“The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.”

With the growth of high-speed broadband connections, video is becoming an integral part of the web experience. As connection speeds increase, it is even practical to watch satisfying streamed TV or full-length videos online. Special events can be ‘web-cast’ – i.e. streamed live on the Web.

Is this a new idea? No, it’s exactly what Jesus did with parables.

A parable does not normally carry more than one element of truth – it does not attempt to summarize the entire gospel. Frequently, it leaves unanswered questions. Jesus did not add, “and the moral of this story is...” interpretations at the end. Our mindset finds it hard not to add this expected punch-line! But Jesus did not.

Web evangelism, also known as digital or online evangelism, involves using the internet and digital platforms to share the Christian Gospel and the teachings of Jesus Christ. It's about strategically leveraging various online tools to connect with people, build relationships, and invite them to explore faith in Christ

This webpage (The Duty Hut) serves as an inspiring haven for children, teen’s and young adults, offering a safe and controlled online space for learning, creativity, and social interaction. It empowers parents to actively monitor and guide their children's digital journeys. We’ve thoughtfully included resources for military families, supporting parents during their service, transitions, and return to civilian life. This site stands as a valuable tool for education and entertainment, fostering a vibrant sense of community while ensuring careful consideration for content and age-appropriateness.

David Rettew is an Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Pediatrics at the University of Vermont College of Medicine.  He is the Training Director of the UVM Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship and the Director of the Pediatric Psychiatry Clinic at the UVM Medical Center.

"Children" refers to young human beings who have not yet reached adulthood. The term generally encompasses individuals between infancy and puberty, or between birth and the onset of adolescence. Legally, a child is often defined as someone under the age of 18.

Children progress through various developmental stages, including infancy, toddlers, preschool, and school age, before reaching adolescence.

Children and teenagers growing up in single-parent families, particularly those where the primary reason for single-parenthood is parental divorce, separation, or the absence of a parent, may encounter various challenges and specific needs.

• Behavioral problems and potential high-risk behaviors: Teenagers, particularly, may be more likely to engage in risky behaviors such as substance abuse and early sexual activity, or exhibit externalizing disorders, Engage Treatment Program, Inc reports.
• Impact of parental conflict: Intense parental conflict can negatively impact children's emotional and behavioral well-being, even if parents are not divorcing

Children and teenagers growing up in single-parent families may experience a range of developmental and emotional impacts, particularly if the single-parent household results from divorce or the loss of a parent. While many children adapt and thrive in these situations, it's essential to acknowledge the potential challenges they might face.

Parents play a crucial role in shaping their children's future by modeling positive behaviors, fostering communication, and offering consistent support. Raising children involves nurturing their physical, emotional, and cognitive development, guiding them to become responsible, well-adjusted adults. This multifaceted process includes providing love, care, and a safe environment, while also teaching them social norms, values, and behaviors.

What does the bile say about Children:

“Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one's youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.” - Psalm 127:3-5

“See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven their angels always see the face of my Father who is in heaven.”  - Matthew 18:10

“A Song of Ascents. Of Solomon. Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain. It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep. Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one's youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.” - Psalm 127:1-5

One of the most significant challenges facing children today is the pervasive influence of technology and social media, which can lead to issues like cyberbullying, addiction, and concerns about privacy. Additionally, mental health issues, academic pressure, and societal expectations are also major concerns impacting children's well-being and self-esteem.

Self-esteem traits in children can manifest in various ways, impacting their emotions, behaviors, and overall development. Recognizing the signs and understanding the factors that contribute to it is the first step in providing support and fostering a healthier sense of self-worth.

1. Some signs and behaviors that may indicate a child has low self-esteem include:

•     Negative self-talk: Saying things like, "I can't do it" or "I'm not good enough," or comparing themselves negatively to others.
•     Avoiding challenges: Showing reluctance to try new things or participate in activities due to fear of failure or criticism.
•     Giving up easily: Stopping tasks or activities quickly when faced with difficulty.
•     Social withdrawal: Reducing interaction with friends and family, or avoiding social situations.
•     Changes in mood and behavior: Showing signs of sadness, frustration, or becoming unusually quiet.
•     Difficulty accepting praise or criticism: Dismissing positive feedback or reacting poorly to constructive comments.
•     Overly sensitive to opinions of others: Being highly concerned about what others think of them.
•     Regressive behaviors: Acting younger than their age or displaying silly behaviors.
•     Declining interest in hobbies or activities: Losing enthusiasm for things they used to enjoy.
•     Blaming others or external factors: Making excuses or downplaying events to avoid responsibility for mistakes.
•     Struggles with body image: Expressing negative feelings about their appearance, particularly during the teenage years.

2. Several factors can influence a child's self-esteem, including:

•     Early childhood experiences: Negative experiences in early life, such as lack of positive attention or constant criticism, can impact self-esteem.
•     Parenting styles: Parenting approaches that involve harsh criticism, overprotection, or an overemphasis on perfection can hinder the development of healthy self-esteem.
•     Bullying and negative peer interactions: Being bullied or experiencing negative social feedback from peers can significantly affect a child's self-perception.
•     Academic struggles: Children who consistently have difficulty with schoolwork may develop feelings of inadequacy.
•     Social media use: Exposure to idealized images online can lead to social comparison and feelings of not being good enough.
•     Physical or mental health problems: Ongoing health issues or mental health conditions can also affect a child's self-esteem.

3. If not addressed, low self-esteem in children can have various long-term consequences, such as:

•     Mental health issues: An increased risk of developing anxiety or depression.
•     Troubled relationships: Difficulty forming and maintaining healthy connections with others.
•     Academic and professional difficulties: Potentially struggling in school and later in their careers.

Seeking support and building self-esteem

•     Nurture a positive and supportive home environment: Show love and acceptance, and avoid harsh criticism.
•     Praise effort and perseverance: Focus on recognizing and appreciating their hard work, regardless of the outcome.
•     Encourage trying new things: Help them explore different interests and activities to develop new skills and build confidence.
•     Promote a growth mindset: Teach children that abilities can be developed through effort.
•     Help them discover their strengths and passions: Provide opportunities for them to succeed in areas they enjoy.
•     Set realistic goals and celebrate achievements: Work with them to set achievable goals and acknowledge their accomplishments.
•     Teach positive self-talk: Help them challenge negative thoughts and replace them with positive affirmations.
•     Encourage healthy friendships: Help them build relationships with supportive peers.
•     Limit social media use and encourage offline activities: Set boundaries on screen time and promote engagement in hobbies and activities that build self-esteem based on abilities, not appearance.

Seeking professional support from a child therapist, counselor, or pediatrician can provide children with the tools and strategies to build confidence and develop healthy self-esteem. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be effective in helping children identify and challenge negative thoughts and develop more positive self-perceptions

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"This talk will start with a very brief description of what child temperament is and how it develops over time.  Particular attention will be given to how a child’s temperament can pull from the environment certain qualities that often serve to accentuate traits and propel them to become more extreme.