February 2023 Child Care Issue

Promoting Your Child’s

Create

How

Things

Our

Signs

Ava Grace Evans (3), daughter of James and Jade Evans and little sister to Braelynn (14) and Colten (9). Grandparents are Jim and Susan Evans, and Dale and Tina Tait. Great grandmother is Susie Dickson.

Ava loves all things art, especially drawing, painting and making crafts. She enjoys singing, dancing, and dressing up as Frozen character, Anna. Playing hide-and-go-seek with her brother and sister is

Mobile

Bay’s

You were most likely concerned if you ran into me at any time on January 9th. My eyes were puffy and bloodshot, and I am quite sure I had the look of a lost puppy on my face. You see, that was the day that two of my babies went back to college after the holiday break.

I am unsure why I reacted so dramatically this time but watching them pull out of our driveway crushed me. My emotions caught me off guard, as I was totally fine during the fall move-in. Why was this so different? Maybe it was because move-in was so stressful. We all ultimately got on each other’s nerves. I for sure know my daughter was ready for us to leave. This visit, however, was wonderful. We had such a fun time together, and I just didn’t want it to end. Of course, it probably didn’t help when we pulled out old photos the night before they left and shared stories of when they were toddlers.

Seeing my older kids spread their wings reminds me so much of how it felt to send them to daycare. In each instance, you are entrusting your kids will be safe, happy, and thrive in a new environment. I don’t know about you, but my search for childcare started almost immediately after finding out I was pregnant. I was worried there might be waiting lists and wanted to get a jump on things. Touring centers and asking questions was fun while walking around with her safe and sound in my belly. I was so comfortable and excited about the center we chose and could not wait to meet the other moms, make play dates on weekends, etc. However, all that changed once she arrived, and it was time for me to return to work. How would I leave this dear sweet gift with a total “stranger” all day? I quickly learned that the caregivers at the center were not there to replace me during the day, but to help me. After all, they had way more experience than I did. They taught me all kinds of tips and tricks and not only took care of my sweet girl, but helped me be a better mom.

The comfort of having excellent connections and complete confidence in your daycare provider is immeasurable. Finding the perfect spot for your family does take some research, visits, and questions. As you begin your search, I encourage you to flip to check out this month’s feature, How to Find a Safe, Quality Daycare by Kimberly Blaker. Once you put together a list of what you are looking for in a provider and are ready to start touring centers, this year’s Child Care Guide will come in handy. The directory includes a list of all the fulltime and part-time daycares, Mom’s Day Out programs, and preschools we could find in the area. As I say every year, childcare is not one-size-fits-all. Everyone needs and wants different things in a center, so do your research, take tours, and listen to your gut.

Whether you are watching your little birds spread their wings or just getting settled into the nest, it is important that we teach our kids age-appropriate independence. One area we can all work on no matter what age our children are, is modeling a healthy lifestyle. This month Cheryl Maguire has some helpful information for us in 7 Ways to Promote Your Child’s Healthy Lifestyle.

Speaking of healthy lifestyles, there is plenty to help foster healthy family time in the February Family Calendar. We are excited to share all the local activities, Mardi Gras festivities, charity cook-offs, local music/drama productions, and much more! I hope you find many fun things to fill your February calendar and heart with beautiful memories!

Lynn

Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@mobilebayparents.com

Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@mobilebayparents.com

Research Editor

Lucy Green

Contributing Writers

Kimberly Blaker

Savannah Browning, MD

Kristi Bush, LSW

Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA

Cheryl Maguire

Dave Ramsey

Cover Photography Hannah Stinson Photography www.HannahStinsonPhotography.com

President

Jason Watson

Advertising Sales Lynn Knighton ads@mobilebayparents.com (251) 304-1200

Ad Design

Tim Welch

Web Content Manager

Scott Davis

Mobile Bay Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: P.O. Box 81105, Mobile, Alabama, 36689. The phone number for voice and fax is (251) 304-1200.

Mobile Bay Parents is copyrighted 2023 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Mobile Bay Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect he view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

by Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA

Helping Your Child Handle “Big Emotions”

How can I help my child and myself handle big emotions? The clinical term for “big emotions” is emotional dysregulation, which is the inability to control or regulate emotional responses.

The process of emotional regulation is complex and lifelong. Theoretically, we learn this skill first, the skill of relating to others second, and the ability to reason last. But, unfortunately, the skill of regulating is often not developed.

Think about the last time you lost your keys or cell phone. A family member asked, “Where did you have it last?” and you blew up. That person ap proached you with reason, but you responded without regulat ing your emotions. When dealing with difficult emotions, we must ensure regulation first, relation second, and reason third. Every time…In that order… Every time!

As we grow, emotional regulation skills develop through the rhythmic motion of play: running around the playground, swinging, kicking a ball back and forth, going across

monkey bars, bouncing, throwing, and dancing. This rhythmic cycle starts when parents begin pacing or rocking to calm their crying infant. However, parents must continue to teach and model rhythmic motion skills to teach their children emotional regulation. In my opinion, this is where toddlers’ use of handheld devices is most detrimental to development. If the child is given a phone to “help him calm down,” instead of being held and rocked or encouraged to engage in rhythmic motion, he is not learning how to naturally self-soothe. Instead, your child is learning to distract himself from difficult emotions. As parents, we all need to intentionally incorporate rhythmic movement into our daily lives: running, walking, dancing, etc. We need to say to children, “I am really angry about something that happened at work today, so I am going for a walk to help my brain and body calm down.” Parents must model that

they are not overwhelmed by their big emotions. As children grow older, they will imitate what we model.

We model the skills of relating by showing empathy. The best way to relate through empathy is by telling stories. In younger children, we talk about what just happened. For example, “You grabbed the cookie, and I would not let you have it, so you started to cry.” We relate to older children, teenagers, and adults by talking about a time we went through the same thing. Do not “one up” the other person just to say, “me too”. Remember, it is alright for them to feel big emotions! They will continue to experience them throughout their life. They just need to know that they are seen, heard, and understood.

We attempt to reason only after ensuring regulation and relation have successfully occurred. The step of reason usually occurs minutes, hours, or sometimes even days after the emotional dysregulation occurs. If we wait until our children can reason, their brains are optimized for the learning process.

Truthfully, the most common error I observe is that parents model emotional dysregulation. Therefore, your children’s ability to manage difficult emotions is directly related to YOUR ability to manage their uncomfortable feelings. Before reacting, make sure you are regulated, have spent some time compassionately relating to yourself or another person, and are fully able to reason.

Dr. Beth Long received her education in Counseling Psychology from Chapman University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Beth has worked in six unique clinical environments across the country and currently owns Works of Wonder Therapy in Montgomery. Beth utilizes the knowledge from a variety of different disciplines to give her patients the best care possible. To learn more visit www.worksofwondertherapy.com.

Mobile Ballet Presents Swan Lake and the Swan Soirée

Mobile Ballet will present Swan Lake on March 25-26 at the Mobile Civic Center Theater, the final production closing out our 35th Anniversary season. Performances will take place Saturday, March 25, at 7:30pm, and Sunday, March 26, at 2:30pm.

A magical spell that can only be broken by true love... Mobile Ballet brings to the stage a new production of one of the most popular classical ballets of all time, Swan Lake. Audiences will be captivated by the romance and drama, the battle between good and evil, and the transformative power of love. This iconic ballet is a must-see whether you are an aficionado or a newcomer to ballet.

Tchaikovsky’s stunning score is brought to life under the direction of conductor David Ott, with a live orchestra accompanying the Saturday evening performance. This new Mobile Ballet production features Houston Ballet principal dancers Yuriko Kajiya and Connor Walsh and additional guest artists performing with the Mobile Ballet Company, with choreography by Katia Garza and Israel Rodriguez after Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov.

Mobile Ballet will also present the Swan Soiree on Sunday, March 5th from 2pm – 4pm , at The Venue in Fairhope.. This fun Sunday afternoon tea will include a short performance by Mobile Ballet dancers, story time, silent auction, photo opps & more! Tickets are $25. All ages (3+). Presented by the Mobile Ballet Barre volunteer association, this special event raises funds for the Relevé Project, Mobile Ballet’s tuition assistance program established to help reduce the financial burdens that prevent children from accessing dance training. Supporters who may be unable to attend the event are still encouraged to make a donation to the Relevé Project at www.mobileballet. org. With your donation, you are lifting up a young dancer and directly making a difference in his or her life, as well as nurturing the vibrant arts culture in our community!

To purchase tickets, make a donation, or get information, visit www.mobileballet.org or call 251-342-2241.

USS ALABAMA Crewmate Program Opens for 2023

Now hear this! Battleship Memorial Park is now accepting applications for the 2023-2024 USS ALABAMA Crewmate Program. Applications may be downloaded from our website at https:// www.ussalabama.com/get-involved/crewmates/ or picked up at Battleship Memorial Park’s Ticket Office, 2703 Battleship Parkway. The Ticket Office is open daily from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Deadline for application submission is Friday, February 17, 4:00 p.m. The USS ALABAMA Crewmate contest is open to young women ages 19 to 21. Applicants must reach their 19th birthday by March 27, 2023 and not have reached their 21st birthday by the same date. All applicants must reside in Mobile or Baldwin County during the time of application, and if selected, during their term as a Crewmate. For more information on the USS ALABAMA Crewmate Program, please call Lynne Price at 251-438-2834, or email lprice@ussalabama.com.

Joe Cain Classic

The Annual Joe Cain Classic Run is a 5K (3.1 mile) run/walk, that begins at 8:00am on February 19, 2023, at the corner of Canal and Broad streets in downtown Mobile. There is a 1-mile run/walk begins after the completion of the 5K and a “Moonpie Dash” for the kids following the 1-mile event. Following the completion of your event you are invited to join us for the JCC Block Party on Augusta Street in front of the Joe Cain House. Food, beverages, music and dancing along with a visit from Joe Cain’s Merry Widows are the order of the day. What a great way to begin you Joe Cain Day festivities. Proceeds to benefit challenged athletes. Please visit https://www.facebook.com/ JoeCainClassicRun for more information.

Colors of Cancer Glow Walk

Join us on February 25 at 6:30pm for the 8th Annual Colors of Cancer Glow Walk at The Grounds. This event will bring awareness to all Cancers whether you have been affected yourself or participating for a friend, family or coworker. Show your support and have a great time. Registration fee of $25 includes goody bag, glow item and shirt. Come early as 4:00 to register and join in the interactive one-of-a-kind Leave it at the Fence Display. We welcome walkers of all ages and athletic abilities including strollers. Due to safety at night we have chosen to bring awareness with a walk. Runners are welcome to run the 1-mile distance.

2023 Mobile Walk for Camp Seale Harris

Join us on March 26, 2023 at 2:00pm USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park for The Diabetes WALK for Camp Seale Harris. This is a family-friendly Walk/Run raising awareness of diabetes, and an opportunity for participant fundraising efforts to make it possible for kids to attend Camp Seale Harris for kids and families living with diabetes. You can register yourself, or a team, for the WALK, and invite friends, family, and co-workers to join your effort by donating to your WALK page. Please visit https://campsealeharris.org/ diabeteswalk/ for more information.

Dressing the Abbey Exhibit

Dressing the Abbey weaves fashion, history, and popular culture into an exhibition featuring costumes from Downton Abbey™, one of the most widely watched television dramas in the world. The exhibition will be on view at the History Museum of Mobile through April 22, 2023. It features thirty-five costumes worn by men and women and invites viewers to discover the turbulence of the Edwardian era and the cultural impact of the First World War. Visit http://www.historymuseumofmobile.com/ upcoming-exhibits/.

Friday Night Live

Kick-off this year’s free, family-friendly Friday Night Live Concert Series with SIX different Brass Bands in celebration of Mardi Gras. Join us February 10, 2023 in Cathedral Square from 5:30-10:00 PM. Band Schedule:

5:30PM - Blow House Brass Band (Mobile, AL)

6:10PM - Brass Tyrannosaurus (New Orleans, LA)

6:50PM - 5-Mile Brass Band (Mobile, AL)

7:30PM - The Outlawz Brass Band (Mobile, AL)

8:10PM - Big 6 Brass Band (New Orleans, AL)

9:05PM - Bryan Morris And The Truth Brass Band (New Orleans, LA & Baton Rouge, LA)

Bring your own blankets and chairs. No tents. For more information on this event and others visit us online at www.MobileParksandRec.org

34th Annual American Cancer Society Chili Cook-off

The American Cancer Society’s 2023 Chili Cook-Off, sponsored by Infirmary Cancer Care, will celebrate 34 years of cook-off fun once again on Canal Street in downtown Mobile on Saturday, March 11, 2023. Back this yearthe Kids Corner so bring the entire family. The fight against cancer continues to be the focus of this event. All efforts and donations received have a tremendous impact of the lives of cancer survivors, their families, and friends who live here in our community.

Your continued support is greatly appreciated. Please visit https://mobileacschilicookoff.com/ for tickets.

“Spirits of the Passage” at GulfQuest

Beginning January 4, 2023, and in conjunction with the 160th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s 1863 Emancipation Proclamation, the National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico (GulfQuest) will be hosting one of the most powerful and important exhibitions it has ever displayed. “Spirits of the Passage: The Story of the Transatlantic Slave Trade” explores the strength of the human spirit through a display of nearly 150 historical objects spanning more than 350 years.

The 3,500 sq. ft. exhibition will be on display through June 21, 2023.

It’s the first exhibition of its kind to examine the entire history of the Transatlantic Slave Trade from the 16th to 19th century while presenting modern research and discoveries to the public. These include the latest marine archaeological discoveries, new research on key African societies and an exploration of the slave trade’s legacies. Objects for the exhibition are on loan from the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum. “Spirits of the Passage” is being brought to GulfQuest thanks to generous support from the Mobile County Commission. GulfQuest is open Wednesday – Saturday from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Contact GulfQuest at (251) 436-8901 or visit www.gulfquestmuseum.com. Advanced tickets can be purchased at www.gulfquestmuseum.com/visit/online-tickets.

13th Annual Mobile Chocolate Festival

The Mobile Chocolate Festival, a celebration of all things chocolate, will be held at The Grounds on Saturday March 18, 2023 from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m., with all proceeds to benefit Penelope House.

As we celebrate the 13th Anniversary of such a wonderfully chocolate event, there will be vendors offering samples of their chocolate-related products as well as selling their products. Vendors vary from having chocolate-themed wares to succulent confections to jewelry to bath and body products. Admission is free for children 13 & under; General admission $3.00 in advance- available at Penelope’s Closet, $5.00 day of the event. Call for more details (251-342-2809), like Mobile Chocolate Festival on Facebook, and/or visit www.mobilechocolatefestival.com.

The Maynard 4 Foundation Presents Miss Juneteenth Scholarship Pageantry Program

Registration is now open for the 2023 Miss Juneteenth Scholarship Pageantry Program through March 1st. This national program presented by The Maynard 4 Foundation is open to young ladies ages 13-18 is a 3-day educational program designed to build confidence that also consists of workshops ranging from public speaking, college and career exploration, financial literacy and much more! This program will be hosted at The Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa from June 16-18, 2023! Paper registration form and info may be found at www.missjuneteenth.org. Online registration via Google Form at https://bit. ly/TM4F_2023MissJuneteenth. Limited scholarships available to cover registration fee. Pictured here are 2022 Junior Miss Juneteenth, Clair Basey, and 2022 Teen Miss Juneteenth, Kendra Jordan.

Toytopia Opening February 3, 2023

What was your childhood passion? Jump roping? Star Wars® collectibles? Baking in an Easy Bake Oven? Whatever was your favorite toy then and now, you’re sure to find it in the TOYTOPIA exhibit at the Exploreum, developed by Stage 9 Exhibits. Opening February 3, 2023 at and running daily throughout the normal exhibition hours of the science center, Toytopia is sure to rekindle the wonder and delight of your favorite childhood moments and where you can play all day in a world of big toys.

Toytopia is the one of the premier exhibits created by the Stage 9 Exhibits. Their exhibits have travelled internationally and been exhibited at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute, Orlando Science Center, and the Pacific National Exhibition in Vancouver, Canada. Filling the entire traveling exhibit gallery here at the Exploreum, Toytopia will showcase specialty exhibits from toymakers including: Hasbro®, Duncan Yo-Yo®, Schleich®, Breyer®, Crayola®, KNEX® (Lincoln Logs®) and many more.

“Our goal was to capture the essence of childhood wonder; that dream of being in a world of toys,” explained Troy Carlson, owner of Stage Nine Entertainment Group and G. Willikers Toy Emporium. Visit https://www.exploreum.com/.

KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

Understanding Ear Infections

Ear infections are a common, and sometimes painful occurrence in childhood. To understand more about ear infections, let’s first talk about the anatomy of the ear. When you look at the ear, you are looking at the external ear. The external ear leads to the ear canal, which is where ear wax is located. This canal leads to the parts of the internal ear, which are covered by the tympanic membrane, or “eardrum .”The tympanic membrane is what your child’s pediatrician uses the otoscope to look at when looking at your child’s ear. The tympanic membrane helps protect the auditory bones and also helps with hearing. Just on the other side of the tympanic membrane is a space that holds your auditory bones (which help with hearing and balance). The most important part of the ear when you are talking about ear infections is what is called the eustachian tube. The eustachian tube connects that inner ear to the nasal cavity.

An ear infection typically occurs after a common cold. This is where the anatomy of the ear is important. When you have a cold, congestion occurs in the nasal cavity and sinuses – which can then push up through the eustachian tube to the ears. When an ear infection occurs, the fluid collects in the cavity with the inner ear. The fluid that collects in the ear can then become infected with bacteria.

When a child has an ear infection, it has usually followed a cold and typically has symptoms of worsened congestion, runny nose, cough, ear pain, sleeplessness, and fever. Typically there is no a way to relieve the pressure, and that is what causes pain.

The reason why young children are so prone to ear infections is because of that eustachian tube. When children are first born, the eustachian tube is short where the nasal cavity and ear are very close together

– so fluid does not have to move very far to enter the ear. And it is also more horizontal. Then, as a child grows, their eustachian tube elongates and becomes more angled, which protects most older children and adults from recurrent ear infections.

There are generally two types of ear infections – viral and bacterial. Viral requires pain control and time to improve. Bacterial ear infections require an antibiotic to resolve. Your child’s pediatrician will help to determine what type of ear infection your child may have and what is the best course of action.

Dr. Savannah Browning grew up in Fayette, AL. She moved to Mobile to attend Medical School at the University of South Alabama in 2009, and has been a proud Mobilian ever since. She joined Children’s Medical Group in 2016, and her office is at the Airport Boulevard location. She lives in Mobile with her husband, Andrew, and their three children: Jude, Luke, and Annie.

Autauga County Schools

Living Word Christian Center Kingdom Academy Reader’s Theatre

LWCC Kingdom Academy 5th Grade Reading Class incorporated Total Participation Techniques with a Reader’s Theatre developing the reading fluency through dramatic presentations of MONKEY and CROCODILES by Anthony D. Fredericks. Big Idea: Folktales often reflect values. A trickster tale is a type of folktale in which the characters - usually animals - try to trick one another. Trickster tales

Readers: Narrator - Christian Roundtree, Monkey- Lamyia Brown,

Day that is led by the junior class! Together, they make Christmas ornaments, sing songs, dance, make butter, learn how to quilt, and make their own wagon replicas as they learn about the life of pioneers!

School, which won first place in the United Way of Southwest Alabama’s Youth Campaign Pitch Competition. The students’ slogan, “Be a part of a forever story,” will be used to encourage MCPSS students to support United Way in February. Bryant High placed second and Murphy

Mobile Christian Football Athletes Make All-Coastal Players

Congratulations to Mobile Christian Football athletes that made All-Coastal Players this year!

Defensive MVP - Sterling Dixon

1st Team - Bo Cagle

2nd Team - Kentonio Kelly and Camden Lawson

Honorable Mention - Aaron Rogers and Carter Lewis

St. Luke Student a WKRG 5 TV News Kidcaster

St. Luke’s 6th-grade student, Mason Crosby represented St. Luke’s as a Kidcaster for WKRG 5 TV News. Mason had the opportunity to meet WKRG Meteorologist Ed Bloodsworth and be the meteorologist for the day. During this experience, Mason shared with viewers the daily weather forecast and that he enjoyed playing sports, (especially football) and his favorite subjects are science and math. Mason, and other selected Kidcasters from the surrounding area, learned about the behind-the-scenes operations and viewed the weather system that meteorologists utilize during a new cast.

Satsuma High School’s HOSA Hosts Blood Drive

Satsuma High School’s HOSA club hosted the first of its biannual blood drives. The drive was a tremendous success with 83 people registered and 75 units collected by LifeSouth. CNA students were on hand during the drive to help with donor care including checking vital signs. Pictured are CNA students (front row): Jaylee Amacker, Abby Duke, Madison Lynd, Hayden Andrews, Lexi Lopez, Allie Bowdoin, Grace Giles; (second row): Kaitlin Ross, Emilee Scarbrough, Caleigh Turpin, Chloe Davis, Haylee Monte, Laila Baldon, Angel Yang, Alana Smith, and instructor Christina Ebbert.

Autauga County Schools

Davidson High RobotEx Team Wins First Place

For the second year in a row, the Davidson High School RobotEx team won first place overall at the South’s BEST Robotics Championships in Auburn! It’s the only time in the event’s history that a school has won first place overall in consecutive years. Team sponsor Mike Fletcher was also named the South’s BEST Teacher of the Year. In addition to first place overall, the RobotEx team won:

3rd place -- Most Photogenic

1st place -- Most Elegant Robot

1st place -- Marketing Presentation

1st place -- Exhibit Booth Interviews

2nd place -- Spirit and Sportsmanship

St. Mary Catholic Scholars Bowl Members Celebrate Victory

St. Mary Catholic Scholars Bowl members celebrated a sweet victory on January 12 as they won their third match of the season against Dunbar Magnet. Pictured are St. Mary Scholars, Braydon Arata, Bud Urquhart, John Dudley, Xavier Montague, Thomas Arensberg, Sam Hanks, and Addison Feirman

Phillips Preparatory Student Recognized as a Mobile United Student Leader

Diego Palmerin-Nava, a 7th grade student at Phillips Preparatory school was recognized as a Mobile United Student Leader in Mobile County. Diego is the epitome of a leader, and he makes us proud every day.

Saint Dominic Students Discuss Snow Globe Life

Saint Dominic Catholic School first graders read the book, “The Snow Globe Family” by Jane O’Connor. Then, they did a sequential narrative writing about living inside a snow globe. They did excellent work!

Council Traditional School Students Art on Display at Young at Art Show

Congratulations to Eliza Edgeworth, Jordan Jones, Harper Holder, Quinn Williams and Mia Peyton for being chosen by the Mobile Arts Council to display their art for the entire month of February at the Young at Art Show. We are proud of our Council Comet artists.

Pictured - Claire Kirchler

Congratulations Mobile Christian School Baseball State Champs!

January 4, 2023 Mobile Christian School Football held a ring ceremony for our 2022 Baseball 4A State Champions. Congrats to a fantastic team for having a 33-4 season!

St. Luke’s Biomedical Sciences Classes Participate in USA Drill

St. Luke’s Interventions and Innovations (10th-12th) Biomedical Sciences classes were asked to be the patients at the University of South Alabama’s annual Mass Casualty Drill. The scenario this year was a bus accident. Our students prepared by practicing the application of moulage (medical and military trauma makeup). They learned about the various injuries they were assigned and how to remain in character while interacting with the student EMS responders and student ER staff. Thank you, USA Department of EMS Education. for including our students in your drill. We are already looking forward to next year!

Corpus Christi Students’ “The Legend of the Poinsettia” Decorations

Corpus Christi School Art Teacher, Mrs. Moulder, Spanish Teacher Mrs. Pettway and the Corpus Christi students did a wonderful job making ornaments and decorating our Christmas tree for The Mobile Regional Airport’s Tree Decorating Contest. Our School placed third in the contest.

supplies. She is truly a favorite among the St.

classrooms Ms. Gibson focuses on technical instruction. Students

Ignatius faculty!

Autauga County Schools

St. Ignatius Students Enjoy Special Courses

Impalas, kindergarten through eighth grade, get to attend formal art, music, Latin, library and computer technology once a week. They also get to go attend PE every single day! Our preschool Impalas get an intro to these specials with art, music, library and computer weekly. We believe that in order to maintain high academic standards, it is equally important to get our students out of the classroom and stimulate a different part of their brain. Fine arts, technology, exercise, language and library sciences have proved to help our students focus when they get back to the traditional classroom. On top of the academic support these special courses lend, our students LOVE these

Saint Pius X Catholic School

Full and Half Scholarships

– lmmigrant Full Scholarship –(10 individual scholarships available)

• Pays 100% of tuition / fees for each year for duration at Saint Pius X School

• Applicant must be new to the Mobile Archdiocese Catholic School system

• At least one parent must be immigrant to USA.

– Mary Jane Coleman Jackson Full Scholarship –(1 family scholarship available)

• Pays 100% of tuition and fees for each year for up to 5 years at Saint Pius X School

• Applicant must be new to Saint Pius X School

– George Landegger Half Scholarship –(10 individual scholarships available)

• Pays 50% (or more) of tuition / fees for up to 5 years at Saint Pius X School

• Applicant must be new to Saint Pius X School

Contact Saint Pius X School for more information (251.473.5004)

LWCCKA Teachers Attend Total Participation Techniques

Living Word Christian Center Kingdom Academy began the new year with the staff attending Total Participation Techniques Professional Development with special guest, ASCD’s best-selling authors Drs. Persida & William Himmele. LWCCKA Students eagerly learn using techniques implemented from the special work shop.

St. Dominic Students Create Digital Mystery Boxes

St. Dominic Catholic School seventh grade students selected a book to read and were asked to create a digital mystery box to help explain the story. This collaboration between Literature and Technology classes was a great experience for our middle school students. Pictured is Emily Bonneau.

St. Mary Students Celebrate The Feast of The Epiphany

St. Mary Catholic celebrated the Feast of The Epiphany on January 6 with King Cake and Crowns!

Pictured are a few celebration smiles from Mrs. Amy Ankerson’s K-B Kindergarten class. Submitted by Marcelle Naman. Photo by Amy Ankerson

St. Ignatius Christmas Tradition- Kindergarten Nativity

Traditions are big at St. Ignatius Catholic. One of our favorite ones is the live nativity at Christmas Eve Mass made up of kindergarten students. These special students make their nativity debut at the school’s Christmas Program before the holiday break and the honor Baby Jesus by processing to the alter steps to “Away in a Manger” at Christmas Eve Mass. This year St. Ignatius welcomed around 1,000 parishioners at the 4 PM Mass. Kindergarten students Mabry Thomas (Angel), Ayra Habibollahi (Mary), Wright Pritchett (Joseph), 3 Wise Men (Max Froberg, Billy Lyon and Bishop Bagget) and 3 Shepherds (Bennett Drago, Walker Coffey and Edmond Kidder) did an amazing job! Another St. Ignatius tradition is these same kindergarten students will be asked to reprise their role in eighth grade at the annual parish tree lighting!

St. Luke’s Choir Performance

St. Luke’s lower and middle school choir joined forces and beautifully performed concerts for both campuses and guests. We are so proud of all of their hard work this year.

Autauga County Schools

Saint Dominic Catholic Nativity Play

Saint Dominic students always do a wonderful job with their Nativity Play. This annual tradition of our sweet first grade children presenting the story of Jesus’ birth is always very special.

6th Grade Volcano Day at Cottage Hill

To wrap up their unit, Cottage Hill Christian Academy’s 6th grade science class designed, presented, and demonstrated their active volcanoes. It was a blast to watch our students work together to see science come to life!

St. Mary Catholic Spring Electives Sign Up!

St. Mary Catholic School middle school students signed up for their spring electives at an assembly during the first week after Christmas break. Elective classes cover topics such as painting like the masters, music theory and choir, drama, and yearbook, to special skills such as gardening, woodworking, sewing, and community service projects.

Submitted by Marcelle Naman.

Faith Academy “You Are Loved”!

We were so thankful for the opportunity to be a part of The Love Like Lexi Project! Our student body had an amazing assembly with Lexi’s mom and started their journey to Live, Love and Lead! For more information regarding the Love Like Lexi Project go to

LWCC Kingdom Academy Boosts Critical Thinking

boost students’ critical thinking skills. Chess

Little Flower Spelling Winner

Little Flower Catholic School

sixth grader

Escalante

the School Spelling Bee in January. He will proudly represent his school at the Archdiocesan Spelling Bee. His Viking family sends a big cheer for his success.

Autauga County Schools

Mobile County Public Schools Give Back

Mobile County Public Schools gave back to the communities it serves during the holiday season through Thanksgiving food drives and Christmas toy drives. Fifty-five schools and Central Office participated in the annual Stuff the Bus toy drive, collecting nearly 7,800 toys for WKRG’s Magical Christmas toy drive. The departments of Transportation and Communication coordinated the drive, and students from Dunbar School for Creative & Performing Arts helped unload the two busloads of toys. In addition, Central Office employees took part in the Joy of Giving campaign to fulfill Christmas wish lists for students in need in the system. More than $9,000 was donated by employees this year to purchase everything from fishing poles and art supplies to clothing and sports equipment. There were 81 students selected by the MCPSS Social Services Department in conjunction with local schools to receive gifts through this campaign. Several MCPSS schools and Central Office held food drives in November, combining to donate more than 10,000 pounds of food to Feeding the Gulf Coast. O’Rourke Elementary delivered an amazing 4,168 pounds of canned and nonperishable food items with the help of the Baker High baseball team. Also holding food drives for Feeding the Gulf Coast were Central Office, E.R. Dickson, Leinkauf, Baker, Theodore, Bryant Career Technical Center, Alba, Orchard, Semmes Middle, Dunbar School of Creative & Performing Arts, and Denton Magnet School of Technology. Other schools held food drives for charities within their respective communities.

Faith Academy

Faith Academy Elevate Career Tech Students had a fun filled day at The University of Mobile! They had a full day of learning and were even able to draw up and administer their first dose of medicine to a high-fidelity simulator. They are one step closer to being in the hospital next semester.

Clark-Shaw Spelling Bee

Our school-wide Spelling Bee was held in early December featuring the winners of all ELA class competitions. The participants were Hudson Abernethy, Dema Al Fuqaha, Allie Armbrecht, Kensley Barnes, Violet Borchert, Donald Bryars, Shawn Choi, Jacob Cobb, Tristan Dale, Jacob Duncan, Brooks Faust, Aiyanna Frazier, Amar’e George-Mims, Andres Gonzales-Espana, Aniya Green, Tyjhure Green, Zachary Harbin, Karis Jones, Andrew Knox, Garrett Langham, Graham Langham, Grant Langham, NeVeah Norwood, Noah Ouisy, Myles Patton, Julian Pardo-Granados, Landyn Randell, Ashlynn Smith, Kierra Stallworth, Desmon Wallace, Aiden Williams, and Winnie Zhu. The winner of the Spelling Bee was 8th grader Myles Patton, who will represent Clark-Shaw at the county competition. Congratulations! (Pictured are finalists Noah Ouisy (2nd place), Myles Patton (1st place), Garrett Langham (3rd place), Violet Borchert (4th place)

Congratulations to Phillips Prep Teachers!

Phillips Preparatory would like to congratulate three of their teachers. Kim Wakefield was awarded Phillips Preparatory’s 2022-2023 Teacher of the Year, Jennifer Morgan received National Board Certification, and Melissa Foster earned a National Certificate for STEM Education.

Autauga County Schools

Faith Academy Student Named Optimist Club Special Teams Player of the Year

Congratulations to Faith Academy’s Jaeden Simmons on being named the Optimist Club Special Teams Player of the Year! This is an awesome achievement for each one of these young men!

Council Traditional School’s Running Club at Mobile Marathon Fun Run

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

Hutchens Elementary Participate in Monthly Clubs

Council Traditional School’s Running Club showed up and showed out at the Mobile Marathon Fun Run. Congratulations to Kaleb Lofton for winning 1st place in the fun run and Albert Pavelscu for coming in 2nd place. All runners did an awesome job! Thanks to our fantastic coaches, Kelly Hargett, Bre Brooks, Lindsey Black and Temple Zimlich.

McGill-Toolen Catholic AL.com

Super All-State Volleyball Players

Each month, students at Hutchens Elementary participate in a club of their choice. Hutchens offers 19 clubs ranging from Sprit and Hip Hop Yoga, to Sports and Running, to Lego and STEM Club, and everything in between. It is a great and fun way for students and teachers to interact with others!

LWCCKA Students Study Graphic Design and Communication

LWCC Kingdom Academy Students learn graphic skills as they create announcements, videos, and KA event flyers, enhancing technology and media communication with leadership skills.

Congratulations to McGill-Toolen Catholic 2022 AL.com Super All-State Volleyball Players! McGill-Toolen is represented by 4 players on the Super Team. That is the most from a single school!

Students at Barton Academy for Advanced World Studies Chosen

to Decorate the Tree Representing Alabama

Students at Barton Academy for Advanced World Studies were chosen to decorate the tree representing Alabama surrounding the National Christmas Tree during holiday festivities in Washington, D.C. Only one school from each state was selected for this honor. Barton Academy Principal Dr. Amanda Jones and art teacher Christy LeGros traveled to Washington to represent the school at the ceremony.

Cottage Hill Christian All State and All Region Football Selections

Four Cottage Hill Athletes were named on the All-State and All-Region Football Selections for their performance in the 2022 football season. Congrats to Kelvon McBride, Tyler Thomas, Trent Thomas, and Shadarius Toodle for being selected. We are proud of the way they represent CHCA!

Read Write Academy Service Project

For our December service project, Read Write Academy students packed over 40 “go-bags” for Mercy LIFE of Alabama that contained necessities such as hygiene and cleaning products. Our students enjoyed doing a simple act of kindness and giving back to our local community.

Schoenvogel, to all K3-4 students. In August, Mrs. Schoenvogel read a book to each grade level called, “This School Year will be THE BEST!” by Kay Winters. In the story, the students all share a wish or hope they would like to have happen during the course of their school year. Mrs. Schoenvogel then challenged each Lower School classroom, K34, to read at least 100 books by the end of the semester. If this task was achieved, Mrs. Marks graciously “agreed” to kiss a PIG!

The goal was met and in January, Mrs. Marks completed the mission! A special thank you to the Harbin family for bringing “little Pig” to campus for this momentous occasion.

St. Ignatius Art Class is a Hit!

Impalas 3K-8th attend Ms. Gibson’s art class once a week. It is a weekly highlight! Although students do art work in their classrooms Ms. Gibson focuses on technical instruction. Students learn a wide range of drawing, painting, sculpting, weaving and more. Each year Ms. Gibson transforms her classroom into a black light/glow art theme for an entire week! Impalas young and old can’t get enough of creating art with glow in the dark supplies.

Epiphany Packets at Corpus

In celebration of the Epiphany, our Corpus Christi Catholic School students helped our parish assemble Epiphany packets with Epiphany water and blessed chalk. They were given to each family/household at Mass!

St. Dominic Students Teach a Science Lab

St. Dominic Catholic School eighth grade students visited younger classrooms to teach a Science Lab. Our Little Eagles were thrilled to learn about volcanoes and make their own erupting lemon volcanoes. Great job by our eighth graders creating a lesson plan and

Little Flower Celebrates AR Achievements

Students at Little Flower Catholic School who achieve their quarterly Accelerated Reader goal are treated to snacks and free books. These students are proud of their achievement and happy to have a bit of time from their regular classroom studies.

Faith Academy

Students Spread Cheer

Members of The Faith Academy SGA spent time before Christmas with the residents of the Mulherin Home spreading Christmas

Autauga County Schools

UMS-Wright ‘s Project Engage 2023 - 386 students, 56 teachers, 14 buses, 8 planes, 29 internships, 18 offerings, 42 cities, and 2 international trips

UMS-Wright is always striving to provide unique opportunities to enhance the lives of our students, and Project Engage does just that. It offers a cross-curriculum, hands-on learning experience that allows students to delve deeply into an area of personal interest while developing deeper relationships with peers and faculty with similar academic curiosities!

Project Engage 2023 kicked off on January 5 with a variety of adventures and experiences for our 9-12 grade students. Throughout this 10-day mini-term, students had learning experiences along the Gulf Coast, Belize, the Grand Canyon, Greece, Key West, and other exciting places! They participated in flight simulations, cooking classes, archaeology digs, museum tours, hunting excursions, camp outs, scuba diving and much more.

The Project Engage 2023 courses offered were as follows: Grand Canyon 2023; Lights | Camera | Action; Forestry; Key West; Belize; Explore Greece; Ready | Set | Dive; Take a Journey; Physics Xtreme; Design | Build | Fly; Art & Architecture; Choose an Internship; Habitat for Humanity; Archaeology; Entrepreneurship; It’s All About the Food; and The Other Side of Sports.

SHORT Invites St. Mary’s Mighty Mustang to his Birthday Party!

SHORT the Squirrel made a special visit to St. Mary Catholic School to deliver St. Mary’s Mighty the Mustang an invitation to his birthday party!

SHORT is Alabama’s literary Mascot and his 3rd birthday party coming up on February 22. SHORT also presented St. Mary librarian, Mrs. Diane Roberts with a new book for St. Mary’s library collection, “Y is for Y’all”” by Kelly Kozek. St. Mary Grandparents, Lisa and Jeff Boos, sponsored this visit from SHORT The Squirrel to St. Mary Catholic School! Learn more about SHORT at www.shortthesquirrel.com. Submitted by by

Marcelle Naman.

Our Saints apply learning to life, and we know that life offers a lot to learn.

At St. Paul’s Episcopal School we have high expectations for our Saints’ academic performance. But academic development is not enough. Our intimate atmosphere and interdisciplinary study allow for rich and diverse interactions among students and teachers, assuring that students grow intellectually, socially, and creatively too. A seriousness of purpose guides our work in the classroom...a seriousness that makes learning a joy! To learn more, visit www.stpaulsmobile.net/admissions. Or, better yet, come pay us a visit.

Sunny Side Theater Ended 2022 with a Bang!

Throughout the fall and culminating with an incredible production at ER Dickson Elementary, the traveling homeschool troupe presented “Frozen” to over 3000 students across the Mobile County area. The talented group of homeschoolers toured the show to all ends of the county and brought live theater to more kids than ever. On December 8, Sunny Side Theater directed Dixon Elementary School’s production of “Elf the Musical” with over 250 children at the Bryant High School Auditorium. This partnership between Sunny Side and Dixon began in August when directors took over a PE class once a week and taught the entire school the music and staging for the show. With a cast of 50 leads and an incredible ensemble, the house was packed! As Buddy says, “the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear!” Over 70 students took to the stage to present “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” for the first time ever in Mobile! With students coming from over 35 local schools, audiences were amazed at the heart-warming Christmas tale. Sunny Side wrapped up their December events with their Exceptional Arts group presenting “Miracle on 34th Street.” This amazing group of actors ranging in ages from 20 to 60 performed for delighted friends and family. Mulherin Home brought residents to support some of their stars as well! Coming up this Spring, Sunny Side will present “Jungle Book” and “Addams Family” in addition to school outreach productions with Alba Middle, Chickasaw High School, Barton Academy, Bright Beginnings, and St. Ignatius. Their travel competition team will also head to Kentucky and Guntersville!

UMS-Wright Middle Students Reach AR Goals

In January, Middle School Principal Jeb Blackerby hosted a celebration breakfast for 5th and 6th graders who met the Accelerated Reader Goals for 2nd Quarter. He also awarded AR pins to Emory Roe reading 2 million words and Clark for reading 4 million words!

Congratulations to the following 5th & 6th graders who met the AR Goals for 2nd Quarter: Francie

Ashurst, Mason Bui, Jack Carl, Cammy Cluckies, Wren Cooper, Sadie Davis, Ellie March Dodd, Sally Dodson, William Dodson, James Fillers, Charlotte Ford, Hayes Giddens, Elizabeth

Howell, Emily Lawler, Lilly Beth McCaffrey, Isabella Clinton, Beeland McGowin, Matti Mitchell, Jasmine Nguyen, Cayden Odom, Kate Elyss Pacheco, Aarya Patel, Heidi Peak, Bradley Peterson, Ava Pfeiffer, Madison Phan, Emmitt Quin, Celia Reid, Eliza Reynolds, Nellie Reynolds, Jacob Roe, Mills Schultz, Julia Scott, George Seawell, John John Smith, Lilli Margaret Smith, Trey Stevens, Faulkner Warren, Mary Mac Watkins, Ryann Whitman, Julia Clayton Wilkins, Price Williams, Matthews Wills, Kinley Grace Winter, Sam Winter, Bradley Wynn, Parker Abston, Ava Archey, Mark Blackerby, Parke Brister, Piper Clark, Chloe Clukies, Hayden Collins, Mary Helen Colvin, Richard Delaney, Matthew Driscoll, Katie Claire Elliott, Caitlin Finney, Lauren Greenwald, Ellis Grimm, Kenleigh Hess, Luca Karamovic, Tal Kellerman, William Marmande, Max McCrary, Patton Meek, William Mitchell, Gaillard Passmore, Reid Riddell, Emory Roe, Emma Shepler, Ayann Siddiqui, Jonah Williams, Dylan Wink and Jane Zundel.

MBS Autism Jump Start Program

Now Open For Registration!

Let us help your child learn the necessary skills to have a successful start when they begin school!

OUR FOCUS:

• SOCIAL SKILLS

Taking turns, interacting appropriately with peers, etc.

• ATTENDING SKILLS

Following directions, eye contact with a speaker, sitting and working on task, etc.

• COMMUNICATION

Receptive and expressive language.

• POTTY TRAINING

- MBS will help identify areas of concern and provide an individual behavior or acquisition plan.

It’s essential to keep our kids as healthy as possible to prevent illness. Maintaining good overall health in children is important, so they grow and develop appropriately. A child’s health encompasses physical, mental, and social well-being. My grandfather used to

say, “if you have your health, you have everything.” If you and your child are healthy, you will have more energy, lower medical costs, and improved moods. Here are some ways to promote healthy habits within your child:

Create a Bedtime Routine and Regular Bedtime

Sleep helps the brain function properly, which improves learning. Studies show sleep deficiency increases the risk of obesity, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Receiving the proper amount of sleep promotes proper growth and development, improves social interactions, and increases immunity against diseases.

NIH recommends school-age children and teens should sleep for 9-10 hours per night. Bad sleep habits will affect both your physical and emotional health. One way to ensure your child receives enough sleep is to create a scheduled bedtime based on when they need to wake up in the morning. If you maintain the same bedtime every night, it will be easier to fall asleep and create a healthy habit.

Another way to help your child receive the proper amount of sleep is to have a bedtime routine beginning a half-hour before the expected sleep time. This routine will help your child relax, leading to falling asleep more easily. Some suggested bedtime routines are reading, a warm bath, drawing, listening to soothing music, or other calming activities.

Read Food Labels

According to the CDC, childhood obesity has more than tripled since 1970. Childhood obesity has short- and long-

term effects on a child’s physical, social, and emotional health. For this reason, a child needs to maintain a healthy weight.

Reading and understanding food labels is a way for a child to determine if food is healthy. The food label will demonstrate the number of calories, sugar, and fat content and also break down the recommended daily intake percentage to help create a balanced diet. It also helps to become more aware of what you are eating since you might think a food is healthy only to learn it isn’t after reading the food label.

Exercise with Your Kids

The CDC recommends that children and teens be physically active for 60 minutes daily. Physical activity should include aerobic, muscle-strengthening, and bone-strengthening activities. If you exercise with your child and select something you both view as fun, you will be more likely to do it. Some suggested family activities are walking, running, hiking, dancing, biking, and a workout class or video. Create a weekly scheduled routine to incorporate the movement into your lives, which would create a healthy habit.

Limit Screen Time

Screen time consists of watching television, playing video games, or using electronic devices. When a child is in front of a screen, they are typically sedentary and not interacting with others. A research study at UCLA found that kids with too much screen time have difficulty understanding other people’s emotions. In addition, Dr. Leonard Epstein studied the effects of limiting screen time in obese children. The findings demonstrated that the children consumed 300-1500 fewer calories when screen time was limited. Both of these research studies illustrate the importance of limiting screen time to help your child socially interact with others, eat fewer calories and be more physically active.

Encourage Social Interactions

It is essential to encourage your child to develop healthy relationships with peers and adults. Problem-solving, managing friendships, and understanding emotions are necessary for

a child’s positive mental health. These skills will also enable a child to learn more effectively in the classroom.

Discuss Physical and Emotional Safety with Kids

According to the CDC, car accidents are one of the leading causes of death in children. One study found over 600,000 children did not use the proper car seat or seat belt, which could prevent death during an accident. Other accidental deaths include drowning, fire/burns, guns, poisoning, and suffocation. To prevent injuries and death, it is important to discuss safety issues regarding all of these potentially dangerous situations. Children and teenagers may be in situations where they are offered drugs or subjected to physical or sexual abuse. Discuss with your child healthy and appropriate relationships.

Be a Healthy Role Model

Children and teens model their parent’s positive and negative behaviors. Research conducted at Duke University found kids were more likely to eat well and exercise if their parents modeled those behaviors. If you model a healthy lifestyle, your child will most likely lead one as well.

Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. She is married and is the mother of twins and a daughter. Her writing has been published in The New York Times, Parents Magazine, AARP, Healthline, Your Teen Magazine, and many other publications. She is a professional member of ASJA. You can find her at Twitter @CherylMaguire05.

ERIC ROBERTS

CATHERINE TATE JOHN BARROWMAN

HENRY THOMAS • ROBERT M NAUGHTON DEE WALLACE • MATTHEW DE MERRITT

CURTIS ARMSTRONG • DON GIBB ROBERT CARRADINE • BRIAN TOCHI

BILLY WEST FUTURAMA

DANTE BASCO AVATAR: THE LAST AIRBENDER

GREY DELISLE-GRIFFIN AVATAR: THE LAST AIRBENDER MARGOT

Finding safe, suitable daycare is one of the more stressful undertakings parents of young children face. You have to contend with the logistics, such as the convenience of location and hours of operation, and of utmost concern is the safety and development of your child.

National statistics on abuse and neglect by daycare providers aren’t readily available. But some experts estimate approximately 5% of child abuse and neglect cases occur in daycare homes and facilities. The following steps will help you ensure your child’s safety and give you peace of mind knowing you’ve taken the necessary precautions.

There are several things you should do and ask before sending your child to a new daycare.

Is the daycare licensed?

Licensing is required in most states when a caregiver isn’t a relative, and the care isn’t provided in your home. Check the website of your state licensing and regulatory affairs department to look up daycare homes and facilities to ensure their license is current.

Is the daycare in compliance?

On your state’s website, also look up the requirements for daycare homes and centers. Then keep this information handy when you tour a home or facility, so you know whether the daycare complies.

The Daycare Tour

A tour of the daycare home or facility is vital to ensuring your child’s safety. So don’t be shy, and ask for a full tour. Think of it as an inspection, and pay attention to the following:

• Are all areas used by or accessible to children thoroughly childproofed?

• Are there safety plugs in all electrical outlets?

• Are stairways securely blocked off?

• Do kitchen and bathroom cabinets have child locks?

• Do exterior doors have safety locks up high?

• Is there a pool or hot tub in the area? If so, is it entirely fenced off with a childproof gate?

• Is there a fenced outdoor play area?

• Is the home or facility tidy aside from a reasonable amount of toys?

• Are the bathroom and kitchen sanitary?

• Is the heating or cooling set at a comfortable temperature?

• Are there adequate toys and equipment for the number and ages of children?

• Do cribs, playpens, and other baby equipment meet safety standards?

• Is the number of children present within the daycare’s license capacity? Does the daycare also meet the appropriate ratio of caregivers to children?

• Does it smell clean? Or do you smell neglected diapers or cigarette smoke?

• Are the children happy and content?

• Is there ample play space?

• How does the staff interact with the children?

The Daycare Interview

Take this list of questions with you and add yours as well. Childcare providers expect parents to have many questions, and a good provider will be happy to answer them.

• What is the maximum number of children in your care at any time?

• What are the age ranges of children in your care?

• What types of activities do you do with them?

• Are meals and snacks provided? If so, what do they consist of? Also, what time do the kids eat?

• Can I drop in unannounced?

• How do you handle discipline?

• Do you ever take children in the car? If so, are there enough child seats and seat belts for each child?

• Are there other members living in your home or outside staff who will care for the children? If so, who are they and what are their ages?

• How are naps handled?

• What is the experience or education of the daycare provider and staff?

• What is your policy when a child is sick?

• Can I talk to the parents of other children in your care?

• Is video available so I can peek in at my child on my computer or phone? Visit

Kimberly Blaker is a freelance family writer. She’s also founder and director of KB Creative Digital Services, specializing in search engine optimization and SEO content, at kbcreativedigital.com.

Community Wide

Early Head Start Community Partnership Child Care Centers

ad on page 17

Ages: Infants - 3 years (251) 473-1060 childcare@grecs.org www.grecs.org/head-start-programs/

Auburn Early Head Start- Family Child Care Partnerships

Ten locations throughout the Mobile area.

Ages: 0 - 3 years 251-423-2052

Divine Adventures Academy

Virtual

Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00am -2:00pm

Ages: 3 years - 6 years (251) 322-4117 mskita@divineadventurespreschool.com www.divineadventuresacademy.com

Head Start

Ages: 3 years - 5 years (251) 457-5700 www.mcamobile.org/departments/ head-start

36541

Lighthouse Child Development Center

9930 Cody Driskell Road, Grand Bay

Hours: Monday-Friday 6:30am-5:00pm

Ages: infant - PK (251) 957-2500 Find us on Facebook

36571

Fountain of Life Daycare at Evangel Christian

1277 Jubilee Drive, Saraland

Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30am-6:00pm

Ages: 6 weeks - 3 years (251) 679-0975 marla@folc.tv www.folc.tv/fol-daycare/

Shiloh Christian Day Care

723 Cleveland Road, Saraland

Hours: Monday-Thursday, 6:00am - 6:00pm, Friday, 6:00am - 5:30pm

Ages: 6 weeks - 4 years

(251) 675-2099

www.shilohsaraland.com/daycare

Stillwater Early Learning Center.

415 McKeough Avenue, Saraland

Hours: Monday-Friday, Options for times are 7:00am – 2:00pm, 7:00 am – 5:30pm, 8:00am –2:00 pm or 8:00am – 5:30pm

Ages: Monday-Friday, 6 weeks-K4 (251) 675-2904 eliese@stillwaterchurch.org www.saralandumc.org/early-learning-center

36572

First Baptist Church Satsuma -

Mother’s Day Out Program

5600 Old Highway 43, Satsuma

Hours: Mother’s Day Out hours are Tuesday and Thursday from 8:30am-2:00pm

Ages: Infants - 3 years (251) 380-7357 Find us on Facebook

Satsuma Christian School, Satsuma

Christian Daycare

5600 Old Highway 43, Satsuma

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-3:00pm, extended care available; Daycare 6:30am-6:00pm,

Ages: K3-K5; daycare 6 weeks-3 years (251) 675-1295; (251) 679-9000 www.satsumachristianschool.com/

36575

ABC Kindergarten

3618 Oak Tree Drive, Semmes

Hours: Monday-Friday from 8:30am-12:30pm

Ages: 3 - 5 years (251) 649-4844 Find us on Facebook

Azalea City Christian School & Child Development Center

3550 Schillinger Road North, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30am-6:00pm

Ages: 6 weeks - K4 (251) 649-5437 www.Azaleacitychristian.org

Grace Baptist Academy

8780 Howells Ferry Road, Semmes

Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:15am- 2:30pm Monday – Thursday and 7:15am-1:00pm on Fridays.

Ages: PK3 - 12th grade

(251) 649-7398 www.gbcacademy.com

Kimz Kidz Child Care Center

1650 Schillinger Road North, Semmes

Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am-6:00pm

Ages: Infant - Preschool (251) 645-6451

Semmes First Baptist Child Development Center

4070 Wulff Rd E, Semmes

Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am-5:30pm-Full Time,7:30am-3:00pm (K2, K3, and K4 only)-Part Time Option Ages: 6 weeks - 4K (251) 649-2712 www.semmesfirstbaptistcdc.com

Snow Road FBC –Child Development Center

2370 Snow Rd N, Semmes

Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am - 5:30pm

Ages: 6 weeks - K4, Before and After School Care for Allentown and Semmes Elementary (251) 649-6096 www.srfbc.com/srfbc-ministries/ child-development-center

Sunni Land Child Care Center

2901 Schillinger Road North, Semmes

Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am - 10:00pm

Ages: 6 weeks - 12 years (251) 645-3664 www.sunniland.wixsite.com/slcc

36582

Lighthouse Child Development Center

6905 Nan Gray David Road, Theodore

Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am-6:00pm

Ages: Ages 6 weeks - 2+

(251) 653-6542 Esther.shaffer@lbatheodore.com www.lbatheodore.com/child-development-center/

36602

First Baptist Mobile Child Development Center

806 Government Street, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30am -5:30pm

Ages: 8 weeks - 4 years

(251) 432-6513 www.fbcmobile.com

Nina Nicks Joseph Child Development Center

209 South Washington Avenue, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:30am to 5:30pm

Ages: 6 weeks - 12 years

(251) 433-1310 www.childdaycare.org

36603

Dearborn YMCA Child Development Center

321 North Warren Street, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:00am-5:30pm

Ages: 6 weeks - 4 years (251) 432-4768 gbaker@dearbornymca.org; chuff@dearbornymca.org www.dearbornymca.org

36604

Legacy Child Life Learning & Development Center

ad on page 4

1060 Government Street, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30 am-6:00pm

Ages: 6 weeks - 5 years (251) 441-1901 www.lwccim.com/legacy-childlife-learning-development-center

St. Mary Catholic Early Child Development Center

ad on page 35

1413 Old Shell Road, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday 7am-4:30pm. The 1/2 day option runs from 7:00 am-12:00 each day and the all day option runs from 7:00-4:30pm each day.

Ages: 6 weeks - 36 months (251) 445-0324 apatterson@stmarymobile.org or mankersen@stmarymobile.org www.stmarymobile.org

St.

Mary Catholic School

Preschool Program

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107 N. Lafayette Street, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, Half and full day options:

8:00am-12:00pm and 8:00am-3:00pm. After School Care is also available. Ages: 3 - 4 years (251) 433-9904 dollis@stmarymobile.org www.stmarymobile.org

Dauphin Way United Methodist Church

Child Development Center

1507 Dauphin Street, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:00am- 6:00pm Ages: 6 weeks - 4 years (251) 473-1861 www.dauphinwayumc.org

36606

Azalea City Montessori

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18 W Pierpoint Dr, Mobile

Hours: Monday - Friday; 7:40am-3:15pm, extended care from 3:15pm to 5:30pm

Ages: 3 years - 12 years (251) 380-6923 admin@azaleacitymontessori.org www.azaleacitymontessori.org

Little Flower Catholic School ad on page 21

2103 Government Street, Mobile

Ages: K3 - K4 (251) 479-5761 aweiskopf@littleflowerschool.cc www.littleflowerschool.cc

St. Pius X

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217 South Sage Avenue, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:30am-3:00pm, after

school care available Ages: K3 - K4

(251) 473-5004 spx@stpiustenth.com www.stpiustenth.com

Revelation Christian Academy

Rev. Leon Taylor, Sr. Campus1805 Duval Street, Mobile

Hours: Monday - Friday, 6:00am - 6:00pm

Ages: 6 weeks - 12 years

(251) 476-0677 pcasher@revelationchristian.org

www.revelationchristian.org

Trinity Kids Learning Center

309 Pinehill Drive, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:30am-5:30pm

Ages: 8 weeks - 12 years

(251) 476-1844 www.tklclearning.com

Westminster Presbyterian KidsPreschool and Mom’s Day Out

2921 Airport Boulevard, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-1:00pm

Ages: 3 months - 4 years

(251) 207-8184 westminsterpreschoolmobile@ outlook.com www.facebook.com/westminsterprespreschool

36607

Ashland Place Preschool and Mother’s Day Out

15 Wisteria Avenue, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00am-1:00pm, extended care available

Ages: 3 months - 4 years

(251) 478-6360 www.ashlandplacepreschool.com

UMS-Wright

65 Mobile Street, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:20am-2:45pm with extended care available Ages: 3 - 4 years (251) 479-6551 astabler@ums-wright.org www. ums-wright.org

36608

Corpus Christi Catholic School Preschool

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6300 McKenna Drive, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, Full day hours are 7:00am-3:30pm, and half day hours are available, Extended care before and after school is available. Ages: 2 years - K4 (251) 342-5474 school@CCSCatholic.com www. school.corpuschristiparish.com

The Early Education Center of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church (“EEC”) ad on page 26

4051 Old Shell Road, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:15am-5:30pm

Ages: K2 - K3 (251) 725-0048 admissions@stpaulseec.com www.stpaulsearlyedcenter.com

Bright Beginnings Learning Center at Providence LLC

6803 Airport Boulevard, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday 6:00am-6:00pm

Ages: Infant - K4, after school care (251) 776-5540 bright-beginnings-learning-centerat-providence-llc.business.site/

Dauphin Way Baptist Child Development Center

3661 Dauphin Street, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30am to 6:00pm

Ages: 6 weeks - K4 (251) 344-0909 Find us on Facebook

Faith Academy Preschool

8650 Tanner Williams Rd, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:30-3:05 Ages: K3 - K4 (251) 633-7267 Info@faithacademy.us www.faithacademy.us

Goodwill of the Gulf Coast –Child Development Center

10 Westminster Way, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:00am-5:30pm

Ages: 2.5 - 5 years. School age care up to 14 available during school closures/Holiday breaks and summer. *spots limited (251) 342-3122 ccabbagestalk@goodwillgc.org www.goodwillgc.org

Kids Stuff Preschool

320 Hillcrest Road, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am-6:00pm

Ages: 6 weeks - 5 years (251) 343-6611 www.kidsstuffpreschool.com

Life Church Child Development Center

8701 Zeigler Boulevard, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am-6:00pm

Ages: 6 weeks - 3.5 years (251) 633-2679 www.lifechurchcdc.com

Spring Hill Baptist Day School

2 S McGregor Ave, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:00am-5:30pm

Ages: Infant - 4K (251) 342-6044 www.shbc.cc/ministries/day-school/

Spring Hill Mother’s Day Out and Week Day School

10 Westminster Way, Mobile

Hours: Monday - Friday, 9:00am - 1:00pm with options for early drop off and after school activities. Ages: 2 months - 4 years (251) 344-2070 www.shpc.us/visitors/preschoolprograms/

St. Ignatius Catholic School Early Learning Center

3650 Spring Hill Avenue, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:30am-6:00pm

Ages: 4 Months - 4K (251) 445-4020 admissions@stignatius.org www.stignatiusmobile.org

Weinacker’s Montessori School

227 Hillcrest Road, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am-6:00pm

Ages: Infant-6 years old (251) 344-8755 www.weinackersmontessori.com

West Mobile Baptist Child

Development Center

7501 Airport Boulevard, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30am-5:30pm

Ages: 6 weeks - K5, before & after school care (ages 5-11), and a summer camp program (251) 639-6868 www.wemochurch.org/ministries/ child-development-center/

36609

Mobile Christian School

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5900 Cottage Hill Road, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:55am-2:45pm, before and after school care for all elementary K3-5th grade for our enrolled students. Ages: PK3 - PK5 (251) 661-1613 info@mobilechristian.org www.mobilechristian.org

Cottage Hill Christian Academy Early Education Center and Preschool

4255 Cottage Hill Road, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am-6:00pm

Ages: 6 weeks - 5 years (251) 660-2427 hykej@chbss.org www.chcacademy.com/academics/eec.cfm

Cottage Hill Presbyterian Preschool

4201 Cottage Hill Road, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30-12:30

Ages: 6 months - K4 (251) 666-0983 chpps@yahoo.com www.chpcmobile.org/PRESCHOOL.html

Kidz Crossing A Ministry of Christ

United Methodist Church

6101 Grelot Road, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:30am-5:30pm for extended day children, Mom’s Day out, 3K and 4K

Hours: 8:45am - 1:00pm. Ages: 8 weeks - 4K

(251) 372-7215 christie.ford@christunited.com www.christunited.com/kidzcrossing

Learn, Play, Grow Childcare

513 Georgian Dr, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am-6:00pm

Ages: Infant-6 years old

(251) 342-5399 www.weinackersmontessori.com

Nazarene Day Care & Learning Center

669 Azalea Road, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30am-6:00pm

Ages: 6 weeks - 4K

(251) 666-0044 nazarenelc@gmail.com www.nazarenelearningcenter.com

St. Mark Early Learning Center

439 Azalea Road, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, part time (8:15-2:15) or full time (7:00-5:00) 2, 3, or 5 days a week.

Ages: 8 weeks - 4K

(251) 232-2106 stmarkmobileelc@gmail.com www.stmarkmobile.com/elc

36617

Mount Hebron Christian Child Development Center

2531 Berkley Avenue, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday Ages: 2 months-12 years (251) 456-8700 www.mthebroncm.org/DaycareMinistries

Trinity Lutheran Child Development Center

2668 Berkley Avenue, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:00am-5:00pm

Ages: 6 weeks - 3 years, School 4K - 5th grade (251) 456-7960 www.trinitylutheransite.org/ education/

36618

Moffett Road Baptist Child Development Center

5555 Moffett Road, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am-6:00pm, 2K-4K part time option 8:00am-2:30pm (before and aftercare options available) Ages: 6 weeks - 4K (251) 343-1568 www.mrbcdc.org

Refuge Child Development Center 6159 Moffett Road, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:00am-5:30pm

Ages: 6 weeks - K4 (251) 645-7507

36619

Creative Learning Center

5880 Three Notch Road, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am-6:00pm

Ages: 6 weeks - 12 years (251) 661-2992

Kids Zone of Tillmans Corner

4612 Bush Lane, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am-6:00pm

Ages: 6 weeks - 5th grade (251) 661-3280

St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Daycare

4980 St. Vincent Drive, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am-6:00pm

Ages: 6 weeks - 4 Years

(251) 666-4066 www.svdpmobile.com/daycare

36693

St. Luke’s Episcopal School

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3975 Japonica Lane, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:30am-3:30pm

Ages: K2 - K5 (251) 666-2991 hdearmon@slesmobile.org www.slesmobile.org/

Becks Daycare Center

1248 Anchor Drive, Mobile

Hours: Monday - Friday; 6:00am - 6:00pm Ages: 6 wks – 11 yrs (251) 661-4254 Find us on Facebook

Government Street Baptist Child Development Center

3401 Government Boulevard, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30am – 5:30pm

Ages: 6 weeks - 3K (251) 660-7444 deborah.eddie@governmentstreet.org www.governmentstreetcdc.org

St. Dominic Catholic School

4160 Burma Drive, Mobile

Hours: Monday - Friday, PK2 and PK3 3-day or 5-day option with Full day (7:00am - 2:30pm) or Half day (7:00am - 12:00pm) option available, PK4 option 5 Full day or Half day, After school care available until 5:30pm. Ages: 2 years - 4 years (251) 661-5226 Office@StPiusTenth.com www. stdominicmobile.org

36695

Covenant Christian School

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7150 Hitt Road, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00am - 3:00pm, after care available Ages: K3-8th (251) 633-8055 info@covenantschool.com www.covenantschool.com

Jubilee Child Care Center & Preschool

6631 Wall Street, Mobile

Hours: Monday - Friday, Mobile: 6:45am-5:45pm; Mobile Nursery: 6:45am – 5:30pm

Ages: 3 months - 5 years (251) 776-7022 (Pre-School); (251) 633-0018 (Infant) www.jubileechildcare.com

La Petite Academy

955 Hillcrest Road, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am-6:30pm

Ages: 6 weeks - K5, after school care (251) 639-9201 www.lapetite.com

Mobile Junior Academy

1900 Cody Road South, Mobile

Hours: Monday - Thursday, 8:00am - 3:00pm and 8:00am - 2:00pm on Friday. Ages: PK4 - 8 (251) 633-8638 www.mobilejunioracademy.com

Montessori World Preschool & Kindergarten

2061 Leroy Stevens Road, Mobile

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

(251) 634-8211 info@montessori-world.org

www.montessori-world.org

Watermelon Patch Preschool

6417 Hillcrest Road, Mobile

Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:30am-12:30pm, 2, 3, or 5-day options, extended care available

Ages: 1 year - K4 (251) 633-3288 watermelonpatchkids@gmail.com

www.watermelonpatchkids.com

World of Friends Daycare

2900 Dawes Road, Mobile

Hours: Monday-Friday 6:30am-5:30pm

Ages: 6 weeks - 12 years

(251) 633-6533 www.surgechurch.tv/academydaycare MBP

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Wednesday February 1

Winter Wednesdays

10:30 AM Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore , AL, 36582 Even during the cold season, Bellingrath Gardens is filled with blooms and beauty. Gulf Coast residents and visitors are invited to join us at our Winter Wednesdays series in January and February for sessions on gardening, history and more. 251-973-2217 www.bellingrath.org

Guest Artist Flute Recital: Flute Section of the Mobile Symphony

7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 Guest Artist Flute Recital: Flute Section of the Mobile Symphony www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/upcomin gevents.html

Thursday February 2

Life At Sea Lecture Series: Radio CentralCommunicating during WWII

11:00 AM USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Pkwy Mobile, AL, 36602 Dr. Tim Morgan will discuss how the USS ALABAMA’s communication system was used and how critical Radio Central was to the operation of the ship during WWII. After the presentation, visitors can take a privately guided tour of Radio Central.

Sr. Bowl Summit

6:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us Thursday February 2nd for a stage divided: A night with the Tide and Tigers. Moderated by famed football historian and Mobile, AL native Ivan Maisel, the annual Senior Bowl Summit brings together Alabama and Auburn football greats on stage for a memorable night as we listen to the best stories about their greatest moments as members of the Crimson Tide and Tigers. https://www.seniorbowl.com/

Friday February 3

Sr Bowl Parade

6:30 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL, 36602 Join in on all the fun for the annual Senior Bowl Mardi Gras Player Parade at 6:30pm. https://www.seniorbowl.com/

Conde Cavalier (Mobile Route A)

6:30 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL, 36602 Mobile Parade Route A

https://mcamobile.com/2023-parade-schedule/

Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents She Loves Me

7:30 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois St Mobile, AL, 36611 After bickering and quarreling all day at work, Georg and Amalia head home to continue a warm and happy correspondence with a pen pal they’ve never met. Neither can believe it when they discover that all this time they’ve been writing to each other. https://cctshows.com/

Free Senior Bowl Concert

8:00 PM Cathedral Square, Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us for our free downtown concert, located at Cathedral Square featuring Nelly. https://www.seniorbowl.com/

Saturday February 4

Senior Bowl 2023

1:30 PM Hancock Whitney Stadium, 500 Stadium Dr Mobile, AL, 36608 The Reese’s Senior Bowl is widely

regarded as the preeminent college football all-star game and the first stage in the NFL Draft process. www.seniorbowl.com

Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents She Loves Me

7:30 PM Details on February 3.

Mobile Opera presents Let Freedom Sing

7:30 PM Murphy High School Auditorium, 100 S Carlen St Mobile, AL, 36606 Mobile Opera presents Let Freedom Sing https://www.mobileopera.org/let-freedom-sing/ Bayport Parading Society, Pharaohs’ Mystic Society Parade, Conde Explorers Parade

Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL Route A - 2:00 PM Bayport Parading Society

Parade, 6:30 PM Pharaohs’ Mystic Society Parade, 7:00 PM Conde Explorers Parade https://mcamobile. com/2023-parade-schedule/

Sunday February 5

Massacre Island Secret Society (Dauphin Island)

10:00 AM Dauphin Island, Dauphin Island, AL, 36528

Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents She Loves Me

2:00 PM Details on February 3.

Monday February 6

Black Perseverance

6:30 PM Hope Community Center, 850 Edwards Street Mobile, AL, 36610 Celebrate the Arts, Music, and Culture Black History Program: singing spoken word, and other performances with an art activation. https://www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/events/blackhistory-month-2023

Tuesday February 7

Shen Yun

7:30 PM Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Dr. Mobile, AL, 36602 Take your family and friends on a magical journey and discover new hope for the future! The breathtakingly beautiful Shen Yun show is as inspiring as it is exciting. https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Archduke Piano Trio in Concert

7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/upcomingevents.html

Wednesday February 8

Winter Wednesdays

10:30 AM Details on February 1.

Thursday February 9

Life at Sea Lecture Series: Teak Deck Replacement Update

11:00 AM USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Pkwy Mobile, AL, 36602 Past USS Alabama Battleship Commission Chairman Bill Tunnell will discuss the teak deck replacement underway aboard the USS Alabama. Learn about the process, the efforts made to keep the historic integrity of the ship’s deck, and the technology used. Lecture will be held in the Wardroom and is free for visitors to attend.

Toddler Time ($5 members per child per session | $10 non-members per child per session)

10:00 AM Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum Dr. Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us for single sessions of

sensory-based art projects designed especially for toddlers and preschool children

https://www.mobilemuseumofart.com/

Order of Polka Dots

6:30 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL Mobile Route A https://mcamobile.com/2023-parade-schedule/

Friday February 10

Friday Night Live

5:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Cathedral Square, 300 Conti Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Free, Family Friendly Concert in the heart of Downtown Mobile. Brass band Showcase. Listen to your favorite Mardi Gras tunes from six different brass bands.

https://www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/events/

Order of Inca Parade

6:30 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL

Mobile Parade Route A

https://mcamobile.com/2023-parade-schedule/

Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents She Loves Me

7:30 PM Details on February 3.

Saturday February 11

Mobile Mystics, Mobile Mystical Revelers

2:00 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL Mobile Parade A

https://mcamobile.com/2023-parade-schedule/

Maids of Mirth, Butterfly Maidens, Krewe of Marry Mates

6:30 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL Maids of Mirth (Mobile, Route G), Order of Butterfly Maidens, Krewe of Marry Mates, Order of Hebe (Mobile, Route A)

https://mcamobile.com/2023-parade-schedule/

Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents She Loves Me

7:30 PM Details on February 3.

Battle of Mobile Bay 5K

Fort Gaines Historic Site, Dauphin Island, AL A scenic 5k course that starts at Fort Gaines and winds through scenic Dauphin Island neighborhoods. events.com/r/en_US/registration/battle-of-mobilebay-5k-dauphin-island-february-874379

Living History Crew Drill

8:00 AM - 3:00 PM, USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Pkwy Mobile, AL, 36602 History comes alive when our WWII reenactors come to the park for their winter drill. Demonstrations, presentations, and reenactments throughout the day. Included in admission.

Sunday February 12

Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents She Loves Me

2:00 PM Details on February 3.

Neptune’s Daughters, OOI Parade

6:30 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL Mobile Parade Route A

https://mcamobile.com/2023-parade-schedule/

Monday February 13

Order of Venus, Order of Many Faces

6:30pm Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL Order of Venus, Order of Many Faces Route A

https://mcamobile.com/2023-parade-schedule/

Tuesday February 14

A Sentimental Journey – The Music of Duke Ellington: Spring Jazz Band

6:00 PM University of Mobile, 5735 College Parkway Mobile, AL, 36613 You and your valentine are invited

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to a special banquet as we take a Sentimental Journey with the music of Duke Ellington umobile.edu/pas

Order of LaShe’s Parade

6:30 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL Mobile Parade Route A https://mcamobile.com/2023-parade-schedule/

Wednesday February 15

Winter Wednesdays

10:30 AM Details on February 1.

Thursday February 16

Life at Sea Lecture Series: The Role of Submarines in WWII

11:00 AM USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Pkwy Mobile, AL, 36602 Staff member and author Tom Bowser will discuss the role of submarines during WWII. Lecture is free for visitors to attend.

Mystic Stripers Society Parade

6:30 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL Mobile Parade Route A https://mcamobile.com/2023-parade-schedule/

Alabama School of the Arts presents The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940

7:00 PM College Woods Auditorium, 5860 College Parkway Mobile, AL, 36613 Alabama School of the

Arts presents The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940 https://asota.umobile.edu/event/the-musical-comedymurders-of-1940-4/

Amy Selkirk, USA Faculty Oboe Recital

7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/upcomingevents.html

Friday February 17

Crewe of Columbus Parade

6:30 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL Mobile Parade Route A https://mcamobile.com/2023-parade-schedule/

Alabama School of the Arts presents

The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940

7:00 PM College Woods Auditorium, 5860 College Parkway Mobile, AL, 36613 https://asota.umobile.edu/event/the-musical-comedymurders-of-1940-4/

Sea Lab Science Friday: STEM: The Ocean Version Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 101 Bienville Blvd Dauphin Island, AL, 36528 Sea Lab Science Friday: STEM: The Ocean Version, Please register at bit.ly/SeaLabScienceFridays. Ocean Drifters - 9:30-11:30 am, Trash(in) the Ocean1:00-3:00 pm and ROVing the Gulf - 3:00-5:00 pm

Saturday February 18

Floral Parade, Knights of Mobile, Mobile

Mystical Ladies, Order of Angels, Joy of Life

12:00 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL

Mobile Parade Route A

https://mcamobile.com/2023-parade-schedule/

Krewe of Sparta

12:00 PM Saraland, Saraland, AL Krewe of SpartaSaraland Parade

Mystics of Time Parade

6:00 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL

Mobile Parade Route H

https://mcamobile.com/2023-parade-schedule/

Alabama School of the Arts presents

The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940

7:00 PM College Woods Auditorium, 5860 College Parkway Mobile, AL, 36613 Alabama School of the Arts presents The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940

https://asota.umobile.edu/event/the-musical-comedymurders-of-1940-4/

Sunday February 19

Joe Cain Classic 5K Run, 1 Mile, and “Moonpie Dash”

8:00 AM Broad Street and Canal Street, Mobile, AL, 36604 2023 Proceeds to benefit challenged athletes. https://events.com/

Alabama Authors Day

9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Five Rivers Delta Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, AL, 36527 This special celebration showcases the work of accom-

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plished writers throughout the state, with an emphasis on Gulf Coast authors and those who explore topics associated with regional history and natural heritage. www.blakeleypark.com/

King Elexis I Motorcade Parade

2:00 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL

Mobile Parade Route E https://mcamobile.com/2023-parade-schedule/

Joe Cain Parade

2:30 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL

Mobile Parade Route A https://mcamobile.com/2023-parade-schedule/

Alabama School of the Arts presents

The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940

3:00 PM College Woods Auditorium, 5860 College Parkway Mobile, AL, 36613 Alabama School of the Arts presents The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940 https://asota.umobile.edu/event/the-musical-comedymurders-of-1940-4/

Le Krewe de Bienville

5:00 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL Mobile Parade Route A https://mcamobile.com/2023-parade-schedule/

Monday February 20

King Felix III, Floral parade

12:00 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL

Mobile Parade Route A https://mcamobile.com/2023-parade-schedule/

MLK Business and Civic Organization, MLK

Monday Mystics, Northside Merchants Parade

3:00 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL

Mobile Parade Route D https://mcamobile.com/2023-parade-schedule/

Infant Mystics, Order of Doves Parade

7:00 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL

Mobile Parade Route F https://mcamobile.com/2023-parade-schedule/

Tuesday February 21

Order of Athena Parade

10:30 AM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL Mobile Parade Route A https://mcamobile. com/2023-parade-schedule/

Knights of Revelry, King Felix III, Comic Cowboys Parade

12:30 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL

Mobile Parade Route A https://mcamobile.com/2023-parade-schedule/

Mobile Area Mardi Gras Association Parade

2:00 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL

Mobile Parade Route B https://mcamobile.com/2023-parade-schedule/

Order of Myths Parade

6:00 PM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL

Mobile Parade Route C https://mcamobile.com/2023-parade-schedule/

Thursday February 23

Life at Sea Lecture Series: Spiritual Support at Sea and Beyond During WWIINavy Chaplains on Go

11:00 AM USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Pkwy Mobile, AL, 36602 Rear Admiral

Endel Lee, U.S. Navy (Ret.) will discuss how chaplains served during the war. Learn about the challenges they faced, the services they provided, and the tools they were given.

Family Art ($5 members per child per session | $10 non-members per child per session)

1:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum Dr. Mobile, AL, 36608 This class is for families to create together. Each month will feature a different art medium with a project tied to the MMofA collection. Parents are encouraged to stay and create with their families. Suitable for homeschool families.

https://www.mobilemuseumofart.com/

Saturday February 25

Toto-Dogz Of Oz Tour

7:30 PM Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Dr. Mobile, AL, 36602 Toto-Dogz Of Oz Tour https://www.asmglobalmobile.com/

8th Annual GLOW Walk/Fun RunColors of Cancer

6:30 PM The Grounds, Mobile, AL, 36608 8th Annual Colors of Cancer Glow Walk where we are bringing awareness to ALL Cancer.

Tuesday February 28

USA Wind Ensemble & Symphony Band Winter Concert

7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 USA Wind Ensemble & Symphony Band Winter Concert www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/upcomingevents.html

Thursday March 2

USA Concert Choir and University Chorale

7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, AL, 36608 USA Concert Choir and University Chorale www.southalabama.edu/colleges/music/upcomingevents.html

Friday March 3

Vintage Market Days

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, The Grounds, 1035 Cody Road North Mobile, AL, 36608 Vintage Market Days® is an upscale, vintage-inspired, indoor/outdoor market featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, handmade treasures, home décor, outdoor furnishings, food trucks, seasonal plantings, and a little more. https://events.humanitix.com/vintagemarketdaysofmobile

Mobile Boat Show (Adult tickets-$10 each, Children 15 and under FREE, Military $2 off)

12:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Mobile Convention Center, 1 South Water Street Mobile, AL, 36602 The 2023 show will feature a great selection of boats, motors, personal watercraft, and marine accessories. In addition to a huge selection of boats, there are great special events for the whole family to enjoy!

https://gulfcoastshows.com/mobile/

Saturday March 4

Southwest Alabama Railroad Modelers’ Model Train Show ($8.00, Family $15 (children under 10 - Free))

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Mobile Via Health, 1717 Dauphin Street Mobile, AL, 36604 There will be a model train

show with operating model train layouts in several scales, demonstrations of model railroad techniques, and train dealers.

Mobile Boat Show

10:00 AM - 8:00 PM, Details on March 3.

Satsuma Swamp Fest

9:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Satsuma High School, 1 Gator Circle Satsuma, AL, 36572 The event is sponsored by Friends for Satsuma Schools. And it’s day of music, good food, arts and crafts, silent auction, antique cars--and fun.

251-675-0421

Vintage Market Days

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Details on March 3.

Sunday March 5

Mobile Boat Show

10:00 AM - 10:00 AM, Details on March 3.

Annual Afternoon Tea ($25)

3:00 PM Bragg Mitchell Mansion, 1906 Spring Hill Ave

Mobile, AL, 36607 Join Mobile Opera at the beautiful, Bragg Mitchell Mansion for an afternoon tea with guest speaker, David David from Alabama Public Radio. Mobile Opera Young Artists will provide music. (251) 432-6772 https://www.mobileopera.org/

Vintage Market Days

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Details on March 3.

Wednesday March 8

Floyd Nation

7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Floyd Nation is a U.S.-based Pink Floyd Tribute Band that performs all of your favorite hits from the vast collection of Pink Floyd albums. www.asmglobalmobile.com/

Thursday March 9

The Pact Theatre Company presents Into The Woods

7:30 PM The PACT Theatre, 5025 Cottage Hill Road Mobile, AL, 36609 The Brothers Grimm hit the stage with an epic fairytale about wishes, family, and the choices we make. https://thepactmobile.com/

Toddler Time ($5 members per child per session | $10 non-members per child per session)

10:00 AM Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum Dr. Mobile, AL, 36608 Join us for single sessions of sensory-based art projects designed especially for toddlers and preschool children https://www.mobilemuseumofart.com/

Friday March 10

The Pact Theatre Company presents Into The Woods

7:30 PM Details on March 9.

Saturday March 11

The Pact Theatre Company presents Into The Woods

7:30 PM Details on March 9.

34th Annual American Cancer Society

Chili Cook-off

11:00 AM Canal Street (between Washington Ave. and Broad Street) Mobile, AL The American Cancer

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Society’s 2023 Chili Cook-Off, sponsored by Infirmary Cancer Care, will celebrate 34 years of cook-off fun once again on Canal Street in downtown Mobile on Saturday, March 11, 2023. Back this year - the Kids Corner so bring the entire family. https://mobileacschilicookoff.com/

Sunday March 12

The Pact Theatre Company presents Into The Woods

2:00 PM Details on March 9.

Monday March 13

Gulf Coast Spotlight Talent Showcase Murphy High School Auditorium, 100 S Carlen St Mobile, AL, 36606 Gulf Coast Spotlight Talent Showcase strives to shine the spotlight on talented young performers right in our own community, encourage and reward their pursuits and give funds to our local schools to support arts programs, thereby reaching more children in the Gulf Coast region. http://gulfcoastspotlight.com

Every Monday

Chess Club

4:00 PM West Regional Public Library, 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us every Monday to learn the game or improve your skill at the game of chess! Playing chess improves concentration and problemsolving skills. This program is designed or for children and teens ages 12-18, but children of all ages are welcome.

(251) 340-1588

www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every Tuesday

Read and Play Storytime

10:00 AM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government St Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us in Bernheim Hall for a socially distant storytime event. Masks are required. Children enjoy 20 minutes of books, songs, manipulatives, and rhymes, with an emphasis on repetition for their developing minds. Story and book time is followed by a time of free play with a sensory activity. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Science Sprouts

10:30 AM Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center & IMAX Theater, 65 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Science Sprouts: A Health and Nutrition class for our growing scientist! Every Tuesday from 10:30-11:00 a.m. in the iHealthy lab with Ms. Savannah. Included in General Admission. Free for Exploreum members. www.exploreum.com

Every Wednesday

Wonderful Wednesday Storytime

10:00 AM - 10:30 AM, Theodore Oaks, 5808 US-90 West E Theodore, AL Join us for stories and songs and lots of fun! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Little Discoveries

10:30 AM Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center & IMAX Theater, 65 Government Street Mobile, AL,

36602 Every Wednesday from 10:30-11:00 am in the Wharf of Wonder with Mr. Wayne. Included in General Admission. Free for Exploreum members. www.exploreum.com

Good Listener Storytime at Semmes

10:30 AM Semmes Regional Library, 9150 Moffett Road Semmes, AL, 36575 Join us for stories, songs, and dances!

www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Read and Sign (ASL) Storytime at West Regional Library

11:00 AM West Regional Public Library, 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us in the Meeting Room for books, songs, sign language and for ages 3 - 5! 251-340-8571 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Teen Anime Hangout at Ben May Main Library

3:30 PM - 5:00 PM, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government St Mobile, AL, 36602 Join us upstairs at the Ben May Main Library Teen Hangout to enjoy anime, video games, and snacks. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Good Listener Storytime at Moorer

Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 McGregor Avenue Mobile, AL, 36608 Early reading ignites creativity, sparks curiosity, and stimulates the imagination in young children. This half-hour program is designed to help promote their passion for learning. For your convenience, the program is offered at three different times on Wednesdays: 10am, 11:30am, and 1:30pmchoose the time that works best for you! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

FamilyCalendar

Every Wednesday and Thursday

Shake, Rattle, & Read Storytime at West Regional Library

10:00 AM West Regional Public Library, 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 Join us in the Meeting Room every Wednesday and Thursday morning at 10:00 a.m. for this storytime program designed for infants and children up to age three. Help stimulate their early literacy skills and enjoy meeting other parents! 251-340-8571 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every Wednesday in February

Black History Month

6:00 PM Various locations, Mobile, AL Join us every Wednesday as we focus on the progress and diversity of Black History Month. Visit our website for locations

https://www.cityofmobile.org/parks-rec/events/blackhistory-month-2023

Every Second Wednesday

Learning Lunch (Free)

12:00 PM History Museum of Mobile, 111 S Royal Street Mobile, AL, 36602 This series allows guests to enjoy free presentations on a wide range of historical and cultural topics. Admission to Learning Lunch is free. Bring your lunch and enjoy complimentary beverages. 251-208-7569 www.historymuseumofmobile.com

Every Thursday

Small Wonders

10:30 AM Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center & IMAX Theater, 65 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Every Thursday from 10:30-11:00 am in the Science Squad Headquarters with Ms. Olivia. Included in General Admission. Free for Exploreum members. www.exploreum.com

Throwdown Thursday - Video and Board Games for Teens at West

3:30 PM West Regional Public Library, 5555 Grelot Rd Mobile, AL, 36609 This is a laid-back meetup to unwind playing games with other teens. We will have various board games, nintendo switch, playstation and xbox games for multiplayer matchups that include various genres. 251-340-8571 www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Steam Club

4:00 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government St Mobile, AL, 36602 Join the club and explore Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) with hands-on activities that get kids thinking and building! STEAM Club meets each Thursday at 4:00 p.m in the Youth Programming Room at Ben May Main Library. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Chess Club

4:00 PM Semmes Regional Library, 9150 Moffett Road Mobile, AL, 36608 Semmes Regional Library Chess Club is designed for children and teens ages 6 - 18. Playing chess improves concentration and problemsolving skills. No experience is necessary www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every other Thursday

Create it, Build it, Play it! at Grand Bay

4:00 PM Grand Bay Library, 10329 Freeland Ave Grand Bay, AL, 36541 Join us in the Meeting Room

every other Thursday in for some fun with crafts and activities! Get creative and have fun with other people that love arts and crafts! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Every Friday

Little Explorers

10:30 AM Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center & IMAX Theater, 65 Government Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Exploring the world one tiny step at a time. Every Friday from 10:30-11:00 am in the Nature Pavilion and the Moorer Courtyard with Ms. Charise. Included in General Admission. Free for Exploreum members. www.exploreum.com

Every Second Friday

LoDA Artwalk

6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Downtown Mobile, Mobile, AL, 36602 Celebrating the arts in downtown Mobile! Explore this free monthly showcase of visual and performing arts. mobilearts.org/art-walk/

Every Saturday

Family Story & Craft Time at Ben May Library

10:00 AM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government St Mobile, AL, 36602 Enjoy stories, crafts, and making new friends! This program is best suited for children 3 - 5 years old and their caregivers. Simple stories and music introduce the sounds and rhythms of language and play to your little learner. Crafts introduce social skills, motor skills, and problem solving skills. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Saturday Crafternoon

3:00 PM - 3:30 PM, Theodore Oaks, 5808 US-90 West E Theodore, AL, 36582 Join us in the lobby every Saturday to get creative and make a fun craft! If you need additional information, please email the Theodore Oaks Branch Circulation desk at theocir@ mplonline.org or call (251) 662-9676. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

First Sunday of the month

Free First Sunday - History Museum of Mobile (Free)

1:00 PM History Museum of Mobile, 111 S Royal Street Mobile, AL, 36602 Free admission for all visitors sponsored by Wind Creek Hospitality every first Sunday of the month!

251-208-7569 www.historymuseumofmobile.com

First and third Sunday of each month

Animal Ambassadors

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

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

Please check with each venue prior to attending the event to verify the information provided is still accurate and up to date.

Should We Wait to Buy a House?

Q. Is it even worth it to buy a house these days? I’ve always been told buying a house is the adult thing to do and that it’s a great investment, but I can’t find anything decent and livable in my area for less than $350,000. My wife and I are debt-free, and we’re expecting our first baby in January. I was hoping to get your advice.

A I can understand how things might feel a little hopeless in your current situation. You’re probably feeling the weight of the responsibility a new life brings to the picture. Things are getting real really fast, aren’t they? Believe me, I get it.

The truth is you may not be ready to buy a house today. And that’s okay. Having a new baby on the horizon doesn’t mean you have to run out and buy a home. That little boy or girl isn’t going to

know the difference between a house and an apartment for a long time. Right now, giving your child a safe, loving environment is the most important thing.

a home for another two or three years?

Home buying should always be done with patience and wisdom.

There are two or three things that make buying a home a great long-term investment versus renting your whole life:

1) Rents go up every year. If you lock in a good, fixed-rate mortgage, that payment will stay the same.

2) The value of your home will increase. When you rent, you don’t own your residence, and you won’t benefit from the value of it going up.

Now, looking down the road, is owning a house worth it? Yes. But it’s not worth doing it at the wrong time or in a stupid way. You first need to make sure the income is there. Then, you need an emergency fund of three to six months of expenses in place along with a strong down payment. So, what if you don’t buy

3) Our study of 10,000 millionaires showed that most say two things were integral parts of their ability to build wealth: Good retirement investments and a paid-off home.

A house is a great wealth-building tool, and it can also stabilize the biggest line item in your budget—housing.

Is Your Child Talking to a Stranger Online (Part 2)

Last month we discussed the reality that your child may be talking to a predator online. This month I want to teach you the behavior signs you may see in your child and also what to look for when checking their devices.

First, let’s discuss the behavior signs. Internet Safety 101 does a wonderful job with the following list. Pay attention if your child becomes secretive about online activities, obsessive about being online, angry when they can’t get online, receives phone calls from people you do not know, or makes calls to numbers you do not recognize. Also, if they begin receiving gifts, mail, or packages from someone you do not know, withdraw from family and friends, change screens or turn off the computer when an adult enters a room, and/or download pornography online.

Clearly, some of these behaviors can be labeled “normal” or “typical” teen behavior. What is important to note is when some of these behaviors escalate. For instance, take note if you have a rule in your home that you do random device checks, and your child/teen begins to give you pushback. It is also great to start open conversations about why they do not want you to check their devices.

Predators will target youth through games. They may establish a relationship with your child by promising to buy them things, either within the game or physical items, to send to your home. If your child begins receiving items at home that you have not purchased, this is time to have a very serious conversation, as it means the predator now has your address and access to your home.

What should you look for online when doing your random device checks? Predators will often tell their target they are the same age so their target will trust them. They almost always want to chat privately with your child. If they “meet” your child during a game, they will ask your child to move to a private chat through another app. Please teach your child NEVER to leave the app they are on to chat with someone in a private message on another app. Predators will try to get personal info from your child through subtle comments.

When checking your child’s info, be wary of anyone who has asked where your child lives, birthday, school info, neighborhood info, anything that gives away where they live, and out and go to school. Predators will also work hard to make your child feel special by telling them how beautiful, amazing, smart, etc., they are. After relationships have been

established (via grooming), predators will then ask for pictures, videos, etc. Often, these requests are followed up with threats to the child/teen and/or their friends and family if the child doesn’t want to cooperate.

What can you do? Talk to your child. Consistently. Regularly. About predators and what that behavior looks like. Talk to them until they are tired of hearing it. Then talk some more. The one thing I have learned is that as much pushback as kids give us about social media safety chats, they DO hear us. Maybe not always, but many times they do listen. And as a parent, it is our job to try our best to educate and protect them from online dangers. So keep having these talks and doing your random device checks. They are your very best first line of defense.

***Please note that if a predator has contacted your child, immediately report it to your local police. No matter how “small” you think the incident may be. There may be much bigger incidents with other children involving that predator. The police will lead you in the right direction regarding who to speak with and the appropriate follow-up.

Kristi Bush serves as a national education consultant and social media safety advocate. She is a licensed social worker with greater than 15 years of clinical practice and health care experience. She attended Troy and Auburn University where she studied social work and counseling. Kristi travels nationally and has spoken with thousands of children, parents, professionals and organizations about the benefits and threats associated with social media. You may reach Kristi through her website at www.knbcommunications.com.