Medical Minute: Incontinence after pregnancy

Posted on Monday, February 25, 2013 by Angie

Giving birth is magical, peeing a few drops accidentally… not so much magical! One of the surprising effects of pregnancy can be urinary incontinence. Our pals at Brookwood Medical Center have some tips that can help:

1. Try a schedule. Making a point to relieve yourself at regular intervals every day, even when you don’t have the urge to go, will help keep your bladder empty. And an empty bladder is a happy bladder!

2. Watch your caffeine and alcohol intake. Caffeine in coffee and soft drinks is a diuretic, as is alcohol, which can worsen incontinence. Try to curb your caffeine or alcohol intake to lessen your trips to the ladies’ room.

3. Do your exercises. And we don’t mean hitting the treadmill. Flexing your kegel muscles (the muscles that help control the flow of urine) can strengthen your pelvic floor and make it easier to “hold it” when there’s not a bathroom in sight. Alternately, many women have success using vaginal weights to tighten the muscles in the vagina.

4. Know before you go. If you’re planning a road trip or a night out on the town, be prepared by knowing where available restrooms are so you’re not searching when you have to go.

5. Talk to your doctor. There are medications and medical treatments available for women dealing with incontinence. It’s important to talk with your doctor about options to consider to free you from the restroom.

There are tons more tips like this on ichooseb.com. Head over there. My current favorite is about choosing red foods to create a healthy plate!

Birmingham Events Calendar: February 24th – March 3rd

Posted on Sunday, February 24, 2013 by Angie

Spring is so close and you can tell by how the activities around Birmingham are starting to pick up!

If you can only pick one thing to do this week, load your family up and take them to the Exceptional Foundation Chili Cook-Off!! It’s one of our most favorite events every year. Even if the kids don’t like chili, most booths have snacks for them and the best thing is, it benefits the Exceptional Foundation.

Dr Suess has a Birthday and there is no shortage of celebrations going on. If you haven’t signed up for a Spring Break Camp, you might want to do that soon, they’re starting to fill up! You can see a list of camps here.

Have a great week!!

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

Sunday February 24th:

LJCC Camp Fair – Levite Jewish Community Center
The Levite Jewish Community Center offers Day Camps, Specialty Camps, and Sport Camps for children ages 18 months – 7th grade.

The LJCC Camp Fair will be held in the N.E. Miles Jewish Day School Gym on the campus of the Levite Jewish Community Center. The Camp Fair will include summer camp registration, specialty camp representatives and details about all camps being offered.

Members and Non-members are welcome at the Camp Fair. Registration for members of the LJCC will begin at the Camp Fair. Non-members may begin registering on April 1. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Camp LJCC runs weekly from May 28 – August 16. Camps include traditional day camp (Yofi), specialty camps and sport camps.

Some of the specialty/sport camps being offered this summer are

FOAC (Fair Oaks Adventure Curriculum)
LEGO Robotics
Black Out Theatre Camp
Kid Fitness
Knight School Chess Camp
Learning With Animals
Magic Camp
Icky Sticky Camp
Science Extreme Up Close
Tennis Camp
Lacrosse Camp
Mike Getman Soccer Camp
Alabama Blue Chips Sports Foundation Basketball Camp
Splash Camp
Bike Clinic
Woodshop 101
Circus of the Kids (first time in Birmingham since 2009).

The LJCC has a “camp a la carte” system — register for one week or all twelve. Camps can be mixed and matched with Camp Yofi, Specialty, and Sport camps.

—————————————————————————————

Monday February 25th:

Monday Movie – Homewood Public Library
All ages welcome. Delicious freshly popped popcorn along with juice will be served to all children in attendance.
3:30pm

Toddler Tales – North Shelby Library
A story program for children and a caregiver. Stories, songs, finger plays and crafts make up a lively program designed especially for short attention spans. Best suited for ages 19 months to 3 years. Must Register
9:30am and 10:30am

—————————————————————————————

Tuesday February 26th:

Hippo Adventures – Birmingham Museum of Art
Join us for a new in-gallery family experience! Children aged 3 – 8 and their adult companions are invited to join Museum educators to explore Hip, Hippo, Hooray!, discover activities that make looking at art fun and exciting, and create new family memories about art and hippos.

No reservations required. Hippo Adventures 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 – Homewood Public Library
Join us for the best part of your week with stories that make you laugh and songs that make you dance! Join us for the fun of it! All ages welcome. For large groups, a call to 332-6619 is nice.
10:30am

—————————————————————————————

Wednesday February 27th:

Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
Join us as we read Mousetronaut. Meteor is a tiny, hardworking mouse. Will he ever get chosen to go to outer space? Afterwards, we will make a craft and enjoy something sweet from our Cafe.
11am

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

—————————————————————————————

Thursday February 28th:

SNAP: Paper Making – Emmet O’ Neal Library
A hands-on how-to – learn to make your own paper. February 28 from 3:30 – 4:30. Grades 3-6. No registration required.

—————————————————————————————

Friday March 1st:

Storytime Yoga – Villager Yoga
Community Yoga Story Time for ages 0 – 3 years

Watch the pages of your favorite story books come alive as yoga poses! Parents asked to participate in engaging children in creative yoga poses with sound and expression!

First and Last Fridays of each month, 12:00 – 12:30 pm

This class is donation based. Suggested $5 minimum

Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
Join us for Read Across America events in March. Featuring Cat in the Hat Storytime, fun cat-tivities and treats!
11am

—-———————————————————————————

Saturday March 2nd:

Exceptional Foundation Chili Cookoff – Brookwood Village Parking Lot
The 9th annual Chili Cook Off benefitting the Exceptional Foundation will be held in the Brookwood Village parking lot from 10:30 to 3:00. This is a fun, quirky, outdoor party offering good food and drink and friends at a “come as you are” event. This event has developed a loyal following across a diverse audience base. There seems to be an engaging atmosphere that you can’t quite put your finger on — a unique camaraderie exists amid the tongue in cheek, yet somehow serious, competition between teams who vie for the judges’ and public’s approval in hopes of taking home a trophy for their particular chili recipe. While the sponsors and their teams focus on winning the chili contest, Homewood residents and merchants enjoy a sense of community and pride as more than 7,000 individuals from across the Birmingham area wander to taste chili at one of the year’s first outdoor events listening to live music and enjoying chili.
$10.00 in advance. $15.00 at the gate.

Dr Seuss’s Birthday – McWane Science Center
Celebrate Dr. Seuss’s birthday with special story times and science activities in the museum designed
for early learners.
10am – 4pm
Price included in the cost of admission, free to members

Dr Seuss Storytime – Ruffner Mountain Nature Center
“You’re never too old, too wacky, too wild, to pick up a book and read to a child.” What better way to celebrate Dr. Seuss’s birthday than reading to a child? Story Times falls on Dr. Seuss’s birthday and we’re commemorating the big day! Ruffner Mountain is participating in the National Education Association’s “Read Across America” event. Ms. Jerri will read Dr. Seuss’s book, “My Many Colored Days” – a vibrantly illustrated book about moods and feelings. We’ll make a Seuss craft and celebrate Dr. Seuss’s birthday with a special treat! First fifteen families receive a free copy of the book, thanks to Target.
10am

A Suesstastical Birthday – Hoover Library
The Cat in the Hat and some of his friends are throwing a 109th birthday bonanza for Dr. Seuss. Registration going on now.
10:30am

Bart’s Art Cart, Hip, Hippo, Hooray – Birmingham Museum of Art
This drop-in art program for kids and families features a different gallery activity each month. Stop by to make art with Bart! Decorate your own animal cup and saucer with a hippo or your favorite animal!
11am

No reservations required. Hippo Adventures 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

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 Storytime as we read Gobble Gobble Crash! It’s so much fun to count chickens and cows. We will make a craft and have a treat from the Cafe.
11am

—————————————————————————————

Sunday March 3rd:

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: The Last Reef, Santa and the Snowman, Rocky Mountain Express

The Tornadoes of April 27th – Looking Back — Moving Forward, a new exhibit at McWane Science Center, reflects on the experiences of the April 27th, 2011 storms. The exhibit shares personal stories from those who experienced the devastation of the storms firsthand, while emphasizing the importance of tornado preparedness and explaining the science behind tornadoes.

Photos and stories from The Birmingham News help tell the story of the storms and the affect they had on survivors, volunteers, and the community as a whole. Students from Daniel Payne Middle School also help tell the story of their school and community through photos and artifacts from the storm for the exhibit. UAB students worked with the children from Daniel Payne Middle School to create short documentaries that can be seen in the exhibit as well.

In addition to sharing the personal stories from that day, the goal of this exhibit is to inform the community about how to prepare for extreme weather conditions, explaining the science of tornadoes and stressing awareness.

With vivid displays, the exhibit allows visitors the opportunity to learn about the scientific side of tornadoes. Graphics within the exhibit illustrate tornado formation and anatomy, educating visitors on how such extreme weather conditions develop. Additionally, the exhibit displays statistics and disputes common myths concerning the destructive storms.

Guests can watch live video from the storms that rolled across our state on April 27th, 2011, including the
weather forecasts from that day and actual images of the tornado as it made its way through our area provided by FOX6 WBRC. The exhibit is located in the City Gallery on Level 2 of the museum this summer.

Be Ready Alabama Exhibit Presented by:
The Governor’s Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives
www.readyalabama.org

Animal Grossology
Experience a new exhibit that is oozing with science as you meet some of the slimiest and yuckiest creatures on Earth! You’ll never look at the animal kingdom the same way after you see “ANIMAL GROSSOLOGY!”

The Animal Grossology exhibition, based on a popular series of books by science teacher Sylvia Branzei, is an educational experience grounded in the theory that the best way to get kids interested in science is to present it in terms they find most appealing. Let’s face it, topics such as slime, vomit, dookies and other gross stuff are completely fascinating for your average six to 14-year-old.

By physically stepping into the Animal Grossology exhibition, these subjects have become an interactive, larger-than-life biology lesson that harnesses kid’s natural curiosity about themselves and teaches them about how animals function.

Oozing with disgusting science and interactive learning games, the all-new “Animal Grossology” exhibit is sure to provide a unique perspective on the animal kingdom. Museum guests will experience some of the slimiest, stinkiest and downright yuckiest creatures on earth.

The exhibition contains solid science and introduces it in a way that makes kids giggle. It’s science disguised in interactive entertainment and kids are more apt to learn when they’re having fun doing it. You may think leeches are pretty gross but they’re used after some surgeries to assist in the healing process. Did you know that cows are one of the gassiest animals on earth? Learn why the dung beetle is nature’s living pooper scooper and why scientists are studying slug and snail slime production for clues in treating cystic fibrosis.

Animal Grossology is a temporary travelling exhibit created and produced by Advanced Exhibits, a division of Advanced Animations LLC, in collaboration with Sylvia Branzei, the author of the GROSSOLOGY series of books. The books are published through Price Stern Sloan, a member of Penguin (USA) Inc.

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.

Birmingham Area Spring Break Camps: 2013

Posted on Wednesday, February 20, 2013 by Angie

Alright, Moms! Spring Break is coming and Birmingham has some great camps happening. Lots to choose from no matter what your tiny humans are interested in!

McWane Science Center –

Daily, March 18th – 22nd
Camps Include:

1st rate hands on educational programming
½ day or all day options
Mid-morning and mid-afternoon snacks
Lunch
Before Care for morning sessions 8:00am – 9:00am*
After Care for afternoon sessions 5:00pm – 5:30pm (only for afternoon camps)*

*Late pick-ups will be charged a fee of $5 for every five minutes your camper(s) stays after pick up time. Pick up required by 1:30 for morning camps and 5:30 for afternoon camps

COST:
Full Day
(Morning & Afternoon Sessions):
Members $60, Non-Members $80

Half Day
(Morning OR Afternoon Sessions):
Members $30, Non-Members $40

Reservations:
Reservations Required. Full Payment required at time of registration. Registration Now Open
Click here for a full schedule

Acting Out Academy – Movie Camp

Acting Out Academy teams up with actress and prestigious kid’s acting coach Darcy Martin for a week of film making magic. The camp is one week from 9:30am – 3:00pm (with early and late pick up available.) During the week we will write, cast, and film a short film that will be premiered in a red carpet event on Friday at a REAL movie theater and all our stars will have their own DVD of the film to keep.
March 18th – 22nd and March 25th – 29th
Register HERE

Do It Yourself Crafts

Each class is at 1 in the afternoon, should last about 2 hours, and is a drop-off camp for anyone who is in Kindergarten or older. Classes are $30 with a $5 discounts for siblings or multiple day sign-ups ($30 for first, $25 each additional).

Monday: Monster Plate and Mug; Paint a fun mug and matching plate that is super fun

Tuesday: Clay crosses; Start with clay and make three crosses, using texture and color to decorate

Wednesday: Peace, Love and Glass Fusing! Make a peace sign, a heart and your first initial out of glass – totally groovy!

Thursday: Easter Egg Decorating; Ceramic Eggs will last forever! We’ll decorate six eggs using six different techniques. So much fun!

Friday:“Caps” Bowl; Make a fun bowl perfect for popcorn or another treat using caps to decorate. Kids love this project!To register for any of these classes, call DIYC at 205-868-4346

Birmingham Zoo –

Full-day camps are available for 4K through 5th grade students!
While attending School Break Camps, campers can experience:

Train and/or Carousel Ride (as weather permits)
Crafts and Activities
Behind-the-Scenes Tours
Mid-morning and Mid-afternoon Snacks
Live Animal Demonstrations
Animal Artifacts (Biofacts)

Click here to register.

Click here for the School Break Camp Information Packet that includes pricing, descriptions and more.

Villager Yoga –

Spring Break Mini Camps
Yoga camps allow kids to find their inner and outer strength, while being creative and expressing themselves. Group exercises and games teach considerate peer interaction and leadership skills in a non-competitive environment. Children will find a calm mind and body and learn self-soothing techniques through mindfulness activities and relaxation. Ages 5-12

Tuesday, March 19, 9:00 – 1:00 pm |Strength and Balance

Wednesday, March 20, 9.00 – 1:00 pm | Calm and Centered

$65 for single day
$115 for both days
Healthy Snack included
Register HERE

Ruffner Mountain Nature Center –

Every day will be filled with activities, art projects, games, and outdoor adventure. K – 5th grade.

Each day of camp is from 9 AM – 3 PM.
$40/day (non-member) $30/day (member).
Extended care is available from 7:30 AM – 9 AM ($5/day) and 3 PM – 5:30 PM ($5/day)

Sign your child up for one day or multiple days. All camps include two snacks. Reserve your spot(s) here. After reserving your spot(s), please fill out a registration packet and fax, email, mail in, or bring with you on the first day of camp. After you have reserved your place, you will receive an email confirmation and more details.

Spring Break Camp Day Themes:

March 18 and 27th: Dirt Diggin’
March 19th and 26th: Art and Nature
March 20th: Leap into Spring
March 21st and 28th: Wetland Wonders
March 22nd: Geology Rocks

Birmingham Children’s Theater –

During the Spring Break Intensive, your child will be immersed in theatre for one-week of learning with BCT’s team of experienced professionals and instructors. With a focus on acting, dancing and puppetry, the Spring Break Intensive provides a well-rounded curriculum and builds upon the skills taught during the Fall Workshops Series. Maximum 16 students per class. No audition required.

Meets: Monday-Friday, March 18-22, 2013, in BCT’s BJCC performance spaces.

Class Level	Age	Meeting Time	Tuition
Little Ones	Current PreK & K	9:30-12:30am	$200
Primary	1st & 2nd Graders	1:00-4:00pm	$200
Ensemble	3rd & 4th Graders	9:30am-4:00pm	$250
Supporting	5th & 6th Graders	9:30am-4:00pm	$250
Principals	7th & 8th Graders	9:30am-4:00pm	$250

Registration Deadline: Monday, March 4, 2013

To Register: For Single Enrollment: Click the enroll button next to the appropriate session. Tutition discounts are available when enrolling multiple students in one session. Please call or E-mail Stephen Pierce at 205-458-8185 to receive tuition discount.

If you think spring got here fast, then you don’t want to hear that summer is just around the corner! Watch for our Summer Camp guide coming soon!!

Parenting with a PhD: House Divided

Posted on Tuesday, February 19, 2013 by Angie

By Kristen Berthiaume:

No, this isn’t an article on the pain and suffering caused by living in a split Auburn/Alabama household, although I’m sure there are some cases out there of HDSD (House-Divided Stress Disorder). No, you see – it’s February – the month of love. So what better time to talk about divorce? Divorce sucks. Yes, many times it’s for the best, but the process itself is not fun for anyone. Most parents going through a divorce worry a lot about how their kids will handle it. The fact is: it’s going to be tough. Really, really tough. You can’t prevent this completely, no matter what you do so just know that going in. There are ways to lessen the impact such a life-changing transition has on your kids, though. Here are some thoughts:

Wait to talk to your kids about the separation/divorce until you and your former spouse have a plan. Your kids will have questions and, although you don’t need to have all the answers, it’s helpful to offer something. Definitely don’t use the D-word in front of your children because you and your spouse had a major fight and you just think that’s where things are headed. Wait until the adults have talked things through and decided that a separation is inevitable. If at all possible, you and your spouse should talk to your kids about what’s going on together. Be prepared for a variety of responses from anger to relief to sadness to apathy. In many situations, kids will be expecting the news but other times it will come as a complete shock. Try not to take your child’s reaction personally and avoid getting defensive – at least not in front of her. Be prepared to continue this conversation at another time after your kids have had a chance to process things.

For younger kids, it can be helpful to explain divorce in the context of different kinds of love: the love parents have for their kids and the love parents have for each other. Explain that, sometimes, the love parents feel for each other changes and the parents have too much trouble getting along to live in the same house anymore. Emphasize that the love parents have for their children does NOT go away in divorce and is forever, no matter what. Repeat this over and over and over. If you’re in the unfortunate situation of having a former spouse who has essentially left the family and doesn’t show much interest in maintaining a relationship with your children, you’ll have to modify the above information a bit. Focus on how much you love the kids and how that will never change. Remind them about other adult support they have also from aunts, uncles, grandparents, teachers, etc. If they ask about the other parent’s feelings, try to give a brief answer indicating that he/she loves the kids but may not be showing it in the same ways right now. Focus more on validating your child’s feelings of being abandoned or unloved by the other parent with statements like, “I understand why you feel that way” or “I know that you really miss Dad.” Avoid detailed commentary about your ex’s behavior. Seeing your child hurting is extremely hard but it will only get worse if you give credence to the belief that the other parent doesn’t care – even if you suspect it might be true.

If you can, consider “Collaborative Practice” or “Collaborative Divorce,” which is a way to voluntarily dissolve the marriage without having to go to court. For more information on this method or to find local individuals who practice in this method, check out Collaborative Practice. To participate in this process, you would work with specially-trained financial, legal, and/or mental health professionals who help you and your former spouse work out the logistics of the divorce, including child custody arrangements, using a cooperative, lower cost method. You’ll consider questions like: Where will the kids live? Who will pay for piano lessons? How will medical decisions be made? This technique works when both parents can be in the same room without excessive anger or resorting to personal attacks. If civility has proven to be impossible in your situation, you’ll probably need to go the typical legal route.

If possible, make an agreement with your former spouse never to argue in front of the kids. Discuss – yes. Fight – no. Of course, they’ll see the occasional disagreement but keep yourselves in check. When things start to get heated, take the conversation into another room or, better yet, discontinue and pick back up when you’re calm. This goes for phone or face-to-face conversations. Make sure your kids can’t access email or texted conversations between you and your ex (although, these aren’t the best ways to have a serious discussion anyway because they make it very difficult to accurately interpret tone and meaning). Along these same lines, avoid bad-mouthing the other parent in front of your child, no matter how much of a ____________(fill in the blank with your choice descriptor) he or she might be. First of all, divorce is an adult issue and children cannot handle all the He Said, She Said adult details. Secondly, you run the risk of damaging your child’s relationship with his other parent, possibly forever. Third, some kids will see this practice for what it is: an attempt at manipulation. Consequently, your child may start to feel resentment towards you for trying to come between him and his other parent. Fourth, having access to that kind of negative information about someone your child loves can be damaging to him psychologically. Finally, bad-mouthing your former spouse increases the tension in the co-parenting relationship, which is certainly not helpful when you’re trying to work out future problems. If you need to vent, pick up the phone and call your mother/brother/friend/neighbor/therapist but don’t do it in front of your kid. He’s got enough to worry about.

Seek therapy as early as possible in the process. This is an important step even when your kids seem to be handling things well. No matter how well-adjusted your kids may be, divorce is a major life transition so it can’t hurt to have a little assistance through the process. It’s likely you would also benefit from talking with someone – even if you initiated the separation and are looking forward to being out of the marriage. You may see the therapist all together or you might opt for individual treatment, probably with different professionals. Your child’s pediatrician or your PCP will have some referrals for you – just ask. Also, many schools provide Divorce Support Groups so check with the counselor. Area churches also provide such groups, although they’re usually for adults.

Some other goals: make sure you and your kids have conversations that have nothing to do with the split. Remember that they (and you!) still have lives going on outside of the divorce. To the extent you can, try to increase the amount of quality time (key word: QUALITY, meaning no videogames or Facebook) you spend with your children. One-on-one time with each kid is preferable if you can swing it. Schedule the time on your calendar if that’s the only way to make it happen. Your child needs to know he is still a priority, no matter how crazy things are getting with the transition.

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 (www.graysonmentalhealth.com). 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 six-year-old daughter and two-year-old son, and as incubator to a third kiddo.

Busy Mommy Bonding Series: ABC Noodles

Posted on Monday, February 18, 2013 by Angie

This activity is so simple we feel a tad guilty calling it an activity!

When kids are learning the alphabet, most of it is very visual. This activity lets kids touch and feel what a “B” is, and make one of their own.

What you’ll need:

Box of spaghetti noodles, cooked al dente
Graphic of the alphabet

What you’ll do:

Let the spaghetti noodles cool, then hand over a few to your child. Ask them to choose any letter and make it out of a noodle. Help them manipulate it if they’re very young. Then start challenging them- can you make a Z? How about a P? My kids especially loved when I started telling them they can make the “Z” disappear and eat it!

Nothing beats playing with food without making a huge mess, all while learning!

Birmingham Events Calendar: February 17th – February 24th

Posted on Sunday, February 17, 2013 by Angie

Alright Moms are you wondering what Birmingham has to offer this week? We’ve got some ideas for you!

Check out the new exhibit opening at the Birmingham Museum of Art, this week. Hip, Hippo, Hooray! The new family-friendly exhibition focusing on the stories of hippos.

There’s a storytime at the new Kids a Million at Brookwood Village, a movie at Emmet O Neal Library and a great program at Ruffner Mountain Nature Center!

Don’t forget to Nominate a Rockin’ Mom! Sunday is the last day to get your nominations in for our 2013 Moms Rock Event, sponsored by Brookwood Medical Center and the Shops of Grand River.

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

Sunday February 17th:

Hip Hippo Hooray – Birmingham Museum of Art
New Exhibit!
The Museum is delighted to share the unique, amusing, and beautiful porcelain table service from the collection of Richard Baron Cohen. Combining two of his greatest collecting passions–ceramics and hippos–Mr. Cohen commissioned a large dinner service from the Royal Copenhagen Porcelain Manufactory in Denmark that captures the spirit and personality of his favorite animal.

The story of the service began in 2004, when Mr. Cohen sent photographer Sarah Louise Galbraith on a year-long journey around the world to photograph hippopotami in zoos and in their natural environment. Using these photos, master porcelain painter Jørgen Nielsen painted delightful “portraits” of the hippos on the various pieces of the service. Completed in four years, the service includes more than 150 pieces.

This family-friendly exhibition focuses on the stories of the hippos, who they are and where they live, and Galbraith’s travels around the world to photograph them.

Last Day to Visit the Clifford Exhibit at the McWane Science Center!!

—————————————————————————————

Monday February 18th:

—————————————————————————————

Tuesday February 19th:

No reservations required. Hippo Adventures 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

—————————————————————————————

Wednesday February 20th:

Storytime – Kids a Million – Brookwood Village
Eric Carle Storytime
11am

Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
Join us as we read When Charlie McButton Lost Power by the author of The Hunger Games. Find out what happens when Charlies electronics lose power. Afterwards, we will make a craft and enjoy something sweet from our Cafe.
11am

—————————————————————————————

Thursday February 21st:

SNAP Movie and Popcorn – Emmet O’ Neal Library
Can a boy bloom in the garden? Find out in this movie about a kid with a truly odd life. Thursday, February 21, at 3:30. Grades 3-6. No registration required.
3:30pm

Taste of Homewood – SOHO
The 12th annual Taste of Homewood, Rosewood Hall in City Hall at SoHo. The Mardi Gras theme event features over 30 Homewood restaurants, caterers, bakeries, coffee shops, and beverage merchants.

The Taste of Homewood has become a tradition in Homewood showcasing the city’s growing number of Homewood food purveyors and providing the public a chance to sample a taste of cuisine from their menus.
5:30pm – 8:30pm

—————————————————————————————

Friday February 22nd:

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.

—-———————————————————————————

Saturday February 23rd:

KIIS (Keep It Simple Silly) Ruffner Mountain Nature Center
Join Ruffner’s Animal Care Keeper, Chivon Morse, for this month’s KISS (Keep it Simple Silly) Program. Learn how Chivon keeps our Animal Ambassadors engaged and mentally active through enrichment. Come learn the importance of enrichment, as well as have the opportunity to make some enrichment treats for the Animal Ambassadors at Ruffner. You’ll even get a chance to see one of the animals in action with their enrichment! We tend to make lots of our enrichment activities with materials that would ordinarily be recycled. Feel free to bring any toilet paper or paper towel tubes to donate for Ruffner’s enrichment program. Perfect for families. Program is approximately 45 minutes. Reservations required. Reserve your spot at http://shop.ruffnermountain.org/
1 pm – KISS (Keep it Simple Silly) Program, $2/$3

Amelia Bedelia Day – Kids a Million – Brookwood Village
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
Join us for Storytime as we read Chick ‘n’ Pug. Chick lives for adventure and Pug lives for sleep. Who will be the hero? Afterwards, we will make a craft and have something delicious from the Cafe.
11am

—————————————————————————————

Sunday February 24th:

LJCC Camp Fair – Levite Jewish Community Center
The Levite Jewish Community Center offers Day Camps, Specialty Camps, and Sport Camps for children ages 18 months – 7th grade.

Camp LJCC runs weekly from May 28 – August 16. Camps include traditional day camp (Yofi), specialty camps and sport camps.

Some of the specialty/sport camps being offered this summer are

FOAC (Fair Oaks Adventure Curriculum)
LEGO Robotics
Black Out Theatre Camp
Kid Fitness
Knight School Chess Camp
Learning With Animals
Magic Camp
Icky Sticky Camp
Science Extreme Up Close
Tennis Camp
Lacrosse Camp
Mike Getman Soccer Camp
Alabama Blue Chips Sports Foundation Basketball Camp
Splash Camp
Bike Clinic
Woodshop 101
Circus of the Kids (first time in Birmingham since 2009).

The LJCC has a “camp a la carte” system — register for one week or all twelve. Camps can be mixed and matched with Camp Yofi, Specialty, and Sport camps.

—————————————————————————————

Local Attractions Open Daily!

McWane Science Center:

Be Ready Alabama Exhibit Presented by:
The Governor’s Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives
www.readyalabama.org

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:

Valentine Fun Facts

Posted on Thursday, February 14, 2013 by Angie

Happy Day O’ Love! While you’re nibbling on your chocolates, and hearts enjoy these fun facts about Valentines Day!

Many believe the X symbol became synonymous with the kiss in medieval times. People who couldn’t write their names signed in front of a witness with an X. The X was then kissed to show their sincerity.

Approximately 58 million pounds of chocolate are consumed around Valentine’s Day.

About 8 billion candy hearts are sold between Feb. 1 and Feb. 14

73 percent of people who buy flowers for Valentine’s Day are men, while only 27 percent are women.

About 3 percent of pet owners will give Valentine’s Day gifts to their pets.

The Gray Area: Flirtationships; A Little Fun or A lot of Damage

Posted on Monday, February 11, 2013 by Angie

By: Misty Smith

A friend of mine sent me a text this morning that read: “FLIRTATIONSHIP; More than a friendship less than a relationship.” I thought…WOW! I had no idea there was a word for this…lol, and I just couldn’t resist using this. I mean we are talking about “Gray” areas here, and this is definitely one of them. It is so true today. Be honest—How many of you have had flirtatious texting relationships while married or in a relationship? The texting probably started innocent enough. I’m sure it began as a simple phone number swap for “business” reasons. Let me say that I will not be gender biased in this discussion because men and women do it equally, and they are doing it more and more! But why?

Is it because it is a “rush” to be doing something so risqué and forbidden? Is it because we are just flirty by nature, and it’s hard to put aside those behaviors forever? I mean, come on, how many of us could have been voted “biggest flirt” in our high school yearbooks…LOL (besides me of course)! Do we need the self-esteem boost every once in a while? One person telling us how amazing we are might not be enough to keep us feeling great about ourselves for very long; maybe we need to hear it from multiple people. Is it simply HOTTER when you hear those comments from someone other than your significant other? Relationships often get in ruts, or, as I like to call it “getting comfortable”. We say our “I Love You’s” between cooking, cleaning, jobs… let’s not forget kids, who can ruin a moment with your sexy someone extremely fast..

There are so many possibilities…which one is applicable to you? I think at this point, I have seen examples of all of these reasons in the people I know. I have other questions though. Does your spouse know that you have flirty-texting friends? Do they care? Do they have one also? Does it somehow add to your relationship, or do you find that is causes more of a strain on your relationship, whether it is a secret or not? The biggest question though is, “When is a “flirtationship” not enough?” I recently had a friend talk with me about this type of behavior because it was the beginning of the end for their marriage, and so the story begins.

It started harmlessly with texting for “business” reasons. There were a few texts back and forth…very innocent ones. Then the individuals began texting a bit more just for some casual friendly conversation. Quite a few days later there was a flirty-text sent, AND, to their surprise, it was not rejected. It actually received a very positive reception. Sooooo….there was another and then another. The relationship quickly went from a “business” relationship to a “flirtationship.” It was that easy!!! Because the “high” of that first experience was just not enough, there was another relationship that became a “flirtationship”. The texting went from flirty to what we will refer to as “sexy” really quickly. It was HOT! It was something, that after years of marriage, was not experienced any more. There was more attention and time spent on this “flirtationship” than on the marriage. I know…it is really sad, but it is what happened. The things that can be said thru a text are so much more extreme than those said in person for many people. Now what happened when the flirty-texting wasn’t enough? The curiosity was beyond control. They met! They have “sexy” texted about all of the things they would do, and it was time to “prove” it. The build-up had been so intense, that when they met, they acted on the feelings. We are all human. This happens with one person, and then another. There was lie after lie told until they were caught. It happens…none of us are infallible. Forgiveness was offered, but they just couldn’t stop. A spouse, kids, a home, stability, friends….GONE…just like that!

Now this is a true story, and for how many of you does this story apply? We all think we are the epitome of self-control. It’s just for fun! It’s enhancing my “intimacy.” I would never let it go that far. And then it does. The questions then change. What do I do? How do I stop? What if someone finds out? What if they tell?

You tell me. Is it worth it? Are there benefits? Are the rewards greater than the risks? Has it cost you or someone you know an important relationship, or EVERYTHING?

About this column: Please be aware that this column potentially addresses sensitive issues that might, at times, be considered offensive. Feel free to send your relationship-related questions to my email: mistysmithphd@convenienttherapy.com. 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 in the column, 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 seek counseling services from a professional. You may also join in on the conversations over on her Facebook page.

Misty Smith, Ph.D. is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She owns a private practice, Smith Counseling Services, Inc. She obtained her Master’s degree in Counseling from Jacksonville State University, an Educational Specialist degree from The University of Alabama, and her Doctorate in Counselor Education from Mississippi State University. She provides counseling services in the following areas: couples/marriage, family, stress management, employee assistance services, time management, divorce, and other major life changes. She generally focuses on solution-focused brief therapy, as well as, behavioral and cognitive-behavioral techniques, but feels a flexible approach to therapy is necessary because all people are different. She is a wife of 10 years and a mom to a 5 year-old daughter, a 3 year-old son, a 19 year-old step-son, a 16 year-old step-daughter, and a 20 year-old Russian exchange daughter.

Birmingham Events Calendar: February 10th – February 17th

Posted on Sunday, February 10, 2013 by Angie

Happy Valentines Week!! Lots of fun events going on around town this week, including a chance to make a Valentine Card for Children’s Hospital.

Check out a “twisted” Valentine celebration at the Homewood Public Library where they’ll be showing Hunger Games for the teen set.

Big Machines Day is back at the McWane Science Center and it’s the last week to visit the Clifford Exhibit.

Whatever you do, we hope you have a wonderful, love filled week! Don’t forget to enter for a chance to win a date night. Dinner and a Movie with Carmike Summit and Lime Fresh Mexican Grill

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

Sunday February 10th:

Valentines for Children’s Hospital – Hoover Public Library
We’re collecting homemade and store-bought valentines (NO CANDY) for the patients at Children’s Hospital. Bring signed valentines to the preschool desk and receive a holiday prize. Kids of all ages.
2pm – 6pm

Valentines for Children’s Hospital – Springville Road Library
Brighten up Valentines Day for a patient at Children’s Hospital. Drop in at the Children’s Department before Valentines Day and you can create a card. We’ll provide all the supplies!
Library Hours

Yoga for Teens – Villager Yoga
Yoga is a fun and interactive way for children and teens to build strength, release excess energy and develop a healthy body and body image. Kids tend to lead intense lifestyles due to over-stimulation, academic and social pressures, blended families and busy schedules, all which create stress that can be hard for them to identify and clearly communicate. Our yoga practice provides tools children, teens and families can use to alleviate stress and find calm and balance in a safe, non-competitive environment.

Our sessions follow a loose curriculum through which kids and teens continue to add knowledge of poses, build strength and develop mindfulness with each class. All classes move from warm-up to active play, through mindfulness exercises and closing relaxation. Kids Series require full 8-week registration (one day per week), unless otherwise noted. All classes below are led by Annie Damsky

For Teens 13 & up, Traditional sequencing is introduced in an invigorating format to build strength, balance and flexibility while relieving physical and emotional stress. Mindfulness exercises offer teens exploration of their physical, emotional and mental development, both individually and as a group.

This class is drop-in (not a series), class passes apply

Individual class is $15
5-Class Pass $65
10-Class Pass $120
Sundays 5:00 – 6:00 pm

—————————————————————————————

Monday February 11th:

Monday Movie – Homewood Public Library
A movie for all ages. Real movie popcorn and juice is provided for children in attendance.
3:30pm

—————————————————————————————

Tuesday February 12th:

Art from the Heart – Homewood Public Library
Celebrate love and friendship with fun Valentine crafts to make and share. Refreshments following program.
6:30pm

—————————————————————————————

Wednesday February 13th:

Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
Join us as we read Amelia Bedelia’s First Valentine. She is sure she will love Valentines Day, do you? Afterwards, we will make a craft and enjoy something sweet from our Cafe.
11am

—————————————————————————————

Thursday February 14th:

Happy Valentines Day!!!

Calling All Teens – Homewood Public Library
Join us for an anti-Valentine’s Day showing of The Hunger Games complete with popcorn and pizza! Let the eating begin!
4pm

—————————————————————————————

Friday February 15th:

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.

—-———————————————————————————

Saturday February 16th:

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!
TIMES: 10 AM – 4 PM
COST: Included in cost of admission to the museum, FREE for members

Kids In Nature – Ruffner Mountain Nature Center
Let’s go outside and explore! KIN Club focuses on a different topic each month and includes a naturalist-led hike and a craft. KIN Club is suited for 3rd – 5th graders and their family.
$5/$7 (nonmember).
Adult chaperones are free.
1pm

Cliffords 50th Birthday Party – Books a Million, Brookwood Mall
Come join Kids-A-Million as we celebrate Clifford the Big Red Dog’s 50th Birthday!
11am – 2pm

5th Annual Columbiana Cowboy Day – Mildred Street, Columbiana
Grab your cowboy boots and hat and head out to the fifth annual Columbiana Cowboy Day. Join us Saturday, February 16, 2013. Events start at 10:00 am. Parade, Cowboy Demonstrations (Roping, Farrier, and Blacksmith), Live Music, Chili Cookoff and Vendors. Event is free. Rain or shine.
10am

Bart’s Art Cart – Birmingham Museum of Art
This drop-in art program for kids and families features a different gallery and activity each month. Stop by to make art with Bart! Create a Face Jug that looks like you or a friend!
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 Laban Carrick Hill’s Dave the Potter.

Bart’s Books is sponsored by Publix Charities.
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
Join us for Storytime as we read Snowmen at Night. Have you ever wondered about the secret life of a snowman? Afterwards, we will make a craft and have something delicious from our Cafe.
11am

—————————————————————————————

Sunday February 17th:

This family-friendly exhibition focuses on the stories of the hippos, who they are and where they live, and Galbraith’s travels around the world to photograph them.

Last Day to Visit the Clifford Exhibit at the McWane Science Center!!

—————————————————————————————

Local Attractions Open Daily!

McWane Science Center:

Be Ready Alabama Exhibit Presented by:
The Governor’s Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives
www.readyalabama.org

Adventures with Clifford the Big Red Dog
Join Clifford, Emily Elizabeth, and all their friends in the Adventures with Clifford The Big Red Dog™ exhibit! Featuring the people and places of the beloved children’s book and PBS Kids television series, this new interactive exhibit brings Clifford’s home on Birdwell Island to life with playful activities and enchanting environments for early learners to explore.

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:

Valentine Giveaway: Dinner and a Movie

Posted on Friday, February 8, 2013 by Angie

Need a date night? We know you do!!

Just in time for Valentines Day, we’ve partnered up with the amazing Lime Fresh Mexican Grill and the Carmike Summit 16 to give two lucky couples a night out!