Primary Manual Cutouts can be found at this link.
Primary Cutouts
Primary Manual Cutouts
Primary Manual Cutouts
Primary Manual Cutouts
Primary Manual Cutouts
Plants: Clipart
Posted onClipart: Weather, Sky, Seasons
Posted onTable of Contents
Primary Manual Cutouts can be found at this link.
Sky and Weather
Cloudy
Sunny
Rain and Rainbows
Seasons
Spring
Summer
Fall
Winter
Family History: Journals
Posted onWhy Write a Journal
Joseph Fielding Smith— “Every important event in our lives should be placed in a record, by us individually. … If you have accomplished something worth while during the day, put it down; it may be of use to posterity.” (Doctrines of Salvation, 2:204.)
Spencer W. Kimball— “Your story should be written now while it is fresh and while the true details are available. …
“Write [about] your goings and your comings, your deeper thoughts, your achievements and your failures, your associations and your triumphs, your impressions and your testimonies. …
“Those who keep a personal journal are more likely to keep the Lord in remembrance in their daily lives.”
(President Kimball Speaks Out, pages 57, 59.)
Friend September 2019 “The Story of Grammy Rose” Tamika’s grandmother wrote down her great-great grandmother’s story of escape from slavery in her journal. If she hadn’t written down the story, Tamika and other family members wouldn’t know about her amazing story.
Friend January 2022 “Papa’s Journals” Allen loves reading the stories in his dad’s journals. He wants to write a journal too so his kids can read them someday.
I Can Record My History.
(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 46–48”)
- If the children you teach keep a journal, ask them to talk about the kinds of things they write about in their journal. The children might enjoy hearing a story from your childhood journal or the journal of an ancestor.
- Show the children examples of ways they could keep a regular history of their lives. For example, they can write in a book, collect pictures in a scrapbook, type on a computer, or make audio or video recordings. Help the children make a list of things that would be good to include in their personal histories, such as their testimony of Jesus Christ. Invite the children to make a sign or poster to take home with some of these ideas to remind them to record their personal histories.
How can you encourage your family to record their personal histories throughout the week? You could share some entries from your personal journal or share a story about an ancestor (see FamilySearch.org). Some families set aside a few minutes each week for everyone to write in their journals. You might provide some journal prompts, like “What happened this week that you would like your grandchildren to know about?” or “How did you see the Lord’s hand in your life this week?” Young children could draw pictures of their experiences, or you could record them telling their stories. What blessings come from keeping a “regular history”? (verse 1).
“We keep records to help us remember. … We desire to help Church members remember the great things God has done for His children. … Lessons from the past help us cope with our present and give us hope for our future” (“There Shall Be a Record Kept among You,” Ensign, Dec. 2007, 28, 33).
See also Family History: Journals and Resources for Teaching Children “Journals“
What to Write
Friend December 2021 “My Year in Review”
Friend November 2021 “A Book about Me”
Friend November 2024 “News about Me”
Friend January 1987 Link includes lesson ideas
Friend January 2018 Make a mini book to write the journal prompts in. Also cut out these “stickers” to add to pages.
Activity Idea: Put the following into a jar and choose one to write about each week.
Friend May 2021 “Making Memories” Think of a person who is special to you. Draw a picture of your favorite memory with them. Think of someone you want to make more memories with and write what you will do.
Friend May 2021 “For Older Kids” Make a list of your talents! You could ask your friends and family for ideas too. Do you know any family members or ancestors who share the same talents as you?
Friend September 2018 “Mind Muscle: Funstuff” Write your answers to these questions.
Friend January 2023 “How Are You Following Jesus?” Send to Friend magazine how you are following Jesus.
Friend March 2023 “I Am Amazing”
Record Spiritual Experiences
Read 3 Nephi 23:6–13 If the Savior were to examine the records our family has kept, what questions might He ask us? Are there any important events or spiritual experiences that we should record? Now might be a good time to create or add to a family record and counsel together about what to include. Younger family members might enjoy decorating your record with photographs or drawings. Why is it important to record our family’s spiritual experiences?Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Book of Mormon 2020 ” 3 Nephi 20–26: Ye Are the Children of the Covenant”
Ways to Do a Journal
Ensign June 2017 Make a Goal to Keep a Journal (Link includes a story about why to keep a journal)
Do you want to keep a journal but don’t know where to start? Consider one or more of the following ways to document your life and testimony:
Keep a traditional written journal.
Keep a gratitude journal.
Use a journal app.
Make a photo journal, complete with captions.
Keep an audio journal with a digital recorder.
Use your social media account to document your experiences.
Journaling to Deal with Life’s Problems
Friend December 2016 “Not So Great Sixth Grade Year” Writing in a journal helps a girl deal with the difficulties of moving and going to a new school. (Includes some ideas of what to write in a journal.)
Sabbath Day: Lesson Item 6
Posted on
Story Match-Up
“Choosing to Keep the Sabbath Day Holy”
Preparation
- Items needed: Two different colors of good quality construction paper – three pages of each color, a display board, and a glue stick.
- Print the story activity pages. Cut each page in half at the dotted lines. Cut the construction papers in half. Glue each of the story pages to one color of construction paper and each of the picture pages to another color.
- Before the lesson, post the pictures and stories face down on a display board using sticky tack or some other removable adhesive method.
Presentation
Explain that on the display board are stories of children choosing to keep the Sabbath Day Holy. Have a family member choose a story card and a picture card from the board. Explain that the object of the game is to find a story card and its matching picture. Have the family member read the story card out loud, or if the story has already been read, have them tell the story again in their own words. If the family member makes a match, then the cards are removed. If a match is not made, the cards are place back into their original position. Continue in this manner, with family members taking turns choosing cards and trying to find matches, until all the matches have been made,
(The stories are from the “Trying to Be Like Jesus” pages of the Friend Magazine.)
Church History: Stories
Posted onTable of Contents
- Reformation
- Joseph Smith’s Childhood
- First Vision
- Coming of Forth of the Book of Mormon
- Restoration of Priesthood
- Church is Organized
- Organization of the Church
- Spreading the Gospel
- Doctrine and Covenants
- Nauvoo
- Martyrdom
- Brigham Young: The Next Prophet
- Crossing the Plains
- Willie Handcart Company
- Crossing in Ships
- Salt Lake City
- Children’s Organizations
- Utah Temple Building
- Immigration
- Latter Day Missionary Work
- World War II
- Church Pageants
- All Worthy Men Hold Priesthood
- The Church Today
See Supplemental Resources for Valiant Lessons at LDS.org. This link has lots of great resources to use in lessons including visual aids, activities, and games.
Friend December 2018 “Digging into History” Children help archaeologists dig for clues for what life was like for Joseph Smith when he was young living in Vermont with his family. They find stone fences and some artifacts. The article includes photos.
Reformation
Friend October 1984 Martin Luther
Joseph Smith’s Childhood
Joseph Smith was prepared to be a prophet of God.
Doctrine and Covenants Stories “Chapter 1: Joseph Smith and His Family” Images and Video
Friend January 2017 “The Smith Family”
Joseph was chosen by God and prepared to be a prophet. Joseph’s experiences as a boy prepared him to be a prophet of God.A prophet is someone who speaks for God.
Latter Day Kids “”My Servant Joseph” Lesson, story, and song ideas
First Vision
Story Ideas
Friend April 2020 “Jesus Christ’s Church Is Restored!”
Friend April 2020 “Hello from the Sacred Grove” Photos of the sacred grove and the recreated home of the Smith family. Also tells the story about Joseph.
New Era February 2020 “Joseph’s Search for the Truth”
Friend December 1984 “Joseph Smith, the Prophet” – history of church- also timeline on next page
Friend October 2017 “Jesus Visited Joseph”
Friend November 2019 “James Taught the Gospel” James, the brother of Jesus, taught the gospel and helped lead the church when he grew up. One of his teachings in James 1:5. says that if we have questions, we can ask God. Many years after James wrote this scripture, a boy named Joseph Smith read it. He prayed to know which church to join. Joseph’s prayer was answered!When I have questions, I can ask God, like James taught. (Memorize James 1:5 as a family. Talk about how this verse led Joseph Smith to receive the First Vision.)
[unitegallery 2019Nov]
Coloring Page: I Can Learn From the Scriptures
Friend December 1988 “Do You Know” Joseph is visited by Moroni. Story and questions.
Friend December 1983 “Joseph Knight Friend to the Prophet”
Hyrum Smith Friend January 1988 “A Brother Like Hyrum”
Coming of Forth of the Book of Mormon
Friend February 2017 “Golden Plates to Book of Mormon”
Friend July 1988
Read one scripture each day. Match the highlighted scriptures to the correct picture.: Ezekiel 37:15-20, 2 Nephi 3:12; 29:8, Psalm 85:11& Mormon 8:16, Moses 7:62 & Isaiah 29:4, 2 Nephi 26:14-17, Ether1:1 & 2:11, Enos 1:15-16, Mormon 5:12-14, Revelation 14:6, 1 Nephi 1:1 & 9:5, Omni 1:8-9, Introduction to Helaman, 3 Nephi 23:4-5, 3 Nephi 23:6-14, Words of Mormon 1:1-2, Mormon 8:1 & Moroni 10:1-2, Joseph Smith History 1:30-35, D&C 27:5 & 128:20, Joseph Smith History 1:44-47, Joseph Smith History 1:48-50, Joseph Smith History 1:51-52, Joseph Smith History 1:53-54, Joseph Smith History 1:59, Joseph Smith History 1:62, Joseph Smith History 1:67 & D&C 3:preface, D&C 25:1&5-6, Isaiah 29:11, Joseph Smith History 1:61 & 63-65, 2 Corinthians 13:1 & D&C 5:4 &11&13, D&C 19:preface & 26 & 34-35, Joseph Smith History 1:60
Martin Harris Visits Professor Anthon
Teach the children about Martin Harris’s experiences with Professor Anthon and Dr. Mitchell, as recorded in Joseph Smith—History 1:62–65. Help the children understand that these events fulfilled a prophecy made by the prophet Isaiah (Isaiah 29:11–12; see also 2 Nephi 27:15–20) thousands of years before Joseph Smith’s time. (Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History: Lesson 5)
Church History Topics “Martin Harris’s Consultations with Scholars” This article tells the story and has pictures of Martin Harris and Professor Anthon.
What did Professor Anthon say when Martin Harris first showed him a copy of some of the Book of Mormon writings? (JS—H 1:64.) Why do you think Professor Anthon tore up the certificate when he learned that an angel had shown Joseph Smith where to find the gold plates? (JS—H 1:65.
Restoration of Priesthood
Three witnesses testify of the Book of Mormon.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “Ether 1–5: “Rend That Veil of Unbelief”
Moroni prophesied that the Three Witnesses would help establish the truth of the Book of Mormon.
To teach the children about the Three Witnesses, you might refer to the images in “Chapter 7: Witnesses See the Gold Plates” (Doctrine and Covenants Stories, 31–33), or the video below, and “The Testimony of Three Witnesses” in the Book of Mormon.
You could hide an object or a treat in a box and invite a family member to look inside and give the rest of the family clues to help them guess what it is. As you read Ether 5together, discuss why it is important that the Lord uses witnesses in His work. How can we share our witness of the Book of Mormon with others? Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Book of Mormon 2020 “Ether 1–5: “Rend That Veil of Unbelief””
Church is Organized
Friend May 2018 “Lucy Leads the Way” A play about Lucy Mack Smith leading a group of saints as they moved to Kirtland. Lucy had faith in the Lord and the ice blocking a harbor cleared long enough for them to get through.
Friend July 2017 “Kirtland and the Word of Wisdom” A temple is built in Kirtland and the Word of Wisdom revelation was given.
Organization of the Church
Friend May 2017 “The First Bishop”
Spreading the Gospel
Friend April 2017 “First Missionaries”
Friend August 2017 “Spreading the Gospel” Elder Woodruff’s experiences teaching the gospel in England, and Brigham Young’s experience of always having enough money in his trunk for their journey.
Friend September 2017 “Jane’s Choice- part one” Jane hears about a Mormon missionary teaching that God speaks to prophets today. She had joined a church, but still felt something was missing, so she went to listen to the Mormon missionary even though her pastor told her not to go.
Friend October 2017 “Jane’s Journey” – part two” After joining the church, Jane and her family travelled to Nauvoo. Despite much hardship, they pressed forward until they reached their goal.
Doctrine and Covenants
Friend June 2017 “The Book of Commandments” Two sisters save the printed book of commandments from a mob.
Nauvoo
Friend September 2017 “Relief Society Sisters and the Nauvoo Temple”
Friend April 1983 “Nauvoo whistling and whittling brigade”
Dan Jones–Welsh Missionary Friend October 1987
Martyrdom
Brigham Young: The Next Prophet
Friend October 2017 “A New Prophet”
Crossing the Plains
Friend November 2017 “Traveling West”
Friend January 1983 “Baked Potatoes and Milk” Martin Handcart Company
Friend January 1986 “Ellen Pucell Unthank” While crossing the plains in handcarts, Nellie’s parents died and Nellie’s feet froze and had to be amputated, but she remained faithful and thankful.
Friend July 1988 “Green Flake: Black Pioneer” A former slave was one of the first settlers in the valley.
Friend June 2017 “Mary’s Promise (part one)” Mary promises her dying step-mother that she will get the family to Salt Lake Valley even though Mary’s father is partially paralyzed from a stroke.
Willie Handcart Company
Liahona September 2021 “Bring Forth Zion”
After John and Maria Linford joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Gravely, England, in 1842, John became president of the local branch. Relatives and friends, however, did not share the joy the Linfords found in the Restoration. If they could not persuade John to give up his new religion, then they would “starve him to it” by boycotting his shoemaking business.
In 1856 the Perpetual Emigrating Fund gave John and Maria an opportunity to immigrate to the Salt Lake Valley. They sailed to New York with three of their sons. From there they traveled to Iowa City, Iowa, from which they left in July 1856 with the ill-fated James G. Willie handcart company.
Early on October 21, near the banks of the Sweetwater River in Wyoming, John spoke his last words.
“I am glad we came,” he told Maria when she asked him if he was sorry they had left England. “I shall not live to reach Salt Lake, but you and the boys will, and I do not regret all we have gone through if our boys can grow up and raise their families in Zion.”1
Crossing in Ships
Friend August 2022 “Margaret Saves the Day” While crossing the ocean to join the saints, Margaret helps stop a leak in the ship with some wool blankets.
Salt Lake City
Friend December 2021 “The Church Around the World”
Spreading the Gospel
Friend October 2019 “Serving the Lord in Spanish ” During the early years of the Church, the Book of Mormon was printed only in English. President Brigham Young called two missionaries to preach the gospel in Mexico and translate the Book of Mormon into Spanish. But they needed help. The Lord prepared someone to help them. This is the story of Meliton Gonzalez Trejo who came from Spain, joined the church, and helped translate the Book of Mormon into Spanish.
Friend March 2019 “Becoming Dr. Cannon” Mattie Hughes was excited when she heard Brigham Young encouraging women to become doctors. She worked hard and saved her money so she could go to medical school. Eventually she became a doctor and helped many people.
Friend October 1988 “Charles Smith-Watchmaker” Charles joined the church in England and came to Nauvoo and then crossed the plains with the saints. He served three missions. He endured many tribulations but stayed faithful.
Friend July 1988 “Green Flake: Black Pioneer” The story of a former slave who was one of the first settlers in the valley.
Friend April 1986 “Hulda…Ballantyne” The Ballantynes struggled to survive in the Salt Lake Valley, and Hulda continues to struggle alone while her husband goes on a mission.
Friend July 1985 ” The Deseret Alphabet” Immigrants from foreign lands had a hard time learning to write English, so a special alphabet was created to help them communicate. Link includes example of the alphabet.
Friend November 1984 “Called to Serve” – First sister missionaries
Friend April 1984 “Ellis Reynolds Shipp – Mother & Doctor” 1873
Friend February 1985 “Emmeline B. Wells”
Eliza R. Snow Friend October 1986
Children’s Organizations
Friend March 2017 “Junior Relief Society” Before the Primary was organized a group of girls in Manti started a Junior Relief Society, and they made quilts and their own song.
Utah Temple Building
Friend January 2016 “Windows before Winter” St. George members do all they can to raise money for tabernacle windows, and the Lord blesses them to obtain the rest of the amount needed
Friend June 1987 “Prayer for Food” A family struggles with having enough to eat while the father works on the Manti Temple.
Friend July 1983 “Thomas Kane – Friend of the pioneers
Friend July 1983 “William Clayton & come, come, Ye saints”
Friend May1984 “Orrin Porter Rockwell”
Friend January 1987 “George Q. Cannnon”
Immigration
Friend April 2015 “The Titanic and the Telegram” Six missionaries that are booked on the Titanic have to take a different ship home when one missionary is delayed.
Latter Day Missionary Work
Friend November 2021 “Andrew Jenson” Andrew Jensen became a church historian and travelled the world collecting member stories.
Friend April 2018 “A Long Shot: part one” When Elder Condie gave up basketball to go on a mission, he didn’t know if he would ever play again, but then he was invited to form a missionary team to help prepare Australia’s basketball team for the Olympics. He and his team mates were able to be public ambassadors for the church. May 2018 “One Shot at a Time: part two”
World War II
Friend December 2021 “ Olga Bing” After World War 2 started, church attendance started going down in Olga’s branch after the missionaries were all sent home. Olga prayed about how to make their branch strong again. She decided to invite children in the neighborhood to church class, and the children and their parents came.
Church Pageants
Friend July 2019 “For Older Kids” I got to play a part in the British pageant. I have really enjoyed portraying a wonderful girl. I have learnt the sorrow she felt and the brave personality she was. The opportunity of being in the pageant has bought me closer to the Savior, and I will never forget it! Poppy F., age 11, West Sussex, Englandnbsp;
All Worthy Men Hold Priesthood
Friend March 2020 “Anthony’s Dream” Long before the church was organized in much of Africa, and before black men could hold the priesthood, Anthony had dreamed about the church and had asked the church to send scriptures so he could learn more. He taught the villagers what he learned, and he built a chapel for them to meet in. Then the announcement came that all worthy men could hold the priesthood and that the missionaries would be coming to their village. The missionaries were surprised to find so many people ready to be baptized. Now there are over 170,000 members in Nigeria.
The Church Today
Friend December 2017 “The Church Today”
Friend July 2018 “My Week on Temple Square” Kent visits temple square and sees all the sites.Link includes video of sites.
The Making of the Book of Mormon Videos
Friend January 2020 “Book of Mormon Videos: Behind the Scenes” In 2019 the church made Book of Mormon videos to go with Come Follow Me: Book of Mormon 2020. This image shows how they made some of the videos.
Friend September 2022 “Visiting the Book of Mormon Video Set” See more at link
Church History: Activities & Games
Posted onSee Supplemental Resources for Valiant Lessons at LDS.org. This link has lots of great resources to use in lessons including visual aids, activities, videos, and games.
Reading Charts
Reformation & Restoration
Friend April 2018 “The Restoration and Me” Match the restoration event with the blessing we enjoy because of that event.
First Vision
Gold Plates
Book of Mormon Coloring Book “Moroni Buried the Gold Plates”
Joseph Smith Birthday
Friend December 2021 “Birthday Time” Joseph Smith’s birthday is on December 23. Can you find and color 23 candles in the picture below?
Aaronic Priesthood
The Three Witnesses
Book of Mormon Printing
Nauvoo
Pioneers or Crossing the Plains
Friend March 2021″Church History Animals” Early Church pioneers didn’t have cars or trains to travel in. Lots of them used horses and oxen to get around and help carry heavy things. Learn how to draw your own!
Salt Lake Valley
Friend July 2018 “Pioneer Messages” To help immigrants learn to speak and write English, Brigham Young and others created a new alphabet! Figure out the message using the Deseret Alphabet.
Review Activities
Match the important places in church history with the appropriate descriptions.
| 1. Palmyra, New York | a. Joseph Smith’s birthplace |
| 2. Cumorah, New York | b. Means “beautiful place” |
| 3. Kirtland, Ohio | c. Permanent camp along Mormon Trail |
| 4. Fayette, New York | d. First temple built by Saints |
| 5. Sharon, Vermont | e. Hill in which gold plates were hidden |
| 6. Nauvoo, Illinois | f. Church organized in Peter Whitmer’s home April 6, 1830 |
| 7. Winter Quarters, Nebraska | g. Town’s name means “honeybee” |
| 8. Great Salt Lake Valley, Utah | h. Location of Independence, the center of the new Zion |
| 9. Jackson County, Missouri | i. Destination of pioneers crossing the plains |
| 10. Carthage, Illinois | j. Joseph Smith received the First Vision |
| 11. Deseret, Utah | k. Joseph and Hyrum Smith martyred in jail |
(1) j, (2) e, (3) d, (4) f, (5) a (6) b, (7) c, (8) i, (9) h, (10) k, (11) g.
Primary History
Primary Children’s Hospital
Friend May 2022 “Find It” The Primary Children’s Hospital in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA, opened 100 years ago this month. Primary children collected coins to help the sick children who stayed there. Can you find the hidden items below? How many coins can you find?
Review
Friend January 2021 “Church History Cards” Church History Cards that could be used for a matching game or for lessons.
Friend February 2021 “Church History Cards”
Friend March 2021 “Church History Cards”
Friend April 2021 “Church History Cards“
Friend June 2021 “Church History Cards”
Friend August 2021 “Church History Cards”
Friend September 2021 “Church History Cards”
Friend October 2021 “Church History Cards”
Friend December 2021 “Church History Cards” Sister Nachie from Japan & Truman O. Angell architect of Salt Lake Temple
Song: All Things Bright and Beautiful
Posted onChildren’s Songbook pg 231
Simplified Playing Version Friend February 2018
Teaching Ideas:
Friend November 1988 “Sharing Time: All Things Bright and Beautiful”
Book of Mormon: Music & Songs
Posted onThe Book of Mormon Tells of Christ
Friend January 2020 “The Book of Mormon Tells of Christ” Song
1. When Lehi listened to the Lord, And his family left their home and riches, His sons returned back home again So they could get the scriptures.
2. So Lehi’s people knew the Lord, As the plates of brass helped them remember. When they obeyed the prophet’s voice, They prospered all together.
3. The Savior visited their land After He had risen in His glory. He blessed the children just like me; I love to read their story.
Chorus: The Book of Mormon tells of Christ And helps me feel the Holy Spirit. Heavenly Father’s voice is calling me, And the scriptures help me hear it.
Nephi’s Courage
Children’s Songbook, Nephi’s Courage, 120
Verse One Visual Aids and Teaching Ideas
Lord commanded Nephi to go and get the plates
From the wicked Laban inside the city gates.
Laman and Lemuel were both afraid to try.
Nephi was courageous. This was his reply:
“I will go; I will do the thing the Lord commands.
I know the Lord provides a way; he wants me to obey.
I will go; I will do the thing the Lord commands.
I know the Lord provides a way; he wants me to obey.”
Verse Three Visual Aids and Teaching Ideas
The Lord gives us commandments and asks us to obey.
Sometimes I am tempted to choose another way.
When I’m discouraged, and think I cannot try,
I will be courageous, and I will reply:
“I will go; I will do the thing the Lord commands.
I know the Lord provides a way; he wants me to obey.
I will go; I will do the thing the Lord commands.
I know the Lord provides a way; he wants me to obey.”
Words and music: Bill N. Hansen Jr., b. 1952, and Lisa T. Hansen, b. 1958.
Friend January 2024 “Nephi’s Courage: I Can Play It” Simplified version
The Iron Rod
Song: “Hold to the Rod“
Book of Mormon Stories
The Book of Mormon Teaches Me
Friend January 1988 “The Book of Mormon Teaches Me”
1. The Book of Mormon teaches me That Jesus is the Christ. He lived and died for you and me; With love He sacrificed. It says I must have faith, repent, And live the Savior’s word. It is another testament Of Jesus Christ, our Lord.
2. The Book of Mormon helps me see That truth has been restored, That Joseph Smith was called to be A prophet of the Lord. The book reveals God’s covenant, The fulness of His word. It is another testament Of Jesus Christ, our Lord.
3. I’ll read the Book of Mormon, then; I’ll pray and ponder too. I’ll put my faith in Jesus when I ask if it is true. And when I pray with pure intent, I’ll hear the Spirit’s word: It is another testament Of Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Jesus Appears to the Nephites
Had I Been a Child
Friend September 2016 “Had I Been a Child” Video and Music. What it might have been like to have been a child when Jesus appeared to the Nephites and blessed the children.
Had I been a child when Jesus came Unto the Nephites that blessed day And showed them the wounds in His hands and His feet And knelt with them to pray.
Then He might have held me safe in his arms; He might have looked in my eyes and said A word, with His blessing of kindness and love, His hands placed upon my head.
Someday, when the Savior comes again, Oh, how I hope that my heart will be As pure as the hearts of the children that day Who gathered around His knee.
Music Game
Friend October 1988 “Sharing Time: Fun with Favorites” print several copies of the Liahono and put a song title and a question about the song on the back. Children can move across the board as they guess the correct song.
Family: Lesson Ideas
Posted onTable of Contents
- Family
- Respecting and Standing Up for Family Members
- Families are a Treasure
- Variety in Families
- Family Happiness
- Family Proclamation
- Family Prayer
- Family Scripture Study
- Resolving Family Discord
- I Can Be Kind to My Family.
- Family Unity
- Family Council
- Families Work Together
- Family Members Help Each Other
- Helping Family Members
- Siblings
- Family Members Support & Help Each Other
- Family Love
- Stregthening the Family
- Love, Kindness, and Looking for the Good
- Families Are Forever
- Family Adversity
- Parents and Family Members Help Us
- Obeying and Honoring Parents
Family
Friend September 2020 “I Love My Family!” In Heavenly Father’s plan, we are all part of a family! We have a heavenly family and a family on earth. We can be with our families forever.
Friend July 2021 “Heavenly Father Has a Plan for Me”
Friend April 2021 Homes come in many shapes and sizes. No matter what a house is made of, it’s the people inside who are important! Trace the drawings of these homes from around the world. Then draw your own house.
Respecting and Standing Up for Family Members
Friend September 2023 “Women of Faith”
Friend September 2023 “Building Respect” When Noah’s sister and her friends walked by, a friend of Noah’s said mean things about girls, and that they didn’t want to play with them. Noah stood up for his sister and asked his friend not to say things like that.
Families are a Treasure
Ensign February 2017 President Monson tells a story about a mother who had a special treasure box. When her children opened the box, they found pictures of themselves. The mother’s treasure was her family!
True treasure isn’t gold or jewels—it’s the people you love. Whom do you love? Draw a picture of them or write their names in the treasure box.
Variety in Families
Friend June 2020 “What’s on Your Mind” Sometimes I worry about my family. How can I feel OK when my family isn’t perfect? Sometimes it might seem like other families are perfect. But every family is different, and they all have challenges. See the below pictures of families in the scriptures.
Family Happiness
Friend November 2009 “A Happy Home.” This cut-and-paste activity reminds us of the things we can do to make our homes a happier place.
Family Proclamation
Ensign January 2017 “Teaching the Proclamation to Children”
Liahona April 2024 “A Firm Foundation: Teaching Children the Family Proclamation” Ideas for helping children learn the proclamation.
Family Prayer
Friend July 2017 “For Parents of Little Ones” The importance of family prayer and ideas on how to make family prayer more meaningful.
Family Scripture Study
Friend November 2022 “Jesus Said”
Resolving Family Discord
- Ways to Resolve Family Discord
I Can Be Kind to My Family.
Jacob loves and favors Joseph, who is hated by his brothers—Joseph dreams that his parents and brothers make obeisance to him—His brothers sell him into Egypt.
Old Testament Study Guide for Home-Study Seminary Students “Unit 7: Day 3, Genesis 33–37” It may help you to understand the following: Sheaves (see Genesis 37:7) are bundles of wheat. To make obeisance (see Genesis 37:7) means to bow down before a superior to show deep respect. To rebuke (see Genesis 37:10) is to reprimand or correct. To observe (see Genesis 37:11), in this context, means to consider and reflect.
Friend May 2018 “Jacob’s Sons: Funstuff” The prophet Jacob had 12 sons. Can you find the two sons dressed exactly the same?
Old Testament Stories “Joseph’s Inspired Dreams” Illustrations
- “Joseph, Son of Israel (Part 1)” (May 1990 Friend)
An illustrated retelling of the story of Joseph’s brothers being angry and selling him into slavery.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 37–41” Joseph’s brothers were jealous of him and treated him unkindly. How can you help the children understand the importance of being kind to others, especially family members?
- To tell the story of Joseph and his brothers from Genesis 37. Let the children help by sharing details they know about the story. Ask them questions such as, “How were Joseph’s brothers unkind to him?” Help the children think of things the brothers could have done to show love to Joseph. What should we do when we feel anger toward members of our family?
Friend September 2021 “Saying the Nice Things” Jonathon wasn’t looking forward to the weekend because lately there had been more bickering and teasing in the family. He prayed for help figuring out a way to make things better. Then he had an idea for home evening. When he conducted, he started a new thing where whoever conducts says a nice thing about each family member. Everyone felt warm and happy after Jonathon said nice things about them.
Friend June 2019 “Family Night Fun” Ideas for a FHE lesson on family love. For example: Write on hearts things you love about each other or things you can do to show kindness in your family. Put the hearts around your house to remind you to show love this week. Also, make a strawberry heart shish-ka-bob for the refreshment
Ensign July 2017 Make a paper doll chain and on each doll write something you love about a family member.
Liahona June 2021 “The Godhead and Loving Others: Family Study Fun”
Spin It for a Minute
- Everyone sit in a circle. Discuss some small acts of kindness family members can do for each other.
- Place a pencil in the middle of the circle.
- Take turns spinning the pencil.
- Whoever the pencil points to must act out as many kindnesses as possible in one minute.
- Continue until each person has had at least one turn.
Friend October 2019 “Family Night Fun” Have each person write their name at the bottom of a paper and draw an outline of their head in the middle. Have everyone pass their paper to the person next to them. Add something to the head—like eyes or hair—to look like the person whose name is on the paper. Then write something nice about them on the page. Keep passing the papers, adding to the pictures and writing nice things, until everyone gets their own paper back. You can strengthen your family by being kind and seeing the best in each other!
Friend September 2016 “Family Night Fun” Musical chairs but when someone gets out have everyone say one nice thing about them. Look for the good.
Friend July 2015 – A girl learns that she controls how she reacts to annoying brother.
- Show a picture of a family (see Gospel Art Book, no. 112), or invite the children to draw pictures of their families. Ask them to share ways they can be kind to their family members.
- Let the children color this week’s activity page and, in the space provided, draw a picture of family members being kind.
- Sing together a song about loving our families, such as “A Happy Family” (Children’s Songbook, 198). What can we do to help our families be happy?
Family Unity
Write on separate pieces of paper some activities, traditions, and actions that can help develop unity within a family, such as family home evening, family prayer, family scripture study, mealtime, holiday celebrations, birthday celebrations, being kind to each other, and being unselfish.Discuss with the children what unity means and how unity can be developed within a family. To help the children identify ways that their families can develop feelings of love and unity, let each child choose a piece of paper and give clues to the other children about the activity or action described on his or her paper. Have the other children guess the activity or action. Then invite the children to tell about how that activity or action has blessed and strengthened their families.
Read Doctrine and Covenants 38:24-25 Explain that when God says something twice in a row, it is probably something that we should pay extra attention to. What does it mean to esteem someone as yourself? We need to value others as much as we value ourselves. We need each other. We need each others strength, support, and gifts and talents. Have the children tell what different parts of the body does. Explain that each part of the body is important and needed. Just like our body parts are united and working together, we need to be united as people and learn to work together as one.
To teach children what it means to “be one,” you could help them count the members of your family and talk about why each person is important to your family. Emphasize that together you are one family. You could help your children draw a large 1 on a poster and decorate it with names and drawings or pictures of each family member. You could also write on the poster things you will do to be more united as a family. You might also watch the video “Love in Our Hearts” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org) or read Moses 7:18.
Friend April 2021 “Scripture Time Fun Working Together: Jesus taught us to “be one” (Doctrine and Covenants 38:27). That means working together with the people around us to accomplish the same goal.
- Choose a partner and stand next to each other, shoulder to shoulder. Use a scarf or rope to gently tie your ankle to your partner’s. Work together to practice walking. How fast can you get safely from one place to another?
- Sing “Put Your Shoulder to the Wheel” (Hymns, no. 252).
Share an object lesson that illustrates how things can be combined or united to become one, such as pieces of cloth that make one quilt or ingredients that make one loaf of bread. What do these examples teach us about becoming one as God’s people? Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 37–40”,
Sing “We Are Different” (Children’s Songbook,140–41, 263).
1. I know you, and you know me. We are as diff’rent as the sun and the sea I know you, and you know me, And that’s the way it’s supposed to be.
2. I help you, and you help me. We learn from problems, and we’re starting to see. I help you, and you help me, And that’s the way it’s supposed to be.
3. I love you, and you love me We reach together for the best we can be I love you, and you love me, And that’s the way it’s supposed to be.
Ensign April 2021“Family Study Fun” United as One
In Doctrine and Covenants 38:27, the Savior says, “I say unto you, be one; and if ye are not one ye are not mine.” We are encouraged to be one that we “might escape the power of the enemy” (Doctrine and Covenants 38:31).
- Stand together in the center of the room.
- Choose one person to walk through the middle of the group.
- Repeat the exercise but this time as a group stand closer together, linking arms and hands if possible.
Discussion: How are we more protected from outside influences as we stand stronger and closer together? How does greater unity protect us?
Ensign August 2019 “Family Study Fun: Human Knot” (best with four-plus people) Paul tells the Saints that there should be “no divisions among” them and that they should be “perfectly joined together” in mind and judgment (1 Corinthians 1:10). Stand everyone in a circle. Have everyone reach out their right hand and take someone else’s (not next to them). Do the same with the left hand, taking a different person’s hand. Work together to untangle the knot without letting go of any hands. End up in a circle again. Discussion: What can we do as a family to be more “joined together”? How can we work together to remove divisions?
Family Council
Friend July 2017 “What is a Family Council?” A family council is a meeting on any day of the week. It can be with just you and a parent or with your whole family.
Families Work Together
Friend March 2018 “Funstuff” Have the family work together to put together the tangram puzzle of the house. Explain that when family members each help contribute to building a strong, happy family then all the pieces of family life fit together properly and harmoniously.
Friend July 2017 “Busy Like a Bee” Elder Ballard tells how bees work together to strengthen the hive.
Friend May 2024 “Helping at Home”
Family Members Help Each Other
Friend January 2023 “How Can Your Family Help Each Other?”
I Love My Family, and I Can Help Care for My Family.
Doctrine and Covenants Scripture Stories “The Saints in Nauvoo”
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 125-128”
- Share with the children the information about Brigham Young in “Chapter 50: The Saints in Nauvoo” (Doctrine and Covenants Stories, 184), or summarize Doctrine and Covenants 126 in your own words. Then read Doctrine and Covenants 126:3 to the children, emphasizing the phrase “take especial care of your family.” What does it mean to take care of our families? Help the children think of ways they can show love to their family members.
- Before class, invite the children to bring a picture of their family (or ask them to draw pictures). Then ask them to share something they love about their family. Share a picture of your family, and do the same. Explain why Heavenly Father wants us to care for our family members. Sing a song that teaches this truth, such as “When We’re Helping” (Children’s Songbook, 198).
- Read together Doctrine and Covenants 126:3. Why might Heavenly Father have asked Brigham Young to “take especial care of [his] family”? How can we do the same for our families? Make a list of the things we can do now to serve our families. How will doing these things help us become more like Heavenly Father?
- Share with the children Sister Carole M. Stephens’s story about her grandson Porter (see “We Have Great Reason to Rejoice,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2013, 115). What did Porter do to take care of his family? How can we follow his example?
Latter Day Kids “Serving in Our Families” Lesson ideas
Reading this counsel to Brigham Young might inspire your family to talk about how you might spend more time taking “especial care of” (verse 3) each other.
Friend November 2021 “Scripture Time Fun for Little Ones” Take turns saying nice things about each other. Help your little ones say, “I love my family.”
Friend April 2021 “Scripture Time Fun”
Helping Family Members
Friend January 2017 “Show & Tell” My three-month-old baby sister woke up crying from her nap while my mom was in the shower. I sang Primary songs to her, and she smiled at me. I kept singing to her until my mom was able to get her. Nora R., age 4, Virginia, USA
Friend November 2022 “A Happy Helper” Felix helps his mom get ready for Grandpa’s visit. Activity: Heavenly Father wants us to help others. Point to ways these children are helping.
Siblings
Friend May 2017 ” Conference Notes” Sister Jones told the story of five-year-old Lizzie and her big brother, Kevin. Kevin’s dad asked him if he would promise not to tease Lizzie for one day. Kevin agreed. He kept his promise! Then his mom asked him to try not teasing Lizzie for two days. He kept his promise again! Sister Jones said that when we keep our promises, we are learning to make and keep sacred covenants.
What this teaches me:
New Baby in Family
Friend November 2016 “For Parents of Little Ones” Ideas on how to help a child adjust to having a new baby brother or sister.
Friend November 2023 “Helping Baby Brother” Lashia has a new baby brother and her mom and dad are very busy and she feels lonely. Her mother suggests that she help take care of the baby. She and her younger sister found lots of ways to help. She was glad she could help her baby brother, and her mom and dad too!
Friend January 2017 “Show & Tell” At a stake conference broadcast, Elder Hales talked about not raising our voices. I am trying not to raise my voice at my brothers. Jackson P., age 7, Tennessee, USA
Friend June 2022 “The Big Brother List” Andrew’s little sister, Samantha, kept playing with his things. One day Andrew drew a picture for his grandma, but his sister drew all over it and ruined it. He was tired of being a big brother. His mom suggested he write down some things he liked doing with her. He realized that there were lots of good things about being a big brother!
Friend August 2022 “Activity Time” Jamal is learning to share his toys with his little sister. Can you find the items below?
Helping Mother
Friend October 2022 “Jesus Helped His Mother”Jesus Christ went to a wedding in Cana. His mother, Mary, was there. She told Jesus that they were out of wine. Jesus asked His mother what she wanted Him to do. He performed a miracle and turned water into wine. Jesus loved His mother and helped her.
Friend October 2022 “Jesus Helped His Mother” My mom is allergic to dogs. We went to my friend’s house, and they have a dog. When we got home, my mom had hives on her face. I gave her an ice pack, a pillow, and a blanket. Soon her hives started to clear up. I am happy I helped my mom. (see image at link) Penelope B., age 9, Utah, USA
Family Members Support & Help Each Other
Family Love
Friend April 2021 “Scripture Time Fun for Little Ones” Show your little ones how to make a heart shape with their hands while saying, “I love my family.” Look through picture books or photos and help your child practice saying names of family members.
Live Together in Love
Friend September 2020 “Loving Our Families” Cut out the strips of paper and put them in a bowl. After you do one of the activities, add a link to your chain of hearts.
Friend June 2019 “Family Night Fun” Ideas for a FHE lesson on family love. For example: Write on hearts things you love about each other or things you can do to show kindness in your family. Put the hearts around your house to remind you to show love this week. Also, make a strawberry heart shish-ka-bob for the refreshment
Ensign July 2017 Make a paper doll chain and on each doll write something you love about a family member.
Friend June 2017 “Hope for My Family” Henry B. Eyring: The hope of feeling family love now and throughout eternity.
Write the name of each family member on separate pieces of paper. Pass these papers around from person to person. On each page, each person writes what they love most about the family member whose name is at the top of the paper. Ensign January 2016
Stregthening the Family
Friend November 2021 “Conference Notes”
Friend April 2017 “Be Consistent and Keep Trying” Elder Bednar persisted in having family prayer and scripture study and in trying to get his father to join the church, and his persistence paid off.
I can be a good example to my family.
Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 As you read 1 Nephi 16:21–32 together, help your children discover how Nephi’s example blessed his family (see also the video “The Lord Guides Lehi’s Journey” [Gospel Library]). This could lead to a discussion about how we could be like Nephi. Invite your children to plan one thing they can do to be a good influence on other family members.
The Cozy Red Cottage Example match game cards also include truthful, forgiving, peacemaker, kind & loving, unselfish. (The link to download the free printables is at the end of the post.)
Friend March 2011″Daniel’s Example of Prayer” Daniel sets an example for his grandparents who aren’t members of the church.
Friend March 2011 “Being a Good Example”
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020: 1 Nephi 11-15 Assign each child to draw a picture of something from the story of Nephi’s broken bow (see 1 Nephi 16:14–32), such as Nephi, a bow, or the Liahona. Then use the pictures to tell the story to the class, and let the children take turns doing the same. How can we be like Nephi when our families are going through hard times?
The Red Crystal How would someone with faith and hope react to the following situations? How would someone who is murmuring react?
The Cozy Red Cottage The manual states, “Perhaps your family could contrast Nephi’s account of traveling in the wilderness (see 1 Nephi 17:1-6) with his brothers’ account (1 Nephi 17:17-22). Why do you think they saw the same events differently? What can we learn from Nephi about having a faithful perspective?”
(Could write responses to the above situations on this form.)
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020: 1 Nephi 11-15 Invite the children to each cut out a paper circle and draw a sad face on one side and a happy face on another. As you tell the story of Nephi’s broken bow, invite them to use the faces to show how Nephi’s family was feeling during different parts of the story. How did Nephi help make his family happy? What can we do to make our families happy?
Our Homes Can Be “Holy Places.”
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 85-87”
No home is perfect, but there are things we can all do to make our homes into holy places of peace.
- Explain to the children that Joseph Smith was worried about things that were happening in the world. Summarize the heading to section 87, or read “Chapter 30: A Revelation about War” (Doctrine and Covenants Stories, 117–18; see also the video on ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Ask the children to listen for things that might have made Joseph worried. To teach what the Lord said we should do about those problems, read Doctrine and Covenants 87:8.
- Show a picture of a temple, and share why the temple is a holy place. Show a picture of a home, and help the children think of ways they can make their homes holy like the temple (see this week’s activity page). Why do we want to be in holy places?
Friend August 2021 “Bright Idea”
To introduce a discussion about how to make your home a holier place, you could invite family members to design a home for someone who loves the Savior. This may lead to ideas about how to “redesign” your home to make it a place of peace amid the spiritual danger in the world. Songs like “Love at Home,” “Home Can Be a Heaven on Earth” (Hymns,nos. 294, 298), or “Where Love Is” (Children’s Songbook, 138–39) could give you ideas.
Friend October 2016 “How can I help make my home a peaceful place?”
“Establish … a House of God.”
Doctrine and Covenants 88:119–26
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 88”
The Lord’s instructions regarding the “house of God” can be a helpful guide for us as we build our lives and our homes.
- Invite the children to choose seven words that describe their home or another home they’ve visited. Then ask them to read Doctrine and Covenants 88:119 and find the seven words the Lord uses to describe His house. Help the children think of ways they can make their homes a “house of God.”
- Give each child a phrase from Doctrine and Covenants 88:119–26 to draw. When they show their pictures to each other, let the children search the verses to guess what phrase each picture represents.
- Write on the board Do and Don’t. Invite the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 88:119–26 and list things the Lord wanted the Saints to do or not do to prepare to learn in the temple. They could look up unfamiliar words in a dictionary. Invite the children to choose something that they will start doing or something they will stop doing.
Liahona August 2021 Organize Yourselves
Our homes can follow this pattern: “Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing; and establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a house of God” (Doctrine and Covenants 88:119).
Organize means to arrange things in order or to prepare an activity or event.
Organize your family in different ways:
- Have them stand in line from oldest to youngest.
- Have them stand in alphabetical order, according to their first name.
- Have them line up according to the month of their birth.
Discussion: How does the Savior want us to organize ourselves (1) in our household jobs, (2) in our spiritual study, (3) in our worship at church and in the temple?
What goals can your family set to create a “house of God”?
To inspire your family to make your home like the description in verse 119, try something like this: Write phrases from this verse on strips of paper, and use them to cover a picture of the temple. Read Doctrine and Covenants 88:119 together, and let family members remove each strip of paper as they hear the corresponding phrase in the verse. What can we do to make our home a “house of God”? (verse 119).
Friend August 2021 “Scripture Time Fun: Building a Happy Home”
- Sing “Home Can Be a Heaven on Earth” (Hymns, no. 298).
- Heavenly Father wants us to “establish … a house of God” (Doctrine and Covenants 88:119). He wants us to make our homes holy places like the temple, where we can feel the Holy Ghost.
- Read “The Important Guest” on page 4. Then build a house out of blocks, sticks, or other items you can find. Every time you add a piece to the house, say something you can do to make your home a place where the Holy Ghost feels welcome.
Building our homes with the Lord
Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 What does it mean for the Lord to help us “build [our] house”? (Psalm 127:1). How can we better involve Him in our efforts to create a righteous home? To help your family answer this question, you might draw a house on a piece of paper and cut it into puzzle pieces. On the back of each piece, family members could write or draw ways to make the Lord part of your home. Then you could put the puzzle together. What else do we find in these psalms that inspires us to walk in the Lord’s ways?
Hubbard’s Cupboard Click on the link to print the 6 pieces of this house. The children (or family members) could each write a way to create a righteous home on the front of a piece and then they could build the house together. Or each child (or family member) could draw a part of the house on a paper or chalkboard as they mention ways make a righteous home.
Love, Kindness, and Looking for the Good
Liahona June 2021 “The Godhead and Loving Others: Family Study Fun”
Spin It for a Minute
- Everyone sit in a circle. Discuss some small acts of kindness family members can do for each other.
- Place a pencil in the middle of the circle.
- Take turns spinning the pencil.
- Whoever the pencil points to must act out as many kindnesses as possible in one minute.
- Continue until each person has had at least one turn.
Discussion: What acts of kindness can we do for our neighbors, ward members, ourselves? How can even small, simple acts lead to great things?
Friend October 2019 “Family Night Fun” Have each person write their name at the bottom of a paper and draw an outline of their head in the middle. Have everyone pass their paper to the person next to them. Add something to the head—like eyes or hair—to look like the person whose name is on the paper. Then write something nice about them on the page. Keep passing the papers, adding to the pictures and writing nice things, until everyone gets their own paper back. You can strengthen your family by being kind and seeing the best in each other!
Friend September 2016 “Family Night Fun” Musical chairs but when someone gets out have everyone say one nice thing about them. Look for the good.
Families Are Forever
SECTION 131
1–4, Celestial marriage is essential to exaltation in the highest heaven; 5–6, How men are sealed up unto eternal life is explained; 7–8, All spirit is matter.
SECTION 132
Revelation given through Joseph Smith the Prophet, at Nauvoo, Illinois, recorded July 12, 1843, relating to the new and everlasting covenant, including the eternity of the marriage covenant and the principle of plural marriage. Although the revelation was recorded in 1843, evidence indicates that some of the principles involved in this revelation were known by the Prophet as early as 1831. See Official Declaration 1.
1–6, Exaltation is gained through the new and everlasting covenant; 7–14, The terms and conditions of that covenant are set forth; 15–20, Celestial marriage and a continuation of the family unit enable men to become gods; 21–25, The strait and narrow way leads to eternal lives; 26–27, The law is given relative to blasphemy against the Holy Ghost; 28–39, Promises of eternal increase and exaltation are made to prophets and Saints in all ages; 40–47, Joseph Smith is given the power to bind and seal on earth and in heaven; 48–50, The Lord seals upon him his exaltation; 51–57, Emma Smith is counseled to be faithful and true; 58–66, Laws governing plural marriage are set forth.
Heavenly Father Made it Possible for Families to be Together Forever.
Through Joseph Smith, the Lord restored the ordinances and authority needed to make these relationships eternal (see Doctrine and Covenants 132:7, 18–19).
Doctrine and Covenants 131:1–4; 132:15, 19
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 129-132”
Through the Lord’s sealing power and the ordinances of the temple, our family relationships can last eternally if we keep our covenants.
- Help the children think of examples of things that do not last forever—food that spoils, flowers that wither, and so on. Show a picture of your family, and share how you feel about them. Testify that the Lord has made it possible, through the ordinances of the temple, for families to last forever.
- Open the Doctrine and Covenants to section 132, and tell the children that this is a revelation to Joseph Smith about marriage and families. Show them verse 19, and point to the words “through all eternity” as you read them. Invite the children to read these words with you.
- Help the children make paper dolls representing members of their family (see this week’s activity page). Cut them out, and put them in an envelope or attach them together with a paper clip to represent the sealing power that can make our families eternal.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 129-132”
Regardless of our current family situation, we can make choices now that will prepare us to receive the blessings of an eternal family in the future.
- Ask some of the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 131:1–4 and others to read 132:15. Help them discover what these verses teach about marriage. Select key phrases from 132:19 (such as “if a man marry a wife,” “everlasting covenant,” “sealed,” “abide in my covenant,” “through all eternity,” and “forever and ever”), and ask the children to find these phrases in the verse. What do these phrases teach us about marriage?
- Sing “Families Can Be Together Forever” (Children’s Songbook, 188), or review “Chapter 55: A Revelation about Marriage” (Doctrine and Covenants Stories, 198). Ask the children to listen for and be prepared to share what we must do so that our families can be eternal. Testify that no matter our current family situation, we can prepare ourselves to be part of an eternal family.
- Ask some of the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 131:1–4 and others to read 132:15. Help them discover what these verses teach about marriage. Select key phrases from 132:19 (such as “if a man marry a wife,” “everlasting covenant,” “sealed,” “abide in my covenant,” “through all eternity,” and “forever and ever”), and ask the children to find these phrases in the verse. What do these phrases teach us about marriage?
- Sing “Families Can Be Together Forever” (Children’s Songbook, 188), or review “Chapter 55: A Revelation about Marriage” (Doctrine and Covenants Stories, 198). Ask the children to listen for and be prepared to share what we must do so that our families can be eternal. Testify that no matter our current family situation, we can prepare ourselves to be part of an eternal family.
Doctrine and Covenants Coloring Book “Eternal Marriage”
Friend November 2021 “Scripture Time Fun for Little Ones”
Draw a picture of a temple together. Have each person help draw one part. Help your little ones say, “Temples bless our family.”
Friend November 2021 “Scripture Time Fun”
- Sing “Families Can Be Together Forever” (Children’s Songbook, 188).
- Jesus taught that families are important. In the temple, we can be sealed to our families forever (see Doctrine and Covenants 132:19).
- Make a family tree! Have each family member make a paper leaf and write their name on it. On another paper, draw a tree trunk. Then glue or tape the leaves to the top of the tree.
Friend November 2021 “Families Are Forever” Coloring Page
Additional Teaching Resources
- Doctrine and Covenants Historical Resources “Doctrine and Covenants 129-132“
- Institute Doctrine and Covenants Student Manual “Chapter 51: Doctrine and Covenants 131; 132:1–33”
Friend March 2018 “What’s on Your Mind” A child wants to know how his family will be together forever if his parents are divorced.
Friend June 2017 “Hope for My Family” Henry B. Eyring: The hope of feeling family love now and throughout eternity.
Ensign August 2016 “The Hope of Eternal Family Love” Because of Jesus Christ’s Atonement and the restoration of priesthood power to seal families, we can live with our families forever! What do you love about your family? Follow these instructions to make this paper chain to celebrate your family.
Fold a piece of paper in half twice so you have one long strip.
Draw a person with hands reaching the folded edges.
Cut the person out. Don’t cut where the hands touch the folded edges.
Unfold it. Write or draw something you love about each family member.
Tape multiple chains together if you have a larger family!
Make a family banner with the family name on it, and then draw pictures of what is important to your family, like the temple, love, Jesus, etc.
- Sing together the second verse of “Families Can Be Together Forever” (Children’s Songbook, 188) or another song about families. Help the children think of ways they can prepare to be married in the temple someday and have an eternal family.
Friend October 2023 “Remembering Abuela” Lyan and her family were celebrating “Day of the Dead” . But this year was different because her grandmother was one of the family members they would remembering. Lyan missed her grandmother. But her mother helped her remember that because of Jesus Christ, they would all be resurrected. And since they were sealed in the temple, they would all be together as a family someday.
Family Adversity
Divorce
Friend August 2015 “Help! Someone’s Getting a Divorce” – responses to children’s concerns.
Parents and Family Members Help Us
Friend October 2020 “What’s on Your Mind” Ways to help children talk to parents about important things even when they are embarrassed or scared.
Friend April 2016: “I Need to Talk” Lesson on how to teach children to talk to a parent about a problem
Heavenly Father Wants Parents to Teach Their Children.
Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 5; Moses 6”
From the time of Adam and Eve, parents have been commanded to teach their children the gospel. How can you encourage the children to listen to and follow the righteous teachings of their parents?
- Read Moses 6:58 to the children, and show the picture of Adam and Eve’s family in this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families. Help the children repeat the phrase “teach these things freely unto your children.” Explain that God wants all parents to follow Adam and Eve’s example by teaching their children about Jesus Christ and His gospel. Ask the children what they can do when their parents or others teach them the gospel.
- Help the children match pictures of themselves to their parents or pictures of baby animals to adult animals. How do parents help their children? What do they teach them? Ask the children to draw pictures of their families at times when parents teach children, such as reading the scriptures together, praying together, or eating together.
Parents are Responsible to Teach Their Children.
God trusts parents to be the primary gospel teachers in their families. How can you encourage the children to support their parents in this role?
- Ask a child to read Moses 6:58. What commandment did Heavenly Father give to parents in this verse? Show a picture of Adam and Eve teaching their children (see this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families), and let the children talk about what they see in the picture. Encourage them to talk about important gospel truths they have learned from their families.
- Help the children write thank-you notes to their parents or plan other simple ways to express their appreciation for their parents. Sing a song about families, such as “Love Is Spoken Here” (Children’s Songbook, 190–91). How can we help our parents create a loving atmosphere in our homes?
Latter Day Kids “Teach These Things” Lesson ideas to go with the below video.
Friend March 2019 “A Lesson From My Parents” Color the pictures and circle the things a parent or other family member has taught you. What else can you think of?
Friend February 2018 ”Adam and Eve Taught their Family”
Coloring Page: “Adam and Eve Teach Their Children” (Feb. 2010 Friend)
Obeying and Honoring Parents
Parents and Marriage
Marriage is Ordained of God
United We Stand Pair up two people of relatively equal size. Have them sit on the floor back to back, arms linked. Have them stand up by pushing off each other. Repeat, but this time have only one person push.
Discussion: Why is having two people work together easier? Read “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” (see Ensign,May 2017, 145). What roles do fathers and mothers have? How do they work together?
When One or Both Parents Don’t Attend Church
Special
Friend July 2018 “Family Night Fun” Fill a poster with words and pictures of what your family does to make your home special.
Testimony: Stories
Posted onWhy We Need a Testimony
Friend October 2017 “Elder Perry, Chickens, and Me” Elder Perry slips and falls in the dark as he helps Bonnie feed the chickens. He teaches that everyone needs their own light.
What is a Testimony
Friend August 2021 “Anna Shares Her Testimony” Anna learns what a testimony is, and then she shares her testimony at family home evening.
Friend January 2019 “Testimony Plants” In Primary, the children were supposed to draw a plant that represented their testimony, but Elisa wasn’t sure what that meant or if she had a testimony. She learns that a testimony is the things she believes in like Heavenly Father and Jesus. She also learns that testimonies grow and need to be nourished.
Friend February 2021 “Finding Sabrina’s Testimony” Sabrina didn’t know what a testimony was or if Heavenly Father answered prays. But in Primary she heard a story about a boy that had a quiet answer to his prayer. She learned that simple feelings and thoughts can be answers to prayers. She had a good feeling about being baptized and realized that it was the Holy Ghost telling her it was a good choice. After her baptism she got up and bore her testimony.
Gaining a Testimony
Friend January 2022 “Dinis Finds an Answer” Dinis and his family had joined the church, but a couple of years afterwards Dinis was questioning that decision. He knew he needed to ask God if the Church was true. He prayed harder than he ever had before. Then Dinis felt something. The feeling was strong and warm. It grew until he felt it all over his body. He knew it was the Holy Ghost telling him that the church was true.
Friend May 2020 “Conference Notes” Elder Tai told about a man who read the Book of Mormon Stories picture book to gain a testimony. The full Book of Mormon wasn’t in his language. So he carefully read each scripture story and looked at the pictures. He prayed and felt peace and joy. He knew it was true.
Friend January 1988 “Juliano’s Testimony” Juliano learns that even children can receive testimonies.
Friend April 2016 “Ethan’s Testimony” Ethan wants a testimony. It seems like everyone has one except him. As he prays he realizes he does have one.
Friend April 2021 “Matt and Mandy” Matt and Mandy and their parents discuss sustaining during conference. They also discuss how they can know that the prophet is called of God like the fifth Article of Faith states.
Praying for a Testimony
Friend December 2015 Elder Christopherson learned that it isn’t necessary to pray in a special place (such as in the sacred grove) in order to gain a testimony.
Bearing a Testimony
Friend September 1988 “The Best Gift” Adam’s primary teacher tells the class they will receive something special if they sincerely bear their testimony in sacrament. The other children think it’s a treat from the teacher, but Adam learns it is a witness from the Holy Ghost that the things he is saying are true.
Friend March 2020 “For Older Kids” “A couple of Sundays ago during sacrament meeting, it was time for people to go up and share their testimonies. Suddenly I got an urge to go up to the microphone and tell everyone my testimony. I was shaking, but I knew I could do it. No matter how scared you feel, you should try to share your testimony. It doesn’t have to be to the whole church. It can even be to one person!” Ruth G., age 10, Nebraska, USA
Sharing Testimony
Friend August 2020 “Matt and Mandy” Mandy shares with her friend a time when she prayed about the Book of Mormon and felt it was true. She also shared that she is still praying and reading to help her faith grow stronger.
Friend May 2023 “Conference Notes”
Friend November 2019 “Jesus is Real” Everyone at Ismay’s table at school were excitedly talking about Christmas and their favorite traditions such as going to a church service. Suddenly Charlotte spoke up and said, “Jesus isn’t even real.” Ismay was sad to hear this and she quietly bore her testimony to Charlotte that Jesus was real, and that she felt it in her heart. She was glad she had spoken up and planted a seed about Jesus.
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Friend August 2018 “A Shining Testimony” Christian children at a school in Sri Lanka were asked to share their testimony, but everyone was too afraid. Stefani felt the Holy Ghost telling her to go and do it. After she did, she felt like she had been a light and an example to the assembly. (Link includes photos.)
Friend April 2018 “Jesus is Our Friend” At the doctor’s office Carson asks a lady to read him a book about Jesus. He tells her that Jesus is his friend and that Jesus loves them and if they follow Jesus they will be happy.
Friend January 2019 “Something Special to Share” Diego wants to take something special to share for Show and Tell. He decides to take a picture of Jesus and tell them that Jesus loves everyone.
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Friend February 2016 “Testimony Treasure” Sabrina learns that a testimony is a treasure you want to share with others.
Friend August 2015 – Elder Cook’s brother shares his testimony with him. After that he wanted his own witness from the Holy Ghost.
Friend October 2015 “My Golden Ribbon Dance” – Girl shares her testimony in a dance using church pictures and music
Friend June 2015 “Mia’s Testimony” Mia prays for a testimony but doesn’t feel any different Her father points out the times she has felt the Holy Ghost in her life witnessesing of the truth
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Strengthening a Testimony
Praying Strengthens Testimony
Friend May 1988 “The Testimony of a scientist” A scientist prays for a dying fish and his faith and testimony is strengthened when the fish recovers its health.
Friend January 2018 “Moroni and the Mechanic” When Elder Costa’s car breaks down while driving home with his family, his son, Moroni, says a prayer for the right person to come and help them. A mechanic with a tow truck stops and helps them. Moroni’s testimony is strengthened.
For the Strength of Youth July 2024 “Instant Answers” A girl learns that testimony takes effort so maybe there are instant answers online for everything.
