YMCA of Greater Birmingham Earns Accreditation for Child Abuse Prevention Practices

As parents, safety is always our top priority.  That’s why it’s great to see the YMCA of Greater Birmingham earn Praesidium Accreditation®, proving their commitment to child protection and abuse prevention.

The YMCA of Greater Birmingham has been awarded Praesidium Accreditation® by Praesidium, the leader in abuse risk management. Praesidium Accreditation® is a prestigious honor that publicly demonstrates the organization has worked to achieve the highest industry standards in abuse prevention.

To achieve  Accreditation, the YMCA of Greater Birmingham underwent a rigorous process to  implement Praesidium’s Accreditation Standards focusing on eight primary operational areas within their business: policies, screening and selection, training, monitoring and supervision, consumer participation, internal feedback systems, responding, and administrative practices. Praesidium then verified YMCA of Greater Birmingham’s successful implementation of these standards. The Y will be accredited for three years, and during this time will commit to uphold fundamental organizational values and stringent safety practices that demonstrate their commitment to protecting those in their care from abuse.

Praesidium Accreditation® provides solid proof of sound risk management practices and the honor distinguishes Organization Name from others in their industry. “We are pleased to send the message that we will not compromise the safety of those in our care—for any reason,” said Rhonda Elmore, Vice President of Youth Development. As an entire organization, we are dedicated and committed to proactively keeping those in our care safe from sexual abuse.”

About Praesidium: Praesidium specializes in preventing sexual abuse in organizations that serve youth and vulnerable adults. Over a period in excess of 30 years, the company has reviewed over 4,000 cases of abuse within organizations to determine the root causes of sexual abuse within organizational settings. Praesidium employs more than 50 staff, including licensed social workers, lawyers, health care researchers, and other experts. The company has served over 5,000 clients with a broad range of products and services to aid organizations in preventing abuse, including online and instructor–led trainings, organizational risk assessments, model policies, and background checks. Having trained more than one million people online and hundreds of thousands in person, Praesidium is the largest and most comprehensive sexual abuse risk management firm globally.

About the YMCA of Greater Birmingham: The YMCA of Greater Birmingham is a charitable organization dedicated to making our community a healthier place to live. Throughout the Greater Birmingham area, the Y is engaged in every neighborhood, nurturing the potential of children and teens, improving the community’s health and well-being, and providing opportunities to give back and support others. That’s why we focus on our work in three areas: Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility. Learn more about the YMCA of Greater Birmingham at ymcabham.org 

Summer Camp Spotlight: Summer Camp Fun at Aldridge Gardens!

Searching for an unforgettable summer experience for your child in Birmingham? Aldridge Gardens offers the perfect blend of fun, learning, and adventure! Their beloved summer camps are back, offering engaging and hands-on experiences for kids entering kindergarten through 3rd grade. But don’t wait—spots are limited and fill up fast!

Why Choose Aldridge Gardens Summer Camps?
Each camp runs Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to noon, giving your child a fun-filled morning of creativity, discovery, and adventure. Plus, mid-morning snacks and water are provided, or you can send your own.

With a variety of camp themes—including American Girl Dolls, Art in the Gardens, and S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math)—there’s something to inspire every young explorer!

Camp Details & Pricing
Cost: $130 for Aldridge Gardens members | $150 for non-members
Pro Tip: A $50 annual membership can save you money if registering multiple kids or attending multiple camps—and it comes with other great perks! [Join online here.]

Camp Schedule – June 2025
American Girl Doll Camps
June 2-6, June 9-13, June 16-20, June 23-27

Art in the Gardens Camps
June 2-6, June 9-13, June 16-20, June 23-27

S.T.E.A.M. Camps
June 2-6, June 9-13, June 16-20, June 23-27

Spots are filling up quickly—don’t miss out! Click [here] to register today and give your child a summer full of fun, learning, and adventure!

Spring Break Camps and Classes In Birmingham: Spring 2025

SPRING BREAK CAMPS IN BIRMINGHAM 2025

Looking for fun and engaging ways to keep the kids entertained over spring break? Birmingham has a variety of spring break camps to choose from! We’ve rounded up the best options for 2025 so you can find the perfect fit for your family. Check out the full list below and get ready for a stress-free spring break!

Red Mountain Theatre Spring Break Camps

RMT’s Theatre Camps give kids an outlet to use their creativity in dramatic ways, at all ages and skill levels. Countless studies have shown arts education improves children’s development and academic success. It’s not just about singing and dancing. It’s about teaching them teamwork, time management, focus, discipline, confidence and so much more!

Whole day and half day camps are available. Most camps end with a short performance for parents and friends. There are also before or after care options to add on as desired. Financial aid is available for those who qualify. Please click here for more details on financial aid.

Did your child attend one of our camps in 2024? Email education@redmountaintheatre.org to get your 10% discount code as a returning camper!

All camps will have a travel theme, from our Play Making camps (Bluey’s Adventures and Moana’s Voyage; ages 4-6), to our Triple Threats “Vacation, All I Ever Wanted” (ages 6-8), and a world-traveling script for our Blast Camp (ages 9-14). Sing, dance, and imagine the whole world at RMT!

Sign Up Here

Schools Out Camp – YMCA

Join the YMCA for fun games and activities that keep kids having fun and learning. They can make new friends and engage in indoor and outdoor activities in a safe, positive environment. School’s Out Camp is available on most scheduled school breaks. Dates, times, and prices vary by location. Both members and non-members are welcome to attend, so invite your friends.

Alabaster YMCA
Ages: 3-5 year olds (1/2 day) |  K-7th grade
Hours of Operation: 9:00AM – 1:00PM (1/2 day for 3-5 years old)| 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Dates currently offered: March 24, 25, 26, 27, 28
Cost: YMCA Members: $30 per day per child | Non-Members: $50 per day per child

Greystone YMCA | Hoover | Pelham | Shades Valley | Trussville
Ages: K-6th grade
Hours of Operation: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Dates currently offered: March 24, 25, 26, 27, 28
Cost: YMCA Members: $30 per day per child | Non-Members: $50 per day per child

Spring Break at the Birmingham Zoo

Our ever-changing world is always creating new pressures on wildlife. Discover ways humanity impacts wildlife and brainstorm solutions on how we can lighten the load we put on animals in the wild.

Schedule
Monday, March 24 – Habitat Loss
Tuesday, March 25 – Pollution
Wednesday March 26 – Invasive Species
Thursday, March 27 – Illegal Wildlife Trade
Friday, March 28 – Solutions

Register Here

Camp McWane

Looking for an awesome way to spend your Spring Break? Camp McWane Spring Break Camps are packed with fun, hands-on learning activities for kids in 4K to 6th grade!

Camp Features:

Safe, indoor environment
Expert instructors
Hands-on STEM learning
Exploring the science center
The deadline for registration for Spring Break camps is Wednesday, March 19.  Half and Full Day Camps Available

Register HERE

Birmingham Area Children’s Consignment Sales, Spring 2025

Spring is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to refresh your kid’s wardrobe and gear. If you’re looking for great deals on gently used kids’ items, Birmingham is home to lots of children’s consignment sales where you can score everything from clothes to toys at a fraction of the cost. Here’s your guide to all the upcoming sales in the area, so you don’t miss out on the savings!

Gardendale

Kingdom Kids Consignment
Gardendale Mtn Vernon Baptist
805 Crest Drive, Gardendale, AL  35071

Public sale dates:

Sunday, February 23rd 1pm-6pm- Drop off for anyone
Monday, February 24th 8am-6pm- Drop off for anyone
Thursday, February 27th 8am-7pm- Sales open to public
Friday, February 28th 8am-6pm- Sales open to public
Saturday, March 1st 7am-12pm- Sales open to public (half off MOST items)
Saturday, March 1st 4pm-6pm- Pick up and pay for sellers
Sale Website 

Birmingham

Giggles and Grace Consignment Sale
Asbury United Methodist Church

Public sale dates:

Friday, February 14th 8am-6pm
Saturday, February 15th 8am-12pm (some items half off)

Hoover:

Bargains on the Bluff
Bluff Park United Methodist

Public sale dates:

Thursday, February 20th- Preview sale
Friday, February 21st 9am-6pm- Public sale
Saturday, February 22nd 9am-2pm- Public sale (select items half off)

Tried N True (TNT Consignment)
Riverchase United Methodist

Public sale dates:

Wednesday, February 12th 9am-3pm and 5pm-7:30pm- Public sale
Thursday, February 13th 9am-3pm and 5pm-7:30pm- Public sale
Friday, February 14th 8am-11am- Public sale (some items half off)

Irondale:

Kids Market and Mom
Irondale Civic Center off Ratliff Road

Friday February 21st, Saturday February 22nd and Monday February 24th – Receiving
Tuesday and Thursday, March4th and 6th  Contributors shop
Saturday, March 8th 8am-6pm – Any contributor and guest pass will shop
Friday, March 7th 2p, 4p and 6p – Parent’s Night Out

Public Sale Dates:

Saturday, March 8th 10pm-6pm
Sunday, March 9th 12pm-5pm
Monday-Thursday, March 10th-March 13th, 9am-6pm

Discount Days (50% off many items)

Friday, March 14th 9am-7pm
Saturday, March 15th 8am-4pm

Mountain Brook:

Sweet Repeats Children’s Consignment
Mountain Brook Community Church

Public sale dates:

Friday, February 21st 9am-4pm- Public sale
Saturday, February 22nd 7th 9am-12pm- Public sale (some items half off)

Trussville:

Trussville Methodist Children’s Consignment
Trussville Methodist Church

Pubic sale dates:

Friday, March 14th 10am-8pm- Public sale
Saturday, March 15th 8am-2pm- Public sale (many items half off)

Vestavia

Whale of a Sale
Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church

NO SPRING SALE

** Please remember that all dates and times are subject to change without notice to BirminghamMommy. Please make sure to double check the sales website and/or Facebook pages for the most current and up to date information. If you have a sale you would like to see on our list, email us at contact@birminghammommy.com

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey: The Greatest Show on Earth Returns to Birmingham!

Get ready, Birmingham! The Greatest Show on Earth is making a triumphant return January 31st. The Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey show promises an unforgettable experience with all-new jaw-dropping performances, incredible acrobatics, and thrilling entertainment for the entire family.

Experience the thrill of a lifetime as Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® returns with a reimagined edition of The Greatest Show On Earth® produced by the worldwide leader in live entertainment experiences, Feld Entertainment. This iconic production, designed to entertain today’s families, brings together 75 performers from 18 different nationalities, showcasing over 50 exhilarating circus acts in a fast-paced, action- packed two-hour show. The all-new Ringling will only be performing at the Legacy Arena at the BJCC in Birmingham from January 31–February 2, 2025.

This isn’t just any circus. This is The Greatest Show On Earth that blends breathtaking stunts, high-energy performances, and laugh-out-loud moments that keep everyone on the edge of their seats. This all-new Ringling production is for everyone, from kids to grandparents, making it the perfect family entertainment experience. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the circus, there is no other show like this to create lasting family memories.

Fans can expect to be fully immersed in a 360-degree viewing experience that brings the action to life all around them. The arena floor becomes the ultimate playground, where gravity-defying stunts and thrilling performances unfold right before their eyes. Audiences will leave the show feeling inspired and believing that anything is possible. They’ll witness real people who have dedicated their lives to perfecting their talent, performing acts unique only to Ringling such as:

  • The never-before-seen triangular highwire and the crisscross flying trapeze adds layers of complexity to traditional circus acts, allowing fans to see more action and more performers simultaneously.
  • A high-energy BMX bike stunt scene, where bikes and riders flip high above the arena on ramps and trampolines is an adrenaline rush for the crowd.
  • Live music performances add a vibrant energy to the show and encourages audience participation.
  • The Double Wheel of Destiny pushes the limits with four daredevils executing daring leaps and somersaults on two spinning apparatuses, 30 feet above the ground while moving at incredible speeds.
  • Fans won’t want to miss Wesley, the One Wheel Wonder, a Guinness World Record-setting performer riding the world’s tallest unicycle at 34.6 feet.
  • Human juggling, where a performer flips and twists high and fast in the air, propelled by his partner’s feet—a must-see sight.

“Over the past two years, we’ve innovated and deepened the connection between performers and the audience, creating an unforgettable experience,” says Juliette Feld Grossman, CEO and Producer of The Greatest Show On Earth. “At the heart of every Ringling show is a sense of wonder and authenticity. No matter the generation, every audience member will find moments that resonate, delivering the thrilling and inspiring experience only Ringling can offer.

The tour launched in September 2023 and will travel to over 50 cities across North America, bringing this incredible show to fans everywhere. It’s nonstop fun at family-friendly prices:

Don’t miss out on The Greatest Show On Earth! Tickets are available now at www.Ringling.com.

WHEN: Friday, January 31 7:00 PM

Saturday, February 1 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM &; 7:00 PM
Sunday, February 2 1:00 PM &; 5:00 PM

WHERE: Legacy Arena at the BJCC – 1898 9 th Ave North, Birmingham, AL. 35203
TICKETS: Family friendly ticket pricing available – tickets can be purchased online at

Ticketmaster.com or in-person at the venue box office.
*Ticket pricing is subject to change based on market demand.

5 MLK Day Camps in Birmingham: Fun and Educational Options for Kids

Looking for something fun and engaging for the kids to do on MLK Day? Whether you need childcare while schools are out or just want to keep the little ones entertained, we’ve rounded up the best MLK Day camps happening in Birmingham. From art and science adventures to sports and outdoor activities, these camps offer enriching experiences that your kids will love.

Check out the list below and find the perfect way to keep your kids active and learning this holiday!

Ace of Birmingham:

This is perfect for kiddos who are out of school and ready to play! These camp days are jammed packed with contests, games, open gym play, & play time in the bouncy house! You won’t want to miss it!

Monday, January 20th
8am-4pm
Ages 4-12. Kids don’t have to be enrolled in classes in order to attend so they can invite their friends to come and play along!
https://acetribe.com/special-events-birmingham/

Kidstrong Greystong:

A day of fun, learning, and confidence-building for your kids! Spots are filling up fast, so don’t
wait—Call or text (205) 778-4280, email Greystone@KidStrong.com, or sign up here:
9:00 AM – 2:30 PM

Shoot 360BHM:

Shoot 360 BHM and the Birmingham Squadron have partnered to bring a basketball camp to the community on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Every Participant receives a Squadron swag bag!

Visit their website to register

January 20th 8am – Noon
Ages 8-14, co-ed

Vision Gymnastics:

Let your kids jump into fun at this MLK Day Camp!
January 20th, 9am – 3pm
✅ Does my child have to be enrolled at Vision to attend? No enrollment in classes is necessary—everyone is welcome! No gymnastics experience required!
✅ Is lunch or snack provided? An AM snack and PM snack will be provided but children must bring their own lunch!
✅ How much is it? $60 per child

Register Here

Birmingham Martial Arts:

A day full of fun, learning, and adventure.
Camp Hours: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Drop-off & Pick-up at your convenience
Snacks will be provided (but please pack lunch!)
Outing to the park or library (weather permitting)
This is a great opportunity for your kids to have a memorable day while you go about your day. We’ll make sure they’re engaged and having a blast!
Spots are limited, so make sure to sign up today!

Cool Whip Cookies

Our latest obsession… Cool Whip Cookies! We might have whipped up two batches this week alone (no judgment, right?). They’re irresistibly simple, endlessly customizable, and oh-so-yummy, so they disappear fast! You can use any cake mix flavor your heart desires. For a festive touch, we went with red velvet this time, but lemon is next on our list. Ready to bake these heavenly treats for your next gathering—or just for yourself? (No judgment here either!)
Here’s how to make them!
Cool Whip Cookies-
1 box any flavor cake mix, chocolate, red velvet, lemon, etc.
1- 8 ounce Cool Whip
1 egg
Mix together in a bowl, drop by teaspoonfuls into powdered sugar; place on cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 11 – 12 minutes, cool before removing from cookie sheet. Enjoy!

Thumbprint Reindeer Cards

One of my favorite parts of the holiday season is receiving family cards—catching up on loved ones’ lives and seeing how everyone has grown is so fun! While store-bought cards are lovely, there’s something extra special about homemade ones. They’re personal, heartfelt, and perfect for spreading cheer.

You don’t have to be an artist to make meaningful cards. To prove it, I’ve put together a fun and easy tutorial for creating reindeer thumbprint cards. Kid-friendly and full of charm, these handmade treasures will delight everyone on your list!

Supplies:

Brown stamp

Sharpie pens

Card-stock paper

These are so easy and personable to each family! Each family member can stamp their thumb on the front of the card and then drew the cutest reindeer features on each one. Simple but oh so precious! You could even add names and ages under each reindeer!

Experience the Magic of the Wacky Tacky Light Tour in Birmingham!

Get ready to embrace the ultimate holiday fun with Birmingham’s Wacky Tacky Light Tour! This two-hour bus adventure takes you on a journey to see the most outrageous, over-the-top, and delightfully tacky holiday lights in the city. Whether it’s inflatable overload or a spectacularly chaotic yard display, the Wacky Tacky Light Tour showcases the best of the worst holiday décor.

What to Expect:
Adults-Only Vibes (Mostly): While kids are welcome, earlier tour times are better suited for families.
Private Buses Available: Perfect for businesses or large groups looking to spread holiday cheer together.
Starting Point: Tours begin and end at the Valley Hotel in Homewood.
Midway Break: A rest stop along The Strip in Edgewood lets you refresh drinks, grab snacks, and use the restroom.
Dress to Impress: Crazy holiday sweaters, festive pajamas, or costumes are highly encouraged!
Insider Tip: The tour is BYOB, but keep the red wine at home—no one wants to ruin the holiday vibes with stains

Give Back While You Celebrate
The Wacky Tacky Light Tour is more than just fun—it’s a fundraiser for Fresh Air Family’s GROSS OUT Camp (Great Outdoor Science School). This hands-on outdoor science camp gets kids off their devices and into nature to explore and learn. With locations across Alabama, including a new spot in Homewood for Summer 2025!

Proceeds from the tour support Gross Out Camp scholarships, ensuring more children can experience the great outdoors. And here’s exciting news: BirminghamMommy will be giving away camp spots when registration opens!

For more info or to book your spot, visit the their site

For any questions about Wacky Tacky Lights or Gross Out Camps, contact events@freshairfamily.org.

Recipe: Grinch Bites

If you’re looking for a yummy little treat to make for your Christmas parties this year, try this easy peasy recipe for what we’re calling Grinch Bites!

What You’ll Need:

Pretzels (twists or squares)
White Chocolate Melting Wafers
Rolos
Green M&M’s
Sprinkles (optional)

 

What You’ll Do:

Preheat oven to 200 degrees
Top pretzel with 1 Rolo
Bake for 3-4 Minutes, just log enough to make Rolos soft
Remove from oven and top with another pretzel, making a “Rolo Sandwich” Pressing it together lightly
Place 1 White chocolate melting wafer on top of Rolo Sandwich and return to oven
Bake another 3 – 4 minutes
Remove from oven and decorate with M&M’s and sprinkles