The Importance of Trades

By Mallory Carroll, ODA Journalism Student

When graduating high school, it can be difficult to find your next step in life. There are millions of possibilities, which can be overwhelming. A big opportunity that is easily overlooked is trades. Spanning anything from landscaping to pipefitting and electrical work to carpentry, trades surround us.

In a society that prioritizes social class, a persons’ job has a substantial impact on their class. As the daughter of a pipefitter, I have felt the need to defend my dad when asked about his work. It breaks my heart that recent generations have found it acceptable to look down upon those who hold our societies together.

Pipefitters like my dad work with fresh water supply, natural gas lines, and clean rooms, as well as operating rooms. A common misconception about pipefitters is that they are dirty. On the contrary, pipefitting can be an incredibly clean and neat job.

Courtesy of WikiImages via Pixabay

Trades occupy a central position in the intricate web of our economy, playing a crucial role in the development and maintenance of our built environment. Craftsmen, ranging from electricians to masons, possess the expertise to construct and repair the structures that form the foundations of our communities. Their hands-on skills are indispensable in erecting homes, bridges, and commercial spaces, embodying the tangible manifestation of progress. The independence of these trades ensures that the gears of our infrastructure keep turning, providing the necessary framework for societal functions.

When looking into trades as a possible career path, one can fall into the talk of unions and their purpose. My dad, who has worked in trades his whole life, granted me an interview. He explained that, “My union affects my trade by fighting for the rights of all workers. My union advocates for better working conditions and fair wages. They also work closely with federal, state, and local governments to ensure that, when tax dollars are spent, certain standards are met.”

In my dad’s opinion, “I believe that my trade, no, all trades are important due to the physical impact we display in our customers’ lives. Without us, buildings wouldn’t be erected, towns wouldn’t be built, and constructional disarray would prevail.” Having to follow such strict rules and regulations places extra importance on the shoulders of tradesmen and women. These guidelines create a safer society, protecting communities from the impact of natural disasters.

Pipefitting room photo courtesy of P199 at English Wikipedia, CC BY 2.5 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.5, via Wikimedia Commons

Beyond their immediate impact on physical structures, trades offer a gateway to individual empowerment and economic resilience. The mastery of a trade provides individuals with specialized skills, fostering a sense of self-reliance and professional pride. This not only enriches the workforce, but also serves as a catalyst for personal and community development. Embracing the importance of trades entails recognizing the diversity of talents within society, cultivating a workforce that encompasses a broad spectrum of skills, and ensuring the sustainability of our collective progress. 

In essence, trades contribute not only to the tangible aspects of our surroundings but also to the intangible fabric of our social and economic landscape. Honoring and investing in trades means recognizing their role as pillars of strength, supporting the growth, and prosperity of communities worldwide. As we navigate the complexities of the modern world, the significance of trades stands as a testament to the enduring value of hands-on expertise and the enduring legacy of craftsmanship.

Electrician’s Mate 3rd Class Tayo Gbadebo from Lagos, Nigeria, rewires a motor. Courtesy of U.S. Navy

My dad, for example, grew up in the trades. When asked about his growth over the years, he said, “I struggled for a while, but I found a company that saw my work ethic. I started out as a welder, pulling my weight in the field and striving for the next position. I was promoted to a foreman, overseeing the work of three to five men. After a while, I was promoted to general foreman, overseeing three to five foremen. Similarly, my promotion from general foreman to superintendent put me in a place where I was overseeing three to five general foreman. My latest promotion, becoming a project manager, overseeing the financial, contractual, billing, and scheduling aspects of my trade. I have always striven to be an example, pushing myself to do the best work that I can.”

Along with his project manager work, he teaches newer tradesmen at the union hall. I, as his daughter, am so proud of the work he has done and the position that has been bestowed upon him.

Teaching at the union hall has given my dad the opportunity to connect with students fresh out of high school entering the trades. His advice for new tradesmen and women is, “dress for the job you want, not the job you have.” This has always pushed him to look at the next step he could take in his career. He had to have the ability to see his available growth and act, dress, and train himself to fit that next role.

In the confusion that follows high school and deciding what comes next, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to look into trades, unions, and the benefits of working with your hands. If you want to work in the pipefitting field, you could check out Local 286, Austin’s plumbing and pipefitting union, or look into your local community college for more classes in the trades.

Featured photo by Borevina via Pixabay

Balancing Screen Time and Real Life

By Kendall Bertram, ODA Journalism Student

Have you ever walked into a classroom and noticed all the kids blankly staring? Almost like the lights are on but no one is home? Well, a report from Harvard Medical School explains why that might be happening.

According to the 2019 report, a study was conducted about how teens stay up at night and get less sleep from being on their phones. Even though they are awake the next day they aren’t taking in any information, according to the report’s author, Debra Bradley Ruder. “Many teens who stay up late texting are not only getting less shut-eye, they’re also lacking the deep REM sleep essential for processing and storing information from that day into memory. So even if they stay awake in algebra class,” Rich says, “they may not remember what happened in class yesterday.” 

In an era dominated by screens, from smartphones and tablets to laptops and smart TVs, the delicate balance between screen time and real-life experiences has become a topic of paramount importance. As technology continues to play an integral role in our daily lives, experts and individuals alike are grappling with the challenge of maintaining a healthy balance.

Photo courtesy of Jess Foami via Pixabay

The average teen spends 40 hours a week on some sort of device, according to an article by David Rosenberg and Natalie Szura in the October 24, 2023 issue of Fortune magazine. Whether that’s a cell phone or a TV, a person does not have to have a phone to spend too much time on electronics. 

The overuse of screens can also affect language development in small children. At the National Institution of Health website, a 2023 report said, “Numerous studies have highlighted the significance of human interaction, particularly the frequency and quality of exchanges between adults and children, in the development of language skills. However, there is a growing concern that screen time diminishes the quantity and quality of interactions between children and their parents, resulting in fewer chances for the child to practice and develop their language abilities.”

This seems like a big issue, so I decided to interview a range of people to see how they felt about being on screens too much. What I found is that the problem isn’t the electronics, the problem is that people don’t monitor or balance their screen time. It’s nice to have friends and talk online, but it is just as important to talk to people face to face.

In the interviews I did I asked participants how much time they spent looking at a screen. About 54% said they spend about six hours a day on an electronic device, while about 27% said they spend around four hours a day on a screen. Over 13% said they spend eight or more hours on their screens, and only about 7% said they spend two hours or less on a screen.

One can see just from these stats it is more likely than not for someone to be looking at a screen. It is no secret that screens are highly addictive. It seemed to me that there were common sense solutions to help fix the problem, so here are some tips for students and families alike to balance their screen time.

Photo by antonynjoro via Pixabay

The first tip is to get a set amount of time you can spend on your phone for the day and under no circumstances bend the rule. This will help you to spend your screen time wisely.

Tip two would make spending time with friends and family a priority and make it a screen-free time. Only check your phone if you need to do things that require the use of a phone. Some ideas to avoid devices: swimming, going for a walk, and playing board games.

A third tip is be mindful of every time you pick up your phone or turn on the television. If you don’t need to be on the screen try to find something else to do. You could be creative and do something like either write a story or read a story. 

The issue of too much screen time is often associated with teens, but kids using phones are getting younger and younger. In the interviews, I asked what age group they thought had the worst screen addiction, and the number one answer was ages 5-10. 

In the end, we can start working on balancing our lives and work even harder to make sure the next generation doesn’t depend on their screens the same way we do.

Cover photo courtesy of Silviu on the street via Pixabay

The World of Rest: the Effects of Sleep

By Mallory Carroll, ODA Journalism student

In our society, teenagers are slated to be night owls. It has become a normal occurrence that is typically laughed at or made as a challenge. “I was up until two,” and “I only got three hours of sleep,” are phrases passed around daily in teenage circles. We have come to a point where we brag about depriving ourselves from our necessities.

As a teenager, I find that I push all of my “me time” to the latest hours of the day. For example, I will do my household chores during the day, then when I go to my room, typically around ten, I will fold my laundry, clean my room, complete school work, or spend extra time with God. I typically don’t lay down for the night until after midnight at the earliest. I have made a habit of sacrificing my sleep for a few extra hours of quiet productivity. 

A study from the National Institutes of Health reports that 75.6% of students sleep less than seven hours on average and 5.4% get less than five hours. The same study reported that 2.8% report getting eight hours on average, and only .7% averages more than nine hours. This statistic is a blaring wakeup call to a silent issue.

In the relentless pursuit of success, productivity, and personal fulfillment, one often-overlooked pillar of well-being stands tall…sleep.  These are shared ideals from Dr. Merrill Mitler, a sleep expert and neuroscientist at the National Institute of Health. In our modern, fast-paced world, where time is a coveted commodity and sleep is often sacrificed at its altar, it is crucial to recognize and prioritize the profound impact of sufficient, quality sleep on both our bodies and minds.

The human body is an intricate system that requires adequate rest to function optimally, said Mitler. Sleep serves as a vital period for physical regeneration and repair. During the various stages of sleep, the body undergoes crucial processes such as tissue repair, muscle growth, and the release of various growth hormones.

Photo courtesy of Pezibear via Pixabay

A consistent, restful sleep routine has been linked to improved immune functions, reduced inflammation, and an overall enhancement of the body’s ability to ward off illness. Mitler stated, “Sleep services all aspects of our body in one way or another: molecular, energy balance, as well as intellectual function, alertness, and mood.”

Understanding the sleep cycle sheds light on the intricate dance between body and mind during restful slumber, explained the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (Health.gov). Each stage of the cycle plays a unique role in the restoration of our physical and mental well-being.

The drowsy stage marks the transition from alertness to sleep, said Health.gov. This is known as stage one. A person’s heart rate and breathing begin to slow during this stage. As a person progresses to stage two, or light sleep, one’s breathing drops lower, as well as one’s temperature. This stage is the longest, consuming over half of a night’s sleep. The representation of deep sleep, stage three, signifies the slowing of the frequency of brain waves.

Moreover, the relationship between sleep and mental health is indisputable, said Health.gov. Sleep is not only a cessation of activity but the dynamic state that plays a pivotal role in cognitive functions. The consolidation of memories, learning, and problem-solving occurs during different sleep cycles, contributing to improved cognitive performance.

On the other hand, disabilities, such as chronic sleep deprivation, have been associated with a myriad of various mental health issues, including increased stress, anxiety, and depression, explained Health.gov.

As a society, we glorify the hustle and praise the ability to function on minimal sleep. We must find a way to recognize that our cognitive abilities are not immune to the consequences of sleep deprivation, according to the Sleep Foundation. Attention, creativity, and decision-making are all compromised when sleep takes a backseat in our daily lives. The myth of tireless workers who can function on a few hours of sleep has been debunked by numerous studies, revealing that a well-rested mind is a sharper, more efficient one.

The Sleep Foundation explains that the importance of sleep is not limited to the individual, it ripples through our communities and societies. A well-rested population is more likely to be healthy, more productive, and less prone to accidents. The benefits of sleep extend from classrooms to boardrooms. Employers, educators, and policymakers alike should recognize the role they play in fostering environments that value and prioritize healthy sleep habits.

It is crucial that we resist the temptations to sacrifice sleep in the name of productivity, reiterated Health.gov. Establishing healthy habits, such as maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a safe environment, and practicing relaxation, should be viewed as investments in well-being.

Sleep is not a luxury, but a fundamental need for everyone’s mind and body. It is the cornerstone of a healthy and balanced life, one where physical and mental well-being converge to make a thriving individual. It is time for a collective awakening to the importance of sleep, for in the embrace of a restful night, we discover the true potential of our bodies and minds.

Photo courtesy of StockSnap via Pixabay

Cover photo courtesy of Engin-Akyurt via Pixabay

Students and Their Projects Shine at the 2024 ODA STEM Fairs

By Susan Peisker, ODA Journalism Teacher

Over 60 students and their families gathered in Kyle (Austin area regions) and Katy (Houston-West region) for One Day Academy’s two STEM fairs in late January.

Thirty-two students attended the Austin fair, displaying projects on topics such as the weather and organic vs. standard household cleaning products, according to ODA science teacher Patti Ashley, who hosted the Austin fair.

Judges interview a participant at the Houston fair. Photo courtesy of Katie Lindner

Thirty students came to the Houston fair, presenting their projects on topics such as germs in public places, plant growth, spherification, and whether a fresh or stale marshmallow burns faster, said ODA Science Department Chair Amber Brown, host of the Houston fair.

The Houston participants received a variety of ribbons, as did the Austin students, but the Houston fair also had a special category for People’s Choice, with three students winning that award.

Award winners at the Houston-West fair. Photo courtesy of Jennifer Lindley

When not presenting their projects to the judges, students at either fair could tour the exhibition area to see the other students’ displays. In Houston, there were also special projects featuring “a working Tesla coil and a force meter testing airplane propellers,” said Mrs. Brown.

KVUE Chief Meteorologist Hunter Williams and ODA science teacher Patti Ashley at the Austin STEM fair. Photo courtesy of Patti Ashley

ODA alumnus Macrae Alford brought a 3-D printer to demonstrate, and two special guests attended the Austin fair, said Mrs. Ashley. KVUE Chief Meteorologist Hunter Williams spoke to the students, and David Ruth, the dean of The University of Austin, a new private school, also addressed the families. Professor Ruth is a former naval officer with experience in submarine and surface warfare and taught mathematics at the U.S. Naval Academy.

Congratulations to ODA’s 2024 STEM fair participants for their hard work and diligence!

Feature photo courtesy of Jennifer Lindley, Houston-West region

Wonka: PG or PG-13?

By Mallory Carroll, ODA Journalism Student

The movie industry has been buzzing with excitement over Wonka, the latest film production based on the iconic Roald Dahl character, but this joyous movie isn’t as family friendly as the marketing would have us believe.

Allow me to paint the scene. Willy Wonka, played by Timothée Chalamet, has traveled the world, searching for the ingredients for his fantasmagorical chocolates. Our journey begins as Wonka arrives in Europe, wanting to open a shop in the exclusive shopping district, the Gallery Gourmet.

When Wonka arrives, he sets up his booth and invites customers to try his chocolates. When the “chocolate cartel” notices the attention Wonka is getting, they berate Wonka and turn him over to a corrupt officer. Wonka, admitting defeat, realizes that he doesn’t have money, so he tries to set up camp on a bench. A man named Bleacher wanders by and offers help, taking Wonka to his laundromat, where, despite warnings from a friend, Wonka signs a contract that rockets him into debt. Wonka is also imprisoned and forced to work in the laundromat, where he meets Abacus Crunch, Piper Benz, Larry Chucklesworth, and Lottie Bell.

Wonka and his newfound team sneak away from their laundry responsibilities to pursue the chocolate making business, which leads to attempted murder, gluttony-based corruption, and a fiasco reminiscent of the adventures in the original Roald Dahl book featuring Willy Wonka–Charlie and the Chocolate Factory–or other Wonka movies.

Now, I don’t think that Wonka is a bad movie. After all, it is a vibrant adaptation of the Roald Dahl book. The casting, cinematography, and orchestral value added to the experience, making this movie one of a kind. My issue is that I constantly find myself circling back to the same question: would I let my seven-year-old cousin watch this movie? The short answer is no.

As I said, I don’t mean to berate the entire movie. The musical value of this broadway-type production makes it entertaining. I also enjoyed the animations, which brought extra spunk to the screen. However, I found the plot unsettling for younger viewers. The marketing should be more focused toward audiences who are at least pre-teen age.

To begin with, a large number of children’s movies have adult references, but this was over the top. Among the unsettling themes, there were mentions of the cartel, bribery, religious banter, breaking and entering, theft, and violence.

At the beginning of the movie, Wonka is approached by the “chocolate cartel.” This cartel has influence over the chocolate industry, the local government, and the local religious leaders. This plants the idea of buying power and can be displayed as corruption.

The chief of police, one of the hands of the cartel, is paid in chocolate. This is gluttony-based bribery, which is multiple forms of messed-up and makes a joke of local government and weight gain.

Another inappropriate joke is the religious banter used. The Catholic church is the hub of the cartel’s crimes. Father Julius, a corrupt priest, leads a group of chocoholic monks who are bribed by the cartel. The confession booth is a secret elevator to a chocolate vault guarded by a keeper of keys. All of this to say, there is no respect paid to religion.

In the movie, Wonka requires the use of giraffe milk. In order to obtain this, Wonka and Noodle break into the local zoo, drugging the security guard in the process, and weasel their way into the giraffes’ cage. Later on, Wonka and his team drug the guard again and steal the giraffe in order to release it inside of the Catholic church. This only makes a larger mockery of the church and shows that theft is comedic rather than criminal.

Violence is another major factor. There are times where the chief of police uses brutal force on Wonka, and there are others who attempt murder. This is inexcusable for a children’s movie–showing such brutality in a casual viewing.

There are plenty more instances in Wonka that I could bring up, but all together, I would not introduce the movie to my young cousin. Wonka should be rated PG-13 at the very least.

Movie poster art courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures: fair use

“Trolls Band Together” Entertains, but Proceed with Caution

By Kendall Bertram, ODA Journalism Student

“Trolls Band Together,” the latest installment in the Trolls franchise (Dreamworks Animation/Universal Pictures), is a vibrant and energetic animated musical that takes audiences on a colorful journey through diverse musical genres. Building on the success of its predecessors, this sequel brings back the beloved characters and introduces new ones while exploring themes of diversity, harmony, and the importance of embracing one’s uniqueness.

The film encourages self-discovery and staying true to oneself, which can be interpreted positively in the context of individuality and the unique gifts each person possesses. At the same time, Christians may want to emphasize the importance of aligning personal values with the will of God–and be aware that in the film there are some suggestive jokes that may raise unwanted questions or conversation..

The pacing of the film is lively, ensuring that there’s never a dull moment. The plot is predictable at times, but the film compensates with its entertaining musical numbers and engaging characters. The film’s central theme revolves around diversity and the celebration of different cultures, embodied by the various music genres represented by the different troll tribes.

Throughout the storyline, characters face challenges that lead to conflicts among the troll tribes. However, “Trolls Band Together” ultimately portrays the transformative power of redemption and forgiveness. As Christians, we understand the importance of reconciliation and forgiveness in fostering unity. I personally felt that the film echoes the Christian message of grace and offers a hopeful perspective on the possibility of healing broken relationships.

The themes in “Trolls Band Together” can be seen to align with biblical teachings on love, understanding, and redemption, making it a family-friendly option (with caution regarding the humor) that can spark meaningful conversations about faith and values. As an older teen, I saw it as a delightful animated adventure that successfully blends music, humor, and a positive message in a visually stunning film. While it may not break new ground in terms of storytelling, its infectious energy, impressive animation, and catchy soundtrack make it an enjoyable ride for viewers of all ages. Whether you’re a fan of pop, rock, or any other genre, this film has something for everyone, making it a worthy sequel in the Trolls franchise.

Cover artwork: movie poster courtesy of Dreamworks Animation/Universal Pictures

Cooking for Cooler Weather

By Kendall Bertram, ODA Journalism Student

As the days get shorter and the leaves begin to change color, there is no denying that cooler weather is upon us. During this time, many people find comfort and solace in warm and hearty meals that not only fill their bellies but also warm their souls.

With the arrival of cooler weather, it is the perfect time to explore different recipes and cooking techniques that are best suited for this season. One of the most beloved aspects of cooking for cooler weather is the opportunity to use seasonal ingredients.

Moreover, cooler weather offers the ideal conditions for slow cooking and baking. Those long hours spent simmering stews or roasting meats in the oven not only fill the entire house with mouth watering aromas but also create meals that are rich in flavor and tenderness.

The recipe I would like to share is a slow-cooked chuck roast with potatoes and carrots cooked for eight to nine hours in a Crockpot. 

The first of the ingredients you will need is the chuck roast, of course. I like to use a wider shorter roast here, and then the bed of vegetables can just lay atop the meat.

Yellow onion and garlic: I prefer to sauté the onions before adding them to the slow cooker in order to remove the raw bite. Be sure to use fresh garlic for the best flavor.

Beef broth: I know some people don’t like the broth from the carton, but it tastes not much different from homemade beef broth, and it is quick and easy.

Flavorings: I use Worcestershire sauce and herbs. For added flavor, I prefer fresh thyme, rosemary, and parsley–the fresher the herbs, the more distinct the flavor will be. 

Potatoes: pick either yellow or red potatoes–whatever type of potato your heart desires.

Carrots: the bigger the carrots, the less mushy they will be. 

Now let’s talk about the cooking process–it’s simple, with just a few steps. Let’s get to it!

So one of the most important steps is that you have to sear the roast. All you do is put some olive oil, salt, and pepper in a pot and sear both sides of the roast till brown.

Then move the roast to the slow cooker and sauté the onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker. Now add half the beef broth, Worcestershire, thyme, and rosemary to the same pot and cook for 15 seconds, and then pour over the roast.

Cut potatoes and carrots evenly and layer over the roast along with the rest of the beef broth and whatever seasonings your heart desires. Put the lid on and let cook on low for 8-9 hours.

Last but not least take out the roast and vegetables, shred the meat, and enjoy with the people you love.

My favorite way to enjoy a roast is when my family and I will sit together and watch movies, play board games, or just talk.

So this is just one of a few recipes my family enjoys when it gets cool and I hope y’all enjoy it just as much.

Photo courtesy of zrenate via Pixabay; cover photo courtesy of Conger Design via Pixabay

When Is the Best Time to Decorate for Christmas?

By Kendall Bertram, ODA Journalism Student

Decorating for Christmas is a long-standing tradition that brings joy and happiness to many people around the world. I know it always brings joy to my family. One of the big questions is when to decorate for Christmas.

Some believe that it is never too early to start decorating for Christmas while others think that it is important to wait until after certain holidays or events have passed.

So this year I have decided to conduct a survey to try to find something close to the answer. I interviewed  22 people and got a multitude of answers, all different in their own way.

Photo courtesy of jillwellington via Pixabay

I separated the answers into three categories: 1. early November or any time in November; 2. Thanksgiving week specifically; and 3. some time in December.

For the November category I had five people say that was their preferred time to decorate. Their answers ranged from November 1 to just “November.” One thing I noticed was that the people who said November 1 were very passionate about Christmas. Whereas, the people who just said “November” still really like Christmas but not nearly as much as the others. For example, Tate Johnson said, “If you wait before Thanksgiving, you are a sad, boring adult who doesn’t know how to have fun.” If you can’t guess, he said you should decorate on November 1.

Thanksgiving week was the most popular answer–I had 10 different people say this. The main reason is that a lot of people like to celebrate Thanksgiving further by decorating. Casey Best said, “Because [those who really like Christmas] forget about the other holidays like Thanksgiving and Halloween.”

Then there were the five people who said they wait until December. Danial Wilson said, “Holidays will be confused and they may lose sight of Christmas’s purpose.”

Last but not least, two people said that you should decorate whenever you feel it is right. Patty Garcia said, “When you feel the joy in your heart to do so.” 

Photo courtesy of john_loannidis via Pixabay

People were also asked when it is too early to decorate. The results were basically split down the middle except for two people. Ten people said that decorating before Halloween is way too early. Aarolyn Grantham said, “I think the earlier you put up decorations and start celebrating, the faster/easier it is to forget about the real meaning of Christmas and the sentiment of it all.”

The other 10 respondents said that before Thanksgiving is too early. Anna Love said, “Thanksgiving is an important holiday because it’s really important to take time to think about what thankful for.” 

Then there were the last two, who say it is never too early to decorate–no matter when you want to decorate it’s perfectly fine. Patty Garcia said, “Do what your spirit feels.”

So in the end, after reading over all the answers, I had no definitive answer. Decorating for Christmas is truly about what you think and when you want to or feel it is right.

Cover photo courtesy of mariya_m via Pixabay

How to Connect with Younger Kids

By Kendall Bertram, ODA Journalism Student

Kids are everywhere you go. They are at school, at the park, and sometimes they are even at your house. One thing I have seen with teens and young adults, maybe even older adults is they find it hard to connect with or how to act with kids. Maybe you are that person who is not sure how to work with kids. You have been asked to babysit a friend of the family, or you know your younger cousins are coming over once again, and you have no idea what to do. You are not alone. Even those who seem to have a natural connection have had to learn a few tricks to having a successful interaction with kids. It takes some practice, but with the following tips, it will be much easier and you’ll find yourself having fun, too.

The first step in connecting with younger kids casually is to approach them with kindness and respect. Bonnie Porterfield, a teacher for 32-plus years and the One Day Academy Hill Country regional director said her goal has been to show the kids love and compassion, so they will live a successful life. 

Connect with kids by showing interest in their activities. Photo by Kendall Bertram

Children can often be apprehensive around unfamiliar faces, so it’s essential to establish trust by being gentle and friendly. My younger sister Paisley said, “I want to talk to big kids when they want to talk to me.”

When you show genuine interest in their activities and engage in conversations by demonstrating your respect for their choices and opinions, you can create a comfortable and safe environment for them to express themselves.

Amanda Lopez, a teacher and children’s pastor, said when she worked in child care she would send out papers to parents to find out what kids liked in order to get a better understanding and connection with the kids.

You can also connect with younger kids casually through shared activities or playtime. Engaging in their preferred games or joining them in their imaginative play helps you enter their world and understand their perspective better.

Mrs. Lopez said, “One thing that connects all children is music and dance.” Something you can do is find music both you and the younger kids enjoy. Take the time to participate actively, showing enthusiasm and interest. 

My experience has also taught me that this collaborative approach will not only foster bonding but also allow you to gain insight into their unique personalities, preferences, and challenges they may face.

Active listening plays a crucial role in connecting with younger kids, as it helps establish a supportive and understanding relationship. Paisley said “I can tell when someone is listening to me, and if you aren’t, I don’t want to talk to you.” This shows kids understand if you are listening.

One way to do this is to encourage them to express their thoughts, concerns, or ideas and provide them with your undivided attention. Be patient and avoid interrupting them, allowing them to share their stories or experiences in their own time.

Showing your support and encouragement to younger kids is key to building a strong connection. Be their cheerleader, offering praise or positive reinforcement for their achievements, whether big or small. Mrs. Porterfield said she would tell her students how they were “loved, special, and they have promise and potential” to let them know they mattered and were important, whomever they were.

I have found that if you celebrate their successes openly and encourage them to be proud of their efforts, kids will trust you even more. Offering support during their challenges is equally important. When you show empathy by providing a safe and supportive environment, you empower younger kids to take risks, grow, and develop their personality.

Connecting with younger kids casually requires patience, understanding, and a genuine interest in their world. By approaching them with kindness, engaging in shared activities, actively listening, acknowledging their emotions, and providing support and encouragement you can create meaningful connections that enrich both their lives and yours.

Connecting with younger kids can seem hard, maybe even scary, but if you practice these tips, you might find yourself looking forward to hanging out with those younger cousins–or you may find yourself offering to help in children’s ministry.

Feature photo: having events, such as this “fall fest” for my youth group, is a great way to connect with kids.

No Whisk, No Reward

By Mallory Carroll, ODA Journalism Student

Baking is a consistently misinterpreted art form. For years, baking as a whole has been seen as daunting. I am here to help you overcome these fallacies.

First of all, baking is said to be an exact science; if you can’t follow a recipe to a tee, you won’t be able to. I can tell you that this is false. I have been baking for almost four years, anything from pastries to cakes, and my favorite, bread. While you need to keep the recipe in mind, I have always measured with my heart.

Another fallacy is that you have to have fancy tools. This is also false. I started out with a glass bowl, a few baking sheets, and a loaf pan. If there is a will, there is a way. Now, I have a few more things, mostly for convenience, but none of them are required!

Photo courtesy of fancycrave1 via Pixabay

One of the newest staples in my bread making adventure is a Dutch oven. A Dutch oven is typically made out of aluminum, cast iron, or ceramic. I highly recommend ceramic, though I have used both aluminum and cast iron. The main purpose of a Dutch oven is to harness heat and evenly disperse it. When the lid is in place, the inside is turned into its own oven, which makes your bread bake at an even rate. 

I know a very simple recipe that is great for beginners. It’s a perfect way to impress family or to use as a pick me up on a rainy day. I like to make this every week or so for family and friends.

For this recipe, you will need warm water, dry active yeast, salt, flour, olive oil, and shredded cheese. In addition, you will need measuring cups, a large bowl, a dish towel, parchment and a Dutch oven.

First, in a large mixing bowl, add 1 ½  cups of warm water and 2 teaspoons of dry active yeast. Stir gently, then allow the mixture to sit undisturbed in a warm, dry place for about five minutes. This allows the yeast to bloom, or activate, creating a foamy top layer.

After the yeast has bloomed, add ½ tablespoon of salt and gradually mix in 3 ¼ cups of flour. You can incorporate with a baking spatula, or you can dive in with your hands! (If you use your hands, remember to wash them first!)

Once you have formed a dough ball, sprinkle a bit of olive oil over your dough and coat the outside. Place your oiled ball of dough into its bowl and cover with a warm, damp towel. Allow to rise in a warm place for two hours. You can periodically dampen your towel to keep your dough moist and happy.

While your dough is rising, preheat your oven to 450 degrees fahrenheit. During this time, add your Dutch oven to your oven. This will let them warm up together and will protect your Dutch oven from cracking. 

When your dough has finished rising, gently fold in two cups of shredded cheese. At this point, you can add extra seasoning to enhance the flavor. Personally, I like to add Italian seasoning. 

Once your oven and Dutch oven have preheated, carefully remove the Dutch oven and place on top of the stove. Add parchment to keep your dough and Dutch oven separated and set your dough inside. Optionally, you can add a bit of extra cheese and seasoning to adorn the crown of your bread. Place the Dutch oven back in the oven with the lid in place.

Allow your bread to bake for 30 minutes with the Dutch oven lid on. After this 30 minutes, you can uncover your bread and allow it to bake for a few extra minutes to make the crown crispy, but you don’t have to. 

Once finished, use the parchment to lift your bread from your Dutch oven. Allow your bread  to cool, then slice and enjoy. When storing, keep in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. This will keep your bread fresh the longest.

I find this recipe to be easy, enjoyable, and relaxing. Just remember, baking as a whole isn’t impossible, practice and patience are important to reach your goal. I hope that you try my recipe and find yourself as in love with baking as I am.

Feature photo courtesy of amiraxgelcola via Pixabay