Coach Mommy: How to be a Winning Parent

Posted on Monday, November 2, 2015 by Angie

It seems like as soon as kids can walk, we as parents start exploring options for what sport we want to try. From soccer, to baseball, flag football to swimming, it seems there is a league for just about any age now, even if only to introduce them to the idea of the sport. I don’t say this as if it’s a bad thing, but I do believe there are right and wrong ways for parents to encourage extracurricular activities and if done incorrectly, we could be creating some long term problems for our kiddos (and the ones we may coach.) Done correctly and we can build their self esteem, confidence and equip them with skills that will benefit them on and off the court or field.

Here are some tips on how to be a winning parent.

Be Supportive, Don’t Coach. Your role on the team is as a Support player with a capital S! You need to be your child’s best and biggest fan. Win or lose.

Challenge, Don’t Threaten. Many parents directly or indirectly use guilt and threats as a way to “motivate” their child to perform better. Performance studies clearly indicate that while threats may provide short term results, the long term costs in terms of psychological health and performance are devastating. Using fear as a motivator is probably one of the worst dynamics you could set up with your child. Threats take the fun out of performance and directly lead to your child performing terribly. Implicit in a threat, (do this or else!) is your OWN anxiety that you do not believe the child is capable. Communicating this lack of belief, even indirectly is further devastating to the child’s performance. A challenge does not entail loss or negative consequences should the athlete fail. Further, implicit in a challenge is the empowering belief, “I think that you can do it”.

Give your Child the gift of failure. If you really want your child to be as happy and as successful as possible in everything that they do, teach them how to fail. The most successful people in and out of sports do two things differently than everyone else. First, they are more willing to take risks and therefore fail more frequently. Second, they use their failures in a positive way as a source of motivation and feedback to improve.

Help make the sport fun for your child. An easy rule of thumb: If your Child is not enjoying what they are doing or loving it, Investigate! What’s going on that is preventing them from having fun? Is it the coaching? The pressure? Is it you? Keep in mind that being in a highly competitive program does NOT mean that there is no room for fun. The child that continues to play long after the fun is gone will soon become a drop out statistic.

Avoid comparisons and developmental differences. For your child to do his very best she needs to learn to stay within herself. Worrying about how another athlete is doing interferes with her doing this.

and last but not least…

Your child is not his or her performance. Love and encourage them unconditionally.

If you want your child to come out of his youth sports experience feeling good about himself and having a healthy attitude towards sports, then they need our help!

Source: Dr. Alan Goldberg, Competitive Advantage

Birmingham Events Calendar: November 1st – November 8th

Posted on Sunday, November 1, 2015 by Angie

Hello November and the end of Daylight Savings Time, we hope falling back hasn’t been too brutal on your schedule. Lots of fun things happening around Birmingham this week. Movies, storytimes and a Dia de los Muertos Festival to kick off the week. Christmas Village takes over Birmingham this week and over the weekend, Moss Rock Festival is back!

Have a great week!

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

Sunday November 1st:

Vibrant Music and Arts Festival – Carraway Davie House
Presented by Cahaba Park Church
Looking for a fun (and FREE) way to spend a fall afternoon? Bring a blanket and come join us out on the lawn of the Carraway-Davie House for the first annual VIBRANT Art and Music Festival! Enjoy original artwork based on the Psalms from eight local artists. Each will be auctioned off to benefit a variety of local charities/ministries. After the auction, there will be a live concert featuring new and unreleased music from The Corner Room (cornerroommusic.com). Bring your friends! We hope to see you there!
3pm – 4:30pm

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Monday November 2nd:

Dia de los Muertos Festival – 1st Ave South
It is sure to be an energetic Day of the Dead Festival (Día de los Muertos numero trece). This year is our thirteenth celebration! It will take place in our same great spot on 1st Avenue South in Birmingham, AL.

We look forward to seeing you at the festival. Please do NOT bring your pets or cooler or picnic baskets. Please do bring yourselves and friends and a small altar or memento of remembrance. Dress in bones, as a sugar skull or for a fiesta! Join in the procession!
Gates Open at 4pm & Close at 10pm
PRICE: $10 Everyone age 13 and older | $3 Kids age 12 to 7 | Free under age 7
WHERE: 2115 1st Avenue S

Monday Movie – Homewood Public Library
Join us for some after school family fun, We’ll have popcorn, drinks, and a film to celebrate Dia de los Muertos!
3:30pm

Tot time with Ms. Eve, Silly Does It – Avondale Regional Library
Get ready to giggle with my favorite silly stories and songs! 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

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Tuesday November 3rd:

Family Tours, Bon Appetit– Birmingham Museum of Art
FREE // Meet in the Main Lobby
Join the Museum educators to explore the galleries in a fun, interactive experience! Discover Bart the Art Bat’s favorite artworks during these FREE, drop-in tours. After your tour, visit Bart’s ArtVenture to make an art project inspired by what you saw. What will you discover?

Bon Appetit: The holidays are here and it’s time to indulge! Feast your eyes on art in our collection and learn more about food and dining in art.
10:30am

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

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Wednesday November 4th:

Duct Tape Madness – Homewood Public Library
Come and see all the amazing creations that can be made with duct tape. No registration required.
4pm

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

Family Story Time with Mr Mac – North Shelby Library
Storyteller Extraordinaire – Come join Mr Mac and his musical storytime complete with puppets! All Ages, no registration required.
10:45am

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Thursday November 5th:

Christmas Village – BJCC Exhibition Halls
Whether your list is short or long, and whether your budget is big or small, you will find creative gift solutions for everyone you love. However you choose to experience Christmas Village Festival, it will be so much more than a shopping trip. It will become the event you choose to kick off your Christmas shopping year after year.
Adult Tickets: $12.00
Children 6-12: $5.00
Children under 6 admitted Free!
$1.50 handling fee per order.
10am – 8pm

American Girl Just Like Me – Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Autumn’s glory is ready for harvesting! Join us as we learn the story of young American Girl, Kaya, from the Nez Perce tribe. We’ll explore the Three Sisters Garden of corn, squash and beans while we harvest peanuts, cotton, and sweet potatoes. Create a Kaya-inspired craft with amazing things we gather from the earth. You won’t want to miss this beautiful afternoon of discovery.
$15 Members | $20 Non-Members
3:30pm

Wimpy Kid Party – Irondale Public Library
Games, trivia, top-secret activities, and a chance to win the brand-new Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Old School! Plus, come on Tuesday, November 10th at 4:30 to vote for your favorite Wimpy Kid movie to watch on the big screen!
6pm

Storyday with Nay Nay – Homewood Public Library
Join Ms. Nay Nay for this fun-filled storytime. Children ages three and under and a parent or caregiver are invited to shake their beanbags and listen to this amazing storyteller!
9:30 and 10:30

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

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Friday November 6th:

The Greatest Holiday Lighting on Earth – Riverchase Galleria
Join Riverchase Galleria and a host of princesses and super heros as we present, The Greatest Holiday Lighting on Earth!. There will be singing and dancing and lots of Christmas cheer as we light our tree and welcome Santa Claus to kick off the Christmas Season!
6pm – 8pm

Mini Maker Faire Make Workspace – Barnes and Noble Summit
Join us to see demonstrations and experience some of the latest products in 3D printing, robotics, coding, programming and more.
3pm and 6pm

Mini Maker Faire Make and Collaborate – Barnes and Noble Summit
Join us in the Make & Collaborate space for these highly collaborative and interactive activities for a variety of ages. Featured materials included in the sessions: Ages 5+ – LEGO® BIONICLE®, Snap Circuits & ThinkFun Wheels & Gadgets Ages 8+ – littleBits Electronic Building Blocks & Cool Paper Machines Adults (13+) — LEGO® Architecture Studio and Extraordinaires Design Studio Pro
4pm and 5pm

Mini Maker Faire Meet the Makers – Barnes and Noble Summit
Join us for this engaging session that will feature Jennifer Johnson, who will be discussing and demonstrating the craft of making jewelry with paper.
5pm and 7pm

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Saturday November 7th:

Moss Rock Festival – Moss Rock Preserve
Come enjoy artists inspired by nature, our eco district partners featuring green living ideas, products, services and organizations, live music, engaging constructions and installations, The Sweetery, WonderKid studios, hiking, biking, geocaching, fuel-efficient car exhibitions, a café, and the great outdoors.

We guarantee it will be a weekend where discoveries are the norm! Grab friends and family and get outside to explore nature at this premier eco-creative festival in Alabama.

The festival is free. Visitors must Park & Ride to the festival from The Hoover Metropolitan Stadium. The shuttles are frequent, free, and easy to use. After a quick glimpse at The Preserve neighborhood, the shuttle will drop you at the festival’s front steps.
10am – 5pm

Bon Appetit: The holidays are here and it’s time to indulge! Feast your eyes on art in our collection and learn more about food and dining in art.

Bart’s Art Cart– Birmingham Museum of Art
This drop-in art program for kids and families features a different theme from our galleries and art activity each month. Stop by to make art with Bart!
Tea Time!: Brrr… it’s getting chilly! Warm up with some tea! Make your own cup and saucer to take home, then host your own tea parties all winter long.
11am

Rosie Revere, Engineer and Iggy Peck Architect Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
Join us as we read the stories Iggy Peck, Architect and Rosie Revere, Engineer. Full of clever illustrations, these two witty picture books inspire kids to believe in themselves and follow their passion. 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 November 8th:

We guarantee it will be a weekend where discoveries are the norm! Grab friends and family and get outside to explore nature at this premier eco-creative festival in Alabama.

Mini Maker Faire Make Workspace – Barnes and Noble Summit
Join us to see demonstrations and experience some of the latest products in 3D printing, robotics, coding, programming and more.
11am

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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: Ocean Oasis, Horses, 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.

Leftover Halloween Candy Recipes

Posted on Sunday, November 1, 2015 by Angie

Halloween 2015 is in the books.. Did you over buy on candy this year? Did you ration poorly and end up with way too many leftovers after the Trick-or-Treaters stopped coming through? Did your kids rack up because they were the only ones out braving the rain?

Here are a few ideas on what to do with that candy when you get tired of eating it in it original form.

Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake:

32 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
5 eggs, at room temperature
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup whipping cream
8 peanut butter cup candies

Crust:
1 1/2 package graham crackers, crushed
5 tablespoons butter, melted
1/3 cup sugar

To Prepare:

Crust: Mix all ingredients and pat into a 10″ spring form pan.

Cake: Chop peanut butter cups. Cream the cheese until light. Add sugar and beat some more. Add eggs, one at a time and beat after each. Mix in cream, vanilla and cornstarch. Stir in candy. Pour into crust and bake at 350 degrees F for 1 hour or so until outside edge is firm and middle is still soft. When the cake comes out of the oven run a knife around the edge. Cool for several hours then top with melted chocolate.

Butterfinger Cake:

1 angel food cake, crumbled
1/2 cup butter
4 egg yolks
2 cups confectioners’ sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
16 ounces Cool Whip, thawed slightly
8 large Butterfinger candy bars

To Prepare:

Freeze candy bars in wrappers for at least two hours. Crush bars (while in wrappers) using a rolling pin. Cream butter, egg yolks, sugar and vanilla and add Cool Whip.

In a 9 x 13 inch pan layer half of the angel food cake; a layer of half of the Cool Whip mixture; then a layer of half of the crushed candy bars; repeat.

Candy Cupcakes:

Use 3 Musketeers and Milky Way bars in chocolate cupcakes. Freeze mini candy bars and make cupcakes as usual, any recipe. Place a frozen bar in the middle of each cupcake just before baking. That way, the candy melts but doesn’t really blend into the rest of the cupcake batter

Other quick and easy tips:

Add chopped-up candy bars to brownies in place of chocolate chips.
Make a trail mix with chocolate-coated candies, raisins, peanuts and any soft chewy candy.
Layer prepared instant pudding with candy to make a pudding and candy parfait.
Send it to the Troops

Do you have a recipe that includes leftover Halloween Candy? How do you keep that candy from hanging around until Easter?

Halloween Treat Round-Up

Posted on Thursday, October 29, 2015 by Angie

No tricks, just treats with this list of goodies you can score around Birmingham this Halloween! Get those costumes ready and take advantage of these deals!

*Please call ahead to verify your location is participating!

IHOP FREE Scary Face Pancake to all children ages 12 and under on Friday 10/30/15 between 7am-10pm.

Chuck E Cheese is giving 50 FREE tickets to all children in costume now through 10/31/15.

Olive Garden $1 kid’s meal with the purchase of an adult entree the week of 10/26-10/30. Limit 2 kids per one adult entree. Must present THIS COUPON.

Beef O’Brady’s FREE kid’s meal to all children 12 and under in costume with the purchase of an adult entree.

Applebee’s is offering a FREE kid’s meal to children 12 and under with the purchase of an adult entree. Limit 2 children per 1 adult.

Chili’s FREE kid’s meal with the purchase of an adult entree.

Outback Steakhouse $2.99 kid’s meal with the purchase of an adult entree on 10/31/15. Some locations are also offering free kids meals.

The Shake, Trussville Kids Eat Free 10/31/15. One free kids meal per adult meal.

McAlister’s Deli is offering a free kid’s meal to all kids in costume with the purchase of an adult meal. Limit 2 kids per 1 adult.

Krispy Kreme FREE doughnut to all kids in costume on 10/31/15. No purchase necessary.

Sonic is offering $.50 corndogs all day on 10/31/15.

Zaxby’s – $.99 kids meal to kids in costume, 10/31/15

As always, call ahead to ensure that your local restaurant is participating in the deal.

Event of the Week: Field of Screams!

Posted on Thursday, October 29, 2015 by Angie

There are so many events happening around Birmingham this time of year, it’s hard to keep up with everything going. Here’s a new one that we’re looking forward!

On October 31st, 2015 Birmingham will finally have a cornerstone event on America’s second favorite holiday (after Christmas, of course). BAM Entertainment is turning Birmingham’s Parkside District into one huge, incredible Halloween Festival & Carnival!

This is the inaugural event of what will surely become an annual happening that everyone will look forward to all year long. On Halloween, 14th Street, Regions Field and the surrounding area will become the biggest Halloween event in the south! Food trucks, carnival rides, games, live entertainment, music, costume contests and more will fill the Parkside District all day long. But, that’s not all!

Much of Field of Screams will be a family-friendly event open to all ages. However, there will also be some “grown” up elements, as well!

Regions Field will become Birmingham’s hottest Halloween party of the year. And, the lounge and banquet venues at upstairs at Regions Field will host the city’s premier Halloween Costume Gala! And, BAM Entertainment still has a couple of tricks up our sleeves that will certainly treat the 21+ crowd. So, stay tuned!

Field of Screams is Birmingham’s biggest Halloween event ever! And, it is truly an event of events. From large to HUGE. For the kids, and for the grown ups, too! Field of Screams is a festival, carnival and 2 awesome Halloween parties that you will not want to miss!

For the Kids.. A festival in the streets, and a carnival presented by Alagasco inside the ballpark! Field of Screams is truly taking over Halloween in Birmingham this year! It’s an event that you’ll enjoy as much, maybe even more, than your kids!

For the Adults.. Field of Screams brings Birmingham Halloween parties for the grownups only, too. An outdoor Halloween party inside of one of America’s best ball parks. And, an upscale costume Gala with views of the city skyline, Railroad Park and Regions Field! A B’ham Halloween like never before!

For tickets and more information visit their site.

The Right Age to Trick or Treat, Alone..

Posted on Wednesday, October 28, 2015 by Angie

In the past we’ve discussed How Old is too Old to Trick or Treat but something else that has crossed my mind lately is, at what age are our kids old enough to hit the streets on Halloween on their own? Mine are no where near this age mind you, but I’m curious all the same.

I’m kind of in the mind set that by the time mine are old enough to go alone, they’ll be too old to go at all (at the age of 28.) But I know that in the real world over the next couple of years I’m going to start feeling the pressure, either directly or indirectly.

Let’s be honest. The days of wandering the neighborhood freely until “the street lights come on” isn’t a possibility for most of us anymore. But if you’re going to let your little ghosts and goblins venture out without an adult this Halloween, or if you’re on the fence and feeling the pressure from your older children, here are a few things to keep in mind.

1. The earlier the better. Try to get them out while they still have some daylight.

2. How well do you know the friends that they will be with and what is their maturity level? Having a conversation with the other parents is a good idea. Make sure you are all on the same page about their boundaries, return times, etc.

3. Set Boundaries. Make sure they know that can only go so far, whether it consists of only your neighborhood, a couple of streets over or down in a certain direction, make sure they are clear about those guidelines.

4. Make sure someone in the group, or your child has a cell phone so they can reach you in the event that they need you.

5. Remind them to never enter someones home. Stay on the porch or in the yard at all times. Always stay with the group or with at least one other friend. Think Buddy System.

6. If all of the above still makes you a nervous wreck, put on a costume and follow them at a distance, that’s probably what I’ll do 🙂

How old were your children when they went out without an adult? What rules did you put in place?

Birmingham Events Calendar: October 25th – November 1st

Posted on Sunday, October 25, 2015 by Angie

It’s all about Halloween this week, whether it’s storytimes at the local libraries, festivals around town or fun at our local Children’s Attractions, the theme is definitely spooky!

Boo at the Zoo is every night this week (weather permitting,) you can catch some spooky fun at McWane Science Center later in the week and if you haven’t checked out our list of Pumpkin Patches and Fall Festivals, you need to, it’s loaded with tons of fun this week!

Happy Haunting!

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

Sunday October 25th:

Boo at the Zoo – Birmingham Zoo
Watch as the Zoo transforms into a destination of spooky attractions for 17 nights of Boo at the Zoo presented by Wells Fargo.

Be sure to come dressed in your favorite family-friendly costume to ride the Spider Slide*, jump on the Eerie Express train*, see a Schaeffer Eye Center Wildlife Show, ride the new ghost rollers*, experience a Haunted Hayride*, take a spin on the Scarousel*, visit Cajun Sadie’s Fortune Telling Adventure*, travel down trick-or-treat lane and SO much more! Boo at the Zoo presented by Wells Fargo is one spook-tacular event you won’t want to miss! *Attraction fees apply.

All attractions can be purchased individually for $3.50 each plus tax. This includes the train, carousel, slide, ice skating*, Cajun Sadie, roller racers and hay ride. *Ice skates are available for rent for $1.50 plus tax, or visitors may bring their own ice skates.
5pm – 9pm

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Monday October 26th:

Boo at the Zoo – Birmingham Zoo
Watch as the Zoo transforms into a destination of spooky attractions for 17 nights of Boo at the Zoo presented by Wells Fargo.

Halloween Family Fun Night – Springville Road Library
The whole family is invited to join us for an evening of stories, games, and treats! Don’t forget to wear your costume!
6pm

Monday Makerspace – Homewood Public Library
We love this time of year, when pumpkins are abundant! Join us as we learn about pumpkins and all of the yummy treats we can make with pumpkins this season.
3:30pm

Tot time with Ms. Eve, Happy Halloween – Avondale Regional Library
Wear your Halloween costume as we celebrate Halloween with not-so-scary stories. We’ll even trick or treat in the library! 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 aged three and under. Daycare groups must call (205)332-6619 in advance to schedule time.
10am

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Tuesday October 27th:

The Great Pumpkin Caper – Avondale Regional Library
Pumpkins come and pumpkins go…but a jack-o-lantern steals the show. Join us for a family fun night that is truly a pumpkin lover’s delight. No scary costumes please. 24-hour advance registration required.
6:30pm

Boo at the Zoo – Birmingham Zoo
Watch as the Zoo transforms into a destination of spooky attractions for 17 nights of Boo at the Zoo presented by Wells Fargo.

Click Clack Boo Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
Will the barnyard animals trick or treat Farmer Brown? Find out in this Halloween tale from the #1 New York Times bestselling creators of Click, Clack, Moo. Activities and fun to follow.
11am

Family Tours, Fall into Fall– Birmingham Museum of Art
FREE // Meet in the Main Lobby
Join the Museum educators to explore the galleries in a fun, interactive experience! Discover Bart the Art Bat’s favorite artworks during these FREE, drop-in tours. After your tour, visit Bart’s ArtVenture to make an art project inspired by what you saw. What will you discover?

Fall into Fall: The leaves are changing and the harvest is starting! Celebrate autumn and learn about seasonal traditions around the world.
10:30am

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

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Wednesday October 28th:

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

Boo at the Zoo – Birmingham Zoo
Watch as the Zoo transforms into a destination of spooky attractions for 17 nights of Boo at the Zoo presented by Wells Fargo.

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Thursday October 29th:

PJ Storytime – Hoover Public Library
Wear your pajamas to this storytime! Kids of all ages can enjoy stories, finger plays, songs, and a bedtime snack.
6:30

Storytime Live – Hoover Public Library
Stories, songs, poetry, puppetry and more for ages 3 and up. Groups must register.
10:30am

A very Harry Halloween Party – Irondale Library
Celebrate Halloween with games, activities, and crafts. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (2001) will be playing on the big screen. If you like, dress as your favorite character. There will be a drawing for one copy of the new illustrated edition of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.
4pm – 6:30pm

Boo at the Zoo – Birmingham Zoo
Watch as the Zoo transforms into a destination of spooky attractions for 17 nights of Boo at the Zoo presented by Wells Fargo.

PJ Storytime – North Shelby Library
Come in your PJs, have milk and cookies, and hear some wonderful bedtime tales. All Ages. No Registration Required.
6:30pm

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

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Friday October 30th:

Halloween Movie – Homewood Public Library
After moving to Salem, Mass., teenager Max Dennison explores an abandoned house with his sister Dani and their new friend, Allison. After dismissing a story Allison tells as superstitious, Max accidentally frees a coven of evil witches who used to live in the house. Now, with the help of a magical cat, the kids must steal the witches’ book of spells to stop them from becoming immortal. Refreshments and popcorn served.
3:30pm

Spooky Science – McWane Science Center
Join us for our public demonstrations filled with spine tingling experiments. Bring your little monsters for a not-too-scary but totally spooky adventure! Try science “tricks” like sticking your hands in slime, learning how to mix mysterious potions, and even touching pumpkin guts!

Spooky Tales on the Spooky Trails – Vestavia Hills Library
Join us for the fourth annual spooky tradition that starts out mild and ends up WILD! Open house style this year, with a Creepy Critters program, Dr. Frank K. Stein’s concoction lab, the Monster Flashlight Club, a Monster Mash Disco and much more! Bring the whole family for Halloween fun! All ages welcome.
6:30pm

Boo at the Zoo – Birmingham Zoo
Watch as the Zoo transforms into a destination of spooky attractions for 17 nights of Boo at the Zoo presented by Wells Fargo.

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Saturday October 31st:

7th Annual Fall Festival – Buck Creek Park
Fall Fest is a fun filled day with arts and crafts vendors, trick-or-treat trail for children, live music performed by 2BLU and the Lucky Stiffs, food, and more. Many of the Summer 2015 farmers market vendors will also be present this year.
FREE ADMISSION. Please bring money for vendor purchases and food.
9am – 3pm

Trussville Farmers Market – Beside Holy Cross Episcopal Church
The Trussville Fresh Market features herbs, prepared foods, honey, baked goods, fresh vegetables, fresh fruit, and jam.
8am – Noon

Boo at the Zoo – Birmingham Zoo
Watch as the Zoo transforms into a destination of spooky attractions for 17 nights of Boo at the Zoo presented by Wells Fargo.

Bart’s Art Cart– Birmingham Museum of Art
This drop-in art program for kids and families features a different theme from our galleries and art activity each month. Stop by to make art with Bart!
Drumming Up Fun!: Welcome the return of autumn with music and dancing! Make your own drum and stick to ring in the harvest season.
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 November 1st:

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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:

Disney On Ice Raises Awareness for Local Charities

Posted on Wednesday, October 21, 2015 by Angie

Disney On Ice has arrived in Birmingham and as a fun way to promote their show and highlight some local Charities that we all love and hold dear, they sponsored a fun Pumpkin Carving Contest that aired this morning on ABC 33/40, Talk of Alabama.

The Lakeshore Foundation, Children’s of Alabama, and MDA all put their creative thinking caps on and got busy carving out some really cute Disney themed pumpkins. Each team was joined by an “off duty” Disney On Ice cast member who was there to help out and encourage the teams. It even got a little competitive as “Cinderella” and her real life “Prince Charming” were on opposing teams.

“Buzz Lightyear” kept his team, Children’s of Alabama on task and their final product was an adorable Super Mickey, tying in to their Month Long celebration honoring the children and their families who are fighting health care battles on a daily basis.

In the end, they were all winners and received tickets to an upcoming Disney On Ice show.

Disney On Ice, Let’s Celebrate kicks of this Thursday, October 22nd and runs through Sunday, October, 25th. To purchase tickets, visit ticketmaster.

For more information on the charities that were highlighted on the show today you can learn more by visiting their websites:

Lakeshore Foundation

Children’s Of Alabama

MDA

PHOTOS BY: SCOTT BUTLER

13 Nights of Halloween with ABC Family

Posted on Monday, October 19, 2015 by Angie

Ready for some Spooky Family Fun? ABC Family has a great line up of shows kicking off tonight to get you in the mood for Halloween! Which one is your Favorite?

Monday, October 19th

*Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 1 1:30 to 5pm EST/PT
* Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2 5pm to 8pm EST/PT
* Hocus Pocus 9pm- 11pm EST/PT
* Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride 12 – 2am EST/PT

Tuesday, October 20th

* Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride 4-6 pm EST/PT
* Hocus Pocus 6-8pm EST/PT
* “Stitchers” where Camille preps for her annual Halloween bash, as the Stitchers team investigates the suicide of a young man (guest star Jeremy Sumpter, “Friday Night Lights”), who is suspected of abducting a missing college student 9:00 – 10:00 PM ET/PT
* Casper 12am – 2am EST/PT

Wednesday, October 21st

* Casper 5-7pm EST/PT
* The Addams Family 7-9 PM EST/PT
* Addams Family Values 9-11 PM EST/PT
* I Know What You did Last Summer 12-2AM EST/PT

Thursday, October 22nd

* The Addams Family 4-6 PM EST/PT
* Addams Family Values 6-8 PM EST/PT
* The Hunger Games 8-11pm EST/PT
* I Know What You did Last Summer 12-2AM EST/PT

Friday, October 23rd

* The Hunger Games 5:30- 8 PM EST/PT
* Sleepy Hollow 8:30- 11 PM EST/PT
* Matilda 12Am- 2AM EST/PT

Saturday, October 24th

* Matilda 7-9 AM EST/PT
* ParaNorman 9-11 AM EST/PT
* Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride 11AM- 1PM EST/PT
* The Nightmare Before Christmas 1-2:30 PM EST/PT
* Casper 2:30-4:30pm EST/PT
* The Addams Family 4:30-6:30 PM EST/PT
* Addams Family Values 6:30-8:30 PM EST/PT
* Monsters University 8:30-11 PM EST/PT
* Toy Story of Terror 11- 11:30 PM EST/PT
* Hocus Pocus 11:30-1:30 AM EST/PT

Sunday, October 25th

* ParaNorman 7-9AM EST/PT
* Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride 9AM- 11AM EST/PT
* The Nightmare Before Christmas 11-12:30 PM EST/PT
* Casper 12:30-2:30pm EST/PT
* The Addams Family 2:30-4:30 PM EST/PT
* Addams Family Values 4:30-6:30 PM EST/PT
* Toy Story of Terror 6:30- 7:00 PM EST/PT
* Monsters University 7-9:45 PM EST/PT
* Hocus Pocus 9:45PM-12:00 AM EST/PT

Monday, October 26th

* Sleepy Hollow 5:30- 8 PM EST/PT
* Toy Story of Terror 9- 9:30 PM EST/PT
* The Nightmare Before Christmas 9:30-11:00 PM EST/PT
* Frankenweenie 12AM-2AM

Tuesday, October 27th

* Frankenweenie 4PM-6PM EST/PT
* The Nightmare Before Christmas 6-7:30 PM EST/PT
* Toy Story of Terror 7:30- 8 PM EST/PT
* Hocus Pocus 9PM-11:30 PM EST/PT
* ParaNorman 12-2AM EST/PT

Wednesday, October 28th

* ParaNorman 4-6PM EST/PT
* Hocus Pocus 6PM-8:15 PM EST/PT
* Dark Shadows 8:15-11 PM EST/PT
* Casper 12-2 Am EST/PT

Thursday, October 29th

* Casper 5-7 pm EST/PT
* The Addams Family 7-9 PM EST/PT
* Addams Family Values 9-11 PM EST/PT
* Hocus Pocus 12 AM-2 AM EST/PT

Friday, October 30th

* The Addams Family 2:30-4:30 PM EST/PT
* Addams Family Values 4:30-6:30 PM EST/PT
* Hocus Pocus 6:30 PM-8:30 PM EST/PT
* Poltergeist 8:30 PM – 11Pm EST/PT
* Poltergeist II The Other Side 12 AM- 2AM EST/PT

Saturday, October 31st

* Batman 7AM-10AM EST/PT
* Batman 10AM- 12pm EST/PT
* Poltergeist 12:30 PM – 3 Pm EST/PT
* Sleepy Hollow 3:00- 5:30 PM EST/PT
* The Nightmare Before Christmas 5:30-7:00 PM EST/PT
* Hocus Pocus 7:00 PM-9:15 PM EST/PT
* Hocus Pocus 9:15 PM-11:30 PM EST/PT
* Sleepy Hollow 11:30PM- 2 AM EST/PT

Birmingham Events Calendar: October 18th – October 25th

Posted on Sunday, October 18, 2015 by Angie

We hope you’re out and enjoying this AH-Mazing Fall weather we’re having right now! It’s great for getting out and enjoying all of the Pumpkin Patches and Fall Festivals!

Boo at the Zoo is in full swing and many of the Libraries are hosting some really fun storytimes right now!

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

Sunday October 18th:

Play at the Park presented by Birmingham Children’s Theatre – Homewood Central Park
This FREE admission event will include food, games, face painting, live skit, and costume contest! The winner of the costume contest will receive season tickets to BCT! Tickets for theater performances will be on sale as well.
For more information visit their Facebook Page.
1:00pm – 3:30pm

Boo at the Zoo – Birmingham Zoo
Watch as the Zoo transforms into a destination of spooky attractions for 17 nights of Boo at the Zoo presented by Wells Fargo.

Our World, Our Library – Homewood Public Library
Stories, activities and crafts about multiculturalismand diversity, designed for kindergarten-3rd grade. We look forward to finding out about our world with you!
3:30pm

Tannehill Trade Days – Tannehill State Park
Shoppers and swappers come from far and near to Tannehill Trade Days in search of tools, clothing, jewelry, knives, furniture and other treasures.
8pm – 4pm

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Monday October 19th:

Tot Time with Ms. Eve, I love Peanut Butter – Avondale Regional Library
It’s ooey, it’s gooey, it’s a fun, sticky treat. Stories about peanut butter can’t be beat. In recognition of peanut allergies, only imaginary peanut butter will be used. Tot Time is geared for 2 to 4 year olds with an individual caregiver, no groups please. 24-hour advance registration required.
9:30am and 11am

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

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Tuesday October 20th:

Imaginary Fred – Barnes and Noble Summit
Join us for Storytime and activities featuring the title Imaginary Fred.
11am

Fall into Fall: The leaves are changing and the harvest is starting! Celebrate autumn and learn about seasonal traditions around the world.
10:30am

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

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Wednesday October 21st:

Reptile Awareness Day – Birmingham Zoo
Visit the Birmingham Zoo for Reptile Awareness Day on Wednesday, October 21! Guests will be able to enjoy a special meet and greet with zoo keepers and animals in the Reptile Building from 9:00 am – 12:00 pm. This is an exciting event you won’t want to miss!

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

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Thursday October 22nd:

PJ Storytime – North Shelby Library
Come in your PJs, have milk and cookies, and hear some wonderful bedtime tales. All Ages. No Registration Required.
6:30pm

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

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Friday October 23rd:

National Chemistry Week and Mole Day
McWane Science Center joins the American Chemical Society in celebrating the importance of chemistry in our everyday lives. Plus, Mole Day commemorates Avogadro’s Number (6.02 x 10^23), which is a basic measuring unit in chemistry first discovered by Amadeo Avogadro.
10am – 5pm

Boo at the Zoo – Birmingham Zoo
Watch as the Zoo transforms into a destination of spooky attractions for 17 nights of Boo at the Zoo presented by Wells Fargo.

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

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Saturday October 24th:

Boo at the Zoo – Birmingham Zoo
Watch as the Zoo transforms into a destination of spooky attractions for 17 nights of Boo at the Zoo presented by Wells Fargo.

Owl O Ween – Alabama Wildlife Center, Oak Mountain
Owl-O-Ween features children’s activities, games, storytime, owl prowl, bird of prey show, and complimentary candy. Meet Alabama’s native owls and the world’s largest owl species! Free after paid admission to Oak Mountain State Park. For changes and details: www.awrc.org
11am – 2pm

Rainbow Magic Celebration – Irondale Public Library
Celebrate your favorite fairies with stories, crafts, and activities! Fairies, girls, and boys of all ages are welcome. Dress like a fairy or just be yourself!
12pm

Bart’s Art Cart– Birmingham Museum of Art
This drop-in art program for kids and families features a different theme from our galleries and art activity each month. Stop by to make art with Bart!
Drumming Up Fun!: Welcome the return of autumn with music and dancing! Make your own drum and stick to ring in the harvest season.
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 October 25th:

Boo at the Zoo – Birmingham Zoo
Watch as the Zoo transforms into a destination of spooky attractions for 17 nights of Boo at the Zoo presented by Wells Fargo.

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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: