Mobile Bay Parents February 2018 by KeepSharing

February2018 38

Volume 7 Number 11

Columns

Mom of the Month 4

Living With Children John Rosemond

Show Your Love!

The affection effect on marriage is important, and needs special attention during parenting years.

An Insider’s Guide to Choosing Child Care

Kids Health Watch

Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

Lice: They’ll Make Your Head Itch The head louse is a six-legged, white, brown, or clear-colored bug that lives in people’s hair. If you’re not already resisting the urge to scratch some phantom itch on your head, you will. A lot of rumors– and some truth– surround these pesky creatures. This month we’ll cover the facts about lice, so that if your child does come home with white dots on the scalp and an itchy head, you’ll know exactly what to do! Head lice survive by hiding away in hair, are very resilient, and multiply quickly. Lice are very contagious and spread easily, but perhaps not the way some people think. That brings us to our first myth: That lice can jump from one person’s head to another. They cannot. While it is true that you may see a louse “jump” on an individual’s scalp, lice do not have wings, nor are they capable of jumping far enough to reach another person’s head. So how do lice spread so easily? Most commonly through young children and those with close contact to them. As a female fertilized louse lives in the hair, it can begin to lay eggs

(also called nits) at the base of the hair. And when young children - especially daycare and kindergarten age - play closely together, their hair touches other children’s hair constantly. That’s when the transfer of lice usually occurs. It’s worth noting that the louse may survive for short amounts of time on inanimate objects such as football helmets, hats, or brushes, so sharing items like these can spread lice as well. Our second myth is that only people with poor hygiene can get head lice. This is completely false. A louse can survive for up to 6 hours under water, so it really doesn’t matter how many baths a person takes. If you have hair, you are susceptible to head lice. Some schools have a “no nit” policy. This can be frustrating for parents and children. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and National Association of School Nurses (NASN) recommends that otherwise healthy children with lice be treated but permitted to attend school if head-to-head contact can be avoided. “No nit” policies wrongly assume that nits are

capable of spreading or that the nits indicate a live louse. These nits stay firmly to the hair until it is combed out with a fine-tooth comb. There are over-the-counter medications to kill lice. However, not all are safe to use on young children, so it’s always good to check with your pediatrician first. A prescription cream may be the best bet to get rid of these unwanted, itchy visitors. Once you have used the cream as directed, wash any bedding and recently-worn clothes in hot water. Place any stuffed toys that your child sleeps with in the dryer for 30 minutes. It’s not necessary to treat the whole family, but close contacts to affected child need to have their scalp examined closely for head lice and nits. Jennifer Adair, M.D., was born and raised in Mobile. She joined Children’s Medical Group in July 2013 and currently practices at their Airport office. Jennifer and her husband, Cory, reside in Mobile with their son, Finn, and their three dogs, Barkley, Fitz, and Roo.

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The Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart is Northwest Florida’s only children’s hospital. Now, the families we serve can take comfort in the fact that the care Sacred Heart offers locally is backed by the most comprehensive academic health center in the Southeast. Through our affiliation with University of Florida Health, Sacred Heart is staying on the leading edge of children’s healthcare, providing access to the latest medical research with a local network of pediatric specialists, including: • Pediatric Nephrology • Adolescent Medicine • Pediatric Neurosurgery • Pediatric Cardiology • Pediatric Orthopedics • Pediatric Endocrinology • Pediatric Pulmonology • Pediatric Gastroenterology • Pediatric Hematology/Oncology • Pediatric Surgery • Pediatric Urology • Pediatric Infectious Diseases

Dr. Matthew Furst

Dr. Bevin Weeks

Dr. Berrin Ergun-Longmire Pediatric Endocrinology University of Florida

Pediatric Gastroenterology University of Florida

Brent Thompson, PA

Dr. Debra Cohen

Dr. Jeffrey Schwartz

Dr. Amanda Strobel

Pediatric Cardiology University of Florida

Find a physician, and see our patients’ stories: sacred-heart.org/childrenshospital /SacredHeartChildrensHospital

Dr. Theresa Roca

Dr. James Burns

Adolescent Medicine University of Florida

Pediatric Cardiology University of Florida

Dr. Robert Dillard

Dr. Matthew Steiner Pediatric Cardiology University of Florida

Dr. Alan Sacks

/StuderChildrens

Pediatric Gastroenterology Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Pediatric Hematology/Oncology University of Florida Sacred Heart Medical Group University of Florida University of Florida Practicing in Crestview

PEDIATRIC SPECIALTIES

Dr. David Shapiro

Pediatric Infectious Diseases University of Florida

Dr. Jonathan Papic

Pediatric Surgery Sacred Heart Medical Group

850-462-9496

Dr. Edward Kohaut Pediatric Nephrology University of Florida

Dr. Bryan Weidner

Pediatric Surgery Sacred Heart Medical Group

Dr. Matthew Pearson

Pediatric Neurosurgery Sacred Heart Medical Group

Dr. C. Gerry Henderson Pediatric Urology University of Florida

Dr. Robert Huang

Pediatric Orthopedics Sacred Heart Medical Group

Dr. Mark Wehry

Pediatric Urology Sacred Heart Medical Group Practicing in Destin

Dr. Gulnur Com

Dr. Don Nakayama

Pediatric Pulmonology University of Florida

Pediatric Surgery Sacred Heart Medical Group

Jamie Thorn, ARNP

Donna Williams, ARNP

Pediatric Urology Sacred Heart Medical Group

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Collier Elementary Loves Grandparents!

Collier Elementary hosted Grandparents Day with over 300 guests attending. Our Grandparents were treated to a concert performed by the Collier Chorus, visited the Collaboration Lab to see the latest technology, visited the Book Fair, and enjoyed a special snack in the Collier BEEstro. We thank all of our Grandparents for attending and would like to send a big thank you to the Collier Staff and PTA for putting on such a special event.

AutaugaSemmes County Schools FFA Gives to Local Charities

In an effort to assist those less fortunate in their community, the Semmes FFA donated fruit from their fall fundraiser to The Dream Center Mobile and The Mission of Hope. Sponsors, MGM teachers Ken Hearn and Kyle Porter, are extremely proud of the Semmes FFA members for their dedication to helping those in need. Semmes FFA plans to continue their volunteer efforts with a trash pickup and a spring garden.

UMS-Wright Students Give Back During the Holiday Season

At UMS-Wright, we believe that service is more than action, it is a lifestyle. We work hard to promote a campus culture that integrates serving others as a core value. During the Holiday season, each Lower School grade level chose an organization to support! K3 - Bay Area Food Bank • K4 - Toys and toiletries for Wilmer Hall and St. Mary’s • K5 - Pajama Drive for Wilmer Hall • 1st - Toys for Penelope House • 2nd - Toys for patients at USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital • 3rd Ronald McDonald House • 4th - Supplies for Mobile Animal Shelter.

Bright Beginnings Academy’s Robotics Team

Do acronyms like UAV, ESC, or RTF mean anything to you? They do to the middle school students at BBA, whose “first year” Robotics Team partnered with General Dynamics and Maker Space with the help of some volunteers from the Kiwanis Club to build a UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle). The team’s purpose is to build, learn, and inspire innovation. It’s a collaborative effort that involves working with a 3D printer to design a frame while choosing material that is sturdy, lightweight, and fast. The selection involves assembling motors, propellers, and controllers – which are the functional elements of the UAV. The last step involves testing and racing the UAV, in this case, quad copter. Once the UAV is field tested and meets approval – it’s ready to race! BBA is looking forward to the upcoming Quad-Copter Race in Daphne with teams from the local area! THANK you General Dynamics, Maker Space, and Kiwanis Club for inspiring innovation in our students!

Davidson Math Team Supports “Can Do Good”

The Davidson High School Math Team led a school-wide canned food drive to help build their structure for the Can Do Good competition. The students decided to dedicate this year’s can structure build to Aubreigh Nicholas, a middle schooler in the district who was diagnosed with Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG), a rare form of brain cancer. The local community has rallied around the family through many events and the Warriors wanted to show their support as well. Mobile Bay Parents I February 2018

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Two Mobile Schools Named Lighthouse Blue Ribbon Schools

Two Mobile County public schools, Council Traditional School and Alba Middle School, have been named 2017 Lighthouse Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence. To earn the distinction, schools must grade “excellent” in each of nine categories: student focus and support; school organization and culture; challenging standards and curriculum; active teaching and learning; technology integration; professional community; leadership and educational vitality; school, family and community partnerships; and indicators of success. The evaluation process includes numerous classroom walk-throughs; a series of interviews with teachers, administrators, students and parents; and a process of self-reflection. “We have always provided rigorous programs along with multiple extracurricular and co-curricular activities for our students. The Blue Ribbon process validated our claims but also challenged us to look to the next level,” said Alba Middle School Principal Rhonda Mayfield. “It reminded us that complacency is detrimental to the continuous improvement of our school, while a dynamic vision and mission are vital for our growth. We should never lose sight that our students are always deserving of the best that we have to offer.” Council had also been named a National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education in 2013.

My School Color Run to Be Held March 10

Mary G. Montgomery’s Azalea Trail Maids

Congratulations to MGM’s 2018 – 2019 Azalea Trail Maids: Ramsey Moody – lavender; Elizabeth Busby – green; Taylor Byrd – yellow; Carson Wilmoth – blue; Kelsey Highsmith – peach; Jessica Tashbin – yellow.

The Bryant Hurricane Band is hosting a My School Color Run on March, 10, 2018. The 5k fun run starts at 8:00 a.m. Check in time starts at 7:00 a.m. Registration before February 24 is $25 and late registration is $30. For more information check the Facebook page Bryant Hurricane Band Color Run and to register visit events. myschoolcolorrun.com.

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Autauga County Schools

Mary G. Montgomery’s Teacher of the Year

Congratulations to Mrs. Laurin Tew for being named Mary G. Montgomery High School’s Teacher of the Year for the 2017 – 2018 school year. Mrs. Tew has taught special education at MGM for the past four years. Prior to MGM, Mrs. Tew taught at Satsuma High School and served as MCPSS Language trainer and coach as well as the Adolescent Literacy Project coach where she trained teachers in over 22 schools in Mobile County. While she appreciated this opportunity, she returned to the classroom after three years to continue her life-long mission of, “Improving the lives of those who need so much.” Mrs. Tew graduated with honors from the University of South Alabama with a B.A. in Organizational Communication and a minor in history. She later received her master’s degree in special education. Her excellence in the classroom led to several area colleges sending their upcoming teacher candidates to Mrs. Tew’s classroom to watch not only her instruction, but also her treatment and comradery with special education students. Mrs. Tew’s inspiration for her teaching methods comes from author Shelley Hitz who said, “Even broken crayons can still color.” Mrs. Tew’s preparation, training, and experience have equipped her with the tools necessary to assist her students in, “Learning to use their colors to complete this stage of their educational process.”

Robotics Day at St. Paul’s Episcopal School

St. Paul’s Episcopal School hosted Prichard Preparatory School students for the 2017 Robotics Day. A Lego Robotics kit was donated to each school from a former St. Paul’s student. Twice each year the students collaborate and build robots that are capable of traversing obstacle courses – really impressive for elementary students!

Mending kids’hearts

It’s what we do best. Our team of more than 250 pediatric professionals is recognized for its excellence in providing world-class cardiac care in an environment best suited to the needs of our patients. From tiny babies to teens, we care for Kelsey and every child like our own. l

21 board-certified physicians and surgeons

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cardiac surgeries annually

heart transplants over the past three years

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private CVICU rooms, 16 private CCU rooms, 2 CV operating rooms and 2 cath labs

Learn how you can help. Visit www.ChildrensAL.org/heart For Children’s Financial Assistance information contact 1.844.750.8950 or visit www.childrensal.org/financial-assistance

Mobile Bay Parents I February 2018

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Semmes Elementary New Makerspace

Corpus Christi Catholic School Purchases Pajamas for St. Mary’s Home Residents

Semmes Elementary students are busy collaborating, learning, creating, inventing, building, and problem solving this school year in their new Makerspace. Valerie Johnson (principal), Media Specialist, Anastasia Martin, and SES PTO worked together to make this exciting collaborative room a reality. Teachers were also involved in the selection of the materials and literature used for lesson planning in the hands-on learning environment. Learners are selfdirected, intrinsically motivated, and fully engaged in the design process throughout the lessons. The new Makerspace room is available to all grades K-5. It is fully equipped with a variety of grade appropriate activities and lesson plans that encourage students to design, experiment, build and invent as they deeply engage in science, literature, and engineering. Semmes Elementary plans to continue to add to their resources and materials making the experience even more exciting for their young learners for years to come. Pictured: Third Graders Will Niven, Whitten Smith, and Connor Tillman collaborate in the Makerspace Room to build a muffin catcher after reading the book “Monkey with a Tool Belt and the Maniac Muffins.”

Corpus Christi Catholic School student, Dayln McGuire, organized a fundraiser to purchase pajamas for the children who live at St. Mary’s Home. Before Christmas break, students at CCS participated in a “sock day.” For a small donation, students could wear Christmas socks to school. All of the donations went toward the purchase of 64 pairs of pajamas. Dylan and her sister, Callie, are pictured with members of the St. Mary’s home staff.

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Autauga County Schools St. Paul’s Students Host Christmas

Extravaganza for Augusta Evans Scouts

St. Paul’s Service Leadership class hosted a fun Christmas event for the Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops at Augusta Evans. Aided by Patrol Leaders Mary Stirling Brown, Zackery Carmichael, Hayes D’Olive, Lacey Evans, Richard Graham, Joseph Hand, Kennedy Hendryx, Kelly Honkanen, Miles Ingram, Anna Ivey, Lindsay Laycock, Wright Mullins, Harry Myers, Lily Myers, Jody Parker, Camille Perry, Victoria Pitruzzello, Eve Pogue, Carson Richey, Jake Richey, Jack Robinson, Jalyn Sirmans, Casi Weinacker, Warner Wiggins, and Margaret Winters, the Scouts rotated through eight fun activities including Decorate a Snowflake, Make a Christmas Card, and Decorate a Wreath. One station consisted of packing bags of treats and stockings full of toiletries for Mulherin Home as part of the Making Spirits Bright program. The Scouts learned that in spite of your challenges, you can always help others.

Preview Day at Prichard Prep Middle School

Prichard Prep’s Middle School Preview Day was held on December 13th and 9 private and magnet middle schools participated. This is an annual opportunity for 4th and 5th grade students and parents to meet with representatives from the middle schools to ask questions about enrollment, tuition, curriculum, extracurricular activities, etc. We are very appreciative of each representative taking the time to share information and answer questions the parents and students had about the schools.

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Little Flower Spelling Bee Winners

Little Flower Principal, Ms. Alesa Weiskopf, congratulates the winners of the 2018 school Spelling Bee: eighth grader, GiGi Gardner and 6th grader, Mary Baker. The Spelling Bee kicked off with 10 students vying for top spot. As the words became more and more difficult to spell, GiGi and Mary maintained their places in the contest by spelling such words as “gargoyle”, “malign”, “anecdote”, and “mandible”. These two winners will represent Little Flower at the Archdiocesan Spelling Bee in February.

Faith Academy NHS Works Behind the Scenes at Prodisee Pantry

Faith NHS and JrNHS students are willing to do whatever is needed even if that means getting on the floor folding boxes! Faith NHS helped to fold boxes that hold canned goods given out at Prodisee Pantry. Some of the students also formed an assembly line and filled the boxes with the donated canned goods. These will be dispersed in the community to those that need them the most. Pictured on the right filling boxes is Charity Mills.

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T UMS-Wright Football Team Captures 4A State Championship

Autauga County Schools

Lighthouse Baptist Academy Students Host Annual Christmas Play

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The Bulldogs captured the 4A State Football Championship in December! The team defeated Fayette County 21-7 in an epic winter wonderland snowstorm in Bryant-Denny Stadium. In addition to the championship title, Symon Smith’s effort in the Bulldogs’ victory was selected as the Super 7’s Outstanding Performance. “It was like a dream, playing for a state championship in the snow. That's a dream come true!” – Senior, Trez Dixon. Photo courtesy of al.com.

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This year, Lighthouse Baptist Academy’s annual Christmas play, entitled “Fact or Fiction—Christmas Edition,” was centered on a game show where the contestants had to respond to questions telling the host whether it was fact or fiction. We had a capacity crowd that enjoyed the sights and sounds of the Christmas season. Over 200 students’ hard work paid off as the singing and acting were spot on during every scene of the play. All in attendance heard about the love of Christ and had a great start to their Christmas!

Mobile Bay Parents I February 2018

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Theodore HS Club Distributes Hats and Scarves to Nan Gray Davis Students

With morning temperatures in the 20s as students returned to school from Christmas break, Theodore High School’s Family Career Community Leaders of America club decided to do something to help protect younger students in the community against the chilly weather. Students in the club went to nearby Nan Gray Davis Elementary on the first morning after Christmas break and passed out hats, scarves and other cold-weather items to students there. They’d made many of the items themselves in FCCLA sponsor Roslyn Robinson’s Fashion Design Careers class at Theodore. “We like to give them an opportunity to have a sense of giving, teaching them to give back to the community,” Robinson said of her students. “This is our responsibility and we should teach our students to give back, and they do feel very proud to do that.” The students also passed out some of the items to their classmates at Theodore. “It feels wonderful, a great feeling,” said Theodore student Bryce Hinton. “During the winter time, it gets down to 50 or 55 normally, but now it’s 22. It’s quite cold and people down here aren’t used to that.”

St. Mary Catholic Spelling Bee Champs

St. Mary Catholic School congratulates this year's Spelling Bee Champs! Fourth grader Rodrigo Sanchez and sixth grader Colson Tidikis will represent St. Mary Catholic at the Archdiocesan Spelling Bee in February to be held at St. Pius X Catholic School.

CHCA Star Student

Cottage Hill Christian Academy fifth grader, Isabel Oldshue, was honored as the January STAR student of the month at the January meeting of the Southwest Mobile County Chamber of Commerce. Congratulations Isabel!

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Autauga County Schools

Cottage Hill Spelling Winners

Cottage Hill Christian Academy’s annual spelling bee was held in the Worship Center of Cottage Hill Baptist Church. Students from each 1st - 8th grade class were recognized for their classroom spelling achievements. Representatives from grades 4-8 competed for the title of "Bee Winner". After 12 rounds, Alyssa Huff won with the word “massacres”. The runner-up was Emily Newton. Congratulations to all of our Spelling Bee participants! Alyssa will represent Cottage Hill in the Mobile County bee in February against finalists from elementary and middle schools in Mobile County. CHCA will also participate in the AISA state competition in January. Our top finishers from each grade will go on to the district bee against students in their grade-level. These students are: 4th grade – Eleanor Olsen; 5th grade – Riley Chason; 6th grade – Emily Newton; 7th grade – Alyssa Huff; 8th grade - Logan Beauchamp.

Mobile Christian Announces Trail Maids

Congratulations to Madison Lancaster and Victoria Sexton for being chosen as members of the 20182019 Azalea Trail Court! We know they will do Mobile Christian School proud in continuing the 89-year old Mobile Azalea Trail tradition of serving as ambassadors for our city.

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Phillips Preparatory School Spelling Bee Competition

PPS Spelling Bee was held December 6, 2017. Our top three spellers schoolwide were: Jermiya Robinson (3rd place), Dev Mehta (2nd place) and Marlan Zha (1st place). Zha was the Top Speller in 2016 for Phillips Preparatory as well as for MCPSS Spelling Bee Competition. He also participated in the Alabama State Spelling Bee and placed third. Congratulations to Marlan and we wish him the best in the upcoming competitions, and congratulations to these awesome students!

Local HS Students Compete in Cooking Competition

Murphy High schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jessica Byers (pictured) and Kendall Adams-Young won the beef and pork categories, respectively, while Vigorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jala Napier won the Peanut category in the Mobile County Public Schools FCCLA Beef, Pork and Peanut cooking competition held recently at Murphy High School. Competitors from high schools around the county developed and prepared their dishes beforehand, heating and plating them on-site for judging. A panel of judges that included local chefs, and culinary educators graded each dish on taste, presentation, nutritional value, ease of preparation and adherence to ServSafe guidelines for the preparation and serving of food. Students placing in the top three of each category won cash prizes. Also placing were: Sebastian Elfarkh of Davidson (second) and Sarah Catherine Deck of Baker (third) in Beef; Beyounce Johnson of Vigor (second) and Kaden Kramer of Baker (third) in Pork; and Taylor Houze of Baker (second) and Emari Moore of Davidson (third) in Peanut. Byers and Young moved on to state competitions in the Beef and Pork categories. There is no state competition in the Peanut category.

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Autauga County Schools

St. Mary Catholic Gives "Swarm" Send off to McGill-Toolen Yellow Jackets!

St. Dominic Spelling Bee Winners

Congratulations to everyone who participated in the St. Dominic Catholic School Spelling Bee. Mrs. Laurie Michener, Principal, congratulates sixth graders Cora Johnson (left) and Kate Mayeux (right). Both students will represent St. Dominic Catholic School at the Archdiocesan Spelling Bee.

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St. Mary Catholic students from PreK3 through 8 and even a few Mom's Day Outers "swarmed" around the McGill-Toolen Yellow Jackets for a huge send off to the Alabama High School Football State Championship in Tuscaloosa this December.

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St. Dominic Buddies

St. Dominic Grade 8 students took time to visit with their Grade 1 buddies recently. Each Grade 1 student received a book and ornament made specifically for them by their 8th grader. Here Julian Waits shares the book he created with his first grader, Conyer Smith.

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McGill-Toolen Top Cross-Country Athletes

McGill-Toolen High School runners John Paul Williams and Grace Jensen were awarded top honors at the All-County CrossCountry banquet. John Paul was awarded the Charlie Spencer WISE DESIGN,award INC. and Grace received CLIENT Debbie’s School Dance theofLarry Hall DESCRIPTION memorial Winter Registration award.AdThese awards recognized their strong character, excellent leadership and outstanding HALF PAGE Magazine Ad academic achievements for a cross country runner in Mobile County. PUB Mobile Bay Parents

St. Luke Quarterback Named Coastal Alabama Player of the Year

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St. Luke’s junior quarterback, Jermaine MECHANICAL SIZE TRIM: Brown, was recognized by AL.com as Coastal 7.5” w x 4.8”hAlabama Player of the Year. This young man exemplifies integrity and leadership on and off COLOR the field. Congratulations Jermaine. 4C LINE SCREEN Magazine QUESTIONS CALL Michelle Wise Wise Design Inc. 251.660.7751

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Autauga County Schools

St. Mary Lights Up Midtown!

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After a beautiful Christmas Pageant in St. Mary Church by our St. Mary Catholic School students, families, friends and neighbors joined us for a beautiful Christmas Tree Lighting and celebration! St. Mary thanks volunteer committee members, Ashley Rains, Molly Conger, Jessica Quinn, Melanie Karolenko, Jamie Piper, the St. Mary Knights of Columbus, Matt and Carly Boos, Shane Rice, Brent Robinson “Santa”, Kim McDowell “Elf” and our friends at The Lafayette Street Fire Station for assisting us again this year---7 years in a row! Thank you to Melanie Karolenko, St. Mary Youth Ministry Director, for lighting our tree! Pictured: St. Mary Catholic School students in the annual Christmas Pageant preceding the Christmas Tree Lighting.

Prichard Preparatory School’s Christmas Extravaganza

Prichard Preparatory School celebrated the season with the Christmas Extravaganza. The program included songs, dance, drama team presentations, and many Christmas carols! The music was under the direction of Gary Wallace, PPS Music Teacher, and the drama team is under the direction of Janet Rainer, PPS Pre-K4 Teacher. It was a great way to start off the Christmas holidays!

Little Flower Celebrates the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe

St. Ignatius Students Host Christmas Program The St. Ignatius Christmas Program had a surprise visitor this year. Mr. and Mrs. Clause dropped by at the end of the program to send all the students off on Christmas break with a special Christmas blessing. Each year, St. Ignatius students put on a Christmas play with all our K-8th grade students. This year, over 400 students participated in the program called "Jingle Bell Beach." Pictured here are Jack Baggett and Caroline Weinacker as Mr. and Mrs. Clause.

Mobile Christian standout senior defensive end Andres Fox garnered

several awards and recognition for his outstanding season. He was named 3A Defensive Lineman of the Year by the ASWA, 2A-5A Defensive Player of the Year by the Call News, 3A First Team All State, 1st Team All Coastal Alabama, and 1st Team Super State (includes all classifications). In addition to these accolades Andres made his decision to sign with Stanford University after considering offers from a number of schools including Alabama, Auburn and LSU.

The Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe took on special meaning when the students at Little Flower Catholic School planned the Mass for the special day. Students brought flowers to the altar in commemoration of the moment Juan Diego found roses growing in the snow on a hilltop. Left to right Avigail Rodriguez, Sady Portillo, and John Solis show their devotion with prayers and roses for the occasion. Mobile Bay Parents I February 2018

Mobile Christian Defensive Lineman to Sign with Stanford

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St. Paul’s Drama Students Place at Walter Trumbauer Festival

Congratulations to the following St. Paul’s Episcopal School drama students for placing at the Walter Trumbauer Festival: Chris Richie: superior ratings in solo male musical dramatic varsity and in solo male musical comedic varsity. Anna Weber: superior rating in solo female musical comedic and dramatic varsity. Anna Holland: superior rating in solo novice pantomime. Mary Elise Lane: excellent rating in solo musical female comedic novice.

Griggs Star Readers Book Club

Congratulations to the newest members of the Star Readers Book Club! Thanks to generous donors through a Donors Choose project by Mrs. Tomberlin our Media Specialist, our 3rd-5th grade students were able to receive books for book clubs at Griggs! 3rd Grade Book Club Members: Izzy DeGregorio, Max Norris, Ella Allbritten, Kendall Davis, Sara Roland, Julianne Bailey, Brentley Cotton, David Cruz, Cashayla Wilson. 4th Grade Book Club Members: Aixa Adams, Mercediez Jones, Leilani McNorton, Claire Murrill, Alexis Flippen, Kyleigh McNeer, Rylee Graham, Hannah Coleman, Skye McKenna. 5th Grade Book Club Members: Mary Parker, Adyson Threadgill, Kaleena Williams, Alexandria Langham, Lilly Grace Bolton, Autumn Bailey, Abby Weekly, Haley Crocker.

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Autauga County Schools

Faith Academy Gives Back to Warm the Community

The students and families at Faith did a warm clothing drive to help clothe the homeless that attend One Meal. One Meal is a ministry that feeds the homeless in downtown Mobile every Sunday. Students and Faculty of Faith hand out the items when they help feed at One Meal. Collecting items allows every age at Faith to get involved in service and giving back to their community. Pictured here are first graders Logan Armour, Kingston Cox, and Emma Lloyd helping to fill the collection bucket in their hall.

St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s High-Q Team Wins First Match The Upper School High-Q team hosted and won their first match recently. St. Luke's was the top scorer with 41 points, followed by Theodore with 28 points and Baker with 27 points.

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Please email School News and Photos to Lynn@mobilebayparents.com.

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Revelation Christian School Students Visit Murray House Residents Revelation Christian visited the residents at the Murray House to help celebrate Christmas. The students sang Christmas carols and made ornaments with each resident. They were delighted to have us! The students felt good knowing they put a smile on their faces.

NOW REGISTERING K4 - 8th Grades for the 2018 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2019 school year! Schedule your personalized school tour today!

www.covenantschool.com or call 251-633-8055

St. Ignatius 5th Graders Get Middle School Buddies for Easier Transition St. Ignatius 5th grade students had a buddy with the middle school students on January 8. As 5th graders, they will be entering middle school next year so those students were able to spend a day in the shoes of a middle school student. Middle school can be intimidating, but if you already know what to expect it can be a much easier transition. Pictured here are Ashley Beatty (5th grade) and Sarah Beth Bexley (8th grade).

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Autauga County Schools Davidson Students Named Azalea Trail Maids

Congratulations to Davidson’s four students selected to serve as ambassadors for the 2018-2019 Azalea Trail Court: Rubyen Brown (peach), Lillian Kennedy (blue), Morgan McGehee (lavender) and Rian Shields (green).

Taylor-White NEHS 2017-2018 Officers

Bright Beginnings Academy Spreads a Little Cheer

Taylor-White Elementary's National Elementary Honor's Society Officers are: (Left to right) Anna Claire Robin - Treasurer, Madison Williams - President, Grace Kauffman- Secretary, Kylie McDonald- Vice President.

In keeping with our annual tradition, BBA students, teachers, and parents enjoyed a wonderful day of caroling to some of the local nursing homes and shut-ins. The school visited Carrington Assisted Living, Gulf Coast Rehabilitation and Nursing Facility, Elmcroft of Heritage Woods, as well as, a couple of stops to visit local shut-ins. The students along with music teacher, William Waller, shared some of the most treasured songs of the Christmas season welcoming everyone to participate and spread a little cheer. Thank you, Mr. William, for the outstanding music accompaniment.

Please email School News to Lynn@mobilebayparents.com.

St. Dominic Students Spread Message of Kindness

St. Mary Catholic Icy Start!

St. Mary Catholic School students enjoyed the amazement of the "Frozen" St. Mary Catholic Church Fountain on their first day back at school January 3! Brrrr!

The book “Wonder” by RJ Palacio was read aloud to St. Dominic Catholic School Grade 5 students. What was the message? Be Kind. Students spread the message in a special way.

Mobile Bay Parents I February 2018

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CHCA Second Graders Ring In 2018

Corpus Christi Catholic School Duke TIP Scholars

Second grade students at Cottage Hill Christian Academy rang in 2018 with a New Year’s celebration which included party hats, blowers, confetti, toast, and ring pops. They all enjoyed RINGing in 2018 at CHCA.

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The Duke University Talent Identification Program (Duke TIP) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving academically gifted and talented youth. Corpus Christi Catholic School is proud to announce that the following 7th graders have been recognized as Duke Tip Scholars as a result of their outstanding academic achievement. Front Row: Drew Moulder, Harry Edwards, Jay Carter, and Anna Watson. Back Row: Shawn Mullen, Stephen Quina, Madison McPhillips, Grant McNally, Logan Hyke, Lucy Cox, and Chris Mawad.

Playing for a state championship doesn’t make us Saints. At St. Paul’s, it’s what’s on the inside that counts. Sure, we’ve graduated our fair share of National Merit Scholars and major-league athletes, but we’re more proud of what’s harder to measure: character. Every week, you’ll find our students out in the community, tutoring young learners, volunteering at shelters, and just in general lending a hand – wherever one is needed. And on campus? Treating one another with tolerance, compassion, and respect.

Know What Matters.

161 Dogwood Lane | Mobile, Alabama 36608 | 251-342-6700 | stpaulsmobile.net

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Autauga County Schools

Faith Academy Performers to Compete at State

Faith Academy Drama Team competed in the AISA Regional Drama Competition. Jukaylyn Sullivan placed 1st in solo acting, Jukaylyn Sullivan and Lily Glass placed 2nd in duet acting, and Greg Naman, Josh Naman, and Brea Harris placed 2nd in ensemble acting. The team will be going to compete at the state level! Go RAMS! Pictured top to bottom: Ana Cazalas, Rebecca Boleman, Alexander Adams, Michael Smith, Vasilisa Douglas, Moriah Ivey, Jasmine Lee, Alana Jasper, Kenzie Dunnam, Krisanna Taylor, Houston Fillingim, Emily Diep, Brea Harris, Virginia Lee, Faith Havard, Greg Naman, Jukaylyn Sullivan, Josh Naman, and Lily Glass.

Revelation Celebrates its Readers!

Congratulations to these students for meeting their accelerated reading goal for the month of December. They were taken on a lunch date by limousine.

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The Creations of Dr. Seuss Take the Stage at DHS!

Perfectly timed with Read Across America in local schools, Seussical is a wild, musical ride through the mind of Dr. Seuss! The Fine Arts Department of W. P Davidson High School will bring the beloved characters of Dr. Seuss to life during the first weekend of March in the musical, Seussical . This fun-filled show, presented by an incredibly talented cast of actors, singers, and dancers; will thrill and inspire audiences of all ages. Seussical follows Horton the Elephant as he tries to protect the tiny world of the Whos who live on a dust speck. Although he is ridiculed by the Sour Kangaroo and the other animals of the Jungle of Nool, Horton refuses to abandon the Whos on his clover because, “A person’s a person, no matter how small.” Meanwhile, young Jojo the Who is feeling similar because his “thinks” are too imaginative for the liking of Who society which is itself on the brink of a frivolous war. Although most people associate Dr. Seuss with childhood, it will be entertaining for adults as well. “Dr. Seuss was an expert at addressing serious societal issues while disguising it as children’s entertainment,” explains the show director and DHS theatre instructor, Stephen French. Seussical , by Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens, will be presented March 2nd & 3rd at 7:30 PM and March 4th at 2:30 PM in the W. P. Davidson High School Auditorium; 3900 Pleasant Valley Rd. Tickets are $12 for adults and $5 for students. Children 4 and under are free.

Please email School News and Photos to Lynn@ mobilebayparents.com by the 7th of the month. 31

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Autauga County Schools

Watch Seymour Presents Check to Davidson Broadcast Team

The Davidson Broadcast Team was recently presented with a check for over $1,000 from Watch Seymour, a broadcasting platform focused on developing students and impacting communities. The Davidson team was able to learn important broadcasting skills and present live from home football games for the 2017 season.

Skate Night at Revelation Christian School

Revelation Christian School ended the semester with a Family and Friend Skate Night at Revelation Christian School. It was enjoyed by all and everyone had a blast!

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Please email School News to Lynn@mobilebayparents.com by the 10th of the month.

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St. Paul’s 2nd Graders Send Mardi Gras Treats to Troops!

Mrs. Bolt’s second grade class at St. Paul’s Episcopal School did a December service project for troops deployed abroad as part of their “Little Saints Serving” program. The second grade classes are doing a monthly project for Dixie Rear Detachment, a 501©3 nonprofit set up by St. Paul’s parent, Sylvie Rihner. The Rihner family sends frequent packages to troops, and the second grade provided cards and treats to supplement the packages. Mrs. Bolt’s class made colorful Mardi Gras themed cards and packed fun treat bags to send!

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UMS-Wright 7th Graders Attend Naturalization Ceremony

Mrs. Bedsole's 7th grade Civics class took a field trip in December to attend the naturalization ceremony for 60 new citizens. The Honorable P. Bradley Murray '86 was the presiding judge, and our own Mary Maurin led the courtroom in the Pledge of Allegiance! The students were excited to participate in such an inspiring example of our government in action.

Prichard Prep Students Collect Canned Goods for Veterans

For the 3rd year, Prichard Preparatory School students collected canned food for veterans living at Eagle's Landing. Mrs. Hubbard, 3rd grade teacher, started the drive and continues to spearhead the event each year to honor veterans. While it is a food drive, it is also a contest to see how many cans each class can collect. This year's 1st Place Winner is Mrs. Neese's class with a total of 100 cans! Coming in a very close second is Ms. Curd's class with a total of 96 cans! Each class participated and collected a total of 488 cans! Good job students!

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A Page in a Book Chasing Down the Best Books As children migrate from creeping to crawling, from toddling to walking, we eagerly anticipate our babies progression through locomotion. We hover nearby offering encouragement, ready to catch them when they fall. But the game changes when they begin to run. Caregivers get our exercise as we weave and lurch through shrubbery, crowds, minefields of toys and more to keep up with the newly agile child who has become fleet of foot. Fueled by adrenaline, the new-found excitement of speed is a siren’s call to little ones who are testing their speed limit. The following recommended reading is guaranteed to catch the attention of the kid on the move!

Catch That Cookie!

by Hallie Durand, Illustrated by David Small (Penguin Books for Young Readers) After a week of reading about runaway gingerbread men in class, Marshall was still not buying it. Taking a stand against the notion that a cookie can run, he pronounces his disbelief to the teacher and students alike. With a knowing smile, Marshall’s teacher lets him take the lead as the class bakes their own gingerbread men cookies. Through the slow-as-molasses dough prep to the long wait by the cooking oven, Marshall remains convinced that there is nothing fast about these cookies. But when an empty oven and a series of tantalizing notes sends the class in hot pursuit of missing cookies, young Marshall may have to revise his opinion of runaway gingerbread men. Delicious reading for cookie lovers, this imaginative title is worth chasing down.

Shh! We Have a Plan

by Chris Haughton (Candlewick Press) Dressed for stealth as they walk through the woods, a foursome of friends spy a colorful bird in the branches. Rather than chasing it forth, three of the group craft a plan of pursuit that may net their prize. Shushing the smallest fourth member of the team who randomly chirps “Hello, Birdie”, the group exhausts various strategies as they creep and climb after their target. After repeat attempts, the team is no closer to their target. But when the littlest one produces crumbs, the elusive bird is drawn in, along with dozens of his feathered friends. As hunters become the hunted, the pursuers may need to find another plan, or easier prey in this digitally-rendered winner of the Ezra Jack Keats Book award.

Naked!

by Micheal Ian Black, Illustrated by Debbie Ridpath Ohi (Simon & Schuster) Fresh from the bath, unencumbered by clothes and free from inhibition, one child’s bedtime prep becomes a race around the house as he eludes his parents by bare inches. Running around at top speed, the child streaks from room to room decrying the need for shirts, pants, shoes and capes. Wait, capes? Capes are cool and back on the menu. As his fire burns lower and he begins to feel the chill, his mom is slowly able to coax him into pajamas (with cape) and nudge him toward his bed. Illustrated with the best of strategic perspective, posing and product placement, Naked is brilliant bedtime reading for every child who has attempted a clean getaway.

Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

Mobile Bay Parents I February 2018

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Mortgage Ratios Q. Do you have a guideline ratio for mortgage debt to income? A.

When it comes to buying a home, I always tell people to get a 15-year, fixed rate mortgage, with monthly payments that are no more than 25 percent of their take home pay. This type of mortgage is the only debt I don’t beat up people for having. Still, I urge folks to pay off these loans in less than 15 years. The average person following my plan pays off this type of loan in about seven or eight years. That’s a pretty big deal in terms of your financial security. And paying extra on your mortgage doesn’t have to be a strain. You can start by simply rounding up your payments. If the payment is $770, make it $800 instead, and apply the extra to the principal balance. If you want to get more intense, you could make an extra house payment each quarter, or go the route of bi-weekly payments.

To do this, simply make half a monthly payment every two weeks. By the end of the year you’ll have made 13 payments instead of 12. This will knock years off the length of your loan. Remember, your income is your largest wealth building tool. It’s so much easier to save, invest, and give when all your money isn’t flying out the door to make payments!

No Commodities Q. Do you recommend having gold and silver as part of your investment portfolio? A.

No, I do not. I also don’t recommend oil or corn futures. All of these are examples of commodities, and the commodities

market is extremely volatile. In addition to the market being wildly volatile, the prices on commodities isn’t based on actual production. It’s based largely on a supply and demand curve. If there’s a shortage on one of them, the price shoots up. For example, when you’re talking about gold and silver, there’s more demand than supply when the economy is bad. In this kind of scenario, people are fearful and lots of them run to buy gold. This drives up the price to unrealistically high levels. Again, the price on a commodity isn’t based on anything other than fear or greed, and a supply and demand curve. The prices aren’t based on an actual production of income, like it is with stocks or real estate. I don’t buy commodities at all, especially gold and silver. I don’t recommend you buy them, either.

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Teaching Kids to Be Kind Online No parent plans to raise an unkind, much less a cruel, child. In fact, most of us put considerable effort into polishing our children’s manners and teaching them to respect other people. Unfortunately, many of those lessons are being undercut online. Our culture, as a whole, is going through a rude and disrespectful era, a problem that seems to be amplified in and by online communication. Recent research by the Pew Internet and American Life Project reported that one in four adults have experienced online harassment and 66% have witnessed it. The numbers are even higher for young people. The Pew Study also pointed out that there’s widespread disagreement about what kinds of speech are unacceptable and what kinds of responses are appropriate. Some argue that in a free society, people have to be able to say whatever is on their minds, no matter how vile, and other people should just “shake it off.” Plenty of others feel that the culture itself is being degraded when citizens mock, deride and attack each other. They favor more involvement by service providers and even law enforcement. Many people oscillate, defending strong language when it’s used in defense of ideas that matter to them and criticizing it when it’s used by opponents. Civility in the culture isn’t likely to be restored unless individuals commit themselves to respectful communication regardless of the venue. Parents can play a part by helping kids think through what they experience and do online. Sometimes that that may mean encouraging kids to protect Mobile Bay Parents I February 2018

themselves by disengaging from conversations and even communities in which abusive language is the norm. Other times parents may want to support children who want to take a stand on behalf of peers who are being mistreated. (Iwitnessbullying.org and kindness.org provide specific ideas and kid-friendly materials that can be deployed in the battle against online harassment in all its many forms.) Before they can engage in that kind of advocacy, kids need to be grounded in the fundamentals. These principles may seem a little old-fashioned, but they aren’t obsolete. They survive because they are the basis for healthy, respectful relationships at home, in school and eventually in the workplace and the larger community. No slurs of any kind---ever. Make it clear through your rules and your own habits that you have zero tolerance for words that denigrate people because of their race, sex, ethnicity, disability or sexual orientation. The pain of others isn’t funny. Steer kids away from television shows, movies and online videos that ask them to override their natural feelings of compassion and laugh at someone else’s misfortune. Don’t spread rumors. Teach kids not to repeat—or forward--unkind things they hear about other people. This is rule is especially important if, for some reason, they don’t especially like the other person. Appreciate privacy. Help your child understand that a message or photo sent by a friend should be treated as confidential. Online communication should not be forwarded or posted without permission from the person who sent it. 36

No tantrums. Offline, if your child doesn’t like something another person does or says, they can express their opinion but they aren’t allowed to scream and curse. A dispute online is no different. No ranting. No offensive language. No personal attacks. Be careful about humor. Offline, sarcastic comments are often accompanied by a smile or a laugh so the other person knows you’re not serious. Online, it’s much harder to differentiate between a comment that’s meant to be funny and one that should be taken seriously. Emoticons and other visual cues may help but they, too, can be misinterpreted. Think twice about insults. Everyone seems to use them as a way of being clever. Some parents even tease their kids with putdowns. The question we all have to consider is why it’s amusing to undermine another person’s self-esteem. Online, especially, it may be time to revive the old-fashioned rule: If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all. Perhaps the most helpful thing parents can do is help children visualize the person on the other end of online communication. Imagine saying the same thing face to face. What feelings would the other person have? What expressions would be on his or her face? Now, ask your child to turn the conversation around. What if another person said to you what you were thinking about writing in a text or posting on Snapchat? How would you feel? What would you want to do? These questions are, of course, a new way of getting kids to think about the very ancient and universal moral rule—“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” This simple principle survives because it helps people recognize cruelty and practice kindness--two capabilities that are crucial in every human interaction regardless of where it occurs online or in the three dimensional world. Carolyn Jabs, M.A., has been writing the Growing Up Online column for ten year. She is also the author of Cooperative Wisdom: Bringing People Together When Things Fall Apart. Available at Amazon and Cooperative Wisdom.org. @ Copyright, 2018, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved.

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“They must still be dating,” my friend whispers to me. As we stand shivering at my son’s soccer game, my brother-in-law and his fiancee cuddle together sharing a warm blanket and a chair.

toward each other,” she says.

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romantic. Must the spontaneity and sweetness of courtship die as we move out of the “shout from the roof-tops” kind of young love into the demands of young parenthood?

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Mobile Bay Parents I February 2018

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Growing complacent about displaying affection isn’t unusual as a marriage is peppered with children, crises, celebrations and day-to-day routine. Nonetheless, simple expressions of love like hand-holding, hugs and kisses, and compliments are an important component to the health of a marriage and the family unit. “Without intimacy, people can and often do begin to feel isolated, alone, bitter, depressed, used and simply uncared for,” says Amanda Deverich, a licensed marriage and family therapist. “All the happiness that was amplified by the physicality in the early part of the marriage is no longer there to grease the wheels of family life. What remains is grinding drudgery, financial stress and short tempers.”

Affection in the midst parenthood. Many parents find that affection for each other can get lost in the mind-numbing whirl wind of sleepless nights and the general challenges of new parenthood. “This is a natural phenomenon in the family life cycle as parents devote their energies to the newborn,” Deverich says. After the initial adjustment period, nurture your relationship to avoid resentment and a sense of neglect. Such feelings can quietly chip away at the positive family dynamic that your kids rely on to feel safe and secure.

Why affection is healthy. “Couples believe affection is simply an inspired byproduct of a feeling,” Deverich says. “However, it can be the other way around. Love, connectedness, and caring can be sparked by physical touch.”

While excessive public displays of intimacy can cause discomfort for those around you--including your kids--showing warmth toward one another gives children a sense of well-being, that all is well in their family unit. “When children see this model behavior where affection is easily expressed, that is a skill set that can translate into other arenas of their life,” says psychiatrist Dr. Bela Sood. “They learn how to be kind, gentle, as well as, be happy with other people as they watch their own parents.”

When affection doesn’t come naturally. Not everyone was raised in affectionate homes and others simply aren’t wired to display warmth toward others, including the ones they love the most. “Understand the uniqueness and differences in the other person without being judgmental about that,” Sood says. But that doesn’t mean you can’t work on meeting your spouse’s needs for affection. Recall what attracted the two of you in the first place. Physical touch and tenderness toward each other can reaffirm your love and create instant connectedness. “We forget that we have control over many things that go on in our lives if we are willing to make that sacrifice,” Sood says. “And why are we willing to make that sacrifice? Because we love that person.” MBP

Freelance writer, Christa Melnyk Hines, and her husband of 18 years are the parents of two boys. Christa’s latest book is Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World. Visit her at www.christamelnykhines.com.

17 Simple Ways to Rekindle That Lovin’ Feelin’ Hold hands. Hug and kiss. Look each other in the eyes. Get involved in a hobby together. Listen when your spouse talks about his or her interests. Flirt with each other. Laugh together. Pen a love note and leave it on your spouse’s pillow. Send a flirty text message. Email a link to a sweet love song to your mate. Give your spouse a back rub. Offer a sincere compliment. Help each other around the house and with the kids. Call each other during the day just to check in. Court each other. Tell your kids what you love about your spouse. Say “I love you”.

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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston

When Your Teen is in the Wrong Crowd If you swim with the sharks, you’re bound to get bit. One bad apple spoils the whole bushel. Bad company corrupts good character. Many parents have added these phrases to their lexicon, because they illustrate the dangers of running with the “wrong crowd”. As moms and dads, we know how susceptible kids are to peer influence. You’ve likely spent many sleepless nights worrying about the people your child is hanging around. What are they teaching my son? What are they pressuring my daughter to do? Are these friends that will give needed support and encouragement to my teen, or are they the type of people who will bring my child down? These are valid concerns if you suspect your child is hanging out with the wrong crowd. But let’s pause for a moment and ask just who is the “wrong crowd?” Here’s a simple definition we can use: The “wrong crowd” includes anyone who influences your child in ways that are contradictory to your values, systems, and beliefs as parents. When parents observe changes in their teen and note the actions and attitudes of their friends, they may arrive at the conclusion, “my teen is in league with some bad seeds.” When this happens, how do we gently guide our teens away from negative influences? My advice may not be what you might expect.

mature enough to make wise decisions on their own. It would be foolish to let young children spend time with people who have serious hang-ups. But at some point, we must stop protecting our kids and start preparing them to make wise choices when choosing friends. If all we are doing is holding our kids back from this or that person, we are not equipping them to make smart decisions once they are free of our control. While every child is different, here is a basic guideline for starting that relational training: 0–13 years old: Get to know and closely monitor your child’s friends. If your son or daughter is running with the wrong crowd this early, change schools, move houses, or pull your child from certain activities. At this age, they still need to have their innocence protected.

good idea? Do you?” Or you can ask, “Has anyone offered you drugs? What crossed your mind in that moment?” These types of questions are effective because they help your child articulate their values, beliefs, and convictions. And if they ever get into a situation similar to the one you have discussed, chances are they will remember, “Hey, I remember telling my mom (or dad) that I don’t believe in drinking and driving. I’m going to pass.” By asking good questions, you are helping your child build up those decisionmaking muscles that will serve them well, whether they have good friends or not.

Embrace the “Bad” Kids

Teach Your Kids

18+ years old: At this age, young people must be responsible for their own choices, including their choices in friends. If they are living with you, they must follow the rules of the house. But if they are on their own, all you can do is let them know you are available to talk and give advice if they ever feel they need it.

Instead of running from the wrong crowd, let’s run towards them! Turn your home into a safe, loving, and fun place where teens can hang out and interact. Provide alternatives for your kids and their friends. Invite them to watch a ball game. Pack up enough supplies, and take a group fishing. Let them set up their band in your garage. Set aside a weekend, and go camping with your kids and their friends. In this way, not only will you be providing a healthy outlet for teens to have fun, but they will be under your watch and protection. Rather than cautioning your teen to side step the problem kids, take initiative and be the mentor, leader, or life coach they need. Maybe your son or daughter has some friends with emotional, physical, or spiritual issues. Are there hurting and needy kids in your teen’s circle of friends? Open up your arms, and embrace that “wrong crowd.” Start influencing the “bad kids” yourself. And teach your teen to do the same. In that way, you won’t avoid the wrong crowd, you will change them!

As parents, part of our job is to protect our kids. We try to shield them from negative influences as much as possible. We’re not going to let our 12-year-old daughter hang around 18-year-old girls who smoke pot and sleep with their boyfriends. We have to shield our child’s innocence until they are

As you train your teen to use discernment when choosing friends, you can help them along by asking good questions. For instance, you can ask, “I’m curious; would you ever drink and drive? Do you know someone who has? Did they think it was a

Mark Gregston is an author, speaker, radio host, and the founder of a residential counseling center for struggling teens located in Longview, Texas. Mark’s passion for helping teens can be seen in his 40 years of involvement with families as a youth pastor, Young Life area director, and now, as the Executive Director of Heartlight, where he has lived with and helped over 2,700 teens. To find out more about Mark and his ministry to parents and teens, you can visit www.HeartlightMinistries.org or www.ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

Mobile Bay Parents I February 2018

14–17 years old: Continue to monitor your child’s friends, but begin to slowly back off from controlling their relationships. If you have concerns about the people they are spending time with, talk with your kids about the problems you see. Also, set personal and family boundaries regarding the kind of behavior that is acceptable among friends and the kind that is not.

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It is the mission of Faith Academy to offer a quality Christian education in a safe, clean and orderly environment, while assisting and encouraging our students to realize who they are in Christ.

Spiritual

n Interdenominational Christian education n Weekly chapel and daily Bible classes n Mission opportunities through clubs

Academic

n Member of AHSAA n SACS accredited/AISA Blue Ribbon School n College preparatory classes n Advancement placement classes n General education classes n Information technology curriculum n Before and after school program n Daily cafeteria program n Dual enrollment classes through University of Alabama n Average ACT of 27 for college prep seniors n 55% of 2017 Faith graduates received college scholarships n Elementary computer classes, free help classes

Facilities

n Fenced and covered playgrounds n 35 acre athletic complex n 6,000 square foot state-of-the-art weight training facility n Gated and secure 127 acre campus in west Mobile n Separate elementary and kindergarten playgrounds

Extracurricular

n Fine Arts and Drama Program n Award winning band and choir program n RamCorp (brass and percussion ensemble) that incorporates a dance team and color guard n Robotics program, 4-H Club n Student Government Association n BETA, NHS, Spanish Club n Competitive sports for grades 3 - 12 n Sports programs: Football, baseball, soccer, basketball, cheerleading, softball, golf, swimming, track/cross country, archery and volleyball

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F Choosing a daycare is one of the most important decisions parents make for their infants and toddlers. Your child will spend most of his waking hours there, so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to find an environment that is safe and nurturing physically, emotionally, and academically.

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Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve worked in the field of early childhood education for decades. Here are my top 8 things to look for when searching for the right childcare.

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Convenience

families about their experiences there. Also check with the local Better Business Bureau. A quick online search never hurts, either.

Consider the following: Do the program’s hours work for your schedule? Is it near your home or office? How long will it take you to get there if there’s an emergency during the day?

Cleanliness

Cost

While it’s crucial to find a program that fits into your budget, that doesn’t mean you should scrimp on quality. If your dream daycare is too costly for you to manage, ask about scholarships. Many communities have programs to help working parents with the cost of childcare.

First impressions

Drop in unannounced to get a feel for a place. Pay close attention to how you’re greeted and what’s going on. Is it chaotic? Did you walk right in without anyone noticing you? Do the children look happy and occupied? Notice the teachers: Are they warm and caring? Do they seem to genuinely like children?

Recommendations

Ask other parents and caregivers who currently use the daycare as well as former

Sure, with dozens of small children, it’s tough to keep a building clean, but it is imperative to keep everyone healthy. Do you notice any foul smells? Teachers should wear gloves for diapering and wash their hands before and after. Procedures should be in place for sanitizing all equipment and toys throughout the day.

Ratios

In Alabama, one teacher is allowed by law to be alone with eight two-year-olds. The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) recommends a one-to-six ratio for the same age group. The lower the ratio, the more attention your child will receive. The ratio varies depending on the age group. If your daycare is NAEYC-approved, find out the appropriate NAEYC ratio for your child’s age. Check the website of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to learn your state’s health and safety recommendations.

Turnover

Once you’ve found the perfect teacher, you want some assurance that she won’t leave two weeks after you enroll your child. Find out the program’s turnover rate. If teachers frequently leave, they may be unhappy about the way they’re treated or about something happening at the school, which is cause for concern.

Policies and procedures

Confirm the school is up to date on licensing standards by contacting your local department of children and families. Ask to see the school’s policy and procedure handbooks. They should have plans in place for dealing with a wide variety of issues from lice outbreaks to power outages. Ask about the center’s safety procedures. Choosing a daycare doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In the end, trust your instincts. MBP Rachael Moshman is a full time freelance writer and has been published in a wide assortment of parenting and family magazines and websites across the U.S. and abroad.

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36541 Lighthouse Academy of Excellence & Achievement

9930 Cody Driskell Road Grand Bay The Lighthouse Academy of Excellence & Achievement has been making a difference in the lives of children since 1993. Our mission is to improve the educational achievement of our children from the beginning of the early stages of child development by providing a nurturing environment, a rich curriculum, outstanding teachers, and setting a standard of high expectations. Programs: Infant & Toddler Childcare, Early Head Start. Preschool 2’s & 3’s, Alabama First Class Pre-Kindergarten, After School Program, Summer Camp and Parent Involvement Workshops. Before and, after care programs available for ages up to 12. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday 6:30am-6:00pm Ages: Ages 6 weeks-4K with before, after care Contact: (251) 957-0641

36571 Fountain of Life Daycare at Evangel Christian

1277 Jubilee Drive Saraland Full-day daycare for ages 6 weeks thru 3 years. Monday – Friday, 6:30am-6:00pm. A Beka Program for children 2 years and up. Evangel Christian School is for PK3-5th grade, Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30am-6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks - 3 years Contact: Marla Mauroner, (251) 679-0975 marla@folc.tv www.fountainoflifechurch.net

Saraland United Methodist Church Early Learning Center

415 McKeough Avenue Saraland The Early Learning Center, located on the campus of Saraland United Methodist Church, loves to grow beautiful little minds and hearts by offering the highest quality Christian education. New full time K3 and K4 program with A Beka Curriculum. We work to incorporate Biblical principles throughout our learning opportunities while providing a Christian perspective of the world. We believe that the love of Christ can be experienced early in a child’s development. Our team of early childhood educators strives to use developmentally appropriate practices, focusing on the child’s social, emotional, intellectual, spiritual and physical growth. You can find out more about our schedule and tuition and download registration forms online. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:00am-5:30pm Ages: 6 weeks-K4 Contact: Heather Duke, (251) 675-2728 heather@saralandumc.org www.saralandumc.org/ early-learning-center

Shiloh Christian Day Care

717 Cleveland Road Saraland With Daycare options through K4, Shiloh Daycare offers a variety of programs to meet each family’s needs. We utilize educational curriculum for our kids Mobile Bay Parents I February 2018

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407 SF hav Wil with gra opt inc ted K2 the app follo Co Tec ages 3, 4, and 5. Our daycare staff works hard to make sure your child is loved and receives the best care. Come see why parents all over north Mobile County use Shiloh Daycare for their little ones. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am - 6:00pm Contact: (251) 675-2099 www.shilohbc.com

36572 First Baptist Church Satsuma - Mother’s Day Out Program/Daycare/Preschool - Satsuma Christian School

5600 Old Highway 43 Satsuma Mother’s Day Out Program/Daycare/Preschool. Mother’s Day Out – (251) 380-7357 – A Christian environment for preschool children allowing mother’s a period of time for themselves. Children will be grouped according to age groups. Each class (except for bed babies) will have free play, a Bible story and an activity time. Daycare – (251) 679-9000. We offer a daycare program for ages 6 weeks-3 years. 2, 3 and 5 day options available. Times: 6:30am-6:00pm. Satsuma Christian School – (251) 675-1295, Satsuma Christian School is a ministry of First Baptist Church Satsuma offering classes for PK3 –3rd. We offer Accelerated Reading, Art, Computer, Library, Music and Spanish. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30am-6:00pm, Mother’s Day Out hours are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 8:30am-2:00pm Ages: 6 weeks 3 years, Satsuma Christian School is PK3-3rd Grade Contact: (251) 675-1295 www.fbcsatsuma.org; satsumachristianschool.com

cus on phonics and mathematics. We are a Christian based school, and our motto is “Choosing God’s Way”. We are a half day program, but we also offer after school care for those that need it. We are a school with a program of quality and excellence that has all the elements you equate with success- taught in a secure, warm, and loving environment. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday from 8:30am12:30pm. After School Care from 12:30pm-4:00pm Ages: 3 - 5 years Contact: (251) 649-4844 www.abc-kindergarten.com

Azalea City Christian School & Child Development]

3550 Schillinger Road North Mobile At Azalea City Christian School, infants and toddlers are special. Toddlers enjoy cheerful surroundings while learning to develop the motor coordination skills that are vital to their growth. Azalea City Christian School also offers a kindergarten program for three and four year olds. Day care is provided after the kindergarten program for parents who need this service. The kindergarten curriculum is designed to help children develop basic concepts in math, phonics, language arts, science, social studies, Bible, music and art. The Saxon programs are used in the classrooms. Part-time or full-time Daycare, 1/2 and whole day Preschool for K3-K4. Designed with the needs of working families in mind. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30am-6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks-5 years Contact: (251) 649-5437 www.azaleacitychristian.org

Grace Baptist Academy

36575 ABC Kindergarten

3618 Oak Tree Drive Mobile ABC Kindergarten is a private kindergarten. We fo-

8780 Howells Ferry Road Semmes Grace Baptist Academy is a private Christian school making available an college preparatory education to families of like faith desiring to educate their children in a Christian environment. Our purpose is to develop the mind of Christ in the lives of our students

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as we train and equip them for success. We are accredited through NAPS and we are approved by the NCAA for Div. 1 & 2 scholarships and athletics. Our K3-5th grades utilize the ABeka curriculum. PK3-12 dayschool and homeschool option is available for 3-12th. Ages: PK3 - Kindergarten Contact: (251) 649-7398 www.gbcacademy.com

Kimz Kidz Child Care Center

1650 Schillinger Road North Semmes Kimz Kidz Child Care Center of Semmes, AL offers quality and reliable child care services for infants, pre-kindergarten, preschool and elementary students. Our individualized programs include summer camps, before and after school activities, games, and more. At Kimz Kidz Child Care Center, your child’s mental and emotional development is our top priority. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am-6:00pm Ages: Infant - Preschool Contact: (251) 645-6451

Semmes First Baptist Child Development Center

4070 Wulff Rd E Semmes SFBCDC serves children 6 weeks – K4 and we have a before and after school service for Allentown, Wilmer Elementary and Semmes Elementary along with a Summer Camp program for children up to 5th grade. We have Full time, Part time, and Half Day options. Breakfast and Lunch are served daily and included in the cost of tuition. Our Center has formatted a curriculum that is based on Thematic Units for K2 and Letter of the Week Units for K3/K4. With these units our staff will establish a developmentally appropriate lesson plan that will guide your child in the following areas of learning; Bible, Language, Literacy, Communication, Creative Arts, Music, Science, Technology, Mathematics, Social Studies, and Social/

Emotional Development. Each week your child will develop further with many activities including; songs, books, manipulatives, crafts, games, discussions, and much more. We will incorporate from various sources such as High Scope and Handwriting without tears. We are open Monday-Friday from 6:00am – 6:00pm with full, part time and half day options. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am-6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks - 4K Contact: (251) 649-2712 www.semmesfirstbaptistcdc.com

Snow Road FBC – Child Development Center 2370 Snow Rd N Semmes A Beka Curriculum. Experienced Teachers, Summer Day Camp, and Hot Lunches. Before and after-school care provided for children entering K-5 through 5th grade. Transportation to and from Allentown and Semmes Elementary is included. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am - 6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks - K4 Contact: (251) 649-6096 www.srfbc.com/srfbc-ministries/child-developmentcenter

Sunni Land Child Care Center

2901 Schillinger Road North Semmes Preparing your child to shine. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am - 12 midnight Ages: 6 weeks - 12 years Contact: (251) 645-3664 www.sunniland.wixsite.com/slcc

36582 Lighthouse Child Development Center

6905 Nan Gray David Road Theodore Lighthouse Baptist Child Development Center’s Grand Opening is February 5, 2018. Parents with

children ages 6 weeks through 2+ years old will have the opportunity to place their children with staff that will love and care for their children in an environment they can trust. Lighthouse Baptist Academy-Distinctively Christian. Academically excellent. Complete Kindergarten – Separate K3, K4, K5 classes. Experienced Teachers & Helpers, Foundational Reading & Math, Christian Character Training. Child Care Services: Before and After Care & Summer Day Camp. Lighthouse Baptist Academy educates Pre-K to 12th grade. Ages: Ages 6 weeks - 2+ Contact: (251) 653-6542 info@lbatheodore.com www.lbatheodore.com

36602 First Baptist Mobile Child Development Center

806 Government Street Mobile FBC-CDC location is ideal for parents working in downtown or midtown. We use the WEE Learn curriculum and emphasize activities that are both age and developmentally appropriate for young children. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30am until 5:30pm Ages: 8 weeks - 4 years Contact: (251) 432-6513 www.fbcmobile.com/child-development-center.html

HIPPY (Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters)

109 South Cedar Street Mobile Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY) is a parent involvement, school readiness program that helps parents prepare their children for success in school and beyond. The parent is provided with a set of carefully developed curriculum, books and materials designed to strengthen their children’s cognitive skills, early literacy skills, social/emotional and physical development. HIPPY

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has been at work in Alabama since 1993 serving parents of children ages three, four, and five. No charge for the program. Ages: 3 years - 5 years Contact: (251) 441-0004 www.healthykidsal.org/programs/hippy

Nina Nicks Joseph Child Development Center

209 South Washington Avenue Mobile At the Nina Nicks Joseph Child Development Center, we encourage children’s learning through educational play using research based curriculum for every age group! Every day, children are engaged in a variety of hands-on educational activities in an environment that fosters a child’s positive self-esteem and a love of learning! Come by and visit. We are proud of our modern, inviting facility in the East Church Street Historic District in Downtown Mobile. A tradition for children since 1945, Nina Nicks Joseph Child Development Center is a community based non-profit center and United Way of Southwest Alabama Partner Agency. Infants, Toddlers, Preschoolers, School-age. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30am to 6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks - 12 years Contact: (251) 433-1310 www.childdaycare.org

36603 Most Pure Heart of Mary School

310 Sengstak Street Mobile Full Day Program. (School- K3 to Eighth grade). Before and after care. Ages: K3 - K4 Contact: (251) 432–5270 www.heartofmaryschoolmobile.org

36603 YMCA – Dearborn Child Development Program 321 North Warren Street Mobile Full and part time options. All children are provided with: Age-appropriate activities for cognitive, social, physical, language, and emotional development, nutritious breakfasts, lunches and snacks, special guests and activities, a safe and nurturing environment, and indoor & outdoor recreational activities. After School Care and Summer Camp available. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30am-6:00pm with full and part-time options. Ages: 6 weeks - 5 years Contact: (251) 432-4768 www.dearbornymca.org

36604 Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind – Mobile Regional Center

1050 Government Street Mobile The Kinderprep program prides itself in being familyfriendly and offering a wide range of educational choices. The classes are small and the teachers are certified professionals dedicated to the growth and development of the children. A wide range of Mobile Bay Parents I February 2018

services are available including early intervention, audiology, speech/language therapy, and parent education. These are incorporated into the preschool curriculum to provide each child with an individualized program that promotes development and growth. Most of our services are free to residents of Alabama who have a diagnosed vision loss of at least 25%. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30am-2:00pm Ages: 3-5 years Contact: (251) 433-1234 www.aidb.org

Azalea City Montessori Co-op ad on page 7

1260 Dauphin Street Mobile We are a parent-founded school whose mission is to promote and provide Montessori education and childcare in Mobile. Our primary and elementary programs serve children with an authentic Montessori education program and high-quality afterschool care. Days & Hours: Monday - Friday; 8:00am-3:00pm with extended care from 7:00am-8:00am and 3:00pm to 6:00pm. Ages: 3 years - 12 years Contact: (251) 202-5295 (school hours); (251) 732-2629 (after hours) montessorimobile@gmail.com www.azaleacitymontessori.org

Carmen’s Childcare and Learning Center

1361 Spring Hill Avenue Mobile After School care and summer programs. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30am-5:30pm Ages: 6 weeks – 11 years Contact: (251) 432-9050

Dauphin Way United Methodist Church Child Development Center

1507 Dauphin Street Mobile The mission statement of the Center is to develop good moral character within each child, while offering the highest possible age appropriate educational program. Our infant, toddler and preschool educators implement Pinnacle Curriculum, a faith-based curriculum used to guide children toward their potential. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:00am- 6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks - 4 years Contact: Debbie Outlaw, (251) 473-1861 Debbie.outlaw@dauphinwayumc.org www.dauphinwayumc.org

Legacy Child Life Learning & Dev. Center

1060 Government Street Mobile A Ministry of Living Word Christian Center. Legacy Child Life Learning & Development Center is committed to providing an excellent, loving, and secure Christian environment where our children can develop spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, socially, and physically. Curriculums include ACE (Accelerated Christian Education) and A Beka. Kingdom Academy, also a Ministry of Living Word Christian Center is a school that goes from K-8th. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30 am-6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks - 5 years Contact: (251) 441-1901 www.lwccim.com

St. Mary Catholic PreSchool

107 N. Lafayette Street Mobile St. Mary Catholic Preschool serves 3 - 4 year olds

with both half and full day programs. Our preschool curriculum provides a loving, safe, stimulating, and Christian environment that values and respects the individuality of each child. We believe in a developmentally appropriate curriculum for children three and four years of age. The focus of our preschool curriculum is to prepare children socially, emotionally and academically for the many challenges that elementary school brings. St. Mary Catholic is the oldest existing elementary school in the state of Alabama, offering education from preschool thru grade 8. Contact: Debbie Ollis, Principal, (251) 433-9904 dollis@stmarymobile.org www.stmarymobile.org

St. Mary Parish Mom’s Day Out

1413 Old Shell Road Mobile St. Mary’s Mom’s Day Out is a ministry of St. Mary Church. We are dedicated to provide a nurturing environment that meets the needs of our children. We provide care for children from infancy until the age of preschool readiness. Days & Hours: Monday -Friday, 8:00am-12:00pm or 8:00am-4:00pm with early and extended care available. Ages: 6 weeks - age 3 or preschool readiness Contact: Laurel Dolan, (251) 432-8678 ldolan@stmarymobile.org

36606 Little Flower Catholic School

2103 Government Street Mobile Little Flower Catholic School has been providing quality education to this community for over eighty years. Our dedicated faculty and staff continuously strive to meet the needs of the whole child. In addition, the small size of our school fosters a family atmosphere. Preschool – 3K-4K, also K5-8th grade. Ages: K3 - K5 Contact: (251) 479-5761 www.littleflower.cc

St. Pius X

217 South Sage Avenue Mobile St. Pius X Parish has a K3 and K4 program located on the main campus and operating in conjunction with Saint Pius X Catholic School. Acknowledging that we are a Christian, Catholic based program, and that God is the central focus of our lives, we strive to reinforce the basic and all-important values of our faith. Much love, attention, and affection is used as we strive to meet each child’s individual needs in the area of growth and development. We are committed to the higher standard of care for our children. St. Pius X offers a variety of day care programs: Early Morning Care, After School Care and Summer Camp. These programs orient children to play and learn and to interact with other children. St. Pius X Catholic School is a K through 8th grade school. Ages: K3 - K4 Contact: (251) 473-5004 www.stpiustenth.com

Trinity Kids Learning Center

309 Pinehill Drive Mobile We believe in “Providing Quality Without Question!” Full day care with afterschool programs available for school aged children. PreK for over 10 years. Ac-

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cepting applications for the 2018-2019 in February. Certified staff; High Reach curriculum. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30am-6:00pm Ages: 4 weeks - 12 years Contact: (251) 476-1844 Find us on Facebook

Westminster Presbyterian Kids Preschool and Mom’s Day Out ad on page 27

2921 Airport Boulevard Mobile Westminster Presbyterian Church is home to one of Mobile’s oldest and most respected Early Childhood programs. Westminster Preschool’s Mom’s Day Out provides classes for ages 3 months to 2 years old ranging from 2 to 5 days a week. Our Preschool provides K3 and K4, with a unique Little Learners class for 2 ½ year olds who are toilet trained, ranging from 3 to 5 days a week. Our program is from 9:00-1:00 pm, with an Early Drop-Off available at 8:00. We also offer gymnastics, dance, drama, art, and science to our K3 and K4 students as after school extracurricular classes. Our MDO students participate in Music Class once a week, while our Preschool students have Music class twice a week, Spanish class once a week, and a Chapel service every Wednesday. We also have a Summer program in June and July. We believe that a child’s work is their play; therefore, our goal is to provide happy, healthy play and learning activities in a safe, enriching environment. Learning activities are planned daily for every classroom and are designed to be age appropriate. We stress social skills, listening skills, and peer play, as well as language development, fine and gross motor skills, and school readiness. Please call to schedule a tour and come see why Westminster is entering its 59th year of serving the families of Mobile! Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-1:00pm Ages: 6 months - 4 years Contact: Cindy Fultz, (251) 471-9995 westminsterpreschoolmobile@outlook.org www.wpcmobile.org/preschool

36607 UMS-Wright ad on page 20

65 Mobile Street, North Mobile Beginning in K3, the Lower School at UMS-Wright provides students with a strong foundation on which to build their future success. Students are led by certified early childhood teachers who work hand-in-hand with every student to ensure they acquire age-appropriate skills while instilling a love of learning and a love of school. In addition to the core curriculum, students attend enrichment classes in Spanish, library, PE, art and counseling. Our supportive environment allows students the opportunity to grow in mind, body and spirit – the mission of our school. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:30am-3:00pm

Ages: K3-12 Contact: Doug G. Barber, Head of School, (251) 479-6551 admissions@ums-wright.org www.ums-wright.org

Ashland Place Preschool and Mother’s Day Out

15 Wisteria Avenue Mobile One of Mobile’s oldest preschools. Now in its second generation of providing a loving and nurturing experience for children. Ages: 3 months - 4 years Contact: Chee Chee Street, (251) 478-6360 cstreet@apumc.com www.apumc.com

36608 Corpus Christi Catholic School Child Development Center ad on page 17

6300 McKenna Drive Mobile

St. Paul’s Episcopal Early Education Center ad on page 29

4051 Old Shell Road Mobile The Early Education Center of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church serves families with 2 and 3 year old children in coordination with the academic calendar of St. Paul’s Episcopal School. The goal of The Early Education Center is to instill a love of God, of people and of learning in each child. Our cutting edge approach to early childhood includes an Outdoor Classroom, Promethean Board technology, a research based, hands on curriculum and passionate, certified teachers. The program includes half day and full day options. To apply online please visit www.stpaulsearlyedcenter.com. For further information, please contact Erin Schwant, Director of The Early Education Center, via email at erin@stpaulseec.com or Kathryn Thompson, Admissions Director, via email at kathryn@stpaulseec.com. St. Paul’s Episcopal School has a 4K program-12th grade. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-2:30pm Ages: K2 - K3 Contact: Erin Schwant, (251) 725-0048 www.stpaulsearlyedcenter.com

Weinacker’s Montessori School ad on page 43

Corpus Christi Catholic School Child Development Center provides a warm, nurturing environment with age appropriate activities. An experienced, well trained staff is dedicated to providing the highest quality child care. This program provides children the opportunity to learn, play, and grow in a safe, developmentally appropriate learning environment. Our mission is to provide the building blocks for a life-long love of learning and academic success. We are a Christ-centered Catholic environment where children develop socially, physically and spiritually. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday from 6:00am to 6:00pm. Year round. K3 and K4 full day hours are 7:55am-3:00 pm and half day hours for K3 are 7:55am-11:55am. Extended day care is available. Ages: 6 months - K4 Contact: Mrs. Kristy Martin, (251) 342-2424 school@corpuschristiparish.com www.school.corpuschristiparish.com

Faith Academy Preschool ad on page 41

8650 Tanner Williams Rd Mobile Celebrating 43 Years of Excellence in Christian Education! Before and after school care available. Faith Academy School has PK3-12 grade. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:50-3:05 with before and after care. Ages: K3 - K4 Contact: Dwan Kirby, (251) 633-7267 www.faithacademy.us

227 Hillcrest Road Mobile Our mission we believe every child is born with unique potential. And in order for your child to reach their potential, it must first be revealed. That’s where our highly skilled teachers and unique approach come in. First and foremost, we at Weinacker’s Montessori School encourage the children to learn while playing and play while learning. Studies show that using a sensory approach to learning is the most effective way to learn and retain. So, at Weinacker’s Montessori School students get to move around and explore, allowing them to learn while using their five senses in a safe and engaging environment. This not only gives them the freedom to explore their natural abilities, it allows your child to have a unique, individualized learning experience. This helps instill self-confidence and a lifelong curiosity for knowledge. After all, we’re not just preparing your child for their education; we’re preparing them for life! Infant, Toddler, and Early Childhood programs (infant-3rd Grade). Certified Teachers, State Licensed, Montessori curriculum. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am-6:00pm Ages: Infant-6 years old Contact: (251) 344-8755 www.weinackersmontessori.com

Bright Beginnings Learning Center at Providence LLC

6803 Airport Boulevard Mobile Daycare, PK program and summer camp. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday 6:00am-6:00pm Contact: (251) 776-5540 www.bright-beginnings-learning-center-atprovidence-llc.business.site

Dauphin Way Baptist Church Daycare

3661 Dauphin Street Mobile Dauphin Way Child Development Center “Quality Education in a Christian Environment” is located at Dauphin Way Baptist Church. Our mission is to provide a loving, nurturing and creative environment for each child. Our classrooms are arranged to offer challenging play and learning choices at a range of development levels. Several curriculums are used to have a well-rounded program with the main one being “Everyday Learning” from Kaplan Preschool Curriculum. For our older classes we offer Spanish, Sports, music, art, and culinary. The CDC provides a balanced hot lunch and two snacks a day. We also provide baby food for the children who are not on table food. During the summer months we offer Summer Day Camp for children who have com-

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Ch Ou Days & Hours: Monday - Friday, 9:00am - 1:00pm with before care and after school activities available. Ages: 2 months - 4 years Contact: (251) 344-2070 www.shpc.us/visitors/preschool-programs/ pleted 5K thru 12 years of age. The days are filled with field trips, swimming, skating, sports combine, art, and games. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:45am to 6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks - K4 Contact: (251) 344-0909 www.dauphinwaycdc.com

Goodwill Easter Seals of the Gulf Coast Springhill Child Development Center

10 Westminster Way Mobile Springhill Child Development Center Preschool-Specialized educational services, and Pre-Kindergarten Standard goals, are provided year round in an inclusive preschool setting. The High Reach Curriculum in conjunction with the Creative Curriculum are utilized. We offer a small group setting in order to serve the individual needs of our children. We also offer morning and afternoon care for those children enrolled in our preschool program. Our staff communicates closely with families through daily reports, monthly consultations, and parent enrichment activities. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:30am-5:30pm Ages: 2.5 - 5 years Contact: (251) 342-3122 www.gesgc.org

Kids Stuff Preschool

320 Hillcrest Road Mobile Children benefit from over 35 years of experience at our Alabama licensed DHR-inspected facility. Highlyqualified daycare teachers work in close contact with children and their families to ensure each child receives nurturing day care services and a quality education. We provide the child care services you require, including infant/toddler care, an enlightening preschool curriculum, before and after-school child care including on-site school pick-ups and educational summer services. Kids Stuff Preschool follows an A Beka Christian learning program. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am-6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks - 12 years Contact: (251) 343-6611 www.kidsstuffpreschool.com

Life Church Child Development Center

8701 Zeigler Boulevard Mobile Life Church CDC exists to build Godly character in children through quality Early Childhood Christian Education in a safe and caring environment, incorporating proven methods and materials to promote success in school and in life, with eternal values. Before and After School care and Summer Camp are also available. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am-6:00pm. Before and after care available. Ages: 6 weeks and up Contact: (251) 633-2679 www.lifechurchcdc.com

Spring Hill Mother’s Day Out/Week Day School 10 Westminster Way Mobile We have two preschool programs: Spring Hill Mother’s Day Out, and Week Day School. Both are fun, hands-on, learning environments for children. Mother’s Day Out fosters the development of children from the ages of 2 months to 2 years. The Week Day School is a preschool for 3 and 4 year olds. Summer program also available. Mobile Bay Parents I February 2018

Springhill Baptist Child Development Center

2 S McGregor Ave Mobile Day Care, Mother’s Day Out- A safe, fun and educational environment for your children. The goal of the Weekday Early Education Program at Spring Hill Baptist Church is to provide for each child according to his/her ability in each area of physical, intellectual, social, emotional and spiritual growth while meeting their individual needs. Our Weekday Early Education Program includes day care classes and Mom’s Day Out (8:30am1:00pm) classes. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:00am-5:30pm Day Care, 8:30am-1:00pm Mom’s Day Out Contact: (251) 342-6044 www.shbc.cc/ministries/childdevelopment-center

36609 Mobile Christian School ad on page 25

5900 Cottage Hill Road Mobile Mobile Christian School’s PreK3 Program provides a loving Christian atmosphere where children may grow in their knowledge of God, themselves and the world. The preschool curriculum is designed to provide children with a variety of enrichment and readiness experiences.The PreK4 Program at Mobile Christian is designed to provide an atmosphere that encourages, stimulates and challenges our students through a well-structured curriculum. Following

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St. Ignatius Catholic School Early Learning Center and Preschool

3650 Spring Hill Avenue Mobile The Early Learning Center/ Preschool Program - The Early Learning Center at St. Ignatius Parish provides quality care for children 4 months to 24 months of age. Our trained, experienced and dedicated staff work hard to ensure that your child has a happy, healthy and safe environment in which to grow, learn and play. Programs are available 3 or 5 days per week- from 8:00 a.m.-Noon for half day or 8:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. full day. We also offer early care starting at 7:15 a.m. and extended care from 3:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. For more information, please contact Tiny McPhillips (251) 445-6720 mcphillipst@stignatius.org. The K2, K3 and K4 program is a Kindergarten readiness program designed to develop social skills, fine and gross motor skills, reading readiness, letter and sound recognition, math readiness, and critical thinking skills. Our goal is to develop the whole child, spiritually, emotionally, morally and physically. Half- Day (7:30am-11:45am), Whole-Day (7:30am2:45pm). Contact Lindsay Hutchisson, Director of Advancement at 445-6719 for more information. Days & Hours: 7:15am-6:00pm Ages: ELC - 4 months-24 months PreK - 2-4 years Contact: Tiny McPhillips, (251) 342-5442 www.stignatiusmobile.org

West Mobile Baptist Child Development Center 7501 Airport Boulevard Mobile West Mobile Baptist Child Development Center offers a Christian daycare/preschool program. A Beka curriculum. In addition to learning programs our K3 – K5 students participate in many extracurricular activities, library classes, and music classes as a part of our regular program for K3 children and older. We also offer before & after school care and a summer camp program for children 6-11 years old. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am-6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks - K5 Contact: Stephanie Chapuis, (251) 639-6868 www.wemochurch.org

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a daily routine the child’s needs are met socially, emotionally, physically, academically, and spiritually. Students in K3 and K4 participate in weekly Spanish, Music, Computer, and Library classes. Students participate daily with SMART boards, PE, Handwriting without Tears, and other college preparatory curriculum offerings. Mobile Christian School prepares students K3 through 12th grade. Call for more information. Ages: PK3 - PK5 Contact: (251) 661-1613 www.mobilechristian.org

Weinacker’s Montessori School ad on page 43

513 Georgian Dr Mobile Our mission we believe every child is born with unique potential. And in order for your child to reach their potential, it must first be revealed. That’s where our highly skilled teachers and unique approach come in. First and foremost, we at Weinacker’s Montessori School encourage the children to learn while playing and play while learning. Studies show that using a sensory approach to learning is the most effective way to learn and retain. So, at Weinacker’s Montessori School students get to move around and explore, allowing them to learn while using their five senses in a safe and engaging environment. This not only gives them the freedom to explore their natural abilities, it allows your child to have a unique, individualized learning experience. This helps instill self-confidence and a lifelong curiosity for knowledge. After all, we’re not just preparing your child for their education; we’re preparing them for life! Infant, Toddler, and Early Childhood programs (infant-3rd Grade). Certified Teachers, State Licensed, Montessori curriculum.

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Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am-6:00pm Ages: Infant-6 years old, after-school program for ages up to 12 years old. Contact: (251) 342-5399 www.weinackersmontessori.com

Christ United Methodist Church - Mom’s Day Out, Preschool and Extended Day

6160 Grelot Road Mobile The Children’s Ministries of Christ United Methodist Church is committed to nurturing children to know the love of Jesus Christ. Our goal is to assist children in developing into happy, healthy, self-confident individuals. The Mom’s Day Out classes emphasize language development, listening skills, and gross and fine motor skills through hands-on activities. The 3 and 4-year-olds will also develop their language, listening, problem solving and gross and fine motor skills. Our teachers expose the children to all types of kindergarten readiness skills. The mom’s day out children will participate in art and music. The preschool children will participate in chapel, phonics, sports, music, science and field trips. Summer Camp is available for elementary children. Summer camp students will participate in developmentally appropriate curriculum for Phonics, Reading and Math along with field trips and much more. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:30-6:00 for extended day children and 9:00-1:00 for Mom’s Day out Ages: 8 weeks - 4K Contact: Christie Ford, (251) 342-7215 www.cumcchildren.com

Cottage Hill Christian Academy Early Education Center and Preschool

4255 Cottage Hill Road Mobile As part of our commitment to Faith, Family and Future, Cottage Hill Christian Academy (CHCA) offers two programs for children ages six weeks through five years. The CHCA Early Education Center specializes in caring for children that are 6 weeks to 24 months. CHCA offers quality child care year-round from 6 a.m. until 6 p.m. for families in surrounding communities. The EEC program offers an environment of music and movement, reading, and play! In addition to the early education program, CHCA also offers a dynamic preschool program for students in K2, K3, K4, and K5 classes. It is our belief that children learn best through active participation, thus the preschool program is hands-on and encompasses many experiences to enhance student discovery and learning. Cottage Hill highly values a challenging learning environment, where wonder and curiosity provide a foundation for lifelong achievement. The preschool experience provides a foundation for spiritual, intellectual, social and emotional growth. Please visit our web site at chcacademy.org or contact the EEC Office or the Office of Admissions, at 251-660-2427 to schedule a tour and discover the Warrior. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am-6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks - 5 years Contact: (251) 660-2427 www.chcacademy.com

Cottage Hill Presbyterian Preschool

4201 Cottage Hill Road Mobile At Cottage Hill Presbyterian Preschool we provide a safe, warm and nurturing environment. Our desire is to get to know each child individually and help them to reach their fullest potential socially, academically and spiritually. Mom’s Day Out: Ages 6 months - 2 years curriculum includes: Shapes, Colors, Letter Recognition, Bible Stories, Art, and Music. Preschool: 3K and 4K Curriculum includes: A Beka Reading and Numbers Program, Art, Music, Christian Values and Bible Stories. Mom’s Day Out and Preschool are available. Dance and Tumbling available to 3K and 4K students. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30-12:30, Extended care available Ages: 6 months - K4 Contact: Donna Latiolais, (251) 666-0983 chpreschool@bellsouth.net www.chpcmobile.org/ PRESCHOOL.html

Joyland Daycare at Knollwood Church

1501 Knollwood Drive Mobile Joyland Daycare is one of many extension ministries of Knollwood Church. We know that the number one concern of working parents today is the care that their child will receive while they are at work. Joyland Daycare will provide your child with a loving and nurturing environment where they will receive the Word of God every day. We will also provide a wholesome learning environment with many activities that your child will enjoy. Activities: Daily Lessons: Bible, Phonics, Numbers, Colors, Shapes, and Special Units (special units change monthly) Weekly: Chapel, Spanish and Computer. Activities for and additional fee: Gymnastics, Ballet and Tap, Whiz Kids. Morning and Afternoon Snack as well as a hot lunch are included in tuition. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am-6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks-3 years Contact: Christina Johnson, (251) 666-4996 www.joylanddaycare.com

Nazarene Day Care & Learning Center

669 Azalea Road Mobile It is our mission to ensure that our children grow in mind, skill, and faith by using creative play, developmentally appropriate curriculum, and instruction based principles. We believe young children are ready to learn about God’s love for them. Child development is supported in social, emotional, physical, and spiritual areas. We aspire to be a learning community where grace is foundational, truth is pursued, and holiness is a way of life. Christian daycare and preschool. A Beka Curriculum. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30am-6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks - 4K Contact: (251) 666-0044 www.nazarenelearningcenter.com/

St. Mark Early Learning Center ad on page 13

439 Azalea Road Mobile “Get your TLC at the ELC.” This program serves 2 months-4 years. We have spacious rooms with computers, library, playground and a gym. Our Enrichment programs include music, art, science, chapel, cooking, sports & Spanish for our 2 1/2, 3, & 4 year olds. St. Mark ELC is definitely the place to be to receive TLC. Qualified, loving, Christian teachers nurture your child with lots of hands-on teaching. We are very busy each day learning and exploring. Rates are on the website at www.stmarkmobile.com. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, part time (8:15-2:15) or full time (7:00-5:45) 2, 3, or 5 days a week. Ages: 8 weeks - 4K Contact: Bethany Jolly, (251) 232-2106 stmarkmobileelc@gmail.com www.stmarkmobile.com/elc

36612 2946 West Turner Road Mobile Melton’s Tots Tendercare Academy will give your child the attention they deserve. We stand for healthy, educated, active, and happy children in the community. It’s our job to uphold these standards for all children here at Melton’s Tots Tendercare Academy. As a parent we understand you want a clean, caring, and educated environment for your little angels. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am-6:00pm Ages: 5 weeks - 12 years Contact: z, (251) 457-6304 Find us on Facebook

36617

2448 Gordon Smith Drive Mobile Gordon Smith Child Development Center-Preschool Program and Daycare: All classes except infants

Mount Hebron Christian Child Development Center

2531 Berkley Avenue Mobile Comprehensive Childcare services. Full Time: Full days Monday-through Friday (maximum 9 hours per day) Part Time: After School Program. The Mount Hebron Christian Child Development Center uses the A Beka curriculum as well as other useful academic and culturally age appropriate activities. We also have a summer program. It is the vision of Mount Hebron Christian Child Development Center to provide the care, education, and development necessary for each child enrolled to meet his/her greatest potential: spiritually, mentally, physically, emotionally, and socially. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30am-6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks-12 years Contact: (251) 456-8700 www.mthebroncm.org/Daycare-Ministries

Trinity Lutheran School and Child Development Center

2668 Berkley Avenue Mobile Trinity Evangelical Lutheran School and Child Development Center. The Child Development Center serves children from 6 weeks-3 years old. Trinity Lutheran School is PK2-5TH Grade.The Mission is to know and serve God, to promote justice, and to render service to the community by offering parents a choice of school and providing a safe, caring, and productive environment in which children are equipped for responsible citizenship. Ages: 6 weeks - 3 years Contact: (251) 456-7960 www.trinitylutheranmobile.org

36618

Melton’s Tots Tendercare Academy

Goodwill Easter Seals of the Gulf Coast Gordon Smith Child Development Center

use the High Reach curriculum in the morning and theme-based instruction in the afternoons. We feature inclusive classrooms that allow children with disabilities to work side by side with their non-disabled peers in a way that provides maximum benefit for all children. School Age Programs: Summer camp and afterschool programs are available for elementary school children. We offer van pickup from several local schools and provide homework tutoring and enrichment activities during the school year. During the summer, theme based weekly plans provide fun and variety for older children. Early Intervention Program: The early intervention program is a community based program that offers services to children with special needs from birth to 3 years of age. These services are provided in the home and the natural environment. The service coordinator works with the family and a team of qualified therapists to carry out services specified in the child’s individual service plan. Mobile County: (251) 375-9114. Ages: 6 weeks - school age Contact: (251) 471-1581 www.gesgc.org

Moffett Road Baptist Child Development Center 5555 Moffett Road Mobile Since 1984, Moffett Road Baptist Child Development Center has graduated thousands of precious children. Located in West Mobile on the campus of Moffett Road Baptist Church, the CDC offers the highest quality care for your little one in a safe, clean, secure, and stimulating environment. We offer Full Daycare for infants 6 weeks through 4 years old, Kindergarten classes for 3 and 4 year olds, and Before and After School Care, as well as Summer Camp, for children in K5 through fifth grade. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am-6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks - 5 years Contact: (251) 343-1568 www.mrbcdc.org

Training Wheels Childcare-Preschool

6159 Moffett Road Mobile TWCC is a fun place for children to learn and play. We offer a healthy balance of learning and develop-

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ing socially, physically, and spiritually. Our teachers are part of the “Child Care Support Network” and receive credit for training time. We work hard to provide a clean, safe, and loving environment for your child. We offer computer training for K-3- K-4, the well-respected A Beka curriculum dance/tumbling and music lessons! We also offer before & after school pick-up & care and summer camp. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am-6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks - K4 Contact: Jennifer Harris, (251) 645-7507 www.trainingwheelscc.com

36619 Creative Learning Center

5880 Three Notch Road Mobile We are a childcare center eager to meet your needs. We provide breakfast until 8:00am, lunch, and snack. Our van picks up from Nan Gray Davis Elementary and Griggs Elementary. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am-6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks - 12 years Contact: (251) 661-2992

Kids Zone of Tillman’s Corner

4612 Bush Lane Mobile A Beka curriculum is taught in all Pre-K classes. Hot breakfast and lunch are provided along with an afternoon snack. Before and after school care offered with van service to and from Griggs Elementary. Our Summer Camp for school age children is amazing! Kids Zone is a family owned and operated child care facility, licensed by the state of Alabama. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am-6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks - 5th grade Contact: (251) 661-3280 Find us on Facebook

St. Vincent de Paul Catholic

6651 Three Notch Road Mobile St. Vincent Daycare is available to any parent with a child 6 weeks old to 3 years old and is open weekdays from 6:00am-6:00pm. St. Vincent de Paul Preschool is housed at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School. There are classes for 3K-4K. The St. Vincent de Paul Preschool strives to enhance the social, emotional, spiritual, physical and creative skills of each child. We are dedicated to making these preschool years enjoyable and exciting so that each youngster will be prepared and eager to begin kindergarten. St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School also serves K5 through 8th grade. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am-6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks - 3 Years Contact: (251) 666-4066 www.svsschool.org

36693 Government Street Baptist Child Development Center ad on page 15

3401 Government Boulevard Mobile The school serves as an extension of the home, Mobile Bay Parents I February 2018

seeking to educate the whole child – spiritually, cognitively, emotionally, socially, and physically. We offer small classes while using A Beka and High Reach Learning curriculum. Teachers use a hands-on approach when planning the curriculum and learning centers are an integral part of each day. Classroom instructions in all subject areas are based on God’s Word. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am – 6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks - 3K Contact: Deborah Eddie, (251) 660-7444 www.governmentstreetcdc.org

Becks Day Care Center

1248 Anchor Drive Mobile Preschool and Summer Camp for school age children. Nurturing, caring staff serving the families of Mobile for over 45 years. State licensed. Ages: 6 weeks – 11 years Contact: (251) 661-4254 Find us on Facebook

Kingswood’s Creative Learning Center

5200 Perin Road Mobile KCLC is our little preschool that could! Who knew that learning could be so much fun. Mom’s Day Out and Preschool. Days & Hours: Tuesdays-Thursdays, 9:00am-1:00pm Ages: 2 - K4 Contact: Angie McLaney, (251) 661-0420 www.kingswoodchurch.com/creativelearningcenter.htm

Learning Tree –The Little Tree Preschool

1176 Azalea Road Mobile The Little Tree Preschool offers high quality preschool education for ALL children. Our small classes are taught by certified teachers with low studentteacher ratios. Our children are encouraged to grow as learners by building on individual strengths to establish a strong foundation for school success. The curriculum is comprehensive and encourages children to explore and discover answers, and we provide a social setting to promote healthy selfesteem and sensitivity to the needs of others. Ages: 2 ½ - 5 Contact: Christy McSpadden, (251) 649-4420 ext. 1225/1226; (251) 288-8916 www.learning-tree.org

St. Dominic Catholic School

4160 Burma Drive Mobile Our preschool program provides a developmentally appropriate educational experience within a Catholic environment. We use a child centered curriculum based on the belief that children learn through play. Age appropriate lessons in reading readiness, writing, social studies, math, science, religion, music, movement, library and art are part of our daily schedule. An extended care, as well as, a summer program are available. Students in the preschool program continue to attend St. Dominic Catholic School, Kindergarten - Grade 8. Ages: 2 years - 4 years Contact: (251) 661-5226 www.stdominicmobile.org

St. Luke’s Episcopal School

3975 Japonica Lane Mobile St. Luke’s Episcopal School is a college preparatory K2-12th grade school. Our Early Childhood Division is proud to offer 2-year old and 3-year-old kindergarten (3 and 5 half and full day options), 4-year-old kin-

dergarten (full and half day options), and 5-year-old kindergarten (full and half day options). We believe that a positive early childhood experience is vital to future academic success. We provide this experience through a supportive environment that allows every child to take on new challenges and experience success. Our academic skills are introduced and reinforced through creative age-appropriate games and unit activities involving reading, numbers, social studies, and science. The Early Childhood curriculum is based upon the premise that young children learn best when they are actively engaged in meaningful experiences. Students attend a weekly Early Childhood chapel service and enrichment classes that include music, art, computer, foreign language, Science lab, library, and P.E. Our extracurricular Kiddie Cats sports program (intramurals) provides spirited competition designed to develop self-discipline and self-confidence, promote physical fitness and learn good sportsmanship while teaching the basics of each sport. St. Luke’s has a full-time nurse on staff and provides early morning care beginning at 7:00, after school Stay and Play, summer camp, and child care on many of the school holidays. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:45am-3:30pm Ages: K2 - K4 Contact: Amanda Keesee, (251) 666-2991 www.stlukesmobile.com

St. Luke’s Episcopal Church Mom’s Day Out

1050 Azalea Rd Mobile It is the philosophy of St. Luke’s MDO that early childhood should be a time of fun, warmth, security, exploration and discovery. Preschool children are creative and receptive, and our program strives to nurture and encourage these qualities for the children. Regular session, including Fall, Winter, and Spring, begins mid-August and ends mid-May. Summer program also available. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:30am-3:00pm Ages: 9 months - 3.5 years Contact: (251) 662-2055 www.stlukesepiscopalchurch.org

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36695 Covenant Christian School ad on page 27

7150 Hitt Road Mobile Kindergarten for 4-year-olds is provided either three or five mornings a week, from 8 – 12. Our 5-year-olds attend school five mornings a week, from 8 – 12. We are committed to introducing young minds and hearts to a successful first school experience. We feature a qualified Christian faculty, with a positive learning environment. Our program offers developmentally appropriate activities including daily Bible lessons, strong phonics, language, and reading instruction, a hands-on math program, small classes, physical education classes, field trips, along with music and art classes. After school care is available. Days & Hours: 8:00am - 12noon Ages: K4-8th Contact: (251) 633-8055 info@covenantschool.com www.covenantschool.com

Mobile Junior Academy ad on page 35

1900 Cody Road South Mobile The 4K/Kindergarten program is structured to

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hands on learning that include Literacy, Math, Science, Sensory, Art, Reading, Writing, Spanish, Dramatic Play and more. It’s real simple ... we love children, and we are passionate about what we do. We feel that preschool is a time for learning, exploring and having fun. Summer Camp also available. Days & Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:30am12:30pm Ages: walkers - 4 years Contact: (251) 633-3288 www.watermelonpatchkids.com

provide a relaxed atmosphere in which each child has an opportunity to succeed, to be creative, and to develop at his/her own rate. The curriculum is Kendall Hunt’s Stepping Stones, which is part of the Pathways series. The Bible curriculum has a themed approach throughout the year to instill Christian values. The Biblical creation story is the basis of the science curriculum. Learning emphasis is placed on nature and the Scriptures, thus acquainting the child with a loving God. A variety of activities including stories, music, play, art, cooking, field trips, role-playing, games, videos, and computers provide each child with a program for total development. Stepping Stones prepares the student for first grade with learning experiences in reading readiness, math, handwriting, music, art, and social interaction. These are adapted to each child’s needs to make school an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Ages: PK4 - 8 Contact: (251) 633-8638 www.mobilejunioracademy.com

Jubilee Child Care Center & Preschool

6631 Wall Street Mobile Jubilee Child Care offers Infant, Toddler, and Preschool Programs. Our center opens at 6:45am each morning and closes at 5:45pm. Jubilee toddler and infant programs are designed to meet the needs of children 12 weeks to 3 years old. Years of academic research have confirmed that young children learn best through play and hands on activities at these ages. As children move into our preschool program for 3and 4-year-olds we base our curriculum on the ABEKA program while incorporating a wide range of hands on activities designed to prepare children for kindergarten. Children enjoy activities such as writing, cutting, painting, working with letters and numbers. In addition, children are exposed to science, art, group games, and puzzles. Preschoolers are also offered the opportunity to participate in special programs in computers, dance, sports, and hands on learning with a Smart Board. A nutritious breakfast, lunch, and snack will be served daily at each facility based on the USDA Food Program. Programs vary by center. Please contact a specific location for more information. Second location in Spanish Fort, AL (251) 625-1234. Days & Hours: Monday - Friday, 6:45-5:45 Ages: 3 months - 5 years Contact: Linda Fos, (251) 776-7022 (Pre-School), (251) 633-0018 (Infant) www.jubileechildcare.com

La Petite Academy

955 Hillcrest Road Mobile Offers exciting learning activities specifically designed to meet a child’s developmental needs and help he/ she advance to the next level. Programs we offer: Infants, Toddlers, Twos & Early Preschool, Preschool, Pre-K, Before and After School and Enrichment Programs. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am-6:30pm Ages: 6 weeks - K5, after school care Contact: (251) 639-9201 www.lapetite.com

Montessori World Preschool & Kindergarten

2061 Leroy Stevens Road Mobile At Montessori World, we educate each student to acquire self-confidence, a positive attitude toward learning, and an abiding sense of curiosity. Primary class is taught by Montessori certified teachers. Classes have mixed-age groupings, allowing younger children to learn from the activities of older ones, and providing the older children the opportunity to teach and nurture the younger ones. Kindergarten program available for children 5 to 6 years old. These programs allow the children more time to reinforce and refine their skills. Advanced studies and projects are planned for each week. Spanish and German classes taught each week for all levels. The children move through the major

Woodbridge Baptist Learning Center

curricular themes from concrete presentations towards greater depth, detail, and abstract understanding. Self-directed learning and fostering of a positive selfesteem are elements of Montessori World programs which impact the child’s future learning and adaptation to other educational environments. Secure, loving, and nurturing learning environment. Degreed instructors with Montessori training. ADA compliant (can meet various special needs). Licensed by Alabama DHR. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, Half-day (8:30-11:30), full-day (8:30-2:30) and extended-day (7:00-6:00). Open during the academic year. Ages: 2.5 - 6 years Contact: Kumkum Barik, (251) 634-8211 www.montessori-world.org

Oak Park Child Care Center

3321 Sollie Road Mobile The Oak Park Child Care Center is dedicated to providing a warm, loving, Christ-centered environment for each child to develop socially, spiritually and academically. Our goal is to strive daily toward “Excellence for God!” through direction based in Christian principles. Quality child care and Christian principles with A Beka curriculum. OPCCC is a ministry of Oak Park Church of God. Days & Hours: Monday - Friday, 6:30am to 6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks - 4 years Contact: (251) 633-9386 www.opcmobile.org/preschoolnursery

Our Savior Preschool & Mother’s Day Out

1801 Cody Road South Mobile Our Savior’s Preschool/MDO program encourages the spiritual, social and emotional growth of our young children. Our goal is to help children develop skills needed to better prepare them for their formal education and community interaction. Additionally the MDO program provides an opportunity for a young child to be cared for in a worry free environment while Mom needs a morning to do other things. Preschool for 3 and 4 year olds is scheduled between 8:30am-12:30pm for the options of either 3 or 5 days a week. Mother’s Day Out is available for children 6 months through 4 years old between 8:30am-12:30pm Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Parents may choose any day or combination of days. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30am-12:30pm, 3 or 5 days. Ages: 6 months - 4 years Contact: (251) 633-3017 www.oursaviorparish.org

Watermelon Patch Preschool

6417 Hillcrest Road Mobile Conveniently located in West Mobile, off Hillcrest Rd. 2, 3, and 5 day preschool programs available. Our highly experienced Preschool teachers encourage

2700 Schillinger Road South Mobile Full Day care. Before and after school care and summer camp available. We also use the A Beka curriculum in our classes beginning with toddlers. 4K children take spelling and math tests each week and are required to complete a poster project each quarter. These projects are turned in and presented to the class by the students. We also provide quarterly field trips for our 4K class. All these classrooms also have a Bible lesson / study every Wednesday. Family oriented, Christian environment. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30am – 6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks - 5 years Contact: (251) 633-6094 www.woodridgebc.com

World of Friends Daycare

2900 Dawes Road Mobile World of Friends Daycare offers a structured program that is conducive for early childhood development. WOF Daycare is registered with the Department of Human Resources in the State of Alabama, and our friendly staff is CPR certified. After-School care is available for children ages 4 to 12. Children are also provided with a snack and a drink during After-School Care. The Summer Program is limited to children ages 4 to 12. Daily activities are planned for the children as well as weekly field trips. For a daycare packet including information and tuition fees, please call the office at (251) 633-6533 or visit the website. Days & Hours: Monday-Friday 6:30am-5:30pm Ages: 6 weeks - 12 years Contact: (251) 633-6533 www.livingwordmobile.com/world-of-friends-daycare/

Early Head Start Community Partnership Child Care Centers

A primary goal of Early Head Start Mobile is to ensure that infants and toddlers receive the type of safe, healthy, emotionally secure and intellectually enriched early start in life that will serve as a solid foundation for future success in school and in life. Our educational practices are firmly based on established child development principles and widely recognized, researchbased best practices for infants and toddlers. Ages: infants - 3 years Contact: (251) 473-1060 www.grecs.org/early-head-start/about-early-head-start

Head Start

MCA Head Start promotes school readiness by enhancing the social and cognitive development of children through the provision of educational, health, nutritional, social and comprehensive services to enrolled children and families. MCA Head Start goals are achieved through: High Quality Education, Individualized Curriculum, Family Case Management, Disability Services and Support, Mental Health Services for Children and Families, Nutritious Meals and Health Screenings (Dental, Vision and Hearing). Ages: 3 years - 5 years Contact: (251) 457-5700 www.mcamobile.org/locations/head-start-centers MBP

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Getting the Ball Rolling

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

The familiar sphere is a perfect shape constantly reflected in nature. Our hands are naturally designed for grasping round objects and kids instinctively make the best use of this partnership. Depending on their material and design, balls can bounce, loft, and roll with a versatility that makes them the centerpiece of most major sports. With multiple opportunities throughout their lives to handle a ball, the field is wide open for ways children can engage with this marvelous shape. The following items celebrate the round wonder in ways that help little ones get the ball rolling.

by Gerry Paige Smith

Laugh & Learn Singing Soccer Ball

Playhut Game Center

Round, plush and reactive, the Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Singing Soccer Ball offers a range of function and activities that keep little ones rolling forward developmentally. With audio prompts to guide the way, the ball encourages babies to crawl, roll and follow as they nudge the ball along. In addition to teaching numbers and colors, this toy also introduces beginning sportsmanship with the concept of taking turns. Easy to grasp (with mutable sound function), this ball is also washable once the electronics are removed. Introducing the basics of ball momentum, the Laugh & Learn Singing Soccer Ball is the ultimate engagement for toddlers ready to have a ball.

Sized for the kindergarten and pre-school set, this game center features a variety of play options including basketball hoops and skee-ball. But the real beauty of this itemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s design is the clever ball return which keeps the game rolling without the distraction of tracking down errant balls. Playhutâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s patented twist-and-fold technology ensures easy pop-up assembly and portability, making it ideal for parties, playdates and other group gatherings as kids take turns playing through the versatile challenges on offer. Part exercise, part arcade and all active play, the Playhut Game Center rounds up the top score for entertaining ball games.

Kidoozie Six Pin Bowling Set

Little Tikes Easy Score Soccer

With its simple goals and guidelines bowling seems ready-made for little ones who like to roll balls. But slippery lanes and heavy balls can preclude the youngest children from trying out this sport. Enter the Kidoozie Bowling Set with its six brightly colored pins and foam ball, all cleverly portable in a clear plasic carry-all that mimics the shape of a real bowling bag. Crafted with soft foam thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s weighted on the bottom, soft strikes are in the cards as caregivers are spared the crash and bang associated with standard bowling. Perfect for cultivating hand-eye coordination and gross motor development, this bowling set serves as an entertaining solo play outlet and a fun game for groups of children. Get ready for solid strikes when this engaging game gets on a roll!

Before they age up into team soccer play, the Little Tikes Easy Score Soccer set is an excellent primer for kids who want to work on their aim unobstructed. Ideal for building strength, developing large muscle coordination, and teaching basic aim this goal-oriented set offers constant reward. Lightweight, portable and adjustable for height, this goal is a quick set up for kids ready to start kicking the ball around. The inflatable ball comes with a pump so not a minute of soccer training will be lost. For the youngest kickers, the Little Tikes Easy Score Soccer is the first choice to help them reach their World Cup goal, every time.

(Playhut)

(Fisher-Price)

(Kidoozie)

(Little Tikes)

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

Mobile Bay Parents I February 2018

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You’re strolling with your baby regularly and deskinning your chicken--but you’ve still got leftover pregnancy pounds that just won’t budge. What’s going on? One possibility is that you’re expecting too much too soon. “To get back to your old weight, give yourself a year,” says Fran Grossman, a registered dietitian at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City. It can take that long, especially if you’re not nursing and you gained more than the recommended 25 to 35 pounds. Still, if pregnancy weight lingers past your baby’s first birthday, it’s time to look at your lifestyle habits, says Grossman. For new mom Ilise Kesslin, her nemesis was deprivation dieting. “I realized that when I restricted the food I could eat, I binged later in the day on snacks,” says Kesslin, who now eats whatever she wants, just in smaller portions. As a result, she says, “I’m skinnier than I was before my pregnancy.” What’s preventing you from dropping the extra weight? Here, we reveal ten common mommy diet traps. Mobile Bay Parents I February 2018

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The Trap: Having some just because it’s there. Your mother-in-law always shows up on your doorstep with one of her pies. The other mommies bring treats to playgroup. You help yourself to bites from your child’s lunch or eat leftovers so they don’t go to waste. “This is environmentally-induced eating,” says Daniel C. Stettner, PhD, a weight management psychologist in Troy, Michigan. You eat food just because it’s there--not because you’re hungry--and those calories add up fast.

Food Fix: To guard yourself against a

“see-food” diet, don’t keep edibles out in the open. If you find yourself foraging in your cupboards when youre chatting on the phone, talk in another room. When youre out at mothers’ groups and birthday parties, carry a water bottle so you can take a swig instead of nibbling on something. “It serves as a reminder that you’re doing something healthy,” says Stettner. If someone gets pushy about asking you to sample her food, avoid saying, “Well, I really shouldn’t,” which implies that you want to be convinced. Instead, suggests Stettner, repeat this concise yet convincing phrase: “No thank you. I’m not hungry right now.” As for finishing up leftovers, make a mental note to prepare less food next time. Meanwhile wrap the extras and put them in the refrigerator immediately--or toss them. And rather than mindlessly munching from

a box of animal crackers at snack time, have something that’s calorie-contained by design, like a piece of fruit or yogurt.

The Trap:

Eating when you’re tired. Fatigue-induced eating is diet pitfall for all women, and particularly for new moms. According to a National Sleep Foundation poll, women reported eating more than usual on days when they didn’t get enough sleep. “In that compromised state, we often reach for food, especially sweets, because we’re looking for a quick energy boost,” says Joy Bauer, RD, author of The 90/10 Weight Loss Plan.

Food Fix: If you can’t take a catnap,

activate your day: pace when you talk on the phone, deliver a memo in person instead of sending an e-mail, or go for a stroll with your

baby. “Exercise pulls glycogen--the stored form of carbohydrate in the liver and muscles-into your bloodstream, which can ultimately make you feel more energized as your blood glucose level rises,” explains Neva Cochran, RD, a nutrition consultant in Dallas, Texas. Also, use this snacking system, which acts as a kind of nibbling speed bump: “Designate three low-calorie foods you’ll eat before grabbing anything else,” advises Bauer, such as two handfuls of baby carrots, a nonfat yogurt and a 30-calorie fudge pop. “When you’re on this system, you’ll probably realize you’re not hungry after all.”

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like you’ve eaten. Then, you’ll seek that fulfillment by eating more later, says Stettner.

Food Fix:

When you’re at home, schedule at least 20 minutes for eating, the time it takes for your brain to get the message from your stomach that you’re full--without the television on or a book in front of you. The one exception to this is breakfast. “Most people don’t overeat at that meal,” says Bauer. So go ahead and eat your oatmeal while watching your favorite morning news program. As for on-the-go meals, like that nutrition bar you scarfed down en route to the doctor’s office, acknowledge them. “Say to yourself, ‘This is half of lunch,’” Bauer says.

The Trap: Not eating all day because you’re too busy. But by dinner--look out! You’ll be eating everything in sight. “Not eating all day is one of the worst things you can do,” says Grossman. “To compensate for the lack of fuel coming in, your metabolism will slow down and you’ll burn fewer calories.” You’ll also feel cranky and lethargic. Grrr!

Food Fix: Grossman recommends not

skipping meals--no matter what. In fact, she suggests stoking the fire by eating something every three hours. Of course, with kids, this can be a challenge. One way to manage the situation is to take advantage of naptime. “I have my biggest meal--lunch--when the kids are down,” says Ilise Kesslin. “It’s a calmer meal, and I truly enjoy it because I’m not rushed.”

The Trap: A kiddie food diet. If your family meals are dictated by kids’ preferences for high-fat, high-calorie, low-fiber foods, such as french fries, it’s a sure route to weight gain for both you and your children. “If they’re not good for you, these foods are probably not good for your kids,” says Cathy Nonas, RD, author of Outwit Your Weight.

carotene. Also, be vigilant about introducing healthy, grown-up entrees like skinless chicken breast, fish filets and lean beef or pork. Try to prepare two vegetables for dinner each night (such as salad and peas). “Studies show that women set the pace for healthy eating in the family,” says Nonas. “If Mom’s eating more vegetables, everyone in the family will, too.”

Food Fix: Make healthier versions of kid classics. Prepare macaroni and cheese with skim milk and low-fat cheese, says Bauer. Serve baked-potato fries or mashed potatoes made with skim milk or even sweet potatoes-they’re loaded with disease-preventing beta-

The Trap: Multitasking meals: Whether

Mobile Bay Parents I February 2018

it’s in front of the TV or as you talk on the phone, munching while doing something else is an easy way to inhale calories mindlessly. Moreover, on-the-go-calories can be dissatisfying on an emotional level; you may not feel 56

The Trap: Cooking calories. You’re probably cooking more now than ever. And that means taste testing. Beware: Generous bites of mashed potatoes with a wooden spoon can easily add up to one-fourth cup, which translates into 50 unaccounted-for calories and 2 grams of fat. That’s just one example. And without realizing how much you’ve already eaten, you sit down to dinner and have what you consider to be a normal portion. Uh-oh.

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adding up to mini-meals, check seasoning with a teaspoon or just the tip of your finger. If you’re starving before dinner, have an appetizer, such as three carrot sticks and two crackers with hummus, so calories don’t get out of control. But, says Bauer, be sure to say to yourself, “This is an appetizer,” so the calories get logged into your mental tally. MBP

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Sandra Gordon is author of Consumer Reports Best Baby Products and a frequent contributor to many national magazines, including Ladies’ Home Journal, Prevention, Parents, American Baby, and Fitness.

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FamilyCalendar Wednesday January 24

Winter Wednesdays 10:30 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore , 36582 The Winter Wednesdays sessions are held each week in the Magnolia Room from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. through Feb. 28. Admission to the program is included in the regular Gardens admission, and guests are encouraged to tour the Gardens after the session. Registration is requested: To register, call 251-459-8864. January 24: Steamboats on Alabama Rivers, with Tom McGehee. Join Tom McGehee to explore the beginnings of the era of river steamers, their peak in the 1890s and their sad end by World War I. bellingrath.org Chick-Fil-A Fellowship of Christian Athletes Rally 6:30 PM Mobile Convention Center, 1 South Water Street Mobile, 36602 Many fun events are planned for the week of the Senior Bowl. Chick-Fil-A Fellowship of Christian Athletes Rally will be held. This event is open to Public (Ticket required), please visit www.southalabamafca.org for more information. 251-432-4109 www.seniorbowl.com

Thursday January 25

Titanic Film Festival ($5, Members are free) 7:00 PM History Museum of Mobile, 111 South Royal Street Mobile, 36602 The Titanic is no stranger to the big screen. Come see the exhibit and enjoy a movie on us! 251-208-7569 www.museumofmobile.com Michael Gurt, Guest Artist Piano Recital ($8 general and $5 for USA faculty & staff, USA students, youths under 18 and all senior citizens)

7:30 PM USA’s Laidlaw Performing Arts Center , 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, 36608 Michael Gurt, the Paula Garvey Manship Distinguished Professor of Piano at Louisiana State University, will perform a guest artist piano recital in the Recital Hall. www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/mas.html

Friday January 26

Project Homeless Connect 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM, The Grounds, 1035 Cody Road North Mobile, 36608 Mobile Project Homeless Connect is designed to provide needed services to the homeless of Mobile and Baldwin Counties. The event will provide legal assistance, dental and vision screenings, and access to housing assistance and mainstream resources (food stamps, state ID’s, etc.) www.hfal.org/eventsproject-homeless-connect-2018 Coca-Cola Meet the Players (Free) 3:30 PM - 6:00 PM, Mobile Convention Center, 1 South Water Street Mobile, 36602 The Coca-Cola Meet the Players will be held from 3:30pm-6:00pm at the Mobile Convention Center and is free to the public. In addition to meeting the players, fans can enjoy interactive displays from the New Orleans Saints, Under Armour, Coca-Cola and AT&T plus games for the kids. These events are Family-friendly with interactive activities for children and adults. 251-432-4109 www.seniorbowl.com Conde Cavalier (Mobile Route A) (Free) 6:30 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile Mobile Parade Route A - Beginning at Mobile Civic Center(Claiborne Street); Church Street; Royal Street; St. Francis Street; Conceptions Street; Government Street; Washington Street; Canal Street; Broad Street; Spring Hill Avenue;

Washington Street; Government Street; Ending at Civic Center on Claiborne Street. www.cityofmobile.org/mardigras.php Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Assassins” 7:30 PM Mobile Theatre Guild, 14 Lafayette Street Mobile, 36606 Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Assassins”. 251-433-7513 www.mobiletheatreguild.org

Saturday January 27

Charity Chase 5K 8:00 AM University of South Alabama, 307 North University Boulevard Mobile, 36608 The Charity Chase 5K is Mobile’s premier joint-charity fundraising event. Race for your favorite, local charity and win additional donations for your favorite nonprofit by winning overall or placing in your age division! www.eventbrite.com Baumhower Tailgate Challenge 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM, Ladd-Peebles Stadium, 1621 Virginia Street Mobile, 36604 Baumhower Tailgate Challenge is on Saturday, January 28th. This competition is to determine the Senior Bowl Tailgater of the Year. The Challenge is Free and open to anyone tailgating in the parking lot on game day. 251-432-4109 www.seniorbowl.com The Piggly Wiggly Tailgate Party 10:30 AM - 1:00 PM, Ladd-Peebles Stadium, 1621 Virginia Street Mobile, 36604 The Food for Less Tailgate Party is a pre-game event held in the Ladd-Peebles Stadium parking lot on Senior Bowl Saturday. Passes for the event are free with the purchase of a Senior Bowl ticket and are limited to the first 3,500 fans. In addition to free food and drink, tailgate party goers will enjoy inflatable activities, face painters, clowns, inflatables and the Coca-Cola Family Festival game trailer. 251-432-4109 www.seniorbowl.com Kids Studio ($5 or Free for members) 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM, Alabama Contemporary Art Center, 301 Conti Street Mobile, 36602 Kids Studio is a weekly program that encourages children ages 3-10 to explore contemporary art. Activities are designed to stimulate young minds while offering cross-curriculum learning opportunities with handson projects. Classes are taught by local artists and trained professional educators. Ages 3-10. 251-208-5671 www.alabamacontemporary.org Senior Bowl 2018 1:30 PM LaddPeebles Stadium, 1621 Virginia Street Mobile, 36604 The 2017 Reese’s Senior Bowl is scheduled for Saturday, January 28th at 1:30pm at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. 251-432-4109 www.seniorbowl.com Krewe of Riviere du Chien Kids Parade (Free) 2:00 PM Linksman Clubhouse, Mobile Kids Parade! Route will run from old Linksman Clubhouse around Saint Andrews Loop and back to the clubhouse. Order of the Rolling River (Free) 2:00 PM Dauphin Island Parkway, Mobile Order of the Rolling River - Starts on south Dauphin Island Parkway, just south of Fowl River Road, at American Legion Post 250; South on DIP to Baumhauer Road; West on Baumhauer to Pioneer Road; North on Pioneer to Fowl River Road; East on Fowl River to DIP; South on DIP to end back at Post 250.

Bayport Parading Society, DJ Riders (Free) 2:30 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile Mobile Route A; Bayport was created for businesses that want to participate in a parade. DJ Riders Parade follows after and parade goers will hear plenty of music! Beginning at Mobile Civic Center(Claiborne Street); Church Street; Royal Street; St. Francis Street; Conceptions Street; Government Street; Washington Street; Canal Street; Broad Street; Spring Hill Avenue; Washington Street; Government Street; Ending at Civic Center on Claiborne Street. www.cityofmobile.org/mardigras.php Pharaohs, Order of Hebe, Conde Explorers (Free) 6:30 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile Mobile Route A - Beginning at Mobile Civic Center(Claiborne Street); Church Street; Royal Street; St. Francis Street; Conceptions Street; Government Street; Washington Street; Canal Street; Broad Street; Spring Hill Avenue; Washington Street; Government Street; Ending at Civic Center on Claiborne Street. www.cityofmobile.org/mardigras.php Alabama School of the Arts presents “Mozart and Nancy” 7:00 PM University of Mobile, 5735 College Parkway Mobile, 36613 Another new addition to the season is the world premiere tale of the woman who inspired one of Mozart’s most acclaimed works, “The Marriage of Figaro.” Written by Rex Allen Hearn, “Mozart and Nancy” is a staged reading featuring music performed by graduate and undergraduate students of the Alabama School of the Arts, under the direction of University of Mobile alumna Alison Wilks. www.itickets.com/events/387033 Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Assassins” 7:30 PM Mobile Theatre Guild, 14 Lafayette Street Mobile, 36606 Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Assassins”. 251-433-7513 www.mobiletheatreguild.org

Sunday January 28

Krewe de la Heron Lakes Children’s Parade (Free) 2:00 PM Heron Lakes Circle, Mobile Kids Parade; (Heron Lakes Circle) Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Assassins” 2:00 PM Mobile Theatre Guild, 14 Lafayette Street Mobile, 36606 Mobile Theatre Guild presents “Assassins”. 251-433-7513 www.mobiletheatreguild.org Mobile Chamber Music - pianist Juho Pohjonen 3:00 PM USA’s Laidlaw Performing Arts Center , 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, 36608 Mobile Chamber Music presents pianist Juho Pohjonen in concert in the Laidlaw Performing Arts Center Recital Hall on Sunday, January 28, 2018 at 3:00pm. www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/mas.html

Monday January 29

Faculty & Friends USA Chamber Winds Concert 7:30 PM USA’s Laidlaw Performing Arts Center , 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, 36608www.southalabama.edu/ colleges/music/mas.html

Tuesday January 30

Cuisine for Kids Area Restaurants, Mobile Area restaurants will participate by donating a portion of their proceeds to the CAC to help fund much needed services for children who have been sexually abused or severely physically abused. This day of food and fundraising offers local

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FamilyCalendar restaurants an opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to fight child abuse in our community. A wide variety of cuisine will be offered. 251-432-1101 www.cacmobile.org

Wednesday January 31 Winter Wednesdays

10:30 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore , 36582 The Winter Wednesdays sessions are held each week in the Magnolia Room from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. through Feb. 28. Admission to the program is included in the regular Gardens admission, and guests are encouraged to tour the Gardens after the session. Registration is requested: To register, call 251-459-8864.January 31: An in-depth look at the Civil War with authors John Sledge and Frye Gaillard. Well-known local historians and authors John S. Sledge and Frye Galliard will discuss their books about how the Civil War affected the lives of Alabamians. After the presentation, John and Frye will sign copies of their books, “These Rugged Days: Alabama in the Civil War” and “Journey to the Wilderness: War, Memory and a Southern Family’s Civil War Letters,” which will be available to purchase in the Gift Shop. bellingrath.org

Thursday February 1

Night Market 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum Drive Mobile, 36608 MMofA hosts a monthly Night Market that showcases makers, artists, artisans, and craftsman who make locally-sourced, handmade goods. Support your local artists and join the party and shopping fun with great food, drink, and live music. 251-208-5200 www.mobilemuseumofart.com Order of Polka Dots (Free) 6:30 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile Mobile Route A - Beginning at Mobile Civic Center(Claiborne Street); Church Street; Royal Street; St. Francis Street; Conceptions Street; Government Street; Washington Street; Canal Street; Broad Street; Spring Hill Avenue; Washington Street; Government Street; Ending at Civic Center on Claiborne Street. www.cityofmobile.org/mardigras.php Winter Jam Concert ($15) 7:00 PM Mitchell Center, 5950 Old Shell Road Mobile, 36608www.jamtour.com

Friday February 2

Little Discoveries with Mr Wayne (Free) 10:30 AM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 Mr. Wayne from the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center presents lessons and projects fusing science and literature for preschool children. Ages 3-6. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Mystics of Ashland Place 12:30 PM Lanier Avenue, Mobile Childrens parade Lanier Avenue Order of Inca 6:30 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile Mobile Parade Route A: Beginning at the Mobile Civic Center winding down Church Street to Royal Street, around Bienville Square to government Street to Spring Hill Avenue and around Broad, Canal and Washington streets and end at the Mobile Civic Center.

Mobile Bay Parents I February 2018

Saturday February 3

Run for Love 5K and Cupid’s Chase 1 Mile 8:00 AM University of South Alabama Intramural Fields, Mobile, 36608 Join us for the 1st Annual Run for Love 5K and Cupid’s Chase 1 Mile. Proceeds will benefit, a non-profit organization whose mission is to strengthen our community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. www.eventbrite.com Daphne High School Key Club presents 2nd Annual Hogwarts Festival ($5) 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Trojan Hall-Daphne High School, 9300 Champions Way Daphne, 35626 Come enjoy Harry Potter Festival games, face painting, Book mark making and play in a Quidditch game lead by our DHS Quidditch Team. There will be all kinds of Harry Potter snacks to purchase also like chocolate frogs, jelly beans and maybe even some butter beer and pumpkin juice. YUMMY!! 251-626-8787 www.daphnehs.com Hickory Ridge Kids Krewe 10:00 AM Temberly Circle, Mobile Childrens parade -Timberly Circle Sew & Tell (Free) 10:30 AM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, 36608 Calling all children, ages 8 and Up! Visit with friends and learn how to make pencil toppers. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Archaeology Museum for our February Family Saturday program 11:00 AM The Archaeology Museum, 6052 USA Drive South Mobile, 36608 Join us at the Archaeology Museum for our February Family Saturday program! This month’s program will feature a read-aloud of the story “Mapping My Day” by Julie Dillemuth at 11:15am and 1:00pm, and then kids and their families can stick around after the story to make a fun craft! The story and craft activity are geared towards children in preschool through third grade, but all ages are welcome! www.southalabama.edu/org/archaeology/museum/ Kids Studio ($5, Free for members) 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM, Alabama Contemporary Art Center, 301 Conti Street Mobile, 36602 Kids Studio is a weekly program that encourages children ages 3-10 to explore contemporary art. Activities are designed to stimulate young minds while offering cross-curriculum learning opportunities with hands-on projects. Classes are taught by local artists and trained professional educators. 251-208-5671 www.alabamacontemporary.org Mobile Mystics, Mobile Mystical Revelers, Mobile Mystical Friends 2:00 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile Mobile Parade Route A: Beginning at the Mobile Civic Center winding down Church Street to Royal Street, around Bienville Square to government Street to Spring Hill Avenue and around Broad, Canal and Washington streets and end at the Mobile Civic Center. Maids of Mirth, Butterfly Maidens, Krewe of Marry Mates 6:30 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile Mobile Parade Route A: Beginning at the Mobile Civic Center winding down Church Street to Royal Street, around Bienville Square to government Street to Spring Hill Avenue and around Broad, Canal and Washington streets and end at the Mobile Civic Center.

Sunday February 4

Mystics of Children 2:00 PM Rosswood, Mobile Childrens parade Rosswood Drive

Ord 10: St. Downtown with DYW 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Distinguished Young Women, 751 Government Street Mobile, 36602 Gather your friends and family for Downtown with DYW, A Mardi Gras Celebration hosted by the Distinguished Alliance Board, Sunday, February 4th, 2018 benefiting Distinguished Young Women. The fun will begin, prior to the evening parades, at 5pm in the courtyard of the Distinguished Young Women Headquarters – just a block from the parade route! Your ticket to the event includes food, drinks, and live entertainment prior. distinguishedyw.org/downtown-with-dyw/ Neptune’s Daughters, OOI 6:30PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile Mobile Parade Route A: Beginning at the Mobile Civic Center winding down Church Street to Royal Street, around Bienville Square to government Street to Spring Hill Avenue and around Broad, Canal and Washington streets and end at the Mobile Civic Center.

Monday February 5

Order of Venus, Order of Many Faces 6:30PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile Mobile Parade Route A: Beginning at the Mobile Civic Center winding down Church Street to Royal Street, around Bienville Square to government Street to Spring Hill Avenue and around Broad, Canal and Washington streets and end at the Mobile Civic Center.

Tuesday February 6

Guest Artist Flute Recital 7:30 PM USA’s Laidlaw Performing Arts Center , 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, 36608 Michael Morton, Guest Artist Flute Recital www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/mas.html Order of LaShe’s 6:30PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile Mobile Parade Route A: Beginning at the Mobile Civic Center winding down Church Street to Royal Street, around Bienville Square to government Street to Spring Hill Avenue and around Broad, Canal and Washington streets and end at the Mobile Civic Center.

Wednesday February 7

Winter Wednesdays 10:30 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore , 36582 The Winter Wednesdays sessions are held each week in the Magnolia Room from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. through Feb. 28. Admission to the program is included in the regular Gardens admission, and guests are encouraged to tour the Gardens after the session. Registration is requested: To register, call 251-459-8864. February 7: Birding on the Gulf Coast Dr. Mark LaSalle, Director of the Pascagoula River Audubon Center, will tell guests how to identify birds along the Gulf Coast and how they can participate in the Great Backyard Bird Count. Weather permitting, he will lead a bird walk through the Gardens. The 21st annual Great Backyard Bird Count will be held Friday, February 16, through Monday, February 19, 2018. bellingrath.org Realism: A Proper Standard (Free) 3:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, 36608 Drawing Guru, Kendrick Grove will teach a class guided by the ideals of realism, and a collaboration of eye and hand. Paper and pencils will be supplied. Registration is encouraged. Ages 10 and up. For more information or to register, please call 470-7770 or email eenglish@mplonline.org. 251-470-7770 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

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FamilyCalendar Thursday February 8

Order of Impalas 10:00 AM St. Ignatius School, Mobile Childrens parade St. Ignatius School Second Thursday Walk with the Curator (Nonmem-

bers: $10, Members: Free)

10:00 AM Mobile Botanical Gardens, 5151 Museum Drive Mobile, 36608 Join Amanda for monthly presentations on the second Thursday of each month. Amanda will present on topics and/or lead groups on collection tours around the grounds and discuss the plants we have in bloom right now. She will share her best growing tips and if anyone can stump her on ‘Name That Plant’ — we will award a free plant to the stumper! 251-342-0555 www.mobilebotanicalgardens.org

Mobile Arc 2018 Mardi Gras (Free) 1:00 PM Gordon Smith Center, 2424 Gordon Smith Drive Mobile, 36617 Mobile Arc, a non-profit that provides services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, will hold its 36th Annual “Reveling Cavaliers” Mardi Gras Parade on February 8. The theme will be “Superheroes.” 251-665-9634 Kids Studio (Free) 4:00 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 Participants are invited to explore contemporary art and music through hands-on and minds-on activities that stimulate and deepen their understanding of art. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Celebrate Valentine’s Day! (Free) 6:00 PM Saraland Public Library, 111 Saraland Loop Saraland, 36571 In celebration of Valentine’s Day, join

us for decorating cupcakes, crafts, Valentine Book Bingo, and much more! Ages 3 and up. 251-675-2879 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

throws. TEENS - Stop by the MaYker Lab upstairs and 3D Print your own Mardi Gras Beads. 251-208-7086 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Mystic Stripers Society 6:30 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile Mobile Parade Route A: Beginning at the Mobile Civic Center winding down Church Street to Royal Street, around Bienville Square to government Street to Spring Hill Avenue and around Broad, Canal and Washington streets and end at the Mobile Civic Center.

Krewe of Kids, Krewe of Goats, Prichard Carnival Association Parades 11:00 AM Prichard Starts on U.S. 45 near Interstate 65; south on 45 to Prichard Avenue; east on Prichard; end at the municipal complex near East Lovejoy Loop.

Friday February 9

Crewe of Columbus 6:30 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile Mobile Parade Route A: Beginning at the Mobile Civic Center winding down Church Street to Royal Street, around Bienville Square to government Street to Spring Hill Avenue and around Broad, Canal and Washington streets and end at the Mobile Civic Center.

Saturday February 10

Maker Mornings (Free) 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 We provide the supplies, ideas and space - families feel free to experiment in the making of fun projects. Participants are invited to make masks and decorate bags to catch their Mardi Gras

Kids Studio ($5, Free for members) 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM, Alabama Contemporary Art Center, 301 Conti Street Mobile, 36602 Kids Studio is a weekly program that encourages children ages 3-10 to explore contemporary art. Activities are designed to stimulate young minds while offering cross-curriculum learning opportunities with hands-on projects. Classes are taught by local artists and trained professional educators. 251-208-5671 www.alabamacontemporary.org Floral Parade, Knights of Mobile, Mobile Mystical Ladies, Order of Angels 12:00 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile Mobile Parade Route A: Beginning at the Mobile Civic Center winding down Church Street to Royal Street, around Bienville Square to government Street to Spring Hill Avenue and around Broad, Canal and Washington streets and end at the Mobile Civic Center. Mystics of Time 6:00 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile Mobile Parade Route A: Beginning at the Mobile Civic Center winding down Church Street to Royal Street, around Bienville Square to government Street to Spring Hill Avenue and around Broad, Canal and Washington streets and end at the Mobile Civic Center.

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FamilyCalendar Sunday February 11

King Elexis I Motorcade 2:00 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile Mobile Parade Route E: Begins on Water Street and proceeds down Government Street, turning onto Broad and circling Texas, Washington and Canal. Parade then proceeds back down Broad Street, across Government Street to Spring Hill Avenue, Washington, St. Louis and ending on Warren Street. Joe Cain 2:30 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile Mobile Parade Route A: Beginning at the Mobile Civic Center winding down Church Street to Royal Street, around Bienville Square to government Street to Spring Hill Avenue and around Broad, Canal and Washington streets and end at the Mobile Civic Center. Le Krewe de Bienville 5:00 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile Mobile Parade Route A: Beginning at the Mobile Civic Center winding down Church Street to Royal Street, around Bienville Square to government Street to Spring Hill Avenue and around Broad, Canal and Washington streets and end at the Mobile Civic Center.

Monday February 12

King Felix III, Floral Parade 12:00 PM Mobile Mobile Parade Route A: Beginning at the Mobile Civic Center winding down Church Street to Royal Street, around Bienville Square to government Street to Spring Hill Avenue and around Broad, Canal and Washington streets and end at the Mobile Civic Center. MLK Business and Civic Organization, MLK Monday Mystics, Northside Merchants 3:00 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile Mobile Parade Route D: Beginning on Warren Street, winding around ML King, Jr. Avenue, Lexington Avenue to St. Stephens Road, Spring Hill Avenue and ending on Washington Avenue. Infant Mystics, Order of Doves 7:00 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile Mobile Parade Route F: Begins on Dauphin Street winding down Spring Hill Avenue, Government Street, taking a turn onto Clairborne Street, to Church Street and Royal, circling Bienville Square to Conception Street, back down Government Street to end at Civic Center on Claiborne Street.

Tuesday February 13

Order of Athena 10:30 AM Downtown Mobile, Mobile Mobile Parade Route A: Beginning at the Mobile Civic Center winding down Church Street to Royal Street, around Bienville Square to government Street to Spring Hill Avenue and around Broad, Canal and Washington streets and end at the Mobile Civic Center. Knights of Revelry, King Felix III, Comic \Cowboys 12:30 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile Mobile Parade Route A: Beginning at the Mobile Civic Center winding down Church Street to Royal Street, around Bienville Square to government Street to Spring Hill Avenue and around Broad, Canal and Washington streets and end at the Mobile Civic Center. Mobile Area Mardi Gras Association Parade 2:00 PM Mobile Mobile Parade Route B: Beginning on Broad Street down ML King, Jr. Avenue to Lexington, St. Stephens, continuing down Spring Hill Avenue. A short turn onto Washington to Government with another short turn onto Clairborne to Church Street to Royal and circling Bienville Square, turning onto Conception and Government Streets and ending on Washington Avenue.

Mobile Bay Parents I February 2018

Order of Myths 6:00 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile Mobile Parade Route C: Beginning at St. Anthony Street, down Royal to St. Francis Street, around Bienville Square down Conception to Government Street around Broad Street and Spring Hill Avenue and a short turn onto Washington Street. Then back up Government and winding again around Bienville Square on Conception and St. Francis Streets and ending at the starting point on St. Anthony Street.

Wednesday February 14

Thursday February 15

Cocktails & Creatives: Steven Certilman 5:30 PM Alabama Contemporary Art Center, 301 Conti Street Mobile, 36602 Cocktails & Creatives is a happy hour designed to unite Mobilians interested in creativity and creative pursuits - whether they be working artists, secret poets, tinkerers, or merely curious. At Cocktails & Creatives’ second event, Stamford, Connecticut-based collector Steven Certilman joins us to share his insights into the world of collecting and the unique cultural context of present-day Cuba. www.alabamacontemporary.org

Friday February 16

Mobile Area Orchid Show 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore , 36582 The Mobile Area Orchid Society will hold its annual Orchid Show and Sale in the Magnolia Cafe at Bellingrath Gardens and Home. Orchid Society embers will display their best orchids and will be available to answer questions and provide tips on growing and caring for orchids. Vendors will also sell orchids, supplies, and accessories. There is no entry fee to attend the show, but guests are encouraged to tour the Gardens and Home during their visit. bellingrath.org Michael Jackson Tribute

www.mobilesaenger.com

Saturday February 17

8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 Michael Jackson Tribute Concert featuring all his biggest hits.

There is no entry fee to attend the show, but guests are encouraged to tour the Gardens and Home during their visit. bellingrath.org Battle of Mobile Bay 5K 8:30 AM Fort Gaines, 51 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 5K race in the Village of Dauphin Island that starts and ends at Historic Fort Gaines. Race is followed by a post-race celebration inside the Fort - food, beverages, music, awards, and door prizes! www.pcpacers.org Abba Shrine Craft & Attic Show 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Abba Shrine, 7701 Hitt Road Mobile, 36695 We will have amazing crafts, vendors, antiques and attic items for sale. Something for everyone. Bring a new toy for a chance at a door prize. One chance per toy donated. Something Special for Saturday (Free) 10:30 AM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, 36608 Visit with friends and make your own paper spinners. Ages 5 and up. 251-470-7770 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Kids Studio ($5, Free for members) 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM, Alabama Contemporary Art Center, 301 Conti Street Mobile, 36602 Kids Studio is a weekly program that encourages children ages 3-10 to explore contemporary art. Activities are designed to stimulate young minds while offering cross-curriculum learning opportunities with hands-on projects. Classes are taught by local artists and trained professional educators. 251-208-5671 www.alabamacontemporary.org TRAXXAS Monster Truck Tour 7:30 PM Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, 36602 Mobile will be motorsport entertainment’s epicenter with the nation’s most competitive MONSTER TRUCKS, as the TRAXXAS Monster Truck Tour invades the Mobile Civic Center on February 17th for ONE MONSTER show! See these incredible 10,000-pound, car crushing giants compete in racing, wheelie contests, and then rock the house with amazing freestyle action during the TRAXXAS Monster Truck Tour! Plus, you can meet the drivers and see the trucks up close at the preevent Autograph Pit Party! www.mobilecivicctr.com Mobile Opera presents “Winter Gala” 8:00 PM TBA, Enjoy some of the most popular moments from the world’s most beloved operas. This one night only concert will have General Seating and the location will be announced at a later date. 251-432-6772 www.mobileopera.org

Sunday February 18

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FamilyCalendar Abba Shrine Craft & Attic Show 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Abba Shrine, 7701 Hitt Road Mobile, 36695 We will have amazing crafts, vendors, antiques and attic items for sale. Something for everyone. Bring a new toy for a chance at a door prize. One chance per toy donated. Wedding of a Lifetime 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Mobile Convention Center, 1 South Water Street Mobile, 36602 21st Annual Wedding of a Lifetime Bridal Show & Giveaway - Brides, grooms, mother of the bride, bridesmaids and friends meet area’s top wedding merchants. www.weddingofalifetimeshow.com

Tuesday February 20

Family Bingo Night (Free) 6:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, 36608 Calling All Families! Come play Bingo at the Library! Prizes will be awarded and lemonade and popcorn will be served. 251-470-7770 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Harlem Globetrotters

7:00 PM USA Mitchell Center, 5950 Old Shell Road Mobile, 36608 The world famous Harlem Globetrotters, featuring some of the most electrifying athletes on the planet, will bring their spectacular show to The Mitchell Center on February 20 at 7:00pm. The famed team will feature a star-studded roster that includes Big Easy Lofton, Ant

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Atkinson, Hi-Lite Bruton, Thunder Law, Bull Bullard and Cheese Chisholm - plus female stars TNT Lister and Ace Jackson- the Globetrotters’ one-of-a-kind show is unrivaled in the world of family entertainment. www.harlemglobetrotters.com USA Wind Ensemble Winter Concert 7:30 PM USA’s Laidlaw Performing Arts Center , 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, 36608 USA Wind Ensemble Winter Concert www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/mas.html

Wednesday February 21

Friday February 23

Thursday February 22

The Oak Ridge Boys 7:00 PM Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, 36602 The Oak Ridge Boys are coming to the

Mobile Civic Center Theater on February 22, 2018 at 7:00 pm. Theirs is one of the most distinctive and recognizable sounds in the music industry. The four-part harmonies and upbeat songs of The Oak Ridge Boys have spawned dozens of Country hits and a Number One Pop smash, earned them Grammy, Dove, CMA, and ACM awards and garnered a host of other industry and fan accolades. www.mobilecivicctr.com

Vintage Market Days 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, The Grounds, 1035 Cody Road North Mobile, 36608 Vintage Market Days is an upscale vintage-inspired market featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, handmade treasures, home décor, outdoor furnishings consumable yummies, seasonal plantings and a little more. vintagemarketdays.com

Saturday February 24

Spartan Pride 5K and Fun Run 8:00 AM Amelia Park, 716 Mae Street Saraland, 36571 To benefit Saraland High School PTO programs and projects. www.eventbrite.com Vintage Market Days 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, The Grounds, 1035 Cody Road North Mobile, 36608 Vintage Market Days is an upscale vintage-inspired market featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, handmade treasures, home décor, outdoor furnishings consumable yummies, seasonal plantings and a little more. vintagemarketdays.com

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FamilyCalendar

To register, call 251-459-8864. February 28: Caring for Gulf Coast Appalachia - imagine adding rhododendron, mountain laurel, and native hydrangeas to your Gulf Coast garden. These plants, and many more like them, are native to the Gulf Coastal Plain. Bobby Green, owner of Green Nurseries in Fairhope and one of the most knowledgeable horticulturists in our area, will introduce you to these beautiful ornamentals. He will also discuss how to best select and care for them in your garden. bellingrath.org

Mobile Symphony Orchestra presents “Two of a Kind” 7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 Music has a unique ability to bring people together from all walks of life. Elgar’s Enigma Variations is a literal testament to this fact. This piece is composed of 14 variations, each of which is a musical caricature of family members and friends, including his dog. Each variation is subtitled with different initials, the first being C.A.E. which are the initials of his wife, Caroline Alice Elgar. mobilesymphony.org

Friday March 2

Sunday February 25

Vintage Market Days 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, The Grounds, 1035 Cody Road North Mobile, 36608 Vintage Market Days is an upscale vintage-inspired market featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, handmade treasures, home décor, outdoor furnishings consumable yummies, seasonal plantings and a little more. vintagemarketdays.com Mobile Symphony Orchestra presents “Two of a Kind” 2:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 Music has a unique ability to bring people together from all walks of life. Elgar’s Enigma Variations is a literal testament to this fact. This piece is composed of 14 variations, each of which is a musical caricature of family members and friends, including his dog. Each variation is subtitled with different initials, the first being C.A.E. which are the initials of his wife, Caroline Alice Elgar. mobilesymphony.org

Monday February 26

USA Symphony Band Winter Concert 7:30 PM USA’s Laidlaw Performing Arts Center , 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, 36608 USA Symphony Band Winter Concert www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/mas.html

Tuesday February 27

Night of Classical Masters 7:00 AM Dauphin Way Methodist Church, 1507 Dauphin Street Mobile, 36604 Ludwig van Beethoven’s Concerto for Violin, Cello, and Piano in C major, Op. 56, more commonly known as the Triple Concerto featuring faculty soloists and Beethoven’s Choral Fantasy in C minor with student soloists. www.dauphinwayumc.org Faculty Piano Recital 7:30 PM USA’s Laidlaw Performing Arts Center , 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, 36608 Faculty Piano Recital www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/mas.html

Wednesday February 28

Mobile Bay Parents I February 2018

Mendelssohn. Katia Garza has taken this delightful story and created an outstanding adaptation with more than 40 dancers on stage, energetic choreography, and fantastical costumes and sets that will mesmerize you. Get ready for an unforgettable performance as this magical tale casts its spell on audience of all ages! mobileballet.org

Sunday March 4

Mobile Boat Show (Adult Tickets (Ages 13+) $8.00, Kids

12 & under get in free with purchase of adult ticket)

Mobile Boat Show (Adult Tickets (Ages 13+) $8.00, Kids

12 & under get in free with purchase of adult ticket)

12:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Mobile Convention Center, 1 South Water Street Mobile, 36602 In addition to a huge selection of boats and marine products, there are special events for the whole family to enjoy! This year’s show will feature professional flyboarding demonstrations in the Mobile River. This exciting new sport is taking off around the Gulf Coast and is fun to watch! The Fetch-n-Fish dog show returns with dog jumping, training tips and lots of fun for the kids; and the Skeeter Experience seminar series boasts a great line-up of local and regional fishing talent sharing their secrets and tips. You can also register for giveaways in Skeeter room all weekend. gulfcoastshows.com/mobile

Saturday March 3

Mobile Boat Show (Adult Tickets (Ages 13+) $8.00, Kids 12 & under get in free with purchase of adult ticket)

10:00 AM - 8:00 PM, Mobile Convention Center, 1 South Water Street Mobile, 36602 In addition to a huge selection of boats and marine products, there are special events for the whole family to enjoy! This year’s show will feature professional flyboarding demonstrations in the Mobile River. This exciting new sport is taking off around the Gulf Coast and is fun to watch! The Fetch-n-Fish dog show returns with dog jumping, training tips and lots of fun for the kids; and the Skeeter Experience seminar series boasts a great line-up of local and regional fishing talent sharing their secrets and tips. You can also register for giveaways in Skeeter room all weekend. gulfcoastshows.com/mobile Mobile Chocolate Festival ($5, Children 13 and under free)

10:00 AM 4:00 PM, The Grounds, 1035 cody Road North Mobile, 36608 Come enjoy all things chocolate.Travel down Chocolate Bliss Lane! Visit our vendors for all your chocolate and gift-giving needs! Get creative with Alabama Art Supply! Go wild with kids arts & crafts! Enter your signature chocolate concoctions in our Chocolate Challenge! Learn from local chefs at the Mobile Fixture Demonstration Area! Enter and/or enjoy the designs from Project YumWay! 251-342-2809 www.mobilechocolatefestival.com Taste of the Bayou 6:00 PM Bayou La Batre Community Center, 12745 Padgett Switch Road Irvington, 36509 Gulf Coast chefs face off to prepare the best seafood dishes around using the freshest ingredients harvested from the Gulf. 251-824-4088 www.tasteofthebayou.org Mobile Ballet’s A Midsummer Nights Dream 7:30 PM Mobile Civic Center Theatre, 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, 36602 Closing the season is Shakespeare’s beloved classic comedy, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, a timeless story of love, jealousy, and humor, brought to the stage for the first time in Mobile! You’ll want to experience this magical fantasy with a beautiful score by

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Mobile Convention Center, 1 South Water Street Mobile, 36602 In addition to a huge selection of boats and marine products, there are special events for the whole family to enjoy! This year’s show will feature professional flyboarding demonstrations in the Mobile River. This exciting new sport is taking off around the Gulf Coast and is fun to watch! The Fetch-n-Fish dog show returns with dog jumping, training tips and lots of fun for the kids; and the Skeeter Experience seminar series boasts a great line-up of local and regional fishing talent sharing their secrets and tips. You can also register for giveaways in Skeeter room all weekend. gulfcoastshows.com/mobile Mobile Ballet’s A Midsummer Nights Dream 2:30 PM Mobile Civic Center Theatre, 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, 36602 Closing the season is Shakespeare’s beloved classic comedy, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, a timeless story of love, jealousy, and humor, brought to the stage for the first time in Mobile! You’ll want to experience this magical fantasy with a beautiful score by Mendelssohn. Katia Garza has taken this delightful story and created an outstanding adaptation with more than 40 dancers on stage, energetic choreography, and fantastical costumes and sets that will mesmerize you. Get ready for an unforgettable performance as this magical tale casts its spell on audience of all ages! mobileballet.org

Friday March 9

13th Annual Tee Off Fore a Cure weekend 6:30 PM Lakewood Golf Club, 1 Grand Boulevard Fairhope, 36532 Children’s of Alabama will celebrate the 13th annual Tee Off Fore a Cure on March 9-10, 2018, with a weekend of events designed around the theme, Lucky 13. The pre-party will kick off at 6:30 p.m. on Friday at the Lakewood Golf Club. Admission to Friday’s pre-party is complimentary to participating golfers, donors, sponsors, volunteers and their guests. Admission for all other attendees is $25 per person and includes live music from the Bearded Spoon, heavy hors d’oeuvres and beverages provided by the Lakewood Golf Club. Pre-party guests can also bid on upscale silent auction items including prizes from coastal artists, travel and local businesses. 251-610-4969 give.childrensal.org/teeoff

Saturday March 10

13th Annual Tee Off Fore a Cure Weekend 9:00 AM Lakewood Golf Club, 1 Grand Boulevard Fairhope, 36532 Children’s of Alabama will celebrate the 13th annual Tee Off Fore a Cure on March 9-10, 2018, with a weekend of events designed around the theme, Lucky 13.On Saturday morning, golfers will gather for the tournament and sixth annual Golf Ball Drop at The Lakewood Club’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. Proceeds from Tee Off Fore a Cure benefit the Alabama Centers for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders (ACCCBD) at Children’s of Alabama. 251-610-4969 give.childrensal.org/teeoff

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Support Groups & Classes Sunday March 11

Distinguished Young Women announces Spotlight: a Gulf Coast Talent Showcase Saraland High School Theater, 1115 Industrial Parkway Saraland, 36571 Presented by the University of Mobile and Distinguished Young Women, is an event whose purpose is to recognize talented young performers right in our own community, encourage their pursuits and give funds to support arts programs in Mobile and Baldwin County schools. Spotlight is open to boys and girls in grades 1 - 12. To enter, potential participants can visit www.GulfCoastSpotlight.com, read the details and submit application and audition video by February 23rd. 251-438-3621 www.GulfCoastSpotlight.com

Classes/Meetings

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APAC - Mobile County Adoptive Family Group Meets the 4th Friday of each month from 6 - 7:30 p.m. Regency Church of Christ, 501 S. University Blvd., Mobile. Parent, Youth/Teen Group and Childcare Is Provided. Topic Discussions & ceu’s for foster families are offered. For more information please call 251-4602727 * 1-800-489-1886 * or estokes@childrensaid.org.

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Autism Support Group in North Mobile We have a social play room for higher functioning children (4 and up) to engage and relate. The idea is to have a safe place for parents of Autistic children in our community to link up and network with other families. 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month, 6 - 7:30 p.m., Saraland United Methodist Church, 415 McKeough Ave., Saraland. For more info or to RSVP contact Chris Gibson. Email Chrisgibson4149@gmail.com, or 251281-7312.

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Breast Feeding Friendly Group (The BFF Group) A place where new moms can get one-on-one breastfeeding help. Get to know other moms within the same community and possibly become a mentor. Breastfeeding professionals are able to provide newborn weight checks before and after feeding to help you to know if your baby is getting enough to eat. Nurses and other medical personnel can answer general questions. All are welcome, even if you haven’t delivered yet. Spouses and other support partners are also welcome. Every Monday from 5:30 to 7 p.m. (Except major holidays). We meet at The Allen Cox Building Conference Room, 205 Lambert Avenue, Mobile.

La Leche League Mobile Bay Area Breastfeeding support meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month at 10:30 a.m. Meetings are free and open to all women with an interest in breastfeeding. Babies and children are welcome. For information or support contact a leader. 251-689-2085, amandaLLLmobile@yahoo.com, meghanLLL@yahoo. com, or michelleLLLmobile@yahoo.com. Facebook: La Leche League Mobile Bay Area. Survivors of Suicide Support Group Meets the 2nd & 4th Friday of each month from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Lifelines Counseling Services, 705 Oak Circle Drive, Mobile. SOS is here to provide a supportive and judgement-free environment for you to express yourself and share your story. What can you expect? •A place to find support •A comfortable environment to express yourself •A judgement free environment •Resources for grieving Mobile Infirmary Hospital For complete information about class dates, times, and locations, or to schedule a tour of our maternity center, please call childbirth education office at (251) 435-2000. • Birthing Basics Class This course is for parents who either have already experienced childbirth or who prefer to attend just one class because of time constraints. The four-hour weekend session (with breaks) includes a tour and all birthing information. The fee is $30 for patients delivering at Mobile Infirmary. Pre-registration is required; call 435-2000. Every last Sunday of the month. 3:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. • Cancer Support Group Meets every 4th Tuesday of the month from 10-11 a.m. • Gastric Band Support Meets every 3rd Thursday of the month from 6-7 p.m. • Gastric Bypass Support Meets every 2nd Thursday of the month from 6-7 p.m. • Preparation for Childbirth Series This series of classes includes all aspects of labor including natural coping skills and epidural anesthesia. Class participants will practice comfort measures and learn about post-delivery and newborn care.

Circle Of Hope, Sexual Assault Support Group Group meets every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month. Call Lifelines Counseling Services to schedule a 30 minute appointment before attending the group 251-431-5100. COH is a support group for victims of sexual violence to share in their struggles and learn ways to begin to cope with the pain and daily stressors that trigger the hurt. This group is free to attend. Call for times and locations.

Providence Hospital: www.providencehospital.org Providence Hospital is pleased to offer a variety of classes on childbirth issues. All classes are located in Conference Room I (located just inside the main lobby doors of the hospital beside the Gift Shop) unless otherwise specified. To register for classes or for more information, you may call 639-2938 to speak with our Childbirth Educator, Kathy Wade RN, or email kwade@ providencehospital.org. For Daytime Breastfeeding classes only, you may call Marcia Ranew RN, our Lactation Consultant at 633-1749 or email mranew@ providencehospital.org.

The Family Center The Family Center’s classes in Mobile and Daphne are free and offer free childcare WITH minimum 24HOUR RESERVATION. Night class includes supper and giftcards. All classes provide a certificate of completion. The Family Center of Mobile *Nurturing Parenting course teaches parenting skills such as teaching cooperation and peaceful bedtimes. Wednesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., 12-week rotating series. Call 251-479-5700 to register. *The Responsible Fatherhood Program (RFP) classes are Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6-8 p.m., but REQUIRE ADVANCE INTAKE APPOINTMENT. See daily listings for class topics. *Mondays: Together We Can, a cooperative parenting course, 8 weeks. *Tuesdays: Quenching the Father Thirst, (Four things every dad needs to know), 12 weeks. *Thursdays: Chill Skills Stress/Anger Management training, 4 weeks. 251-479-5700 for information on all Family Center classes. All held at 601 Bel Air Blvd, Suite 100, Mobile. www.familycentermobile.org or www.Facebook.com/ FatherhoodMobile.

Spring Hill Medical Center: www.springhillmedicalcenter.com • Better Breathers Support Group Meeting For people with pulmonary disorders. Meets on the fourth Monday of each month. 2-3 p.m. Gerald Wallace Auditorium. For more information, call 461-2438. • Breastfeeding Class One Wednesday per month. 6:30-8:30 p.m. at The Family Center. Benefits of breastfeeding, getting started, going back to work and FAQs are covered. Call 340-7770 early to pre-register. • Childbirth Preparation Classes Four consecutive Mondays (6:30-9 p.m.) at The Family Center. Register early. The class covers onset of labor, inductions, Cesarean sections, relaxation, anesthesia and postpartum. Includes a tour of the maternity units. Cost: $25 if delivering at Springhill Hospital. Call 3407769 early to pre-register. • Childbirth Preparation: Accelerated Course One Saturday per month. 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. at The Family Center. Ideal for those who live out of town or will be delivering soon. $25. Call 340-7769 early to pre-register.

• Me, Too! A Tour for Siblings Noon on the First Sunday of the month. Join us for an individualized tour and instruction for siblings ages 9 and younger. The event includes a tour of the maternity areas and tips on helping parents with the new baby. Parents must remain with their children. By Appointment ONLY. Call 340-7769.

• Infant CPR Learn this potentially life-saving technique while you are pregnant or soon after your baby’s birth. Covers infant CPR and choking. $5 if delivering at SMC. 6:30 p.m. 8 p.m. The Family Center (Bldg. 2, Fourth Floor). Call 340-7769 early to pre-register. • Resolve Through Sharing For parents who have lost a child before or immediately after birth. Meets the fourth Monday of every month, 7-8 p.m. Gerald Wallace Auditorium. Call 460-5323. USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital www.usahealthsystem.com/usacwh Classes: Advance reservations are required and may be made by calling 415-1069. No children at classes, please. Class size is limited. Advanced payment required to secure your reservation. If you are expecting multiples or having a c-section, please call for additional class information. • Preparing for Childbirth All-day Saturday class for the expectant mother and her support person (coach). Topics include: pregnancy changes, labor, role of the support coach, relaxation and breathing techniques, vaginal and cesarean births, postpartum care, and a tour of the maternity areas. Fee per couple: $30. You should plan on beginning the 3-week series when you are approximately 28 weeks pregnant. Class will meet in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital. Every other month, 9-2. • Childbirth in a Nutshell This class includes a brief overview of labor and a tour of the maternity areas. Class meets first Tuesday every other month from 6:30-9 p.m. in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital. Fee per couple: $15. • Breastfeeding This one-night class is for expectant and newly delivered mothers and their support persons who want to learn about breastfeeding. Class meets second Thursday from 6:30-8:00 p.m. in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital Fee: $5. Registration Information: Credit card payments are accepted by calling 415-1685. Mail payments for classes to: University of South Alabama, Children’s & Women’s Hospital, Education Department, 1700 Center St., Mobile, AL 36604.

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

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Paddington 2

The Commuter

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: A Violence: BSexual Content: AProfanity: AAlcohol / Drug Use: A The MPAA has rated Paddington 2 PG for some action and mild rude humor. Paddington Bear returns to the big screen in this sequel, which is even more enjoyable than his charming first adventure. As this film opens, we see the lovable marmalade-eater (again voiced by Ben Whishaw) is now right at home in Britain with Mr. and Mrs. Brown (Hugh Bonneville and Sally Hawkins), and their children Judy and Johnathan (Madeleine Harris and Samuel Joslin). Still, the bear’s thoughts often turn to his Aunt Lucy back in his childhood home. With her 100th birthday just a few weeks away, Paddington wants to do something special for this motherly caregiver, who sacrificed her own dreams of travel while tending him as a young cub. And he finds the perfect gift in Mr. Gruber’s Antique Shop: A pop-up book featuring London’s famous landmarks. Unfortunately, the unique book is rather expensive. Not dissuaded, Paddington undertakes a series of odd jobs to earn the cash needed to buy the present. Yet before his coin jar is full, a scoundrel breaks into the store and steals the rarity. Paddington’s attempt to catch the thief instead have him mistaken as the criminal. Arrested in handcuffs, charged and tried in court, the defenseless bear ends up behind bars. The story may be a bit too emotional or frightening for the youngest of cubs, especially when they see the loneliness of a locked-up Paddington or watch his often-perilous plight. Yet older children will likely be fine and even adults are sure to be amused in the engaging scavenger hunt that unfolds. With messages of love and looking for the best in people, Paddington 2 is as sweet as marmalade.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: B+ Violence: C Sexual Content: AProfanity: CAlcohol / Drug Use: BThe MPAA has rated The Commuter PG-13 for some intense action/violence, and language. Liam Neeson’s character, Michael MacCauley, is a former cop turned insurance salesman. And he has just had a very bad day at the office. After a decade of successful service the 60-year-old is suddenly handed his walking papers. The bad news in compounded by the fact that he already lost his nest egg in the 2008 recession and is barely able to keep up with bills and paying his kid’s university tuition. After downing a few beers with Alex (Patrick Wilson), his buddy and former partner in law enforcement, Michael boards the homebound train, still not sure how to break the news to his wife (Elizabeth McGovern). But one thing is certain, when Liam Neeson hops on your usual ride home from work, the trip is bound to be anything but mundane. Ripping a page from the Alfred Hitchcock school of filmmaking textbook, The Commuter uses confinement within an always moving train to generate tension and suspense. And, if you can forget about a few cracks in the plot, the setup delivers a typical thriller product that involves an unstoppable vehicle, a ticking clock and a herd of innocent people who should have run screaming from the carriage the moment they saw Neeson’s face. This trip may offer a fun ride for older teens and adults thanks to virtually no sexual content and fewer profanities -- although a sexual expletive and crude finger gesture still make their way into the scant script. Action violence is the only other concern.

Goodbye Christoper Robin

(New to Home Video)

MPAA Rating: PG Overall AViolence BSexual Content B+ Profanity B+ Substance Use B+ The MPAA rated Goodbye Christopher Robin PG for thematic elements, some bullying,

The time the two spend together proves magical. Christopher Robin introduces his father to his playthings: a teddy bear named Winnie (after the famous bear from Winnipeg, Canada who lives in the London zoo), a stripped tiger, a dilapidated donkey and a tiny piglet. The pair and entourage take walks in the wood, play imagination games, and bond over their shared sense of loss. Alan is missing his wife, Christopher is longing for his nanny. Suddenly, Alan has the inspiration to jot down a few lines. With thoughts filled of other such verse, Alan invites his friend Ernest Sheppard to come for a visit and makes some sketches of the young lad playing with his toys. On a whim, Alan sends a copy of one of the illustrated poems to Daphne – and she comes home. Soon there is enough for a whole book, a willing publisher, and before any of them realize it, a best seller. However, this happy ending for writers’ block brings with it an entirely new set of problems. The public wants to meet the real Christopher Robin, and reporters start plaguing the young boy. The father has lots of work to do if he wants to keep the sensation going, even though he is troubled when the press wants to talk about his son instead of him. And Mom needs to accompany Dad when he attends to important people in important places. Despite the reference to of one of the world’s most popular children’s characters in its title, this film is aimed at adults, not kids. Although the script takes some artistic license, it does accurately depict many issues that fame and fortune brought upon the Milnes’. It presents a sobering picture for parents who might also become blinded by career ambitions and financial stability— especially when those seemingly worthy goals are gained at the expense of building loving family relationships. Beautifully shot, with powerful performances, this real-life cautionary tale is a reminder that it is not childish to cherish the important aspects of childhood.

war images and brief language. Like many children in the twentieth century, I grew up listening to the tales of Winnie the Pooh. The lovable Teddy Bear and his human companion Christopher Robin were a delight. I was well into adulthood before I learned that the stories and poems were based on author A.A. Milne’s own son. That made the writing even more charming. But it appears that was not the case for the real family. When Alan Alexander Milne (Domhnall Gleeson) returns to London after fighting in the “war to end all wars”, he is suffering from shellshock. His high-society wife Daphne (Margot Robbie) has little sympathy for his ailment, and doesn’t understand why he is having trouble resuming his former occupation as a successful playwright. Even the birth of their son doesn’t bring the man peace. Eventually, she reluctantly agrees to move to a quiet place in the countryside so Alan can resume his writing. When that still doesn’t work, she heads back to the city alone with no promises of returning. As bad luck would have it, her departure coincides with the loss of the cook and a family emergency for the nanny (Kelly Macdonald). That leaves the depressed dad completely alone with his son (Will Tilston). After a few un-pleasantries, Alan rises to the responsibilities of caring for the child he barely knows. Mobile Bay Parents I February 2018

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THE ADVENTURES IN

Math & Science

2018 Summer Camp Sessions

Hosted by the Alabama School of Math and Science

Launch a Rocket Kayak in Mobile Bay Build a Robot

Solve a Crime Prepare for the ACT

June 4-8, June 11-15, & June 18-22 Located in Mobile, AL

Day & Overnight Camp

Grades 6-10

Register Online Early to Save! Register by April 1: $360 Overnight Camp (all inclusive), $260 Day Camp (includes lunch) Register after April 1: $385 Overnight Camp (all inclusive), $285 Day Camp (includes lunch) Cost to stay weekend between a session is an additional $185 (includes trip to water park)

COURSE SAMPLING ACT Prep, Algebra Review, Exploring Inner Space, Marine Biology, CSI: Mobile, Phun Physics, Using Java, Robotics, Field Biology, Psychology, Math Puzzles, Labs of Doom, Rocketry, Origami, Speak Up, Light Metals and Enameling, Apps for Smart Devices, and many more. Applications, more information, and course descriptions are online at WWW.ASMS.NET.

DEADLINE TO REGISTER IS MAY 1, 2018

1255 Dauphin St. • Mobile, AL 36604 • 251.441.2100 • www.asms.net • aims@asms.net