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Print2012 Family Favorites
OUT AND ABOUT
Tulsa was recently named one of the top 10 cities for affordable vacations by living.com. One of the major draws, according to the site, is that Tulsa has “around the clock family fun.” So, where do Tulsa families go when they’re out and about? TulsaKids readers weighed in with their Family Favorites.
Cultural Spot/Museum
Philbrook Museum of Art was the winner in this category. Truly a jewel in the community, families love Philbrook for not only world-class exhibits and permanent collections, but consistently interesting programming for everyone. 2nd Saturdays offer free admission and family activities every second Sat. of the month. The Heyman Adventures in Art and the My Museum art boxes give kids opportunities to make art. From family programming to gorgeous grounds open for roaming, Philbrook has it all.
Runner-Up: Gilcrease Museum is another favorite of TulsaKids’ readers. With programs and activities for infants through adults, and a new Center for Art and Education in the Blue Dome District, Gilcrease is a solid Tulsa family favorite.
Children’s Theatre/
Performances for Children
The Tulsa Performing Arts Center Trust was the winner this year for their commitment to providing high quality, affordable children’s performances for Tulsa area families. TulsaKids’ parents love the Imagination Series for young children and the I-Squared Series for older kids. Performances such as “The True Story of the Three Little Pigs,” “The Man Who Planted Trees” and the upcoming, jazzy “Rock the Presidents” are just some examples of the programming especially for families.
Runner-Up: Few libraries are fortunate enough to have a children’s theater facility like Connor’s Cove at the Hardesty Regional Library. In fact, Hardesty was named one of America’s Top Libraries for Children. The free live music and performances that families find at Connor’s Cove enhance the joy of reading.
Park
LaFortune Park is TulsaKids’ readers’ favorite park, and it’s no wonder. LaFortune offers acres of fun, including a 3-mile trail for walking or running, picnic shelters, a swimming pool, playgrounds, a golf course, tennis courts and a community center with on-going activities for all ages.
Runner-Up: Woodward Park is a centerpiece of Tulsa family life. Generations of Tulsans have had their pictures taken in front of Woodward’s stunning grounds, marking special moments such as children’s birthdays, graduations, proms or weddings. Woodward has room to roam and features the Linnaeus Teaching Gardens, the Rose Garden, the Tulsa Garden Center and the Tulsa Historical Society on its south perimeter.
Area for Shopping/
Dining/Entertainment
Utica Square won first place in this category as Tulsa families’ favorite place to shop and relax. With dozens of unique stores and restaurants, Utica Square has been serving Tulsans since the ‘60s. Whatever you’re looking for, you can find it at the shops and restaurants at Utica Square.
Runner-Up: A fast-growing newcomer, the Tulsa Hills is the runner-up in this category. Tulsa Hills has a great mix of stores and restaurants. From fine Italian dining to Free Bird Burritos or Smashburgers, families love the variety of restaurants. Shopping includes everything from department stores to home improvement stores to Sam’s Club.
Family-Friendly Oklahoma Weekend Getaway
Oklahoma City was our winner as the favorite place for families to go in Oklahoma. The Oklahoma City Thunder basketball team, the kid-friendly Cowboy Hall of Fame and Western Heritage Museum, the Oklahoma City Memorial Museum, the Myriad Botanical Gardens, Science Museum Oklahoma, the Zoo, the Oklahoma Historical Museum – you can see why families like to spend time in our state capitol. A newly opened outlet mall and Bricktown are also big family draws.
Runner-Up: Grand Lake has always been a place for Tulsans to get away from the city to enjoy water fun and to relax in nature. The beautiful surroundings and close proximity to Tulsa make it a perennial family favorite.
Tulsa Sports Team
The Drillers are the big winner in this category. The new family-friendly ONEOK Field ushers in a second season with a grassy general admission area where families can bring a blanket and let the kids play on the playground. A new splash pad was added this year. The Drillers have fireworks on Friday nights, on-going promotions and a special bounce area for kids. TulsaKids families love to spend their summers with the Drillers.
Runner-Up: TU Athletics offers sports fans everything from football to basketball to soccer, and Tulsa families always turn out to support their Golden Hurricane home teams.
TREATS AND EATS
Tulsa has so many yummy food options that it’s difficult to choose just one place to eat. Our readers had lots of delicious nominations, but these were the ones that came out on top.
Pastries/Donuts
Merritt’s Bakery has provided generations of Tulsans with everything from fabulous, one-of-a-kind birthday cakes to soups and sandwiches at lunch. The donuts, pastries and cookies are pretty delicious, too!
Runner-Up: Our readers love Daylight Donuts, practically a Tulsa landmark of donut decadence. Whether families are grabbing a long john on the way to school, or stopping for a Saturday treat, Daylight Donuts doesn’t disappoint.
Burger (local)
Ron’s Hamburgers is the favorite burger restaurant of TulsaKids’ readers. The burgers come in a variety of sizes and varieties (get the onions fried in), and the fries are piled high enough to share. And if you don’t like burgers, you can always get the chili pie.
Runner-Up: Fat Guy’s is relatively new, but families have discovered this little place on Greenwood behind ONEOK Field with the super-delicious burgers. You can pick your burger toppings and ketchup flavors, like chipotle – yum.
Pizza (local)
Hideaway is a perennial favorite of TulsaKids’ readers, winning favorite pizza in past years. With many locations and sentimental ties to parents who went to Oklahoma State University, it’s easy to see why Hideaway is a winner. Oh, and they have darn good pizza, too!
Runner-Up: Close behind Hideaway is the Blue Dome contender – Joe Momma’s Pizza. Super popular with Tulsa families, Joe Momma’s has Saturday morning storytimes for kids, just one of the community events that the restaurant does. The handmade pizza keeps everyone coming back for more.
Mexican Food
Los Cabos Mexican Grill and Cantina, with locations at Riverwalk and near Bass Pro Shop in Broken Arrow, has long been a favorite of Tulsa families. The restaurant has a Hacienda feel with an outdoor cabana bar and musical entertainment in the summer, Los Cabos not only has delicious, authentic Mexican food, but a fun atmosphere for dining.
Runner-Up: Senor Tequila is a long-time Tulsa family pick for excellent South-of-the-border dishes. Since opening its first location at 51st and Harvard, this family-owned restaurant has expanded to include three locations (one on Brookside) and continues to use the freshest ingredients in their dishes.
Ice Cream
Braum’s Ice Cream and Dairy Store is an Oklahoma business. But kids care more about the delicious ice cream treats that await them. A popular after school and summer hangout for families, Braum’s also serves meals and has expanded beyond their fresh dairy products to include produce and more.
Runner-Up: Cherry Berry, with locations in Tulsa, Owasso and Broken Arrow, is a fun self-serve frozen yogurt bar with plenty of kid-pleasing flavors and even more toppings. Get a little. Get a lot.
Best Kids’ Menu (local)
Cosi has a fresh, healthy breakfast and lunch menu for everyone – salads, sandwiches, flatbread pizzas and more. Our readers love the kids’ menu with its Gooey Grilled Ham & Cheese, PB&J, Turkey or Tuna Sandwich or Gooey Grilled Cheese or Cheese Pizza. Skip the chips and get them with carrots for a healthier meal. No ubiquitous chicken nuggets in sight on this kids’ menu.
Runner-Up: The Brook is a perennial TulsaKids family favorite for everything from burgers to nachos, and the kids’ menu is no exception. Who doesn’t like The Brook’s macaroni and cheese?
Overall Family Dining
Hideaway wins in another category! Besides being TulsaKids’ readers’ favorite pizza, it also ranks at the top of their favorite family dining choices. Hideaway offers a fun, casual dining experience with excellent food.
Runner-Up: Chili’s Grill & Bar Restaurant features a large menu where everyone in the family can find something to love. Tacos, ribs, steaks, burgers and an extensive kids’ menu make Chili’s a family favorite pick.
GET THE
PARTY STARTED
Birthdays, graduations, anniversaries — parties mark important milestones, so parents depend on local businesses to help them create memorable experiences.
Entertainer
BAM Entertainment was the top pick from TulsaKids’ readers when it comes to bringing high quality, fun and professional entertainment to any occasion. Whether you need a clown to do tricks and make balloon animals, or a singer to croon to your significant other on Valentine’s Day, BAM does it all for families.
Runner-Up: Safari Joe’s Exotic Wildlife Sanctuary puts the “wild” into children’s parties. Nothing entrances children like live animals. The focus is on animal rescue, but Safari Joe can entertain any group with his large cats, birds and reptiles.
Party Favors &
Paraphernalia
Party City is the Family Favorite in this category. It’s tough to beat the myriad items that line the aisles at this one-stop-shop for all things party. Whether you need candy and balloons or napkins, favors and paper plates to match your theme, Party City can take care of you.
Runner-Up: Ehrle’s Party Supply is a Tulsa tradition. Families have been visiting Ehrle’s for everything from decorating for school parties at any holiday to unique birthday party favors.
Party Spot
Bounce U jumped into the top spot as the best place to have a party. TulsaKids’ readers love the ease of having a party at Bounce U. While the kids play, parents can sit back and let the Bounce U staff do all the work in the party room.
Runner-Up: SSB Kids! is another popular party location for Tulsa parents and their kids. In the summer, kids can choose the outdoor Swim Party in the heated pool, or do the inside Gym Party year round.
Cakes & Cupcakes
Locally owned Merritt’s takes the cake in this category with its customized, one-of-a-kind cakes or cupcakes that make any occasion completely unique. Birthdays, graduations, showers – whatever you’re celebrating, a Merritt’s cake will make it special.
Runner-Up: Reasor’s Grocery Bakery and Kupcakz of Tulsa tied as places that Tulsa families get their party treats. Reasor’s cakes can be made to order with messages or decorations to fit anyone. Kupcakz uses only the finest chocolate, real butter and other premium ingredients to create delicious, truly special works of art.
Gifts
Tulsa families love Kiddlestix toy store when it comes to finding the perfect gift. Our readers know they will find high quality, educational and fun toys for kids of all ages. And the gift-wrapping is fabulous.
Runner-Up: TulsaKids readers love Kay’s Gifts in Broken Arrow as the place to find popular Brighton and Vera Bradley fashion accessories, teacher appreciation gifts, unique baby shower gifts, one-of-a-kind apparel, candles and gourmet food items. It’s no wonder “gift” is part of the name of this eclectic store.
SHOP ‘TIL YOU DROP
As the designated shoppers for the family, moms know their way around the best stores and boutiques to get everything they need from clothing to groceries.
Children’s Wear (local)
Lolly Garden in Utica Square was founded by three Tulsa moms, so they know the styles, gifts and accessories that moms want for their children. TulsaKids’ readers love the selection of unique clothing designs for boys and girls, newborn to size 14, by Daily Tea, Wes & Willy, Paul Frank and Belle Ame, among others.
Runner-Up: Longtime Tulsa favorite Kathleen’s Kids can outfit your child from head to toe, whether moms are looking for shoes, stylish clothing or accessories for their little ones.
Children’s Shoes (local)
Generations of Tulsa parents have taken their children to Trippet’s for great shoes and great personal service. Fit and quality are important to TulsaKids’ readers, and they know that Trippet’s will fit their child’s growing feet better than anyone. Professional, experienced staff can answer all your questions, whether you need dress shoes, tennis shoes, dance shoes or that important baby’s first shoes. Trippett’s is more than a store – it’s a Tulsa tradition.
Runner-Up: Our readers love Kicks for Kids at 81st & Harvard for their variety of fresh styles and popular brands such as Teva, New Balance, Umi, Cole Haan, Chaco, Sperry, Kids and more. Good fit, great accessories and customer service make this a popular shop for shoes.
Mom’s Boutique
Kay’s Gifts in Broken Arrow wins in yet another category. Tulsa area moms go to Kay’s Gifts first when they want to find one-of-a-kind apparel and accessories. Kay’s carries the popular Vera Bradley and Brighton accessory brands as well as clothing that you won’t find meeting you on the street.
Runner-Up: Hip moms like the affordable clothing and the latest trends available at Express. Slinky sundresses, brightly colored skinny jeans or eye-catching maxi-dresses, moms can find it all at Express.
Men’s Apparel
Dillard’s Department Store is the winning destination for dads when they’re looking for clothing. With a large selection of sizes, and looks from trendy to conservative, every guy can find what he needs at Dillards.
Runner-Up: TulsaKids’ dads voted Banana Republic a close second to Dillard’s as their place to buy clothes. From shorts and tees for a backyard BBQ to dress suits for business, dads like the fashion-forward looks for every season at Banana Republic.
Consignment Shops
TulsaKids’ readers know that consignment shopping is a great way to save dollars, especially on clothing for growing kids. Barely New was the top choice of readers when it comes to finding the best consignment deals in the area.
Runner-Up: The Echo Shop is another family favorite when buying on consignment. TulsaKids’ readers know that they can get designer clothing, purses and shoes at a fraction of the cost at this popular consignment store.
Lawn & Garden Shop (local)
Southwood Nursery on South Lewis is our readers’ pick for the best place to get all things garden. Whether you’re landscaping the entire yard, planting a tree or filling flowerbeds, Southwood can help you find exactly what you need and tell you have to keep things growing.
Runner-Up: The brightly colored tents and even brighter rows of colorful flowers of Under the Sun locations throughout the city beckon Tulsans each spring. It’s so convenient to drive in and grab a flat of petunias as you head home.
Grocery Store/Market
Reasor’s is a locally owned grocery store with locations throughout the area. Moms like the good prices, selection of high quality food, quick service and the Reasor’s Advantage cards that help them save money on gas.
Runner-Up: Whole Foods Market is a popular shopping experience for Tulsa parents. Our readers love the selection of organic, healthy foods, the money-saving bulk bins and the delicious deli counter selections. With a new location opening in South Tulsa, Whole Foods is sure to find even more moms who vote it a favorite.
Furniture
Price, selection, quality and ease of service make Oklahoma City-based Mathis Brothers Furniture a winner with TulsaKids’ readers. Whatever you need for your home – a new child’s bed, a dining room table or a complete new look for your living room – you can find it at Mathis Brothers.
Runner-Up: The popular chain Pottery Barn in Utica Square has what parents want to make a house a home. Area rugs, furniture, glassware and home accessories abound, making it easy for Tulsans to find whatever they need.
BABY & ME
Having a baby is a life-changing experience, and moms and dads need lots of support, not to mention paraphernalia, for that new little person. TulsaKids’ readers voted on their favorite places to have a baby and shop for baby.
Maternity Clothes
Moms voted A Pea in the Pod as the best shop to find trendy, fashionable maternity clothing. From jeans to dresses to nursing bras, A Pea in the Pod has it all for expecting moms.
Runner-Up: An all-time favorite for its consistently cool and functional looks, GAP was voted as a great place to get clothes if you’re pregnant.
Maternity Photographer
TulsaKids readers voted Gentry Foto as the studio they trust the most to take creative portraits to record this special time in a mother’s life.
Runner-Up: Julie Dawkins Photography’s beautiful maternity portraits won them a runner-up spot with expecting moms.
Baby Furniture
Whether new moms need a carseat, bassinet, rocking chair or crib, our readers say that Babies R Us is their favorite one-stop-shop to find almost any type of baby furnishings in a variety of styles to fit any taste.
Runner-Up: Pottery Barn Kids came in as a top contender in the baby furniture category. Tulsa moms love the beautiful cribs, changing tables and bedding that transform the nursery into a warm and cozy room for baby.
Pre- & Post-Partum Classes
St. John Health System was the top pick of moms when it comes to class offerings for before and after baby. Besides childbirth preparation, St. John’s has infant massage, classes for new dads, newborn infant care, breastfeeding, sibling tours, grandparenting classes and more. New parents have the support they need at St. John’s.
Runner-Up: Saint Francis Hospital was a close contender in this category. Expecting parents learn about childbirth and, after the baby is born, infant classes are held daily to cover all aspects of caring for a newborn. Saint Francis also has the “Newborn Channel,” which highlights issues in all aspects of infant care.
Place to Have a Baby
St. John Health System was voted tops in a second category by TulsaKids’ readers. When it comes to having a baby, moms like the friendly nurses, opportunity to bond with their babies and excellent care and support they receive when giving birth at St. John’s.
Runner-Up: Coming in a close second with our readers was Saint Francis Hospital. Moms love the large postpartum rooms (or upgrade to one of the Pavilion Rooms), and the professional staff at Saint Francis. And should a baby have a problem, Saint Francis has a state-of-the-art newborn intensive care nursery.
Most Unique Baby Gifts
Specialty baby store Peek A Boo Baby was the winner in this category. Moms like the easy baby gift registry, which allows them to shop any time. They also know that Peek A Boo Baby carries safe, high-quality items that meet JPMA standards. Baby blankets, baby books, custom bedding, carseats, strollers, cribs – any item big or small – can be found at this unique store.
Runner-Up: Kay’s Gifts is at the top of the list in yet another Family Favorite category. Locally owned Kay’s stocks truly special gift items and keepsakes that you can’t find anywhere else.
Baby Announcements
The Inviting Place in Tulsa creates announcements as unique as your child. Our readers love the large selection of designs and the personal attention they get from the staff at The Inviting Place.
Runner-Up: Moms like the ease of sitting at home and creating their own baby announcements by following the simple steps at Shutterfly.
Newborn Photographer
Gentry Foto is the Family Favorite in a second category this year. When it comes to capturing your newborn in a treasured photo, TulsaKids’ readers say that Gentry Foto is the place to go.
Runner-Up: Julie Dawkins Photography and Brenda Horan Photography tied in votes. Brenda has been in business since 1999 and has literally written a book on baby posing. Julie has been a professional photographer for seven years and specializes in infants and children.
PLACE TO
LEARN & GROW
When they’re not at home, parents want to know their kids are safe, having fun and learning, whether it’s at school or at a special activity. TulsaKids’ readers weighed in on their favorites in this category.
Mother’s Day Out
The RHEMA Child Development Center in Broken Arrow was our readers’ top pick. RHEMA’s dedication to developing children’s social, intellectual and spiritual growth makes it a favorite for moms who want a day out.
Runner-Up: Moms have trusted The Kirk of the Hills Preschool to care for and educate their children since 1965. The Kirk Preschool has a team of degreed teachers and professional staff that provide an outstanding, nurturing curriculum.
Preschool/
Early Learning Center
TulsaKids’ readers voted The University School at the University of Tulsa as their top preschool pick this year. Children can enter the school beginning at age 3, where they are provided with a developmentally appropriate, intellectually challenging environment.
Runner-Up: Parents like Kids in Motion Academy’s early childhood center for its high level of physical activity in the 20,000 square-foot gym, the hands-on centers and the nurturing learning environment.
Private School, Elementary
The University School was chosen as Tulsa parents’ favorite private elementary school. Located at the University of Tulsa, University School serves academically talented children age 3 through eighth grade. Parents like the personal attention given to each child, and the creative, highly academic curriculum of the school.
Runner-Up: Miss Helen’s Private School has been a favorite of TulsaKids’ readers for many years. Beginning in 1954 as a preschool, Miss Helen’s has grown to include year round excellence in education for children in preschool through fifth grade.
Private School,
Middle School
Undercroft Montessori has been instilling a love of life-long learning in children age 3 through 8th grade since opening in 1964. The certified Montessori guides lead students through a rich curriculum, including the arts, Spanish, swimming lessons and even a rock band elective.
Runner-Up: Tying this year were Summit Christian Academy and The University School. Summit was established in 1987 as a ministry of The Assembly at Broken Arrow. Parents like the low teacher:student ratio and Christian worldview. The University School offers personalized attention for students. Tulsa parents also love the school’s proximity to TU, where students can benefit from resources on a college campus.
Private School,
High School
Bishop Kelley was the winner in this category. Tulsa parents know that their children will get a high quality, individualized education with all the “extras” that make a high school great. BK boasts many National Merit Finalists each year, has an award-winning debate team and outstanding sports teams. Students get a well-rounded education that prepares their hearts and minds for a purposeful life.
Runner-Up: TulsaKids’ readers voted in a three-way tie in this hotly contested category. Cascia Hall, Holland Hall and Summit Christian Academy were tied at the top of the list. All three schools have rigorous academics, small class sizes and a dedication to preparing students to enter competitive colleges and universities, while encouraging personal integrity and compassion in life.
Summer Camp
Parents love The University School’s Camp Incredible because it offers a full day of fun, fieldtrips and learning for kids. Legos, math, yoga, cooking, Kumon, art, sewing – there’s so much going on that kids won’t want their day to end.
Runner-Up: SSB Kids! is a close second in this category. Kids get to choose from fun summer camp themes such as Cheer, Camping and Outdoor Cooking, Wheels and Derbies, Pets and Pals, Beach Time and more. They have fun while learning life skills at the same time.
Extracurricular Activity
SSB! Kids is a winner for TulsaKids’ readers when it comes to the place to take their kids after school. Whether it’s tumbling or trampolines, kids will have active fun while learning to be strong, fair, competitive athletes.
Runner-Up: The Tulsa World of Gymnastics and Miller Swim School tied for the Runner-Up slot in this big category. Both popular schools have stood the test of time, training Tulsans for generations. And the votes don’t stop there. Our readers also love: Soccer City, CenterStage and Theatre Arts in Broken Arrow.
FOR GROWN-UPS
Not everything about family life involves the kids. Sometimes Mom and Dad want to leave the kids at home and have a night out, get some exercise or get their banking done. This category is exclusively for adults.
Family-Friendly Health Club
The winner for TulsaKids’ readers is the YMCA when it comes to finding a place to work out, swim or take exercise classes. With several branches in Tulsa, including downtown, moms and dads can find a place that has programs from swimming to basketball to Tae Kwon Do to yoga.
Runner-Up: All American Fitness and Just Ladies Fitness tied in this category. All American Fitness has great accessibility with four locations in the area. Great hours, a Kids Fun Zone and family memberships. Just Ladies has personalized service, a caring staff and, best of all, is a place that our mom readers feel that they can be themselves as they get healthy and fit.
Salon or Spa
Marilyn Ihloff Salon and Day Spa was the top pick of our readers for getting a new look, hair color, manicure, make-up, massage, or a full day of pampering for both men and women. Two convenient locations!
Runner-Up: Broken Arrow’s Aspen Spalon was voted runner-up by TulsaKids’ readers for its professional and talented stylists, fair prices and welcoming atmosphere.
Bank or Credit Union
In this category, our readers place their money on (or in) Arvest. Lots of locations, extended hours, electronic banking and friendly service (including the free popcorn), are just a few of the reasons we like Arvest.
Runner-Up: The Bank of Oklahoma was a close contender as the favorite in this category. BOK is convenient and offers a plethora of services from online banking to mortgages to retirement planning.
Cleaning Service
When TulsaKids’ parents want to get the house squeaky clean, they call Merry Maids. Quick, reliable, thorough and professional, Merry Maids will get your house in-law ready in no time.
Runner-Up: Even if you’re not a clean freak, Clean Freaks cleaning service will take on your house. Our readers like the quality products they use and that they’re an authorized dealer of IQ Air.
Car Dealership
Don Carlton Honda is TulsaKids’ readers’ favorite place to buy a car. Our moms and dads have high standards and Don Carlton meets them. Their website allows buyers to easily search inventory, schedule a test drive and investigate financing options without ever leaving the computer. Don Carlton sales staff can help you find the car you want, even if it’s not in the inventory! For terrific personal service and great cars, our readers go to Don Carlton.
Runner-Up: South Pointe Chevrolet is a close contender in this category. Whether they’re looking for new or pre-owned, our readers like the warm and friendly service they receive at South Pointe Chevrolet.
Childcare (Babysitting/Drop-In Care)
Playtime Plus is the place that TulsaKids’ parents rely on to take care of their kids, whether it’s for a night out, a few hours of shopping without the kids or emergency care because of a school professional day.
Runner-Up: Polliwogs Playground and Seeking Sitters tied for runner-up. Polliwogs Playground at 91st & Memorial gives parents peace of mind when they need safe, professional hourly drop-in daycare for their kids. Seeking Sitters is a babysitting service that allows you to request a sitter online for last minute, one-time, part-time or even full-time needs. And with Seeking Sitters, parents know that each sitter has undergone a complete background screening.
Date-Night Restaurant
The Melting Pot was our readers’ choice for that special parents’ night out. Allowing for a long, relaxing meal where parents can reconnect and unwind over delicious food, it’s no wonder The Melting Pot is the top pick.
Runner-Up: The ever-popular Los Cabos Mexican Grill and Cantina, with locations on Riverwalk and Broken Arrow, is a fun place to dine on the sophisticated tastes of Mexico, listen to music, sip a margarita and relax. You’ll feel like you’ve been on vacation.
HEALTHCARE PRACTITIONER
Finding a healthcare practitioner can be one of the most important decisions a family makes. Picking a doctor, dentist, or eye care professional who is both caring and knowledgeable seemed to be foremost in our readers’ minds.
Pediatrician
Dr. Alka Sood at Birth & Beyond Pediatrics puts children and family first and our readers responded to that. The practice offers two waiting rooms, one for sick children and one for well children. Rooms are cheerful and kid-friendly and the staff is warm and helpful. Dr. Sood writes a blog to provide parents with information they need to know. She is passionate about pediatrics – and it shows!
Runner-Up: Dr. Geeta Silas at Utica Park Clinic in Broken Arrow was another reader favorite. Parents say they trust her to care for their children, and that she spends time listening to them and answering their questions.
Family Physician
When it comes to selecting a doctor for the family, readers choose the physicians of Saint Francis Health System’s Warren Clinic more than any other group. With more than 70 locations throughout Eastern Oklahoma emphasizing primary care and various medical specialties, these doctors earn the top spot for their convenience, quality of care and wide spectrum of medical services.
Runner-Up: Dr. Riley M. Hill, MD, an internist at Warren Clinic in Broken Arrow, was noted for his care of mom and dad. Following close behind, readers turn to Broken Arrow’s Dr. Jon Hamilton, DO for Family Practice.
OB/GYN
Located in The Peggy Helmerich Women’s Center at Hillcrest Medical Center, the Women’s Health Group was chosen by TulsaKids’ moms as the group of physicians that offers the highest standard of care, listens and respects them and responds to their healthcare needs.
Runner-Up: Dr. Jennifer Gibbens, with The Women’s Health Group, was touted by readers as being a doctor who listens to their concerns, answers questions thoroughly and educates them about health decisions.
Eye Doctor
Dr. Zoellner and Associates was voted as the top choice for eye care by TulsaKids’ readers. Patients can get a professional, technologically advanced optometric exam, and then get glasses or contacts on site.
Runner-Up: Dr. Jeff Long’s Children & Family Eye Care’s family-owned optometric practice came in a close second in this category. Located at Tulsa Hills, Dr. Long has a family-friendly office with a selection of more than 40 frames from top designers.
Dentist/Orthodontist
Emerson Orthodontics was the winner in this category. Dr. Emerson is a board certified orthodontist with offices in Broken Arrow and Glenpool. Offering orthodontic selections such as Incognito, Invisalign, Crystal Clear Ceramic braces, Friction Free Braces and cutting edge technology, Dr. Emerson has it all when it comes to giving kids and adults a great smile.
Runner-Up: Dr. Mark Morrow at Morrow, Lai & Edwards Pediatric Dentistry in Tulsa was a voted as a favorite pediatric dentist. Dr. Morrow and his associates are all dentists who are specialized in pediatric dentistry. They know how to make a visit to the dentist child-friendly and comfortable.
Chiropractor
Our readers say that Dr. Brian Flournoy is professional and caring. He listens to them and gives exercise and diet suggestions to help his patients live a healthy lifestyle.
Runner-Up: Dr. Matthew Hunt, “Doctor Matt,” at Hunt Spinal Care cares for the entire family. Dr. Matt says that misalignment of the spine can lead to other conditions in both children and adults, and he works with patients to end pain so that they can enjoy life.
Hospital
St. John Health System was recently named as Tulsa’s #1 metro hospital by U.S. News & World Report. Founded in 1926, St. John has been serving Tulsa families for generations. With locations in Tulsa, Owasso, Sapulpa and Broken Arrow, St. John is there to serve throughout the Tulsa metro area. Whether families need to find a physician, need emergency care, specialty care or want to join the St. John Siegfried Health Club, St. John can accommodate all their healthcare needs.
Runner-Up: Another hospital that has kept Green Country families healthy for generations is Saint Francis Health System. The hospital’s state-of-the-art NICU and the Children’s Hospital at Saint Francis make this healthcare system unique in Oklahoma.
