Tulsa Baby's death leads to parenting classes

TULSA - Less than a year after 9 month old James Dawson drowned in the bathtub of his Mother's Tulsa apartment, the baby's paternal grandparents are working to make sure their grandson's death was not in vain - that other parents better know how to care for their children.

Through their church, Danny  and Cheryl Dawson started "The Baby James Project." The organization works to educate young or inexperienced parents. As part of the program, this Sunday the Life Park Christian Fellow Church at 6161 South 33rd West Ave, will hold free parenting classes.

The classes will teach basic childcare essentials, as well as cooking and budgeting skills.

Danny Dawson calls the project a legacy for his late Grandson, "That is why I am so excited about this program. With all the lives this will touch, James will live on by helping others."

James' mother, Krista Dawson, plead guilty to second degree manslaughter and child endangerment charges. She received a deffered sentence and did not serve prison time.

Dawson's older child, Davin, was in the bathroom when his little brother drowned. He is now 2 years old and remains in his father's custody.

The parenting classes will be held every Sunday at the church for six weeks. The lessons will begin at 11:30 am and last until 1:30 pm. 

To enroll, call Pastor Terry Bell at 918-639-0907.