School Bits - Issuu

from Wiregrass Parents (September 2022)

Bits & Pieces

Autauga County Schools

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 Biotechnology, shared about their commitment and vision for the new HudsonAlpha Wiregrass and the impact on education. 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!

Ozark City Schools Connects with Faculty and Staff

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

Fun with Shaving Cream at Northside Methodist Academy

Mrs. Mendy’s K4 class practices their letters in shaving cream on FUN Friday.

Carver’s AP Students Participate in One-of-a-Kind

Program

Carver 9th Grade Academy’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 their wonderful parents on a very successful 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.

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.

Providence Christian School’s First Day

Grammar students at Providence Christian were so excited for the first day of school!

Autauga County Schools

Southwest Georgia Students Study The Very Hungry Caterpillar

Ms Ann’s K4 had their first art class with Ms. Donna when school began. After watching a video about the The Very Hungry Caterpillar, they made their very own. They painted with giant marshmallows.

Ozark Career and Tech Team Attends ALACTE Conference

The Ozark City Schools’ Career and Technical Education 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 innovative new ideas to the students of Ozark City Schools.

Please email news and photos to schoolnews@wiregrassparents.com!

Providence Student Council Ready for the School Year

We are thankful for these students serving our school and community.

Houston Academy Volleyball Abbeville Christian Fired Up on Game Day

On a recent game day, students and teachers wore their favorite team jerseys to pump up the Generals to Run Over the

Rebels!

Ozark School Year Celebration

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

HA Soccer and Cheer Camp 2022

Boys and girls from Houston Academy had a great time at Soccer and Cheer Camp in July!

Bethel Christian’s K-3 Class

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

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 both hemispheres can maximize learning and improve memory.

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.

(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.

Coach.me

(Available at: Apple Appstore; Google Play)

Drawing on the latest psychological 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.

Emotionary

(Available at: 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 emotions, 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.

iOT Session

(Available: Apple Appstore)

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

Sydney

Cancer Survivor

Inspiration happens

Sydney was diagnosed with osteosarcoma 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.

Cancer_Month-Sydney-MontgomeryParent_4.9x7.25-PROD.indd 1 8/10/22 10:09 AM

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.

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 mediations, 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)

This social skills app teaches kids how to interact with different kinds of people that they encounter in their daily lives, such as grocery store clerks, hairdressers, doctors, and restaurant waiters. 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 different 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. WP

Tanni Haas, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Communication Arts, Sciences & Disorders at the City University of New York – Brooklyn College.

All Fun. No Filter.

You and your troop. Dreaming up adventures. Making the whole world sparkle with your own personal brand of magic. This is just the beginning of forever friendship and a lifetime of fun.

Join us today at girlscoutssa.org/join

Scan here to begin your Girl Scout journey today!

Be a Girl Scout.

The Mental Health Consequences of Device Removal

We talk about the mental health concerns 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 information 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 happens 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 example. 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 immediately 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 addictive 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 immediately feel the panic of losing touch with their friends. Why is all of this so important? How does it affect their mental health?

I have had numerous families consult with me about how to manage the “fall out” after removing devices. Parents are terrified 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 granddaughter threatened immediate suicide if the phone was not returned. She contacted the police and the teen was admitted for a week at the local hospital on suicide watch and released with an extensive mental health care plan.

So what can we do? If our children are addicted 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.

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 window 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 child. Bottom line, is it sometimes an appropriate consequence to remove a device? Yes. Absolutely. The reality 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 devices 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 associated with social media. You may reach Kristi through her website at www.knbcommunications.com.

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.

The token system has several advantages 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, leaving 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.

The second advantage is the token system teaches children how to save, budget, 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. Because your child is aware of the consequences and your ability to administer them immediately, he’s less likely to act up.

Fourth, the token system is a positive approach. It eliminates criticism, yelling, arguing, and other unhealthy and ineffective 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.

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 preschooler. 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 improved on a particular behavior, remove it from the list and add a new one.

Next, 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 jacket - Earn 3 tokens Eat supper without complaining - Earn 2 tokens Say please and thank you - Earn 1 token Complete homework - Earn 6 tokens Hitting - Lose 5 tokens Tattling - Lose 2 token

Also, try to estimate the number of tokens your child is likely to earn and lose in a week. Your child should be able to earn enough tokens 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. 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.

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.

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.

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

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.

Variations

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

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 ledger with the specific behavior or task and number of points earned. Immediately initial to show you’ve approved the points. WP

ADD/ADHD

Alabama Psychiatry

256 Honeysuckle Rd., Suite 3, Dothan, AL 36305 Creating a comprehensive and inclusive environment for care within the community and assuring continuity of care for patients with mental health issues by delivering the most effective, efficient, and highest quality care for all of those in need. (334) 350-5648 alpsychiatry.com

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

Barkley Counseling Center

210 E. Grubbs St., Suite 1, Enterprise, AL 36330 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 Our therapists have years of experience and specialize in all areas of counseling including ADHD/ Learning Disabilites. (334) 794-2113 www.csdothan.org

Dothan Behavioral Medicine Clinic

408 Healthwest Dr., Dothan, AL 36301 Specializing in pediatric behavioral medicine. Specialized outpatient services for mood or anxiety disorders, ADHD, learning difficulties, autism spectrum disorders, and more. (334) 702-7222 www.dbmclinic.com

Dover Counseling Services

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

Harmonex Neuroscience Research

408 Healthwest Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 Clinical research organization specializing in psychiatric and neurological clinical studies in adult and pediatric populations, including ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Depression, Anxiety, Autism and others. (334) 836-2000 hrxinfo.com

Hayes Counseling Services

5565 Montgomery Hwy., Dothan, AL 36303 Issues, including ADHD, are explored and addressed with appropriate therapy techniques. We use a combination of Cognitive and Behavioral techniques from a Christian Perspective of counseling. (334) 790-2489 www.hayescounseling.net

Oz Psychology

299 Painter Ave., Ozark, AL 36360 Our assessments and treatments offered are for early childhood through young adults. We do testing 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 An innovative center 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 www.progresscenter.us

Wiregrass Wellness Center

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

Asthma

Alabama Asthma & Allergy PC

AL 36303 Need a True 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

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

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 children and adolescents affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder. Direct intervention that focuses on skill acquisition and behavior intervention. (334) 618-3302 info@abaassociate.com

ABA Therapy & Consultng Services

200 Grove Park Lane, Ste 110, Dothan, AL 36305 Individualized treatment and consultation services for autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disorders. Services provided include: Individualized ABA Program Development, Functional Behavior Assessments, Parent Training, and Social Skills. (334) 714-3696 abatherapydothan.com

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

Autism Society of Alabama

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

Beacon of Hope ABA and Behavior Consultation

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

Bright Futures ABA Therapy

1016 Boll Weevil Cir., Ste 2, Enterprise, AL 36330 Bright Futures provides ABA therapy services for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Located in the Wiregrass area, we specialize

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

Dothan Behavioral Medicine Clinic

Dr. Harrison ABA Center PC

807 Donnell Blvd., Ste Q, Daleville, AL 36322 Providing services to children and adults diagnosed 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

Enlighten Behavioral Consultation

1880 S. Union Ave. C, Ozark, AL 36360 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 therapy. (334) 443-1043 www.enlightenbehavioralconsulting.com

Harmonex Neuroscience Research

Oz Psychology

Progress Center

2543 Ross Clark Circle, Ste 5, Dothan, AL 36301 An innovative center 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 www.progresscenter.us

Southeast Alabama Autism Center

1247 Rucker Blvd., Suite 3, Enterprise, AL 36330 Southeast Alabama Autism Center uses the natural curiosity of the children to teach visual, receptive, 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

Sumlar Therapy Services, Inc.

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

The Bradley Foundation

106 Boyce Rd., Dothan, AL 36305 Created to provide educational, therapeutic, recreational, and advocacy services to children and families affected by the Autism Spectrum. (334) 547-0991 TheBradleyFoundation.org

WSI Learning Center

3341 S. Oates St., Dothan, AL 36301 Providing help for individuals and families with Autism and Learning Difficulties. Diagnostic and Treatment Center for Excellence. (334) 200-8400 www.autismwsi.com

Camps for Special Needs

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. Scholarships available. (205) 951-1364 www.autism-alabama.org

Camp Mash

P.O. Box 850548, Mobile, AL 36685 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

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 unforgettable week of fun, games, and spiritual growth. (256) 761-1100 www.shocco.org

Camp SMILE

3058 Dauphin Square Conn., Mobile, AL 36607 Hosted by United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile, Camp SMILE is a residential summer camp for individuals with disabilities (ages 5 – 50) and their siblings. (251) 479-4900 www.campsmilemobile.org

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

Camp Smile-a-Mile-Alabama’s Program for Children with Cancer

1600 2nd Ave. S., Birmingham, AL 35233 Providing free year-round recreational and educational 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

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, swimming, environmental education, arts and crafts, and much more. (256) 825-9226 www.campascca.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 sclerosis, stroke, amputation, and visual impairment. (205) 313-7400 www.lakeshore.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

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

Cystic Fibrosis

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation

200 Office Park Dr., Ste 115, Birmingham, AL 35223 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. 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

Cystic Fibrosis Services

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

Down Syndrome

Down Syndrome Alabama

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

F.R.I.E.N.D.S.

PO Box 9551, Dothan, AL 36304 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

Dyslexia

Alabama Branch of the International Dyslexia Association

280 Marwood Drive , Birmingham, AL 35244 Helping improve the lives of individuals with dyslexia through education, legislation and services. (256) 337-1889 www.idaalabama.org

Child & Family Services

100 Westside Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 Our team of speech therapists combine the assessment and treatment of speech disorders, including feeding therapy and the Orton-Gillingham Approach for the treatment of dyslexia. (334) 793-2237 www.childfamilyservice.com

Learning Disabilities Association of AL

Non-profit grassroots organization whose members are individuals with learning disabilities, their families, and the professionals who work with them. www.ldaalabama.org

Oz Psychology

Progress Center

2543 Ross Clark Circle, Ste 5, Dothan, AL 36301 An innovative center 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 www.progresscenter.us

Red Door Educational Services

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

Early Intervention

Alabama’s Early Intervention System (EI)

795 Ross Clark Circle NE, Ste 3, Dothan, AL 36303 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 www.rehab.alabama.gov/crs

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

First Signs

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

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/

Vaughn-Blumberg Services

2715 Flynn Rd., Dothan, AL 36304 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

Alabama Council for Developmental Disabilities

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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

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 disabilities. (334) 567-2252 alabamaparentcenter.com

Easter Seals Alabama

2125 East South Boulevard, Montgomery, AL Consists of 8 community rehabilitation program sites and the world’s largest barrier-free recreational 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 Non-profit grassroots organization whose members are individuals with learning disabilities, their families, and the professionals who work with them. LDAA strives to advance the education and general welfare of children and adults with learning disabilities. ldaalabama.org

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 msheppard@marchofdimes.org www.marchofdimes.com

Service Dogs Alabama

8365 Mobile Hwy., Montgomery, AL A multi-functional 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

The Southeast ADA Center

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

Yellow Pages for Kids

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

Employment

Vaughn-Blumberg Services

2715 Flynn Rd., Dothan, AL 36304 Vaughn-Blumberg Services Supported Employment Program provides employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities, as well as efficient, responsible and willing personnel options for employers. (334) 793-7740 www.vaughnblumbergservices.com

Vocational Rehabilitation Service, Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services

795 Ross Clark Circle, Dothan, AL 36303 Educational and employment services for teens and adults with disabilities (334) 699-6600 www.rehab.alabama.gov/vrs

Wiregrass Rehabilitation Center

795 Ross Clark Circle, Dothan, AL 36303 WRC trains individuals to become employable and assists them in finding jobs within their communities. 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

Epilepsy

Alabama Clinics

2812 Hartford Hwy., Suite 1, Dothan, AL 36305 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 sclerosis. (334) 712-1170 alabamaclinics.com

Epilepsy Foundation of Alabama

Educating and supporting individuals with epilepsy 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

Flowers Medical Group

348 Healthwest Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 Flowers Medical Group offers a range of diagnostic 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/ neurology

Financial Resources

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 government benefits for which they would otherwise be financially ineligible. (205) 313-3915 www.alabamafamilytrust.com

Enable Savings Plan Alabama

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

Family Guidance Center of Alabama

545 W. Main St., Suite 311, Dothan, AL 36301 Helping low-income families pay for child care in Barbour, Coffee, Dale, Geneva, Henry, and Houston counties. (334) 712-7777 familyguidancecenter.org/about/locations/dothan-alabama

General Resources Dothan Pediatric Clinic

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126 Clinic Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 State-of-the-art healthcare facility and medical home offering pediatric services for infants, children, and adolescents. Our staff is eager to help you and our child-friendly atmosphere is welcoming 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) 793-1881 dothanpediatricclinic.com

Dothan Pediatric Clinic

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5565 Montgomery Hwy., Dothan, AL 36303 Our practice is devoted to the health and well-being 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

Enterprise Pediatric Clinic

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526 Boll Weevil Cir., Enterprise, AL 36330 State-of-the-art healthcare facility and medical home offering pediatric services for infants, children, and adolescents. Our staff is eager to help you and our child-friendly atmosphere is welcoming to children and parents alike. In addition to our board certified pediatricians and nurse practitioners, we also have an accredited state-of-the-art lab and lab personnel. (334) 308-1166 enterprisepediatricclinic.com

Eufaula Pediatric Clinic

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323 E. Barbour St., Eufalua, AL 36027 State-of-the-art healthcare facility and medical home offering pediatric services for infants, children, and adolescents. Our staff is eager to help you and our child-friendly atmosphere is welcoming to children and parents alike. In addition to our board certified pediatricians and nurse practitioners, we also have an accredited state-of-the-art lab and lab personnel. (334) 619-0940 eufaulapediatricclinic.com

Ozark Pediatric Clinic

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2125 W. Roy Parker Rd., Ozark, AL 36360 State-of-the-art healthcare facility and medical home offering pediatric services for infants, children, and adolescents. Our staff is eager to help you and our child-friendly atmosphere is welcoming to children and parents alike. In addition to our board certified pediatricians and nurse practitioners, we also have an accredited state-of-the-art lab and lab personnel. (334) 445-7337 ozarkpediatricclinic.com

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

Alabama Lifespan Respite

1856 Keats Dr., Huntsville, AL Statewide program whose purpose is to identify and develop a network of high-quality respite resources 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

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

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

Southeastern Pediatrics

364 Honeysuckle Rd., Dothan, AL 36305 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 services that are important to the overall well-being of you and your child. (334) 794-8656 southeasternpediatrics.com

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 offices located throughout the state. (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

The Arc of Alabama

557 S Lawrence St., Montgomery, AL 36104 Non-profit, volunteer-based membership organization whose primary role is to advocate for the rights and protections of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families. (334) 262-7688 thearcofal.org

Vaughn-Blumberg Services

2715 Flynn Rd., Dothan, AL 36304 Non-profit corporation that provides comprehensive services for individuals with intellectual disabilities/developmental delays through contracts with the Alabama Department of Mental Health (DMH), Division of Intellectual Disabilities. (334) 793-7740 www.vaughnblumbergservices.com

Hearing & Vision

Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind

111 Medical Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 AIDB is the most comprehensive education, rehabilitation and service system serving children and adults who are deaf, blind and multi-disabled. Children 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

Alabama School for the Blind

705 South Street East, Talladega, AL (256) 761-3259 www.aidb.org

Alabama School for the Deaf

205 South Street, Talladega, AL (256) 761-3212 www.aidb.org

American Foundation for the Blind

100 Peachtree Street, Suite 620, Atlanta, GA 1(404) 525-2303 www.afb.org

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

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

The Listening Program

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

Mental Health Services

Alabama Clinics

Alabama Psychiatry

256 Honeysuckle Rd., Suite 3, Dothan, AL 36305 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

Arch Counseling

Barkley Counseling Center

Child & Family Services

100 Westside Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 Our mental health services involve both the assessment 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

Counseling Resources

187 Belmont Dr., Dothan, AL 36305 We provide professional counseling for the whole family with more than 100 years of combined experience. (334) 671-1280 dothancounselingresources.com

Dothan Professional Counseling Services

285 N. Foster St. Suite 306, Dothan, AL 36303 Licensed Professional Counselor, that has previously worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families to overcome varying personal and environmental obstacles. (334) 701-4486 jenecompton.wixsite.com/mysite

Dover Counseling Services

1311 Rucker Blvd., Enterprise, AL 36330 Dover Counseling offers counseling services to children and adolescents, beginning at age 5. (334) 417-0212 dovercounselingservices.com

Harmonex Neuroscience Research

Laurel Oaks Behavioral Health Center

700 E. Cottonwood Rd., Dothan, AL 36301 A confidential, caring, safe and secure environment for children and adolescents with psychiatric, emotional and behavioral disorders. Our treatment experience provides the child or teen with a structured and therapeutic environment to work through developmental, educational, psychological and social problems. (334) 794-7373 laureloaksbhc.com

Oz Psychology

Pathways Professional Counseling

AL We provide adults, children, couples, and families professional counseling services from a Christian perspective. (866) 991-6864 www.pathwaysprofessional.org

Prism Counseling Services LLC

1208 Rucker Blvd. Suite B, Enterprise, AL 36330 Counseling can help improve all areas of life, including: Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Anger Management, Relationship Issues, LGBTQQIA2S, Self-Confidence, Abuse (physical, emotional, mental and sexual). Prism Counseling Services also offer Transgender specific services. (334) 475-3729 prismcounselingser.wixsite.com/ prismcounseling/

Samata Behavioral Health and Wellness Institute, LLC

26438 AL-134 Suite B, Enterprise, AL 36330 Specializing in school/childhood issues, self harming, suicidal ideation, LGBTQ issues, anxiety, OCD, depression, and modd disorders. (844) 472-6282 www.samata-wellness.com

Southeast Health Psychiatry

1118 Ross Clark Cir., Suite 702, Dothan, AL 36301 Psychiatric evaluation and medication monitoring available to ages 13 and older. Conditions treated include: anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, personality disorder, and behavioral health conditions. (334) 794-4582 www.southeasthealth.org/psychiatry

SpectraCare

3542 Montgomery Hwy., Dothan, AL 36302 In-home, school based, outpatient, and case management services ensuring children and adolescents have access to high-quality mental health prevention, early intervention, treatment services, case management, and our integrated services. (800) 951-4357 www.spectracare.org

Wiregrass Behavioral Group

256 Honeysuckle Rd., Suite 12, Dothan, AL 36305 Stressed? Need relief? Wiregrass Behavioral Group delivers comprehensive, confidential, and compassionate care. Our skilled clinicians treat all ages, individuals, couples and families. (334) 792-6736 www.wirebg.com

Wiregrass Wellness Center

201 Regency Ct., Dothan, AL 36305 Based in Dothan, Wiregrass Wellness Center offers a full range of professional therapy and counseling services for families and individuals, including: adolescence psychiatry and children care psychiatry and adult ADHD. (334) 673-8869 www.wiregrasswellnesscenter.com

Multiple Sclerosis

Alabama Clinics

Flowers Medical Group

National Multiple Sclerosis Society Alabama-Mississippi Chapter

2200 Woodcrest Place, Suite 200, Birmingham, We provide many educational programs which help people who are touched by MS. We also provide information on symptoms, coping, communicating and assisting, and work to promote community awareness. (205) 879-8881 www.nationalmssociety.org/ Chapters/ALC

Muscular Dystrophy

Muscular Dystrophy Association

700 Century Park South #225, Birmingham, AL Provides informational materials, networking, referrals to local resources, summer camps and an equipment loan program. (205) 823-8191 www.mdausa.org

Physical Disabilities

AMBUCS of the Wiregrass

Non-profit service organization dedicated to creating mobility and independence for people with disabilities. Members perform community service, provide therapeutic tricycles to individuals who are unable to operate a traditional bike, and award scholarships to therapists. Facebook: @AmbucsOfTheWiregrass

Children’s Rehabilitation Service, Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services

795 Ross Clark Circle NE, Ste 3, Dothan, AL 36303 Services for children birth to 21 with special health care needs and their families (334) 699-6600 www.rehab.alabama.gov/crs

Dothan Brace Shop

1240 E. Main St., Dothan, AL 36301 Our purpose is to enhance the lives of people with disabilities by providing a high level of patient care to all children and adults. (334) 792-4330 dothanbraceshop.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 therapy. 1-256-350-1764 encorerehab.com

Southeast Health Rehab

East: 1480 Ross Clark Circle West: 4550 W. Main St. Suite 2, Dothan, AL 36301 Comprehensive inpatient and outpatient therapy that includes: Physical, Speech, and Occupational. Services are for patients who have disabilities due to an accident or injury, stroke, amputation or illness. East: (334) 712-3726 West: (334) 446-4725 www.southeasthealth.org/rehabilitation-services/

Southern Bone and Joint

We specialize in the fitting of customized and offthe-shelf knee, ankle, elbow, wrist, and lower back braces, and we keep a large selection on hand so we have them when you need them. Dothan/Eufaula: (334) 793-2663 Enterprise: (334) 308-9797 Ozark: (334) 774-7779 southernbone.com

Sumlar Therapy Services, Inc.

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

Recreation & Enrichment

Dothan Leisure Services Therapeutic Rec

300 Garland St., Dothan, AL 36301 Recreation and leisure activities for intellectuallychallenged individuals. (334) 615-3720 dothanleisureservices.org

Dothan Miracle League

201 Northcutt Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 The Dothan Miracle League is an organization that provides children and adults with mental and/or physical challenges an opportunity to play baseball as a team member in an organized league. (334) 596-1642 dothanmiracleleague.com

Dothan Spirit Special Needs Tennis Team

We play through Special Olympics as well as USTA Special Pops. Sponsored by DTA (Dothan Tennis Association) (334) 792-5288

Dothan-Houston County Special Olympics

300 Garland St., Dothan, AL 36301 Providing opportunities for intellectually-challenged children and adults to participate as productive and respected citizens, by offering them a fair opportunity to develop and demonstrate their skills and talents through sports training and competition. (334) 615-3720 dothanleisureservices.org

Enterprise Tennis Association

201 N. Industrial Park Rd., Enterprise, AL 36330 Non-profit organization supporting tennis in the Enterprise and Wiregrass Communities. Programs include the Wiregrass Tennis Academy and Advantage Enterprise, the program specifically targeting special needs populations. (334) 447-8092 enterprisetennis.com

Miracle Park Playground

Dothan, AL This is not your typical playground. Here you will find children laughing and playing, running and swinging, but you will also find wheelchairs, walkers and even bigger smiles. (334) 615-3700 dothanleisureservices.org

Wiregrass Waves Coffee/Dale Aquatics Special Olympics Swim Team

4605 Andrews Ave., Ft. Rucker, AL 36362 Special Olympics swim team that practices Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6-7 at Fort Rucker Fitness Center. Swim season is from October-May. www.teamunify.com/sewac

Schools & Tutoring

A+ Academic Services & Testing

3245 Montgomery Hwy., Dothan, AL 36303 A+ Academic Services provides classes and tutoring for students of all ages. Classes include reading 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

New Day Academy

700 E. Cottonwood Rd., Dothan, AL 36301 Year-round, accredited grade school for residents ages 10-18. Patients attend classes 6-hours per day and receive academic credit that is transferable upon discharge. The school helps facilitate re-entry back into a student’s home school or other placement setting. (334) 794-7373 laureloaksbhc.com

Red Door Educational Services

The Learning Center

100 Westside Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 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 www.childfamilyservice.com

Vivian B. Adams School

2047 Stuart Tarter Rd., Ozark, AL 36360 Serving individuals with cognitive and developmental disabilities from Barbour, Coffee, Dale, Henry, Houston, and Pike Counties in an extended year program. (334) 774-5132 vivianbadams.net

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 www.childfamilyservice.com

Circle City Speech

3246 Ross Clark Cir., Suite 2, Dothan, AL 36303 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

Encore Rehabilitation

Foundations Pediatric Therapy

118 Adris Place, Dothan, AL 36303 Foundations Pediatric Therapy offers occupational, physical and speech therapy services in one convenient location in Dothan. (334) 677-6360

Progress Center

2543 Ross Clark Cir., Dothan, AL 36301 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 Comprehensive inpatient and outpatient therapy that includes: Physical, Speech, and Occupational. These services are for patients who have disabilities due to an accident or injury, stroke, amputation or illness. East: (334) 712-3726 West: (334) 446-4725 www.southeasthealth.org/rehabilitation-services/

Speech Therapy & Associates

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

Sumlar Therapy Services, Inc.

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

Wiregrass Therapy Associates

122 South Woodburn Drive, Dothan, AL 36305 Speech therapy includes a multitude of different types of rehabilitation treatment areas, from stuttering and cluttering fluency issues to articulation and phonological problems in speech production. In addition to speech problems, we address feeding and swallowing issues, resonance issues and auditory habilitation/rehabilitation disorders. (334) 446-1425 wiregrasstherapy.com

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 issues to articulation and phonological problems in speech production. In addition to speech problems, we address feeding and swallowing issues, resonance issues and auditory habilitation/rehabilitation

disorders. (334) 417-0235 wiregrasstherapy1@outlook.com wiregrasstherapy.com

Spina Bifida

Spina Bifida Association of Alabama

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

Support Groups

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

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

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

Wiregrass Autism Group

A place for indviduals, parents, professionals, 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

Saturday September 3

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://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 situation. 334-793-9767 https://dhcls.org/

Wolfpack Karate and MMA - Self Defense for Teens and Adults

12:45 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! 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- Interpretive Center Auditorium, 430 Landmark Dr Dothan, AL, 36302 The Landmark Dulcimer Club has a jam and practice session every first Saturday of the month. https://www.landmarkparkdothan.com/park-events/

Sunday September 4

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 animals are important to the environment. Interpretive Center Lobby. Held on the first Sunday of the month. https://www.landmarkparkdothan.com/park-events/

Thursday September 8

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 stereotypes, and questions identity. A Q&A will follow the 30-minute artist talk. Registration required. https://www.wiregrassmuseum.org/events/virtualartist-talk-with-clarence-heyward/

Friday September 9

The All It’s Caked Up To Be Sugar Arts Show 2022

Cultural Arts Center, 909 South Saint Andrews Street Dothan, AL, 36303 Dothan, Alabama’s 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 more. 850-557-7190 https://allitscakeduptobe.com/

Saturday September 10

Wiregrass Woodturners (Free with your paid gate admission ($5 for adults, $4 for kids, free for park members and children 2 and under) 9:30 AM Landmark Park- Interpretive Center Classroom, 430 Landmark Dr Dothan, AL, 36302 The Wiregrass Woodturners host a club meeting 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 items https://www.landmarkparkdothan.com/park-events/

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

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

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 afternoon 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 fountains. 334-794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Landmark Park Bluegrass Festival ($10 for adults;

$8 for seniors and military; $4 for kids; free for park members and children 2 and under) 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr Dothan, 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 vendors. https://www.landmarkparkdothan.com/park-events/

The All It’s Caked Up To Be Sugar Arts Show 2022

Details on September 9.

Sunday September 11

The All It’s Caked Up To Be Sugar Arts Show 2022

Details on September 9.

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/

Thursday September 14

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

Friday September 16

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/

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 athletics. http://www.wiregrasshighlandgames.com/

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 Alliance. 334-615-3755 www.waterworlddothan.com

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

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

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,

we will marble paper and fabric, but you can apply the basic techniques to a myriad of mediums! Teens and Adults. 334-794-3871 https://www.wiregrassmuseum.org/ events/studio-class-marbling-workshop/

2022 Walk for Recovery

1:00 PM Dothan Civic Center Arena, 126 N St Andrews 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 stage. http://dothanciviccenter.org/

Spanish Trail Playhouse presents “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”

Details on September 16.

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, mysterious, and sometimes exhausting process of turning your writing into marketable, commercially viable literature. 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 Center. https://cca.enterprisealabama.com/EvtListing.aspx

Virtual Artist Talk (Free) 6:00 PM Virtual, Join us for this unique artist conversation 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. https://www.wiregrassmuseum.org/events/virtual-artist-talk-book-arts-with-sarah-bryant-holland-hopsonand-mary-ann-sampson/

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 Quartet The Patriarchs of Southern Gospel Music.You will not want to miss this event! https://www.coffeecountyartsalliance.com/tickets/ Blackwood-Quartet-p375572883

Friday September 23

SEACT’s Frozen Jr., presented by Wiregrass Drama

Club Details September 22.

Spanish Trail Playhouse presents “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”

Details on September 16.

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 shopping! https://www.enterprisedowntown.com/girls-night-out

Peanut Boil ($6 for adults; $5 for kids (ages 3-12); free for park members and children 2 and under) 5:00 PM Landmark 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 peanuts. https://www.landmarkparkdothan.com/park-events/

SEACT’s Frozen Jr., presented by Wiregrass

Drama Club ($15) Details on September 22.

Spanish Trail Playhouse presents “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”

Details on September 16.

Sunday September 25

Spanish Trail Playhouse presents “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”

2:00 PM Details on September 16.

Monday September 26

Teen RECHARGE!

Details on September 12.

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 age. https://dhcls.org/

Tuesday September 27

Taste of Coffee County

5:30 PM Enterprise Civic Center, 2401 Neil Metcalf Rd Enterprise, 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

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

Rocky Mountain High Experience Starring Rick Schuler

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

Saturday October 1

Claybank Jamboree Arts & Crafts Festival

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 more. https://www.facebook.com/ClaybankJamboree/

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 Auditorium, 430 Landmark Dr Dothan, AL, 36302 The Landmark Dulcimer Club has a jam and practice session every first Saturday of the month at 1 p.m. https://www.landmarkparkdothan.com/park-events/

Halloween Fun Fest and Zombie Run

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

Claybank 5K Run and Walk

861 Myrtle Drive Ozark, AL Claybank 5K Run and Walk https://www.facebook. com/Claybank Jamboree

Sunday October 2

Dothan’s Witches Ride benefitting Southeast Alabama Child Advocacy Center

2:00 PM Solomon Park , 1815 Choctaw Street Dothan, AL, 36303 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. https://www.eventbrite.com/

Reptile Feeding

2:30 PM Landmark Park- Interpretive Center Lobby, 430 Landmark Dr Dothan, AL, 36302 Meet our snakes, turtles and lizards and learn why these animals are important to the environment. https://www.landmarkparkdothan.com/park-events/

Thursday October 6

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

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/

Saturday October 15

Fall Farm Day ($8 for

adults; $6 for seniors and military; $4 for kids; free for park members and children 2 and under) 10:00 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 region. https://www.landmarkparkdothan.com/park-events/

Therapeutic Fall Carnival

10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Rotary Miracle Field, Dothan, AL, 36303 This is a fall carnival for intellectually and physically challenged children and adults and their immediate family members. Participants will enjoy carnival games, cakewalk, 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.org. www.dothanleisureservices.org

Boll Weevil Fall Festival

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

Thursday October 20

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. www.coffeecountyartsalliance.com/tickets/Resurrection-A-Journey-Tribute-p375562999

Saturday October 22

Special Needs Trunk-or-treat

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 trunk! 334-379-0729 http://ababeaconofhope.com/

Every Day

Book Character Pumpkin Palooza (Free) Any DHCLS location , Dothan, AL All you need is a favorite story or book character! Decorate your pumpkin for the annual contest. knorth@dhcls.org https://dhcls.org/

Dive Into Diversity-Braai Day- South Africa

Any DHCLS location , Dothan, AL Explore other cultures through books and crafts on traditional holidays and festivals around the globe. Braai Day crafts are available for pickup from all locations to further explore the customs and traditions of each culture. https://dhcls.org/

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 Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday

Enterprise Farmers Market

7:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 525 N. Main Street Enterprise, 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 https://www.facebook.com/enterprisealfarmersmarket

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. Dothan, 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 third Thursday

Art After 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 exhibiting artists or try your hand at an in-gallery activity. Enjoy live music in the galleries from a range of local musicians. 334-794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday

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 p.m. https://www.landmarkparkdothan.com/digitariumplanetarium/

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/

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

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 caregivers. 334-348-2738 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 Beautiful 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

Third Saturday

Donuts and Door Hangers

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 Corner, 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 at WiregrassParents.com!

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

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

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. Photo ©Apple TV+

DC League of Super Pets Theaters Rating PG Overall B+ Violence B Sex AProfanity AAlcohol/Drugs A

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. Photo

13: The Musical

Netflix Rating Overall Violence Sex Profanity Alcohol/Drugs PG B A A B A

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. Photo ©Netflix

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

Thirteen Lives

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

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. Photo ©Amazon

Patricia “Trish” King

WP: Before jumping into 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 phone calls.

My pregnancy was complicated and the twins came at 26 weeks. 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 does a typical day look like in your home?

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 opening. 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: 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: 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! 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: How does having a child with a disability affect your other children? What are the challenges and also the rewards? 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. 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: What should we tell our kids if they ask (loudly) about a potentially special needs kid?

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.

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

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.

A special needs mom’s life is hard and lonely. It’s chaotic, stressful and time consuming. We lose friends. Family stops coming 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: As summer is coming to a close, I would love to know your most cherished memory made this past summer?

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

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.

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Bits & Pieces

Autauga County Schools

Teachers Are Fired Up for a New School Year

Ozark City Schools Connects with Faculty and Staff

Fun with Shaving Cream at Northside Methodist Academy

Carver’s AP Students Participate in One-of-a-Kind

Program

Houston Academy Varsity Cross Country Wins Big

Gardening Days at Bethel Christian Academy

Providence Christian School’s First Day

Autauga County Schools

Southwest Georgia Students Study The Very Hungry Caterpillar

Ozark Career and Tech Team Attends ALACTE Conference

Please email news and photos to schoolnews@wiregrassparents.com!

Providence Student Council Ready for the School Year

Houston Academy Volleyball Abbeville Christian Fired Up on Game Day

Ozark School Year Celebration

HA Soccer and Cheer Camp 2022

Bethel Christian’s K-3 Class

Music with Mrs. Dean Bellot at Victory Christian Shool

(Available at Apple Appstore; Google Play)

Coach.me

(Available at: Apple Appstore; Google Play)

Emotionary

(Available at: Apple Appstore; Google Play)

iOT Session

(Available: Apple Appstore)

Sydney

Inspiration happens

MindShift CBT

(Available at: Apple Appstore; Google Play)

Model Me Going Places 2

(Available at: Apple Appstore)

My Little Suitcase

(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.

All Fun. No Filter.

Join us today at girlscoutssa.org/join

Be a Girl Scout.

The Mental Health Consequences of Device Removal

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.

Getting started

Hang up their book bag and jacket - Earn 3 tokens Eat supper without complaining - Earn 2 tokens Say please and thank you - Earn 1 token Complete homework - Earn 6 tokens Hitting - Lose 5 tokens Tattling - Lose 2 token

Variations

ADD/ADHD

Alabama Psychiatry

Arch Counseling

Barkley Counseling Center

Counseling Services of Dothan

Dothan Behavioral Medicine Clinic

Dover Counseling Services

Harmonex Neuroscience Research

Hayes Counseling Services

Oz Psychology

Progress Center

Wiregrass Wellness Center

Asthma

Alabama Asthma & Allergy PC

ENT Care

Autism

ABA Associates LLC

ABA Therapy & Consultng Services

Alabama Clinics

Autism Society of Alabama

Beacon of Hope ABA and Behavior Consultation

Bright Futures ABA Therapy

Dothan Behavioral Medicine Clinic

Dr. Harrison ABA Center PC

Enlighten Behavioral Consultation

Harmonex Neuroscience Research

Oz Psychology

Progress Center

Southeast Alabama Autism Center

Sumlar Therapy Services, Inc.

The Bradley Foundation

WSI Learning Center

Camps for Special Needs

Camp Frog

Camp Mash