Mobile Bay Parents June 2013 by KeepSharing

The Best... Just Got Better.

415-1000 www.usahealthsystem.com/usacwh

Contents June 2013 Volume 3 Number 3

Features 32 Potty Training at Night

Discover reasonable expectations for your children and also how to promote dry nights for them as soon as possible.

36 Choosing Childcare

Get the facts, do your homework and trust your judgment as you search for the right preschool/daycare fit for your family.

39 2013 Childcare Directory

Our listing of Mobile Bay childcare centers offers details to help you narrow down your search, begin personal visits and make a decision.

Columns 2 From Dad of the Month 4 Living With Children John Rosemond, Ph.D.

Kids Health

52 Homeschooling Comes of Age

Learn how technology is changing the face of homeschooling and opening the option up to more families than ever.

On The Cover

Mike Little, D.O.

Departments 6 Bits and Pieces

30 Dave Says

13 School Bits

Dave Ramsey

31 A Page in a Book

54 Family Calendar

34 Get This!

60 Parent Previews

Paige Gardner Smith

35 The FlyLady Marla Cilley

Eric Givens (age 3) is the son of Lindsay and Danny Givens. Proud grandparents are Angie and Randy Lee and Margie Givens. Eric loves playing golf with his Daddy and spending time at the beach. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s looking forward to becoming a big brother in late September.

Visit www.MobileBayParents.com

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

Mobile Bay Parents Mobile’s Foremost Parenting Source

Mobile Bay Parents Magazine is founded on the principle that parenting is an exciting, diverse, challenging, and significant, role in our community. Mobile Bay Parents Magazine is a community advocate for families and the parenting process.

Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@mobilebayparents.com

Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@mobilebayparents.com

Associate Editor Kelly Watson

Research Editor Lucy Green

Advertising Sales Lynn Knighton Leslie Hall Danielle Nicholas ads@mobilebayparents.com or (251) 304-1200

Contributing Writers Marla Cilley Malia Jacobson Mike Little, D.O. Dave Ramsey Michele Ranard, M. Ed. John Rosemond Michael Schubert Paige Gardner Smith

Cover Photography Oracle Imaging & Design www.oracle-weddings.com

President Jason Watson jason@mobilebayparents.com

Visit us online at www.mobilebayparents.com Mobile Bay Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: P.O. Box 81105, Mobile, Alabama, 36689. The phone number for voice and fax is (251) 304-1200. Mobile Bay Parents is copyrighted 2013 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Mobile Bay Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

From Mobile Bay’s DAD of the Month... What a privilege to be called “Father”, much less father of the month. When Mobile Bay Parents asked me to be the “Father of the Month” my first reaction was, “Yeah!” Then I started to think, “Well, do I deserve that?” There are billions of fathers in the world, but only one is the father to five-year-old Anslee. And God in all his wisdom chose to make me that guy. That, in and of itself, makes it special. I was given a life to form and mold and watch flourish into a young woman, one who will someday succeed in no small part due to the decisions I make on a daily basis as she grows. I’m a single dad and I get asked a lot, “Is it a challenge doing it alone?” I always find it to be a bit of an odd question. Sure, naturally it’s a little more difficult doing it alone (although my awesome mother is a great help), but anything worth doing in life takes some work. How many women out there can raise a hand to the fact that they are married, but do most of the child rearing alone? Just because someone is married doesn’t make them a great father and not being married doesn’t make you a bad one. The only thing that matters is stepping up to the task and doing what’s best for your child. And do I find that to be a challenge? Not at all! I consider it an honor and a privilege. What a world of opportunity that lays before me and my daughter! I envision the trips we will take together to far flung locations around the globe and the people and places we will see. But when it’s all said and done none of that will matter. What will matter is that in the hard days and in the good, I was there for Anslee. When she scraped her knee I was there, when she performed in her first dance recital I was there. She’ll remember that her daddy was always there just for her. I’m not perfect, but the good thing is you don’t have to be. It’s all about the effort and being involved. We don’t get any of these days back so it’s important not to take them for granted. So if you feel like your failing in the parenting department, don’t worry. I have good news for you...it’s not too late. Make a dedicated effort to set yourself to be the best parent you can be for each day. It’s also important to have a great support system. I own an antique mall downtown and it consumes a good portion of my day. It’s important to me that when I can’t be around my daughter she is around people who share my same beliefs and will instill in her the same virtues I do. I’ve been blessed that my church also has a school and I get to watch my princess “graduate” from K-5 very soon. That, along with a sweet girl in my church who watches Anslee for me every afternoon, is a big help. It is a comfort to know I have loving, nurturing people around her all day who feed positivity into her life. If you’ve had trouble finding that for your children or if you’re just getting started down that road of trying to find good daytime care, make sure you read Choosing Childcare, by Michele Ranard. Then, take a close look at our 2013 Childcare Directory for a detailed listing of local centers and all they have to offer. Whatever road you take in life, just make sure you do everything you can to make sure your child stands on your shoulders and reaches farther and does greater than you. I’m Michael Schubert and I do my very best and step up to the plate every day. How about you?

Michael Schubert 2

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In 2011, 82 people ages 10 to 24 died by suicide in Alabama.

Social support is the best protective factor against suicide.

Talking about suicidal thoughts helps reduce the pain.

There are more suicides than murders in Alabama every year.

1 suicide in the US occurs every 14.2 minutes.

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• It is a confidential call. No one will know you called but you. • If you or a friend are having suicidal thoughts, just talk about it...to a friend, to a teacher, to a coach, to a leader, to us...but TALK! Visit www.MobileBayParents.com

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

Living With Children

By John Rosemond

Suspend Privileges for Underachieving Child Q:

Our 17-yearold is a highly spoiled underachiever. As a junior in high school, he’s failing two classes and borderline in the rest. We know that his problems are largely due to our parenting style. We read your book on teens and have made some progress, but we’re feeling a sense of urgency. We’re ready to do some drastic things. Where do you think we should start?

A: As you now realize, your son is

in dire need of a major wake-up call. Start by stripping his room down to bare essentials, taking away any and all electronic devices, and suspending all of his privileges, including driving. Inform him that his normal life will be restored when he has improved his grades to no less than what he’s capable of and sustained the improvement for eight weeks. Anything less will invite cursory improvement, then backsliding. You could get stuck in that sort of manipulative back-andforth forever. Unfortunately, this is an eleventhhour action. Obviously, the earlier parents intervene in a problem, the better the prognosis. On the other hand, it’s better to do something late than to never do anything at all. At this point, there’s a lot of history (and momentum) behind your son’s motivation issues. Getting him to turn himself around is going to require a unified front and calm, purposeful resolve. Don’t expect to see consistent progress for at least six weeks. Keep the faith, stay the course, and be fully prepared for things to get worse before they begin getting better.

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When parents finally pull the rug of over-indulgence out from under an underachieving child, the typical reaction is full collapse along with complaints from the child to the effect that since he has no privilege, he now has nothing to care about; therefore, he is not going to do anything to bring up his grades until certain privileges are restored. Believe me, this is nothing more than manipulative self-drama, soap opera, with a heavy dose of attempted hostage-taking thrown in. It’s an attempt to get the parents to question their judgment and begin negotiating. “Will you give me my cell phone back if I bring my grades up for a week?” or “If you give me my cell phone and driving privileges back, I’ll bring my grades up, I promise.” Don’t do it! If your son begins making promises of that sort, don’t believe a word he says. Simply smile and tell him that if he can bring his grades up for a week, he can surely bring them up for two weeks, then three, then eight. Keep reminding him that you’re not asking him to do any more than he is capable of. If you give him even the proverbial inch, he will think he can make you give up the proverbial mile. In no time, you’ll be right back where you started from, but he will know that he can beat you at your own game. So, don’t play games. Go into this fully prepared for backlash of one sort or another. His reaction is likely to include anger, self-pity, and threats of running away or other equally silly things. This is your golden opportunity to get control of your relationship with your son. Given that he’s 17, it may be your last opportunity. Don’t blow it.

Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.

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Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

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Market on the Hill at a New Location

Join us on Thursday afternoons from 2 - 6 p.m. from May 23-July 25 at our New Location – Corner of University Boulevard and Old Shell Road. Shop for Fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods, plants, honeys, handcrafted artwork and More! For more information, visit www.ncsmobile.org.

Kids Days at Bienville Square

Bring the kids out for some summertime fun to Bienville Square each Thursday in June and enjoy live entertainment, arts and crafts and visits from the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, the Mobile Police and Fire Departments and much more! Free! Join us every Thursday June 6 through June 27 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Babysitting Basics Online Class

Designed primarily for youth ages 11 and older, this online course will prepare students to be better babysitters. Topics include how to provide care for infants and children; how to stay safe; what to do in an emergency; how to choose ageappropriate activities; and how to recognize and handle a variety of behaviors. Students will also learn the basics of starting a babysitting business. This course, which includes a final exam at the end, takes about 4 hours to complete. Students who successfully complete the course will receive a printable certificate. The cost is $25. To sign up for this class, please visit http://www.redcross. org/take-a-class.

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Kyser Miree Memorial Fishing Tournament

Join us for the 2013 Kyser Miree Memorial Fishing Tournament on June 15th at Dauphin Island Marina. Weigh dock closes at 4:30 p.m. There will be a free t-shirt, live music, free food, free beverages and door prizes for those who purchase their $30 ticket. Categories will be red snapper, king mackerel, speckled trout, flounder and white trout. Prizes include Yeti coolers, Breakline and Costa Del Mar sunglasses and much more. Also, if you buy a Kyser/ Stripers combo ticket for $50, you’re eligible to win $25,000 for catching the state record red snapper or speckled trout. If you don’t fish, buy your ticket anyway and come enjoy the festivities. Tickets may be purchased at kysertournament.com. For more info call Bry Shields 251-753-0911 or Sam Schjott 251-656-3243.

Thursdays at the Museum of Art Summer Edition: Bring the Kids

During the dog days of summer, when the days are long and hot, simply head to the cool scene at the Museum. On select Thursdays in June, July, and August, current exhibitions will serve as inspiration for free activities for kids. In the Grand Lakefront Gallery, 5 – 7 p.m., Museum educators will offer know-how and supplies to help youngsters create their own personal masterpieces. Check the museum website for more info as summertime nears. Please visit http://www.mobilemuseumofart.com/ for more information.

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Healthy Moments Expo and Zumbathon to Benefit the Breast Center

Healthy Moments Expo will be held June 25th from 4 - 7 p.m. at Heron Lakes Country Club located at 3851 Government Street in Mobile, followed by a Zumbathon at 7 p.m. benefiting the Breast Center of Providence Hospital. Free entry into the Health Expo and $10 donation to be a part of the Zumbathon. We will have several items being raffled as well as a Silent Auction. Kymberly Soule', Owner of Studio Glitz Productions has hosted several of the Health & Wellness Expo's since she was diagnosed with Cancer in 2009. Studio Glitz Productions is a Ministry that hosts events of all kinds for charity including fashion shows, Christmas and vendors shows and awareness events.

Annual Event at Pirate’s Cove to Raise Autism Awareness

It’s almost time for the annual Illuminating Autism FUNraiser at Pirate’s Cove Marina. May 31 to June 2, organizers expect hundreds of people to come through the doors during the three-day, weekend-long event. The anticipated event benefits High Hopes 4 Autism, an Autism Spectrum Disorder therapy center located on the campus of Saint Benedict Catholic School in Elberta. The event helps defray costs for the therapy center and the families who utilize High Hopes’ services. Aside from live music, there will also be a drawdown for a 2013 JEEP. Tickets are limited making the drawdown a popular attraction at the fundraiser. Many volunteers are needed in order to make the event a success. Those offering their time and talents by working a two-hour shift receive weekend passes, as well as a t-shirt commemorating the event. Music for the event includes: Friday, May 31, 8 p.m.: George Porter Jr., Brian Stoltz, Guthrie Trapp and the All Stars; Saturday, June 1, 11 a.m.: Possum Trot; Saturday, June 1, 3 p.m.: Alvin Youngblood Hart; Saturday, June 1, 7 p.m.: Kelly Poole and The Swingset; Sunday, June 2, 11 a.m.: Sugarcane Jane; Sunday, June 2, 3 p.m.: Grayson Capps and The Lost Minstrels. Tickets for entrance to the FUNraiser are $10 per day. For more information visit www.highhopes4autism.com or call (251) 986-7007.

Keith Harvey Orthodontics Ask us about Insignia Advanced Smile Design. Hi-tech 3D smile design technology creates beautiful smiles quickly and comfortably with fewer appointments; patients can preview new smile before treatment begins.

58 Mobile Street Mobile, AL 36607

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(251) 479-9597

W. Keith Harvey, DMD, PC Orthodontics for Children & Adults

DrKeithHarveyOrtho.com Visit www.MobileBayParents.com

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Donate Items for Camp SMILE and Get a Free Lunch!

Please help Dr. Keith Harvey’s office stock Camp SMILE with supplies! Hosted by United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile, Camp SMILE is a residential summer camp for individuals with disabilities (ages 5 – 50) and their siblings. Here, campers not only have the chance to participate in physical activities like kayaking, fishing, and horseback riding; they also meet others whose abilities and life experiences are similar to their own. We are accepting donations NOW through Monday, June 3rd. To close-out our donation drive we are hosting a Drop-n-Dine event on Monday, June 3rd from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. – drop off your donations and have some lunch on us! 58 Mobile Street, Mobile. 251-479-9597. Needed items include: Baby wipes, Diapers (adult size), Combs/brushes, Travel size toothpaste, shampoo & conditioner, Bug spray, Sunscreen, Rain ponchos, Paper towels, Toilet paper, Extra-large bibs, Band-Aids, Towels/washcloths, Cleaning rags, Lysol spray/Febreeze, Markers, Adult scissors, Face paint, Glue sticks, Duct tape, Masking tape, Swimming noodles tubes, Fishing poles & nets, Gloves (latex free), Ice packs, Solo cups, Clorox wipes, Gift cards to CVS, Wal-Mart, Target, Pens/pencils, Copy paper, Blank CDs/DVDs, Box Fan.

SteadyPace3K and Health and Wellness Fair

On June 8, join this citywide awareness movement and fight against obesity today! Steady Pace 3K Fun Run Walk Against Obesity is the creation of The Advertising Management Group designed to promote health and wellness within our community. We are expecting between 500-1000 participants in this year’s run/walk and post-race Health and Wellness Fair and are hoping to rise over $150,000 to support local programs in their fight against obesity within the community. We are asking for your support to help make this event a success! 7:30 a.m. - 12 noon at Mobile’s Texas St. Park.

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Auburn University to Host Anti-Bullying Summit

The 3rd Annual Anti-Bullying Summit will be held July 10-12, at the Mobile Convention Center. The Anti-Bullying Summit (www.auburn.edu/ anti-bullying) is designed to provide teachers, school administrators, parents, community leaders, law enforcement, mental health professionals, and students with an opportunity to learn ways to address the pervasive issue of bullying in schools and communities. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s program will offer more than 30 sessions that will focus on a broad range of topics, such as creating a safe school climate, the correlation between bullying and school violence, addressing the need for community involvement to prevent bullying, diversity awareness, implementing model programs in schools, and more. All interested parties are welcome and encouraged to attend; however, registration is required. Early registration expires May 31. To register, please visit www. auburn.edu/anti-bullying. For more information, please contact Linda Dean or Teresa Smoot in the Truman Pierce Institute (334.844.4488) or John Freeze in the Office of Professional and Continuing Education (334.844.3107 or john. freeze@auburn.edu.).

Visit www.MobileBayParents.com

Black Women on the Run to Host Running for Rosie 5K and Fun Run

Black Women on the Run (BWOTR) is a free running group on a mission to stay healthy and fit! They welcome all levels including walkers. BWOTR will be hosting Running for Rosie 5K and 1-mile Fun Run on Monday, May 27. The 5k race begins at 7:30 a.m. and the Fun Run begins at 8:30 a.m. The event will feature a one-mile fun run and a 5K race through the beautiful Langan Park in Mobile. Following the race, we will have a health expo, awards ceremony, food and drink, entertainment along with a post-race raffle. A percentage of proceeds will go directly to the American Heart Association. The fees to participate are: Adult - $20, Youth (12 and under): $10, The day of the race: Adults - $25, Youth - $15. You may register for this race online until 10 p.m. on May 24 via: www.active.com/running/mobile-al/ running-for-rosie-5k-run-walk-and-fun-run-2013. You may also register by mail (entries should be postmarked by May 20), in person at McCoy Outdoor or Run-N-Tri in Mobile, or Running Wild in Fairhope until noon on May 24. Race day registration and packet pick-up will be available at the Amphitheater from 6:15 - 7:15 a.m.

Jerry Seinfeld to Perform at Mobile Civic Center

Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier comedian, Jerry Seinfeld, will be performing his signature stand-up routine at the Mobile Civic Center. Seinfeld has been hailed for his uncanny ability to joke about the little things in life that relate to audiences everywhere. His tour will visit the Mobile Civic Center on July 11 at 7 p.m. Tickets available online at Ticketmaster.com, all Ticketmaster outlets, the Mobile Civic Center Box Office or charge by phone is 1-800-745-3000.

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Distinguished Young Women 56th Annual National Finals Set for June 27, 28 and 29

Distinguished Young Women, the national scholarship program headquartered in Mobile, will be held June 27, 28 and 29, at 7 p.m., at the Mobile Civic Center Theater. The DYW Class of 2013, including one participant from each state, will compete in the categories of scholastics (20%), interview (25%), talent (25%), fitness (15%), and self-expression (15%). Tickets are on-sale to the general public and can be purchased through Distinguished Young Women National Headquarters at 251-4383621. Tickets are priced as follows: First Preliminary (Thursday, June 27) - $22/per person; Second Preliminary (Friday, June 28) - $22/per person; Finals Night (Saturday, June 29) - $38.50/per person; Three-night set $82.50/per person. In addition, Distinguished Young Women will host an exciting Community Night on Wednesday, June 26, 7 p.m., at the Mobile Civic Center Theater. Attendees will get a sneak peak at the Distinguished Young Women Class of 2013 as they perform selections from the 56th National Finals Program. Community Night is a free event and open to the public. For more information about Distinguished Young Women, visit www.DistinguishedYW.org.

Wal-Mart Giftcards Available to Participants in Fathers Rock Program

Fathers Rock Mobile and Fathers Rock Daphne offer up to $150 in Wal-Mart giftcards for completing classes and a $10 Wal-Mart giftcard to participants who refer a friend to Fathers Rock. Classes are held at 601 Bel Air Blvd, Suite 100 in Mobile and 27365 Pollard Road in Daphne. Interested fathers should call 251-479-5700 in Mobile and 251-626-1610 in Daphne. Classes available are co-parenting, positive fathering and anger management and are held Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. Free gas cards or bus passes, free supper, free childcare, free class materials and certificate of completion are awarded. This program is not only completely free, you earn to learn! Visit www.familycentermobile.org for more information on this program and others that are offered at The Family Center of Mobile and The Family Center in Daphne.

“Dig Into Reading” with Mobile Public Library Summer Reading Program

The Mobile Public Library’s 2013 Summer Library Program kicks off on Saturday, June 1 from 10 a.m. to noon. Each branch will have prizes, games and crafts to mark the start of “Dig Into Reading”. Set a summer reading goal and children receive a Mobile Public Library tote bag and a Mobile BayBears game voucher for Library night - Friday, July 19 when they register. Special performers, programs, storytimes and events throughout the 6 week program. Visit mplonline.org or your favorite library for details There are also special summer reading programs for adults and teens. For details, visit your local library branch or go to www.mplonline.org. Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

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SMG Mobile Employees Pack Over 450 Bags for Food Bank

SMG employees of the Mobile Civic Center and the Arthur R. Outlaw Mobile Convention Center spent the day packing over 450 bags for the Bay Area Food Bank. The mission of the Backpack Program is to meet the needs of chronically hungry children by providing them with nutritious and easy-to-prepare food to take home on weekends and school vacations when other resources are not available. The Bay Area Food Bank’s Backpack Program is located at schools that have a high incidence of children in need. Each Backpack site distributes a pack of food to each participating child on Friday afternoon. What’s in a Backpack? Backpacks are filled with enough food for six meals and two snacks. The typical backpack contains a variety of child-friendly, easy to prepare food usually including protein and fruit juices, and the cost is $3.50 for approximately 2 to 5 pounds of food. For more information to sponsor a Backpack Program, contact our Nutrition Programs Manager, Darcy Kelley at 251-653-1617, ext. 117 or dkelley@bayareafoodbank.org . Groups are also welcome to pack bags at the food bank. 10

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Grandman Triathlon to Benefit Mobile Bay Area Charities

Springhill Medical Center will host the 9th Annual Grandman Triathlon on Saturday June 1, at 7 a.m. The race will take place in scenic Fairhope, and benefits Mobile Baykeeper, The Baldwin County Trailblazers, the Gulf Coast Area Triathletes and Camp Rap-A-Hope. This event will begin with a swim straight out into Mobile Bay, an 18-mile bike ride through Fairhope’s rolling countryside, and ends with a run along Mobile Bay. Camp Rap-A-Hope is a summer camp that develops new skills and self-confidence for children and teens diagnosed with or battling cancer. The Baldwin County Trailblazers is an organization responsible for providing a system of hiking and biking trails stretching from Battleship USS Alabama to Mullet Point Park, five miles south of the Grand Hotel. The Gulf Coast Area Triathletes is an organization working to support and promote the sport of triathlon in the Mobile/Baldwin County area. Mobile Baykeeper provides citizens a means to protect the beauty, health and heritage of the Mobile Bay Watershed, Alabama’s waterways and coastal communities. The organization works on issues affecting the quality of our water, air and public health. To learn about volunteering for the 2013 Grandman Triathlon, or to become a racer or sponsor, individuals can contact the Mobile Baykeeper office at 251-433-4229 or visit www.thegrandman.com.

Village of Spring Hill Sidewalk-A-Thon a Huge Success

Over 500 participated in the Village of Spring Hill’s second annual Sidewalk-A-Thon raising in excess of $27,000 to be used to construct new sidewalks in the Village. The walk, from the Moorer Branch Library to Lavretta Park, was held on April 26th and led by District 7 City Council member Gina Gregory. It was an exciting event for our community as traffic was at a standstill on Old Shell Road while motorists wondered where everyone was going and why! The finish line party was filled with music, prizes, food and fun for all ages! Proceeds from last year’s event contributed to the construction of 3 blocks of sidewalks on the north side of Old Shell Road from the front of Lavretta Park to Ridgelawn Drive West. This year’s event will fund more sidewalks beginning at Ridgelawn Drive West and continue east. It’s not too late to make your contribution to add more feet to our sidewalks in the Village. You can send your donation to The Village of Spring Hill Inc. 4354-A Old Shell Road #145 Mobile, Al 36608.

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Feed an alligator! Call for details.

Have the best Birthday Party ever here at Nature walk on elevated boardwalk. Alligator Alley! View alligator feedings.

..with an attitude!

See over 300 alligators up close!

Get up close and personal with big alligators!

Field Trips/Birthday Parties available. Fun for the entire family!

Safe for kids!

Open Every Day 10am- 5pm!

1-866-99-GATOR 19950 Hwy 71 • Summerdale, AL Visit www.MobileBayParents.com

www.gatoralleyfarm.com 11

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

Kids Heal h

Sponsored by Children’s Medical Group

Constipation

There can be several stumbling blocks to potty training, especially in the 2nd and 3rd year of life when most children begin holding their bladder and bowel contents. One of the most common pitfalls is chronic constipation and it can be a major source of discomfort, anxiety, and frustration for both child and caregiver. We all have an idea of what basic constipation is, but how and why does it occur? What role does it play in potty training? What are some of the complications caused by constipation? And finally, how can parents help their young children prevent and overcome chronic constipation? To understand constipation we have to start with the basics: “How do we poop?” When the rectum is full, pressure sensors tell our nerves to tell our brains that it’s time to go to the bathroom. For toddlers learning to potty train, it is important that they be in a relaxed sitting position on the potty with feet on the floor or stool so that their hips and knees are in a perpendicular relationship. Anything that prevents them from easily moving their bowels can contribute to recurrent constipation and increased difficulty with successful potty training. This would also include a constipatory diet (beyond the scope of this article). If a toddler has learned that it hurts to poop, they will begin trying to hold it. How many of us have seen our two or three year old doing the tiptoe dance in the corner of the room behind the sofa? As stool withholding becomes more persistent, the size of the stool becomes larger. As stool stays in the large intestine, more water is removed from the stool thus making it firmer. This creates a negative cycle in which

any future stool is only more painful to pass, and the child only tries to withhold his stooling even more. One of the most troublesome consequences of chronic constipation is encopresis. This is a condition of the rectum caused by long-term distension and dilation. Essentially, the rectum becomes “flabby” and the pressure sensors mentioned above no longer communicate with the brain to let the child know that it is time to use the restroom. The child reaches a point where the stool mass in the rectum is so hard it cannot pass and liquid stool leaks around it and stains the underwear. The child has no control over this and it becomes a source of ridicule and embarrassment especially in later elementary school years. The psychosocial consequences can be difficult to deal with until the issue is addressed. Medical management of constipation is determined by the severity and symptoms. For random occurrences that are severe enough, pediatric enemas, milk of magnesia, or glycerin suppositories can help the child move his bowels. To help prevent these random occurrences, proper amounts of fiber and water in the diet are important. Fiber is found in many vegetables and fruits, grainy breads, and beans. Fiber is not digestible, stays in the stool, and helps to attract water therefore keeping the stool softer. If picky eating is a problem, supplements such as fiber gummies and fiber powder that dissolves fairly well in a favorite drink can help. For children who have chronic constipation and/or encopresis, the first thing that I tell mom

and dad is that it can be resolved. What can be difficult to understand and accept is that long term constipation and encopresis will require a long term commitment to particular stool softeners on a daily basis. One of the most commonly used softeners is Miralax or its generic version. It is easy to force the stools to be soft. The more difficult hurdle for young children and parents is the scheduled sitting time on the potty. It may require sitting for 10-15 minutes 2-3 times per day, regardless of whether or not a child stools, to help retrain and reassure the child that the “poop doesn’t hurt anymore.” This daily schedule may take 4-6 months or longer to allow the rectal tone to return to normal. And once a child is slowly weaned off the softener, his success needs to be maintained to prevent relapses. As with any other child rearing recommendation, positive reinforcement for cooperating with the treatment plan is an absolute must for any kid at any age.

Mike Little, D.O. is Board Certified with the American Board of Pediatrics since 2005. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics since 2005. Mike is married to Dixie, his high school sweetheart, and has two children, Carolyn (12) and Nathan (8). Dr. Little practices medicine at the Airport Boulevard office of Children’s Medical Group.

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Knollwood Boys’ Golf Wins Wildcat Invitational

UMS-Wright Preparatory School K4/K5 Easter Egg Parade

Knollwood Christian School boys won the Wildcat Invitational at Silver King Golf Course. Pictured Front L, Watson McAdams, Peyton Armour, Cole Lincoln, Grant Dierking, Bryan Beck, Ben Williams. Back L, Scott Williams, Gordon Mathers, Devon Hill, Louis Herman.

Each year our K4 and K5 students proudly showcase their bonnets and ties that they created with their parents in a much anticipated Easter parade for the entire school. Pictured are Haddon Lauber and Laura Katherine Whiting.

Petting Zoo Visits St. Pius X School

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Bel Air Animal Hospital personal brought a petting zoo to St. Pius X School. Students were able to interact with baby chicks, kittens, puppies and bunnies. Pictured here are first graders Isabelle Pierce, Danaka Perez and Dempsey Rountree.

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Corpus Christi Catholic School Raises Money for Tornado Relief Fund

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Lead by the 5th grade representatives from Corpus Christi Catholic School’s Student Leadership Committee, the school recently raised $1,000 to donate to Little Flower Church’s Tornado Relief fund. The students hosted a bake sale during a parish fish fry and accepted donations from school and church members. Pictured with Fr. Lynes, Pastor at Little Flower, are SLC members Julia Watson and Jack Veasey.

St. Dominic Catholic School Presents Living Stations

The Living Stations are presented annually during the season of Lent by the 8th grade students at St. Dominic Catholic School. This year the Living Stations were presented from the perspective of Mary, the Holy Mother. Songs were chosen by the class to reflect on particular stations. Pictured are: Nick Long (Soldier), Preston Hart (Soldier), Sarah Mathison, (Mary), Dawson Resso (Jesus), Duncan Crow (Soldier), Jackson Rooney (Soldier). Visit www.MobileBayParents.com

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

Causey Student Wins 1st Place in History Day Finals

Causey Middle 6th grade students who participated in this year's National History Day, advanced to the next round judged at Auburn University at Montgomery (AUM) on April 5th. These students represented Mobile County Public School System in the statewide History Day Competition entitled-“Turning Points in History: People, Ideas, Events.” Congratulations to Savannah Teague, 2nd from left, won 1st place in her division with a presentation entitled, “The Making and Breaking of the Berlin Wall.” She will represent Causey Middle School, Mobile County Public School System, as well as the state of Alabama in The National History Day Finals this summer in Maryland. Social Studies teacher and sponsor, Deborah Jones-Kuykendall gives a special thank you to the wonderful parents of Causey Middle School, Mr. James Gill, Principal, Mr. Nate Smith, Social Studies Supervisor, Mobile County Public School System, and Dr. Wyatt Wells AUM. Pictured From Left to Right: Teacher Deborah Jones-Kuykendall, 1st Place Winner Savannah Teague, Kennedy Parten, Rachel Conner, Madelyn Rottger, Madison Houke, Chloe Stagner.

St. Luke’s Students Create Paintings for Mother’s Day

St. Luke's K4 students create and bring home artwork every day...but Mother's Day projects are always something special. This year, Paint and Pals set up an art studio on campus and each K4 student painted a special canvas to present their Moms on Mother’s Day. Dads were invited to join in on the fun and everyone had a great time! K4 student Lauren Hill, paints a beautiful canvas for her Mother's Day present. Her father, Ryan Hill, lends a helping hand.

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Austin Elementary Student Wins Scholarship to Leadership Summit at Harvard

Mary B. Austin Elementary School, with great pleasure announces that one of its talented fourth grade students, Kennyde Williams, won a scholarship to attend the People to People Leadership Summit. The Summit will be held at Harvard University in 2014. Kennyde was nominated by her teacher, Jessica McNellage, because she consistently demonstrates aptitudes for scholarship, leadership, and citizenship. Leadership Ambassadors, chosen for this program, come from across the United States as well as 140 additional countries. They build leadership skills, self-confidence, and relationships with their peers while preparing to become the leaders of tomorrow. The Summit brings to life history, government, and politics. Kennyde will experience: A Congressional Speaker Panel where she will have the opportunity to meet and ask questions of Congressional members and staff; An “insider” tour of the Capitol District featuring the U.S. Supreme Court, Halls of Congress, and supporting areas led by a guide who specializes in the history of these sites; World-renowned speakers - past speakers include Colin Powell, former First Lady Laura Bush, Astronaut Roger Crouch, and Dr. Hamid Al-Bayati, the United Nations’ Ambassador to Iraq; An exclusive Embassy Dinner offering a number of special cultural activities and a formal presentation from key diplomatic officials.

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Semmes Elementary Inducts New Members into Honor Society

The Semmes National Elementary Honor Society held its annual induction ceremony at the school on April 17. Students inducted into this local chapter have maintained an A average in every academic area for the 2012-2013 school year. They exhibit exemplary conduct and interpersonal skills, as well as outstanding work habits. These students will serve for the 2013-2014 school year, as they demonstrate an enthusiasm for scholarship, service, responsibility and leadership. Pictured, Front Row, Left to right: Cade Turman, Sarah McConnell, Lydia Stroud, Laci Vorster, Courtney Miller, Chase Waltman, A.J. Collins; Back Row, Left to right Grace Harrison, Allie Sprinkle, Sarah Taunton, Elise Williams, Laura Ann Lesley, Caroline Peterson, Ava Sprinkle, Baylee Cazalas. Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

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Covenant Christian School 7th Graders Attend Chick-Fil-A Leadercast

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Two 7th graders at CCS, Andrew Dismukes and Andrew Hii, were selected to attend Chick-Fil-A Leadercast on Friday, May 10th. Leadercast is an annual event that is hosted live in Atlanta and simulcast to over 700 locations around America. Some of the greatest leaders in the world from business to sports to military shared their beliefs on how to lead. Condaleeza Rice, Coach Mike Kryzyewski, Jack Wech, John Maxwell, and Andy Stanley headlined this year’s line-up of leaders who shared their ideas to those attending.

Davidson Student Wins Optimist Club Regional Round

Congratulations to Sarah Beth Williams who has won the regional round of the Optimist Club Oratorical contest. She has competed in three rounds of competition so far and has won all three with her speech entitled “Why My Voice Is Important.” She then moved on to a fourth round of competition April 20th in Southaven, Mississippi. We are so proud of you! Go Warrior! Visit www.MobileBayParents.com

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Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

Alma Bryant Archery Team Wins 7th State NASP Championship

The Alma Bryant High School Hurricane Archery Team won the 2013 Alabama National Archery in the Schools (NASP) Tournament title, held this year for the first time in Montgomery, for the 7th consecutive year! Bryant’s team score was a 3442, which established a new record total for Alabama high schools. Wendi Thomas continued her winning ways in the female high school division and top overall shooter with a score of 296 (of a possible 300). Freshman Miles Wilson won the male high school level division for the first time with a score of 295 (of a possible 300), after winning three consecutive state championships at the 6th, 7th, and 8th grade levels. The other archers who rounded out Bryant’s top twelve archers were: Kendall Newell (290), D.J. Barnes (288), Tyler Williams (287), Zach Ryals (287), Mason Johnson (286), Joshua Schjott (284), Nathan Esbensen (284), Morgan Weaver (284), Kayla Graham (282), and Carrie Bentley (279). A list of all scores at the state NASP Tournament can be found at www.outdooralabama.com (link special programs, link archery in the schools, link regional and state competition results). Coach Roy Richardson and the Hurricane Archery Team would like to thank the Alma Bryant faculty, staff, Booster Club of the program, and, of course, our archers for their hard work in ensuring that our program is so successful and represents Mobile County well. Pictured, Front row, left to right – Jessie Dickens, Drew Wilson, Justin Raybon, Cori Williamson, Chirsti Bone, Tyler Williams, Miles Wilson, and Coach Roy Richardson; Middle row, left to right – Assistant Coach Tina Miracle, Assistant Coach Jamie Christian, Kathryn Haden, Morgan Weaver, Carrie Bentley, Cheyanne Dickens, Britini Stevens, Kendall Newell, Brandon Collins, Kayla Graham, and Wendi Thomas; Back row, left to right – Assistant Coach Rebecca Dickens, Connor Herring, Joshua Schjott, Austin Allen, D.J. Barnes, Barney Bosarge, Nathan Esbensen, Zech Ryals, Jarred Warren, and Mason Johnson.

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Clark, Phillips Students Rank Nationally on French Exam

Students in two Mobile County public magnet schools scored among the top in the nation on this spring’s administration of the National French Exam, or Le Grand Concours. Six students at Clark-Shaw magnet school in west Mobile ranked in the Top 10 nationwide. And 15 students at Phillips Preparatory in midtown Mobile ranked in the Top 10. “As a French teacher I feel like this is a neat thing to happen in your career - to have a student do that well,” said Clark-Shaw teacher Sondra Maniatis. “I am extremely proud of these students who have worked very hard for this achievement. I think they’re awesome.” The test, administered in March, has 70 questions. Students who got all 70 questions right are ranked No. 1. Students who got 69 questions right are ranked No. 2. Students who got 68 questions right are ranked No. 3, and so on. About 95,000 students nationwide took the National French Exam, which is sponsored by the American Association of Teachers of French. Nationwide, only 69 students ranked No. 1, and only 207 ranked No. 2. At Clark-Shaw, a total of 11 students took the test, according to Maniatis. Six scored in the Top 10: Will Browning ranked No. 2; Lia Valdez ranked No. 4; Carley Waggoner ranked No. 7; Dubray McNeil ranked No. 9; Cody Dukes and Brittany Glenn tied for a No. 10 national ranking. All of these students are considered national laureates and ranked within the top ten in the state of Alabama. Phillips has a tradition of keeping the students’ scores a secret until an awards ceremony coming up in a couple of weeks. But teacher Angela Kennedy shared this information: 59 7th graders and 48 8th graders took the test; One 8th grader ranked No. 2; One 7th grader and 13 8th graders ranked between No. 4 and No. 10; 20 7th graders and 27 8th graders received the Certificat d’honneur for performing in the 80th percentile on the test, meaning they scored higher than 80 percent of students nationwide who took the test. “We are so proud of our students at Phillips Preparatory School, and we are looking forward to announcing the names of the winners during the upcoming Honors Day Ceremony,” Kennedy said. These local students can take French 1 in middle school and receive high school credit. The test, Maniatis said, “is a great way for students to know how they’re performing with respect to students across the country.

Please email School News to Lynn@mobilebayparents.com by the 10th of the month. Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

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McDavid-Jones Appreciates Partner In Education

This year we are celebrating our 23rd anniversary with ARKEMA as our Partner in Education. Our partnership began December 11, 1990 with an Adoption Ceremony at Rosa A. Lott Elementary School with Atochem North America, Inc. Although both our names have changed, our partnership has remained the same. ARKEMA continues to support our school and touch the lives of all our students, faculty and staff. Although other schools have partners, we know that we have the best! To celebrate our partnership with ARKEMA and to express our appreciation, we took breakfast to the employees on April 9th. Ms. Rebecca Smyly presented Ms. Judy Smith, Human Resources, with a plaque to celebrate the occasion.

St. Paul’s Student Earns Top Composite ACT Score

Danielle Williamson, daughter of Drs. Linda and David Williamson and a junior at St. Paul’s Episcopal School earned a top composite score of 36 on a recent ACT test. Nationally, while the actual number of students earning a composite score of 36 varies from year to year, less than one-tenth of 1 percent of students who take the ACT earn a top score. Among test takers in the high school graduating class of 2012, only 781 of more than 1.66 million students earned a composite score of 36. The ACT consists of tests in English, mathematics, reading and science. Each test is scored on a scale of 1-36, and a student's composite score is the average of the four test scores. Some students also take ACT’s optional Writing Test, but the score for that test is reported separately and is not included within the ACT composite score. In a letter recognizing this exceptional achievement, ACT CEO Jon Whitmore said, “While test scores are just one of the many criteria that most colleges consider when making admission decisions, your exceptional ACT composite score should prove helpful as you pursue your education and career goals.” ACT test scores are accepted by all major U.S. colleges, and exceptional scores of 36 provide colleges with evidence of student readiness for the academic rigors that lie ahead. Danielle’s activities and achievements at St. Paul’s include: Recently elected SGA president for the 2013-2014 school year; First place winner at the state level in the Trumbauer Theatre Festival in solo female comedic acting; Silver medal recipient at the national level of the Scholastic Art and Writing competition for photography; Editor-in-Chief of St. Paul’s student newspaper “The Epistle”; Active in St. Paul’s the theater program, participating in regular theatrics club events as well as Fall and Spring Show; Selected as one of the top twenty delegates in the Youth in Government program in Alabama and will represent the state at the Council on National Affairs this summer; Member of St. Paul’s Upper School Scholar’s Bowl Team; Member of St. Paul’s Student Government Association; Member of the Spanish Club; Studies Advanced Placement Art and Photography at St. Paul’s.

St. Mary EDGE Youth Group Sponsors Easter Egg Hunt for Smallest Parishioners

St. Mary Catholic School students planned a Parish Easter Egg Hunt as part of the St. Mary Parish EDGE YOUTH Group service project. The hunt was a great success held on Palm Sunday on St. Mary Catholic School's Thompson Field. The EDGE Group includes parishioners from 6th grade through sophomore year in high school. Under the direction of Ashely Thompson, St. Mary's EDGE Coordinator, the youth group meets twice a month for Mass, Dinner, spiritual and inspirational discussions, and fun outings. Pictured: front row: Johnathon Huddleston, Greg Brown, William McPhillips, and Abigail McPhillips. Back row: Andrew Snetsinger, James Fibbe, Rachel Potter, Natalie Falls, Mathilde Naman, Morgan Russell as the Easter Bunny, Addison Baucom, Julia Fibbe, Lily Anderson, and Rebekah Keyes.

Corpus Christi School Presents “Peter Pan”

Corpus Christi Catholic School presented the classic production of “Peter Pan,” which is based loosely on the original play by James Matthew Barrie, on May 3 The lead actors in the play include (pictured front to back): Andrew Montgomery as Nana, Emily LaCoste as Wendy Darling, Courtney Calagaz as Peter Pan, Jessica Montgomery as Michael Darling, Amanda Montgomery as John Darling, Emma Pitts as Tinkerbell and Brant LaCoste as Captain Hook. The play was directed by Mrs. Martha Hightower. Visit www.MobileBayParents.com

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

Lighthouse Baptist Academy Students Showcase Musical Talent Students at Lighthouse Baptist Academy in Theodore, Alabama took part in the annual LBA Music Recital on April 4. Featuring over 60 students, the recital included performances by the school band, in its third year in existence, as well as many students who take piano lessons at the school. Pictured: LBA Band with its director, Mrs. Patti Felt.

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McGill-Toolen Inducts New Members into Honor Society

Congratulations to the following St. Dominic Catholic School alumni who were recently inducted into the McGill-Toolen Catholic School Chapter of the National Honor Society. Selected for outstanding performance in the areas of Scholarship, Service, Leadership, and Character are (front row, l â&#x20AC;&#x201C; r) David Blake and Tucker Boshell, (back row, l â&#x20AC;&#x201C; r) Olivia Glover, Josie Lami, Sharon Williams, Sarah Glover, Cate Ankersen, Mary Catherine Cazalas, and Hannah Schexnailder.

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

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St. Ignatius 3rd Graders Put on Impressive Performance

The 3rd Grade play, “The King of Hugh C’s,” was a huge success. The entire 3rd grade student body put in many hours to make this event a hit for the students. The parents were quite impressed with the abilities of all the students. The 3rd grade would also like the thank Mrs. Bailey for all her hard work with the play.

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Cottage Hill Christian Academy Named Blue Ribbon School

In January, Cottage Hill Christian Academy was awarded the title of Blue Ribbon school. “A Blue Ribbon school demonstrates excellence in teaching, student performance, school life and school and community interaction. Blue Ribbon award winners are excellent schools involved in an on-going process of school improvement,” according to The Alabama Independent School Association. The AISA recognizes certain schools in Alabama as a Blue Ribbon school if they meet and/or exceed specific standards, such as the following: Accredited by the AISA; All staff meet or exceed the AISA professional criteria; SAT performance meet and/ or exceed the AISA Complete Battery average (60%) in grades 2, 4, 6 and 8; and/or AISA Complete Battery overall average is higher than the school’s national ability overall average score; Extra-curricular opportunities such as academic, athletic, and arts competition, clubs and organizations, and community service; Distinguished physical appearance of school; On-going process of school improvement (with a required School Improvement Plan); A school-wide Technology Plan developed and implemented; A media center with Internet access to faculty and students, a Computer curriculum for all grades (K512) and all students must have an Alabama Virtual Library card. We students, teachers and faculty are greatly honored to once again be named an AISA Blue Ribbon School for 2012-2013 and look forward to continuing the tradition next year!

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Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

Knollwood Students Receive All-Conference Recognition for CMSAA 2013

David Standifer, Adam Huntley and Dalen Jones of Knollwood Christian School receive allconference recognition from the Christian Middle School Athletic Association for the 2013 season. In addition, David Standifer received the Randy Belt Award given by Mobile Christian to recognize his character and leadership. We are proud of you boys!

Saraland Schools Donate to Goodwill Easter Seals

Earlier this year, Saraland Elementary School, Saraland Middle School, and Saraland High School held an out-of-uniform day as a fundraiser, which raised more than $2,500. The Saraland City School System donated the funds to Goodwill Easter Seals of the Gulf Coast (GES). Over the years, Saraland schools and GES have cultivated a strong partnership, with each organization assisting the other. Saraland schools have shown tremendous support for GES by holding donation drives and participating in fundraising events such as Walk with Me. In addition, the GES medical equipment program has donated equipment and supplies to Saraland schools, including first-aid supplies, wheelchairs, crutches, and special rehabilitation equipment used in special-needs classrooms, and athletic training. Saraland schools and GES share a bond that both organizations hope to build into the future. Pictured (l-r): Marsha Hattenstein, Assistant Principal, Saraland Elementary; Beverly Spondike, Principal, Saraland High School; Frank Harkins, CEO/President, GES; Dr. Wayne Vickers, Superintendent of the Saraland City School System; Randy Henry, Director of Community Resources, GES; Chris Tangle, Principal, Saraland Elementary; Alex Crane, Principal, Saraland Middle School.

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

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St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s First Graduating Senior Class Starts New Tradition

As St. Luke's celebrates the graduation of its first Senior Class, the students and the school continue to create traditions to be carried on for years to come. This year, based upon the recommendation of a senior class member, the school held its first Passing of the Torch Ceremony. After Honors Chapel, Senior Class President Amy Cowling requested that the members of the Senior Class rise from their regular chapel seating and take seats on the stage. Once seated, Amy "charged" the Junior Class with upholding the standards they had set forth and representing the school in the manner befitting a St. Luke's Senior. Amy then lit a candle and shared her flame with the Class Treasurer Chris Enger who passed it on to the next Senior and so on until all Seniors were holding burning candles. The Class of 2014 President Austin Davis then accepted the charge and requested that the members of the Junior Class come to the stage. As each member of the Junior Class crossed the stage, they were greeted by a member of the Senior Class who passed his/her candle to them. The Juniors then returned to the Senior section of seating before accepting the charge and blowing out the candles. Pictured is Senior Class Treasurer Chris Enger as he passes the flame to Allie Cowling. Looking on are Seniors Murphy Mostellar and Adam Miller.

St. Mary EDGE Youth Group Sponsors Easter Egg Hunt for Smallest Parishioners

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Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

Spencer-Westlawn Wins Gulf Coast Resource Grant for Library Books

Congratulations to Spencer-Westlawn Elementary School for winning the Gulf Coast Resource Conservation and Development Grant for $6,400 in new books for the school library. These books will enhance the GAB and Read Time which encourages students to engage in a 30 minute period of silent reading at the end of each day. The school is in the process of updating its antiquated library inventory in which the average book publication date is extremely old and becomes uninteresting to students. The media specialist discovered that the demands were much greater than the library supply, especially as it relates to chapter books. The goal is to increase students’ reading levels by promoting a balance between fiction and nonfiction books. This will help students perform well on the reading potion of the ARMT+ which includes literary, recreational, functional, textual, and information texts. Each student is required to check out one fiction and one nonfiction book weekly. Although the desire to read has increased, students were only able to get those books of interest by somewhat of a lottery system because there were so few to go around due to limited funding. Spencer-Westlawn is committed to educating students with the use of various genres and activities that will increase students’ motivation to read such as GAB and Read Time, Community Reading Buddies, Books Fairs, literacy nights, Read Across America, Read the Most from Coast to Coast, Dr. Seuss Birthday Celebration, the Camellia State Children’s Choice Award, favorite book character dress up, and more. With the help of this grant, they have added more than 400 new and exciting books to the library collection and the students are anxiously awaiting the opportunity to check them out! The excitement for reading at the school grows every day, and school teachers expect that reading scores will grow along with it!

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Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

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St. Luke’s Students Receive State and National Recognition with Duke T.I.P.

Each year, sixth graders who score in the 95th percentile on any component of the SAT are invited to participate in the Duke University Talent Identification Program (T.I.P.). St. Luke's consistently has approximately 50% of each 6th grade class qualify to participate. Students who qualify are invited to take the ACT as 7th graders. Of the 13 7th grade students who chose to take the ACT this year, 6 scored high enough to receive state recognition. William Brandyburg, Tristan Clark, Lincoln Hammons, Parker McPhail, Cole Murphy and John St. Cyr have all been invited to the University of Alabama for the State Recognition Ceremony. Lincoln Hammons also qualified for national recognition and has been invited to the Recognition Ceremony at Duke University. Pictured are the members of the SLES Class of 2018 who qualified for DUKE T.I.P.: Front Row left to right: Chryssa Karavokiros, Sarah St. Cyr, Kenley Catherine Waters, Monica Langan, Mia Walker, Isabelle Nguyen and Katie DeArmon; Second row: Ansleigh Dailey, Kevin Parden, Carson Ashcraft, Renee Duthu, Kaelyn Horn, Cayla Seelhorst; Third row: Lincoln Hammons, Graham Driskell, Nicholas Myers, William Brandyburg and Parker McPhail; Back Row: Nicholas Taylor, John St. Cyr, Cole Murphy and Tristan Clarke. Not pictured: Mark Wilcox and Kevin Zheng.

St. Dominic Catholic School Students Hunt Leprechauns

St. Dominic Catholic School KA students went looking for a leprechaun who left tracks around the school. At the end of their search they found a pot of gold and trinkets. When the students returned to the classroom they found green snacks and drinks.

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Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

Semmes Middle School Symphonic Band Scores High at State Level

The Semmes Middle school's 8th grade Symphonic Band recently performed in a state sponsored Music Performance Assessment. They rehearsed and prepared three songs of various styles, one of which was selected from a state required list. The band was rated Superior, the highest grade awarded. Congratulations Symphonic Band! We are so proud of this accomplishment!

Corpus Christi Students Collect Change for Cystic Fibrosis Foundation

Corpus Christi Catholic School recently participated in “Change for a Cure”, a fundraiser benefitting the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. During the week of April 29th, students, faculty and parents donated spare change each day of the week and raised a total of $4226.10. All are grateful to Army Aviation Center Federal Credit Union who converted all of the change for no fee for this amazing outpour of support. This fundraiser was organized by Corpus Christi 8th graders, Jessica and Amanda Montgomery and 7th graders, Andrew Wentworth and Andrew Heller all for the love for Andrew Heller’s 4 year old little sister, Lilly, who was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at birth. All monies collected will go towards the research needed to find a cure for this fatal disease.

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St. Ignatius Kindergarten Fashion Show Honors Teacher

The St. Ignatius School Kindergarten Fashion Show is one of the most anticipated days of the year. This year each student represented a famous Alabamian. To conclude the show the entire school honored Mrs. Karen MacDonald who has taught Kindergarten at St. Ignatius for 32 years. Pictured here with Ms. Dil Hobbs (‘Grandy’ to all the students). We are all honored to have known you all these years. The most impressive part of the afternoon was when everyone who has had Mrs. Mac as a teacher was asked to stand. What a wonderful footprint you have left on our school, Mrs. Mac.

UMS-Wright AP Art History Class Visits Museum

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UMS-Wright’s AP Art History class visited Birmingham Museum of Art and Montgomery Museum of Fine Art during spring break. Pictured L to R back row: Colby Allen, Connor Morris, Brown Sisson, Robert Hope; L to R front row: Mrs. Roberts, Annie Maisel, Hannah Maisel, Mary Jo Martino.

Please email School News to Lynn@mobilebayparents.com by the 10th of the month. Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

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UMS-Wright’s 6th Grade Visits Pensacola Naval Air Station

UMS-Wright’s 6th grade went to the Pensacola Naval Air Station. While there they went through a program that the museum has to learn about mass, weight, density, composition of the many gases in our atmosphere, buoyant force in fluids, and the effects of air pressure on our bodies at different altitudes. They toured the main floor, engaged in activities, completed worksheets, and practiced flying planes in the flight simulators. Pictured are UMS-Wright 6th graders with a Blue Angel.

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Covenant Christian School Students Create and Donate Painting to Classmate’s Family

Fourth grade art students at Covenant Christian School recently donated a large collaborative painting they created to the family of classmate Zachary Haataja. The students decided to gift this painting to the Haataja’s after learning their home was severely damaged by the Christmas Day tornados in Mid-town Mobile. Student artists, left to right: Front Row - Elena Ruble, Clarissa Fountain, Garrett Reaves; 2nd Row - Nick Fulmer, Mason Kendall, Patti Haataja (Covenant Science Teacher); 3rd Row - Jacob Pittman, Cate Sanders, Camille Tims; 4th Row - Mary Mac & Ashton Roach, Glory Hartman, Lane McLaughlin Meg Hannan; 5th Row - Gillian Burk, Autumn Wyatt, Keller Matheny, Caroline Tremblay, Lauren Field, Alex Devenney, Cristi Patrick; 6th Row - Kimberly Charest, Zachary Haataj, Raelee Keator, Ben Dale, Jackson Gazzier and Dylan McCabe; Student artists not pictured, Alaina Pearce & Hayden Phillips.

St. Pius X Holds Student Showcase

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St. Pius X School held its annual Student Showcase on Wednesday evening, May 8, in the school auditorium. Pictured here is Mrs. Laura Betbeze aka Coconut Tree, and her students singing "Chicka Chicka Boom Boom".

Semmes Kindergartners Perform for Community

The Kindergarten classrooms at Semmes Elementary put on a program for their parents and the community on April 16th that they called “Barnyard Hullabaloo.” The teachers and students danced and sang the night away as parents and members of the community admired their farm animal costumes and acting talents. The students performed skits that went along with the barnyard theme. The following day, the Kindergartners performed the program once again for the school community and received lots of laughs and praise for all their hard work! Visit www.MobileBayParents.com

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

C Fu Induction Held for Order of St. Ignatius

The Order of St. Ignatius was inducted on April 21 at the 10 a.m. Mass. The Order of St. Ignatius had many projects this year but the most recent was raising over $10,000 in just under 3 weeks to enable the group to pack 20,300 meals for men, women and children in Burkina Faso, Africa. The Order of St. Ignatius then hosted a lock-in May 3 to pack the meals for shipment. The parish is extremely proud of this group for all they have accomplished this year. Pictured (not in specific order) Robert Dominick Anderson, Elizabeth Frances Baker, Lindsey Charlotte Baker, Savannah Aneke Barlar, Jerry Max Barnes, III, Thomas Benton Barnett, Georgianne Gray Barton, Mary Zimmermann Bertucci, Jackson Bush, Margaret Louise Carey, John Gregory Carwie, Jr., Kristina LaShay Clarke, Christopher Cochran, Hayden Edward Constantine, John Taylor Cooper, Jr., James Vickers Courtney, Jr., Timothy Joseph Deighton, Hallet Hanlon DeMouy, Cecilia Ann D'Olive, Matthew Mark Duffey, Andrew John Dunne, Katherine Ann Dunne, Patrick Reed Dunne, Madelyn Vaughn Franklin, Bailey Marie Gardner, John Russell Goodloe, IV, Catherine Rose Gordon, Charles Lansing Green, Jr., Gabriella Maria Guardalabene, Stephen James Hand, Jr., Thomas Daniel Hannahan, Caroline Eades Harris, John Simms Harrison, Joseph Lawrence Hendrich, Mary-Christian Michael Herrin, Jean Allen Hope, Camille Chamberlain Hunt, Lillian May Hutchisson, Annie Elizabeth Immel, Thomas Arthur Immel, William Bullock Inge, IV, Skylar Steven Langan, Phoebe Alexis Lee, Andrianne Kate Leynes, Ann Bradley Long, Madelyn Claire Lott, William Clyde Lott, III, Thomas Luce, Michael McKean, Makenzie Menaker, Jeremy Bacon Milling , Jr., Sarah Elizabeth Naman, Megan Thoa (Twa) Nguyen, Curran Elizabeth Nicholas, Lucas Evangelo Nicholas, III, Claire Lorraine Powers, Tanner Amelia Pringle, Annah Murray Robinson, Elizabeth Hartley Robinson, Tyler Paul Rocconi, Madeleine Grace Schultz, Joseph Kent Seiter, Benjamin Joseph Smith, Rachel Christina Smith, John Leo Strope, IV, Molly Torbert Sullivan, Ruth Dickson Thames, Jackson Kemp Thornton, Mason Thomas Watts, Loring Albert Wilder IV, Thomas Jay Woodford, Jr.

Pearl Haskew Elementary Celebrating Readers and A Moment in Time

Mary G. Montgomery Students Compete at Public Speaking Contest

The Accelerated Reading Program, more popularly known as AR, is a computerbased reading management system that includes a database of thousands of books ranging in reading levels from one to twelve. Student’s checkout books on their reading level and take a test consisting of multiple choice questions with five or ten questions. This year Pearl Haskew Elementary achieved Master School Status. This means that at least 85% of the classrooms were Model or Master Classrooms and at least 60% of those are Master Classrooms. Pearl Haskew 5th graders will step back in time by digging up and opening a time capsule that was buried with the first exiting class of PHES seven years ago. Those students are graduating seniors this year and have been invited to return, along with some of their teachers, to share this momentous occasion with Haskew’s current 5th grade classes. The seniors and fifth graders will enjoy seeing the items that were buried on the grounds of the school. After reviewing the contents of the time capsule, the current fifth graders will bury a new time capsule that will not be opened until they become high school graduates in the year 2020! Pictured: Colton Mceachern reading to Hiro

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

On April 18, Erica Powell and Alex McQueen competed in the 4th Annual High School Public Speaking Contest sponsored by the University of South Alabama’s Department of Communication and the Mobile County Commission. Erica Powell was a finalist taking first place in her small group round of competition. Mrs. Skelton, public speaking teacher/coach, would like to congratulate both Erica and Alex on their outstanding performances; both students worked hard and represented MGM well. Advertising: 251-304-1200

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Castlen Student Raises Funds for School Library

Fourth grader, Kayla Shish, attends Castlen Elementary School. Kayla is an avid reader and enjoys reaching her Accelerated Reader goal every quarter. Recently, Kayla had trouble finding books in the school library that she hasn’t read yet. With continuing budget cuts the selection in the media center hasn’t changed all that much over the years. Kayla took it upon herself to do something about it! Kayla started her own fundraiser selling items that she made out of designer tape. These items included hair bows, wallets, purses, even book bags. Kayla raised $538 for Castlen’s library media center. Her actions have touched the heart of her principal, Pam Adams and the school media specialist, Cheree Douglass. Her continued community service is remarkable. Kayla is the student council vice-president, she is a member of the Honor Chorus, she has perfect attendance, and is on A-B Honor Roll.

St. Pius X Third Graders Visit Festival of Flowers The St. Pius x third grade classes visited the Festival Flowers hands-on exhibit on March 23. Students observed and learned how to prepare a compost pile and created a terrarium among other activities.

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St. Luke’s accepts all qualified applicants without regard to gender, race, religion, national or ethnic origin.

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Cottage Hill Christian Academy Class Reaches 100% of Reading Goal

Miss Jordanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s K5 class at Cottage Hill Christian Academy began participating in the Accelerated Reading program for the first time recently. For third quarter, their first quarter in the program, all of her students succeeded in reaching 100% of their reading goal. We are so proud of them! Pictured: (Left to right) Top Row: Caedon Howard, Samuel Keller, Houston Winter, Benjamin Oliver, and Shawn Miller. Middle Row: Parker Stinson, Nathan Vo, and Dylan Odom. Bottom Row: Ansleigh Ishee, Andrea Ball, Reagan Constantine, Emily Burt, and Hallie Dickinson. (Not Pictured: Kenlinn Bedgood).

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St. Dominic Students Raise and Release Butterflies

St. Dominic Catholic School Kindergarten students completed a unit of study on the life stages of Monarch butterflies by releasing them in the Mary Garden at St. Dominic Catholic Church. In the classroom, students were able to observe the caterpillar, chrysalis, and butterfly stages. Seth Lollar and Holli Trinh are shown with their teacher Amy Murphy with one of the butterflies.

Theodore Students Meet 'Close Up' with Congressman Bonner

Student members of the Theodore Close Up Club met with Congressman Jo Bonner in March during their annual Washington, D.C. visit. Back row: Adrian Wilks, Jarred Graham, Leonard Biancardi, Montrase Ward, Garrett Lowe. Front row: Brandy Rowe, Gracie Hutto, Jenna Berg, Samantha Lee, Katelyn Holland, Sarah Ross, Shanavia Carson.

Schools Partner to Keep America Clean

Pillans Middle and B.C. Rain High School students got a jump start on The Great American Cleanup. On Friday, April 5, these students began cleaning up Old Military Road. With their trash bags in hand and tools to pick up the trash, they hit the ground running on this city project. Thank you to the Pillans Task Force Members and the Pillans Ambassadors for helping to lead the campaign.

Please email School News to Lynn@mobilebayparents.com by the 10th of the month. Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

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St. Mary Catholic School McGill-Toolen Prep Band Receives Honors

Congratulations to our St. Mary Catholic School students, members of the McGill-Toolen Prep Band who received awards in the recent Solo-Ensemble competition under the direction of Prep Band Director, Steve Sims. Solo-ensemble is a competition where students form small groups and perform an ensemble and can play a solo for judges who listen and evaluate. The ratings are based on sound, tempo, and starting and stopping together. The highest awards are superior and excellent. Of all Catholic Schools, there were 30 superior ratings and one excellent rating. Our St. Mary students received the following awards: The following Ensembles received a Superior Rating: Cheney David, Grace Jensen, Scotty Russell, and Sebastian Bodden.; Cecelia Melton, Cheney David, Grace Jensen, and Sebastian Bodden; Cheney David, Scotty Russell, and Sebastian Bodden; Hayden Tuite, Andrew Thompson, Emily Doyle, and Nick Rugs; Andrew Thompson, and Hayden Tuite; Cecelia Melton, Grace Jensen, Cheney David, Scotty Russell, and Sebastian Bodden. In the Solo Competition, the following students received Superior Ratings: Caroline Elliot, Grace Jensen, Scotty Russell, Cheney David, and Andrew Thompson. Congratulations to our own Hayden Tuite for receiving the Excellent Rating in the Solo Competition and to Cheney David for advancing to the White Shirt Status in the band. Pictured during practice: St. Mary Prep Band Students with Band Director, Steve Sims: left to right are Sebastian Bodden, Steve Sims, Tyler Richard, Scotty Russell, Cheney David, Grace Jensen, and CeCe Melton.

Now Accepting Rising Eighth Graders for Health Science Camp

Slots are still available for rising eighth-graders in Mobile County to attend a summer camp to learn about careers in the health field. The Mobile County Public School System is hosting its Health Science Explorers Camp June 3-7 at Faulkner CareerTechnical Center in Prichard. Participants will learn CPR and first aid, and they will be exposed to career possibilities. The camp is from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. on those days. It is FREE and snacks will be provided. To sign up, contact Faulkner CareerTechnical Center at: 221-5431. The Mobile County school system is also hosting its Girls Can camp at Bryant Career-Tech Center in Irvington. Slots have already filled. Rising freshmen and sophomores at Girls Can camp will learn about careers in the construction industry. That includes welding, carpentry, electronics, plumbing and HVAC.

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Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

Q. I’m divorced and have a teenager who will be driving soon. What would be the best way to set up insurance for the child?

put it in your name for now, especially if you’re putting money toward the purchase of a vehicle.

Q. My mother-in-law has a serious credit card problem. She can’t afford stuff, but she shops anyway, acquires more and more credit and thinks she’ll pay for it all later somehow. Her husband has bailed her out a few times, but he’s unwilling to do it anymore. My wife and I, and her sister, want to address this issue, but where do we start?

I suppose a break-up does change the dynamic somewhat, but with my kids I simply left the car in my name and paid the extra insurance cost for a little while. For me, still being in control of the car as a dad outweighed the additional money I was paying in premiums. Having a minor child running around in the world with his or her name on a car title is not a good plan. Then, when they turned 18, I put each of their cars into their names. This, of course, was dependent on them behaving and acting responsibly. They were legally liable at that age, too. I’m sure the insurance costs went up, but at that point the financial risk and liability factors were on them, not me. In this kind of situation, especially because there’s more of a potential for disagreements, I think I’d do it that way. Just

First of all, you need to stay out of the discussion. This is something for her daughters to handle, and her husband needs to be part of it, too. He’s closer to this and feels the effects more than anyone else in the family. They need to sit down with her in a closed setting, where there are no interruptions, no television and no one else. Start with the fact that they love her and care about her deeply. This part is really impor-

tant. But they also have to walk through what’s going on, and let her know they’re tired of watching her destroy herself and her marriage with this immature and irresponsible behavior. Everyone involved should understand going in that they’re likely to receive a volatile, angry reaction from this lady. Sometimes people get ticked off when they hear the truth, especially when it’s connected to their own misbehavior. It may even be a good idea for your wife, her sister and your father-in-law to get some advice from a family counselor beforehand. What we’re really talking about here is an intervention. If she were a drunk, you’d want to try and make her see how alcohol was hurting her and the relationships she has with her family. Basically, she has a credit card addiction, and it’s wreaking havoc on her marriage and their financial well-being. Show as much love and understanding as possible, but someone has to say something and draw a line in the sand. Otherwise, this behavior will eat everyone alive!

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A Page in a Book

by Paige Gardner Smith

Getting a Grip on Graphic Novels

With the immense popularity of the Wimpy Kid, Big Nate and Captain Underpants graphic novels, it’s no surprise that middle-grade readers and pre-teens are looking for more graphically illustrated book series with enthusiasm. Not just for comic-book compilation anymore, publishers are producing a much larger variety of graphic novels to suit the tastes of these growing readers as their reading skills and tastes mature. The following titles are highly recommended for readers who are ready to move up into more advanced reading coupled with the play-by-play illustration that characterizes the best of graphic novels.

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Amulet: Book One: The Stonekeeper

by Kazu Kibuishi (Scholatic) When their mother is kidnapped and carried away by a creature not-of-this-world, siblings Emily and Navin cross a fantastic hidden threshold into that world to try and rescue her. Armed only with an amulet that dispenses some degree of advice and help, Emily strives to protect her brother as they venture further afield in this foreign land to save their Mom. As they discover allies (and enemies) along the way, they also find mysteries that multiply with each answer they secure. Compelling, inventive and beautifully illustrated in full-color, the Amulet series offers a continuing story with additional novels that will keep readers hooked and always on the lookout for the next Amulet!

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The Stickman Odyssey: An Epic Doodle

by Christopher Ford (Philomel / Penguin) If you imagine Homer’s Odyssey as the spring board for a graphic novel idea…then lose the spring board, drain the pool and turn it into a skateboard park… you’ll have the beginnings of ‘The Stickman Odyssey.’ With only a passing nod to the original tale, Ford’s take on the Greek saga introduces Zozimos who is banished from his home in Sticatha, condemned to sail upon stormy seas, slay monsters, and pursue quests – all in an effort to get back home. The stick-figure illustrations are stunningly comedic and expressive, and don’t miss a beat of real character development in this book. Irreverent, irrepressible and on-target for middle-grade readers, this laugh-out-loud graphic novel will convince every reader that there’s more to stick men than meets the eye!

Mal and Chad: The Biggest, Bestest Time Ever

by Stephen McCranie (Philomel / Penguin) Mal’s a brilliant kid, a genius, with a talking dog named Chad. But no one knows it. He’s flying under the radar, coming across as simply a dorky kid to those around him, including Megan, the girl he’s crushing on (just a little). The upside to being so smart is that when you’re tasked with an assignment for school, you may have the extra talent and tools to score big. With his (man’s) best friend, and advisor, Chad by his side Mal takes on time-travel itself to look into his future by going into the past! With shades of “Calvin and Hobbes” and elements of “Dexter’s Laboratory”, the ‘Mal and Chad’ series are ideal next-step books for reluctant readers and for graphic novel fans!

Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.

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Potty Training After Dark

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The Road to Dry Nights by Malia Jacobson

When my first daughter showed signs of potty readiness at age two, I was more than ready to help her ditch the diapers. Before long, she was proudly sporting Elmo underwear and staying dry all day long. I was ecstatic. As a potty-training novice, I was certain that it would be a matter of weeks before she was dry at night, too. Of course, reality wasn’t nearly as neat and tidy. Although daytime training was quick and easy, nighttime dryness proved elusive. Months passed, and she pottied like a pro during the day but clung fiercely to diapers at night. After two long years (and many unsuccessful attempts) she finally started waking up dry, and we packed away the diapers for good. In retrospect, it was no big deal: it’s highly common for a four-year-old to wear a diaper to bed. Eventually, most kids achieve nighttime dryness without intervention. But I could have avoided some anxiety if I’d known all of that going in. Our situation was far from unusual; experts say that many parents need to adjust their expectations about nighttime dryness. According to Tai Lockspeiser, M.D., assistant professor of pediatrics at The Children’s Hospital in Aurora, Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

Colorado, nighttime bladder control is a maturational process that can lag behind daytime bladder control by months or years. Twenty percent of kids still have nighttime accidents at five years of age, and doctors don’t define bedwetting until children are six years old. So it’s completely normal, even expected, for kids to take their time with nighttime potty training. But the delay leaves many parents like me stuck in a waiting game, wondering when daytime potty learning will carry over into nighttime dryness. While parents can’t speed up the developmental process, they can help encourage dry nights with these simple steps.

dryness is to practice good daytime habits, notes Steve Hodges, M.D., a pediatric urologist at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center. Children should use the toilet as soon as they feel the urge— holding can strain the bladder and worsen nighttime wetting, he says. And using the toilet before bedtime is a must.

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Encourage Digestive Health

“Constipation is probably the most underappreciated cause of bedwetting,” says Hodges. “It plays a role in thirty percent of the cases I see.” A full bowel puts pressure on the bladder, making nighttime accidents more likely.

Cut Caffeine

Age Matters

Start with realistic expectations. While 88 percent of kids develop nighttime bladder control by age six, the timeline varies widely. Boys typically train more slowly than girls, says Lockspeiser. Kids who are exceptionally deep sleepers and those with developmental delays may have more difficulty with wetting as well, she says.

Potty Practice

The best way to encourage nighttime 32

Limit fluids two hours before bedtime, particularly caffeine-containing beverages. “Caffeine is a diuretic, so it promotes urination. Drinking it before bedtime will make it harder for kids to stay dry at night,” says Lockspeiser.

Ensure Nighttime Toilet Access

Ensure that kids have access to the toilet at night. Nightlights in hallways and bathrooms can help kids find their way easily. If the trek to the toilet is too far or involves stairs that tots can’t navigate on Advertising: 251-304-1200

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their own, parents can place one of the small portable toilets commonly used for potty-training in their room at night.

Skills versus Pills

Doctors may recommend treatment options for persistent wetting that doesn’t resolve by age six. Bedwetting alarms, called enuresis alarms, help children learn to stay dry by waking them at the first sign of wetness. Medicines like desmopressin can help prevent accidents by slowing nighttime urine production. While pharmaceutical treatment can be useful for special situations—sleepovers or vacations, for example—it doesn’t help to correct a bedwetting habit, says Robert W. Collins, Ph.D., a psychologist who specializes in childhood toileting problem. He prefers alarms over pills: “Medications don’t enhance learning to give kids the skills to stay dry.”

Health Matters

See a doctor if a child who has been potty-trained and dry at night for months begins wetting at night. A urinary tract infection is a common culprit for sudden

wetting. “We also consider stressors or social challenges, like a move, a new school, or divorce,” says Lockspeiser.

Staying Clean: Encopresis

Start with realistic expectations. While 88 percent of kids develop nighttime bladder control by age six, the timeline varies widely.

What about kids who soil at night? Encopresis is the term for soiling in inappropriate places after age four. While nighttime soiling in preschoolers and school-age children is much rarer than bedwetting, it’s also more emotionally distressing for the family and socially isolating for the child, says Collins. His website, www.soilingsolutions.com, is a resource for parents dealing with encopresis.

Healthy Habits

First, take a look at their daytime bowel habits. “Chances are, a child who is soiling at night is holding during the day,” says Collins. Dietary changes, increased fluid intake, and changes to the child’s daily routine can help encourage regular elimination during the day. If improved daytime habits don’t

resolve the problem, families can progress to more advanced encopresis treatment, which may include supplements, suppositories, and behavioral therapy to treat severe constipation and holding habits. The good news: these treatments have a high success rate and kids benefit from increased confidence and self-esteem as the condition improves. Parents’ attitudes are highly important as kids develop nighttime control. “Treat it as a problem-solving exercise—a family science experiment,” says Collins. Above all, make sure that children know that nighttime wetting or soiling is not their fault. Maintain a relaxed, supportive attitude, and you’ll pave the way for a future filled with clean nights and happily dry mornings. Malia Jacobson is a freelance writer and mom who writes frequently about kids sleep and health issues.

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Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

Taking to the Air

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Things are looking up in kids toys! From remotecontrolled flight vehicles to airborne toys that catch air and waft on the wind, taking to the air has never been easier (or more affordable) for little hands! Just as man has always eyed the skies for the next step in innovation, children are among the first to feel the desire to defy gravity and look toward the sky as their next avenue of exploration. Get ready for lift-off with the following toys and gear that let little ones test their wings in flight!

by Paige Gardner Smith

The AFO Flash Flyer

Backyard Flyer Classic Race Ace

(Daydream Toys) Unlike many airborne vehicles that must be retrieved, the AFO (Alien Flying Object) disc flies like a boomerang! Using its retractable whip cord, one strong pull sends the disc spinning and lifting from its base and toward the sky before it wends its way back home. The spinning action activates LED lights in the vehicle so it can be enjoyed in the evening skies as well. With a smooth, rounded axis on the top center of the disc, this toy can be enjoyed indoors as well, skimming walls and ceilings without leaving marks or damage. Super easy to use and always fun for kids and adults alike, the AFO Flash Flyer is top flight, day or night!

(Kid Galaxy) With enough wide open space, all you need is the will to fly and the Backyard Flyer Classic Race Ace. This plane needs only tenseconds of charging time on the hand-held base before a young “air traffic controller” can aim for the skies and launch their own plane. Constructed with ultra-light EPP foam, the biplane design extends the flight time to around 45 seconds. The charging base and launcher are one and the same, so there’s a minimum of gear needed to get out into the open air of fields and playgrounds, aim for the wild blue yonder and launch a plane skyward on an airborne adventure!

Glow-in-the-Dark Stomp Rocket

Air Swimmers

(Air Swimmers) One of the coolest toys to take to the air recently is the Air Swimmers line of dynamically designed inflatable Mylar balloons that are directed with radio control! Mimicking the sedate, graceful motion of fish underwater, the lofty moves of these Air Swimmers make it easy for young pilots to direct and guide these dynamite dirigibles through an ocean of air. The frustrations that sometimes accompany trying to maneuver speeding remote-controlled cars, disappears as kids enjoy plenty of time for aeronautical corrections. Whether you’re guiding a slivery shark, a boss bass or colorful clownfish, kids will take to an Air Swimmer just like a fish takes to water!

(Stomp Rocket) One of the most popular time-tested flight toys just got better! With a more stable tripod base, a bigger capacity blast pad, kids can get a cleaner launch with just a heavy flat foot on the blast pad. The harder kids stomp, the higher the flight. Approaching dusk is not a problem with the Glow-in-the-Dark Stomp Rockets. The luminous foam material makes after dark tracking easy as these rockets pierce the night. No batteries or special fuel required – all kids need to get to launch are open skies and an enthusiastic stomping foot!

Paige Smith is a freelance writer and syndicated columnist living in Alabama. More on GET THIS! at www.PageBookMedia.com.

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Beloved Queen or Despised Dictator?

by The FlyLady, Marla Cilley

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Which are you? Beloved Queen or Despised DICTATOR! The tone of your voice says it all! Why do we torture our family with hurtful words? I can tell you why. You are so stressed out and feeling like a martyr. This has got to stop! I can help you get rid of the stress, but it is up to you to curb those angry words. Once you change your martyred outlook to one of blessing your family and giving teaching moments, you will see a change in them. It is by your example that your family will begin to help and support your efforts to secure a peaceful home. What does your wicked tongue do to your children, your husband and you?

realize you are barking nasty remarks their way? Have you become oblivious to the torture you have inflicted upon your loved ones? There is absolutely no excuse for this. I don’t want to hear that this is the only way you can get your family to do anything. This is the lie that you tell yourself to not feel guilty. Your tongue can criticize or it can encourage. The choice is all yours. If you have not changed your attitude, then how can you expect to see a change in them? It has to come from the heart. If not they will see right through you. They may not even believe it at first, because you will

not be sounding like the mother they have been used to all their lives. The children may think the aliens have taken their real mother away. Prove to them and their father that you have changed. Sprinkle your words of love, encouragement and teaching all over your home. Apologize for your tongue. Don’t play the martyr game anymore. I want you to FLY without the guilt of harsh words holding you down. For more help getting rid of your CHAOS, check out her website at www.FlyLady.net or her book, Sink Reflections, published by Random House, and her New York Times Best Selling book, Body Clutter, published by Simon and Schuster. Copyright 2012 Marla Cilley. Used by permission in this publication.

1. It doesn’t tell them you love them. 2. It makes them feel less than, it hurts their self-worth. 3. They feel that they have no say in things. 4. It makes your husband feel that he is married to his mother! I don’t even want to go there. 5. They feel like servants instead of family members. 6. Harsh words are worse than a whipping. 7. Your family cuts themselves out of the conversational loop because they fear retribution. 8. Home life is based on the fear of not making mother mad. 9. Family members go hide from you. 10. They become afraid to tell you when something happens. After those words have come from your lips, just how do you feel then... laden with guilt or do you not even Visit www.MobileBayParents.com

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Choosing Childcare

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Get the facts. Do the homework. Trust your judgment. by Michele Ranard, M.Ed.

Choosing a healthy, safe place for your child to thrive and learn is a daunting decision. But take a deep breath. Quality options for daycare and preschool are out there. It’s important to gather information, do the legwork, and ultimately trust your gut.

Get the Facts: Narrow the Possibilities

Begin your search early. Ann Douglas, author of Choosing Childcare for Dummies, suggests embarking upon your quest between eight weeks and a year before your back-to-work date. Contact your local child care referral agency by checking Child Care Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

Aware, a national consumer education parent hotline (1-800-424-2246) and web delivery system (www.childcareaware. org). The National Child Care Information Center (1-800-616-2242 or www.nccic. org) is also a good start. Ask the referral agency about licensing requirements in your area and how to collect information about complaints or licensing violations. Ask about financial assistance programs for which you may qualify. Also, be sure to investigate the many child care options in the River Region in Montgomery Parents’ 2012 Child Care Directory immediately following this article!

Home Daycare or Center?

Home daycare may make sense. 36

Providers tend to have flexible hours (especially helpful for atypical work schedules). They may have less rigid schedules and policies which set you at ease. If it is important that your caregiver be open to lots of individual accommodations (i.e. irregular naptimes), a home provider might suit you and your child best. Some home providers are regulated, but many are not so it’s a personal choice. Licensed daycare centers offer many advantages. Centers may hire certified early childhood educators with training in child development as well as clearly outlined policies. Also, having more than one caregiver on the premises provides peace of mind (especially if you’re concerned about TV watching or unfamiliar adults in Advertising: 251-304-1200

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a home setting). Centers offer reliability so you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to scramble for care if one caregiver is ill or on vacation. The spaces in a center are typically kid friendly and designed with safety in mind. Because of government regulation, child to caregiver ratios, safety requirements, and criminal record checks are standard.

Do the Homework: Visit and Assess Quality

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends you consider the following 13 guidelines as you evaluate the quality of a provider: *Supervision. Are children supervised at all times, even when they are sleeping? Is discipline positive, clear, consistent, and fair? *Handwashing/Diapering. Hands should be scrubbed with soap and water for at least 10 seconds and then rinsed and dried. Faucets should be turned off with a paper towel. *Director Qualification. Director should hold a B.A. degree and have worked in child care at least two years. *Teacher Qualifications. Lead teacher should hold a B.A. degree in a child-related field and have worked in child care for at least a year. *Child:Staff Ratio. One family home caregiver should care for only two babies. The fewer children each caregiver cares for, the better. *Immunizations. Does the provider have records proving that other children are up to date? *Toxic Substances. Are cleaning supplies and pest killers kept far from children? *Emergency Plan. Are first aid kits and emergency plans in place? *Fire Drills. Are these practiced monthly? *Child Abuse. Can caregivers be seen by others at all times so a child is never alone with one caregiver? Have all caregivers gone through a background check? Have all caregivers been trained to prevent, recognize, and report child abuse? *Medication. Is it kept out of reach and labeled properly? *Staff Training. Have all caregivers been trained in first aid and CPR? *Playground. Is it developmentally appropriate, clean, and inspected regularly for safety?

Quality Preschools

The National Association for the

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• SEPARATE 1ST-6TH GRADE CLASSES • AVERAGE PUPIL-TEACHER RATIO OF 15:1 • A BEKA BIBLE-BASED CURRICULUM • REMEDIAL HELP IN READING & MATH • VOCAL & INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC PROGRAM

EXCELLENT JUNIOR & SENIOR HIGH

1. Children spend most of their time playing and working with materials or with other children. 2. Children have access to various activities throughout the day. 3. Teachers work with individual children, small groups, and the whole group at different times during the day. 4. The classroom is decorated with children’s original artwork and projects. 5. Children learn numbers and the alphabet in the context of their everyday experiences. 6. Children work on projects and have long periods of time to play and explore. 7. Worksheets are used rarely, if at all. 8. Children have an opportunity to play outside in a safe play area every day. 9. Teachers read books to children individually or in small groups. 10. Curricula are adapted for those who are ahead as well as those who need additional help.

Trust Your Judgment: Notice your Gut

• FULL RANGE OF COURSES FOR GRADES 7-12 • ACT & COLLEGE PREP • MATH HELP CLASSES • BOYS’ & GIRLS’ INTERSCHOLASTIC SPORTS

CHILD CARE SERVICES

• BEFORE SCHOOL FROM 6AM-8AM • AFTER SCHOOL FROM 3PM-6PM • SUPERVISED, STRUCTURED, SAFE • SUMMER DAY CAMP

NEW STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITY

AT LIGHTHOUSE BAPTIST ACADEMY Distinctively Christian. Academically excellent. Call the school oﬃce for more info & details about registering for the 2013-2014 school year.

RANDY TEWELL, ADMINISTRATOR | JOHN FELT, PRINCIPAL 6335 SWEDETOWN RD. N., THEODORE, AL 36582 251-653-6542 | WWW.LBATHEODORE.COM Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

Education of Young Children (NAEYC) suggests the following 10 signs are indicative of a good preschool:

One of the most helpful factors to consider when choosing a provider is the interaction between caregiver and children. Is there good communication? What is the caregiver’s interpersonal style? Notice how the interaction makes you feel. Is it a place you would look forward to coming each day? In order to find the best fit for your child, consider how the provider’s philosophy of child rearing, discipline, education, and nurturing meshes with your own. As Ann Douglas says in her book, “You can’t count on anyone else to guarantee your child’s health, safety, and well-being in a particular child care setting. Like it or not, the buck stops with you.” Do you agree with how a provider believes your child should be guided and cared for each day? You should feel a sense of trust in the caregiver/program and that your child will learn and grow happily within a particular environment. Michele Ranard has two children, a master’s in counseling, and a background in teaching preschool and running a daycare. Visit her at hellolovelyinc.blogspot.com.

Advertising: 251-304-1200

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2013 Childcare Directory

Cottage Hill Christian Academy

Early Education Center and Preschool 4255 Cottage Hill Road, Mobile (251) 660-2427; www.chcacademy.com Early Education Center beginning at 6 weeks through K3, both full and part time. Full time pre-school programs for K2, K3, K4, and K5. We value a challenging and stimulating learning environment, where the wonder and curiosity of learning provide a foundation for lifelong achievement. We believe the preschool experience should be an enjoyable journey, not a race. This journey will develop the child spiritually, intellectually, and socially. Thus allowing the growth of a strong sense of worth and confidence. A ministry of Cottage Hill Baptist Church.

Cottage Hill Presbyterian Preschool 4201 Cottage Hill Rd., Mobile (251) 666-0983 http://www.chpcmobile.org/PRESCHOOL.html At Cottage Hill Presbyterian Preschool we provide a safe, warm and nurturing environment. Our desire is to get to know each child individually and help them to reach their fullest potential socially, academically and spiritually. Mom’s Day Out-Ages 6 months - 2 years curriculum includes: Sign Language, Shape, Color, Letter recognition, Art and Music. Preschool3K and 4K Curriculum includes: A Beka Reading and Numbers Program, Art, Music, Christian Values and Bible Stories.Mom’s Day Out and Preschool are available Monday - Friday, 8:30-12:30. Morning Care is now available Monday - Friday from 7:30-8:30 and Extended Care/Stay-N-Play is available Monday-Friday from 12:30-2:30. Dance and Tumbling available to 3K and 4K students. Now Registering for 2013/2014 School Year! Call 6660983 or email us at chpreschool@bellsouth.net for information.

Gan Shalom Preschool

705 Regents Way, Mobile (251) 343-6051; www.ahavaschesed.com Gan Shalom Preschool, established in 1993, has flourished to become one of Mobile’s premier preschools. Meaning “Garden of Peace”, our reputation for preparing children to excel in “real school” has earned us a strong reputation among the private and public schools in the area. Our toddler class accepts children 18 months old and our other classes are geared uniquely for 2, 3, or 4 year-old children. Staffed by certified teachers and teacher assistants, our student ratios are approximately 1:4 to 1:6. Classes are arranged to provide children the attention they need in a warm, loving, nurturing and creative environment. Our curriculum is planned to allow children to learn through both structured play and classwork with free time available for personal growth. Established activities include center time, circle time, work sheets, music, art and outdoor fun as well as free play. A hot lunch and snack are served daily If you are interested in enrolling your child in Gan Shalom Preschool, please contact our Director, Mrs. Randi Sherman, for more information at 251343-6051.

Visit www.MobileBayParents.com

Learning Tree – The Little Tree Preschool

1176 Azalea Road, Mobile, AL, 36693 (251) 649-4220 ext 1225 or 1226, www.learning-tree.org The Little Tree Preschool offers high quality preschool education for ALL children. Our small classes are taught by certified teachers with low student-teacher ratios. Our children are encouraged to grow as learners by building on individual strengths to establish a strong foundation for school success. The curriculum

is comprehensive and encourages children to explore and discover answers, and we provide a social setting to promote healthy self-esteem and sensitivity to the needs of others.

Lighthouse Baptist Academy

6335 Swedetown Road N., Theodore (251) 653-6542; www.lbatheodore.com Distinctively Christian. Academically excellent. Complete Kindergarten – Separate K2, K3, K4, K5 classes. Experienced Teachers & Helpers, Foundational Read-

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

ing & Math, Christian Character Training Child Care Services: Before and After Care & Summer Day Camp. Lighthouse Baptist Academy educates K2-12th grade.

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

1050 Azalea Rd., Mobile (251) 662-2055; www.stlukesepiscopalmobile.org It is the philosophy of St. Luke’s MDO that early childhood should be a time of fun, warmth, security, exploration and discovery. Preschool children are creative and receptive, and our program strives to nurture and encourage these qualities for the children. Children who are from 12 months (one year) to 48 months (four years) of age are eligible to enroll in St. Luke’s MDO. Regular session, including Fall, Winter, and Spring, begins mid-August and ends mid-May. We are open Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM. We also have Early Morning Care from 7:30-8:30 and Wee Care from 12:30-3:15. To request more information on the Mother’s Day Out program please contact Cindy Griffin on the MDO direct line, 251-662-2055, Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 12:30, or email church@stlukesmobile.org .

St. Luke’s Episcopal School

3975 Japonica Ln., Mobile (251) 666-2991; www.stlukesmobile.com St. Luke’s Episcopal School is a K3-12th grade college preparatory school. Our Early Childhood Division consists of 3-year-old kindergarten (2, 3, and 5 half and full day options), 4-year-old kindergarten (full and half day options), and 5-year-old kindergarten(full and half day options). We capitalize on the young child’s imagination with innovative, developmental, age appropriate curriculum utilizing 21st century technology as well as creative arts activities, hands-on inquiry

based learning centers and learning games. Students attend a weekly Early Childhood chapel service and enrichment classes in music, art, computer, foreign language, library, and P.E. Our extra-curricular Kiddie Cats sports program (intramurals) provides spirited competition designed to develop self-discipline and self-confidence, promote physical fitness and learn good sportsmanship while teaching the basics of each sport. St. Luke’s has a full-time nurse on staff and provides both an early morning and after school supervised program

Sunshine Sue’s Playgarden

1108 Dauphin Street Mobile (251)421-2434, http://www.sunshinesuesplaygarden. com/ email: hello@sunshinesuesplaygarden.com Play Place, Drop off Service, Classes and More! Our Services: Open Play (M-F, 9am -6pm): $6/hr for one child, $4/hr for additional children in the immediate family. Sue’s Drop Off Club (M-F, 9am-6pm):$10/ Month or $100/year for Family Club Membership, plus $10/hr for ages 6mos-23mos, and $8/hr for ages 2-12. 4 hours Maximum per child per day. Reservations required for a guaranteed spot; walk-ins welcome if there is availability. Children must bring or purchase a snack if dropped off for more than 2 hours. Parents’ Night Out (2nd Friday of every month to coincide with the LODA Artwalk, 6-9pm): $24 per child for ages 3-12. Art and or Musical Activities, Movie Nights will be included as entertainment. Snacks and drinks will be served. Please visit our website for more information.

Westminster Presbyterian Kids – Preschool and Mom’s Day Out 2921 Airport Blvd., Mobile (251) 471-9995; www.westminsterkids.com Westminster Presbyterian Church is home to one of

Mobile’s oldest and most respected Early Childhood programs. Westminster offers classes for two, three and four year olds as well as Mom’s Day out programs (from age 3 months) from 1 to 5 days a week. Westminster also offers a unique “Little Learners” class for 2 1/2 year olds, the only one of its kind in Mobile. A caring and experienced staff provides the best education and training for your child. Preschool and Mom’s Day Out - Monday-Friday 9am-1pm. Academic School Year: August-May. Summer program: June and July. Caring for children in the heart of Mobile for over 50 years

ABC Kindergarten

3618 Oak Tree Dr., Semmes, (251) 649-4844 Ages 3-5K. Monday – Friday from 8:30-12:30. Abeka Curriculum

Ashland Place Preschool and Mother’s Day Out

15 Wisteria Ave., Mobile, (251) 478-6360, http://www.apumc.com/ Serving children ages 3 months – 4 years. The Mother’s Day Out program (9am-1pm ) is for children 3 months through 3 years. The Pre-school program (9am-1pm ) is for children ages 3 and 4 years. Contact Chee Chee Street for more information at 478-6360.

Azalea City Christian School & Child Development

3550 Shillinger Rd N., Mobile (251) 649-5437; www.azaleacity.org/schoolinfo.html Part-time or full-time Daycare, Pre-school and 3-4K. Designed with the needs of working families in mind. At Azalea City Christian School, infants and toddlers are special. Toddlers enjoy cheerful surroundings while learning to develop the motor coordination skills that are vital to their growth. Azalea City Christian School also offers a kindergarten program for three

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Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

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and four year olds. Children may attend on a part-time or full-time basis. Day care is provided after the kindergarten program for parents who need this service. The kindergarten curriculum is designed to help children develop basic concepts in math, phonics, language arts, Bible, music, and art. Both the Saxon Math and Phonics programs, as well as the Silver Burdett Reading Services program, and the Peabody Language Development Kit are used in the classrooms.

Becks Day Care Center

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

Beautiful Beginnings Child Care Center

450 Bay Bridge Rd, Mobile, (251) 456-1454 Ages 6 weeks – 12 Years. Open 6:00am-6:00pm

Calvary Christian School

6800 Three Notch Road, Mobile (251 )660-1951; www.ccs-mobile.org Calvary Christian School exists to provide our students with a quality education in a loving Christian environment and help them reach their greatest potential academically, morally, personally, socially, and spiritually. Abeka Curriculum. K-3 through Grade 5.

Carmen’s Childcare and Learning Center

1361 Spring Hill Ave, Mobile, (251) 432-9050 201 Cox St., Mobile, (251) 432-9950 Ages 6 weeks – 12 years. Afterschool care and summer programs

Child Day Care Association, Inc.

Two locations: Nina Nicks Joseph Child Development Center 209 S. Washington Avenue, 251-433-1310 Roger Williams Daycare Center 308 Simington Drive, 251-441-0845 www.childdaycare.org Child Day Care Association is the oldest daycare in the State of Alabama and the second oldest daycare organization in the country. Child Day Care Association is a legacy project of the Junior League of Mobile, Inc. We are also one of the original United Way agencies in our community and continue to work closely with United Way to provide daycare services to families in need. Today, the mission of CDCA is to provide quality childcare at affordable prices. Ages 6 weeks-12 years.

Christ United Methodist Church

6160 Grelot Road, Mobile (251) 342-7215; www.cumc-childrenonline.com Mom’s Day Out, Preschool and Extended Day, New Kindergarten Program The Children’s Ministries of Christ United Methodist Church is committed to nurturing children to know the unconditional love of Jesus Christ in a welcoming, family-centered environment that will equip each child for a continuing journey of exploring, living and sharing God’s Promises. We encourage the children to grow in relationship with Jesus Christ. Our curriculum for 3-year-olds emphasizes language, listening skills, gross and fine motor skill development. The 4-year-olds will also develop their language, gross and fine motor skills as well as listening and problem solving skills. The mom’s day out children will participate in art and music. The preschool children will participate in chapel, phonics, sports, music, and field trips. Summer Camp for elementary children. We have a NEW Kindergarten program beginning for the 2013-2014 school year. Students will participate in developmentally academics using Saxon curriculum for Phonics, Reading and Math along with much more.

Visit www.MobileBayParents.com

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

Corpus Christi Preschool

6300 Mckenna Drive, Mobile  (251) 342-2424 www.corpuschristiparish.com/preschool/ Open 12 months, Monday – Friday from 6am-6pm. Infants through 4K. State-licensed. Morning snack, lunch and afternoon snack are provided. Developmentally appropriate programs for all ages. Learning curriculum for 4K class provided by High Reach, Carson-Dellosa and Handwriting Without Tears in our 4K class. Extra-Curricular activities include religion, Preschool Spanish, Adventures in Phonics, sports, gymnastics, computer and dance. Now accepting registration for infants through K-4 for full-day enrollment. Corpus Christi School has PK5-8TH Grade.

Community Nursery and Preschool Academy 2 4105 Moffett Road, Mobile 251-340-8042 3055 Springhill Ave, Mobile 251-450-2300 Hours: 6:00am-6:00pm. Ages 6 wks-12 years.

Creative Learning Center

5880 Three Notch Road, Mobile, (251) 661-2992 We are a childcare center eager to meet your needs. Our business hours are 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday thru Friday. We accept children from 6 weeks old to 12 years old. We provide breakfast until 8 a.m., lunch, and snack. Our van picks up from Nan Gray Davis Elementary and Griggs Elementary. You are more than welcome to come and visit.

Dauphin Way Baptist Church Daycare

3661 Dauphin St., Mobile (251) 344-0909; www.dauphinwaycdc.com Dauphin Way Child Development Center accepts children from 6 weeks through 4K. The CDC provides a hot lunch and 2 snacks per day. The main curriculum of the CDC is High Reach Learning and WeekDay Early Learning. Hours are 6:45 am to 6:00 pm. Monday – Friday. Summer Day Camp available for children completed 5k thru 12 years of age. Located at Dauphin Way Baptist Church. Call 344-0909 for more information

Dauphin Way United Methodist Church Child Development Center

Child Development Center 1507 Dauphin Street, Mobile (251) 473-1861; www.dauphinwayumc.org “Developing good moral character within each child, while offering the highest possible age appropriate educational program.” Our infant, toddler and preschool educators implement Pinnacle Curriculum, a faith-based curriculum used to guide children toward their potential. 7:00 am to 6:00 pm Monday through Friday. Full time child care for children ages six weeks through four years.

Early Head Start Community Partnership Child Care Centers

A primary goal of Early Head Start Mobile is to ensure that infants and toddlers receive the type of safe, healthy, emotionally secure and intellectually enriched early start in life that will serve as a solid foundation for future success in school and in life. Our educational practices are firmly based on established child development principles and widely recognized, research-based best practices for infants and toddlers. If you would like more information, or have questions about the Early Head Start Community Partnership Program, please feel free to email us at earlyheadstart@grcma.org . • Dearborn YMCA Community Center 321 N Warren Street Mobile, Al. 36603 251-438-2273 • Nina Nicks Joseph - Child Daycare Association -209 South Washington Avenue Mobile, AL. 36602 (251)433-1310 • Lighthouse Academy of Excellence and Achievement 9930 Cody Driskell Road Grand Bay, AL. 36541

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

(251)975-0641 • Goodwill Easter Seals Inclusive Child Care, 2448 Gordon Smith Drive Mobile, AL 36617 (251) 4711581 If you would like more information, or have questions about the Early Head Start Community Partnership Program, please feel free to email us at earlyheadstart@grcma.org .

more information visit www.fountainoflifechurch.net/ church/evangel-christian-school.

Government Street Baptist

10170 Grand Bay/Wilmer Road Grand Bay (251) 865-3764, email: fbcsksunflower@centurylink. net Providing 3K-4K-Social development, ABeka curriculum, Music & Field trips. 8:00am-12:00pm. Early drop off at 7:00 also available.

3401 Government Boulevard, Mobile (251) 660-7444; www.governmentstreet.org Full-time Daycare (6am - 6pm) for ages 6 weeks to 3K. The Child Development Center provides a safe, secure, loving environment for your children and a place where they will be spiritually and intellectually challenged at an early age to prepare them for school in the years ahead. We also offer a Summer Day Camp program for children K4 - 5th grades. Government Street Baptist also has a school for K4-8TH grades; please visit www.governmentstreet.org for more information.

Faith Academy - Child Development Center

Grace Temple Pre-School/Daycare

First Baptist Church Kindergarten

8650 Tanner Williams Rd., Mobile (251) 633-7267; www.faithacademy.us Celebrating 43 Years of Excellence in Christian Education! Preschool programs for K-3 and K-4. Before and after school care available. Faith Academy School has PK5-12 grade.

First Baptist Church Mobile Child Development Center

806 Government Street, Mobile, (251) 432-6513, ext. 22 www.fbcmobile.com/child-development-center.html FBC-CDC offers full day care for infants from eight weeks to 3 year olds. Our hours of operation are 7:30 am until 5:30 pm, Monday through Friday. Our location is ideal for parents working in downtown or midtown. We use the WEE Learn curriculum and emphasize activities that are both age and developmentally appropriate for young children. Please contact or church office for additional information. We welcome visitors at any time during our regular hours of operation.

First Baptist Church of Satsuma

5600 Old Highway 43, Satsuma (251) 675-1280; www.fbcsatsuma.org, http://www.satsumachristianschool.com/ Mother’s Day Out Program/DayCare/Preschool (Satsuma Christian School). MDO for children ages 6 weeks through 4 years old. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 8:30 AM to 2 PM.  A Christian environment for preschool children allowing mother’s a period of time for themselves. Children will be grouped according to age groups. Each class (except for bed babies) will have free play, a Bible story and an activity time. Daycare – 679-9000. We offer a daycare program for ages 6 weeks-2 years. Times: 6:30am-6:00pm Satsuma Christian School – 675-1295, www.satsumachristianschool.com - Satsuma Christian School is a ministry of First Baptist Church Satsuma offering classes for K3 - K5. In October 2007, Satsuma Christian became Fully Accredited through the Alabama Independent School Association. We offer Accelerated Reading, Art, Computer, Library, Music and Spanish.

Foundations Childcare & Education Center 1073 Dawes Rd Mobile,(251) 445-0973 Full-day daycare. Open 6:00am-6:00pm. We accept children from 6 weeks – 12 years old. Afterschool programs. Summer programs. Find us on Facebook!

Fountain of Life Daycare at Evangel Christian 1277 Jubilee Dr., Saraland (251) 679-0975; www.fountainoflifechurch.net Full-day daycare for ages 6 weeks thru 3 years. Monday – Friday, 6:30am-6:00pm. ABeka Program for children 2 years and up. Contact Director Paige Montgomery at paige@fountainoflifechurch.net or stop by anytime during opening hours for more information. Evangel Christian School is for PK3-5th grade, for

159 Hemley Ave, Mobile (251) 478-9200; www.gracetemplechristianacademy. com Ages 6 weeks through 1st grade. 6:00am – 3:00pm Monday – Friday. Aftercare available until 5:30. Our primary purpose is to provide quality education and a learning environment that will both challenge the student and reinforce positive character development. Serving families in Mobile since 1989. We use A Beka curriculum mixed with Scholastics program. Nurturing Christian environment.

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Happy Days Child Care

HIPPY (Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters)

2663 Dawes Rd., Mobile, (251) 633-7920 Ages 6 weeks-afterschool programs up to 12 years old. Open 6:00am-6:00pm.

109 S. Cedar St., Mobile (251) 441-0004; www.hippyalabama.com Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY) is a parent involvement, school readiness program that helps parents prepare their three, four, and five year old children for success in school and beyond. The parent is provided with a set of carefully developed curriculum, books and materials designed to strengthen their children’s cognitive skills, early literacy skills, social/emotional and physical development. HIPPY has been at work in Alabama since 1993 serving parents of children ages three, four, and five. No charge for the program. For additional information contact Mobile Area Education Foundation The HIPPY Mobile Program (251) 441-0004 Office

Joyland Daycare at Knollwood Church

1501 Knollwood Dr., Mobile (251) 666-4996; knollwoodchurch.net/joyland-daycare Joyland Daycare provides your child with a loving and nurturing environment where they will receive the Word of God everyday. We also provide a wholesome learning environment with many activities that your child will enjoy. If you have any questions please call or better yet come by our center. We would love for you to view our classrooms and meet our teachers and staff. Open 6:00am-6:00pm, ages 6weeks-3 years. K4-8TH grade available at Knollwood Christian School.

Jubilee Child Care Center & Pre-School

6631 Wall Street, Mobile, (251) 776-7022 (Pre-School) (251) 633-0018 (Infant Center); jubileechildcare.com We offer Day Care, Mom’s Day Out, Infant and Toddler Program, Preschool Program & School Age Program for after school, holidays and during summer months. Moms Day Out Program- Jubilee offers a two day, a three day and a five day Mom’s day out program. The program begins at 8:30am each morning and ends at 12pm for children ages 2 months to 5 years Toddler Program and Infant Program- Jubilee’s toddler

Advertising: 251-304-1200

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and infant program are designed for children 9 weeks to 3 years old. Full day care and part time positions are available. Preschool Program - Our preschool program is for 3 year olds and 4 year olds. Full and part time positions are available. Our program incorporates a wide range of activities and is designed to prepare a child for kindergarten. Children enjoy activities such as writing, cutting, painting, working with letters and numbers. In addition, the children in our program are exposed frequently to science, art, group games, and puzzles. Preschoolers are also offered the opportunity to participate in a special program that teaches basic computer skills. School Age Program- Our school age program is designed for children 5 years to 12 years and is offered during after school hours, during holidays and during the summer months. A nutritious breakfast and lunch will be served daily at each facility. Programs vary by center. Please contact a specific location for more information. Daily outside activities promote a child’s overall physical health and specifically will help increase a child’s strength and flexibility. Outside activities include participation in games and sports organized by our staff.Second location in Spanish Fort, AL.

Kiddie Ranch Child Care & Learning Center 2885 Graham Rd S, Mobile, (251) 645-0546 Ages 6wks – 12 years, Open 6:00am-6:00pm

Kidz Korner Child Care, LLC

5640 Three Notch Road, Mobile, (251) 666-1003 The center accepts children ages of: 6 weeks-12 years. Monday-Friday – 6:30am-6:00pm.

Kids Stuff Preschool

320 Hillcrest Rd., Mobile, (251) 272-3428 Open from 6am to 6pm, Monday-Friday. Pre-school and before/after-school care for school age children. Before and after school pickup service to the following schools: E. R. Dickson, Collier elementary. Children are served breakfast before school and a snack after school. A special homework area is offered to help children with their work. Outside play and also indoor games and activities are offered

Kids Zone of Tillman’s Corner

4612 Bush Lane, Mobile, (251) 661-3280 We are open from 6am-6pm, Monday through Friday. We provide care for children ages 6 weeks- 11 years. We offer the Abeka curriculum. We provide before and after school van service to Griggs. Our staff helps each child with their homework. Our Summer Camp for school age children is super! Kids are served a hot breakfast and lunch with afternoon snack. kidszoneoftc@bellsouth.net

Kimz Kidz Child Care Center

1650 Shillinger Rd. N., Semmes, (251) 645-6451 Open to children 6 Wks. to 12 Years and open 6:00 am-6:00pm. State Licensed, preschool learning program, video monitoring, hot meals, Child Care South approved, before & afterschool care, background checks on staff

KinderCare Learning Center

2258 Hillcrest Rd., Mobile (251) 660-1126, www.kindercare.com Infants (6 weeks – 1 year), Toddler (1-2 years), Preschool (3-4 years), Pre-K (4-5 years), Kindergarten (5-6 years), Before/After School care for school-age children. Open: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, M-F. Camps, enrichment programs and more. KinderCare provides unsurpassed learning experiences with dedicated staff and innovative programs.

La Petite Academy

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Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

Ages 6 weeks – Pre-K 4 & 5. Before and after-school care for school-age children ages 5-12. Offers exciting learning activities specifically designed to meet a child’s developmental needs and help he/she advance to the next level. Our Journey™ Curriculum emphasizes language and literacy, cognitive development, social-emotional skills, physical activity and creativity.

Legacy Child Life Learning & Dev. Center

1060 Government St., Mobile (251) 441-1901; www.lwccim.com Enrollment for ages 6 weeks – 3years.as well as before & after school care. Hours are 6:00 am-6:00pm Monday-Friday. A Ministry of Living Word Christian Center. Legacy Child Life Learning & Development Center is committed to providing an excellent, loving, and secure Christian environment where our children can develop spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, socially, and physically. Curriculums include ACE (Accelerated Christian Education), ABEKA, and ACSI. Call for information. Kingdom Academy, also a Ministry of Living Word Christian Center is a school that goes from 4K-8th.

Life Church Child Development Center

8701 Zeigler Blvd, Mobile (251) 633-2679 , http://lifechurchcdc.com Life Church CDC exists to build Godly character in children through quality Early Childhood Christian Education in a safe and caring environment, incorporating proven methods and materials to promote success in school and in life, with eternal values. Hours: 6:00am-6:00pm and start at 6 weeks old. Before and after care available. Summer Camp also available

Lighthouse Academy of Excellence & Achievement

9930 Cody Diskell Rd., Grand Bay (251) 957-0641; www.academylighthouse.org

Since 1993, the Lighthouse Academy has been a service-oriented child care facility. Our mission is to improve the educational achievement of our children from the beginning of the early stages of child development by providing a nurturing environment, a rich curriculum, outstanding teachers, and setting a standard of high expectations. Monday-Friday 6:30am-12:00midnight. Ages 6 weeks-4K. Before and after care programs available for ages up to 12. Summer Camp also available for ages 5-12

Little Flower Catholic School

2103 Government St., Mobile (251) 479-7881; www.littleflower.cc Mom’s Day Out/Preschool Mom’s Day Out – Monday Mom’s Day Out, 8:00am12:00pm ages 3&4. Contact: Mrs. Patsy White Preschool Director 251-479-7881 for more information. We offer Pre-K3 and Pre-K4 (as well as Kindergarten - Grade 8).

Melton’s Tots Tendercare Academy

2946 W. Turner Rd., Mobile, (251) 457-6304 Ages 5-weeks – 12 years. A Beka Curriculum. State Licensed, pick up provided, Mother’s Day Out, hot meals, Child Care Resources, After school care.

Mobile Christian School

5900 Cottage Hill Rd., Mobile (251) 661-1613; www.mobilechristian.org Mobile Christian School’s PreK3 and PreK4 Programs provide a loving Christian atmosphere where children may grow in their knowledge of God, themselves and the world. The preschool curriculum is designed to provide children with a variety of enrichment and readiness experiences. Following a daily routine, the child’s needs are met socially, emotionally, physically, academically, and spiritually. Call for more information.

Mobile Preschool for the Sensory Impaired

1050 Government St., Mobile, (251) 433-1234 The Preschool prides itself in being family-friendly and offering a wide range of educational choices. The classes are small and the teachers are certified professionals dedicated to the growth and development of the children. A wide range of services are available including early intervention, audiology, speech/ language therapy, and parent education. These are incorporated into the preschool curriculum to provide each child with an individualized program that promotes development and growth. Most of our services are free to residents of Alabama who have a diagnosed vision or hearing loss of at least 25%, and for children with a diagnosed developmental delay. Call for more information.

Moffet Road Baptist Child Develop. Center

5555 Moffett Road,  Mobile (251) 343-1568; www.mrbcdc.org Since 1984, Moffett Road Baptist Child Development Center has graduated thousands of precious children. Located in West Mobile on the campus of Moffett Road Baptist Church, the CDC offers the highest quality care for your little one in a safe, clean, secure, and stimulating environment. We offer Full Daycare for infants 6 weeks through 5 years old, Kindergarten classes for 3-5 year olds, and before and after school care, as well as summer camp, for children in K5 through fifth grade. Security cameras, Security locks, 18 classrooms, 4 separate playgrounds, full kitchen, Separate Cafeteria areas for babies/toddlers and older students. Activities including music, P.E. & computer.

Montessori World Preschool & Kindergarten 2061 Leroy Stevens Rd., Mobile (251) 634-8211; www.montessori-world.org Email: info@montessori-world.org Half-day (8:30-11:30), full-day (8:30-2:30) and ex-

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Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

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tended-day (7:00-6:00) on a 5-day a week schedule for children aged 2 years to 6 years during the academic year. Primary class is taught by a Montessori certified teacher. Classes have mixed-age groupings, allowing younger children to learn from the activities of older ones, and providing the older children the opportunity to teach and nurture the younger ones. Kindergarten Program For 5 to 6 year old children. These programs allow the children more time to reinforce and refine their skills. Advanced studies and projects are planned for each week. The children move through the major curricular themes from concrete presentations towards greater depth, detail, and abstract understanding. Self-directed learning and fostering of a positive selfesteem are elements of MW’s program that impact the child’ future learning and adaptation to other educational environments. Summer programs also.

Mount Ararat Learning & Development Center

7172 Old Military Road, Theodore (251) 653-6201, http://maldc.com/ MALDC offers full time day care with before and after school care. We have full and half day programs for preschool and pre-kindergarten. Our infants and toddlers enjoy childcare in a setting that is warm, nurturing and cheerful. Our small classes and experienced teachers provide an early childhood experience that is challenging yet playful. A large playground, indoor activities, computers, art, literature, music and laughter insure that each child will enjoy and benefit from his or her day at MALDC. Your child will develop socially, physically, emotionally and cognitively through play. Our hours are hours are 6:30 am to 6:00 pm Monday through Friday.

Mount Hebron Christian Child Dev. Center

2531 Berkley Avenue, Mobile (251) 456-8700, http://mthebroncm.org/mhccdc.htm Comprehensive Childcare services for children 6 weeks – 12 years of age on a part-time or full-time basis. Full Time: Full days Monday-through Friday (maximum 9 hours per day) Part Time: The after school program and sporadic care (drop-ins). The Mount Hebron Christian Child Development Center uses the ABEKA curriculum as well as other useful academic and culturally age appropriate activities. We also have a summer program. It is the vision of Mount Hebron Christian Child Development Center to provide the care, education, and development necessary for each child enrolled to meet his/her greatest potential: spiritually, mentally, physically, emotionally, and socially. Hours: 6:00am-6:00pm.

Most Pure Heart of Mary School

310 Sengstak St., Mobile (251) 432–5270; www.heartofmaryschool.org Early Childhood Classes: Age 3-4 – Full Day Program. (School- Pre-K3 to Eighth grade). Before and after care.

Nazarene Day Care & Learning Center

669 Azalea Rd., Mobile, (251) 666-0044 www.mobilefirstnazarene.org/#/ministries Established in 1982 as part of the ministries of the First Church of the Nazarene, we provide a loving atmosphere with dedicated and qualified teachers. Our program and facility will provide quality care for your child. We read Bible stories, sing songs and teach Bible verses to the children daily. We want your child to learn about Jesus Christ, but we DO NOT teach a church doctrine to the children. We enjoy working with children, and receive immeasurable rewards when we see them happily learning and achieving in a caring, productive atmosphere. As your child grows in the Nazarene Day Care we will provide moral competent citizens by teaching them to accept responsibility for decisions and choices they make coupled with the ability to think and provide for themselves. Christian

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KYM THURMAN

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Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

daycare, preschool for ages 6 weeks – K 4. A Beka Curriculum.

Oak Park Child Care Center

3321 Sollie Rd., Mobile (251) 633-6110; www.oakparkministries.com The Oak Park Child Care Center is dedicated to providing a warm, loving, Christ-centered environment for each child to develop socially, spiritually and academically. Our goal is to strive daily toward “Excellence for God!” through direction based in Christian principles. Quality child care and Christian principles with Abeka curriculum. OPCCC is a ministry of Oak Park Church of God. We offer care for 6 week old infants through 4 year olds. Our classes are: Blessed Beginnings, Toddler A & B, K2, K3 and K4. We now offer a Mom’s Day Out program. The times are 8:30-12:30. Call and enroll today Monday—Friday 6:30 am to 6:00 pm

Our Savior Preschool & Mother’s Day Out

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

Our Savior Lutheran Church Mom’s Day Out

5101 Government Blvd., Mobile (251) 661-4524; www.oursavior-mobile.org Although we call it “Mom’s Day Out”, Our Savior is offering an exciting opportunity for parents and guardians to let their children spend time in a loving, caring and spirit-filled environment. Open to children 12-months to before kindergarten age. Monday - Friday, 8am-2pm. We follow the public school schedule for holidays. Summer camp: June-July.

Saraland UMC Early Learning Center

415 McKeough Ave., Saraland (251) 675-2904 or (251) 675-2728 http://www.saralandumc.org/elc The staff and leadership at Saraland UMC are committed to offering a quality program that encourages learning on many levels. We will constantly work to encourage the development of healthy physical, spiritual, emotional and interpersonal growth of the child attending our program and the child’s family. We use The Creative Curriculum and the Sounds & Symbols Early Reading Program. Ages Toddlers (must be walking) - 5 years, Days - Monday – Thursday. This program is offered in a two day format. Parents may choose Monday/Wednesday, Tuesday/Thursday, or both. Hours: 8:30 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. early morning care and after school care available

Semmes First Baptist Child Dev. Center

4070 Old Wulff Rd., Semmes, AL, (251) 649-2712 Hours 6:00am-6:00pm, 6 wks – 4 years, before and after care also available

Shiloh Christian Day Care

717 Cleveland Rd., Saraland (251) 675-2099; www.shilohbc.com

With Daycare options through K4, Shiloh Daycare offers a variety of programs to meet each family’s needs. We have 3 day a week program as well as the traditional 5 days a week. You can choose the short day (7am -3pm) or the standard day (6am - 6pm). We utilize educational curriculum for our kids ages 3, 4, and 5. Our daycare staff works hard to make sure your child is loved and receives the best care. Come see why parents all over north Mobile County use Shiloh Daycare for their little ones.

Snow Road FBC - Child Development Center

2370 Snow Rd N., Semmes (251) 649-6096 or (251) 649-6097 http://www.srfbc.com/222878 Full daycare program - 6:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. 6 weeks- K4. A Beka Curriculum. Experienced Teachers, Spanish Classes, sign Language, Gymnastics, Summer Day Camp, Hot Lunches. Before and after-school care provided for children entering K-5 through fifth grade. Transportation to and from Allentown, Semmes and Collier Elementary is included.

Springhill Baptist Child Development Center 2 S McGregor Ave Mobile, (251) 342-6044 www.shbc.cc/ministries/child-development-center Day Care, Mother’s Day Out, Preschool Program A safe, fun and educational environment for your children. The goal of the Weekday Early Education Program at Spring Hill Baptist Church is to provide for each child according to his/her ability in each area of physical, intellectual, social, emotional and spiritual growth while meeting their individual needs. Our Weekday Early Education Program includes Day Care classes and Mom’s Day Out (8:30-1:00) classes. Parents are welcome to visit the Center at any time. If you have any questions about the Child Development Center, call 342-6044.

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Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

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Goodwill Easter Seals of the Gulf Coast

2 locations: Springhill Child Development Center 10 Westminster Way, Mobile, hours 7:30-5:30 (251) 342-3122 Gordon Smith Child Development Center 2448 Gordon Smith Drive Mobile, hours: 6:30 am – 6pm 251-471-1581 Springhill Child Development Center: Preschool- Specialized educational services, and Pre-Kindergarten Standard goals, are provided year round in an inclusive preschool setting for children ages 2 1/2 to 5 years old. The High Reach Curriculum in conjunction with the Creative Curriculum are utilized. We offer a small group setting in order to serve the individual needs of our children. We also offer morning and afternoon care for those children enrolled in our preschool program. Our staff communicates closely with families through daily reports, monthly consultations, and parent enrichment activities.

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Gordon Smith Child Development CenterPreschool Program and Daycare

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

Meet your favorite characters!

Patrick (from Spongebob), June 16th Spongebob Squarepants, August 4th Dora the Explorer, August 25th (all appearances noon-2pm)

St. Dominic Catholic Church/School

4156 Burma Drive, Mobile, (251) 661-5130 http://www.stdominicmobile.org/ Mother’s Day Out – ages 20 months (by 9/10/13)-4 years, Monday-Friday from 8:00am-12:00pm AugustMay. Summer Session begins May 27. PreK-8 offered at St. Dominic Catholic School at 4160 Burma Road. PreK - We believe Preschool is a year to learn new skills and build self-confidence. The program follows a kindergarten like curriculum. Language arts, social studies, math, science and religion are all part of the day. Writing, reading readiness, music and movement are incorporated into the daily schedule along with specialty classes of computer and library.

St. Ignatius

St. Ignatius Catholic Church Mom’s Day Out 3704 Spring Hill Ave, Mobile (251) 343-0803; www.stignatiusmobile.catholicweb.com Mom’s Day Out at St. Ignatius Parish provides quality care for children 6 months to 3 years of age. Our trained, experienced and dedicated staff works hard

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Flowrider • Waterslides • $3 Mini-Golf Shrimp Boat Village • The Wave Pool • Lazy River WaWa World • Roller Coaster • The Fun Depot The House of Bounce • Nascart GoCarts & more!

Springhill Presbyterian Preschool

10 Westminster Way, Mobile, (251) 344-2070 Mother’s Day Out Monday Tuesday Thursday Friday 6 months – 3 years. 9:00am – 1:00pm. Weekday Preschool program 3K and 4K program- M-F 9:00am – 1:00pm. Summer program also available

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to ensure that your child has a happy, healthy and safe environment in which to grow, learn and play. Programs are available from 1 to 5 days per weekMonday-Friday from 8:00 am-12:00pm. We also have WEE CARE, extended care program from 12-3:00pm. For more information contact Tiny McPhillips 251445-6720 or mcphillipst@stignatius.org. St. Ignatius Preschool 3953 Spring Hill Ave., Mobile (251)-345-1090; www.stignatius.org The K3 and K4 program is a Kindergarten readiness program designed to develop social skills, fine and gross motor skills, reading readiness, letter and sound recognition, math readiness, and critical thinking skills. Our goal is to develop the whole child, spiritually, emotionally, morally and physically. Half- Day (7:30am-11:45am),Whole-Day (7:30am-2:45 pm). Contact Lindsay Hutchisson, Development Director at 445-6719 for more information.

St. Mark Early Learning Center

439 Azalea Road, Mobile, (251) 232-2106 Susan Guillotte – Director stmarkmobileelc@gmail.com; www.stmarkmobile. com “Get your TLC at the ELC.” This program serves 2 months-4 years. We offer part time (8:15-2:15) or full time (7:00-5:45) 2, 3, or 5 days a week. We have spacious rooms with computers, library and a gym. We offer quality care with 2 teachers in a room for 2 and under. Our 3 & 4 yr olds have educational resources such as reading, math and science resources, chapel, Spanish, cooking, computer, music, mission, ministry, and much more. Rates are on the website at www. stmarkmobile.com.

St. Mary Catholic Preschool

107 N. Lafayette Street, Mobile, (251) 433-9904 St. Mary Catholic Preschool serves 3 - 4 year olds in a full day program. The curriculum follows the recom-

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

mendations of the NAEYC and includes pre-reading, phonics, religion and manipulative math. Students also enjoy art, music, computer and Spanish. The curriculum is progressive and reviewed annually by the Early Childhood teachers in the school to insure students have a smooth transition to kindergarten. St. Mary Catholic School is the oldest existing elementary school in the state of Alabama, offering education from preschool through grade 8. For more information or a personal tour, contact the St. Mary Catholic School Office at 433-9904 or email dollis@ stmarymobile.org

St. Paul’s Episcopal Early Education Center

4051 Old Shell Road, Mobile (251)342-8521; http://www.stpaulschurchmobile.com St. Paul’s Episcopal Church is excited to announce that we will be opening an Early Education Center serving 2 and 3 year olds at the start of the 2013 2014 academic year in coordination with St. Paul’s Episcopal School. The goal of our Early Education Center is to instill a love of God, of people and of learning in each child. Our cutting edge approach to early childhood includes an Outdoor Classroom, Smart Board technology, a research based, hands on curriculum and passionate, certified teachers. The program will include half day and full day options. Please contact Erin Burns Schwant, M.A. NBCC Director of Preschool Development for further information. Erin Schwant- 610-8184 or email erin@ stpmobile.com. St. Pauls School has a 4K program12th grade.

St. Pius X School – Early Child Care Center 217 South Sage Avenue, Mobile (251) 471-2892; http://stpiustenth.com/ Full day care for children 6 weeks – Pre K3 from 7am-5:50pm. Early Childhood Development Center provides a loving, happy and safe learning environ-

ment . We offer a Pre-K 3 program as well. Acknowledging that we are a Christian, Catholic based program, and that God is the central focus of our lives, we strive to reinforce the basic and all-important values of our faith. Much love, attention, and affection is used as we strive to meet each child’s individual needs in the area of growth and development. We are committed to the higher standard of care for our children. We operate under a church affiliation, and we are approved and follow the exemption guidelines set by the Department of Human Resources. St. Pius X offers a variety of day care programs: Early Morning Care, After School Care, Extended Care and Summer Camp. These programs orient children to play and learn and to interact with other children. St. Pius X School has a 4K program-8th grade.

St. Vincent Catholic Day Care

6651 Three Notch Road, Mobile, (251) 666-4066 Open Monday-Friday from 6:00am-6:00pm. Ages 6weeks-4 years. PreK3 program. St. Vincent School has K4-8th grade.

Sunniland Child Care Center

2901 Shillinger Rd., Semmes (251) 725-9070; www.sunnilandchildcarecenter.com Open Monday-Friday, 6am-12 Midnight. Ages 6-weeks to 12-years of age. Before and after school care. Drop-ins welcome after registration

Stork’s Nest, The

4908 Oak Circle Dr N, Mobile, (251) 665-5566 Ages 6 weeks-12 years, Hours: 6:00am-6:00pm

Training Wheels Childcare-Preschool

6159 Moffett, Mobile, AL 36618, (251) 645-7507 http://www.trainingwheelscc.com/ 6wks- PreK4, before & after school pick-up & care. Summer Camp also available. Established 2008.

Trinity Kids Learning Center

309 Pinehill Dr., Mobile, (251) 476-1844 Ages 4 weeks – 12 years, 6:30am.-6:00pm. Full day care with afterschool programs available for school aged children. Certified staff using High Reach curriculum.

Watermelon Patch

6417 Hillcrest Road Mobile (251) 633-3288; www.thewmpatch.com Mother’s Day Out - You can choose MDO 1 or 2 days a week to fit your needs. We have Tuesday and Thursday available. 8:15 am – 12:15 pm. We also offer a series of parent/child classes devoted to the physical, emotional and social development of children. Weekly classes are offered with activities designed to improve balance, coordination and other sensory stimuli while reinforcing good social skills in a group play environment. Please check our website for more information.

Weinacker’s Montessori School

Hillcrest: 227 Hillcrest Road, Mobile, (252) 344-8755 Midtown: 18 Pierpont Dr., Mobile, (251) 478-7219 University: 513 Georgian Dr., Mobile (251) 342-5399 Tillman’s Corner: 5739 Old Pasacagoula Rd., Mobile (251) 653-4707; www.weinackersmontessori.com We are a member of International Montessori Council, Montessori Educators of Alabama, the Alabama Association of Licensed Early Care and Education and Gulf Coast Child Development Association. We were accredited through the National Accreditation Commission for Early Care and Education in 1996. In 1998, we became a finalist in the first annual Alabama Quality Award for Excellence in Education. Our commitment to our students and families is to continually focus on improving the quality of our programs. Full and Part-time classes offered for infants, toddlers, pre-school, and school-age children. Certified Teachers, State Licensed, 1st Class curriculum. 2013 U.S.

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Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

Advertising: 251-304-1200

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Chamber of Commerce Small Business of the Year Award! Other locations also available on the Eastern Shore. Call for information.

WeMo Tot Spot

9960 Lifeline Ct, Mobile, (251) 633-3404 Open Monday-Friday from 6:00 am-6:00 pm. Ages 6 weeks – 12 years. Before and after care. Our mission is to continuously provide the highest quality of care, in a Christian and Patriotic environment; promoting love of God and Country, where every child is an explorer and every day is an adventure! Proudly Licensed and Inspected by Alabama DHR. Meals and snacks prepared by a professional Chef! We combined the best of High Scope, High Reach & ABEKA to form our own personal curriculum that models the GRCMA philosophy that ‘Children learn through playing’. We also partnered with Kindergarten teachers to ensure our K4 class enters Elementary School properly educated and prepared.

West Mobile Baptist Child Development Center

7501 Airport Blvd., Mobile, (251) 639-6868 http://www.westmobilebaptist.org Director - Jennifer Doucet Offers a Christian daycare/preschool program for children 6 weeks of age through K-5. A Beka curriculum and education system. In addition to learning programs our K3 – K5 students participate in many extracurricular activities, computer classes, and music classes as a part of our regular program for K3 children and older.

Woodbridge Baptist Learning Center

2700 Schillinger Rd S., Mobile, (251) 633-6094 http://woodridgebc.com Full Day care for children ages 6 week-5 years. Monday – Friday 6:30 am - 6:00 pm. Before and after school care and summer camp available. Part time program is also available with a minimum of 2 days a week. Family oriented, Christian environment.

World of Friends Daycare

Living Word Church, 2900 Dawes Rd., Mobile (251) 633-0033; www.livingwordmobile.com World of Friends Daycare offers a full-time service for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years. We provide a safe, clean and loving environment that is conducive for early childhood development. World of Friends is registered with the Department of Human Resources in the state of Alabama, and our friendly staff is CPR certified. Hours of operation are Monday-Friday 6:30am to 5:30pm. After-School care is available for children ages 4 to 12. Children are also provided with a snack and drink during After-School Care. Our Summer Program is held during the months of June and July where daily activities are scheduled. The Summer Program is limited to children ages 4 to 12. For a daycare packet including information and tuition fees, please call the office at (251) 633-0033 or visit the website. Tina Holcomb, Director.

YMCA South AL–Afterschool Care Programs

www.ysal.org; In response to the changing needs that families are experiencing, the YMCA has created and implemented an Afterschool Program designed to meet each family’s expectations. Children, between the ages of 5 and 14, are provided with homework assistance and a variety of sports, art and enrichment activities during after school hours. Parents and children have activities to select on a daily basis to ensure that the participant is getting the most out of his/her day. Your child is guaranteed to have a wonderful and enriching experience as well as being cared for in a safe and friendly environment. Activities: Homework, Swimming, Fit Kids, Art,

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Gardening, Cooking, Cheerleading, Sports, Science, Martial Arts, Character Development and much more… Parents must pay the activity fee, first week of care, and have the registration packet and immunization form completed in order to be registered. Registration starts July 1st. M-F after school-6 pm (5 days) Weekly fee: $35; M, W, F after school-6 pm (3 days) Weekly fee: $21; T, Th after school-6 pm (2 days) Weekly fee: $14; Daily rate after school–6 pm-Daily fee: $7. Visit our website for more information.

Accredited/Self Study Home Child Care • Facethia Hogue –President of GCFCCAA-

(Accredited) Penny’s Playhouse Home Child Care Ph. 251-367-6732 • Shirley Reynolds –Vice-President of GCFCCAA (Accredited) Shirley’s Fun Time Learning Home

Child Care; Ph. 251-341-1691 • Jan Coleman - (Accredited) Jan’s Tiny Tots Home Child Care Ph. 251-479-9390 • Kristi Reimer - (Accredited ) Dalia & Company Home Child Care Ph. 251-661-5016 • Angela Agee - (Self Study) Agee’s Lil-Achievers Home Child Care Ph. 251-471-1593 • Tameka Pettway - (Self-Study) Children of Christ Christian Academy Ph. 251-287-1573 • Jacqueline White (Self-Study) White’s Home Child Care Ph. 251-767-0070 • Gloria Sutton (Mentor/Trainer-FCCP) Auburn Univ. Family Child Care Partnerships Ph. 251-753-3417 MBP

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

2013 VBS Guide Ashland Place UMC

15 Wisteria Avenue, Mobile 251-478-6356 www.apumc.com June 10-14, 2013 9 am – Noon Pre K3 – 4th grade “Kingdom Rock – Where Kids Stand Strong for God” Register your child online! https:// www.groupvbspro.com/vbs/ez/ AshlandPlace/gpgs/register.aspx

Azalea Hills Christian Church

9191 Cottage Hill Road, Mobile (251) 633-6161 June 24 - 28, 9am - 11am Ages 2yrs - 6th grade “Jungle Jaunt” To register call Jane Lose, 680-6302 or email janelose@ yahoo.com

Christ Church Cathedral

115 S. Conception Street, Mobile, 251-438-1822 www.christchurch cathedralmobile.org June 4 – June 6 9:00am-12:00pm “Athens – Paul’s Dangerous Journey to Share the Truth” Register online https://www.groupvbspro.com/ vbs/hl/christchurchcath/gpgs/Home.aspx

Christ United Methodist

6101 Grelot Road, Mobile 251-342-0462, For Elementary – June 17-June 21, 9:00am-12:00pm (K-5th grade) For Families – June 21, 6-8pm, June 22, 9:00am-3:00pm (Families of all ages) For Preschool – August 12- August 14 9:00am-11:30pm (3K & 4K) “Athens – Paul’s Dangerous Journey to Share the Truth” Please visit http://www.christumcchildren.com/ athens-paul/ for more information.

Corpus Christi Catholic School

6300 McKenna Drive, Mobile 251-342-5474, www.corpuschristiparish.com June 10-14, 8:45 -noon Children entering Kindergarten - 5th grade $25.00 per child or $75.00 for a family Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

Ple Pre-registration ends on May 25. (Necessary to receive a shirt) For More Information contact Kathleen Jester, 342-1852/kjester@corpuschristiparish.com

Cottage Hill Baptist

4255 Cottage Hill Road, Mobile 251-660-2422, www.cottagehill.org June 10-June 14, 9:00am-12:00pm “Colossal Coaster World” Completed K4-8TH Grade

Dauphin Way Baptist

3661 Dauphin Street, Mobile 251-445-4167, www.dwbc.org June 10 – June 14, 9:00am-12:00pm Ages 4-5th grade “Colossal Coaster World”

Dauphin Way UMC

1507 Dauphin St., Mobile 251-471-1511, www.dauphinwayumc.org June 10-June 14, 8:45-12pm; Age 4- completed 5th grade “Kingdom Rock – Where Kids Stand Strong for God” Registration information - www.dauphinw50

ayumc.org. Call or e-mail Eliese McAllister with questions: emcallister@dauphinwayumc.org or 471-1511.VBS is free with a recommended $10 donation for t-shirt. We will be taking up a daily offering for children in India.

First Baptist Church of Mobile

806 Government Street, Mobile 251-432-6513, www.fbcmobile.com June 3rd-5th 9am-12pm. To kick off the fun, come to Cathedral Square near the fountain for popsicles and a picnic in the park. Theme – “Sonrise: National Park VBS”

First Baptist Tillman’s Corner 5660 Three Notch Road , Mobile 251-661-0114, www.fbtc.org June 17-June 21

Government Street Baptist

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3401 Government Blvd, Mobile 251-660-7444, www.governmentstreet.org June 3-7; 8:30am-11:30am Grades completed K4-5th “Kingdom Rock” Advertising: 251-304-1200

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Government St Presbyterian 300 Government Street, Mobile 251-432-1749, www.gspcmobile.org Tuesday, May 28-Saturday, June 1, (Last day at Baytreat) Ages 3-10, $15, “Kingdom Rock”

Lighthouse Baptist Church

6335 Swedetown Rd, Theodore 251-653-6542, lbctheodore.com “Danger Zones” K4 - 6th grade, July 8th-11th at 6pm Get God’s help with the Devil’s Danger Zones!

Little Flower Catholic Church 2053 Government St, Mobile 251-478-3381, www.littleflower.cc June 2- June 7

Mobile First Church of the Nazarene

669 Azalea Road, Mobile 251-666-0040 Thursday, June 13-Sunday June 16 (June 13-15 6:30pm/June 16 10:45)

Lucy GreenGrace Community Church

7120 Airport Blvd, Mobile 251-345-3303, www.gracemobile.org Tuesday, June 11-Friday, June 14 Ages 5-5th grade Please check our website for more information. er

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Our Savior Catholic Church

1801 Cody Road South, Mobile 251-633-6762, www.oursaviorparish.org June 17-21

Regency Church of Christ

501 S. University Blvd, Mobile 251-345-8050, www.regencycc.org July 14-July 18

St. Dominics Catholic Church

4156 Burma Road, Mobile 251-661-5130, www.stdominicsmobile.org June 10 - 14, 8:45 a.m - 12:00 p.m 4-yrs through rising 6th grade.

St. Lukes Episcopal Church

1050 Azalea Road, Mobile 251-666-2990, stlukesepiscopalmobile.org June 10-June 14, 8:30 am – 12:00pm ”Everywhere Fun Fair: Where God’s World Comes Together” Kindergarten through 5th grade Contact Wendy Wheeler, 666-2990 or church@ stlukesmobile.org to register. Visit www.MobileBayParents.com

St. Mark UMC

439 Azalea Road, Mobile 251-342-5861, www.stmarkmobile.com July 15-July 19, 9:00pm-12:00pm Ages 4 - 5th grade. “Everywhere Fun Fair” Register online at www.stmarkmobile.com or by calling the church office at 342-5861.

St. Mary Catholic Parish

106 Providence Street, Mobile 251-432-8679, www.stmarymobile.org June 10-June 14 9:00am-12:00pm, K-5th grade “Faith, Hope, Love” For more information, contact the Parish Office at 251-432-8679.

St. Paul’s Episcopal

4051 Old Shell Road, Mobile 251-342-8521, www.stpaulschurchmobile.net July 15 – July 19

St. Ignatius Catholic Church

3704 Springhill Avenue, Mobile 251-342-9221, www.stignatiusmobile.org June 24-June 28, 9:00am-12:00pm PreK-4th grade “It’s God’s World” “Trading Spaces” – 5th-7th grade at St. Mary’s Home

Saraland UMC

415 McKeough Ave., Saraland 251-675-2728, www.saralandumc.org July 22-26 “Fun Fair: Where God’s World Comes Together”

Shiloh Baptist

717 Cleveland Rd., Saraland 251-675-3587, www.shilohbc.com May 31-June 2; Grades 1st grade-6TH grade, K5 –will have their own special topic during the weekend “Amazing Race season 2” - We will be divided into teams where we will learn about how the gospel is presented in foreign countries. Kids will compete in group and individual challenges all while racing against other teams. Registration: Thursday May 30 or to find out more information, check our website.

Snow Road First Baptist

2370 Snow Road North, Semmes 251-649-7722, www.srfbc.com July 22-July 26 6:00pm-8:30pm Light supper served every evening “Amazing Wonders” Kick-Off Rally & Pre-Registration(with inflatables, hot dogs and more) Saturday, July 20. “Colossal Coaster World” 51

Snow Road Missionary Baptist

809 Snow Road N, Mobile 251-649-0030, snowroadbaptistchurch.com June 3rd thru June 7th “The Mighty GOD (GOD Leads Moses and Me)” For Children ages 4 yrs. thru 6th Grade and Teens from 7th Grade thru 12th Grade. Register at the church on June 3rd at 8:30 am or online anytime at www.snowroadbaptistchurch.com

Sonrise Baptist Church

140 Snow Road South, Mobile 251-776-RISE (7473), www.sonrisebc.net June17- June 20

Spring Hill Baptist

2 McGregor Ave S., Mobile 251-342-5320, www.shbc.cc June 3-6 (Monday-Thursday) from 6:008:30 p.m. A light supper will be served each evening. Theme: “Athens – Paul’s Dangerous Journey to the Truth” Registration will be available online on May 1 at www.shbc.cc

Spring Hill Presbyterian

10 Westminster Way, Mobile 251-342-1550, www.springhillpresbyterian.org June 10-June 13, 9:00am-11:30am (kids), Thursday – 5:00-7:30 pm (parents and kids) Age 4- Grade 5 “Athens – Paul’s Dangerous Journey to Share the Truth” To register, go to www.groupvbspro.com/vbs/ hl/shpc or contact Andrea Hall at andrea@ springhillpresbyterian.org.

West Mobile Baptist

7501 Airport Boulevard, Mobile 251-776-6939, www.westmobilebaptist.org” June 17-June 21, 6:00-8:30 p.m Ages 4-Grade 6 “SonWest Roundup” published by Gospel Light. No pre-registration required. For more information see our website at www.westmobilebaptist.org.

Westminster Presbyterian

2921 Airport Blvd., Mobile 251-471-5451 June 17-20, 9:00am-12:00pm “Welcome to Everything FairWhere God’s World Come Together”

Woodridge Baptist Church

2700 Schillinger Rd S., Mobile 251-633-6000, www.woodridgebc.com July 15-July 19, 8:30am-12:00pm 1st-6th grade “SonWest Round Up” Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

Homeschooling Comes of Age by Malia Jacobson

Once thought of as an educational off-ramp for a select few, homeschooling is now a viable option for families that might not have considered it a decade ago. The population of homeschooled students grew by about 7 percent from 2007 to spring 2010. According to Brian D. Ray, Ph.D., founder and president of Salem, Ore.–based National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI), there are now 2.04 million homeschooled students in the U.S.—an increase of 140 percent since the turn of the last century. Thanks to lowered social stigma around homeschooling, it’s no longer something that’s left wing or right wing, reserved for the ultraconservative or new agers, says Ray. “It’s clearly a viable option for mainstream America.” According to the NCES, parents’ top reasons for choosing homeschooling have remained consistent: the desire to provide moral education, concerns about the school environment and dissatisfaction with the academic instruction at local schools. The overarching theme, says Ray, is that most parents who choose to homeschool believe they can provide a better education at home, and they embrace their right to do so. That aspect of homeschooling hasn’t changed.

One-to-one learning

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

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Technology fuels a surge of interest in homeschool

So then, what has changed about homeschooling in the past decade? What is prompting families to jump onboard? According to Ray, it’s a combination of technology-aided learning and a corresponding surge in educational options for homeschoolers, from free, government-run online

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schools and online tutoring to turnkey DVD curricula. These new educational offerings do more than crowd display booths at homeschooling conferences. They remove a major access barrier to homeschooling—the need to have a parent at home full time. By reducing the intimidation factor, the isolation and even the parental workload once associated with homeschooling, online schools and complete-school-in-a-box curricula make it possible for working parents, single parents and other nontraditional 52

homeschoolers to successfully educate their kids at home. Parents can choose from a growing menu of options to completely customize their child’s education, and that’s extremely appealing, says Ray. “With the variety of support systems, curricular materials and online support services that are available, there is absolutely no lack of anything that a homeschooling family could want,” he says. Mike Beery, who homeschools his children Grace,11, and Gavin, 8, finds balance with a DVD homeschooling curriculum that Advertising: 251-304-1200

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provides video instruction and lesson plans for each child. It’s rigorous and fairly structured, and because the lesson plans come already tailored to each child’s grade level, Beery doesn’t need to spend hours each night preparing the next day’s schoolwork— something he doesn’t have the time for, since he often works at night. Prepping for each day takes about five minutes, he says. “My wife and I provide support and help when the kids need it. She helps with math; I’m the history person. But they’re old enough to work pretty independently now.” Most days, the kids spend their mornings on lessons; Beery oversees their work and stays in touch with clients. Afternoons are spent at swim lessons, sports classes and other activities. Technology-supported home learning also addresses the unique challenges faced by single and divorced parents. For childbirth educator Kelli Barr-Lyles of Spanaway, Wash., a divorced parent, a free online school, The Columbia Virtual Academy, is a way for her to meet her ex-husband halfway. Her two sons, Jonathan, 13, and Christopher, 9, check in regularly with a learning adviser and fill out monthly accountability worksheets. The system builds learning outcomes into her style of “unschooling” while providing enough structure to keep her former husband, who favors more traditional education, happy. “It drives me crazy, but it holds me accountable,” she says. Technology facilitates learning in a way that homeschooling’s early pioneers couldn’t have dreamed of, says Barr-Lyles. Christopher is studying computer animation, something she doubts he would be able to pursue at a traditional middle school. Whether this is a real interest or a passing phase, she’s more than happy to help him follow his current passion. “The best thing about homeschool is the level of customization it offers. I can follow their interests.”

Creating connections

Technology also increases the feeling of being connected and creates a sense of community, says Barr-Lyles. Finding support is important, especially as kids get older and the playdates and parent-child gym classes that once provided regular interaction with other homeschoolers taper off. Luckily, the nearest homeschool group is usually just a few clicks away on the web. “There’s plenty of support out there,” she says. She belongs to “at least a dozen” homeschooling support groups through Yahoo and Meetup.com. (Find local homeschool support groups in the listing immediately following this article.) Debra Green of Aurora, Colo., didn’t have the benefit of online support when she

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homeschooled her first two children, now 26 and 23. Now that she’s homeschooling her younger children, Lilly, 6, and Nathanial, 5, she draws on experience and resources from around the world through Heart of Wisdom, a worldwide Christian homeschooling group that communicates primarily through email and message boards. She organizes a local chapter, Home of Wisdom, in her hometown. Virtual support groups create camaraderie and a larger pool of resources and knowledge, she says. “We can cry to each other and help each other.” Community programs, often facilitated and managed online, allow homeschooling families to circumvent one of the primary challenges associated with homeschooling: socialization. The perception that homeschooled children aren’t well socialized just isn’t true, says Beery. Through community homeschooling programs, such as swim lessons and regular playdates, his kids interact with kids of all ages, and adults, too. “That’s important. I think my kids probably get more and better socialization than they would in public school.”

Tech troubles

But there can be downsides to the explosion of technology-aided homeschooling, says Ray. Often, too many choices mean that homeschooling can be overwhelming to newcomers. “When your child attends public school, the curriculum is figured out for you,” says Ray. But homeschoolers are faced with the significant challenge of sifting through dozens of curricular offerings and countless websites and message boards to find out which approach is best for their unique child. It’s information overload, plain and simple. Starting homeschool was extremely overwhelming at first, says Barr-Lyles. “You feel like the world is on your shoulders. I know my kids better than anyone else, so I had to figure out, how are we going to do this? But you have to weed out the ‘stuff’ out there that doesn’t apply to you and your kids, and it’s hard.” Even with the world of technologyaided learning at their fingertips, modern homeschoolers shouldn’t discount the importance of face-to-face support. Local support groups, with their meetings, group activities and field trips, are always going to serve an important role, Ray notes. “People still want — and need — high-touch interactions,” he says. “I think that piece is never going to go away.” Freelance writer Malia Jacobson was homeschooled in the late ’80s and early ’90s. Her homeschool memories involve trekking to far-flung bookstores every fall to pick out textbooks and workbooks.

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

Family Calendar Ongoing

Civil War Fort Gaines Historic Site, Dauphin Island. For more info call (251) 861-6992. www.dauphinisland.org. Concerts in the Park Sponsored by Mobile Pops Band. For more info call (251) 679-4876. www.mobilepopsband.com. Five Rivers Delta Resource Center April 1 – May 19. Apalachee Exhibit “Alabama in the Making: Traditional Arts of People and Place”. Ever wondered how to make goat stew? Or a pine needle basket to put your stew in? Well you are in luck, because 5 Rivers will be THE place to be to get information on Alabama folk art traditions when this traveling exhibit comes to the Apalachee Exhibit Hall. The exhibit offers collections of photographs, video, and audio interviews from Alabamians sharing their experiences in folk and traditional arts, including food preparation, music, occupational folklore and material culture. The collections have been gathered by the Alabama Folklife Association, which is based in Birmingham. There will be 5 separate kiosks, covering the Gulf Coast, the Southern Appalachians, the Wiregrass, the Black Belt and Tennessee Valley regions. Fort Conde Welcome Center Sponsored by Mobile Convention & Visitors Corp. Mobile. For more info call (251) 208-7658. www.mobile.org. Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center Government St. Mon. - Fri., 9 - 5; Sat, 10 - 5; Sun, noon - 5. Adults (19 - 59)/ $14; youth (13 - 18) & senior citizens (60+)/ $12.50; children/ $12; Combo tickets include a viewing of an IMAX film: $18; $17; $15.50. HandsOn South Alabama (Formerly Volunteer Mobile, Inc.). For information on Local Volunteer Opportunities, contact 251-4334456, www.handsonsal.org. Joe Jefferson Players Mobile. For information call (251) 471-1534. www.jjp.com. LODA Artwalk Second Fridays in Downtown – LoDa Arts District. Exhibitions (with receptions) and entertainment in a variety of downtown galleries and other venues. City of Mobile Neighborhood and Community Services. 6 - 9 p.m. Check NCS website for complete list of activities/map after noon the day of the event. For more information, please contact: 251-208-7443 or visit www.ncsmobile.org. Mobile Ballet For information about performances call (251) 3422241 or visit www.mobileballet.com. Mobile International Speedway Irvington. For information call (251) 957-2026. www.mobilespeedway.com. Mobile Opera Mobile. For information call (251) 476-7372. www.mobileopera.org. Mobile Symphony Mobile. For information call (251) 432-2010. www.mobilesymphony.org. Oakleigh Museum House Mobile. For information call (251) 432-1281. www.historicmobile.org. Richards-Dar House Museum Mobile. For information call (251) 208-7320. St. Mary Parish Family Fridays Following the Friday night 5 p.m. Stations of the Cross & 5:30 p.m. Mass. Please join us for a great

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

May/June2013

seafood dinner on each Friday during Lent, through March 22. Sponsored by St. Mary’s Knights of Columbus Council 13163. Fare each week: $7 adult dinner, $5 children’s dinner, includes beverage. Family Friday Dinners will be held in the St. Mary Catholic School Gymnasium located at 107 N. Lafayette Street. For more information, contact the church office at 432-8678, ext. 1. USS Alabama Battleship 2703 Battles Parkway, Mobile. (251) 433-2703. www.ussalabama.com. VSA Arts & Easter Festival Mobile. For information call (251) 343-0958.

Classes/Meetings

APAC - Mobile County Adoptive Family Group Meets the 4th Friday of each month from 6 - 7:30 p.m. Regency Church of Christ, 501 S. University Blvd., Mobile. Parent, Youth/Teen Group and Childcare Is Provided. Topic Discussions & ceu’s for foster families are offered. For more information please call 251-4602727 * 1-800-489-1886 * or estokes@childrensaid.org. Azalea City Harmony Chorus of Sweet Adelines Meets/rehearses each Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Westminster Presbyterian Church, Corner of Sage Ave. and Airport Blvd. For more info call 251-380-0579 or visit www. azaleacityharmony.com. Mobile Bay Area La Leche League Meetings are the second Tuesday of the month at 10:30 a.m. The number to call for the location is 251689-2085. We can also be found on Facebook at mobile bay area la leche league. The Family Center • Nurturing Parenting (Mobile) course teaches parenting skills such as teaching cooperation and peaceful bedtimes. Wednesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., 12-wk rotating series. Held at The Exchange Club Family Center of Mobile, 601 Bel Air Blvd, Suite 100. Call 251-479-5700 to register. June 5: Giving Choices & Consequences June 12: Communication Skills & Community Resources June 19: Behavior Charts & Token Economies June 26: Home Safety • Nurturing Parenting (Daphne), everything you need to know but were afraid to ask. Thursdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., 12-week rotating series. Jump in on any Thursday! Call 251-626-1610 to register, 27365 Pollard Rd., Daphne, near the YMCA. June 6: Giving Choices & Consequences June 13: Communication Skills & Community Resources June 20: Behavior Charts & Token Economies June 27: Home Safety • Fathers Rock! Classes (listed below) in Mobile and Daphne are completely free. Fathers Rock classes offer you free Wal-mart giftcards up to $150, free supper, free gas cards or bus passes, free parent coaching and childcare during class is free! All class materials are free and a certificate of completion is awarded. Participants who refer a friend to a Fathers Rock program receive a $10 giftcard! Must call to schedule advance intake appointment. www. familycentermobile.org. Fathers Rock! Mobile Classes are Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6-8 p.m., $150 worth of Wal-mart giftcards possible. 251-479-5700 to get started in Fathers Rock, held at The Exchange Club Family Center of Mobile, 601 Bel Air Blvd, Suite 100. www.familycentermobile.org or www. Facebook.com/FatherhoodMobile. June 3: What is an Intentional Family? June 10: Parenting Together, Fathers & Mothers June 17: Building Friendships: Strokes, Values,

Listening June 24: A Child’s Needs: Financial, Time, Modeling, Etc. Together We Can: Helping Everyone Cope With Divorce. Mondays, 8 weeks. $50 Wal-mart giftcard upon completion. • Positive Fathering, A New & Improved Parenting Class Just For Men. Tuesdays, 12 weeks. $75 WalMart giftcard upon completion. June 4: Involvement in Social Modeling June 11: Consistent Moral Training & Making A Life Change June 18: The Father Thirst Epidemic June 25: The Four Whole Life Needs of Children • Chill Skills. Thursdays, 4 weeks. $25 Wal-mart giftcard upon completion. June 6: Defining, Responding To & Learning from Anger June 13: Defining Abuse & Learning to Cope & Communicate June 20: Stress, Anger Management & Acceptance, Relaxation June 27: Emotional Intelligence & Techniques Fathers Rock Daphne, Call 251-626-1610 to register, held at The Exchange Club Family Center of Baldwin County, 27365 Pollard Rd, near the YMCA. • Positive Fathering, A New & Improved Parenting Class Just For Men, $75 giftcard upon completion. Mondays, 5:30-7:30 p.m. June 3: Why Fathers Are Important June 10: Children Need Their Fathers June 17: It Takes A Man to be a Dad June 24: My Challenges as a Dad Mobile Infirmary Hospital For complete information about class dates, times, and locations, or to schedule a tour of our maternity center, please call the childbirth education office at (251) 435-2000. • Alzheimer’s Support Group Meetings for families and caregivers of patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Meets every second Thursday of every month. E.A. Roberts Alzheimer’s Center, 169 Mobile Infirmary Blvd. Preregistration Not required. Free. Call 251-435-6950 for more information. 10-11 a.m. • Birthing Basics Class This course is for parents who either have already experienced childbirth or who prefer to attend just one class because of time constraints. The four-hour weekend session (with breaks) includes a tour and all birthing information. The fee is $30 for patients delivering at Mobile Infirmary. Pre-registration is required; call 435-2000. Every last Sunday of the month. 3:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. • Cancer Support Group Meets every 4th Tuesday of the month from 10-11 a.m. • Gastric Band Support Meets every 3rd Thursday of the month from 6-7 p.m. • Gastric Bypass Support Meets every 2nd Thursday of the month from 6-7 p.m. • Preparation for Childbirth Series This series of classes includes all aspects of labor including natural coping skills and epidural anesthesia. Class participants will practice comfort measures and learn about post-delivery and newborn care. A maternity tour is included. Providence Hospital: www.providencehospital.org Providence Hospital is pleased to offer a variety of classes on childbirth issues. All classes are located in Conference Room I (located just inside the main lobby doors of the hospital beside the Gift Shop) unless otherwise specified. To register for classes or for more information, you may call 639-2938 to

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Family Calendar speak with our Childbirth Educator, Kathy Wade RN, or email kwade@providencehospital.org. For Daytime Breastfeeding classes only, you may call Marcia Ranew RN, our Lactation Consultant at 633-1749 or email mranew@providencehospital.org. Support Groups • Providence Hospital Breast “Friends” Meets the second Friday of every month at noon in the Moore Conference Room. The Moore Conference Room is located in the cafeteria. Call Robi Jones for more information, 251-639-2852. • Diabetes Support Group Classes meet in the Diabetes Center, Suite D-436 in the Providence Medical Office Plaza. Call 251-6331987 for more information. 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 ONLY. Call 3407769 to schedule an appointment. • Infant CPR  Learn this potentially life-saving technique while you are pregnant or soon after your baby’s birth. Covers infant CPR and choking. $5 if delivering at SMC. 6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. The Family Center (Bldg. 2, Fourth Floor). Call 340-7769 early to pre-register. • NAMI Mobile Support Group A support group for family members of those who suffer from mental illness. Meetings are held the third Monday of every month. For more information: Diane Kent at 591-8021. 6-7 p.m., Spring Hill Baptist Church Activity Center. • 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

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May/June2013

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. Topics include advantages, myths and facts, getting started, correct positioning, latching on, engorgement, returning to work and problem-solving. Class meets second Thursday from 6:30-8:00 p.m. in the CWEB2 Building behind the hospital Fee: $5. Registration Information: Payments are accepted by check, money order, cash and credit card. Make checks and money orders payable to USACW Education Department. 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.

Saturday, May 18

2nd Annual Buckaroo Foundation BBQ Plate Fundraiser and Raffle 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Whitehouse Fork Volunteer Fire Station, 11104 Whitehouse Fork Road Ext Bay Minette. Plates are $8 and will include: BBQ Pork from Cherry St. BBQ in Monroeville, Sauce & Bun, Cole slaw, & Baked beans. Buckaroo Foundation Raffle Tickets are $3, or 4 for $10. First prize: a cabin in the Smokey Mtns. for a 4-day, 3-night stay (MTh). 2nd prize: iPad 2 16 GB. 3rd prize: $150 cash. You do not have to be present to win. We will also have Face Painting, a Bake Sale, and more! http:// www.buckaroofoundation.org/events.html. Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s Great Strides Walk Great Strides is the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s largest fund-raising event. It provides opportunities for all people within a local community to get involved forming teams through their workplace, clubs and organizations or with friends and family. Walk day is a fun, family-oriented celebration that includes a healthy 3 mile walk, Kids’ Corner activities, food, and festivities that participants look forward to year after year. Location: Five Rivers Delta Resource Center on the Mobile Bay Causeway. Registration – 8 a.m., Walk Start – 9 a.m. http://www.cff.org/great_strides/ For more information contact: Tiffany Miller, Development Director, 251-436-0015 or email at tmiller@cff.org Requiem By Louis F Daniel Debut performance by Gloria Dei Chorale of this work by its director for choir, 3 soloists (soprano Megan King, tenor Marshall Richards, and

baritone Graham Anduri), organ, and orchestra, written in memory of Daniel’s father, a decorated WWII veteran. 7:30 p.m. Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception (2 S. Claiborne St.) .Donations at the door will go to Disabled American Veterans. 251-533-9810/ www.gloriadeichorale.org. Mobile Botanical Gardens Marketplace Saturdays Marketplace Saturdays is from 9-11 a.m. every Saturday through June 30. Buy native plants, get great ideas from experts and support the Gardens. Location: Mobile Botanical Gardens, 5151 Museum Dr. Please visit http://mobilebotanicalgardens.org. Quilts of the Gulf Coast The 19th Biennial Quilt Show presented by Azalea City Quilters’ Guild, Inc., will showcase over 300 quilts and wall hangings. Come see how the art of quilting has evolved. There will be special exhibits, vendors, a Unique Boutique, demonstrations and a close up view of Mobile Bay. Our Opportunity Quilt “Sunrise over Mobile Bay” will be awarded at the close of the show on Saturday. Come and bring the family! Friday, 10 a.m. - 7 p.m./ Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Cost-Adults $6, Children $2, Children under 6 are free. Location - Mobile Alabama Cruise Terminal, 201 S. Water St. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee Conceived by Rebecca Feldman with music and lyrics by William Finn, a book by Rachel Sheinkin and additional material by Jay Reiss. This musical comedy features six quirky adolescent spellers and the three equally quirky adults who run it. The fictional spelling bee is set in a geographically ambiguous Putnam Valley Middle School. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee won two Tony Awards including Best Book of a Musical. 8 p.m. Mobile Theatre Guild (14 N Lafayette St.) General/ $20; senior citizens, military & students/ $16 Contact: www.mobiletheatreguild.org. Camelot King Arthur, the Knights of the Round Table and the noble vision of Camelot come to life in this 1960 musical that captured four Tony awards. The highest ideals come almost within grasp before they are undone by human failings in this age-old tale. A record of the show’s music was a bestseller for more than a year. Chickasaw Civic Theatre is located at 801 Iroquois Street, Chickasaw, AL. Don’t miss this reprise of one of CCT’s all-time favorite shows. Please visit http://cctshows.com/ for more information. LPGA RTJ Golf Trail at Magnolia Grove / Crossings Course / Mobile. For more information, please visit www. mobilebaylpgaclassic.com.

Sunday, May 19

The Original Tale of Peter Pan (encore) Commedia del Arte, Partnered with The Mobile County Community Activities Acting Class, Presents The Original Tale of Peter Pan. Davidson High School Lecture Hall, 4:30 p.m. Admission: $10 in advance, $12 at the door, Children 10 and under $5, Children five and under admitted free. Benefits The National Federation of the Blind. For more information and tickets, visit www.commediadelarte. org, or call 251-510-0654. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee Conceived by Rebecca Feldman with music and lyrics by William Finn, a book by Rachel Sheinkin and additional material by Jay Reiss. This musical

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

Family Calendar comedy features six quirky adolescent spellers and the three equally quirky adults who run it. The fictional spelling bee is set in a geographically ambiguous Putnam Valley Middle School. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee won two Tony Awards including Best Book of a Musical. 8 p.m. Mobile Theatre Guild (14 N Lafayette St.) General/ $20; senior citizens, military & students/ $16 Contact: www.mobiletheatreguild.org. Camelot King Arthur, the Knights of the Round Table and the noble vision of Camelot come to life in this 1960 musical that captured four Tony awards. The highest ideals come almost within grasp before they are undone by human failings in this age-old tale. A record of the show’s music was a bestseller for more than a year. Chickasaw Civic Theatre is located at 801 Iroquois Street, Chickasaw, AL. Don’t miss this reprise of one of CCT’s all-time favorite shows. Please visit http:// cctshows.com/ for more information. LPGA RTJ Golf Trail at Magnolia Grove / Crossings Course / Mobile. For more information, please visit www. mobilebaylpgaclassic.com.

Monday, May 20

Mobile Pops Concert Mobile Pops Band Concert –7 p.m. Mobile Medal of Honor Park Pavilion (located on Knollwood Drive but entrance on Hillcrest Road). Free admission. For more information, please visit www.mobilepopsband.com.

Wednesday, May 22

Brown Bag in Bienville Square Spring has sprung in downtown Mobile! Come out and listen to the soothing Sounds of live jazz as you lunch in Bienville Square. Wednesdays through May. 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Thursday, May 23

Opening Day – Market on the Hill New Location! Corner of University Blvd. & Old Shell Road. Thursdays – May 23-July 25 from 2 p.m. - 6 p.m. Shop for: Fresh Fruits, Vegetables, Baked Goods, Plants, Honeys, Handcrafter artwork and More! Mobile Museum of Art – Free Admission Day/ Museum Nights The Museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Free all day each Thursday, open until 9 p.m. The Mobile Museum of Art (MMoA) presents weekly programs and happenings highlighting our permanent collection and special exhibitions to start your weekend early: Thursday Nights at MMoA, 5-9 p.m. Join us each week to experience the museum in new and exciting ways throughout the year. Thursdays at the Museum Summer Edition: Bring the Kids. During the dog days of summer, when the days are long and hot, simply head to the cool scene at the Museum. On select Thursdays in June, July, and August, current exhibitions will serve as inspiration for free activities for kids. In the Grand Lakefront Gallery, 5 – 7 p.m., Museum educators will offer know-how and supplies to help youngsters create their own personal masterpieces. Check the museum website for more info as summertime nears. No reservations necessary. (4850 Museum Drive). Please visit http://www.mobilemuseumofart.com for more information.

Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

May/June2013

Westside Tailgate Market Every Thursday in May and June, from 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Location - 2320 Schillinger Rd., S. If you need more information, call 251-633-9701 or email todd@ thegroveumc.org.

Friday, May 24

Camelot King Arthur, the Knights of the Round Table and the noble vision of Camelot come to life in this 1960 musical that captured four Tony awards. The highest ideals come almost within grasp before they are undone by human failings in this age-old tale. A record of the show’s music was a bestseller for more than a year. Chickasaw Civic Theatre is located at 801 Iroquois Street, Chickasaw, AL. Don’t miss this reprise of one of CCT’s all-time favorite shows. Please visit http:// cctshows.com/ for more information.

Saturday, May 25

Children’s Botanical Art Class – Mobile Botanical Gardens Children’s Botanical Collagraphy, from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m., Artist in Residence Val Webb shows children ages 5-12 how to make botanical art using natural elements and an etching press. $5/child. Advance registration is required for all programs. Visit www. mobilebotanicalgardens.org to register and to see the complete calendar of events. You may also register by calling 251-342-0555 Monday –Friday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Mobile Botanical Gardens Marketplace Saturdays Marketplace Saturdays is from 9-11 a.m. every Saturday through June 30. Buy native plants, get great ideas from experts and support the Gardens. Location: Mobile Botanical Gardens, 5151 Museum Dr. Please visit http:// mobilebotanicalgardens.org. Market on the Square Through Sunday, July 28. Shop for the freshest crop in town! This time of year is our favorite because you can get locally grown: tomatoes, potatoes, sweet corn, cantaloupe, watermelon, seafood, flowers, plants, baked breads, pastas, casseroles, pies, handcrafted goods and so much more. Stay for live music on the green! This year we will be adding organic vegetables as well. 7:30 a.m. until 11 a.m. on Cathedral Square. Camelot King Arthur, the Knights of the Round Table and the noble vision of Camelot come to life in this 1960 musical that captured four Tony awards. The highest ideals come almost within grasp before they are undone by human failings in this age-old tale. A record of the show’s music was a bestseller for more than a year. Chickasaw Civic Theatre is located at 801 Iroquois Street, Chickasaw, AL. Don’t miss this reprise of one of CCT’s all-time favorite shows. Please visit http:// cctshows.com/ for more information.

Sunday, May 26

one of CCT’s all-time favorite shows. Please visit http:// cctshows.com/ for more information.

Monday, May 27

Fort Morgan Memorial Day Tribute Uniformed living history interpreters honor the ultimate sacrifice made by America’s military throughout the Nation’s history with artillery salutes, small arms demonstrations and special tours during the day. For more information visit: http://www.fortmorgan.org.

Wednesday, May 29

Thursday, May 30

Sip & Savor - Wine Social & Raffle Auction Join us for an evening of wine and hors d’oeuvres at Legacy Bar & Grill. All proceeds benefit Distinguished Young Women. 6-8 p.m. Legacy Bar & Grill. Tickets $30 in advance, $35 at the door/Cash bar for Beer and Cocktails. Call 251.438.3621 to purchase your tickets. Westside Tailgate Market See May 23 for more information. Opening Day – Market on the Hill See May 23 for more information. Mobile Museum of Art – Free Admission Day/ Museum Nights See May 23 for more information.

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Saturday, June 1

Mobile Public Library 2013 Summer Library Program-Dig Into Reading Kick-Off-from 10 a.m. - noon at all Library Locations. Children receive a Mobile Public Library tote bag and a Mobile BayBears game voucher for Library night, Friday, July 19, when they register. Special performers, programs, story times and events throughout the 6-week program. Visit mplonline.org or your favorite library for details. Alabama author Joe Cuhaj will attend the Summer Library Program Kick Off at the Moorer Branch and share tips from his new book, Best Tent Camping, Alabama: your car-camping guide to scenic beauty, the sounds of nature, and an escape from civilization. For more information, please call 470-7770. Springhill/ Moorer Branch from 10 a.m.-12 noon. Grandman Triathlon Beginning at the Fairhope Pier, and along the beautiful streets of Fairhope and Mobile Bay, this exciting event is a promotion of healthy lifestyle and community. Join us for the Springhill Medical Center Grandman Triathlon to benefit four amazing local nonprofit organizations: Mobile Baykeeper, The Gulf Coast Area Triathletes, The Baldwin County Trailblazers and Camp Rap-A-Hope! Please visit http://thegrandman.com for more information. Bobcat 5K and Fun Run 7:30 a.m. at Theodore High School (6201 Swedetown Rd N., Theodore). This run benefits the athletic department of Theodore High School Softball/Baseball Program. Certified 5K course. Fun run is approximately 1-mile. Register by mail (entries should be postmarked by May 25), in person at McCoy Outdoor or Run-N-Tri in Mobile or Running Wild in Fairhope until noon on May 30, or online at Eventbrite.com.

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Family Calendar Kids Studio – Space 301 Kids Studio is a free weekly program that allows children ages 6-12 to explore contemporary art and music. Activities are designed to stimulate young minds while offering cross curriculum learning opportunities with fun projects. Classes are facilitated by trained professional educators. Space 301 Classroom 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Children will read the book The Little House by Virginia Lee Burton and create their own miniature 3D homes. Email cla.gibson@cityofmobile.org to sign up. Miles for Medicine 5K This is the first annual Physician Assistant 5K sponsored by the Class of 2014. 100% of the net proceeds will benefit children with cancer at Nemours Children’s Clinic in Pensacola. Nemours provides an integrated system of care, which includes hospital and clinic-based specialty care, primary care, prevention, research, and medical education designed to improve the lives of children and families. In addition to clinical treatment, Nemours provides social support for both the children and their family that is designed to address psychosocial and emotional needs. Lastly, Nemours provides financial assistance for families that do not have insurance to cover treatment expenses. Course Info: There will be a 5K and 1 mile Fun Run. Race will start and finish at the SGA Pavilion by the intramural fields. 6:30 a.m. sign-in, 7:00 a.m. run starts. Adults $20, Students $15. Registration Website: http://milesformedicine2013. eventbrite.com/ Mobile Botanical Gardens Marketplace Saturdays See May 25 for more information Market on the Square See May 25 for more information

May/June2013

Williams Syndrome Association Motorcycle Run “Kruzin’ For the Kids” Riders start in Waveland, MS and ride 100 miles along Hwy 90 to Mobile Bay Harley Davidson for a meal, band door prizes and more. Riders pick up 5 playing cards along the way. Rider with the best hand at the end wins! Contact David Thompson at hawg2008@gmail.com for more info or to register.

Wednesday, June 5

Wonderful Wednesdays 2013 at Bellingrath Gardens This program runs on Wednesdays from June 5 - July 31. Who knew Wednesday could be so wonderful? Every Wednesday, enjoy a special program about Bellingrath Gardens and Home, gardening, local history and nature. Wonderful Wednesdays at Bellingrath is the perfect place to bring a friend and spend time among 65 acres of blooms! Gardens Admission ($12 for adults & $ 6.50 for children 5-12) is charged for non-members attending programs unless otherwise listed. There are additional charges to tour the Home and/or to take the River Cruise. Call 251.973.2217 X 111 for reservations and visit http://www.bellingrath. org for the topics. Pre-K Studio – Space 301 Pre-K Studio is a free weekly program that allows children ages 3-5 and their parents to explore contemporary art and music. Activities are designed to stimulate young minds while offering cross curriculum learning opportunities with fun projects. Classes are facilitated by trained professional educators. 11-12 a.m. Children ages 3-5 will read the

book The Little House by Virginia Lee Burton and create their own miniature 3D homes. Email cla.gibson@ cityofmobile.org to sign up.

Thursday, June 6

Market on the Hill See May 23 for more information. Mobile Museum of Art – Free Admission Day/ Museum Nights See May 23 for more information Westside Tailgate Market See May 23 for more information

Saturday, June 8

Kids Studio – Space 301 Kids Studio is a free weekly program that allows children ages 6-12 to explore contemporary art and music. Activities are designed to stimulate young minds while offering cross curriculum learning opportunities with fun projects. Classes are facilitated by trained professional educators. Space 301 Classroom 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Children ages 6-12 will learn about their planet while reading the book If the World Were a Village by David J. Smith and follow with an environmentally friendly project. Email cla.gibson@cityofmobile.org to sign up. Researching Your African-American Roots Researching your African American roots with Frazine Taylor and Mobile Genealogical Society volunteers. Bring your laptop if you can, and any research and documents you have so far. Cost is $20. You may contact the MGS with questions: 251-

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Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

Family Calendar 414-1995, and we are looking forward to working with you! Holy Family Catholic School complex, 1400 Joyce Road.1:00, 4:00. Steady Pace The Steady Pace Foundation and 5K has distinguished itself as one of the premier obesity awareness programs and event in the city with its festive atmosphere, scenic city course and beloved finisher’s T-shirt. Organized by The Advertising Management Group, the event attracts runners of all ages and paces eager to take part. Food, beverages, and music will be provided after the run. Participants are invited to visit the Health and Fitness Fair in Texas Street Park. Registration and Packet Pick-up: 6:30 a.m. at Texas Street Park, 3K Run/Walk: 8 a.m. Start; 1-Mile Fun Run: 9 AM Start. Health and Wellness Fair: 8 a.m. until noon. This race takes place at Texas Street Park on Texas Street. For more information, please visit http://www.steadypace5k.com. Causeway Run The CAUSEway Run will benefit the work of Alabama Teen Challenge (alabamateenchallenge.org). Out and back certified 5K (AL08020JD) course along the Causeway between Mobile and Spanish Fort offers a unique view of Mobile Bay. Fluids will be provided along the race course. 7:15 a.m. at Battleship USS Alabama, 2703 Battleship Parkway Mobile. Fun Run will start immediately after 5K is completed; course inside Battleship Park. For more information, please visit www.active.com or www. alabamateenchallenge.org. Mobile Botanical Gardens Marketplace Saturdays See May 25 for more information. Market on the Square See May 25 for more information.

May/June2013

Monday, June 10

Family Feature Film at the Library – Frankenweenie 5:30 p.m.at the Toulminville Branch. For more information please call 438-7075.

Wednesday, June 12

Learning Lunch – Museum of Mobile Learning lunch is free. Bring your lunch and complimentary beverages provided. The presentation: The Past has taught us a lesson: African American American Dockworkers in Mobile by Robert H Woodrum, PhD (Georgia Perimeter College Dunwoody Campus). Noon. History Museum of Mobile (111 S. Royal St.). Contact: 251-208-7569/ www. museumofmobile.com. Wonderful Wednesdays 2013 at Bellingrath Gardens See June 5 for more information.

Thursday, June 13

Family Feature Film - How to Eat Fried Worms This film will be at the Saraland Public Library at 6 p.m. For more information please call 675-2879. Mobile Museum of Art – Free Admission Day/ Museum Nights See May 23 for more information. Market on the Hill See May 23 for more information. Westside Tailgate Market See May 23 for more information.

Friday, June 14

Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival Approximately 45 balloonists from across the country

will participate in this 2-day event featuring food and art vendors, free entertainment for families including a children’s village and the popular World Famous Disc Connected K9s Frisbee dog show. Morning pilot competition flights are scheduled for Saturday at sunrise (approx. 6 a.m.). On Friday and Saturday nights, balloon glows and flights are scheduled to take place between 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. Location: Foley Sportspark, 18507 Highway 98 W., Foley. For more information, please visit http://gulfcoastballoonfestival.com. LoDa Artwalk Exhibitions (with receptions) and entertainment in a variety of downtown galleries and other venues. City of Mobile Neighborhood and Community Services. Second Fridays, 6 - 9 p.m. LoDa Arts District (LOwer DAuphin St.). Check NCS website for complete list of activities/map after noon the day of the event. 251-2081550/ www.ncsmobile.org.

Saturday, June 15

2013 Kyser Miree Memorial Fishing Tournament 8 a.m. Dauphin Island. The Kyser Miree Memorial Fishing Tournament is put on each year by the Rotaract Club of the Mobile Bay Area in honor and memory of one of its founding members, Kyser Miree. Kyser, a Vanderbilt grad and engineer at the Chevron refinery in Pascagoula, MS, was murdered in his Midtown Mobile home in April of 2010. Kyser was instrumental in the forming of the Rotaract Club and believed in its mission to serve underprivileged children in our community. The proceeds from the Kyser Miree Memorial Fishing Tournament fund both a scholarship in Kyser’s name at the engineering college at Vanderbilt University

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Protect your family. Prepare for their future. Allison H Horner, Agent 6353 Cottage Hill Road, Suite F Bus: 251-666-1616 Fax: 251-666-6919 allison@allisonhorner.com www.allisonhorner.com

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Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

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Family Calendar and Rotaract’s on-going projects with such groups as Wilmer Hall Children’s Home and Collins-Rhodes Elementary School in Eight Mile. To buy tickets, please visit http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/369655. Via Bolt 5K Run/Walk and Fun Run 7:30 a.m. at Via! Health, Fitness & Enrichment Center Mobile. Certified 5k course. Fun Run is approximately one mile. For more information, visit www.active.com. Mobile Botanical Gardens Marketplace Saturdays See May 25 for more information. Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival See June 14 for more information. Market on the Square See May 25 for more information.

Wednesday, June 19

Wonderful Wednesdays 2013 at Bellingrath Gardens See June 5 for more information.

Thursday, June 20

Matinee at the Main - The Lion King Join us at the Ben May Main Library at 1 p.m. for The Lion King. For more information call 208-7097. Mobile Museum of Art – Free Admission Day/ Museum Nights See May 23 for more information. Market on the Hill See May 23 for more information. Westside Tailgate Market See May 23 for more information.

May/June2013

Saturday, June 22

Family DIY Artwork Workshop – Space 301 Space 301-1:00 p.m. Families will create a painting for the home using a fun technique. Class fee includes all materials. Workshop space is limited; class is best suited for ages 5 and up. $15/ Member discounts available. Call Brennan Gibson at 208- 5658 or email cla.gibson@ cityofmobile.org to sign up. Mobile Botanical Gardens Marketplace Saturdays See May 25 for more information. Market on the Square See May 25 for more information.

Wednesday, June 26

Wonderful Wednesdays 2013 at Bellingrath Gardens See June 5 for more information.

Thursday, June 27

Distinguished Young Women For more than 56 years, Mobile, Alabama has been the home of Distinguished Young Women, formerly the America’s Junior Miss scholarship program. Each year fifty of the nation’s brightest and most accomplished young women visit the Gulf Coast to compete for more than $100,000 in cash scholarships and the opportunity to represent the program as the Distinguished Young Woman of America. The 56th National Finals will be held at the Mobile Civic Center Theater. For info, visit http://www.ajm.org/. Family Feature Film - Monsters, Inc. Join us at 6:00 p.m. at the Saraland Public Library for Monsters, Inc. For more information please call 6752879.

Mobile Museum of Art – Free Admission Day/ Museum Nights See May 23 for more information. Market on the Hill See May 23 for more information. Westside Tailgate Market See May 23 for more information.

Friday, June 28

Distinguished Young Women See June 27 for more information.

Saturday, June 29

Something Special - Recycled Robots At 10:30 at the Moorer/Springhill Branch of the library we will read Cookiebot! and then make our own robots from recycled materials. Registration is required for groups. For more information or to register, please call 470-7770 or email mlmref@mplonline.org. Mobile Botanical Gardens Marketplace Saturdays See May 25 for more information. Market on the Square See May 25 for more information. Distinguished Young Women See June 27 for more information. 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.

Please send your calendar events to lynn@mobilebayparents.com

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Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

The Great Gatsby

Star Trek Into Darkness

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: C+ Violence: C Sexual Content: C Language: B Alcohol / Drug Use: CThe MPAA has rated The Great Gatsby PG-13 for some violent images, sexual content, smoking, partying and brief language. The 1920s are roaring and Nick Carraway’s (Tobey Maguire) aspirations to become a famous writer are fading as he is lured into the much more lucrative business of stock brokering. But his job is secondary to the location of the small home he has recently rented on the Long Island shore because next door is the towering estate of Jay Gatsby (Leonardo DiCaprio). Despite the many garish parties he throws, Gatsby is an elusive host. The house fills with invited and uninvited guests across all social classes, yet no one really knows what the moneyed legend looks like or, even more mysterious, the roots of his fortune. When Nick receives a rare personal request to attend one of the events, he is flattered with Gatsby’s effort to get to know him. After realizing they both served in the same division during the war the two become fast friends. Soon Nick is pulled into Gatsby’s world and discovers the motivating factor for not only the proffered friendship but the man’s entire existence: Gatsby wants Nick’s help to rekindle his former romance with Nick’s cousin Daisy (Carey Mulligan). Prior to Gatsby’s appeal, Nick had begun on his own initiative to be reacquainted with Daisy who, not coincidently, lives in a mansion directly across the bay with her rich lout of a husband Tom (Joel Edgerton). It’s immediately obvious the marriage is strained. This is later confirmed when Tom invites Nick to a private rendezvous at a Manhattan flat with some other women -- including Myrtle (Isla Fisher), his mistress. With the knowledge of the man’s infidelity, Nick’s concerns about introducing his married cousin to Gatsby soften. Yet the rather wide-eyed, innocent broker has no idea what his interference is about to reveal. For families with older teens, many who may be reading The Great Gatsby in school, the film’s stylish visuals and engaging presentation might encourage deeper critical thinking despite the content issues. There is an obvious bias favoring those who are not from the wealthy establishment, yet in this interpretation one also senses an insatiable excitement for the modern urban world and its many (often sordid) opportunities. But unless you are willing to dig below the surface, you may mistake this near-century old tale as being yet another film about rich people having big parties.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Time: 132 min. Overall: BViolence: CSexual Content: C+ Language: C+ Alcohol / Drug Use: C+ The MPAA has rated Star Trek Into Darkness PG-13 for intense sequences of sci-fi fiction and violence. While diehard fans will likely be thrilled with J.J. Abrams continuing story of the young Enterprise crew and their archenemies, the rest of us either have to do our homework before buying tickets or be content to be left out of the inside jokes and direct plot lines beamed up from previous movies or episodes. It’s apparent Abrams intends to play homage to the original franchise. The movie opens with James Kirk (Chris Pine) and Dr. Leonard ‘Bones’ McCoy (Karl Urban) bolting through a red landscape that seems to be taken straight from the old television series that starred William Shatner as the headstrong Captain. The two men are fleeing from an army of white-faced, spear-throwing natives. Staying just ahead of the angry mob, Kirk squabbles over his communicator with Spock (Zachary Quinto) who is censuring him for breaking the Prime Directive. (Starfleet’s General Order states there can be no meddling with alien civilizations.) Meanwhile Spock seems to be committing his own violation of the Prime Directive by interfering with the natural course of events. He has jumped into the belly of a bubbling volcano armed with a detonator designed to stop the volcano from erupting and annihilating the entire population. Kirk’s lifelong attraction to a variety of female sexual partners is also established early in this film when he is caught in bed with not one but two human-like characters. But all the bedroom activity comes to a halt when Kirk and Spock are summoned to a meeting with Commander Pike (Bruce Greenwood) where they get to explain their differing reports on their recent mission. For the two young officers the resulting discipline is short-lived however when the Federation’s chief officers come under a gunfire attack in their own headquarters. When the culprit’s (Benedict Cumberbatch) hiding location is revealed, Kirk volunteers to take his crew and hunt down the criminal. Meshing together a mixed bag of plotlines that include Spock and Uhura’s (Zoe Saldana) romance, Kirk and Spock’s bromance and the introduction of a new bad guy who threatens the safety of Earth makes for a complicated plot. But although the film is bloated with the kind of high-tech special effects expected in this fictional, futuristic world, the script maintains a steady pace of action and enough humorous quips to hold most viewers’ attention for the ride.

What Parents Need To Know About The Great Gatsby...

Violence: A character is shot in the back (some blood is shown). A character puts a gun in his mouth and commits suicide -- the actual shot is not seen. A man slaps a woman causing injury. Two men begin fighting, but one backs off. A character is killed after being hit by a car. Sexual Content: Adulterous sexual relationships are implied and depicted in various scenes, but without explicit detail. Sounds of sexual activity are clearly heard in one scene. Other scenes depict brief sexual activity with bare backs and shoulders. Women are seen at drunken parties in period underwear and scanty costumes, implying sexual activity was part of the event. Language: Two mild profanities as well as racial slurs and remarks are heard. Drugs/Alcohol: Many characters engage in frequent drinking. Drunken people engage in altercations, sexual activity and driving automobiles. Frequent smoking of cigarettes and cigars is seen.

What Parents need to know about Star Trek Into Darkness...

Violence: The film contains frequent depictions of non-graphic violence, explosions and gunfire exchanges along with portrayals of peril for numerous characters. Characters are shot, beaten and killed after being sucked out of their ship into space. Numerous officers are killed when a bomb is set off in an underground facility. Officers are gunned down. A man with bloody injuries dies. A man’s head is crushed. Characters are brutally punched and kicked. Sexual Content: A woman is seen in her underwear. A man is in bed with two women. Brief kissing (one involving alien tongues) and embracing are shown. Some mild sexual innuendo is included. Language: The scripts includes nearly four dozen mild and some moderate profanities along with the limited use of slurs and some terms of deity. Mobile Bay Parents I June 2013

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