Birmingham Parent - May-June 2023

HOW TO GET THE KIDS STARTED

PREPARING FOR COLLEGE PAYDAY

5 LIFE LESSONS LEARNED AT CAMP

CHOOSING A LESS SCHEDULED SUMMER

GREAT GIFT BOOKS FOR THE HIGH SCHOOL GRAD

13 FUN ACTIVITIES JUST A SHORT DRIVE THIS SUMMER

Experience SoundWaves — our yearround, indoor/outdoor upscale resort water attraction. This exclusive modern oasis offers something for everyone, from incredible thrill rides to relaxing indulgences, including an adults-only pool and bar.

SoundWavesGO.com

ed note

WELCOME TO SUMMER 2023!

Depending on when you are reading this issue, it’s SUMMER (or almost)! We have tried to pack this issue with great ideas for you and your family for summer – whether it is close to home or a short drive.

Some of my best memories are from summer family trips. I’m not sure it matters how much you do and how much you spend, but that you spend time together. That’s what I remember from my childhood and from my time with my own children.

Be sure to check out Paige Townley’s destination round up on page 10 of a few great local and easily drivable destinations – some you know, some you may not. Then be sure to check out Cheryl Maguire’s story on page 14 about why she “Chose a Less Scheduled Summer.”

It’s time for graduation for many, and we’ve got some cute gift ideas in the form of books on page 20. As some kids look toward college, there’s a great piece on “Preparing for College Payday” on page 18, as well.

It’s not too late for CAMP! Many camps still have availability, but don’t delay. Check out our great article and some camp ideas on pages 26-27. You can access even more camps in our online camp directory at https://birminghamparent.com/directory/kids-camps/.

Check out our new and improved calendar of events highlights, starting on page 28. We have a more robust and timely calendar online, so we now are highlighting some great events, then providing you with the QR code to go read more. Or you can visit https://birminghamparent.com/directory/events/#!/. There is a lot to do this summer in this calendar, so let it help you find great activities and events and get there. Use our mapping on your phone to help you find locations you are not familiar with.

Happy Memorial Day on May 29, and have a wonderful summer! Plan to pick up our July/August 2023 issue with lots of back-to-school information as well as our Family Favorites 2023 winners! And don’t miss our free Happy Healthy Kids Fair on Aug. 19, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at McWane Science Center Lobby. See the back cover and our website for more information.

205-624-2405

205-624-2515 FAX www.birminghamparent.com

editorial

PUBLISHERS

David & Carol Evans

EDITOR

Carol Muse Evans

contributors

American Camp Association

Daniel M. Avery III, MD

Brandon Mackie

Cheryl Maguire

Mary Jo Terry

Paige Townley

sales

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Tom Gonzales

SR. MARKETING CONSULTANT

Kayla Fricks

MARKETING CONSULTANT

Ashley Lottes

print & web production

Digtial Doo-Wop distribution

T&P Deliveries

Happy Summer,

ABOUT THE EDITOR:

Carol Muse Evans is the publisher/editor/owner of Birmingham Parent magazine, a publication she and her husband David began in 2004. The Birmingham, Alabama-based parenting publication attracts more than 60,000 readers monthly in a four-county area and receives 10,000 hits per month on its website. The magazine has a 20,000+ print circulation, plus several thousand in readership of the digital edition online. It is the only independently audited free publication in our area. Evans is an award-winning writer and editor who has also has written for several other publications as a freelance writer since the late 80s. She is a graduate of Auburn University in journalism and is a graduate of Scottsboro High School. She is married with two grown children and lives in Alabaster. Birmingham Parent is a member of the Alabama Press Association.

CORRECTION:

In the March/April 2023 issue of Birmingham Parent, a portion of the Short called “Local Author Helps Teach Children About Disabilities” about the book, “Let’s Roll, Oliver” was erroneously cut off in editing. You can read that article in full at https://birminghamparent.com/directory/article/local-author-helps-teach-children-about-disabilities/.

BIRMINGHAM PARENT IS A PUBLICATION OF EVANS PUBLISHING, LLC. Publishers: Carol Muse Evans, David K. Evans Sr. Birmingham Parent (EIN20-0694149) is published monthly by Evans Publishing LLC. www.birminghamparent.com or editor@ birminghamparent.com. Birmingham Parent is © 2023 by Evans Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Editorial submissions are welcome. For back issues, please send a self-addressed 10” x 13” envelope with $4 for postage and handling.

Tropic Falls is the tropical getaway with something for everybody—like the all-new, tropical wave pool, Big Water Bay, complete with Coastal Curl surf simulator! They’re just the latest at Tropic Falls, where one ticket includes 23 theme park rides, the region’s biggest indoor water park and the all-new outdoor area with wave pool, beach & surf simulator. Save almost $50 with the Family Four-Pack of tickets at VisitOWA.com!

Experience a Summer of Science, Learning, & Fun!

Summer in Alabama is no joke! There are few ways to not only keep your kiddos cool but to also keep them entertained. The good news is that all four floors of McWane Science Center are air-conditioned! Whether you’re looking for amazing, hands-on STEM experiences or just a place to beat the Summer heat, McWane Science Center is the coolest place in Birmingham!

McWane Science Center

Members get:

Free admission to McWane Science Center, including Itty Bitty Magic City.

Free Parking

Free or discounted admission to over 300 science centers worldwide as part of the Association of Science-Technology Centers’ (ASTC) Passport Program.

Discounts on McWane Science Center camps & classes

An invitation to monthly Member’s Only events & so much more!

To learn more about McWane Science Center, visit mcwane.org or follow us on social media

@mcwanescience

How To Get Your Kids Started With Pickleball

Are you looking for a fun and exciting activity to get your kids active and engaged? Look no further than pickleball!

This fast-paced sport is sweeping the nation, and it's a perfect way to get your kids moving while having fun. With online guides and sessions at nearby courts, getting started with pickleball has never been easier.

In this article, we'll show you how to get your kids started with pickleball and provide tips to help them learn this fun and exciting sport.

How To Get Your Kids Started with Pickleball

Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in America, with more than 36.5 million players across the nation, according to court data provider Pickleheads. In fact, according to the 2023 APP Pickleball Participation report, one percent of Americans played pickleball last year.

It's a fun and social game that combines elements of tennis, ping pong and badminton. The game's doubles-oriented structure makes it a fun and social game, and the reduced court size and light equipment make it a gentler choice than many other racquet sports.

If you want to get your kids started with pickleball, a great way to introduce them to it is to talk to them about it and show them how it's played. You might even find it helpful to watch a few pickleball videos together to get them excited about the game.

Once they're excited about the idea, find your nearest pickleball court with beginner’s clinics. Beginner’s classes and clinics are commonly offered at parks and recreation centers, making it easy to get the basics down. Many are offered exclusively for kids.

Encourage and motivate your kids as their skills progress. Pickleball can boost both your fitness levels and your family bonds.

Where To Play Pickleball in Birmingham

Here are a few of the top places to play pickleball with your kids in the city:

CityWalk Bham Pickleball Courts

The CityWalk Bham in downtown Birmingham offers 10 dedicated pickleball courts.

These outdoor asphalt courts are equipped with permanent nets and lines, so you won't have to worry about setting up before each game. They're also illuminated with bright lights, so you can play even after the sun goes down.

Designed as a space to connect those from all neighborhoods of the city, CityWalk Bham provides a beautiful, safe space where you can get out with your family and stay active. From a roller rink to a skate park to an off-leash dog park, there's something here for everyone.

Heardmont Park

With two dedicated pickleball courts, Heardmont Park in Hoover is another great option for play. These outdoor courts have permanent nets and lines, so you can focus on the game instead of setting up.

Heardmont Park is also home to a wide range of activities and amenities. Enjoy walking trails, top-quality tracks, tennis courts, baseball and soccer fields. If you're looking for something more social, drop by the friendly community center.

Sicard Hollow Athletic Complex

The Sicard Hollow Athletic Complex in Vestavia Hills features six dedicated pickleball courts that are completely free to play.

In addition to pickleball, there's plenty of space for your family to play their favorite sports, too. Younger kids will love the adjacent playground packed with swings, slides, and more. This venue is also surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, making it a great place to unwind and relax.

Look for more places to play? See the sidebar or https://www.pickleheads.com/courts/us/alabama/ birmingham.

Pickleball is a great sport to try with your kids, no matter what age they’re at. It’s fun, good exercise and can bring the whole family together. Give a try and enjoy playing pickleball in Birmingham!

Brandon Mackie is the co-founder of Pickleheads, https:// www.pickleheads.com/, a platform that helps players find courts, organize sessions, and connect with local players. Once a competitive tennis player, Brandon can be found these days on pickleball courts near Phoenix, Arizona.

13 Fun Activities to Check out This Summer In Town, or a Short Drive

School is out (or almost!), summer is officially here and there’s ample time to get outdoors, explore, and enjoy all the season has to offer. There’s no better place to do it than in and nearby the Magic City. From historic hotspots and picturesque landscapes to hands-on fun and animal adventures, we’ve got 13 destinations the whole family will want to experience this summer whether it is in town or a short drive.

Vulcan Park & Museum

It’s impossible to miss the giant iron man looking out over the city each day. A classic Birmingham symbol, Vulcan is the world’s largest cast iron statue (topping out at 100,000 pounds and standing 56 feet tall) and has sat atop Red Mountain since the 1930s. The statue serves as the centerpiece of Vulcan Park & Museum, a must visit destination for anyone who calls the city home or is just passing through. Throughout the property, visitors can learn all about Birmingham’s unique history with a tour through the museum, enjoy the beautiful grounds and, of course, go up inside the Observation Tower to take in the best views the city has to offer. Tickets are required. To learn more, visit visitvulcan. com.

Barber Motorsports Park & Museum

Birmingham Zoo

All sorts of animals and adventure are awaiting at the Birmingham Zoo. Approximately 550 animals of 180 species live at the Birmingham Zoo, which encompasses 122 total acres. Shows and animal adventures are also available, including the Giraffe Encounters, Goat walks, Sea Lion Chat, Lorikeet Feeding and Elephant Chat. Visitors can go for a spin on the train and carousel or partake in the splash pad fun. Admission is required. To learn more, visit birminghamzoo.com.

McWane Science Center

Motor enthusiasts of all types will appreciate a day spent at the Barber Motorsports Park & Museum. The 880-acre park is home to 2.38-mile, 16-turn road course, the renowned museum, and the popular Porsche Track Experience, the only official Porsche driving school in North America. Inside the museum—which attracts more than a quarter million visitors every year—guests will find nearly 100 HarleyDavidsons and more than 900 total motorcycles, although the official collection is comprised of more than 1,600. Also on display are more than 50 Lotus racecars, the world’s largest Lotus collection. Admission is required. To learn more, visit barbermuseum.org.

A top destination for kids of any age, McWane offers all sorts of handson exhibits and activities that combine fun with learning. For the youngest of guests, ages six and below, there’s Itty Bitty Magic City, an early-learning exhibit full of multisensory experiences. Animal lovers will appreciate the facility’s four aquarium display tanks, including the opportunity to touch sharks and stingrays. The facility also features the IMAX Dome Theater, which daily features a variety of movies. Tickets are required. To learn more, visit mcwane.org.

Birmingham Botanical Gardens

There’s perhaps no better way to spend a warm summer day than with a stroll through the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Open to the public every day of the year, the gardens more than a dozen specific garden areas, including the Japanese Garden with the iconic red torii, the Formal Garden, Kaul Wildflower Garden (which has more than 200 different species of native plants), Dunn Formal Rose Garden and the Conservatory, a beautiful glass house with a variety of tropical plants that give the feel of a faraway adventure. Admission and parking are free. To learn more, visit bbgardens.org.

Alabama Adventure & Splash Adventure

Red Mountain Park

Outdoor adventure meets family fun at Red Mountain Park. The Park encompasses 1,500 forested acres and 16 miles of multi-use trails, and it’s all located just minutes from downtown Birmingham. Making a destination truly for the whole family, it even includes a six-acre offleash dog park. Admission and parking are free. To learn more, visit redmountaipark.org.

Birmingham Museum of Art

The Birmingham Museum of Art has had vibrant art and culture on display in the heart of Birmingham’s cultural district since 1951. The museum features a vast collection of more than 27,000 paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings and more, all ranging from ancient times to modern day. In addition to its permanent collection, the museum is frequently hosting a wide range of temporary exhibits. Admission is free. To learn more, visit artsbham.org.

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

Thrill seekers look no further than Alabama Adventure Amusement Park & Splash Adventure Water Park. In total, the parks boast more than 26 attractions, making it easy to please kids of all ages. For adrenaline junkies, there are rides like the Rampage, a wooden roller coaster with incredible turns and drops, and Drop Zone, which boasts a series of drops and bounces. The water park includes all sorts of unique rides and activities, including Aqua Maze, Kahuna Wave Pool and Twister. Admission is required. To learn more, visit alabamaadventure.com.

Expand your horizons and learn all about Birmingham’s past during the Civil Rights Era at the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. The cultural and educational center houses a variety of permanent exhibits detailing Birmingham’s past, including actual 50s era items from Movement churches in Birmingham, the desk of Birmingham’s first black mayor, and the bars from the jail cell Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. wrote “A Letter from a Birmingham Jail.” Admission is required. To learn more, visit bcri.org.

JUST A SHORT DRIVE…

Noccalula Falls Park

Just a short drive north from Birmingham is Noccalula Falls, which cascades more than 90 feet into the Black Creek ravine. In addition to the ever-popular Falls, the park also features a variety of other must visit amenities, including a petting zoo, Pioneer Village, mini golf course and Black Creek Trail, a 1.7-mile path featuring stunning scenery along Black Creek Gorge. Admission is required. To learn more, visit noccalulafallspark.com.

Cook Museum of Natural Science

OWA Parks & Resort, located just 15 minutes from the beaches of the Alabama Gulf Coast in Foley, has quickly become a must see for families. The original Tropic Falls at OWA, the gated theme park with more than 23 rides/attractions, means everyone in the family has something to enjoy. They even have special ticketing for non-riders. And now OWA has added another “park” – a new water park featuring indoor and outdoor offerings, and the two parks together have become Tropic Falls at OWA, with the water features. Downtown OWA, just next to Tropic Falls, offers a wide array of fantastic restaurants and shops, even if you aren’t going into the theme park. Downtown OWA is free and open to the public daily, and it even includes the OWA Theater with great shows throughout the year, worth the trip alone. The park and downtown area feature numerous special events throughout the year, including the recent Balloon Festival in mid-May. www.visitowa. com.

Tennessee Aquarium

The Cook Museum of Natural Science is a state-of-the-art natural science museum in downtown Decatur, AL. It provides a hands-on, immersive experience where kids can explore, interact with and learn about nature. You'll leave the Cook Museum amazed by the things you saw and learned. Enjoy numerous family-friendly, hands-on exhibits, climb through the cave and other interactive exhibits and there’s even an indoor playground to let off a little energy. All the while, you are learning about nature. The exhibits are divided into nine different galleries. “Discover” offers an introduction to the museum and such wildlife as bees, gators and more. “Looking Up” is all about the sky and earth’s relationship to it. Touch a real meteorite! A great alternative to a larger museum- worth the drive! www.cookmuseum.org.

The Tennessee Aquarium, sitting on the banks of the Tennessee River in Chattanooga, opened in 1992 and has been expanding ever since, offering more and more for its visitors to see, both entertaining and educating. Now two buildings big with an IMAX theater, as well, this museum share the biodiversity of southeast waters through their exhibits, many of which are hands on. Spend a few hours or the entire day! Great for the whole family. www.tnaqua.org

Paige Townley is a Birmingham-based freelance writer.

Why I Chose a Less Scheduled Summer

WhenI was in high school, I was involved in more activities than my kids are now. I participated in all different types of extracurriculars like piano lessons, the debate club and the tennis team. My summers were just as busy because I worked 12-hour shifts as a lifeguard. I admit it—I liked being so active.

My kids have inherited my enthusiasm for being busy. I have an 11-yearold and 14-year-old twins and their activity schedule keeps them and me busy. There are days when I spend hours either driving them around, waiting in the car or watching them at their latest sporting event.

I’ve never pressured my kids into signing up for their activities. They choose to participate in so many extracurriculars because they also like being active. Sometimes it’s too much. My youngest daughter was involved in so many different interests I told her she needed to cut some things from her schedule because she was exhausted and stressed out.

But summer is on the horizon. I recently read an article about the value of a self-directed summer that reinforced what I learned last year: less scheduling and more freedom to choose their day-to-day activities leads to kids who are less stressed. And that’s essentially the kind of summer we had last year.

In previous summers, my kids participated in a few different day camps that mimicked their school day routine without the after-school activities. They stayed busy, but not quite as busy as when school was in sessions. Things changed last summer. My twins had aged out of most of the youth camps they had previously attended, and their younger sister wasn’t interested in going to camp without them.

I panicked a little bit, wondering how I was going to keep them occupied for two months when we were all used to living a very scheduled lifestyle. While I did sign them up for a three-week camp, it only lasted four hours a day and was a big change from their usual highly scheduled routine. For the first time since my kids started attending summer camp as preschoolers, we didn’t have anything scheduled for most of the summer. I was certain they would drive me crazy telling me how bored they were.

But they didn’t. And I can honestly say last summer was one of the most relaxing summers I can remember since my kids were born.

No, my kids didn’t spend their days glued to their electronic devices. In fact, their screen usage was minimal and they rarely said, “I’m bored.”

Even better, I didn’t spend hours in my car, like an unpaid Uber driver, carting my kids around to their latest endeavors.

So what did they do? My teenage daughter planted a garden for the first time and grew strawberries, raspberries and watermelons. She encountered some setbacks, like birds eating the fruit and plants dying from not enough water, but she spent time learning how to improve her garden.

We also spent time going to the beach, hiking in a nearby national park and playing tennis. Not only was I less stressed, I saved money by not paying for expensive activities. And I feel like I got to know my kids better by spending quality time with them instead of being their chauffeur or sideline fan.

When my kids returned to school last fall, they picked right back up where they’d left off with all of their activities. It’s been a busy school year and I’m enjoying the unscheduled, relaxed, chauffeur-free days of summer.

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

Curiosity! Creativity! Discovery!

SATURDAY EVENTS

UA Biology Outreach Bio Bosses

Saturdays in June 10-2pm

Summer & SCIENCE! June 10

Independence Day Party - July 1

Shark Week! July 11 - 18

Super Shark Saturday! July 15

DON’T MISS...

VR Goggles

S.T.E.A.M. Station

Bed of Nails

GameZ Level Returns!

Included with Admission:

Math Mania | Morning Music

Art Afternoon | Science Scene

www.chomonline.org

Grab your friends and family and head out to Railroad Park every Friday night in June for a family-friendly movie on the big screen!

Seating opens at 6:30pm

Come early and grab a picnic and drinks from Michael's @ The Boxcar at Railroad Park.

Movies start at dusk

To learn more or for weather updates affecting a movie, follow us @freefridayflicks

Sponsored by

CHILDREN’S HANDS-ON MUSEUM OF TUSCALOOSA

Summer is a great time to experience the Children’s Hands-On Museum of Tuscaloosa. Three floors of fun with museum exhibits, S.T.E.A.M. Saturdays, birthday parties, holiday events and the BEST field trips all await your child’s imagination.

Curiosity! Creativity! Discovery!

What kind of city builds a huge statue of a burly, bearded, bare-bottomed man to tower over its population? One that never forgets its roots.

Vulcan Park & Museum is home to Vulcan, the world’s largest cast iron statue, considered one of the most memorable works of civic art. Vulcan, The Original Iron Man, has overlooked The Magic City from atop Red Mountain since the 1930s, standing as the symbol of the city’s iron origins-and the ever-present spark of its indomitable spirit. Enjoy breathtaking

Summer & SCIENCE! June 10

Independence Day Party - July 1

Shark Week! July 11 - 18

Super Shark Saturday! July 15

DON’T MISS...

VR Goggles

S.T.E.A.M. Station

Bed of Nails

GameZ Level Returns!

Included with Admission:

www.chomonline.org

(205) 349-4235

Math Mania | Morning Music

Hours Mon-Sat 9:30-4

Art Afternoon | Science Scene

2213 University Blvd. Tuscaloosa, AL

www.chomonline.org

views from Birmingham’s front porch and learn the city’s rich history from the city’s only comprehensive museum.

» Observation Tower

» Museum Gift Shop

» Spring Walking Tours

» Weddings and Party Venue

» Corporate Events

» School Field Trips

» Educational Classes

» Special Exhibits

VisitVulcan.com

OWA is unlike anything the Gulf Coast has seen before - a ride-focused theme park, outdoor wave pool and the region’s largest indoor water park—covered by a convertible roof of 1,800 glass panels!

The tropical escape includes 75-foot-tall slides in a tropical atmosphere with more than 300 palm trees. Guests can take their pick from over 11 water slides—or just enjoy the ultimate tropical relaxation of floating along the lazy river.

Try a private party room, private cabanas, quick service restaurant and Libations, a tropicalthemed cocktail bar. Tropical vibes are everywhere, from the highest slide inside the water park to the surrounding the 23 theme park rides.

Next door to the water park is the all-new Big Water Bay wave pool featuring the Coastal Curl surf simulator.

Tropic Falls at OWA Parks & Resort is the best place on the coast to thrill, then chill.

BIRMINGHAM CHILDREN’S THEATRE

Birmingham Children’s Theatre, one of the nation’s oldest and largest professional theatre companies for young audiences, offers performing arts camps for children of all ages.

BCT’s Summer Camps are an excellent way for youth ages 4 to 18 to collaborate with other campers and learn skills that will benefit them in the classroom and beyond.

BCT’s Imagination Party offers oneweek half-day camps for children ages 4-7. Using a variety of titled themes

such as springboards, campers explore storytelling, art, song, instrument play, and imagination. These classes promote confidence, self-esteem, and creative expression while working on active listening and sharing skills.

BCT’s Players Studio camps are twoweek, full-day immersive experiences in a wide variety of performance areas, such as scene study, musical theatre (acting, voice and movement), physical comedy, stage combat, and devised theatre. Designed for ages 8 and

www.visitowa.com

older, this camp offers the opportunity to engage with many facets of the theatrical process.

This summer, teen performers will have an opportunity to perform in the BCT Youth Production BIG FISH: HIGHSCHOOL EDITION. This monthlong session is for older students who want to take their theatre production and performance skills to the next level!

Camps are throughout June and July. Information and Registration at www. bct123.org/summer-camps

www.bct123.org

The Cook Museum of Natural Science is a state-of-the-art natural science museum in downtown Decatur, AL. It provides a handson, immersive experience where kids can explore, interact with, and learn about nature. Families leave the Cook Museum feeling fulfilled by their time together and inspired by the things they saw and learned. It truly is an amazing experience for families and children of all ages!

» Field Trips & Group Visits

» Membership Benefits

» Homeschool Classes for K-12 (including dissections)

» Summer camps and Aquarist for a Day camps

» Open 7 Days a Week during the summer

www.cookmuseum.org

Family memories await to be made in Alpharetta, GA, a beautiful Southern town ripe for discovery and exploration. Only 30 minutes from metro Atlanta, Alpharetta is the perfect blend of big city adventure and small-town authenticity. Prepare to play at Alpharetta’s family-friendly attractions like Fairway Social where you can shoot hoops, score touchdowns, and knock out zombies in their simulation games. Take your kids to see their favorite artists at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre, where the biggest names in country, rock, and pop share their music with the 12,000-seat crowd! With hundreds of shops and delicious restaurants, weekly events, seasonal celebrations, biking trails and more ‘awesome’ activities, there’s something great for everyone in Alpharetta. Make a weekend full of memories and book your stay at one of our 30 modern and upscale hotels.

Visit

PARENTS: How to Prepare for College Payday

Many students are finally deciding which college they’ll be heading to in the fall, or even in 2024. However, although students may get accepted to every school they’ve applied for, it’s not always possible financially for them to attend. Here is how parents can know if they can financially afford college for their kids, and what easy things they can do to prepare financially.

Look at the numbers

Knowing what college can and can’t fit into your budget starts with looking at your financial situation. Look at how much attending the college would cost each semester for 4 years, as well as how much you save each year/ what your salary is. If you’re still in the green, then you can afford to pay for the college. Take into consideration any financial aid such as scholarships, grants, etc. that your child is eligible to receive each semester as well. Check out resources such as this Net Price Calculator from the Department of Education that can help you determine an exact cost amount: https:// collegecost.ed.gov/net-price.

Plan to use your windfalls

Are you expecting a big refund check when you file your tax return this year? Maybe you've got a profit-sharing check or end-of-the-year bonus coming your way?

Regardless of the source, if you're expecting to receive a sizeable chunk of money in the near future, then earmark it for college costs. Depending on the size of this windfall relative to your payments, it may be enough to cover them for a few semesters.

One helpful way to keep yourself from using this windfall on something else is to partition it from the rest of your money. This can be done easily by putting it in a separate savings or checking account. Once this money is “out of sight, out of mind,” you won’t be nearly as tempted to spend it.

Take up a side hustle

While your kid can also get a part time job to help with costs, if you’re able to pick up a money-making pastime, you should. Side hustles are great because they’re extremely flexible. There are literally thousands of different things you can try based on what you like or are willing to do.

For example, you could:

» Become a rideshare driver using Uber or Lift

» Deliver food for Grubhub or Uber Eats

» Grocery shop for other people with Shipt or Instacart

» Become a freelance writer, graphic designer or social media manager for clients on Upwork or Fiverr

Want some more great ideas? Check out this list: https://mint.intuit.com/blog/early-career/side-hustles-for-moms/.

Adjust your budget

Just like any other major expense, adjusting your budget is the most effective way to afford college for your kid. Don't have a budget? Then use this guide to create one: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/finance/ how-to-budget. Any good budget is really just a balance of income and expenses. As long as the sum of your expenses doesn’t exceed your income, then you’re off to a good start.

Again, if you’re going to be in the red because of the cost of college, then you're going to want to make some adjustments immediately. Start by taking a hard look at your discretionary expenses like eating out or entertainment and decide where cuts can be made. It may be hard at first, but it's what needs to happen to make sure that you and your child don’t go into debt.

Help students look for scholarships

Students can apply for scholarships before and during college. There are a variety of scholarship opportunities available, and they are typically awarded on merit whether for academics, athletic ability, talents, etc. Sitting down and helping students apply for scholarships can be a great use of time. For every 40+ hours, most students will receive around $10k or more in scholarship money. Most schools have scholarship opportunities available on their website that can be easy to find with tips on how to apply and even external links to other scholarship sources and opportunities.

For any child or young adult that is a struggling reader, we can provide assessment, diagnostic, and treatment services including those with the following concerns:

• Specific Learning Disorders (reading, writing and math)

• Post stroke, prematurity, fetal exposure, Down’s syndrome

• Complex learning\processing disorders in adoptees & foster children

• ADHD – medication management

• Coexisting Anxiety and Depression – medication management

• Speech and Language disorders

• Occupational therapy -motor\sensory processing

difficulties

• Recreation therapy

• Intervention for Adults with reading difficulties

• High functioning autism reading remediation (limited space)

Great Gift Books for the High School Grad

Just in time for graduation season, this collection of books focused on giving advice through big life changes—like heading off to college for the first time—has been the go-to source of guidance for recent grads and parents alike. Each book or gift book makes a great grad party present or gift for the young adults in your life.

Some practical and some funny, check out the following for that new grad you need to give a gift. Most are available wherever books are sold, and many in paperback.

The Naked Roommate: And 107 Other Issues You Might Run Into in College by Harlan Cohen (available in paperback)

From the #1 College Expert—and TikTok sensation—Harlen Cohen, The Naked Roommate has been the go-to-guide for the very best college experience!

Ah, college: it can be the best of times and the worst of times. All in the same day. And that’s why everyone needs a little help along the way with New York Times bestselling advice on everything you needed to know about college.

Covering everything from sharing a bathroom with 40 people to finding a place to sit in the cafeteria, this fully updated edition of The Naked Roommate is packed with expert advice and eye-opening tips and stories to help prepare your future grad for college life. A practical, funny, and authentic guide for high school grads and parents alike.

Do Your Laundry or You'll Die Alone: Advice Your Mom Would Give if She Thought You Were Listening by Becky Blades

No matter how hard they try, parents never have enough time to teach their children everything they need to know before they leave home, Luckily, Becky Blades has compiled the best tidbits of advice into one thought-provoking, conversation-starting, gift book she wrote with her eldest daughter in mind as she was preparing to leave home for the first time.

Covering everything from posture to finances with more than a hint of motherly sass, Do Your Laundry or You’ll Die Alone is an illustrated, light-hearted graduation gift for daughters leaving for college or their next big adventure, mothers wanting to impart wisdom, or anyone in your life facing big changes.

The New Academic: A Researcher’s Guide to Writing and Presenting Content in a Modern World by Simon Clews

(also available in paperback)

A practical and accessible guide for academics to grow their audiences and share their research with wider audiences.

Simon Clews—former director of the Melbourne Engagement Lab—offers a wealth of practical advice on how academic writers can write and speak in informative, entertaining and above all else, accessible, ways. Aimed at researchers at all levels of experience from college freshmen to tenured professors, this book teaches readers how to communicate their research in clear, defined ways to general audiences, develop a public profile, gain traction online for their research and establish themselves as experts.

Energetic, lively and constructive, this is your hands-on guidebook to excelling in academia.

How to Adult: An Illustrated Guide by Stephen Wildish

What does it mean to be an adult? When are you an adult? How can I adult? How can I possibly get to the end of this email without checking social media?

A hilarious gift book for soon-to-be graduates or the young adults in your life! Filled with meme-able charts, graphs and illustrations of what it means to be an adult in the areas of work, social media, chores, conversation, finances and more, this is a great gift for anyone questioning whether or not they're doing this thing—i.e. "adulting"—correctly.

Stephen Wildish, a graphic designer responsible for the collection of pop culture graphs and charts circling the internet, is the hilarious voice behind How to Adult and the How to series. How to Adult makes for the perfect graduation or birthday gift and is a hilarious coffee-table book conversation starter.

What to Know About Breastfeeding Before Baby is Born

Breastfeeding has benefits for your baby that can last a lifetime. It also can be challenging – and sometimes even frustrating – for new mothers. Here are answers to a few common questions that can be helpful to know as you make plans for welcoming your new little one.

1. What are breastfeeding benefits for babies?

Breastmilk can help protect babies from illness and provide future protection of risk for conditions such as:

» Asthma

» Childhood obesity

» Childhood leukemia

» Ear infections

» Eczema

» Diarrhea and vomiting

» Gastrointestinal disease

» SIDS

» Type 2 diabetes

2. What are breastfeeding benefits for moms?

You may have heard that breastfeeding can help you lose the baby weight, and that can be true. Breastfeeding can also help with healing from giving birth and may help lower risk for type 2 diabetes, ovarian cancer and certain types of breast cancer.

3. How often do babies need to breastfeed?

Babies may need breastfeeding eight to 12 times or more (in 24 hours) for about 15-20 minutes per breast. Your baby will determine the length of time based on satisfaction. Signs that your baby is hungry and wants to feed include putting hands in mouth or moving their mouth, rooting for your breast or increased activity.

4. How long should moms expect to breastfeed?

Ideally, babies should have breast milk only for the first six months. After that, if you can, breastfeed until at least one year old. The longer, the better for the baby’s health.

5. What challenges can new moms expect?

We don’t like to think about challenges, yet knowing in advance what’s “normal” can help you access resources to stay with the decision to breastfeed. Especially at first, you may experience discomfort and tenderness, but it shouldn’t be painful. You may also need to work with your baby to help him or her latch on properly. Nipples may be sore or cracked and your breasts may swell. Please don’t despair! A lactation consultant can be helpful, as well as finding a support group with other new moms where you can learn from each other.

6. What are foods to eat or avoid when breastfeeding?

Avoid fish and shellfish with high levels of mercury, such as swordfish, shark, tilefish and king mackerel. Opt instead for lower mercury options like shrimp, salmon, light canned tuna, pollock, cod and catfish (up to two 6-oz. servings per week). Limit alcohol and caffeine, especially with alcohol, because it can be toxic to your baby. If you drink alcohol, limit to one serving or less of beer or wine at least two hours before feeding. Keep up your energy by eating a well-balanced diet and getting as much rest as you can. Talk with your doctor about medications or supplements you take to be sure that they are ok for your baby, too.

Ask for help from the maternity nurses or the hospital lactation consultant the first few times you breastfeed. The more often you breastfeed, the more milk your breasts will produce and feel more natural breastfeeding your baby.

Cahaba Medical Care - Alabaster is now open! We are located in Suite 350 at Shelby Baptist Medical Center to serve residents of Shelby County with primary care, pediatrics, OB care, mental health and more. That’s right – we deliver babies AND see kids!

Cahaba Medical Care is proud to offer high quality, conveniently located health care for your whole family. Give us a call to schedule an appointment with Dr. Do or another provider.

Cahaba Medical Care - Alabaster

205-679-6326

1010 1st Street N, Suite 350

Alabaster, AL 35007

Hope lives

Our dedicated doctors, nurses, researchers and staff are committed to finding a cure, so kids like Adrian can live their healthiest life – cancer free. We never give up hope of a world without childhood cancer and blood disorders, and that’s why we are here.

5 Life Lessons Learned at Camp

Courtesy of the American Camping Association

Life lessons. These are moments where the lightbulb goes off over a child’s head. They understand the concept of two plus two. They see something they can’t un-see or learn something they’ll never forget. Over the last 150-plus years, camp has provided opportunities for children and adults to discover or further develop many life lessons. Here are just a few.

It's all about relationships.

Life doesn’t exist in a vacuum and no one can do this alone. Just like a classroom, children have opportunities at camp to share experiences with peers, develop friendships, and learn the ups and downs of getting along with others. By the nature of co-existing in the same space and enjoying similar experiences, camp encourages children to develop and maintain skills necessary to relationship building.

I can do that!

Confidence! Camp thrives on self-efficacy in young people. Enjoying success in a healthy manner and learning to overcome obstacles or even failure are hallmarks of a camp experience. For both campers and staff, camp allows young people to feel proud when things go well and encourages resilience when they don’t.

Take a risk.

One way to build confidence is to try something new. Camp is rife with safe, healthy opportunities for children to take a chance. This could mean climbing a 30-foot wall, trying out for the camp production of Peter Pan, riding a horse, or trying broccoli for the first time. At camp, young people learn how to take risks and learn from their outcomes.

It’s a great big world out there.

When a child goes to camp, they interact with peers and adults from places they might have never seen or even heard of. Campers might hear a new song or accent. They may meet someone from another state or country, and sometimes they run into people from home who become lifelong friends at camp. Camp is an opportunity to both try new things and meet new people.

Not all learning happens in a classroom.

Last but certainly not least, campers discover that school does not have a monopoly on learning. Campers develop new skills, learn about their own passions and interests, and are exposed to ideas and experiences that don’t normally sneak into a formal classroom. Without knowing it, campers are learning every day by simply getting out and going to camp.

For more information about camp and the benefits of the camp experience, contact the American Camp Association New England or visit www.acanewengland.org

$1,500 Quarterly Bonus for All Full-time Staff

Preschool Teachers with Degrees in Early Childhood Education

Exceeds All StateStudent Ratio Standards

Professionally Developed Age-Appropriate Curriculum

Free Internet Video Monitoring

Music, Spanish, Computers and Youth Fitness/Sports programs

Best Playgrounds in Birmingham

Our goal is to be the best educational daycare and preschool program in the country

Since 1995, Odyssey has offered incredible child-to-teacher ratios, certified teachers and a curriculum that prepares our children for elementary school, all in safe, clean, beautiful facilities.

LIMITED SPACE AVAILABLE NOW FOR CHILDREN 6 WEEKS THROUGH 2nd GRADE

WWW.ODYSSEYEARLYSCHOOL.COM

» Summer Camp on Clear Creek: a faith based traditional summer camp for grades 1st - 12th

» Bethany’s Kids: an inclusion camp for campers of all abilities grades 4th - 8th

» Special Session: an inclusion camp for adults of all abilities age 19 and older

» Youth Folk Camp: a folk art, music, and farm based camp for grades 5th - 12th

The McDowell Camp and Conference Center is a ministry of the Episcopal Churches in the Diocese of Alabama

https://campmcdowell.org/

Calendar - May-June 2023

Welcome to our Birmingham Parent calendar of events highlights for May/June 2023. You can find more details about events here and even more events on our website by logging in our using the QR code provided. Remember, you can upload your own great events online, too, at www. birminghamparent.com.

May

05 FRIDAY

2023 Bowl-a-palooza benefiting RMHCA

6-10pm, Oak Mountain Lanes. The Student Leadership Council hosts Bowl-a-palooza each spring to raise funds for the RMHC of Alabama mission and to have fun! Reserve a lane for your team (up to 6 bowlers) or sponsor the 2023 Bowl-apalooza. Lane Assignment/Late Registration begins at 6pm. Bowling is 7-10pm.

MORE INFO

Birmingham Hot Air Balloon Fest Noon-11pm. Birmingham Race Course. See incredible Hot Air Balloons, check that bucket list and get a ride on a tethered Hot Air Balloon! Kids Zone.

MORE INFO

06 SATURDAY

Art in the Village 42nd Annual Art Festival

9am-5pm, Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce. The local artists of Mountain Brook Art Association, many regionally famous, will sell their fine art both outside and inside City Hall. FREE

MORE INFO

The Market at Pepper Place

7am-Noon, Pepper Place downtown. The outdoor market has three areas of tents with farmers, makers and food vendors, live music and chef demos at 9am. FREE

MORE INFO

07 SUNDAY

Birmingham Walking Tour: Parkside

2-4pm, Vulcan Park & Museum. Join Gary Bostany, VPM educational docent and learn about the transformation of Birmingham's historic warehouse district to a thriving mixed-use urban neighborhood called "Parkside" along Railroad Park and the surrounding area.

MORE INFO

Southeastern Outings Weekday Hike on the High Ore Line Trail

1:45pm, This will be Southeastern Outings fourth hike on this relatively new in-city trail. The hike, which is rated easy, will be 3 miles long with very little change in elevation.

MORE INFO

09 TUESDAY

Heersink ODI Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month Celebration

4-6pm, Wallace Tumor Institute.

MORE INFO

11 THURSDAY

Designer Bag Bingo

111am-2pm. The Club. Best Friends of Shelby Humane and The Animal League of Birmingham have teamed up to create this event. Tasty cocktails.

MORE INFO

S’mores and Pours Benefiting BridgeWays

5-9:30pm, Avondale Brewing Company. Funds raised during this event will ensure that every child we serve gets the support they need to succeed in school, in work and in life. Adult: $30 (+ fees) Kids: $10 (+ fees) Kids under 5: FREE

MORE INFO

12 FRIDAY

The Sleeping Beauty Ballet

7pm,The Lyric Theatre. $20 - $45

MORE INFO

13 SATURDAY

Fossil Hunt with Fresh Air Family

9am-5pm. Union Chapel Mine, Step back 315 million years as you explore one of the top three Coal-Age fossil sites in the world with Fresh Air Family. There are two sessions, one at 9 am and a second at 1 pm. Fresh Air Family members get a discount $10 - $15.

MORE INFO

Self-Soothe Saturday

10am-Noon. Birmingham Museum of Art. Self-Soothe Saturday invites visitors to invigorate the body, mind, and spirit with guided yoga, meditation, and a wellness

PLEASE NOTE: Calendar information should be uploaded to our website at https://portal.cityspark.com/EventEntry/EventEntry/BirminghamParent and may appear in print if uploaded by deadline. You may also go to www.birminghamparent.com and simply click on the calendar icon. Information cannot be accepted over the phone. Birmingham Parent publishes a calendar 6 times a year. January events are included in the November/December issue. Deadline for the July/August 2023 PRINT calendar is June 9, 2023. Guidelines: Birmingham Parent’s calendar is intended to be a resource and service to the community and our readers. Events which are open to the public, fundraisers, free classes, etc., are events that may be included in our monthly calendar. We reserve the right to reject any event or listing due to rules or space restrictions. For questions regarding calendar entries, call 205-624-2405 or e-mail info@birminghamparent.com. Be sure to check ahead with the actual venue as events are subject to change.

workshop designed to educate, enlighten, and revitalize.

MORE INFO

Southeastern Outings Dayhike on the Richard Martin Trail 10:45pm. Walk on one of Alabama's rails-totrails conversion routes on an old railroad right of way. This smooth trail is wide and level. No hills on this trail. On the trail you will pass the site of the Civil War Battle of Sulphur Creek Trestle.

MORE INFO

14 SUNDAY

22 MONDAY

2023 Ronald McDonald House Golf Classic Noon-7pm, Greystone Golf & Country Club. Contact Community Outreach Manager Stephanie Duncan, Stephanie.Duncan@ rmhca.org 205-638-7265. Volunteer opportunities.

MORE INFO

27 SATURDAY

FREE Alabama Symphony Orchestra Concert outdoors in Railroad Park

18 SUNDAY

Father's Day

17 WEDNESDAY

UNIDOS LEEMOS - A Family Literacy Workshop

4-6pm, Albert L. Scott Library. ¡Programa especial para padres en Español! Unidos Leemos es un taller diseñado por El Consejo de Alfabetización para padres de habla hispana con niños. Los padres escucharán a un experto explicar, en español, la importancia de leer a sus hijos en su lengua materna. Los padres estudiarán un libro infantil en español/inglés en el taller que podrán conservar para llevar a casa.

MORE INFO

19 FRIDAY Game Night

7:30pm. Railroad Park. FREE

MORE INFO

29 MONDAY - MEMORIAL DAY

June

04 SUNDAY

Vulcan's 119th Birthday Bash

19 MONDAY

Juneteenth

22 THURSDAY

I Love America Night

7-10pm, Hoover Public Library. Meet up with friends or make some new ones, then crush them in your favorite game. Many board games are available but you are welcome to bring a favorite of your own to share. Plus, enter your name for some lovely door prizes. 205-444-7800.

MORE INFO

20 SATURDAY

Zoo Run - Sprint For Sloths!

8am-10pm, Birmingham Zoo. What better race route than through your Birmingham Zoo! What better cause than to raise money for your Zoo’s animals!

MORE INFO

Noon-4pm, Vulcan Park & Museum. Grab your party hats and join us as we celebrate the Big Guy's 119th birthday. Admission is $10 for adults and $6 for children 5-12 (free for children under 4) and includes all activities and access to Vulcan Museum, Vulcan's observation tower and the new Linn-Henley Gallery exhibit titled, “Birmingham's Early Middle Eastern Community: Celebrating Life and Liturgy since 1910.”

MORE INFO

10 SATURDAY

The Annual Caribbean Food and Music Festival

11am-9pm, DeBardeleben Park in Downtown Historic Bessemer. The event is family-friendly and open to the public. FREE

MORE INFO

Noon, Wald Park. I Love America Night is a fun, family-friendly event to celebrate the independence of our country! Enjoy FREE swimming at the Aquatic Complex, sponsor booths, children’s activities, a concert by the Shades Mountain Baptist Church Orchestra and a spectacular Grand Finale. Shuttle service will be available. Library in the Forest and City Hall. No pets allowed.

MORE INFO SCAN CODE TO VIEW MORE EVENTS ONLINE

Area Attractions/Events

n Aldridge Botanical Gardens 3530 Lorna Road, Hoover. 205-682-8019. www.aldridgegardens.com

n Alabama Sports Hall of Fame 2150 Richard Arrington Blvd. N., Birmingham. 323-6665. www.ashof.org

n Alabama Wildlife Center 100 Terrace Dr., Pelham. 205663-7930. www.awrc.org

n American Village Highway 119, Montevallo. 205-665-3535. www.americanvillage.org

n Barber Motorsports Park

n Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

16th St. N., Birmingham. 205328-9696. www.bcri.org

n Birmingham Museum of Art Ways of Seeing: Sports and Games. 10am-5pm, Birmingham Museum of Art. An exhibition drawn from across the Museum's permanent collection that shows the influence of sports and games on art. (205) 254-2565, www. birmingham365.org. Through May 21. 2000 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd., Birmingham. 205-254-2565, www.artsbma. org

n Birmingham Public Libraries

Find a library near you for all kinds of fun events and enrichment! www.bplonline.org

n Birmingham Zoo 2630 Cahaba Rd., Birmingham. 205-879-0409. www.birminghamzoo.com

n Moss Rock Preserve Preserve Parkway, Hoover. 205-739-7141. www.hooveral.org

n Oak Mountain State Park 200 Terrace Drive, Pelham. 205-620-2520. www.alapark.com

n Ruffner Mountain Nature Center

1214 81st St. S., Birmingham. 205-833-8264, www.ruffnermountain.org

n Shelby County Public Libraries Find a library near you for all kinds of fun events and enrichment! www.shelbycounty-al.org

n Southern Museum of Flight 4343 73rd St. N., Birmingham. 205-833-8226. www.southernmuseumofflight.org

6040 Barber Motorsports Parkway, Leeds. 205-298-9040. www.barbermotorsports.com

n Birmingham Botanical Gardens

www.bbgardens.org/ documents/treasuremapforweb. pdf 2612 Lane Park Rd., Birmingham. 205-414-3900. www.bbgardens.org

n Birmingham Children’s Theatre 1001 19th St. North, Birmingham, AL, 35203, 205-458-8181. www.bct123.org

n Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum 1919 Ninth St., Calera. 205-668-3435. www.hodrrm.org

n Jefferson County Library Cooperative

Find a library close to you for all kinds of fun events and enrichment! www.jclc.org

n McWane Science Center • IMAX Films 200 19th St. N., Birmingham. 205-714-8300, www.mcwane.org.

n Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park 12632 Confederate Parkway, McCalla. 205-477-5711. www.tannehill.org

n Vulcan Park 1701 Valley View Drive, Birmingham. 205-933-1409. www.vulcanpark.org

As always check ahead for hours and dates of operation, ticket pricing and more.