schools St. Michael Catholic HS Receives Car Donation for Drivers Ed

St. Michael has a new drivers ed car! Thanks to our friends John & Jen Blanchard at Gulf Chrysler Dodge Jeep - we now have our very own car (Jeep Patriot - Cardinal red in color) for students for years to come! Very thankful for this gift that will be used multiple times to educate our students. Many thanks to Terry Thompson Chevrolet for loaning us Drivers Ed cars for the last 5 years and for outfitting this one with a brake! Pictured are sophomores Mary Hart Watson, Jenna Thompson & Molly Helton.

Merry Christmas and happy holidays from St. James Episcopal School! Our Christmas program was presented in the Church for family and friends. Pictured are some of our first and second graders in the nativity scene.

Toys for Tots at Renaissance School

Renaissance School student’s third Toys for Tots drive is a success!

Great job, Adam!

Programs for all ages

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Bayshore Christian Participates in Fairhope Christmas Parade

Bayside Academy’s Lighting of the Trees

On December 1, Bayside Academy held its inaugural Lighting of the Trees on The Bluff. It was an enchanted evening filled with hot chocolate, cookies, band concerts, and caroling, and there was even a surprise visit from Santa Claus!

What an amazing time Bayshore Christian School students had during this year's Fairhope Christmas Parade! Thank you to everyone for coming out and cheering on our outstanding athletes! Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor! Romans 12:10

Christ the King Catholic School Hosts November Chess Match

CTKCS was the host for the November chess match. The CTKCS teams won 3, lost 5, and drew 2.

The middle school team is in contention for first place in the league, and our elementary school team is in contention for third place in the league!

Cottage Hill Wins District Scholars Bowl Competition

Cottage Hill Christian Academy won the AISA District I Middle School Scholars Bowl. Team members are Ellie Olsen, Elizabeth Olsen, Dawson Tippens, Walker Jackson, Baylor Jackson, and Morgan Stanton, and they are led by teachers Sarah Olsen and Lindsey Lear.

The team will advance to the AISA State competition in January.

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Autauga County Schools Spanish Fort MS Toys for Tots Drive

Spanish Fort Middle School students and community showed up and stepped up bringing in tons of new, unwrapped toys for Toys for Tots. Thank you to everyone who helped out!

Huge shout out to our Peer Helpers and their sponsors Mrs. Heather Price and Ms. Nigia Bolton for sponsoring this toy drive.

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Students from Daphne Elementary School collected toys for the local Marine Toys for Tots Foundation.

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Aviation Academy Students Weigh Plane

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The Academy at Fairhope Airport Aviation Students getting the opportunity to WEIGH the Plane.

They positioned the weights under the wheels, connected the red, green and yellow cables to the weights and then pushed the plane up on them. These students are so dedicated to learning the skills for their future Aviation career.

Bayshore Christian School Student Signs with Milligan

SEEDS Provides Grants to Local Schools

Congratulations to BCS Senior Virginia Rainer, who signed to swim at Milligan!

We are so proud of you!

Renaissance Students Have Thanksgiving Feast Bayshore Christian School Creates Shark Tank Project

BCS Rhetoric students enjoyed a Shark Tank Project. Students teamed up to create an original product/service, they researched costs, wages, utility cost, profit/losses. Students had to translate their written proposal into an actual sales presentation! Great job students!

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Big thank you to our local educational foundation SEEDS (Educational Excellence in Daphne Schools) for providing several grants this year!

Margaret Sharp received a Student Leadership Opportunities grant from SEEDS which will be used to remove financial barriers for outstanding student leaders to participate leadership programs – Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Summer Seminar, Alabama Governor’s School, and Lott Leadership Institute. Students who complete these programs learn about themselves and their leadership potential while developing a network of young leaders from around the state and beyond.

Griffin Hood received a Multimedia/Digital Film Series grant towards our "This is Daphne" student film project. We appreciate SEEDS, their staff and board, and all the sponsors who help the educators at Daphne High School provide opportunities for our amazing students. www.easternshoreparents.com

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Daphne HS Student Receives Pilot Scholarship

Daphne High School Trojans student and AFJROTC Cadet De La Garza was recently selected to receive a full Flight Academy pilot scholarship to attend a college this summer to learn to fly.

This approximately $26,000 scholarship came from the United States Air Force for deserving AF JROTC students throughout the nation. This is one of only 200 scholarships handed out around the nation.

Cadet De La Garza’s application included physical fitness as well as Aviation Qualifying Testing in addition to other factors. Cadet De La Garza completed the Daphne High School AL-935 AF JROTC Honors Ground School class last year as part of his AF JROTC curriculum offering and passed the end-of-course FAA Ground School Exam in preparation for competing for this scholarship.

Cadet De La Garza is interested in military aviation service after graduating from college.

Volcano Day at CHCA

Mrs. Steedley's sixth grade science class designed, built, and demonstrated active volcanoes as the culmination of their science unit. Student scientists worked in groups and made their presentations to visiting classes of younger students. It was an explosive way to end their unit of study!

STEAM Lab at Fairhope East ES

Fairhope East Elementary students are GLOWING for geometry in the STEAM lab! This week our students investigate 2D shapes, 3D shapes, measurement, area, and perimeter!

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BCEC Prepares Gift Bags for Nurses in Baldwin County Public Schools Baldwin County Education Coalition had the pleasure of preparing these gift bags for the 78 nurses who provide health services for the children in all Baldwin County Public Schools!

Our nurses have gone above and beyond the past two years and we appreciate them so much! We extend our deepest gratitude to the businesses who offered items for the gift bags: OWA, Baldwin County Sewer Service, Bryant Bank, Coastal Alabama Community College, Tanger Outlet, Byrdco Real Estate, Baldwin EMC, & Alabama Credit Union. And a very special thanks to South Baldwin Regional Medical Center for sponsoring their t-shirts!

Foley ES Students “Travel” to England

At Foley Elementary School Miss Bishop’s class traveled to England today for the holidays! We got our passports checked, learned about their traditions for Christmas, what the UK flag stands for. We landed safely back in the USA.

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Future Teacher Scholarship

Baldwin County Public Schools, Human Resources Department, proudly presents the Baldwin Proud Future Teacher Scholarship Program. The mission of the program is to recognize high school seniors who have a goal to enter the field of education and become one of Baldwin County’s future teachers. Please join us, in supporting our 2022 graduating seniors ready to enter the field of education. For information see this link: https://www.bcbe.org/futureteacher

Accepting New Patients Mary Wells, MD • Leslie Evans, MD • Megan Dimoff, MD Dylan Wells, MD • Richard Roh, MD • Gary Nelson, MD

fairhopeobgyn.com • 251.928.1222 19450 South Greeno Road Fairhope, AL 36532 Eastern Shore Parents I January 2022

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Daphne Reading Buddies

Daphne High School Trojans Football team members were special reading buddies at Daphne Elementary School.

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Fairhope MS Basketball Team Wins Tournament

Congratulations to Fairhope Middle School 8th Grade Girls Basketball Team who were tournament champions! Go Pirates!

Send School News and Photos to: lynn@easternshoreparents.com!

Engineering at J. Larry Newton

J. Larry Newton students in Mr. Terry Janes’ class had a great time learning about the engineering process as they designed and built structures to withstand the weight of an encyclopedia for at least 10 seconds.

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Autauga County Schools

Renaissance School’s A Christmas Carol

St. Michael Catholic HS Collects Backpacks for Homeless

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Renaissance School brings Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol to life with a theatrical walk through!

The Mother Teresa Service Club at St. Michael Catholic High School collected 143 backpacks with help from our St. Michael community, Orange Beach High School and Bayside Academy, as part of The Backpack Project for the homeless. Thanks to Sydney Wilhelm and Molly Sims for heading this effort!

Send School News and Photos to: lynn@easternshoreparents.com!

Twelve Daze of Christmas at Spanish Fort Middle School

Spanish Fort Middle School Toro Theater presented The Twelve Daze of Christmas last month. They were magnificent!

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Bayside Academy Freshman Named Mobile Optimist Club’s Runner of the Year

Bayside Academy freshman Annie Midyett was selected by the Mobile Optimist Club as 1A–5A Runner of the Year for Mobile and Baldwin County.

The Mobile Optimist Club recognizes cross country athletes during the season as Runners of the Week and then chooses one male and one female athlete from 1A–5A and 6A–7A as Runners of the Year. Annie was recognized at the Mobile Optimist Club’s luncheon on Thursday, November 18, 2021.

Annie was chosen as Runner of the Year in large part to her 4A State Championship individual win with a new 5K time school record of 18:59. Annie was presented her award by Arthur Mack, a Mobile Optimist Club member who makes the final selections.

Pictured: Bayside Academy freshman Annie Midyett with Mobile Optimist Club member Arthur Mack.

Spanish Fort MS Teacher Receives Golden Apple Award Ms. Heather Hall, teacher at Spanish Fort Middle School, got a surprise visit from WKRG to award her the Golden Apple Teacher of the Month award! The award came soon after she finished the fall Toro Theater performance!

Cosmetology at NBCT

Mrs. DeFee is teaching the North Baldwin Center for Technology Cosmetology students how to do pin curls and finger waves. If you are a BCHS, DHS, SFHS, or BCVS student interested in Cosmetology, NBTech online applications for the 2022-23 school year are now open. Visit our website at https://www. bcbe.org/nbct to apply, just scroll down to 'NBCT School News' and choose the appropriate tab.

Coding at Fairhope West ES

Mrs. Nisewonger’s First Grade class at Fairhope West Elementary is loving Code.org

Youth Leadership Toured Chamber of Commerce

The Fairhope Police Department visited with tomorrow's leaders! Students from the Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce Youth Leadership Program toured the facility and discussed issues with officers during their "Law & Government Day".

GSMS Cheerleaders Attend Walt Disney World Thanksgiving Day Parade

Gulf Shores Middle School 8th graders cheerleaders Portia Hollis, Emmie Johnson, Ella Godbold, and Ella Gilbert were named All-Americans during their time at UCA Summer Camp at the Foley Sports Complex.

They were invited to participate in a special Thanksgiving Day Parade at Walt Disney World.

Learning the Alphabet at Robertsdale ES

Mr. Amos’ students are learning their letters and sounds by playing a Team Sounds letter game.

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X-Ray | Laboratory | Pharmacy

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Autauga County Schools Renaissance School Holds Food Drive

Summerdale School Students Learn How to Shop within a Budget

Middle school math students at Summerdale School learned how to budget during a trip to the Penguin Patch. Students learned how to manage their money while trying to shop under strict financial constraints.

Multimedia at Spanish Fort MS

Spanish Fort Middle 6th grade students in Mrs. Cochran’s 21st Century class are sharpening their multimedia skills. They recorded puppet shows today and are editing them using green screen technology.

Renaissance School student facilitates Prodisee Pantry holiday food drive!

Great job, Nick!

Send School News and Photos to: lynn@easternshoreparents.com!

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Trey Fellers, DMD Board Certified Pediatric Dentist

B footp Visit Us Online - www.DrTreys.com • 303 North Section Street, Fairhope Across from Fairhope Elementary School • Find Us on Facebook at Dr. Trey’s Children’s Dentisty Eastern Shore Parents I January 2022

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Bayside Academy prioritizes a holistic education grounded in the core values of our school. Students expand their footprints on campus by taking advantage of the myriad of opportunities afforded to them and forging their own path through a dynamic, evolving course of study that has become a hallmark of the Bayside experience.

For details, please visit www.baysideacademy.org or call 251.338.6446.

29 www.facebook.com/easternshoreparentsmagazine Bayside Academy is an independent, coeducational, college preparatory day school offering a superior educational opportunity to students in grades PK-12.

Autauga County Schools

Florence B Mathis Students Participate in Robotics Competition

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Florence B Mathis Elementary School Project Jubilee students took part in a Robotics Competition in December.

BCHS ROTC Cadet Selected to Junior ROTC Flight Academy

Congrats to Air Force JROTC cadet Haley Wicker, a student at Baldwin County High School. She has been selected to the Air Force Junior ROTC Flight Academy. Haley is one of just 200 Air Force JROTC cadets worldwide to be selected out of more than 10,000 applicants.

Haley now has the opportunity to attend a university program next summer for 6-8 weeks where she will learn how to fly and earn her Private Pilot Certificate.

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Christ the King Special Thanksgiving Outreach

CTKCS students made over 500 cards and our families donated over 1500 granola bars in a special Thanksgiving outreach for local healthcare workers at Thomas Hospital. Assistant Principal Lisa McDuff and members of the CTKCS leadership team presented the gifts in a livestream event to Thomas Hospital representatives at school on Tuesday, November 23.

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Autauga County Schools 100% of CHCA Seniors Apply to College

100% of the Class of 2022 at CHCA has applied to college. They have worked alongside Mrs. Cindy Hall, Academic and College Advisor, to reach this goal. We are proud of these seniors for taking this step to plan for their future!

Bayshore Christian Swim Team Places 2nd in State

Congratulations to the Bayshore Christian School Lady Eagles for placing 2nd in the state in the 1A-5A Classification! We are so proud of you ladies! Go Eagles!

Send School News and Photos to: lynn@easternshoreparents.com!

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A Christmas to Remember at Daphne ES

SBCT Markets Programs to Foley HS

South Baldwin Center for Technology marketed all their programs to Foley High recently to the entire 10th grade. If the student starts a dual enrollment CTE class in the 11th grade they could possibly graduate with up to 15 credit hours of free college credit in a high demand/high wage technical job field (welding/ automotive /carpentry etc). Go CTE!

We are so proud of the performance of the Daphne Elementary choir. They did a great job at Trojan Hall for A Christmas to Remember.

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Cottage Hill Seniors Attend Mayor’s Breakfast

Mr. Brazell, Head of School, and seven CHCA seniors were invited to attend the annual Mayor's Prayer Breakfast downtown in November.

We are thankful for the opportunity to participate in these events in conjunction with the mayor’s administration.

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Spanish Fort HS Students Study Environmental Problem Mrs. Fleck’s environmental science students have been working on identifying an issue found in a local aquatic ecosystem, proposing a feasible solution to that problem, illustrating the methodology via posters and models, and taking action by writing letters to politicians. These Toros have been busy, and their presentations look incredible!

Project Outreach at Daphne HS

Project Outreach at Daphne High School celebrated the holidays with cookies hot cocoa, and ornament making! So fun!

Belforest ES Students Paint Christmas Angel

Awesome art project with the Christmas Angel, Gabriel! Everyone at Belforest Elementary Art Club enjoyed painting Gabriel with lots of shiny gold metallic and sparkles with heavenly colors. The Daphne colors of Purple and Gold were used a lot.

Fairhope Students Visit Sea Lab

Fairhope East Elementary 6th graders had a great time visiting Dauphin Island Sea Lab. 33

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Autauga County Schools

DHS Football Players Read to Belforest Students

Stapleton ES Kindergartners Attend Play at Daphne Civic Center

So exciting to have Daphne High School football players come and join our Belforest family in getting into the Christmas spirit! These young men read some of their Christmas favorites to our kiddos, and we heard about elf and snowmen adventures from mischievous holiday characters! We love our Trojan family!

Kindergarten students at Stapleton Elementary School sure enjoyed the Peter Pan play they saw at the Daphne Civic Center, not to mention the delicious meal they had at Olive Garden after the show. We're so glad they had such a good time and are so proud of their excellent behavior on the trip!

Send School News and Photos to: lynn@ easternshoreparents.com!

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FHS FBLA Adopts Christmas Angels

Fairhope High FBLA members Samantha Turner, Kate Bezeredi and Savannah Smith add "angels" to the 2021 FBLA Angel Tree. Each year, the student organization adopts several Fairhope "angels" to purchase items from their Christmas list for Christmas. Last year, the student organization purchased Christmas items for 21 Fairhope students with the help of students, other student organizations, faculty, and community donations.

J. Larry Newton Students Visit Dauphin Island

J. Larry Newton 6th graders Lance McKenzie, Baze Alexander, and Bryant McKenzie recently attended a fieldtrip to Dauphin Island with their teacher, Ms. A. Smith. The experience had such an impact on them that they are now working to support ocean cleanup and want to invite you to join their campaign. The boys are hoping to inspire other students and families to care more about taking care of our area and to increase contributions to the site they have chosen to support.

You’re invited to contribute to the campaign or learn more about helping our environment at https://teamseas.org/. Thank you for supporting our students and ocean clean up.

J. Larry Newton Whitley Harrison and Joseph Muller, 6th graders in Mrs. Cassibry’s class, helped clean up Dauphin Island Beach in an effort to reduce human impact on our local environment.

Baldwin County Virtual School Students Make Treats and Letters for Veterans

Fairhope West ES Class Adopts Calf via Zoom

Mrs. Davis‘s class at Fairhope West Elementary has adopted a calf called Lovie! Through Discover Dairy the class will receive updates and do zoom meetings with their host farm! They will get to watch the growth of their calf all year!

Baldwin County Virtual Elementary School fourth grader, Matilda, delivered the treats and letters she and her classmates made to the Veterans Home in Bay Minette. They were very appreciative

Renaissance Students Create Parade Floats Creativity meets learning!

Renaissance School students learn about and create Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade floats.

Science at J. Larry Newton

J. Larry Newton first graders learned about chemical reactions in the Discovery Lab. They made candy canes out of pipe cleaners and added them to a borax mixture which eventually allowed crystals to form. Kamoni FiguerraoRobbins is excited to see how her candy cane crystal is going to turn out!

Winter Wonderland at BCVSS

FHS Class Creates Fishing Lures

Fairhope High Students in Coach Berry’s Outdoor activities class are moving forward with the Airbrushing Lures project. Local lure designer and friend of the Fairhope Fishing team, Green Fish Bait Brewery, donated the Airbrushing system for the students to learn the process of creating new lures or giving new life to old lures.

It was a jolly day at BCVSS! Students and teachers alike enjoyed our Winter Wonderland, which included cookie decorating, games, singing, card making, hot cocoa, and spreading Christmas cheer.

Welding at FHS

Dustin Weinberg and Trey Street are Fairhope High students of Coach Coleman’s Engineering 3 class. They are pictured here working on a recent welding project. Dustin and Trey are some of the best high school welders in the county.

SBCT Students Build Duck Houses

Construction students from South Baldwin Center of Technology students built 28 Cedar duck houses for Gulf Coast RC&D Council.

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Daphne East Students Visit Sea Lab

Autauga County Schools

Mock Job Interviews at St. Michael Catholic

As part of the curriculum of the personal finance elective at St. Michael, students must learn how to be successful in a job interview. Thanks to Mrs. Missy Calvery, Mrs. Jill Roh and Mrs. Elizabeth Thomason (pictured here interviewing senior Luke Edmiston) for their assistance in serving as “mock” employers!

Daphne East Elementary School Project Jubilee took a field trip to Dauphin Island Sea Lab.

A Christmas Carol at Bayshore Christian School

Bayshore friends and family enjoyed a wonderful performance of A Christmas Carol directed by BCS student Abi Doremus!

We are so proud of all of our students that helped bring this fantastic play together!

Bayside Academy Student Wins Best in Show at SALT Alabama Land Trust Photo Competition

Bayside Academy is proud to announce that senior Stillwell Bacon has been awarded Best in Show Overall in the 2021 SALT Alabama Land Trust Photography Competition.

Every year, SALT invites amateur photographers from across coastal Alabama to submit photos that showcase the natural beauty throughout coastal Alabama. More than 400 photographers entered this competition, and in addition to the overall Best in Show award, Bayside students placed or won in five divisions. All winning photos can be seen at https://southalabamalandtrust.org/salt-photo-contest/.

Best in Show: Stillwell Bacon ’22. Junior Cellphone: 2nd Place: Garrek Snell ’26. Junior People in Nature, 1st Place: Luke Ferguson ’25. 2nd Place: Samuel Carpenter ’23. 3rd Place: Anna Grace Spitzer ’25. Junior Habitat, 1st Place: Samuel Carpenter ’23. 2nd Place: Aiden Seward ’25. 3rd Place: Cade Morris ’23. Junior Flora, 1st Place: Caroline Ernest ’28. 2nd Place: Cade Morris ’23. 3rd Place: Allysa Bullock ’24. Junior Fauna, 1st Place: Claire Hamilton ’23. 2nd Place: Sophia Haines ’25. 3rd Place: Sophia Haines ’25. Congratulations to all of these students! Pictured, right, Bayside Academy senior Stillwell Bacon’s winning photograph. Pictured, left, Bayside Academy photography students hold their winning pictures. Front row: Anna Grace Spitzer, Stillwell Bacon, Sophia Haines, and Alyssa Bullock. Back row: Luke Ferguson, Cade Morris, Samuel Carpenter, Garrek Snell, and Aiden Seward. Not pictured: Caroline Ernest and Claire Hamilton.

Florence B. Mathis Students Spread Christmas Cheer to Medical Center Staff

Students from Florence B. Mathis Elementary School spread a little Christmas cheer to the medical staff at South Baldwin Regional Medical Center, in Foley. The idea originated from Isabella, the 2021 Mathis Red Ribbon Week Winner and a member of the school's Peer Helper group.

Students collected breakfast bars, cookies, snacks, popcorn, coffees, and created a special coffee mug to show their appreciation for the health care workers. Students wanted to give back to the medical staff who have worked tirelessly this past year. While delivering the Christmas Cheer baskets students and staff from the school were interviewed by WKRG Debbie Williams Eastern Shore Parents I January 2022

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Autauga County Schools Belforest ES Receives SEEDS Grant

Thank you SEEDS for supporting our Daphne schools! Belforest Elementary received a $6000 grant school-wide grant. This grant will be used to purchase all students Leader in Me workbooks so they can continue learning characteristics of personal leadership. $4000 was provided to individual teachers for various educational materials, such as class books sets, STEAM kits for classrooms, social-emotional learning, and literacy learning materials in special education. Thank you to all our parents who support seeds events! The next event will be the 5K and Fun Run in the Spring!

Daphne HS Students Attend Trumbauer Competition Daphne High School Fine Arts was well represented at the state Trumbauer theater competition with Isabel Davis, Savannah Crawford, Lilah Nagel, Sadie Houston, Addison Ratliff, Eve Woods and Jake Houston in attendance!

STEAM at Fairhope West

Kindergarten and first graders at Fairhope West Elementary are collaborating in STEAM to code Beebot. (sight words, vocabulary, matching, and sequencing a story).

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St. Michael Catholic HS Annual Girls Retreat

The St. Michael Catholic High School annual girls retreat, “Known & Loved” was held recently at Camp Baldwin in Elberta. The girls experienced Mass, Adoration, Confession and small groups talks by guest speakers! Thanks to Miss Melanie Miller and Miss Gabrielle Smith for organizing this special weekend.

Send School News and Photos to: lynn@easternshoreparents.com!

Foley ES Students Make Ornaments for Foley Fire Department

Students from Foley Elementary created beautiful ornaments for the Foley Fire Department. Chloe Crosby is the art teacher at Foley Elementary.

The Fire Department brought a fire truck to pick up the ornaments.

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Foley HS Students Participate in Mock Interviews

Foley High School’s Hospitality and Tourism students participated in Mock Interviews with outside community business partners. The students were critiqued on hand shakes, eye contact, body language, posture, content of answers, their resume, and more. What a great opportunity for these students to get real interview experience! A huge thanks goes to A&R Group, Waterville, Spectrum Resorts, Perdido Beach Resort, Cobalt and Cosmos, and Career Coaches for partnerships and interviewers.

Coding at Loxley ES

Mrs. Stewart’s First Grade class at Loxley Elementary School synergized with Mrs. Cissels 6th grade class to code with Microbits. The students learned how to make the Grinch’s digital heart grow!

Robertsdale HS Christmas Concert

The Robertsdale High School Bear Nation Band did a fantastic job at their 2021 Christmas Concert.

W. J. Carroll Intermediate School Holiday Concert

W. J. Carroll Intermediate School is so proud of the wonderful performances of our choir and band during our Holiday Concert at Trojan Hall. They partnered with Daphne Elementary School choir and Daphne Middle School band to perform some of our favorite carols during our shared concert.

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I’m not a big fan of New Year’s resolutions, but I thought I would embrace change this year. As I reflect back on last year my first thought is, “I survived being a mom to twin teens!” Their fourteenth birthday is in February so this time of year also marks my accomplishment, and yes, I view that as an accomplishment.

If I’m honest with myself, I can also admit there is definitely room for some improvement. Since I know that I can only control my behavior, I plan to focus on what I can do differently as a parent. So here’s my list in no particular order (even though I numbered it—I just like numbered lists).

Winter Lunch Specials at the Mobile Causeway

1. I will encourage my twin teens to be more in-

Tuna BLT | Grilled tuna topped with bacon, lettuce and tomato on sourdough bread. Choice of one side.

Mon. thru Fri. 11am - 4pm

Add a salad bar for 3.99

Monday 8.95

Coconut Shrimp with Piña Colada Sauce. Choice of two sides.

Tuesday 13.95

dependent. During their morning routine, I will remain silent

Wednesday 9.95

without saying, “Hurry up or you will miss the bus!” I will also give them a list of things they are responsible for such as putting away their laundry, cleaning the dishes and packing their lunches.

Down on the Delta | 4 fried green tomatoes topped with popcorn shrimp, fried, grilled or blackened with ya-ya sauce. Choice of one side.

2. I will allow them to fail. This is a tough one for me since I often feel this may somehow be a reflection on me being a bad parent. I also struggle with being a perfectionist. But I realize sometimes “failing” is the only way you learn and grow as a person. So when they ask me to bring to school their forgotten homework or other items my answer will be a hard “no.”

Thursday

9.95

Shrimp Parmesan | Gulf shrimp baked in scampi butter, bacon bits and topped with Parmesan cheese. Choice of one side.

Friday 12.95

3.

Scallops Your Way | Blackened, grilled, fried or broiled sea scallops served with one side.

I will continue to attempt to communicate with them. This year, whenever I tried to ask my teens questions I heard a lot of one word generic responses. When I ask, “How was school today?” often their response is a one word “good” without any other details. After hearing “good” or “nothing” a hundred times, I was tempted to give up trying. But I have been told, by more than one person, I’m tenacious so I tried other methods. I found by asking unusual questions or instead offering information about myself that sometimes I was able to engage in what some may consider a conversation. So I’m going to keep trying because, when it works, it’s worth the effort.

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4. I’m going to nag less and observe more. I never enjoy nagging, and it rarely yields the results I want. After reading articles and interviewing experts, I learned that making observational comments or questions is much more effective. My favorite one which even sometimes elicits a chuckle is, “Are you working hard or hardly working?”

5. I’m going to let them know when they are do-

ing a good job. It’s easy to notice all the things a teen is doing wrong, such as leaving their towel on the floor, staying up too late at night, or eating junk food. It’s harder to point out what they are doing right, such as how they did their homework, helped their sibling, or cleaned their room. I plan to notice at least once a day what they are doing right and let them know how proud I am of them.

One of the reasons I don’t like New Year’s resolutions is because often by March we are back to our old ways. That is why I’m writing it down... to remind us that these goals will help us have a better relationship and hopefully help our teens grow up to be successful adults. ESP Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. She is married and is the mother of twins and a daughter. Her writing has been published in The New York Times, Parents Magazine, AARP, Healthline, Your Teen Magazine, and many other publications. You can find her at Twitter @CherylMaguire05. Originally published on Signature Moms.

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Social Media, Devices and What Our Kids CAN Do If you have kids or teens, you probably have some sort of a new device floating around after the holidays. Maybe a computer, iPad, smartphone, tablet or gaming device. According to research

by Common Sense Media from 2019, 53 percent of kids own a smart phone by age 11. And 84 percent of teenagers have their own phone. With the pandemic, and everyone being moved into the digital space now more than ever, those numbers have gone up. We have relied on our devices to help us navigate school, work, and keep a semblance of connection with one another.

One of the side effects of so much device time means we are normalizing children younger and younger having access to a device. What does that mean for us as parents knowing that we need to protect them in this space?

The conversations with our child about online safety can feel daunting. Overwhelming. Frustrating. The internet is a huge space in which our children can get lost. So our natural inclination is to immediately tell them what NOT to do. Why? Because we feel in bringing up all of the “wrong” things they shouldn’t do, our kids will recognize those wrong things and then simply not do them.

After chatting with thousands of parents and teens, I can tell you that this method doesn’t necessarily work... for parent or child. Why? Because the internet is noisy, and what kids are seeing and doing will drown out any well meaning parent demands of what not to do. More importantly, teens are simply tired of hearing what NOT to do. They hear it everyday. It has now become background noise to them. A steady hum of annoyance that they shake their Eastern Shore Parents I January 2022

heads, agree not to do the “wrong” thing, and move on with their online life.

I always ask students during conferences if they are tired of hearing what “not” to do. I always get a loud, resounding, YES! I then ask if they have ever been told what they “can” do. The majority of them say, NO. If we are going to give them devices, we must tell them what they CAN do. I say all the time, kids are like having a puppy in your home.

The puppy will chew on your furniture or it will chew on the bone that you give it. It’s the same thing with our kids in the online space. They are already doing it, we just simply need to re-direct them to a positive, appropriate place to….chew… if you will. So here are a few tips to help you have a “CAN” conversation with your child.

Research and then teach them the apps they can use. Common Sense Media has a wonderful list of apps by age to help you find ones that are safe. There are apps for meditation and mindfulness. Kids are incredibly stressed and anxious. These apps are geared to teens and they are wonderful for walking them through anxious feelings.

A fun project for you and your teen could be to start an after school or summer business together. Dog walking, baby sitting or grass cutting for instance. You set the business up on Facebook then work as a team answering messages and posting future information. This is a wonderful way to teach them responsibility online, as well as being something you can do together. I tell kids all the time that Facebook may be for old people, but if they want to make some money…then that is the place to be! This will also teach them business skills they need as they get jobs and go to college.

Speaking of, if they have Instagram or Tik 42

Tok, and they are getting ready for college, they can hashtag the schools they are interested in. This will give an insider’s view of what the schools are really like. If they play team sports, using their social media to uplift the team is a wonderful way to use their online time.

Teach them how to explore the world virtually. Do you have a want to be traveler? The possibilities here are endless.

They can “visit” virtually all of the places they want to travel to, make a list, then set goals to see the places in person one day.

Help them set up a blog or a vlog where they can begin to showcase their writing skills. Do you have an author in your home?

The ideas and opportunities to teach them what they CAN do here are endless.

Our kids are inundated with online stressors every day. In teaching them what they CAN do, through conversations about what they are interested in, we can slowly begin to shift the negative direction of online use. They can begin to learn how to prioritize their time, protect their online space, and feel empowered knowing that they decide where to put their virtual energy every day. And what a wonderful way to kick off the new year…with positive, safe interaction online!

Kristi Bush serves as a national education consultant and social media safety advocate.

She is a licensed social worker with greater than 15 years of clinical practice and health care experience.

She attended Troy and Auburn University where she studied social work and counseling. Kristi travels nationally and has spoken with thousands of children, parents, professionals and organizations about the benefits and threats associated with social media. You may reach Kristi through her website at www.knbcommunications.com.

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Besides helping you get work done or caught up on some errands, daycare and preschool present enormous benefits for your child.

Eastern Shore Parents I January 2022

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“Both offer kids experiences they might not get at home, such as exposure to a larger social environment that can help them learn how to get along well with others,” says Cathy Keller, the director of preschool and infant care center. Who knew that 18-month-olds could have friends?

When kids go to daycare and preschool, their schedule tends to fill up with play dates and birthday parties. Developmentally, kids who’ve done at least a year of preschool are more ready to jump into the learning environment of kindergarten, too.

“Preschool is an environment in which kids have the opportunity to use language in many different ways with others who are at the same developmental age,” says Jennifer Kurumada Chuang, the owner of a multi-grade child care center and preschool that serves 225 children and their families. But, overall, preschool helps young naturally-egocentric kids learn how to exist with others in a classroom. “Preschoolers learn how take turns, follow directions, pick up after themselves, stand in line, sit in a circle, raise their hand, use their words to express themselves instead of physically acting out and talk when it’s appropriate,” Kurumada Chuang says. “If they master those social skills in preschool, they’re ready to learn in kindergarten.”

All told, your child’s early learning experiences can set the tone for years to come. To help your child prepare for daycare and preschool and reinforce the lessons he learns there, here’s the homework you can do that can make all the difference.

Ace the Drop-Off Pick the right daycare or preschool. “Separating from mom and dad can be tough for infants, toddlers and preschoolers, though some kids display it more aggressively than others,” says Keller. To make drop-off easier, choose a daycare or preschool you feel good about. “Parents telegraph their comfort and confidence about the school in so many ways to their kids,” says Keller.

If you’re happy with your choice of school and know that your child is in a good learning situation, your child will pick up on your confidence and be okay with it, too, even if he initially doesn’t seem to like going there. And keep in mind that separation anxiety is often more painful for you than your child. “Children are amazingly adaptable,” Keller says.

Manage morning madness. To help make drop-off at daycare or preschool

45

smoother, take the hassle out of your AM. Try doing what you can the night before, when you have more time to think the next day through. For example, fill out permission slips, write any notes to the teacher and checks for daycare or preschool field trips and put them in your child’s backpack or lunchbox. Have your child take her bath or shower too. You can even set the table for breakfast and take out the breakfast cereal, if you want to. You could also check the weather forecast and let your preschooler set out the next day’s outfit.

Stick to a routine. Whether your child is in daycare or preschool, establish a morning routine and stick to it. It might be: wake up, get dressed, eat breakfast, has a short playtime together, double

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check the backpack or lunchbox, and leave the house. Structured routines give children a sense of control. “When they know what’s coming next, they’re less likely to procrastinate or become anxious about going to daycare or preschool,” Keller says.

Make a morning-routine poster for your family and put it in a common area, such as on your fridge. The poster should outline the order of tasks such as dressing, eating breakfast, putting on shoes and socks and brushing hair and teeth. Use pictures to convey the message.

If your child dawdles even with a set routine, move up his bedtime and his wake-up by 15 minutes instead of trying to get him to conform to your schedule. Also, make sure he gets to bed early enough so he’s more apt to be up-and-at-‘em in the morning. Keep in mind that infants 3 to 11 months need 9 to 12 hours of sleep at night and a 30 minute to 4 hour nap one to three times a day. Toddlers need 12 to 14 hours of sleep in 24 hours and preschoolers need 11 to 13 hours of shut eye at night.

Don’t linger. At daycare or preschool, say goodbye to your child calmly, give your child a kiss and hug and tell him when you’ll be back to pick him up (such

as after lunch or his nap). Then walk out the door and let the teacher give your child some lovies so you can make a quick exit. At the end of the day, make sure you’re there to collect your child when you say you will be. “Kids that young can’t tell time, but they will know that if you always pick up after their nap and you’re not there until 5 PM, that’s a big difference,” Keller says. Try to pick up at the same every day, if possible.

School Success Rx Help your child learn to follow directions. Practice at home by giving simple commands, such as “Please help me pick up your toys and put them in the toy box.” Then, encourage your child to follow through by offering an incentive to do whatever it is you’re asking. Tell your child that he can play outside once he’s finished putting his toys away. An incentive helps him understand that following directions makes other fun activities possible. If he doesn’t follow your directions and, for example, put his toys away, calmly explain that he won’t be able to play with those toys for the rest of the day or go to the park. Keep it positive by focusing on how clean the playroom will look when you’re done. Then praise him when he’s successful.

Help your child master sharing and turn taking. From age 3 to 5, children tend to hoard coveted toys and objects. They’re not really ready to grasp the concept of sharing yet. But you can help your youngster practice by having him “take turns” with toys and catching him when he shares on his own. To help him develop the empathy that true sharing requires, state what he did and how it makes others feel, such as: “Thank you for sharing. It makes your sister feel good when you share the ball.” Your child should be able to “own” special or new toys, though, so keep them out of sight on play dates or in his room away from siblings.

Be There at Pick-up Focus on your child. When it’s time to collect your time, be really glad to see her. Make sure you’re not on your cellphone or otherwise distracted. “Pick-up should be all about your child,” Keller says.

“Your child wants to know you’re super glad to see her and that you’ve been looking forward to it all day.” ESP Sandra Gordon is a contributing writer.

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Baldwin County Baldwin County Public School System PreK www.bcbe.org/Page/9446

Community Action Agency of South Alabama Head Start

Baldwin County area, Hours: PreK - Headstart Contact: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 4:00pm info@caaofsa.org www.caaofsa.org

Bay Minette First Baptist Church Child Development Center

1201 Hand Avenue, Bay Minette 36507 Hours: 6 weeks – PreK4, After-school program for elementary school aged children Contact: Monday - Friday 6:00am - 6:00pm Cathy@fbcbm.com www.FBCBM.com

Kinder-Kastle

115 North Dobson Avenue, 36507 Hours: 6 weeks - 4 years Contact: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 5:30pm www.facebook.com/KinderKastleLLC

Visions of North Baldwin Child Development Center 801 West 14th Street, 36507 Hours: 6 weeks - School Age Contact: Monday - Friday 6:30am - 5:30pm

Daphne

Bayside Academy ad on page 29

303 Dryer Avenue, Daphne 36526 Hours: PK 3 - 12th grade Contact: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 3:00pm admissions@baysideacademy.org www.baysideacademy.org

Resurrection Academy ad on page 23

2401 Main Street, 36526 Hours: PreK2-PreK4 Contact: Monday-Friday 7:00am-5:30pm (Full Time), 9:00am-1:00pm (Part Time) academy@resurrection.cc www.resurrection.cc

Saint Paul’s Episcopal Church Preschool

Eastern Shore Preschool @ Eastern Shore Baptist Church 6847 Park Drive (Building C), 36532 Hours: 6 weeks – 4 years Contact: Monday - Friday 9:00am - 2:00pm (Extended Care 7:30am – 3:00pm) espreschool@myesbc.net www.myesbc.net

ad on page 33

28788 North Main Street, 36526 Hours: 12 months – PreK4 Contact: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 5:30pm stpaulspreschooldaphne@gmail.com www.stpaulseasternshore.com

God’s Living Sea Jubilee Baptist Church

3Circle Church Mom’s Day Out

10080 County Road 64, 36526 Hours: 2 years - K4 Contact: Monday - Friday 9:00am - 1:00pm aquapink@mchsi.com www.3circlechurch.com

Abiding Love Preschool & Childcare 1030 Stanton Road, 36526 Hours: 2 months - 5 years Contact: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 6:00pm www.facebook.com/abidinglovepreschool

Hermes Enchanted Garden (RPC) 1005 Main Street Suite 200, 36526 Hours: Infant - Pre-K Contact: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 5:30pm hermesenchantedgarden@gmail.com www.facebook.com/hermesenchantedgarden

Ascension Christian School

8888 County Road 64, 36526 Hours: PreK3 - PreK4 Contact: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 12:00pm; Extended Care 12pm-5:30pm ascension.schooldaphne@gmail.com www.christian.school

AUC Resource Center, After School and Daycare

27730 Main Street , 36526 Hours: 10 weeks - 6 years Contact: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 5:30pm kidskabindaycare@gmail.com www.facebook.com/daycareKidsKabinDC

10142 County Road 64, 36526 Hours: 6 weeks - 4 years Contact: Monday - Friday 6:30am - 5:45pm www.kinderkidslc.com

Coastal Kids Academy

11101 County Road 64, 36526 Hours: 18 months - Pre-K4 Contact: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 5:00pm cka@coastalchurch.tv www.coastalchurch.tv/ coastal-kids-academy

Color Us Kids Learning Center 26000 Nelson Street, 36526 Hours: 6 weeks – 5 years Contact: Monday - Friday 6:30am - 6:00pm coloruskids@ymail.com www.coloruskidslearningcenter.com

Little Crusaders Learning Center

9023 Lawson Road, 36526 Hours: 6 weeks – 6 years Contact: Monday - Friday 6:30am - 5:30pm littlecrusadersllc@yahoo.com www.littlecrusadersllc.com

Our Litte Sprouts

28848 North Main Street, 36526 Hours: 6 weeks to 5 years Contact: Monday - Friday 6:00am - 6:00pm olsdaycareprek@gmail.com

Eastern Shore Montessori School

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Kid’s Kabin Daycare

KinderKids Learning Center

8355 Jonesboro Road, 36526 Hours: 6 weeks - 14 years Contact: Monday - Friday 6:30am - 6:00pm www.africanuniversalchurch.org

980 Main Street, 36526 Hours: 18 months – Kindergarten Contact: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 5:30pm esmontessorischool@gmail.com www.easternshoremontessori.com

9264 Pleasant Road, 36526 Hours: 12 months - 4 years Contact: Monday - Friday 9:00am - 1:00pm (Extended hours 7:30am - 4:30pm) godslivingsea@jubileebaptist.com www.jubileebaptist.com

The Neighborhood School 26481 Kensington Place (Suite A), 36526 Hours: Infant - After School Program Contact: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 6:00pm tnsdaphne@gmail.com

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25478 Friendship Road, 36526 Hours: 6 weeks – Pre-k Contact: Monday – Friday 6:30am - 5:45pm Tinytots25478@gmail.com www.tinytotsacademy.net

Weinacker’s Montessori School 28765 North Main Street , 36526 Hours: 6 months - 5 years Contact: Monday - Friday 6:00am - 6:00pm www.weinackersmontessori.com

Elberta Good Shepherd Lutheran School

13220 North Main Street, Elberta 36530 Hours: PreK3 - PreK4 Contact: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 3:00pm (Extended hours available until 5:30pm) gsls2017@yahoo.com www.facebook.com/gslselberta

Saint Benedict Catholic School

12786 South Illinois Street, 36530 Hours: PreK3 - 8th Grade Contact: Monday - Friday 7:45am - 3:00pm rkrehlingsbcs@gmail.com www.saintbenedict.net

Fairhope

Bayshore Christian School ad on page 25

316 Presbyterian Drive, Fairhope 36532 Hours: K4 - 12th grade Contact: Half-day program 5 days a week for PreK BCSadmin@bayshorechristian.org www.bayshorechristian.org

Country Day School ad on page 15

23800 US Highway 98, 36532 Hours: 18 months - Kindergarten Contact: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9am - 12pm and Wednesday 9am - 1pm countrydayfairhope@gmail.com www.countrydayfairhope.com

Fairhope-Point Clear Rotary Youth Club Pre-K ad on page 7

19128 Young Street, 36532 Hours: 4 years by September 1st Contact: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 2:30pm sseitz@rotaryyouthclub.org www.rotaryyouthclub.org Eastern Shore Parents I January 2022

St. James Episcopal School ad on page 13

860 North Section Street, 36532 Hours: 30 months - 2nd Grade (3rd grade to be addes for the 2022-2023 school year) Contact: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:30pm (Full Day); 8:00am - 2:30pm (School Day) schooldirector@stjamesfairhope.org www.stjamesfairhope.school

Eastern Shore Academy of Excellence 23946-B US Highway 98, 36532 Hours: 6 weeks - 12 years Contact: Monday - Friday 6:30am - 6:00pm jamie.snowden76@gmail.com www.facebook.com/EasternShoreAcademy

Eastern Shore Early Childhood Center 1090 Fairhope Avenue, 36532 Hours: 18 months - 12 years Contact: Monday – Friday 6:30am – 5:30pm csaltz04@bellsouth.net

Eastern Shore Kids Kastle, Inc. 10291 B County Road 48, 36532 Hours: 6 weeks - 5 years Contact: Monday - Friday 6:00am - 5:00pm eskki@bellsouth.net

Fairhope United Methodist Preschool Ministry 155 South Section Street, 36532 Hours: 2 years - PreK Contact: Monday - Friday 9:00am - 12:00pm terry.lowell@fairhopeumc.org www.fairhopeumc.org

Jubilee Head Start Center

24044 Highway 98, 36532 Hours: 6 weeks - 5 years Contact: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 2:30pm jubileeheadstart@grecs.org www.facebook.com/JubileeHSFairhope/

Jubilee Shores WeeSchool 17261 State Highway 181, 36532 Hours: 10 months – 5 years Contact: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:00pm weeschooloffice@gmail.com http://jubileeshores.umc.org/

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Marietta Johnson School of Organic Education

8 Marietta Drive, 36532 Hours: 4 years - 10 years Contact: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 3:00pm marietta.school@mchsi.com ww.fairhopeorganicschool.com

Nature Connect

Outdoor Preschool in Fairhope, Hours: 2.5 years - 5 years Contact: Tuesday - Friday 9:00am - 1:00pm info@natureconnectalabama.org www.natureconnectalabama.org

STARS Early Learning Academy 8209 Gayfer Road Extension, 36532 Hours: 6 weeks - Kindergarten Contact: Monday - Friday 6:30am - 6:00pm www.starsearlylearningacademy.com

The Learning Tree Preschool at First Fairhope

300 South Section Street, 36532 Hours: 6 months - 4 years Contact: Monday - Friday 9:00am - 1:00pm, extended day 1:00pm-3:00pm www.firstfairhope.org

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Foley Cradle 2 Crayons, Inc.

507 West Rose Avenue, Foley 36535 Hours: 6 weeks - 12 years Contact: Monday - Friday 6:00am - 6:00pm cradle2crayons@gulftel.com www.cradle2crayonsinc.net

Little Learners Kiddie School

708 West Laurel Avenue, 36535 Hours: 6 weeks – 4 years Contact: Monday - Friday 6:30am - 5:30pm

Precious Moments Learning Center

1900 South Oak Street, 36535 Hours: 3 weeks - 12 years Contact: Monday - Friday 6:00am - 6:00pm

Snook Christian Academy

18930 County Road 28, 36535 Hours: Prek3 - 12th Grade Contact: MondayFriday 7:45am - 3:00pm (before care 7:00am 7:45am, after care 3:30pm - 5:30pm) sca@snookchristian.org www.snookchristian.org

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The Stepping Stone Academy

230 West Laurel Avenue, 36535 Hours: 6 weeks - 4 years Contact: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:30pm foleyssa@gmail.com www.thesteppingstoneacademy.com

Heavenly Sent Learning Center, Inc.

12710 County Road 65, 36535 Hours: 6 weeks - 14 years Contact: Monday - Friday 6:00am - 6:00pm poohbear64@gulftel.com

Spanish Fort

Milestones Child Care Center

1074 South Cypress Street , 36551 Hours: 6 weeks - 5 years Contact: Monday - Friday 6:30am - 5:30pm milestones@melcorp.net

Spanish Fort Presbyterian Preschool ad on page 20

Orange Beach Bright Beginnings Preschool Orange Beach UMC

28751 Canal Road, Orange Beach 36561 Hours: 12 months - 4 years Contact: Monday Friday 8:00am - 2:30pm (Early Drop Off at 7:30,

Kid Plus Child Development Center

6620 Spanish Fort Boulevard, Spanish Fort 36527 Hours: Toddler - 4 years Contact: Monday - Friday 9:00am - 1:00pm; Extended care 7:30am - 4:30pm sfppreschool@gmail.com www.spanishfortpresbyterian.com

Faith Family Fellowship Preschool

7100 Spanish Fort Boulevard, 36527 Hours: 2 years PreK4 Contact: Monday - Friday 7:30am – 3:00pm (Extended hours 7:00am – 6:00pm) www.faithfamilyonline.com

900 South Bay Street, 36535 Hours: 6 weeks - 11 years Contact: Monday - Friday 6:00am - 6:00pm kidpluscdc@gmail.com www.facebook.com/kidplusfoley

Swift Church Preschool

23208 Swift Church Road, 36535 Hours: 6 weeks - Pre-K4 Contact: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 5:30pm swiftchurchpreschool@gmail.com www.swiftchurchpreschool.com

Jubilee Early Child Development Center

Gulf Shores First Baptist Child Development Center – Gulf Shores

2200 West 1st Street, Gulf Shores 36542 Hours: 6 weeks – PreK4 Contact: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:30pm

Gulf Shores UMC Preschool and Mother’s Day Out

1900 Gulf Shores Parkway, 36542 Hours: 12 months - 4 years Contact: Monday - Friday 9:00am - 2:45pm lana@gulfshoresumc.org www.gulfshoresumc.org

Holy Spirit Episcopal Day School

616 West Fort Morgan Road, 36542 Hours: 16 months - 4 years Contact: Monday - Friday 8:30am - 2:30pm, Extended hours 7:30am-8:30am, 2:30pm-5:30pm www.hseds616.com

South Baldwin Christian Academy 6900 Highway 59, 36542 Hours: K3 - 12th Grade Contact: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 5:30pm admissions@southbaldwinca.org www.southbaldwinca.org

Loxley East Coast Migrant Head Start Program

16742 County Road 68, Loxley 36551 www.ecmhsp.org

Kidz Learning Center

1074 North Hickory Street, 36551 Hours: 6 weeks – 4 years Contact: Monday - Friday 6:30am - 5:30pm kidz@gulftel.com

Extended care 2:30pm - 5:30pm) brightbeginnings@orangebeachumc.org www.orangebeachumc.org/brightbeginnings

www.jubileechildcare.com

Discovery Island Child Development 24843 Commercial Avenue, 36561 Hours: 6 weeks - 5 years Contact: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 5:30pm www.discoveryislandcdc.com

8930 Spanish Fort Boulevard, 36527 Hours: 9 weeks PreK4 Contact: Monday - Friday 7:00am 5:45pm

New Life Assembly of God After School Program 10424 Old Highway 31, 36527 Hours: K5 - 5th Grade Contact: Monday - Friday, 3:00pm - 6:00pm www.newlifecarespanishfort.org

New Life Assembly of God Preschool

Robertsdale Central Christian School

17395 Highway 104, Robertsdale 36567 Hours: K3 - 12th grade Contact: Monday-Friday 6:30am-5:30pm central@gulftel.com www.ccssaints.com

Children’s Learning Center

22305 Palmer Street, 36567 Hours: 6 weeks – 5 years Contact: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 5:30pm

Little Anchors Preschool

10424 Old Highway 31 , 36527 Hours: 12 months - K4 Contact: Monday - Friday 9:00am to 1:00pm; K4 now offering 5 days per week www.facebook.com/NewLifePreschoolMomsDayOut

Spanish Fort UMC Preschool 6690 Spanish Fort Boulevard, 36527 Hours: 2 years - Pre-K4 Contact: 2 day, 3 day, and 5 day availability. Hours 9:00am - 12:00pm preschool@spanishfortumc.org https://sfumpreschool.org/

18200 Hwy 104, 36567 Hours: 1 - 4 years Contact: Monday - Friday 8:15am - 2:15pm; Extended hours available littleanchorspreschoolfbc@gmail.com www.firstrobertsdale.com

Tiny Toros Learning Academy

Saint Patrick Catholic School

Eastern Shore Academy

23070 Highway 59 North, 36567 Hours: PreK3 - 8th Grade Contact: Monday – Friday 7:45am - 3:00pm school@stpatcatholic.com school.stpatcatholic.com

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11065 US Highway 31, 36527 Hours: 8 weeks - K4 Contact: Monday - Friday 6:30am - 5:30pm tinytoroslearningacademy@gmail.com

9543 Stagecoach Commercial Park Circle, 36527 Hours: 8 weeks - K4 Contact: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 5:30pm stephaniewilson@easternshoreacademy.com ESP

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Engaging in written communication is a necessary skill that kids will need to succeed in all areas of school and life. Reading comprehension is key to understanding what others are trying to communicate. At the same time, spelling helps ensure that the person or people you’re communicating with can comprehend what you’re trying to say and give you the confidence to convey your message successfully.

Although children learn these concepts in school, some of the best learning happens during play. When kids enjoy themselves, they can more fully engage with content and even remember and understand it much faster and more completely. Many types of games teach or boost spelling and reading comprehension for various ages and interests and in several formats.

The fun games here can help your kids develop their reading and spelling skills.

Eastern Shore Parents I January 2022

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www.easternshoreparents.com

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Board games Context Clues Pirate Treasure is a

Online games

Phone app games

IXL is an online educational game site with

iTooch has educational apps designed for

reading comprehension board game for reading levels 2.0-3.5 (around 2nd-3rd grades). Players read story cards and answer comprehension questions using context clues to move around the board and be the first to reach the treasure.

memberships for the pre-k-12th grade. It has many subjects, including language arts, broken down by grade level, topics, and skill plans. It offers specific sections for reading comprehension and spelling, but also related concepts to further understanding.

Inference School Days is a reading

PBS Kids has a website with learning

games aimed at younger children. There is a section solely for reading games that work on reading comprehension, spelling, and more. The site also has parent resources for kids learning at home.

children in grades 2-8 to work on reading comprehension aligned with Common Core standards. Learners choose their favorite topics from fiction and non-fiction content, then take tests to assess their understanding. (free with in-app purchases)

Teach Your Monster to Read offers

Spellbee: Spelling Bee Games is a

comprehension game explicitly focusing on the skill of inference. The blue level is for reading levels 3.5-5.0 (around 3rd-5th grades). Players use inference to correctly answer questions on the story cards to earn their diplomas.

Dabble is a spelling and vocabulary board game for ages 8 and up but great for family game night. Each player gets letter tiles and tries to arrange them into five words of various lengths before the time runs out.

Play on Words is a spelling card game for ages 8 and up. It’s easy to take with you on the go or keep in your bag for travel fun. Players use letter cards to spell out words but can change, rearrange, and steal to make it more challenging.

My First Bananagrams is a spelling game for early learners ages 4 and up.

It uses letter combo tiles and lowercase letter tiles to ease pre-readers and early readers into the game by making word creation easier. When your child is ready, upgrade to the original Bananagrams for ages 7 and up.

three game levels for beginning readers up to older children who need practice. Letter and sound phonics practice have increasingly difficult combinations that reinforce spelling. As children improve, they move on to reading and comprehending sentences. Free from the Usborne Foundation.

Adventure Academy is a multi-subject

learning game for ages 8-13 with games, activities, and interactive play with friends.

The language arts curriculum includes comprehension, spelling practice, and more. It offers a monthly or yearly subscription.

ABCmouse is by the same group as

Adventure Academy. It teaches subjects to children ages 2-8 through games, songs, books, videos, printables, and more for a monthly or yearly subscription. The language arts curriculum starts with basics and progresses in difficulty as kids learn.

each grade from 1st-8th with multi-subject and language arts options. It aligns with Common Core standards and has engaging activities and games to promote learning. (price varies)

Spark Reading for Kids is an app for

spelling and vocabulary app for grades 1-9 with over 70,000 words. Learners can play games and study words by grade level or topic to develop spelling skills and compete on a global leaderboard. (free)

Khan Academy and Khan Academy Kids (ages 2-7) offer lessons by grade, topic, or age, including language arts with spelling and reading comprehension.

These are aligned to 1st grade standards at Khan Academy Kids and grades 2-9 in the original Khan Academy. (free)

A+ Spelling Bee English Words is an app for young learners to work on spelling skills. Learners can choose difficulty and mode, then drag letters to make the word for the picture. (free with in-app purchases) ESP Kimberly Blaker is a freelance writer. She also owns an online store, Sage Rare & Collectible Books, sagerarebooks.com.

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®

There's a Story Here...

By Anderson McKean

Code Name Serendipity by Amber Smith

Fans of Katherine Applegate will love Amber Smith’s heartwarming middle-grade debut about family, friendship, and the magic connection between a girl and her dog. Eleven-year-old Sadie’s school year is off to an awful start. Her best friend moved away, her older brother is driving her crazy and her beloved Gramps is having trouble keeping his memories straight. But when she comes across a stray dog, she discovers something wonderful and magical—she and the dog, Dewey, are able to communicate telepathically. Sadie knows that Dewey is destined to be her friend. An uplifting story and reassuring reminder to think big and act with your whole heart!

Trouble in the Stars by Sarah Prineas

An action-packed, funny, and heartwarming outer-space adventure about a troublesome little shape-shifter on the run from the law! Changing from a blob of goo form to adorable puppy form, to human boy form, Trouble stows away on the Hindsight, a ship crewed by the best navigators and engineers in the galaxy, led by the fearsome Captain Astra. As the ship travels, Trouble uses the time to figure out how to be a good human boy and starts to feel safe. But when a young StarLeague cadet shows up, things get complicated, especially when Trouble reveals a shapeshifter form that no one expected. An out-of-this-world story perfect for fans of Rick Riordan!

I Must Betray You by Ruta Sepetys Readers of historical fiction will be riveted by the latest from the award-winning author of Salt to the Sea — an eye-opening look into communist Romania and the citizen spy network that devastated a nation. Amidst the tyrannical dictatorship of Nicolae Ceaușescu in a country governed by isolation and fear, Cristian is blackmailed by the secret police to become an informer. He’s left with only two choices: betray everyone and everything he loves—or use his position to creatively undermine the most notorious dictator in Eastern Europe. Master storyteller Ruta Sepetys’ historical thriller examines this little-known piece of history and the unwavering conviction of the human spirit.

The Lock-Eater by Zack Loran Clark For fans of Nevermoor comes an epic fantasy about a girl who can unlock anything—including an empire's darkest secrets. Melanie Gate is a foundling with a peculiar talent for opening the unopenable with the touch of her hand. One night, her orphanage is visited by Traveler, an automan there on behalf of his magical mistress, who needs an apprentice pronto. When Melanie is selected because of her gift, her life changes in a flash, and in more ways than she knows. Traveler is not at all that he seems - but then, neither is Melanie Gate. Action-packed yet layered, The Lock-Eater is a mix of vivid world-building, high stakes, and humor that will keep readers riveted until the last page!

Find these great books and more at your local bookstore

Page & Palette | 32 S. Section St. Fairhope | (251) 928-5295 | www.pageandpalette.com 52 www.easternshoreparents.com

Eastern Shore Parents I January 2022

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FamilyCalendar Monday January 3

Jackbox Jambo 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 13 - 18.

Bring your device and sign in for Jackbox fun! If you’ve never played before, Jackbox is an online game that you access with your phone or tablet and play with a group of people. The games get very, very silly, and all you need is a touchscreen device with wifi or data. We will have the game ready to go for a ton of interactive, improv fun.

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Tuesday January 4

Anime Club/Tokyo Godfathers 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ages 13 18. Our monthly get-together for Anime fans. We will have bean bags and snacks. This month we’ll be watching Tokyo Godfathers, a story about an impromptu family of homeless individuals who find an abandoned infant on Christmas Eve. We will also vote on what to show at the February meeting!

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Wednesday January 5

BuJo Meetup 4:00 PM - 5:45 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Study Room #2 (Ages 13-18). Come on up and learn about bullet journals, get ideas for layouts, and make some friends. Bring a journal or notebook and we’ll help you set up your BuJo and get your life under control!

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Thursday January 6

Intro to Coding Basics - Computer Lab (Grades 2-3) 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 This class is an introduction to the concepts of computer science including basic terminology and a little bit of computer science history as we introduce Grace Hopper. This class fulfills the requirements for the Girl Scout Coding for Good: Coding Basics badge for Brownies, but is open to all 2nd and 3rd graders. Scouts in uniform will receive a free FHPL Coding fun patch (you are responsible for your scout’s official badge). All participants will receive a certificate of completion.

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/ South Baldwin Community Theater presents “Neil Simon’s God’s Favorite” 7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 (251) 968-6721 www.sbct.biz Intro to Coding Basic - Computer Lab (Grades 4-5) 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 This class is an introduction to the concepts of computer science including basic terminology and a little bit of computer science history as we introduce Margaret Hamilton.

This class fulfills the requirements for the Girl Scout Coding for Good: Coding Basics badge for Girl Scout Juniors, but is open to all 4th and 5th graders. Scouts in uniform will receive a free FHPL Coding fun patch (you are responsible for your scout’s official badge).

All participants will receive a certificate of completion 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Eastern Shore Parents I January 2022

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Friday January 7

South Baldwin Community Theater presents “Neil Simon’s God’s Favorite” 7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 (251) 968-6721 www.sbct.biz

Saturday January 8

Kid Chefs Best on the Bay 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM, Exploreum Science Center, 65 Government St Mobile, AL, 36602 Our fundraiser will highlight guest chefs partnered with 2-3 kid chefs. Admission ticket includes endless charcuterie, 1 drink ticket, and sampling of what the teams prepare. ticketstripe.com/kidchefsbestonthebay South Baldwin Community Theater presents “Neil Simon’s God’s Favorite” 7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 (251) 968-6721 www.sbct.biz Forever First Lady Play 8:00 PM Civic Center Theatre, Mobile, AL, 36602 Forever First Lady is a stage play that is centered around our 1st Black First Lady Michelle Obama, and the example that she set as First Lady. www.asmglobalmobile.com

Sunday January 9

South Baldwin Community Theater presents “Neil Simon’s God’s Favorite” 2:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 (251) 968-6721 www.sbct.biz

Monday January 10

Minecraft Academy - Computer Lab (Ages 6-12) 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Minecraft for early elementary players! Mr. Zach will show you the ropes and let you explore while learning how to craft, play mini games, and - AAAHHH! WATCH OUT FOR THAT CREEPER! 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/ EcoCrafternoon - MakerSpace (Ages 12-18) 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Today we’ll be upcycling used holiday shopping bags into cute lunch bags. We will have all that you need to make your lunch bag, but if you have a particular bag that you like (maybe a theme park bag or tourist store from a trip), bring it. These are the heavy-duty plastic bags from clothing stores and other stores, not plastic grocery bags. We’ll have everything else you need.

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Tuesday January 11

College Prep Series - College Admission in the Southeast and Elsewhere: How Do Admissions Differ By Region? - Activity Room (Ages 14-18) 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Did you know that different parts of the country have different standards for admission? Join us to chat about the admissions process. We’ll have experts from local colleges join us to give their insight and give you all the tips you need to navigate your way through college admissions.

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

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Wednesday January 12

Tide Travelers Storytime with Weeks Bay Reserve - Activity Room (Grades K-5) 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Fairhope Library has partnered with Weeks Bay Reserve to bring you a special story and exploration time with guest speakers from Weeks Bay Reserve. These programs and stories will focus on estuaries and the critters that rely on them. Patrons will have hands-on experiences with the many animals, fossils, and preserves hosted at Weeks Bay or will be making crafts focused on the area wildlife. Sign-ups are not required and this program is available to all 5-11 year-olds.

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/ Intro to Coding Basics - Computer Lab (Grades 9-10) 4:15 PM - 5:15 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 This class is an introduction to the concepts of computer science including basic terminology and a little bit of computer science history as we introduce Katherine Johnson. This class fulfills the requirements for the Girl Scout Coding for Good: Coding Basics badge for Girl Scout Cadettes, but is open to all 6th, 7th, and 8th graders. Scouts in uniform will receive a free FHPL Coding fun patch (you are responsible for your scout’s official badge). All participants will receive a certificate of completion.

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/ Winter Wednesdays 10:30 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore , AL, 36582 Even during the cold season, Bellingrath Gardens is filled with blooms and beauty. Gulf Coast residents and visitors are invited to join us at our Winter Wednesdays series in January and February for sessions on gardening, history and more. Environmental filmmaker Ben Raines – The award-winning director and environmental writer will give an update on his latest adventures, including the discovery of the Clotilda, the last known slave ship to arrive in the United States.

251-973-2217 www.bellingrath.org

Thursday January 13

Intro to Coding Basics - Computer Lab (Grades 11-12) 4:15 PM - 5:15 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 This class is an introduction to the concepts of computer science including basic terminology and a little bit of computer science history as we introduce Katherine Johnson. This class fulfills the requirements for the Girl Scout Coding for Good: Coding Basics badge for Girl Scout Cadettes, but is open to all 6th, 7th, and 8th graders. Scouts in uniform will receive a free FHPL Coding fun patch (you are responsible for your scout’s official badge). All participants will receive a certificate of completion.

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/ South Baldwin Community Theater presents “Neil Simon’s God’s Favorite” 7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 (251) 968-6721 www.sbct.biz Intro to Coding Basics - Computer Lab (Grades 9-10) 5:15 PM - 6:15 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 This class is an introduction to the concepts of computer science including basic terminology and a little bit of computer

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FamilyCalendar science history as we introduce Raye Montague and Karen Sparck Jones. This class fulfills the requirements for the Girl Scout Coding for Good: Coding Basics badge for Girl Scout Ambassadors, but is open to all 11th and 12th graders. Scouts in uniform will receive a free FHPL Coding fun patch (you are responsible for your scout’s official badge). All participants will receive a certificate of completion.

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Friday January 14

South Baldwin Community Theater presents “Neil Simon’s God’s Favorite” 7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 (251) 968-6721 www.sbct.biz

Saturday January 15

Gold Coast Coin and Currency Show 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Foley Civic Center, 407 E Laurel Ave Foley, AL, 36535 The South Baldwin Numismatic Society will hold its Annual Gold Coast Coin and Currency Show on Saturday and Sunday, January 15th and 16th. The show is free and open to the public. This show features dealers in US and international coins, currency, ephemera, jewelry, silver, gold and more.

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www.asmglobalmobile.com

Darci Lynne Farmer 5:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Darci Lynne Farmer

South Baldwin Community Theater presents “Neil Simon’s God’s Favorite” 7:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 (251) 968-6721 www.sbct.biz Mini Maestros Elementary Music Program Activity Room (Grades K-5) 10:00 AM - 10:45 AM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Learn all about music with Dr. Rachael! She will introduce new instruments, different sounds, music theory, music history, and highlight our music themed books.

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Sunday January 16

Gold Coast Coin and Currency Show Details January 15.

South Baldwin Community Theater presents “Neil Simon’s God’s Favorite” 2:30 PM South Baldwin Community Theatre, 2022 West 2nd Street Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 (251) 968-6721 www.sbct.biz Mobile Opera Grand Soiree 5:30 PM Grand Hotel, 17855 Scenic Hwy 98 Fairhope, AL, 36532 Come join us for Mobile Opera’s Grand Soiree with food, music and auction.

(251) 432-6772 www.mobileopera.org

Tuesday January 18

FHPLug Lego User Group - MakerSpace (Ages 8-12) 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 LUG is LEGO-

speak for a Lego User Group - a group of LEGO fans who like to get together and build. If you’re a master builder, join us in the Maker Space for our monthly FHPLug! Every month there will be a new game or challenge for kids ages 8 - 12. January’s Challenge: Marble Run! 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Wednesday January 19 Winter Wednesdays Details January 12.

After School Art – Activity Room (Grades K-5) 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Do you want to build a snowman? Join us for an afternoon of creativity and crafting a southern snowman out of a 2 or 3-liter soda bottle. Kindergarteners through fifth graders (ages 5-11 years) are welcome to come to this After School Art program at Fairhope Library. We’ll begin by reading a short story for inspiration of course, and then painting, stuffing, and gluing our snowmen together.

All supplies will be provided by the library. Please sign up at Mrs. Julia’s desk in Youth Services or send her an email at youthassistant@fairhopelibrary.org.

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Saturday January 22

MSO Presents: The Fireworks of Jupiter 7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 mobilesymphony.org Teen D&D - Study Room #2 (13+) 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Every month we

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FamilyCalendar will have a new roleplaying adventure. Bring your own character or use one of the pre-generated characters from the dungeon master. Beginner or experienced, all are welcome. Bring your dice if you have some.

Spots are limited, sign up at Eventbrite!

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Sunday January 23

MSO Presents: The Fireworks of Jupiter 2:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 mobilesymphony.org

Monday January 24

Minecraft Academy - Computer Lab (Ages 6-12) 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Minecraft for early elementary players! Mr. Zach will show you the ropes and let you explore while learning how to craft, do building contests, and play mini games. Cooler than Spock!

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Tuesday January 25

OWA Theatre - Menopause The Musical OWA Theater, 205 N OWA Blvd. Foley, AL, 36535 Menopause: The Musical January 25-30 OWA Theater 251-923-2111 visitowa.com Manga Tea – Activity Room (Ages 13-18) 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Bring your favorite manga, or whatever manga you’re reading right now. Tell us about it, and hear about our favorites!

We will have tea and cookies.

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Wednesday January 26 Winter Wednesdays Details January 12.

OWA Theatre - Menopause The Musical OWA Theater, 205 N OWA Blvd. Foley, AL, 36535 Menopause: The Musical January 25-30 OWA Theater 251-923-2111 visitowa.com Teen Advisory Board Meeting – Board Room (Ages 13-18) 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Need volunteer hours? Fairhope Library Teen Advisory Board (TAB) is for you! At our monthly TAB meetings, we will vote on upcoming programs, get job training, and have some fun too. Meetings will last an hour with something new and fun every month. TAB Members must commit to at least six hours of volunteer work in the library per month. All teens are welcome to join and we accept membership on a rolling basis! Need more info? Email teens@fairhopelibrary.org for details.

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Thursday January 27

University of Mobile School of the Arts presents “Dear, Mister Postman” 7:00 PM University of Mobile – Dorsett Auditorium, 5735 College Parkway Mobile, AL, 36613 An evening of song awaits you with our Opera and Musical Theatre scenes program, “Dear, Mister Postman.” Escape for an evening as you immerse yourself in the beautifully entertaining correspondence between characters

Eastern Shore Parents I January 2022

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brought to the stage through tunes from popular Operas and Musicals and be reminded of the sweet memories of passed notes and silly text messages. www.tix.com/ticket-sales/umobile/6745/ event/1243150 OWA Theatre - Menopause The Musical OWA Theater, 205 N OWA Blvd. Foley, AL, 36535 Menopause: The Musical January 25-30 OWA Theater 251-923-2111 visitowa.com Mini Maestros Elementary Music Program Activity Room (Grades K-5) 10:00 AM - 10:45 AM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Learn all about music with Dr. Rachael! She will introduce new instruments, different sounds, music theory, music history, and highlight our music themed books. Perfect for curious musicians in Kindergarten - Fifth Grade!

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/ YA Book to Movie Night/Everything, Everything – Activity Room (Ages 13-18) 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Every month we’ll show a movie adaptation of a teen novel. Read the book first, or not - it’s up to you! In January, we will watch Everything, Everything. Based on the book

by Nicola Yoon: Maddy (Amandla Stenberg) is a smart, curious and imaginative 18-year-old who is unable to leave the protection of the hermetically-sealed environment within her house because of an illness. Olly (Nick Robinson) is the boy next door who won’t let that stop them from being together. Gazing through windows and talking only through texts, Maddy and Olly form a deep bond that leads them to risk everything to be together, even if it means losing everything.

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Friday January 28

University of Mobile School of the Arts presents “Dear, Mister Postman” Details January 27.

Oak Ridge Boys 7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Oak Ridge Boys concert. www.asmglobalmobile.com/ OWA Theatre - Menopause The Musical OWA Theater, 205 N OWA Blvd. Foley, AL, 36535 Menopause: The Musical January 25-30 OWA Theater 251-923-2111 visitowa.com Sea Lab Science Friday: STEM: The Ocean Version Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 101 Bienville Blvd Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Sea Lab Science Friday: STEM: The Ocean Version, Please register at bit.ly/SeaLabScienceFridays. Ocean Drifters - 9:3011:30 am, Trash(in) the Ocean - 1:00-3:00 pm and ROVing the Gulf - 3:00-5:00 pm https://www.disl.edu/

Saturday January 29

The Big Beach 7k 9:00 AM 101 E Beach Blvd Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 You are invited to join us for the 7K in beautiful Gulf Shores, Alabama The courses are flat and fast running on the fully paved trails. bigbeachmarathon.com Krewe de la Dauphine 1:00 PM Dauphin Island, Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Krewe de la Dauphine starts at the Dauphin Island

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Sea Lab, travels west on Bienville Boulevard and ends at 1501 Bienville - the Dauphin Island Elementary School.

OWA Theatre - Menopause The Musical OWA Theater, 205 N OWA Blvd. Foley, AL, 36535 Menopause: The Musical January 25-30 OWA Theater 251-923-2111 visitowa.com

Sunday January 30

The Big Beach Marathon, Half Marathon 8:00 AM 101 E Beach Blvd Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 You are invited to join us for the Big Beach Marathon and Half Marathon in beautiful Gulf Shores, Alabama the weekend of January 29th & 30th, 2022. The courses are flat and fast running on the fully paved trails through Gulf State Park, with the start and finish located at the Hangout with stunning beaches and views of the Gulf of Mexico. bigbeachmarathon.com OWA Theatre - Menopause The Musical OWA Theater, 205 N OWA Blvd. Foley, AL, 36535 Menopause: The Musical January 25-30 OWA Theater 251-923-2111 visitowa.com

Monday January 31

Fairhope Teen Writers Group Study Room #2 (Ages 13-18) 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 What are you working on right now? Blogging? Fan fic? Epic novel? Whatever you’re writing, this is a low-pressure place for you to share, discuss, and give and receive feedback. No grading, no judging, just fellowship with writers in this teen-led group created by FHS students.

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Wednesday February 2 Winter Wednesdays Details January 12.

Friday February 4

The King Cake-Off 11:30 AM - 4:30 PM, The Temple Downtown, 351 St Francis St Mobile, AL, 36602 The Mobile King Cake-off is a family friendly event open to the public. Enjoy King Cake tastings, kids activities, live music, a silent auction and more. www.kingcakeoff.com Sr Bowl Parade 6:30 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL, 36602 Join in on all the fun for the annual Senior Bowl Mardi Gras Player Parade Friday, Feb. 4, 2021, from 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Expect Excellence Community Theatre presents “Thoroughly Modern Millie” 7:00 PM Orange Beach Performing Arts Center, 23908 Canal Rd Orange Beach, AL, 36561 https:// www.onthestage.tickets/show/city-of-orange-beach/ thoroughly-modern-millie-38659/

Saturday February 5

Battlefield Blitz 5K Race and 1 Mile 8:00 AM Historic Blakeley State Park, 34745 State Hwy 225 Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Race to benefit the programs and grounds of Historic Blakeley State Park www.eventbrite.com Dauphin Island People’s Parade 1:00 PM Dauphin Island, Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Experience the true culture of Dauphin Island through this unique parade which consists solely of locals who decorate their boats and pack their trailers full of

www.easternshoreparents.com

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Senior Bowl 2022 1:30 PM Hancock Whitney Stadium, 500 Stadium Dr, Mobile, AL, 36608 (251) 461-1872 www.seniorbowl.com

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Expect Excellence Community Theatre presents “Thoroughly Modern Millie” 7:00 PM Orange Beach Performing Arts Center, 23908 Canal Rd Orange Beach, AL, 36561 https://www.onthestage.tickets/show/city-of-orangebeach/thoroughly-modern-millie-38659/

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An Evening with Drew and Ellie Holcomb 8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 www.asmglobalmobile.com/ Mobile Opera presents “La Canterina” Murphy High School Auditorium, 100 S Carlen St Mobile, AL, 36606 Mobile Opera presents “La Canterina” www.mobileopera.org

Sunday February 6

Expect Excellence Community Theatre presents “Thoroughly Modern Millie” 2:00 PM Orange Beach Performing Arts Center, 23908 Canal Rd Orange Beach, AL, 36561 https://www.onthestage.tickets/show/city-of-orangebeach/thoroughly-modern-millie-38659/

Wednesday February 9 Winter Wednesdays Details January 12.

Thursday February 10

Exit Stage Left presents “Sealed For Freshness” 6:30 PM Foley Civic Center, 407 E Laurel Avenue Foley, AL, 36535 (251) 385-3753 https://exitstageleft.org/ 38 Special Concert 7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 38 Special Concert www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Friday February 11

Exit Stage Left presents “Sealed For Freshness” 6:30 PM Foley Civic Center, 407 E Laurel Avenue Foley, AL, 36535 (251) 385-3753 https://exitstageleft.org/ Expect Excellence Community Theatre presents “Thoroughly Modern Millie” 7:00 PM Orange Beach Performing Arts Center, 23908 Canal Rd Orange Beach, AL, 36561 https:// www.onthestage.tickets/show/city-of-orange-beach/ thoroughly-modern-millie-38659/

Saturday February 12

Chili for Charity (Adults $15 at the gate or $12.50 online at Eventbrite Children 12 and under Free)

11:00 AM - 2:30 PM, Hallstead Amphitheater, Fairhope, AL, 36532 Our 21st Annual Chili for Charity event to raise funding for Ecumenical Ministries’ social service programs. Besides all the chili you can

eat, there is live entertainment, a mechanical bull, inflatables and other attractions for children. www.baldwinemi.org Exit Stage Left presents “Sealed For Freshness” 6:30 PM Foley Civic Center, 407 E Laurel Avenue Foley, AL, 36535 (251) 385-3753 https://exitstageleft.org/ Expect Excellence Community Theatre presents “Thoroughly Modern Millie” 7:00 PM Orange Beach Performing Arts Center, 23908 Canal Rd Orange Beach, AL, 36561 https://www.onthestage.tickets/show/city-of-orangebeach/thoroughly-modern-millie-38659/ Black Jacket Symphony Presents The Beatles’ “The White Album” 7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Black Jacket Symphony Presents The Beatles’ “The White Album www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Thursday February 17

Walker Hayes 7:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Walker Hayes “Fancy Like Tour” www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Saturday February 19

Orange Beach Seafood Festival & Car Show 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, The Wharf, Orange Beach, AL The festival is the major fundraising event for the Makos Academics Arts & Athletics Club (MAAAC) and Orange Beach schools.

251-981-1524 www.orangebeachal.gov

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FamilyCalendar Friday February 25

First Saturdays of the Month

Every Monday and Friday

Second Saturdays

Sea Lab Science Fridays: Ocean Animal Biology Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 101 Bienville Blvd Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Sea Lab Science Fridays: Ocean Animal Biology, Please register at bit.ly/SeaLabScienceFridays. Gulf Coast Marine Animals – 9:30-11:30 am, The Microscopic World of Plankton – 1:00 – 3:00 pm and Wetland Ecology: The Salt Marsh – 3:00-5:00 https://www.disl.edu/

STEAM Free Build 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Free build -Activity Room, Ages 2-10yrs. 251-929-1465 www. fairhopelibrary.org/

Every Tuesday

Saturday Storytime with Miss Mary!

11:00 AM Spanish Fort Public Library, 7361 Spanish Fort Blvd Spanish Fort, AL, 36537 Join us for our annual Veteran’s Day program as we take one of our popular Civil War cruises and welcome historian Dr. Timothy B. Smith for a discussion of his writing on the Vicksburg Campaign. www.spanishfortpubliclibrary.org

Movers and Shakers Storytime 10:00 AM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 This Toddler Tuesday is for all of the roamers, movers, and shakers! The program lasts approximately 30-40 minutes, with about 15-20 minutes dedicated to reading and rhyme, and 20 minutes dedicated to block play and socialization or crafts and coloring.

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Select Saturdays

Lap Babies-Virtual (Facebook) Children’s Story Times 10:30 AM Virtual, Daphne, AL, 36526 Lap BabiesVirtual (Facebook) Children’s Story Times (251) 620-2500 Find us on Facebook

First Sunday of every month

Every Tuesday and Thursday

Big Kid Storytime - Activity Room 11:00 AM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 This is a story hour filled with rhymes, games, and crafts. Our goal here is to have fun while learning to be a good audience member and developing a love of reading. We’ll focus on learning a few new vocabulary words each week, read a story, take a dance break, read our second story, and then work on a book-related STEAM project or game. Ages 3+ 251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/

Every Wednesday

Bookworm Bandits Book Club - Ages 9-12 4:00 PM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Low key meetup for our bookish locals who love to discuss books. Books will be provided and we’ll read a couple of chapters a week.

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/ Storytime - Page & Palette 10:30 AM Page & Palette, 32 S Section St Fairhope, AL, 36532 Please join us on Wednesdays at 10:30 AM for storytime! Each week, Miss Paula share a silly story the whole family will enjoy.

251-928-5295 www.pageandpalette.com

Every Thursday

Babies and Books Storytime Ages Newborn - 18m 10:00 AM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 This storytime is for our lap-sitters and crawlers. The program lasts approximately 30 minutes, with about 15 minutes dedicated to reading and rhyme, and 15 minutes dedicated to tummy time/ floor play or socialization for parents and babies!

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org/ Pre-K-Virtual (Facebook) Children’s Story Times 10:30 AM Virtual, Daphne, AL, 36526 Pre-K-Virtual (Facebook) Children’s Story Times (251) 620-2500 Find us on Facebook

Eastern Shore Parents I January 2022

Magic the Gathering - Ages 13-18 11:00 AM Fairhope Public Library, 501 Fairhope Avenue Fairhope, AL, 36532 Ready to throw down some cards? Come to Fairhope Library on the first Saturday of the month and battle with other planeswalkers.

Meet new friends and learn new tricks as you sling some mana around.

251-929-1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org

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Ocean Explorer Saturdays Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 101 Bienville Blvd Dauphin Island, AL Discovery Hall Programs is now offering its popular summer camps during the school year, too. On the chosen Saturdays of each month, we are offering an ocean-themed program full of science, activities, and fun. Pre Registration is required. bit.ly/OceanExplorerSaturdays

First Sunday Outdoor Market at 5 Rivers 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Five Rivers Delta Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 The First Sunday Outdoor Market at 5 Rivers is an opportunity to shop outdoors and support local artisans, crafters, growers, and makers and shop the Cypress Gift Shop at 5 Rivers for unique outdoor-themed items and gifts. www.outdooralabama.com/activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center

First and third Sundays

Animal Ambassadors 2:00 PM Five Rivers Delta Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 Join us at 2 PM as we present one or more of our live educational animals. Free, family friendly, no registration required. www.outdooralabama.com/activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center

Thursdays

K-3rd Book Club -Virtual (Facebook) Children’s Story Times 3:30 PM Virtual, Daphne, AL, 36526 K-3rd Book Club -Virtual (Facebook) Children’s Story Times (251) 620-2500 Find us on Facebook

Everyday through January 17

Ice Skating Rink The Wharf, 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL, 36561 Make a winter wish on a snowflake here at The Wharf at our real ice, Ice Skating Rink! Grab a pair of skates and glide, spin, or fall into the season. Share this unique experience with family and friends.

Please send your calendar events to lynn@ easternshoreparents.com.

Because of ever-changing circumstances due to Covid-19, please check with each venue prior to attending the event to verify the information provided is still accurate and up to date.

www.easternshoreparents.com

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Grading Family Movies: Streaming, Digital Rentals, and Theatrical Releases West Side Story

Back to the Outback

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Sing 2

Mixtape

Sex B-

Profanity B-

Alcohol/Drugs C+

Rating PG

Overall B

Violence B

Sex A-

Profanity B+

Alcohol/Drugs A-

Rating TV-PG

Overall B-

Violence B

Sex A

Profanity A

Alcohol/Drugs A

Netflix

Rating TV-PG

Overall B-

Violence B-

Sex B+

Profanity B+

Alcohol/Drugs A

Beverly Moody is being raised by her grandmother but longs to know more about her late parents. She’s elated when she finds a mixtape they made, only to be crushed when the tape breaks. Determined to understand her mom and dad, she sets off to find all the tunes. This film is a nostalgia trip for the 90s and provides a sweet message about intergenerational family ties. As Bev develops more selfconfidence she also behaves in reckless ways that parents might not want younger tweens to emulate. Photo ©Netflix

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Violence C-

After their initial success, theater owner Buster Moon and his crew set their sights on performing in Redshore City (a Las Vegas clone). A major producer gives them a chance on the condition that they convince a reclusive rock star to come out of retirement and join them. This sequel lacks the offbeat charm of the original film, being burdened by too many characters and an overlong runtime. It is also missing a compelling storyline, apparently existing solely as a vehicle for the soundtrack.

Worst of all, even kids don’t laugh at the tired jokes. Photo © Universal Pictures

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Netflix

Theaters

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Overall B-

The residents of the reptile house in an Australian zoo are tired of being depicted as ugly and dangerous. So the snake, thorny devil lizard, spider, and scorpion decide to make a break for it and find happiness in the outback. This is a classic “found family” story with lessons about not judging others based on appearances. Kids will enjoy the story and parents will appreciate that the action scenes are well done, the movie is briskly paced, and some of the jokes actually land. Photo © Netflix

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Rating PG-13

Maria and Tony have fallen in love at first sight – but they have a problem. Maria’s brother, Bernardo, is the leader of a Puerto Rican gang known as the Sharks. Tony used to lead the rival Jets, until he spent a year in prison and decided to reform. The young lovers want to end the cycle of violence, which proves more difficult than they expect. Steven Spielberg’s remake of this Broadway classic is a triumph, with stunning cinematography, dynamic dance sequences and a standout cast. But there’s a lot of violence and the PG-13 rating is appropriate. Photo ©20th Century Studios

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Theaters

Spider-Man: No Way Home

Theaters

Rating PG-13

Overall B

Violence C

Sex B

Profanity C+

Alcohol/Drugs A

Peter Parker is planning to return to a quiet life as the friendly neighborhood SpiderMan until a local newspaper blows his cover. Under siege from the media, Peter asks Dr. Strange to make the world forget about his superhero alter ego but altering time comes at a price. The spell initially seems to fail and suddenly villains from multiple universes appear in our world. Full of references to other Spider-Man films and Marvel movies, this movie is a bonanza for fans. It’s also fast-paced, well written and full of nostalgia for action movie lovers. Photo ©Columbia Pictures Grades range from: A= absence of content concerns to D= excess of content concerns Detailed reviews available at www.parentpreviews.com 59

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Help Your New Year’s Resolutions Stick

Q. I thought I was going to get control of my money and make a lot of other positive changes in my life in 2021, but very few of the things I wanted to accomplish happened. I started strong, and began with serious intentions, but somewhere along the way I lost focus. Can you give me some advice for making and sticking to my resolutions in 2022?

A. It seems everyone comes up with a

laundry list of New Year’s resolutions, but research shows very few people actually achieve their goals. If you’re ready — and I mean really ready — to reset your life and succeed with your New Year’s resolutions, here are a few simple, proven steps that’ll help.

First, write down your top goal. Pick the resolution that means the most to you and write it down. You’re more likely to

succeed if you can focus on a single goal, and you have a greater chance of achieving it if you write it down — on paper, on purpose. And make sure the resolution you choose is very important to you. Writing down a goal just because it’s what someone else is doing, or because it sounds like a good idea, isn’t good enough. If your goal isn’t yours, it won’t happen.

Second, set benchmarks. Let’s say you want to pay off your credit cards before July. You need to make that goal measurable throughout the year by setting benchmarks. If you owe $5,000 on your credit cards and want to pay them off in six months, you need to pay about $833 towards them every month.

Write your benchmark down beneath your goal, and make a plan for how you’re going to get it done.

Three, find an accountability partner.

A great accountability partner isn’t afraid to ask how your goals are coming along, and

they’ll call you on it when you’re slacking.

If you set a financial goal, a good accountability partner isn’t going to be the friend who always asks you to go shopping.

Studies have shown that having a strong accountability partner increases the likelihood of achieving a goal dramatically.

And finally, make sure you reward yourself along the way. It’s tough to stay motivated when hitting your goal takes a while. You might treat yourself to a night at the movies when you’ve paid off the first $1,000 on your credit cards, or maybe a nice, new shirt when you’ve paid off half the card.

Sometimes life doesn’t work out the way we think it will. Our priorities can change, and our goals may change, too.

If that’s why you didn’t make your resolutions happen this year, that’s fine. Just don’t make the mistake of thinking it’s too late to change and improve your life!

Quality Quality Care Care Close Close to to Home Home Since Since 1985 1985

Brian W. Hixon, M.D. | Frank K. Hixon, M.D. | William B. Norris, M.D. Brian W. Hixon, M.D. | Frank K. Hixon, M.D. | William B. Norris, M.D.

Pediatric ENT Patients ENT Patients Nasal Pediatric & Endoscopic Sinus Surgery Nasal & Endoscopic Surgery Allergy Testing & Sinus Treatment Allergy & Surgery Treatment Ear &Testing Mastoid Ear & Mastoid Surgery Thyroid & Salivary Gland Surgery Thyroid & Salivary Surgery Airway & VoiceGland Disorders Airway & Voice Disorders Cancer of the Head & Neck Cancer of the Head & Neck

CALL US AT (251) 928-0300 CALL USAN AT APPOINTMENT (251) 928-0300 FOR FOR AN APPOINTMENT Eastern Shore Parents I January 2022

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FLU & PNEUMONIA

FACTS

Flu & Pneumonia Vaccines Reduce Illnesses, Doctor Visits, Hospitalizations, Missed Work & School.

U L F T H G FI A I N O M U & PNE

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