". . . go after that which is lost." -Luke 15:4
Account for each child is not attending:
1. Know Who
Know the child who is not attending. Keep accurate, up-to-date records about each child. Include interests, friends, and achievements of the child. Keep a record of your activation efforts. Update your activation record monthly.
2. Know Why
Discover why the child is not attending; determine the specific reasons why. What does the child or parent say when contacted?
3. Know How
Know how to activate the child. Design a plan to activate each non-attending child. Make the plan special for each child, designed to meet the specific need of the child. Make a short-term goal. Include: Who can help? What can be done?
Contact each child who is not attending:
1. Primary
Help teachers feel personal responsibility for each child. Discuss when orienting new teachers and when counseling teachers. Involve the secretary in record keeping and contacting. Discuss in ward council meeting. Have teachers share successes. Keep a positive focus as teachers and leaders brainstorm ways to activate the children in your area.
2. Home and Visiting Teachers
Discuss in each ward council meeting. Work, with priesthood direction, to involve home and visiting teachers. Provide them with enough information about the child (on paper if possible) to make a meaningful visit to the family. Acquaint uninformed parents with the blessing of Primary.
3. Friends
Primary classmates are important activation helpers. Share the message that Primary is fun by encouraging other ward members to befriend children, provide rides, and sit with them in sacrament meeting. Ward members could be a substitute grandmother/grandfather, big sister/brother, or aunt/uncle.
Love each child:
1. Focus on the child
Love each child as he is and where he is. Find ways to let him know you care (a call or note, a visit, recognizing special days and achievements).
2. Make Primary special
When the non-attending child comes to Primary, make him feel welcome and involve him. Take part of Primary to the child with handouts, special invitations, and a message from the lesson.
3. Make Activity Days missionary days
Plan Activity Days to include the non-attending child. Plan Activity Days to include the non-member child.
Activation through love:
The light of the gospel is a sharing process. Primary teachers, children and presidencies all work together with prayer, faith, and action to fill those empty chairs at Primary.
Teachers: Home Visits, Transportation, Invitations, Calls and Visits, Special Time Together, and "Missed You" Cards
The teacher, Sister Reese, at each year's beginning, prayerfully visits the home of each child assigned to her class. The quote from Elder Neal A. Maxwell gives guidance: "Organized love is better than generalized concern." Meeting with both parent and child, she describes the course of study, offers assistance by arranging transportation, and issues a special invitation to class. She helps each child feel secure and excited about the new change that will be taking place.
Invitations are adapted to remind a child of quarterly activities. Follow through is important to Sister Reese. During the year, she calls or visits the child and parents to inform them of special activities, class presentations, or the child's progress in class.
Sister Reese prepares especially for each child by learning as much about them as possible, preparing her lessons with each child in mind, and by taking advantage of preparation meeting. She loves the one-on-one fellowship with a friendly "hello" outside of class and by having "special time" with each child. She may invite the child to her home to bake cookies or go bike riding. Birthdays are remembered with a note or a telephone call. A teacher trying to activate a child could attend the child's concert, ball game, or other activity.
"Missed You" ideas help Sister Reese maintain that one-on-one closeness she is developing. She sends a card or note, calls, or takes the classroom materials to each missing child. To help her remember to mail a note, she puts a stack of stamped "Missed You" notes with her Primary materials at the beginning of each month. Then on the way home from church, it is easy to mail the card to the missing child.
Class Members: Lessons, Friendshipping, Fellowshipping, and Invitations to Quarterly Activities
Class members can have a significant influence on the lives of other class members. Victor L. Brown said, "Sometimes these young people have a special touch, which only peers seem to have."
David was having problems and rarely came to Primary. He felt alienated and would start fights with the other children. When David did come to Primary, the other boys made him sit next to the girls and giggled and teased him. In a meeting, his teacher and the Primary President helped plan a course of action. There would be lessons on friendship and love. The class would offer special personal and class prayers on David's behalf; children would be encouraged to specify what they would do to befriend David. Classmates agreed to be friendly at school, help him attend special activities, talk nicely to him at Church, or invite him to their home. When David attended Church, the children were excited to see him.
David pestered a small boy on his way to his class row. Bob, one child who had been particularly unfriendly to David, stood up and said, "Come on, Dave, sit by me." A smile spread over David's face. He beamed excitedly and sat quietly and reverently throughout the entire Primary meeting, including class time. His teacher couldn't believe the instant transition--all because one boy asked David to sit by him.
Presidencies: Incentives, Transportation, 100% Day, and the Little Lamb Report
Presidencies will receive inspiration as they strive to reach the heart of each child in need. One president, Sister Evans, uses attendance incentives to excited children to come to Primary, not by competition between children or classes, but through increasing their self-esteem and sense of belonging. She uses bright stickers, stars, wooly lambs, etc., appropriate for children of various ages. However, the best and most important attendance incentive is an increased show of love and attention toward a non-attending child.
Through the ward council meeting, Sister Albert enlists the assistance of priesthood leaders, home teachers, and visiting teachers in a coordinated effort to reach the child. The ward council discusses possible solutions to attendance problems. Sister Albert's ward organized a transportation committee to meet the attendance needs of the children.
A 100% Day can add excitement as well as spirituality into Primary. The president enlists the efforts of every teacher to have each child attend on this special day.
Another presidency realizes the importance of knowing something about the factors in Primary or a child's personal life which might influence his attendance at Primary. Some of these are: class relationships, relationship with his family or whoever has prime care for him, personality and self-image, and the support he receives to attend Primary. The president assigns her secretary to create a "Little Lamb" reports for each executive meeting designating any child who had missed two Primaries in a row. With this report, the presidency contacted the teacher to inquire after the child's welfare or makes some visits themselves.
When Primary teachers, children, and presidencies work hand in hand, many empty chairs can be filled with children. They can't be taught if they aren't there. Then clearly the Lord's admonition is fulfilled: "And all thy children shall be taught of the Lord; and great shall be the peace of thy children." (Isaiah 54:13)
Reaching the One Object Lesson Ideas:
Display a bouquet of pansies and discuss with teachers how each child in their class is unique, just as each pansy is different. We have to get to know each child and their interests to appreciate that uniqueness.
Display a poster of a large magnet overlaying a heart. A magnet has a positive and negative end. We should always stress the positive and magnetize those whom we serve with our love for them.
A Teacher's Testimony:
Shortly after my arrival in Utah, four year ago, I was called to teach a Primary class. Two years later, we moved to a different ward and I was again called to the same position. I thought I needed a change and was somewhat upset with the call. After prayerful consideration, I accepted the calling.
When the class roll was given to me, I discovered I had ten children assigned to me. Three were regular attenders, four attended occasionally, and three did not attend. I decided to accept the challenge to find the one missing lamb of the flock, or in my case, to find all seven.
After reviewing proper teaching methods, I realized that I had to become a true friend to each child, develop a trusting relationship and join these together with a bond of love. I set these goals for myself.
To develop a close relationship with anyone you must meet personally on a "one to one" basis with them. Since the majority of my students didn't come to Primary regularly, I decided to take a portion of the Primary to them at home for each lesson they missed. I called the handouts and other related lesson materials I gave each child the "Goodie Sack." This was effective in activating all the children except two. Bobbie was one of the two.
For five months, weekly, Bobbie reacted to my presence with mad stares and complete silence. I grew to love the little boy and the spirit of "finding the lost one" grew stronger within me. One day, something very discouraging happened. Bobbie missed class, as usual, so I took his "Goodie Sack" to him at home. I handed it to him and I got my first verbal response from him which was, "Get out of my house, I hate you Kelly Bradley!" His mother was totally frustrated and sent him down the hall to his room. At the end of the hall, I could see him punching the air like he was trying to hit me.
When I left his home, I broke into tears. After five months of rejection this seemed unbearable. Maybe it was time to give up. I went home and poured my soul to my husband. We prayed about it, and the spirit told me not to give up.
Luckily, Bobbie's birthday was in three days. I made him a cake, took it over to him, and sang "Happy Birthday." Once again I received the same reception from him. I thought that no one deserved this kind of treatment. Since I had been successful with the rest of my class, why did I keep inflicting punishment upon myself?
I went home and told the experience to my husband. Once again, he gave me his usual pep talk on "reaching the one," but this time I told him if he was so "gung ho" about going back there, he could go!
The next Sunday, Bobbie missed class again, so my husband took the Goodie Sack to his home. Being the brave person that I am, I stood across the street and gave him moral support. I still loved Bobbie, but I wasn't sure how to proceed. As I look back, I realize the Lord knew how to proceed. That very next Sunday, I walked into Primary opening exercises and there sat Bobbie and his mother. Five months of effort had paid off in double dividend. The young boy and his mother were in church.
Both of them came every week from then on, gradually learning and partaking of the Spirit of the Lord. Bobbie's mother had recently been called to teach in the Primary. She has accepted the call and has opened the door for other inactive children to come to Primary with her.
I thank the Lord for this experience I have shared with Bobbie and his mother. Now I know this call came from the Lord. I know that through prayer, faith, and being diligent in whatever calling we hold, our Heavenly Father will assist us in carrying out our righteous endeavors.
-Kelly Bradley
Monday, March 6, 2017
Saturday, March 4, 2017
Teaching Tips and Discipline Ideas
1. Never take roll in opening exercises. Leave it in your classroom. The children will understand that you are not paying attention. Do not allow the children to take roll, either. It detracts from the lesson prepared by the Presidency.
2. Keep seats separated if possible. This makes it harder to touch other children. Minimize distractions by facing children away from windows.
3. Let your Primary Presidency help you solve discipline problems. Many children have deep-rooted problems that have taken years to develop. It will take time, patience, wisdom, and understanding to solve them. In the meantime, the child may not respond to ordinary methods of discipline. He may be a constant cause of disturbance in class, but you should never feel that you must cope with such a situation alone. The Primary Presidency can give you help that will shorten the time to solve discipline problems. They may also have information about the child that you do not.
4. Remember, many children have never had to be a part of a group, and as such, do not know how to respect the standards of a group.
5. Never shout or out-talk children. Use your voice calmly. Never lose your temper. You can't teach children self-control if we have none ourselves.
6. Never call upon a child whose hand is not raised. If a child calls out an answer without raising his hand, ignore it. Ask the question of someone who has raised their hand instead.
7. Accept all answers children give to a question. Comment positively on each answer a child gives when you ask him a question. Even if it is not the answer you wanted, it will encourage them to keeping trying and keep answering questions.
8. When doing a question-and-answer activity, try passing a ball around to keep attention on the discussion. You could also try a picture or cutout of an apple tree or a fishing game. Each apple or fish has a question on it. You could also try seasonally appropriate visual aids, such as snowmen and Valentines. Put questions under chairs before class and have children answer the questions they find.
9. Get children's attention at the beginning of class using an Attention Getter. As soon as attention wanders, use another. Use an attention getter before the class becomes chaotic. This is much easier than trying to restore order.
10. When a child's attention wanders: place your hand on their shoulder without comment as you continue with the lesson, insert their name into the lesson or story, move them to another chair, or use class signals (established previously) for certain behaviors.
11. Make it clear that you accept and love each child. It is his behavior you don't love or accept.
12. Use individual praise when a child does something well (sits quietly, folds arms, answers questions well). Even if a child is only good for a few minutes, compliment her. Try to compliment every child every lesson. Reward positive behavior immediately.
13. Standing behind or next to a table while teaching makes you seem like an authoritarian figure. Sit on their same level. If you have the children seating in a semi-circle, be a part of the semi-circle as well.
14. Let the children help you with the lesson, or with cleaning up afterwards.
15. If you have more than one discipline problem in a class, work on one before addressing another. One thing at a time.
16. Use construction paper to create ears, mouths, hands, etc. If a child is a good listener, they are given an ear. If they stay a good listener throughout class, they get to take it home. Don't do this two weeks in a row. Don't overuse any good idea.
17. Don't make idle threats. If you threaten, it should be something on which you can follow through. Avoid threats because it takes the discipline out of the children's hands.
18. Be honest enough with the children to reprove them sharply when necessary. When a child endangers himself or a class member or disrespects something sacred, they need to be reproved sharply. You can try something like, "What you have done is very wrong. I like you too much to let you act like that." A reprimand should always be followed by an increase in love.
19. Unite in love and prayer to help your children. Love is the greatest power in the world; it cannot fail. If you love every child in your class, you will be able to meet his needs and teach him the gospel.
20. Interest is the key. The interested student, the one who is actively involved in the subject, is rarely a problem.
21. You are an adult; don't try to be "one of the kids."
22. Be enthusiastic about the subject.
23. Don't confuse punishment with discipline.
24. Good discipline is long range and depends on the harmonious relationship of the entire group.
25. Don't speak too quickly, talk down to the children, speak monotonously. Your voice is a teaching aid; use it!
26. Don't ridicule, use sarcasm, or name call. You may temporarily gain a child's attention, but it can lead to much worse behavior. Even the child who is severely misbehaving cares how others feel about them. Children do not respect a teacher who name calls. Do not be rude or cruel.
27. A child's attention is short; therefore, use transition periods. Transition between stories, games, activities, songs, etc. which break your lesson up into segments. Don't take too long between transitions, or you may lose their attention. Announce transitions in fun, enthusiastic ways, such a visual prompts they understand to mean certain activities, or tape the name of an activity under a chair.
28. When you begin a new calling or start a new year with a new class, set up class rules/expectations with the children. This reduces the chances of misbehavior because you have set forth the expectations before any have had the chance to occur.
29. If a discipline issue arises, you could try having the children problem solve. Try saying, "This is our problem. (State the problem.) What are we going to do about it?" Encourage the children to use their best thinking to come up with some workable solutions. You could also have them role play.
30. Be fair. Children are quick to sense favoritism.
31. Sometimes it can be appropriate to hear a child out. Their frustration at something else can be related to misbehavior, and sometimes problems can be solved.
32. Redirection can work well for misbehavior, especially in younger children.
33. Use positive sentiments (sit quietly) rather than negative ones (stop fidgeting).
34. Sometimes ignoring unwanted behavior can be the best approach.
2. Keep seats separated if possible. This makes it harder to touch other children. Minimize distractions by facing children away from windows.
3. Let your Primary Presidency help you solve discipline problems. Many children have deep-rooted problems that have taken years to develop. It will take time, patience, wisdom, and understanding to solve them. In the meantime, the child may not respond to ordinary methods of discipline. He may be a constant cause of disturbance in class, but you should never feel that you must cope with such a situation alone. The Primary Presidency can give you help that will shorten the time to solve discipline problems. They may also have information about the child that you do not.
4. Remember, many children have never had to be a part of a group, and as such, do not know how to respect the standards of a group.
5. Never shout or out-talk children. Use your voice calmly. Never lose your temper. You can't teach children self-control if we have none ourselves.
6. Never call upon a child whose hand is not raised. If a child calls out an answer without raising his hand, ignore it. Ask the question of someone who has raised their hand instead.
7. Accept all answers children give to a question. Comment positively on each answer a child gives when you ask him a question. Even if it is not the answer you wanted, it will encourage them to keeping trying and keep answering questions.
8. When doing a question-and-answer activity, try passing a ball around to keep attention on the discussion. You could also try a picture or cutout of an apple tree or a fishing game. Each apple or fish has a question on it. You could also try seasonally appropriate visual aids, such as snowmen and Valentines. Put questions under chairs before class and have children answer the questions they find.
9. Get children's attention at the beginning of class using an Attention Getter. As soon as attention wanders, use another. Use an attention getter before the class becomes chaotic. This is much easier than trying to restore order.
10. When a child's attention wanders: place your hand on their shoulder without comment as you continue with the lesson, insert their name into the lesson or story, move them to another chair, or use class signals (established previously) for certain behaviors.
11. Make it clear that you accept and love each child. It is his behavior you don't love or accept.
12. Use individual praise when a child does something well (sits quietly, folds arms, answers questions well). Even if a child is only good for a few minutes, compliment her. Try to compliment every child every lesson. Reward positive behavior immediately.
13. Standing behind or next to a table while teaching makes you seem like an authoritarian figure. Sit on their same level. If you have the children seating in a semi-circle, be a part of the semi-circle as well.
14. Let the children help you with the lesson, or with cleaning up afterwards.
15. If you have more than one discipline problem in a class, work on one before addressing another. One thing at a time.
16. Use construction paper to create ears, mouths, hands, etc. If a child is a good listener, they are given an ear. If they stay a good listener throughout class, they get to take it home. Don't do this two weeks in a row. Don't overuse any good idea.
17. Don't make idle threats. If you threaten, it should be something on which you can follow through. Avoid threats because it takes the discipline out of the children's hands.
18. Be honest enough with the children to reprove them sharply when necessary. When a child endangers himself or a class member or disrespects something sacred, they need to be reproved sharply. You can try something like, "What you have done is very wrong. I like you too much to let you act like that." A reprimand should always be followed by an increase in love.
19. Unite in love and prayer to help your children. Love is the greatest power in the world; it cannot fail. If you love every child in your class, you will be able to meet his needs and teach him the gospel.
20. Interest is the key. The interested student, the one who is actively involved in the subject, is rarely a problem.
21. You are an adult; don't try to be "one of the kids."
22. Be enthusiastic about the subject.
23. Don't confuse punishment with discipline.
24. Good discipline is long range and depends on the harmonious relationship of the entire group.
25. Don't speak too quickly, talk down to the children, speak monotonously. Your voice is a teaching aid; use it!
26. Don't ridicule, use sarcasm, or name call. You may temporarily gain a child's attention, but it can lead to much worse behavior. Even the child who is severely misbehaving cares how others feel about them. Children do not respect a teacher who name calls. Do not be rude or cruel.
27. A child's attention is short; therefore, use transition periods. Transition between stories, games, activities, songs, etc. which break your lesson up into segments. Don't take too long between transitions, or you may lose their attention. Announce transitions in fun, enthusiastic ways, such a visual prompts they understand to mean certain activities, or tape the name of an activity under a chair.
28. When you begin a new calling or start a new year with a new class, set up class rules/expectations with the children. This reduces the chances of misbehavior because you have set forth the expectations before any have had the chance to occur.
29. If a discipline issue arises, you could try having the children problem solve. Try saying, "This is our problem. (State the problem.) What are we going to do about it?" Encourage the children to use their best thinking to come up with some workable solutions. You could also have them role play.
30. Be fair. Children are quick to sense favoritism.
31. Sometimes it can be appropriate to hear a child out. Their frustration at something else can be related to misbehavior, and sometimes problems can be solved.
32. Redirection can work well for misbehavior, especially in younger children.
33. Use positive sentiments (sit quietly) rather than negative ones (stop fidgeting).
34. Sometimes ignoring unwanted behavior can be the best approach.
Handout Ideas for Absent Children
Primary "Sparkles" When You Are There! (Affix something glittery)
By "Gum" We Sure Missed You at Primary! (Attach a stick of gum)
Come GROW with us at Primary! (Attach a packet of seeds)
You light up our lives when you come to Primary! (or) We missed your twinkling light at Primary. (Something that lights up)
We're looking for you at Primary! (Googley eyes)
Hi ____________. My name is Timothy, and I am here to tell you about Primary, but I need your help. Color me and put me together with the help of your parents. You will need crayons, scissors, and something to attach my hands, like a brad. I am here to remind you of Primary. Cut out my arms and fasten them in place. Point my long hand to the 12 and my short hand to the _____. Now whenever you look at me, you can remember what time Primary starts! Your teacher is ____________, your class is ________________, and you meet in room number ________. I'll be watching for you! (With cut out clock with arms and a child to point.)
By "Gum" We Sure Missed You at Primary! (Attach a stick of gum)
Come GROW with us at Primary! (Attach a packet of seeds)
You light up our lives when you come to Primary! (or) We missed your twinkling light at Primary. (Something that lights up)
We're looking for you at Primary! (Googley eyes)
Hi ____________. My name is Timothy, and I am here to tell you about Primary, but I need your help. Color me and put me together with the help of your parents. You will need crayons, scissors, and something to attach my hands, like a brad. I am here to remind you of Primary. Cut out my arms and fasten them in place. Point my long hand to the 12 and my short hand to the _____. Now whenever you look at me, you can remember what time Primary starts! Your teacher is ____________, your class is ________________, and you meet in room number ________. I'll be watching for you! (With cut out clock with arms and a child to point.)
Friday, March 3, 2017
Positive Motivators for Children
Grab Bag:
This is an excellent positive motivator for one child or for the entire class. The students can earn tickets to the Grab Bag by their positive behavior. Each "grabber" may take one card out of the Grab Bag. On the card is written the reward the student has earned. Here are some examples of rewards teachers have used with their class:
*Right to be monitor
*Right to be team captain
*Right to be first in line
*Right to be teacher's aide
*Positive notes to parents
*Extra free time
*Special free time activity
*Choose next class story/subject
*Choose game
*Candy
*Arts and crafts supply
Winning Words:
This is an excellent positive motivator for one child or for the entire class. The students can earn tickets to the Grab Bag by their positive behavior. Each "grabber" may take one card out of the Grab Bag. On the card is written the reward the student has earned. Here are some examples of rewards teachers have used with their class:
*Right to be monitor
*Right to be team captain
*Right to be first in line
*Right to be teacher's aide
*Positive notes to parents
*Extra free time
*Special free time activity
*Choose next class story/subject
*Choose game
*Candy
*Arts and crafts supply
Winning Words:
Choose a positive word for the day that is not commonly used in your students' vocabulary. Have your students use this word as often as they can during the day to positively reinforce their peers' behavior. Words such as marvelous, phenomenal, and fantastic are good for elementary-aged students. For older students, use words like resplendent, sublime, exemplary. Challenge the students to find new positive words to use during the year. Make it a contest. See who can use the word appropriately the most often during the class.
Stick 'Em:
Don't forget, students love stickers and awarding them is a great positive reinforcement. During the day, reward students for good behavior by giving them a sticker. For an extra treat, allow all the students who have earned stickers to have a special time for trading with each other occasionally.
Positive Letters:
Send special positive letters or notes addressed directly to the students at home. Everyone loves to receive mail and since most children do not receive personal letters, it can be a very special event. Make your own "positive" notepaper for this purpose. Duplicate enough sheets so that you can send one to each student in the class.
Students of the Day:
Each day, recognize at least two students either for work well done or for outstanding behavior. Bring a reward to hand out to your two winners.
Probing for Positives:
If you are having trouble determining positive consequences for your students, take a survey asking your students the following questions:
*What is your favorite activity in this class?
*What privilege would you like to earn?
*What's the best reward you can earn?
The answers to these questions should give you some good ideas for positive consequences that would work with your students.
Fitting Together
Each student in the class has something unique and special to contribute to the group. Show how each member of the class fits together by following the directions for making a class puzzle.
Materials needed:
poster board (36" square)
scissors
magic markers
white glue
cardboard (36" square)
Procedure:
Materials needed:
poster board (36" square)
scissors
magic markers
white glue
cardboard (36" square)
Procedure:
1. Cut a large piece of poster board into enough pieces for each class member to have one piece.
2. On the puzzle pieces, have each person write the one special gift he/she brings to the class. Have each person sign his/her puzzle piece.
3. Have each person tell about his/her special talent.
4. Arrange the pieces of the puzzle until each fits together to make a total picture.
5. Glue the completed puzzle to a piece of cardboard.
6. Hang the puzzle in a special place of honor within the classroom or school.
Handout:
Write about your special quality that you bring to the class in the space below. Add your name to your unique gift:
How to Love Teaching Primary
1. Learn that you are in the right place. Your call came from the Lord; you have been given the responsibility for your own growth and that of those you serve. Go to work and you will learn to love your calling. Pray for the spirit of your calling and a quiet peace and joy for the work will fill your soul.
2. Prepare. Survey your assignment--the lesson you are to give, the activities to plan for, the leadership meetings to attend. Mark your calendar in advance and plan your Primary assignments. Make scripture study a regular part of your preparation. Prepare so well that you can give your lessons without always looking at the lesson manual. This enables you to personalize the lessons and to be more easily led by the Spirit. Stretch yourself into preparing to teach with variety.
3. Get to know the children. Speak and write their names as often as possible. Encourage each child to express himself and participate in the class discussions. Your love for Primary will grow as you learn to love the children you teach. Enjoy the children. Laugh with them, appreciate the qualities of childhood, and learn from them.
4. Be happy in your service. Blessings will come to you and the children as you engage in the work of the Lord. you will experience joy as you see the children you teach grow and mature and as their testimonies and your own increase.
2. Prepare. Survey your assignment--the lesson you are to give, the activities to plan for, the leadership meetings to attend. Mark your calendar in advance and plan your Primary assignments. Make scripture study a regular part of your preparation. Prepare so well that you can give your lessons without always looking at the lesson manual. This enables you to personalize the lessons and to be more easily led by the Spirit. Stretch yourself into preparing to teach with variety.
3. Get to know the children. Speak and write their names as often as possible. Encourage each child to express himself and participate in the class discussions. Your love for Primary will grow as you learn to love the children you teach. Enjoy the children. Laugh with them, appreciate the qualities of childhood, and learn from them.
4. Be happy in your service. Blessings will come to you and the children as you engage in the work of the Lord. you will experience joy as you see the children you teach grow and mature and as their testimonies and your own increase.
Parents and Primary: Partners is Teaching Children the Gospel
Parents have the major responsibility for teaching the gospel of Jesus Christ to their children. (See D&C 68:25–28.) The Primary is a great resource to parents in this responsibility.
How can the Primary help? First, it offers children a systematic study of gospel principles. Second, it gives children the opportunity to develop wholesome friendships in a gospel context.
For Primary to be most helpful, however, parents must be aware of what their children are learning in Primary and help the Primary leaders understand what their children need. As parents and Primary leaders talk together and learn to understand the needs of each child, Primary will become more effective in reinforcing the gospel teachings the children receive at home.
Here are some things the Primary can do:
1. Near the beginning of each year, the Primary can conduct a parent orientation to the year’s program. This orientation may include the class purpose and outline of lessons to be taught; songs that will be taught in Primary during the year; activities and programs planned; and the scriptures to be emphasized and the Articles of Faith to be learned. Primary teachers can also discuss lesson outlines for the year one-on-one with the parents and suggest ways parents might help the child live the principles that will be taught.
2. Early in the year, Primary teachers can visit the home of each child to discover the interests and abilities of each class member and to discuss ways to support parents in teaching the gospel to their child.
3. The Primary can invite parents to attend Primary on a rotation basis with their children at least once during the year. Parents can also be invited to participate in the presentation of the lesson, in sharing experiences, or in giving their testimony.
4. Primary teachers can give children opportunities in Primary to share special home experiences, such as the birth of a new baby or the call of a new missionary.
5. Before teaching a particular gospel principle, the teacher could sometimes ask the parents about how well their children are living the principle. This information can help the teacher structure the lessons to meet the needs of the children.
6. Having obtained the information from parents in advance, the teacher can share examples of children in the class living a gospel principle being taught in the lesson.
7. Primary leaders can include parents in incentive programs (Gospel in Action) and in helping the children learn the Articles of Faith, memorize scriptures, and keep a journal.
8. Children or teachers could send occasional reports home on things the child has learned and done in Primary.
9. Teachers can alert parents of assignments for prayers, talks, scripture recitations, or parts on programs two weeks in advance. Clearly written expectations will help parents prepare the child to fulfill the assignment.
10. Primary leaders can talk to parents of children who don’t attend regularly and help them recognize what Primary has to offer their family.
Here are some suggestions for parents:
1. Parents can spend a few minutes each Sunday discussing with the child what he has experienced in Primary.
2. Parents can help the child practice living a gospel principle taught in Primary that week.
3. Parents can tell the teacher about special events in the child’s life that could be shared in Primary.
4. Parents can visit the class from time to time (informing the teacher of their coming, of course) and offer to help.
5. Parents can help the child write a letter of appreciation to the teacher for a special lesson or activity he enjoyed.
6. The family can sing songs in the home that the children learn in Primary.
7. Parents can let the child tell a story or experience from Primary for family home evening.
8. Parents can help the child prepare for assignments in Primary far enough in advance so that he feels secure and ready.
Sammy (age 8): “In class today we learned about being thankful and what fasting is all about. If you have a problem, you can fast and Heavenly Father will help you.”
Megan (age 6) says about her teacher: “She looks like she is a grandma and she is nice. I know she likes me because she tells me.”
How can the Primary help? First, it offers children a systematic study of gospel principles. Second, it gives children the opportunity to develop wholesome friendships in a gospel context.
For Primary to be most helpful, however, parents must be aware of what their children are learning in Primary and help the Primary leaders understand what their children need. As parents and Primary leaders talk together and learn to understand the needs of each child, Primary will become more effective in reinforcing the gospel teachings the children receive at home.
Here are some things the Primary can do:
1. Near the beginning of each year, the Primary can conduct a parent orientation to the year’s program. This orientation may include the class purpose and outline of lessons to be taught; songs that will be taught in Primary during the year; activities and programs planned; and the scriptures to be emphasized and the Articles of Faith to be learned. Primary teachers can also discuss lesson outlines for the year one-on-one with the parents and suggest ways parents might help the child live the principles that will be taught.
2. Early in the year, Primary teachers can visit the home of each child to discover the interests and abilities of each class member and to discuss ways to support parents in teaching the gospel to their child.
3. The Primary can invite parents to attend Primary on a rotation basis with their children at least once during the year. Parents can also be invited to participate in the presentation of the lesson, in sharing experiences, or in giving their testimony.
4. Primary teachers can give children opportunities in Primary to share special home experiences, such as the birth of a new baby or the call of a new missionary.
5. Before teaching a particular gospel principle, the teacher could sometimes ask the parents about how well their children are living the principle. This information can help the teacher structure the lessons to meet the needs of the children.
6. Having obtained the information from parents in advance, the teacher can share examples of children in the class living a gospel principle being taught in the lesson.
7. Primary leaders can include parents in incentive programs (Gospel in Action) and in helping the children learn the Articles of Faith, memorize scriptures, and keep a journal.
8. Children or teachers could send occasional reports home on things the child has learned and done in Primary.
9. Teachers can alert parents of assignments for prayers, talks, scripture recitations, or parts on programs two weeks in advance. Clearly written expectations will help parents prepare the child to fulfill the assignment.
10. Primary leaders can talk to parents of children who don’t attend regularly and help them recognize what Primary has to offer their family.
Here are some suggestions for parents:
1. Parents can spend a few minutes each Sunday discussing with the child what he has experienced in Primary.
2. Parents can help the child practice living a gospel principle taught in Primary that week.
3. Parents can tell the teacher about special events in the child’s life that could be shared in Primary.
4. Parents can visit the class from time to time (informing the teacher of their coming, of course) and offer to help.
5. Parents can help the child write a letter of appreciation to the teacher for a special lesson or activity he enjoyed.
6. The family can sing songs in the home that the children learn in Primary.
7. Parents can let the child tell a story or experience from Primary for family home evening.
8. Parents can help the child prepare for assignments in Primary far enough in advance so that he feels secure and ready.
Sammy (age 8): “In class today we learned about being thankful and what fasting is all about. If you have a problem, you can fast and Heavenly Father will help you.”
Megan (age 6) says about her teacher: “She looks like she is a grandma and she is nice. I know she likes me because she tells me.”
How to Show Love to a Primary Child
How to Show Love to a Primary Child
1. Get to know each child in your class. Ask about his family members and situation, his special interests or fears. Listen to each child. Look him in the eyes and pay attention to what he is saying. Notes on a file card will help remind you what you have learned about him.
2. Share yourself. Tell the children of your desire to do as the Lord has asked. Tell them you love the Lord and appreciate your call to teach them.
3. Take every opportunity to show your love. Tell them you love them. Pat their shoulders; shake their hands; smile and nod to acknowledge them. Watch for them outside of class and always greet them or acknowledge their presence in some way.
4. Watch the reactions of the children. Their emotions, their comments and behaviors, all provide clues that can help you enrich your lessons and touch their hearts.
5. Shower the children with deserved compliments. Make mental notes of expressions of kindnesses, participation in singing, reverence in prayer, or pleasant countenances. Mention these things as you welcome children to Primary or present the lesson. And be generous with your compliments about the child to her parents and family, especially when the child is present!
6. Strive to be fair and sincere--both in and out of the classroom. Children are very aware of inequality and insincerity.
7. Foster loyalty among class members. Help each be concerned about the others by demonstrating your loyalty to the children and to your Primary leaders and fellow teachers. Speak highly of those with whom you serve and of those you serve.
8. Be a living example of what you teach. The children in your class will be watching and learning from you.
9. Pray for understanding. Pray for inspiration. Pray for patience, and pray for a genuine love for each child.
1. Get to know each child in your class. Ask about his family members and situation, his special interests or fears. Listen to each child. Look him in the eyes and pay attention to what he is saying. Notes on a file card will help remind you what you have learned about him.
2. Share yourself. Tell the children of your desire to do as the Lord has asked. Tell them you love the Lord and appreciate your call to teach them.
3. Take every opportunity to show your love. Tell them you love them. Pat their shoulders; shake their hands; smile and nod to acknowledge them. Watch for them outside of class and always greet them or acknowledge their presence in some way.
4. Watch the reactions of the children. Their emotions, their comments and behaviors, all provide clues that can help you enrich your lessons and touch their hearts.
5. Shower the children with deserved compliments. Make mental notes of expressions of kindnesses, participation in singing, reverence in prayer, or pleasant countenances. Mention these things as you welcome children to Primary or present the lesson. And be generous with your compliments about the child to her parents and family, especially when the child is present!
6. Strive to be fair and sincere--both in and out of the classroom. Children are very aware of inequality and insincerity.
7. Foster loyalty among class members. Help each be concerned about the others by demonstrating your loyalty to the children and to your Primary leaders and fellow teachers. Speak highly of those with whom you serve and of those you serve.
8. Be a living example of what you teach. The children in your class will be watching and learning from you.
9. Pray for understanding. Pray for inspiration. Pray for patience, and pray for a genuine love for each child.
The Primary Role: Aiding Parents by Teaching the Gospel to Their Children
The Primary Role: Aiding Parents by Teaching the Gospel to Their Children
By Dwan J. Young, Primary General President
By Dwan J. Young, Primary General President
The Savior always had time for children. He healed them, counseled with them, and taught them. In 3 Nephi 26:14 [3 Ne. 26:14], we read that he loosed their tongues so that they could speak of marvelous things to their parents. Jesus saw the children as the hope of the world. I see them that way, too. And it is that vision that motivates all of us, whether we are parents, leaders, or teachers, to teach children the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Our assignment as a church-wide Primary organization to assist parents throughout the world to teach the gospel to their children is an overwhelming one—but it is the Lord’s plan in the Church today. Our Heavenly Father expects that children be successfully taught. In Primary he expects that they find loving, faithful teachers who understand how significant their Primary experience can be for children. And it is happening! Tens of thousands of children meet with dedicated teachers and leaders from Brisbane to Boston to Berlin.
The purpose of Primary is to teach children the gospel of Jesus Christ and to help them to live it. One of the most important assignments in the Church is to touch the lives of children with the gospel.
To accomplish this purpose, Primary teachers and leaders should set these goals:
1. Teach children that they are children of God and that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ love them. One of the greatest needs a child has is for adequate self-esteem. It must be nurtured through their entire growing years. A young child’s self-esteem is based largely on how he thinks others perceive him. He needs to know he will always be loved, will always have a friend. What better way, then, to provide self-esteem than to help a child understand he is a child of God—that Heavenly Father and Jesus love him no matter what, no matter where he goes. And if a child’s Primary teacher treats him with the dignity and respect due a child of God, he will come to view himself as a worthwhile person.
2. Help children learn to love Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. In Primary, children have many opportunities to investigate and feel the spirit of the scriptures. As they grow in their understanding of the scriptures, they learn to love the Father and the Son and develop the desire to obey their commandments. They begin to see that their experience and choices are significant to their future.
3. Help children prepare to be baptized, to receive the Holy Ghost, and to keep their baptismal covenants. Primary teachers help children understand why they need to be baptized. Children are taught the responsibility they have to be valiant in keeping the covenant they made at baptism and how this will help them withstand temptation.
4. Help children grow in their understanding of the gospel plan and provide opportunities for them to practice living gospel principles. In Primary, children study the Articles of Faith to enhance their understanding of the gospel. They begin at an early age to study a line at a time. Primary also plans activities where they can practice the principles they have learned, socialize with other Latter-day Saint children, and be with teachers who stand for virtue, honesty, and faithfulness.
5. Help boys prepare to receive the priesthood and be worthy to use this power to bless the lives of others. Specific lessons help boys understand the priesthood they will bear. They learn what they can do to be worthy of holding the priesthood. Appropriate activities help them develop personal qualities that can help them become righteous and responsible young men.
6. Help girls prepare to be righteous women and to live lives of service. Primary lessons and activities help girls develop their spirituality, their talents, their intellects, and their capacity for service. They come to understand and appreciate the vital role, the opportunities, and the responsibilities of women in the Church today.
Children need Primary. They need the enrichment, variety, and gospel learning that can take place there. Parents are charged with teaching their children correct gospel principles, and Primary teachers can help parents reinforce and clarify gospel principles.
A father tells of a time when his family was learning in family home evening about resurrection. His seven-year-old daughter was puzzled about death and resurrection, even though the family had discussed it at length. After the lesson, the father asked, “Honey, do you understand this?” She replied, “I guess so,” and nodded with a puzzled frown.
She continued to be troubled. One day her mother found her with tears streaming down her face studying a picture of the Savior in the family home evening manual. Again, she explained the concepts to her daughter and asked her if she understood. “I guess so,” was again the reply.
The next week, her Primary teacher taught a lesson about the resurrection. She came running to tell her mother, “Oh, Mother! Now I understand! And it’s even better than you said. Not only do we live again, but our spirits never die. They live forever and ever!”
Primary teachers and leaders, I am grateful for you. You can make a significant difference in the lives of children as you help parents teach them the gospel. If you will love the children, you will make a difference. Remember how much the children depend on you to give them worthwhile and inspiring experiences. One of the greatest legacies we can give the world is a generation of children who know that they are literally children of God and who love Him and have covenanted with Him to keep His commandments!
To the Children of the Church (Conference Address)
Given by President Ezra Taft Benson in General Conference on April 2, 1989
My dear brethren and sisters, how I have rejoiced in the messages I have heard delivered from this pulpit at this great general conference of the Church.
The messages are true. They are important. They are vital to our personal salvation, and with all my heart I commend them to you.
In previous general meetings of the Church, I have spoken specifically to the mothers and to the fathers, to the young men and to the young women, to the single adult sisters and to the single adult brethren.
For my closing message at this conference, I would now like to speak to the children of the Church—yes, to you, our precious children. And as you listen, I pray that you will know that this is a personal message just for you.
How I love you! How our Heavenly Father loves you!
Just like the beautiful Primary song you sing, each of you truly is a child of God. For you, rich blessings are in store, and if you learn to do His will, you will live with Him once more. I know this to be true. (See “I Am a Child of God,” Hymns, 1985, no. 301.)
Today I desire to teach you what our Heavenly Father wants you to know so that you can learn to do His will and enjoy true happiness. It will help you now and throughout your life.
First, may I say how thrilled I am to know how you children are learning about the Book of Mormon. This is one of the very important things Heavenly Father wants you to do.
I know you are reading the Book of Mormon, for I have received hundreds of personal letters from you telling me that you are reading this sacred book. It makes me weep for joy when I hear this.
Many of you have read the Book of Mormon all the way through. In family home evening and in Primary you have dramatized Book of Mormon stories, you have sung songs about the Book of Mormon, you have learned the names of the books in the Book of Mormon, you have played Book of Mormon games, you have learned about wonderful Book of Mormon prophets. Some of you have even earned money to send copies of the Book of Mormon around the world.
How pleased I am to hear of your love for the Book of Mormon. I love it too, and Heavenly Father wants you to continue to learn from the Book of Mormon every day. It’s Heavenly Father’s special gift to you. By following its teachings, you will learn to do the will of our Father in Heaven.
I also hope your parents and leaders will give you opportunities to learn from the Doctrine and Covenants, the Pearl of Great Price, and the Bible as well.
Now, there are other important things Heavenly Father wants you to do.
He wants you to pray to Him every day. He wants to help you because He loves you, and He will help you if you pray to Him and ask Him for His help. In your prayers, also thank Him for your blessings. Thank Him for sending our oldest brother, Jesus Christ, into the world. He made it possible for us to return to our heavenly home. Thank Him for your family. Thank Him for the Church. Thank Him for this beautiful world you live in. Ask Him to protect you. In your prayers, ask Him to help you know what to do in your life. When you make mistakes, your Heavenly Father still loves you. So pray to Him, and He will help you try again to do right.
Pray to Heavenly Father to bless you with His Spirit at all times. We often call the Spirit the Holy Ghost. The Holy Ghost is also a gift from Heavenly Father. The Holy Ghost helps you to choose the right. The Holy Ghost will protect you from evil. He whispers to you in a still, small voice to do right. When you do good, you feel good, and that is the Holy Ghost speaking to you. The Holy Ghost is a wonderful companion. He is always there to help you.
My dear boys and girls, honor your fathers and mothers. They will help you make good decisions. Enjoy and respect your grandparents. Be a real friend to your brothers and sisters. Choose friends who have high ideals. Choose friends who will help you to be good.
Attend sacrament meeting. Listen carefully to what your bishop says. He is an important spiritual leader who has a special calling from Heavenly Father to help you.
Enjoy Primary, and attend every week. Bring your member and nonmember friends to Primary. Learn the Primary songs well. They are wonderful. Memorize the Articles of Faith and earn the Gospel in Action Award.
Be honest. Do not lie nor steal. Do not cheat. Do not use profanity, but be clean in your thoughts and speech.
Be a true Latter-day Saint. Stand up for your beliefs. One of my favorite Primary songs is “Dare to Do Right.” Some of the words are:
Dare to do right! dare to be true!
You have a work that no other can do;
Do it so bravely, so kindly, so well,
Angels will hasten the story to tell.
Remember, Satan does not want you to be happy. He does not want you to dare to do right. He wants you to be miserable, as he is. He has captured the hearts of wicked men and women who would have you participate in bad things such as pornography, drugs, profanity, and immorality. Stay away from these evils. Avoid books, magazines, videos, movies, and television shows that are not good. As the scriptures tell us, avoid the very appearance of evil. (See 1 Thes. 5:22.)
Dress modestly. Choose clothing that covers your body properly. Behave in a courteous and polite way. Live the Word of Wisdom. Keep the Sabbath day holy. Listen to good music. Do your best to be good.
Do well in your school work and strive to be a good student.
With help from your parents, begin your own library of favorite tapes, books, and pictures which are available at Church distribution centers. Enjoy reading each month in your home the Friend magazine or the international magazines.
Love the country in which you live. Be a good citizen. Be patriotic. Fly your country’s flag on special holidays. Pray for your country’s leaders.
Primary boys, plan and look forward to serving a full-time mission for the Lord. Young girls, be prepared for missionary service if you are called. But also, young girls, learn from your mothers the important homemaking skills you will use in your own home.
Now I want to say something to you children who do not feel safe and who are frightened or hurt and do not know what to do. Sometimes you may feel all alone. You need to know that even when it seems that no one else cares, your Heavenly Father does. He will always love you. He wants you to be protected and safe. If you are not, please talk to someone who can help you—a parent, a teacher, your bishop, or a friend. They will help you.
I am sure each of you has favorite stories from the scriptures. One of my favorite stories is found in the seventeenth chapter of 3 Nephi in the Book of Mormon. It tells about the visit of Jesus to the people on the American continent after His resurrection. It tells about Jesus healing the sick and teaching the people and praying to Heavenly Father for them.
Now, this is one of my favorite parts of that story:
“And it came to pass that when Jesus had made an end of praying unto the Father, he arose; but so great was the joy of the multitude that they were overcome.
“And it came to pass that Jesus spake unto them, and bade them arise.
“And they arose from the earth, and he said unto them: Blessed are ye because of your faith. And now behold, my joy is full.
“And when he had said these words, he wept, and the multitude bare record of it, and he took their little children, one by one, and blessed them, and prayed unto the Father for them.
“And when he had done this he wept again;
“And he spake unto the multitude, and said unto them: Behold your little ones.
“And as they looked to behold they cast their eyes towards heaven, and they saw the heavens open, and they saw angels descending out of heaven as it were in the midst of fire; and they came down and encircled those little ones about, and they were encircled about with fire; and the angels did minister unto them.” (3 Ne. 17:18–24.)
I promise you, dear children, that angels will minister unto you also. You may not see them, but they will be there to help you, and you will feel of their presence.
Favored little ones were they,
Who towards him Jesus drew!
Who within his arms he took
Just as loving parents do,
Christ the Lord “Our living head.”
This of little children said,
“Such shall of my kingdom be,
Suffer them to come to me.”
Listen to the Savior’s plea,
“Let the children come to me.”
Dear children, our Heavenly Father sent you to earth at this time because you are some of His most valiant children. He knew there would be much wickedness in the world today, and He knew you could be faithful and obedient.
Dear child, you are God’s gift to your parents, and the gift your parents can give God is to bring you back to Him sweet and pure and faithful.
He expects your parents and leaders to teach you, to walk beside you, and to be shining examples to you so that you will know the way you should go. They must spend time with you and love you and pray with you and for you.
Your leaders must call faithful men and women to teach you in Primary. We must provide experiences for you early in your life that will help you know how to live the gospel.
God bless the children of this Church. How I love you! How Heavenly Father loves you! And may we, as your parents, teachers, and leaders, be more childlike—more submissive, more meek, and more humble.
I close my message to you this day with the prayer that we may ever respond to your plea as you so sweetly sing:
Teach me to walk in the light of his love;
Teach me to pray to my Father above;
Teach me to know of the things that are right;
Teach me, teach me to walk in the light.
My dear brethren and sisters, how I have rejoiced in the messages I have heard delivered from this pulpit at this great general conference of the Church.
The messages are true. They are important. They are vital to our personal salvation, and with all my heart I commend them to you.
In previous general meetings of the Church, I have spoken specifically to the mothers and to the fathers, to the young men and to the young women, to the single adult sisters and to the single adult brethren.
For my closing message at this conference, I would now like to speak to the children of the Church—yes, to you, our precious children. And as you listen, I pray that you will know that this is a personal message just for you.
How I love you! How our Heavenly Father loves you!
Just like the beautiful Primary song you sing, each of you truly is a child of God. For you, rich blessings are in store, and if you learn to do His will, you will live with Him once more. I know this to be true. (See “I Am a Child of God,” Hymns, 1985, no. 301.)
Today I desire to teach you what our Heavenly Father wants you to know so that you can learn to do His will and enjoy true happiness. It will help you now and throughout your life.
First, may I say how thrilled I am to know how you children are learning about the Book of Mormon. This is one of the very important things Heavenly Father wants you to do.
I know you are reading the Book of Mormon, for I have received hundreds of personal letters from you telling me that you are reading this sacred book. It makes me weep for joy when I hear this.
Many of you have read the Book of Mormon all the way through. In family home evening and in Primary you have dramatized Book of Mormon stories, you have sung songs about the Book of Mormon, you have learned the names of the books in the Book of Mormon, you have played Book of Mormon games, you have learned about wonderful Book of Mormon prophets. Some of you have even earned money to send copies of the Book of Mormon around the world.
How pleased I am to hear of your love for the Book of Mormon. I love it too, and Heavenly Father wants you to continue to learn from the Book of Mormon every day. It’s Heavenly Father’s special gift to you. By following its teachings, you will learn to do the will of our Father in Heaven.
I also hope your parents and leaders will give you opportunities to learn from the Doctrine and Covenants, the Pearl of Great Price, and the Bible as well.
Now, there are other important things Heavenly Father wants you to do.
He wants you to pray to Him every day. He wants to help you because He loves you, and He will help you if you pray to Him and ask Him for His help. In your prayers, also thank Him for your blessings. Thank Him for sending our oldest brother, Jesus Christ, into the world. He made it possible for us to return to our heavenly home. Thank Him for your family. Thank Him for the Church. Thank Him for this beautiful world you live in. Ask Him to protect you. In your prayers, ask Him to help you know what to do in your life. When you make mistakes, your Heavenly Father still loves you. So pray to Him, and He will help you try again to do right.
Pray to Heavenly Father to bless you with His Spirit at all times. We often call the Spirit the Holy Ghost. The Holy Ghost is also a gift from Heavenly Father. The Holy Ghost helps you to choose the right. The Holy Ghost will protect you from evil. He whispers to you in a still, small voice to do right. When you do good, you feel good, and that is the Holy Ghost speaking to you. The Holy Ghost is a wonderful companion. He is always there to help you.
My dear boys and girls, honor your fathers and mothers. They will help you make good decisions. Enjoy and respect your grandparents. Be a real friend to your brothers and sisters. Choose friends who have high ideals. Choose friends who will help you to be good.
Attend sacrament meeting. Listen carefully to what your bishop says. He is an important spiritual leader who has a special calling from Heavenly Father to help you.
Enjoy Primary, and attend every week. Bring your member and nonmember friends to Primary. Learn the Primary songs well. They are wonderful. Memorize the Articles of Faith and earn the Gospel in Action Award.
Be honest. Do not lie nor steal. Do not cheat. Do not use profanity, but be clean in your thoughts and speech.
Be a true Latter-day Saint. Stand up for your beliefs. One of my favorite Primary songs is “Dare to Do Right.” Some of the words are:
Dare to do right! dare to be true!
You have a work that no other can do;
Do it so bravely, so kindly, so well,
Angels will hasten the story to tell.
Remember, Satan does not want you to be happy. He does not want you to dare to do right. He wants you to be miserable, as he is. He has captured the hearts of wicked men and women who would have you participate in bad things such as pornography, drugs, profanity, and immorality. Stay away from these evils. Avoid books, magazines, videos, movies, and television shows that are not good. As the scriptures tell us, avoid the very appearance of evil. (See 1 Thes. 5:22.)
Dress modestly. Choose clothing that covers your body properly. Behave in a courteous and polite way. Live the Word of Wisdom. Keep the Sabbath day holy. Listen to good music. Do your best to be good.
Do well in your school work and strive to be a good student.
With help from your parents, begin your own library of favorite tapes, books, and pictures which are available at Church distribution centers. Enjoy reading each month in your home the Friend magazine or the international magazines.
Love the country in which you live. Be a good citizen. Be patriotic. Fly your country’s flag on special holidays. Pray for your country’s leaders.
Primary boys, plan and look forward to serving a full-time mission for the Lord. Young girls, be prepared for missionary service if you are called. But also, young girls, learn from your mothers the important homemaking skills you will use in your own home.
Now I want to say something to you children who do not feel safe and who are frightened or hurt and do not know what to do. Sometimes you may feel all alone. You need to know that even when it seems that no one else cares, your Heavenly Father does. He will always love you. He wants you to be protected and safe. If you are not, please talk to someone who can help you—a parent, a teacher, your bishop, or a friend. They will help you.
I am sure each of you has favorite stories from the scriptures. One of my favorite stories is found in the seventeenth chapter of 3 Nephi in the Book of Mormon. It tells about the visit of Jesus to the people on the American continent after His resurrection. It tells about Jesus healing the sick and teaching the people and praying to Heavenly Father for them.
Now, this is one of my favorite parts of that story:
“And it came to pass that when Jesus had made an end of praying unto the Father, he arose; but so great was the joy of the multitude that they were overcome.
“And it came to pass that Jesus spake unto them, and bade them arise.
“And they arose from the earth, and he said unto them: Blessed are ye because of your faith. And now behold, my joy is full.
“And when he had said these words, he wept, and the multitude bare record of it, and he took their little children, one by one, and blessed them, and prayed unto the Father for them.
“And when he had done this he wept again;
“And he spake unto the multitude, and said unto them: Behold your little ones.
“And as they looked to behold they cast their eyes towards heaven, and they saw the heavens open, and they saw angels descending out of heaven as it were in the midst of fire; and they came down and encircled those little ones about, and they were encircled about with fire; and the angels did minister unto them.” (3 Ne. 17:18–24.)
I promise you, dear children, that angels will minister unto you also. You may not see them, but they will be there to help you, and you will feel of their presence.
Favored little ones were they,
Who towards him Jesus drew!
Who within his arms he took
Just as loving parents do,
Christ the Lord “Our living head.”
This of little children said,
“Such shall of my kingdom be,
Suffer them to come to me.”
Listen to the Savior’s plea,
“Let the children come to me.”
Dear children, our Heavenly Father sent you to earth at this time because you are some of His most valiant children. He knew there would be much wickedness in the world today, and He knew you could be faithful and obedient.
Dear child, you are God’s gift to your parents, and the gift your parents can give God is to bring you back to Him sweet and pure and faithful.
He expects your parents and leaders to teach you, to walk beside you, and to be shining examples to you so that you will know the way you should go. They must spend time with you and love you and pray with you and for you.
Your leaders must call faithful men and women to teach you in Primary. We must provide experiences for you early in your life that will help you know how to live the gospel.
God bless the children of this Church. How I love you! How Heavenly Father loves you! And may we, as your parents, teachers, and leaders, be more childlike—more submissive, more meek, and more humble.
I close my message to you this day with the prayer that we may ever respond to your plea as you so sweetly sing:
Teach me to walk in the light of his love;
Teach me to pray to my Father above;
Teach me to know of the things that are right;
Teach me, teach me to walk in the light.
And then, as your parents, we sing to you:
Come, little child, and together we’ll learn
Of his commandments, that we may return
Home to his presence, to live in his sight—
Always, always to walk in the light.
And together we sing:
Father in Heaven, we thank thee this day
For loving guidance to show us the way.
Grateful, we praise thee with songs of delight!
Gladly, gladly we’ll walk in the light.
Come, little child, and together we’ll learn
Of his commandments, that we may return
Home to his presence, to live in his sight—
Always, always to walk in the light.
And together we sing:
Father in Heaven, we thank thee this day
For loving guidance to show us the way.
Grateful, we praise thee with songs of delight!
Gladly, gladly we’ll walk in the light.
For this I fervently pray for the children of the Church, in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
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