Parenting with a PhD: What To Do When Your Kids Are Embarrasing

Posted on Thursday, April 30, 2015 by Angie

By Kristen Berthiaume:

Kids are embarrassing. Just, really. Whether it’s their atrocious behavior at a restaurant or a loudly asked question about someone’s appearance, decorum is not a high priority for little ones. Most of this behavior is entirely innocent: they’re just having fun and not trying to hurt or annoy anyone. So, how do you, as a parent, deal with these embarrassments when they come up to help your kids learn appropriate behavior in public without shaming them for simple curiosity?

Try some of these tips:

Prime them. The best way to avoid being embarrassed by your kids’ behavior is to adequately prepare them for situations ahead of time. On the way to where you’re going, have a talk about what they can expect when you arrive: “It’s going to be really crowded,” “You’re going to be seeing lots of family members,” “People are going to be having quiet conversations.” Then, tell your child what you expect from him: “I expect you to walk next to me so you don’t get lost,” “You don’t have to hug anyone you don’t want to hug but I expect you to say hello,” “You must use your inside voice while we’re there so get your screams out now!” (Immediately plug your ears if you say that last thing). Explain what will happen if your child meets these expectations: “If you can use your inside voice and sit next to me at the table, we can order dessert after dinner;” and what will happen if he doesn’t meet the expectations: “If you can’t follow the rules about being in a restaurant, we will have to leave as soon as we finish dinner.”

A particularly tricky issue to handle is preventing potentially embarrassing or insulting questions about others’ behavior or appearance. Priming your child for handling these situations the best way starts much earlier than the car ride. By age three, it would be a good idea to start having conversations with your kids about physical differences they might notice in others and the best way to ask you about them. You might start this conversation by reading books about differences together.

Some fun ones:

It’s Okay To Be Different by Todd Parr, What I Like About Me by Allia Zobel Nolan, We’re Different, We’re the Same (“Sesame Street”) by Bobbi Kates, and the Some Kids…(…Are Deaf, …Use Wheelchairs, etc.) series by Lola M. Schaefer.

Then talk about times they may have noticed that someone looked different because of skin color, hair color, body size, hygiene, use of assistive devices, etc.

Discuss some of the challenges that might come with various differences and, also, the good things about being different. When your child has grasped the concept of physical differences, move on to behavioral differences: for example, schoolmates with learning or intellectual disabilities who may not understand information the same way your child does; people who don’t seem to make sense or mutter to themselves. Explain that just like our bodies look and work differently, so do our brains and how our brains work affects our behavior. Talk about how your child should handle it if he has questions about someone’s physical or behavioral difference. Tell him to hold on to his questions until you can speak privately and reassure him that you’ll answer all his queries at that time. When this conversation happens, only give information you’re sure is true and look up anything you’re uncertain about. Discuss ways your child can be sensitive to people’s physical and behavioral differences like: saying hello when walking past them, being sure not to stare or point, playing with a child who seems different on the playground, or speaking up when someone else is making fun of a person’s difference. To help your child maintain a neutral to positive attitude, be careful not to assign judgment when talking about differences even if you may feel it’s the person’s own fault (e.g., the person appears under the influence). You can still discuss your own values (e.g., “Drugs are very harmful and we stay away from them”) without criticizing someone else.

If it happens that your child says or does something offensive, be neutral and matter of fact. No matter how well you prepare your child, there’s always the potential that she’ll behave poorly or say something hurtful to someone. Your first response should be to calm down. Take deep breaths, count, whatever. No matter what the looks others are giving you may suggest, what just happened is NOT a reflection of you or your parenting. Kids aren’t miniature adults and the filters in their brains don’t always work. Assuming you didn’t tell your child to do or say whatever she just did or said, this isn’t your embarrassing situation. Think of what just happened as a prime “teachable moment.” The lesson will be much more effective if you’re not infusing the situation with your own anger or shame. Keep in mind that your daughter may find the person’s appearance or behavior to be disturbing or scary. If she’s never seen a person without legs before, she may wonder if that will happen to her, too. If someone is yelling or cussing in the street, she may fear he’s going to hurt her. First, offer a brief apology to the person your child has hurt and explain that you and your daughter will discuss the matter privately.

Shushing your child and quickly storming off not only leaves the offended party hanging but also gives him no reassurance that your child will learn from the situation or behave any differently in the future. Second, take your daughter by the hand away where you can talk in confidence. Third, ask calmly if your child knows why what she just did or said was hurtful. If she seems clueless, explain to your child that calling out someone’s differences or describing those differences in a negative way may call attention to
something that the other person doesn’t like having to talk about or explain all the time. Ask your daughter about her own differences and how she feels when others make fun of them. Fourth, find out what questions your daughter needs answered about the person’s differences and do your best to address them. Fifth, discuss ways that she might make the situation right. Can she apologize to the person? Don’t push this if she seems overly anxious or fearful. You’ve already apologized on her behalf and speaking to a person who may be angry with her will be too difficult for many kids. If you know the offended party, maybe she can write a letter or make a card. If she can’t apologize, try researching together that person’s differences so she can better understand them. Finally, talk about how your daughter will better handle a similar situation next time. Remind her that you are always happy to answer questions about someone’s appearance and behavior but that she needs to ask you in private and remember the right way to treat the person when she sees him or her. If your child makes good effort moving through these steps with you, tell her you’re proud that she is learning from her mistake and express that you know she’ll deal with it better in the future.

Most importantly, keep in mind that no matter how well you prepare your kids or how expertly you handled situations that occurred in the past, sometimes your kid is just going to do something awful in front of tons of people and you’re going to feel rotten about it. Fortunately, if you can put those negative feelings aside, or at least pretend to for a few minutes, you can help your child learn a valuable lesson about how to treat others and how to handle confusing situations.

About this column: Send your parenting- and kid-related questions my way and I’ll tell you what I can: parentingwithaphd@gmail.com 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 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.

Kentucky Derby Playdate

Posted on Tuesday, April 28, 2015 by Angie

We might not be able to sneak away to the infield at Churchill Downs to watch the horses run, but that doesn’t mean we can’t have some fun while watching the most exciting 2 minutes in sports.. The Kentucky Derby!

Here are a few ideas on throwing a party and getting the kids involved in the fun!

You can’t even say Kentucky Derby without thinking of 2 things: Hats and Mint Juleps. While we can’t offer up real mint juleps to the kiddos (obviously,) we do have a yummy little “mocktail” that even you will want to sip on..

Kentucky Derby Mint Squeeze:

Ingredients

1/4 cup water
1/4 cup white sugar
1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves
2 cups crushed ice
1/2 cup prepared lemonade
Fresh mint sprigs, for garnish

Directions:

In a small saucepan, combine the water, sugar and 1 tablespoon of chopped mint. Stir and bring to a boil. Cook until sugar has dissolved, then remove from heat and set aside to cool. After about an hour, strain out mint leaves.
Fill 2 cups or frozen goblets with crushed ice. Pour 1/2 of the lemonade into each glass and top with a splash of the sugar syrup. Garnish each with a mint sprig and a straw. Serve on a silver platter.

Hats! What an easy activity to keep the kiddos busy. Hit up the dollar store for some blank hats – they are shaped kind of like cowboy hats, but once they are embellished no one will be the wiser.

Set out some craft glue and any type of embellishment you can think of: Buttons, Ribbon, Sequins, Feathers, Fake Flowers, the crazier the better! Let the kids go to town decorating their own Derby Hat – Maybe even award a prize for the best one.

Another item you can find sometimes at the dollar store is a Stick Pony – Pick up a few or encourage guests to bring one from home and host a Stick Pony Race! The winner will receive a “Blanket of Roses” Made from Red felt and Tissue. Super Easy.

If you want to incorporate some math skills, set up a little window and have children guess or choose which horse they think will Win, Place or Show. Use fake money and make up some tickets from colored construction paper that match the silks of the racers.

Do you have any Derby Traditions you do that incorporate the tiny humans? Share with the class, we would love to know!

Birmingham Summer Movies, Free and Discounted 2015

Posted on Monday, April 27, 2015 by Angie

A Summer time favorite is back! Free and discounted movies around Birmingham! It’s a great inexpensive treat the whole family can enjoy and it’s a great way to beat the summer heat! We hope you enjoy this activity as much as we do!

The Deal:

Amstar Cinemas – Alabaster – Tuesday’s and Wednesday’s. Admission is $3.50 per person, price includes Movie, Kids Drink and Popcorn. All movies will start at 10am, box office opens at 9:30. Seating is limited, first come first served. All movies are G or PG.

Carmike Cinemas:
Tuesdays and Thursday at The Summit 16, Patton Creek 15, and Lee Branch 15. The features will begin at 10 am with doors opening at 9:30 am. The price is $4, which includes admission, one 53 oz popcorn, and one 16 oz drink. All features are presented in their 2D format.

*** NEW THIS SUMMER! Carmike Cinemas, The Summit 16, Patton Creek 15, and Lee Branch 15, will be offering a second showing of their Tuesday Movie at 6:30pm. Same Movie, Same price, evening showing. Tuesday Nights only!

Flicks Among the Flowers – Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Formal Garden in front of the Conservatory. Free, Cash bar and movie themed food available for purchase. Don’t forget your blanket. Movies at 8pm, gates open at 6pm

The Edge – Shows every Tuesday – Thursday at 10am. Doors open at 9:30am. $4 for ticket and kids pack concession purchases.

Free Friday Flicks – Veterans Park in Hoover. Movies begin at 6:30. Free but arrive early to visit local vendors.

Premiere Cinemas, Tannehill – Wednesdays, 10am. Admission is FREE

Regal Trussville – Summer Movie Express. Tuesdays & Wednesdays at 10am. Admission is $1 and a portion of the proceeds will benefit the Will Rogers Institute. This Summer series is proudly sponsored by: Rape and Brooks Orthodontist.

The Alabama Theatre– Throwback Kids Club. Doors open at 9 a.m. for activities. The movie begins at 10 a.m.
$5 adults (over 12) / $3 kids (12 & under) / kids 2 and under are free

Saturday/Sunday Matinees – 2pm. Thursday/Friday Night Shows – 7pm. Tickets $8 at the door. Doors open 1 hour before show time.

Movies at Avondale Park – Movies and Bands playing at the event, before each movie, from 6:45 until 7:45 bands will perform live music.

Helena Sundown Cinemas – Friday Nights, shows start at sundown, around 8pm. Helena Amphitheatre

The Movies:

Wednesday May 13th

Flicks Among the Flowers, Botanical Gardens – Jurrassic Park

Tuesday May 26th

Amstar Alabaster – The Lego Movie

Wednesday May 27th

Amstar Alabaster – The Lego Movie

Friday May 29th

Free Friday Flicks, Veterans Park – Big Hero 6

Tuesday June 2nd

Amstar Alabaster – Yogi Bear
Carmike Cinemas – Rise of the Guardians
The Edge – Sub Zero Heros
Movies in Avondale Park – Toy Story
Regal Trussville – Nut Job

Wednesday June 3rd

Amstar Alabaster – Yogi Bear
The Edge – Sub Zero Heros
Premiere Tannehill – LEGO Movie
Regal Trussville – Annie

Thursday June 4th

Carmike Cinemas – Rise of the Guardians
The Edge – Sub Zero Heros

Friday June 5th

Free Friday Flicks, Veterans Park – Alexander and the Horrible No Good Very Bad Day
Helena Sundown Cinemas – Frozen Sing a Long

Tuesday June 9th

Amstar Alabaster – Space Jam
Carmike Cinemas – How to Train your Dragon 2
The Edge – How to Train Your Dragon 2
Movies in Avondale Park – Wall-E
Regal Trussville – Earth to Echo

Wednesday June 10th

Amstar Alabaster – Space Jam
The Edge – How to Train Your Dragon 2
Premiere Tannehill – RIO
Regal Trussville – Boxtrolls

Thursday June 11th

Carmike Cinemas – How to Train your Dragon 2
The Edge – How to Train Your Dragon 2

Friday June 12th

Free Friday Flicks, Veterans Park – Strange Magic
Helena Sundown Cinemas – Planes Fire and Rescue

Tuesday June 16th

Amstar Alabaster – Happy Feet
Carmike Cinemas – Monsters V. Aliens
The Edge – The Book of Life
Movies in Avondale Park – The Lorax
Regal Trussville – Paddington

Wednesday June 17th

Amstar Alabaster – Happy Feet
The Edge – The Book of Life
Premiere Tannehill – The Croods
Regal Trussville – Turbo

Thursday June 18th

Carmike Cinemas – Monsters V. Aliens
The Edge – The Book of Life

Friday June 19th

Free Friday Flicks, Veterans Park – Annie (2014)
Alabama Theatre – Ghostbusters
Helena Sundown Cinemas – Muppets Most Wanted

Tuesday June 23rd

Amstar Alabaster – Happy Feet 2
Carmike Cinemas – The Croods
The Edge – Madagascar 2
Movies in Avondale Park – Willy Wonka (original)
Regal Trussville – Rio 2

Wednesday June 24th

Amstar Alabaster – Happy Feet 2
The Edge – Madagascar 2
Flicks Among the Flowers, Botanical Gardens – Ghostbusters
Premiere Tannehill – RIO 2
Regal Trussville – How to Train your Dragon 2

Thursday June 25th

Carmike Cinemas – The Croods
The Edge – Madagascar 2

Friday June 26th

Free Friday Flicks, Veterans Park – Maleficent
Helena Sundown Cinemas – The LEGO Movie

Tuesday June 30th

Amstar Alabaster – How to Train Your Dragon 2
Carmike Cinemas – Megamind
The Edge – Despicable Me
Movies in Avondale Park – Muppet Movie (original)
Regal Trussville – Mr Peabody

Wednesday July 1st

Amstar Alabaster – How to Train Your Dragon 2
The Edge – Despicable Me 2
Premiere Tannehill – The Book of Life
Regal Trussville – Book of LIfe

Thursday July 2nd

Carmike Cinemas – Megamind
The Edge – Despicable Me 2

Tuesday July 7th

Amstar Alabaster – Dr Seuss Horton Hears a Who
Carmike Cinemas – Shrek Forever After
The Edge – Penguins
Movies in CRESTWOOD Park – Back to the Future
Regal Trussville – Night at the Museum, Secret of the Tomb

Wednesday July 8th

Amstar Alabaster – Dr Seuss Horton Hears a Who
The Edge – Penguins
Premiere Tannehill – Horton Hears a Who
Regal Trussville – Penguins of Madagascar

Thursday July 9th

Carmike Cinemas – Shrek Forever After
The Alabama Theatre – 101 Dalmations
The Edge – Penguins

Friday July 10th

Free Friday Flicks, Veterans Park – Home
Helena Sundown Cinemas – Alexander and the terrible, horrible, no good very bad day

Tuesday July 14th

Amstar Alabaster – Mr Peabody and Sherman
Carmike Cinemas – Marmaduke
The Edge – Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2
Regal Trussville – Madagascar 3

Wednesday July 15th

Amstar Alabaster – Mr Peabody and Sherman
The Edge – Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2
Flicks Among the Flowers, Botanical Gardens – Top Gun
Premiere Tannehill – Madagascar 3
Regal Trussville – Dolphin Tale 2

Thursday July 16th

Carmike Cinemas – Marmaduke
The Alabama Theatre – The Love Bug
The Edge – Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2

Friday July 17th

Free Friday Flicks, Veterans Park – Paddington
Helena Sundown Cinemas – Cinderella (original)

Sunday July 19th

Alabama Theatre – Wizard of Oz

Tuesday July 21st

Amstar Alabaster – Rio 2
Carmike Cinemas – Toothfairy
The Edge – Surfs Up
Regal Trussville – Muppets Most Wanted

Wednesday July 22nd

Amstar Alabaster – Rio 2
The Edge – Surfs Up
Premiere Tannehill -The Spongebob Movie: Sponge out of Water
Regal Trussville – Alexander and the Terrible, No Good, Very Bad Day

Thursday July 23rd

Carmike Cinemas – Toothfairy
The Alabama Theatre – Toy Story
The Edge – Surfs Up

Friday July 24th

Free Friday Flicks, Veterans Park – Dolphin Tale 2
Helena Sundown Cinemas – Big Hero 6

Tuesday July 28th

Amstar Alabaster – Shrek
Carmike Cinemas – Spongebob, Sponge out of Water
The Edge – Hop
Regal Trussville – The Lego Movie

Wednesday July 29th

Amstar Alabaster – Shrek
The Edge – Hop
Premiere Tannehill – Hotel Transylvania
Regal Trussville – The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water

Thursday July 3oth

Carmike Cinemas – Spongebob, Sponge out of Water
The Alabama Theatre – Cinderella
The Edge – Hop

Friday July 31st

Free Friday Flicks, Veterans Park – ** Rain Date

Tuesday August 4th

Carmike Cinemas – Paddington
The Edge – Horton Hears a Who

Wednesday August 5th

The Edge – Horton Hears a Who
Premiere Tannehill – Despicable Me 2

Thursday August 6th

Carmike Cinemas – Paddington
The Edge – Horton Hears a Who

Sunday August 16th

Alabama Theatre – The Sound of Music

Birmingham Events Calendar: April 26th – May 2nd

Posted on Sunday, April 26, 2015 by Angie

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

The Barons come home later this week and the weather looks like it’s going to be perfect for taking in a game! The State Fair is here all week and if you’re thinking ahead to Mother’s Day (we know you are!) Make plans to come out to the Monogram Event at the Outlet Shops of Grand River on Saturday, BirminghamMommy will be on site with some goodies to hand out.

Have a great week, everyone!

Sunday April 26th:

Oak Mountain State Fair – Oak Mountain Amphitheater
Live music, petting zoos, all-ages carnival rides, and deep-fried Oreos celebrate the spring season
Visit one of the largest Collection of exotic animals In North America. These animals Love to eat and you can hand feed them all. Enjoy some of the worlds Greatest fair food traditions such as Roasted Corn. Something Everyone loves!
12pm – midnight

Magic City Art Connection – Linn Park
FIND ART! Make your way to downtown Birmingham’s historic Linn Park and settle in for Magic City Art Connection’s spring infusion of fresh artistic talent, sights, sounds, tastes and aromas. The 32nd annual contemporary art festival presents 220 juried artists from around the country and much more to thousands of visitors hungry for arts and culture, creativity, entertainment, food, community and fun. Be one of the art curious, art collecting, art newbies and other festival goers perusing the thousands of works on display. All mediums, styles, and price points are represented. On the other side of the art buying experience, much more awaits like the 18th annual Corks and Chefs food and wine tasting event, now with exclusive VIP upgrades and offerings, including the BBVA Compass. VIP Experience featuring World’s Best Pastry Chef in 2014 awarded by the World’s 50 Best Restaurants, Jordi Roca. Plus there’s Imagination Festival’s 20 interactive ?art workshops for kids, live music and performances on stage from local talent, large scale art installations by emerging student artists, special exhibitions right across the street at the Birmingham Museum of Art, a Lincoln Luxury test-drive opportunity with complimentary gifts, lingering with friends at one of the festival lounges, and eating all day at the Park Place Café. Find Art and more the last full weekend in April!

Festival Admission: $5 Adults, Kids 12 & under free
Tickets for Corks & Chefs Food and Wine Tasting are $35 advance/$45 at the door, which includes admission to the festival.

Check their site for more information on the weekends events
10am – 5pm

Family Fun and Fitness Day – Montevallo Chamber of Commerce
Spend time with the family enjoying a day of fun and fitness in Montevallo’s beautiful Orr Park! Organized activities feature games for children, bikes, health-related vendors, and more. Pets welcome
2pm – 4pm

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Monday April 27th:

Time for Tales with Ms Eve – Avondale Library
Get ready to wiggle and giggle during this last Tot Time before Summer Reading begins! Tot Time is designed for 2 to 4 year olds with a parent or caregiver. 24-hour advance registration is required.
9:30 and 11am

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Tuesday April 28th:

Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
April showers bring May flowers. This story shows us many kinds of the flowers of spring and summer.
11am

Wee Ones Storytime – Homewood Public Library
Join us on Tuesday mornings for a unique new Storytime specifically tailored to your one year old!
9:30a and 10:30a

Family Tours, Kids at Play– 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?

Kids At Play! See all the shenanigans kids get into, as displayed in works of art from our collection..
10:30am

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Wednesday April 29th:

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

Wiggleworm Wednesdays– Homewood Public Library
Storytime for all ages! Join us for music, puppets, dancing, and so much more in Storytime with Ms. Mandy. Look in the round auditorium every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. for your Storytime pals!
Large groups, we appreciate your call to 205-332-6619 to ensure adequate space.
10:30am

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Thursday April 30th:

Birmingham Barons – Regions Field
The Barons are looking to build on a record-setting two-year span at Regions Field that saw them welcome over 800,000 fans to downtown Birmingham while being named the 2013 Ballpark of the Year by Baseballparks.com.
vs. Tennessee
7:05pm

Mommy and Me Storytime – Homewood Public Library
We are now featuring two Mommy & Me Story Times with Miss Renee! Due to high demand (and high squish quotient), we are opening availability to create a flexible time schedule that includes all of our eager young patrons (comfortably). You can now choose between two back-to-back Story Times on Thursday mornings; the first begins at 9:30 a.m., the second at 10:30 a.m.

Come by the round auditorium for lots of music, dancing, and of course, the bean-bag song! Miss Rene uses drama, wit, and a hefty dose of fun things to shake to keep your young one entertained and educated.
9:30am and 10:30am

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Friday May 1st:

The Monogram Event – The Outlet Shops of Grand River
REWARD YOURSELF WITH A COMPLIMENTARY MONOGRAM!

Simply spend;
$75 at Tommy Hilfiger, or
$75 at J.Crew Factory, or
$50 at VF Outlet, or
$50 at Talbots Outlet*

Monogrammers will be at the center for demonstrations and consult from 12p-6p

Select colors & fonts available for complimentary monograms.
Orders are fulfilled off-site & returned within 7-10 business days.*

Party on the Porch – Alabama Outdoors
It’s that time of year again…Party on the Porch is back! Head to our Homewood for the first Party on the beautiful NEW porch.
Our first Party on the Porch event of the summer will benefit and raise awareness for Red Mountain Park–a local Birmingham park that boasts 12 miles of hiking and biking trails, the Red Ore Zip Tour, the Hugh Kaul Beanstalk Forest, the Kaul Adventure Tower and the scenic 6 acre off-leash Remy’s Dog Park.

Live music by Jason Bailey, on-site soul food from Saw’s Street Kitchen, and delicious draft beer from Good People Brewing Company in a $10 collectible cup. We will also have corn hole and face painting for kids (while supplies last).
Optional $10 donation to Red Mountain Park. Donation required for cup of beer.
5:30pm – 7:30pm

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Saturday May 2nd:

The Monogram Event – The Outlet Shops of Grand River
REWARD YOURSELF WITH A COMPLIMENTARY MONOGRAM!

Simply spend;
$75 at Tommy Hilfiger, or
$75 at J.Crew Factory, or
$50 at VF Outlet, or
$50 at Talbots Outlet*

Monogrammers will be at the center for demonstrations and consult from 12p-6p

Select colors & fonts available for complimentary monograms.
Orders are fulfilled off-site & returned within 7-10 business days.*

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.

Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
What Do You Do With an Idea? Storytime. Children of all ages will find inspiration in this story that asks us to nurture an idea, no matter how silly it may seem. Activities will follow.
11am

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Sunday May 3rd:

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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: Tornado Alley, Great White Shark, To the Arctic, Island of Lemurs: Madagascar

Birmingham Zoo:

PELICAN FEEDING – A great way to see our pelicans in action is to witness them eating their favorite treats near the pelican boardwalk.

RHINO ENCOUNTER – Embark on an African adventure and experience one of the world’s most extraordinary animals, the Southern White Rhino. Watch from only feet away as our zookeepers engage in hands-on interaction with the animals inside their African-themed exhibit. Don’t miss this exciting encounter with one of the largest mammals on the planet!
Weekdays: 3pm – 3:30pm
Weekends: 11:30am – Noon & 3pm – 3:30 pm

GIRAFFE FEEDING – This up close and personal animal encounter is a memory you and your family will have for a lifetime.
Weekday: 11am – Noon
Weekends: 10am – 11am & 2pm – 3pm

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.

Tails in the Trails, 2015.

Posted on Thursday, April 23, 2015 by Angie

Don’t miss this evening full of entertainment and help the Birmingham Zoo celebrate their 60th Anniversary in the Junior League of Birmingham – Hugh Kaul Children’s Zoo! Adults 21 and up are invited to enjoy live music by Gentleman Zero, bar-b-que, a cash bar, silent auction and animal encounters at the Birmingham Zoo Junior Board’s fifth annual event. Guests can also enjoy a ride on the Jane H. Brock Soaring Safari Zipline Adventure (additional cost). Be sure to purchase your tickets here before April 23 to save! Net proceeds from the event will benefit the Barbara Ingalls Shook Black Bear Trail, coming soon to the Birmingham Zoo.

New this year, meet International Animal Expert and TV Personality Jack Hanna, star of the Fox show, “Jack Hanna’s Into the Wild!” Click here for more information.

Click here for tickets, $20 through April 23
$25 at the door

Birmingham Area Summer Camp Guide, 2015

Posted on Monday, April 20, 2015 by Angie

We’re just a couple of short weeks away from school being out for the summer here in Birmingham.. If you haven’t booked your camp spots yet, you still have plenty to choose from.. Take a look at these options!

Acting Out! Preforming Arts Academy Summer Movie Camp

What is Movie Camp? Only the coolest camp in the South! Where kids will star in a film while working with Acting Out’s coaches to perfect their craft! At the end of the week, we will premier the film at a red carpet premiere at a local theater for friends and family! Our movies have even made it into film festivals!
CAMP DETAILS:
When: June 1st-5th, July 20th-25th and August 3rd-7th
Where: TBD but in the Vestavia/ Birmingham Area
Times: 9:30-3:00 Monday through Friday
Cost: $325
We are doing 3 movies this summer and as always it is first come, first serve. To register your child, please fill out the information below. You will receive confirmation shortly and more specific camp info the closer we get to camp time. If you have any questions, please call Meg at 205-440-2699 or email her at meg@actingoutacademy.com.

REGISTER

Aldridge Gardens

This year’s camps are for children entering Kindergarten through 4th grade, and include the always-popular American Girls in Aldridge Gardens, as well as Chemistry and Construction Kids, Painting, Pounding, Picking, Pressing and Find the Hidden Treasures of Aldridge Gardens.

Register now!

Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Make sure to see our traditional favorites (Parents’ Request) as well as our new topics!

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!
Morning, Afternoon and All Day Camps are available.

Summer Camp Shirts included with each registration fee

Birmingham Museum of Art

The Birmingham Museum of Art offers a one-of-a-kind camp where children experience amazing art first hand. This year, Summer Art Camp will focus on art that tells stories. Campers will explore the wonderful world of Birmingham artist Frank Fleming, whose fantastical sculptures have endless stories to tell. Campers will also discover the history and meaning found in Hale Woodruff’s murals, whose stories of struggle, action, and equality attract visitors from around the world.

Along the way, we will discover many different cultures and artists who have shared their stories in art through the ages. Campers will experience a summer of fun-filled experiences and will create visual stories in a variety of media. Let storytelling with the visual arts fill your camper’s summer with extraordinary wonder and imagination. It can only happen here at the Birmingham Museum of Art!

** Discount!! Now through May 1, use the discount code KPG15IDE to receive $50 off camp registration!

Young Artists

For students entering 2nd through 6th grade for the 2015-2016 school year.

June 15-19 // 9am-3pm (Click here to enroll now!)
June 22-26 // 9am-3pm (Click here to enroll!)
July 6-10 // 9am-3pm (Click here to enroll now!)
July 13-17 // 9am-3pm (Click here to enroll now!)

Cost per week: $250 Museum Members // $300 non-members

After-care: Available 3-5:30pm for an additional $50 per week per child

Little Masters

For students who have completed 5K and are entering 1st grade in the 2015-2016 school year.

July 20-24 // 9am-Noon (Click here to enroll now!)
July 27-31 // 9am-Noon (Click here to enroll now!)

Cost per week: $150 Museum Members // $180 non-members

Birmingham Zoo

Sign up today for a Birmingham Zoo Summer ZooFari Camp! With up-close animal encounters, train and carousel rides, lorikeet and giraffe feedings and guided tours of the Zoo, the best place for fun and learning is at a Birmingham Zoo Camp. For detailed information including camp descriptions, schedules and pricing, click the Information Packet button below.

All camps operate between 8:30am and 3:30pm.
BeforeCare begins at 7:30am.
AfterCare ends at 5:30pm.

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.

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!

2015 Camps (limited availability) Price is $225.00 plus a $25 supply fee

June 1-4 (FULL!)

June 15-18

July 13-16

For more information or to register, CLICK HERE

Equine Inspirations Camp

June 29- July 2

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.

Cost: $300 +$25 supply fee.

Ages: 9 and up.

Registration: sweethorsealabama@hotmail.com

Horsemanship Camp

July 6-9

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.
Cost: $450
Ages: 8 and up
Riding Experience: beginner and up.
Registration: deanahunter@charter.net

Fashion Camp

Fashion Camp at The Summit is the premier destination for girls who have a passion for fashion and who want to feel confident and comfortable. Our professional stylist, Megan LaRussa Chenoweth of Southern Femme, will share the secrets of mastering makeup, the art of accessorizing, dining etiquette and how to develop a personal style all your own. It’s like fashion week in Paris, a Hollywood makeover and an elegant dinner party all rolled into one. And it’s all at The Summit.

Camp is one day from 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. on the date chosen. Cost is $65 per child. Camp includes lunch, a $20 gift card to The Summit, a special gift and an official graduation certificate.

Fresh Air Family

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

1st – 4th Grade Only Sessions

Session 1: June 1-5 — Grades 1-4
Session 3: June 15-19 — Grades 1-4
Session 4: June 22-26 — Grades 1-4
Session 6: July 6-10 – Grades 1-4
Session 7: July 13-17– Grades 1-4
Session 9: July 27-31 – Grades 1-4

Grades 1 – 7 & 5th – 7th Grade Sessions

Session 2: June 8-12 — Grades 1-7
Session 5: June 29 – July 3 — Grades 1-7
Session 8: July 20-24 — Grades 5-7

Greater Birmingham Humane Society Critter Camp

All sessions are held at the Greater Birmingham Humane Society. Space is limited and campers will be placed in sessions on a first come, first serve basis. Confirmation letters will be mailed within ten business days of receiving payment. For more information please contact Mary Grace Wilson at mawilson@gbhs.org or 205.397.8544

Session 1 Registration – Ages 5 & 6
The dates for this session are June 22 – 26, 2015.
Session 2 Registration – Ages 7 & 8
The dates for this session are July 13 -17, 2015.
Session 3 Registration – Ages 9 & 10
The dates for this session are July 27 – 31, 2015

Highlands Summer Camp

A quality summer program for rising Kindergartners through Eighth Graders. Summer at Highlands Camp registration begins in February and offers a variety of programs from creative to athletic to academic–all just plain fun! Camps are filled on a first come, first served basis, so please register for your camper’s favorites early. You don’t need to be a Highlands School student to enroll in our summer camp. Check out the Summer Camp Catalog to view camp descriptions.

Legacy Gymnastics

Open to boys and girls ages 4-12. You do not have to have gymnastics experience or be enrolled at Legacy to participate.

Mason Music

Stars Preschool Music Camp

May 18-22 (9:00-11:00 AM)

June 15-19 (9:00-11:00 AM)

July 6-10 (9:00-11:00 AM)

For little boys and girls 3-6 years old (who are potty trained) and interested in learning about music in a creative and fun environment, we offer a five-day camp at Mountain Brook Community Church’s Children Worship Room (3001 Hwy 280 East Birmingham, AL 35243).* The cost for this camp is $125.*Please note: The Google Maps app is useful for getting directions to the church. The Maps app on the iPhone gives incorrect directions.
REGISTER

Mason Music Camp for Beginners
August 3-7

For students 6-9 years old who have little or no experience with music and may be wondering which instrument is right for them, Mason Music offers a half-day music camp from 9:00 AM-12:00 PM at our Cahaba Heights Studio (3187 Cahaba Heights Road, Birmingham, AL 35243). The Mason Music Camp for Beginners allows each student the opportunity to learn how to sing and play instruments like the guitar, piano, drums and violin. Each student will spend time with a teacher in small groups working and learning the basics of these instruments. There are also larger group activities and games that will involve the whole camp. The goal of this camp is to allow students to explore their interest on several instruments and learn general music concepts like pitch and rhythm. The cost of this camp is $175.
REGISTER

Rock Band Camp
June 22-26
Rock Band Camp, similar to our Rock Band League, is for students who already have a grasp of their instrument and are ready to take it to the next level. Students are placed into bands and learn how to play music in a group setting. This full-day camp takes place at our Cahaba Heights Studio (3187 Cahaba Heights Road, Birmingham, AL 35243) from 9:00 AM-3:00 PM with a break for lunch (please bring a sack lunch labeled with your name). The week-long camp will culminate in a “battle of the bands” at a local venue. The cost for this camp is $350.
REGISTER

Advanced Rock Band Camp
July 20-24
For students who have extensive training in their instrument and experience with either our Band Camp or Rock Band League, we are offering an Advanced Rock Band Camp where students have the option of signing up as a band, or as individuals to be placed into bands and play together in a group setting. We are looking for drummers, bass players, acoustic and electric guitar players, keyboard or piano players, singers and violin players. This will be a full-day camp at our Cahaba Heights Studio (3187 Cahaba Heights Road, Birmingham, AL 35243) from 9:00 AM-3:00 PM with a break for lunch (please bring a sack lunch labeled with your name). The week-long camp will culminate in a “battle of the bands” at a local venue and the winners of the “battle of the bands” will be awarded a day in Mason Music’s Recording Studio to record a song of their choice.
The cost for this camp is $350.
REGISTER

McWane Science Center

A week of fun and learning awaits your child at McWane Science Center Summer Camp. Weekly camps June 1st through August 7th.
New This Year! – Week 11 (August 10th-14th) will be offered as daily camps; you will be able to register your child for individual days. Registration will be available in May

REGISTRATION:
Campers should be registered in the camps of the grade they will be attending in the fall of 2015. 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.

4K – K Registration Form – Campers entering 4K or Kindergarten classes for the 2015-2016 school year

1st – 2nd Grade Registration Form – Campers entering 1st or 2nd grades for the 2015-2016 school year

3rd – 4th Grade Registration Form – Campers entering 3rd or 4th grades for the 2015-2016 school year

5th – 6th Grade Registration Form – Campers entering 5th or 6th grades for the 2015-2016 school year

7th – 9th Grade Registration Form – Campers entering 7th, 8th, or 9th grades for the 2015-2016 school year

Week 11 Camps – Daily registration for each camp level

CAMP FEES
All fees are due in full at time of registration. 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 day (McWane Science Center Members receive $25 discount)

Week 11 (August 9th – 14th)
Daily Full-day camps $80 per day (McWane Science Center Members receive $20 discount)
Daily Half-day camps $40 per day (McWane Science Center Members receive $10 discount)

Mountain Brook Gymnastics

When school is out, summer day camp at MBG is the place to be! We are offering 11 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.
REGISTER

Premier Gymnastics

Camp Info

Session 1: June 8-12 (Sharks & Mermaids)
Session 2: Cheer/Ninja (June 15-19)
Session 3: Superheroes (June 22-26)
Session 4: Rock Star (July 13-17)
Session 5: Exploration & Discovery (July 27-31)

Half Day: 9am-12pm (ages 3* – 12) *must be potty trained

Lunch Bunch: 12pm-1pm* (All camps end at 12pm on Friday for end of camp performances)
*bring sack lunch

Cost per session:
If registered before April 30:
1 week: $165/week
2 weeks: $155/week
3+ weeks: $145/week

If registered after May 1:
1 week: $180/week
2 weeks: $170/week
3+ weeks: $160/week

*Lunch Bunch=$5/day

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

Ruffner Mountain Nature Center

It’s time to sign up for Ruffner’s 2015 Summer Camps! Camps available for 4k – 8th grade. Something for every young naturalist, whether your child is into outdoor adventure, art, silly games, animals, or anything in between, Ruffner camps have it all!
Extended Care is available for every week of camp (Morning: 7:30 – 9 am, Afternoon ends at 5:30 pm)

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 8 – June 12 | 1:00 – 5:00 pm | In-studio | Grades K – 7 | May choose from single days or full-week

June 15 – June 19 | 9:00 am – 12:00 pm | Highlands School | Grades K – 6

June 22 – June 26 | 9:00 am – 1:00 pm | Birmingham Botanical Gardens | Grades K – 7

July 13 – 17 | 9:00 am – 12:00 pm | Highlands School | Grades 3 – 8 (Mind-Body Camp)

July 20 – July 24 | 9:00 am – 1:00 pm | Birmingham Botanical Gardens | Grades K – 7

July 27 – July 31 | 1:00 – 5:00 pm | In-studio | Grades K – 7 | May choose single days or full-week

Volleyball Camp

Check out Dex Volleyball Camps to sign up for our 2015 Summer Camp Dates as registration has begun. 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!

Birmingham Events Calendar: April 19th – April 26th

Posted on Sunday, April 19, 2015 by Angie

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

Rain, Rain go away!! Who else is ready to see some sun? Birmingham is buzzing right now with so many events to choose from and this week is no exception. The Barons are back home this week, there are storytimes, festivals and crawfish galore! Don’t let the rain get between you and some of these amazing events.

Have a great week, everyone!

Sunday April 19th:

Kite Flight – Railroad Park
Defy gravity and experience the fun of flight! The Southern Museum of Flight celebrates National Kite Month with STEM-based aviation and aerospace activities. Kites, Flying Discs, Quad copters, Remote Control Aircraft & Rockets! Enter a paper airplane flying contest to win a family membership to the museum. Demonstrations will occur throughout the day from Alabaster R C Association, Birmingham Ultimate Disc Association, S. Museum of Flight, Oak Mountain Hobbies. Meet the Birmingham Pinups raising money for the Mary Alice Beatty scholarship for young women ages 15-25 pursuing careers in aviation and aerospace technology. Aerial42 will be taking photos and video of the festivities with its Quad copter for Facebook & Twitter. Hoop for Fitness & Magic City Face Art will be there to help celebrate. If you forget your kite, Railroad Park will have some for sale and the museum will have a kite making activity center.
10-2 pm on the West Green

Band Geeks – Red Mountain Theatre Company
A high-stepping tribute to high school marching bands and misfits everywhere!

In the tradition of Glee and The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, comes Band Geeks – a celebration of the tribulations of the millions who have spent football halftimes pounding out Sousa-like renditions of “Maria.” Whether you were in the band, on the team, or in the stands, you’ll recognize the woes and revel in the fun of Band Geeks.

Band Geeks’ uncanny ability to bring smiles to audiences’ faces is undeniable. A performer and director’s dream, every new character that takes the stage is more dynamic than the last. Expertly structured, the piece can provide an incredibly unique opportunity to feature performers who are also skilled musicians. Perfect for nearly any stage – from your high school or college to your community theatre – Band Geeks is a rousing and triumphant musical for all ages!
Tickets starting at $20
2pm and 7:30pm

Thomas the Tank Engine – Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum
Peep! Peep! Thomas the Tank Engine™ is celebrating friendship at Day Out With Thomas®: The Celebration Tour 2015, and families across North America are invited aboard! Little engineers everywhere are invited to join Thomas when the #1 Engine pulls into Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum.

This fun-filled event offers little engineers and their families the opportunity to take a ride with Thomas the Tank Engine, star of the popular Thomas & Friends® series. In addition, children will meet Sir Topham Hatt™, Controller of the Railway and enjoy a day of Thomas-themed activities including arts & crafts, storytelling and more.

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.
Park admission:
$4.00 Adults (12 years and older)
$3.00 Seniors (Ages 62 and older)
$2.00 Children (Ages 6-11) ages 5 and under free
8pm – 4pm

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Monday April 20th:

Time for Tales with Ms Eve – Avondale Library
Is it a fly? Is it a bee? I hope it’s not a mosquito looking for me! Come on in to Tot Time and catch the buzz…. Tot Time is designed for 2 to 4 year olds with a parent or caregiver. 24-hour advance registration is required.
9:30 and 11am

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Tuesday April 21st:

Recycled Crafts – Hoover Public Library
Celebrate Earth Day by upcycling. Registration begins April 7. Grades 1-3
4:30pm – 5:30pm

Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
Everything’s out of whack at the backwards birthday party! Everything is backwards – from clothes worn inside out, to an upside-down cake. This is the zaniest birthday ever.
11am

Wee Ones Storytime – Homewood Public Library
Join us on Tuesday mornings for a unique new Storytime specifically tailored to your one year old!
9:30a and 10:30a

Kids At Play! See all the shenanigans kids get into, as displayed in works of art from our collection..
10:30am

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Wednesday April 22nd:

Art in Action – Springville Road Library
We’ll be making cool art projects for any elementary school students who want to join in the fun.
4pm

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Thursday April 23rd:

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Friday April 24th:

Tails in the Trails – Birmingham Zoo
Don’t miss this evening full of entertainment and help us celebrate our 60th Anniversary in the Junior League of Birmingham – Hugh Kaul Children’s Zoo! Adults 21 and up are invited to enjoy live music by Gentleman Zero, bar-b-que, a cash bar, silent auction and animal encounters at the Birmingham Zoo Junior Board’s fifth annual event. Guests can also enjoy a ride on the Jane H. Brock Soaring Safari Zipline Adventure (additional cost). Be sure to purchase your tickets here before April 23 to save! Net proceeds from the event will benefit the Barbara Ingalls Shook Black Bear Trail, coming soon to the Birmingham Zoo.

New this year, meet International Animal Expert and TV Personality Jack Hanna, star of the Fox show, “Jack Hanna’s Into the Wild!” Click here for more information.

Click here for tickets, $20 through April 23
$25 at the door

Gardendale Magnolia Festival – Gardendale Civic Center
Featured on Food Network and Cooking Channel! Voted Birmingham Parent magazine’s Family Favorite Fair/Festival 2014. 205-514-6799. The Total Family Experience., www.magnoliafestival.org, gdalemagfest@gmail.com, Free admission, free parking. 3 stages FREE live entertainment. Gardendale Civic Center, 857 Main Street-200 vendor booths, midway carnival, 3 eating contests, free art classes all day for kids, pooch parade, classic car show, silent auction and more!
Free parking, free admission, free live entertainment, free kids art classes
5pm – 10pm

Festival Admission: $5 Adults, Kids 12 & under free
Tickets for Corks & Chefs Food and Wine Tasting are $35 advance/$45 at the door, which includes admission to the festival.

Check their site for more information on the weekends events
10am – 6pm

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

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Saturday April 25th:

Earth Day at the Gardens – Birmingham Botanical Gardens
This year, the annual celebration will commemorate the 70th Anniversary of the end of World War II by highlighting
Victory Gardens.

Displays and demonstrations will feature topics such as: 1940’s Victory Garden design, archival display of Victory Garden memorabilia, World War II Victory Garden propaganda movies, Victory Garden inspired art crafts, Story time with American Girl Molly and Victory Garden character actors. Focus will be maintained on how urban gardens impacted American culture during World War II and how they impacts us today.

The event is free to the public.
11am – 4pm

The Monogram Event – The Outlet Shops of Grand River
REWARD YOURSELF WITH A COMPLIMENTARY MONOGRAM!

Simply spend;
$75 at Tommy Hilfiger, or
$75 at J.Crew Factory, or
$50 at VF Outlet, or
$50 at Talbots Outlet*

Monogrammers will be at the center for demonstrations and consult from 12p-6p

Select colors & fonts available for complimentary monograms.
Orders are fulfilled off-site & returned within 7-10 business days.*

Festival Admission: $5 Adults, Kids 12 & under free
Tickets for Corks & Chefs Food and Wine Tasting are $35 advance/$45 at the door, which includes admission to the festival.

Check their site for more information on the weekends events
10am – 6pm

Family Fun Day Presented by Glenwood Behavioral Health Systems
Bring the kids to Hollywood Pools to celebrate Autism Awareness Month with Glenwood Autism and Behavioral Health Center. Purchase beautiful plants for your yard and house at the Glenwood plant sale at the event.
Food, Drink, Ice Cream, Inflatables and Facepainting
10am – 2pm

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!

Matchbox Guitars: Make like the kids in our François Hubert Drouais painting and play the guitar. Create your own matchbox guitar to strum when you’re at home!
11am

Hope For Autumn Foundation Crawfish Boil – Ross Bridge Welcome Center
The Hope for Autumn Crawfish Boil will be an afternoon of music, food, and fun. There will be live music and plenty of activities for the kids. Proceeds from the event benefit the families of area pediatric cancer patients, as well as the Alabama Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorder’s Developmental Therapeutics Program which seeks to find new and innovative treatments for children with difficult to treat cancer.
Crawfish prepared by Louisiana native John Hein. There will be hamburgers and hot dogs for the kids, as well as bounce houses, face painting, and balloon artists. Soda and water will be provided, bring your own adult beverages. Live music by Rollin in the Hay and Downright. Tickets are $30 online and $35 at the door. Children 12 and under are free. Visit www.hopeforautumnfoundation.org for more information and to purchase tickets.
$30/online – $35 at the door
3pm – 9pm

8th Annual Jubilee Joes Crawfish Boil – Pelham Event Center
The event will return to the Pelham Event Center from 1:30 pm -10:00 pm and feature a “Touch of New Orleans” this year.
This year’s headliner is the nationally known band Sister Hazel with thousands of loyal fans throughout the Birmingham area. Cajun/Zydeco dance instructors will be on hand interacting and teaching the crowd dance moves along with street performers including a fire dancer, magician, flow artist, statue men, stilt walker, juggler, tarot card reader, face painter and caricature artist. There will also be a variety of vendors at the event selling merchandise. There is something to do for the entire family including a large kids corner with activities and games including a crawfish race. Children 10 and under can enter the festival at no charge when accompanied by an adult with a paid ticket. The event will also feature thousands of pounds of fresh Louisiana crawfish from Jubilee Joe’s restaurant. A portion of the festival proceeds will benefit the “Boot Campaign” a 501(c)(3) created to provide assistance to military personnel, past, present, and their families.
General Admission ticket cost March 1-April 13 is $22
General Admission ticket cost April 14-25 is $25
Kids 10 and under are free.
Food and drinks are sold separately.
1:30pm – 10pm

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.

Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
Violet Van Winkle isn’t a regular girl. She’s an inventor of flying machines. If only people knew! Join us as we read about Violet’s plan to enter an air show and the adventure she has on the way.
11am

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Sunday April 26th:

The Monogram Event – The Outlet Shops of Grand River
REWARD YOURSELF WITH A COMPLIMENTARY MONOGRAM!

Simply spend;
$75 at Tommy Hilfiger, or
$75 at J.Crew Factory, or
$50 at VF Outlet, or
$50 at Talbots Outlet*

Monogrammers will be at the center for demonstrations and consult from 12p-6p

Select colors & fonts available for complimentary monograms.
Orders are fulfilled off-site & returned within 7-10 business days.*

Festival Admission: $5 Adults, Kids 12 & under free
Tickets for Corks & Chefs Food and Wine Tasting are $35 advance/$45 at the door, which includes admission to the festival.

Check their site for more information on the weekends events
10am – 5pm

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Local Attractions Open Daily!

McWane Science Center:

Birmingham Zoo:

PELICAN FEEDING – A great way to see our pelicans in action is to witness them eating their favorite treats near the pelican boardwalk.

GIRAFFE FEEDING – This up close and personal animal encounter is a memory you and your family will have for a lifetime.
Weekday: 11am – Noon
Weekends: 10am – 11am & 2pm – 3pm

Vulcan Park and Museum:

Railroad Park:

Southern Museum of Flight:

Practical Hacks for Parents: Tips for Surviving Your Family Beach Trip

Posted on Friday, April 17, 2015 by Angie

If you’ve had the “pleasure” of hauling your family and all of the endless gear to the beach, you’ll understand that any short cut you can find is like gold.

Here are some tips and tricks we’ve come across that will help make your next beach vacation with the tiny humans easy peasy. (ish)

The closer to the Sand the Better– The only thing worse than having to pack all of the gear you’ll need for your kids is having to haul it back and forth to the beach. If you can afford to, book a place on or as close to the sand as you can get. Condos over hotels if possible. A washer/dryer is a plus for drying those beach towels and swimsuits, and doing laundry if you’re there for an extended time. Having a kitchen to store bottles, baby food and snacks or to even cook is helpful in saving on eating out every single meal.

You’ll have more space for the kiddos and that’s super nice if you end up stuck in the room if the weather isn’t the best. Plus, separate rooms are great for napping children or parents who aren’t ready for lights out at 8pm. If a condo isn’t in the budget, consider a place with a Junior Suite. You’ll still have more room.

Snacks – Snacks, Snacks and more Snacks! You can never have enough Snacks when you’re at the beach. Pack them for the car ride, the poolside time and load up your beach bag or insulated cooler with Snacks. There’s just something about the sand and salty air that make kids want to eat Snacks.

Don’t Skimp on the Beach Toys – Embrace it. Go with it, don’t try to fight it. In theory, they’ll have more to keep them busy and to share. Sharing is key when at the beach. My kids have hit the age of making friends at the pool and beach and this is a glorious thing.. Glorious, I say. The more they have to share, the better chance you have of getting to sit in your beach chair and read for 8 minutes before someone starts yelling for a Snack.

Add Baby Power and Detangler to your beach bag – Baby powder to remove sand from bodies, detangler so the sand and salty sea water don’t leave hair a painful mess.

Spray Bottle of Vinegar – Pack a small spray bottle filled with vinegar in your beach bag. If anyone gets stung by a jellyfish, vinegar takes the sting out.

Sunscreen – It goes without saying that you’ll need sunscreen, lots of it! But don’t forget the other ways you can help protect the littles from the sun. Oversized hats (that they’ll fight to take off) sunglasses (that they’ll also fight to take off) umbrellas (that they won’t stay under) are all great ways to try and keep their skin from getting burned.

Inflatable Baby Pool – This might sound strange, but hear me out.. If you’re traveling with a little that can barely walk, and definitely can’t swim. Consider bringing or buying an inexpensive, inflatable baby pool to set up next to your beach chairs. Fill it with a couple of inches of water, toss in some toys and it will be the perfect place to let the little one play in the water and will help keep them cool while under your watchful eye.

What tips or tricks can you share to help make beach trips a little easier this summer?

Review: Day out with Thomas

Posted on Wednesday, April 15, 2015 by Angie

By Kristen Berthiaume:

If you’re considering a Day out with Thomas this weekend, here’s why you should go ahead and get those tickets!

On Sunday, my husband and I took our three kids, ages 8, 5, and almost 2 to Day Out with Thomas at the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum in Calera. If you’ve never been there, the beautiful old trains alone are reason enough to visit! But the chance to ride an actual train with Thomas at the helm – who could pass that up? Ticket pick-up is in the Calera Depot, which houses a wonderful museum filled with train and railroad memorabilia. Of course, there was nothing Thomas-related in there so we didn’t stay nearly as long as the adults would have liked. When it was time to board the train, the kids loved handing their tickets to the “conductor” and stepping on to the double-decker train car. As you might expect, we had to proceed immediately to the upper deck! The train ride itself was a good 20 minutes – long enough to see some sites but not so long that children got bored and started dangling themselves off of luggage racks. After we disembarked, we were able to see the Thomas engine up close and take pictures. There was much debate about whether he was “the real” Thomas or not and whether Calera was, in fact, Sodor.

The fun didn’t stop after the train ride – Day Out with Thomas was filled with activities, games, and food options! The kids took pictures with Sir Toppham Hat (forgive me if you’re not Thomas-literate – Sir Toppham Hat is the head of the railway), listened to fun live music, and played mini golf (very, very badly). Of course, we had to stop for Thomas tattoos and make visits to the jumpy house and train tables!

The event was well organized and efficient, and the activities were laid out so that parents could watch their older kids go from station to station without having to stay right with them. After all, sometimes parents need a Thomas break! Day Out with Thomas was so much fun for us all and a great excuse to visit the Railroad Museum. This will definitely have to be a family tradition!

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the Heart of Dixie Railroad website.

(Photo Credit: Scott Butler)

Birmingham Events Calendar: April 12th – April 19th

Posted on Sunday, April 12, 2015 by Angie

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

Looks like it’s going to be a rainy week here in Birmingham but the calendar is packed! Let’s hope it moves on out by the weekend because there will be plenty to keep you busy! From the annual Gumbo Gala benefiting Episcopal Place, to a Party for the Planet at the Birmingham Zoo! On Sunday, go fly a kite with a special event hosted by the Southern Museum of Flight!

Have a great week, everyone!

Sunday April 12th:

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Monday April 13th:

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Tuesday April 14th:

Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
This is a beautiful book with bright bold colors and the simple story of the friendship between Sophie and Goose.
11am

Wee Ones Storytime – Homewood Public Library
Join us on Tuesday mornings for a unique new Storytime specifically tailored to your one year old!
9:30a and 10:30a

Kids At Play! See all the shenanigans kids get into, as displayed in works of art from our collection..
10:30am

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Wednesday April 15th:

LEGO Club – Springville Road Library
LEGO fans! Come build with us. We’ll have the blocks and bases provided. Just bring your creativity!
4pm

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Thursday April 16th:

Band Geeks – Red Mountain Theatre Company
A high-stepping tribute to high school marching bands and misfits everywhere!

Little Critter Camp Out – Homewood Public Library
Bring your sleeping bags for stories, songs and snacks with Mercer Mayer’s Little Critter.
6:15pm

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Friday April 17th:

Band Geeks – Red Mountain Theatre Company
A high-stepping tribute to high school marching bands and misfits everywhere!

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Saturday April 18th:

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. Consistently listed as one of the top 25 food festivals and events to put on your calendar by The Birmingham News and al.com, you know it must be a great time!

Enjoy great music by Rollin’ in the Hay, a kids zone, incredible gumbo and a graet 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.

Party for the Planet – Birmingham Zoo
Join the Birmingham Zoo as we celebrate AZA’s signature event and the largest combined Earth Day celebration in North America! Enjoy visiting booths in Trails of Africa from local Birmingham businesses such as, Highland School, Cahaba River Keepers, Friends of Shade Mountain, Commute Smart Birmingham, AL Mineral and Lapidary Society, DC Scientific Pest Control, Alabama Partners for Clean Air, Red Mountain Park and more as they promote the care and conservation of our planet. Learn about conservation as you explore the different booths with giveaways, crafts and activities for children. Enjoy lessons and demonstrations about healthy cooking and eating at the Junior League of Birmingham Yummy Truck!

While you’re here, feed the lorikeets* in the new Schaeffer Eye Center Lorikeet Aviary, take a ride on the new Wild Slide*, glide through Alabama Wilds on the Jane H. Brock Soaring Safari Zipline Adventure*, watch an exciting new Schaeffer Eye Center Wildlife Show, get an up-close animal encounter and feed the giraffes at the Kiwanis Giraffe Encounter*, cool off in the Junior League of Birmingham – Hugh Kaul Children’s Zoo splash pads, ride the train* and carousel* and more!
*Additional cost

Schedule of Activities:
10am – 2pm: Enjoy Earth Day themed crafts and activities in Trails of Africa
10am: Enjoy a keeper talk in the Primate Building and learn about orangutans and palm oil conservation
10:30am: See an elephant feeding and learn about the 96 Elephants conservation efforts at the Safari Peak in Trails of Africa
11am: Enjoy a sea lion keeper talk and demonstration and learn about the Seafood Watch App at the Red Diamond Sea Lion Splash Show exhibit
11:30am: Learn about the Birmingham Zoo’s Passion into Conservation Action grants and Cassowary conservation by the Cassowary exhibit
12pm: Montevallo Zoo tour* beginning in Trails of Africa
1pm: Montevallo Zoo tour* beginning in Trails of Africa

*University of Montevallo students enrolled in an Environmental Interpretation Class will be offering two conservation themed tours of the Zoo at 12pm and 1pm. The tour is open for up to 15 guests each. Sign-up is first come first serve and will be available at Trails of Africa.

Irondale Spring Fest – Grants Mill Station
Hosted by the City of Irondale, the Irondale Spring Fest will be a family-friendly event, featuring live music, food, and arts & crafts, free of admission! Join the fun at Grant’s Mill Station on Beacon Drive!
11am – 8pm

Earthounds Earthfest – Avondale Brewing Company
A beloved event is returning for all who enjoy live music, clean water, and local food, beer, and art. Earthbound will play their annual outdoor rock concert, Earthbound’s Earthfest.

The family friendly concert is open to all ages, although guests under 21 must be accompanied by a parent. Suggested $5 donations at the door – as well as proceeds from merchandise, art, beer, Saw’s Street Kitchen, and Red Mountain Crawfish Company – will support Black Warrior Riverkeeper. The event’s top sponsor is Mercedes-Benz U.S. International, followed by MacLellan, Inc., their award winning water treatment partner, and Skates 280.
2pm – sundown
$5 suggested donation at the entrance benefits Black Warrior Riverkeeper.

Band Geeks – Red Mountain Theatre Company
A high-stepping tribute to high school marching bands and misfits everywhere!

Matchbox Guitars: Make like the kids in our François Hubert Drouais painting and play the guitar. Create your own matchbox guitar to strum when you’re at home!
11am

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 Nadine Bernard Westcott’s The Lady with the Alligator Purse.
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.

Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit and Patton Creek
Join us for Storytime and activities featuring Aqualicious. Pinkalicious and her family go on a trip to the beach for a day of sun, fun and sand castles! Find out all of the pink, amazing things to do at the seashore.
11am

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Sunday April 19th:

Band Geeks – Red Mountain Theatre Company
A high-stepping tribute to high school marching bands and misfits everywhere!

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Local Attractions Open Daily!

McWane Science Center:

Birmingham Zoo:

PELICAN FEEDING – A great way to see our pelicans in action is to witness them eating their favorite treats near the pelican boardwalk.

GIRAFFE FEEDING – This up close and personal animal encounter is a memory you and your family will have for a lifetime.
Weekday: 11am – Noon
Weekends: 10am – 11am & 2pm – 3pm

Vulcan Park and Museum:

Railroad Park:

Southern Museum of Flight: