Ask the Experts: June 2026
Each month in TulsaKids Magazine, local experts answer frequently asked questions from their area of expertise.
How long does it take to learn to swim?
Learning to swim safely is a journey built on consistency, confidence, and life-saving skills. While every child progresses differently, most swimmers can begin developing essential water safety skills within months with consistent weekly lessons.
At Miller Swim School, we focus on more than swim strokes — we teach the skills that help children stay safer in and around water. Through our S.A.F.E.R. Swimmer Promise, swimmers ages 4+ work toward mastering 10 essential water safety skills designed to build real-world water competency and confidence.
With regular attendance, many swimmers are on track to complete the S.A.F.E.R. Swimmer Test within 12 months. If they don’t meet that milestone, we provide up to 2 months of free lessons to help them continue progressing safely and confidently.
Our curriculum prioritizes the skills that matter most in an emergency, including floating, turning to safety, swimming short distances, and exiting the water independently. Because learning to swim isn’t about rushing through levels — it’s about building lifelong water safety skills that help protect children every time they’re in or around water.
Miller Swim School
4 Locations in Tulsa, South Tulsa, Jenks and Owasso
918.254.1988c
millerswimschool.com
What do I need to do if my ex isn’t paying child support?
If your ex is Court (or DHS) ordered to pay child support, then the primary way to enforce payments is through a contempt of court. If your case was through DHS, then they may do it for you (you would want to talk to them to find out), or you can hire an attorney to enforce it (you would typically get your attorney fees back, if the enforcement is successful).
The Court’s way of enforcing it, besides options like garnishment, would include jail time as the ultimate threat. This is a specialized court that is designed to move much quicker than regular court, and you should have results within a few months.
If you there is not a court (or DHS) order for child support, then there is nothing to enforce yet. You would need to set up child support first, and probably should talk to DHS or an attorney.
Simon Harwood, Fry & Elder
1630 S. Main St., Tulsa
918.585.1107
simonharwoodlaw.com
How can fathers strengthen their connection with their children while supporting mental health during family travel and summer activities?
Summer adventures, whether a Route 66 road trip or a simple weekend outing, offer dads meaningful opportunities to support their children’s mental health through connection. Shared experiences build trust, create memories and open the door for important conversations.
Travel naturally brings moments of excitement, but it can also cause anxiety or stress. Fathers can model healthy coping by staying flexible, talking through frustrations and focusing on problem-solving rather than perfection. These moments teach children that unexpected left turns and changed plans are part of life’s adventure, and how to manage emotions when it happens.
One-on-one time is especially powerful. A conversation in the car, a walk at a rest stop or the sharing of a favorite activity gives kids a natural, comfortable space to open up without pressure. Dads should also remember that asking open-ended questions and listening without immediately being the “fixer” builds emotional safety.
Finally, routine still matters, even on the road. Adequate rest, snacks and quiet time help prevent emotional overload. By combining adventure with connection and care, fathers can support their children’s emotional well-being while making summer experiences meaningful and fun.
Grand Mental Health
844.458.2100
24/7 Crisis Line: 800×722.3611
grandmh.com
My preteen’s permanent teeth are starting to turn a bit yellow. What should I do?
This is very common. Permanent teeth naturally appear more yellow than baby teeth because the enamel is more translucent. Good brushing, regular cleanings and a healthy diet usually keep teeth looking their best. Whitening products are generally not recommended for children, so talk with your dentist before trying anything.
Dental Depot
7 locations across the Tulsa area
dentaldepot.net
