H HH

Parent’s H Choice H Awards

Once again, Birmingham magazine partnered with Baby & Child magazine, this time to produce our Parent’s Choice Awards, which ran as an online contest this spring. More than 2,500 people responded to the survey and entered the businesses and services they thought were the best in 65 categories. From health to shopping, from education to food, we’ve listed the top three winners in every area. The Parent’s Choice Award winners will remain online at bhammag.com for a full year. Be sure to bookmark the page and share this information with your friends. You and your network of friends and family will rely on these recommendations all year.

M a y 2 0 1 1 l bhammag.com 63

04_W_Parent's Choice_04esp.indd 63 2/11/10 5:57 PM H H Best obstetrician HEALTH Nathan Ross, OBGYN South 2006 Brookwood Medical Center Dr., Suite 402, For what you plan to be… 397-9000, obgynsouth.com whenever you plan to be it. ­­­Best Fertility Specialist Dr. Ross has been in practice for 13 years and G. Wright Bates comes highly recommended by women who The Kirklin Clinic, 2000 Sixth Avenue S., note his willingness to listen and spend time 801-8200, uabhealth.org with them during exams. Runners up: Greg Banks, Dr. Bates is an associate professor in the Alabama Women’s Specialists, 2006 Brookwood Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Medical Center Dr., Suite 310, 877-2121, Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and alwomens.com and John Adcock, OBGYN South, Gynecology at UAB as well as the director of 2006 Brookwood Medical Center Dr., Suite 402, the in vitro fertilization program. Runners up: 397-9000, obgynsouth.com ART Fertility Program of Alabama, 2006 Brookwood Medical Center Dr., Suite 508, 870-9784, Best gynecologist artprogramal.com and Michael Steinkampf, Alabama William McKenzie Jr., OBGYN South Fertility Specialists, 2700 U.S. 280, Suite 370, 2006 Brookwood Medical Center Dr., Suite 402, 874-0000, alabamafertility.com 397-9000, obgynsouth.com Dr. McKenzie graduated from medical Best doula school at UAB 23 years ago and is board certi- Fredia Nelms fied in both obstetrics and gynecology. Runners best obstetrician: P.O. Box 1250, Birmingham, AL 35203, up: John Adcock, OBGYN South, 2006 Brookwood Nathan Ross, OBYN South 514-4874, laboroflovebirmingham.com Medical Center Dr., Suite 402, 397-9000, obgyn- Fredia Nelms is a Certified Childbirth Educator south.com, Greg Banks, Alabama Women’s Special- and owns Labor of Love birth services, which ists, 2006 Brookwood Medical Center Dr., Suite 310, UAB Women and Infants Center, 1700 Sixth Ave. S., provides childbirth education and support for 877-2121, alwomens.com and Nathan Ross, OBGYN 934-8011, uabmedicine.org and Brookwood Medical families interested in pursuing birth without South, 2006 Brookwood Medical Center Dr., Suite Center, 2010 Brookwood Medical Center Dr., medication. Runners up: Rachel Garcia, sweetbirth- 402, 397-9000, obgynsouth.com 877-1000, bwmc.com doula.blogspot.com and Dahlia Abrams, BirthWell in Birmingham, 595-5179, Best hospital to have a baby Best OBGYN practice birthwellinbirmingham.com St. Vincent’s 810 St. Vincent’s Dr., 939-7000, Henderson and Walton Women’s Center stvhs.com 806 St. Vincent’s Dr., Suite 500, 930-1800, hwwc.net With top-of- A long-standing practice in Birmingham, the-line facilities, Henderson and Walton has remained suc- prenatal, delivery and cessful because of its quality care and service. postnatal education Patients can review their level of care via sur- and web cams in the vey on the practice website. Runners up: OBGYN nursery, St. Vincent’s South, 2006 Brookwood Medical Center Dr., Suite provides a soothing, 402, 397-9000, obgynsouth.com and Birmingham supportive environ- OBGYN, 800 St. Vincent’s Dr., Suite 500, 933-8334, Birmingham has a new ment for parents birminghamobgyn.com and babies. Runners home for women’s services. up: Brookwood Medical Best hospital NICU unit Center, 2010 Brookwood UAB Women and Infants Center Medical Center Dr., 1700 Sixth Ave. S., 934-8011, uabmedicine.org 877-1000, bwmc.com UAB’s new Women and Infants Center and UAB Women and provides childbirth services not only for un- Infants Center, 1700 complicated births, but also the most modern Sixth Ave. S., 934-8011, and technologically advanced care and facili- uabmedicine.org ties for at-risk babies and mothers. Runners up: Brookwood Medical Center, 2010 Brookwood Medical Our new Women & Infants Center features maternity care, including: high-risk OB, in a private-practice setting; Best birthing Suite Center Dr., 877-1000, bwmc.com and St. Vincent’s, the only area Regional Neonatal ICU with private rooms; upscale amenities; and maternal-fetal medicine St. Vincent’s 810 St. Vincent’s Dr., 939-7000, stvhs.com and neonatology specialists on-site 24/7 – in case your routine pregnancy turns out to be…well…not routine. 810 St. Vincent’s Dr., 939-7000, stvhs.com Best pediatrician St. Vincent’s of- Richard Stone, Vestavia Pediatrics fers well-appointed 1936 Old Orchard Rd., 978-3200, Watch the video on rooms that can vestaviapediatrics.com your smartphone. support uncompli- Dr. Stone is one of the five pediatricians UAB MATERNAL-FETAL MEDICINE cated deliveries and at Vestavia Pediatrics and has built a devoted 800.UAB.8816 | uabmedicine.org/women care for both mother patient base with his encouraging manner and Connect with us on Facebook best Fertility specialist: and baby through- clinical knowledge. Runners up: Richard Smith, G. Wright Bates, The Kirklin Clinic out the childbirth Vestavia Pediatrics, 1936 Old Orchard Rd., 978- Ranked among the nation’s top 20 best hospitals for

process. Runners up: 3200, vestaviapediatrics.com and John Cortopassi, Portraits of D r. R oss and Bates by Cary N orton gynecology by U.S.News & World Report, 2010-11

64 bhammag.com l M a y 2 0 1 1

04_W_Parent's Choice_04esp.indd 64 2/11/10 5:57 PM Greenvale Pediatrics, 5295 Preserve Parkway, Suite ordinary scrapes and sniffles, the dedicated Medical Center Dr., Suite 21, 870-0892, drrohner. 100, 987-4444, greenvale.chsys.org staff of Children’s Hospital keeps Alabama com and Michael Anglin, 3825 Lorna Rd., Suite 206, kids healthy every day. Runners up: Greenvale 988-9800, birminghamkidsdentist.com Best healthcare facility for kids Pediatrics, multiple locations, greenvale.chysys.org Children’s Hospital for details and Vestavia Pediatrics, 1936 Old Orchard Best orthodontist 1600 Seventh Ave. S., 939-9100, chsys.org Rd., 978-3200, vestaviapediatrics.com J. Greg Osborne Celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, 117 Euclid Ave., Suite A, 870-5321 and 527 Children’s Hospital has become an institution Best dentist Fieldstown Rd., 631-5223 in our community. From its rescue helicop- Michael A. Keller With two practice locations, one in the ter that saves the lives of seriously injured 2045 Brookwood Medical Center Dr., Suite 7, fast-growing Gardendale and the other in kids to its care of little ones with the most 870-7110, mkellerdds.com Crestline, Dr. Osborne has a growing patient Dr. Keller’s patients know to expect a base and a long line of kids with straight teeth good time when they go in for a checkup or to his credit. Runners up: Birmingham Orthodontics, treatment. The waiting room includes a video multiple locations, bhamorthodontics.com for details arcade, and the examination space is enlivened and Christy Jebeles Savage, Alabama Orthodontic by “Dr. Mike’s” jokes and playfulness. Associates, 125 North Chalkville Rd., Trussville, Runners up: Angelica Rohner, 2045 Brookwood 655-3939.

H ENTERTAINMENT H

Best birthday cake Edgar’s Bakery best orthodontist: multiple locations, edgarsbakery.com for details J. Greg Osborne Edgar’s talented bakers can create a birth- day masterpiece for your child, regardless of their interest, hobby, or demand for the perfect best frozen shade of pink. Best of all, parents won’t be yogurt shop: put off by a too-sweet cake or icing. Runners Yogurt Mountain up: Publix, multiple locations, publix.com for details and Dreamcakes Bakery, 960 Oxmoor Rd., 871-9377, dreamcakes-bakery.com

Best ice cream shop Bruster’s multiple locations, brusters.com for details As we all know, ice cream is an impor- tant part of childhood (and adulthood). Bruster’s is a hit because it serves ice cream and other sweet treats made right in the store from high-quality ingredients. Runners up: Cold Stone Creamery, 1430 best birthday cake: Gadsden Highway, Suite 108, Edgar’s Bakery Trussville, 655-3776 or 750 Colo- nial Promenade Parkway, Suite 5700, Alabaster, 663-1015, coldstone they took first prize. Runners up: Red Mango, creamery.com and Edgewood multiple locations, redmangousa.com for details and Creamery, 936 Oxmoor Rd., 874-1999 Yogurt Lab, 633 Montgomery Highway, 874-6660, visityogurtlab.com Best frozen yogurt shop Yogurt Mountain Best invitations 3000 Cahaba Village Plaza, Suite 120, Sugar B Design 970-7778 or 3032 John Hawkins sugarbritchesdesign.com Parkway, Suite 130, 733-1433, Owner and designer Carrie Beth yogurtmountain.com Champion combines watercolor illustra- On the crowded frozen-yogurt tion and computer graphic design for lovely battlefield, Yogurt Mountain invitations, other stationery products and even emerges victorious. The size of T-shirts Runners up: PoppySeed Paper, 874-6077, the summertime crowd at their poppyseedpaper.com and The Invitation Place, 3150

Mountain Brook location proves why Overton Rd., Suite 4, 970-3970 Portrait of D r. O sborne by Cary N orton, Cake photo courtesy E dgars, Yogurt Mountain

66 bhammag.com l M a y 2 0 1 1

04_W_Parent's Choice_04esp.indd 66 2/11/10 5:57 PM Best educational toy store Learning Express multiple locations, learningexpress.com for details With three locations in Birmingham, Learning Express is a convenient stop for the There’s only one place that delivers best in brainy gifts and educational products. Runners up: Homewood Toy and Hobby, 2830 18th so many wonderful possibilities. St. S., 879-3986 and Snoozy’s Kids, Crestline Village, Mountain Brook, 871-2662 and Smith’s Variety Shop, 2715 Culver Rd., 871-0841, smithsvarietyshop.com Each new life brings many possibilities, but one definite is the unmatched Best toy store for a birthday gift care of St. Vincent’s. Whether you’re in the beginning stages of planning for Learning Express HEALTH SYSTEM a baby or in the early stages of your pregnancy, our compassionate team of multiple locations, learningexpress.com for details With plenty of useful and instructional toys, medical professionals will be with you every step of the way. puzzles, games and science kits, you can feel good about giving a birthday gift from Learn- ing Express. Runners up: Snoozy’s Kids, Crestline Village, Mountain Brook, 871-2662 and Toys R Us, 1715 Montgomery Highway, 733-1551 or 6200 Grand River Blvd., 699-2818, toysrus.com best party entertainer: Best kids’ party place Bama Balloons Pump It Up 2724 Chandalar Place, Pelham, 663-4646 or 4623 Camp Coleman Rd., Suite 101, Trussville, Best party entertainer 661-5557, pumpitupparty.com Bama Balloons There’s nothing like a room full of inflat- 213-1615, bamaballoons.com able slides, bouncy surfaces and obstacle If it can be made from a balloon, then courses to set a crowd of kids squealing with Bama Balloons can make it. From large instal- happiness. And parents can sit on the sidelines lations to small animal creations, they can and enjoy the free entertainment. Runners up: create it—without popping! Runners up: Backyard iJump, 157 Resource Center Parkway, Suite 109, Movie Parties, 595-3549, backyardmovieparties.com 981-2696, ijumpinc.com and TreeTop Family and Ed’s Pet World, 2730 18th St. S., 879-1331 Adventure, 1012 Dunnavant Valley Rd., 637-3780, treetopfamilyadventure.com Best maternity photographer Stephanie Fisher Photography 8514 Highway 119, 378-9795, sfisherphotography.com Stephanie uses natu- ral light to capture the wonderful experience best of pregnancy. She educational toy store: Learning Express works from her Ala- baster studio or can shoot on location. Runners up: The Blink Lady, 982-0313, theblin- klady.com and Abernathy Photographics, 260-0131, best Invitations: abernathyphotographics.com Sugar B Design

Best children’s photographer Amy P Photography Best sweets 2327 Morris Ave. 2C, 401-6828, Dreamcakes Bakery amypphotography.com 960 Oxmoor Rd., 871-9377, dreamcakes-bakery.com In love with photography since Since moving to family friendly Edgewood, her freshman year of high school, Amy Dreamcakes’ already-large following has ex- focuses on kids and families and is ploded into full-blown fanaticism. Owner Jan inspired by her own husband and Moon has just published a new cookbook and daughter. Runners up: Stephanie Fisher introduced a cupcake truck to the community. Photography, 8514 Highway 119, 378-9795, Runners up: Edgar’s Bakery, multiple locations, edgars sfisherphotography.com and Abernathy Photographics, bakery.com for details and Pastry Art Bake Shoppe,

260-0131, abernathyphotographics.com 1927 29th Ave. S., 877-3852, pastryartcakes.com Bama Balloons and S ugar B D esign portraits by Cary N orton, pooner photo courtesy of Learning E xpress To find a physician, call Dial-A-Nurse at 939-7878 or visit us at stvhs.com 68 bhammag.com l M a y 2 0 1 1

04_W_Parent's Choice_04esp.indd 68 2/11/10 5:57 PM H Education H

Best kids’ art classes Wacky Nanny Summer Art Camp 1220 50th St. S., 401-3622 What’s better for a bunch of bored kids on a steamy summer day than a fun art camp in a cool, air-conditioned environment? Runners up: ArtPlay, 1006 19th St. S., 975-4769, artplayasc.org and Young Rembrandts, 943-1923, youngrembrandts.com

Best kids’ swim lessons YMCA multiple locations, ymcabham.org for details Regardless of where you live, your local YMCA branch offers affordable, quality swim- ming instruction for kids of all ages. Runners up: Swimwell, 3800 Ridgeway Dr., 563-1888, swimwell. com and Levite Jewish Community Center, 3960 Montclair Rd., 879-0411, bhamjcc.org

Best theatre group classes ArtPlay 1006 19th St. S., 975-4769, artplayasc.org and Birmingham Children’s Theatre 2130 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N., BJCC, 458-8181, best mommy and me program: bct123.org Kindermusik Over the Mountain The Alys Stephens Center’s new edu- cational jewel, ArtPlay, is the hub of the Center’s instructional Best Mommy and Me program programming for Kindermusik Over the Mountain kids and adults. multiple locations, kindermusikotm.com for details BCT celebrates Kindermusik is a hit with kids and families its 63rd anniver- because of its diverse programming that’s suit- sary this year and able for babies, toddlers, and school-age kids. offers small classes Runners up: Morning Garden at Alabama Waldorf and one-on-one School, 1220 50th St. S., 592-0541, alabamawaldorf. instruction. org and Kindermusik at The Pink House, 817 39th St. Runners up: Red S., Suite B, 591-6683, mybabymusic.com Mountain The- atre Company, Best kids’ music lessons 324-2424, Shades Crest School of the Arts redmountain 452 Park Ave., 822-1360, shadescrestarts.org theatre.org and Part of Shades Crest Baptist Church, this Bards of Birmingham, arts program has been directed by Caitlin 7753 1st Ave S., Caulk since 2009. Runners up: Kindermusik Over thebardsofbirming the Mountain, multiple locations, kindermusikotm. ham.blogspot.com com for details and The Pink House, 817 39th St. S., Suite B, 591-6683, mybabymusic.com

Best martial arts lessons Premier Martial Arts 1000 Plantation Parkway, Suite 300, Moody, 640-3166, premiermartialarts.com Kids and adults alike can learn mixed mar- tial arts and self-discipline from the experts at Premier; after-school programs are also available. Runners up: USA Martial Arts, 645 Shades Crest Rd., Best Martial 822-1671 or 2134-B Pelham Parkway, 403-8663, Arts Lessons: usamartialarts.com and World Oyama Karate, 1804 Premier Martial Arts

29th Ave. S., 879-4841, worldoyama.com Kindermusik Over the Mountain portrait by Cary Norton

70 bhammag.com l M a y 2 0 1 1

04_W_Parent's Choice_07esp.indd 70 4/25/11 2:23 PM Best KIDS’ SWIM LESSONS: YMCA

Best kids’ dance classes Children’s Dance Foundation 1715 27th Court S., 870-0073, childrensdancefoundation.org From its beginnings in the 1970s, Children’s Dance Foundation has grown to serve more than 2,000 students each week. Children, adults and those with special needs are all served by CDF’s lively education- al programming. Runners up: Dance with Lauren, 222-4298, dancewithlauren.com and ArtPlay, 1006 19th St. S., 975-4769, artplayasc.org

Best preschool Alabama Waldorf School 1220 50th St. S., 592-0541, alabamawaldorf.org Formerly known as the Redmont School, best kids’ dance classes: Alabama Waldorf follows the Waldorf cur- Children’s Dance Foundation riculum with an emphasis on learning about one’s natural environment through hands-on instruction. Runners up: Cohn Early Childhood Learning Center, 3960 Montclair Rd., 879-0411 ext. 2019 Sixth Ave. N., 252-2535, adventepiscopalschool. 234, bhamjcc.org and All Saints’ Episcopal Church org and Highlands School, 4901 Old Leeds Rd., Preschool, 112 W. Hawthorne Rd., 879-1092, 956-9731, highlandsschool.org allsaintsbirmingham.org Best tutoring service Best private school MasterMinds Alabama Waldorf School 3016 Pump House Rd., 970-1117, mastermindsinc.net 1220 50th St. S., 592-0541, alabamawaldorf.org Led by Samford graduate Torry Patton, this and Briarwood Christian School, 2204 tutoring service has a concentration on math- Briarwood Way, 776-5800 (North Cam- ematics but also covers languages, science, his- Best pus, K4-6th) and 6255 Cahaba Valley tory and English, as well as ACT test prepara- Private Rd., 776-5900 (South Campus, 7th-12th), tion. Runners up: Over the Mountain Tutoring, 3415 School: briarwoodchristianschool.org Creekwood Dr., 823-1075, overthemountaintutoring. Alabama (See Alabama Waldorf informa- biz and Marilyn Wells, 854-3428 Waldorf School tion above.) Briarwood Christian School, founded in 1964 and part of Best day camp the ministry of Briarwood Presbyte- McWane Science Center rian Church, has established itself as 200 19th St. N., 714-8300, mcwane.org one of the leading academic and athletic Your budding paleontologist, chemist, schools in the region. Nearly 2,000 ele- geologist, physicist … you name it, will expand mentary students and 865 junior and senior their knowledge significantly—and have fun high school students comprise the 2010-2011 while learning—at one of McWane Science

enrollment. Runners up: Advent Episcopal School, Center’s popular camps. Runners up: Levite Jewish Swimming photo courtesy of YMCA, Dancing girls Children’s Dance Foundation

72 bhammag.com l M a y 2 0 1 1

04_W_Parent's Choice_04esp.indd 72 2/11/10 5:58 PM Community Center, 3960 Montclair Alabama 117, (800) 448-9279, Rd., 879-0411, bhamjcc.org and campskyline.com and Camp YMCA, multiple locations, ymcabham. Sumatanga, 3616 Sumatanga Rd., org for details (256) 538-9860, sumatanga.org

Best overnight camp Best Vacation Bible School program Camp Cosby Dawson Memorial Baptist Church 2290 Paul Bear Bryant Rd., Alpine, 1114 Oxmoor Rd., 871-7324, Excellence in Academics (256) 268-2007, campcosby.org experiencedawson.com and Camp Winnataska Located in the heart of Enlivened by the Arts 260 Winnataska Dr., Pell City, Homewood, Dawson’s popular – Early Childhood through Grade 8 – 640-6741, winnataska.org VBS program not only serves the Both Camp Cosby and Camp families living nearby, but a large Alabama Waldorf School is a community dedicated to educating Winnataska are local camp group of kids who live in other responsible world citizens. We combine academic excellence, critical traditions. Camp Cosby is run communities. Runners up: by the YMCA and although the Gardendale First Baptist Church, thinking development, and a sense of shared social responsibility. circa-1918 Winnataska was once 940 Main St., Gardendale, 631-8791, Students learn the skills and values to prepare them for success in affiliated with the Boy Scouts, it gfbconline.com; Shades Mountain high school, college and life. Through a rigorous curriculum of arts and is now an independent entity. Baptist, 2017 Columbiana Rd., academics, and a teaching approach that honors the individual child, Runners up: Camp Briarwood, 2200 822-1670, shades.org; Asbury United our students learn how to meet life with courage, conviction and Briarwood Way, 776-5237, Methodist Church, 6690 Cahaba compassion for others. campbriarwood.org and McWane Valley Rd., 995-1700, asburyonline. Science Center, 200 19th St. N., 714- org; Hunter Street Baptist Church, Alabama Waldorf School | 1220 50th Street South | Birmingham, AL 8300, mcwane.org and Camp Mac, 2600 John Hawkins Pkwy., 2671 Cheaha Rd., (256) 362-7449, 985-7295, hunterstreet.org; campmac.com and Camp McDowell, Independent Presbyterian Church, 105 DeLong Rd., 387-1806, campmc- 3100 Highland Ave., 933-1830, www.alabamawaldorf.org dowell.com and Camp Skyline, 4888 ipc-usa.org Call (205) 592-0541 to schedule a tour. Financial assistance available to qualifying families. H activities H 1104_AWS-Bmag-1-4pg-Ad-CS5.indd 1 4/8/11 12:45 PM

Best story time Best bookstore Hoover Public Library Barnes and Noble 200 Municipal Dr., 444-7800, 201 Summit Blvd., Suite 100, hooverlibrary.org 298-0665 and 171 Main St., With its expansive children’s and 682-4467, barnesandnoble.com young adult sections and knowl- Step inside either of Barnes edgeable, fun staff, the Hoover and Noble’s Birmingham loca- Library’s story time programs tions, and you’ll see evidence of serve a large customer base very its popularity, with crowds of folks well. Runners up: Emmet O’Neal in the shelves, on the sofas, in Library, 50 Oak St., 445-1101, eolib. the newsstand or café. Runners up: org and Avondale Library, 509 40th St. Books-A-Million, multiple locations, S., 226-4000, bplonline.org booksamillion.com for details and Little Professor, 2717 18th St. S., 870-7461, littleprofessor.com

Best museum McWane Science Center 200 19th St. N., 714- 8300, mcwane.org Rainy days, hot days, school holi- days, weekends

Best Bookstore: Barnes and Noble

74 bhammag.com l M a y 2 0 1 1

04_W_Parent's Choice_04esp.indd 74 2/11/10 5:58 PM Best Museum: McWane Science Center

and even late afternoons mean it’s McWane time in Birmingham. Runners up: Birmingham Museum of Art, 2000 Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd., 254-2565, artsbma.org and Children’s Hands on Museum, 2213 University Blvd., Tuscaloosa, 349-4235, chomonline.org

Best public playground Homewood Central Park 1632 Oxmoor Rd., 332-6716, homewoodparks.com Remodeled several years ago, Homewood Central Park has matured into a true outdoor BWMC_11710_GenB_Print_MommyStyles_4_625x4_875.indd 1 4/12/11 9:03 AM destination for all ages and demographics— from the kids’ playground to family barbecues in the pavilions to international soccer on the green. Runners up: Veteran’s Park, 4800 Valleydale Rd., 444-7781, hooveral.org and Railroad Park, 1600 First Ave. S., 521-9933, railroadpark.org

Best amusement park Alabama Adventure 4599 Alabama Adventure Parkway, Bessemer, 481-4750, alabamaadventure.com Why make a long drive when a fantastic amusement park is just down the road? Roller coasters, water slides and top-notch musical performances make Alabama Adventure a winner. Runners up: Walt Disney World, Orlando, Fla., disneyworld.disney.go.com and Six Flags over Georgia, Atlanta, Ga., sixflags.com/overGeorgia

Best indoor play space iJump 157 Resource Center Parkway, Suite 109, 981-2696, ijumpinc.com Parents know how to let their kids burn off some excess energy: load them up and take them to iJump for a half-day of exhausting, bouncy fun. Runners up: McWane Science Center, 200 19th St. N., 714-8300, mcwane.org and TreeTop Family Adventure, 1012 Dunnavant Valley Rd.,

Dinosaur photo courtesy of McWane Science Center 637-3780, treetopfamilyadventure.com

M a y 2 0 1 1 l bhammag.com 75

04_W_Parent's Choice_04esp.indd 75 2/11/10 5:58 PM H SHOPPING H

Best baby clothing The Lili Pad 3138 Heights Village, 298-1811 With an inventory that’s both trendy and traditional, the Lili Pad provides parents-to- be and new families with adorable outfits for their wee ones. Runners up: Once Upon a Time, 201 Country Club Park, 870-7772 and 2900 18th St. S., 870-7776, onceuponatimellc.com and Jack n’ Jill Shop, 2918 18th St. S., 879-7681

Best boys’ clothing The Lili Pad 3138 Heights Village, 298-1811 Boys can be as picky about their clothes as girls (well, almost). Regardless of their style preferences, they’ll find something to love at the Lili Pad. Runners up: Fireflies and Fairytales, 611 Doug Baker Blvd., Suite 115, 408-5808, firefliesandfairytales.com and Bug’s Boys, 200 Coun- try Club Park, 879-2992, bugsboys.com

Best girls’ clothing The Lili Pad 3138 Heights Village, 298-1811 Best Boys’ Clothing: The Lili Pad Designer brands? Polka dots? Chic tunics and Capri pants? Little girls in Birmingham are as stylish as their moms—and the Lili Pad toe-to-toe with other high-end retail districts Runners up: Motherhood Maternity, 712 Brookwood is a great place where they can get the latest in the region, and GiGi’s is one of the shops Village, 803-1593 and 2000 looks. Runners up: Fireflies and Fairytales, 611 Doug that has made this community a true shopping #297, 733-8710, motherhood.com and A Pea in the Baker Blvd., Suite 115, 408-5808, destination. Runners up: The Lili Pad, 3138 Heights Pod, 111 Summit Blvd., 970-2292, apeainthepod.com firefliesandfairytales.com and Gymboree, multiple Village, 298-1811 and Justice, multiple locations, locations, gymboree.com for details shopjustice.com for details Best children’s shoes Sikes Best tween/teen clothing Best maternity clothing 2920 18th St. S., 879-3433 GiGi’s The Swanky Stork If you grew up in Birmingham, you very 103 North Chalkville Road, Trussville, 655-4473 2827 18th St. S., 803-2133, theswankystork.com likely wore shoes from Sikes when you were a The boutique scene in Trussville can go Let’s face it: it’s really, really hard to find kid. Almost 60 years later, local parents are still great maternity clothes. But take heart, mothers taking their kids to Sikes for their footwear. to be—The Swanky Stork has got the trendy Runners up: Little Soles, 3140 Heights Village, outfits you crave (but 970-6990 and Kicks, 181 Main St., Suite 233, maybe not the kicksshoesforkids.com crazy foods). Best baby furniture Storkland 1074 Montgomery Hwy., 824-1754 and 2205 Second Ave. N., 324-9509, storklandbaby.com Another local institution, Storkland began downtown in 1947 and Best now has a second location in Children’s Vestavia Hills, where they still Shoes: Sikes sell well-constructed baby furni- ture to local families. Runners up: Once Upon a Time, 201 Country Club Park, 870-7772 and 2900 18th St. S., 870-7776, onceuponatimellc.com and Babies R Us, 345 State Farm Parkway, 945-2996, babiesrus.com

76 bhammag.com l M a y 2 0 1 1

04_W_Parent's Choice_06cjw.indd 76 4/25/11 10:48 AM Best mall The Summit 214 Summit Blvd., Suite 150, 967-0111, thesummitonline.com “Mall” is interpreted differently today than it was a generation ago, as evidenced by The Summit’s win in this category. Outdoor shopping is perfectly acceptable, especially when the stores themselves are so fantastic. Runners up: The Shops of Grand River, 6200 Grand River Blvd. E., 699-3700, shopsofgrandriver.com and Colonial , 780 Brookwood Village, 871-0406, shopbrookwoodvillage.com

Best health food store Whole Foods 3100 Cahaba Village Plaza, 912-8400, wholefoodsmarket.com Just walking in to Whole Foods makes you feel good. Fresh, healthful foods, includ- ing prepared dishes and café meals inside the store, ensure that local families eat and drink healthfully. Runners up: Organic Harvest, 1580 Montgomery Highway, #12, 978-0318, orgharvest. com and Golden Temple, multiple locations, goldentemplehealthfoods.com for details

Best grocery store Publix multiple locations, publix.com for details Clean, bright, well-stocked and manned by an always-helpful staff, Publix is a hit with Birmingham families. The chain’s affordable, organic store brands are another plus for par- ents. Runners up: Whole Foods, 3100 Cahaba Village Plaza, 912-8400, wholefoodsmarket.com and Aldi, multiple locations, aldifoods.com for details Best STroller Store: buybuy Baby

Best stroller store buybuy Baby 4351 Creekside Ave., 988-3027, buybuybaby.com If you’ve had a baby, you know how hard it is to choose the right stroller. The helpful and well-informed staff at buybuy Baby in Hoover can help you select just the right one for your budget and lifestyle. Runners up: Babies R Us, 345 State Farm Parkway, 945-2996, babiesrus.com and Swaddle, 2825 18th St. S., 870-3503, swaddleonline.com Best Best department store GROCERY Belk STORE: multiple locations, belk.com for details Publix Although still somewhat new in town, Belk has become a reliable source for everything a busy, growing family needs. Runners up: Macy’s, 614 Brookwood Village, 868-2600 and 2600 Riverchase Galleria, 985-2600, macys.com and JCPenney, multiple locations, jcpenney.com for details and Kohl’s, multiple locations, kohls.com for details

78 bhammag.com l M a y 2 0 1 1

04_W_Parent's Choice_04esp.indd 78 2/11/10 5:58 PM Best Consignment Shop: Kidz Closet

Best consignment shop Kidz Closet 640 Montgomery Highway, 979-0707, kidzclosetonline.com Consignment shopping is so popular right now, as families are looking for ways to not only save money, but make money. Kidz Closet in Hoover takes top honors with our voters. Runners up: Korduroy Krocodile, 2912 Linden Ave., 879-0030, korduroykrocodile.com and Short ‘n Sweet, 934 Oxmoor Rd., 803-3289 Best Corporation that does the most for families: Wholesome by Allie Best family restroom Colonial Brookwood Village H H 780 Brookwood Village, Living 871-0406, shopbrookwoodvillage.com This might seem like a strange category, Best family friendly company to work for Best corporation that does the most for families but if you’re a parent, you know how impor- University of Alabama at Birmingham Wholesome by Allie tant it is to know the location of a clean, safe, 1530 3rd Ave. S., 934-4011, uab.edu 807-8324, wholesomebyallie.com well-stocked restroom when you’re out with and Southern Company Allie Black does something seemingly your kids. Brookwood Village wins with our 1313 6th Ave. N., 226-1129, southerncompany.com simple, but so important: she teaches families voters. Runners up: Belk, multiple locations, belk.com The largest employers in the state are how to live more healthfully, from eliminating for details and Target, multiple locations, target.com also the best places to work, according to our the bad foods they eat to the chemicals they for details voters. Flexible hours, great benefits, indirectly consume through detergents, soaps, fair compensation and solid management cosmetics and lawn care. Runners up: Children’s Best family vehicle are many of the reasons why these two institu- Health System, 1600 Seventh Ave. S., 939-9100, Honda Odyssey tions win with readers. Runners up: Blue Cross chsys.org and Publix, multiple locations, publix.com honda.com and Blue Shield of Alabama, 450 Riverchase Pkwy. for details and Chick-fil-A, multiple locations, Even minivan-haters are impressed with E., 220-2100, bcbsal.org and Hoover Toyota, 2686 chick-fil-a.com for details and Coca-Cola Bottling the redesigned 2011 Honda Odyssey. It’s sleek John Hawkins Pkwy., 978-2600, hoovertoyota.com Co., United, 4600 East Lake Blvd., 841-2653 and modern on the outside, and comfy, reli- and C Lane Company, 2 Metroplex Dr. #200, 380- and University of Alabama at Birmingham, able, and perfect for parents and kids on the 5580 and Children’s Hospital, 1600 Seventh Ave. S., 1530 3rd Ave. S., 934-4011, uab.edu and Southern inside. Runners up: Toyota Sienna, toyota.com and 939-9100, chsys.org and Regions, multiple locations, Company, 1313 Sixth Ave. N., 226-1129,

GMC Yukon, gmc.com regions.com for details southerncompany.com Wholesome by Allie portrait Cary Norton

80 bhammag.com l M a y 2 0 1 1

04_W_Parent's Choice_04esp.indd 80 2/11/10 5:58 PM Best place for a parent date night almost 80 years. Runners up: Crestline, mtnbrook. The Melting Pot org and Vestavia Hills, vestaviahills.net 611 Doug Baker Blvd., Ste. 201, 981-8001, meltingpot.com Best southeastern family vacation destination This 1970’s trend is back in a big way at Gulf Shores Hoover’s Melting Pot. Lots of things, includ- gulfshores.com ing stress and frustration with one’s significant Alabama’s own white sands and blue- other, melt away over a hot pot of cheese or green waters are just a short drive away in chocolate. Runners up: Gianmarco’s, 721 Broadway Gulf Shores. What’s not to love about our very St., 871-9622 and Ocean, 1218 20th St. S., own slice of paradise? Runners up: Destin, Fla., 933-0999, oceanbirmingham.com and Jinsei Sushi, cityofdestin.com and Orange Beach, gulfshores.com 1830 29th Ave. S., 802-1440, jinseisushi.com Best family financial institution Best neighborhood to raise a family Regions Bank What have you Homewood multiple locations, regions.com homewoodal.net Regions Bank is everywhere for a reason: Yes, the houses may be smaller than in people like to bank there. Voters like the great other neighborhoods, but being able to walk products and service. Runners up: America’s First been missing? or bike to school, church, restaurants, shops, Federal Credit Union, multiple locations, amfirst. Best Place for a parent Date Night: parks, pools, friends’ houses and even the org and BBVA Compass Bank, multiple locations, The Melting Pot grocery store is what has attracted families for bbvacompass.com

For Mom, itʼs been kicking off her stilettos and kicking back in flip-flops. For Amelia, itʼs been searching for seashells. And as for Caroline, well, sheʼs really missed getting the chance to perfect her little leaning sandcastles.

But Dad has missed it all. The turquoise water, the sugar-white shore and together time with his very best and most beautiful girls.

If you havenʼt been to Alabamaʼs beautiful beaches lately, youʼve been missing a lot, too. The easy, breezy pace. The sumptuous seafood fare. The endless family-friendly activities. The good news is, you donʼt have to miss another minute. The quick-drive paradise that transports you worlds away is still here. Just waiting for you.

Donʼt miss the perfect chance to plan the escape youʼve longed for. Call toll-free 1-866-635-3483 or visit www.GulfShores.com now. Best Southeastern Family Vacation Destination: Gulf Shores

82 bhammag.com l M a y 2 0 1 1

04_W_Parent's Choice_04esp.indd 82 2/11/10 5:59 PM Best Spa for Moms: Ross Bridge

Best “babymoon” destination Best spa for moms Gulf Shores Ross Bridge gulfshores.com 4000 Grand Ave., 949-3041, sparossbridge.com The baby is coming … the baby is coming! Serenity is just down the road. When you Time for one last couple’s beach trip before reach your breaking point, Mom, it’s time to baby makes three. Runners up: Ross Bridge, take care of yourself with a trip to the quiet 4000 Grand Ave., 916-7677, rossbridgeresort.com, environs of Ross Bridge Spa for a little pam- Charleston, S.C., charleston.com, Gatlinburg, Tenn., pering and privacy. Runners up: Sante Fe Day Spa, gatlinburg.com, Hawaii, gohawaii.com and Panama 611 Doug Baker Blvd., Suite 214, 408-7221, City, Fla., visitpanamacitybeach.com santafedayspa.net and Spa One Nineteen, 7191 Cahaba Valley Rd., 408-6600, onenineteen.com Best mom’s night out location Sips ‘n Strokes Best restaurant for kids multiple locations, sipsnstrokes.com for details Chick-fil-A A glass of wine, a blank canvas, a room multiple locations, chick-fil-a.com for details full of enthusiastic would-be Picassos and an They love the food, which can be made energetic instructor who helps you paint your more healthy with a few menu substitutions. own masterpiece. What’s not to like? Runners They love the play place. You love not having up: Chuy’s, 216 Summit Blvd., 977-4224, chuys.com, to cook. Runners up: Another Broken Egg, 2418 Best Restaurant for Kids: The Melting Pot, 611 Doug Baker Blvd., Ste. 201, Montevallo Rd., 871-7849, anotherbrokenegg.com Chick-fil-A 981-8001, meltingpot.com and Cocina Superior, 587 and O’Charley’s, multiple locations, ocharleys.com

Brookwood Village, 259-1980, thecocinasuperior.com for details Spa photo courtesy of Ross Bridge

84 bhammag.com l M a y 2 0 1 1

04_W_Parent's Choice_04esp.indd 84 2/11/10 5:59 PM Best family friendly festival Alabama Waldorf School Holiday Faire alabamawaldorf.org and ONB Magic City Art Connection magiccityart.com Nature and art win out with our vot- ers, who particularly like these organiza- tions’ support of kids and interactive learning. Runners up: Moss Rock Festival, mossrossfestival.com and Buck Creek Festival, buckcreekfestival.com

Best family friendly radio station music classes for you and your child 93.7 WDJC newborn through adult wdjconline.com 817 39th Street South, Suite B • Birmingham, AL 35222 It goes without 205.591.NOTE [email protected] saying: You never have to worry what your kids are going mybabymusic.com to hear coming out of the car speakers when WDJC is on. Runners up: Magic 96.5, magic96.com and 104.7 WZZK, wzzk.com

Best family friendly local news station FOX 6 Best State Park: myfoxal.com Oak Mountain From Mickey’s Weather Kids as well as useful segments like “Fox6 On Your Side” and “What’s Right With Schools,” this local station makes kids and families a priority. Runners up: ABC 33/40, abc3340.com and NBC 13, alabamas13.com

Best state park Oak Mountain 620-2520, alapark.com/oakmountain Hiking and biking trails, wildlife centers, picnic areas, a beach, a lake, a petting zoo, horseback riding and a golf course. It doesn’t get better than that. Runners up: Lake Guntersville, (256) 571-5440, alapark.com/lakeguntersville and Cheaha State Park, (256) 488-5111, alapark.com/ cheaharesort

Best beach destination Gulf Shores gulfshores.com Sun, sand, surf, shrimp and a shark mouth as the entrance to a local gift shop. It’s a kid’s

86 bhammag.com l M a y 2 0 1 1

04_W_Parent's Choice_06cjw.indd 86 4/25/11 10:50 AM Get a FREE Waffle Cone! Text ”BRUSTERS“ to 50240 NOW!

Available only from Indian Springs or Cahaba Heights Locations. By texting ÒBRUSTERSÕ to 50240, you will then be opted in to our text program. Standard texting rates apply.

a 6-pack of Oreo® $1off Ice Cream Sandwiches Not valid with any other offer. Limit one coupon per transaction. Duplicates of coupon not valid. Valid at Cahaba Heights & Caldwell Mill Rd. BrusterÕs only. Expires June 16, 2011.

off OR off $ $ a pie 3 a cake 1 Not valid with any other offer. Limit one coupon per transaction. Duplicates of coupon not valid. Valid at Cahaba Heights & Caldwell Mill Rd. BrusterÕs only. Expires June 16, 2011. off ¢ any item Cahaba Heights 75 3900 Crosshaven Dr. (Across from Winn-Dixie) (205) 968-8184 Not valid with any other offer. Limit one coupon per transaction. Duplicates of Caldwell Mill Road coupon not valid. Valid at Cahaba Heights 5212 Caldwell Mill Rd. (Next to Winn-Dixie) & Caldwell Mill Rd. BrusterÕs only. (205) 408-8801 Brusters.com Expires June 16, 2011.

DressingDressing future future Best State Park: Oak Mountain BallerinasBallerinas

dream destination. Runners up: Destin, Fla., cityofdestin.com and Orange Beach, gulfshores.com

Best mountain destination Gatlinburg, Tenn. gatlinburg.com • Dressing future ballerinas Just a half-day’s drive northeast, Gatlinburg • Expertly fit for dancers by dancers • Everything a dancer needs from tod- offers families a gateway to the stunning Great • dler Dressing sizes to plus future sizes ballerinas • Dressing future ballerinas Smoky Mountains National Park, as well as a • • Terrific Expertly “Back tofit Dancing for dancers School” by dancers wealth of amenities and activities within the packages to get your dancer• started Expertly fit for dancers by dancers • The largest selection of dancewear• Everything in a dancer needs from tod- city itself. Runners up: Highlands, N.C., • Everything a dancer needs from1629 toddler Oxmoor Rdsizes • Homewood the state of Alabama dler sizes to plus sizes highlandschamber.org and the Great Smoky Moun- • New to arrivalsplus dailysizes for children & adults 205.871.STEP • Terrific “Back to Dancing School” tains, smokymountains.org • Join our Performancepackages Perks to getBuying your dancerClub started 27 Years family owned and operated • The largest selection of dancewear in Best airline to get special offers and savings on your dancewear 1629 Oxmoor Rd • Homewood the state of Alabama 1629 Oxmoor Rd Southwest all year long!!! • New arrivals daily for children & adults 205.871.STEPHomewood southwest.com • The largest selection of dancewear in Who cares about reserved seat assignments 205.871.STEP when you know you can get to your destina- the state of Alabama 27 Years family owned and operated tion on time, with your bags, and without • New arrivals daily for children & adults spending a fortune? Runners up: Delta, delta.com

Paddleboat photo courtesy of Oak Mountain State Park and American, aa.com • Celebrating our 30th year being family-owned and operated!

M a y 2 0 1 1 l bhammag.com 87

04_W_Parent's Choice_07esp.indd 87 4/25/11 2:13 PM