Autauga County Schools

PIS Celebrates Year-Long Student Achievements with HOUSE Party Reveal

5th and 6th graders at Prattville Intermediate school had a blast at the end of year HOUSE

Pine Level Welcomes

Guest to Summer Camp

On June 12th we had the pleasure of giving Mrs. Bonnie Short, ARI Director, a tour or Pine Level Super Summer Camp. Throughout the school, we observed explicit instruction in Phonemic Awareness. The students were actively engaged in each of the classrooms in multi-sensory activities, word structure, and writing skills. Students were eager to share with us what they were learning, and teachers were excited to share the progress being made. Mrs. Short was very complimentary of our teachers and the instruction they are providing.

Daniel Pratt Students Take Vacation to Mars

Mrs. Julie Stewart and Ms. Dana Vansandt’s students at Daniel Pratt Elementary performed their annual, “Vacation to Mars” class play for their parents to enjoy. The students had such a wonderful time memorizing lines, creating costumes, and painting solar system backdrops. This hands on play incorporated music, art, and reading fluency into the science curriculum. It was a time for their creativity and personalities to shine all while fostering classroom community.

ACS 2nd Graders Complete Super Citizen Program

Autauga County Schools’ second graders recently completed Liberty Learning Foundation’s ten-week Super Citizen Program, a tech-infused curriculum that teaches civics, character, financial literacy, and social studies. As a part of the program’s closing celebration, students chose to honor some of their school community heroes after learning that “when you honor a hero, you become a hero!” demic programs for students began on May 30. Literacy and Numeracy Camps for K-3 graders were held on all elementary cam puses, and enrichment camps through the 21st Century Community Learning Center program were held on one elementary and four middle school campuses, all during the month of June. Camp Discovery for rising 9th graders was held on the campus of the Elmore County Technical Center on May 30-June 2. Students had the opportunity to explore and learn about the 13 Career Technical Education programs offered on the ECTC campus in a fun, relaxed environment. Finally, credit recovery for

Protect yourself and your baby from COVID-19. Get vaccinated.

COVID-19 can be very serious in pregnant women and vaccination is recommended for women who are pregnant, were recently pregnant, are breastfeeding or trying to get pregnant.

Women with COVID-19 during pregnancy are more likely to experience complications than women who are not. These can affect their pregnancy and developing baby, resulting in preterm birth, stillbirth and other pregnancy complications.

The COVID-19 vaccine has gone through the same strict development studies that all vaccines go through to ensure they are safe. To learn more about COVID-19 and pregnancy, talk to your healthcare provider, visit www.cdc.gov/coronavirus or go to the Gift of Life Foundation’s website at www.golfound.org and click the Education tab for links to local COVID-19 resources. This message is made possible by a grant from the CDC Foundation.

Elmore County Schools

CTE Career Signing Day at ECTC

The Elmore County Technical Center celebrated three 2023 seniors in May who have already been hired by an employer in their CTE program of study after graduation. Medical Sciences: Coranda Lozada from Elmore County High School signed with Baptist Health (South) in Kaitlyn Chavez from Stanhope Elmore High School signed

ECTC Student Ranks at Championship

First year ECTC IT student and Stanhope Elmore senior, placed 2nd in Computer Technology Applications at Alabama’s SkillsUSA State Championships.

ECTC Student Places at Electrical Championship

Technology student and Wetumpka junior, Victor M., placed 2nd and brought home the silver medal in Electrical Construction Wiring at Alabama’s SkillsUSA State Championships.

Homeschool Kindergarten Graduates Warn the World

Finishing up kindergarten and letting the world know it are Carson Lynch of Montgomery, Hannah Jones of Tallassee, Cruz Koehler of Pike Road, Zach Vest of Titus, Julianna Stewart of Prattville, Ryan Ken Zwerner of Montgomery, and Daniel Pelham of Eclectic. Not pictured are Braxton Davis of Millbrook and Walker Browder of Montgomery. Held at Eastmont Baptist Church in Montgomery, Academy Days Co-op meets weekly during the school year for homeschoolers in preschool through high school. Some of the classes these new first graders and other elementary students can look forward to taking in the fall are science labs, creative writing, Alabama history, art, and P.E. Visit www.AcademyDays.com.

Tallassee FFA 1st in the State

1st Place in the State: Tallassee FFA

Quartet 2023! The members of the quartet are Danielle Bird, Emily Hacker, Robert Towery, and Draven Haynes. They are

Homeschool Co-op Recognizes Graduates

Academy Days Co-op congratulates its graduating seniors Chloe Stewart of Prattville, Jessica Dannelley of Autaugaville; Kailey Franklin of Prattville, Madilyn Self of Ramer, Adalyn Warren of Wetumpka, Pearson Hammock of Prattville, Garrison Campbell of Montgomery, and Charles Saunders of Montgomery as they embark on a new chapter in their lives.

Held at Eastmont Baptist Church in Montgomery, the Academy Days Coop meets weekly during the school year for homeschoolers in preschool through high school to take classes in such diverse subjects as marine biology, Chinese, photography, Shakespeare, computer programming, cake decorating, and P.E. Visit AcademyDays.com for more information.

What’s “Old” Is “New” for Today’s Kids

Kids these days! I bet you have heard your grandparents or parents say this, or maybe you have even said it. If you are north of 30, you probably have. It seems every generation thinks the younger generation is just “too much” or “not enough” according to the older generation’s standards. Too much music and TV and not enough outside time was the complaint my grandparents leveled at my generation.

Today’s parents and grandparents probably believe “too much device time and not enough outside time.” This brings me to a thread of consistency over generations; we must get our kids outside. Why is this important?

According to Google: “If you spend time outdoors in green spaces, your cortisol levels decrease. When your cortisol levels decrease, your stress and anxiety decline, and you gain better control of your emotions, including fear and anger. Without stress, your body functions as it should.”

But beyond this, why is it essential for our kids to be outdoors?

Playing outside promotes curiosity, creativity and critical thinking. Studies have found that children who spent more time exploring nature had improved learning outcomes. Kids were more positive in behavior. Research shows that when children spent time in natural settings, they had less anger and aggression. When we get outside, we simply breathe better. Our bodies settle. Fight or flight mode decreases. All of these positive outcomes are the opposite of what happens when we stay inside and on devices. Also, spoiler alert, if you sit outside but stay on your phone, you negate the benefits of being outside. The whole point is to engage with nature.

What is really interesting is that our bodies instinctively tell us that we feel better when we are away from our devices. Previous generations not only know this, but they also honor what their bodies need. Today’s generation has gotten good at not listening to their bodies cues. The noise from devices and social media is much stronger than our bodies’ subtle nudge until it is too late. What do I mean by too late? I mean after we begin showing signs of anxiety, depression, frustration, and loneliness. But we can combat this by listening to the generations before us.

What feels “old hat’ to our grandparents will feel “new” to our kids today. Going outside for a walk, digging in the dirt to plant a garden, fishing, swimming in a stream, sitting out for a cold drink with friends...these things feel “new” to our kids. They may not be used to these activi- ties and do not know how good they make them feel until they actually do them. It is becoming more and more apparent that we must teach new generations these “old hat” tricks.

Kids born this year will never know a world without AI. Their lives will be inundated with technology. And I, for one, do not believe that our children will have evolved so much in the next 15-20 years that they will struggle less than today’s youth with the constant technology. I believe the opposite is accurate, and they will struggle even more.

Evolution is slow for a reason. Change needs to be slow. We can help our children and grandchildren by teaching them to listen to those subtle cues. Listen to their bodies. Take them outside. Teach them to get their hands dirty, go for walks, and drink lemonade on the front porch.

In an overcomplicated world, this seems so simple. But it is not only incredibly effective at combating the psychosocial and emotional issues our kids face today due to devices; it prepares them for years to come. It is our way “out” of the constant stress of the online world. It is the answer that we consistently look for. It is free. It is simple.

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

In grade school my son loved celebrating his summer birthday with a big party that included family, friends and everyone in his class. But after the last slice of cake was eaten and all the guests had gone home there was still one activity left, opening the pile of gifts. It became overwhelming and reached the point where his birthday seemed bigger than Christmas. It was time for a lesson in giving.

If your child is overloaded with gifts on his or her birthday, or if you feel it is time to teach the gift of giving, consider hosting a charitable birthday party this year. Your child will still enjoy celebrating his or her big day with friends and family. But instead of bringing a gift, ask your guests to bring a donation to a charity of your child’s choice. So your child won’t completely miss out on the new bike they’d been hoping for, limit gift giving to just family members. Or one big present from mom and dad.

Here are some ideas to get the party started

For your sporty child: Consider an activity like swimming, soccer, indoor ice skating, miniature golf, bowling, a bounce house at home or an indoor inflatables destination. Ask your guests to bring new or used shoes and clothing for Soles4Souls (soles4souls.org). This organization distributes donations to the needy in the United States and countries in Central and South America and Africa. Or find a local charity that accepts used athletic equipment to help sports leagues for underprivileged youth in your area. Or check out the website sportsgift.org that donates new equipment to needy kids around the world so they too, can enjoy the fun of sports. Then ask your guests to round up their kids’ old sports gear to donate or ask them to purchase something new.

For the animal lover: Contact your local humane society to find out if they host kid’s birthday parties. If not, throw the party at home and have the kids make toys, blankets or anything else your humane society suggests for their home less pets. Or take a trip to the zoo. Ask your guests to donate to the World Wildlife fund (worldwildlife.org) and they can adopt an animal they’d like to help. Adoptable animals include elephants, penguins, tigers and panda bears. Or, if you’re brave enough, throw a party with the local lizard guy at your house. Encourage guests to make donations to Heifer International (heifer.org) and let kids pick from a gift of goats, a present of pigs or any of the other animals Heifer International will provide to needy families in third world countries. The National Wildlife Federation (nwf.org) also maintains an adopt an animal program. With a donation you can adopt a gray wolf, harp seal or great horned owl to name a few.

In the little moments and major milestones of childhood, we are here for our patients and their families – helping, healing, teaching and discovering.

For your little chef: These days cooking is all the rage and it isn’t just for adults anymore. Try hosting a cooking party for your little food lover. Check to see if there is a local venue like a specialty grocery store or cooking school that hosts parties for kids. Or a business that will come to your home and conduct a class. Or even a mobile culinary school. If not, use your own kitchen and host a pizza making party. Provide chef hats and individual pizza crusts for each child and a variety of toppings and let them make their own pie. Or make homemade ice cream and provide a choice of toppings like fruit, chocolate or caramel sauce, candies, or crushed cookies. Ask your guests to bring food to donate to your local food pantry.

Host a Happy Doll party: For a child who loves dolls, Happydoll.org pro vides dolls and all the materials needed so your guests can decorate a doll for a needy child. Each guest gets a cloth doll and non-toxic pens to design their own unique doll. Each doll has a specific tracking code so you can track where each decorated doll has traveled. Dolls are shipped to needy children throughout the U.S., and throughout the world including Haiti, India and China.

For the generous child: If your child just wants a simple but fun birthday party without a specific theme, host a cake and ice cream, pin-the-tail-on-thedonkey, musical chairs, and piñata kind of party that you may have enjoyed as a child. Consider donating to the children’s ward of a local hospital or to Ronald McDonald Children’s Charities. Or collect books and school supplies to donate to a church or other organization that helps local kids in need.

And if you want to send a little something home with your generous guests, say goodbye to the junk of the goody bag and try one of these simple ideas instead: make a craft like a friend ship bracelet or a rubber band bracelet, ice cream cone gift certificate, local kid’s restaurant small gift certificate, sidewalk chalk, small book, homemade snacks like granola, trail mix or muffins (be sure to check for allergies.)

Tropic Falls is the tropical getaway with something for everybody! One ticket includes 23 theme park rides, the region’s biggest indoor water park and the all-new Big Water Bay wave pool complete with Coastal Curl surf simulator! Now you can enjoy it all and save more with the Family 4 Pack! Save $49.96 on four general admission tickets for a limited time—get all the details at VisitOWA.com!

THRILL, THEN CHILL.

by Kimberley Carter Spivey

With the kiddos home for the summer plus celebrating the Fourth of July, you may be thinking about friends and family visiting, firework shows, and getting ready for a backyard BBQ, while also trying to decide what popular dishes to prepare for your loved ones.

Local mom Tia McCall is sharing one of her signature dishes that you can put in your nightly rotation or include on your Fourth of July menu. Tia is a single mother from Millbrook with two adult children, Breyona and Kobe. This year she will approach her 35th year of service with the United Parcel Service as the UPS Corporate Development Coordinator. Her parents are both natives of Alabama and her father, a retired veteran of the Army, proudly served 32 years. Tia has two siblings, Kyna, the oldest, and Shaun, the youngest.

Growing up, she was always in the kitchen with her mother (or anyone else who was cooking, mostly because she loved to eat.

Tia explains, “I think I was a ‘foodie’ from the time I was born. Mom called me her ‘little taste tester.’ When I was around nine years old, she said, ‘As much as you like to eat, you need to learn to cook!’”

She started collecting recipes from family members, neighbors, friends, etc. Once Tia saw the look on family and friends’ faces after they took a bite of her food, cooking brought her unmeasurable joy. She gained inspiration by watching others enjoying the dishes she prepared.

Spaghetti Squash

Casserole

Ingredients:

1 Spaghetti Squash

1 teaspoon olive oil

½ cup salted butter

2 cups heavy cream (add more or less for desired thickness)

4 garlic cloves minced (or 4 teaspoons of prepared garlic paste)

¼ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon white pepper

2 cups of freshly grated parmesan cheese

2 cups of shredded Italian blend cheese

1-2 cups of thawed frozen chopped spinach (remove as much moisture as possible)

1 rotisserie chicken

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Cut spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and the stringy inside. Rub the inside of each squash half with ½ teaspoon of olive oil.

3. Place the squash cut-side down on the parchment paper. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes. The squash should be lightly brown on the outside and fork-tender on the inside. The outside shell should be soft to the touch. If you have a large squash, you may have to cook it a few minutes longer.

DO NOT OVERCOOK, or the noodles that form will be mushy. (Do not turn off the oven. Lower temp to 350 degrees.)

4. Once out of the oven, flip the squash over. With a fork, gently scrape the inside of the squash. This will form noodles. Place in a large bowl and set aside.

5. Shred rotisserie chicken and set aside.

6. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add garlic, heavy cream, pepper & salt.

7. Bring to a low boil, lower heat and sim mer for 8 minutes.

8. Remove from heat and slowly add cheese, then spinach.

9. Return to stove on low and cook for 2-4 minutes, stirring constantly.

10. Mix sauce, chicken (desired amount), and squash together in a large bowl.

11. Spray a 9x13 pan with cooking spray. Spread the mixture evenly and place in the oven for 20 minutes or until slightly brown on top.

12. Once cooking is complete, top with Italian blend shredded cheese.

13. Let set for 15 minutes before serving.

Kimberley Carter Spivey is a freelance writer, blogger, author, and entrepreneur. When she’s not working as an Instructional Systems Designer and copy-editor on Maxwell AFB, she’s busy freelancing, blogging, or toiling away at her next book. Her debut book Bloom: How to Get from Good Enough to a Life You Love can be purchased on Amazon and girlyouwrite.com.

When I received the invite to my nephew’s, pirate party I was worried. The event was being held during the winter time at his house so all the five-year-old kids would be cooped up. How would over twenty kids be entertained in a small area indoors? Would I hear so many chaotic screams of “Arrr’s” and “Ahoy’s” that I would want to walk the plank?

My fears subsided when I beheld the enormous cardboard-created pirate ship in their living room. If the boat hadn’t been so crowded with kids, then I would have jumped inside of it myself. When I noticed organized activity stations set up throughout the house, I knew all the kids would have a blast. The party was a huge success that my kids still talk about four years later.

The pirate party isn’t the only impressive at-home one my sister and brotherin-law, Tara and Mike, have hosted. They had other events for my nephew and two nieces. The themes of their parties include knights and princesses, western cowboys and cowgirls, fairies and gnomes, Star Wars, and pirates. For all their parties they created a life-size cardboard centerpiece such as a castle or western town for the kids to play in and games centered around the theme along with a favor to take home. Homemade treats and a cake are abundant at every gathering.

So, what is the secret to throwing an epic birthday party on a dime?

Planning In Advance

The Stull Family is already planning the next unicorn theme party for June. They get ideas from Pinterest and other craft- ing websites. Sometimes they brainstorm ideas on their own. This planning helps them to have enough time to create all the activities and cardboard centerpiece.

Potential Savings: $25-$50. Advanced planning allows them to buy sale items and use coupons.

Homemade

Almost everything at parties are homemade from the cardboard centerpieces to the games, food and favors. This significantly cuts down the cost of the parties which were all under $200.

Potential Savings: $50-$75 by not buying a store-bought cake, games or favors.

Team Work

Tara and Mike Stull work together creating the life-size centerpiece, games, favors and homemade baking. They also include their kids in the process of coming up with ideas and creating the items. By working together, they don’t become too overwhelmed with the planning and creating that is involved. It also makes the process more fun for the entire family.

Potential Savings: $25-$50 by working together, the less they need to purchase store bought items.

Old School Games With A Theme

At the parties, they offer simple games that everyone loves, and they incorporate the theme into the game. Instead of a typical water gun fight, they created a water gun shooting range in the western theme party. Or instead of pin the tail on the donkey it was pin the lightsaber on Yoda for the Star Wars theme party. Some other games they played are a pirate scavenger hunt for gold coins, relay cowboy horse races and beware of the shark cardboard toss bean bag game.

Potential Savings: $100-$200 by not hosting the party at an outside venue such as a play gym, bowling alley or laser tag place.

Finding Free or Discounted Items

Tara and Mike asked local appliance stores for free cardboard boxes to create the centerpiece, games, and favors. They also got deeply discounted “mistake paint” for a quarter of the price (around $9 instead of $40) that people returned because they didn’t like the color from Home Depot and Lowe’s.

Potential Savings: $25-$50 by not purchasing cardboard boxes, games and favors also savings from purchasing mistake paint which can be used for crafts, games or painting the cardboard centerpieces.

Using Coupons and Purchasing Sale Items

They purchase some of the items at Michael’s and other craft stores using coupons. They also use coupons at the grocery store to buy the food for the party. Coupons can be found at the store’s website or app or by signing up for the store’s emails. Also coupons can be found at online coupon website like Coupons.com.

Potential Savings: $50-$100 by using coupons and purchasing sale items.

Selling on Craigslist or Marketplace

After the last party, they sold some games they made for $30. They plan to do this for future parties.

Potential Savings: $50-$100 depending on the items created and sold. You could also sell your household items prior to the event to help fund it.

Who’s Ready to Party?

These parties are a lot of work, but the whole family loves creating a memorable event. I know that we are anxiously awaiting the next unicorn party. Who knows maybe we will even spy a real one?

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

Cakes/Finger Foods

Bruster’s Ice Cream & Yogurt

6835 Vaughn Road, 10684 Chantilly Pkwy, Montgomery

Select from 8” round cake or 9×12 cake Choose ice cream and one of the cake flavors. Pick a rich middle layer of fudge or caramel. All cakes are “iced” with fresh vanilla ice cream. We also have pies available.

(334) 272.7369 or(334) 239-7004 brusters.com

Cake Designs

3651 Debby Dr. in LeCroy Village, Montgomery

Specialty cakes all offered with professional decorating. Specialize in children’s birthday parties. Closed on Sunday and Monday.

(334) 288.6900 hugohd.com

Cakeology

6250 Atlanta Hwy, Montgomery

We provide catering, cake shop, custom cakes, confectionary, bridal cakes, cupcakes, birthday cakes and Anniversary cakes.

(334) 647.1262 cakeologyweets@yahoo.com

Crumbl Cookie

3012 Zelda Road, Montgomery

Bringing friends and family together over a box of the best cookies in the world! Our 170+ unique cookie flavors rotate weekly and are served in our famous pink box.

(334) 523.0499 crumbl.com

Dairy Queen

6120 Atlanta Hwy

3160 Taylor Road, Montgomery

8” round, 10” round, sheet cakes. Blizzard Cakes are 8 in”, 10 in” and a sheet cake. All can be personalized at no additional charge. (334) 244.9490 or (334) 272.1818 dairyqueen.com

GiGi’s Cupcakes

7918 Vaughn Road, Montgomery

Nothing makes a special day unforgettable like a custom cupcake or cake creation from Gigi’s. Special selection offered every day of the week. You may order online at our website and pick up at the store or view our daily menu online. (334) 356.3737 gigiscupcakesusa.com/montgomeryalabama

Great American Cookie Co. at Eastchase

7048 Eastchase Pkwy, Montgomery

Choose from 16” round, 16” square and large Rectangular .

(334) 356.8111 greatamericancookies.com

JoZettie’s Cupcakes

1404 South Decatur Street , Montgomery

Variety of cupcakes, cakes, cookies and pies for the holidays or your special occasion.

(334) 239.9289 jozettiescupcakes.com

Liger’s Bakery

3040 McGehee Rd., Montgomery

Any flavor birthday cake, round or sheet, decorated with flowers, fruit, etc.

(334) 288.6550 ligersgood.com

Nothing But Bundt

7030 Eastchase Pkwy, Montgomery

Select from 8”, 10” and Tiered Bundt Cakes all crowned with our signature cream cheese frosting and perfect for all types of celebrations – birthdays, holidays, weddings, get togethers, office parties or just because!

(334) 9566503 nothingbundtcakes.com

Original Great American Cookie Co. Eastdale Mall, Montgomery

Up to 13 different varieties of cookies: 16” round 16” square and sheet cookie. Please call for prices.

(334) 271.1900 greatamericancookies.com

Entertainment

Dynamite Magic & Balloons ad on page 42

Montgomery

Helium tank rentals (varying prices and sizes). Yard Art and Balloon bouquet and decorations. Costumed characters available. Please visit our website to see the characters we have to offer.

(334) 270.1234 dynamitemagicandballoons.com

Big Green Bus

Montgomery

The Big Green Bus brings the party to you! The Big Green Bus is a school bus that has been converted into a safe and fun preschool gymnastics facility. Many elements of gymnastics are combined into one fun filled hour on board the Big Green Bus! The birthday child will receive a Big Green Bus shirt! Goody bags are included in the prices.

334) 324.4628 biggymbus.com

DJ at Large

564 Oliver Road, Montgomery screens and popular videos. We can also provide the building for the party for an extra charge. Provides age appropriate music and will censor music to your discretion. Please call for pricing. “We put you first.”

Offers a variety of music plus karaoke and light shows for your child’s party. Video parties 12 ft.

(334) 260.9732 DJatLarge.com

Fontaine Entertainment Wetumpka

“We are serious about your fun.” Offer DJ sound, light shows, karaoke, balloon decorations and theme decorations for birthday parties, corporate events, civic events, weddings, etc. 3 hr. minimum. (334) 467.6645

Kreative Moments

Montgomery

Offering balloon twisting, face painting, and balloon art to make each event have that “wow” factor.

(334) 233.4318 Kreativemomentsmgm@gmail.com

Snapology

Montgomery

Have the best party ever with our Lego and Robotics themed birthday party. We bring the party to you. Sit back and enjoy the party while our facilitator sets up and conducts the activities. Please visit our website for more details.

(334) 318.2824 riverregionsnapology.com snapology.com/riverregion

Equipment, Games, and Rentals

Prattville Bounce ad on page 39

Prattville

Safety-certified delivery and set up. On site sanitation. 8 hour rental with easy online booking. Veteran owned and operated.

(210) 238.2904 prattvillebounce.com

Arrow Rents

5600 Calmar Dr., Montgomery

Tents, tables, chairs, carnival equipment, fans, and bounce rides. All sorts of themed decor, balloons, helium tanks, and more. Provide great selection and even better prices. “Your one stop party shop.”

(334) 277.0460 arrowrents.net

Brendle Rentals

485 N. East Blvd. , Montgomery Party supplies. Inflatables. Obstacle courses and other rides, carnival games, slide, bungee run, tents and train. We setup at City parks and provide insurance.

(334) 279.7368 brendlerentals.com

Inflatables of Montgomery

30 Handey Warehouse Rd., Montgomery Moonwalks, Giant slides, Interactive inflatable, Obstacle Courses, Rides, Rock-Climbing wall, and much, much more. Rentals for special events.

(334) 398.0909 inflatablesofmontgomery.com

Space Walk of Montgomery

River Region

What do you want to celebrate today? Setups for Birthday Parties, Daycare Events, Community/ civic Events, School Carnivals and Sporting Events. We offer inflatable Space Walks, Water Slides, Obstacle Courses, Combos, Concessions and much more.

(334) 273.0204 herecomesfun.com/mtg

The Evans Space Walker

2952 Birmingham Hwy., Montgomery

Inflatable cinemas rental. We have a variety of moon walks, slides, games, slide combos, obstacle courses, characters and more. We also rent tables, tents, generators, chairs, balloons and concession machines. Indoor facility available. (334) 612.7025 thespacewalker.com

Paper Goods, Decorations, and Invitations

Arrow Rents

5600 Calmar Dr., Montgomery

All sorts of theme decor, balloons, helium tanks, and more. We provide a better selection. “Your one stop party shop.”

(334) 277.0463 arrowrents.net

Brendle Rentals

485 North Eastern Bypass, Montgomery Montgomery’s Oldest Party Supply Store. Balloons, piñatas, party goods. Large array of items for themed parties. Party favors and birthday bags now available.

(334) 260.5568 brendlerentals.com

Capital City Copy Shop

2701 Poplar St, Montgomery Poplar St. Invitations printed. Printing, copying, pick up, delivery, fax services available. (334) 834.3864 capitalcitycopyshop.com

Party City

2759 Eastern Blvd. , Montgomery

A one-stop party store that provides a wide selection of merchandise at everyday low prices. Discounts up to 50% off party ensembles. Wide selection of all your party needs.

(334) 409.0901 partycity.com

Sunday Dinner

5455 Atlanta Hwy. , Montgomery Plates, cups, chafing dishes, large quantity food items.

(334) 272.7000

Party Planners

Party on Purpose (POP)

ad on page 17

Montgomery

Party on Purpose is a locally owned, customizable event planning service focused on making your party truly unique! Choose from slumber parties complete with tents and lanterns, paint parties, POP Star Glam parties, tea parties and more. Multiple packages available and we bring everything to you!

(334) 600.2552 mypopevent.com

Places to Party - Artistic

Abrakadoodle Art & Events ad on page 31

Montgomery

Instagram @Abrakadoodle_AL

Creative art fun for your child for his/her birthday party. Everything Party is an Original. Painting parties and professional face painting available. Please visit our website for more information. (334) 265.5758 Mcornwell@abrakadoodle.com abrakadoodle.com/AL01

P’zazz Art Studio

138 W. Main St., Downtown Prattville, Prattville If you are looking for a unique place for a birthday party...then P’zazz is your place. Please call for pricing and party packages offered. (334) 354.1975 pzazzart.com

Wine & Design

7732 Eastchase Parkway, Montgomery fun, get creative, and fee proud of their work! We provide everything for our child’s painting party, and your child will take home a masterpiece.

Art Buzz Kids events will spack your child’s creativity and imagination in a fun, interactive setting.

(334) 245.3387 wineanddesign.com

Places to Party - Bowling

BAMA Lanes Inc

3020 Atlanta Hwy. , Montgomery

Three packages to choose from. All pkgs. include 2 hour party, Full birthday party setup, shoe rental, bumpers, ice cream, soft drink, six children per lane. Please call for packages offered and pricing. Weekday, Weekend or Evening.

(334) 272.5423 bamalanes.com

BAMA Lanes, Prattville

1714 East Main St., Prattville

Weekday Party Hours Monday-Thursday 10:30 – 3:30 and Friday 10:30 to 6 p.m. plus weekend parties. Various packages available.

(334) 358.8600 bamalanesprattville.com

Bowlero

1661 Eastern Blvd. , Montgomery

Birthday party packages available. Please visit our website or call to build your birthday party package. Add-ons available and deposit required.

(334) 819.7171 bowlero.com

Places to Party - Cheer/ Gymnastics/Dance

Tonya

Speed Dance

ad on page 25

3370 Harrison Road, Montgomery

We offer the best and most convenient venue for your child’s themed birthday party. We will help you customize the party and make it perfect and memorable. Please call for themes and pricing.

(334) 277.1098

United Gymstars

ad on page 32

6100 Brewbaker Blvd, Montgomery Gymnastics, trampoline, recreational activities, supervised games, and birthday party room. We provide the facility and activities; you provide the cake, decorations and food. Please call for details and pricing.

(334) 284.2244 gym@unitedgymstarsandcheer. com www.unitedgymstars.com

Armory Athletics

1018 Madison Avenue, Montgomery

Party Package available for up 10 children. One hour of gym time. We provide the fun! 2 - 6 foot tables will be provided for setup. Parents provide food, paper goods and party favors. Please call for pricing. 10 Party invitations. 30 minutes allowed for cleanup after party.

(334) 625.2789 armoryathletics.com

Ballerina Birthday Parties at CJ’s Dance Factory

145 South Court Street, Prattville

CJ’s hosts Birthday Parties for children ages 3 and up. The two hour princess fairytale begins when you and your friends arrive. The Party set up includes the following: Table and chairs set up in the Polka Dot Party room, Dance studio area with music and mirrors, Our “SugarPlum” ballerina, up to 10 guests (more for an additional fee), Tutus for your guests ( to use for the party) and twirl in and a ballet class. $25 non-refundable deposit required. (334) 467.8603 cjsdancefactory.com

Montgomery Ballet

1044 East Fairview Ave, Montgomery

Parties hosted by Montgomery Ballet Professional Company Members. Have your very own Dance Class for you and your friends! Princess characters available! Call for details.

(334) 409.0522 montgomeryballet.org

TuTu School Montgomery

2960 G Zelda Road, Montgomery

Perfect way to celebrate you little Swan or Sugar Plum Fairy. Each party provides a brief ballet class, a special birthday story featuring the guest of honor, a delicious cupcake picnic and delightful party favors.

(334) 363.3360 tutuschoolmontgomery.com

Places to PartyMiscellaneous

Adventure Sports Aquatic Center ad on page 57

1546 East Ann Street, Montgomery Indoor or outdoor pools, kiddie pool, grilling and picnic area. Call for details.

(334) 269.3483 adventuresports2.com

Buff City Soap ad on page 11

7052 Easthcase Parkway, Montgomery

Book your Buff Event! Make Memories And Cus tom Mini Bath Bombs With Friends, Family, And Co-Workers. Offering Kid’s Birthday Bash, Ladies Night Out, or create your own event. 1.5 hours of hands-on party time reserved in the Makery. Your guests will experience Makery Magic firsthand, learn all about our handmaking process, and make up to 5 custom Mini Bath Bombs of their own! Food and drinks are welcome in most Maker ies. Keep the fun going with a Custom Half or Full Loaf of Soap to make your Buff Event truly unforgettable!

(334) 269.8888 www.partywithbuff.com

Newtopia

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3731 Malcolm Drive, Montgomery Newtopia is an indoor playground facility designed for children to experience a fun, safe, and inclu sive experience. With our party package you get 80 min. of playtime, 40 min. of party room time, organic juice and pizza for kids, one free pass for Birthday child, set up and clean up and much, much more. Parents provide cake, cutter and candles. No ice-cream or outside food.

(334) 669.8722 newtopiafunpark.com

Prattville East YMCA

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972 McQueen Smith Rd., Prattville Party room for members and non-members. Pool

PRIS C6 Band Students Perform Christmas Concert

Congratulations to our C6 band students on a concert well played last night. We are so proud of you and the incredible progress you’ve made this year!

rental for members. Party room has a $70 deposit and is $200.00 for non-members and $150 for members. This includes 1 ½ hours of entertainment, hostess, sheet cake, cups, plates, napkins, silverware for 15 children. Cost for each additional child is $2. Birthday child receives a free t-shirt. You provide ice, ice cream and drinks. Themed parties also available. Call for more details. (334) 358.9622 prattvilleymca.org

Antique Train Rides

60 miles north of Montgomery, Calera Party takes place in the restored Amtrak car. Includes an hour train ride through the woods and by the interstate. Parents can set up party in our restored Amtrak car. Kids can also look through the old railroad yard. Hostesses are available but parents supply food and supplies. Theme parties available (Thomas the Train, etc.) (205) 668.3435 hodrrm.org

Auburn Putt Putt & Event Center 891 Co Rd 395, Auburn

Auburn’s Highest Rated Wheel Chair Accessible Putt-Putt Golf Course and Event Venue. Contact us to book our venue for your next event or birthday party. At Auburn Putt-Putt we offer a full covered area with tables, chairs, grills, and stone brick ovens. Perfect for hosting any event such as birthday parties, family reunions, or organization retreats. (334) 444.0497 auburnputtputt.com

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Auburn University Kid’s Club

392 South Donahue Drive, Auburn Party with the Auburn tigers! Packages for Men’s Basketball, Women’s Basketball, Gymnastics, Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Swimming & Diving, undermined by a lack of experience or because of physical ability. If you’re over 10 and able bodied, then axe throwing could be for you!

With safety and fun being our number one and number two concerns, we start every session with instruction and safety tips from a professional.

After you’ve had your training session, feel free to eat food, drink, and be merry. Customers are allowed to bring in their own food and beverages! Please call for details and pricing.

(334) 245.4540 civilaxethrowing.com

East Branch YMCA

3407 Pelzer Ave. , Montgomery

Parties for members. Indoor and outdoor pools. Outdoor pool includes slide and splash pool. YMCA provides lifeguards for party.

(334) 272.339 ymcamontgomery.org

FC Montgomery Soccer

Capital City Sportsplex, 1555 Eastern Blvd, Montgomery

93,000-sq. ft. water park’s pools and slides, kept warm at 84-degrees year-round.

(844) 473.9653 greatwolf.com/georgia

Launch Trampoline Park

891 Boardroom Drive, Prattville

Macon East Students Participate in AISA All-Star Football

Three fun packed packages to choose from. 1 hour and 45 min. to 2 hours, depending on package. All packages include 60 min. of launch fun, party room, gripper socks, drink, slice of pizza, special gift for birthday child and paper products. (334) 568.2041 launchtrampolinepark.com

McWane Center

200 19th Street North, Birmingham

Rocki Jump

5544 Atlanta Hwy. , Montgomery

The Ultimate trampoline park. Our birthday parties include: 1 hour of jump time and 45 minutes in our private party room. We provide plates, cups, utensils and napkins. You provide the cake and decorations. Three party packages offered to fit your needs. Please visit our website for more information.

(334) 239.2587 rockinjump.com

Splattered Woods Paintball

2151 Cantelou Road, Montgomery

Macon East Fourth Graders Enjoy Field Trip

We offer a broad spectrum of party opportunities and are very flexible because we are here to serve you and make your event special. Our parties can last 1 to 3 hours, and include fun sports games, races, and short sided games. You will have full use of our kitchen, fridges, and the dining area. If you want it to be super easy, put us in charge of setting up tables, ordering the cake, drinks, or lunch. Cost: $100 -$230 depending on hours. Addons are available for additional fees.

They do it all – cake, punch, ice cream, paper products and, if you like, goodie bags. If you want a special science demonstration while you celebrate, they can also provide that. Your group will party in one of the colorful party rooms, then take to the museum floor for a full day of hands-on science fun and discovery.

(205) 714.8369 mcwane.org

Mobile paintball supply sales and service. We host parties at your field or our location: Birthday Parties/Team Building/Youth Groups. We can build custom games to fit your needs. Friendly Christian sales and service.

(334) 294.6891

Top Golf

(334) 207.5442 brunomr@fcmontgomery.com fcmontgomery.com

Gazebo Tea Room

414 Perry Hill Road, Montgomery

A wonderful place for a girl’s tea party. Choose your own teacup and tea. Finger foods available. (334) 277.1839

Great Wolf Lodge

150 Tom Hall Parkway, LaGrange

Offering indoor water park fun and dry-land adventures for the entire family. Our resort near Atlanta features kid-friendly activities, dining options, an adult-friendly wine down service, and more all under one roof. Your stay includes access to the

Ms. Johnson’s fourth grade class enjoyed an educational field trip this past Friday that goes along with their study of Alabama State History. The students were able to tour Alabama’s historic Capitol. They were able to view the beautiful rotunda, the spiral staircase, the Avenue of Flags, and the portraits of the former governors. The students also enjoyed touring The First White House of the Confederacy and The Alabama Department of Archives and History. Their special treat added to an already fun-filled day was eating lunch at Chris’ Famous Hot Dogs. Special thanks to Mrs. Custard and her daughter for taking time to guide us and give their expertise at all these historic places.

Eight Macon East student-athletes were honored to participate in the 2022 AISA All-Star Football game held December 2 at Cramton Bowl. Deonte Powell, Sanders Manning, Gabe Spencer and Hunter Tillman all represented Macon East for the East team. Gabe Spencer was honored as Most Outstanding Offensive Back for the East team. Madison May, Ar’monni Payne, Hannah Kate Hodges and Mikalah Belser cheered the East team on from the sidelines as part of the all-star cheerleading squad. The participants enjoyed a few days of practice with their fellow AISA teammates. The East team beat the West team this year 36-22.

Montgomery Zoo

2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery

Birthday party packages offered on Saturday and Sunday’s. Biring your guests and we will provide the rest. Please visit our website for Party Packages offered. Reservations required.

(334) 240.4900 montgomeryzoo.com

Rock ‘n Roll Pinball

815 South Railroad Avenue, Opelika

We are Family and Party Friendly. Amy Briggs will work with you to set up the most fun, economical, and easy party experience you will ever have. Contact akb0049@auburn.edu; 28 Modern, Classic and Vintage Pins, 2 Multicade Video Arcades playing over 500 games, a golden tee game, drinks/snacks, private party room and more!

(334) 363.7625 rocknrollpinball.com

1111 24th St N, Birmingham

We host tons of birthday parties, corporate events, holiday parties, bachelor/bachelorette parties and special events. Somebody is always celebrating something. Please visit our website and click on the Parties/events link for individual party pricing. (205) 847.5757

YMCA Camp Chandler

Wetumpka, on Lake Jordan 30 minutes from Montgomery, Wetumpka

Pike Road High School Leo Club Collects Chrismtas Toys for Kids

Our Leo club did a great job collecting toys to help make Christmas merry and bright for lots of children!

Great birthday idea for kids 5 to 15. Ten child minimum. This three hour block of time includes 2-3 activities that you and your child choose, and starting or ending with meal served in the Dining Hall (if you choose the meal option). Parents may bring cake and ice cream to be served with the meal. Cost with a meal: $21.00 per child (10 child minimum) Cost without a meal: $16.00 per child (10 child minimum) (334) 229.0035 campchandler.org

Places to Party - Parks

Millbrook Memorial Ctr & Village Green Park

On Main Street and Grandview, Millbrook

Incredible wooden playground with castle, space shuttle, boat, etc. We have picnic tables and picnic shelter. First come first serve. Memorial Center rents for $300 for a one day rental + a $100 security deposit which can be returned upon inspection of facilities and return of the key. Handicap accessible facility.

(334) 290.2047 cityofmillbrook.org under parks and recreation tab

Montgomery City Parks

Call to reserve picnic shelters all day for Lagoon Park, Buddy Watson Park, Ida Belle Young Park, Oak Park, Gateway and AUM Park. Make shelter reservations as early as possible. Pete Peterson Lodge in Lagoon Park is also available for rent and is air conditioned and heated. Gateway Lodge is available during the week and 0 on the weekend. Gateway has a caterer’s kitchen. This books fast so call early. Please call Parks and Recreation for pricing and more information.

(334) 241.2300 montgomeryal.gov click on departments and then parks and recreations

Prattville Parks

City park shelters are $25 for 4 hrs. & $50 for 8 hrs. Cooter’s Pond pavilions rent for $35 or $75 depending on which pavilion. The Doster Community Center: auditorium $450 for 10 hours, dining hall $300 for 10 hours. The kitchen with either one of these rooms is an additional $75.00. Upper Kingston Community Center rents for $300 for 10 hours. $ 200 Security deposit. Call Department of Leisure Services to reserve.

(334) 361.3640 www.prattvilleal.gov

Wetumpka Parks

Gold Star Park (no rental fee if available), Jeanette Barrett Civic Room in Gold Star Park rents for $250 rental plus $100 refundable deposit. Martin Luther King Recreation Center (requires a $300 refundable cash deposit) 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. for $115. Civic Center in Wetumpka, large room with kitchen. Rates vary on day and hours. Please call for more information. Call 567.3002 for details about Fort Toulouse/Jackson Park, off US 231, Wetumpka 165-acre park area includes nature trails, campgrounds, picnic pavilion, museum, boat launch, and fort. Would be a great place for either a Pocahontas Party or a Wild West Party. Wetumpka Splash Pad at 200 Lancaster Street. (334) 567.5147 cityofwetumpka.com

Places to Party - Skating

2211 Ultimate Playzone

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3541 McGehee Road, Montgomery

It’s party time at 2211 Ultimate Playzone! We have 4 packages to choose from. You may visit our website for more information on package details. (334) 593.7180 2211ultimateplayzone.com

Eastdale Mall Roller Palace

Eastdale Mall, Montgomery

Please call for detaila and pricinc. (334) 277.2088 eastdale-mall.com

Skatezone 2000

88 Red Eagle Parkway, Wetumpka

Several party packages available. Call for details on pricing and options. We offer Laser tag parties. (334) 567.4434

Printed Invitations

Capital City Copy Shop

2701 Poplar St. , Montgomery

Invitations printed. Printing, copying, pick up, delivery, fax services available. (334) 230.9681 capitalcitycopyshop.com

Creative Printing 2501 East Fifth Street, Montgomery

Everything is custom made for that extra special birthday. (334) 281.1315 creativeprinting.us.com

Kwik Kopy Shop

4148 Carmichael Rd. and 448 South Lawrence Street, Montgomery

Print custom invitations. Wide variety of designer invitations for theme parties such as pool, slumber, tea, zoo, carousel, western, bowling, skating, dancing, etc. 8 1/2 x 11 designed papers are available for you to do it yourself. Fast turn around. (334) 244.0444 kwikkopyshop.com

The Paper Lady Montgomery

Specializing in reasonably priced invitations, birth announcements, calling cards, thank you notes and more. Also an authorized Sweet Pea Designs dealer.

1 (866) 481.4414 thepaperlady.net

Unique Gifts

NyNi Candles ad on page 26

Looking for that perfect gift? Local candle artist Nina Taylor creates luxury dessert candles and scents. Find her on Facebook @NyNiCandles. www.nynicandles.com

Alabama Shakespeare Festival Gift Shop Blount Cultural Park, Montgomery Theatre-related gifts. Open during performance hours, one hour prior to show and through intermission. Contact box office for show times.

(334) 271.5358 asf.net

Barb’s on Mulberry

1923 Mulberry Street, Montgomery

Will personalize lots of gift items. Choose from a wide variety of unique and personalized gifts. Closed on Mondays. We now do birthday parties. (334) 269.BARB (2272) barbsonmulberry.com

Capitol City Comics

7919 Vaughn Rd. (Festival Plaza), Montgomery

Large selection of comics, gaming cards, and statues. Military and college student discounts.

(334) 215.3335

Embellish

8111 Vaughn Road, Montgomery

Large selection of items to be monogrammed. Book bags, Scout bags, Brush Fire T-shirts, jewelry, tumblers and many, many more. (334) 649.2022 preppymonogrammedgifts.com

Heather Pierce Designs

7936 Vaughn Rd, Montgomery

Heather Pierce Designs specializes in personalized gifts. We offer tile décor including tumbled marble coasters, trivets and magnets.

(334) 676.1807 heatherpiercedesigns.com

Goat Hill Museum Store

Alabama’s State Capitol Building, Montgomery

Civil War, Civil Rights- Books, Local Artwork, Toys, Collectibles, Ornaments, Music, Videos, Cookbooks, Pottery, Souvenirs, and Unique Southern Gifts. Union Street Entrance. Open Mon.-Fri, 8:00 – 4:30 and Sat. from 9-4 (Sat. please enter through the Union St. entrance).

(334) 353.4969

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Gift Shop

Blount Cultural Park, Montgomery

You will find a wide assortment of unique gifts that are handcrafted by local artists for that special someone.

(334) 240.4337 mmfa.org

Montgomery Zoo Gift Shop

2301 Coliseum Parkway, Off the Northern Blvd, Montgomery

Animal-related toys, shirts, masks, jewelry. Great gifts for the animal lover.

(334) 240.4900 montgomeryzoo.com

Old Alabama Town Gift Shop

301 Columbus St. , Montgomery

Regional and old-fashioned gift items.

(334) 240.4500 oldalabamatown.com

Periwinkles

8189 Vaughn Road, Montgomery

Make your gift decisions from a large selection of popular items in our store.

(334) 277.3570

The Shoppes at My Kids Attic

401 Coliseum Blvd. Montgomery

We offer something for the everything in your life. Specialty gifts, home décor, candles, jewelry, pewter, children’s couture, vinyl and monogrammed gifts.

(334) 270.1456 mykidsattic.biz

Tucker Pecan Company

350 N McDonough St., Montgomery

Come by and visit us for a unique selection of gifts, tumblers, jewelry and more.

(334) 262.4470 tuckerpecan.com

Velvet Pumpkin

8185 Vaughn Rd., Montgomery

Beautiful selection of unique Clothing, Vera Bradley, frames and bath items.

(334) 273.9293 velvetpumpkinonline.net rrp

One of the best things I started doing as a mom was unconsciously implementing rhythms into my day.

They’re things that trigger other things or things triggered by other things.

These do not have to be complicated!

Rhythms are some of the most-autopilot-type things we, as moms, do throughout our day. They are likely ones you’re already doing and just haven’t specifically named. These can be applied to cleaning, getting out of the house, naptime, quiet time. Any time!

For example, I have rhythms that are literally visual signals for my kids, my family, or myself. At breakfast when we wake up, I open the shades and the back door to let the light in. At naptime midday, I turn off the big overhead lights. At bedtime, my nightstand lamp goes on. These help my brain (and my kids!) to visualize and understand our day is starting, or “Hey, it’s rest time, let’s be calm.” Or, “okay time to wind down for the night.”

These things can happen; and likely do — naturally. But you can also slowly set them in place to serve you and your daily flow of living. Whether you are a stay-at-home, work-athome, or work-out-of-the-home mom or dad, you are busy and you need these!

While the ones I use might look different than the ones you do, here are just some that have been particularly helpful to me in this season of young kids.

Morning Rhythms

In the morning while I let the dog out, I click on the coffee maker to brew. My daughter starts her morning preschool work at the dining room table, which I have set out the night before, and I put my toddler in his chair for breakfast. While they are sitting and contained, I put away the dishes set out to dry the night before and empty the dishwasher.

To help me with my rhythm I look for triggers to go to that next step. Dog outside = press the coffee maker, kids contained = put away dishes without my one-year-old opening all the cabinets or grabbing at the glass plates.

These are the crucial first moments of our day, and while things don’t always run smoothly and perfectly, I can depend on them to get me started. Simplicity wins. And it also helps us function. So do rhythms that involve coffee because... priorities, right!?

Nap Time Rhythms

Every nap time, I put my youngest down and immediately throw in a load of laundry, make a cup of coffee, then sit at my computer to work. When my son wakes up from his afternoon nap, I grab pajamas for both kids to wear to bed while I am already upstairs and then set them in the bathroom on the counter. You may think getting pajamas to wear five hours later sounds insane, but hear me out.

It seems almost silly or trivial, but when they’re in the bath downstairs at 6:30 p.m. and their pajamas are upstairs in their dressers, no one’s leaving kids unattended to grab them. Signals and rhythms, once again, saving the evening chaos from more chaos!

I also do a speedy ten-minute pickup of the main areas during nap time to “reset” the day. This is quite literally a visual signal for reset, much like opening the blinds at the start of the day.

My major nap time triggers are: come down the stairs and pass the laundry room = start the washer, turn his sound machine off = grab pajamas.

Sounds simple enough, right?

Evening Rhythms

Every night I load the dishwasher after dinner. I also preset the coffee maker to run smoothly in the morning. Big lights in the main areas go off, lamps go on. Dishes get washed and set out on the mat to dry to be put away in the morning. When I shower at night, I set out my pajamas and also set out my clothes for the next day on my dresser.

My triggers here are: turning on the shower = get PJs as well as clothes for the next day, kids ready for bed = big lights off, coffee maker prepped, load dishwasher.

Cleaning Rhythms

For cleaning-specific rhythms, I do at least one load of laundry a day. I change the sheets generally on Sundays, but definitely on the weekend. I don’t have a specific schedule I follow for cleaning, but try to weave in these signals throughout my days and week.

I have tried a schedule like “Monday – vacuum, Tuesday –wash all the laundry, Wednesday – deep clean the kitchen” and it doesn’t work for our changing life and daily routine. If this works for you, great!

Smaller and more subtle triggers feel less overwhelming to me. The biggest difference I’ve found in leaning into rhythms and triggers is that they are habit-forming guides and they just tend to stick longer. I’ve found that strict and detailed daily cleaning schedules feel almost defeating to me because our days look different from week to week. If I don’t follow the “Monday Schedule” exactly, I feel too defeated to attempt Tuesdays, and then I’m thrown off for the whole week. A lot of the time, in changing seasons, rigid schedules don’t last.

If I know I’m going to bed every night or that I pick up the kitchen after the kids are asleep, I can instill things into our routine based on those things. Not just because it happens to be Thursday night.

Wrap Up

These routines and habits serve me and my household. They may not look like yours and that’s okay (you may enjoy creating systems instead!). Take some time after reading this to think about your day and what you already do. Maybe write down some rhythms you notice you do already. Or take note for a whole day and jot down some of the things you need to get done.

Can you give your kids or yourself a way to remember how to do them, a way to connect them to something else? Identify the signals that trigger them and evaluate how you can do them more efficiently or even at all. See the routines serving you in your house already, what needs to be altered, and what can be tossed aside in the season of life you are in. These habits and rhythms are not to make you and your household run like robots! They are simply tools, which later turn into unconscious habits.

When we spend so much time at home, it is important to create a sense of fluidity and flow within our days. Habits triggered by signals or other routines are the easiest ways I’ve found to adopt this mentality. Your house will be running smoothly in no time! Well...as smooth as it can with kids running around, let’s be real.