Birmingham Events Calendar: April 17th – April 24th

Posted on Sunday, April 17, 2016 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

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 Thursday, April 14, 2016 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 Wednesday, April 13, 2016 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 Monday, April 11, 2016 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 Sunday, April 10, 2016 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

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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

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

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:

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:

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:

Railroad Park:

Southern Museum of Flight:

Cops We Care

Posted on Thursday, April 7, 2016 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 Wednesday, April 6, 2016 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.

From Maybe To Baby with St. Vincent's Monogram Maternity

Posted on Tuesday, April 5, 2016 by Angie

If you’re thinking about starting a family or anticipating the arrival of a new baby, join St. Vincent’s Monogram Maternity for From Maybe to Baby. This free event brings pregnancy healthcare experts including an OB, pediatrician, labor and delivery nurse, lactation specialist and others together in one convenient location, just for you.

You can expect an evening dedicated to education, resources, answers to your pregnancy related questions and lots of fun. Nosh on delicious hors d’oeuvres, enjoy mocktails and register for door prizes. This event will provide all the information you need about getting ready to have a baby. And don’t forget to invite your partner or friend.

Spaces are limited. Register now for this free event.

Details:

St. Vincent’s One Nineteen Conference Center
7191 Cahaba Valley Road
Birmingham, AL 35242

Thursday, April 14, 2016 from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM (CDT)

Birmingham Area Summer Camp Guide, Summer 2016

Posted on Monday, April 4, 2016 by Angie

Acting Out! Preforming Arts Academy Summer Movie Camp
Acting Out Summer Film Academy

Ages: 8 and up
July 18th – July 22nd
9:30am – 4pm

-Acting Out will be bringing in the top industry professionals, including on-set coach for WB Lisina Stoneburner of the Actor’s Studio; Rob Pralgo; actor James Black; agent Joy Pervis; casting director/voice-over agent Brian Bremer; LA talent manager Lynne Marks.

-Camp will be split up into three tracks and students will be placed according to age and experience. Students who have studied with Acting Out and some of the guest instructors will be in the advanced track and cover material on the next level.

-Classes covered:

Acting for the Camera Audition Technique Self-Taping Commercial Acting

The Business of The Business Character Development Improv

Accessing Emotions Voice-over And More!

-Camp will end with a working showcase where actors will perform for industry

professionals including directors, agents, casting directors, and producers. We are finalizing list now! Stay tuned!

$550 total fee, $250 deposit required upon registering.
Register HERE

Aldridge Gardens
June will be a full month long of excitement, entertainment and, of course, education at Aldridge Gardens. We have plenty of camps to choose from for boys and girls entering Kindergarten through 4th grades. Whether your little campers like American Girls or building and engineering, we’ve have something they’re sure to enjoy! See below for more on camps being offered this summer, details on registration, forms, and more.

Entering 5K – 2nd Grades in the Fall

Entering 2nd – 4th Grades in the Fall

Day camps run from 9:00 a.m. to Noon, Monday through Friday. Mid-morning snacks and drinks are provided.

All teachers have Alabama Certification in Education.

Cost:

Family Level Members of Aldridge Gardens: $105 per camp
Non-Members of Aldridge Gardens: $125 per camp

Register now!

ArtPlay/UAB
The University of Alabama at Birmingham hosts several summer camps on campus each year. Presented by UAB departments and groups, the camps offer fun activities for children and easy and convenient choices for parents. Check this page for updates and camps added as they become available.

Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Programs are designed to actively promote your child’s natural sense of creativity and discovery with fun learning experiences in the unmatched setting at Birmingham Botanical Gardens!

To register for camps, click on the camp title.

June 6-10: The Secret Life of Bugs (Ages 4-5)**

June 6-10: American Girl – Girls Just Like Me (For children entering 5K-2nd grade)**

June 6-10: Growing Through Yoga (For children entering 5K-4th grade)**

June 20-24: Junior Master Gardener (For children ages 8-12)*

June 20-24: American Girl – Girls Just Like Me (For children entering 5K-2nd grade)**

June 20-24: Urban Farm Camp: Fascinating Physiology (For children 4th-7th grade)****

June 27-July 1: Summer Garden Chefs (For children entering 5K-2nd grade)**

June 27-July 1: Summer Garden Chefs (For children entering 3rd-6th grade)**

July 5-8: Microworlds in The Gardens – Creepy Crawlers and Insects (For children entering 5K-2nd grade)***

July 5-8: American Girl – Girls Just Like Me (For children entering 5K-2nd grade)***

July 11-15: Young Artists in The Gardens (For children entering 5K-2nd grade)**

July 11-15: Young Artists in The Gardens (For children entering 3rd-6th grade)**

July 18-22: Dig It! Dinosaurs Rock! (Ages 4-5)**

July 18-22: Growing Through Yoga (For children entering 5K-4th grade)**

July 25-29: Get Growing – The Tiny Seed (Ages 4-5)**

July 25-29: Gardening in Wonderland – Designing & Modeling (For children entering 3rd-6th grade)**

*All Day Camp

**Morning Camp

***Four Day Camp

****7:30-3:30 p.m.

Birmingham Museum of Art
Art asks questions. Design answers questions. Since the beginning of human civilization, artists and makers have turned to the arts to provoke their communities to question, empathize, experiment, play, and refine solutions to their concerns. This summer, the BMA’s Museum Studio School offers youth entering Grades 1-9 the opportunity to learn about the role of art and design in problem-solving. Drawing upon the museum’s comprehensive collections spanning every continent and the major civilizations of the modern-era, students will be challenged to brainstorm, prototype, and test their own artistic solutions to some of the challenges of their worlds.

The Museum Studio Summer Art Camp is the only summer experience in the region that gives your camper immediate access to our collection of original artworks from around the world. Give your child a summer of endless inspirationAll camps are from 9am-3pm, with an option for after-care program until 5pm (additional cost). Ages and date options are below; register today!

(Students entering)
Grades 1-2, June 13-17
Grades 3-5, June 20-24
Grades 3-5, June 27-July 1
Grades 6-7, July 11-15
Grades 6-7, July 18-22
Grades 8-9, July 25-29

Cost:
General tuition: $200
Museum Members receive 20% off: $160
After-care program, from 3:30-5pm: Additional $50.
Register before March 1 and receive 10% off!

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.

Click here for your Complete Planning Guide or to Register.

Cameron Oaks Farm
Every year, Cameron Oaks Farm offers many camps during the summer, and also over Christmas and Spring Breaks. They offer both two-day and four-day camps geared at certain age groups and experience.

Unicorn Camp

This specialty theme camp is perfect for beginning through novice level riders. In this very focused and intensive short camp, our youngest riders (age 5-8) are introduced to handling and riding horses.In addition to lots of pony time, our campers enjoy everything unicorn: arts & crafts, stories & songs, games& jokes. By the end of camp, they will even get to ride a unicorn! Space is very limited for this camp, so register early!

2016 Camps (limited availability)
For more information or to register, CLICK HERE

Equine Inspirations Camp

This unique camp not only further develops intermediate riding skills, it also provides a canvas for artistic expression across a variety of mediums. Each day begins with horse care and a technical riding session with one of the Cameron Oaks trainers. After working with the horses, we’ll retreat to our artist’s enclave to study horses in art and design our own creative expressions. Limited spots available . Camp meets 8:00-12:00 Monday -Wednesday, and 8:00-4:00 Thursday, followed by an evening art exhibit for friends and family.
Registration: sweethorsealabama@hotmail.com

Horsemanship Camp

Our long-loved camp brings old friends back together and introduces new friends to our Cameron Oaks family. Campers spend their days learning all about horses! Attention is given to all the basics from the ground up, with lots of time riding every day too! Camp meets 9:00-4:00 Monday – Thursday. Parents and friends welcome to join us Thursday at 4:00 for a bonfire and cook-out.
Registration: deanahunter@charter.net

Fresh Air Family
Gross Out Camp!
9am-5pm with before and after care available. $200 for members (Fresh Air Family and Gardens) $225 for non-members for the week.

Rising 1st graders – 4th Grade Only Sessions

Session 1: May 30 – June 3
Session 2: June 6 – 10
Session 3: June 13 – 17
Session 4: June 27 – July 1
Session 5: July 5 – 8 (Short Session- $195)
Session 6: July 11 – 15

Legacy Gymnastics
TBA

Mason Music
Princess and Pirate Preschool Music Camp

June 13-17, 2016 Mountain Brook Studio
July 11-15, 2016 at our Cahaba Heights Studio

For (potty-trained) 3-5 year old little princesses and pirates.

The cost for this camp is $125.

Mason Music Camp for Beginners

June 6-10, 2016 Bluff Park Studio
July 11-15, 2016 Mountain Brook Studio
August 1-5, 2016 Cahaba Heights Studio

For students 6-9 years old who have little or no experience with music and may be wondering which instrument is right for them.
The cost of this camp is $175.
REGISTER

Rock Band Camp
June 20-24th, 2016
For students who already have a grasp of their instrument and are ready to take it to the next level.
The cost for this camp is $350.
REGISTER

Overdrive
July 18th-29th
For students who have extensive training in their instrument and experience with either our Band Camp or Rock Band League.
The cost for this camp is $1000.00
REGISTER

McWane Science Center
A week of fun and learning awaits your child at McWane Science Center Summer Camp. Weekly camps June 6th through July 29th. There will be no camps the week of July 4th-8th.

The Creativity Lab is an exciting addition to our 2016 Summer Camp experience! Activities in the Creativity Lab will introduce a new way of learning through hands-on, open-ended exploration. The campers participating in the 4th – 6th and 7th – 9th grade camps will be led by their own curiosity and creativity while exploring 3D doodling, circuit building, robot programming, art activities and so much more! The Creativity Lab is a part of the Creativity Garden- a nationwide project of the Association of Science-Technology Centers, generously supported by Disney.

REGISTRATION:
Campers should be registered in the camps of the grade they will be attending in the fall of 2016. Each of our classes is designed for the skill level of that particular camp: therefore, the grade levels must be observed. Enrollment is limited to ensure a quality experience. Registrants may attend only those camps for which they are registered. Registrations are not transferable. Registration closes the Wednesday prior to the first day of camp. Currently, registrations can only be made online.

Click here for Summer Camp Registration

CAMP FEES
At time of registration, half of the fees are due. The second half must be paid a week before your first session. All fees are subject to %10 tax
Weekly Full-day camps $300 per week (McWane Science Center Members receive $50 discount)
Weekly Half-day camps $150 per week (McWane Science Center Members receive $25 discount)

CANCELLATIONS, REFUNDS AND SCHEDULE CHANGES
McWane Science Center reserves the right to cancel camps that do not meet minimum enrollment. If a camp is canceled by McWane Science Center, a full refund will be returned to the registrant. If a registrant cancels a camp, a 50% refund will be made if the registrant notifies the Camp program in writing, emailed, postmarked, or faxed no later than 10 working days prior to the day of camp. Otherwise, NO REFUNDS, will be made. There is a $30 service charge for any returned checks and enrollment will be automatically canceled.

SCHEDULE

Full-day camps begin at 9:00 am and end at 5:00 pm Campers may be dropped off no earlier than 7:45am and can be picked up as early as 5:00 pm and no later than 5:30 pm
Half-day morning camps start at 9:00 am and end at 1:15 pm Campers may be dropped off no earlier than 7:45am and must be picked up no later than 1:15pm.
Half-day afternoon camps start at 12:30 pm and end at 5:00 pm Campers may be dropped off no earlier than 12:20pm and can be picked up as early as 5:00 p.m. and no later than 5:30 pm.

BEFORE AND AFTER CARE
Both before and after care are included in camp registration. Before Care is available from 7:45am-9:00am and after care is available from 5:00 pm-5:30 pm. Activities and games will be provided during these times.

LATE FEES
All students MUST be picked up by 1:15 p.m. for morning camps and by 5:30 p.m. for afternoon camps. There will be a $5 late pick up charge for every 10 minutes your camper stays after pick up time. NO EXCEPTIONS.

LUNCH AND SNACKS
Lunch and snacks are included with your camp registration fee. Lunch time is 12:30pm until 1:15pm. Campers are supervised during lunch and activities are provided. A snack is offered around 10:30am for morning camps and 3:30pm for afternoon camps. Our menu is an attempt to avoid most common food allergies like nuts and strawberries. If you have additional dietary concerns you may send a lunch with your camper. No refund or discount will be given for these days. PLEASE REMEMBER TO INDICATE ANY AND ALL ALLERGIES ON THE RELEASE FORM as we will adhere to those guidelines.

Mountain Brook Gymnastics
When school is out, summer day camp at MBG is the place to be! We are offering 10 weeks of co-ed summer day camp for students starting at just 3 years old. Campers are grouped by age into Preschool groups (3 yr olds & 4 yr olds) and Junior groups (ages 5 and up). Group games, crafts and activities balance out an hour of gymnastics instruction to ensure that your children have an amazing fun-filled day! On Thursdays, the ice cream man even pays us a visit for our camp snack! -Junior Campers have the option to stay for half day camp from 8:00 am until noon as well as add on extended care from 12pm until 4pm.
-Preschool Campers will only be allowed to stay for half day camp.
-Junior Campers have the option to stay for half day camp from 8:00 am until noon as well as add on extended care from 12pm until 4pm.
-Preschool Campers will only be allowed to stay for half day camp.

For more details on weekly themes or to Register, visit their site.

Premier Gymnastics
Gymnastics, Arts, Crafts, snacks, open gym, water games

Seven 1 week sessions. June 6th – July 29th

A $100 non-refundable, non-transferable deposit is required at the time of registration.
Balance must be paid 30 days prior to camp start date

Early Bird Specials if registered before May 1st

For more information on cost and registration, click here

Ruffner Mountain Nature Center
TBA

Saint Stephens Preschool
Summer Camp for those entering the 1st – 3rd grade in the fall of 2016.. Summer Camp will be open during the same hours and weeks as the Preschool program but is only offered for a week at a time. Summer Camp runs from Monday – Thursday and does not include the 2 day per week option as the Preschool does. The cost of Summer Camp is $110 per week with a $10 sibling discount. Click here for more information on our Summer Camp.

Villager Yoga
Fit & fun, cool & calm, our summer camps are offered in-studio and at various locations around town. Through week-long camps, kids to find their inner and outer strength while being creative, expressing themselves and bonding with friends. Group exercises and games teach considerate peer interaction and leadership skills in a non-competitive environment. Each day, new yoga poses will be introduced around a theme and camp will include the thoughtful enjoyment of a healthy snack, group activity time, creative art project, mindful breathing, and visualization exercises and relaxation.

June 6 – June 10 | 9:00 am – 1:00 pm |Birmingham Botanical Gardens | Grades K – 4

June 20 – June 24 | 9:00 am – 12:00 pm | Highlands School| Grades K – 5

July 18 – July 22 | 9:00 am – 1:00 pm | Birmingham Botanical Gardens | Grades K – 4

July 25 – July 29 | 1:00 – 5:00 pm | In-studio | Grades K – 7 | May choose single days or full-week

August 1 – 5 | 9:00 am – 12:00 pm | Highlands School | Grades 3 – 8 (Mind-Body Camp)

Volleyball Camp
Check out Dex Volleyball Camps to sign up for 2016 Summer Camp Dates. Be one of the first to sign up to make sure you have a spot in our energetic, competitive, learning and also fun volleyball camps. We have individual and team camps to offer our knowledge of volleyball. If interested in attending with your Middle/High School please have your Coach reach out to us at Samford and will explain to them our Team Camp process.
Grades K-12

Have a favorite camp you’d like to see on our list? Drop us an email and we’ll be sure to get it added!

Pinspired Recipe: Cool Ranch Chicken Tacos

Posted on Monday, April 4, 2016 by Angie

Another option for Taco Tuesday! Oh! And did we mention.. It’s a crockpot recipe?

What you’ll need:

2 lb boneless chicken
1 packet taco seasoning
1 packet Ranch dressing mix
1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth
taco shells/tortillas/tostadas
cheese
lettuce
tomato

What you’ll do:

Place chicken in slow cooker. Sprinkle with taco seasoning and Ranch dressing mix. Pour chicken broth into slow cooker. Cover and cook on low 6-8 hours.

Serve with taco shells, tortillas, tostadas and favorite taco toppings.

For more great recipes check out Plain Chicken