Wiregrass Parents (September 2022) by KeepSharing

1 www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents Back to www.alabamapublichealth.gov/immunizationIMMUNIZATIONSSchoolIsyourchildvaccinated? 9-126-8 • Hep A • Hep B • DTaP • IPV • MMR • Varicella • Hep B • MCV4 • Hep A • DTaP • MMR • Varicella • IPV • Tdap • Hep B • Varicella • Hep A • DTaP • MMR • Tdap • IPV • MCV4 Required Shots June 2022 Recommended Shots: Covid-19 (Ages 5 and up) HPV (Ages 9 and up) • Flu (All ages) GRADE K-5

1 Columnswww.facebook.com/wiregrassparentsDepartments 2 Bits & Pieces 4 Teacher of the Month 8 School Bits 28 Mom to Mom 6 Kids Health Watch 15 Teens and Screens Volume 5 Number 1

Lance Kirkland, and she has a sister, Ivey

On (age Hannah and (or she

Tiny, as

likes to call her). Blair loves to play with her sister, read books, play outside, dance, and eat snacks. She loves music, makeup, and people! President & Publisher Jason Watson Editor DeAnne Watson Contributing Writers Kimberly Blaker Kristi Bush, LSW Tanni Haas, Ph.D. David A. Rogers, MD Cover Photography Erica www.ericahartzogphotography.comHartzog Advertising Sales Jason Watson (334) 986.3667 Wiregrass Parents is copyrighted 2022 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights re served. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Wiregrass 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. Visit us at www.wiregrassparents.com The Area’s Go-To Resource for Families September2022 Special Needs Guide Local, state and national resources to help your child and your family. Teens and Screens Navigating negative consequences associated with device removal. 12 15 Great Apps for Kids with Special Needs Seven free apps to help them 16grow. Creative Discipline for Special Needs Kids A positive, token-system approach. 18

3) attends preschool at Rehobeth Elementary School. Her parents are

The Cover Blair

All ages are invited. This event will be held on Saturday, October 15 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Rotary Miracle Field. The cost is one bag of candy (to be used at the event). For more information, please call 334-615-3720. Everyone attending must register at www.dothanleisureservices.org.

September 22-24 * Cultural Arts Center, Dothan

GolfRobertSeptemberKids15TrentJonesTrailatHighlandOaks

Disney’s Frozen Jr. at Southeast Alabama Community Theatre

Therapeutic Fall Carnival

Wiregrass Parents I September 2022 www.wiregrassparents.com2

28th Annual Tee Off for

A fundraising campaign for the Southeast Alabama Child Advo cacy Center, this is a fun day of golf, course contests, prizes, food, friends, and fun! It’s also a chance for attendees to learn more about the Southeast Alabama Child Advocacy Center mission and the children we serve. Please visit events/tee-off-for-kids-annual-golf-tournament/https://www.southeastcac.org/toregister.

Girls Night Out

October 1 * 9 am - 3 pm Downtown Ozark

Landmark Park Bluegrass Festival

September 10, 2022 Join us for the Landmark Park Bluegrass Festival with live bluegrass music all day. Plus, bring your instrument for jam sessions, instrument demos, food trucks, kids activities, historical interpretations, antique tractors, wagon rides, and arts and crafts vendors. Bring your lawn chairs and 10×10 tents! Admission includes a wristband for re-entry. Admission is $10 for adults; $8 for seniors and military; $4 for kids; free for park members and children 2 and under. Gates open at 9 a.m., music starts at noon. Please visit com/park-events/https://www.landmarkparkdothan.formoreinformation.

A story of true love and acceptance between sisters, Frozen JR. expands upon the emotional relationship and journey between Princesses Anna and Elsa. Based on the 2018 Broadway musi cal, Elsa, Anna and the magical land of Arendelle come to life onstage. Directed by Sandra & Sean Peters. Recommended for general audiences. Ticket sales to the general public begin Sept. 6. All seats $15. Purchases may be made at SEACT.com or by phone (334) 794-0400.

This annual event has something for everyone of all ages! Join us for a day in beautiful downtown Ozark. Browse the unique crafts and beauti ful artwork while listening to live music and enjoying some great food. Come out and see the car and truck show, children’s activities, touch a truck and more. Please visit https://www.facebook.com/Clay bankJamboree/ for more information.

October 15 * 10 am – 1 pm Rotary Miracle Field, Dothan Sponsored by Dothan Leisure Services Therapeutic Recreation program, Dothan Civitan Club, Dothan Miracle League, and the Jon Lee Foundation. The therapeutic fall carnival is for intel lectually and physically challenged children and adults and their immediate family members. Par ticipants will enjoy carnival games, cakewalk, costume contest, train rides, inflatables, face painting, karaoke, dunking booth, and other fun activities. Special requirements: participants must be accompanied by a parent/guardian/caregiver.

Claybank Jamboree Arts & Crafts Festival

The SEACT office is open by appointment only. Doors open at 6:00 PM. Concessions available.

September 24 * 4 pm - 9 pm * Downtown Enterprise Join us Saturday, Sep tember 24th from 4 pm - 9 pm for the 2022 Girls Night Out event. Girls Night Out is an annual event that benefits Breast Cancer Awareness. The event features refresh ments, door prizes, swag bags, activities, and of course shopping. Funds raised through ticket sales are donated to Coffee County Family Services for women in need of assistance with mammogram screening. Please visit https:// www.enterprisedowntown.com/girls-night-out for more information.

October 2 * 2 pm * Solomon Park Dothan’s first annual Witches Ride benefitting Southeast Alabama Child Advocacy Center. Grab your girls, your best witchy wardrobe, and your fastest broomstick. We will start the fun with our parade throwing out Hal loween treats to the kids and end with a party in the park with food, games, prizes, and entertainment for the whole family! “Broom sticks” can include walking shoes, scooters, bikes, golf carts, or anything else to let you soar! Visit /www.eventbrite.com/ to register.

This is a chance to let your best furry friends take a dip in the pool before it’s drained and cleaned! The wave pool will be open for the doggos, and this year we are also opening the Kids Cove Pool for the shy guys and little puppies! This event will include pet photos, pet vendors, a pet contest, and more! Dothan Ice Cream will be on-site selling pupsicles, and Mural City Coffee Company will be here brewing up some coffee for the humans. The cost to enter is a donation of $12 per dog that will benefit the Dothan Animal Shelter, Angel Paws, and the Wiregrass Spay and Neuter Alliance. Please visit http://www.waterworlddothan.com/.

Taste of Coffee County 2022

September 9 - 11

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September 22 * 5:30 pm – 7 pm * Enterprise Civic Center Come and get a “taste” from some of the best restaurants in Coffee County. Proceeds from this event support scholarships and other service projects spon sored by Altrusa of Enterprise. Please visit coffee-county.ticketleap.com/taste-of-coffee-county-22/https://taste-of- for tickets

All It’s Caked Up To Be Sugar Arts Show

Cultural Arts Center, Dothan Caking, Baking, and Decorating enthusiast will have the oppor tunity to indulge themselves for three family friendly days. Shop specialty vendors for the latest trends and treats, learn from industry experts, compete in challeng ing competitions, watch live demonstrations, enter drawings to win prizes, plus so much more. Please visit https://allitscakeduptobe. com/ for more information.

Dothan Witches Ride

OR pick up your tickets at: Gilley Heating and Cooling. Doggie Dip

September 17 * 9 am - 12 pm Water World Dothan

Dothan Prep Wolf Pack Cafe is coming to the faculty and staff this year. This will be a cafe run by Ms. Gibson’s students. It will allow them to learn how to work a cash register, take inventory of items, socially communicate with adults to take orders, count cash, and so many other tasks.

Currently, the cafe will be open every other Friday, and her students will serve hot lunches to the faculty and staff. Ms. Gibson is also hoping to add daily snack options to the cafe. However, she needs to raise a little more support to help this part of the cafe become a reality. If you have questions about how to support this initiative, we invite you to contact Ms. Gibson at brgibson@ dothan.k12.al.us.OurTeacher of the Month raved about how amazing Dothan Prep’s support system has been. Her creative ideas almost always have the opportunity to be birthed and the comrade built among all the Exceptional Student Services teachers has helped cultivate a culture of support, encourage ment and love.

“Special Education is my passion and my drive. Coming up with new ways to teach 14 students with different personalities and disabilities motivates me as a whole,” shares this month’s Teacher of the Month Briana Gibson. Ms. Gibson teaches 7th and 8th grade stu dents with special needs at Dothan Preparatory Academy. “I keep my students motivated by ensuring learning is hands-on and always engaged. I want my students always to love to learn and get excited to be in the classroom.” “Being nominated [as Teacher of the Month] makes me feel happy about making a difference,” said Ms. Gibson. Her passion for hands-on teach ing is not only making a huge difference in her classroom but also for the entire school.

Briana Gibson Dothan Preparatory Academy

As a native of Los Angeles, California, Ms. Gibson received her Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Studies from California State University of Long Beach. She then received her Master’s in Special Education from the University of Phoenix and a Special Education degree at Walden University. She plans to further her education by getting a National Certification in Special Education. Briana has been teaching for fourteen years. She believes family relationships are incredibly important. When she isn’t working, she enjoys traveling with her three children, especially to California, where her parents still live. Briana’s other hobbies include cooking, scrapbooking, puzzles, and visiting the casino.

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The two most common chest wall problems that cause concern for children or their caregivers are pectus excavatum and pectus carinatum. Pectus excavatum is more common in boys and is caused by an abnormality of the cartilage that attaches the ribs to the sternum (or breastbone). The result is that the sternum is pushed backward, and so has a sunken ap pearance. Some patients are quite concerned by the appearance of the chest wall and will not participate in activities where other children may be able to see their chest. The initial assessment of the child with this abnormality is a complete history and physical with particular attention to the presence of heart murmurs since these may be due to compres sion of the heart by the sternum. Patients then undergo a CT scan of the chest, echocardio gram, and pulmonary function tests. The CT scan allows for the development of a measure of the severity of the condition. The echocardio gram and pulmonary function tests are done to see if the chest wall is compressing the heart or lungs. Surgical correction may be necessary if there is evidence that the condition is affecting the heart or lungs and if it is causing social or psychological distress for the patient.

Pectus carinatum is the other common chest wall abnormality, and the abnormal growth of the cartilage attaching the ribs to the sternum is also thought to be the cause of this condition. The final appearance is marked by the protrud ing of the sternum forward. There are instances where this condition is treated with the surgical excision of the cartilage. However, most of these children can be treated with bracing, which works on the cartilage as it does on teeth. The brace applies steady pressure to the sternum which results in a gradual reduction of the protru sion. There is an advantage to having the brace created by a company that has experience with this specific problem and convincing the child to wear it for eight hours a day for six months can be a considerable challenge.

The appearance of chest wall deformities can cause families and children considerable distress and there are instances where pectus excavatum can cause physical changes that limit the ability of the child to play and participate in sports. Whatever the concern, it is advisable to discuss whether or not the condi tion should be treated with your pediatrician. It may be that the deformity can just be observed or treated without surgery. Surgical therapy is still a big step, has improved considerably in the last few years, and can result in substantial improvements with a much shorter recovery period than was the case only a few years ago.

Dr. David A. Rogers is a professor in the Departments of Surgery, Medical Education and Pediatrics, and the Senior Associate Dean of Faculty Affairs and Professional Devel opment, in the School of Medicine at UAB. He sees patients once a month at Dothan Pediatric Subspecialty Clinic for Pre/Post-operative Care.

KidsHealthWatch Sponsored

Wiregrass Parents I September 2022 www.wiregrassparents.com6

Chest Wall Deformities by Dothan Pediatric Healthcare Network

Autauga County Schools

Carver’s AP Students Participate in

ConnectswithFacultyandStaff Building connections in the classroom first begins with connecting with our faculty and staff. OCS extends a special thanks to Mayor Mark Blankenship, DJ Ba tiste and Donna Por ter for speaking with faculty and staff during our 2022-2023 Institute.

Wiregrass Parents www.wiregrassparents.com8

Ozark City Schools

One-of-a-KindProgram Carver 9th Grade Acad emy’s AP World History blended with Advanced English is a one of a kind program. They are the only school in the state that offers this type of opportunity. Thirty of Carver’s AP History students passed the AP exam in May. The AP exam pass rate at Carver was nearly 10% higher than the state average in public and private schools. We want to recognize and congratulate our AP students and wonderfultheirparents on a very successful year.

Fun with Shaving Cream at

Teachers Are Fired Up for a New School Year

Dothan City, Houston County, and Henry County Schools came together for the first time in history for a combined Wiregrass Institute that FIRED up teachers and district staff for the school year! The day began with inspirational remarks from Mayor Mark Saliba with the City of Dothan, superintendents from Dothan City Schools, Houston County Schools, and Henry Count Schools, followed by Alabama Department of Education State Superintendent Dr Eric Mackey. Dr. Neil Lamb, President of Hudson Alpha Institute for Bio technology, shared about their commitment and vision for the new HudsonAlpha Wiregrass and the impact on educa tion. Finally, Ron Clark from Ron Clark Academy took the stage and ROCKED THE HOUSE with amazing stories and an inspirational message. Inspiring all employees to be runners. Educators took valuable skills from the day to apply to the 2022-23 school year!

Houston Academy Varsity Cross Country Wins Big HA’s Varsity Girls XC earned 1st place at the Montgomery Academy Invite! Emily Selig Pineda medaled 6th place in the V race. Paxton Parrish earned a top 10 award in the JV race. This was the first cross country race of the season and the first race for many of our runners.

Providence Christian School’s First Day

Gardening Days at Bethel Christian Academy In August, Bethel students cleaned out their gardens and started. We can’t wait to see all their veggies grow so they can share them.

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Autauga County Schools began. After watching a video about the The Very Hungry Caterpillar, City

Ozark Career and Tech Team Attends ALACTE Conference The Ozark

Wiregrass Parents I September 2022 www.wiregrassparents.com10

Schools’ Career and Technical Educa tion Team attended the ALACTE Conference in Mobile to learn about new developments and best practices in the area of career tech! We are excited to bring back innova tive new ideas to the students of Ozark City Schools. Houston Academy Volleyball HA Volleyball had a great day at the officials clinic scrimmage in Enterprise yesterday! Let’s GO Raiders!! On a upstudentsgamerecentday,andteachersworetheirfavoriteteamjerseystopumptheGeneralstoRunOvertheRebels! Providence Student Council Ready for the School Year We are thankful for these students serving our school and community. Please email news and photos to schoolnews@wiregrassparents.com!

SchoolOzarkYearCelebration

The school year starts off with fun and creativity for this K-3 class at Bethel Christian Academy.

Families enjoyed the City-wide Ozark Celebration in August with tours of D. A. Smith Middle School and Carroll High School.

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Music with Mrs. Dean Bellot at Victory Christian Shool Students have fun and studies have shown that music produces several positive effects on a human’s body and brain. Music activates both the left and right brain at the same time, and the activation of maximizehemispheresbothcanlearningandimprovememory.

BethelK-3Christian’sClass

Like any other kids, kids with special needs are diverse, and many educational apps can help them with their specific needs. Here are some of the best ones, and they’re all free. So if you’re a parent or caregiver of children with special needs, check them out, and then download the ones that are the most useful and fun.

September 2022 www.wiregrassparents.com12

at 13 years old. Through her treatment and recovery, she bonded with the doctors and nurses saying, “they became like family to me.” She was so inspired by her care team, she decided to become a doctor and help other children going through a scary and similar situation. She also wanted to show that people with physical challenges can and should pursue medicine, too. She believes her journey to becoming a doctor was inspired as a patient here at Children’s of Alabama. Sydney Cancer Survivor Cancer_Month-Sydney-MontgomeryParent_4.9x7.25-PROD.indd 1 8/10/22 10:09 AM

(AvailableCoach.meat:Apple Appstore; Google Play)

iOT (Available:SessionAppleAppstore)

(AvailableEmotionaryat:Apple Appstore; Google Play) If you want to help your kids better understand other people’s emotions, the best thing you can do is help them better understand their own. This app has more than 100 short, dictionary-style definitions of common emotions, each accompanied by an emoticon. This helps kids develop a rich vocabulary for expressing their emo tions, and it teaches them coping skills so that they don’t become overwhelmed by their emotions. They can create their own emoticons for emotions they think aren’t included in the app but are really important to them.

Created by a well-known occupational therapist, Dr. Frederick Covington, this app features lots of kid-friendly, game-like exercises aimed at improving their visual perception, tracking, and coordination. It also improves fine motor skills, especially

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Drawing on the latest psychologi cal and behavioral research, this is a great app that assumes that a key to achieving one’s goals is to develop good, consistent habits. Users decide which habits they’d like to develop, track those habits over time, receive reminders, and then get positive feedback (high-fives) when they reach their goals. Depending on their age and maturity, your kids can either use this app on their own or with a little help from you.

ChatterPix Kids (Available at Apple Appstore; Google Play)

This app is great for kids who need help practicing their oral communication skills. They can either upload or take a picture of themselves, draw a mouth, and then record anything they want to say. It’s particularly useful if you’re having a difficult conversation at home and your kids find it easier to express their views through an avatar rather than directly to you. It can also be useful in school if your kids require extra time composing an answer to a teacher’s question. They can record and re-record their response until they get it just the way they want it.

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This social skills app teaches kids how to interact with dif ferent kinds of people that they encounter in their daily lives, such as grocery store clerks, hairdress ers, doctors, and restaurant wait ers. It has 12-photo slideshows that model kids engaging in appropriate behaviors with people in different settings. My Little Suitcase (Available at: Apple Appstore) This game-like app, which can be played by up to four people, enhances kids’ ability to memorize and match items. Similar to the popular card game Memory, each player has a suitcase with six dif ferent items represented on a small card that is faced down. Players take turns turning the cards over. If the card is theirs, they put it in their suitcase. If not, it’s the next player’s turn. Aside from improving their working memory and retention skills, they learn how to focus, categorize, and engage in proper turn-taking. It’s a great game for the whole family.

MindShift CBT (Available at: Apple Appstore; Google Play) Based on cognitive behavioral therapy, which is widely used, this app teaches kids how to deal with different anxiety-provoking situations like conflicts, social situations, and tests. It features tools that help users relax, practice mindfulness, and re-orient their thoughts. It has audio recordings with guided me diations, a journal for users to record thoughts that make them the most anxious, and general tips for managing anxiety.

Model Me Going Places 2 (Available at: Apple Appstore)

Tanni Haas, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Communication Arts, Sciences & Disorders at the City University of New York – Brooklyn College. WP . l Scout. You and your troop. Dreaming up adventures Making the whole world sparkle with your own personal brand of magic

Wiregrass Parents September 2022 www.wiregrassparents.com14 kids’ ability to create proper letters. The app is used by occupational therapists everywhere, but your kids can use it too, either on their own or with your help, to track their progress over time.

The Mental Health Consequences of Device Removal

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I have had numerous families consult with me about how to manage the “fall out” after removing devices. Parents are terri fied their child will do something rash in a moment of panic. I have had teens threaten to commit suicide, and I have heard from parents of a child who did attempt suicide. There are numerous accounts of children falling into a deep depression after their phone was removed. On one occasion I had a grandmother tell me that her

First, do not remove the phone during an emotionally charged moment when you are angry with your child. This is HARD to do. Sitting your child down after emotions have settled and discussing why you are removing the device will help to diffuse some of the scary feelings they may experience. Ask them if they understand why they are losing the privilege of having a device. Ask what they feel should happen to regain time on the device. Allowing them to see a win dow where they can earn the right to return to using the phone will encourage them to not only exercise appropriate behavior with the phone but will also take away the feeling of “it will be gone forever”. Secondly, watch for signs of depression. Take any threats of harming themselves as real. Many times youth will act out during the height of their emotions...and not consider the long-term consequences. The emotions simply feel like more they can handle. Talk to them about what they are feeling. And why they are feeling scared, upset, lonely, mad, etc. Walking them through the emotions that are attached to their device can help lead you into deeper conversations about how to avoid this type of dependence once the device is returned. Finally, although you may be angry with your child, showing them empathy and compassion for how they feel can help diffuse a volatile situation as well as help strengthen your digital relationship with your Bottomchild. line, is it sometimes an appropri ate consequence to remove a device? Yes. Absolutely. The real ity is we would probably ALL benefit from device removal from time to time...and we would certainly benefit from LESS time spent navigating social media. Just be aware that the removal will be met with pushback. After that pushback, do not be surprised when your child returns to the loving, happy, age-appropriate behaviors you have missed. This is the overwhelming consensus that I get from parents after de vices have been removed for a period of time. They “get their child back”. And that, well that speaks volumes.

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 associ ated with social media. You may reach Kristi through her website at communications.com.www.knb

We talk about the mental health con cerns of too much device use quite often, as so much research has been done in this area. A quick Google search can lead you down a rabbit hole of overwhelming informa tion that points to the dangers of too much device time. However, I want to take a look at the other side of the research. What hap pens when you have a child or teen who has been attached to their device and then it is removed? Let’s take this scenario as an ex ample. Your teen has been on their phone consistently. They are using it to remain in constant contact with their friends. They are watching videos, either through YouTube or TikTok, regularly. Then they make some missteps, either because of the device or other behaviors, and your consequence is to remove the device immediately and for an extended period of time. I want to caution you to be watchful of your child’s behavior after removing the device. This is where we must be careful as parents. I am guilty of becoming angry with my teens for bad behavior, and immedi ately taking the phone. It does feel like the fastest way to get their attention in today’s device-driven world. Your child’s device is not simply a “phone” to them. It is truly their connection to their friends. To the outside world. Couple this with the constant addic tive dopamine hits they receive throughout the day while on their devices, and you may be faced with several shocking responses once you remove the device. What they feel when it is removed is immediate panic for two reasons. The object they are “addicted” to has just been ripped away, and they im mediately feel the panic of losing touch with their friends. Why is all of this so important?

Ifmentalleasedonweekteentactednotsuicidethreatenedgranddaughterimmediateifthephonewasreturned.Sheconthepoliceandthewasadmittedforaatthelocalhospitalsuicidewatchandrewithanextensivehealthcareplan.Sowhatcanwedo?ourchildrenareaddicted to devices, but the appropriate response is to remove the device after bad behavior, how do we protect them from the extreme emotions they may experience? There are a few things I recommend to help your child, and you, if you find yourself in this situation.

How does it affect their mental health?

Finding healthy, effective approaches to gaining children’s cooperation, and improving their behavior isn’t always easy. The tried and true methods often turn out to be true but temporary at best, especially for children with behavior problems stemming from attention deficit disorder or other behavior disorders. One approach that works well is a token system. With this method, children earn tokens for a variety of good behaviors and lose tokens for misbehavior. Then they purchase rewards or privileges with the tokens they’ve accumulated.

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For children under five, the token system should be used only for reinforcing positive behavior. The frustration caused by losing tokens for poor behavior will not be helpful to the pre schooler. That said, when a preschooler misbehaves, you can simply tell your child she will not be receiving any tokens as a result of the bad behavior. Go through each list and prioritize and choose only four or five behaviors to work on at a time. Once your child has im proved on a particular behavior, remove it from the list and add a new Next,one. determine how many tokens to reward your child or confiscate for specific behaviors. Your list might look similar to the one below. Keep in mind the number of tokens assigned to a particular behavior should fit the severity or difficulty of the behavior relative to the other behaviors on which you are working.

Hang up their book bag and jacketEarn 3 tokens Eat supper without complainingEarn 2 tokens Say please and thank youEarn 1 token Complete homeworkEarn 6 tokens Hitting - Lose 5 tokens Tattling - Lose 2 token Also, try to estimate the num ber of tokens your child is likely to earn and lose in a week. Your child should be able to earn enough to kens to pay for problem behaviors. It’s not a good idea for your child to go into debt. If this becomes a problem, adjust the distribution of tokens accordingly.

As your child approaches the teen years, tokens may be perceived as childish. If your preteen still struggles behaviorally and with completing tasks, offer a checkbook ledger for tallying points instead. When points are earned, your preteen should fill in the led ger with the specific behavior or task and number of points earned. Immediately initial to show you’ve approved the points.

Benefits of the token system

As you plan the rewards, include privileges your child asks for or does regularly, and would be devastating if the opportunity were lost. Those rewards will be the strongest motivators. To make such rewards effective, you’ll need to place limits on those privileges unless your child has earned and purchased them.

Be sure to set guidelines for rewards that require your time or attention. For example, a trip to the apple orchard might require a two-day notice. While for a board game, you might agree you’ll play within four hours of the request.

Kimberly Blaker is a freelance parenting writer. She’s also founder and director of KB Creative Digital Services, a niche marketing agency for the healthcare and mental health industries at kbcreativedigital.com WP

Use grade rewards only if your child is capable of achieving high marks without too much difficulty.

If your child struggles to complete schoolwork and turn in assignments, use the token system for this alone. Ask your child’s teacher to send home a daily report of what your child has completed and turned in, then reward your child’s efforts.

Fourth, the token system is a positive approach. It elimi nates criticism, yelling, arguing, and other unhealthy and inef fective ways parents often get caught up in dealing with problem behavior.Finally, the token system can be altered regularly to keep kids’ interest and thereby increase its effectiveness. The token system, or one of its variations, can be used from about the age of three into the preteen years, depending on your child’s level of maturity. Getting started Make a list of the behaviors you’d like to work on with your child. This should include positive behaviors you’d like your child to improve on, such as using good table manners or putting dirty clothes in the hamper. If your child is five or older, also make a separate list of problem behaviors you’d like to reduce, such as name-calling or hitting.

The token system has several advan tages over other forms of discipline and behavior management plans. First, it can be carried out at any time and in any place. Children often act up in stores or public places, leav ing parents with few options for immediately settling the problem. But with the token system, you and your child will carry a supply of tokens everywhere you go. Before you head out, just remind your child that good behavior will be rewarded and that inappropriate behavior will result in immediate loss of tokens.Thesecond advantage is the token system teaches children how to save, bud get, and plan expenditures because tokens are used similarly to money. Next, this system prevents inappropriate or useless measures that parents often utilize in the heat of the moment. The token system makes empty threats a thing of the past. Be cause your child is aware of the consequences and your ability to administer them immediately, he’s less likely to act up.

Set a variety of values to the rewards. That way, your child has the option to either make frequent purchases or to save for something big. Small children require frequent opportunities to purchase rewards to maintain their interest.

You’ll also need to choose rewards your child can purchase with the tokens. Determine what will be most enticing to your child. While a trip to rent a DVD might be a real winner with some kids, others won’t be fazed by it.

Poker chips make good tokens. For older kids, assign different point values to each color.

Variations

Finally, when handing out tokens, always verbally praise your child. Say you’re proud of his actions or appreciate her thoughtfulness. When your child is no longer earning tokens for the behavior, continued use of praise will reinforce it.

Wiregrass Parents September 2022 www.wiregrassparents.com

Dover Counseling Services

Oz Psychology 299 Painter Ave., Ozark, AL 36360

Wiregrass Wellness Center 201 Regency Ct., Dothan, AL 36305 A full range of professional therapy and counsel ing services for families and individuals including: adolescence psychiatry and children care psychia try and adult ADHD. (334) 673-8869 www.wiregrasswellnesscenter.com

Bright Futures provides ABA therapy services for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disor der. Located in the Wiregrass area, we specialize

Board Certified Dothan or Enterprise Alabama Allergy or Asthma Doctor? We Can Help! Dothan (334) 794-2718 Enterprise (334) 393-4044 www.aaapc.mymedfusion.com

Provides a resource list of services that have been recommended by families and professionals, support groups, lending library, newsletter and Education & 1-877-4AUTISMAwareness.www.autism-alabama.org

181 W. Reynolds St., Ozark, AL 36360 Providing high quality applied behavior analysis therapy and behavior consultation in Ozark, Fort Rucker and surrounding areas. (334) 477-4686 ababeaconofhope.com

200 Grove Park Lane, Ste 110, Dothan, AL 36305

Autism ABA Associates LLC 112 Adris Pl., Dothan AL 36303 305 Regency Ct., Dothan AL 36305 201 W. Lee St., Enterprise AL 36330 1018 S. Brundidge St., Troy AL 36081 112 N. 3 Notch St., Troy AL 36081, AL Clinicbased and in-home ABA therapy services for chil dren and adolescents affected by Autism Spec trum Disorder. Direct intervention that focuses on skill acquisition and behavior intervention. (334) 618-3302 info@abaassociate.com

Concerns/Situations addressed: Child and adolescent issues (ADHD, Behavior Concerns), Family relationships, Eating disorders, Grief and bereavement, Depression, Mood disorders, Anxiety, Stress management, Abuse and trauma related issues. (334) 475-0115 barkleycounseling.business.site Counseling Services of Dothan 1450 Ross Clark Cir., Suite 3, Dothan, AL 36301

1311 Rucker Blvd., Enterprise, AL 36330 Dover Counseling offers counseling ser vices to children and adolescents beginning at age 5. Issues treated include depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, ODD, and other mood (334)disorders.417-0212 dovercounselingservices.com

Dothan Behavioral Medicine Clinic 408 Healthwest Dr., Dothan, AL 36301

Beacon of Hope ABA and Behavior Consultation

Asthma Alabama Asthma & Allergy PC AL Need36303aTrue

Individualized treatment and consultation services for autism spectrum disorders and other devel opmental disorders. Services provided include: Individualized ABA Program Development, Func tional Behavior Assessments, Parent Training, and Social Skills. (334) 714-3696 abatherapydothan.com

An innovative center specializing in a unique com bination of programs to help with focus, attention and listening skills. We serve children and adults with a variety of learning challenges including ADD/ ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and classroom difficulties. (334) 699-4007 www.progresscenter.us

ADD/ADHD Alabama Psychiatry 256 Honeysuckle Rd., Suite 3, Dothan, AL 36305

Our therapists have years of experience and spe cialize in all areas of counseling including ADHD/ Learning Disabilites. (334) 794-2113 www.csdothan.org

Harmonex Neuroscience Research 408 Healthwest Dr., Dothan, AL 36303

Alabama Clinics 2812 Hartford Hwy., Suite 1, Dothan, AL 36305

The Autistic Treatment Center at Alabama Clinics provides comprehensive assessment, diagnostic and treatment services for people with autism spectrum disorders. (334) 712-1170 alabamaclinics.com

ENT Care 4300 W. Main St., Suite 403, Dothan, AL 36305 Our Board Certified physician in Allergy and Immunology cares for both pediatric and adult patients. We specialize in comprehensive care of allergic and asthmatic conditions. (334) 793-4788 entcare.org

Barkley Counseling Center 210 E. Grubbs St., Suite 1, Enterprise, AL 36330

Bright Futures ABA Therapy 1016 Boll Weevil Cir., Ste 2, Enterprise, AL 36330

Hayes Counseling Services 5565 Montgomery Hwy., Dothan, AL 36303 Issues, including ADHD, are explored and ad dressed with appropriate therapy techniques. We use a combination of Cognitive and Behav ioral techniques from a Christian Perspective of (334)counseling.790-2489

Arch Counseling Our qualified team of Clinicians help clients with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, abuse and trauma, behavioral issues, anger management, stress management, ADHD, bereavement, life transitions, parenting, divorce, co-parenting, and much more. www.archcounseling.org

Creating a comprehensive and inclusive envi ronment for care within the community and as suring continuity of care for patients with mental health issues by delivering the most effective, efficient, and highest quality care for all of those in (334)need.350-5648 alpsychiatry.com

Clinical research organization specializing in psy chiatric and neurological clinical studies in adult and pediatric populations, including ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Depression, Anxiety, Autism and others. (334) 836-2000 hrxinfo.com

www.hayescounseling.net

Our assessments and treatments offered are for early childhood through young adults. We do test ing and treat ADHD, ODD, trauma, depression, anxiety, autism, dyslexia, learning disorders, and developmental delays. (334) 443-0848 ozpsychology.com Progress Center 2543 Ross Clark Circle, Ste 5, Dothan, AL 36301

Autism Society of Alabama

Specializing in pediatric behavioral medicine. Specialized outpatient services for mood or anxi ety disorders, ADHD, learning difficulties, autism spectrum disorders, and more. (334) 702-7222 www.dbmclinic.com

ABA Therapy & Consultng Services

Alabama Branch of the International Dyslexia Association 280 Marwood Drive , Birmingham, AL 35244

Helping improve the lives of individuals with dys lexia through education, legislation and services. (256) 337-1889 www.idaalabama.org

Providing services to children and adults diag nosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders, traumatic brain injury, or other developmental disorders, provide training to parents, teachers, and other professionals in the region, which will include free group trainings as requested. (334) 709-4386 drhaba.com

Week-long recreational program for children ages 7-17 with a form of juvenile arthritis or a related autoimmune disease. (251) 599-5688 www.campmash.org Camp Seale Harris Camp Seals Harris offers a medically supervised, fun camp experience and family connection to year round support. (205) 402-0415 www.campsealeharris.org

Hosted by United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile, Camp SMILE is a residential summer camp for individu als with disabilities (ages 5 – 50) and their siblings. (251) 479-4900 www.campsmilemobile.org

Lakeshore Foundation 4000 Ridgeway Dr., Birmingham, AL 35209 Offers a wide range of fitness, recreation, athletic and education programs to children and adults who experience diagnostic conditions including spinal cord injuries, cerebral palsy, multiple sclero sis, stroke, amputation, and visual impairment. (205) 313-7400 www.lakeshore.org

Learning Disabilities Association of AL Non-profit grassroots organization whose members are individuals with learning disabilities, their fami lies, and the professionals who work with them. www.ldaalabama.org Oz Psychology 299 Painter Ave., Ozark, AL 36360

Down Syndrome Down Syndrome Alabama 1929 Canyon Road, Birmingham, AL Promotes awareness and acceptance, and advocacy for individuals. Offers education and support for (205)individuals.988-0810 www.downsyndromealabama.org

Cystic Fibrosis Services 2019 Alexander Dr., Suite 1, Dothan, AL 36301 (334) 699-3932

The world’s leader in the search for a cure for cystic fibrosis, and nearly every CF-specific drug available today was made possible with our financial support.

in early intervention therapy for children two to six years old. (334) 661-7635

www.enlightenbehavioralconsulting.com

Our team of speech therapists combine the as sessment and treatment of speech disorders, in cluding feeding therapy and the Orton-Gillingham Approach for the treatment of dyslexia. (334) 793-2237 www.childfamilyservice.com

Providing a Place where the Lightbulb will Shine Bright! Lamettra Cox and staff specialize in School Consultation, Behavior Reduction, Social Skills, Verbal Acquisition, Occupational and Physical (334)therapy.443-1043

WSI Learning Center 3341 S. Oates St., Dothan, AL 36301

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. PO Box 9551, Dothan, AL 36304

Dyslexia

Southeast Alabama Autism Center uses the natural curiosity of the children to teach visual, re ceptive, imitative, requesting, and social skills. Our services include: One-on-One? Direct Instruction, Parent Training, and Language Acquisition. (334) 347-5003 www.southeastalabamaautism center.com

Camp Frog 5278 Camp ASCCA Road, Jackson’s Gap, AL ASA hosts 35+ families at the annual September Family Camp ASCCA, Camp FROG. Children on the autism spectrum enjoy traditional camp activities in a supportive environment with their families. Ages 6-18 and their families. Scholar ships available. (205) 951-1364 www.autism-alabama.org Camp Mash P.O. Box 850548, Mobile, AL 36685

Providing help for individuals and families with Autism and Learning Difficulties. Diagnostic and Treatment Center for Excellence. (334) 200-8400 www.autismwsi.com

Cystic Fibrosis

Camps for Special Needs

Camp Smile-a-Mile-Alabama’s Program for Children with Cancer 1600 2nd Ave. S., Birmingham, AL 35233 Providing free year-round recreational and educa tional experiences for young cancer patients, their families, and young adult survivors from Alabama, including seven annual sessions at Children’s Harbor on Lake Martin. 1(205) 323-8427 www.campsam.org

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation 200 Office Park Dr., Ste 115, Birmingham, AL 35223

1880 S. Union Ave. C, Ozark, AL 36360

Harmonex Neuroscience Research 408 Healthwest Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 Clinical research organization specializing in psy chiatric and neurological clinical studies in adult and pediatric populations, including ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Depression, Anxiety, Autism and others. (334) 836-2000 hrxinfo.com Oz Psychology 299 Painter Ave., Ozark, AL 36360

Providing resources for support and education for families, friends and caregivers of individuals with Down syndrome in the Wiregrass area. (334) 790-8292 downsyndromefriends.org

Dothan Behavioral Medicine Clinic 408 Healthwest Dr., Dothan, AL 36301

We are a donor-funded, 501(c)(3) nonprofit that is fully accredited by the Better Business Bureau’s (BBB) Wise Giving Alliance program. (205) 870-8565 www.cff.org

An innovative center specializing in a unique com bination of programs to help with focus, attention and listening skills. We serve children and adults with a variety of learning challenges including ADD/ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and classroom (334)difficulties.699-4007 www.progresscenter.us

Dr. Harrison ABA Center PC 807 Donnell Blvd., Ste Q, Daleville, AL 36322

United Cerebral Palsy 2520 Fairlane Dr. Suite 360, Montgomery, AL Leading service provider and advocate for adults and children with disabilities, including cerebral palsy. (334) 271-2280 www.ucpmobile.org

Child & Family Services 100 Westside Dr., Dothan, AL 36303

Camp Smile 122 Walton Park Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 Held in June. Campers enjoy games, crafts, music and other fun activities. Transportation is provided for up to 24 participants inside the Dothan City limits. (334) 615-4743

Progress Center 2543 Ross Clark Circle, Ste 5, Dothan, AL 36301

The Bradley Foundation 106 Boyce Rd., Dothan, AL 36305 Created to provide educational, therapeutic, rec reational, and advocacy services to children and families affected by the Autism Spectrum. (334) 547-0991

Easter Seals Camp ASSCA 5278 Camp ASCCA Dr., Jackson’s Gap, AL 36861 Alabama’s Special Camp for Children and Adults. Weekend and week-long sessions year-round. Activities include horseback riding, fishing, swim ming, environmental education, arts and crafts, and much more. (256) 825-9226 www.campascca.org

Cerebral Palsy 4 My Child Provides provide all families of children of special needs with Help and Hope For Life. 1(800) 692-4453 www.cerebralpalsy.org

abatherapybrightfutures.com

Camp Shocco for the Deaf 1314 Shocco Springs Road, Talladega, AL This camp gives every hearing impaired student, ages 8-high school, an opportunity to have an unforget table week of fun, games, and spiritual growth. (256) 761-1100 www.shocco.org Camp SMILE 3058 Dauphin Square Conn., Mobile, AL 36607

Southeast Alabama Autism Center 1247 Rucker Blvd., Suite 3, Enterprise, AL 36330

TheBradleyFoundation.org

Sumlar Therapy Services, Inc. 193 Sam Lisenby Rd., Ozark, AL 36360 Speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy for children with mild to profound (334)disabilities.445-6336 www.sumlartherapy.com

Enlighten Behavioral Consultation

Epilepsy Alabama Clinics 2812 Hartford Hwy., Suite 1, Dothan, AL 36305

Epilepsy Foundation of Alabama Educating and supporting individuals with epi lepsy and their families. Providing services and programs; educating and increasing awareness about epilepsy; providing leadership in advocacy for epilepsy issues (800) 626-1582 www.epilepsy.com

General Resources Dothan Pediatric Clinic ad on page 6 126 Clinic Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 State-of-the-art healthcare facility and medical home offering pediatric services for infants, chil dren, and adolescents. Our staff is eager to help you and our child-friendly atmosphere is welcom ing to children and parents alike. In addition to our board certified pediatricians and nurse practitio

Progress Center 2543 Ross Clark Circle, Ste 5, Dothan, AL 36301

Non-profit grassroots organization whose mem bers are individuals with learning disabilities, their families, and the professionals who work with them. LDAA strives to advance the education and general welfare of children and adults with learn ing ldaalabama.orgdisabilities.

Service Dogs Alabama 8365 Mobile Hwy., Montgomery, AL A multi-func tional Service Dog training organization including K-9s 4 Kids. The only non-profit organization in Alabama that trains Service Dogs a child’s specific needs and gives them to their families free of charge. (334) 676-3733 www.ServiceDogsAlabama.com

www.progresscenter.us Red Door Educational Services

An innovative center specializing in a unique com bination of programs to help with focus, attention and listening skills. We serve children and adults with a variety of learning challenges including ADD/ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and classroom (334)difficulties.699-4007

The First Signs website provides a wealth of vital resources, covering a range of issues: from moni toring development, to concerns about a child; from the screening and referral process, to sharing (978)concerns.346-4380

Alabama’s Early Intervention System (EI) 795 Ross Clark Circle NE, Ste 3, Dothan, AL 36303

www.firstsigns.org

Easter Seals Alabama 2125 East South Boulevard, Montgomery, AL Consists of 8 community rehabilitation program sites and the world’s largest barrier-free recre ational camp, Camp ASCCA. Services include: Medical Rehabilitation, Early Intervention, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech and Hearing Therapy, Job Training and Employment, Child Care & Camping and Recreation. (334) 288-0240 Learning Disabilities Association of AL P.O. Box 244023, Montgomery, AL 36124

795 Ross Clark Circle, Dothan, AL 36303

1733 W. Main St. Suite 100, Dothan, AL 36301

Child Find Child Find is the process used in Alabama for identifying all children who may be eligible for services and referring them to Alabama’s Early Intervention System. (800) 543-3098

Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program 526 Martha Parham West, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 ADAP provides legal services to Alabamians with disabilities to protect, promote and expand their rights. ADAP is part of the National Disability Rights Network (NDRN). (205) 348-4928 adap.ua.edu Alabama Parent Education Center (APEC) 10520 US Highway 231, Montgomery, AL APEC provides services and support to assist families, particularly those underserved including minority, low-income, and those with children with (334)disabilities.567-2252 alabamaparentcenter.com

The Early Intervention Program provides services to infants and toddlers, including evaluations and assessments, development and review of Individualized Family Support Plans, specialized instruction, identifying available service providers; and transitioning to preschool services. (334) 793-7740 www.vaughnblumbergservices.com

Educational Services

neurology Financial Resources

Help Me Grow Alabama Help Me Grow connects families to health and developmental resources so children (Birth to age 8) can start school healthy and ready to succeed. 1-833-939-0336 www.wiregrass211.com/hmg/

First Signs

Committed to providing quality services for eligible children, birth to three, and their families. The focus of EI is to train, equip and support parents/ caregivers in being the first and best teachers for their child. (334) 699-6600

Employment Vaughn-Blumberg Services 2715 Flynn Rd., Dothan, AL 36304

Family Guidance Center of Alabama 545 W. Main St., Suite 311, Dothan, AL 36301

March of Dimes Alabama Chapter 3500 Blue Lake Dr., Suite 198, Birmingham, AL March of Dimes leads the fight for the health of all moms and babies. From advocacy to education to research, we’re working to level the playing field so that all moms and babies are healthy. (205) 824-0103 www.marchofdimes.commsheppard@marchofdimes.org

The Southeast ADA Center Atlanta, GA The Center provides information, training, and guidance on the Americans with Dis abilities Act (ADA) and disability access. (800) 949-4232 www.adasoutheast.org

Educational and employment services for teens and adults with disabilities (334) 699-6600 www.rehab.alabama.gov/vrs

Vaughn-Blumberg Services 2715 Flynn Rd., Dothan, AL 36304

www.rehab.alabama.gov/crs

ad on Back Cover RSA Union Building, 100 North Union Street, Post Office Box 301410, Montgomery, AL ACDD works to achieve equality of opportunity for all citizens. We promote independence, advocacy, productivity, and inclusion for Alabamians with developmental disabilities. (334) 242.3973 acdd.org

Wiregrass Rehabilitation Center 795 Ross Clark Circle, Dothan, AL 36303 WRC trains individuals to become employable and assists them in finding jobs within their com munities. WRC assists those who have difficulty maintaining employment, are on forms of public assistance such as welfare, and those who are employable and underemployed. Additionally, WRC has two Adult Day Care Centers in Dothan and Enterprise. These Centers provide respite care for caregivers as well as recreational and social time for the participants. (334) 792-0022 www.wrcjobs.com

Vocational Rehabilitation Service, Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services

At Alabama Clinics, the doctors treat a range of disorders and diseases from Primary Care, Acute Pain Management, Psychiatry and Neurology, including seizures and epilepsy and multiple (334)sclerosis.712-1170 alabamaclinics.com

Helping low-income families pay for child care in Barbour, Coffee, Dale, Geneva, Henry, and Houston counties. (334) 712-7777 tions/dothan-alabamafamilyguidancecenter.org/about/loca

Flowers Medical Group offers a range of diag nostic services and treatment for neurological conditions, from headaches and sleep disorders to stroke, seizures, multiple sclerosis and other disorders of the brain, spine and nervous system. (334) 944-7006 www.flowersmedicalgroup.com/

Alabama Family Trust A nonprofit special needs trust that holds and administers money for the disabled so they are able to become eligible and maintain govern ment benefits for which they would otherwise be financially ineligible. (205) 313-3915 www.alabamafamilytrust.com

Early Intervention

Enable Savings Plan Alabama Enable Savings Plan Alabama provides tax-free savings accounts for eligible individuals with dis (866)abilities.833-7949 www.EnableAL.com

Alabama Council for Developmental Disabilities

Yellow Pages for Kids

Tutoring in the area of dyslexia using an OrtonGillingham based program, Barton Reading, to systematically instruct and retrain the brain so that spelling and reading are improved. (334) 648-0842 reddooredu.com

Vaughn-Blumberg Services Supported Employ ment Program provides employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities, as well as efficient, responsible and willing personnel op tions for employers. (334) 793-7740 www.vaughnblumbergservices.com

Flowers Medical Group 348 Healthwest Dr., Dothan, AL 36303

Provides extensive resources to learn about and navigate special education, including state listings of Parent Training and Information www.yellowpagesforkids.com/help/al.htmCenters.

American Foundation for the Blind 100 Peachtree Street, Suite 620, Atlanta, GA 1(404) 525-2303 www.afb.org

We provide professional counseling for the whole family with more than 100 years of combined (334)experience.671-1280 dothancounselingresources.com

Alabama Clinics 2812 Hartford Hwy., Suite 1, Dothan, AL 36305

Alabama School for the Deaf 205 South Street, Talladega, AL (256) 761-3212 www.aidb.org

Eufaula Pediatric Clinic ad on page 6 323 E. Barbour St., Eufalua, AL 36027

The Arc of Alabama 557 S Lawrence St., Montgomery, AL 36104

Licensed Professional Counselor, that has previ ously worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families to overcome varying personal and environmental obstacles. (334) 701-4486 jenecompton.wixsite.com/mysite

State-of-the-art healthcare facility and medical home offering pediatric services for infants, chil dren, and adolescents. Our staff is eager to help you and our child-friendly atmosphere is welcom ing to children and parents alike. In addition to our board certified pediatricians and nurse practitio ners, we also have an accredited state-of-the-art lab and lab personnel. (334) 308-1166 enterprisepediatricclinic.com

Enterprise Pediatric Clinic ad on page 6 526 Boll Weevil Cir., Enterprise, AL 36330

A music listening therapy that provides engag ing brain stimulation to improve performance in school, work and life. (888) 228-1798 www.thelisteningprogram.com

American AssociationSpeech-Language-Hearing

Ozark Pediatric Clinic ad on page 6 2125 W. Roy Parker Rd., Ozark, AL 36360

Hearing & Vision Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind 111 Medical Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 AIDB is the most comprehensive education, reha bilitation and service system serving children and adults who are deaf, blind and multi-disabled. Chil dren ages 3 to 21 are served through the Alabama School for the Deaf, the Alabama School for the Blind and the Helen Keller School of Alabama. (334) 677-6270 www.aidb.org

Mental Health Services

Committed to ensuring that all people with speech, language, and hearing disorders receive services to help them communicate effectively. (800) 638-8255 www.asha.org/public Snider Therapy Centers 2652 Fortner St., Dothan, AL 36305

Snider Therapy Centers provide Neuro-Integrative

Southeastern Pediatrics 364 Honeysuckle Rd., Dothan, AL 36305

2715 Flynn Rd., Dothan, AL 36304

Our mental health services involve both the as sessment and treatment of various mental health disorders, through a variety of assessment tools and therapeutic processes, which help improve the functioning of the individual or family unit. (334) 793-2237 www.childfamilyservice.com

Therapies directed at resolving visual, auditory, and sensory problems which interfere with school (334)performance.446-6073 www.snidertherapy.com

Arch Counseling

Dothan Professional Counseling Services 285 N. Foster St. Suite 306, Dothan, AL 36303

Dover Counseling Services

Non-profit corporation that provides comprehen sive services for individuals with intellectual dis abilities/developmental delays through contracts with the Alabama Department of Mental Health (DMH), Division of Intellectual Disabilities. (334) 793-7740 www.vaughnblumbergservices.com

The Listening Program

Non-profit, volunteer-based membership organiza tion whose primary role is to advocate for the rights and protections of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families. (334) 262-7688 thearcofal.org

At Alabama Clinics, the doctors treat a range of disorders and diseases from Primary Care, Acute Pain Management, Psychiatry and Neurology. (334) 712-1170 alabamaclinics.com Alabama Psychiatry 256 Honeysuckle Rd., Suite 3, Dothan, AL 36305

Family Voices of Alabama (FV of AL) 1050 Government Street, Mobile, Aims to achieve family-centered care for all children and youth with special health care needs and/or disabilities. (877) 771-3862 www.familyvoicesal.org

1311 Rucker Blvd., Enterprise, AL 36330

AL Department of Rehabilitation Services Montgomery, AL 36116 Serving people with disabilities from birth to old age through a “continuum of services” provided through 25 community offices, reaching residents in all 67 counties. (334) 281-8780 www.rehab.alabama.gov

Technology- STAR Free access to information, referral services, educational services, educational programs, and publications in accessible format on extensive topics related to disability rights, laws/policies, and funding opportunities for assistive technology. (800) 782-7656 www.rehab.alabama.gov/star

Medicaid Waivers These waivers help those families who make too much money for Medicaid but “fall through the cracks” of their insurance. (800) 441-7607

Dothan Pediatric Clinic ad on page 6 5565 Montgomery Hwy., Dothan, AL 36303 Our practice is devoted to the health and well-be ing of our patients through continuous education, technological advances, and research. This allows us to better understand the complexities of each subspecialty and appropriate treatments. (334) 699-3733 dothanpediatricsubspecialty.com

Child & Family Services 100 Westside Dr., Dothan, AL 36303

State of Alabama Independent Living/ Homebound Service (SAIL) Montgomery, AL 36116 Education and home-based services to assist people with the most severe disabilities in leading independent lives at home, at school or in the workplace through seven community-based of fices located throughout the state. (334) 281-8780 www.rehab.alabama.gov

ners, we also have an accredited state-of-the-art lab and lab personnel. (334) 793-1881 dothanpediatricclinic.com

Alabama Lifespan Respite 1856 Keats Dr., Huntsville, AL Statewide program whose purpose is to identify and develop a network of high-quality respite re sources for family caregivers who are caring for an individual of any age who has a disability, chronic, terminal or mental illness. (256) 859-8300 www.alabamarespite.org

Your pediatrician can help you and your child access and coordinate specialty care, other health care and educational services, in and out of home care, family support, and other community ser vices that are important to the overall well-being of you and your child. (334) 794-8656 southeasternpediatrics.com

Vaughn-Blumberg Services

Our team of professionals work together to provide you with an individualized treatment plan. This can include medication management, therapy services (individual, family, and/or group therapy), and psychological assessments. (334) 350-5648 alpsychiatry.com

Counseling Resources 187 Belmont Dr., Dothan, AL 36305

Alabama School for the Blind 705 South Street East, Talladega, AL (256) 761-3259 www.aidb.org

Our qualified team of Clinicians help clients with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depres sion, abuse and trauma, behavioral issues, anger management, stress management, ADHD, bereavement, life transitions, parenting, divorce, co-parenting, and much more. www.archcounseling.org Barkley Counseling Center 210 E. Grubbs St., Suite 1, Enterprise, AL 36330

Dover Counseling offers counseling services to children and adolescents, beginning at age 5. (334) 417-0212 dovercounselingservices.com

Circle City Speech 3246 Ross Clark Cir., Suite 2, Dothan, AL 36303

1733 W. Main St., Dothan, AL 36301 (334) 699-8878

Comprehensive inpatient and outpatient therapy that includes: Physical, Speech, and Occupa tional. These services are for patients who have disabilities due to an accident or injury, stroke, amputation or illness. East: (334) 712-3726 West: (334) www.southeasthealth.org/rehabilitation-services/446-4725

The Learning Center 100 Westside Dr., Dothan, AL 36303

Specializing in a unique combination of programs to help with focus, attention and listening skills. We serve children and adults with a variety of learning challenges including ADD/ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and classroom difficulties. (334) 699-4007 progresscenter.us Southeast Health Rehab East: 1480 Ross Clark Circle West: 4550 W. Main St. Suite 2, Dothan, AL 36301

Our board-certified speech-language pathologists provide services in the areas of: Articulation/ speech sound disorders, Expressive and receptive language disorders, Social language, Childhood apraxia of speech, Auditory processing, Fluency, Pediatric feeding difficulties & many others! (334) 316-0191 www.circlecityspeech.com

Serving individuals with cognitive and develop mental disabilities from Barbour, Coffee, Dale, Henry, Houston, and Pike Counties in an extended year program. (334) 774-5132 vivianbadams.net

Speech therapy includes a multitude of different types of rehabilitation treatment areas, from stut

Vivian B. Adams School 2047 Stuart Tarter Rd., Ozark, AL 36360

www.childfamilyservice.com

A+ Academic Services & Testing 3245 Montgomery Hwy., Dothan, AL 36303 A+ Academic Services provides classes and tutoring for students of all ages. Classes include read ing and mathematics instruction, ACT/SAT prep courses and a full range of courses to earn high school credits. In addition to individualized programs in specific areas, homework help is offered. A+ also proctors exams. For an appointment or further information, please call Sonja Goldsmith, Director. (334) 479-8010 www.aplusacademic.net

Support Groups

1733 W. Main St. Suite 100, Dothan, AL 36301

MS ‘R Us Self-Help Group 1619 S. Park Ave., Dothan, AL 36301 Second Monday of Every Month at 6:00 p.m. (334) 618-2826 rickcola55@comcast.net

ALS Support Group 174 King St., Newton, AL 36352 Support group meets the first Tuesday of each month at 3:00 p.m. Contact Melissa Enfinger for more information. (334) 312-3328 Melissa@alsalabama.org Autism Support Group For meeting location and time, call Fran Heisner: 334-793-8714; or email: fcheisner@samc.org Busy Bees Autism Support Group www.facebook.com/groups/220879809335419

EFMP Support Group Ft. Rucker, AL 36362 Open to anyone with a family member diagnosed with Autism and will focus on parent teaching. (334) 255-9277 rucker.armymwr.com

Alabama Head Injury Foundation Support 1736 E. Main St., Dothan, AL 36301 Meets first Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. (334) 232-9216 www.ahif.org

Foundations Pediatric Therapy 118 Adris Place, Dothan, AL 36303 Foundations Pediatric Therapy offers occupation al, physical and speech therapy services in one convenient location in Dothan. (334) 677-6360 Progress Center 2543 Ross Clark Cir., Dothan, AL 36301

Red Door Educational Services

Speech Therapy

Child & Family Services 100 Westside Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 Our team of speech therapists are trained to evaluate, diagnose, and treat a wide variety of speech, language, feeding, and reading disorders. (334) 793-2237

Individualized, multi-sensory academic therapy programs designed to remediate students with learning deficits in all academic areas. 1-on-1 and group after school tutoring for all grades. Students can also make up course credits when needed. (334) 793-2237

Wiregrass Therapy Associates 1016 Boll Weevil Cir, Ste 2, Enterprise, AL 36330 Speech therapy includes a multitude of different types of rehabilitation treatment areas, from stuttering and cluttering fluency is sues to articulation and phonologi cal problems in speech production. In addition to speech problems, we address feeding and swallow ing issues, resonance issues and auditory habilitation/rehabilitation (334)disorders.417-0235 wiregrasstherapy.comwiregrasstherapy1@outlook.com

Speech Therapy & Associates

Spina Bifida Spina Bifida Association of Alabama Strives to provide families affected by Spina Bifida with the most up-to-date medical and social infor mation related to this birth defect. www.sbaofal.org

New Day Academy 700 E. Cottonwood Rd., Dothan, AL 36301

tering and cluttering fluency issues to articulation and phonological problems in speech production. In addition to speech problems, we address feeding and swallow ing issues, resonance issues and auditory (334)disorders.habilitation/rehabilitation446-1425wiregrasstherapy.com

Wiregrass Autism Group A place for indviduals, parents, profession als, and community members. We meet twice a month at the Enterprise Public Library and discuss Autism, Applied Behavior Analysis therapy, school accommodations, and community resources and events. (334) 477-4686 Facebook: @WiregrassAutismGroup

Wiregrass Therapy Associates 122 South Woodburn Drive, Dothan, AL 36305

Schools & Tutoring

Year-round, accredited grade school for residents ages 10-18. Patients attend classes 6-hours per day and receive academic credit that is transfer able upon discharge. The school helps facilitate re-entry back into a student’s home school or other placement setting. (334) 794-7373 laureloaksbhc.com

Encore Rehabilitation Encore Rehab administers rehabilitation services to restore the skills that will ensure our patients successfully return to work, play, and their healthy lifestyles, including occupational, physical, and speech 1-256-350-1764therapy. encorerehab.com

Wiregrass Waves Coffee/Dale Aquatics Special Olympics Swim Team 4605 Andrews Ave., Ft. Rucker, AL Special36362Olympics swim team that practices Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6-7 at Fort Rucker Fitness Center. Swim season is from www.teamunify.com/sewacOctober-May.

Watercolor Collective 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Avenue Dothan, AL, 36303 Join us in WMA’s garden once a quarter on the second Saturday of March, June, September, and December for an after noon of watercoloring, drinks, and music. A leisurely, come-and-go free paint party will provide still-life inspiration within the garden’s flowers, sculptures, and 334-794-3871fountains.

Saturday September 3

Pickin’ in the Park 10:00 AM Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr Dothan, AL, 36302 Join musicians for a bluegrass, country and gospel jam session. Visitors are welcome to listen or participate. All ages and skill levels are welcome. https://www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Thursday September 14

www.wiregrassmuseum.org Landmark Park Bluegrass Festival AL, 36302 Live bluegrass music all day. Plus, bring your instrument for jam sessions, instrument demos, food trucks, kids activities, historical interpretations, antique tractors, wagon rides, and arts and crafts https://www.landmarkparkdothan.com/park-events/vendors.

Friday September 16

Virtual Artist Talk with Clarence Heyward (Free) 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Virtual, Join artist Clarence Heyward as he speaks about his artistic process and career. He is a painter and collagist whose work explores notions of the Black American experience. His work investigates cultural truths, challenges ste reotypes, and questions identity. A Q&A will follow the 30-minute artist talk. Registration required.

Studio Class: Exploring Mixed Media ($45 members; $55 not-yet members) 10:30 AM - 2:30 PM, Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Avenue Dothan, AL, 36303 Let’s explore color and texture as we move through a variety of mixed media projects inspired by the natural world! This series will have your kiddo taking a closer look at plants and animals and using materials like paint, textiles, paper, and more in creative ways. Ages 8 and up; for kids and kids at heart! 334-794-3871 https://www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Wiregrass Woodturners (Free with your paid gate ad mission ($5 for adults, $4 for kids, free for park members and children 2 and under) 9:30 AM Landmark Park- Interpre tive Center Classroom, 430 Landmark Dr Dothan, AL, 36302 The Wiregrass Woodturners host a club meet ing and woodturning demo every second Saturday of the month at 9:30 a.m. The public is invited to visit and learn how to make beautiful wooden https://www.landmarkparkdothan.com/park-events/items

Sunday September 11

https://allitscakeduptobe.com/

Studio Class: Marbling Workshop ($45 members; $55 not-yet members) 10:30 AM - 2:30 PM, Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Avenue Dothan, AL, 36303 Come learn the basics of marbling. In class,

https://www.southeastcac.org/events/tee-off-for-kidsannual-golf-tournament/

FamilyCalendar

Saturday September 17 2022 Southeast Alabama Highland Games (Adults: $10, Children 6-12, Military, and First responders: $5, Kids 5 and under are FREE!) 9:00 AM Culpepper Park, Highway 85 Daleville, AL 2022 Southeast Alabama Highland Games and Scottish festival. This is a family fun event. We will feature all the traditional Highland Games events, including the caber toss, sheaf toss, hammer throw, and more. A large collection of food and merchandise vendors to look through as you watch the http://www.wiregrasshighlandgames.com/athletics. Doggie Dip ($12 per dog) 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Waterworld Dothan, 401 Recreation Rd Dothan, AL, 36303 This is a chance to let your best furry friends take a dip in the pool before it’s drained and cleaned! The cost to enter is a donation of $12 per dog that will benefit the Dothan Animal Shelter, Angel Paws, and the Wiregrass Spay and Neuter 334-615-3755Alliance. www.waterworlddothan.com

Reptile Feeding (Free with your paid gate admission ($5 for adults, $4 for kids, free for park members and children 2 and under) 2:30 PM Landmark Park- Interpretive Center Lobby, 430 Landmark Dr Dothan, AL, 36302 Meet our snakes, turtles and lizards and learn why these ani mals are important to the environment. Interpretive Center Lobby. Held on the first Sunday of the month.

Blacksmithing Demo (Free with paid gate admission ($5 for adults, $4 for kids, free for park members and children 2 and under) 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr Dothan, AL, 36302 Wiregrass Forge member Joey Dalton will heat and shape metal into a variety of https://www.landmarkparkdothan.com/park-events/items.

28th Annual Tee Off for Kids Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Highland Oaks, 904 Royal Pkwy Dothan, AL, 36305 Our annual “Tee Off for Kids” Golf Tournament at RTJ Highland Oaks will be held on September 15, 2022 and is a fundraising campaign for the Southeast Alabama Child Advocacy Center.

The All It’s Caked Up To Be Sugar Arts Show 2022 Details on September 9.

Thursday September 8

first Cake and Sugar Arts event dedicated to the world around CAKE. This event will take place over the course of a three day weekend. Come out, bring your family, meet and mingle with artists who’ve dedicated their lives to the craft. Cake and decorating enthusiasts will be able to take an assortment of classes, shop with specialty vendors, watch live demonstrations, learn new caking and decorating skills, compete in a themed live cake and cupcake competition, network, and so much 850-557-7190more.

https://dhcls.org/ Wolfpack Karate and MMA - Self Defense for Teens and Adults 12:45 PM DHCLS Main Library, 445 N Oates St. Do than, AL, 36303 Join us for self-defense classes with Steve Baxley of Wolfpack Karate and MMA! 334-793-9767 https://dhcls.org/ Landmark Dulcimers (Free for Landmark Dulcimer Club members and free with your paid admission for the general public ($4 for adults, $3 for kids, free for park members and children 2 and under) 1:00 PM Landmark Park- Interpre tive Center Auditorium, 430 Landmark Dr Dothan, AL, 36302 The Landmark Dulcimer Club has a jam and practice session every first Saturday of the month.

Realities of Life - Life Coaching 11:00 AM DHCLS Main Library, 445 N Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Join life coach, Chassallon Jones, for informative presentations. Each month she plans to bring in additional speakers and information on various topics of importance to young adults.

https://www.landmarkparkdothan.com/park-events/

Monday September 12 Teen RECHARGE! 3:00 PM - 5:30 PM, DHCLS Main Library, 445 N Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303 A place for tweens and teens (12-18) to hang out, mess around and geek out with others their age. S.T.E.A.M.-based activities such as robotics, 3D pens, crafts, computer coding, art, video games, etc. will be available to all at no charge. 334-793-9767 https://dhcls.org/

The All It’s Caked Up To Be Sugar Arts Show 2022 Cultural Arts Center, 909 South Saint than,AL,StreetAndrewsDothan,36303DoAlabama’s

https://dhcls.org/ Wolfpack Karate and MMA - Self Defense for Kids

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM, DHCLS Main Library, 445 N Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Join us for self-defense classes with Steve Baxley of Wolfpack Karate and MMA! Kids ages 7-13 will learn the difference between reporting vs tattling, how to get out of a fight, and then how to defend themselves if necessary. They’ll learn different self-defense techniques depending on the 334-793-9767situation.

artist-talk-with-clarence-heyward/https://www.wiregrassmuseum.org/events/virtual-

Spanish Trail Playhouse presents “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” 7:00 p.m Spanish Trail Playhouse, 680 2nd Street Chipley, FL, 32428 Spanish Trail Playhouse presents “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” 850-638-9113 https://www.spanishtrailplayhouse.com/

Sunday September 4

Sit n’ Sew (Free with your paid gate admission ($5 for adults, $4 for kids, free for park members and children 2 and under) 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Landmark Park- Interpre tive Center Auditorium, 430 Landmark Dr Dothan, AL, 36302 Every second Saturday join the Evening Star Quilt Guild with your textile-based crafts for an informal sewing circle at the Landmark https://www.landmarkparkdothan.com/park-events/Park

Friday September 9

The All It’s Caked Up To Be Sugar Arts Show 2022 Details on September 9.

https://www.landmarkparkdothan.com/park-events/

Saturday September 10

Wiregrass Parents I September 2022 www.wiregrassparents.com24

Spanish Trail Playhouse presents “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” Details on September 16.

7:00 PM Dothan Civic Center, 126 N St Andrews St #214 Dothan, AL, 36303 Rocky Mountain High Experi ence Starring Rick http://dothanciviccenter.org/Schuler

Spanish Trail Playhouse presents “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” Details on September 16.

FamilyCalendar

SEACT’s Frozen Jr., presented by Wiregrass Drama Club ($15) 7:00 PM Southeast Alabama Community Theatre , 909 S St Andrews St Dothan, AL, 36301 Southeast Alabama Community Theatre presents “Frozen JR.” 334-794-0400 SEACT.com

Taste of Coffee County 5:30 PM Enterprise Civic Center, 2401 Neil Metcalf Rd En terprise, AL, 36330 Come get a little taste of what Coffee County has to offer. Food vendors from all over the county will be there for a little taste. Come, bring a friend and get a little taste of what coffee county has to offer you.

Friday September 30 2022 Boy Scout Golf Challenge

Claybank Jamboree Arts & Crafts Festival

Saturday September 24 Girls Night Out 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Downtown Enterprise, Enterprise, AL, 36330 Girls Night Out is an annual event that benefits Breast Cancer Awareness. The event features refreshments, door prizes, swag bags, activities, and of course https://www.enterprisedowntown.com/girls-night-outshopping!

Thursday October 6

Monday September 26 Teen RECHARGE! Details on September 12.

Rocky Mountain High Experience Starring Rick Schuler

Apple Pie Sensory Kit Any DHCLS location , Dothan, AL Stop by any DHCLS location to pick up an Apple Pie Sensory kit. These kits are for babies and toddlers 18 months- 5 years of https://dhcls.org/age.

25 www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

Saturday October 1

9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Downtown Ozark, Ozark, AL, 36330 Browse the unique crafts and beautiful artwork while listening to live music and enjoying some great food. Come out and see the car and truck show, children’s activities, touch a truck and https://www.facebook.com/ClaybankJamboree/more.

Spanish Trail Playhouse presents “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” Details on September 16.

we will marble paper and fabric, but you can apply the basic techniques to a myriad of mediums! Teens and 334-794-3871Adults. events/studio-class-marbling-workshop/https://www.wiregrassmuseum.org/ 2022 Walk for Recovery 1:00 PM Dothan Civic Center Arena, 126 N St An drews St Dothan, AL, 36303 2022 Walk for Recovery http://dothanciviccenter.org/ Oktoberfest Downtown Ozark 4:00 PM Downtown Ozark, Ozark, AL, 36330 2nd Annual Oktoberfest on the square in downtown Ozark hosted by the local businesses. German Beer, Food, Music, Corn Hole Tournament Family Friendly Hawg Wild Comedy Tour 7:00 PM Dothan Opera House, 115 N St Andrews St Dothan, AL, 36303 Live on http://dothanciviccenter.org/stage.

ClubWiregrassJr.,SEACT’s23SeptemberFridayFrozenpresentedbyDrama SeptemberDetails22.

Sunday October 2

Virtual Artist Talk (Free) 6:00 PM Virtual, Join us for this unique artist conver sation with three book artists representing multiple generations of book arts. Sarah and Holland were chosen to exhibit their work in the 2022 Biennial. It is a collaborative piece. Mary Ann Sampson has a solo show titled “Puppets & Poetry” in Dove Gallery. and-mary-ann-sampson/ist-talk-book-arts-with-sarah-bryant-holland-hopson-https://www.wiregrassmuseum.org/events/virtual-art

The Blackwood Quartet 7:00 PM Elba High School, 371 Tiger Dr Elba, AL, 36323 The Blackwood Quartet, A legendary Gospel Quartet The Patriarchs of Southern Gospel Music.You will not want to miss this event! https://www.coffeecountyartsalliance.com/tickets/

Peanut Boil ($6 for adults; $5 for kids (ages 3-12); free for park members and children 2 and under) 5:00 PM Land mark Park, 430 Landmark Dr Dothan, AL, 36302 Bring your picnic and lawn chairs for an after-hours peanut boil. Watch as peanuts are stacked the old fashioned way and listen to bluegrass music. Admission includes one free cup of boiled https://www.landmarkparkdothan.com/park-events/peanuts.

Sunday September 25

Tuesday September 27

Spanish Trail Playhouse presents “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” 2:00 PM Details on September 16.

Dothan’s Witches Ride benefitting Southeast Alabama Child Advocacy Center Solomon Park , 1815 Choctaw Street Dothan, JLW, MOG, & Thalian present Dothan’s first annual Witches Ride 2022 benefitting Southeast Alabama Child Advocacy Center! Grab your girls, your best witchy wardrobe, and your fastest broomstick.

18th Annual Health & Wellness Workshop 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Dothan Civic Center, 126 N St Andrews St #214 Dothan, AL, 36303 Dothan Leisure

Halloween Fun Fest and Zombie Run

8:00 AM Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Highland Oaks, 904 Royal Pkwy Dothan, AL, 36305 2022 Boy Scout Golf Challenge to benefit scouting in wiregrass. https://www.bsa3.org/Golf

Landmark Dulcimers (Free for Landmark Dulcimer Club members and free with your paid admission for the general public ($4 for adults, $3 for kids, free for park members and children 2 and under)) 1:00 PM Landmark Park- Interpretive Center Audito rium, 430 Landmark Dr Dothan, AL, 36302 The Land mark Dulcimer Club has a jam and practice session every first Saturday of the month at 1 p.m. https://www.landmarkparkdothan.com/park-events/

4:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr Dothan, AL, 36302 5K Zombie Run plus kids activities, corn maze, pumpkin patch, music, and more. Pre registration required for the Zombie Run, call David at 334-794-3452 to register Run registration includes entry to the Halloween Kick Off. 334-794-3452 com/park-events/https://www.landmarkparkdothan. Claybank 5K Run and Walk 861 Myrtle Drive Ozark, ClaybankAL 5K Run and Jamboreecom/Claybankhttps://www.facebook.Walk

Landmark Park- Interpretive Center Lobby, 430 Landmark Dr Dothan, AL, 36302 Meet our snakes, turtles and lizards and learn why these ani mals are important to the https://www.landmarkparkdothan.com/park-events/environment.

SEACT’s Frozen Jr., presented by Wiregrass Drama Club ($15) Details on September 22.

Monday September 19 Teen RECHARGE! Details on September 12. Tuesday September 20 Becoming a Novelist with Cap Daniels 5:30 PM DHCLS Main Library, 445 N Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303 We will explore the fascinating, mysteri ous, and literature.commerciallyingofexhaustingsometimesprocessturningyourwritintomarketable,viable 334-793-9767 https://dhcls.org/ Thursday September 22 Enterprise Chamber Membership Awards Banquet & Annual Meeting 2022 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Enterprise Civic Center, 2401 Neil Metcalf Rd Enterprise, AL, 36330 Winners will be announced at the Chamber Membership Awards Banquet and Annual Meeting on Thursday, September 22, 2022 at the Enterprise Civic https://cca.enterprisealabama.com/EvtListing.aspxCenter.

Thursday October 20

6:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Beacon of Hope ABA, 181 W Reynolds Ozark, AL, 36360 Trunk or treat with games, haunted house, costume contest, and inflatables! Teal pumpkin project friendly! Please email beaconofhopeaba@gmail.com if you will be providing a 334-379-0729trunk!http://ababeaconofhope.com/

11:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Downtown Enterprise, Enter prise, AL, 36330 This FREE outdoor event showcases our unique Main Street merchants and restaurants, handcrafted gifts, decor, & art, festival food, enter tainment and https://www.enterprisealabama.commore.

Any DHCLS location , Dothan, AL All you need is a fa vorite story or book character! Decorate your pumpkin for the annual knorth@dhcls.orgcontest.https://dhcls.org/

Every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday Enterprise Farmers Market 7:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 525 N. Main Street Enter prise, AL, 36330 The Enterprise Farmers Market is a covered, open-air facility where local farmers can sell fresh fruits and vegetables directly to the consumer. The market is open on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 7 to 11 a.m. 334-348-2668 prisealfarmersmarkethttps://www.facebook.com/enter

Dive Into Diversity-Braai Day- South Africa Any DHCLS location , Dothan, AL Explore other cul tures through books and crafts on traditional holidays and festivals around the globe. Braai Day crafts are available for pickup from all locations to further ex plore the customs and traditions of each culture. https://dhcls.org/

Every Wednesday Story & Craft Time 10:30 AM DHCLS - Westgate Branch, 535 Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 Story & Craft Time, registration required, crafts are designed for children 2-6. 334-699-2950 knorth@dhcls.org https://dhcls.org/

Every third Wednesday Master Gardener Lunch and Learn 12:00 PM DHCLS Main Library, 445 N Oates St. Do than, AL, 36303 Join the Wiregrass Master Gardeners Association on the third Wednesday of each month as they present on a variety of seasonal topics! 334-793-9767 https://dhcls.org/

Every Day Book Character Pumpkin Palooza (Free)

Every Tuesday Story & Craft Time 10:30 AM DHCLS Main Library, 445 N Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Story & Craft Time, registration required, crafts are designed for children ages 2-6. 334-793-9767 knorth@dhcls.org https://dhcls.org/

Every third ThursdayArtAfter Hours 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM, Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Avenue Dothan, AL, 36303 Come wander the galleries, have a drink at the cash bar, and take in art on view. You might even have a chance to speak with one of the exhibit ing artists or try your hand at an in-gallery activity. Enjoy live music in the galleries from a range of local 334-794-3871musicians. www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Every Friday, Saturday and PlanetariumSundayShows ($3 per person and free for park members) 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Full dome movies will take place on Fridays at 3:30 p.m.; Saturdays at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.; Sundays at 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.; and Mondays at 3:30 planetarium/https://www.landmarkparkdothan.com/digitarium-p.m.

Third Saturday Donuts and Door Hangers

Saturday October 22 Special Needs Trunk-or-treat

Boll Weevil Fall Festival

Resurrection - A Journey Tribute Band 6:00 PM EHS Performing Arts Center, 1801 Boll Weevil Circle Enterprise, AL, 36330 Resurrection - A Journey Tribute, considered to be ‘The Gold Standard’ by which all Journey tributes are measured.

Wiregrass Parents I September 2022 www.wiregrassparents.com26 Services and the Alabama Department of Public Health will sponsor the 18th Annual Health and Wellness Workshop on Thursday, October 6 from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Dothan Civic Center. This is a free event. The workshop is a full day of education offered through speakers, vendors, demonstrations, free health screenings, and one-on-one “Ask the Expert Sessions.” http://dothanciviccenter.org/

10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Rotary Miracle Field, Dothan, AL, 36303 This is a fall carnival for intel lectually and physically challenged children and adults and their im mediate family members. Participants will enjoy carnival games, cake walk, costume contest, train rides, inflatables, face painting, karaoke, dunking booth, and other fun activities. The cost is one bag of candy (to be used at the event). For more information, please call 334-615-3720. Everyone that is attending must register at www.dothanleisureservices.orgwww.dothanleisureservices.org.

Second Saturday Toddler Tales ($20) 10:00 AM All About Art Studio, 102 South Main Street Enterprise, AL, 36330 Class is designed to be a family experience, with story time and a related art project for toddlers and their care givers. Light toddler friendly refreshments will be provided. 12 months-4 years and 334-348-2738caregivers.www.allaboutartstudio.com

Cookies and Canvas ($20 for 11X14 and $35 per 16X20 Canvas) 1:00 PM All About Art Studio, 102 South Main Street Enterprise, AL, 36330 We provide delicious cookies and lemonade from Milky Moos in Beauti ful Downtown Enterprise along with Step by Step instruction on a kids friendly canvas painting. This class is best for Elementary age and up. 334-348-2738 www.allaboutartstudio.com

FallOctoberSaturday15FarmDay ($8 for adults; $6 for seniors and military; $4 for kids; free for park members and children 2 and 10:00under)AM- 4:00 PM, Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr Dothan, AL, 36302 Enjoy the sights, sounds and sweet smells of cane grinding, syrup making, butter churning, soap making and other traditional farm activities. Other activities include music, antique tractors, wagon rides and the largest quilt display in the Wiregrass https://www.landmarkparkdothan.com/park-events/region.

9:00 AM All About Art Studio, 102 South Main Street Enterprise, AL, 36330 We provide Delicious Donuts and Coffee from Downtown Donuts and Coffee Cor ner, both located in Beautiful Downtown Enterprise, along with step by step instruction on seasonally themed Door Hangers. This class is best suited for ages tween and up. 334-348-2738 www.allaboutartstudio.com Find More Local Events WiregrassParents.com!at

FamilyCalendar

Therapeutic Fall Carnival

First Saturdays First Saturday Family Day 10:30 AM Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Avenue Dothan, AL, 36303 Saturdays are the perfect day for children and families to create and explore art together! First Saturday Family Day, one of WMA’s longest-running educational programs, offers free art activities on the first Saturday of every month 334-794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Every Saturday Story & Craft Time 10:30 AM DHCLS = Ashford Branch, 305 6th Ave. Dothan, AL, 36312 Story & Craft Time, registration required, crafts are designed for children ages 2-6. 334-899-3121 knorth@dhcls.org https://dhcls.org/

www.coffeecountyartsalliance.com/tickets/Resurrec tion-A-Journey-Tribute-p375562999

Photo ©Netflix

Having lost a lucky penny, Sam follows Bob the cat into the Land of Luck to find another coin to help a young orphan who wants a family. While there, Sam meets a dragon CEO, magical swine, tech bunnies, and leprechauns while learning lessons about luck and life. The animation in this film is average and many characters are flat but the story is imaginative and carries great messages for audiences of all ages about looking for the benefits that can be gained from adversity flexibility, empathy, and resilience, for instance

When a boys’ soccer team and their coach decide to celebrate a match win by exploring a local cave, they have no idea they are going to be trapped by floods and draw the world’s notice. This film dramatizes the complex and courageous cave rescue that occurred in Thailand in 2018. It’s long and too tense for little ones who will likely be bored or frightened. Older kids with an interest in real life drama willl appreciate its messages about persistence, ingenuity, and bravery.

DetailedStudiosreviews available at www.parentpreviews.com

Photo ©Amazon

Grading Family Movies: Streaming, Digital Rentals, and Theatrical Releases

Thirteen Lives Amazon Rating Overall Violence Sex Profanity Alcohol/Drugs PG 13 A B A C B

After his parents’ divorce, Evan finds himself relocated from NYC to rural Indiana. Now the thirteen year old needs to navigate a new social environment, make friends, and plan the best ever bar mitzvah. This musical features catchy songs and energetic dance numbers as well as effective messages about acknowledging and fixing mistakes. Unfortunately, the story feels rushed and entire scenes seem to be missing. Cardboard characters also prevent the creation of authentic relationships on screen Overall, it’s fun to watch but there’s not much there.

Luck Apple TV+ Rating Overall Violence Sex Profanity Alcohol/Drugs G A B+ A A A

27 www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

Superman has been kidnapped! Now it’s up to his faithful hound, Krypto to rescue him from the evil guinea pig Lulu. With the aid of some newly superpowered pets, Krypto is off to save the day. Blessed with a stellar voice cast, this film is also well animated and quite funny with some jokes aimed at adults. The plot is simplistic but it delivers decent themes about friendship, self confidence, and teamwork. Most youngsters will enjoy the action but some scenes could alarm sensitive kids.

Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Movie Netflix Rating Overall Violence Sex Profanity Alcohol/Drugs TV G B B A A A Earth is under attack by the alien Krangs, so the Ninja Turtles use their powers to send Casey Jones back in time to prevent the attack in the first place. Trouble only deepens when the Krang kidnap Raphael: now his buddies have to rescue him. This movie will please fans of the franchise, particularly the series now running on Netflix. The animation is adequate and the characters goofy but parents should note that the violence is darker than expected.

Photo ©Netflix

13: The Musical Netflix Rating Overall Violence Sex Profanity Alcohol/Drugs PG B A A B A

WP: jumpingBeforeinto any questions today, can you share with me all about your family? TK: My family consists of my fiancé Jeffrey, my threeyear-old twins Dale and Zack, my god-daughter and three step-children. My step-children live in different states so we keep in touch over video chat and phoneMycalls.pregnancy was complicated and the twins came at 26 weeks.

TK: Dale is more caring and wants to involve Zack in everything. He wants to help with every task when caring for Zack. He is also very protective of him. The siblings live in other states so it is hard because our main form of communication is video chat.

TK: I wish parents wouldn’t shoo their children away. It’s okay to ask questions. When they blurt it out loudly, just approach us and ask if we mind answering questions. I’d rather teach someone about my children than to have them not be included because people are afraid of them. There is nothing to be afraid of. Just teach your children how to ask questions nicely and appropriately.

Wiregrass Parents I September 2022 www.wiregrassparents.com28

A special needs mom’s life is hard and lonely. It’s chaotic, stressful and time consuming. We lose friends. Family stops com ing around. We often decline invites to things because being in our bubble, with our medical supplies at our fingertips, makes us feel a little more in control. We’re doing the best that we can. We truly give our children every ounce of us that we have.

WP: What are the biggest blessings that come with raising a child with special needs?

TK: I would tell myself to cherish life and the things we take for granted every day. Some things don’t come as easy for others.

TK: My day typically starts around 5:30 a.m. I get up and make coffee, start getting medicines ready, prepare Zack’s g-tube feed and get Dale’s breakfast ready. I get their clothes out, get them up and changed and fed. Then we check our calendar and usually head to appointments. Sometimes we have five appointments per day, sometimes one. In between, and even during appointments, I am on the phone with doctors, specialists, nurses and medical supply companies. I’m juggling a calendar that rarely has an open ing. There is never really any down time, that is for sure. Throw our new puppy in to the mix and that just makes it even more crazy.

WP: What should we tell our kids if they ask (loudly) about a potentially special needs kid?

I was told several times I would not see my children make it through the night. Dale spent 151 days in NICU and Zack spent 192 days. Of course, there is so much more to the story than just that.

WP: What do you wish you could tell others, but don’t usually get the chance?

TK: My most cherished memory is when we went to visit my parents in Kentucky. We went to the Cincinnati Zoo and met the preemie hippo Fiona!

WP: How does having a child with a disability affect your other children? What are the challenges and also the rewards?

Patricia “Trish” King

WP: What does a typical day look like in your home?

Patricia King and her fiance Jeffrey met in June 2018. Together they have five kids and a puppy. You can follow this family’s story on Facebook at @ micropreemiesdalenzack.

TK: That although our life is busy and chaotic, I get to enjoy the things people take for granted. I am able to enjoy the fact that my children are alive. They fought so hard to stay here with me and I am able to watch them find pure joy in simple things. To see the determination in both of them to conquer the world is amazing. I always wanted to be a nurse and a mom. Although, I don’t work in a hospital or have a degree, God gave me a way to fulfill my dreams, have a family and the “job” I always wanted. I witness two miracles every single day that remind me to not take anything for granted.

WP: If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

WP: If any of us were to see special needs parents having a hard time with their child, is there any way we can offer to help without sounding condescending?

TK: I haven’t experienced motherhood the ‘typical’ way. I wasn’t able to bring my kids home after they were born. I didn’t get the newborn snuggles and visitors. This whole experience has been a lot different than I imagined, and unless you’ve lived it, you wouldn’t understand.

Since Zack can’t talk with them, they don’t understand how to communicate with him. When they are able to visit, they tend to be more involved by trying to help him learn new things and play with him.

WP: As summer is coming to a close, I would love to know your most cherished memory made this past summer?

TK: One thing I wish people would do for me is hold open a door. A lot of times I find myself holding the door open for the people that stand there staring at us. I also wish people wouldn’t tell me they are sorry. My children may be different, one more so than the other, but there is nothing to be sorry about. They’re both amazing humans!

Visit alabamaunites.com for vaccine or testing locations. Safely Back to School As our children and educational staff return to school, here are some reminders to support safe, in-person learning while reducing the spread of COVID: • Keep your child up to date on vaccinations – talk to their pediatrician or health care provider if you have any questions • Keep your child at home when they’re sick • Know your community COVID Risk Levels – alabamaunites.com • Have your child wear a well-fitting mask if they’ve been exposed to COVID, are at high risk, or you have someone at home who is high risk Get your child tested if they have COVID symptoms.

1 www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents N ow i s t h e t i m e to s p e a k u p. If you’re passionate about the rights of individuals with developmental disabilities to: • Education and Early Intervention • Recreation • Employment • Childcare • Community Supports • Transportation • Healthcare • Quality Assurance • Housing Then now is the time to apply for membership on the Alabama Council on Developmental Disabilities. People with developmental disabilities, their loved ones, and those who serve them are ideal candidates for the Council. We need your voice to be heard in your community and across our state on issues of importance to those with developmental disabilities. Independence. Advocacy. Productivity. Inclusion. You’re key to making the difference. Phone: 334-242-3976 | Toll-Free: 1-800-232-2158 www.ACDD.org | Facebook.com/ACDDAL Become a leader for independence and inclusion. Apply today at acdd.org.

Wiregrass Parents (September 2022)

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