Mobile Bay Parents September 2018 by KeepSharing

September2018 38

Volume 8 Number 6

Columns

Mom of the Month 4

Living With Children John Rosemond

Learning Disabilities and ADHD

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

Advice for Parenting Today’s Teens

Kids Health Watch

A crash course in teen drug use.

Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

Common Learning Problems in School When children’s grades are suffering in school or if your child is being a distraction to others, people think first about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Whereas this may be true, it is so important to discover the true reason for the struggle - which is not always ADHD. I have seen patients diagnosed and being treated for ADHD that actually ended up having thyroid problems causing the learning problems and hyperactivity. Many times a child has dyslexia but it is misdiagnosed as ADHD. Some children are a distraction to others so teachers think they have ADHD. Sometimes, when testing is performed, their IQ is off the charts and the child is just bored and needs more challenge and stimulation in the classroom. Some of the more common problems in addition to or separate from ADHD are dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia. Dyslexia is usually diagnosed after 7 years old and is where the mind sees letters differently (i.e., “b” instead of “d”) or sees a word but there is a disconnect in

Mobile Bay Parents I September 2018

trying to translate its meaning. Dysgraphia is a type of poor motor coordination that results in messy handwriting and frequently misspelled words. Dyscalculia is a problem grasping even basic math concepts due to how the brain interprets the math problem. No medications help these problems, but instead intense work with an occupational therapist is usually what will correct this problem and help your child succeed. Another group of problems that can be misperceived as ADHD are auditory memory and visual processing disorders. Auditory processing disorders is where the mind hears words that people are saying but does not remember these and cannot restate what they just heard. This can be frustrating and can be misconstrued as being forgetful or distracted, but in truth their mind picks up on background noises and focuses on that more so than a school lesson. Visual processing disorder is where you may see squares as triangles because your brain does not process words or figures cor-

rectly. These problems require completely different treatment options outside of medications to improve a child’s success in school. It is so important that your child is tested to rule out all possibilities for why their grades are suffering, because if only tested for ADHD, some of these problems are so similar that you could end up going down the wrong road for treatment and not see any improvement. It is also important to have your child’s IQ tested because it could be an intellectual disability which is a totally different approach to help your child. Talk to your pediatrician so they can direct you to the best testing to identify your child’s needs and start a treatment plan that works. Jennifer Adair, M.D., was born and raised in Mobile. She joined Children’s Medical Group in July 2013 and currently practices at their Airport office. Jennifer and her husband, Cory, reside in Mobile with their son, Finn, and their three dogs, Barkley, Fitz, and Roo.

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Autauga County Schools

Davidson Warrior Cheer Squad Earns Top Honors

The Warrior Cheerleaders recently attended and competed at the Universal Cheerleading Associations (UCA) camp. Their routines earned the team superior ribbons on all evaluations, second place in the sideline division, with four members named UCA All-Americans.

MGM Juniors Attend Alabama Girls State

MGM juniors Sara Elizabeth Busby and Caitlyn Palmire attended this year’s Alabama Girls State sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary and held at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa. Both young ladies represented MGM well. Sara Elizabeth was part of the city of Redstone where she was chosen to be on the city council. In addition, she was the Jordan County circuit clerk. Caitlyn was very active in her city and participated in their skit, which won second place. By participating in Alabama Girls State, Sara Elizabeth and Caitlyn learned about local and state government while creating lasting friendships with young ladies from around the state.

Phillips Prep Named Best Public School

Allentown Welcomes New Staff and Faculty

Allentown welcomes new faculty and staff members! We are so excited for them to join our school family. Pictured, front Row – Connie Krist (new Assistant Principal), Brooke Holmes, Miah Christenson, Lisa Funez, Hannah Taylor. Back Row: Hedrice Banks, Mya Pierce, Lauryn Hembree, Katie Gray Cox, Joseph Lloyd.

Phillips Preparatory School is the Lagniappe's winner for BEST Public School two years in a row! We are so grateful to our community for making this happen! Pictured from left to right are Phillips Preparatory School All-American Cheerleaders Hannah Broders, Zyon Todd, and Molly Kate Blair. Article written by the Phillips Preparatory Journalism Staff.

Causey Middle School Welcomes New Principal

Causey Middle School is excited to announce new principal, David Sprinkle. He is married to Tasha Sprinkle who is a 4th grade special education teacher at Dawes Intermediate. Together they have 3 daughters: Analese will be a 9th grader at Baker, Ansleigh will be a 7th grader at Causey, and Ashton will be a 5th grader at Dawes Intermediate. Sprinkle began his journey in education in 2002 at Hankins Middle School where he taught Special Education and Physical Education for two years. He then moved to Alma Bryant High School in 2004 where he spent thirteen years as the Head Baseball Coach and served in many other leadership roles. In the fall of 2015 he moved to Mary G. Montgomery where he served as an Assistant Principal for two years before moving back to Alma Bryant last year as an Assistant Principal. Sprinkle’s mission as an educator has always been to educate, mentor, and help develop positive qualities in students that will prepare them for life’s challenges. He states, “I will serve this community to the fullest and do everything in my power to continue to build on what Mr. Poiroux and his staff have started here at Causey. We will challenge our students academically and help them reach their highest level of potential as a student and citizen of the Dawes community. I have an open door policy and look forward to meeting all of the wonderful students and parents at the BEST middle school in the state of Alabama where excellence is the expectation.” Go Tigers! Mobile Bay Parents I September 2018

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Students Create Rock Garden at E.R. Dickson

Thank you to the 2017 -2018 PACE students at E.R. Dickson for creating a wonderful rock garden for the students to enjoy. E.R. Dickson faculty, staff, and students would like to thank those students for beautifying our campus with their many, varied, and unusual rocks.

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Fonde Elementary Students Meet House “Family”

Students and staff members at Fonde Elementary began the new school year by participating in a Slide Certification event. At Fonde every student and staff member belongs to a specific house. The house system at Fonde is used to promote a positive school culture while instilling Fonde Family Values. Friday, July 27th students and staff were given the opportunity to slide into something new, special, and innovative: their Fonde Family.

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Autauga County Schools

MAEF Supports Student Learning in Many Ways

The Mobile Area Education Foundation (MAEF) hopes everyone is off to a great start for the 2018-19 school year. The beginning of a school year, whether it’s pre-K or college, is full of excitement and unknowns. Mobile’s workforce landscape is comprised of many high-tech, STEM-based international companies that are in constant need of high-quality, career-ready employees. While this is a great problem to have, it is also our biggest challenge. The ever-evolving and fast pace of this industry poses a challenge on how to adequately prepare students for jobs that will either be non-existent in 5 years as well as jobs that don’t exist yet. Developing education strategies and pathways that prepare our students to be successful in today’s and tomorrow’s workforce is a top challenge and priority for our community leaders. At MAEF, we believe education is a strategy to eradicate generational poverty and this requires collaboration across our community. Leaders of Mobile have truly built a culture of collaboration around education as they work towards accomplishing the goals of 75,000 Degrees, the state’s first post-secondary attainment goal. The 75,000 Degrees initiative was developed to provide strategies that will ensure 75,000 degreed citizens are within our community by 2030 to meet workforce demands. It is essential that policies and practices are in place to ensure students are getting ready, getting in and getting through a post-secondary pathway. The shared sentiment of “we are they” resonates as K-12, higher education and business leaders seek strategies to tackle opportunities of improvement within our community. Our culture of collaboration has been recognized by Lumina Foundation and has earned our community the Talent Hub designation. Mobile is the only city across Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Florida and Georgia to receive this designation. The Mobile Area Education Foundation takes pride in being able to provide models of lessons learned and best-practices to other communities and surrounding states. MAEF is also proud to announce that ACCEL Day and Evening Academy, the state’s first charter school, is beginning its second year with 300 students. This public charter high school serves students during the day and night with the purpose of providing challenging college-preparatory curriculum, individualized instruction and engaging use of technology in to ensure students graduate college and career ready. ACCEL graduated its inaugural class of 45 students on May 22, 2018. The students of this graduation class are not only trailblazers as the first graduates of Alabama’s first charter school, but this class included juniors and sophomores who accelerated their learning to enter a post-secondary pathway. Providing initiatives and programs to support student learning requires community support. Implementing STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) programs in schools, raising awareness around the importance of completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and supporting post-secondary completion requires community volunteers. MAEF is always looking for community stakeholders who want to make a difference in a child’s life. Visit www.maef.net to learn more about our programs and how to get involved.

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St. Mary Catholic Named Official Bicentennial School

St. Mary Catholic School is an official Bicentennial School! On August 3, 2018, Governor Kay Ivey announced the 200 Alabama Bicentennial Schools. Each school received a $2,000 grant to support a year-long project designed to strengthen connections between campuses and their communities. St. Mary Catholic is one of only two Catholic schools in the state to receive this honor. St. Mary Principal, Debbie Ollis notes "We have an awesome year ahead of us with a lot of activities planned. Many thanks to Chenele Chapman and Lauree Riggin for working so hard on our innovative Bicentennial Garden Proposal for which the funds will be used. Our Garden Club and all of our students have a lot to look forward to this year!" In summer 2019, the 200 schools will submit final reports on their projects, and three schools per Congressional district will be designated Alabama Bicentennial Schools of Excellence. These 21 schools will participate in commemoration ceremonies in Montgomery on December 14, 2019, the culmination of Alabamaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bicentennial. Pictured: Superintendent of Catholic Schools Gwen Byrd and St. Mary Catholic School Principal, Debbie Ollis.

Congrats to Mobile Christianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Valedictorian and Salutatorian

Mobile Christian would like to congratulate the top two students of the graduating class of 2018. Valedictorian Rebecca Rittelmeyer and Salutatorian Alexandria Hardy. Congratulations to both of you. May you both continue to set goals and achieve them.

Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Back in Session!

Preparing for a new school year takes days of planning and preparation. Miss Maura Hutson wastes no time in getting her fourth grade classroom ready. Desks, chairs, text books, storage areas, smart board, markers, and notebooks are just the beginning when it comes to making a good learning environment at Little Flower School. "These things are important, but the students are really the most important part of the classroom", said Miss Hutson.

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Autauga County Schools

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St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cheerleaders Win First Place at Mississippi Cheer Camp

Congrats to St. Luke's Varsity Cheerleaders for their overall first place win as well as first place in rally routine and cheer competition at UCA Cheer Camp hosted at The University of Southern Mississippi. Senior Captain, Taylor Warren, won the coveted Pin it Forward award. St. Luke's had a recording breaking 6-cheerleaders make All American: Kennedye Williams, Makenna Rowland, Taylor Jackson, Larina Womack, Riley Griffith, and Chloe Watts.

E.R. Dickson Recognizes Reading Millionaires

Congratulations to the E.R. Dickson Elementary 2017 -2018 Millionaires! During the 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2018 school year these students read over 1 million words. They were recognized at an assembly and presented with the millionaire trophy. 4th Grade Students: Olivia Mendoza, Neshwan Arif, and Jacob Steele; 5th Grade Students: Anthony Meola, Garrett Steele, Conner Kennedy, and Mason Steele.

Mobile Bay Parents I September 2018

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Davidson Students Win National Merit Scholarships

Thomas Browning and Sophie Davis were among about 3,500 students nationwide who won National Merit Scholarships financed by colleges and universities. Browningâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s scholarship is from Clemson University, where he plans to study mechanical engineering and business administration. Davis got her scholarship from her chosen school, North Texas, where she will study biology and music. The National Merit Scholarship Corporation announces college-sponsored, corporate sponsored, and traditional National Merit Scholarship recipients in separate releases during the spring and summer. Another Davidson senior, Rohan Badve, was announced as a National Merit Scholarship winner recently. One hundred seventy-eight colleges and universities awarded scholarships ranging from $500 to $2,000 through the National Merit Program this year.

Corpus Christie Welcomes New Faculty

Corpus Christi Catholic School is excited to welcome the following new faculty members for the 2018-2019 school year (L to R) Mrs. April Ladner, Ms. Emily Smith and Mrs. Lynn Johnson. Mrs. Ladner will be teaching one of our K3 classes. Ms. Smith has joined us as our new guidance counselor and Mrs. Johnson is our new 2nd grade teacher. Not pictured but also joining our staff is Mrs. Corey Merritt who is our new technology teacher/coordinator. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going to be another great year at Corpus Christi!

St. Ignatius Students Honored with Catholic Charities Service Award

St. Ignatius honors two students each year with the Skeeter Diehl Catholic Charities Service Award. This award is given to a male and female 6th-8th grader who has given back to their community in an exceptional way. This award is given in honor of Ms. Skeeter Diehl who has done so much for Catholic Charities in our community. Pictured are the 2018 recipients Emma Smaliing and Marrs Zakary with Ms. Skeeter Diehl.

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Autauga County Schools New Family Orientation

CHCA Elementary Back To School Skate Night

at Little Flower School

Cottage Hill Christian Academy held a back to school bash for 1st-5th grade students at Sunshine Skating on July 31th. The fellowship gave students the opportunity to meet new classmates and teachers as they reconnected with the Warrior family prior to school beginning. Members of the faculty and administration were present to skate and answer questions regarding the start of the school year. It was a great night filled with fun, fellowship, and family. #FaithFamilyFuture

Mobile Bay Parents I September 2018

New families were given a warm welcome at Little Flower Catholic School's orientation meeting. Michelle Barry (left) and kindergartner Hilson Barry were greeted by staff member Beverly Crews. Principal Alesa Weiskopf explained procedures including drop off and pick up, absences, and school communications. Having a chance to tour the school and visit with other new families helped ease the jitters for new students.

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Azalea Trail Maids Participate in Parade

On July 4, Mobile Azalea Trail Maids joined an estimated 2000 participants as they paraded through the streets of Marietta, GA, in the Marietta Freedom Parade. MGM was honored to be represented by Jessica Tashbin (yellow), Kelsey Highsmith (peach), Taylor Byrd (yellow), Ramsey Moody (lavender), Carson Willmoth (blue), and Sara Elizabeth Busby (green). In addition to participating in the parade, the ladies went white water rafting and watched the fireworks from the rooftop of the Ponce City Market Place.

St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Student Selected for Leadersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Summit at Harvard

Congrats to St. Luke's student, Garrett Upshaw, for being selected to attend the Ambassadors Leaders Summit at Harvard.

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

New Branding at Little Flower

The Viking mascot at Little Flower Catholic School has a new look. Graphic Design students at Spring Hill College helped the administration at Little Flower School to freshen up their branding in several areas, including making their Viking mascot modern and fierce at the same time. Sports teams, academic teams, and the student body in general are encouraged to do their best when sporting the new Viking image.

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Autauga County Schools

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St. Mary Catholic Marian Honors Program

St. Mary Catholic School introduced a new honors program for students in grades 4 through 8 during the 2017-2018 school year. The new Marian Honors Program invites students to create projects in each area of the curriculum including Alabama History; Religion; Science; History; Language Arts; Social Studies and Math. Congratulations to the following students who received Marian Honors Medals for their fantastic projects! Grade 4: Evan Stein, Jackson Hamilton, Emma Grubbs; Grade 4: Dorian Coker, Finn Montague; Grade 6: Ryan Shine; Avery Williams; Sadie Hanks; Gillie Green; Lilly Bumpers; Grade 7; Nick Hewitt, Summerlin Pettaway; Sage Bentley; Gracie Sosnowski; Carter Luellen; Emma Walker, Olivia Culberson; and Grade 8: Matthew Byrne.

CHCA Girls Soccer Attends Camp

The Cottage Hill Christian Academy girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; soccer program attended team camp at The University of Mobile this summer. Coach Richardson and the Lady Warriors learned a lot over the 3-day camp from Coach Person and his UM coaching staff.

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Mobile Christian’s Trail Maids Thankful for Great Experience

Mobile Christian's 2017-2018 Trail Maids and Oakleigh Belles would like to thank the school their school sponsors and their community leadership advisors for an amazing experience this past year! They enjoyed representing the school and the community. (Trail MaidCourtney Glenn and Alexandria HardyOakleigh Bell Holland Chupek).

CORPUS CHRISTI CATHOLIC SCHOOL Building the Body of Christ, One Student at a Time.

Celebrating 60 Years! Established in 1958, Corpus Christi Catholic School provides students in K3 through eighth grade an outstanding education. The mission of Corpus Christi Catholic School is to nurture every child by providing opportunities to grow in faith, achieve academic success, and serve others as disciples of Jesus.

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E.R. Dickson Butterfly Release

E.R. Dickson students participated in the school’s 15th Annual Butterfly Release on May 3. The release of the butterflies is the culminating event of class research and butterfly activities that began after spring break. Students watched in class as the caterpillars made their transformations from chrysalis to butterflies and participated in daily trivia. On the day of the release, the ERD cheerleaders performed and all students witnessed the release of over 2,500 butterflies

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Autauga County Schools

CHCA Faculty Attend Biblical Integration Conference

Members of the Cottage Hill Christian Academy faculty participated in a Biblical Worldview Conference at Bob Jones University in July where they attended sessions on integrating faith and learning into the classroom. April Messer, Jeremy Sandefur and Kimberly Tharp are pictured at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, CA.

St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Faculty and Staff Certified in ALICE Safety

St. Luke's faculty and staff prepare for the return of students by having breakfast and lunch together, attending chapel, and being trained and certified in ALICE safety. Part of the training consisted of groups of faculty and staff divided into different classrooms and actually being put in various situations with an intruder and reacting in a way that is ALICE approved.

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St. Mary Vacation Bible School Fun!

Davidson Student National Merit Scholar

St. Mary Parish held a fun week July 23-28 with over 120 campers in "Shipwrecked: Rescued by Jesus" Vacation Bible School. St. Mary would like to thank their campers, their parents, 45 assistants from middle school to college age, and 15 parent leaders for this successful week! Special thanks to Elizabeth Blanchette and Melanie Winter who chaired this year's VBS! Pictured: St. Mary Pastor, Rev. Msgr. G. Warren Wall with a few of St. Mary VBS Campers

Another Davidson High senior was named as a recipient of a college-sponsored National Merit Scholarship -- Nandita Dey, who plans to study molecular biology at Vanderbilt. She is the fourth Davidson senior to be named a National Merit Scholar. Congratulations!

St. Pius X Annual School and Parish Work Day

St. Pius X can't keep their students and alumni away! Along with many adult volunteers, over 30 current and former SPX students showed up for the annual school and parish work day, Saturday, August 11. The enthusiastic high schoolers and students washed windows, cleaned floors, planted shrubs, worked in the school garden, and assisted teachers.

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

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Autauga County Schools

Faith Academy Welcomes New Students with Ice Cream Social

Mobile Christian Names Top Ten Graduating Seniors

Change can be hard! Faith Academy tries to make transitioning to a new school a little less scary. New students to Faith were welcomed with a new student ice cream social held at the school. At the social, students were greeted by SGA (Student Government Assoc.) and cheerleaders and were given the opportunity to socialize over ice cream. New Students were walked through their daily schedule and introduced to teachers. The purpose of the social was to allow students to see what their school day will be like and hopefully help them to make a comfortable transition.

Mobile Christian celebrates the top ten students of the 2018 graduating class. Rebecca Rittelmeyer, Alexandria Hardy, Sargent Erwin, Courtney Glenn, Ashley Hines, Ritik Patel, Kristin Shearer, Brett Herrington Hunter Afzalirad, Katie Roubik.

M Allentown Spirit

Allentown teachers show spirit at the Opening of School rally!

McT Senior Selected for TALL Leadership Program

McGill-Toolen Senior Caroline Hamilton was chosen to participate in The Southwest Mobile Chamber of Commerce TALL Leadership Program. Caroline will join other local students who will have the opportunity to visit the Mayor while attending council meetings and pre-council meetings, attend lectures hosted by local business men and woman in our area while receiving instructional education with insight of day to day practices of how to run a business successfully. They will tour industrial plants, career centers and local schools while they find time to volunteer and help host events sponsored by the chamber. Each student has a 4.0 or above GPA and is very deserving of participating in our program and have excelled in the class room and on the field as athletes.

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

Cottage Hill Christian Teacher Reveal

Cottage Hill Christian Academy’s K2-K5 students POPPED into a new school year with a back to school party and teacher reveal on Sunday, August 5th. Students and parents enjoyed a sneak peek at a day in the life of a young Warrior; including playing games, participating in chapel and story time, and creating an art project. The CHCA Wee Warriors are excited about the new school year! #faithfamilyfuture Mobile Bay Parents I September 2018

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Colt Robinson, 1st grader at Allentown, proudly displays his t-shirt stating the year he will graduate from high school.

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Allentown Class of 2030

ChildrensAL.org/committedtoacure THE ALABAMA CENTER FOR CHILDHOOD CANCER AND BLOOD DISORDERS is committed to finding a cure for Liam and the more than 1,500 children each year who come to us for care. At our Center, more than 300 dedicated pediatric healthcare professionals provide exceptional patient care, education and research.

Murphy Student Makes Perfect Score on ACT

We are a founding member of the Children’s Oncology Group * — a worldwide clinical trials organization supported by the National Cancer Institute. PROGRESS IN THE FIGHT FOR A CURE l 84% of children diagnosed with cancer in 2018 will be cured. l State-of-the-art screenings have reduced the rate of stroke in sickle cell patients by 90%. (Sickle cell disease is the leading cause of stroke in children). l Expanded programs help children re-enter school and normal life. l We are limiting the late effects of treatments and developing innovative therapies — making real progress in the fight against childhood cancer and blood disorders. We are COMMITTED to a CURE for all children — down the street and around the world.

Murphy High School's Griffin Noble is "still in shock" after learning this summer that he scored a perfect 36 on the ACT college entrance exam before starting his junior year. In addition to the support and encouragement of parents who are both teachers and some tips and pointers passed down from an older brother, Noble says the rigor of Murphy's International Baccalaureate and Advanced Placement classes and the excellence of his teachers at Murphy and Phillips Prep helped him earn the perfect score. “It definitely helped with work ethic in general and, of course, test-taking,” Noble said of his IB and AP coursework. “All the teachers here are amazing. I’ve got to give props to them because they have definitely helped me a ton. “I’m still in shock about this, but I’m proud to represent Murphy nicely because I do love this school very much and think it’s an amazing place for everyone here.” Noble is the third Mobile County Public Schools student to earn a 36 on the ACT this past year, joining Davidson’s Isabel Bela and Joseph Stauter.

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

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Autauga County Schools

Bright Beginnings Academy to Host 6th Annual LEGO Night

Bright Beginnings Academy invites everyone to attend its 6th annual LEGO Night Extravaganza on Tuesday, October 2, 2018 from 6:00pm to 8:00pm. The event will be held at Mobile’s premiere gathering facility, The Locale, located at 4128 Government Street. A LEGO competition will take place for ages K5 through 9th grade. Prizes are awarded by age group for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place. Tickets include dinner prepared by the World Famous Hot Dog Man. You don’t want to miss this year’s Silent Auction for a chance to bid on an African Safari for two, New Zealand Elite Stag Hunting, and 5 days/4 nights in Cancun’s hottest hotel district. Silent Auction baskets and wreaths will be available for bid. EVERY attendee will receive a VIP membership to Travel Set Go, a Skill Success gift card for one online course, and for the traveler - an UBER eats voucher. This is one event you don’t want to miss. Tickets go fast! Be sure to purchase yours early – your children will thank you! All proceeds will benefit Bright Beginnings Academy.

Prichard Preparatory – First Day of School

Prichard Preparatory kindergarten students were thrilled to be at “big school” and their smiles lit up the room! Welcome to our new teachers this year: Mrs. Kendrick and Ms. Jabbia – Pre-K4, Ms. Myles – First Grade, Ms. Parrish-Lowe – Fifth Grade, Mrs. D’Alonzo – Technology/Library, Ms. DuPriest – Spanish, Ms. King – Music/Ensemble, Coach McDade – PE and our Interim Principal, Dr. Harold Dodge.

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

Mobile Bay Parents I September 2018

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Succeed at a high school where

learning is fun!

Find out how the Alabama School of Math and Science can lead you on a path to success. ASMS is our state’s only fully public, residential high school for highly motivated sophomores, juniors, and seniors seeking advanced studies in math, science, and the humanities.

Many people ask, “Do I have to be a ‘genius’ to be accepted to ASMS?” Answer: Absolutely NOT! ASMS is made up of students who are intelligent and work hard for academic success. The 2018 senior class earned $10 million in merit-based scholarships and scored a composite 29.7 on the ACT.

Applying to ASMS is FREE – and so are tuition, room, and board if you are admitted! Start your online application September 1, 2018 at www.asms.net.

Current Alabama 9th or 10th graders can apply. Questions? Email admissions@asms.net or call 251.441.3250.

Alabama School of Mathematics and Science 1255 Dauphin St., Mobile, AL 36604 251.441.2100 - www.asms.net admissions@asms.net

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Autauga County Schools

Welcome to New Faculty at Revelation Christian

Orientation Day at Faith Academy

Faith orientation day was a success! Students and families were welcomed back and shown to their homeroom classes for a short orientation. Students are excited to start this school year! Pictured are Mercy Rose Skelton, Blaikley Franklin, John David Jones and Jenna Nelson.

Revelation Christian is "Eagle Excited" about our new school year. We welcome our two new team members, Jordan Camp and Skyler Sage. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great day to be an Eagle!

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Reading Camp at St. Pius X

Reading Camp at SPX is not just all reading. Pictured here are 5th and 6th grade students working on a team-building exercise. The exercise was designed to give students the perspective of the camp theme: living with a learning disability.

UMS-Wright Golfer Competes in Jr. PGA

Lauren Gilchrist, class of 2019, had quite a busy summer. Not only was she preparing for her senior year, but Lauren also played in numerous golf tournaments across the country. In July, Lauren traveled to Lexington, Kentucky where she was one of only two girls in the state of Alabama to qualify for the Girls Junior PGA Championship. In August, she competed in the Southern Junior Cup held in Camdenton, Missouri. Lauren was selected by the Alabama Golf Association to play on “Team Alabama.” We cannot wait to see what this golf season holds for Lauren and the Lady Bulldogs!

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Visit us online at pmg.md

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Autauga County Schools

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Covenant Christian School Challenges Their Students to “Be the Nice Kid!” Covenant Christian School would like to give a special shout out of gratitude to the P.E. teachers, AfterCare teachers, and parents for putting this inspirational quote on the gym wall. We challenge our students to be the kid who does the right thing and treats others with respect and kindness. We are excited to see God’s hands at work in this upcoming school year.

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Allentown 3rd Graders Share Biographies

Mrs. Dyer’s 3rd grade class shared Brown Bag Biographies to learn about their new classmates.

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

Mobile Bay Parents I September 2018

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Faith Academy Inservice

Faith Academy teachers and staff had inservice this year with the focus of “Why Faith?” As they discussed why people choose Faith, they gathered and prayed for students and families, they were trained and prepared for the 2018-19 school year. Faith Academy faculty is praying for an amazing year and for God to be glorified! #Faithstrong

UMS-Wright Earn Superior Ratings at Camp

The UMS-Wright cheerleaders attended UCA camp in June. All three squads had a great time learning new material and can't wait to cheer on the Bulldogs for the upcoming school year! The Varsity squad took home first place trophies in dance, cheer, chant, and first place overall. Junior Varsity placed first in cheer and chant. And the Middle School squad was named Superior Squad out of the entire Middle School division! All three squads were awarded the Top Spirit Award! We are proud to recognize the following who were chosen as All-Americans: Varsity – Lauren Pennington and Addy Tanner; Junior Varsity – Mary Stewart McMillian, Gracie Pitts, Victoria Sudeiha and Katy Yance; Middle School - Tori Waters.

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Autauga County Schools

Corpus Christi Catholic School Celebrates 60th Anniversary

The faculty and staff at Corpus Christi Catholic School begin this new school year with the excitement of celebrating our 60th Anniversary. Activities and events commemorating 60 years are planned throughout the year. Our school and parish were established in 1958. Since that time, we have grown to a school with more than 525 students and nearly 340 families.

Kindergarten Storytime at Allentown

Mrs. Barnesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; kindergarten students are ready for story time.

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

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St. Pius Welcomes New Teachers

St. Pius X School is excited about the addition of two new teachers to our early elementary program. Emily Young (L), a recent graduate of the University of Alabama, will be joining the faculty as a kindergarten teacher. Lisa Rainor (R) will also be joining the SPX faculty as the new PK3-4 teacher.

Covenant Christian School Welcomes New Assistant Principal!

Covenant Christian School would like to welcome Mr. Lugo as the new Assistant Principal. Mr. Lugo is excited about working with the staff and students at Covenant Christian School. He is ready to partner with the parents in shaping their childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future for the plans God has set before them. We are extremely grateful for his time and effort. We look forward to this year of having him on campus with us!

Lighthouse Baptist Academy Welcomes New English Teacher

Lighthouse Baptist Academy is excited to add Mrs. Selah Williamson to our teaching staff for the 2018-2019 school year. Mrs. Williamson will be teaching all of our English courses in the 7th-12th grades. She is a graduate of Mississippi State University with an undergrad in education and psychology and a master's degree in English education. Before joining the staff at LBA, she spent the last couple of years teaching English as an adjunct professor at Meridian Community College and the University of West Alabama. Mrs. Williamson recently married the love of her life, Colton Williamson and she is excited to begin the new school year.

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Help Tweens and Teens Clean Up Their Feeds

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

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

Identify the triggers. Maybe it’s a certain couple who always look happy and in love, when your kid really wants a romantic relationship. Maybe it’s ads from a dog-toy delivery service that makes your kid miss your old mutt. Explore what’s behind their emotions. Sharing your own FOMO-induced feelings will likely get your kid to open up. Once they recognize the cause of their emotions, they can take steps to manage triggers. Fine-tune levels of engagement. All social media offers ways to see and hear less from your contacts -- without totally unfriending them. Check out settings such as these from popular platforms like Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram, and Twitter: unfollow (you’re still friends, but their posts won’t show up in your feed); hide post (see fewer posts from someone); snooze (temporarily stop seeing posts); mute (turn them off for a while); and do not disturb (temporarily block the person). Turn off notifications. Most social media apps send updates -- and none of them are life-and-death. To prevent your kid from interruptions -- especially ones that might trigger negative thoughts -- you can encourage your kid to check their social media once or twice at a certain time of day -- say, 4 p.m. That might be a stretch, but you can still encourage them to turn off notifications either in the app itself or on their phone. Follow people who nourish your soul. Kim Kardashian may be all over social media, but there are lots of folks who post uplifting, life-affirming, thoughtful, inspiring things that get kids thinking -- and maybe even behaving -- in ways that make them feel good about themselves. Follow these kinds of people. Suggest apps to help with focus. Just as you can use technology to excess, you can use it to rein yourself in. These productivity apps help keep kids on task, boost concentration, and remind you to stop doing stuff that’s not good for you. 34

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Feeding Program Eases Mealtime Struggles Mealtime is a time when many families life, but he still has gastrointestinal symptoms gather, not only to eat, but to share their day. including acid reflux. However, in some cases, this doesn’t happen “Andrew’s feeding can be painful and because one of the family members may uncomfortable at times. Through feeding have difficulties with therapy, we have learned how to alfood textures or swalleviate some of Andrew’s symptoms, lowing. The pediatric making our feeding experience more program at Thomas enjoyable, and reducing the risk of Hospital offers a comserious complications like aspiraprehensive feeding tion. The therapists are not just there program in the Mobile to help Andrew, but have provided Bay area. Their team unbelievable support for me and my of speech-language husband as well. They have been pathologists and ocable to help ease my frustrations and cupational therapists disappointment when things don’t go work with a child’s just right and have helped formulate physician and family questions that need to be addressed members to provide by our doctors. We have made great feeding and swallowing strides in Andrew’s progress and it therapy for children of is largely due to our wonderful and Thomas Hospital therapists work with all ages. dedicated therapists.” caregivers and patients to find the right “The feeding combination of techniques to benefit For some children, it is the texeach family. therapists at Thomas ture, smell or color of food that limits Hospital have helped their ability to eat. “The feeding prome work through my son’s feeding issues,” gram has been the most amazing experience says Margaret Whitehurst. Her son Andrew for me and my child,” says Tracey Farnell. was born with a tracheoesophageal fistula “Our therapist, Amber Miller, is patient, kind (connection between the esophagus and traand a wonderful resource. When we started chea) that was repaired on his second day of the feeding program, I could count on one

A free workshop for parents of picky eaters

Thomas Medical Center, Daphne Tuesday, Oct. 2 • 5:30 – 7 p.m.

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Discussions include:

• Make challenging foods appealing • How to introduce new foods • Determine picky vs. complex eater Finding interventions for:

• Complex feeders (pre-existing conditions) • Medical complications • Oral motor weakness

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To enlist these services provided by the pediatric therapy staff at Thomas Hospital a referral is required. All referrals require a diagnosis and valid physician signature. Please contact Thomas Hospital Therapy Services at (251) 279-1640 with questions or to make a referral.

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hand how many things Brendan would eat. Not only were his choices extremely limited, but he was not tolerant of having unfamiliar foods on his plate. Before we started the program I would try to get him to tolerate touching, smelling and tasting new foods. Most attempts were unsuccessful, with many attempts causing major meltdowns. Now Brendan takes a lunchbox to therapy. We’ve reached the point where he is very intrigued by what we prepare and he no longer has tantrums. I honestly think it’s because he knows that even though he’s going to have to try eating something he’s never tried before, which is very scary for someone on the autism spectrum, he trusts Amber, knows she cares about him and she understands him. The feeding program is a huge blessing to me, to Brendan and to my family. We recently went out to eat and had what I call a “ successful dinner out ” without having to pack Brendan his own meal. For me that is HUGE, and ultimately for Brendan, it’s life changing.

PRESENTERS: • Amber Miller, MS, OTR/L Thomas Hospital Therapy Services • Grayson Hill, MS, CCC-SLP University of South Alabama Speech and Hearing Center

Light refreshments provided

Seating is limited – RSVP by Sept. 21 Thomas Hospital Therapy Services 251-279-3643 5691_TH_InfirmaryTherapyServices_Special_Needs_Expo_Ad_7x4.8_Aug_2018_v1.indd 1

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Positively Prehistoric Playtime

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

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

by Gerry Paige Smith

Prehistoric Mammals

Ultimate Dino Dig (Discover with Dr. Cool)

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

(Safari Ltd)

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

Plush Stegosaurus

Fossil Collection Sorting Kit

(Melissa & Doug)

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

(Dancing Bear)

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

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

Mobile Bay Parents I September 2018

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Forms of learning disabilities

that 4% of children have both. But for many

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

At Montgomery Children’s Specialty Center we believe that every child is a person of worth and value. We are proud to be a pediatric long-term care facility that accepts children ages 18 and under

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

and who have severe developmental disabilities. 2853 Forbes Drive | Montgomery, AL 36110 | (334) 261-3445 montgomerybytutera.com | See us on Facebook! Mobile Bay Parents I September 2018

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

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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston

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

What’s Out There?

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

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

What Are the Signs?

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

What Do I Do?

If you’ve discovered that your teen has a problem with drugs, your next question is, “Now what do I do?” 42

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

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

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

Benefit: Development of dependability, loyalty, and compassion After years of watching someone they love get teased, siblings of special needs kids will naturally develop a strong sense of loyalty to those they care about as well as a strong compassion towards others.

Even though watching Kara get teased was hard for Justin, he also notes, “I think it made me less likely to laugh at or tease other people.” Kids who grow up in a home with a special needs sibling typically become dependable, compassionate, and loyal adults.

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

Benefit: Self control and thoughtfulness First, it is important to remember that sibling rivalry and feelings of jealousy are normal in any sibling relationship. As your child learns to wait for their parent to be free to help them, they will learn patience and self control. They will also learn to put other’s needs before their own.

Challenge: Worry and fear When children are around a sibling with serious medical challenges, lowered immunity, or special needs, kids may feel worried or afraid about the health of their sibling. They may not be able to express their feelings the same way that an adult would. Kids may act out, become overly emotional, or appear aloof to what is going on around them. Parents can help kids by being honest about health concerns in an age appropriate way. By including your child in this discussion, you can reduce their fear of the unknown and reassure them as well.

Benefit: Develop compassion and empathy for others Kids who are exposed to someone with medical and developmental

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challenges naturally become more compassionate and empathetic to those who may have their own struggles. “I attribute my sense of understanding and compassion to group up with my sister.” says Michelle Hupp, sister to Felicia, an adult with Down Syndrome.

port your child’s development in a healthy way and encourage an appropriate relationship between your children.

Benefit:

Challenge: Complicated and mixed feelings As each person is different, kids have a variety of feelings related to their sibling with special needs. Some kids may feel pressure to “live up” to their parents’ expectations for themselves and for the sibling that may never reach certain milestones. Kids may also feel resentment, anger, frustration, or like they are “missing out” on activities or experiences because their sibling’s care puts restrictions on certain activities. “Siblings often feel guilty about any negative feeling such as jealousy.” says Hupp. “The rewards more than

outweigh the negatives but sometimes the negatives are hard to talk about.” None of these feelings are fun to talk about and often result in guilt causing the children to feel even more resentment to the sibling because they have these negative feelings. Some of these feelings may be difficult to overcome and a parent may not know exactly what their child is feeling or how to deal with them. If you feel that these feelings are becoming a problem, consider seeking professional help to sup-

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

Ala Sarah Lyons is a contributing writer.

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Governor’s Office on Disabilities

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602 S Lawrence Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 Visit our website for the Governor’s Office on Disability (GOOD) for excellent resources and information concerning disability issues. Join our email list for updates. (888) 879-3582

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John 9:3 Foundation

www.good.alabama.gov

Alabama Resources Alabama Lifespan Respite Resource Network

1856 Keats Drive , Huntsville, AL 35810 Alabama Lifespan Respite Resource Network® (Alabama Respite) is a statewide program of United Cerebral Palsy of Huntsville and Tennessee Valley, Inc. Alabama Respite’s website offers information for caregivers and service providers wishing to learn more about our activities and programs. The website hosts an interactive database of agencies that provide respite services specific to Alabama’s counties.

22787 US Hwy 98 (Building A), Fairhope, AL 36532 Aids those who are on the Autism Spectrum and their families, as well as identify and serve the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. We provide resources to those in need through partnerships with existing Non-Profit Organizations, as well as pastoral counseling and in kind contributions. (251) 298-7346 info@john93foundation.com www.john93foundation.com

Mobile Arc (MARC) (251) 479-7409

www.mobilearc.org

Southeast Americans with Disability Act Center

Atlanta , GA The Southeast ADA Center provides information, training, and guidance on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and disability access tailored to the needs of business, government, and individuals.

(256) 859-4900 info@alabamarespite.org www.alabamarespite.org

(800) 949-4232 adasoutheast@law.syr.edu www.adasoutheast.org

Alabama Public Library Service-Al Regional Library (Blind and Physically Handicapped)

Speech and Hearing Association of Alabama

6030 Monticello Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117 The Alabama Public Library for Blind and Physically Handicapped provide special format materials and unique playback equipment free of charge to those who qualify for the services. Books are checked out for a 90 day loan period and can be renewed once for 30 days. (800) 392-5671

www.statelibrary.alabama.gov

Alabama Special Education Services

50 North Ripley Street , Montgomery, AL 36104 (334) 242-9700 vm@alsde.edu www.alsde.edu

ALL KIDS Insurance

201 Monroe Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 (888) 373-5437 ALLKids@adph.state.al.us www.alabamapublichealth.gov/allkids

Civitan International Research Center

1719 6th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35294 The Civitan International Research Center (CIRC) is an interdisciplinary center focusing on the development of the mind-brain through education and research. CIRC is located on the campus of the University of Alabama at Birmingham with the support of Civitan International - a volunteer service organization. Our mission is to improve the well-being and quality of life for individuals and families affected by intellectual and developmental disabilities. (205) 934-8900

www.uab.edu/medicine/circ/

Disabled Children Relief Fund

Disabled Children’s Relief Fund (DCRF), a nonprofit 501(c) (3) organization, provides disabled children with assistance to obtain wheelchairs, orthopedic braces, walkers, lifts, hearing aids, eyeglasses, medical equipment, physical therapy, and surgery. DCRF focuses special attention on helping children throughout the U.S. that do not have adequate health insurance, especially the physically challenged. (516) 377-1605

Family Support

1050 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36604 Family Support is the home of the Individual & Family Support program in south Alabama. We help families in south Alabama help themselves, and do so by offering emotional support, information, referrals, flexible financial assistance, and special project assistance, all provided through local area volunteer councils. An area council member must be an adult with a disability or a family member of a child with a disability. (251) 438-1609 go@famsupport.com www.famsupport.com

Individual & Family Support

1050 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36604 Our mission is to enhance the lives of Alabamians with disabilities and their families. (251) 455-6760 go@famsupport.com www.famsupport.com

3416 Primm Lane, Birmingham, AL 35216 The Speech and Hearing Association of Alabama is a place for SHAA members and the public to share information, ask for help and network. We aim to advance the disciplines of speech-language pathology and audiology in order to provide support for professionals while advocating quality service.

Medicaid Waiver Program

(256) 325-8885 Info@AlabamaSHAA.org www.alabamashaa.org

2800 Dauphin Street (Suite 105), Mobile, AL 36606 Administers a comprehensive program of long term care services that offers eligible patients care choices and opportunities to receive services at home or in the community. Support services include, home health services, hospice care, private duty nursing and targeted case management as well as care in nursing and other long term care facilities.

Technology- STAR (Statewide Technology Access and Response for Alabamians with Disabilities)

NORD (National Organization Rare Disorders)

(866) 371-4078 or (251) 472-4365 rhonda.peters@medicaid.alabama.gov www.medicaid.alabama.gov

55 Kenosia Avenue, Danbury, CT 6810 A unique federation of voluntary health organizations dedicated to helping people with rare “orphan” diseases and assisting the organizations that serve them. NORD is committed to the identification, treatment, and cure of rare disorders through programs of education, advocacy, research, and service.

(800) 782-7656 or (334) 293-7143 www.rehab.alabama.gov/individuals-and-families/star

Vocational Rehabilitation-Department of Rehabilitation Services (251) 479-8611

www.rehab.alabama.gov

(800) 999-6673 orphan@rarediseases.org www.rarediseases.org

Financial Resources

The Rileigh and Raylee Angel Ride Foundation

Enable Savings Plan Alabama ad on page 26

Nationwide tax-exempt savings accounts for individuals with disabilities. (866) 833-7949 clientservices@enableal.com www.EnableAL.com

Dedicated to the mission of assisting families of children who have special medical needs. Families who qualify for benefits receive assistance to help pay for costs associated with the care of these children. www.angel-ride.org/thefoundation

www.facebook.com/mobilebayparentsmagazine

General Resources AltaPointe Health Systems – Children’s Outpatient Services ad on page 13

from the University of Mobile. Member of American Christian Counseling Association and Alabama Counseling Association. Designated as a National Certified Counselor. With a Christian vantage point and using tools like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and SolutionFocused Therapies, we will search for answers to life’s questions.

13825 Tapia Avenue , Bayou La Batre, AL 36509 301 Bishop Lane, Mobile, AL 36608 Children and teens with mental illnesses need special attention and specialized care in an environment specially designed for them. AltaPointe Children’s Outpatient Services provides treatment for children and teens ages 3-19, and their families, with the ultimate goal of helping them maintain stability in the community. AltaPointe’s therapists use state-of-the-art, evidence-based practices. They specialize in treating trauma, bereavement, child sexual abuse, emotional and behavioral problems or significant school-related issues. Treatment focuses on problem resolution, symptom reduction, stabilization and/or prevention of movement to a higher level of care. Treatment is highly variable and depends upon the individual’s existing symptoms.

(251) 401-3560 cbrowncounselor@bellsouth.net www.nuviewcounseling.com

BayView Professional Associates

(251) 460-7674 passage/

(251) 450-2211 or (888) 335-3044

www.altapointe.org

ad on page 13

1015 Montlimar Drive (Suite A-210), Mobile, AL 36609 BayView Professional Associates’ confidential and supportive, solution-focused counseling can help children and families with problems, such as erratic behavior, aggression towards self or others, difficulty concentrating, unexplained weight loss, even physical symptoms like headaches. Our comprehensive clinical services consist of an interdisciplinary team including a child/adolescent board-certified psychiatrist, psychologists, and psychotherapists which provide complete evaluations and testing of learning disabilities, developmental disabilities, and cognitive (thinking) problems in addition to psychotherapy and treatment for children, adolescents and adults. Services may include: individual, group or family counseling; play therapy; crisis intervention; behavior modification; psychiatric services; medication management; substance abuse services; and parent education. BayView accepts most major insurances including PEEHIP and AllKids. (251) 660-2360 or (888) 335-3044 www.bayview-associates.org

Montgomery Children’s Specialty Center ad on page 40

2853 Forbes Drive, Montgomery, AL 36110 We are Montgomery’s preferred, five star rated children’s nursing and rehabilitation facility. In our caring and nurturing environment, we provide services to children with severe developmental disabilities that require on-going nursing care. Our dedicated team of health care professionals understands that each family has an individual set of circumstances, needs and preferences. At Montgomery Children’s we are inspired by you to work together creating a plan of care that promotes a nurturing environment of respect, growth and healing. (334) 261-3445

www.montgomerybytutera.com

NuView

ad on page 9

1120 Hillcrest Road, #2G, Mobile, AL 36695 Counseling for adults, groups, families, adolescents, and children. I utilize person-centered, solutionfocused, and cognitive behavioral therapies to assist patients in meeting their goals. I have worked with adolescents and have experience working with both mental health and substance abuse issues. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and hold a bachelor’s degree from Mobile College and a master’s degree Mobile Bay Parents I September 2018

PASSAGE USA ad on page 5

307 University Boulevard Office (UCOM 3402), Mobile, AL 36688-0002 Description: PASSAGE USA is the University of South Alabama’s new, post secondary two-year certificate program for students with intellectual disabilities. It focuses on providing individual supports and services for academic and social inclusion of students with intellectual disabilities in academic courses, extracurricular activities, and other aspects of the University’s regular post secondary program. The program will focus on the students’ gainful employment through academic enrichment, socialization, independent living skills, self determination skills, self advocacy skills, and community engagement. www.southalabama.edu/colleges/ceps/

Phase III Vans

number: (800) 671-6842, TTY: (800) 499-1816. Vocational Rehabilitation Service (VRS), Provides specialized employment- and education-related services and training to assist teens and adults with disabilities in becoming employed. In addition, VRS works with middle schools, high schools, junior colleges and universities statewide to assist students with disabilities in receiving appropriate educational opportunities. 4. State of Alabama Independent Living / Homebound Service (SAIL) 2419 Gordon Smith Drive, Mobile (251) 479-8611, Toll-free number: (888) 3883245, TTY: (800) 499-1816 Provides specialized in-home education and counseling, attendant care, training and medical services to Alabamians with severe disabilities. SAIL ensures the consumer can live as independently as possible at home and in the community through specialized programs.”

(800) 441-7607

www.rehab.alabama.gov

Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program

The Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program (ADAP) is part of the nationwide federally mandated protection and advocacy (P&A) system. ADAP’s mission is to provide quality, legally based advocacy services to Alabamians with disabilities in order to protect, promote and expand their rights. ADAP’s vision is one of a society where persons with disabilities are valued and exercise self-determination through meaningful choices, and have equality of opportunity.

(800) 826-1675 adap@adap.ua.edu www.adap.ua.edu

ad on page 4

130 Industrial Boulevard, Pensacola, FL 32505 Offering new and pre-owned accessible vans. Lowered floor Ramp vans available in Chrysler, Honda, Dodge and Toyota. Our trained staff has over 22 years of experience! (850) 378-8914 www.phaseIIIvans.com

Alabama Council for Developmental Disabilities

Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind

1050 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36604 Our Mobile Regional Office serves Baldwin, Mobile, Clarke, Washington, Monroe, Conecuh, and Escambia Counties. Some experts estimate that up to 20% of the skills learned in a lifetime are learned in the first five years. Staff members can give you guidance so that everyone around your child can be a teacher.

100 North Union Street, Montgomery, AL 36130 Our Mission is to promote and support independence, advocacy, productivity and inclusion for Alabamians with developmental disabilities. ACDD is dedicated to the vision that all Alabamians, regardless of disability, will live, learn, work, and play in inclusive communities.

(251) 432-7777

Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services

(205) 365-1640 or (251) 476–5300 srdyslexiacenter@gmail.com www.alsrlcenter.org

(334) 242-3973 or (800) 232-2158

www.acdd.org

602 South Lawrence Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 “Unique in the nation, the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services is comprised of state and federal programs that provide a continuum of services from birth through life for Alabamians with disabilities. ADRS has four major programs: 1. Alabama’s Early Intervention System (AEIS) - 1610 Center Street, Suite A, Mobile (251) 4397890, Toll-free number: (800) 879-8163 or TTY (800) 499-1816. A division of the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services, Early Intervention provides supports and services for infants and toddlers birth though age 2 (0 to 36 months of age) who have a medical diagnosis that can delay normal development or who have a developmental delay causing the child to not meet developmental milestones. 2. Children’s Rehabilitation Service (CRS) CRS District Office - 1610 Center Street Suite A, Mobile (251) 432-4560, Toll-free number: (800) 879-8163, TTY (800) 499-1816 Statewide organization of skilled professionals providing quality medical, rehabilitative, coordination and support services for children with special health care needs and their families. This network provides specialty clinic and services by physicians, nurses, social workers, physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, audiologists, occupational therapists, registered dietitians, secretaries, and administrators. 3. Vocational Rehabilitation Service (VRS) 2419 Gordon Smith Drive, Mobile (251) 479-8611, Toll-free

www.aidb.org

Alabama Scottish Rite Learning Center

555 Eastern Boulevard, Montgomery, AL 36117 The Alabama Scottish Rite Foundation offers free dyslexia evaluations for Alabama children in 1st - 8th grade. The minimum age for testing is seven. Offering free professional development for teachers in Alabama.

Alabama Speech-Language-Hearing Assoc

ASHA is committed to ensuring that all people with speech, language, and hearing disorders receive services to help them communicate effectively. (256) 325-8885 info@AlabamaSHAA.org www.alabamashaa.org

Bay Area Clinical Assoc, LLC Catalina M. Arata, Ph.D., M. Hope Jackson, Ph.D., Ellen L. Odom, M.S., L.P.C., Kelly R. Fountain, M.S., L.P.T.

3925-B Springhill Avenue, Mobile, AL 36608 We provide psychological assessment and treatment to families, adults, adolescents and children with a variety of problems. Children ages 5+, Adolescents, Adults, Couples and Families. Services are available for a broad range of emotional, behavior, cognitive and adjustment problems affecting children and their families. (251) 470-7607 vicki@bayareaclinical.com www. bayareaclinical.com

Bay Area Psychology & Counseling

3929 Airport Blvd (Suite 2-413), Mobile, AL 36609 Mental health care services to children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients. These services include counseling to learn to accommodate and overcome issues that negatively affect one’s life, and wellness strategies for greater quality of life and fulfillment. (251) 343-0566 info@mobilebayareapsychology.com www.mobilebayareapsychology.com

www.mobilebayparents.com

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Be Better Clinical Psychology

22 North Florida Street, Mobile, AL 36607 Be Better Clinical Psychology - Joanna T. Koulianos, Ph.D. and Associates providing Neurodevelopmental and Psychoeducational evaluations that make a difference. Autism/ADOS-2 testing, ADD/ADHD, behavioral/ emotional, vocational, LD/IQ, diagnosis and recommendations. Licensed Clinical Psychologist/Licensed Speech-Language Pathologist. Ages 2 and up. (251) 300-2743

Canine Companions for Independence

8150 Clarcona Ocoee Road, Orlando, FL 32818 Canine Companions for Independence® is a non-profit organization that enhances the lives of people with disabilities by providing highly trained assistance dogs and ongoing support to ensure quality partnerships. (800) 572-2275 info@cci.org www.cci.org

Community Services for Vision Rehabilitation

29653 Anchor Cross Boulevard, Daphne, AL 36526 Non-profit organization, dedicated to helping those with low vision and blindness. The clinic provides professional evaluation by eye doctors (ODs and MDs), occupational therapists, ophthalmic technicians, computer specialists and others. It works in collaboration with state agencies and regional and national resources. (251) 928-2888 visionrehab@bellsouth.net www.csvrlowvision.org

Community Services for Vision Rehabilitation

600 BelAir Boulevard (Suite 110), Mobile, AL 36606 Community Services for Vision Rehabilitation is a nonprofit organization, dedicated to helping those with low vision and blindness. The clinics provide professional evaluation by a Medical Doctor (M.D.) or an Optometrist (O.D.), Occupational Therapists, Ophthalmic technicians, Computer Specialists and others. (251) 476-4744 visionrehab@bellsouth.net www.csvrlowvision.org

Easter Seals Alabama

5960 East Shirley Lane, Montgomery, AL 36117 Our organization consists of several community rehabilitation program sites and the world’s largest barrier free recreational camp, Camp ASCCA. Easter Seals Alabama services include: Medical Rehabilitation, Early Intervention, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech and Hearing Therapy, Job Training and Employment, Child Care & Camping and Recreation. (334) 395-4489 info@al.easterseals.com www.easterseals.com/alabama/

Emerald Coast Pediatric Sleep Consultants

400 Gulf Breeze Pkwy (#204), Gulf Breeze, FL 32561 The mission of Emerald Coast Pediatric Sleep Consultants is to provide comprehensive sleep diagnostic and treatment services to children from birth to age 21 years. A collaborative approach to patient care, with emphasis on addressing biopsychosocial and cultural patient factors, is utilized to determine individualized plans of care. 850-932-3830 soniasmith@emeraldcoastsleep.com www.emeraldcoastsleep.com

Goodwill Easterseals of the Gulf Coast

2440 Gordon Smith Drive, Mobile, AL 36117 Goodwill Easterseals offers Encouragement, Education and Employment to persons dealing with disabilities, low income, or other needs. Programs for families of youth with and without disabilities include free parenting classes, support groups, Child Development Centers, Early Intervention and preschool readiness in-home instruction, and teen recreational activities. Family outings are offered in a variety of community venues. Education (GED), Job Training and Employment, Medical Assistance, and an Adult Day Program are also available to families when needed. (251) 471-1581

www.gesgc.org

appointments, day programs, job commitments, activities, etc.

Hurley Counseling, LLC

1900 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36606 Counseling for children, adolescents and adults. (251) 222-8880

(251) 471-1998

www.hurley-counseling.com

Pediatric Developmental Medicine

Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities The ARC of Alabama

The Arc of Alabama, Inc. is a non-profit, volunteerbased membership organization whose primary role is to advocate for the rights and protections of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families. This advocacy is provided through Information and Referral services, educational opportunities like the annual Alabama disability Conference, and public policy initiatives. The Arc of Alabama provides chapter support to 29 local chapters across Alabama all of them unique non-profit organizations sharing their passion for advocating and providing a variety of supports and services to those with I/DD and their families. (334) 262-7688 advocacy@thearcofalabama.com www.thearcofal.org

Learning Disabilities Association of Alabama

The Learning Disabilities Association of Alabama is a non-profit grassroots organization whose members are individuals with learning disabilities, their families, and the professionals who work with them. LDAA strives to advance the education and general welfare of children and adults with learning disabilities. (334) 277-9151

www.mulherinhome.com

www.ldaamerica.org/lda-chapters/alabama

March of Dimes Mobile Chapter

1601 Center Street, Mobile, AL 36604 Common disorders seen in this clinic include autism spectrum disorders, cerebral palsy, developmental delays and school/learning problems. The developmental/behavioral pediatricians in our division work with a speech therapist, physical therapist, occupational therapist and psychologists to diagnose developmental conditions. The conditions we treat include autism spectrum disorders, developmental delays, learning problems, developmental consequences of premature birth and prenatal exposures to substances or infections. (251) 410-5437 www.usahealthsystem.com/pediatricdevelopmental-medicine

Santa America

308 Belrose Avenue, Daphne, AL 36526 A national volunteer organization with over 200 hundred Santa’s, (All having extensive background checks), across America visit children and families in crisis. Santa Claus visits when a child or family needs him—twelve months a year—bringing love, hope and joy to special needs children wrapped in a warm secure Santa Hug! Visits last about an hour and can be in home, hospital, or hospice. Santa visits for free. (251) 656-8877 santajohn@santa-america.org www.santa-america.org

205 Lambert Street (Suite A), Mobile, AL 36604 The March of Dimes Alabama Chapter has a passion to help babies in our community start life in the healthiest way possible. Through education and intervention, we help moms-to-be learn how to take care of themselves before, during and after their pregnancy and we are also available when things don’t go as planned, providing comfort and information to families when a baby is born too soon. We provide grants to researchers working to understand birth defects and premature birth and to find treatments and solutions.

Sight Savers America

Mental Health – National Alliance on Mental Illness

Special Needs Foundation of American

(251) 438-1360

www.marchofdimes.com/alabama

NAMI Alabama is an organization comprised of local support and advocacy groups throughout the state dedicated to improving the quality of life for persons with a mental illness in Alabama. The mission statement/purpose of NAMI Alabama is to provide support, education, and advocacy for persons with mental illnesses, their families, and others whose lives are affected by these brain disorders. Local meetings listed under the support information on our website. (251) 461-3450 namimobile1@gmail.com www.namimobile.org

www.facebook.com/groups/1724984711121214/

MobileArc

2424 Gordon Smith Drive, Mobile, AL 36617 Mobile Arc (MARC) is a nonprofit advocacy and service system for people with developmental disabilities. We help them become active members of the community by providing opportunities for education, employment, transportation, housing, and recreation. www.mobilearc.org

(251) 210-1632 info@specialneedsfoundation.org www.SpecialNeedsFoundation.org

The Centre

1290 Main Street (Suite B), Daphne, AL 36526 Treatment of Depression and Anxiety, Grief, Abuse/ Trauma Issues, Life Adjustments, Spiritual Issues, Career Planning, Divorce Recovery, Attention-Deficit Disorders, Learning Disabilities, Behavioral Problems, Parenting Skills, Peer Conflicts, Family Counseling, Pre-Marital Counseling, Relationship/Marital Therapy, Medical and Health Concerns, Psychological Testing, Psycho-Educational Evaluations. (251) 625-0118

www.thecounselingcentre.com

The Listening Program

2496 Halls Mill Road, Mobile, AL 36606 Mulherin Home provides a home for individuals, children and adults with developmental disabilities. All of our residents live with us full-time, and we provide all residents nutritious (and delicious!) meals, routine medical care, transportation to and from medical

8909 Rand Avenue, Daphne, AL 36526 Dedicated to educating, empowering and supporting families with children that have special needs. It provides grants and subsidies for treatments such as therapy, counseling, etc., and many things not covered by insurance. SNFA has a board of devoted clinicians, parents and individuals who work diligently and seek grant opportunities for these families in need.

www.siblingsupport.org/sibshops/north-mobile-sibshop

Facebook page is for special needs families in Mobile County. We support and encourage one another.

Mulherin Custodial Home

(877) 942-2627 info@sightsaversamerica.org www.sightsaversamerica.org

Support Group for Siblings of Special Needs

Mobile County Special Families

(251) 479-7409

337 Business Circle, Pelham, AL 35124 A nonprofit 501(c)(3) that assists children with obtaining eye exams, glasses, and other needed eye care from local eye care providers and clinics. Children are referred to Sight Savers via failed vision screenings at school, referrals from teachers, school administrators, school nurses, eye-care professionals and parents. Children of families who qualify for our program receive the eye care they need at no cost to the family.

Ogden, Utah The Listening Program (TLP) is a music listening therapy that provides engaging brain stimulation to improve performance in school, work and life. It gently trains the auditory system to accurately process sound. (888) 228-1798 info@advancedbrain.com www.advancedbrain.com

www.facebook.com/mobilebayparentsmagazine

Tommy Hilfiger Adaptive Clothing

Tommy Hilfiger proudly partnered with Runway of Dreams™ to create a very special collection addressing the challenges the differently-abled community faces each day when getting dressed. Faux buttons and cuff plackets conceal a patented MagnaReady® magnet closure for ease of dressing. www.tommy.com

Organizations for Parents Alabama Parent Education Center (APEC)

10520 US Highway 231, Wetumpka, AL 36092 We believe that parents have the greatest impact on their children’s lives. APEC provides families with the training, information and support they need to help them ensure that their children become productive, well-educated citizens.

(866) 532-7660 or (334) 567-2252 apec@alabamaparentcenter.com www.alabamaparentcenter.com

Family Voices of Alabama

1050 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36604 Family Voices of Alabama (FV of AL) aims to achieve family-centered care for all children and youth with special health care needs and/or disabilities. Through our national network, we provide families tools to make informed decisions, advocate for improved public and private policies, build partnerships among professionals and families, and serve as a trusted resource on health care. (877) 771-3862 info@familyvoicesal.org www.familyvoicesal.org

Parent-to-Parent USA

National non-profit organization committed to promoting parent support across the country. Our website highlights statewide organizations that offer parent to parent support programs and evidence-based P2P USA endorsed practices. We provide emotional and informational support to families of children who have special needs by matching parents with an experienced, trained ‘Support Parent’. (855) 238-8979 or (717) 503-8992 memberinfo@p2pusa.org www.p2pusa.org

Recreation & Social BlueBird Pediatric Therapy, Inc. – Kids Yoga ad on page 33

6157 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36608 Bluebird Therapy offers Yoga for children with and without special needs. Yoga classes will incorporate poses, breathing techniques and purposeful postures to strengthen the body, calm the nervous system, and teach a fun way to exercise. Each class series will be designed to meet the needs of participants. All poses can be adapted to meet the needs of each child. Pre-registration is required for classes which will run 1 day per week for 4-6 weeks. For class registration and upcoming dates and times email Danielle at bluebirdtherapy@gmail.com. (251) 287-0378 bluebirdtherapy@gmail.com www.bluebirdtherapy.com

Camp ASCCA ad on page 31

5278 Camp ASCCA Drive, Jackson’s Gap, AL 36861 Camp ASCCA is Alabama’s Special Camp for Children and Adults. ASCCA is a nationally recognized leader in therapeutic recreation for children and adults with both physical and intellectual disabilities. Providing weekend and weeklong sessions, Camp ASCCA is open yearround. Located in Alabama on Lake Martin, Camp ASCCA offers campers a wide variety of recreational and educational activities. Activities include horseback Mobile Bay Parents I September 2018

riding, fishing, tubing, accessible waterslide, swimming, environmental education, arts and crafts, canoeing, a “splash pad”, outdoor adventure elements like the zipline, and much more. (256) 825-9226 info@campascca.org www.campascca.org

with diabetes and their families. Camps happen year round in week-long, day, and weekend sessions in nine locations in Alabama and Northwest Florida. Community Family Education and Support programs include activities in Auburn/Opelika, Birmingham, Cullman, Dothan, Huntsville, Mobile, Montgomery/River Region, NE Alabama/Gadsden, and Pensacola.

Dance Without Limits

(205) 402-0415 info@campsealeharris.org www.campsealeharris.org

4715 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36609 We offer dance classes exclusively to the special needs community! Ages 3-12 (based on cognitive ability not age). Classes are led by Occupational Therapists and special needs experts and each dancer is assisted by a trained volunteer helper. Visit our website for class schedule and fees. A few scholarships available provided by our generous donors. Volunteers are dancers, Camp Smile counselors, special ed teachers and speech and OT students at South. All dancers will perform at a recital! Register online at www.dancewithoutlimitsfoundation.org

Camp Smile

ad on page 18

(251) 610-4969

www.dancewithoutlimitsfoundation.org

Exceptional Arts Drama by Sunnyside Theater ad on page 41

63 Midtown Park East, Mobile, AL 36606 Sunnyside Theater proudly presents Exceptional Arts Drama. Drama and Theater classes for adults and children with special needs ages 8 – 80! Exceptional Arts Drama is committed to providing fun and creative theater opportunities for children and adults with special needs! We adapt roles to give each cast member the chance to showcase their unique talents on stage. Our actors learn how to put on a play, memorize scripts, perform choreography, and role play during dress up! With Azalea City Center for the Arts, cast members and volunteers work together with the common goal of putting on a great show for our families and friends! Tuesday nights 6:00pm-8:00pm. $50/month. At end of semester we will present a full length play. For more information please contact Chris Paragone. (251) 510-1808 azaleacity@mindspring.com www.azaleacityarts.com

Access To Recreation

8 Sandra Court, Newbury Park, CA 91320 Provides exercise and recreational equipment for people with disabilities. (800) 634-4351 customerservice@accesstr.com www.accesstr.com

Camp Bridges

1600 7th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233 Our mission is to provide camps and programs children, teens, young adults and families living with an organ transplant. We create a fun and educational environment for heart, kidney, liver and lung transplant recipients that encourage positive self image and healthy transplant living. (205) 558- 2090 info@campbridges.org www.campbridges.org

Camp Mash

P.O. Box 850548, Mobile, AL 36685 Camp M.A.S.H. is a weeklong recreational program for children ages 7 to 17 with a form of juvenile arthritis or a related autoimmune disease. Our camp is planned specifically for the needs of our campers in order to empower them to live life to the fullest and to build friendships with others on similar journeys. Camp M.A.S.H. is offered at NO COST to our families. (251) 599-5688 campmashmobile@gmail.com www.campmash.org

Camp Seale Harris

Southern Diabetes Education Services camps and local community programs provide needed diabetes education, encouragement, and friendships for children

3058 Dauphin Square Connector, Mobile, AL 36607 The mission of Camp SMILE is to empower children and adults with disabilities to live their lives without limits by providing an inclusive summer camp experience where there is no limit to the adventure. Camp SMILE is a residential camp for individuals with disabilities five to fifty years old and their siblings. Camp SMILE is about changing lives: campers enjoy the freedom of the outdoors; families receive a much needed period of respite; and volunteers enjoy an unforgettable experience! There is truly no limit to the adventure! (251) 479-4900 campsmile@ucpmobile.org www.campsmilemobile.org

Camp-Rap-A-Hope

2701 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36608 Camp Rap-A-Hope is the Gulf Coast’s place for fun in the childhood cancer journey. Camp Rap-AHope offers a summer camp, teen weekend, sibling weekend, family fun day, deep sea fishing trip, winter exchange program, and hospital outreach program for children who have been diagnosed with cancer. These programs bring encouragement and hope to children with cancer and their families and are provided free of charge, because cancer has been costly enough. (251) 476-9880 info@camprapahope.org www.camprapahope.org

Captains for Kids

Captains for Kids offers a free fun day on the water for kids with special needs and illnesses by providing: fishing charters, sailing excursions, parasailing rides, dolphin cruises and water banana rides; all free of charge. Captains for Kids offers these activities at many different beach locations and each event has a maximum seating capacity so pre-registration is required for each person in order to give you a smooth experience and to provide a passenger manifest to the captain. We will be having this year’s event on Saturday, September 8th. (850) 438-5555

spotate@aol.com www.captainsforkids.com

Celisse’s School of the Equestrian Arts

2568 Sollie Road, Mobile, AL 36695 PATH Int’l Instructor here in Mobile since 2010 serving 100’s of children and adults with intellectual and physical disabilities each year. CSEA provides horseback riding instruction and personal development opportunities for all students regardless of their ability. Our instruction ranges from effective Therapeutic Horseback Riding to Professional Hollywood Horse Stunt Training. Find us on Facebook. (251) 289-1244 kcequestrianarts@gmail.com www.CSESMobile.org

C Hope Health Services

P.O. Box 2302, Mandeville, LA 70470 C Hope Health Services, LLC is a passionate, and person-centered service organization that provides quality therapeutic recreation/leisure activities with a purpose to solve problems and teach new skills for anyone. Services are tailored to meet each individual need specifically. We provide home and communitybased 1-on-1 or group recreation therapy sessions as well as coaching and in-service training for healthcare organizations on how to develop and implement an effective recreation therapy program for any age or special need. (985) 590-0859 wecare@chopehealthservices.com www.chopehealthservices.com

www.mobilebayparents.com

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City of Mobile Parks and Rec Center Special Activities Therapeutic Recreation

Space Camp and Aviation Challenge

(251) 208-1651

(800) 637-7223 or (256) 837-3400

261 Rickarby Street, Mobile Therapeutic Programs for Special Needs. Classes vary so call or check our website for more information.

Camps are available for students ages 9 to 18. Additional programs are offered for trainees who are blind or visually impaired, deaf or hard of hearing and/or have other special needs.

Hope Outdoors

Special Olympics Mobile County

www.cityofmobile.org/parks

P.O. Box 1421, Chatom, AL 36518 Hope Outdoors has a passion to spread the love of God and provide the fun of the great outdoors to those who have special needs. We provide opportunities for fishing, deer hunts, bird and turkey hunts, and other ways to get close to nature and enrich lives no matter the challenges life may have given you. All events are free to participants and participants are only responsible for travel to and from the event. Our Alabama event will be held January 19 & 20, 2018. (251) 769-0711 or (251) 769-5642 opie.thomas@ hopeoutdoors.org www.hopeoutdoors.org

Inner Strength Martial Arts

9120 Airport Boulevard #H, Mobile, AL 36608 Taekwondo for children and adults of all levels. Rick Hoadley, Master Instructor 7th Degree Black Belt in the martial art of Taekwondo has over 35 years of professional experience. Also offering program for special needs children. (251) 776-1978

www.ismartialarts.com

Kallie’s Cheer & Gymnastics

(251) 401-5841 kalliescheerandgymnastics@gmail.com www.kallieetheridge.wixsite.com/cheerandgymnastics

Lakeshore Foundation

4000 Ridgeway Drive, Birmingham, AL 35209 Since 1984, Lakeshore has helped advance and promote the impact of positive, long-term physical and emotional effects of physical fitness on people with disabilities. From infants to seniors, to injured soldiers and elite-level athletes, every participant is free to discover his or her own potential. Our mission is to enable people with physical disability and chronic health conditions to lead healthy, active, and independent lifestyles through physical activity, sport, recreation, advocacy, policy, and research. (205) 313-7400 info@lakeshore.org www.lakeshore.org

Langan Park

4901 Zeigler Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36608 This Boundless Playground is designed so that children of all abilities can enjoy the park. A Pedestrian Bridge connects the playground and park area of Langan Park to the Mobile Museum of Art across Three Mile Creek.

Smile-A-Mile

1600 2nd Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233 Smile-A-Mile’s mission is to provide hope, healing of the spirit and love for the whole family during the childhood cancer journey. Through year-round meaningful and educational programming, Smile-A-Mile helps those in Alabama who are affected by childhood cancer thrive during treatment and the years beyond. (205) 323-8427 or (888) 500-7920

The mission of Special Olympics of Mobile County is to provide year-round sports training and competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for people with intellectual disabilities who wish to participate, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in the sharing of gifts, skills, and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes, and the community. mobilecospecialolympics@gmail.com www.facebook.com/MobileAreaSpecialOlympics

Special Olympics Swim Team

951 Downtowner Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36609 The Special Olympics Hammerhead Swim Team program at the Hearin-Chandler Family YMCA is designed for individuals with mental and physical disabilities. The group uses the water to improve coordination, mobility and endurance, but most of all, to have fun! Swimmers are eligible to attend two sectional meets and State Meet. Meets are typically scheduled for Fridays beginning in January and ending in May. (251) 344-4856

670 Zeigler Circle West, Mobile, AL 36608 Mobile’s first Christian cheer/gymnastics/dance studio. Special Needs classes offered.

www.campsam.org

SNAP (Special Needs Athletes Program)

4120 Government Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36693 Our SNAP (Special Needs Athletes Program) helps special needs athletes participate in bowling activities. Our mission is to give developmentally disabled citizens in Mobile and Baldwin County area the opportunity to participate in a recreational sport with others of the same skill level and have fun doing it! Our next league begins September 8, 2018 at Skyline Lanes. Please call Executive Director Joe Marshall to register. (251) 366-9978 joe@snapofalabama.com www.snapofalabama.com

www.spacecamp.com

www.ysal.org

The Exceptional Foundation of the Gulf Coast

28788 North Main Street, Daphne, AL 36526 The Exceptional Foundation Gulf Coast is a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit organization that provides social and recreational opportunities to the special needs community of Baldwin and Mobile counties. We offer art, cooking, dance, sign language, yoga, Special Olympics, community field trips & so much more. EFGC is open Monday - Thursday from 7:50am - 6pm. For more information contact Candice Dodson, Program Director. (251) 625-8955 programdirectoref@gmail.com www.exceptionalfoundationgc.org

4880 Lakeland Drive (Suite D), Mobile, AL 36619 We are a conservative studio that gives each child the individual attention that they deserve. Special needs class for all ages. We will work on basic rhythm and timing dance skills, and a motor skills assistant will be provided for any dancer that needs one. (251) 422-026 www.tpdadancefamily.com

Water Planet Dolphin Therapy

203 Greenwood Drive, Panama City Beach, FL 32407 We offer 2 therapy options to interact with the dolphins. The Harmony Program we have found can help a wide variety of children: most spectra of autism, manic depression, Rett Syndrome, Tourette’s Syndrome, ADHD, Down, and hyperactivity. Our Serenity Program caters to children with serious developmental delays, physical and motor disabilities like Cerebral Palsy, Head and Spinal Cord Injury, Mitochondrial Disorder. Spina Bifida, Muscular Dystrophy, Angelman’s Syndrome and other disabilities, which require body work and specialized interventions. (850) 230-6030 info@waterplanetusa.com www.waterplanetusa.com

1001 Schillinger Road , Mobile, AL 36695 Westside Buddy Ball is a program for mentally and physically challenged youth between 5 – 21 years of age in an athletic environment structured to their abilities. Our program strives to teach the community to recognize the abilities of our participants rather than their disabilities. Young adults, teens and children can volunteer to be a buddy to the participants. Visit our Facebook page for updates. Buddy Ball takes place

(251) 680-2744 zabu01@bellsouth.net www.westsidebaseball.com

Schools/ Educational Resources Read-Write ad on page 15

1048 Stanton Road (Suite G), Daphne, AL 36526

(251) 625-4020 baldwinoffice@readwritelearningcenter.com

15 Midtown Park West, Mobile, AL 36606

(251) 287-1822 mobileoffice@readwritelearningcenter.com

Read Write offers educational consulting, testing, and one-on-one academic therapy for students with language based learning disabilities such as dyslexia. We offer instruction in the following areas: reading, spelling, written expression, handwriting, grammar, math, and technology. We have special programs for homeschooled students and preschoolers. We have Coaches’ Club at Read Write, offering subject based coaching, teamwork coaching and homework conditioning for all students 4th-12th.

www.readwritelearningcenter.com

The Learning Tree – Growing Independence Behavioral Center ad on page 13

5465 Able Court, Mobile, AL 36693 Growing Independence Behavioral Services now offers clinic-based ABA services. Services include comprehensive early intensive behavioral intervention for preschool-aged children and focused clinical services to address challenging behaviors for school-aged children. Clinic hours are Monday – Friday, 8 am – 5 pm. Services are available in Mobile, Anniston, Birmingham and Montgomery. (251) 331-8021 jstarr@learning-tree.org www.learning-tree.org

Turning Point Dance Academy

Westside’s Buddy Ball League

at Westside Baseball Park. We offer Spring and Fall seasons.

The Learning Tree – Little Tree Preschool ad on page 13

1176 Azalea Road, Mobile, AL 36693 Little Tree Preschool offers high quality preschool education for children ages 2 ½ - 5. Low student –teacher ratios are maintained and teachers are certified. Children are encouraged to grow as learnings by building on individual strengths to establish a strong foundation for school success. The preschool is a blended preschool model, including services for children with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities. The Little Tree Preschool focuses on teaching readiness and prerequisite skills to prepare children for primary school. The curriculum is comprehensive and encourages children to explore and discover answers. The school provides a social setting to promote healthy self-esteem and sensitivity to the needs of others. Programs are offered in Mobile, Auburn and Anniston. (251) 288-8916 cmcspadden@learning-tree.org www.learning-tree.org

The Learning Tree Woody’s Song School ad on page 13

5465 Able Court, Mobile, AL 36693 Woody’s Song School serves children ages 5 – 21 with autism spectrum disorder. The private, nonprofit school is a tuition-based, year-round day school built on the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). The school helps children with autism increase their skills in the areas of language, socialization and cognition,

www.facebook.com/mobilebayparentsmagazine

while decreasing behaviors that interfere with their learning. (251) 331-8021 jstarr@learning-tree.org www.learning-tree.org

The Learning Tree Residential School ad on page 13

5459 Able Court, Mobile, AL 36693 The Learning Tree is a non-profit organization that provides educational and residential services for children and adolescents, ages 6 – 21, with developmental disabilities, including autism. The residential school provides each child with 24 - hour care in a homelike setting that is suited to their unique and special needs. Their individualized educational services are provided in a community school setting. The organization also provides individual and professional consultation training services. Programs are located in Mobile, Jacksonville and Tallassee. (251) 649-4420 vmitchell@learning-tree.org www.learning-tree.org

The Think Tank ad on page 29

Mobile & Baldwin County, The Think Tank Tutoring and Educational Services provides one-on-one inhome tutoring to general education, learning disabled and homebound students. We work directly with the student’s teachers to ensure we follow the Individual Education Plan for special needs students. In addition, we follow the student’s current classroom curriculum. The Think Tank Tutoring provides homework help, test preparation, and study skills to students in grades Pre-K through 12 in all subjects. We have qualified educators to work with ADD, ADHD, hearing impaired, MR, Dyslexic, and speech impaired students. (251) 414-4494 thinktankminds@gmail.com www.thinktankminds.com

Augusta Evans School

6301 Biloxi Avenue, Mobile, AL 36608 Augusta Evans School was organized to provide a quality education, appropriate for mentally handicapped students of Mobile County and individualized to meet each of these student’s needs. The faculty, staff and parents of Evans School are dedicated to ensuring that every special needs individual receives an education of the highest quality, an education appropriately designed for each individual, an education which provides each individual with the skills necessary to become a productive citizen, and an education delivered in a setting designed to allow each student to develop to his maximum potential. (251) 221-5400

evans.mce.schoolinsites.com

Bright Beginnings Academy

3590 Pleasant Valley Road, Mobile, AL 36609 It is our mission to enable students to overcome individual learning differences in order to achieve their full potential. Bright Beginnings Academy was developed to give parents an alternative for their children’s education. At Bright Beginnings each child is individually challenged and taught to meet his/her specific needs and an individual educational plan is developed for each child and is taught in small group settings. We offer a full day academic program specializing in dyslexia up to 10th grade. (251) 525-9105 info@brightdyslexics.com www.brightdyslexics.com

Gordon Smith Child Development Center

2448 Gordon Smith Drive, Mobile, AL 36617 Children of all abilities receive high quality instruction with small child-staff ratios. Programming includes Special Education Preschool (Part B) services through the local school system, Early Headstart classrooms and an Alabama “First Class” Voluntary PreK classroom. Mobile Bay Parents I September 2018

With high quality instruction and increased opportunities for inclusion, this program addresses all aspects of learning: social/emotional, physical, cognitive and language. Summer camp and afterschool programs are available for elementary school children. (251) 471-1581 Christy@gesgc.org www.gesgc.org

Huntington Learning Center

2370 Hillcrest Road #D, Mobile, AL 36695 Our mission to give every student the best education possible has been our mantra since the beginning, and we love to see students realize “I can” when it comes to school success. (251) 525-9239

www.huntingtonhelps.com

Kumon Learning Center

3964B Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36608 Kumon is the world’s largest after-school math and reading enrichment program, unlocking the potential of children so they can achieve more on their own. (800) ABC-MATH

www.kumon.com

Lindamood-Bell Learning

2864 Dauphin Street (Suite D), Mobile, AL 36607 Lindamood-Bell is dedicated to enhancing human learning. Our founders are the authors of critically acclaimed instructional programs that teach children and adults to read, spell, comprehend, think critically, and express language. The Lindamood-Bell programs have proven successful for individuals with a wide range of learning challenges, including previous, third-party diagnoses of learning disabilities such as dyslexia, hyperlexia, ADHD, CAPD, and autism spectrum disorders. (251) 473-6808

www.lindamoodbell.com

Mobile Preschool for the Sensory Impaired

1050 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36604 Provides classroom setting for deaf and visually impaired preschoolers, speech therapy, sign language classes for parents and evaluations and testing. Parent education. Service provided for children from birth up to 5 years of age. (251) 433-1234

www.aidb.org/Mobile

Renaissance School of the Eastern Shore

10526 County Road 64, Daphne, AL 36526 Renaissance School of the Eastern Shore, where imagination and individuality meet the classroom. We offer a full curriculum school for grade levels K-8. Classes are structured for students to flourish in a small group setting. All subject areas are taught using an integrated, multi-sensory approach while meeting state standards. Full Curriculum Non-Profit School, Grade Levels K-8. Dyslexia Therapy and Tutoring (251) -990-0041 admin@esrenaissance.org www. esrenaissance.org

S. W. Regional School for the Deaf and Blind

3980 Burma Road, Mobile, AL 36693 Our mission is to create a positive, supportive educational environment that provides opportunities for sensory impaired students to reach individual potential in the areas of academics, independence, responsibility and social competence. Accomplished through the implementation of appropriate curricula, utilizing specialized communication and equipment, directed by a cooperative, dedicated, specially trained faculty and staff supported by parents and the community. (251) 221-5454

http://regional.mcs.schoolinsites.com/

Schoolworks

1811 Old Shell Road (Building B), Mobile, AL 36607 Provide Tutoring SAT, GRE, ACT I and II Test Prep, ADHD Coaching for Children and Adults, All Subject Areas for Elementary and High School Students, Organizational, Study, Note Taking and Test Taking Skills classes, Homework Assistance, Writing Skills. We offer on-site tutoring during your child’s study hall, and we monitor your child’s grades, along with their classroom

teacher’s assignments to ensure we are all on the same path to success for your student. (256) 252-8374 michaelann@schoolworksedu.com

Springhill Child Development Center

10 Westminster Way, Mobile, AL 36608 At the Goodwill Easter Seals Spring Hill Child Development Center, we base our programs on the philosophy that all children can learn and here we provide the tools and support necessary to foster that learning. Children with special educational needs receive programming in an inclusive preschool setting. Support services, including speech, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and music therapy, are provided by the Mobile County Public School System. (251) 342-3122

www.gesgc.org

Tutor Doctor

In-Home tutoring for special needs students. In a study conducted by the Center of Parent Information and Resources, it was discovered that one-on-one tutoring has a profound effect on students who are at risk of failing due to learning disabilities. At Tutor Doctor, we know students with special needs can succeed given the right tools and personalized attention—which is exactly what our tutoring program aims to provide. (251) 580-6802

www.tutordoctor.com

Specific Resources - Autism Autism Society of Alabama ad on page 23

205 Lambert Avenue (Suite C), Mobile, AL 36604 The Autism Society of Alabama’s mission is to improve services for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders and their families through education and advocacy. Current programs and services offered include, Information and Referral Specialist, Online Resource Directory, Family Camps, 33 Network Support Groups in counties statewide, innovative website, Roadmap for transition resources, Respite Program to give caretakers a break, Carebinders program for caretakers and families, First Responder Trainings, Conferences and Sensory Friendly Activities. See our listing for Sibshops in this directory. (251) 259-5553 or (877) 4AUTISM info@autism-alabama. org www.autism-alabama.org

Alabama Autism & Asperger’s Statewide Info & Support Network

We are uniting, making connections and sharing knowledge and support in our state & the world. A hub for Autism related info, events, videos, & support. Free Resources, Guidance, Rights & Connections. Formerly called Blount County Autism. alabamaautism@gmail.com www.alabamaautism.org

American Autism and Rehabilitation Center

8909 Rand Avenue, Daphne, AL 36526 American Autism & Rehabilitation Center (AARC) is a facility aimed at treating a variety of special needs in one convenient location. Our services are for children and adults and include speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, ABA therapy, psychological/ diagnostic services, educational services, pharmaceutical services and more. Our highly-trained professionals work collaboratively to provide treatment plans as unique as the individual in order to help patients reach their full potential. We offer help to patients and families with children that have special needs such as Autism, Aspergers, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, etc. (251) 210-1632 info@americanautismcenter.com www.Americanautismcenter.com

Autism Diagnostics Clinic - USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital Pediatric Dev. Medicine 1601 Center Street (Suite 1F), Mobile, AL 36604 The mission of the Autism Diagnostic Clinic is to

www.mobilebayparents.com

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improve the lives of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in the greater Gulf Coast area through early identification and diagnosis, as well as to provide educational outreach to families, physicians, daycare centers, churches and other organizations who serve children in the community. Services include: Medical Assessments, Cognitive Evaluation, Speech/Language Evaluation, Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) and Assistance with Community Resources. (251) 410-5437 diagnosis

www.usahealthsystem.com/autism-

Autism Society of Alabama Sibshops

205 Lambert Avenue, Mobile, AL 36604 The Sibling Support Project is a national program dedicated to the ever-changing concerns of millions of brothers and sisters of those with special health, developmental, and mental health concerns. Sibshops provides young brothers and sisters support and information in a lively, recreational setting and allows them to learn about special needs and connect with other peers with special needs siblings.

(251) 259-5553 www.siblingsupport.org/sibshops/autismsociety-of-alabama-sibshops

Autism Society of America

Autism Society of America provides advocacy, education, referral information, and community support at national, state and local levels through our strong nationwide network of Affiliates. Our contact center is open Monday through Friday from 9am - 9pm. (800) 328-8476 info@autism-society.org www.autism-society.org

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Autism Speaks

At Autism Speaks, we are dedicated to funding research for causes, prevention, treatments and a possible cure for autism. Autism Response Team coordinators are specially trained to connect individuals and their families with information, resources, and opportunities. (888) 288-4762 familyservices@autismspeaks.org www.autismspeaks.org

Be Better Clinical Psychology

Center for Autism & Related Disabilities

Programs include comprehensive and cutting-edge curricula that can be tailored to the specific needs of individuals from birth to 21 years of age. These programs help children learn to communicate, develop friendships, and lead happy, healthy lives. (855) 345-2273

www.centerforautism.com

Mobile ABA Autism Center

1903 Springhill Avenue, Mobile, AL 36607 Our Mission is to provide the highest quality and most effective Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy using a whole child approach to individuals of all ages and developmental levels diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. We believe every child deserves to reach their full potential, and will work with parents, schools and therapists to ensure the highest level and continuity of care. We are passionate about providing these services to all children no matter their ability and are committed to achieving the greatest degree of independence possible for every child. (251) 287-2442 info@mobilebayaba.com www.mobilebayaba.com

Operation Autism for Military Families

Operation Autism directly supports U.S. military families touched by autism and autism spectrum disorders. It serves as an introduction to autism, a guide for the life journey with autism, and a ready reference for available resources, services, and support. (866) 366-9710

www.operationautismonline.org

Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital Autism Center 5154 Bayou Boulevard, Pensacola, AL 32504 At the Sacred Heart Autism Center, we offer a range of direct services for children on the autism spectrum, all with a family-centered approach to learning. Research shows when families are involved, children do better. Our services include: Direct, individualized Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. ABA is a research-based, systematic method for improving socially significant skills and behaviors; Parent instruction and hands-on training; Social skills groups for various ages; Group training for families and professionals. (850) 416-4681 katie.price@shhpens.org www.sacred-heart.org/childrenshospital/autismcenter www.autism.sesamestreet.org

Talk About Curing Autism (TACA) is a national nonprofit 501(c) (3) organization dedicated to educating, empowering and supporting families affected by autism. For families who have just received the autism diagnosis, TACA aims to speed up the cycle time from the autism diagnosis to effective treatments. TACA helps to strengthen the autism community by connecting families and the professionals who can help them, allowing them to share stories and information to help improve the quality of life for people with autism. www.tacanow.org

CdLS Foundation (Cornelia de Lange Syndrome) The Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CdLS) Foundation is a family support organization that exists to ensure early and accurate diagnosis of CdLS, promote research into the causes and manifestations of the syndrome, and help people with a diagnosis of CdLS make informed decisions throughout their lives. (800) 753-2357 or (800) 223-8355 info@cdlsusa.org www.cdlsusa.org

Specific Resources Cerebral Palsy Cerebral Palsy.org

Provides information, resources, support and unlimited inspiration to all those touched by cerebral palsy, and other neurological conditions. We provide a comprehensive resource, website and call center that parents and caregivers of children with special needs can turn to for, non-legal help, information and resources. Our Facebook page is dedicated to providing quality news, information and more to our communities through blog posts, third-party content and more. (800) 692-4453 contactus@mychildwithcp.com www.cerebralpalsy.org

3058 Dauphin Square Connector, Mobile, AL 36607 Dedicated to advancing the independence of people with disabilities. UCP offers a wide range of services for people of all ages, starting with one of our early intervention programs and continuing through adulthood with our supported employment program.

(205) 870-8565 alabama@cff.org www.cff.org/Alabama

Specific Resources Down Syndrome Down Syndrome Society of Mobile ad on page 7

Down Syndrome Alabama

1929 Canyon Road, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216 Down Syndrome Alabama’s mission is to promote awareness, acceptance and advocacy for individuals with Down syndrome of all ages. We also actively support those who are caretakers, educators, service providers and the community. (205) 988-0810 downsyndromealbama@gmail.com www.downsyndromealabama.org

Specific Resources - Dyslexia

Specific Resources - CdLS

(251) 479-4900 lluckie@ucpmobile.org www.ucpmobile.org

200 Office Park Dr (Suite 115), Birmingham, AL 35223 The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is the world’s leader in the search for a cure for cystic fibrosis. We fund more CF research than any other organization, and nearly every CF drug available today was made possible because of Foundation support.

(888) 454-0317 downsyndromesociety@gmail.com www.dssmobile.org

TACA (Talk About Curing Autism)

United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Alabama Chapter

Our mission is to provide enrichment through education, networking opportunities, advocacy, and emotional support for individuals with Down syndrome, their families and the greater community.

Sesame Street and Autism

(855) 726-7810 or (949) 640-4401

Specific Resources Cystic Fibrosis

Read-Write ad on page 15

1048 Stanton Road (Suite G), Daphne, AL 36526 (251) 625-4020 baldwinoffice@readwritelearningcenter.com

15 Midtown Park West, Mobile, AL 36606

(251) 287-1822 mobileoffice@readwritelearningcenter.com

www.readwritelearningcenter.com

Alabama Branch of the International Dyslexia Association, The

2925 Chantry Place SE , Gurley, AL 35748 ALIDA is a state-level organization charged with carrying out the mission and goals of the International Dyslexia Association, and promoting activities related to dyslexia awareness, appropriate reading instruction, testing and tutoring information, and partnering with other organizations concerned with dyslexia in Alabama. ALIDA and IDA work to improve the lives of individuals with dyslexia through education, legislation, and services. (256) 337-1889 tcrowecrnp@msn.com www.idaalabama.org

Bright Beginnings Academy

3590 Pleasant Valley Road, Mobile, AL 36609 Bright Beginnings Academy was developed to give parents an alternative for their children’s education. At

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Bright Beginnings each child is individually challenged and taught to meet his/her specific needs and an individual educational plan is developed for each child and is taught in small group settings. We offer a full day academic program specializing in dyslexia. (251) 525-9105 info@brightdyslexics.com www.brightdyslexics.com

Renaissance School of the Eastern Shore

Specific Resources - Epilepsy Epilepsy Foundation

8301 Professional Pl E (Ste 200), Landover, MD 20785 The Epilepsy Foundation is a non profit program with nearly 50 local organizations throughout the US. The Foundation works to prevent, control, and cure epilepsy through community services, public education, federal and local advocacy, and supporting research for new treatments and therapies. (800) 332-1000 ContactUs@efa.org www.epilepsyfoundation.org

Epilepsy Foundation of Alabama

3929 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36609 The Epilepsy Foundation of Alabama has a mission to educate and support individuals with epilepsy and their families, to increase awareness in the general community and to facilitate prevention and management of epilepsy. This includes providing services and programs for people with epilepsy and their families; educating and increasing awareness about epilepsy; providing leadership in advocacy for epilepsy issues and collaborating with other community resources in support of the mission of the people with seizure disorders. (251) 341-0170 or (800) 626-1582 alabama@efa.org www.efala.org

Specific Resources Muscular Dystrophy Alabama Muscular Dystrophy Association

700 Century Park S (#225), Birmingham, AL 35226 MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to finding treatments and cures for muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education. (205) 823-8191 or (800) 572-1717 birmingham@mdausa. org www.mda.org/office/birmingham

Specific Resources Sickle Cell Sickle Cell Disease Association of AmericaMobile Chapter, Inc.

1453 Springhill Avenue, Mobile, AL 36604 A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, governed by a volunteer Board of Directors. The Association works closely with the Alabama Department of Public Health, USA Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center, Franklin Primary Health Center, local county health departments, and the Guadalupe Center. (251) 432-0301 info@scdmobile.org www.scdmobile.org

Mobile Bay Parents I September 2018

Specific Resources - Spina Bifida

Feingold Association of the United States

Spina Bifida Association of Alabama

(631) 369-9340 help@feingold.org www.feingold.org

The mission of the SBA of AL is to promote the prevention of Spina Bifida and to enhance the lives of all affected. info@sbaofal.org www.sbaofal.org

Specific Resources - Tourette Syndrome Tourette Association of America

Founded in 1972, The Tourette Association of America (formerly known as the Tourette Syndrome Association) has emerged as the premier national non-profit organization working to make life better for all people affected by Tourette and Tic Disorders. (888) 4-TOURET (486-8738) support@tourette.org www.tourette.org

Specific Resources ADD-ADHD Advanced Health Solutions Dr. Renee Lopez, D.C. ad on page 43

720 Oak Circle Drive East, Mobile, AL 36609 Neurofeedback, Functional Nutrition, Lab Analysis, Chiropractic, Oxygen Therapy and more. (251) 301-0875

www.YourAdvancedHealthSolutions.com

ADHD Medical Clinic of Mobile

2651 Old Shell Road , Mobile, AL 36607 We specialize in treatment of adolescents and adults with ADHD. Our clinic offers state of the art specialty testing and comprehensive solutions to the complex problems related to ADHD. (251) 243-7058 office@adhd-medical.com www.adhd-medical.com

Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA)

The Attention Deficit Disorder Association provides information, resources and networking opportunities to help adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder lead better lives. We provide hope, empowerment and connections worldwide by bringing together science and the human experience for both adults with ADHD and professionals who serve them. (800) 939-1019 info@add.org www.add.org

Be Better Clinical Psychology

22 North Florida Street, Mobile, AL 36607 Be Better Clinical Psychology - Joanna T. Koulianos, Ph.D. and Associates providing Neurodevelopmental and Psychoeducational evaluations that make a difference. Autism/ADOS-2 testing, ADD/ ADHD, behavioral/emotional, vocational, LD/IQ, diagnosis and recommendations. Licensed Clinical Psychologist/Licensed Speech-Language Pathologist. Ages 2 and up. By appointment only. Now filing insurances. (251) 300-2743

Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Disorders (CHADD)

Support and education for individuals with AD/HD. In addition to our informative Web site, CHADD also publishes a variety of printed materials to keep members and professionals current on research advances, medications and treatments affecting those with AD/HD. (301) 306-7070 or (800) 233-4050 affiliate-services@chadd.org www.chadd.org

Provides informational materials, online/telephone support, and resources. Helps families introduce lowadditive dietary programs for children with learning/ behavior problems and chemically sensitive adults.

Focus-MD, Inc.

2560 Old Shell Road, Mobile, AL 36607 Focus is a medical practice for kids and young people with ADHD and related problems. Dr. James Wiley started FOCUS so that he would have more time to devote to the diagnosis and treatment of these patients. Focus provides objective testing, medical treatment as well as behavior modification strategies (251) 378-8635

www.focus-md.com

Therapy

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BlueBird Pediatric Therapy, Inc. ad on page 33

6157 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36608 At Bluebird Therapy, we believe that every child deserves to live a full, confident life. In order to accomplish this, we offer occupational therapy, speech therapy, feeding therapy, music therapy, social skills groups, summer camps and adapted kid’s yoga. We provide services that address the whole child and ultimately, help the family provide their child with independence and confidence. Each session addresses the individual child’s needs through play that is grounded in child development while also teaching the parents what to do at home. Some of the special techniques that we use include, Integrative Listening Systems, Sensory Integration Techniques, Handwriting Without Tears, DIR/ Floor time Concepts, Neurodevelopmental Treatment Techniques, Brain Gym, Kinesiotaping, Augmentative Communication, Kaufman Approach to Apraxia, Talk Tools Training, SOS Feeding Therapy Approach, Beckman Oral Motor Approach, and the Melanie Potock-It’s not just about Swallowing Approach. We currently have openings available for new client evaluations and are in-network providers for a variety of insurance companies. Give us a call today to find out how your child and family can join the Bluebird Family! We look forward to meeting you! (251) 287-0378 bluebirdtherapy@gmail.com www.bluebirdtherapy.com

Kids Kount- Therapy Services, LLC ad on page 35

26420 Kensington Place (Suite C), Daphne, AL 36526 3512 Godwin Court, Mobile, AL 36693 Our therapy techniques skillfully weave sensory experiences and practical application into activities of daily living. Children learn to work through challenges in a caring, supportive environment; and we all celebrate their accomplishments. We strive to instill compassion and confidence in each child, and we give each child encouragement to become their own unique self. We provide speech, occupational, and physical therapy as well as audiology and educational services for children from birth to 21 years.

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(251) 517-0355 frontdesk.kidskount@gmail.com www.kidskounttherapy.com

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Pediatric Physical Therapy of Mobile

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ad on page 39

881 Hillcrest Road, Mobile, AL 36695 It is the mission of Pediatric Physical Therapy to provide Mobile and Baldwin County pediatric patients with options for out-patient physical therapy services. Treatment will be individualized, assertive, and aggressive to maximize functional outcomes. We strive to have child-friendly, play-based treatment programs which are family centered. We believe in empowering

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the patient and the family to heal themselves through patient education. We believe in physical fitness for all ages and abilities thus will promote pediatric fitness and sports. Pediatric Physical Therapy strives to utilize state of the art technology and evidence based practice during treatment. Families will be guided toward area community resources. Services will be coordinated with other community agencies and other health professionals working with the child. We will provide students of physical therapy a problem based clinical with emphasis on adult learning. The clinic will practice according to the guidelines and ethics of the American Physical Therapy Association. Cheryl L. Thames, PT, DPT, and owner of Pediatric Physical Therapy, LLC has been named a board-certified clinical specialist in pediatric physical therapy by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties.

American Hyperbaric Center

8909 Rand Avenue, Daphne, AL 36526 American Hyperbaric Center, in Daphne, is a state-ofthe-art hyperbaric oxygen therapy facility and is home to the largest hyperbaric oxygen chamber in the region. By delivering 100 percent oxygen to patients in a pressurized chamber, American Hyperbaric Center treats Conditions treated include Autism, Multiple Sclerosis, Lyme, TBI/PTS, Stroke, RSD/CRPS, Fibromyalgia, Diabetic Foot Wounds, Radiation Injury, Failed Grafts/ Flaps, Concussion and other Sports Injuries, Migraine Headaches, Cancer, Crohn’s/Colitis, Cerebral Palsy, Neuropathy, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Chronic Fatigue. (251) 210-1496

www.americanhbot.com

North Baldwin Infirmary Pediatric Rehabilitation 1815 Hand Avenue, Bay Minette, AL 36507 North Baldwin Infirmary’s Pediatric Rehabilitation Department provides comprehensive care to children who require occupational, physical and speech therapy. We offer an environment where all three therapies can work together with families to guarantee each child is receiving exactly what he or she needs. Therapy gyms and offices have viewing windows and headphone systems for parents to observe their child’s therapy sessions, full-spectrum lighting to enhance learning needs of patients and wireless laptop computers to further diminish distractions. We also strive to find the correct balance of challenge and play so that children can work toward their treatment goals while having fun. (251) 937-5521 www.infirmatryhealth.org

(251) 450-0070 ppt_llc@hotmail.com www.pptmobile.com

Springhill Medical Center- Outpatient Pediatric Rehabilitation

Therapy Services at USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital

100 Memorial Drive (Suite 1-C) , Mobile, AL 36608 Rehabilitation Center offers Physical, Occupational and Speech therapy services from Pediatric to Geriatric, all ages welcome. Our therapists will screen, analyze and evaluate children who may be experiencing limitations or difficulties in daily life environments or developmental performance areas. Together with parents or caregivers a treatment plan will be developed to maximize the child’s independence, behavior and self-esteem.

ad on Inside Front Cover

1610 Center Street, Mobile, AL 36604 Therapy Services at USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital offers a teamoriented program of pediatric physical, occupational and speech-language therapies. Services are provided on both an inpatient and outpatient basis. We offer pediatric-specific care for infants and children with varied diagnoses. Services include assessment and treatment of: Developmental Delays, Orthopedic Injuries, Neuromuscular Problems—Cerebral Palsy, Spina Bifida, Traumatic Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury, etc., Burns and Wounds, Speech and Language Deficits, Feeding Problems, Sensory Problems, Attention Problems & Loss of Function Due to Chronic Illness. (251) 415-1670

www.usahealthsystem.com

Thomas Hospital Pediatric Rehabilitation ad on page 35

750 Morphy Avenue, Fairhope, AL 36532 The Pediatric Rehabilitation Department provides comprehensive care to children who require occupational, physical and speech therapy. We offer an environment where all three therapies can work together with families to guarantee each child is receiving exactly what he or she needs. Therapy gyms and offices have viewing windows and headphone systems for parents to observe their child’s therapy sessions, full-spectrum lighting to enhance learning needs of patients and wireless laptop computers to further diminish distractions. We also strive to find the correct balance of challenge and play so that children can work toward their treatment goals while having fun. (251) 928-2375

www.infirmatryhealth.org

American Autism and Rehabilitation Center

8909 Rand Avenue, Daphne, AL 36526 A facility aimed at treating a variety of special needs in one convenient location. Our services are for children and adults and include speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, ABA therapy, psychological/ diagnostic services, educational services, pharmaceutical services and more. Our highly-trained professionals work collaboratively to provide treatment plans as unique as the individual in order to help patients reach their full potential. (251) 210-1632 info@americanautismcenter.com www.Americanautismcenter.com

(251) 340-0688

Anchor Therapy Services

400 C Saraland Boulevard North, Saraland, AL 36571 Speech language therapy close to home. A pediatric, private, clinic based therapy center located in Saraland. (251) 316-4882

BayPointe Hospital

5800 Southland Drive, Mobile, AL 36693 BayPointe Hospital is a free-standing psychiatric hospital specializing in child and adolescent acute inpatient and long-term residential care. Located in west Mobile on a beautiful 15-acre campus, it offers short-term crisis stabilization and long-term treatment in a residential setting for ages 5-18. Often these children have suffered from abuse, neglect or substance abuse, and an intervention is desperately needed. They may be disruptive, sometimes uncontrollable, exhibiting suicidal, aggressive or other unsafe behaviors and can no longer function in their homes and community settings. Many factors must be considered before admission to BayPointe is appropriate. (251) 450-2211 www.baypointehospital.org

Buckaroo Barn, L.L.C

39821 Duffee Lane, Bay Minette, AL 36507 Buckaroo Barn, LLC provides physical therapy specializing in hippotherapy for special little buckaroos. Hippotherapy is a therapy tool which uses the movement of the horse to influence the patient’s posture, balance, stability & sensory processing. It is rewarding for everyone involved & is so much fun, the kids won’t even know its therapy. (251) 604-3904 buckaroobarn@gmail.com www.buckaroobarnllc.com

www.Springhillmedicalcenter.com

University of South Alabama Psychology Clinic

307 University Blvd N (UCOM 2000), Mobile, AL 36608 As a training clinic for the USA Clinical and Counseling Psychology doctoral training program, USA Psychological Clinic also offers low-cost services for children, adults, and families, including psychological testing and counseling, martial counseling, and stress management. Under the supervision of Licensed Psychologists, graduate students provide a variety of clinical services, offering reduced fees. Services offered include Individual Therapy (Adult and Child), Family Therapy, Group Therapy, Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Evaluations and Assessments. (251) 460-7149 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/artsandsci/psychology

USA Speech and Hearing Clinic

1119 HAHN, 5721 USA Drive North, Mobile, AL 36608 The clinic provides services in speech, language and hearing to citizens of Mobile and surrounding areas as well as supervised clinical experience needed for graduation and professional licensure/certification. Because the USA Speech and Hearing Clinic functions as a service facility and teaching facility, activities and procedures address both purposes. Diagnostic and treatment services in speech, language and hearing are provided to persons of all ages and with all types of speech-language and hearing disorders. (251) 445-9378 speechandhearing@southalabama.edu www.southalabama.edu/colleges/alliedhealth/speechandhearing/clinic.html MBP

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Reports in the media about helicopter parents have been skyrocketing over the past decade. The consensus from college counselors and entry-level employers is that parents are going too far making sure their kids get ahead in high school, college and beyond. Instead of being helpful, parents are hovering. Rather than supporting tweens and teens, parents are swooping in and negotiating outcomes for them. But when kids donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t learn to trust their ability to navigate their own experiences, they become more helpless, which leads to shirking responsibilities and assuming mom and dad will pick up the slack on their behalf.

Mobile Bay Parents I September 2018

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On the opposite end of the parenting spectrum is a type of parent who is not discussed as much in the media as the helicopter parent--the absentee parent. These parents are too busy, distracted and pre-occupied to meet the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual needs of their children. Absentee parents may be physically present but struggle to pay enough attention to their children for many reasons, which may include job demands, marital distress, divorce, addiction, mental illness, financial problems, domestic violence or unhealed wounds from childhood. As the name implies, absentee parents may either be elsewhere permanently or frequently away from home. Despite suggestions in the media that parents should back off, checking out is not the antidote to helicopter parenting. Kids need parents to be present, engaged and involved in their lives. In the middle of the two parenting extremes, helicopter and absentee, is the happy medium kids crave--the present, self-aware parent who possesses healthy boundaries and wants children to learn them, too. Helpful parents practice benign neglect, where they step out of the way on purpose to give a child chances to stretch and grow.

Most parents want the best for their kids and are doing as well as they can, but helpful parenting skills may require a little extra study and practice because they are not always instinctive. Let’s take a closer look at the qualities of helpful parents.

1. Available to listen. Kids don’t always

need parents to fix everything for them. More often, they just need to be listened to and heard. Parents are older and wiser and will usually be able to discern solutions to problems more swiftly than kids. But if parents always assert their advantage in problem solving, kids won’t get the opportunity to figure things out for themselves. The solution is to listen to kids and ask questions. Help your child discover that she has good instincts and can use your family values to deduct possible solutions to challenging situations.

2. Emotionally detached. Above all,

parents need to refrain from swooping in and taking over whenever a problem presents itself. The more parents intervene, the more they deprive kids of valuable learning experiences. I have just as strong a mama bear instincts as the next mom, and if I perceive that my daughter is being treated

poorly, my blood pressure can surge. The instinct to protect is a natural one and must be regulated. The more often you react emotionally to information your child shares, the less likely your kids will want to share with you in the future. So get in the habit of saying things like, “I am sorry to hear that you were treated that way. How did that make you feel?” It’s helpful for kids to be able to name and own their feelings, and this can buy you a bit of time to calm down.

3. Willing to discuss. Sometimes, when

you are talking to your kids about challenging situations in their lives, they may ask you if you had a similar experience when you were their age. If you are the kind of parent who can come up with personal anecdotes on the fly, your kids will appreciate knowing they are not the only ones to struggle. If like me, you are not as quick to scan your memory files and come up with a relatable story, that’s okay, too. Even if you think of something two hours after the conversation is over, chime in the next time the opportunity arises. Our children need to see us as the fallible people we were and not just as the all-knowing adults we seem to have become. Let your kids connect to a younger, less savvy version of you and you’ll feel more connected.

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4. Prepared to help. Once you are

Sometimes it’s hard for parents to relinquish control when they can envision a perfect future for their kids. But their vision may interfere with their teen’s ability to imagine a life they are excited to lead.

done listening and discussing a situation with a degree of emotional detachment, it may be time to offer assistance. But if your child rebuffs your offer, try not to take it personally. The key is to communicate that your door is always open. “Just let me know if you want to talk about this more,” is a good way to let kids know that help is available if they decide they want it. Or you can simply ask, “Do you want to discuss this with anyone else or do some research on the topic?” Don’t be afraid to bring more people into the discussion. You might say, “You know who might have some insights on this topic? Dad.” Pushing for immediate solutions may make kids feel more anxious. You don’t have to have all of the answers, every time. Children need to process information in their own way and at their own pace.

5. Supportive from the back seat. Kids

need to learn how to advocate for themselves and parents can assist with this process without taking over. At the end of my daughter’s first year of middle school, she wanted to try out for the talent show. She had sung a song in the elementary school talent show and the experience had been empowering. So when she auditioned in middle school and didn’t make the cut, she was disappointed, but try-

ing hard to pretend she wasn’t. I encouraged her to go speak to her choir teacher about it. “Why not ask her what you might do differently next time?” I suggested. My daughter said she would talk to her, and then dragged her feet, while continuing to feel badly. After a few days, I sent the teacher a quick email asking her to initiate a conversation, which she did. As my daughter relayed their discussion to me in the car after school, she burst into tears, finally releasing the sadness underneath the disappointment. The next year, she picked a more upbeat song, and happily made the cut.

6. Conscious of boundaries. Sometimes

it’s hard for parents to relinquish control when they can envision a perfect future for their kids. But their vision may interfere with their teen’s ability to imagine a life they are excited to lead. The goal of helpful parenting is healthy boundaries. You are not your child and your child is not you. If you don’t have

appropriate limits as a parent, you won’t be able to model them for your child. Parents who habitually overstep teach their kids that their own opinions are not important. Cultivating solid boundaries is everything when it comes to raising kids who can think and act for themselves. Kids with poor boundaries will likely have difficulty forming and maintaining healthy relationships in the future.

7. Accessible in a crisis.

If you want to be the first person your child calls in a genuine crisis, you have to earn that role by being cool, calm and considerate in the face of whatever goes down. If your kids don’t believe you can hold it together, they will look elsewhere for help. If you are not your child’s go-to person in a crisis, don’t be mad at them. Look at your parenting history, and consider what adjustments you need to make to become a caring, supportive space for your children. Make sure your children know you are not perfect. When you let your kids be imperfect, you encourage them to take risks, make mistakes, and figure things out as they mature, just like you. MBP Author, journalist and writing coach Christina Katz tries to be a helpful parent to the best of her ability,.

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Mobile Bay Parents I September 2018

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A Page in a Book

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Finding a Way Around Worries Everybody worries. But for children, navigating anxiety can be especially challenging when they lack the tools and practices that help them address the source of their worries. Object insecurities, social situations, stage fright, and stress over pending events are some familiar triggers for childhood anxieties. Worries like these are a normal part of kids’ emotional landscapes, but they remain challenging when children haven’t yet developed the reasoning that can assuage their concerns. The following titles gently explore methods that help

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kids address the source of their anxieties and work toward being worry-free.

Jack’s Worry

by Sam Zuppardi (Candlewick Press) Jack has been looking forward to playing trumpet for his mom in his first-ever concert. But when the big day approaches, Jack wakes up with a pale blue Worry right beside him. He spends most of the morning trying to hide or escape from it, but the Worry follows him everywhere and just seems to grow the longer it’s ignored. As the day goes on, the Worry becomes darker, expanding to take up more and more of Jack’s space. It’s only when he finally turns to confront it and shares the Worry with his Mom, that it shrinks and fades to a normal size. Depicting the normalcy of worries while offering ways to minimize their power, Jack’s Worry is a subtle coaching tool for kids navigating event anxiety.

I Don’t Like Snakes

by Nicola Davies, Illustrated by Luciano Lozano (Candlewick Press) What’s a girl to do when her whole family loves snakes, but she thinks snakes are slimy, weird and scary. Luckily, her family knows a lot about snakes and as they address each of her concerns with facts and interesting trivia, the girl’s discomfort begins to ease. Pairing herpetological information with the girl’s worries suggests a powerful tool for navigating object fears. (Note: one illustration incorrectly depicts the coloration of the coral snake, but the lesson of understanding as a counter to anxiety remains intact.) While education about a source of worrying may not completely disperse the fear, information does help reduce its power and scope. This entertaining and educational title highlights the strength of knowledge to minimize certain fears.

Boris and the Worrisome Wakies

by Helen Lester, Illustrated by Lynn Munsinger (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) Boris the badger thinks he’s ready for bed as the sun begins to rise (badgers are nocturnal, and daytime is for sleeping). But when his head hits the pillow, Boris is immediately troubled by random worries that keep him awake. His ear itches, he wants a drink of water, he thinks his ice skates are missing and his pajamas might be on backward. Boris loses valuable rest as his mind randomly finds things to stress over. Happily, there are ways that sleepy badgers can reduce troublesome variables before bedtime, exchanging worries for confidence. For everyone whose brain has gone into overdrive just when they’re trying to sleep, Boris and the Worrisome Wakies is a delightful exploration of inconvenient worrying and a celebration of proactive ways we can head off uncertainties that trouble our minds in the night (or day). Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

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FamilyCalendar Friday August 24

Vintage Market Days of Mobile 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, The Grounds, 1035 cody Road North Mobile, 36608 Vintage Market Days is an upscale vintage-inspired market featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, handmade treasures, home décor, outdoor furnishings consumable yummies, seasonal plantings and a little more. The Market is a three day event held several times a year in various communities www.vintagemarketdays.com Friday at the Firehouse 5:30 PM Various Locations, Mobile, 36608 Join us as we open our doors each Friday evening from June 1st through August 31st. Come tour the fire stations and meet your fire crews. Enjoy art stations, gear races, and light refreshments. We hope to see you there for all of the family fun! New fire station location each week - please check our Facebook page for more information. Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “My Fair Lady” 7:30 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Mobile, 36611 Hailed by critics and audiences for its heart and its wit, My Fair Lady is a beautiful musical about transformation, patronage, gender politics and class, based on George Bernard Shaw’s play, Pygmalion. 251-457-8887 www.cctshows.com Joe Jefferson Players present “Mamma Mia” 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 Joe Jefferson Players present “Mamma Mia” 251-471-1534 www.joejeffersonplayers.com Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00 PM West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. Movies start at dusk (around 8pm). Snack vendor will be on site during movies. Bring your own folding chairs or beach towels for seating and bug spray, just in case. Admission is free, but please no pets, grills or glass allowed. Weather permitting! Movie - Secret Life of Pets www.townofdauphinisland.org

Saturday August 25

Rubber Ducky Regatta 10:00 AM Cooper Riverside Park, Mobile, 36602 Mobile’s annual Rubber Ducky Regatta will make a splash on August 25, 2018, by dropping 10,000 rubber duckies into the Mobile River at Cooper Riverside Park. The “adopted” duckies will race to the finish line and the lucky ducky’s adopter will receive the grand prize. All proceeds will benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile, which houses families with seriously ill and injured children being treated at area hospitals. www.rubberduckyregatta.com Pop-Up Yoga (Free) 9:15 AM The Shoppes of Bel Air, Mobile Pop-Up Yoga at The Shoppes will be held every Saturday beginning July 21 through August 25 at 9:15 a.m. at The Shoppes of Bel Air. The hour-long classes are instructed by Nonie Taul, owner of Naturally Strong Nonie, and additional instructors from her studio. Classes are family-friendly and open to all ages and fitness levels. Attendees will be offered water and light snacks.

Mobile Bay Parents I September 2018

Anniversary of Fort Mims 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Fort Mims, 1813 Fort Mims Road Stockton, 36579 Enjoy 1800’s Crafts and Living History with daily reenactments. www.fortmims.org

proceeds from Chef Challenge are used to help those in need within our 24-county service area along the Central Gulf Coast. www.feedingthegulfcoast.org/alabama-chefchallenge

Director’s Talk - On the Beauty 6:00 PM Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum Drive Mobile, 36608 Director’s Talk at the Mobile Museum of Art. 251-208-5200 www.mobilemuseumofart.com

Annual Downtown Beer Festival 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Downtown Mobile, Mobile, 36602 Annual event held in August! Ticketholders visit downtown taverns and restaurants to sample over 90 different craft beers from all over the world! www.ncsmobile.org Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “My Fair Lady” 7:30 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Mobile, 36611 Hailed by critics and audiences for its heart and its wit, My Fair Lady is a beautiful musical about transformation, patronage, gender politics and class, based on George Bernard Shaw’s play, Pygmalion. 251-457-8887 www.cctshows.com Joe Jefferson Players present “Mamma Mia” 7:30 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 Joe Jefferson Players present “Mamma Mia” 251-471-1534 www.joejeffersonplayers.com

Sunday August 26

Anniversary of Fort Mims 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Fort Mims, 1813 Fort Mims Road Stockton, 36579 Enjoy 1800’s Crafts and Living History with daily reenactments. www.fortmims.org Chickasaw Civic Theatre presents “My Fair Lady” 2:00 PM Chickasaw Civic Theatre, 801 Iroquois Street Mobile, 36611 Hailed by critics and audiences for its heart and its wit, My Fair Lady is a beautiful musical about transformation, patronage, gender politics and class, based on George Bernard Shaw’s play, Pygmalion. 251-457-8887 www.cctshows.com Joe Jefferson Players present “Mamma Mia” 2:00 PM Joe Jefferson Playhouse, 11 South Carlen Street Mobile, 36606 Joe Jefferson Players present “Mamma Mia” 251-471-1534 www.joejeffersonplayers.com

Thursday August 30

20th Annual Chef Challenge 6:00 PM Fort Whiting, 1630 South Broad Street Mobile, 36605 Join us as we celebrate our 20th year hosting Chef Challenge. Experience a night of culinary magic as some of the area’s most celebrated chefs come together to fight hunger in their community along with a little friendly competition. Guests will also get to enjoy live music by Roman Street, silent auction, and complimentary beer and wine. All

Friday August 31

Friday at the Firehouse 5:00 PM Various Locations, Mobile, 36608 Join us as we open our doors each Friday evening from June 1st through August 31st. Come tour the fire stations and meet your fire crews. Enjoy art stations, gear races, and light refreshments. We hope to see you there for all of the family fun! New fire station location each week - please check our Facebook page for more information. Family Night (Free) 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM, The Shoppes at Bel Air, 3299 Bel Air Mall Mobile, 36606 There will be live music for each event and crafts by Sunshine Sue’s. Light refreshments from participating restaurants will be offered. www.theshoppesatbelair.com Free Family Movie Night (Free) 8:00 PM West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Free Family Movie Night at the West End Beach. Movies start at dusk (around 8pm). Snack vendor will be on site during movies. Bring your own folding chairs or beach towels for seating and bug spray, just in case. Admission is free, but please no pets, grills or glass allowed. Weather permitting! Movie - Cars 2 www.townofdauphinisland.org

Saturday September 1

Kids Studio ($5 or free for members) 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM, Alabama Contemporary Art Center, 301 Conti Street Mobile, 36602 Kids Studio is a weekly program that encourages children ages 3-10 to explore contemporary art. Activities are designed to stimulate young minds while offering cross-curriculum learning opportunities with handson projects. Classes are taught by local artists and trained professional educators. Age 3-10 251-208-5671 www.alabamacontemporary.org

Sunday September 2

5 Rivers Animal Ambassadors Meet and Greet

(Free)

2:00 PM - 2:30 PM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 Alabama has one of the highest plant and animal diversities in the United States. Join a member of our human educational staff and meet one of the local critter inhabitants from the Mobile-Tensaw Delta and beyond. 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/ activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center Labor Day-Sunset Concert- Ryan Balthrop & Eric Erdman ($5) 5:30 PM West End Beach, End of Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 West End Beach all concerts approx. time, weather permitting and subject to change! Admission $5.00 per person (Age 13 and over). As always, attendees are encouraged to bring beach chairs, blankets and bug spray (just in case) but please no pets, glass or grills. All proceeds go to the Little Red Schoolhouse Fund! www.townofdauphinisland.org

www.mobilebayparents.com

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FamilyCalendar Monday September 3

73rd Annual Labor Day Parade (Free) 9:45 AM Downtown Mobile, Mobile, 36602 The Labor Day Parade will roll on Monday, September 3, 2018. The parade will begin at 9:45 am from the Civic Center parking lot. Join us as we celebrate working people. As always we will be tossing local, union made paper products from Kimberly-Clark Corporation Mobile Operations from over 2,000 marchers.

Tuesday September 4

5 Rivers StoryTime (Free) 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 The 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month is StoryTime at 5 Rivers. This week’s story is about Cows that can use a typewriter! Children under the age of 6 are welcome to stop by for a free reading of a nature based story followed by arts and crafts. 10-11am, free, no registration necessary. 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/ activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center Toddlers - Create! Play! Learn! (Free) 10:00 AM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Children Ages 18 Months to 3 Years. Join us for some hands on fun and learning. Wear play clothes because things might get messy! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Preschoolers - Create! Play! Learn! (Free) 11:00 AM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Children Ages 3 to 5 Years. Join us for some hands on fun and learning. Wear play clothes because things might get messy! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org

Thursday September 6

Teen Tuesday’s (Free) 4:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Join us in the Teen Spot and learn how to make Button Ribbon Bookmarks. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org 5 Rivers Outdoor Adventure Night (Free) 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 Free, everyone is welcome. Meet and mingle with local outdoor enthusiasts and enjoy monthly programs. 7pm-8:30pm; Mobile Bay Sierra Club, 7pm8:30pm; Mobile Bay Canoe and Kayak Club. 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/ activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center Andra Bohnet, Faculty Flute Recital 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, 36608 251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/ music/upcomingevents.html

Wednesday September 5

2018 Master Gardener Monthly Meeting (Free) 10:00 AM Jon Archer Agricultural Center, 1070 Schillinger Road North Mobile, 36608 Please join us for our September 2018 Master Gardener monthly meeting. Our meetings are free and open to the public! At September’s event Judy Campbell and Carol Murphy will be speaking about Floral Design for Sacred Spaces 251-574-8445 Kids Studio (Free) 4:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Kids Studio at West Regional Library! Children, ages 3-10 are invited to explore contemporary art, music, and literature through hands-on and minds-on activities that stimulate and deepen their understanding of art. This class is free, open to the public and lead by professional art educators. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Sing & Dance with Mr. Butch! (Free) 4:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, 36608 Join Mr. Butch for an hour of singing, dancing and Karaoke too! (ages 6-12) www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Family Studio ($5 for MMofA members/$15 for nonmembers)

5:00 PM Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum Drive Mobile, 36608 While face jugs were commonly created in many African cultures and also date back to Medieval times in Europe, these whimsical, sometimes outlandish vessels came to the American South during the 1800s. Join us for a family-friendly clay workshop where participants can craft their own

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FamilyCalendar imaginative facial expressions to attach to a clay jug in celebration of this deeply rooted Southern tradition. www.mobilemuseumofart.com

Friday September 7

The Black Jacket Symphony presents AC/DC’s ‘Back in Black 7:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 The Black Jacket Symphony offers a unique concert experience through recreating classic albums in a live performance setting. A selected album is performed in its entirety by a group of handpicked musicians specifically selected for each album, with no sonic detail being overlooked–the musicians do whatever it takes to musically reproduce the album. 251-208-5600 www.mobilesaenger.com

Saturday September 8

Hurricane Run 5K and Fun Run 8:00 AM Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 101 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 Race to benefit Dauphin Island Fire and Rescue. www.events.com/r/en_US/registration/hurricanerun-5k-and-fun-run-dauphin-island-september-736935 Maker Storytime (Free) 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM, Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 Families with young children are invited for a time of exploring science, technology, engineering and math through stories and making projects together. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Kids Studio ($5 or free for members) 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM, Alabama Contemporary Art Center, 301 Conti Street Mobile, 36602 Kids Studio is a weekly program that encourages children ages 3-10 to explore contemporary art. Activities are designed to stimulate young minds while offering cross-curriculum learning opportunities with handson projects. Classes are taught by local artists and trained professional educators. Age 3-10 251-208-5671 www.alabamacontemporary.org 2018 Brett Robinson Alabama Coastal Triathlon 5:00 PM Gulf Shores Main Public Beach, 101 Gulf Shores Parkway Gulf Shores, 36542 Enjoy a beautiful gulf swim and a fast, flat bike and run course at a great venue! Team Magic is very excited to partner once again with the Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Sports Commission, the City of Gulf Shores, the City of Orange Beach and Gulf State Park to bring you this great destination triathlon for the 12th year! 615-415-3520 www.team-magic.com Captains for Kids Special Needs Day of Fun Various Locations, Captains for Kids offers a free fun day on the water for kids with special needs and illnesses by providing: fishing charters, sailing excursions, parasailing rides, dolphin cruises and water banana rides. Most events have space for the parents and sometimes a sibling or two to tag along, however, some activities are more limited on space. All activities are free of charge. Captains for Kids offers these activities at many different beach locations and marinas in Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, Perdido Key, Pensacola Beach, Destin, Ft. Walton Beach and Key Largo, Florida. Each event has a maximum seating

Mobile Bay Parents I September 2018

capacity so pre-registration is required for each person in order to give you a smooth experience and to provide a passenger manifest to the captain. We will be having this year’s event on Saturday, September 8th. For more information, to register or to become get involved in this event call 850-438-5555, visit our website, www.captainsforkids.com or find us on Facebook! 850-438-5555 www.captainsforkids.com WWE Live Mobile Civic Center, 401 Civic Center Drive Mobile, 36602 WWE Live comes to Mobile Civic Center. www.mobilecivicctr.com

Sunday September 9

Market at The Pillars 12:00 PM The Pillars, 1757 Government Street Mobile, 36605 Shop Local Farmers, Crafters, Bakers and Makers! Local Eats, Drinks and Live Music! 251-307-5382 www.thepillarsofmobile.com

Tuesday September 11

Family Bingo Night (Free) 6:00 PM Moorer/Spring Hill Branch, 4 South McGregor Avenue Mobile, 36608 Calling All Families! Come play Bingo at the Library! Prizes will be awarded and lemonade and popcorn will be served. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org 5 Rivers Outdoor Adventure Night (Free) 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 Meet and mingle with local outdoor enthusiasts and enjoy monthly programs. 7pm-8pm; Mobile Bay Audubon Society, 7pm-8pm; Alabama Hiking Trail Society. 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/ activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center 11th Annual Never Forget Free lunch at the Original Oyster House Original Oyster House - Gulf Shores or Causeway location, The Original Oyster House restaurants will honor Mobile and Baldwin County law enforcement, firefighters, paramedics and sheriff officers by offering a free “Never Forget” Lunch at either the Gulf Shores or Mobile Causeway location on Tuesday Sept. 11, 2018 from 11 am to 4 pm. The 11th Annual Never Forget Lunch was established by the Original Oyster House restaurants in honor of the 9/11 First Responders who risked their lives to save, protect and serve and in recognition of all first responders for their service. www.originaloysterhouse.com

Wednesday September 12

Brown Bag in Bienville for Fall (Free) 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM, Bienville Square, Mobile, 36602 Fall is back and so is live jazz! Brown Bag your lunch and sit under the swirl of the oak trees in Bienville Square. Live music provided by the City of Mobile Special Events Dept. and Catt Sirten. www.ncsmobile.org Learning Lunch (Free) 12:00 PM History Museum of Mobile, 111 South Royal Street Mobile , 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. www.historymuwwseumofmobile.com An Evening with Renee Fleming 7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 6 South Joachim Street Mobile, 36602 Renée Fleming is one of the most acclaimed singers of our time. In 2013, President

Obama awarded her America’s highest honor for an artist, the National Medal of Arts. In 2014, she became the first classical artist ever to sing the National Anthem at the Super Bowl. Winner of four Grammy® awards, Renée has sung for momentous occasions from the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony to the Diamond Jubilee Concert for Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace. www.mobilesymphony.org/event/evening-reneefleming

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Thursday September 13

Kids Studio (Free) 4:00 PM Ben May Main Library, 701 Government Street Mobile, 36602 Kids Studio at Ben May Main Library! Children, ages 3-10 are invited to explore contemporary art, music, and literature through hands-on and minds-on activities that stimulate and deepen their understanding of art. This class is free, open to the public and lead by professional art educators. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Girls Just Wanna Have Fun

5:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Government Plaza, 205 Government Street Mobile, 36602 This “must do” event is an evening for ladies 21 years of age and older and features heavy hors d’oeuvres from local area chefs and restaurants, McTini’s and an unforgettable evening of manicures, make-overs, shopping, entertainment and more. www.rmhcmobile.org Girls Night Out at the Pillars 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM, The Pillars, 1757 Government Street Mobile, 36605 Girls Night Out at The Pillars is a fun night out for you and your girlfriends. Come enjoy drinks, food, music, give-a-ways, shopping and more! 251-307-5382 www.thepillarsofmobile.com Domehead Science (General admission is $10 for

adults or children. Member admission pricing is $8 for adults or children.)

6:00 PM Gulf Coast Exploreum, 65 Government Street Mobile, 36602 “Creating Hurricane and Rising Sea Level Resilient Barrier Islands” Followed by a FREE viewing of “The Day After Tomorrow” in the IMAX theater. 251-208-6893 www.exploreum.com Food and Folly ($45 Per Person, $70 Per Couple) 6:30 PM Fort Whiting, 1630 South Broad Street Mobile, 36602 United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile will host our annual Food and Folly event. Enjoy carnival music by the Excelsior Band, a wine grab, silent auction, wine tasting and sample some of your favorite local cuisine. 251-479-4900 www.ucpmobile.org

Friday September 14

LoDa Artwalk 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Downtown Mobile, Mobile, 36602 Celebrating the arts in downtown Mobile! Explore this free monthly showcase of visual and performance arts! www.ncsmobile.org

Saturday September 15

11th Annual GO Run 8:00 AM USA Campus, Mitchell Center Lawn -

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Calendar Moulton Tower, Mobile, 36608 Race to benefit gynecologic cancer research. www.usahealthsystem.com/gorun Coastal Cleanup 8:00 AM Various Locations, You or your organization can volunteer to clean Alabama’s coastal waterways and beaches on Saturday, September 15, 2018 from 8am – 12pm. www.alabamacoastalcleanup.com 3rd Annual Massacre Island (Adult admission is $8 and children admission (Age 5-12) is $4. Free admission for youngsters age 4 & under.)

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Fort Gaines, 51 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 This event is hosted by Fort Gaines and the 6th Alabama Cavalry Buccaneers. Activities will include Flintlock Pistol Duels, Pirate Tug-of-War, Swashbuckling Sword Play, Cannon Firings, Blacksmithing, music by the Kracker Dan Band and a Treasure Hunt for the little ones! 251-861-6992 www.dauphinisland.org/fort-gaines ABBA Shriners Craft & Attic Show ($2, children

under 14 are free)

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Abba Shrine, 7701 Hitt Road Mobile, 36695 We will have amazing crafts, vendors, antiques and attic items for sale. Something for everyone. Bring a new toy for a chance at a door prize. One chance per toy donated. 251-895-3821 www.abbashrinecraftshow.com Recovery Fest 2018 9:00 AM USS Battleship Memorial Parkway, 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, 36602 In observance of National Recovery Month, Recovery Fest 2018 will be a day filled with fellowship, food, music, kids’ activities, inspiring stories of recovery and more! National Recovery Month is held every September to educate Americans that substance use treatment and mental health services can enable those with a mental and/or substance use disorder to live a healthy and rewarding life. 251-433-2703 www.ussalabama.com Kids Studio ($5 or free for members) 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM, Alabama Contemporary Art Center, 301 Conti Street Mobile, 36602 Activities are designed to stimulate young minds while offering cross-curriculum learning opportunities with handson projects. Classes are taught by local artists and trained professional educators. Age 3-10 251-208-5671 www.alabamacontemporary.org Bike MS: Tour de Beach 2018 Spring Hill Suites at The Wharf, 4673 Wharf Parkway West Orange Beach, 36561 This two-day ride is the perfect way to get your gulf vacation and a wonderful ride! Our routes take cyclists along the beautiful Gulf Coast and communities dotting the Mobile Bay. We start each day with breakfast beach side at sunrise, team photos, and start line excitement. Relax post-ride at our beachfront Bike MS Lounge with music, football games, and massages. Saturday night join us for cocktails, live music, and a seafood feast celebrating the accomplishments of the weekend! www.main.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR/Bike/ ALCBikeEvents?pg=entry&fr_id=29944

Sunday September 16

3rd Annual Massacre Island (Adult admission is $8 and children admission (Age 5-12) is $4. Free admission for youngsters age 4 & under.)

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Fort Gaines, 51 Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island, 36528 This event is hosted by

www.facebook.com/mobilebayparentsmagazine

FamilyCalendar Fort Gaines and the 6th Alabama Cavalry Buccaneers. Activities will include Flintlock Pistol Duels, Pirate Tug-of-War, Swashbuckling Sword Play, Cannon Firings, Blacksmithing, music by the Kracker Dan Band and a Treasure Hunt for the little ones! 251-861-6992 www.dauphinisland.org/fort-gaines ABBA Shriners Craft & Attic Show ($2, children

under 14 are free)

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Abba Shrine, 7701 Hitt Road Mobile, 36695 We will have amazing crafts, vendors, antiques and attic items for sale. Something for everyone. Bring a new toy for a chance at a door prize. One chance per toy donated. 251-895-3821 www.abbashrinecraftshow.com 5 Rivers Animal Ambassadors Meet and Greet

(Free)

2:00 PM - 2:30 PM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 Alabama has one of the highest plant and animal diversities in the United States. Join a member of our human educational staff and meet one of the local critter inhabitants from the Mobile-Tensaw Delta and beyond. 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/ activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center Mobile Chamber Music presents the Argus String Quartet 3:00 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, 36608 Mobile Chamber Music presents the Argus String Quartet 251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/ music/upcomingevents.html Bike MS: Tour de Beach 2018

Spring Hill Suites at The Wharf, 4673 Wharf Parkway West Orange Beach, 36561 This two-day ride is the perfect way to get your gulf vacation and a wonderful ride! Our routes take cyclists along the beautiful Gulf Coast and communities dotting the Mobile Bay. We start each day with breakfast beach side at sunrise, team photos, and start line excitement. Relax post-ride at our beachfront Bike MS Lounge with music, football games, and massages. Saturday night join us for cocktails, live music, and a seafood feast celebrating the accomplishments of the weekend! This is sure to be a ride you won’t forget! www.main.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR/Bike/ ALCBikeEvents?pg=entry&fr_id=29944

Monday September 17

of a nature based story followed by arts and crafts. 10-11am, free, no registration necessary. 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/ activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center Teen Tuesday’s (Free) 4:00 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Want to spice up your current journal with some creative ideas and projects? Join us in the Teen Spot and learn how to start a Bullet Journal. Supplies and snacks provided. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Rebecca Mindock, Faculty Oboe Recital 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, 36608 Rebecca Mindock, Faculty Oboe Recital 251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/ music/upcomingevents.html

Wednesday September 19

Thursday September 20

Educator’s Night Out (Free) 4:30 PM - 8:30 PM, Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum Drive Mobile, 36608 Join us at the Museum for an evening planned especially for all educators to mingle and develop new, creative ideas to enrich their curricula. The event will feature networking over wine and snacks, a special tour of current exhibitions (including ART:work, an exhibition of art educators), a tour of the brand new classroom and activity area in the Education Wing, and information about using the Museum School to enhance educational programs in all curricula. Finish the evening with a concert by Abe Partridge, musician and visual artist, who will entertain us in Larkins Auditorium. The event is free and four Professional Development Hours will be awarded. www.mobilemuseumofart.com Historic Mobile Preservation Society Lecture ($10, Free for members)

5:30 PM Oakleigh House Museum, 350 Oakleigh Place Mobile, 36604 Lecture on Octavia Walton Levert - The Civil War Years. 251-432-6161 www.historicmobile.org

September Lunch & Learn (Free) 12:00 PM Jon Archer Agricultural Center, 1070 Schillinger Road North Mobile, 36608 Bring a lunch and come join us for our September Lunch & Learn! Free and open to the public! At September’s event Dale Speetjans from ShipShape Urban Farm will be speaking about sustainable hydroponic farming. 251-574-8445

The Throwdown 5:30 PM Brookley Field, 23 East Mobile, 36615 Make plans to join us for the coolest art event in Mobile, The Throwdown! Five local artists will compete to create works of art in just 90 minutes. All pieces are auctioned off and the piece with the highest bid is declared the winner. www.mobilearts.org

Tuesday September 18

Mobile Pops Concert (Free) 7:00 PM Medal of Honor Park, 1711 Hillcrest Road Mobile, 36609 Mobile Pops concert. www.themobilepops.com

5 Rivers StoryTime “Little Beaver and the Echo” (Free) 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 The 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month is StoryTime at 5 Rivers. This week’s story is about Cows that can use a typewriter! Children under the age of 6 are welcome to stop by for a free reading

Mobile Bay Parents I September 2018

Archduke Piano Trio, Guest Artist Chamber Recital 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, 36608 Archduke Piano Trio, Guest Artist Chamber Recital

251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/ music/upcomingevents.html

Friday September 21

Block Party! (Free) 10:00 AM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Preschoolers-Kick-start your child’s imagination and motor skills. We’ll provide a variety of building materials and have some building fun! www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Mobile HBCU Fest 7:00 PM Mobile Civic Center , 1 Mobile Civic Center Drive Mobile, 36602 Mobile’s Ultimate Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCU) Fest will feature three great events in one evening – a Greek Step Show, Battle of the Bands Featuring Southern University and A&M College VS. Alabama A&M University, AND a concert from rapper Plies! www.mobilecivicctr.com

Saturday September 22

2nd Annual Special Needs Expo (Free) 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Life Center t St. Pauls, 28788 North Main Street Daphne, 36526 Mobile Bay Parents Magazine and Eastern Shore Parents Magazine are hosting their 2nd Annual Special Needs Expo. Admission is free and attendees will have the opportunity to visit with exhibitors and learn about products, support groups, recreational activities, healthcare, therapy and other services for children and adults with special needs. 251-304-1200 Kids Fishing Day (Free) 8:00 AM Safe Harbor Pond, 11401 US-98 Fairhope, 36532 Kids Fishing Day is annual event when children can fish--for FREE--and enjoy the outdoors with family! Held at Safe Harbor Pond by the Weeks Bay Foundation office on Highway 98, west of the Fish River bridge, this is a great opportunity for children 15 and younger to cast a line in a safe and fun environment. The Foundation stocks the pond with locally-raised catfish, and each child can take home up to three fish. The Foundation also provides fishing gear and bait for children who do not have their own, plus hotdogs, snow cones and more! www.weeksbay.org St. Jude Walk 8:00 AM USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, 36602 Let’s end childhood cancer. Together. Register, form a team, and invite your friends and family to join. Or, join an existing team. www.fundraising.stjude.org/site/TR/Walk/ Walk?pg=entry&fr_id=89668 2018 Mobile Walk for ALS 10:00 AM Hank Aaron Stadium, 755 Bolling Brothers Boulevard Mobile, 36606 The Walk is a celebration with live music, free snacks, games for kids and more! If you are interested in volunteering or being a part of our planning committee, please email us at walk@alsalabama.org. www.walktodefeatals.org Inaugural Event for the Marion Deane Drummond Lecture Series (Members: $30, Non-members: $35) 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Mobile Botanical Gardens, 5151 Museum Drive Mobile, 36608 Sponsored by the

www.mobilebayparents.com

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Spring Hill Garden Club, this day will be filled with wonderful speakers and fabulous food by Georgia Roussos Catering. Dr. Brian Axsmith will speak in the morning and Dr. Dave Creech will round out the afternoon. Lunch and a special mid-afternoon dessert reception will allow for gracious time to visit with Marion’s friends and family from Baton Rouge and beyond who will make their way to Mobile joining us for what will surely be a wonderful day. 251-342-0555 www.mobilebotanicalgardens.org Kids Studio ($5 or free for members) 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM, Alabama Contemporary Art Center, 301 Conti Street Mobile, 36602 Kids Studio is a weekly program that encourages children ages 3-10 to explore contemporary art. Activities are designed to stimulate young minds while offering cross-curriculum learning opportunities with handson projects. Classes are taught by local artists and trained professional educators. Age 3-10 251-208-5671 www.alabamacontemporary.org Mobile Fashion Week 2018 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, The Fort of Colonial Mobile, 150 South Royal Street Mobile, 36602 We are excited to take over The Fort of Colonial Mobile on September 22, 2018! We are doing it again for our 7th year of Fashion Week, we are bringing every facet of the fashion industry together to support a local charity. From models to designers, makeup artists to hairstylists, bringing them all together to support Camp Rap-A-Hope. This year we are hoping to donate the largest check over to this amazing camp for kids with cancer. www.mobfashionweek.com

Sunday September 23 2018 Walk to End Alzheimer’s -

Mobile Bay Area 1:30 PM USS Battleship Memorial Parkway, 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile, 36602 Join us for the 2018 Mobile Bay Area Walk to End Alzheimer’s. When you participate in Walk, your fundraising dollars fuel our mission, and your participation in the event helps to change the level of Alzheimer’s awareness in your community. 205-379-8065 www.act.alz.org/mobilebay Sunday Matinee: Silence of the Bees (Free) 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 Beginning in the winter of 2006, millions of bees vanished from their hives without a trace. A precious pollinator of fruits and vegetables, the disappearing bees left billions of dollars of crops at risk and threatened our food supply. Join researchers as they scramble to discover why the honeybees are dying in record numbers— and to stop the epidemic in its tracks before it spreads further. 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/ activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center

Monday September 24

Mobile Pops Concert (Free) 7:00 PM MGM High School Auditorium, 4275 Snow Road North Mobile, 36575 Mobile Pops concert. www.themobilepops.com

Tuesday September 25

Peter Wood, Faculty Trumpet Recital 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, 36608 Peter Wood, Faculty Trumpet Recital

251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/ music/upcomingevents.html

Wednesday September 26

Brown Bag in Bienville for Fall (Free) 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM, Bienville Square, Mobile, 36602 Fall is back and so is live jazz! Brown Bag your lunch and sit under the swirl of the oak trees in Bienville Square. Live music provided by the City of Mobile Special Events Dept. and Catt Sirten. www.ncsmobile.org Spare Time, Leisure, and Recreation in Alabama (Free) 6:00 PM USA Archaeology Museum, 6052 USA Drive South Mobile, 36608 Join us on Wednesday, September 26, 2018 at 6pm for a guest lecture presentation by Frances Robb, social, cultural and photograph historian and museum consultant and Alabama Humanities Foundation Road Scholar. 251-460-6106 www.southalabama.edu/org/archaeology/museum/index.html

Thursday September 27

Teen Art Scene at the Library (Free) 3:30 PM West Regional Branch , 5555 Grelot Road Mobile, 36609 Express Yourself! Want to create and expand your artistic endeavors? Bring your ideas to the Teen Spot. Enjoy the time and space to be creative. Supplies and snacks provided. www.mobilepubliclibrary.org Downtown Get Down 5:30 PM Cathedral Square, Mobile, 36602 The Hargrove Foundation is hosting a block party festival at Cathedral Square the evening of Thursday, September 27th. Called the Downtown Get Down, the event is for the community to join together for live music from The Underhill Family Orchestra, food from local restaurants and food truck vendors, drinks, kids’ zone area, lawn games, and much more! All proceeds will benefit the Hargrove Foundation for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) related initiatives in the area www.hargrovefoundation.org/2018-downtown-getdown Historic Mobile Preservation Society Lecture ($10, Free for members)

6:00 PM Cox-Deasy Cottage, 115 Palmetto Street Mobile, 36603 Lecture and Book Signing for A Poisoned Life: Florence Chandler Maybrick, the First American Woman Sentenced to Death in England 251-432-6161 www.historicmobile.org Vintage Affair 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Fort Whiting, 1630 South Broad Street Mobile, 36605 Join us for Vintage Affair benefiting the American Cancer Society. www.gala.acsevents.org USA Symphony Band and Wind Ensemble Concert 7:30 PM Laidlaw Performing Arts Center, 5751 USA South Drive Mobile, 36608 USA Symphony Band and Wind Ensemble Concert 251-460-6136 www.southalabama.edu/colleges/ music/upcomingevents.html

Friday September 28

Healthcare Hauntings II 8:00 PM Mobile Medical Museum, 1664 Springhill Avenue Mobile, 36606 Our fall fundraising event, Healthcare Hauntings, returns for a second year in a new, more grown-up format. Modeled after ultrarealistic haunted house attractions like Baton Rouge’s 13th Gate, Healthcare Hauntings will transform one of Mobile’s oldest homes with several “healthcare

horror” scenarios performed by actors in indoor and outdoor areas. Visitors will encounter grave robbers, witches, sadistic dentists and quack doctors, diseaseridden patients, and a chainsaw-wielding surgeon. Up to 10 visitors at a time will pass through the house in three 15 to 20 minute rotations per hour. We will also feature food trucks from The Kraken (Friday) and Ben’s Burga Kaboose (Saturday) and a DJ! The Saturday matinee event on September 29th will be a lights-on, toned down version for visitors under the age of 18. 251-415-1109 www.mobilemedicalmuseum.org

Saturday September 29

Delta Dash 9:00 AM Lower Bryant’s Landing, 8900 Lower Bryants Landing Road Stockton, 36579 Experience the Delta like never before. A 5K obstacle course race designed to challenge the heart, body and soul. The goal is simple…provide participants of all lifestyles and ages with an opportunity to test endurance, stamina, resilience, quick decision making skills, animal instinct and the ability to enjoy a face-full of mud, leaves or whatever else the terrain throws their way. The Delta Dash will take place on over three miles of wooded terrain where several obstacles will be encountered. Obstacles could be anything from crawling in the mud, wading through a creek, a mega slip-and-slide, scaling hay bales or something else (we aren’t going to tell you all our secrets). www.deltadash.org 30th Annual Jubilee Festival of Arts (Free ) 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, 1700 Main Street Daphne, 36526 The 30th Annual Jubilee Festival of Arts in Daphne Alabama is set to attract thousands to the oak-lined Main Street on September 29th and 30th. Art, music & seafood meet southern charm at this annual festival set along the Eastern Shore of Mobile Bay. 251-928-6387 www.eschamber.com/page/JubileeFestival-Welcome Kids Studio ($5 or free for members) 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM, Alabama Contemporary Art Center, 301 Conti Street Mobile, 36602 Kids Studio is a weekly program that encourages children ages 3-10 to explore contemporary art. Activities are designed to stimulate young minds while offering cross-curriculum learning opportunities with handson projects. Classes are taught by local artists and trained professional educators. Age 3-10 251-208-5671 www.alabamacontemporary.org Healthcare Hauntings II 1:00 PM Mobile Medical Museum, 1664 Springhill Avenue Mobile, 36606 Details September 28. 251-415-1109 www.mobilemedicalmuseum.org

Sunday September 30

30th Annual Jubilee Festival of Arts (Free ) 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, 1700 Main Street Daphne, 36526 The 30th Annual Jubilee Festival of Arts in Daphne Alabama is set to attract thousands to the oak-lined Main Street on September 29th and 30th. Art, music & seafood meet southern charm at this annual festival set along the Eastern Shore of Mobile Bay. 251-928-6387 www.eschamber.com/page/JubileeFestival-Welcome

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Support Groups & Classes Tuesday October 2

5 Rivers StoryTime “Giggle, Giggle, Quack”

the culture of this awesome city on the rise. www.ten65festival.com

struggles and learn ways to begin to cope with the pain and daily stressors that trigger the hurt. This group is free to attend. Call for times and locations.

Classes/Meetings

The Family Center The Family Center’s classes in Mobile and Daphne are free and offer free childcare WITH minimum 24HOUR RESERVATION. Night class includes supper and giftcards. All classes provide a certificate of completion. The Family Center of Mobile *Nurturing Parenting course teaches parenting skills such as teaching cooperation and peaceful bedtimes. Wednesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., 12-week rotating series. Call 251479-5700 to register. *The Responsible Fatherhood Program (RFP) classes are Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6-8 p.m., but REQUIRE ADVANCE INTAKE APPOINTMENT. See daily listings for class topics. *Mondays: Together We Can, a cooperative parenting course, 8 weeks. *Tuesdays: Quenching the Father Thirst, (Four things every dad needs to know), 12 weeks. *Thursdays: Chill Skills Stress/Anger Management training, 4 weeks.251-479-5700 for information on all Family Center classes. All held at 601 Bel Air Blvd, Suite 100, Mobile. www.familycentermobile. org or www.Facebook.com/FatherhoodMobile.

(Free)

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 The 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month is StoryTime at 5 Rivers. This week’s story is about Cows that can use a typewriter! Children under the age of 6 are welcome to stop by for a free reading of a nature based story followed by arts and crafts. 10-11am, free, no registration necessary. 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/ activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center 5 Rivers Outdoor Adventure Night (Free) 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM, 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Boulevard Spanish Fort, 36527 Meet and mingle with local outdoor enthusiasts and enjoy monthly programs. 7pm-8:30pm; Mobile Bay Sierra Club, 7pm-8:30pm; Mobile Bay Canoe and Kayak Club 251-625-0814 www.outdooralabama.com/ activities/5-rivers-alabama-delta-resource-center

Wednesday October 3

Alabama Coastal BirdFest Various Locations, Join us Oct. 3–6 for the 15th annual Alabama Coastal BirdFest, a birding and nature festival! There will be many opportunities to see birds, alligators, wildflowers, dolphins, and other wildlife—and learn about their habitats. Plus, we will offer workshops at 5 Rivers Delta Center. BirdFest showcases great bird- and nature-watching spots all around Baldwin and Mobile counties, including Fort Morgan, Dauphin Island, Weeks Bay, Mobile-Tensaw Delta, Bayou La Batre, Forever Wild Grand Bay Savanna, Gulf Shores, and more. BirdFest is a great adventure no matter your level of birding experience. 251-990-5004 www.weeksbay.org/events/alabamacoastal-birdfest/

Thursday October 4

Alabama Coastal BirdFest Detials October 3. 251-990-5004 www.weeksbay.org/events/alabamacoastal-birdfest/

Friday October 5

Alabama Coastal BirdFest Details October 3. 251-990-5004 www.weeksbay.org/events/alabamacoastal-birdfest/ Ten65 Music Festival (Free) Downtown Mobile, Mobile, 36602 Converge on downtown Mobile and experience Ten65—a free, two day event that celebrates music, technology, and the culture of this awesome city on the rise. www.ten65festival.com

Saturday October 6

Alabama Coastal BirdFest Details October 3. 251-990-5004 www.weeksbay.org/events/alabamacoastal-birdfest/ Ten65 Music Festival (Free) Downtown Mobile, Mobile, 36602 Converge on downtown Mobile and experience Ten 65—a free, two day event that celebrates music, technology, and

Mobile Bay Parents I September 2018

APAC - Mobile County Adoptive Family Group Meets the 4th Friday of each month from 6 - 7:30 p.m. Christ Fellowship Baptist Church in Mobile, 445 Azalea Road. Parent, Youth/Teen Group and Childcare Is Provided. Topic Discussions & ceu’s for foster families are offered. For more information please call 251-460-2727 * 1-800-489-1886 * or estokes@ childrensaid.org. Autism Support Group in North Mobile We have a social play room for higher functioning children (4 and up) to engage and relate. The idea is to have a safe place for parents of Autistic children in our community to link up and network with other families. 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month, 6 - 7:30 p.m., Saraland United Methodist Church, 415 McKeough Ave., Saraland. For more info or to RSVP contact Chris Gibson. Email Chrisgibson4149@gmail.com, or 251-281-7312. Breast Feeding Friendly Group (The BFF Group) A place where new moms can get one-on-one breastfeeding help. Get to know other moms within the same community and possibly become a mentor. Breastfeeding professionals are able to provide newborn weight checks before and after feeding to help you to know if your baby is getting enough to eat. Nurses and other medical personnel can answer general questions. All are welcome, even if you haven’t delivered yet. Spouses and other support partners are also welcome. Every Monday from 5:30 to 7 p.m. (Except major holidays). We meet at The Allen Cox Building Conference Room, 205 Lambert Avenue, Mobile. Bridge Support Group The Bridge support group is a place where parents with similar experiences come together to share stories, advice and love. These families have had babies who: were stillborn, born with a lethal anomaly (such as Trisomy 13, Trisomy 18, skeletal dysplasia, anencephaly) or had a baby that only lived in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Our families are from all over the Gulf Coast and all have beautiful stories to tell. 1st Tuesday of every month, 5:30pm-until. Dinner is served. Meets in 1st floor conference room of Strada Center, 1601 Center Street, Mobile. Contact information: Rene Sprague RN, MSN rgilstrapsprague@health. southalabama.edu 251-610-5264. Please RSVP if you plan to attend. Circle Of Hope, Sexual Assault Support Group Group meets every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month. Call Lifelines Counseling Services to schedule a 30 minute appointment before attending the group 251-431-5100. COH is a support group for victims of sexual violence to share in their

La Leche League Mobile Bay Area Breastfeeding support meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month at 10:30 a.m. Meetings are free and open to all women with an interest in breastfeeding. Babies and children are welcome. For information or support contact a leader.

251-689-2085, amandaLLLmobile@yahoo.com, meghanLLL@yahoo.com, or michelleLLLmobile@ yahoo.com. Facebook: La Leche League Mobile Bay Area. Survivors of Suicide Support Group Meets the 2nd & 4th Friday of each month from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Lifelines Counseling Services, 705 Oak Circle Drive, Mobile. SOS is here to provide a supportive and judgement-free environment for you to express yourself and share your story. What can you expect? •A place to find support •A comfortable environment to express yourself •A judgement free environment •Resources for grieving Mobile Infirmary Hospital For complete information about class dates,

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times, and locations, or to schedule a tour of our maternity center, please call childbirth education office at (251) 435-2000. • Birthing Basics Class This course is for parents who either have already experienced childbirth or who prefer to attend just one class because of time constraints. The four-hour weekend session (with breaks) includes a tour and all birthing information. The fee is $30 for patients delivering at Mobile Infirmary. Preregistration is required; call 435-2000. Every last Sunday of the month. 3:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. • Cancer Support Group Meets every 4th Tuesday of the month from 10-11 a.m. • Gastric Band Support Meets every 3rd Thursday of the month from 6-7 p.m. • Gastric Bypass Support Meets every 2nd Thursday of the month from 6-7 p.m. • Preparation for Childbirth Series This series of classes includes all aspects of labor including natural coping skills and epidural anesthesia. Class participants will practice comfort measures and learn about post-delivery and newborn care. Providence Hospital: www.providencehospital.org Providence Hospital offers a variety of classes on Childbirth Preparation. All classes meet in Conference Room 1, (located just inside the front doors in the main lobby of the hospital by the gift shop), unless otherwise specified. Preregistration is required for all classes, and fees are collected in class. To register for classes, please visit our website at www.providencehospital.org, Women’s Services and click “Childbirth and Breastfeeding Classes. If you have any questions, please email us at maternityservices@ascension.org or call 251266-1749. Spring Hill Medical Center: www.springhillmedicalcenter.com • Better Breathers Support Group Meeting For people with pulmonary disorders. Meets on the fourth Monday of each month. 2-3 p.m. Gerald Wallace Auditorium. For more information, call 461-2438. • Breastfeeding Class One Wednesday per month. 6:30-8:30 p.m. at The Family Center. Benefits of breastfeeding, getting started, going back to work and FAQs are covered. Call 340-7770 early to pre-register. • Childbirth Preparation Classes Four consecutive Mondays (6:30-9 p.m.) at The Family Center. Register early. The class covers onset of labor, inductions, Cesarean sections, relaxation, anesthesia and postpartum. Includes a tour of the

maternity units.Cost: $25 if delivering at Springhill Hospital. Call 340-7769 early to pre-register. • Childbirth Preparation: Accelerated Course: One Saturday per month. 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. at The Family Center. Ideal for those who live out of town or will be delivering soon. $25. Call 340-7769 early to pre-register. • Me, Too! A Tour for Siblings: Noon on the First Sunday of the month. Join us for an individualized tour and instruction for siblings ages 9 and younger. The event includes a tour of the maternity areas and tips on helping parents with the new baby. Parents must remain with their children. By Appointment. Call 340-7769. • Infant CPR: Learn this potentially lifesaving technique while you are pregnant or soon after your baby’s birth. Covers infant CPR and choking. $5 if delivering at SMC. 6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. The Family Center (Bldg. 2, Fourth Floor). Call 340-7769 early to pre-register. • Resolve Through Sharing: For parents who have lost a child before or immediately after birth. Meets the fourth Monday of every month, 7-8 p.m. Gerald Wallace Auditorium. Call 460-5323. USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital www.usahealthsystem.com/usacwh Classes: Advance reservations are required and may be made by calling 415-1069. No children at classes, please. Class size is limited. Advanced payment required to secure your reservation. If you are expecting multiples or having a c-section, please call for additional class information. • Preparing for Childbirth: All-day Saturday class for the expectant mother and her support person (coach). Topics include: pregnancy changes, labor, role of the support coach, relaxation and breathing techniques, vaginal and cesarean births, postpartum care, and a tour of the maternity areas. Fee per couple: $30. You should plan on beginning the 3-week series when you are approximately 28 weeks pregnant. Class will meet in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital. Every other month, 9-2. • Childbirth in a Nutshell: This class includes a brief overview of labor and a tour of the maternity areas. Class meets first Tuesday every other month from 6:30-9 p.m. in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital. Fee per couple: $15. • Breastfeeding: This one-night class is for expectant and newly delivered mothers and their support persons who want to learn about breastfeeding. Class meets second Thursday from 6:30-8:00 p.m. in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital Fee: $5. Registration Information: Credit card payments are accepted by calling 415-1685. Mail payments for classes to: University of South Alabama, Children’s & Women’s Hospital, Education Department, 1700 Center St., Mobile, AL 36604.

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

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Alpha

The Meg

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

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

Crazy Rich Asians

The Darkest Minds

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

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

Mobile Bay Parents I September 2018

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Help Alabama

Shine!

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

“Happy to be part of this survey.”

“Thank you for checking on us!”

Actual comments from survey responses.

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