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The Who's and What's of your first Pediatric Dental Appointment

Posted on by Angie

One question that we seem to hear from other Moms on a regular basis is “when should you schedule your child’s first dentist appointment?” Kids teeth come in at various ages, so it’s hard to pinpoint when your child should visit the dentist. My oldest started cutting teeth at 3 months, the twins didn’t have a tooth even close to poking through until they were almost a year.. Where is the common ground there?

We spoke with Pediatric Dentist Michael Vann, of Vann Pediatric Dental in Trussville, to get a better idea on how to navigate the the complicated waters of keeping those pearly whites healthy from the very beginning.

One common rule among Pediatric Dentists is that One + One = Zero. No this is not some crazy new math, it means that 1 baby tooth + One Pediatric Dentist visit = Zero Cavities. Your first dental visit is mostly educational. While this “well baby” check is for the baby, it does help set a guideline with the parents to make sure that they help their children remain cavity-free.

AAPD, recommends beginning a dental routine at birth, cleaning your baby’s gums with a soft infant toothbrush or wet washcloth daily. Once teeth are visible, brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste using a soft, age-specific toothbrush. The AAPD recommends using a “smear” amount of toothpaste for children less than 2 years old and a “pea-sized” amount for children 2 to 5 years old. Your child’s first visit to the dentist should be before age 1 for early detection and prevention of dental problems.

What to expect from your child’s first visit:
For the first visit, your child may do great, they may be a little fussy, or they may be totally uncooperative. These are all normal for the first few visits. Each child develops and reacts differently. It’s important to find an office that works in partnership with the parent/caregiver to help your child overcome their fear and start to enjoy the dentist.  Sometimes it takes one or more visits for your child to understand the dentist office can be fun and exciting for everyone.

Typically a first visit includes an exam, cleaning and fluoride.  The doctor will perform an exam on the teeth, gums, and bite.   X-rays may or may not be necessary.  The doctor will spend much of the time discussing the findings and educating the patient and parent.  Dr. Vann encourages patients and parents to ask any questions they may have during or after their visit.

As adults, we have to be very careful not to influence our children or project our fears of the dentist on to them. So no matter how you feel about the Dentist, try to remember that your children will take their cues from you. If they overhear you say you hate the Dentist, chances are they will be less cooperative too.

Birmingham Events Calendar: February 16th – February 23rd

Posted on by Angie

Looks like the temps around Birmingham are warming up this week. Which is a very welcome change!!

Lots of fun happening at the local libraries, including a Family Fun Night with LEGOS and an American Girl Doll Movie Night!

Consignment sales are still happening around Birmingham, if you’re looking to shop, make sure to check out our Mother Of All Consignment Sale Lists.

Have a great week and enjoy the warm weather, you never how long it will last!

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

Sunday February 16th:

Holy Inappropriateness! We couldn’t find any special events happening in the ‘Ham today. Make sure to check our list below for fun exhibits happening daily at our local attractions.

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Monday February 17th:

Tot Time with Ms Eve – Avondale Library
School’s out today, so be kind and bring your brothers and sisters as we go on a Safari! Geared for 2 to 4 years olds with a caregiver.  24-hour advanced notice of attendance required.
9:30am

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Tuesday February 18th:

We love our LEGOS Family Fun Night – Avondale Library
It’s Lego night at the library. Join us for an evening of creative crazy constructing. We will provide the Legos, so please do not bring any with you unless you plan to donate them! Lego bricks are designed for ages 4 and up. Space is limited so register early.  24-hour advanced notice of attendance required.
6:30pm

Homewood Public Library Film Festival
Join us and discover what really happened after the princess kissed the frog in an inspired twist on the world’s most famous kiss. This hilarious adventure leaps off the screen with stunning animation, irresistible music and an unforgettable cast of characters. Enter Princess Tiana’s world of talking frogs, singing alligators and lovesick fireflies as she embarks on an incredible journey through the mystical bayous of Louisiana.
Overflowing with humor and heart, this is an incredible motion picture experience your whole family will want to enjoy again and again!
Bring the whole family!

This event is supported by the City of Homewood and is free and open to everyone. Popcorn and soda will be served.
6pm

Family Tours – Birmingham Museum of Art
FREE // Meet in the Main Lobby
Join us for an in-gallery family experience! Children aged 3 – 8 and their adult companions are invited to join Museum educators to explore our collection, discover activities that make looking at art fun and exciting, and create new family memories about art.

No reservations required. Family Tours are also available by appointment for groups of 10 or more children aged 3 – 8. For more information or to schedule a tour, call 205.254.2964.
10:30am

Storytime for All Ages – Homewood Public Library
Story Time
10:30am

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Wednesday February 19th:

Engineering Showcase – McWane Science Center
Engineers make a difference in our world! Give your students the opportunity to learn from experts in the field! Biomedical, Civil, Material, Nuclear, Mechanical, Chemical, Electrical and Aersopace Engineers will be on hand to talk with your students and provide them with a deeper understanding of what it means to be an engineer in today’s world.

WHAT TO EXPECT

• Hands-on activities!
• Learn about career opportunities!
• See how engineering changes the world!
• Tour the Mobile Robotics Lab!

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

Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
February is Black History Month. Join us for Storytime and activities featuring Henry’s Freedom Box by Ellen Levine and Kadir Nelson.
11am

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Thursday February 20th:

American Girl Movie Night – Homewood Public Library
Bring your doll and enjoy hot popcorn and a fun American Girl movie!
6:15

Mommy and Me Storytime – Homewood Public Library
Story Time for our younger patrons (birth to 30 mo.) and their lap partner.
10:30

Stories and Crafts with Ms Karen – Clay Public Library
Join Ms. Karen for Stories and Crafts, and enjoy some “puppy love” stories and a related craft.
Geared toward toddlers through second graders. All ages are welcome!  Programs last approximately 30 minutes.
10am

Elephant Piggie Celebrate Friendship – Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest
Mo Willem’s Elephant & Piggie characters will be here to show us all how important friends can be! Please call to register! Ages 5 & under.
10:30

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Friday February 21st:

Holy Inappropriateness! We couldn’t find any special events happening in the ‘Ham today. Make sure to check our list below for fun exhibits happening daily at our local attractions.

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Saturday February 22nd:

Arbor Day – Orr Park
Tree seedlings available for adoption, along with door prizes and information booths. 9 am-noon in Orr Park Recreational Building.

Family Movie Day – North Shelby Library
“Practically Perfect in Every Way” Mary Poppins flies out of the windy London skies and into the home of two mischievous children. All ages are welcome with a caregiver. No registration is required. Snacks served.
10:30am

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! Make a medallion inspired by our Wedgewood Collection!
11am – 1pm

Cartoon and Cereal – Homewood Public Library
Saturday morning cartoons and cereal.
10am – 6pm

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
Join us for a Storytime celebration of Dr. Seuss’ Birthday! The Cat in the Hat will be here as our special guest! Don’t miss this opportunity for your child to meet the beloved Cat in the Hat in person!
11am

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Sunday February 23rd:

Holy Inappropriateness! We couldn’t find any special events happening in the ‘Ham today. Make sure to check our list below for fun exhibits happening daily at our local attractions.

—————————————————————————————

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, Titans of the Ice Age

Birmingham Zoo:

Lorikeet Aviary – Our Lorikeet Aviary has more birds than ever! Zoo guests can feed these exotic birds every day. You and your family will see these birds’ behavior as they eat nectar out of your hand.
Weekends 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

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.

52 New Things, 2014. Week 6

Posted on by Angie

Whew…. Another week waiting on winter weather. But we still managed to come up with some new things.

Angie –
I’ve decided to encourage the curl. My hair is not straight and it’s not “pretty” curly either, but I’ve felt for a long time that if done right, I could do something with the curl/wave that I have. I spoke with the amazing Jessica Lazarus from Zaru Salon at my last trim and got some tips from her. The biggest being not to use my regular bath towel on my hair when towel drying. Instead I’m currently using a cotton t-shirt and it’s made a world of difference. I still have to touch up with the curling iron but it takes so much less time letting it do it’s thing and it holds the curl way better.

Kristen –
Fresh Market’s Roasted Chicken Salad. Shut. Up.

Shirley –
My new thing this week is lemonade. Not the lemonade you can drink.. but the “when life gives you lemons” type lemonade.
This week my family had made the trek to the Mountains of North Carolina for some quick, cheap snow skiing. (Which by the way is a great place for families). We were having a blast when we got word that there was over a foot of snow headed our way that would leave us stuck for several days. So we had to make the decision to hit the road before all the weather came through.

We made it to a small Tennessee town and got snowed in at an interstate Econo Lodge. I was left pouting because we left the beautiful mountains for a hotel with a parking lot view. My girls were so excited because they had an indoor pool and we ended up Our little 2 night detour turned out to be one of the best family vacations anyone could ask for. It was simple, inexpensive, and perfect. I’ll take a second helping of that lemonade any day!

What were your new things for this week?

Juicebox Jukebox – Love Songs

Posted on by Angie

Since it’s February, the “Month of Love,” we decided to pick some songs about love for your listening pleasure. Now we fully realize that romantic love songs over Valentines day may be what landed you listening to kids music in the first place, but have no fear these are geared more towards songs you can enjoy with kids around so it will keep you out of trouble this year!

One Love People Get Ready – Bob Marley

Crazy Little Thing Called Love – Queen

How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You) – James Taylor

Say Hey (I Love You) Michael Franti [feat. Cherine Anderson]

The Rainbow Connection- Sarah McLachlan

Lovesong – Cure

Two – Ryan Adams

Loves Me Like a Rock – Paul Simon

Love Songs – Anjulie

Sweet Pea – Amos Lee

Love Story – Taylor Swift — relax, I’m not asking you to watch it live.

Now for a little something to tug on the heartstrings of those of you that have daughters:

Daughter – Loudan Wainwright

And for the little boys:

Beautiful Boy – Ben Harper – sorry John Lennon fans, I like this version better. Don’t hate me.

We hope you enjoy these songs and if you would like to purchase one or all of these songs, you can find them here, we’ve made it easy by making it an imix on itunes.

Big Machines Day at McWane Science Center!

Posted on by Angie

The perfect way to celebrate the clearing weather! Head out to McWane Science Center for Big Machines Day.. Always a favorite!

Get your motors running and head over to McWane Science Center for a truckload of fun. Spend a constructive day getting up close and personal with some big machines including backhoes, excavators, dump trucks, loaders, dozers and cranes! Learn the science of simple machines and participate in fun building programs throughout the day! Machines provided by CraneWorks.

DATE: Saturday, February 15
TIME: 10 AM – 4 PM
COST: Included in cost of admission to the museum, FREE for members

Social Media and Motherhood

Posted on by Angie

By Savannah Marie

Don’t Let Social-Media Stress Get the Best of You!
Motherhood has always had its ups and downs, its good times and bad, times you want to remember forever and times you want to completely erase from your memory. Today’s moms, however, have an additional stressor added to their lives, one that our nontech predecessors never had to face: social media. Sites like Pinterest, Facebook and Instagram bombard us with pictures of the happiest, craftiest, most well-adjusted bunch on the block. This can be a real downer for those who feel they don’t measure up.

In fact, according to a survey conducted by TODAY Moms, 42 percent of respondents said they are stressed out by Pinterest. The bombardment of perfectly decorated, homemade birthday cakes or imaginative and fun craft projects can make moms lacking the ability or time for handmade projects feel inadequate. As if throwing a child’s birthday party isn’t stressful enough, now we have to worry if our cakes are Pinterest-worthy!

The Good, Not the Bad and the Ugly
Social-media sites are certainly a great way to connect with old friends and get some great project ideas. It’s rare, however, to see unflattering photos, like the collapsed cake, the cranky toddler or the sullen teen. People tend to paint themselves in a flattering light, when of course nothing is sunshine, roses and perfectly coordinated outfits for all of your children all the time. Although we know that, it can be hard to look at image after image of pure perfection. That’s what’s causing the stress.

According to the TODAY Moms survey, three quarters of respondents report that this stress is self-inflicted. It’s not other moms’ photos that are the problem, it’s the feeling of inadequacy that comes from feeling they can’t measure up.

Think about those smiling, happy family photos that are commonly posted to Facebook, for instance. There may be a story behind that picture that wasn’t so pretty. Maybe the kids had to be bribed to sit and smile for just one second, dad was grumbly and irritable and mom was close to tears. That picture, however, captured that one moment among the chaos where everyone actually smiled. That’s the reality. If only someone would post those not-so-perfect moments, instead!

Actually, somebody has created a site just for moments like that. Pinterest Fail showcases Pinterest-inspired projects that went horribly wrong. Those lovely Oreo Cookie Candy Turkeys that were supposed to be so easy to make, in reality, turned out looking, mutated, melty and sad. Instead of getting stressed and upset, revel in the fact that you’re not perfect and post your pictures to the wall of shame. You might as well get a good laugh from it!

A Cure for Perfection
If so many of us are stressed out by images of perfection on social media, how can we cope? The best way may be to simply lower our expectations. Everyone is good at different things, and craft projects or birthday cakes may not be your specialty. Do they have to be? If it stresses you and your kids out, how much fun is that?

Let’s face it – if a craft project is too complicated to do, your kids won’t enjoy it, either. Maybe your simple Popsicle-stick people craft is not Pinterest-worthy, but it made for a fun afternoon and happy memories. Certainly much for fun than an afternoon of tears and frustration! Kids don’t want Martha Stewart, they just want their mom.

For some moms, cutting back on Pinterest viewing and posting is a good cure. Maybe only look for special ideas during major holidays and give yourself a break the majority of the time.

As for Facebook, try posting that unflattering photo and see what kind of response you get. Share the picture of your completely failed attempt at a family organic garden. You are forever doomed to buy your produce at grocery stores and farmers markets. So what! Your friends will likely appreciate your honesty, have a good laugh and offer support if you need it. “Thanks for posting – I know exactly how that feels,” one might say. You’ll probably get more responses to your imperfect moments than to your glossy moments of perfection. That’s a good feeling, knowing that others can relate and being perfect is not all it’s cracked up to be.

About Savannah Marie:

Savannah Marie is a public relations graduate of Tulane University and a PR specialist in Harrisburg, PA. As a mom of two, she writes about parenthood and struggles that are true to her own life. She has quickly learned that the proverb “It takes a village” is completely true and hopes her articles help her fellow villagers. She also contributes articles to her own blog, Mixios.

Birmingham Events Calendar: February 9th – February 16th

Posted on by Angie

Looks like another chance for some wintry weather headed our way so make sure to check before heading out to any of these events scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday.

The Robots + Us exhibit officially opened this weekend at the McWane Science Center. Make sure to head down there and check it out.

Have a great week and Stay Warm!!

 

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

Sunday February 9th:

Holy Inappropriateness! We couldn’t find any special events happening in the ‘Ham today. Make sure to check our list below for fun exhibits happening daily at our local attractions.

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Monday February 10th:

Monday Movie – Homewood Library
Join us for a cool movie and some hot popcorn!
3:30pm

Tot Time with Ms Eve – Avondale Library
Bring your wiggles and your giggles and your death defying nerve, because the circus is coming to town. Join us as we celebrate with a circus of our own—Tot Time style.Geared for 2 to 4 years olds with a caregiver.  24-hour advanced notice of attendance required.
9:30am

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Tuesday February 11th:

Project Valentine – Hoover Public Library
Create cards, make crafts and eat cookies.  All ages
6:30

DEA Critter Tales – Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest
A light supper will be served from 6:00 – 6:30 pm, followed by a program featuring two live animal stories. Come see our surprise visitors! Please call 205-978-0155 to register or visit the website to sign up- www.vestavialibrary.org.
6pm

Family Tours – Birmingham Museum of Art
FREE // Meet in the Main Lobby
Join us for an in-gallery family experience! Children aged 3 – 8 and their adult companions are invited to join Museum educators to explore our collection, discover activities that make looking at art fun and exciting, and create new family memories about art.

No reservations required. Family Tours are also available by appointment for groups of 10 or more children aged 3 – 8. For more information or to schedule a tour, call 205.254.2964.
10:30am

Storytime for All Ages – Homewood Public Library
Story Time
10:30am

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Wednesday February 12th:

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

Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
Join us for a reading of Pete the Cat’s new adorable book Valentine’s Day Is Cool. Afterwards, we will enjoy making special valentines to take home.
11am

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Thursday February 13th:

Mommy and Me Storytime – Homewood Public Library
Story Time for our younger patrons (birth to 30 mo.) and their lap partner.
10:30

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Friday February 14th:

Science of Valentines Day – McWane Science Center
Join us for some fun experiments to help celebrate the science of Valentine’s Day. Write a secret message, learn about the electricity of “love”, and make your own love potion!
Included in cost of admission to the museum, FREE for members
Museum Admission:
$13 Adults
$9 Kids ages 2-12
$12 Seniors 65+
Under 2 Free

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Saturday February 15th:

Big Machines Day – McWane Science Center
Get your motors running and head over to McWane Science Center for a truckload of fun. Spend a constructive day getting up close and personal with some big machines including backhoes, excavators, dump trucks, loaders, dozers and cranes! Learn the science of simple machines and participate in fun building programs throughout the day.
Included in cost of admission to the museum, FREE for members
Museum Admission:
$13 Adults
$9 Kids ages 2-12
$12 Seniors 65+
Under 2 Free

Great Backyard Bird Count – Birmingham Zoo
This annual event united birdwatchers from across the globe, as they track bird species found in their own backyards, parks and local spaces. Hear birdwatching tips from Birmingham Audubon Society experts and take part in bird conservation activities in the Children’s Zoo and Alabama Wilds.
10am – 2pm

Columbiana Cowboy Day – City of Columbiana
6th Annual Columbiana Cowboy Day Events start at 10:00 am

Join us for Live Music, Vendors, Chili Cook-Off, Roping Demonstrations, Blacksmiths, Farriers, Wild West Shootout (12:00 pm) and Parade (1:00 pm)

Bart’s Books – Birmigham Museum of Art
Bart’s Books is a storytelling program for children ages 3-8 and their adult companions. Bart selects a new book and related work of art each month that he thinks kids will enjoy. This month, Bart has selected My Best Friend is Sharp as a Pencil by Hanoch Piven.
11am

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! Make a medallion inspired by our Wedgewood Collection!
11am – 1pm

Cartoon and Cereal – Homewood Public Library
Saturday morning cartoons and cereal.
10am – 6pm

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
February is Black History Month. Join us for Storytime and activities featuring Henry’s Freedom Box by Ellen Levine and Kadir Nelson.
11am

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Sunday February 16th:

Holy Inappropriateness! We couldn’t find any special events happening in the ‘Ham today. Make sure to check our list below for fun exhibits happening daily at our local attractions.

—————————————————————————————

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: Rocky Mountain Express, Great White Shark

Birmingham Zoo:

Lorikeet Aviary – Our Lorikeet Aviary has more birds than ever! Zoo guests can feed these exotic birds every day. You and your family will see these birds’ behavior as they eat nectar out of your hand.
Weekends 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

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.

52 New Things 2014, Week 5

Posted on by Angie

From Slo Mo to PTSD to Bunting.. Find out the New Things happening here at BirminghamMommy this past week!

Angie –
I finally had the chance to upgrade my iphone and as I have time to play with the new features, I found that I’m completely obsessed with the Slooooo Mo setting on my camera. It allows you to do fun things like this:

IMG_0012

If you have an iphone 5, I highly recommend getting the tiny humans to be your subject. It’s really quite fun.

Kristen –
My New thing is leaving work way before even a hint of snow to avoid getting stuck. A friend said this is due to PTSD – Post traumatic Snow Disorder. I’ve got it this week – along with most of Birmingham.

Shirley –
This week I helped decorate for our school fundraiser. I was given free range with the space provided so I couldn’t wait to stretch my decorating wings and get creative. I of course stalked Pinterest and all the DIY Blogs and decided I would try making some bunting (banners on string) from burlap that we had leftover. I used poster paint (cause it was free) and painted the 85 burlap triangles.. And painted… and painted then grabbed some twine and stapled them to it. Then hung.

Extremely inexpensive, super easy and Pinteresty. It was a win and grabbed lots of attention. The best thing about it is that the school ca reuse for future events. So, if you’re in a decorating bind, paint some burlap triangles, hang them on string and call it Bunting. Your friends will be impressed.

What did you do new, this week?

 

 

 

Robots + Us at the McWane Science Center

Posted on by Angie

The Robots are here!! We got a chance to check out the new Robots + Us Exhibit today at the McWane Science Center and we are certain your tiny humans are going to love these new area.

Your child will be able to investigate futuristic fun when the Robots+Us exhibit opens at McWane Science Center Saturday, February 8th. Robots+Us takes a playful look at what machines and humans are learning from each other and how biology and engineering are coming together to close the gap between reality and the future. With its memorable, hands-on exhibit components  and interactive computers, Robots +Us will give you a unique chance to separate  science fiction fantasies with today’s technical reality.

Robots +Us offers many exciting exhibits. The Robot Arena invites you to the home of light sensitive robots while watching the impact that beams of light have on the paths they take from point to point. The face recognition exhibit shows  visitors how a computer can be programmed to recognize the features of the  human face. Guests can then try to trick it by disguising their faces with a fake moustache or goofy mask. Finally, my personal favorite. The chance to actually race a robot arm. The exhibit asks who can put a simple puzzle together the fastest? You or the robot arm?

If you want to find out.. Head on down to the McWane Science Center and see if you’re faster than a robot..

Robots +Us will be located  on the third level and will run through May 11, 2014. Cost of the exhibit is FREE for members or included in the price of admission!

Photos By: Scott Butler

You Color My World, Valentine

Posted on by Angie

My kids school doesn’t allow snacks or candies when it comes to Valentine’s Day and class parties, and although I think Valentine’s Day is incomplete without a box of Conversation Hearts, I will abide by the rules. Begrudgingly. I guess.

No candy and no treats means boring getting creative and pintrest-y. So I decided that we would melt crayons into little hearts, bag them up and attach a cute tag with ribbon. Easy enough.

Now, fair warning. It takes A LOT of crayons. More than you might think, so be prepared. Especially if you’re doing multiple classes. You can buy smaller clear bags but you’re still looking at several hearts per bag. While perusing Pinterest, I ran across this cute print out that will take it down to 1 heart per kid, but that’s if your kid hasn’t already decided they want to fill a bag with crayon hearts…. (Like all 3 of mine have..)

What You’ll Need:

A boat load of crayons
Silicon heart shape muffin “pan”
Patience

What you’ll do:

Peel and break crayons
Fill up the hearts (get them really full, they melt down considerably)
Bake at 250 degrees, for 15 minutes
Allow to cool COMPLETELY before removing.

I’m guessing that the baking heart pan won’t be reusable but it was under $4 at Wal Mart so you won’t be out too much.

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