HEALTHY FAMILIES: PEDIATRICIANS ANSWER COMMON QUESTIONS YOUR CHILD'S MENTAL HEALTH FREE ASTHMA RESOURCES - TulsaKids Magazine
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February 2021 Oklahoma’s Award-Winning Magazine for Parents & Families www.tulsakids.com HEALTHY FAMILIES: PEDIATRICIANS ANSWER COMMON QUESTIONS YOUR CHILD’S MENTAL HEALTH FREE ASTHMA RESOURCES VALENTINE’S DAY TREATS MLK ESSAY CONTEST WINNER SPECIAL LISTING: HEALTH & WELLNESS GUIDE
How are
you feeling
today?
Check in with your co-workers, friends, family and neighbors.
Ask them, “How are you feeling today?” Someone you know
may be delaying important emergency care, chronic care or
emotional care. Remind them to get the care they need.
Remind them to reconnect with their doctor about ongoing care needs, and that
delaying care could impact their health in a negative way. Remind them to ask about
emotional health needs and health concerns that might be weighing on them.
At Ascension St. John, appointments are available, with strict precautions in place
for your safety in our care. Doctors are offering virtual visits. And when your friends
and family need care more urgently, our emergency rooms and urgent care clinics are
open and ready.
Share this message. And get the care you need at GetStJohnCare.com
© Ascension 2021. All rights reserved.
EXPLORE
the possibilties
Virtual Open House Feb.23
Private tours offered by appointment
Monday-Friday from 3:30-4:30 p.m.
For virtual campus tours and more information about
admission or tuition assistance, call 918-879-4755.
Or visit hollandhall.org/admission/open-house.
W W W.T U L S A K I D S . C O M FEBRUARY 2021 1
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Through a simple video visit, adult and pediatric patients with minor illnesses or
non-emergency conditions can be evaluated and provided with a treatment plan.
To access Warren Clinic 24/7 Virtual Urgent Care through your smartphone or computer, visit
saintfrancis.com/urgentcare or sign in to your Saint Francis MyChart account to start your visit.
*If you are experiencing severe illness, a major injury, symptoms of a heart attack, stroke
or shortness of breath, please call 911 or visit your nearest emergency room.
saintfrancis.com/urgentcare
2 FEBRUARY 2021 W W W .T U L S A K I D S . C O M
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L SA K I DS .CO FEBRUARY 2021 3
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4 FEBRUARY 2021 W W W .T U L S A K I D S . C O M
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tulsakids February 2021 SHORTS
9-10 NEWS & NOTES
what’s inside
FEATURES
20 Free Environmental Help for
Children with Asthma
Volume XXXIV, Number 2 www.tulsakids.com 21-22 Don’t Ignore Children’s and
Teens’ Emotional Health
23-24 Pediatricians Answer Common
HEALTHY FAMILIES: ASTHMA RESOURCES,
Questions About Children’s Health
IN EVERY ISSUE
12-13 Tulsakids.com
PEDIATRIC Q & A, MENTAL HEALTH
What’s Going On(line)?
14 STAGES: Babies & Toddlers
Losing a Furry Family Member:
Helping Kids Cope
By Kiley Roberson
15 STAGES: Tweens & Teens
New College App Helps Students
Navigate Admission Search
By Julie Wenger Watson
16 EDUCATION
Summit Christian Academy Students
Send Projects to Space
By Brandon Schmitz
A DAD’S VIEW
Safe Schools, Smart Schools
By Rep. John Waldron
B Y BETTY C ASE Y 20-24 26-27 BOOKS
Maximizing Screen Time
By Heather Lozano, youth associate,
South Broken Arrow Library
28-29 GET COOKING
Chocolate Treats for Valentine’s Day
By Natalie Mikles
32-35 COMMUNITY CALENDAR
By Tara Rittler
36 EVENTS COMMEMORATING THE
TULSA RACE MASSACRE CENTENNIAL
Summit Christian Academy
28-29
Chocolate Treats for Valentine’s Day
16 Students Send Projects to Space
VALENTINE’S ACTIVITIES
38-39 GREEN COUNTRY GROWN UP
Ali Hanson: Good to the Bone
By Nancy A. Moore
42 I’M A TULSA KID
Collin Emeric Blake Walters:
MLK Essay Contest Winner
By Sheeba Atiqi
40-41 SPECIAL SECTION:
HEALTH, WELLNESS & FITNESS GUIDE
36 Events Commemorating
the Tulsa Race Massacre 42 Collin Emeric Blake Walters:
MLK Essay Contest Winner
W W W.T U L S A K I D S . C O M FEBRUARY 2021
7
editor’s note tulsakids
FOR PARENTS. FOR FAMILIES. FOR LIFE.
Health & Chocolate Publisher:
Associate Publisher
Charles Foshee
& Editor In Chief: Betty Casey
Health is on the minds of everyone these days. And chocolate may be what
Treasurer &
we reach for to get a little temporary comfort. At this writing, there have Comptroller Debbie Talley
been over 400,000 deaths in the U.S. due to COVID-19. Oklahoma is one of Web Editor: Tara Rittler
Advertising Sales: Brandi Moore
the top three states for COVID cases. Those are dire statistics, but with the Lindsey Copes
vaccine beginning to be distributed, there is real cause for optimism. As a Production: Charles Foshee
Johnny King
friend reminded me, out of chaos, good can come. Setbacks are discourag-
Cover Photo: Andrea Murphy
ing, but they can also bring opportunities. Photography
Distribution: Joan Perez
As we make our way through the chaos created by the pandemic, we still Editorial & Special Danielle Hill
have work to do. Mental health problems in children and teens have risen Projects Assistant
Contributing Writers:
or become exacerbated. Parents may feel fearful about taking their children Kiley Roberson
to the doctor for well-child visits. You’ll find articles about both of these Julie Wenger Watson
John Waldron
problems in our health section this month. I was also contacted by the Nancy A. Moore
American Lung Association of Oklahoma about free services, resources and Natalie Mikles
Sheeba Atiqi
equipment for parents of children with asthma. Inside, you can find out how Brandon Schmitz
Heather Lozano
to connect with resources.
I recently lost a beloved pet. Fortunately, I didn’t have young children look-
ing to me for an explanation of that loss. Kiley Roberson writes about losing
her family’s cat, and how she found ways to talk with her young children
to help them through their sadness. You’ll find some valuable tips from a
veterinarian in her column this month.
The nation celebrated Martin Luther King, Jr. Day last month. Students
throughout Tulsa and the surrounding communities participated in a vari-
ety of creative ways. Our Tulsa Kid this month is the first-place winner of the TK PUBLISHING inc.
MLK essay contest. Read his entire essay in our I’m a Tulsa Kid column.
TulsaKids is published monthly by
And, of course, Valentine’s Day is this month! We haven’t forgotten to TK Publishing, Inc.,
1622 So. Denver Ave.,
include some delicious chocolate recipes Tulsa, OK 74119
(918) 582-8504
from Natalie Mikles that you can make for FAX (918) 583-1366
Website: www.tulsakids.com
your valentines. ©TK Publishing, Inc. 2020.
All Rights Reserved.
Volume XXXIV, Number 2
Wear your mask. Wash your hands. Social
Distance. Stay well. Publisher
publisher@tulsakids.com
Editor-In-Chief
Betty Casey editor@tulsakids.com
associate publisher and Calendar
editor in chief (submit by 10th of the month prior)
calendar@tulsakids.com
Articles and advertisements in TulsaKids do
not necessarily reflect the opinions of the
magazine or TK Publishing, Inc. We do not
assume responsibility for statements made
by advertisers or editorial contributors. The
acceptance of advertising by TulsaKids does
not constitute an endorsement of the prod-
ucts, services, or information. We do not
If you like to read TulsaKids, you may not know that ON OUR COVER: knowingly present any product or service
which is fraudulent or misleading in nature.
you can watch us, too! Every Thursday morning on
Tulsa’s Channel 8, the local ABC affiliate, join Editor COVER WINNER OLIVIA MUTAGAMBA
Betty Casey on Good Day Tulsa for tips to plan your IS READY FOR A HAPPY AND HEALTHY
family’s weekend and more. Watch Good Morn- YEAR. OLIVIA WEARS A DRESS
PROVIDED BY LOLLY GARDEN MEMBER OF
ing Oklahoma on CHILDREN’S CLOTHING AT UTICA
Tuesdays for tips on SQUARE.
timely topics and fam-
ily information you’ll COVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY
want to know. ANDREA MURPHY PHOTOGRAPHY
8 FEBRUARY 2021 W W W .T U L S A K I D S . C O M
news & notes
STUDENTS WIN MLK, JR., HONORS
The Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration Society announced the Tulsa-area students who were honored with awards in the 2021
art, dance, essay and oratorical contests.
Student contest winners are as follows:
Hailey McGuire Ava Walters Serena Siddiqui
Youth Art Contest: Students in grades K-6 were asked to create an illustration based on one of three themes that characterizes Dr.
King’s life and work – Love, Peace or Unity – and what the theme means to them. All three winning drawings are showcased in the 2021
MLK Souvenir Book.
1st Place ($175): Hailey McGuire, 6th grade, McKinley Elementary;
2nd Place ($125): Ava Walters, 2nd grade, Augustine Christian Academy; and
3rd Place ($75): Serena Siddiqui, 3rd grade, Holland Hall.
Interpretive Dance of Peace Contest: Individuals and team ensembles (ages 18 and younger) were encouraged to create and per-
form an interpretive dance with the theme of “Peace.” Dancers were judged based on accuracy, showmanship, choreography and perfor-
mance. Winners are as follows:
1st Place ($500): Hailey McGuire, 6th grade, McKinley Elementary; and
2nd Place ($350): Maharai and Marelin Olivares, in 1st and 6th grades, respectively, at Mitchell Elementary.
Essay Contest: Middle school students (grades 6-8) were asked to write a 350-500 word essay on the topic, “I live my life as a reflec-
tion of Dr. King’s dream by . . .” The essays are published in the 2021 MLK Souvenir Book. Prizes were awarded as follows:
1st Place ($250): Collin Emeric Blake Walters, 7th grade, Oliver Middle School (Broken Arrow Public Schools);
2nd Place ($225): Alyssa Kay Martin, 8th grade, Union 8th Grade Center;
3rd Place ($200): Jordan Dodd, 6th grade, McKinley Elementary;
4th Place ($175): Isabella Beaty, 7th Grade, Union 6th/7th Grade Center; and
5th Place ($150): Kaylin Gomez, 6th Grade, McKinley Elementary.
Sage Asher Scott Walters Raashi Karande Makayla Goode
Oratorical Contest: High school students (grades 9-12) were asked to memorize Dr. King’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech for a
chance to showcase their oratorical skills. Prizes were awarded to the following:
1st Place ($1,000): Sage Asher Scott Walters, 9th grade, Oliver Middle School (Broken Arrow Public Schools);
2nd Place ($500): Raashi Karande, 9th grade, Union Freshman Academy; and
3rd Place ($350): Makayla Goode, 10th grade, Union High School.
Sage Walters, the 1st Place winner, performed Dr. King’s speech live for ONE Gas employees at a special Martin Luther King, Jr. event
on Thursday, January 14. ONE Gas is the official sponsor of the Martin Luther King Jr. Oratorical Contest.
W W W.T U L S A K I D S . C O M FEBRUARY 2021
9
TALKING TO CHILDREN ABOUT VIOLENCE
Many families and teachers are struggling with how to explain the incidents that
occurred in Washington, D.C., on Jan. 6, and are seeking support to help children make
sense of it all. A guide titled “Talking to Children About Events at the U.S. Capitol” has
been posted on the Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum website at https://memo-
rialmuseum.com/news/talking-to-children-about-the-events-at-the-u-s-capitol/.
KIDS AND TEENS INVITED TO ENTER
TCCL’S CREATIVE WRITING CONTEST
Tulsa City-County Library’s annual Young People’s Creative Writing Contest
gives young writers the opportunity to make their voices heard. With three age
divisions in five different categories, TCCL encourages Tulsa County youths to
stretch their imaginations and deepen their relationship with writing by telling
their stories in their own words—or illustrations!
From Feb. 1-28, students ages 10-18 can participate in this free contest by
submitting their writing online, by mail or to any TCCL branch. The contest is free
to enter for those who live or attend school in Tulsa County, or have a nonresident
library card.
Within each of the following categories, there are three age divisions: 10-12,
13-15 and 16-18. Participants may enter one manuscript per category but may enter
all categories within their corresponding age group. The categories include: Short
Story; Informal Essay; Poetry; Short Play; and Comix.
First-, second- and third-place winners are chosen for each age group in each
category. Cash prizes are awarded in the following amounts: $100 for first place,
$50 for second place and $25 for third place.
All entrants will be invited to the awards presentation, which will be held at 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 6. Featured speaker Jason
Reynolds, winner of the Tulsa Library Trust’s 2021 Anne V. Zarrow Award for Young Readers’ Literature, will help present awards to the
contest winners.
Entry forms with rules and regulations are available for pickup at all TCCL locations or online at https://tulsalibrary.org/form/YPCWC.
For more information, call 918.549.7323 or visit www.tulsalibrary.org/YPCWC.
TCC EXPANDS COLLEGE
IN HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM
Students in the Broken Arrow Public Schools and Tulsa Public Schools districts will be able to
earn a college degree from Tulsa Community College at no cost to the student while they complete
high school.
EDGE: Earn a Degree, Graduate Early is a pilot program launched under the name of Early Col-
lege High School with Union Public Schools in 2018. TCC is expanding the pilot in partnership with
Tulsa and Broken Arrow and at the same time changing the name to EDGE.
Beginning this school year, eighth graders in TPS and BAPS will apply and be competitively
selected to participate. From there, those students enroll in a rigorous college prep curriculum as
ninth graders before entering EDGE in the 10th grade where students take a prescribed course
schedule taught by TCC faculty.
Tulsa Public Schools is launching EDGE at two sites, McLain and Memorial high schools.
To learn more about EDGE as well as the application process for eighth grade students, parents and students can attend one of the
information meetings scheduled in February.
Visit www.tulsacc.edu, dual credit programs at TCC for more information.
10 FEBRUARY 2021 W W W .T U L S A K I D S . C O MGet the Party
Started...
with
TulsaKids’
Party Planner!
Your guide to the best
party entertainers,
venues and more
in the Tulsa area!
tulsakids.com/guides
OSU PEDIATRICS
Where Matter More.
Call today to make your appointment, 918-382-4600.
osumedicine.com MEDICINE
W W W.T U L S A K I D S . C O M FEBRUARY 2021
11tulsakids.com
What’s Going On(line)?
CONTESTS AND
GIVEAWAYS
CAR PAYMENTS FOR A
YEAR SWEEPSTAKES!
You have till February 8 to enter our Car Payments for a Year Sweep-
stakes! One winner will be chosen out of a national pool of entries to
receive $6,600. Enter at tulsakids.com/contests.
“HUG THE ONE YOU
LOVE” VALENTINE’S
PHOTO CONTEST
From January 28-February 10, enter our Valentine’s Photo Contest
for a chance to win a Dual/Family Membership to ahha Tulsa! This
membership 2 named adults, 4 kids, unlimited admission to ahha,
a 10% discount for ahha classes, a 10% gift shop discount and more!
To enter, simply upload a photo of your child hugging a parent,
caretaker, sibling or pet to our contests page at tulsakids.com/con-
tests. We will also share some of the submissions to social media
and in our March magazine!
DISCOVERY LAB’S
INTRODUCE A GIRL
TO ENGINEERING DAY
GIVEAWAY
Follow @tulsakidsmagazine on Facebook for a special chance to win
a registration for two to one of Discovery Lab’s Introduce a Girl to
Engineering Day classes, as well as two Guest Passes that can be
used at a later date. The giveaway will take place on Facebook
February 21-24. Learn more about Introduce a Girl to Engineering
Day at discoverylab.org.
12 FEBRUARY 2021 W W W .T U L S A K I D S . C O MGUEST BLOGGER: COMING SOON:
AMANDA MURPHY TULSAKIDS’ VIRTUAL
About Amanda: Amanda Murphy is
passionate about what parents can CAMP FAIR
do to enhance and supplement their To celebrate the release of our 2021 Summer Camp Guide in March,
child’s educational experience out- TulsaKids will be hosting a Virtual Camp Fair! Follow us on social
side of the classroom. She believes in media or keep an eye out in next month’s magazine for details.
a model where kids grow up excited
to learn, which starts with the parent
or caregiver. As mom to a very bright
and active 5-year-old girl in a not-as-
active pandemic world, Amanda is
constantly seeking out new ways to
tie learning into real life to keep her
daughter engaged. This involves out-
door exploration, a focus on literacy,
building imagination, learning toys,
and much more. Her belief is that
each child is born with a passion for learning, but that harnessing it
correctly is essential. Equally, she believes all children are smart, just
in different ways.
Watch for Amanda Murphy’s Guest Blog posts at tulsakids.com/blog.
We will also share them on Facebook and in our weekly eNewsletters!
ASK TULSAPARENTS:
WHAT’S YOUR FAMILY’S
TOP HEALTH TIP?
We asked members of our Facebook group, TulsaParents, to share
their family’s top health tips. Katerina A. said, “After Amelia (10 yo)
and I discovered Cosmic Kids yoga, we’ve been doing it a couple times
a week. It’s great for both kids and grown ups. And it’s free!”
DON’T MISS OUT:
SUBSCRIBE TO TULSAKIDS’
MAILING LIST!
Get the latest news from TulsaKids all month long by signing up for
our email list at tulsakids.com/newsletter. We send out weekly news-
letters as well as special offers and info from local partners.
Follow us on Facebook (@tulsakidsmagazine) and
Instagram (@tulsakids) for additional content and fun!
W W W.T U L S A K I D S . C O M FEBRUARY 2021
13stages: babies & toddlers
B Y KI LEY R O BE RSON
losing a furry
family member:
helping kids cope
B
eing a parent is the most Stick to the Truth
rewarding experience Avoid trying to gloss over
of my life. Every day, my the event with a lie. Telling a
kids teach me something young child that “Buster ran
new about myself, the world away” or “Max went on a trip” is
around me and the overall human not a good idea. It probably won’t
experience. I do have to say, that alleviate the sadness about los-
while my children are certainly ing the pet, and if the truth does
my entire world, my parenting come out, your child will probably
adventures actually started with be angry that you lied.
a little black kitten named Ally. Help Your Child Cope
My husband and I found the little Kids usually feel a variety of
stray when we were still dating emotions besides sadness after
in college. She was our first pet the death of a pet. They might
together and saw us through mar- experience loneliness, anger if the
riage, moves, jobs and children. pet was euthanized, frustration
She was an instant best friend to that the pet couldn’t get better, or
both our kids, and her relaxed, guilt about times that they were
loving nature helped inspire their mean to or didn’t care for the pet
current love for animals. as promised.
After 16 years of loving Help kids understand that
our Ally cat, our family had to it’s natural to feel all of those
say goodbye to her last month. emotions and don’t feel com-
While I knew this day would pelled to hide your own sadness
come and also knew it would be either. Showing how you feel and
hard, I never truly anticipated the talking about it openly sets an
BE HONEST AND FOLLOW YOUR CHILD’S
intense sense of loss our children example for kids. You show that
LEAD IN DEALING WITH THE LOSS OF A PET.
would experience. My heart broke it’s OK to feel sad when you lose
all over again as I helped them Sharing the News and the Grief the pet’s pain away a loved one, to talk about your
grieve her death, each in their One of the most difficult * the pet will die peacefully, with- feelings, and to cry when you feel
own way. My daughter needed parts about losing a pet may be out feeling hurt or scared sad. And it’s comforting to kids
a good cry and closure, actually breaking the bad news to kids. Our vet also reminded us to know that they’re not alone in
saying goodbye and keeping her Try to do so one-on-one in a place that when you have to euthanize feeling sad.
collar close by her bedside. My where they feel safe and comfort- a pet, be careful about saying the Looking Ahead
son kept things in and needed able and not easily distracted. animal went “to sleep” or “got Perhaps most important,
long talks about the importance If your pet is very old or has put to sleep.” Young kids tend to talk about your pet, often and
of sharing our feelings even when a long illness, consider talking to take things literally, so this can with love. Let your child know
they make us sad. kids before the death happens. If make them think the animal could that while the pain will go away,
Ally was our first family pet, you have to euthanize your pet, wake back up or even conjure up the happy memories of the pet
and helping our kids cope with her you may want to explain the fol- scary ideas about their own sleep. will always remain. When the
loss has been a completely new lowing: If the pet’s death is more time is right, you might consider
experience. Thankfully our veter- * the veterinarians have done sudden, calmly explain what has adopting a new pet — not as a
inarian was able to help. He pro- everything that they can happened. Be brief, and let your replacement, but as a way to wel-
vided information and literature * the pet would never get better child’s questions guide how much come another animal friend into
on ways to process their pain. * this is the kindest way to take information you provide. your family.
14 FEBRUARY 2021 W W W .T U L S A K I D S . C O Mstages: tweens & teens
B Y JU LI E W ENGE R WAT SON
new college app helps
students navigate
admission search
“I want to help level the playing
field,” Terrie Shipley says.
“We’ve kind of lost our way
with college admissions.”
Shipley, an independent college
counselor, recently launched
Apply U, an education technolo-
gy startup she hopes will make
premiere college counseling
services accessible to every
student.
“We’re looking at
400-to-one student-to-counsel-
or ratios as a national average,
and many schools have a ratio
that is higher than that,” Shipley
explains. “Many students just
don’t have the help they need
to get into college, much less to
have a better chance to get into To Learn More….
a college they really love.” TulsaKids publishes an
According to Shipley, pri- annual College Planner with
vate college counseling services information about planning for
can cost thousands of dollars, a life after high school. Local high
price tag that is out of range for schools have print copies, but
most families. Shipley’s program you can find the most current
would leverage technology to issue and past issues on our
provide some of that same, indi- website at www.tulsakids.com.
vidualized help without the sig- HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS OFTEN NEED HELP RESEARCHING Information includes:
nificant expense. AND APPLYING TO COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES. • a timeline of what to do each
“It’s not fair for this type of year of high school
really want out of a university that students can use to start • how and when to fill out the
college coaching to be only open and, down the line, a career. their journey.
to those who are more affluent,” Free Application for Federal
“This program is really “A little bit more of the Student Aid (FAFSA)
Shipley says. “Apply U is my about life design, as ‘new age-y’ soul-searching stuff is going to
attempt to try to bring it to more • free college opportunities
and hokey as that sounds,” Ship- pay off a lot, not just in feeling available in Oklahoma
people.” ley says. “Students are forced like you’ve got a good fit and • questions to consider when
She plans to begin piloting to answer the wrong questions. you’re maximizing your time, choosing a college or university
the program this spring with They’re asked, ‘which college but even in just having the confi- • how to write a college applica-
some local schools. Effectively, will you get into,’ or ‘what line of dence to navigate the family hol- tion essay
it will be an interactive online work will you get into?’ Instead, iday party or hallway locker talk • how to prepare for a college
course that guidance, college they should be guided on, ‘what like ‘where are you applying?’ interview
and career counselors can use do you want to get out of this?’” and ‘did you get in here,’” Ship- • advice from college admission
to help their students find the Although Apply U won’t be ley notes. “It’s about confidence, counselors
right fit. fully launched for a few months, and if you’re confident about • explanation of terms such as
Although Shipley’s program Shipley has a free resource the process, you’re just going to “demonstrated interest” and more
will help students tackle the col- available on her website www. have a better time.” NOTE: Congress changed the
lege application and admission apply-u.com. The College Better FAFSA form, but those changes
process, it’s also a tool to help Gameboard is a downloadable will not take effect until July 1,
them contemplate what they PDF that provides a framework 2023. ).
W W W.T U L S A K I D S . C O M FEBRUARY 2021
15education
B Y BRA N D O N SCHMIT Z
Summit Christian
Academy Students Send
Projects to Space
S
pace exploration sparks ing place,” Bradley said. “The
the imagination, igniting announcer there brought the stu-
dreams of discoveries lit- dents on stage and interviewed
erally beyond this world. them in front of everyone.”
The students at Summit Christian After the launch, the group
Academy in Tulsa are following toured the center itself.
that dream, as two groups earned “We got to visit a rocket park
the opportunity to send their and an IMAX theater
experiments to the stars. presentation about the Apollo
In October of 2019, eight mission,” Rose said. “It was such
teams of Summit students com- a cool look at the history
peted in the Tulsa Research Kids of space travel.”
DreamUp competition. Each group With ambitious projects such
conducted space-based research as these, the full impact of the
and presented an experiment pro- journey often doesn’t hit us until
posal to a panel of judges. we reach its conclusion.
“When it came to these “When we got to the end of it
projects, I encouraged the kids to all, I realized just how much work
dream big,” said Stephanie Brad- we had put into it, so it was great
ley, Summit’s STEAM and Enrich- to see it pay off,” Rose said. “I’m
ment Instructor. “Think about most proud of the fact that I stuck
traveling to Mars or staying on the with it. I’ll sometimes give up on
moon – what can we do to help things because they’re too hard,
further that?” SUMMIT CHRISTIAN ACADEMY STUDENTS WITH TEACHER STEPHANIE so just the fact that I did it without
BRADLEY AT NASA’S KENNEDY SPACE CENTER WAIT TO SEE
Ultimately, this statewide, K-12 THEIR PROJECTS BLAST INTO SPACE ON THE SPACEX FALCON 9.
giving up made me so happy.”
competition awarded three teams. It’s worth noting, too, that
One victory went to Jenks, while the “I’m just so proud of them young scientists’ journey. Through- these experiments were original-
other two went to Summit. for all of the confidence they have out the past year, the students ly set for launch in the summer
“I was thrilled to see these gained,” said Chanda Taylor, worked remotely with a NASA of 2020. However, the ongoing
kinds of results,” Bradley said. Addison’s mother. “If all goes well, representative to prepare their mix COVID-19 pandemic made the
“Even so, when I saw that we had we’re kind of hoping we’ll be able stick, a three-chambered test tube process a much more harrowing
won two of the three spots, I was to sell Wear-Flex to NASA. Those used for experiments in space. experience than it otherwise
like ‘does that look OK?’” guys need this!” Upon preparation, the proj- would’ve been.
One of the Summit students’ Summit’s second claim to ects were shipped to NASA’s “I’m just so impressed by the
winning projects was Wear-Flex, space-fairing fame centered on Kennedy Space Center. They perseverance they showed as a
a synthetic compound designed sea monkeys, otherwise known as were then loaded into the SpaceX team,” Bradley said. “Collectively,
to make flexible rubber. Led by brine shrimp. Headed by elemen- Falcon 9, which carried the exper- it took us more than a year to see
middle-schoolers Addison Taylor tary students Stryker Ashworth iments to the International Space this to the finish line. Even after
and Mayzie Burke, this experi- and Ainsley Rose, this project Station, where astronauts will the launch was pushed beyond the
ment aims to determine whether investigated whether sea mon- carry out the experiment. summer and into September, that
this substance will be able to fix keys would grow at a different Bradley, the two teams and became October. Then October
damage caused by space debris in rate in microgravity. They are an their parents were invited to wit- became November, and November
microgravity. According to Brad- abundant source of nutrition for ness Falcon 9’s launch firsthand became December. The fact that
ley, the compound is already used fish – fish that will, in turn, be this past December. we had to manage all of this during
to fix flat tires on Earth, so the stu- used as food for the astronauts. “This was my first time a pandemic – that we still saw it
dents hope to replicate the prod- Winning the competition visiting the Kennedy Space through and enjoyed this kind of
uct’s earthly capabilities in space. itself was only the beginning of the Center, and it’s just such an amaz- success is so gratifying.”
16 FEBRUARY 2021 W W W .T U L S A K I D S . C O MSUMMIT
INSPIRES
KNOW God
MAXIMIZE Potential
DISCOVER Purpose
MAKE a Difference
Summit Christian Academy
is a leader in distinctive
Christian education.
Providing a dynamic academic and
social environment that inspires
students to Know God; Maximize their
Potential; Discover their Purpose; and
Make a Difference in their world.
Visit our website and discover why Summit is Broken Arrow’s largest K-12 private school.
NOW ENROLLING
FOR 2021-2022 CLASSES
W W W.T U L S A K I D S . C O M FEBRUARY 2021 15
918.251.1997 • WWW.SUMMIT.SCHOOLa dad’s view
B Y REP. JO H N WALDRON
safe schools, smart schools
W
e’ve endured one deserve access to quality virtual
of the most dif- and hybrid public educational
ficult semesters models. The state and districts
in the history of must continue their efforts to
Oklahoma education. As the ensure that all students have
COVID-19 pandemic spread access to the internet and
through our state, some dis- devices for online learning. The
tricts stayed open, some went pandemic has taught us that
to virtual education, and others internet access is a public utility
tried hybrid models. The lack of and a matter of public benefit.
a coherent state-wide plan or It is one thing to wish for
clear set of guidelines left every a return to normal. It will take
superintendent and school board leadership and commitment
to their own devices as to how to create the conditions for a
to respond. The result has been return to normal, or hopefully
confusing, even chaotic, and to a new normal that is better
forced us to take a long, hard and more equitable than the
look at our school system. How old model. We owe it to the
do we guarantee an education to rising generation, to those we
every child during a pandemic? have lost, and to those who
And how do we do it safely? will come after us to overcome
The short answer is, we rates, and we have pushed our contact-tracing infrastructure. the conditions of the present
don’t know yet. But even as large healthcare system to its limits. • All faculty and staff pandemic and provide a better
urban districts like Tulsa and If we want schools to re-open should have access to vaccines world for all hereafter.
Oklahoma City grapple with the in person, we should ask the before schools reopen. Health
logistics of pandemic education, citizens of Oklahoma to make Secretary Frye set a target NOTE: Governor Kevin
pressure grows on school boards responsible sacrifices for the of 175,000 vaccinations by Stitt announced in Jan. that
to “open up the schools” and common good. the end of December. The Oklahoma schools following
declare a return to normal. • Schools must have the latest statistics report 30,000 safety protocols, including mask-
As districts plan how they resources to make investments vaccinations given. We wearing and social distancing,
will return to in-person instruction, in PPE, air quality and classroom need an efficient statewide will be permitted to forgo the
here are a few suggestions for spaces to protect students, distribution system, including mandatory two-week quarantine
clear criteria and reasonable teachers and staff. CARES Act the participation of pharmacy period for potential COVID-19
safeguards to ensure that the money should be prioritized for chains, to blunt community exposures.
process is as safe as possible: this purpose. Schools must be spread and protect students, State Superintendent Joy
• Masks must be required safe learning spaces. faculty and staff. Hofmeister responded to the
at schools. This is a minimum. • We should have a robust • Faculty and staff should governor’s new guidelines, saying
In July, Superintendent system of contact tracing and have the option, where possible, that while she agrees in-person
Hofmeister called for including COVID-19 testing based on a to work remotely and/or from school is critical, COVID-19 is still
mask mandates in state school partnership between our public home if they have pre-existing rampant in the state.
guidelines. Unfortunately, the schools and our state and county conditions that make them more “The ramifications of the
State School Board turned these health departments. Current vulnerable to the virus. We should pandemic on education have
guidelines into recommendations. testing rates are too low. also increase the pay of essential been challenging and severe.
Governor Stitt recently nixed a Positive test result rates are too staff working as custodians, bus While this option underscores
reopening plan that would have high. People are being asked to drivers, kitchen workers and in the need for mask requirements
required masks in school. He do their own contact tracing as other functions. Essential workers in school, I cannot in good
should reconsider. the level of community spread deserve protections and a decent conscience support ignoring
• We need a statewide has overwhelmed county paycheck. quarantine guidelines from the
mask mandate. Oklahoma is a health efforts. We need more • Parents who want to CDC and other infectious disease
top state in COVID-transmission investment in our testing and remain in virtual education experts.”
18 FEBRUARY 2021 W W W .T U L S A K I D S . C O MJenks/South Tulsa - Feb 5-7
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W W W.T U L S A K I D S . C O M FEBRUARY 2021
19health
B Y BETTY C ASE Y
FREE ENVIRONMENTAL HELP
FOR CHILDREN WITH ASTHMA
F
amilies who are having diffi- manage your child’s asthma, call
culties managing their child’s 1.800.LUNGUSA (5864872) or
asthma can participate in an visit www.lung.org.
environmental assessment
option offered by the Amer-
ican Lung Association at no
Common
cost. The American Lung Asso- Asthma Triggers
ciation of Oklahoma is working In and Around
to reduce the environmental
triggers in the homes of children
the Home
with asthma by offering free • Trees
home assessments, resources • Mold
and equipment for families. • Cleaners
A trigger is something in
• Indoor/Outdoor dust
the environment that can make
asthma worse. According to • Mites
the American Lung Associa- • Roaches
tion (www.lung.org), removing • Paint fumes
asthma triggers will decrease • Car fumes
hospitalizations, emergency
• Scents
department visits and reduce supplies, smoke detector, fire families can contact the Amer-
rescue medication use. extinguisher or allergen-reduc- ican Lung Association. Once • Wood Burning
The program is completely ing pillow encasements, all at the assessment is completed, • Pets
free for families, and after par- no cost. A virtual option also is the remediation supplies are • Cooking Scents Smoke
ticipating in the assessment, available where a walkthrough shipped to their homes.
• Smoking
the American Lung Association can be conducted by video chat. To schedule a visit,
will provide home items that To schedule a home assess- contact Patrick Hattaway • Pests
will best help them control asth- ment, which will include assess- at 918.747.3442 or email • Flowers
ma such as a vacuum cleaner, ing the child’s clinical symptoms Patrick.Hattaway@Lung.org.
Swiffer-style mop, cleaning and providing asthma education, To learn more about how to
20 FEBRUARY 2021 W W W .T U L S A K I D S . C O Mhealth
B Y BETTY C ASE Y
DON’T IGNORE CHILDREN’S
AND TEENS’ EMOTIONAL HEALTH
E
veryone, including children “They think that’s helping them
and teens, needs some alone because it feels comfortable,
time. But, if children are but it makes them more stuck in
spending unusual amounts of their heads with those negative
time isolated in their rooms, thoughts. If we really retreat
or if their behavior raises con- into ourselves, we start to live
cerns for you, it may be time to in our heads, and we think a lot
open up a discussion with them. of negative things about our-
Even before the coronavi- selves.”
rus hit, mental health problems Perez offers the following
such as depression and anxiety suggestions:
were rising in children ages 6 Normalize their reactions
to 17, according to the Centers and understand your own emo-
for Disease Control and Preven- tions. Before you talk to your
tion. Lorri Perez, senior program child, check in with your own
director for the Child and Family emotions and be truthful about
Strengthening Center and Pro- them. Make sure you are calm
fessional Services at Family & before reaching out to your child.
Children’s Services, says that If you notice your child doing
isolation caused by the COVID- something out of the ordinary,
19 pandemic can make these such as playing video games
problems worse. children, a feeling that has stressful, too.” all day alone, you might say, “I
“A lot of the kids that we heightened with the length of Children who have strug- notice you’re sitting in your room
see for mental health are already the pandemic coupled with cool- gled with depression and anxi- a lot, and I know it might feel
struggling with school anyway,” er weather. ety in the past may be especially good to be alone in your room.
Perez says. “Online school “Now we’re starting to see at risk. The isolation during the Let’s talk about some things you
ramped up the anxiety for kids fatigue,” Perez says. “People are pandemic has given them an can do to get you doing things.”
and their parents.” tired of this. They can’t go out- excuse to withdraw. Perez says the idea is to validate
Many times, parents are side as much for relief. People “They keep withdrawing
at a loss as to how to help their being stuck all together – that’s more and more,” Perez says. continued next page
W W W.T U L S A K I D S . C O M FEBRUARY 2021
21health
their feelings without judging Reassure them and be Perez says. can help keep the channels of
them, not to make kids feel bad truthful. “In uncertain times, Be present. “A lot of older communication open, and will
about what they’re doing, but to kids look to us,” Perez says. kids and teenagers may not let children know that they can
help them come out of it. Kids and teens need to know be comfortable with saying, ‘I come to you with their concerns.
Open the conversation, that someone cares about them. care’,” Perez says. Sometimes Reach out for help or to talk
listen and be open for discus- Assure children that you love your kid may just need your to someone if you feel you need
sion. It may be uncomfortable them, even when they may be presence.” it, or if you are concerned about
for some parents to talk about acting in an unlovable way, and Physical presence and your child.
emotions, and those conversa- that you can work through prob- physical touch is a human need,
tions can feel awkward if we lems together. Acknowledge so find ways to provide that Family & Children’s Services:
haven’t had them before. Perez that it’s a tough time for you, presence for your children. 918.587.9471; www.fcsok.org
says that’s okay. Use language too, and talk about strategies “Don’t be on your phone; COPES/Crisis Hotline/
that feels right for you, but don’t that you use to help yourself. don’t do other things,” Perez Help: Adults and children who
get into a power struggle by try- Model those strategies. Chil- says. “Listen. Be there for them. are in crisis and need immedi-
ing to force children to talk or to dren, especially young children, Try to have some sort of conver- ate help can call COPES 24/7 at
take action. If your child assures like routine. They may also need sation with them. Be physically 918.744.4800
you that everything is fine or help naming their emotions. and mentally present. Seize If you think your child
shuts you down, give it time. While you can’t promise that opportunities such as time in the or adolescent is suicidal, you
“Be consistent,” Perez says. everything will be fine, you can car or cooking together in the can call the National Suicide
“You may have to go back and offer reassurance. kitchen to talk with teens.” Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-
keep asking. Say, ‘I’ll check on “Tell them, ‘I’m here; I love Perez says that regularly 273-8255 or 911 if there is an
you tomorrow or check in with you. I’m going to be here, and checking in with children and emergency.
you later today.’” I’m going to take care of you’,” teens in a nonjudgmental way
DISMANTLING RACISM
INTERACTIVE FACEBOOK LIVE SESSIONS Najah-Amatullah Hylton
and Quraysh Ali Lansana
Illustrated by
Skip Hill
OPAL’S GREENWOOD OASIS
Celebrating Black Wall Street history through the eyes of a young
Black girl. A discussion with authors Najah-Amatullah Hylton,
Quraysh Ali Lansana and illustrator Skip Hill.
FEBRUARY 17 @ NOON
PARTICIPATE LIVE AND WATCH PA S T BROADC A S T S AT
FACEBOOK.COM/ TULSAKIDSMAGA ZINE
22 FEBRUARY 2021 W W W .T U L S A K I D S . C O Mhealth
B Y BETTY C ASE Y
PEDIATRICIANS ANSWER
COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT
CHILDREN’S HEALTH
H
aving a child means that with acetaminophen or ibupro-
you will have health care fen (if over 6 months of age). If
questions, and COVID-19 your child is 12 weeks of age or
makes things even more younger, lethargic, with severe
complicated. We asked headaches or abdominal pain,
Drs. Danielle Morgan and sore throat, rash, neck pain,
Ryan Mundy with Premiere ear pain, excessive vomiting, or
Pediatrics of Bixby to answer signs of dehydration, then they
a few general questions about need to be evaluated. If your
children’s health. child may have a heat-related
1. Is it okay to take my illness, is immunosuppressed,
child for well-child visits or has a chronic disorder such
during the pandemic? Should as sickle cell disease, call your
my child be getting the regular doctor. Additional reasons to
vaccines? Should my child get a be seen by your physician are
flu shot? fevers that consistently rise
It is indeed recommended over 104 degrees Fahrenheit,
that you continue well visits for seizures, fevers lasting over 24
your children, whether that be in hours in a child under the age of
the office or a virtual visit. Many what happens? Can they catch age-recommended and catch-up 2 years, or for more than three
clinics have altered the way that up? vaccination schedules are easily days in a child over 2-years old.
they see patients during the We understand that many accessible on the CDC website, 4. Are there different
pandemic to ensure a safe envi- parents delayed getting their www.cdc.gov. protocols now for when and if I
ronment for your child. It is also child into their doctor’s office 3. If my child has a fever, should take my child to the doc-
highly recommended that your due to the fears surrounding should I call the doctor? tor because of COVID?
child receive his or her sched- the pandemic and may have Not necessarily. Most fevers Many clinics have altered
uled vaccines as well as the fallen behind on their vaccine in children are the result of a the way they operate due to
annual flu vaccine. schedule. It is quite easy to viral infection, and less common- COVID. We have closed our
2. If I didn’t take my child get your child up to date on his ly a bacterial one. Fevers can
to get vaccines on schedule, or her vaccinations. Both the typically be managed at home continued next page
W W W.T U L S A K I D S . C O M FEBRUARY 2021
23health
waiting rooms and ask that you immediately. A resource that I and wheezing, but shortness of
call upon arrival from the park- often suggest that parents use breath, poor activity tolerance,
ing lot. We screen all patients is healthychildren.org. It offers chest tightness and increased
prior to bringing them into the excellent information to parents work of breathing are often
building. We separate our well on numerous subjects, including present. If your child has any
checks and sick visits by sched- RSV. wheezing, a prolonged cough,
uling them at different times 7. I worry about taking especially at night, or has trou-
and by using separate areas of my baby out in the cold. What’s ble keeping up with other kids
the clinic for each. Our goal is to the best way to dress an infant on the playground, they need to
navigate this pandemic as safely in cold weather? be evaluated for asthma.
as possible while still being able When taking your little one 10. Should I give my
to provide excellent care for your outside, be sure to use multiple child vitamins or other supple-
child. thin layers of clothing, boots, ments? If so, what should I give
5. How do I know if my mittens and a hat to keep them them?
child has the flu, a cold or warm and dry. Dress them as It is typically not necessary
maybe COVID-19 or something you would yourself, but add an for your child to require vitamins
else? extra layer or two to their outfit. or supplements, even if they
There can be a lot of over- Remember, children should not are picky eaters. A healthy diet
lap with the common cold, flu wear bulky coats while in a car and staying hydrated is enough One & Done Treatment
and COVID-19 in children. The seat. Pillows, quilts, blankets for most children, including Over 99% Effective
flu most commonly involves and bumpers should be kept out young athletes. There are spe-
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abrupt onset of fevers (often of infant sleeping areas to avoid cial populations of children that
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can also feature body aches, from being out in the cold? require supplementation with LiceClinicsMidsouth.com
sore throat and vomiting. Com- The cold weather in and vitamin D, and sometimes iron.
mon cold symptoms may be of itself cannot cause illness. 11. My child’s school is
similar, but typically the fevers During the cold weather season open, but no one has been vac-
are low grade and the patient is children spend quite a bit more cinated against COVID-19 yet.
not nearly as ill. COVID-19 is a time indoors and in close proxim- Is it ok to send my child back to
little trickier. Many children that ity, increasing the risk of trans- school?
have COVID-19 are asymptomat- mitting infections. Ensuring that Yes, it is okay to send
ic or have only mild symptoms. your child is properly dressed to your child back. Schools have
Those that do have symptoms venture out into the cold is very taken the appropriate steps to
can have fevers, sore throat, important in preventing any cold make your child’s school as safe
cough, fatigue, diarrhea, nausea, related issues, such as frostbite. as possible. Does that mean
vomiting, shortness of breath, 9. How do I know if my that they won’t be exposed
body aches and loss of taste child might have asthma or to COVID-19? Not necessarily.
and/or smell. allergies? Therefore, determining wheth-
6. What is RSV, and Seasonal allergies typically er your child should go back to
should I be worried about it? happen around the same time school or participate in virtual
RSV, or respiratory syn- every year and are associated learning is best left to the par-
cytial virus, is a very common with pollens. Other allergens ent. You are not going to make
cause of upper respiratory tract can be present throughout the the wrong decision regardless
infections. For most children, it year, such as dust and pet dan- of the path you choose. Follow
is much like having a cold. For der. Symptoms of allergic rhinitis the age-based guidelines on the
some, however, it can cause include itchy eyes and nose, wearing of masks, instruct your
bronchiolitis or pneumonia, clear nasal discharge, sneez- children on proper hand washing
which can lead to respiratory ing, itchy ears and sometimes and discuss appropriate distanc-
issues. Infants younger than 6 a scratchy throat. Unlike upper ing and avoiding gatherings to
months and those with chronic respiratory tract infections, aller- reduce the spread of COVID-19.
health issues are at higher risk. gic rhinitis is not associated with
If your child shows any signs fevers or a really sore throat.
of respiratory difficulty, such as Asthma is one of the most
wheezing, increased work of common chronic diseases in
breathing, or signs of dehydra- childhood. The most common
tion, they need to be evaluated symptoms of asthma are cough
24 FEBRUARY 2021 W W W .T U L S A K I D S . C O MW W W.T U L S A K I D S . C O M FEBRUARY 2021
25books
BY HEATHER LOZANO, YOUTH ASSOCIATE, SOUTH BROKEN ARROW LIBRARY
Maximizing
Screen Time
HOW TO MAKE SCREEN TIME LEARNING TIME
S
creens, screens every- screen time:
where! Talk: Talking builds phono-
As most par- logical awareness, vocabulary,
ents have discovered, language awareness, background
between Zoom school for kids knowledge and emotional secu-
and working from home for rity and trust. When we talk we
adults, the pandemic has meant build up what our children under-
way more screen time for stand as they learn to read.
everyone. Activity: As you watch TV
But will this increased time together, ask questions about
in front of technology inevitably the show you’re watching. What
lead to negative outcomes? color is a character’s car? What
Not necessarily! Pediatrics do you think will happen next?
professor Jenny Radesky, author Then pause and wait for your
of the American Academy of child to think through a response.
Pediatrics’ 2016 screen-time rec- Talk about what you see on the
ommendations, wants parents to screen: “That elephant feels sad.
recognize the aspects of media What do you think it needs”?
use that can be both positive and Sing: Singing breaks down
meaningful for families. words into syllables and helps
“People are using screens kids learn that words are made
to check on neighbors, organize up of smaller parts. It provides
help and talk to family members that rich stimulation for their
and friends they so dearly miss,” brains through repetition. Addi-
she writes. tionally, it teaches listening skills,
Furthermore, there are ways something that you need when
that parents can make screen time learning to read.
work for the benefit of their chil- Activity: Sing songs to
dren’s growth and development. remember details and instructions,
First, it is important to ensure ASPEN LOZANO’S MOMMY MAKES SURE THAT TALKING, SINGING, READING, express how you feel or even just
screens do not replace physical WRITING, AND PLAYING ARE A PROMINENT PART OF EVERY DAY! to pass the time! You can use the
activity, imaginative play, read- theme song of their favorite show
you need to craft some fun! “Kids dren while they use tablets or
ing and social interaction. Tulsa as the tune–it’s probably stuck in
Read Curious World” (https:// watch TV can make the expe-
City-County Library has compiled your head anyway.
www.tulsalibrary.org/kids-read- rience more educational -- ask
many tools to help ease the stress Read: Reading is the best
curious-world) is another resource questions, make predictions and
of trying to make time off screens thing you can do to richly stimu-
designed to take your children on celebrate with your child when
impactful. Library staff are experts late your child’s brain. Books are
different topical adventures every they have a gaming success.
at putting together bundles of fun and full of adventure. Reading
month. Past themes included The five ways to Build A
books for kids based on their inter- is “caught not taught” and see-
knights and castles, wolves, maps, Reader (talk, sing, read, write
est and reading levels. Take and ing reading in a positive light will
and outer space! and play) are perfect ways for
Make kits make art super simple:
Next, engaging with chil- you to engage your kids during
Grab a kit that contains everything continued next page
26 FEBRUARY 2021 W W W .T U L S A K I D S . C O Mshows. You could also find books and caregiver.
that discuss similar topics- do a Activity: Pretend to be char-
certain set of sisters thaw frozen acters from your favorite movie or
hearts around your house? Read show once the TV is off. Imagine
books about snow! Does your you are on an adventure you’ve
child prefer shows staring pup- seen on the screen, and then
pies? Your library could find some imagine your own adventure! This
books with similar dog breeds- builds both narrative skills and
you can observe how similar they your relationship with your child
are to characters your child loves! through lots of laughter and fun!
Write: Writing helps little Remember -- it’s not as
ones understand that print has important what you watch as it is
meaning, while supporting fine how you watch, when it comes to
motor skills. engaging your child throughout
Activity: Draw characters, screen time. Watching with your
and their names as they watch child is key to making screen time
the show, or have your child write an enriching experience.
letters to the characters about Finally, practice safe tech.
how they would have solved the Help kids set their own bound-
problem! aries revolving around tech time,
Play: Play stimulates the and know what they’re watching
increase your child’s desire to read. brain through gross and fine and playing, and with whom.
Activity: Find books that motor skills and the use of imag- Talk about the dangers they
add to what your child is already ination. Play builds social skills, could encounter online and how
interested in! Many books fea- communication skills and increas- that is handled within your
ture familiar movies, games and es the bond between the child family values.
NOW ENROLLING 3-YEAR-OLDS
uschool.utulsa.edu
TU is an EEO/AA institution.
918-631-5060
U School Ad 3 year olds.indd 1 5/21/19 10:25 AM
W W W.T U L S A K I D S . C O M FEBRUARY 2021
27You can also read
