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Birmingham Events Calendar: April 24th – May 1st

Posted on by Angie

Our Birmingham Barons are back later this week and the weather couldn’t be more perfect for a Ballgame! Make sure to check them out while they’re home! Lots of stroytimes and the first ever FIDO Fest happens this Saturday at the Summit, fun for family and furry friends. The Oak Mountain Spring Festival will kick off this Thursday, make sure to check times and admission fees, they change daily! Have a great week!

It’s Not Our Fault if Your Kids are Bored!

Sunday April 24th:

American Girl, Just Like Me – Birmingham Botanical Gardens
As the Japanese cherry blossoms begin to bloom, Isabelle and friends gather to hear her story and make our own colorful tutus. We’ll then dance our way through Japanese Gardens, one of the most beautiful at The Gardens during spring.

Ages 5 and up
Instructors: Robin & Emmeline Geurs
Sunday, April 24 | 2-4 p.m.
Location: Birmingham Botanical Gardens
$20 Members | $25 Non-Members

Instrument Petting Zoo at Springtime Symphony – Avondale Park
Before the Schaeffer Eye Center 2nd Springtime Symphony in Avondale Park, bring your children to come “meet” the instruments! Professional musicians will be on hand to allow children to touch, play and ask questions. A rare opportunity!
2pm – 3pm

2nd Springtime Symphony in the Park – Avondale Park
Schaeffer Eye Center and the Forest Park South Avondale Business Association presents the Alabama Symphony Orchestra performing a free, open to the public concert in the amphitheater.

The program will be family friendly, and will feature light classical music as well as music from well-known musicals and films. Examples might be Seventy Six Trombones from the Music Man or Waltz of the Flowers from the Nutcracker by Tchaikovsky.

Before the concert, please bring your children to experience the Symphony Education Department’s “petting zoo” of instruments.

Seating in the amphitheater opens at 1:30. Concert begins at 3:00pm.

A ticketed reception before the performance will benefit Red mountain School and Avondale Elementary School. Local restaurants are providing light refreshments in the reception area. Tickets for the reception are $5 at the door.

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Monday April 25th:

Tot Time with Ms Eve, Hoppy to be a Frog – Avondale Library
This last storytime before summer reading begins is sure to keep you hopping with excitement! Tot Time is geared for 2- to 4-year-olds with an individual caregiver; no groups please. 24-hour advance registration required.
9:30 and 11am

Toddler Tales – North Shelby Library
Stories, songs, fingerplays and crafts make up a lively 30 minute program designed especially for short attention spans. Registration will begin one week prior to each storytime. Ages 19-36 months. Registration Required.
9:30am

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Tuesday April 26th:

Family Night with Author Alan Katz – Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest
Meet and find out why he is called a “silly, dilly man!” He is the author of some of the funniest children’s books you will ever read, so the night should be loads of fun. There will be an autograph session following the show. Please register for the meal by calling 205-978-0158. Everyone welcome!
Dinner at 6pm – Show at 6:30

It’s not Easy Being Green Storytime – Avondale Regional Library
Hop on over to our pad and celebrate National Frog Month. It’s a night of toad-lly awesome stories and ribbiting fun you won’t soon frog-get. 24-hour advance registration required.
6:30pm

Evenings at Emmet O’ Neal Library
Bring the family in PJs and enjoy a different activity each week. PJ Storytime: special sleepytime stories and a bedtime snack. Movie & Popcorn: 30-minute family-friendly movies and movie popcorn. Dance Party: music and movement with fun props. Craft: supplies provided. Call 879-0497 to find out what this week’s program will be. All ages. No registration required
6pm

Wee Ones Storytime – Homewood Public Library
Join Ms. Mary for a fun and energetic storytime for 24 months and under!
9:30 and 10:30am

Baby Tales – North Shelby Library
A story time designed especially for babies and their caregivers. Stories and music provide interaction for the babies and time for caregivers to talk and share with each other.  Ages: Birth to 18 months.  Registration Required.  Registration will begin one week prior to program date.
10am

Toddler Days – Steel City Jump Park
Story, snack and jumping! Parents jump for free, Children, $8.00. Parents free.
10am – Noon

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Wednesday April 27th:

Storytime – Springville Road Library
Stories, songs, and crafts! All ages are welcome to our weekly storytime.
10am

Wiggleworm Wednesday – Homewood Public Library
Join Ms. Mandy for our weekly all-ages storytime filled with music and fun!
10:30am

Where’s the Party Storytime– Barnes and Noble Summit
A heartwarming story with adorable art, this irresistibly charming picture book debut invites readers to meet Georgie and friends—and find the answer to the most important question of the day: Where’s the Party? Join us to find out at Storytime featuring Where’s the Party? Activities to follow.
11am

Family Storytime with Mr Mac – North Shelby Library
10:45am

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Thursday April 28th:

Birmingham Barons – Regions Field
vs. Pensacola Blue Wahoos
Thirsty Thursday, Mardi Gras in April, Thursday Night Concert Series
7:05

Oak Mountain Spring Festival – Oak Mtn Amphitheatre
Offering a wide assortment of family-friendly fun.
Advanced Tickets – $5.00 good until April 28th on Ticketmaster.
$8 (Free Parking)
5:30pm – “Close” (*could not verify this time)

Storyday with Nay Nay – Homewood Public Library
Join Ms. Nay Nay for this fun-filled storytime for ages three and under!
9:30 and 10:30am

American Girl Girls Just Like Us – Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Japanese Garden Ballet with Isabelle
As the Japanese cherry blossoms begin to bloom, Isabelle and friends gather to hear her story and make our own colorful tutus. We’ll then dance our way through Japanese Gardens, one of the most beautiful at The Gardens during spring.

Ages 5 and up
Instructors: Robin & Emmeline Geurs
Thursday, April 28 | 3:30-5 p.m.
Location: Birmingham Botanical Gardens
$20 Members | $25 Non-Members

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Friday April 29th:

Birmingham Barons – Regions Field
vs. Pensacola Blue Wahoos
Friday Night Fireworks, Superheroes Night, Bobby Allison Appearance, Tornado Safety Awareness Night, FIAT Friday
7:05pm

Oak Mountain Spring Festival – Oak Mtn Amphitheatre
Offering a wide assortment of family-friendly fun.
$8 Admission; $5 Parking
5:30pm – Midnight

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Saturday April 30th:

Fido Fest – The Summit
We’ve partnered with local friends and retailers to create an afternoon that celebrates our four-legged friends and benefits Hand & Paw as well as The Greater Birmingham Humane Society. Bring the whole family to The Summit on Saturday, April 30th to enjoy a pet photo booth, kids’ activities, food trucks, local vendors and live entertainment! Fido Fest is a FREE event. All animal lovers and four legged friends are welcome!!
11am – 3pm

Weatherfest – McWane Science Center
Join the FOX6 StormWarn team and some special guests on the plaza to learn about severe weather safety! Weather fans will have the chance to see vehicles and tools used by atmospheric scientists to detect and study severe weather.
9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m

Birmingham Barons – Regions Field
vs. Pensacola Blue Wahoos
Kids Batting Helmet Giveaway
6:30pm

Oak Mountain Spring Festival – Oak Mtn Amphitheatre
Offering a wide assortment of family-friendly fun.
$8 Admission; $5 Parking
12pm – Midnight

Grubdown – Springville Road Library
Drop by and we’ll introduce you to our scaly, crawly, furry, and friendly library pets. You can pet them and learn about how we feed, groom, and care for them.
4pm

Night at the Staduim Storytime– Barnes and Noble Summit
A baseball stadium comes to life in this magical picture book written by Phil Bildner and illustrated by Tom Booth from the publishing imprint of legendary sports icon and role model Derek Jeter. Join us for Storytime featuring Night at the Stadium.
11am

Family Storytime – Emmet O’Neal Library
Bring the entire family and join Mr. Mac for stories and music each Saturday morning.
10:30 a.m.

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Sunday May 1st:

Birmingham Barons – Regions Field
vs. Pensacola Blue Wahoos
Salute to Armed Forces Sunday, Autism Friendly Day, Youth Baseball Clinic
3pm

Oak Mountain Spring Festival – Oak Mtn Amphitheatre
Offering a wide assortment of family-friendly fun.
$8 Admission; $5 Parking
12pm – “Close” (*could not verify this time)

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Local Attractions Open Daily!

McWane Science Center:

IMAX
McWane Science Center’s IMAX® Dome Theater puts you in the center of the action by projecting breathtaking quality images onto the 5-story-tall dome screen and delivering intense surround sound through almost 3 tons of speakers and subwoofers.
Now Showing: Star Wars the Force Awakens, Ocean Oasis, Journey to Space

Birmingham Zoo:

The Birmingham Zoo offers a variety of daily activities from Giraffe and Pelican Feedings to Bird Tours and Lion Training. For a daily schedule of whats happening at the Zoo, visit their site.

Vulcan Park and Museum:

Vulcan is the world’s largest cast iron statue; made of 100,000 pounds of iron and 56 feet tall, he stands at the top of Red Mountain overlooking the city of Birmingham. But, Vulcan is more than a statue. Vulcan Park and Museum features spectacular views of Birmingham, an interactive history museum that examines Vulcan and Birmingham’s story, and a beautiful public park for visitors and locals to enjoy. With an official information center that is operated by the Greater Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau, Vulcan Park and Museum serves as the first stop for visitors to the Birmingham area!

Railroad Park:

Railroad Park is a 19 acre green space in downtown Birmingham that celebrates the industrial and artistic heritage of our great city. Situated along 1st Avenue South, between 14th and 18th Streets, the park is a joint effort between the City of Birmingham and the Railroad Park Foundation. Hailed as “Birmingham’s Living Room,” Railroad Park provides a historically rich venue for local recreation, family activities, concerts, and cultural events, while connecting Birmingham’s downtown area with Southside and UAB’s campus.

Southern Museum of Flight:

Earn Your Wings – Bring your little pilot and soar above the clouds in our little pilots room. Kids enjoy building aircrafts, flying kites, and more.
Museum Open Tuesday – Thursday
9:30am – 4:30pm

Do you have or know of an event you would like to have added to our weekly calendar? Please email us at contact@birminghammommy.com, subject line “Events Calendar” – We would love to hear from you!

** All information listed on our calendar is subject to change without notice to us or you… We do our best to keep the information accurate and will always update as soon as we learn that something has changed. It’s always best to double check with the event via their website or a quick call,  especially when weather can impact the event.

Summer Camp Spotlight! Birmingham Zoo

Posted on by Angie

Enjoy a fun Summer ZooFari Camp at the Birmingham Zoo!

Summer ZooFari Camp is available for 4K through 8th grade students. Space is limited, and camps fill up quickly. Please register in advance to guarantee your child a spot.

While attending Summer ZooFari Camp, campers will experience:

  • Live animal demonstrations
  • Train and/or carousel ride*
  • Crafts and activities
  • Guided tours
  • Snacks
  • Animal Biofacts

 *Train and carousel rides are dependent on weather and the availability of the attractions.

The Birmingham Zoo will be offering 3 new camps this summer:

Zoo Olympics Camp
Grades 4K-5th
(Basic Camp)
Come meet some amazing animal athletes and learn about the special talents that make them awesome. You will be introduced to animals that are long jumpers, speed racers, and world-class gymnasts. You may also earn your own gold medal during a bit of friendly competition

Jurassic Zoo Camp
Grades 4K-5th
(Specialty Camp)
We’re taking it WAY BACK to the Jurassic period! Put on your palaeontologist hat and discover fossils, learn about dinosaurs and how they lived, what they ate, and meet some of their modern-day relatives up close! This camp is perfect for your little dinosaur fanatic.

Eco Art Camp
Grades 5K-5th
(Specialty Camp)
Let’s create exciting art from recycled materials and nature! Campers will discover how to turn ordinary items into their own masterpieces while learning about conservation and saving our planet. Campers will also enjoy animal demonstrations, zoo keeper talks, rides and much more!

Of course their popular camps will be back this year, Jr Zoo Keeper, Zoo Keeper and Career Camp.

For more information and a planning on all of the Camps offered by the Birmingham Zoo, to register or get pricing details;

Click Here.

Tis’ The Season.. For Local Farmer’s Markets!

Posted on by Angie

We all love some fresh fruits and veggies, and Birmingham Area Farmer’s markets are heating up. If you’re looking for a market to enjoy this season, look no further! We’ve got a list of some of the most popular market in town.. Don’t forget, if you’re looking for a place to pick your own, there are lots of options close to Birmingham that allow you to get in on the action!

Birmingham Area Farmer’s Markets

Alabama Farmer’s Market is open seven days a week, year ’round,  with the majority of vendors open from 6am-5pm. Located at 344 Finley Avenue, the Alabama Farmers Market has been in its current location since 1956-making it the longest running farmers market in the Birmingham area. See their vendor list for further details on which growers you can find there each week.

Pepper Place Market is open Saturdays from 7am-12 noon from mid April through early December each year. Located at 2829 2nd Avenue South in Birmingham, Pepper Place offers visitors a great assortment of locally grown and prepared goods. Peak summer months usually bring in an average of 30 farmers or more, and a great selection of additional vendors selling other foods, and arts and crafts. Pepper Place also features live music and will often host chef demonstrations throughout the summer months as well. For updates on weekly events make sure to sign up for their newsletter!

Homewood Farmer’s Market takes place each Saturday June 18th through August 20th, from 8am – 12:30pm at Homewood Central Park.  Hosted by the Homewood Chamber of Commerce and Urban Cookhouse restaurant, the Homewood Farmer’s Market features more than 15 local farmers and vendors. For further information and a complete list of vendors, visit Downtown Homewood Farmer’s Market

Gardendale Farmer’s Market – The season will start on May 19th through September 29th, every Thursday from 9am – 2pm, at the Gardendale Civic Center. Weather permitting, there will be children’s activities every week. Starting on June 2nd, the children’s activities will begin with the Petting Zoo, inflatable, and story reading.

Trussville Farmer’s Market –  Located on the mall in Downtown Trussville each Tuesday April 12th – June 7th from 1pm – 5pm and Beside Holy Cross Episcopal Church (90 Parkway Drive) in downtown Trussville on Saturdays, April 30th – June 11th, 8am – Noon.

Pinson Fresh Farmer’s Market – Located at the Rock School and open every Friday from 2pm – 6pm. 12-15 vendors selling fruits and veggies, even some kettle corn! Look for local honey, homemade salsa and canned goods.

UAB Farmer’s Market – UAB Medicine is providing the UAB Farmer’s to the staff and visitors of UAB. A partner with the Farmer’s Market Authority of the State of Alabama, part of the Department of Agriculture, they bring some of the best farmers in Alabama to the UAB Market. The Market will be held every Friday, June 3 – August 26 from 11am – 2pm and is open to both staff and visitors of UAB. The market is located at the North Pavilion Entrance.

West Homewood Farmer’s Market Tuesdays from 5pm – 8pm in June July and August. If you’re ready for a slice of pie and Americana, the West Homewood Farmer’s Market (WHFM) is just the place to be during the warm summer evenings.

You’ll find Alabama’s favorite food trucks (Cantina, SAWs BBQ, Heaveny Donuts, Old Town Pizza (who has a wood-burning stove in their food truck!!) parked at the market along with 10+ local farms represented and all kinds of arts & crafts vendors. If it’s great music and great food you’re looking for… look no more!

The Summit Market will run on Thursdays from 3pm-7pm beginning June 2nd. Located in the parking area in front of Saks, the Summit Market will host local farmers, plus fun kids activities and crafts.

East Lake Farmer’s Market is open on Saturdays from 8am-12noon, beginning in early May  through October 8th. Located at the corner of 2nd Avenue South and 78th Street in the East Lake neighborhood (near Ruffner Mountain)., the East Lake Farmer’s Market features locally grown fruits and veggies, local musicians and artists, cooking demonstrations and fun activities for the whole family. Health screenings and Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) coupons are also offered if you have signed up prior to the market season. Go here for more information about SFMNP.

Do you have a favorite market? Which one do you look forward to trying out this season?

Birmingham Events Calendar: April 17th – April 24th

Posted on by Angie

So much fun to choose from this week when it comes to finding something to do around Birmingham! Lots of storytime options at your local libraries throughout the week and this coming weekend is jam packed full of family events! If you like Gumbo or Crawfish you’re set.. Kids love trucks? Check out Touch a Truck at Vestavia Hills United Methodist church. And make sure to check out the Birmingham Zoo on Saturday for “Party for the Planet” to help celebrate Earth Day! Have a great week!

It’s Not Our Fault if Your Kids are Bored!

Sunday April 17th:

Day out with Thomas – Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum
Take a ride with everybody’s favorite #1 engine, Thomas the Tank Engine, and enjoy Thomas-themed activities at the Imagination Station, including temporary tattoos and hands-on arts and crafts.  Have your photo taken with Sir Topham Hatt and enjoy Storytelling, Inflatable Bounce House, Carpet Golf, Bubble Station, Sandbox, Railroad Signal Yard, and Live Music!
Find exclusive (not available in any store!) Thomas merchandise in the Gift Tent!  Delicious food vendors will be on site.

A fun-filled family experience not to be missed so be sure and bring your camera!

Times:
10:30 am, 11:15 am, noon, 12:45 pm, 1:30 pm, 2:15 pm, 3:00 pm, 3:45 pm

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Monday April 18th:

Tot Time with Ms Eve, Earth Day – Avondale Library
How many things can Mrs. Eve make with her scissors, glue, and the trash from her daughter’s room? Come see! Tot Time is geared for 2- to 4-year-olds with an individual caregiver; no groups please. 24-hour advance registration required.
9:30 and 11am

Preschool Playtime– Homewood Public Library
We’ll provide the stations, and you provide the imagination for a fun morning of play with your child. For ages three and under. Daycare groups must call 205-332-6619 in advance to schedule time.
10:30am

Monday Movie – Homewood Public Library
The Good Dinosaur – Join us for snacks, drinks, and a family film from Walt Disney Pictures!
3:30pm

Toddler Tales – North Shelby Library
Stories, songs, fingerplays and crafts make up a lively 30 minute program designed especially for short attention spans. Registration will begin one week prior to each storytime. Ages 19-36 months. Registration Required.
9:30am

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Tuesday April 19th:

Mad Hatter Scavenger Hunt – Hoover Public Library
Join the Mad Hatter, Alice and crew to uncover the clues to Wonderland. Register 4/4-4/18. Grades 1-3
4pm

Baby Tales – North Shelby Library
A story time designed especially for babies and their caregivers. Stories and music provide interaction for the babies and time for caregivers to talk and share with each other.  Ages: Birth to 18 months.  Registration Required.  Registration will begin one week prior to program date.
10am

Toddler Days – Steel City Jump Park
Story, snack and jumping! Parents jump for free, Children, $8.00. Parents free.
10am – Noon

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Wednesday April 20th:

Ready Set Grow – Springville Road Library
Spring is finally here! Join us for some fun and fresh air in the library’s garden.
4pm

Don’t Touch this Book Storytime– Barnes and Noble Summit
Larry the lovable monster from Don’t Push the Button! is back with another hilarious, interactive adventure! I know what you’re thinking: this is a pretty cool-looking book. But … DON’T TOUCH THIS BOOK! (Don’t even try it.) Join us for Storytime featuring Don’t Touch This Book! Coloring and activities to follow.
11am

Family Storytime with Mr Mac – North Shelby Library
10:45am

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Thursday April 21st:

Little Library on the Prairie – Homewood Public Library
We’ll try our hand at the pioneer lifestyle by channeling Laura Ingalls Wilder and Ma and Pa for a night of family fun on the prairie!
6:30pm

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Friday April 22nd:

Gardendale Magnolia Festival – Gardendale Civic Center
15th Annual Gardendale Magnolia Festival. The Total Family Experience! 3 stages live entertainment, 150+ vendor booths, carnival, pooch parade, car show, McWane Science shows, ponies, free kid zone, 5K, fishing tournament (May 14), and much more. An original theatre production, Jugtown Turnaround: an original play about how Gardendale got it’s name in 1906. Free parking and free admission to 3 stages entertainment.
5pm – 10pm

Leaps and Bounds – Homewood Public Library
Join us for a fun and energetic movement class designed specifically for children 2 1/2 to 4 years.  Online registration is required and begins the Monday prior to the class that week at www.homewoodpubliclibrary.org.
10:30am

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Saturday April 23rd:

Party for the Planet – Birmingham Zoo
Join the Birmingham Zoo in celebrating the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ signature event and largest combined Earth Day celebration in North America! Enjoy special activities, animal demonstrations, Schaeffer Eye Center Wildlife Shows and local Birmingham business booths including Alabama Mineral & Lapidary Society, Alabama Partners for Clean Air, Cahaba Riverkeeper, CommuteSmart Birmingham, Coosa Riverkeeper, Four Season Gallery, Red Mountain Park, University of Alabama – Tide for Tusks, World Discovery Safaris and more, all focused on promoting the care and conservation of our planet. Enjoy special keeper talks and enrichments during the day, as well as crafts and activities! This event is FREE with admission to the Zoo.
10am – 2pm

Touch a Truck – Vestavia Hills United Methodist
Climb, Explore and Discover your favorite things on wheels. Activities include trucks to explore, a play area, crafts and more! Food trucks will be available for food purchases. LIVE MUSIC performed by acclaimed entertainer Roger Day, from 11:00 a.m. to Noon. Event is free to the public.
10am – 1pm

Gumbo Gala – Regions Field
Join Birmingham’s best Professional and Backyard Gumbo chef’s as they compete for the bragging rights to the title of Birmingham’s Best Gumbo. Enjoy great music, a kids zone, incredible gumbo and a great time all for a great cause.

Episcopal Place provides seniors and disabled adults with restricted income a safe and affordable housing option and access to related services in a home-like environment.

$12 Admission
11am – 3pm

Gardendale Magnolia Festival – Gardendale Civic Center
15th Annual Gardendale Magnolia Festival. The Total Family Experience! 3 stages live entertainment, 150+ vendor booths, carnival, pooch parade, car show, McWane Science shows, ponies, free kid zone, 5K, fishing tournament (May 14), and much more. An original theatre production, Jugtown Turnaround: an original play about how Gardendale got it’s name in 1906. Free parking and free admission to 3 stages entertainment.

Earth Day at the Gardens – Birmingham Botanical Gardens
This year, the annual celebration will celebrate The Gardens’ Moon Tree, which grows just above Blount Plaza.. Planted in 1976 after traveling to space as a seed aboard Apollo 14 to test the effects of weightlessness on germination, the Moon Tree now stands 80-feet tall. The Gardens will have a hands-on display about the dispersal method of the sycamore seed, which floats on the wind like tiny parachutes. Beneath the Moon Tree, children will be able to make their own hand-held parachutes from coffee filters. On display will be seedlings from The Gardens’ Centennial Tree Program, grown from local seed sources of native trees for replanting Birmingham’s parks, waterways and tornado-damaged areas.

Earth Day at The Gardens takes place from 11-4 p.m., and it will include exhibitor booths, local vendors, free activities and live music from Tommy Ellison.

Jubilee Joe’s Crawfish Boil – Warehouse 31 Pelham
Jubilee Joe’s Cajun and Seafood Restaurant is bringing the taste and sounds of New Orleans to Venue 31 located in Pelham. Be sure to bring your Cajun appetite for a fun family event. Thousands of pounds of fresh Louisiana Crawfish is brought live and boiled on the spot. Other famous Louisiana dishes will also be available to fill your craving.    Al.com chose this event as one of the “Top food festivals in Alabama.”

Get ready to dance the Zydeco to talented Cajun and Brass bands. The headliner is the American alternative rock band-Everclear.  There is entertainment for the entire family including a large kids corner with activities including a Crawfish Race.  Patrons will also have a chance to win $500 when they enter the Crawfish Eating Contest.  A portion of the festival proceeds will benefit Hand in Paw that provides animal assisted therapy.

General Admission tickets are $22. VIP Tickets are $45 includes general admission and all you can eat crawfish. 12 and under are free. For more information on the event please visit
1pm – 10pm

5th Annual Dixie Vintage Car Show – Oak Mountain State Park
5th Annual Dixie Vintage Antique and Classic Car Show

Gates open at 7:00 am-Registrations starts at 8:00 am

Cash prizes, food, music by DJLarry, Parts and vendors, Car Corral and Top 5 Trophies

Shuttle service for visitors to car show area will be provided

Bart’s Books – Birmingham Museum of Art
Bart’s Books is a storytelling program for children ages 4-7. Bart selects a new book and related work of art each month that he thinks kids will enjoy.
This month, Bart has selected Mary Lynn Ray’s Mud.

Where’s the Party Storytime– Barnes and Noble Summit
Larry the lovable monster from Don’t Push the Button! is back with another hilarious, interactive adventure! I know what you’re thinking: this is a pretty cool-looking book. But … DON’T TOUCH THIS BOOK! (Don’t even try it.) Join us for Storytime featuring Don’t Touch This Book! Coloring and activities to follow.
11am

Family Storytime – Emmet O’Neal Library
Bring the entire family and join Mr. Mac for stories and music each Saturday morning.
10:30 a.m.

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Sunday April 24th:

American Girl, Just Like Me – Birmingham Botanical Gardens
As the Japanese cherry blossoms begin to bloom, Isabelle and friends gather to hear her story and make our own colorful tutus. We’ll then dance our way through Japanese Gardens, one of the most beautiful at The Gardens during spring.

Ages 5 and up
Instructors: Robin & Emmeline Geurs
Sunday, April 24 | 2-4 p.m.
Location: Birmingham Botanical Gardens
$20 Members | $25 Non-Members

Instrument Petting Zoo at Springtime Symphony – Avondale Park
Before the Schaeffer Eye Center 2nd Springtime Symphony in Avondale Park, bring your children to come “meet” the instruments! Professional musicians will be on hand to allow children to touch, play and ask questions. A rare opportunity!
2pm – 3pm

2nd Springtime Symphony in the Park – Avondale Park
Schaeffer Eye Center and the Forest Park South Avondale Business Association presents the Alabama Symphony Orchestra performing a free, open to the public concert in the amphitheater.

The program will be family friendly, and will feature light classical music as well as music from well-known musicals and films. Examples might be Seventy Six Trombones from the Music Man or Waltz of the Flowers from the Nutcracker by Tchaikovsky.

Before the concert, please bring your children to experience the Symphony Education Department’s “petting zoo” of instruments.

Seating in the amphitheater opens at 1:30. Concert begins at 3:00pm.

A ticketed reception before the performance will benefit Red mountain School and Avondale Elementary School. Local restaurants are providing light refreshments in the reception area. Tickets for the reception are $5 at the door.

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Local Attractions Open Daily!

McWane Science Center:

IMAX
McWane Science Center’s IMAX® Dome Theater puts you in the center of the action by projecting breathtaking quality images onto the 5-story-tall dome screen and delivering intense surround sound through almost 3 tons of speakers and subwoofers.
Now Showing: Star Wars the Force Awakens, Ocean Oasis, Journey to Space

Birmingham Zoo:

The Birmingham Zoo offers a variety of daily activities from Giraffe and Pelican Feedings to Bird Tours and Lion Training. For a daily schedule of whats happening at the Zoo, visit their site.

Vulcan Park and Museum:

Vulcan is the world’s largest cast iron statue; made of 100,000 pounds of iron and 56 feet tall, he stands at the top of Red Mountain overlooking the city of Birmingham. But, Vulcan is more than a statue. Vulcan Park and Museum features spectacular views of Birmingham, an interactive history museum that examines Vulcan and Birmingham’s story, and a beautiful public park for visitors and locals to enjoy. With an official information center that is operated by the Greater Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau, Vulcan Park and Museum serves as the first stop for visitors to the Birmingham area!

Railroad Park:

Railroad Park is a 19 acre green space in downtown Birmingham that celebrates the industrial and artistic heritage of our great city. Situated along 1st Avenue South, between 14th and 18th Streets, the park is a joint effort between the City of Birmingham and the Railroad Park Foundation. Hailed as “Birmingham’s Living Room,” Railroad Park provides a historically rich venue for local recreation, family activities, concerts, and cultural events, while connecting Birmingham’s downtown area with Southside and UAB’s campus.

Southern Museum of Flight:

Earn Your Wings – Bring your little pilot and soar above the clouds in our little pilots room. Kids enjoy building aircrafts, flying kites, and more.
Museum Open Tuesday – Thursday
9:30am – 4:30pm

Do you have or know of an event you would like to have added to our weekly calendar? Please email us at contact@birminghammommy.com, subject line “Events Calendar” – We would love to hear from you!

** All information listed on our calendar is subject to change without notice to us or you… We do our best to keep the information accurate and will always update as soon as we learn that something has changed. It’s always best to double check with the event via their website or a quick call,  especially when weather can impact the event.

Save Green by Going Green

Posted on by Angie

In the spirit of Earth Month we thought we would throw out some ideas on how you could actually save some green by going green! We all love an incentive to save money!

1. Host a toy swap!  This is a great way to illustrate to children how to reuse something.  Let the kids choose some toys they aren’t too attached to, then let them swap.  You can make it fun and let them draw a toy out of a bag! You could even use this as a theme for your next playdate.

2.Grow a small, manageable garden.  This accomplishes so many things- educating your child, saving money, providing healthy food, and encouraging children to try veggies!  If you grow it, they will eat it.  Or just lick it once, but nonetheless, baby steps!

3. Book and Magazine Swaps for adults.  We all love a little time with a good read, but let’s cut down by sharing.  Utilize your library, swap books with friends, rotate magazines.  It only takes about 30 minutes to read a magazine, spread it around and share the savings.

4. Cloth napkins.  Buy a set of white napkins and a set of colored/printed.  Designate one set as “cleaning napkins” and one set as “people napkins.”  Eliminating some paper towels and baby wipes will save money and resources.

5. Newspapers – Great cleaning tip: Use newspaper to clean your windows and glass.  Make your own glass cleaner by combining water and white vinegar.  (1/4 cup vinegar per gallon of water)

6. Reusable sandwich bags- If you’re a crafty mom, you can even make your own.  These will eliminate the need for Ziplocs that get thrown out, and kids love them. Etsy is a great place to purchase these if you don’t fancy yourself crafty… We found these and plenty more.

7. Staying in line with the Cloth Napkin theme. Another way to save on cleaning is to purchase some inexpensive white wash cloths. Keep a stack under your sink next to your homemade cleaners and use those for wiping down your kitchen. We go through 2 a day. One for cleaning and one for cleaning the kids.. Toss them in the wash and it’s an easy go to that will save you rolls and rolls of paper towels.

We would love to hear what tips or tricks you use to save green, greenly..

Summer Camp Spotlight! St. Stephen's Preschool

Posted on by Angie

Registration is now open for Summer Camp at St. Stephen’s Preschool!

Summer Camp is for those entering the 1st– 3rd grade in the fall.  The camp will be offered the same weeks as the Preschool Summer Program during the same hours – 9 am -1 p.m.  It is required, however, that you sign up for the whole week rather than just MW or just TTH. Tigger Time (extended day program, see below) will also be available for these students at the regular Tigger Time rates.

Each week will include:

Specific Theme
Water play day
Cooking a snack
Making a craft
Science experiment related to theme
Exercise

Themes for this summer will be as follows:

Week 1: June 13th – 16th  – Sports and Games

Week 2: June 20th – 23rd American’s Got Talent

Week 3: June 27th – 30th Amazing Race

Week 4: July 5th – 7th  Outside the Box -Construction (please note no camp on July 4th of this week)

Week 5: July 11th – 14th Animal Planet

Week 6: July 18th – 21st Ooey Gooey Science

Week 7: July 25th – 28th Bikes, Skates and Scooters

All summer campers are eligible to attend “Tigger Time” – the extended day program – from 1:00- 2:30 p.m.. Payment is due by June 1 (as is the balance of regular summer school tuition) and is $10 per day. Siblings receive a 50% discount. “Drop- in”throughout the summer will be $15 per day –due on the day the child stays – and based on availability. This higher fee will apply to any day in which a child is not signed up for and paid in advance. Please note that if we do not have enough children pre-register, Tigger Time may not be offered on certain days. For example, if only two children sign up for Wednesdays, we will not be able to offer Tigger Time on Wednesdays. We will let you know in advance if that is the case. If you have any questions, please call the office at 967-6317.

For more information or to register, click here

Spring is here, so pick some fruit! Alabama U-Pick Farms and Orchards

Posted on by Angie

Alabama U-Pick Farms aren’t as far from Birmingham as you might think!

Birmingham is known for it’s crazy weather patterns, but I think it’s safe to finally say that winter has faded and cabin fever can officially be kicked! It’s time to taste the lemonade and smell the freshly cut grass… I have already started buying tank tops and flip flops, and any other shoe that lets the piggies breathe.

Here in Alabama, we have a wonderful moderate Spring season that you should enjoy to the fullest!  Get the kids and get out!  A fun and unique activity is to go to a you-pick-your-own farm.  You get fresh air, the kids get a new activity that will not bore them, it can be educational, and it can yield some yummy foods for dinner that night!  A lot of the farms aren’t open until June, but there are some that start in April with fresh strawberries, YUM! Strawberries have a very brief season; and they start in early April here in the South, if you can sneak away in the next few weeks, you’ll have a better selection for picking!

Follow the links below to find farms near you! Happy Picking!

Alabama U-Pick Farms and Orchards

*Tip:  It’s always best to call before you get in the car and drive all the way out there.   A lot of these are small family run farms and sometimes things come up.

Birmingham Events Calendar: April 10th – April 17th

Posted on by Angie

Take me out to the ball game! The Barons Season is in full swing and there will be a special celebration this Saturday to help kick it off! Lots of storytimes, Member Monday at the McWane Science Center, Farm Day at the Birmingham Zoo and don’t forget to get your tickets to see Thomas at the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum..

It’s Not Our Fault if Your Kids are Bored!

Sunday April 10th:

Alabama Auto Show – BJCC
It will be a dazzling spectacular featuring the 2016 model year domestic and import cars, light trucks, SUVs, hybrid vehicles of all sizes, and vans. More than 400 vehicles from manufacturers all over the world covering two levels of the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex. Manufacturer’s reps, product specialists, and your local Birmingham Automobile Dealers Association will be on hand to assist in product education, feature comparisons, safety standards and other consumer points of interest on hundreds of makes and models . . . all under one roof.

$12 Adults
$6 Children 6-11
Children 5 and under Free

Tickets are GOOD ANY DAY regardless of which day you choose on Ticketmaster. You may also purchase tickets at the door.
10am – 6pm

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Monday April 11th:

Member Monday – McWane Science Center
Razzle Dazzle your curiosity with some of our favorite demonstrations including electricity, combustion and more! Itty Bitty Magic City and the Shark & Ray Touch Tank will also be open to explore!

Reserve your family’s spot today by calling (205) 714-8414.

Additionally, a dinner of chicken fingers, mashed potatoes and green beans is available for advanced purchase.

The cost of dinner is Adults: $8, Children: $5.  Dinner orders may be placed when you make your reservation.  Payment must be made at time of Reservation and will not be available for purchase the night of the event.

Tot Time with Ms Eve, Show and Tell – Avondale Library
Be sure to bring a favorite “something” of yours for show and tell! Tot Time is geared for 2- to 4-year-olds with an individual caregiver; no groups please. 24-hour advance registration required.
9:30 and 11am

Moving Together – Homewood Public Library
The Dance Foundation presents a program designed for babies ages 6 weeks to 6 months and a caregiver. Online registration is required and begins Monday, April 1 at www.homewoodpubliclibrary.org.
10:30am

LEGO Club – Homewood Public Library
Join us for an exciting new building challenge each month!  K-5th grade.
3:30pm

Toddler Tales – North Shelby Library
Stories, songs, fingerplays and crafts make up a lively 30 minute program designed especially for short attention spans. Registration will begin one week prior to each storytime. Ages 19-36 months. Registration Required.
9:30am

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Tuesday April 12th:

Birmingham Barons – Regions Field
vs. Tennessee
7:05pm

Annual Talent Show– Hoover Public Library
Showcase your talent on stage.  Entry forms available in the Kid Zone at the Library.
6:30pm

Baby Tales – North Shelby Library
A story time designed especially for babies and their caregivers. Stories and music provide interaction for the babies and time for caregivers to talk and share with each other.  Ages: Birth to 18 months.  Registration Required.  Registration will begin one week prior to program date.
10am

Toddler Days – Steel City Jump Park
Story, snack and jumping! Parents jump for free, Children, $8.00. Parents free.
10am – Noon

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Wednesday April 13th:

Birmingham Barons – Regions Field
vs. Tennessee
7:05pm

Let’s Play Storytime– Barnes and Noble Summit
It’s only a yellow dot … but what a dot it is! Readers won’t be able to resist this jaunty, adventurous dot, nor its invitation to play along. Join us for Storytime featuring Let’s Play. Activities will round out the fun.
11am

Family Storytime with Mr Mac – North Shelby Library
10:45am

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Thursday April 14th:

Birmingham Barons – Regions Field
vs. Tennessee
7:05pm

Story Day with Nay Nay – Homewood Public Library
Join Ms. Nay Nay for this fun-filled storytime for ages three and under.
9:30am and 10:30am

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Friday April 15th:

Birmingham Barons – Regions Field
vs. Tennessee
7:05pm

Move and Groove Storytime – Homewood Public Library
Join us for an interactive and energetic movement storytime for all ages, filled with dance, yoga, and fun!
10:30am

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Saturday April 16th:

Barons Bash – Railroad Park
Railroad Park celebrates the first crack of the bat of the 2016 with Barons Bash, presented by Vulcan Materials. With inflatables, lawn games, Barons mascot Babe Ruff, and good eats, Railroad Park’s community celebration will come to a close just before the Barons take to the field at 6:30 against the Tennessee Smokies. Barons Bash is free and open to the public, with some ticketed activities. Wristbands for ticketed activities will be available at the entrances. All proceeds benefit Railroad Park Foundation, which maintains and brings events to the park. New to the event this year is a Parent Lounge, where adults can enjoy some shaded seating and beverages while the children play. Doodles Italian Ice and Naughty But Nice Kettle Corn food carts will be selling delicious treats.  Visit railroadpark.org for more information.
3pm – 6pm

Birmingham Barons – Regions Field
vs. Tennessee
6:30pm

Farm Day – Birmingham Zoo
Take a look at Alabama’s agricultural heritage with a fun and educational peerk into daily farm life during this annual event in the Junior League of Birmingham- Hugh Kaul Children’s Zoo and Alabama Wilds. Watch horseshoe making demonstrations, create rual-themed arts and crafts, examine several antique farm equipment, watch a goat show and much more!!

Bart’s Books – Birmingham Museum of Art
Bart’s Books is a storytelling program for children ages 4-7. Bart selects a new book and related work of art each month that he thinks kids will enjoy.
This month, Bart has selected Mary Lynn Ray’s Mud.

Ms Mandy’s Musical Meetup – Homewood Public Library
Join us once a month for a marvelous mish-mash of musical magic! We’ll look, listen, and learn as musicians from amateur to expert share their musical talents with us.
10:30am

Day Out with Thomas – Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum
Take a ride with everybody’s favorite #1 engine, Thomas the Tank Engine, and enjoy Thomas-themed activities at the Imagination Station, including temporary tattoos and hands-on arts and crafts.  Have your photo taken with Sir Topham Hatt and enjoy Storytelling, Inflatable Bounce House, Carpet Golf, Bubble Station, Sandbox, Railroad Signal Yard, and Live Music!

Find exclusive (not available in any store!) Thomas merchandise in the Gift Tent!  Delicious food vendors will be on site.

A fun-filled family experience not to be missed so be sure and bring your camera!
Times:
9:00 am, 9:45 am, 10:30 am, 11:15 am, noon, 12:45 pm, 1:30 pm, 2:15 pm, 3:00 pm, 3:45 pm, 4:30 pm

Don’t Touch this Book Storytime– Barnes and Noble Summit
Larry the lovable monster from Don’t Push the Button! is back with another hilarious, interactive adventure! I know what you’re thinking: this is a pretty cool-looking book. But … DON’T TOUCH THIS BOOK! (Don’t even try it.) Join us for Storytime featuring Don’t Touch This Book! Coloring and activities to follow.
11am

Family Storytime – Emmet O’Neal Library
Bring the entire family and join Mr. Mac for stories and music each Saturday morning.
10:30 a.m.

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Sunday April 17th:

Day out with Thomas – Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum
Take a ride with everybody’s favorite #1 engine, Thomas the Tank Engine, and enjoy Thomas-themed activities at the Imagination Station, including temporary tattoos and hands-on arts and crafts.  Have your photo taken with Sir Topham Hatt and enjoy Storytelling, Inflatable Bounce House, Carpet Golf, Bubble Station, Sandbox, Railroad Signal Yard, and Live Music!
Find exclusive (not available in any store!) Thomas merchandise in the Gift Tent!  Delicious food vendors will be on site.

A fun-filled family experience not to be missed so be sure and bring your camera!

Times:
10:30 am, 11:15 am, noon, 12:45 pm, 1:30 pm, 2:15 pm, 3:00 pm, 3:45 pm

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Local Attractions Open Daily!

McWane Science Center:

IMAX
McWane Science Center’s IMAX® Dome Theater puts you in the center of the action by projecting breathtaking quality images onto the 5-story-tall dome screen and delivering intense surround sound through almost 3 tons of speakers and subwoofers.
Now Showing: Star Wars the Force Awakens, Ocean Oasis, Journey to Space

Birmingham Zoo:

The Birmingham Zoo offers a variety of daily activities from Giraffe and Pelican Feedings to Bird Tours and Lion Training. For a daily schedule of whats happening at the Zoo, visit their site.

Vulcan Park and Museum:

Vulcan is the world’s largest cast iron statue; made of 100,000 pounds of iron and 56 feet tall, he stands at the top of Red Mountain overlooking the city of Birmingham. But, Vulcan is more than a statue. Vulcan Park and Museum features spectacular views of Birmingham, an interactive history museum that examines Vulcan and Birmingham’s story, and a beautiful public park for visitors and locals to enjoy. With an official information center that is operated by the Greater Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau, Vulcan Park and Museum serves as the first stop for visitors to the Birmingham area!

Railroad Park:

Railroad Park is a 19 acre green space in downtown Birmingham that celebrates the industrial and artistic heritage of our great city. Situated along 1st Avenue South, between 14th and 18th Streets, the park is a joint effort between the City of Birmingham and the Railroad Park Foundation. Hailed as “Birmingham’s Living Room,” Railroad Park provides a historically rich venue for local recreation, family activities, concerts, and cultural events, while connecting Birmingham’s downtown area with Southside and UAB’s campus.

Southern Museum of Flight:

Earn Your Wings – Bring your little pilot and soar above the clouds in our little pilots room. Kids enjoy building aircrafts, flying kites, and more.
Museum Open Tuesday – Thursday
9:30am – 4:30pm

Do you have or know of an event you would like to have added to our weekly calendar? Please email us at contact@birminghammommy.com, subject line “Events Calendar” – We would love to hear from you!

** All information listed on our calendar is subject to change without notice to us or you… We do our best to keep the information accurate and will always update as soon as we learn that something has changed. It’s always best to double check with the event via their website or a quick call,  especially when weather can impact the event.

Cops We Care

Posted on by Angie

I don’t know about you but stuffed animals and my kids go together like Peanut Butter and Jelly, Peas and Carrots, Milk and Cookies, like Lucy and Ethel.. Anyway, you get the idea. My kids LOVE some stuffed animals and for some reason, even when I say no more, I don’t really mean it… I Just. Keep. Buying. Them.

When it comes time to purge and donate, it actually physically hurts to think about the money that was spent, but now knowing that there is a local resource that makes excellent use of them, it hurts just a little less. I was so thankful to learn about this local program and thought our BirminghamMommy readers would love to know about this resource as well!

Cops We Care is a program through the Birmingham Mayor’s Office that partners with the Birmingham Police (Community Policing and Revitalization or “CPR” Unit) to help turn Tears into Smiles by collecting pre-loved or new stuffed animals for children.

The stuffed animals are collected at various drop sites throughout Birmingham (see below) and given to the Police who will carry them in their vehicles to give out when they are called to a scene where children are present or involved. The program is seeing great success in showing that these Officers can be a friends to a child.

There are several permanent drop sites as well as places and organizations that collect only during certain times of the year.

Permanent Drop Sites Include:

The Mayor’s Office
Southside Apt. Company
The Sign Company
Tin Roof
Vacca Drugs
Heritage Medical
Chris Z’s
Sneaky Pete’s on 6th Ave
Innovation Depot

Seasonal/Occasional Drop Locations Include:

OLS School
OLS Church (Entire Month of June)
Mayer Electric (Quarterly)
Rojo (twice a year)
Hoover Tactical
*Please note that you should call to confirm with these seasonal locations before taking your donations.

This is a great way to get your kiddos involved in the idea of giving, and helping others. (Not to mention the cleaning out process.) Once mine learned where they were going and what they would be used for, they were way less reluctant to part with them and gladly helped me fill 2 full bags to donate, with the plans to part with more! A total Win/Win in my book!

To see more of the great work that Cops We Care is doing for the Birmingham community, follow them on Facebook or Twitter, @CopsWeCare.
For more information on donating, or having your Company or Organization involved contact: Meredith Asher, 205.492.7991

 

Parenting with a PhD: Keeping Kids Focused During the Spring Slump

Posted on by Angie

Do you and your kids have Summer Break-itis? It’s a common problem around this time of year: the sun is shining, flowers are blooming, pollen is coating your car and lungs. Here in Alabama, spring very quickly gives way to summer and temps will be in the triple digits before we know it! You’ve got the kids’ summer camp schedule all lined up (oh, no? Go here for all the info you’ll need!) – all you have to do now is get through the next eight weeks and it’s SUMMER TIME! But, wait – EIGHT weeks?! As in EIGHT
weeks of 20 minutes nightly reading, EIGHT weeks of packing lunch every morning, EIGHT weeks of math worksheets, EIGHT weeks of carpool line, EIGHT weeks of “I’m not wearing that and you can’t make me!” Here are some tips for keeping you and your kids focused and sane for the remainder of the school year:

  • Stay consistent. After Spring Break, it’s tough to return to regular bedtimes, mealtimes, and homework times but very important to get everyone back on track. Make it clear that Spring Break was a vacation but the day after Spring Break is “real life” again. Tighten up the schedule so your kids are getting enough sleep, exercise, and downtime, but still have time for homework. Limit screen time. Consider posting a weekday schedule somewhere your kids will see it regularly to remind them of your expectations. Keep checking those homework folders and communications from the teachers so you and your kids stay on top of what is needed.
  • Shake up the systems. This may sound counter to #1 but consider if what you’ve been doing all year to maintain order needs a few minor modifications. Kids often pay more attention to a system when it’s new so if they’re having trouble re-adjusting to the regular schedule, consider what might be switched around. Now that we have daylight for longer, consider a family walk after school versus getting right to homework. Ask your child if he would rather start showering at night so he can sleep a little later in the morning. For families who use the computer or iPad for a reward once homework is done, consider downloading some new apps or games to make that time more coveted. Try poetry instead of prose for reading time or move your homework spot from the kitchen table to a cozy chair in the living room. Keep the general requirements consistent but get your child’s attention with some fresh ideas!
  • Build in some rewards (for you, too!). Sometimes the end of the school year will feel like a drag, no matter how great a schedule you have in place. Consider whether some kind of rewards for getting through the school day, homework time, and/or the school week might help. Set one or two very basic and fairly easily obtained goals like getting started on homework with only one reminder at least three out of five days. Pick eight fun places (e.g., the ice cream place down the street, a trampoline arena, etc.) and assign each one to a week. Draw or print a picture that represents the fun place and post it on the fridge. If everyone meets their goal for the week, the family gets to go on Saturday. This idea is more about keeping eyes on the prize vs. dealing with serious academic or behavioral issues. If you’re having more than occasional griping with homework, consider some ideas here, talk with your child’s teacher, or ask your pediatrician for a child psychologist.
  • Focus on the positives. Have regular check-ins (e.g., in the car, during dinner) to keep attitudes upbeat. Ask for the best thing that happened at school/work on a given day. Discuss the negatives, too, but don’t dwell on those. Also, try not to spend too much time talking with your kids about exciting summer plans as those could make daily life look less desirable in comparison. Avoid making statements like, “We just need to get through the next X number of days…” (yes, I remember that I did that in the first paragraph) and help your child focus, instead, on the cool things he/she is getting to do in the here and now.

About this column: Send your parenting- and kid-related questions my way via email at: parentingwithaphd@gmail.com and I’ll tell you what I can: Please be aware that email is not a secure method of transmitting personal information so it’s best to keep your questions general. If your question is featured, your name and email will not be published. Submitting a question does not constitute a professional relationship in any way and this column is not meant to substitute for face-to-face therapy. If you feel  you’re doing the best you can and still need help, it may be time to bring in a professional. Start by talking with your child’s pediatrician to get a referral.

Kristen S. Berthiaume, Ph.D.
Licensed Psychologist

About Kristen:

Kristen Berthiaume, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist with Grayson and Associates. She obtained her doctorate in clinical psychology from the University of Kentucky. She completed a predoctoral internship in clinical psychology at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a post- doctoral fellowship in the Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders (ADHD) Program at Duke University Medical Center. She specializes in providing assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, and families dealing with the following issues: ADHD, learning disorders, social skill deficits, organizational problems, behavioral difficulties, anxiety, and depression. She generally focuses on behavioral and cognitive- behavioral techniques, but maintains a flexible approach to therapy. Her other day job is as mom to her daughters, ages seven and one, and four-year-old son.

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