Ask the Experts: November 2025
Each month in TulsaKids Magazine, local experts answer frequently asked questions from their area of expertise.
What are some of the most common mental health challenges that kids face today, and how can they be addressed?
Children face many mental health challenges, with anxiety, depression and behavioral disorders among the most common. Factors such as academic pressure, social media influence, family stress and world events can contribute to these struggles.
To address these issues, a variety of strategies and resources are available:
- School-Based Support: Many schools offer counseling services, mental health education and social-emotional learning programs to help students develop coping skills.
- Therapy/Counseling: Licensed therapists provide cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based treatments to help children manage anxiety, depression and emotional regulation.
- Community Programs: Nonprofits and healthcare organizations offer mental health screenings, group therapy and crisis intervention services for children and families.
- Digital and Telehealth Resources: Online therapy platforms and mental health apps provide accessible support.
- Mental Health Services: Organizations like GRAND Mental Health specialize in treatment and care for those dealing with mental health issues, including adolescents and children.
- Parental Involvement: Encouraging open conversations, validating emotions and modeling healthy coping strategies can make a significant difference in a child’s mental well-being.
The Tulsa area has many resources available to address the mental health challenges our kids face today. Reach out to your physician, counselor or mental health professional for guidance.
Grand Mental Health
844.458.2100
24/7 Crisis Line: 800×722.3611
grandmh.com
What should I keep in mind when it comes to water safety during holiday travel?
Holiday travel often takes families to new environments, and while we may not always think about water safety during these trips, it’s essential to stay vigilant. Whether you’re visiting relatives with a pool, staying at a hotel with an indoor swimming area, or traveling to a warmer destination where beaches and lakes are accessible, water hazards are often closer than we realize.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Assess the Environment: As soon as you arrive, take note of any water features, such as pools, hot tubs or even ponds, and make sure children understand that they should never enter these areas unsupervised.
- Establish Boundaries: Make sure all family members know the rules around water during your stay. Ensure doors to pool areas are locked and secure when not in use.
- Bring Proper Swim Gear: If your child is still learning to swim, pack flotation devices or swim aids. Just because it’s vacation doesn’t mean water safety habits should change.
- Supervision is Key: Adults should take turns being the designated water watcher during swim time, even if a lifeguard is present. Keep close attention on children, especially in unfamiliar surroundings.
Miller Swim School
4 Locations in Tulsa, South Tulsa, Jenks and Owasso
918.254.1988
millerswimschool.com
Can my ex and I change an ordered visitation schedule?
Yes, the courts are generally happy for the parents to make changes to the schedule as needed, provided it is agreed to by both. I would advise that these changes be in writing or at least a text. Both sides should work together for small changes as the other side may need similar consideration in the future. But any long-term changes should be changed in the court orders, and it is best to speak with an attorney to effectuate those changes.
Simon Harwood, Fry & Elder
1630 S. Main St., Tulsa
918.585.1107
simonharwoodlaw.com
What should parents know about food, drinks and dental care on-the-go?
Whether it’s snack time at school or drinks after soccer practice, many parents wonder what’s actually best for their child’s teeth. Dr. Christian Doan shares advice regarding some common situations:
- What to avoid packing for lunch: Soda is the big one—even diet soda is acidic. Juices are also high in sugar. If your child does have them, rinsing with water right after helps rebalance the mouth’s pH.
- Snacking: Certain dairy foods are actually OK––at least in moderation. Cheese and milk can be protective for teeth and help with avoiding cavities. Definitely avoid sticky chips that get trapped in molars. Those little particles can lead to cavities if not brushed out.
- Brushing at school: It’s a tough ask. Most kids won’t, and logistically it’s hard. But brushing more than twice a day isn’t harmful. If anything, discreet flossers or rinsing with water after lunch can still help a lot.
Dr. Doan also recommends that parents establish a dental home when their kid becomes 12 months old or within 6 months of their tooth eruption.
Dr. Christian Doan, Dental Depot Tulsa
6 Tulsa Metro locations
dentaldepot.net
