Birmingham Parent's Summer Fun Guide June 2019

Page 1

BIRMINGHAM PARENT'S

Summer Fun

JUNE 2019 . FREE

Your resource for summer activities, family activities, special events, camps, travel and more!

www.chomonline.org

PUMPITUPPARTY.COM

SoundWavesGO.com

www.debspartyrentals.com

205-631-2670


This is not a waterpark.

THIS IS A REFRESHING TWIST ON FAMILY TIME. Chill vibe or thrill ride, riding the wave or floating along a lazy river, SoundWaves fuses music and water to create an exclusive experience with something for the entire family. This is America’s first upscale indoor/outdoor resort water attraction. This is going to be fantastic. BOOK YOUR PACKAGE TODAY AT SOUNDWAVESGO.COM.

GET IN TUNE WITH NASHVILLE’S ONLY RESORT WATER EXPERIENCE


Alabama Ranks

#44

in HPV Vaccinations in the United States

ALABAMAPUBLICHEALTH.GOV/ORALHEALTH

ORAL HEALTH OFFICE Promoting Smiles Across a Lifetime


ed note WELCOME TO SUMMER We all know summer officially begins on June 21, but after Memorial Day in Alabama, it IS summer! Welcome to summer! This is our first time to do a special “summer fun” issue. For the last few years our June issue has been all about parties. You’ll still find some great birthday party ideas and an expanded summer fun directory to INCLUDE parties and all things summer in this issue, as usual. But we wanted to help families find fun things to do this summer – so you are holding our inaugural issue of Birmingham Parent’s Summer Fun Guide 2019. Use it all summer to help you find fun things to do as a family, when mom or dad is out of town and you need that little extra something, things to do with grandparents or caregivers, when family and friends come to town for a visit – the list goes on and on. Be sure to thank the ADVERTISERS in this issue who have made this Summer Fun Guide possible. Now, let’s grab all the fun we can out of Summer 2019! HAPPY SUMMER! Carol Muse Evans publisher/editor carol@birminghamparent.com

P.O. Box 326 (add 800 Hwy. 52 E. for pkg) Helena, AL 35080 205-624-2405 205-624-2515 FAX www.birminghamparent.com

editorial PUBLISHERS David & Carol Evans EDITOR Carol Muse Evans ASSOCIATE EDITOR Lori Chandler Pruitt CALENDAR Lori Chandler Pruitt CONTRIBUTORS Dr. Vivian Friedman, Denise Yearian, Pam Molnar, Cheryl Maguire, Rebecca Mason, Melanie B. Holliman, Erin Chase, Becky Beall, Elena Epstein

sales SR. MARKETING CONSULTANT Kayla Fricks MARKETING CONSULTANT Natalie Julian WEB & SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR Bethany Adams Hunley

art & production ART DIRECTOR Hilary Moreno DISTRIBUTION T&P Deliveries LEGAL COUNSEL Balch & Bingham LLP

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY! JUNE 16th

ABOUT THE EDITORS: 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. She is a member of the National Federation of Press Women, Alabama Media Professionals and Southeastern Advertisers and Publishers Association (SAPA). Evans also serves on the board of directors of Childcare Resources. Lori Chandler Pruitt is associate editor of Birmingham Parent, where she is responsible for the calendar and editorial editing. She also is a freelancer for Business Alabama magazine and has written/edited for several other publications. This award-winning writer and editor is a graduate of the University of Alabama in news/editorial and Hueytown High School. She is married with two children.

4 | birminghamparent | june 2019

BIRMINGHAM PARENT IS A PUBLICATION OF EVANS PUBLISHING, LLC. Publishers: Carol Muse Evans, David K. Evans Sr. Birmingham Parent (EIN200694149) is published monthly by Evans Publishing LLC. www.birminghamparent.com or editor@birminghamparent.com. Birmingham Parent is © 2019 by Evans Publishing LLC. Family Connections Media ©2019/2020 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.


You can Ride, Slide and Relax all summer long with miles of slides, thousands of gallons of water, exciting waves, exhilarating roller coasters and plenty of great rides for all ages. And to make your visit even more valuable, enjoy FREE parking, Free sunscreen, FREE Wi-Fi, FREE use of inner tubes and FREE unlimited soda, gatorade and lemonade!

$5 OFF GENERAL ADMISSION OR RECEIVE $10 MEAL DEAL!

Present this coupon to receive $5 off any full priced general admission ticket or receive $10 Meal Deal when purchasing a full priced admission ticket. Discount cannot be combined or used with any other offer or promotion. Some restrictions apply. Coupon is valid for up to 6 people. Coupon expires: September 2, 2019. Promo Code: 16028

MAY 2019

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

2019 OPERATING CALENDAR JUNE 2019

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

3 10 17 24

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

2 9 16 23 30

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

2 9 16 23 30

SEPTEMBER 2019

AUGUST 2019

1 8 15 22 29

4 11 18 25

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

JULY 2019

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

10:30 am - 5:30 pm 10:30 am - 6:00 pm 10:30 am - 7:00 pm 11:00 am - 6:00 pm 11:00 am - 7:00 pm Super Cool School Days Closed 10:00 am - 4:30 pm

The Pirates High Dive Show operates 6 days per week from May 18th - August 4th. The show will not have performances on Tuesdays.

-

To us, every baby is a special delivery. A COMMUNITY BUILT ON WARMTH We never forget that there’s more to care than medicine. There’s compassion. Attentiveness. And a healthy dose of kindness. Which is why when it comes to your care, all of us are here to treat you well. Find a physician at BrookwoodBaptistHealth.com Brookwood Baptist Medical Center | Citizens Baptist Medical Center | Princeton Baptist Medical Center | Shelby Baptist Medical Center | Walker Baptist Medical Center

birminghamparent.com | 5


contents

14

WHAT TO DO IN & AROUND BIRMINGHAM – ALL SUMMER LONG It’s summertime, and the kids are bored! What to do? Plenty! Birmingham is full of great attractions, some of which are free of charge. Get out of the house and into a whole new world with these great attractions. As always, check with each attraction for hours, admission, events and more before you go.

our focus Birmingham Parent’s SUMMER FUN GUIDE.................... 14 THE SUMMER FUN GUIDE DIRECTORY......................... 16

our features

9

PARENTING with Dr. Friedman...............................7

DINING WITHOUT WHINING Berry Crumble Pie..........................26

IN-STATE ATTRACTIONS for Summer Fun...................................20

PET PAGE Summer Fun with Dogs................. 27

Meet Some of our COVER SPONSORS........................ 24 ULTIMATE BIRTHDAY PARTY GUIDE Children’s Charity Birthday Parties......................................9

6 | birminghamparent | june 2019

EDITOR’S NOTE Welcome to Summer........................4

SHORT STUFF.................................. 8

WE LOVE IT! June NAPPA Award Reviews........... 18

20

our regulars

Glamping: A Glamorous Way to Host a Camping-Themed Sleepover...............................................10 Throw an Epic Birthday Party on a Dime!................................... 12

DESTINATION GUIDE Soundwaves at Gaylord Opryland...........................28 ASK THE ATTORNEY What Can Special Needs Trusts Buy?...........................30 CALENDAR OF EVENTS.............. 33


PAR E N TI N G

Parenting with Dr. Friedman

Q:

My child is being evaluated for special education for a learning disability. I am having a meeting with her

teachers next week to discuss her special needs. She has trouble with reading and math. What kinds of adaptations should I ask for to help her get good grades? The purpose of adaptations to the curriculum or to the requirements for a class is to allow a child to demonstrate her skills without being hampered by a disability. It is not to raise the child’s grades. For example, a child who cannot read should not fail a math test because she cannot read the word problems. Adaptations should allow her to demonstrate her math skills independent of her reading disability. It is not intended to make the math easier. Not every child with low grades has a learning disability. Some children are simply not bright enough to get through a rigorous curriculum. These children need to learn the basics of reading, spelling and math but may need to learn it at a slower pace. A grade repeat can sometimes be helpful in allowing the child to catch up in development and maturity. Vocational guidance and training should be considered for the high

school years so that this student can graduate with a skill he can use for life. Not every child needs to be an academic scholar but every child needs to have something he does well. Being able to support oneself is a large part of self-esteem. Some people confuse learning disabilities with mental retardation. A learning disability is a specific deficit in a child who has at least average IQ. A child with dyslexia, for example, may be skilled in most areas but still struggle with reading. A child with an intellectual disability has an IQ below 70 on an individually administered standardized IQ test. Functional impairment may be considered in the evaluation for services as well. Not every child needs services labeled as special education. A sensitive teacher can recognize a child who is overwhelmed by 30 spelling words per week but who

A GREAT ADDITION

TO ANY PARTY!

Make memories to last a lifetime with special photos!

Feel the Beat Entertainment . 205-678-0845

WWW.COOLSHOTSPHOTOBOOTH.COM

might learn 15 words effectively. The teacher can adapt the requirements for that child without a special education label. Parents and teachers working together, not as adversaries, can find what is best for the child. One aspect of the school’s role is to normalize the child to make him blend into our society. Too many exceptions and special considerations make the child feel that he does not need to adapt but that the world needs to adapt to him. From excessive adaptation, the child is led to believe that he is the center of the universe.

The job of school is preparation for employment. An employer is not likely to adapt to your child’s needs. It might be better to steer your child towards what he does well than to falsely encourage a child to reach higher than where he can succeed.

Vivian K. Friedman, Ph.D. is a child and family psychologist at UAB, Department of Psychiatry. Send questions for response in this column to Viviankf@gmail.com. No personal replies are sent.

Red,White & Blue family fun at American Village Our Summer program runs June 4 through July 31 (excluding July 3-5)

TUESDAYSATURDAY 10am Admis sion to 4pm $

5

3727 Hwy 119, Montevallo • (205) 665-3535 • www.americanvillage.org birminghamparent.com | 7


S H O RT STU FF

Brookwood Gets Better Bama Babies Designation The Women’s Center at Brookwood Baptist Medical Center is the first in the state of Alabama to earn the Better Bama Babies designation. This new program is a part of the Alabama Breastfeeding Coalition, with funding and endorsement of the program made possible through The Giving Foundation of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama. The endeavor is endorsed by Alabama Department of Public Health, Alabama Medicaid, Alabama Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatricians and Alabama Chapter of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecology. The program is also supported by The Alabama Chapter of the March of Dimes. The Alabama Breastfeeding Coalition recently had a special ceremony at Brookwood to present the certification and celebrate Brookwood as the first in the state to earn this designation. For more information about the Better Bama Babies designation, visit alabamabreastfeeding.org/bbb/.

SHERIFF’S CORNER WITH SHELBY COUNTY SHERIFF JOHN SAMANIEGO

Make Your Summer a Safe One

Summer is here! This means many of you will be traveling to the beaches, lakes, mountains and other fun family locations. To increase your safety, please keep the following travel and safety tips in mind during your adventures. 1. Before taking a road trip, plan your travel route and make sure your vehicle maintenance is up to date. No one wants to be broken down on the side of the highway or lost, especially while on vacation. 2. Keep a few basic supplies in your vehicle while traveling. Consider having water, snacks, a first-aid kit and an extra battery backup for your phone. 3. If you are at a lake, waterpark or the beach, make sure you stay weather aware. Summer storms can pop up quickly and be dangerous. 4. When kids are participating in water activities, make sure that there is someone designated to watch them closely. Flotation devices and life preservers are a must. Avoid distractions that can take your eyes off your children even for a short period of time. 5. Don’t post your “upcoming trip” on social media. Post those precious photos after you return home. 6. Find a trusted neighbor or person to check your mail and keep an eye on your house while you are gone. Consider calling your local law enforcement agency and requesting a patrol request while you are away. 7. Talk with your kids and make sure they know what to do if they become lost in a strange location. Make sure your children know your phone number. 911 works everywhere. If they can’t remember it, write it on a piece of paper and place it in their pocket. It is my hope that everyone has a safe and fun summer. If the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office can be of assistance to you, do not hesitate to give us a call. We stand ready to serve you! Read more at www.shelbyso.com. 8 | birminghamparent | june 2019


ULTIMATE BIRTHDAY

PARTY GUIDE

CHILDREN’S CHARITY BIRTHDAY PARTIES

GIVE THE SELFLESS GIFT ON YOUR CHILD’S BIRTHDAY By Denise Morrison Yearian

At a time when parents are pulling out all the stops for their children’s birthday parties, some families are hosting hooplas to give gifts away. Children’s charity birthday parties are an emerging concept that encourages youngsters to think and act altruistically. And for some families, the idea is being embraced with open arms. When Tracy Crowley and Ingrid Yerger’s two 10-year-old sons and fellow schoolmates Cayden and Bo wanted to share their shindig, their mothers suggested they have a Hawaiian-themed party with a focus on presence, not presents. “We both knew what the boys really wanted was to have fun with their friends, and they didn’t need any more toys. So we suggested they have a party and donate their gifts to the children’s hospital,” says Crowley, Cayden’s mother. “It went with the whole party theme – kids giving kids presents – and would involve sharing with those less fortunate. We threw the idea out to the boys but told them, ‘It’s up to you.’ They thought it was a great idea.” For the Morris family, benevolent birthdays are becoming a beloved tradition. When their oldest son Jake celebrated his seventh last year, he had a baseball-themed blowout and

Both parents agree the no-gift notion didn’t detract from the celebrations. It broadened their children’s community awareness and stirred up a sense of gratitude.

asked attendees to donate children’s essentials to a local nonprofit organization. His younger brother Cole latched onto the idea. “During that time Jake explained to Cole why he chose to do this and Cole said he wanted to have a charitable party too,” says Morris. “So when his birthday rolled around we rehashed the idea to make sure he was still up for it then decided on a tie-dye t-shirt party.” In keeping with the t-shirt theme, Morris contacted a charitable organization Cole was familiar with to okay the idea of donating shirts and then sent out invitations asking that instead of gift, guests bring a t-shirt for a needy child. Cole’s celebration was a full-blown festivity with 30 pint-sized partakers and a variety of art and craft stations including tie-dying t-shirts, clay sculpting and wooden toy painting. Cayden and Bo’s bash was bountiful too, with swimming, an inflatable moon bounce, a water ice truck and 50 children who donated a deluge of dolls, art activities, building blocks and books. “After the party the boys sorted the presents by gender then they each chose one gift they wanted. The rest were bagged and taken to the hospital,” says Crowley. “That’s when it really hit home. A hospital representative met

us at the front door, shook Cayden and Bo’s hands and thanked them profusely. Although we couldn’t give the presents directly to the patients, she talked with the boys about how their giving would help and took them on a tour of the facility.” Cole experienced an outpouring of offerings too. “We got tons of shirts! People brought outfits too!” says Morris. “After the party we went to the agency and together handed the shirts over. The representative thanked him, took his picture to include in an upcoming newsletter and said, ‘Maybe when other people see your photo they’ll want to have parties like yours.’ I looked at Cole and his face was beaming. That’s when I knew he got it. He really got it!” Both parents agree the no-gift notion didn’t detract from the celebrations. It broadened their children’s community awareness and stirred up a sense of gratitude. “I think the whole event benefitted Cole in that he enjoyed being with the people he loves, doing what he loves, which is arts and crafts. And that’s what’s really important,” adds Morris. “He also learned an important lesson about giving and developed a greater appreciation for others’ needs. And he had a great time in the process.” The event left an indelible impression on Cayden too. “He learned that he’s fortunate to have family and friends who love him, good health and a comfortable lifestyle,” says Crowley. “And that helping others is our responsibility, and with a little creativity it can be a fun and rewarding experience.”

Denise Morrison Yearian is the former editor of two parenting magazines and the mother of three children and four grandchildren. birminghamparent.com | 9


ULTIMATE BIRTHDAY

PARTY GUIDE

GLAMPING

A GLAMOROUS WAY TO HOST A CAMPING-THEMED SLEEPOVER By Pam Molnar

If your child loves the idea of camping, but really doesn’t want to battle the bugs, the elements or sleep on the hard ground, then glamping is a great alternative. It allows you to enjoy the great outdoors while you are surrounded by the comforts of home. And glampers can even set up their camp indoors for nights when Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate. Here’s some great tips: DECORATING: Dress up your tent with a soft floor of thick blankets and colorful pillows. Inexpensive inflatable pool floats make a nice bed, especially when covered in soft quilts. Camouflage the canvas tent walls with fabric draped from the ceiling and tied back against the wall. For a shabby-chic look, purchase old fabric or sheets from a thrift store. Dangle white holiday lights from the ceiling and around the door frame to give the room a soft glow. Set up a low table under the stars with pillows for chairs. This will serve as your crafting and dining table. Start with decorating it for your meal with mismatched china, flatware and a beautiful tablecloth. These are great thrift store finds or you can rent them from your local party supply stores. When it’s time to move on to the crafts, switch to plastic, disposable table coverings. CRAFTS:

1 Bohemian Lantern – Paint the outside of mason jars with a 1:6 mixture of paint to water. It will give the glass a thin, muted layer of color. When dry, decorate with puff paint, glitter or rhinestones. Add a battery-operated tea light or string of lights and seal with a decorated lid. 2 Shabby Chic Blankets – Use two twin-

sized sheets from the thrift store. Prewash and then lay them on top of each other, matching the edge. Cut about 4” from edge of fabric in 2” wide strips all the way around. Tie together to form a two-sided blanket.

3 Dream Catchers – Kits are available online on Amazon or Oriental Trading with everything you need to make a dream catcher. While kits include beads and feathers, you might want to offer other decoration options like ribbons, strips of fabric or dried flowers. 10 | birminghamparent | june 2019

OTHER ACTIVITIES:

1 Conversation Starters – Prewrite conver-

sation starter questions on smooth rocks and add them to a fancy jar or vase. Have the guests take turns pulling them out and reading the question out loud.

2 Yardzee – Make your own lawn dice by decorating same sized square boxes. To keep up with your boho theme, you can decorate the dice in vintage wrapping paper and add the dots with solid colored paper. Make each girl a score sheet from an online printable or keep everyone’s score on poster boards nearby. 3 Scavenger Hunt – Check online for an outdoor scavenger hunt list or make your own. When the sun goes down, you can also do a glowstick hunt around the yard. Assign each guest or team a color for an added challenge. MENU:

1 For an easy appetizer or movie snack, make campfire nachos. Fill individual foil packets with nacho chips, cheese, tomatoes, corn, beans, meat and avocados. Seal foil and cook 4-5” from fire for 10 minutes or until cheese melts. 2 For your main meal, warm up mugs of tomato soup and make grilled cheese paninis. Offer the guests cheese options and add-ons like bacon, avocado, tomatoes and spinach.

3 Chocolate fondue is an alternative to birthday cake. Use strawberries, bananas, pound cake, angel food cake or marshmallows for dippers. 4 For breakfast the next morning, let the kids make their own cinnamon rolls on a stick. Use kabob sticks (presoaked in water) to secure the rolls and let cook slowly (about 15 minutes) over a low heat. Drizzle with icing and serve with a fruit cup. SCREEN A CAMPING MOVIE: Choose a great kid-friendly camp movie to end the night. If you are screening the movie outside of the Glampground, try filling an inflatable pool with blankets and pillows for a cozy viewing setup. Camp movie ideas might include: Parent Trap, Camp Rock, Cheaper by the Dozen 2 or The Great Outdoors. GOODY BAGS: An easy glamping goody bag is filled with all the fixing for s’mores – chocolate bar, small graham cookies and marshmallows. Add a simple note that says, “Life is s’more fun with friends like you.” You can also fill a dollar store cinch bag with travel-sized items like toothbrush, hand sanitizer, makeup removers and lip balm.

Pam Molnar is an avid party planner and mother of three. She loves glamping as she is more of an indoor girl.


No budget is too small! No function is too big! We want to make all of your event dreams come true. We can help you find the perfect moonwalk for your child’s birthday party! With our rentals, you can expect some good old-fashioned fun for everyone!

www.debspartyrentals.com 205-631-2670

W W W.T H O M A S P E D I AT R I C D E N T I S T R Y. C O M 721 MONTCLAIR RD . BIRMINGHAM, AL 35213

2 0 5 - 8 79 - 6 15 0

V FO OTED R T #1 HE PA PA RT ST Y P 6 Y LA EA C E RS !!

NEW- NERF WAR PARTY'S AVAILABLE!!!

this Ment io a $35d & recneiv FR e A “GL DD - ONEE “B OW” (Mu UBBL OR time st mentio ES” o n f rese

a r vati d at on)

SUPER-SIZE THE FUN IN A PRIVATE SPACE SUPER STAR STATUS! SIMPLE, FAST, FUN!

PUMPITUPPARTY.COM

PELHAM 205.900.8123

101 Cahaba Valley Pkwy. West, Pelham, AL 35124 NEW after school care. Pick up from Pelham Oaks, Pelham Ridge and Pelham Middle School birminghamparent.com | 11


ULTIMATE BIRTHDAY

PARTY GUIDE

THROW AN EPIC BIRTHDAY PARTY ON A DIME! By Cheryl Maguire

When I received the invite to my nephew’s pirate party, I was worried. The event was being held during the wintertime at his house, so all the five-year-old kids would be cooped up. How would more than 20 kids be entertained in a small area indoors? Would I hear so many chaotic screams of “Arrr’s!” and “Ahoy’s!” that I would want to walk the plank? My fears subsided when I beheld the enormous cardboard created pirate ship in their living room. If the boat hadn’t been so crowded with kids, then I would have jumped inside of it myself. When I noticed organized activity stations set up throughout the house, I knew all the kids would have a blast. The party was a huge success that my kids still talk about four years later. The pirate party isn’t the only impressive at-home one my sister and brother -in-law Tara and Mike Stull have hosted. The themes of the 12 | birminghamparent | june 2019

parties for their three children include knights and princesses, western cowboys and cowgirls, fairies and gnomes, Star Wars, and pirates. For all their parties, they create a life-size cardboard centerpiece such as a castle or western town for the kids to play in, games centered around the theme along with a favor to take home. Homemade treats and a cake are abundant at every gathering. So, what is the secret to throwing an epic birthday party on a dime? Plan in advance. The Stull family is already planning the next unicorn theme party for June. They get ideas from Pinterest and other crafting websites. Sometimes they brainstorm ideas on their own. This planning helps them to have enough time to create all the activities and cardboard centerpiece.

Make it yourself. Almost everything at parties is homemade from the cardboard centerpieces to the games, food, and favors. This significantly cuts down the cost of the parties which were all under $200. Teamwork. The Stulls work together creating the life-size centerpiece, games, favors and homemade baking. They also include their kids in the process of coming up with ideas and creating the items. By working together, they don’t become too overwhelmed with the planning and creating that is involved. It also makes the process more fun for the entire family. Play old school games with a twist. At the parties, they offer simple games that everyone loves, and they incorporate the theme into the game. Instead of a typical water gun fight, they created a water gun shooting range in the


western theme party. Or instead of pin the tail on the donkey it was pin the lightsaber on Yoda for the Star Wars theme party. Some other games they played are a pirate scavenger hunt for gold coins, relay cowboy horse races and beware of the shark cardboard toss bean bag game. Use free or discounted items. The couple asked local appliance stores for free cardboard boxes to create the centerpiece, games, and favors. They also got deeply discounted “mistake paint” for a quarter of the price (around $9 instead of $40) that people returned because they didn’t like the color from Home Depot and Lowe’s. Use coupons and buy sale items. They purchase some of the items at Michael’s and other craft stores using coupons. They also use coupons at the grocery store to buy the food for the party. Coupons can be found at the store’s website or app or by signing up for the store’s emails. Also, coupons can be found at online coupon website like Coupons.com. Sell it on Craigslist. After the last party, they sold some games for $30. They plan to do this for future parties. You also can sell household items prior to the event to help pay for the party. These parties are a lot of work, but the whole family loves creating a memorable event. I know that we are anxiously awaiting the next unicorn party. Who knows – maybe we will spy a real one!

Make Sure Your Next Event Is the Best Party in Town! Our expertise in lighting, music & sound makes your party an experience to remember! Call Feel The Beat today so one of our party planners can assist you!

PA FORRTIES AGE ALL S!!

205-678-0845 . www.feelthebeat.com family children newborn seniors couples maternity wedding boudoir photogenic modeling

They played a pirate scavenger hunt for gold coins, relay cowboy horse races & beware of the shark cardboard toss bean bag game. 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 Parents Magazine, Upworthy, Chicken Soup for the Soul: Count Your Blessings and Your Teen Magazine. You can find her at Twitter @CherylMaguire05. Originally published on Signature Moms.

events engagement Family Favorite

2018

No Sitting or Session Fees! In studio or outdoor photography available 205-902-0385 www.ChristyPiercePhotographyLLC.com birminghamparent.com | 13


Summer Fun BIRMINGHAM PARENT’S

WHAT TO DO IN & AROUND BIRMINGHAM – ALL SUMMER LONG It’s summertime, and the kids are bored! What to do? Plenty! Birmingham is full of great attractions, some of which are free of charge. Get out of the house and into a whole new world with these great attractions. As always, check with each attraction for hours, admission, events and more before you go. Free sunscreen, drinks and parking! This family-owned attraction is back and better than ever. www.alabamasplash.com ALABAMA SPORTS HALL OF FAME Located in Birmingham’s Uptown District, this museum has more than 5,000 sports artifacts displayed in a 33,000 square foot building and surrounded by a three-story atrium. It’s the place to see all things sports. www.ashof.org. BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL GARDENS

ALDRIDGE BOTANICAL GARDENS This 30-acre botanical garden in Hoover opened in 2002. It showcases hydrangeas and much more. The gardens also feature an outdoor pavilion, a five-acre lake and a half-mile walking trail. The gardens host many special events, from fishing days to bird walks to classes. www.aldridgegardens. com. ALABAMA SPLASH ADVENTURE AMUSEMENT PARK & SPLASH ADVENTURE WATER PARK This park is located where I-20/59 and I-459 meet, and one admission price gets you fun in the sun all day long! Choose the great water park attractions or all the fun rides.

ALABAMA WILDLIFE CENTER The AWC is located within Oak Mountain State Park and is the state’s oldest and largest wildlife rehabilitation facility. It cares for more than 2,000 wild bird patients from more than 100 species each year, and thousands more native wild animals. It also offers special events, education programming and much more to the public. www.awrc.org. AMERICAN VILLAGE The American Village in Montevallo is an American history and civics education center. Located next to the Alabama National Cemetery, it also is dedicated to honoring America’s veterans and their service and sacrifice as a Veterans Living Legacy. It also is open to the public for tours. www. americanvillage.org.

14 | birminghamparent | june 2019

BARBER MOTORSPORTS PARK & MUSEUM This 2.38-mile racing track and a 230,000 square foot museum was built by Alabama native George W. Barber. The racing facility hosts many national and international events, including the IndyCar Series Grand Prix of Alabama. It also includes the Barber Vintage Motorsport Museum, with a huge collection of motorcycles, automobiles and more. https:// barberracingevents.com. BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL GARDENS A 67.5-acre park adjacent to Lane Park at the foot of Red Mountain, the gardens have long been a favorite destination. Among its many gardens includes the internationally-known Japanese Gardens, Wildflower Garden, Fern Glade and Southern Living Garden. It has a café, classes, special events and more. Its website includes maps of the gardens and walking trails. https://bbgardens.org. BIRMINGHAM CIVIL RIGHTS INSTITUTE/CIVIL RIGHTS DISTRICT BCRI is an interpretive museum and research center that depicts the struggles of the Civil Rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s. The institute also is a part of the city’s Civil Rights District, which includes Kelly

Ingram Park, Sixteenth Street Baptist Church, Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame and the Fourth Avenue Business District. www.bcri.org. The entire district also is part of the larger Alabama Civil Rights Trail, which highlights several sites across the state that played a key role in the movement. www.bcri.org. BIRMINGHAM MUSEUM OF ART BMA is one of the finest regional museums in the U.S., housing a collection of more than 27,000 paintings, sculpture, prints, drawings and decorative arts that range from ancient to modern times. The museum also features traveling exhibits and activities for families. https://artsbma.org. BIRMINGHAM ZOO The zoo is one of the state’s most popular attractions, with about 700 animals of 200 species and endangered species from six continents. The 122-acre zoo features a children’s zoo, Trails of Africa and much more. The zoo also offers daily and special events. www.birminghamzoo.com. HEART OF DIXIE RAILROAD MUSEUM This museum in the heart of Shelby County is the official state railroad museum of Alabama, dedicated to preserv-


ing, restoring and operating historically significant railway equipment. And of course, there are train rides! The museum also has several special events during the year. www. hodrrm.org.

ALABAMA SPLASH ADVENTURE AMUSEMENT PARK & SPLASH ADVENTURE WATER PARK

MCWANE SCIENCE CENTER This science museum is complete with an aquarium, 280seat IMAX Dome Theater and so much more! The museum features special events, permanent exhibits and traveling exhibits. www.mcwane.org. MOSS ROCK PRESERVE Right in the city of Hoover is Moss Rock Preserve, a 349-acre nature preserve that offers 12 miles of hiking trails along with waterfalls, wildlife, natural forests and much more. The preserve has a boulder field for climbers of all skill levels. There are hiking trail maps available. www.hooveral. org/214/moss-rock-preserve.

SOUTHERN MUSEUM OF FLIGHT The museum, now located near the Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport, will move to a new 24-acre location next to Barber Motorsports Museum in early 2020. The museum is home to more than 100 different aircraft, flight artifacts, authentic fighter planes, photography and unique engines. There are lots of special events for enthusiasts of all ages. www. southernmuseumofflight.org.

BIRMINGHAM ZOO

OAK MOUNTAIN STATE PARK Alabama’s largest state park is atop Double Oak Mountain in Shelby County. It has one of the widest varieties of outdoor activities of any state park, offering mountain biking, hiking, a BMX course, boat rentals, basketball courts, nature programs, Peavine Falls, an interpretive center, a golf course/driving range, swimming area, fishing lakes picnic areas, horseback riding facilities, a demonstration farm and more. www.alapark.com/ oak-mountain-state-park.

RUFFNER MOUNTAIN NATURE PRESERVE This privately-held, 1,040-acre urban nature preserve is located in east Jefferson County. It’s a favorite for bird watchers, hikers with trails ranging from easy to difficult, and nature lovers. It boasts a visitor center with programming and native Alabama animals. Ruffner was mined for iron ore from the late 19th century through the 1950s, and is a living history site for that industry. https:// ruffnermountain.org.

in the country. Vulcan was cast from local iron in 1904 by Italian artist Giuseppe Moretti, and the statue has overlooked Birmingham from atop Red Mountain since the 1930s. The beautiful 10-acre educational park includes a museum, walking trails and much more. Visitvulcan.com. VULCAN PARK & MUSEUM

TANNEHILL IRONWORKS HISTORICAL STATE PARK With 1,500 acres in west Jefferson County, Tannehill offers hiking, camping and outdoor recreation. The park has many events throughout the year, with craftspeople demonstrating their trades, along with special holiday events. Tannehill features a working cotton gin, pioneer farm and gristmill. www.tannehill.org. VULCAN PARK & MUSEUM Vulcan is the world’s largest cast iron statue and is considered one of the most memorable works of civic art birminghamparent.com | 15


Summer Fun

THE DANCE FOUNDATION

Alabama Adventure & Splash Adventure 4599 Splash Adventure Pkwy. Bessemer, AL 35022 205-481-4750 www.alabamasplash.com Enjoy the summer more at Alabama Adventure Amusement Park and Splash Adventure Water Park! Wet and dry options for all ages! American Village 3727 Hwy. 119 Montevallo, AL 35115 205-665-3535 www.americanvillage.org Have a revolutionary experience with costumed patriots of the past among replicas of some of America’s most cherished places. Participate in Paul Revere’s Ride, the Stamp Act Rally, the Continental Army, and more! www.americanvillage.org Birmingham Zoo 2630 Cahaba Rd. Birmingham, AL 35223 205-879-0409 ext. 257 www.birminghamzoo.com Experience up-close animal encounters, hands-on science activities and nature play…the best place for summer learning and fun is the Birmingham Zoo. 16 | birminghamparent | june 2019

With our carousel, playground and train rides, we have the best party entertainment around! Birthdays in Birmingham www.birthdaysinbirmingham.com Birmingham’s local birthday party resource since 1997. A collection of businesses who provide a birthday party service for children’s parties. Children’s Hands-On Museum 2213 University Blvd. Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 205-349-4235 www.chomonline.org Summer is a great time to visit CHOM, where children Explore, Create and Discover. When we say “hands-on” we really mean it! Learning through play and our exhibits encourage you to touch, feel and play. The Dance Foundation 1715 27th Court S. Homewood, AL 35209 205-870-0073 www.thedancefoundation.org Our non-competitive dance education nurtures creativity, engages the imagination, and promotes social and developmental

Directory skills in a safe and enriching environment for self-expression and collaboration.

classes, fantastic camps and birthday parties! Spend your summer with us!

Dauphin Island Sea Lab 101 Bienville Blvd. Dauphin Island, AL 36528 251-861-2141 http://www.disl.org The Dauphin Island Sea Lab’s (DISL) mission encompasses the pursuit of excellence in marine science education, marine research, coastal zone management policy and educating the general public through the Estuarium, our public aquarium.

Pump It Up Pelham 101 Cahaba Valley Pkwy. W. Pelham, Alabama, AL 35124 205-900-8123 www.pumpitupparty.com/ pelham-al Huge inflatable indoor playgrounds, games galore, and more! NEW after school care availble. Pick up from Pelham Oaks, Pelham Ridge and Pelham Middle School. Unleash your inner party animal with Pump It Up Pelham!

Deborah’s Party Rentals 205-631-2670 https://debspartyrentals.com/ School, church and corporate events. Deborah’s Party Rentals would love to help you plan your event!

McWane Science Center 200 19th St. N. Birmingham, AL 35203 205-714-8414 www.mcwane.org Fun and learning never end during the summer at McWane Science Center, a nonprofit, hands-on museum with aquarium and IMAX® Dome Theater. Four floors of interactive exhibits celebrate science and wonder.

Feel the Beat Entertainment 205-678-0845 www.feelthebeatentertainment.com DJ service, events, lighting photo booth and much more! Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, including Soundwaves 2800 Opryland Dr. Nashville, TN 37214 615-889-1000 www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/bnago-gaylord-opryland-resort-and-convention-center See our ad on page 2 for the new Soundwaves indoor/outdoor resort water attraction. Learn more at www.soundwavesgo.com.

Off the Wall 7001 Crestwood Blvd., Suite 616 Birmingham, AL 35210 205-545-9932 www.Off thewallfamilyfun.com Kids will enjoy releasing their energy in our 15,000 sq. ft. climate controlled facility. We have a variety of activities including tunnels, slides, ballpits, bounce houses, toddler area, rock-wall, chalk-wall, arcade games & redemption prizes.

Head Over Heels Gymnastics 500 Caldwell Mill Trace Birmingham, AL 35242 205-981-2720 www.headoverheelsgyms.com Helping children gain fitness, gymnastics skills, confidence and self-esteem for over 20 years! Offering gymnastics, tumbling, aerial silks & circus arts, trampoline, cheer, Ninja

Visit Clarksville Tennessee VisitClarksvilleTN.com Discover more to see and do in Clarksville, Tennessee — a legendary place only 40 minutes from Nashville. Outdoor recreation, museums, family attractions, and weekly concerts are waiting for you here. Plan your trip today!


A Legendary Place

SUMMER

June 3-August 3

CAMPS &CLASSES and up with Classes for ages 1 animent mp co ac no pia e liv and up Camps for ages 4 Birthday parties

day! Register online to

a place of discovery. 1715 27th Ct S, Homewood | thedancefoundation.org | 205 870 0073

Growing Independence Independence Growing Independence Growing Growing Independence Behavioral Services Behavioral Services Behavioral Services Behavioral Services CLINIC LOCATIONS CLINIC LOCATIONS Birmingham • Anniston • Montgomery • Mobile

CLINIC LOCATIONS

LOCATIONS BirminghamCLINIC Anniston •• Montgomery Birmingham •• Anniston Montgomery••Mobile Mobile Birmingham • Anniston • Montgomery • Mobile

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) assessment and treatment for preschool and school-aged childrenBehavior with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Applied Analysis (ABA) assessment and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) assessment treatment for preschool and school-aged children with • LicensedAnalysis Behavior Analysts Applied Behavior (ABA) assessment and treatment preschool and(ASD). school-aged Autismfor Spectrum Disorder Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) assessment •with Private patients accepted and (ASD). and treatment forpay preschool and school-aged children Autism Spectrum Disorder • Licensed Behavior Analysts and treatment for preschool and school-aged many health insurance plans. children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). • Private pay patients accepted & many health insurance plans. • Licensed Behavior Analysts children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). growingindependence@learning-tree.org • Licensed Behavior Analysts growingindependence@learning-tree.org . 334-425-6418 Private pay patients accepted and •• Licensed Behavior Analysts

many health insurance plans. and • Private pay patients accepted • Private pay patients accepted and many health insurance plans. many health insurance plans. growingindependence@learning-tree.org

growingindependence@learning-tree.org growingindependence@learning-tree.org , Inc.

www.learning-tree.org birminghamparent.com | 17

, Inc.


Summer Fun

We Love It! Compiled by Elena Epstein

JJ Cole Outdoor Mat These fun mats are perfect for summer time concerts, beach and picnics. Adjustable carrying strap, quick-fold design and water-resistant fabric. $34.95, www.tomy.com

Baby Valet An innovative outfit organizer & wet bag provides space for everything needed for baby. Roll and take anywhere. $34.95, www.earlybirdblue.com

Free Wheelin’ Rider Sport Convertible Balance Bike A stylish pushbike that changes and grows along with your child. Start it off as a 3-wheeler then convert into a 2-wheel balance bike. Adjustable height. $59.99, ages 1+, www.playmonster.com

PAW Patrol Swim Trainer Life Jackets This is U.S. Coast Guard approved and features an adorable design and soft fabric. Flotation in the arms and chest provide greater mobility. $18.88-$24.99, fits most children weighing 30-50 pounds, www.target.com

Baby Ferris Wheel Take these adorable Baby Critters for some outdoor fun at the amusement park on this sweet little Ferris Wheel. $17.95, ages 2-4, www.calicocritters.com 18 | birminghamparent | june 2019

Fold & Go Rally Racer A toddler race car that’s parentpowered. Fold to transport and store. $59.99, ages 1.5-4, www.simplay3.com


FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED FOR 37 YEARS!!

@applause_ dancewear Toddler to Adult sizes. Professional Shoe Fitting.

Over 2700 square feet of unique dancewear, shoes, tights, liturgical and tutus from the top industry brands.

www.applausedancewear.net

1629 Oxmoor Rd | Birmingham, AL 35209 | 205-871-STEP

Family Favorite

2019

The winners have been chosen!

in the 2019 Birmingham Parent’s Family Favorites Awards!

READ ABOUT THE WINNERS IN THE JULY 2019 ISSUE! Special marketing offers available! Winner of the great Family OWA trip will also be announced!

birminghamparent.com | 19


Summer Fun

In-State Attractions

OUTSIDE BIRMINGHAM Compiled by Becky J. Beall ALLIGATOR ALLEY 19950 Highway 71, Summerdale 251-946-2483 https://gatoralleyfarm.com So many alligators, so little time. See more than 450 gators as well as turtles, ospreys, owls and bull frogs from the elevated boardwalk at Alligator Alley. A re-created natural habitat keeps the wildlife here happy with places to sunbathe and relax. AVE MARIA GROTTO 1600 St. Bernard Drive, Cullman 256-734-4110 https://www.avemariagrotto.com Ave Maria Grotto is a four-acre park in an old quarry on the grounds of St. Bernard Abbey, and has been an Alabama attraction for many years. In the garden-like setting you’ll find 125 miniature reproductions of religious structures (Jerusalem in Miniature). Ave Maria Grotto is listed on the Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage along with the National Register of Historic Places. BELLINGRATH GARDENS AND HOME 12401 Bellingrath Gardens, Theodore 251-973-2217 https://bellingrath.org Bellingrath Gardens and Home is comprised of a 65-acre garden with stunning landscape and the historic home (current-day museum) of Walter and Bessie Bellingrath. Located on the Fowl River near Mobile, Bellingrath is hugely popular with locals as well as visitors to the area. Walter Bellingrath was one of the first Coca-Cola bottlers in the Southeast and used that wealth to build this estate garden and home which is now listed on the Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage and the National Register of Historic Places. CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE VIA THE PORT OF MOBILE 201 South Water Street, Mobile 866-857-7234 https://www.carnival.com If you are looking to see more of the world, you can book a cruise and leave from the comfort of the Mobile cruise port. Carnival Cruise Line currently has a ship there

20 | birminghamparent | june 2019

FORT MORGAN HISTORICAL SITE

with regular itineraries to Mexico and the Caribbean. They offer fun for the whole family with kids’ clubs, lots of music, Broadway-style shows, a myriad of eateries and so much more! CHILDREN’S HANDS-ON MUSEUM OF TUSCALOOSA 2213 University Boulevard, Tuscaloosa 205-349-4235 Children’s Hands-On Museum of Tuscaloosa offers a fabulous opportunity for kids to actually touch everything in sight! Explore, create and discover are the things kids need to do to learn through play. Enjoy exhibits and three floors of fun for families as well as school groups. Newborns through age 13 will love the 25 exhibits of things all touch-worthy! DAUPHIN ISLAND SEA LAB 101 Bienville Boulevard, Dauphin Island 251-861-2141 https://www.disl.org Dauphin Island Sea Lab is a great place to learn about and explore marine science. Don’t miss the estuarium highlighting Mobile’s estuary system through interactive exhibits. You’re bound to leave with a better understanding of the interactions taking place in Mobile Bay, which incidentally, is the fourth largest estuary system in the country. DESOTO FALLS 7104 DeSoto Parkway NE, Fort Payne 256-845-5380 https://www.alapark.com/desoto-statepark

It’s great to get the family out and about enjoying all Mother Nature has to offer. DeSoto Falls is a great place to do just that. DeSoto Falls is a 104-foot waterfall located near Mentone in DeSoto State Park and it’s cool to witness how the falls have carved out their own little canyon. FOLEY RAILROAD MUSEUM AND MODEL TRAIN EXHIBIT 125 East Laurel Avenue, Foley 251-943-1818 www.foleyrailroadmuseum.com Do you have a train enthusiast in your group? Foley Railroad Museum is the place to visit! It’s a free museum so that’s a plus, and it features a large remote-controlled model railroad along with train cars and exhibits the family will love. The sweet reminders of yesteryear are plentiful in this museum. FORT MORGAN HISTORICAL SITE 110 State Highway 180 West, Gulf Shores 251-540-7127 www.fort-morgan.org Fort Morgan played a significant role in the state’s history and you can learn all about it by visiting the Fort Morgan Historical Site. From living history, lessons are taught and learned from tour guides filled with knowledge regarding the most famous battle that occurred at the fort in the summer of 1864 when Confederate and Union naval forces were in conflict over the bay entrance. Each year in June/July, a living history program is conducted by uniformed tour guides who retell Alabama’s Fort Morgan story.


GULF COAST EXPLOREUM SCIENCE CENTER 65 Government Street, Mobile 251-208-6893 www.exploreum.com Young and old alike enjoy hands-on learning about science. At the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center, you’ll have the opportunity to view the world’s highest mountain ranges, check out dinosaurs and more with your perfect seat in a Dome Theater. Plus, there are new exhibits coming through all the time, as well as special events like Spark Talks and Summer Camps. There’s a lot of family fun to be had at the Science Museum too!

Empower Your Child with an

GULF STATE PARK 20115 AL-135, Gulf Shores 251-948-7275 https://www.alapark.com/gulf-state-park Gulf State Park is situated on Alabama’s stunning Gulf of Mexico and each year families flock to the area for outdoor fun and recreation. Encompassing some 6,500 acres with sugar-white sandy beaches, three fresh-water lakes, a campground, nature trails, fishing, swimming, golf and a brand-new hotel, The Lodge at Gulf State Park. The Nature Center, a living museum of native plants and animals, is full of education insight, mostly free and open to the public.

Empower Your Child Affordable Christ-centered Education with an Affordable Our Lady of Sorrows Christ-centered Education

Catholic School

Our Lady of Sorrows Growing our children in knowledge and faith... Catholic School Experience the Difference!

IVY GREEN

Call to inquire about Growingforour availability the children upcoming school year.

knowledge faith... —inEducating Youngand Minds in 3K-8th grades — (205) 879-3237 . www.olsschool.com Experience the Difference! 1720 Oxmoor Road, Homewood, AL Call and ask about our Shadow Days for 1st through 7th grades

– Educating Young Minds in 3K - 8th grades – (205) 879-3237 •www.olsschool.com 1720 Oxmoor Road, Homewood, AL

IVY GREEN 300 North Commons Street West, Tuscumbia 256-383-4066 https://www.helenkellerbirthplace.org Ivy Green is Helen Keller’s birthplace and a notable attraction in Alabama. The place where Anne Sullivan broke through the communication nightmare of Helen’s dark world, Ivy Green is popular for field trips and family outings. The last week in June the annual Helen Keller Festival is held, so consider traveling there during this time. MOBILE BAY FERRY 51 State Highway 180 West, Gulf Shores 251-861-3000 www.mobilebayferry.com Adventures are everywhere if you know where to look! The Mobile Bay Ferry is a unique family adventure on a passenger/vehicle ferry operating between Fort Morgan and Dauphin Island daily (every 45 minutes). The community experience is exciting within itself, but there are things in both places to attract families (Fort Morgan Historical Site and the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, to name a couple).

SUMMER IS THE BEST TIME TO LEARN ONE-to-ONE INSTRUCTION

SUMMER SPECIAL

TWO FREE SESSIONS No Enrollment Fees with this ad

GRADES K-12

GUARANTEED RESULTS FREE DIAGNOSTIC ASSESSMENT NO CONTRACTS INDIVIDUALIZED PROGRAMS ACT/SAT PREP PROGRAMS

Reading H Writing H Regular Math H Higher Math H AP Math Enrichment H ACT/SAT Prep H Pre K & Kindergarten Programs

www.hoover.tutoringcenter.com • 205-987-9577 2804 John Hawkins Pkwy, Suite 100, Hoover, AL 35244

birminghamparent.com | 21


IN-STATE ATTRACTIONS Photo courtesy The Warf

Summer Fun

THE WHARF AT ORANGE BEACH

THE PARK AT OWA 1501 South OWA Boulevard, Foley 251-923-2111 https://visitowa.com The Park at OWA is a theme park, shopping, dining and entertainment center with much to do. There are rides for all ages and fun restaurants like Groovy Goat and Wahlburgers. Enjoy the onsite hotel property with a pool and other amenities for close proximity to the park. (Note: a water park is coming soon to OWA.) PAUL W. BRYANT MUSEUM 300 Paul W. Bryant Drive, Tuscaloosa 205-348-4668 www.bryantmuseum.com The Paul W. Bryant Museum on the campus of the University of Alabama offers a walk in the footsteps of legendary Alabama football coach Paul “Bear” Bryant. Learn the history behind the man through museum exhibits, artifacts and memorabilia. Also, check out the state-of-the-art displays highlighted by player videos, plays and games from the archives. POINT MALLARD PARK 2901 Point Mallard Drive, Decatur 256-341-4900 www.pointmallardpark.com Many do not realize that Alabama is home to America’s first wave pool at Point Mallard Park. Great for summer excursions with swimming, golf, camping and tennis, but also offering ice skating and batting cages. There’s something for everyone and being outside is the best part of all. (Note: the waterpark is seasonal). 22 | birminghamparent | june 2019

ROSA PARKS MUSEUM 252 Montgomery Street, Montgomery 334-241-8615 https://troy.edu/rosaparks Troy University Montgomery is home to the Rosa Parks Museum. A great learning experience for families, the museum is chock-full of great information, exhibits and artifacts from the world-changing Montgomery bus boycott of 1955. TALLADEGA SUPERSPEEDWAY 3366 Speedway Boulevard, Lincoln 877-462-3342 www.talladegasuperspeedway.com Talladega is a motorsports complex hosting several large racing events per year. People may camp out for these events in several ways: infield RV camping, tent/car camping, outside camping and other opportunities as listed on the website. Racing enthusiasts love this event and may plan for this months and years in advance. USS ALABAMA BATTLESHIP MEMORIAL PARK 2703 Battleship Parkway, Mobile 251-433-2703 https://www.ussalabama.com Family-friendly and so much fun is the USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park featuring the Battleship USS ALABAMA, Submarine USS DRUM, rare and historic aircrafts, tanks and other military equipment. Additionally, the open lawns of Mobile Bay Park provide great opportunities to view shorebirds as the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail loops through this park. A paved walkway is also available and leads to a nice nature observatory.

U.S. SPACE & ROCKET CENTER One Tranquility Base, Huntsville 800-637-7223 https://www.rocketcenter.com Enjoy learning about space at one of the state’s top attractions – the U.S. Space & Rocket Center. Visit the museum, historic Shuttle Park, Rocket Park, exhibits, hands-on demonstrations, simulators and a high-def film in the National Geographic Theater at the Davidson Center for Space Exploration. THE WHARF AT ORANGE BEACH 23101 Canal Road, Orange Beach 251-224-1000 https://www.alwharf.com Who doesn’t love a Ferris Wheel ride? Get that and so much more at The Wharf at Orange Beach! Enjoy boutique-style shopping, dining, a marina, amphitheater, a spa, mini golf, a movie theater and much more in this walkable entertainment center. Stay on property or choose any of the great lodging partners in Gulf Shores or Orange Beach. (Note: great rainy-day spot when staying at the beach.)

THE PARK AT OWA

WHEELER NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE 3121 Visitor Center Road, Decatur 256-350-6639 https://www.fws.gov/refuge/wheeler/ Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge is comprised of about 35,000 acres along the Tennessee River and was originally established as a habitat for migrating birds. If your family loves wildlife, head to Decatur! The area has attracted a large amount of sandhill cranes and whooping cranes which may be spotted wintering in the area along with Canadian geese, ducks and maybe even alligators.


A COMMUNITY BUILT ON HEALING

Your sports injury just met its match.

A COMMUNITY BUILT ON HEALING When you participate in sports, injuries happen. Fortunately, with advanced technology and treatments, our sports medicine specialists and orthopedic surgeons can do what it takes to put you back in top form. Our team provides treatment for sports and work-related musculoskeletal injuries: • Arthroscopic surgery • Muscle, tendon and joint pain • Broken bones or stress fractures • Non-surgical orthopedic and arthritic care • Knee problems, including those related to the ACL • Regenerative medicine • Concussion management

• Shin splints, plantar fasciitis, and iliotibial (IT) band pain • Sciatica (numbness or pain in the lower back, hip or knee) • Joint replacement surgeries • Acute and chronic tendon injuries • Hand and upper extremity • Carpal tunnel syndrome

Visit PrecisionSportsOrtho.com or call 844-692-2401 to book an appointment.

7 Convenient Locations: ALABASTER | CLANTON | FULTONDALE | HOOVER THE NARROWS | PRINCETON | VESTAVIA

BIRM 06.00.19 BP ORTHO.PRECISON.indd 1

BIRM 06.00.19 BP ORTHO.PRECISON

5/15/19 8:51 AM

Briarwood Ballet

Registration for 2019-2020 Classes opens June 18 ages 3-high school briarwoodballet.com 205-776-5284

birminghamparent.com | 23


meet our cover sponsors CLARKSVILLE, TENNESSEE Family friendly, fun, affordable, nearby – what more could you want in a weekend getaway?! Clarksville, Tennessee delivers all of that and more only 3½ hours north of Birmingham. What’s there to do in Clarksville, you ask? Plenty! And, it’s designed for the budget savvy. • Outdoor Recreation? Enjoy hiking and exploring at Dunbar Cave State Park, kayaking along the Clarksville Blueway, meandering the Greenway and

RiverWalk, plus golf and disc golf, mountain biking, and rock climbing. • History & Heritage? Hear voices from every side of the Civil War at Fort Defiance Civil War Park, dive into local history and interactive entertainment at the Customs House Museum, stroll through a historic pioneer settlement at Historic Collinsville, or take a downtown walking tour and relish the charming mid-19th century architecture.

• Arts & Culture? Relish professional theatre at the Roxy, relax or dance at 4 outdoors music series’, peruse local art and snap lots of selfies at our many public art sculptures and murals sprinkled throughout the community. • Family Fun? Give the kiddos options like indoor go-karts, blacklight golf, laser tag, a trampoline park, and escape games, or enjoy the massive playground at Liberty Park and the Little River at Downtown Commons.

Plan your trip at visitclarksvilletn.com

June 1- Junior Explorers June 8 – Moosie’s Birthday Party June 15- Hogwarts Day June 22 - Grossology June 29 – Water Safety Luau July 3- Independence Day Bash July 6- CHOM Rocks July 13- Super Shark Saturday July 17 - LEGO Day July 20-Comic Book Chaos July 27- Secret Agent Saturday

www.chomonline.org (205) 349-4235 Facebook: CHOM.Tuscaloosa Twitter: @chomonline Instagram: chomtusc

CHILDREN'S HANDS-ON MUSEUM OF TUSCALOOSA

Summer is a great time to experience the Children’s Hands-On Museum of Tuscaloosa! CHOM, where children Explore, Create

and Discover every time they visit. When we say “hands-on” we really mean it! Learning through play is what our exhibits are all about, and you are encouraged to touch, feel and play throughout out three floors of fun. CHOM offers newborns through age 12 a fabulous place just for them! Voted Best Family Amusement, Best Museum, and Best Learning Center/Tutor in Tuscaloosa. M-SAT 9-4:30.

ALABAMA ADVENTURE AND SPLASH ADVENTURE Come out and enjoy the day or the whole season! Enjoy activities in and out of the water at our two parks! We have new attractions just for summertime fun! Come alone or with a whole group! Birthday parties, hot summer days, and group outings, we have you covered! Waterpark Attractions • Upsurge • Neptune’s Plunge

• Splash Island • Kahuna Waves • Castaway Island • Warrior River • Mist-ical Maze • Salamander Bay • Twister • Free Fall Amusement Attractions • Galleon • Rampage • Drop Zone

• Scrambler • Yo-Yo • Jump Around • Tilt-A-Whirl • Centi-Speed • Teacups • Rockin-Tug • Splash Express • Little Harbor • Little Bumpers • Vault Laser Maze • Royal Express • Crank N Roll

www.alabamasplash.com

PUMP IT UP PELHAM Wondering what a kids birthday party at Pump It Up is like? Wonder no more. At Pump It Up Pelham, we’ll make your next bash one for the books! We’ve got big birthday fun guaranteed! Huge Inflatable Fun - Pump It Up Pelham is the inflatable party place with arenas filled with huge bounce houses, slides, games and more. And we have packages for all party sizes, so birthday kids can bring all their friends. 100% Private - Our birthday 24 | birminghamparent | june 2019

parties are completely private, meaning it's only you and your invited guests in our bounce house arenas and party room! Completely Customized! Tailor the perfect package of food, beverages, party favors and more, so you get exactly the birthday party you want. Simple and Stress-free- Reservations are quick, the party's easy, and clean-up is a breeze because our Party Pros are there to help you out every step of the way.

205.900.8123 www.PumpItUpParty.com


Get Your Summer On At CHOM!

Curiosity! Creativity! Discover! Exhibits, special events, holiday celebrations and parties are all waiting for you here. Plan your visit around these upcoming events... June 1 Junior Explorers June 8 Moosie’s Birthday Party June 15 Hogwart’s Day June 22 Grossology June 29 Water Safety Luau July 3 Independence Day Bash July 6 CHOM Rocks July 13 Super Shark Saturday July 17 LEGO Day July 20 Comic Book Chaos July 27 Secret Agent Saturday

BIRMINGHAM PARENT’S

VIRTUAL 24/7 HOURS 365 DAYS

Voted Best Family Amusement, Best Museum, and Best Learning Center/ Tutor in Tuscaloosa.

Great products & services, after school activities, sports, education, camps & more for the special needs community!

BIRMINGHAMPARENT.COM/ SPECIAL-NEEDS-EXPO

www.chomonline.org (205) 349-4235

Birthdays in Birmingham Your local birthday party resource B I R M I N G H A M PA R E N T ’ S

VIRTUAL

Loved by Parents since 1997

2019 View our Camp Expo camps online, see photos & videos and visit their sites!

birthdaysinbirmingham.com www.birminghamparent.com/camp

Places to Go  Entertainment Party Supplies & Rentals  Facilities  Coupons birminghamparent.com | 25


HOU

T

G

IT W W

N

DI

N NI G

HINI

5 D OLLA R DINNERS WIT H E RIN CH ASE

Berry Crumble Pie Yield: 8 servings Preparation Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 55 minutes

INGREDIENTS: ●

1 pie crust (store bought or homemade)

2 cups blueberries

2 cups raspberries

1 cup blackberries

3/4 cup white sugar

2 Tbsp cornstarch

2 Tbsp lemon juice

CRUMBLE TOPPING: ●

1/4 cup brown sugar

3/4 cup flour

1 tsp cinnamon

1/2 tsp salt

6 Tbsp butter

DIRECTIONS: Preheat the oven to 375 F. Lightly spray a 9″ glass pie plate. Place the pie crust into the base and form simple edging with your thumb and forefinger. In a large mixing bowl, add the blueberries, raspberries and blackberries. Toss in the sugar, cornstarch and lemon juice. Pour into the pie plate and spread evenly. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, flour, cinnamon and salt. Cut in the butter with pastry blender or two knives, until crumbly. Pour the crumbly topping over the top of the berries, and spread evenly to the edge of the pie plate, with a slight mound in the middle. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until crumbly topping has turned brown and pie crust is baked through. Cool for at least 30 minutes on cooling rack. Slice and serve!

Erin Chase is the home chef behind www.5dollardinners.com and author of The $5 Dinner Mom Cookbook series. She lives with her husband, four boys and one furry boy in San Antonio, Texas.

A DV ERT ISE YOUR R ESTAUR A N T HER E NEX T MON TH!

A tasty option for any budget!

Call 205-624-2405 today for more information

26 | birminghamparent | june 2019


PET PAGE

Summer Fun with Dogs By Rebecca Mason, CPDT-KA, CTDI, M.Ed.

Summer is here! If you’re like me, you’re looking forward to fun adventures with your children and pets! Here are some ways to have fun with Fido while also being aware of hot weather hazards. While traveling – or even on “staycation” – there are many concerns to consider for a dog. Most pet owners already know about the dangers of heat stroke. Recently, a dog I cared about very much passed away after being left in a hot car. Keep in mind that on a 70-degree day, the temperature in a vehicle, even with the window cracked, can rise to over 100 degrees after only 30 minutes. Never leave pets in the car, even for a short time, unless the air conditioning is running and someone is with them. Aside from heat stroke, there are other dangers that a lot of people don’t consider! Hot asphalt can burn your dog’s paws quickly, so make sure to train in shady, grassy areas and avoid training during the heat of the day. Make sure your dog has access to plenty of water at all times, no matter where you are. Snakes also are a genuine threat here in Alabama. I have had several of my dog students get bitten by snakes over the years. Dogs left unattended outside will often try to investigate a snake out of boredom or curiosity, and this can be fatal, particularly for small dogs. Some veterinarians offer vaccines for rattlesnake bites but not necessarily for other types of snakebites, so that’s something to look into. While traveling with your dog this summer, you’ll want to give them plenty

Pet Grooming

ask about our discounts

of opportunities to exercise and stretch their legs. Many of my clients who go to the beach or the lake with their dogs want to let them off leash, however, a friend of mine’s dogs were missing for three days recently when she tried that, and they had done a lot of recall training! So besides taking your regular leash with you on trips, consider taking a long leash (20 feet or even longer) as well so your dog can have more room to romp if your destination doesn’t offer a fenced yard or dog park to play in. The bottom line while “on the go” with dogs to be aware of the heat and your environment. Protect your own dog by keeping him or her leashed and under control, and respect others by not

• NEW! Doggie daycare, rates for half and full days, great for socialization, separation anxiety, manners and exercise • Pet grooming & self wash options • Drive thru & pick up at door • Loyalty points toward discounted services

205-610-8818

104 Market Center Dr. (Walgreens shopping center) Alabaster

shaggychicalabaster

allowing your dog to run up to theirs without permission. Some dogs don’t like other dogs in their faces, but they have the right to some summer fun just like any dog. And of course, wherever you go, don’t forget the poop bags!

Rebecca Mason is a certified dog trainer and owner of Love Them Train Them LLC in Birmingham. She is a former elementary school teacher and is passionate about working with families to channel their dogs’ energy positively. She believes every dog has potential, no matter the age or breed. www.lovethemtrainthem.com

FAMILY-FRIENDLY PET TRAINING & CLINICS FOR KIDS! www.lovethemtrainthem.com birminghamparent.com | 27


D E STI NAT I O N GUI DE

Photos courtesy of Gaylord Opryland

Experience SoundWaves A Water Attraction Blending Water and Music in A Way Only Nashville Could Create By Bethany Hunley

28 | birminghamparent | june 2019

Just when you think the Gaylord Opryland Resort could not possibly add any more in-house attractions for its guests, the resort goes and adds SoundWaves, a water experience unlike any other I have ever experienced. Debuted in December 2018, SoundWaves is an immersive experience that truly brings the spirit of the Music City indoors within its 4-acre, 3-story water attraction. Guests of the resort receive priority admission to SoundWaves each day. This is one of the main additions I adored about our SoundWaves experience, as the crowd is limited each day, and we never once had to wait in a line to enjoy any of the water rides and attractions! However, there is an opportunity to visit SoundWaves for non-resort guests. Access is also available to the general public without a hotel room by reserving a party room for groups of 10, 16 or 30 people which includes all-day access to SoundWaves, according to staff. Another addition to SoundWaves that families will find convenient is the use of wrist bands to enter and exit the attraction. Much in the same fashion of Disney park bracelets, these waterproof and

surprisingly comfortable wrist or ankle bands help to keep up with daily attendance to the attraction, as well as your ability to enter and leave SoundWaves in the event you need to run back to your room for something, or your little one needs a nap. SoundWaves also provides its guests with a “Human Dryer,” something I had never seen before but absolutely appreciated. The Human Dryer resembles a standing tanning bed, only you stand in it while warm air rushes at you, drying you and your bathing suit before you begin your walk back to your room. Need a fresh swim diaper? You can buy them here. They are $8.99 each. The Gaylord Opryland Resort is massive, and this was definitely taken into consideration for guests during the design process. SoundWaves is centrally located within the resort and has its own walkway leading into the entrance space. Visitors also needn’t worry about toting towels and life vests across the resort, as SoundWaves provides both, including life vests for toddlers and adults of all sizes. There are also several lifts near the attractions to assist visitors who may require special accommodations as they enter and exit the water.


Something for every age and experience level can be found inside SoundWaves. Whether adrenaline-seekers want to try Crowd Surfer, Nashville’s only double FlowRide, or you prefer more family-friendly rides, such as the Down Tempo Lazy River, every member of your family will be all smiles.

restaurant, Decibels, is located conveniently inside SoundWaves and offers tasty poolside snacks and drinks. Status Cymbal, the adultsonly infinity pool and bar, is located on the top level and provides a gorgeous view of the entire space for those guests seeking a little peace and quiet. The next time that you plan a trip to Nashville and stay at the Gaylord Opryland Resort, be sure to book your SoundWaves experience with your room! Admission to Soundwaves is a separate price, but they do offer packages for anyone staying inside the resort. To learn more about SoundWaves, visit http://www.gaylordhotelsnews.com/SoundWaves. Bethany Hunley is local to Birmingham, a freelance writer, works as-needed for Birmingham Parent magazine and owns Staying Social Marketing, with clients across the U.S.

While this may sound strange, the ceiling of SoundWaves was probably my favorite creative addition to the entire attraction. Constructed from glass that allows heat from the sun and UV rays into the massive area, you can actually get a suntan (or a sunburn) while being indoors! Lush greenery is also used to accent the entire space, giving SoundWaves its own feel of being inside one of the resort’s famous atriums. Something for every age and experience level can be found inside SoundWaves. Whether adrenaline-seekers want to try Crowd Surfer, Nashville’s only double FlowRide, or experience the Stage Dive Body Slides (one is a translucent tube with LED lights and the other is an opaque tube with no lights), or you prefer more family-friendly rides, such as the Down Tempo Lazy River or the Quarter and Half Note Coves for toddlers and older children, every member of your family will be all smiles while inside SoundWaves. Of course, it just wouldn’t be Nashville without country music playing throughout the 111,000 square feet of indoor attractions! In fact, music is a theme throughout SoundWaves. The birminghamparent.com | 29


sponsored by

ASK T H E AT TO R N E Y

What Can Special Needs Trusts Buy? By Melanie B. Holliman, Estate Planning & Special Needs Attorney, Executive Director of Alabama Family Trust

It’s easy for representatives to be confused about what items can be funded by special needs trusts and what items are covered by government benefits. When in doubt, you can always refer to this short summary of what items are covered or not. Let’s delve into a bit more detail based on specific examples that Alabama Family Trust staff handle when administering special needs trusts for young and old Alabamians. Vehicle for the transport of your special needs child – Vehicles are often approved but must be used for the exclusive purpose of transporting the disabled child. Back-to-school clothes – Yes, funds from a special needs trust can be used to purchase backto-school clothes. However, clothing requests must be reasonable.

Exercise equipment – Requests for exercise equipment are often approved since exercise helps disabled individuals make the most of their physical capabilities and improves their health. Camera for a photography hobby – Medicaid would not pay for it, but a special needs trust can. Hobbies of various kinds truly enhance the quality of life for many disabled individuals. Photography has been a wonderful outlet for individuals with mobility issues. In fact, they often enter competitions and win awards. A special needs trust needs to be set up correctly and then administered correctly long term. An attorney with special needs trust experience can set up a special needs trust to make sure that the beneficiary’s assets are used in ways that are compliant with Medicaid or SSI rules, so that those benefits are not jeopardized.

When preparing your trust, your attorney will ask who should manage the trust. That is where Alabama Family Trust comes in. It has a 25-year history of working with disabled Alabamians and their families to manage special needs trusts to enhance the disabled individuals’ lives. It is a non-profit 501(c)(3), company established by the Alabama Legislature to manage supplemental needs trusts of all sizes. Learn more at www. alabamafamilytrust.com or call Alabama Family Trust at 205-313-3915. Melanie B. Holliman is Executive Director of Alabama Family Trust, a non-profit, 501(c)(3) pooled-trust company that has been serving Alabamians for 25 years. www.alabamafamily.trust.com. Although this article is only intended as educational information and is not to be taken as legal advice, the Alabama State Bar requires the following in any communication that may be interpreted as an advertisement: “No representation is made about the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.”

Helping You Take Care of the Special Needs of Disabled Loved Ones from Young to Old

Created by the Alabama Legislature in 1994, Alabama Family Trust is the only non-profit pooled trust in Alabama. We administer special needs trusts of all sizes - from $1,500 to millions - for disabled children and seniors.

We manage trusts funds according to federal and state laws, ensuring that funds are not misused or mismanaged.

Learn more at:

www.alabamafamilytrust.com

For more answers, contact info@alabamafamilytrust.com | 205-313-3915 30 | birminghamparent | june 2019


birminghamparent.com | 31


CELEBR ATIONS

Tumblebus

Central Alabama www.tumblebusal.com

thefacepaintingfairy@yahoo.com facebook.com/Thefacepaintingfairy

WHERE EXERCISE, LEARNING, AND FITNESS ARE FUN!!!

205-527-2134

YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL

★ Birthday Parties ★ Corporate Events ★ Daycare Programs ★ Special Events (256)

207-5496

A GYM ON WHEELS!

ADVERTISE HERE FOR AS LITTLE AS $175/MONTH! SPECIAL

IZING IN

AY BIRTHDIES T R PA 205-545-9923

OFFTHEWALLFAMILYFUN.COM

Call us today at 205-987-7700 to find out how.

Are your child’s doctors and pediatric healthcare professionals exceptional? Do they take time to listen and respond to your concerns? Has your child received medical care that exceeded your expectations? Testimonials and nominations must be submitted by local moms or dads of real patients. Nominations or testimonials submitted and/or written directly by practices will not be accepted.

32 | birminghamparent | june 2019

If so, make sure they are recognized and honored in the December 2019 issue of Birmingham Parent by nominating your favorite doc today! It’ll only take 5 minutes! Visit www.birminghamparent.com to tell us your nominee and WHY.


calendar highlights JUNE The month of June is all about summer fun! And this month is full of great things to do. June 16 is Father’s Day – take Dad on a hike, catch a Birmingham Barons game and more on his special day. Also, be sure to check in with your local library for summer reading programs and lots of special programming for families to enjoy.

JUNE 7, 8, 9 Symphony in the Summer! 8pm, June 7 and 8; 6pm, June 9, Railroad Park. Join the ASO for summer fun! Friday, June 7 concert features Mozart Under the Stars, Saturday, June 8 concert is a Symphonic Celebration! Sunday, June 9 is Family Fun Day, with favorites from favorite films, musicals and more! FREE and open to the public. www.alabamasymphony.org.

2

JUNE 2 Vulcan’s 115th Birthday Bash Noon-4pm, Vulcan Park. Help the big guy celebrate! Guest appearances, face painting, drum circle, 2021 World Games interactive mobile truck and more! For tickets, more information, go to www.visitvulcan.com. BIRMINGHAM PARENT IS A SPONSOR. birminghamparent.com | 33


june calendar JUNE 15 Annual FatherDaughter Tea 11am-noon, Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest. A special time for dads and daughters! It’s a unicorn theme! Must register; 205-978-0155, http://vestavialibrary.org. FREE.

1 Saturday

2 Sunday

Market at Pepper Place 7am-noon, Pepper Place. Rain or shine!

Vulcan’s 115th Birthday Bash Noon-4pm, Vulcan Park. Help the big guy celebrate! Guest appearances, face painting, drum circle, 2021 World Games interactive mobile truck and more! Tickets, information, www.visitvulcan. com. BIRMINGHAM PARENT IS A SPONSOR.

Southeastern Outings Kayak/ Canoe Trip 8:45am, Elk River, Elkmont, AL. Easy paddle section. Novice canoeists welcome, but each must be partnered with an experienced canoeist. Meet 8:45am at the Hayden/Corner Park and Ride. Reservations required; Dan Frederick, 205-631-4680, seoutings@bellsouth.net. Hikes for Tykes 10-11am, Vulcan Park. Join Verna Gates, Fresh Air Family storyteller, for a magical tour of the Kiwanis Vulcan Trail! A hands-on adventure for preschool children and their families. All ages welcome. FREE; donations accepted. www.visitvulcan.com. Summer Reading Kickoff Party 10am-1pm, North Shelby Library. Have fun and register for summer reading! Bouncy houses (one for older kids and one for little ones), a library dollar Money Grabber machine, refreshments, games, face painting, and more! All ages. No registration. 205-439-5504. FREE.

Birmingham Barons vs. Jackson Generals 6pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.

3 Monday Miss Fancy’s Paint Party 10:30am, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Hear the true story of Birmingham’s Miss Fancy the elephant and paint a ceramic elephant! Sign up. Birmingham Barons vs. Jackson Generals 7:05pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.

Tween Time Salute to Alabama 2-2:45pm, Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest. Beach party! Make kinetic sand and have a sandcastle contest, create a candy sushi treat and play beach games. Grades 2-6. West Homewood Farmers Market 5-8pm, West Homewood Farmers Market. Join the Homewood Library staff for kid’s crafts and a fun scavenger hunt! Tweens and Teens Sloss Pig Out Fest! 6pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Enjoy dinner, dessert, learn about a cool part of Birmingham’s history and win door prizes! Sign up. 205-664-6822. Birmingham Barons vs. Jackson Generals 7:05pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.

4 Tuesday

5 Wednesday

Water Play Day 10:30am, Homewood Library. Wear your swimsuit, sunscreen and bring a towel to splash on the water slide! FREE.

Tween Cosmic Art 3:30-4:30pm, Homewood Library. All supplies provided; part of the NASA@ My Library grant.

34 | birminghamparent | june 2019

Birmingham Barons vs. Jackson Generals 11am, Regions Field. www.barons.com.

6 Thursday Magician Arthur Atsma 10:30-11:15am, Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest. One of Atlanta’s finest magicians! All ages. Birmingham Barons vs. Jackson Generals 7:05pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.

7 Friday Free Friday Flicks 6:30pm, Veterans Park, Hoover. Enjoy a free kids zone, register for giveaways, picnic and see a movie! Movie: Mary Poppins Returns. Symphony in the Summer 8pm, Railroad Park. Featuring the Alabama Symphony Orchestra, free and open to the public! www.alabamasymphony.org.

8 Saturday Market at Pepper Place 7am-noon, Pepper Place. Rain or shine!


Symphony in the Summer 8pm, Railroad Park. Featuring the Alabama Symphony Orchestra, free and open to the public! www.alabamasymphony.org.

9 Sunday 30th Annual Art from the Heart Benefit 6-9pm, The Theodore, 3211 2nd Ave. S., Birmingham. An annual art show and benefit for Studio By the Tracks, a nonprofit organization serving adult artists with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Silent/live auction and more. Information, tickets, 2019artfromtheheart. eventbrite.com. Children under 18 enter free with a ticketholder. Symphony in the Summer/ Family Fun Day 6pm, Railroad Park. Featuring the Alabama Symphony Orchestra, free and open to the public! www.alabamasymphony.org.

and promote learning in a sensory-inclusive atmosphere. Register online at www.homewoodpubliclibrary.org. Birmingham Barons vs. Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp 7:05pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.

13 Thursday Didgeridoo Down Under 10:30-11:15am; 3:30-4:15pm, Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest. Exciting Australia-themed workshops in the U.S.! A blend of music and storytelling. All ages. Alabama Family Trivia Faceoff 6pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster. Birmingham Barons vs. Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp 7:05pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.

14 Friday

10 Monday City Passport: Vulcan Park & Museum 4-4:45pm, Homewood Library. Learn about amazing organizations in the city through presentations, crafts and books.

11 Tuesday Bilingual Storytime 10-10:30am, 2035 Oak Mountain Drive, Pelham. Join iSpeak for a fun and interactive bilingual story time in Spanish/ English. Sing songs, explore a new book and complete a craft! Children of all ages welcome with their parent/ caregiver. Online registration preferred; www.ispeakwell. com. Magic Story Artist: Yasu Ishida 10:30-11:15am, Homewood Library. A morning full of wonder! All ages.

FLAG DAY Free Friday Flicks 6:30pm, Veterans Park, Hoover. Enjoy a free kids zone, register for giveaways, picnic and see a movie! Movie: The Little Mermaid. Birmingham Barons vs. Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp 7:05pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.

15 Saturday Market at Pepper Place 7am-noon, Pepper Place. Rain or shine!

12 Wednesday

Annual Father-Daughter Tea 11am-noon, Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest. A special time for dads and daughters! It’s a unicorn theme. Must register; 205-978-0155, http:// vestavialibrary.org. FREE.

Sensory Storytime 9:30-10am, Homewood Library. Join Ms. Laura for books, songs, and activities that stimulate the senses

Birmingham Barons vs. Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp 6:30pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.

Lego League 4-4:45pm, Albert L. Scott Library. Alabaster.

16 Sunday

FATHER’S DAY The Rock and Roll Playhouse Plays the Music of the Grateful Dead 11:30am-12:30pm, Saturn Birmingham. Inspire your children through your favorite musical artists! Games, stories, movement! Children under 1, free. Doors open at 11am. Tickets, http://ticketfly.com. Southeastern Outings Walk 1:15pm, Montevallo Parks Trail. Easy 4-mile hike. Bring water and good walking shoes. Meet 1:15pm at the McDonald’s Galleria. Children 7-over welcome. Optional dinner after the hike. Dan Frederick, 205-631-4680, seoutings@ bellsouth.net. Birmingham Barons vs. Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp 3pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.

17 Monday Amazing Alabama with Mr. Larry Magic 3:30pm, Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster.

18 Tuesday Cosmic Percussion with the Drummer Dude 10:30-11:15am, Homewood Library. Have a musical morning of fun and sound!

THANK YOU WAY-FM and Chickfila Vestavia Hills for hosting the 2nd Annual DriveThru Diaper Drive! #ENDDIAPERNEED #SHARINGHOPE WWW.BUNDLESDIAPERBANK.ORG

20 Thursday Going to the Moon: Alabama’s Contribution 10:30am (ages 6-10); 4pm (ages 11-18), Albert L. Scott Library, Alabaster.

THIS AD GENEROUSLY DONATED BY BIRMINGHAM PARENT MAGAZINE

birminghamparent.com | 35


june calendar

JUNE 14 Fly it proudly! People across the United States celebrate Flag Day on June 14 each year to honor the United States flag and to commemorate the flag’s adoption. On the same day, the United States Army celebrates its birthday.

21 Friday

FIRST DAY OF SUMMER Free Friday Flicks 6:30pm, Veterans Park, Hoover. Enjoy a free kids zone, register for giveaways, picnic and see a movie! Movie: A Dog’s Way Home.

22 Saturday Market at Pepper Place 7am-noon, Pepper Place. Rain or shine! Southeastern Outings – Locust Fork River 9:45am, Locust Fork River, Blount County. A float, picnic and swim! Children age 8 and up welcome; parents responsible for all risks. Meet at Cleveland, AL Chevron. All information please contact Dan Frederick, 205-631-4680, seoutings@bellsouth.net.

Artist Michael Albert 11am-1pm, Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest. Makerspace Michael Albert creates beautiful works of art using collage. He will show how to turn a pile of “trash” into something beautiful. Kindergarten-up. Must register. 205-978-0198. 5th Annual Zoo, Brews & Full Moon Bar-Be-Que Event 5:30-8:30pm, Birmingham Zoo. Enjoy a great selection of drinks, craft beer samplings, wines and non-alcoholic beverages. Special activities for adults and families! www.birminghamzoo.com.

23 Sunday Special Siblings 3:30-4:30pm, Homewood Library. This support group for siblings of special needs children is a place to share ideas, experiences and the ever-changing needs of having a sibling with special needs. K-12. FREE.

24 Monday The F.I.L.E.S. Arts Project Dance & Music Workshop 9am-4pm, Alabama School of Fine Arts. Classes offered in several areas for several ages. June 24-28. Information, http://www. thefilesartproject.com. FREE.

25 Tuesday Cirque du Todd 10:30-11:15am, Homewood Library. It’s a wacky, witty, one-ofa-kind performance of juggling, magic and comedy! All ages. Bilingual Storytime 1-1:30am, 2035 Oak Mountain Drive, Pelham, see June 11. Birmingham Barons vs. Mobile BayBears 7:05pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.

26 Wednesday Tom Mason, The Blue Buccaneer 3:30-4:15pm, Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest amphitheater. Tom sings songs from his new children’s CD “If You Want to Be A Pirate: Songs for Young Buccaneers.” All ages. Birmingham Barons vs. Mobile BayBears 11am, Regions Field. www.barons.com.

27 Thursday Skin and Bones Animal Show 10:30-11:15am; 3:30-4:15pm, Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest. Clowns Skin and Bones bring their comedy dog and pig show. All ages.

Alabama Birthday Bash 4-5pm, Albert L. Scott Library. All kids must be with an adult. Birmingham Barons vs. Mobile BayBears 7:05pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.

28 Friday Free Friday Flicks 6:30pm, Veterans Park, Hoover. Enjoy a free kids zone, register for giveaways, picnic and see a movie! Movie: Ralph Breaks the Internet. Birmingham Barons vs. Mobile BayBears 7:05pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.

29 Saturday Movie Marathon 10am-5pm, Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest. Movies shown 10am-noon; 12:30pm-2:30pm; 3-5pm. Kids 9-up may attend without an adult; kids 8-under must attend with an adult. Popcorn and drinks served at all showings; sandwiches and drinks served after the first show. Market at Pepper Place 7am-noon, Pepper Place. Rain or shine! Birmingham Barons vs. Mobile BayBears 6:30pm, Regions Field. www.barons.com.

PLEASE NOTE: Events may change after publication deadline; please phone ahead to confirm important information. The deadline for submitting calendar items for the July 2019 print issue is June 7. Mail calendar items to: Calendar, Birmingham Parent, P.O. Box 326, Helena, AL 35080; fax to 624-2515; e-mail to calendar@BirminghamParent.com; or enter directly to the online calendar at www.birminghamparent.com. Entries added online after the print deadline will not appear in the print version. Information cannot be accepted over the phone. Birmingham Parent publishes a calendar 11 times a year. January events are included in the December issue. 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 624-2405 or e-mail calendar@birminghamparent.com.

36 | birminghamparent | june 2019


Reach New & Expectant Parents with Birmingham Parent’s Annual PRESCHOOL & DAYCARE GUIDE IN JULY 2019!

LITTLE LEARNERS Filled with local listings that feature daycares, preschools, Moms’ Day Outs, and more services and products for infants, this directory is a wonderful resource for parents! Our JULY print advertisers will receive a FREE listing! For information on display advertising, call our office at 205-624-2405. Deadline is JUNE 15, 2019.

NOT PLACING A PRINT AD? For only $150 we can include your business in our JULY ISSUE – this edition will also be on our website for an entire year! Just fill out the form below and return it to Birmingham Parent with your payment. An advertising

Tweet

executive will contact your for further details. I am running a display ad in July 2019 which entitles me to a free business listing.

Yes, I would like my business to be listed in your Little Learners directory. I would like to purchase a listing for $150. Name of Business __________________________________ Contact Name (will not be printed)___________________________

Streaming

Email Address (will not be printed) ____________________________________________________________________________ Address

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

Phone#____________________ Fax#______________________Website:_____________________________________________ Description of Business (Max. 35 Words or we will edited it down to 35 words): __________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Selfie

1 in 6 children face hunger.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

1 in 6 children face hunger.

Signature___________________________________________________________________________Date___________________ There’s more than enough food in America for every child who struggles with enough hunger. food Helpin get kids the they There’s more than America forfood every child PayPal payment can made online atthe www.birminghamparent.com/directory/make-a-payment-using-paypal/ need by supporting Feeding America, nationwide who struggles withbe hunger. Help get kids the food they ofsupporting food Together, we can hunger™. your reservation. need Feeding the nationwide OR network fill outby the info banks. below and America, fax/email itsolve to complete network food banks. Together, we can solve hunger™. Join us at of FeedingAmerica.org Miss Lisa’s Preschool Join us at FeedingAmerica.org 555 Oak Drive

Payment : CC type:

FREE for JULY 2019 advertiser

check

credit card

Search Results paypal online

(MC, VISA, AMEX, DIS) #___________________________________________

Exp. Date:__________________ Security Code:__________

Amount $______________

Email receipt to: ____________________________________________________________ Fax to: 205-624-2514 or mail in with payment to: P. O. Box 326, Helena, AL 35080 Email: info@birminghamparent.com

Birmingham, AL 35205 205-555-5555 www.website.com Our licensed preschool is more than just daycare – it’s an education every day. Fun and caring preschool teachers with background FIND A PARK OR FOREST NEAR YOU AT us out online. check. Check

Connected birminghamparent.com | 37


NATI ONA L C L ASS I F I E D AD S

ANNOUNCEMENTS Beware of loan fraud. Please check with the Better Business Bureau or Consumer Protection Agency before sending any money to any loan company. SAPA EDUCATION / INSTRUCTION AIRLINE MECHANIC TRAINING – Get FAA Technician certification. Approved for military benefits. Financial Aid if qualified. Job placement assistance. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance (866)7245403 HEALTH & MEDICAL Suffering from an ADDICTION to Alcohol, Opiates, Prescription PainKillers or other DRUGS? There is hope! Call Today to speak with someone who cares. Call NOW 1-877-753-4281 Attention: Oxygen Users! Gain freedom with a Portable Oxygen Concentrator! No more heavy tanks and refills! Guaranteed Lowest Prices! Call the Oxygen Concentrator Store: 855-338-5462 Still paying too much for your MEDICATION? Save up to 90% on RX refill! Order today and receive free shipping on 1st order - prescription required. Call 1-866-577-7573 SAVE ON YOUR NEXT PRESCRIPTION! World Health Link. Price Match Guarantee! Prescriptions Required. CIPA Certified. Over 1500 medications available. CALL Today For A Free Price Quote. 1-866-7621044 Call Now! Lung Cancer? Asbestos exposure in industrial, construction, manufacturing jobs, or military may be the cause. Family in the home were also exposed. Call 1-866-795-3684 or email cancer@breakinginjurynews.com. $30 billion is set aside

for asbestos victims with cancer. Valuable settlement monies may not require filing a lawsuit. Start Saving BIG on Medications! Up to 90% savings from 90DAYMEDS! Over 3500 Medications Available! Prescriptions Req’d. Pharmacy Checker Approved. CALL Today for Your FREE Quote. 844-776-7620. MISCELLANEOUS SAVE YOUR HOME! Are you behind paying your MORTGAGE? Denied a Loan Modification? Is the bank threatening foreclosure? CALL Homeowner’s Relief Line now! FREE CONSULTATION 844-359-4330 NEW AUTHORS WANTED! Page Publishing will help you self-publish your own book. FREE author submission kit! Limited offer! Why wait? Call now: 844-660-6943 BATHROOM RENOVATIONS. EASY, ONE DAY updates! We specialize in safe bathing. Grab bars, no slip flooring & seated showers. Call for a free in-home consultation: 877661-6587 Lung Cancer? And Age 60+? You And Your Family May Be Entitled To Significant Cash Award. No Risk. No Money Out Of Pocket. For Information Call 855-677-0507 DIRECTV & AT&T. 155 Channels & 1000s of Shows/Movies On Demand (w/SELECT Package.) AT&T Internet 99 Percent Reliability. Unlimited Texts to 120 Countries w/ AT&T Wireless. Call 4 FREE Quote1-877-666-2821 DISH TV - $59.99/month for 190 channels. $100 Gift Card with Qualifying Service! Free premium channels (Showtime, Starz, & more) for 3 months. Voice remote included. Restrictions apply, call for

details. Call 1-855-784-9695 FDA-Registered Hearing Aids. 100% Risk-Free! 45-Day Home Trial. Comfort Fit. Crisp Clear Sound. If you decide to keep it, PAY ONLY $299 per aid. FREE Shipping. Call Hearing Help Express 1- 866-744-6150 Spectrum Triple Play! TV, Internet & Voice for $29.99 ea. 60 MB per second speed. No contract or commitment. More Channels. Faster Internet. Unlimited Voice. Call 1-855-528-4962 FREE AUTO INSURANCE QUOTES. See how much you can save! High risk SR22 driver policies available! Call 855-970-1224 BATHROOM RENOVATIONS. EASY, ONE DAY updates! We specialize in safe bathing. Grab bars, no slip flooring & seated showers. Call for a free in-home consultation: 877661-6587 Stay in your home longer with an American Standard Walk-In Bathtub. Receive up to $1,500 off, including a free toilet, and a lifetime warranty on the tub and installation! Call us at 1-855-338-5805 DIRECTV NOW. No Satellite Needed. $40/month. 65 Channels. Stream Breaking News, Live Events, Sports & On Demand Titles. No Annual Contract. No Commitment. CALL 1-888-524-3983 DISH Network $69.99 For 190 Channels. Add High Speed Internet for ONLY $14.95/month. Best Technology. Best Value. Smart HD DVR Included. FREE Installation. Some restrictions apply. Call 1-855419-7188 Become a Published Author. We want to Read Your Book! Dorrance Publishing-Trusted by Authors Since 1920. Book manuscript submissions

currently being reviewed. Comprehensive Services: Consultation, Production, Promotion and Distribution. Call for Your Free Author`s Guide 1-855-464-8936 or visit http://dorranceinfo.com/south Financial Benefits for those facing serious illness. You may qualify for a Living Benefit Loan today (up to 50 percent of your Life Insurance Policy Death Benefit.) Free Information. CALL 1-866-240-5669 DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. NOT just a discount plan, REAL coverage for [350 ] procedures. Call 1-866-694-6148 for details. www.dental50plus.com/southern6118-0219 Applying for Social Security Disability or Appealing a Denied Claim? Call Bill Gordon & Assoc., Social Security Disability Attorneys, 1-844408-7325! FREE Consultations. Local Attorneys Nationwide [Mail: 2420 N St NW, Washington DC. Office: Broward Co. FL (TX/NM Bar.)] Put on your TV Ears and hear TV with unmatched clarity. TV Ears Original were originally $129.95 NOW WITH THIS SPECIAL OFFER are only $59.95 with code MCB59! Call 1-844-310-3463 SATELLITE TV EXPIRES SOON: Switch to DISH + get $50 gift card (Courtesy of Satellite Deals)! Plus get Free Premium Channels for 3 mos. & Free Installation (up to 6 rooms)! Call 888-753-3635 DISH TV - Over 190 Channels Now ONLY $59.99/mo! 2yr price guarantee, FREE Installation! Save HUNDREDS over Cable and DIRECTV. Add Internet as low as $14.95/mo! 1- 855-977-7405

THE ABOVE ADS HAVE NOT BEEN SCREENED BY THE SOUTHEASTERN ADVERTISING PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION (SAPA) or BIRMINGHAM PARENT; Therefore, any discrepancies thereof shall not be the responsibility of the aforementioned association or this publication. Your publisher has agreed to participate in this program and run these ads as a service to the Southeastern Advertising Publishers Association.

SCORE THE ULTIMATE LINEUP

ENJOY 3 EXCEPTIONAL SERVICES FROM AT&T. WIRELESS

HIGH SPEED INTERNET

• The best network according to America’s biggest test.

Based on GWS OneScore Sept. 2018. Excludes crowd sourced studies.

• Unlimited calls to Canada and Mexico. 1

• Unlimited texts to 120+ countries.

1

• Consistently fast speeds.

Connection with over 99% reliability.

and a wired connection to Gateway.

• AT&T Internet is #1 in customer satisfaction over other major cable Internet providers. Claim based on 2018 ACSI survey of customers rating their own Internet provider’s performance.

CALL NOW and ask about Next Day Installation. Iv Support Holdings LLC

DIRECTV • Get access to 155+ live and local

channels, with thousands of shows and movies on demand.2 With SELECT™ Package.

• Stream on up to 5 screens at the same

time with the DIRECTV App.3 Content/channels/

functionality vary. Data usage charges may apply. 2

• One HD DVR connects your whole

home. 4 Add'l equip. req'd. Add'l & Advanced Receiver fees apply.

855-781-1565

Geographic and service restrictions apply to U-verse services. Call or visit att.com/uverse to verify eligibility. 1 UNLIMITED TALK: Phones only. Includes calls from and to DCA, Mexico and Canada. Other Countries: Per-minute pay-per-use rates apply unless you have an International Long Distance service package. Rates subject to change w/o notice. For rates, see att.com/worldconnect. UNLIMITED TEXT: Standard Messaging – Phones only. Requires compatible device. Includes unlimited messages up to 1MB in size within DCA to more than 190 countries for text messages and 120 countries for picture & video messages. AT&T may add, change & remove included countries at its discretion w/o notice. Messages sent through applications may incur data or other charges. See att.com/text2world for details. Advanced Messaging: Sender and recipient(s) must be AT&T postpaid wireless customers with HD Voice accounts, capable devices, have their devices turned on & be within AT&T-owned and -operated DCA (excludes third-party coverage & use in Mexico/Canada). Includes unlimited messages up to 10MB in size. Other restrictions apply & can be found at att.com/advancedmessaging. GEN. WIRELESS SVC: Subj. to Wireless Customer Agmt (att.com/wca). Credit approval required. Svcs not for resale. Deposit: May apply. Limits: Purch. & line limits apply. Prices may vary by location. Taxes, fees, monthly and other charges, usage, speed, coverage & other restr's apply per line. See att.com/additionalcharges for details on fees & charges. Promotions, terms & restr's subject to change & may be modified or terminated at any time without notice. International and domestic off-net data may be at 2G speeds. AT&T service is subject to AT&T network management policies. See att.com/broadbandinfo for details. 2 Access to available DIRECTV On Demand programming based on package selection. Actual number of shows and movies will vary. Additional fees apply for new releases and certain library titles. Compatible equipment and broadband Internet service with speeds of 750 Kbps or higher required. Downloading On Demand content may count against your data plan allowance. Visit directv.com/movies for details. 3 Live streaming and On Demand channels vary according to TV package, location and device. Additional fees apply for new releases. Out-of-home viewing requires High Speed Internet connection. Channels/additional features available for live streaming at home when connected to an HD DVR with High Speed connection. All functions and programming subject to change at any time. Visit directv.com/streamdirectv to get a list of compatible devices (sold separately) and details. 4 Whole-Home HD DVR functionality req’s an HD DVR connected to one television and a Genie Mini, H25 HD Receiver(s) or a DIRECTV Ready TV/Device in each additional room. Limit three remote viewings per HD DVR at a time. Visit directv.com/genie for complete details. Exclusions: Does not include taxes, $19.95 activation fee, Regional Sports fee of up to $7.49/mo. (which is extra & applies to CHOICE and/or MÁS ULTRA and higher pkgs), applicable use tax expense surcharge on retail value of installation, equipment upgrades/add-ons and certain other add’l fees & charges. DIRECTV SVC TERMS: Subject to Equipment Lease & Customer Agreements. Must maintain a min. base TV pkg of $29.99/mo. Programming, pricing, terms and conditions subject to change at any time. Some offers may not be available through all channels and in select areas. Visit directv.com/legal or call for details. ©2018 AT&T Intellectual Property. All Rights Reserved. AT&T, Globe logo, DIRECTV, and all other DIRECTV marks contained herein are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.

38 | birminghamparent | june 2019


Presented by

For the full schedule of events, visit us online at mcwane.org


BIRMINGHAM PARENT’S

happyhealthykidsfair2016 SATURDAY, AUG. 24TH, 10-3 @ RIVERCHASE GALLERIA

Grab your whole family and come join the fun!! Visit all the amazing vendors and find great info on health, exercise, education, sports, extra-curricular activities and more!

SPONSORS

ODYSSEY EARLY SCHOOLS IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN BEING PART OF HAPPY HEALTHY KIDS FAIR CONTACT 205-624-2405 OR INFO@BIRMINGHAMPARENT.COM


Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.