Ask the Experts: September 2026
Each month in TulsaKids Magazine, local experts answer frequently asked questions from their area of expertise.
How can I help my baby become more comfortable around water before swim lessons?
Water confidence starts long before a child learns to swim. For babies and toddlers, it’s built through calm, positive experiences that help them feel safe and familiar with the water. Simple activities during bath time—like gently pouring water over their shoulders, playing with floating toys and using a calm, reassuring voice—can help create positive associations.
As your child grows, parent-and-child swim lessons provide the next step by introducing age-appropriate water skills in a fun, supportive environment. At Miller Swim School, ParentTot classes for babies as young as 4 months help families build comfort, trust and confidence together.
It’s important to remember that water confidence is just one layer of protection. Constant adult supervision, secure pool barriers and learning water safety skills all play a critical role in preventing drowning.
Want to learn more? Visit millerswimschool.com
Miller Swim School
4 Locations in Tulsa, South Tulsa, Jenks and Owasso
918.254.1988c
millerswimschool.com
How can parents support their own social connections while modeling healthy relationships for their children?
Strong social connections benefit not only children but parents as well. When parents maintain healthy relationships, they model constructive communication, boundaries and emotional support. These are skills that children learn by example.
Parenthood can be isolating, especially during busy seasons. Making time for adult friendships, support groups or community involvement helps parents manage stress and maintain emotional balance. Even small connections such as a regular coffee date or a shared school volunteer role can make a huge difference in your mental well-being and ability to cope with stress.
Children notice how adults handle relationships. When parents talk openly about friendships, show empathy and seek support when needed, kids learn that connection is essential to well- being.
Encouraging family-wide social opportunities, such as neighborhood events, group activities or gathering with family friends where both the adults and children have connection also supports children’s confidence in building relationships. It can easily be overlooked, but caring for parental mental health strengthens the entire family system—creating healthier, more connected homes.
844.458.2100
24/7 Crisis Line: 800×722.3611
grandmh.com
Do baby teeth really matter if they’re going to fall out anyway?
Absolutely. Baby teeth help with chewing, speech development and holding space for permanent teeth. Untreated cavities in baby teeth can lead to pain, infection and long-term dental issues. Healthy baby teeth set the foundation for a healthy adult smile.
Dental Depot
7 locations across the Tulsa area
dentaldepot.net
