The Children’s Room Opens at Oklahoma County Juvenile Justice Center
By the Oklahoma Commission on Children and Youth
New Space Offers Safe, Child-Centered Environment During Court Proceedings
Local officials, agency leaders, and community partners gathered today to celebrate the official opening of The Children’s Room at the Oklahoma County Juvenile Justice Center.
The ribbon-cutting event, held at noon in the center’s main lobby, marked an important milestone in efforts to improve trauma-informed services for children involved in the court system. The new space offers a safe and comforting environment for children of all ages while their parents or guardians are attending court proceedings.
“A courtroom shouldn’t be where a child experiences stress, fear, or trauma,” said Judge Kaitlyn Allen, Oklahoma County chief juvenile and district judge. “The Children’s Room ensures they have a space that respects their emotional needs and development.”
Funded and developed in partnership with the Oklahoma Commission on Children and Youth, Citizens for Juvenile Justice, and the Oklahoma County Juvenile Justice Center, the room is specifically designed to reduce children’s exposure to court proceedings, offering play-based materials, quiet zones, and age-appropriate furnishings.
Mark James, Assistant Director of the Oklahoma Commission on Children and Youth, added, “This project reflects our commitment to building systems that serve children with dignity, safety, and compassion. Today’s opening is a testament to the power of cross-agency collaboration.”
The event featured remarks by project partners, a ceremonial ribbon-cutting ceremony, and a guided tour of the space.
Media Inquiries:
Rob Agnew
OCCY Public Information Officer
(405) 606-4923
robert.agnew@occy.ok.gov