Ask the Experts: January 2026
Each month in TulsaKids Magazine, local experts answer frequently asked questions from their area of expertise.
I really want my little one to be comfortable in the water this spring and summer, but I’m not sure what to do for babies his age?
Babies as early as 4 months old can willingly accept water acclimation, sometimes even more so than their preschool-aged counterparts! While babies as young as 4 months old can begin swim lessons, there ARE some activities you can do at home to help familiarize them with the water beforehand!
Start by introducing simple toys to your child in the bath. Show them how to use the toys, and sing songs as you play. This creates a positive association with the water from the get-go!
Next, help them prepare for submersions. Start slowly, by introducing a light trickle of water on their head. Then, gradually increase the amount of water until you can wet their entire head.
Finally, make a point to keep bath time fun. Be silly, make up games and keep your infant laughing.
Remember, the earlier you can make your little one feel at ease in the water, the easier it’ll be to get them swimming and enjoying water throughout their childhood.
Miller Swim School
4 Locations in Tulsa, South Tulsa, Jenks and Owasso
918.254.1988
millerswimschool.com
What expenses for my child should the other parent help out with, according to the courts?
The most obvious expenses to split are medical, dental, healthcare and childcare. You child support court order should have the percentage split listed. If there isn’t one, then 50/50, or any proportion by agreement.
Extra-curricular costs (sports, clubs, etc.) and required school expenses are also common, but it depends on wording in the court Orders, especially if they are involved in multiple activities. School uniforms and pencils could be included as required, but not regular clothes or optional things like yearbooks. Unfortunately, cars, car insurance, vacations and college costs are generally not ordered to be split.
Simon Harwood, Fry & Elder
1630 S. Main St., Tulsa
918.585.1107
simonharwoodlaw.com
How can parents support their child’s learning and confidence as a new semester begins?
A new semester brings fresh opportunities—and sometimes fresh worries—for children. Parents can help set a positive tone by focusing less on perfect grades and more on building confidence, curiosity and healthy habits that support learning.
Start with connection: Ask your child what they’re excited about and what feels challenging. Listening without immediately fixing helps them feel heard and capable. Establish consistent routines for sleep, meals, homework and downtime. These predictable rhythms provide the emotional steadiness kids need to learn well.
Create a calm, uncluttered space for schoolwork and break tasks into manageable steps to prevent them from becoming overwhelmed. Celebrate effort, not just outcomes. When children see that persistence and problem-solving matter more than quick success, they develop resilience, which is one of the strongest predictors of academic growth.
Stay engaged with teachers but avoid micromanaging. Instead, guide your child in self-advocacy by encouraging them to ask questions, request help and express concerns respectfully. Make learning part of everyday life: Cook together using measurements, read side-by-side or explore a shared interest.
Above all, model a balanced attitude toward school. When parents stay calm, supportive and curious, children learn to approach the new semester with confidence, motivation and a sense of possibility.
Grand Mental Health
844.458.2100
24/7 Crisis Line: 800×722.3611
grandmh.com
