Tag Archives: teaching children

Jan 24 2022

Moses 7

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Old Testament Stories “Enoch the Prophet” Images, story, and video

God Wants Us to Love Each Other.

Moses 7:18

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Moses 7”

These verses describe characteristics of the people of Zion. How can you help the children begin to develop these characteristics?

  • Help the children think of actions related to the phrase “one heart and one mind” (Moses 7:18). Explain that this phrase means that the people of Enoch loved and were kind to each other. Invite them to use this week’s activity page to draw a way they can show love.

Friend January 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Building Love

Story: Enoch and his people built a city called Zion. The people in Zion were righteous and “were of one heart and one mind” (Moses 7:18). That means they loved and cared for each other. They didn’t fight or hurt each other.

Song: “Love at Home” (Hymns, no. 294)

Activity: Read Moses 7:19–21. Then build a city with blocks, stones, or sticks. As you build, talk about how you can make your family more like Zion. You can send pictures of your finished city to the Friend!

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Moses 7”

  • Sing a song about loving one another, such as “Love at Home” (Hymns, no. 294). Bring pictures that illustrate key phrases in the song to help the children learn the words. Ask the children to share ways they can show love to each other in Primary and in their homes. Then let them act out their ideas.

Moses 7:18–19.

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Moses 7”

To help family members visualize what it means to be “of one heart,” maybe you could make a paper heart and cut it into puzzle pieces, enough for each family member to have one piece. Family members could write their name on their piece and then work with each other to put the heart together. While completing the puzzle you might talk about things you love about each family member.

We Can be Unified like the People of Zion Were.

Moses 7:18–21, 62–63, 68–69

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Moses 7”

As you read about Zion, reflect on examples of unity that you have seen. How can you help the children learn to become unified like Enoch’s people were?

  • Ask the children to look for words that describe Enoch’s people, also known as Zion, as they read Moses 7:18. Write these words as headings at the top of the board, and invite the children to write, under each heading, things they can do to be more like Enoch’s people. After they share, ask the children how they can make their homes more like Zion. They might find some ideas in 4 Nephi 1:15–18.
  • Ask the children to count how many times the word “Zion” appears in Moses 7:18–21, 62–63, 68–69. Each time the word appears, help the children identify what the verse says about Zion (see also Guide to the Scriptures, “Zion,” scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). How can we be more like the people described in these verses?
  • Use this week’s activity page to help the children think about ways they can be “of one heart and one mind” (see Moses 7:18).

Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History “Lesson 16: The Saints Gather to Kirtland, Ohio,” 

Read Doctrine and Covenants 38:24-25  What does it mean to esteem someone as yourself? We need to value others as much as we value ourselves. 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, we need to be united as people [and help, support, and take care of each other.]

The Redwood trees are joined together as one.

“The giant redwood trees that grow in northern California [USA] … have a very shallow root system. But when they are surrounded by other redwood trees, the strongest, fiercest wind cannot blow them over. The roots of the giant redwood trees intertwine and strengthen each other. When a storm comes, they actually hold each other up” (Conference Report, Oct. 1994, p. 103; or Ensign, Nov. 1994, p. 78).

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.

God Cares about His Children.

Moses 7:28–33

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Moses 7”

You can help the children learn that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ care deeply about us and our actions.

  • Ask the children what might cause God to weep (see Moses 7:28–31). Invite the children to search Moses 7:32–33, 37 for answers. What do these verses teach us about how God feels about His children? How do we know that God loves us? Share your testimony of God’s love for us.
  • Toss a bean bag or a ball to a child. Ask him or her to finish the phrase “I can make God happy by …” and then toss the object to another child. Repeat until every child has had a turn.
  • Help the children think of things that make Heavenly Father happy. Read Moses 7:28 with the children, and explain that Heavenly Father was sad because the people were very wicked (see verses 32–33).
  • Let the children draw a happy face on one side of a piece of paper and a sad face on the other side. Name some good actions, like saying a prayer, and some negative ones, like telling a lie, and ask the children to hold up the happy face or sad face to show how Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ would feel about each choice.
  • Invite the children to play a game in which they act out things they can do that make Heavenly Father happy. Ask the other children to guess what they are doing. Share with each of the children something you have seen them do that makes Heavenly Father happy.

Jesus Christ Will Come Again in the Last Days.

Moses 7:59–67

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Moses 7”

In his vision, Enoch saw the latter days, including the Savior’s Second Coming. How can you help the children look forward to the Second Coming?

  • Tell the children to imagine that a special guest is coming to visit them. What would they do to prepare for the visit? Share the Lord’s words to Enoch in Moses 7:60: “I [will] come in the last days.” What are some ways we can prepare for Jesus to come again?
  • Show pictures of times when the Savior appeared to people (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 60, 82, 83, and 84). What are the people doing in the pictures? How might the people have felt when they met Jesus? Let the children share how they feel about seeing Jesus when He comes again.
  • Sing a song about the Savior’s Second Coming, such as “When He Comes Again” (Children’s Songbook, 82–83), and ask the children what they think it will be like when Jesus comes again.

As you read about the Second Coming in Moses 7:60–67, think of how to teach the children about it in a joyful way.

  • Read together Moses 7:60–67, and help the children identify things the Lord says will happen in the last days. Ask them which of these events they are looking forward to and why.
  • Invite the children to talk about a time when they waited for someone to visit or to return home. How did the children feel? What did they do to get ready? How can we prepare to see Jesus again?
  • Show a picture of the Savior’s Second Coming (for example, see Gospel Art Book, no. 66). Let the children draw their own pictures of the Second Coming, based on what they read in Moses 7:60–67.
  • Read together Moses 7:60–67, and help the children identify things the Lord says will happen in the last days. Ask them which of these events they are looking forward to and why.
  • Invite the children to talk about a time when they waited for someone to visit or to return home. How did the children feel? What did they do to get ready? How can we prepare to see Jesus again?
  • Show a picture of the Savior’s Second Coming (for example, see Gospel Art Book, no. 66). Let the children draw their own pictures of the Second Coming, based on what they read in Moses 7:60–67.

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Moses 7”

As your family reads Moses 7:59–67, try marking or noting things the Lord tells Enoch about the last days—for example, that God will “gather out [His] elect” (verse 62) and that there will be “great tribulations among the wicked” (verse 66). How can we have faith and hope despite the wickedness in the last days? As part of this discussion, consider reading these words from Elder Ronald A. Rasband: “Take heart, brothers and sisters. Yes, we live in perilous times, but as we stay on the covenant path, we need not fear. I bless you that as you do so, you will not be troubled by the times in which we live or the troubles that come your way. I bless you to choose to stand in holy places and be not moved. I bless you to believe in the promises of Jesus Christ, that He lives and that He is watching over us, caring for us and standing by us” (“Be Not Troubled,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2018, 21).

Additional Resources

Lesson 7: Enoch and a Zion People,” Primary 6: Old Testament(1996), 27–30

Old Testament Coloring Book “Enoch and the People of Zion”

  • “Enoch” (December 1994 Friend)
    A retelling of the story of Enoch.
  • “Enoch Builds Zion” (October 1998 Friend)
    A retelling of the story of Enoch. Includes figures to use in telling the story.
  • “Follow the Prophet” (May 2001 Friend)
    A retelling of the story of Enoch. Includes figures to use in telling the story.
  • “Being Like a Missionary” (January 2010 Liahona and Friend)
    Learn about and color a picture of Enoch and then draw clothing on a boy to show what missionaries look like today.
  • “The City of Enoch” (April 2002 Friend)
    Create a moving picture to use in telling the story of the city of Enoch being taken up to heaven.
  • “City of Enoch” (December 1994 Friend)
    Solve this code to figure out why the people in the city of Enoch were so righteous.

Liahona January 2022 “Old Testament Art: Enoch and the City of Zion” Illustration by Justin Kunz

  1. 2. Enoch was a prophet; he taught what was good.People in his city did just what they should.When they were so righteous that there was no sin,Heav’nly Father took them up to live with him.

Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Building Zion” Lesson ideas

Scripture Explorers “The City of Zion”

Latter Day Kids “Building Zion” Lesson ideas to go with the below video

Jan 17 2022

 Genesis 5; Moses 6

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Genesis Chapter 5

The generations of Adam are Adam, Seth, Enos, Cainan, Mahalaleel, Jared, Enoch (who walked with God), Methuselah, Lamech, and Noah (who begat Shem, Ham, and Japheth).

Moses Chapter 6

Adam’s seed keep a book of remembrance—His righteous posterity preach repentance—God reveals Himself to Enoch—Enoch preaches the gospel—The plan of salvation was revealed to Adam—He received baptism and the priesthood.

Old Testament Stories “Adam and Eve’s Family” Images and Video

Book of Remembrance

Genesis 5; Moses 6:5–25, 46.

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 5; Moses 6” Reading about the “book of remembrance” that Adam and Eve’s family kept may inspire your family to make your own book of remembrance. Discuss as a family what you would like to include. Maybe you have photos, stories, or documents from your family history. You might choose to include things that are happening in your family now. What will future generations find valuable? You could also discuss how the phrases “by the spirit of inspiration” (Moses 6:5) and “the pattern given by the finger of God” (Moses 6:46) could guide your efforts. Consider saving information from your book of remembrance on FamilySearch.org.

Scripture Stories Coloring Book: Pearl of Great Price “Adam’s Book of Remembrance”

Friend January 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Family Testimony Book”

Story: Adam and Eve’s family made a “book of remembrance” (Moses 6:5). They wrote about Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father’s plan. This book was the beginning of the scriptures.

Song: “Love Is Spoken Here” (Children’s Songbook, 190–91)

Activity: You can make a book of remembrance too! Ask everyone in your family to write down their testimony of Jesus Christ. Then attach the pages together to make a book. Add it to your treasure box on page 30.

God Can Help Me Do Hard Things.

Moses 6:26–34

Liahona January 2022 “Who Was Enoch”

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 5; Moses 6”

When Enoch was called to preach the gospel, he worried that he would fail. But God helped him do great things.

  • Ask the children to share a time when they were asked to do something that was hard or scary for them. Share the story of Enoch’s call to be a prophet, found in Moses 6:27, 31–34 (see also “Enoch the Prophet” in Old Testament Stories). Emphasize that although Enoch did not feel ready to be a prophet, God promised to help him. Help the children understand some ways God helps us when we are asked to do hard things.
  • Share some scriptural examples of when God helped people do difficult things—for example, Noah building the ark, David fighting Goliath, Ammon defending the king’s flocks, or Samuel the Lamanite preaching. (For pictures and scripture references, see Gospel Art Book, nos. 7, 19, 78, 81.) Share an experience when the Lord helped you do something difficult.
  • Read Moses 6:26–34 with the children. Why did Enoch feel that he couldn’t preach the gospel? (see Moses 6:31). How did God help Enoch? (see Moses 6:32–34; 7:13).
  • Invite the children to name some difficult things that children their age sometimes do (such as completing an assignment for school, being kind to someone who is unkind, or telling the truth when they have made a mistake). Help the children find phrases in Moses 6:32–34 that can help them. Ask the children to share a time when God helped them do something difficult. Share your own experiences too.

New Era December 2020 “Not Ice-olated” Object lesson that demonstrates that with the Lord’s help, we can lift even the heaviest, slipperiest burdens.

Friend August 2020 “Maddy’s Courage” Maddy didn’t want to start school because she was afraid. Her mom reminded her of sometimes we have to do brave and hard things, such as Daniel facing the lions, or Nephi crossing the ocean, or Esther talking to the king. And just like Heavenly Father helped all of those people, He would help her too.

The Gospel Teaches Me How to Return to Heavenly Father.

Moses 6:50–62

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 5; Moses 6”

God taught Adam what we need to do to return to Him—have faith, repent, be baptized, and receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. How can you help the children learn more about these things?

  • Find or draw pictures to represent faith, repentance, baptism, and the gift of the Holy Ghost (see this week’s activity page). Place the pictures in a line leading to a picture of Jesus Christ. Read Moses 6:52 to the children, and ask them to stand next to the correct picture when they hear the words the picture represents (in this verse, the word “believe” is used for “faith”).
  • Sing songs that teach the principles in Moses 6:52, such as “Faith,” “Help Me, Dear Father” (verse 2), “When I Am Baptized,” and “The Holy Ghost” (Children’s Songbook, 96–97, 99, 103, 105). Help the children understand that doing the things taught in the songs will help us return to Heavenly Father.

Faith, repentance, baptism, and receiving the Holy Ghost prepare me to return to God.

Adam and Enoch taught their people the first principles and ordinances of the gospel: faith, repentance, baptism, and receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost (see also Articles of Faith 1:4). What can you do to help the children understand the importance of these principles and ordinances in their lives?

  • Ask the children to read Moses 6:52, 57 to find the principles and ordinances of the gospel mentioned in the fourth article of faith.
  • Write the fourth article of faith on the board, and invite the children to read it. Then erase a word or two, and ask them to read it again, filling in the missing words from memory. Repeat this process until the children have learned the article of faith.
  • Invite the children to write a short talk about faith, repentance, baptism, or receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost—something they could share with their families. Each talk could include a scripture, an experience, and a testimony. The talk could also explain how the principle helps us return to Heavenly Father.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 49-50”

  • Display four paper footprints and four pictures representing believing in Jesus Christ, repenting, being baptized, and receiving the Holy Ghost. Read Doctrine and Covenants 49:12–14, and ask the children to point to the correct picture when each is mentioned in the verses. Let the children help you place the footprints on the floor with the pictures beside them, and invite the children to take turns walking on the footprints. Bear your testimony that when we do the things in these pictures, we are following Jesus Christ.
  • Use this week’s activity page to make finger puppets that can help the children learn how they can follow Jesus Christ by having faith, repenting, being baptized, and receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 5; Moses 6”

Moses 6:53–62.

How would we answer Adam’s question found in Moses 6:53? What answers do we find in verses 57–62?

How would we answer Adam’s question found in Moses 6:53? What answers do we find in verses 57–62?

Moses 6:59.

What does it mean to be “born again into the kingdom of heaven”?

To have the Spirit of the Lord cause a mighty change in a person’s heart so that he has no more desire to do evil, but rather desires to seek the things of God. (Guide to the Scriptures, “Born Again, Born of God” scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org) For additional information click on link.

What can we do to continue to be born again throughout our lives?

Scripture Stories Coloring Book: Pearl of Great Price “4th Article of Faith”

  • Post pictures of principles and ordinances on board and have children tell which is a principle and which is an ordinance. (But first explain what the difference between a principle of the gospel and an ordinance is. – A principle is a basic doctrine or law. An ordinance is a sacred ceremony with spiritual meaning that is performed by someone with priesthood authority.) Pictures might include the following: prayer, confirmation, sacrament, baptism, temple marriage, service, tithing, repentance, etc.
Friend March 2000
Friend March 2000 Link includes some sharing time and music time ideas.

Friend April 2011 link includes discussion info.

Friend April 2011

Friend June 2011 link includes discussion info

Friend June 2011

Friend March 1988

Friend March 1988

Friend July 2003

Friend July 2003

Moses 6:58

Heavenly Father Wants Parents to Teach Their Children.

Moses 6:57–58

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)

Additional Resources

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 5; Moses 6”

.Moses 6:61.

What do we learn about the Holy Ghost from this verse?

Moses 6:63.

What are some of the things that “bear record of [Christ]”? (see also 2 Nephi 11:4). Consider inviting family members to share something that they see “in the heavens above” or “on the earth” that helps them learn about Jesus Christ. For example, how do trees, rocks, or the sun remind us of the Savior? What do the titles “living water” and “bread of life” teach us about Him? (John 4:10–14; 6:35).

Jan 9 2022

Genesis 3–4; Moses 4–5

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Friend February 2018 “Adam and Eve”

Video

Old Testament Stories “Adam and Eve” Images and video

Pearl of Great Price Coloring Book “Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden”

The Fall of Adam and Eve was Part of God’s Plan.

Lesson 4: The Fall of Adam and Eve,” Primary 6: Old Testament  Place the picture of Adam and Eve next to the one of God the Father and Jesus Christ. Explain that when Adam and Eve lived in the Garden of Eden, they could walk and talk with Heavenly Father and Jesus. To help the children understand why the result of Adam and Eve’s choice is known as the Fall, take the picture of Adam and Eve and move it down below the picture of God the Father and Jesus Christ as you tell of Adam and Eve eating the forbidden fruit. Adam and Eve “fell” or were removed from the presence of God. Explain that because Adam and Eve could no longer freely associate with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, this is referred to as the Fall. Adam and Eve’s separation from Heavenly Father and Jesus began mortal life on earth.

Old Testament Seminary Student Material

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 3–4; Moses 4–5”

The Garden of Eden was beautiful. But Adam and Eve needed something more than beautiful surroundings. They needed—and we all need—an opportunity to grow. Leaving the Garden of Eden was the necessary first step toward returning to God and eventually becoming like Him. That meant facing opposition, making mistakes, learning to repent, and trusting the Savior, whose Atonement makes possible progression and “the joy of our redemption” (Moses 5:11). So when you read about the Fall of Adam and Eve, focus not on the seeming tragedy but on the possibilities—not on the paradise Adam and Eve lost but on the glory their choice allows us to receive.

Because of the Book of Mormon and other latter-day revelations, we have a unique perspective on the Fall. For example, consider what the prophet Lehi taught his family about Adam and Eve in 2 Nephi 2:15–27. How do Lehi’s teachings clarify what happened in the Garden of Eden and help us understand why it was important?

Genesis 3; Moses 4,5:10–11

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 3–4; Moses 4–5” If Adam and Eve had stayed in the Garden of Eden, they would not have had children and would not have progressed to become like Heavenly Father. We are grateful for their choice to partake of the fruit because this choice made possible our mortal life and our opportunity for eternal life.

  • To summarize the story of the Fall of Adam and Eve, use “Adam and Eve” (in Old Testament Stories). Help the children understand that Adam and Eve’s choice to eat the fruit was part of Heavenly Father’s plan.
  • Give each child a picture that represents something from the story of Adam and Eve (such as a tree, a snake, a garden, or Jesus Christ). Ask them to hold up their picture at the right time as you tell the story and read phrases from Moses 4. This week’s activity page might be helpful.
  • Invite the children to work together to tell the story of the Fall of Adam and Eve in their own words. Share verses from Genesis 3 to help them.
  • Help the children find in Moses 4:22–25, 29; 5:10–11 the consequences of Adam and Eve eating the fruit (see also 2 Nephi 2:19–25). Why is their choice a blessing to us? How did the Savior help us overcome sin and death?

“Garden of Eden” (Sept. 2006 Liahona and Friend) Use finger puppets to tell the story of Adam and Eve

Because of Jesus Christ, I Can Repent and Live with God Again.

Moses 5:4–15

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 3–4; Moses 4–5” Heavenly Father sent Jesus Christ to rescue us from the consequences of the Fall. Through His atoning sacrifice, Jesus made it possible for us to be resurrected after we die and forgiven of our sins when we repent.

  • Write two titles on the board: Because of Adam and Eve and Because of Jesus Christ. Help the children identify the consequences of the Fall as you read together Moses 4:25; 6:48; Romans 5:12; 2 Nephi 2:22–23. Let them write what they learn under the first title. Then help them identify how Jesus Christ overcame sin and death as you read together Moses 5:8–11, 14–15; 6:59; Alma 11:42. Let them write what they learn under the second title. Why are we thankful for Jesus Christ?
  • Show a video about the Savior’s Atonement, such as “Because of Him” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Invite the children to share how they feel about Jesus Christ.

Lesson 4: The Fall of Adam and Eve,” Primary 6: Old Testament  To help the children understand the fall of Adam and Eve and to have a desire to return to the presence of Heavenly Father.

  1. Place the picture of Adam and Eve next to the one of God the Father and Jesus Christ. Explain that when Adam and Eve lived in the Garden of Eden, they could walk and talk with Heavenly Father and Jesus. To help the children understand why the result of Adam and Eve’s choice is known as the Fall, take the picture of Adam and Eve and move it down below the picture of God the Father and Jesus Christ as you tell of Adam and Eve eating the forbidden fruit. Adam and Eve “fell” or were removed from the presence of God. Explain that because Adam and Eve could no longer freely associate with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, this is referred to as the Fall. Adam and Eve’s separation from Heavenly Father and Jesus began mortal life on earth and was an important step in the great plan of happiness.
  2. At the top of a piece of paper or on the chalkboard write the words Because of Adam and Eve and invite the children to share ideas that fit under this heading, such as:
    • We could choose to be born on the earth.
    • We know good from evil.
    • We became separated from Heavenly Father.
    • We will someday die.Help the children understand that we were happy to have the chance to come to earth (see Job 38:7). We would not have had this opportunity if Adam and Eve had not partaken of the forbidden fruit. We needed a chance to prove that we could choose good over evil. Gaining a physical body, having the privilege of choice, being separated from God, and being subject to death were all part of Heavenly Father’s plan for us to become like him.Write another heading: “Because of Jesus Christ.” List and explain the following blessings:
    • We will live again after we die.
    • We can return to Heavenly Father if we will repent.
    • We have a perfect example to follow.Give the children each a piece of paper and pencil and have them write Because of Adam and Eve at the top and Because of Jesus Christ in the middle. Encourage the children to take the paper home and discuss with their families the things we have and the things we will be able to do because of Adam and Eve and Jesus Christ.
  3. Ask the children to think of opposites—such as happy and sad, hot and cold, hard and soft, smooth and rough, heavy and light, high and low, or fast and slow—to illustrate the importance of opposition (see 2 Nephi 2:11, 15). Let the children describe their experiences with opposites. To help them get started, you might use the following examples: After someone has been sick, they can better appreciate feeling well. Or without darkness, you cannot recognize light, which is why you cannot see the stars during the day. To illustrate this second example, you might bring a flashlight and show how its light is barely noticeable in a well-lit room, but the light is much brighter when you darken the room.

Gospel Media “Adam and Eve”

I Have the Power to Choose.

Moses 4:1–4

  • • In the preexistence Satan had a plan to destroy the freedoms and agency of the people who came to earth. What did Satan hope to gain from implementing his plan? (Glory and power)
  • • What would life be like without agency? To help the children imagine what it might be like to live under Lucifer’s plan, tell them that for the next few minutes they must do exactly what you say and nothing else (make sure they know they cannot talk). Have them stand and remain standing perfectly still for a few seconds. Then tell each child where to sit. (Do not sit friends near each other.) Tell the children they must sit erect, feet flat to the floor, looking straight ahead, not moving or speaking. Have them hold the position until you tell them otherwise. After about thirty seconds, let them stand again and sit where they want. (Walk in His Ways pg 62)

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 3–4; Moses 4–5”

In Moses 4:3, we learn that Satan “sought to destroy the agency of man, which I, the Lord God, had given him.” How will you help the children appreciate the ability to choose between right and wrong?

  • Talk to the children about some choices you made today, and help them think about choices they made. Read to them from Moses 4:3: “The agency of man, which I, the Lord God, had given him.” Explain that this verse teaches us that God has given us the ability to make choices. Express your gratitude that you are able to choose the right, and testify that the children can also choose to do what is right.
  • Share a few simple examples of a child making a right choice or a wrong choice, and ask the children to indicate if the choice is right or wrong (they might stand up, hold up signs, or raise their hands). Bear your testimony that Heavenly Father will help us choose the right, and invite the children to share their feelings as well.
  • Help the children think of good choices they can make to follow Jesus Christ. Sing together a song about making good choices, such as “Choose the Right Way” (Children’s Songbook, 160–61). Tell the children about a time when you made a good choice, and talk about how you felt because of your choice.
  • Consider a simple object lesson like the following to illustrate the importance of making our own choices: Invite the children to color this week’s activity page, but give them only one color to use. Why would it be better to have choices in this situation? Read together Moses 4:1–4 to talk about why choices are important in God’s plan.
  • Invite the children to share a personal experience when they had to choose between right and wrong. Let them discuss the possible consequences of each choice.

Coloring Page: “Jesus created the earth as a place where I can learn to choose the right.” (Jan. 2012 Friend)

Friend January 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Good Choices Toss”

Story: In the Garden of Eden, Eve chose to eat the fruit of the tree of knowledge. She offered the fruit to Adam. He also chose to eat the fruit. (See Moses 4:12.) After they ate the fruit, they learned the difference between right and wrong.

Song: “Choose the Right Way” (Children’s Songbook, 160–61)

Activity: Sit in a circle and toss a ball around. When you catch the ball, tell about a good choice you made this week.

Old Testament Coloring Book “Adam and Eve”

Friend February 2020 “Layla Makes Good Choices”

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “2 Nephi 1-5” Make a booklet about the ways we are like Adam and Eve, such as we have agency

Friend Feb 2011

Friend Feb 2011

Latter Day Kids “Free to Choose” Lesson ideas

Why is agency so important to God’s plan that Satan would want to destroy it?

Friend January 2012 “Agency Is the Gift to Choose for Ourselves”

Moses 5:4, 8

I Can Pray to Heavenly Father.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 3–4; Moses 4–5”

  • Read Moses 5:4 to the children. Help them understand that when Adam and Eve left the Garden of Eden, they couldn’t be with Heavenly Father anymore, but they could pray to Him. Explain that we pray to Heavenly Father in the name of His Son, Jesus Christ (see Moses 5:8). What are some things we can say to Heavenly Father in our prayers?
  • Ask the children to show you actions they do when they pray. You could also show a picture of someone praying (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 111–12) to teach the children that bowing our heads, folding our arms, and closing our eyes helps us to be reverent when we pray.
  • Share a personal experience with prayer or your testimony of prayer. Sing with the children a song about prayer, such as “A Child’s Prayer” (Children’s Songbook, 12–13).

Friend January 2021 “Talking to My Heavenly Father” Action Rhyme

Friend July 2018 “Arturo’s Family Prayer” Choose which picture shows respect and reverence for Heavenly Father during prayer.

Additional Resources

Friend January 2022 “Scripture Hero Cards”

Gospel Art Picture: “Adam and Eve Kneeling at an Altar”

F
Friend July 2015

Friend Jan 2015

Friend Jan 2015

Memorizing Tip: Adam and Eve were the first two people to live on the earth, and Article of Faith 2 is about Adam.

To transgress means to break a law or commandment. In the Garden of Eden, God told Adam and Eve not to eat the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, but they ate it anyway. We are each responsible for our own decisions. We can’t be punished for someone else’s sins.  (Friend Jan 2015)

See also Teaching Children the Gospel “2nd Article of Faith”

Old Testament Stories “Adam and Eve’s Family” Images and Video

Friend February 2018 ”Adam and Eve Taught their Family” Link also includes info about Adam and Eve and how we can be like them.

Coloring Page: “Adam and Eve Teach Their Children” (Feb. 2010 Friend)

Gospel Media “Adam and Eve Teaching Their Children”

Come Follow Me With Living Scriptures” Free to Choose” Lesson ideas

Lesson 5: Adam and Eve and Their Family Offered Sacrifices,” Primary 6: Old Testament (1996), 18–22 To help the children want to always remember Jesus Christ.

Lesson 6: Adam and Eve Lived the Gospel of Jesus Christ,” Primary 6: Old Testament (1996), 23–26 To help the children understand that the gospel of Jesus Christ is eternal and is based on truths that will help us gain exaltation.

Jan 5 2022

Church History: The First Vision

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Table of Contents

The First Vision

Videos

Doctrine and Covenant Stories “Joseph Smith’s First Vision”

Latter Day Kids “If Any of You Lack Wisdom” Lesson ideas

Images

Illustrated Story

New Era February 2020 “Joseph’s Search for the Truth”

“The First Vision” (March 2008 Friend)

Friend October 2017 “Jesus Visited Joseph”

Friend April 2020 “Jesus Christ’s Church Is Restored!”

Friend November 2019 “James Taught the Gospel”

Friend November 2023 “James Says “Ask of God”

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.

Flannel Board Figures

Cutout Figures: “Joseph Smith’s First Vision” (March 2008 Friend)

Friend February 2001 “Joseph Smith’s First Vision”

Shadow Box/ Diorama Figures

Friend January 2001 “The First Vision”

Friend January 2025 “First Vision Diorama”

Friend January 2025

For younger children: Go on a walk somewhere peaceful, just like Joseph Smith went to a grove of trees to pray. Tell your little ones the story of the First Vision as you walk.

Illustrations

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Joseph Smith—History 1:1–26: “I Saw a Pillar of Light”

Friend January 2025 “Cover”

Paintings

Gospel Art Picture: “First Vision”

Gospel Art Picture: “The First Vision”

Lesson Ideas

“Joseph Smith … had questions.”

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “The Restoration of the Fulness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ”

  • It might be interesting to your children to explore some of the questions Joseph Smith had that led to the Restoration of the Savior’s gospel. Help them find some examples in Joseph Smith—History 1:10, 29, 68. How are we blessed today because God answered Joseph Smith’s questions?

Which Church to Join?

Primary 5 Manual “Doctrine and Covenants and Church History” “Lesson 1: Joseph Smith and the First Vision,”  (See the lesson for additional story, activity, and question ideas.)

Ask a child to leave the room for a moment. Show the two containers to the rest of the class without letting them see inside. Divide the class into two groups and give each a container. Tell the children in each group that when the child who left the room returns, they are to try to persuade him or her to choose their container. Invite the child to return to the room and choose one of the containers. Ask the child who chose the container questions such as the following:

  • Why did you choose that container?
  • How did you feel when others were trying to tell you what to do?

Explain that when Joseph Smith was fourteen years old, he was confused about a choice he needed to make. He was trying to decide which church he should join. Other people tried to help him choose a church, but he only became more confused. He felt that he needed more information to make a wise decision: he wanted to know which church was true. Joseph’s situation was similar to that of the child who had to choose between the two containers. Everyone wanted him to choose their church, but he did not know which church was the right choice.

Why was Joseph confused about which church he should join? (JS—H 1:5–10.)

New Era February 2020 “Joseph’s Search for the Truth”

God can answer my questions through the scriptures.

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “Joseph Smith—History 1:1–26” and CMF for D&C Primary 2021

  • Consider showing your children a variety of books, (like an encyclopedia or a cookbook), and help them think of questions these books could answer. Then show them a copy of the scriptures. What questions can these books answer? Then you could read together Joseph Smith—History 1:10–11 to find out what questions Joseph Smith had and what answers he found in the scriptures.
  • Your children might be able to find words in verse 12 that describe how reading James 1:5 affected Joseph. Then you could share experiences with each other in which a passage of scripture had a powerful influence on you.

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.)

Friend November 2023 “James Says “Ask of God”

Heavenly Father hears and answers prayers.

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “Joseph Smith—History 1:1–26” and CMF for D&C Primary 2021

To start a discussion about how we communicate with Heavenly Father, perhaps you and your children could ask each other questions using various communication methods, like a text message, a phone call, or a handwritten note.

How do we ask questions to Heavenly Father? How do we show Him that we love and honor Him in our prayers? Read together Joseph Smith—History 1:16–19 and discuss how Heavenly Father answered Joseph Smith’s prayer. You and your children could then share experiences when you asked God for help and received an answer.

New Era February 2020 “Joseph’s Search for the Truth”

Read with the children Joseph Smith—History 1:10–14. Invite the children to find things Joseph Smith did to receive answers to his questions. How can we follow Joseph’s example when we have questions?(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “James”)

Help the children repeat the phrase “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God” (James 1:5). How do we ask God questions? How does He answer us? (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “James”)

Friend November 2023 “I Can Ask God”

Little LDS Ideas “Answers to Prayers from Heavenly Father Come in Many Ways” Includes lesson ideas

Friend January 2005 “Coloring Page: Heavenly Father Hears and Answers My Prayers”

Share your testimony that God answers prayers, and testify that the children can pray to Him when they have questions.

Joseph Smith saw Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ.

Joseph Smith—History 1:17–19

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025 “Joseph Smith—History 1:1–26” and CMF for D&C Primary 2021

  • Young children might enjoy standing with outstretched arms pretending to be trees in the Sacred Grove while you tell them about the First Vision. Ask the children to sway as if being blown by the wind while you talk about Joseph praying. Then ask them to stand very still and quiet when you tell them Heavenly Father and Jesus appeared to Joseph.

Gospel Art Picture: “The First Vision”

  • Older children might enjoy using one or more of the pictures in this outline to tell you what they know about the First Vision. Encourage them to refer to Joseph Smith—History 1:14–17 and to share their thoughts and feelings about Joseph’s experience (see also “Chapter 2: Joseph Smith’s First Vision,” in Doctrine and Covenants Stories, 9–12, or the corresponding video in Gospel Library).

Ensign January 2021 “How can I Know for Myself” What can we learn from Joseph’s example? How can we “know for ourselves” what is true? He read the scriptures. He asked God in prayer. Sometimes we have to wait for answers. He put effort into finding answers to his questions.

Friend June 2015

Friend June 2015

Sing together “A Child’s Prayer” (Children’s Songbook, 12–13). Youtube video

I can remain true to what I know, even if others reject me.

Joseph Smith—History 1:21–26

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Joseph Smith—History 1:1–26: “I Saw a Pillar of Light”

  • Read together Joseph’s testimony in Joseph Smith—History 1:25. Ask the children to look for words and phrases that show Joseph’s faith. How can we remain faithful to God and our testimonies when other people disagree with us?

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.

What We Learn from the First Vision

Primary 5 Manual “Doctrine and Covenants and Church History” “Lesson 1: Joseph Smith and the First Vision,”  (See the lesson for additional story, activity, and question ideas.)

For the Strength of Youth January 2025 “Looking for Jesus Christ”

When Heavenly Father appeared to Joseph Smith, the first thing He said was “Joseph” (see Joseph Smith History 1:17). Not “you’ve made a lot of mistakes,” or “I don’t have time for you.” It seems like the first thing Heavenly Father did in restoring the gospel was to make sure Joseph knew that his Father in Heaven knew him and loved him.

The second thing He did was to introduce Jesus Christ. “This is my Beloved Son. Hear Him!” (Joseph Smith History 1:17). Among all the doctrine, eternal truths, principles, and organization to be restored, two things God wanted Joseph (and us) to know upfront were:

  • God knows you personally and loves you.
  • Jesus Christ is the Son of God, and we need to listen to what He has to say.

Review Activities

Friend January 2018

Media Library “The Desires of My Heart” & “The First Vision” (April 2009 Friend)
A quiz with questions about the First Vision from Joseph Smith—History

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Joseph Smith—History 1:1–26: “I Saw a Pillar of Light”

  • To review the account of the First Vision, write summaries of each verse from Joseph Smith—History 1:14–19 on separate slips of paper. Place the papers in a container, and invite the children to choose them one by one and place them on the board in the correct order.

Songs

Joseph Smith’s First Prayer/ Oh, How Lovely was the Morning

Joseph Smith’s First Prayer: Music & Video – Friend January 2017

[Verse 1]
Oh, how lovely was the morning!
Radiant beamed the sun above
Bees were humming, sweet birds singing
Music ringing thru the grove
When within the shady woodland
Joseph sought the God of love
When within the shady woodland
Joseph sought the God of love

[Verse 2]
Humbly kneeling, sweet appealing—
‘Twas the boy’s first uttered prayer—
When the pow’rs of sin assailing
Filled his soul with deep despair;
But undaunted, still he trusted
In his Heav’nly Father’s care;
But undaunted, still he trusted
In his Heav’nly Father’s care

[Verse 3]
Suddenly a light descended
Brighter far than noonday sun
And a shining, glorious pillar
O’er him fell, around him shone
While appeared two heav’nly beings
God the Father and the Son
While appeared two heav’nly beings
God the Father and the Son

[Verse 4]
“Joseph, this is my Beloved;
Hear him!” Oh, how sweet the word!
Joseph’s humble prayer was answered
And he listened to the Lord
Oh, what rapture filled his bosom
For he saw the living God;
Oh, what rapture filled his bosom
For he saw the living God

The First Vision

Friend April 2020 “The First Vision” Music and Video

  • 1. Joseph had a question about the way to go, So faithfully he studied to help his knowledge grow. A scripture struck his heart, inviting him to pray, And Joseph knew that he could ask for God to show him the way.
  • 2. Seeking peaceful quiet, he chose a grove of trees And prayed with all his power for God to hear his plea. The Father and the Son descended from above To answer Joseph’s question and restore the gospel with love.
  • 3. From that wondrous vision, more revelations flowed. The Lord restored the gospel so everyone can know: The heavens are not closed; the Savior speaks today. He calls a prophet in our time to guide our steps in His way.
  • Chorus: He prayed in faith and heaven answered. The Father and the Son knew his name. I kneel to pray. I know God loves me And hears my prayers the same.

This is My Beloved Son

Verse 3:
Joseph saw two glorious beings
Shining brighter than the sun.
God again presented Jesus:
“This is My Beloved Son. Hear Him!”

On a Golden Springtime

Music: “On a Golden Springtime” (Children’s Songbook, 88)

Third Verse: On a golden springtime, in a forest glade, The Father and the Son appeared as Joseph knelt and prayed. Awake, awake, O nations all! Receive the gospel light! The gospel true is here for you. Receive its glorious light!

The Sacred Grove

Music: “The Sacred Grove” (Children’s Songbook, 87)

The Sacred Grove was green and fresh, The morning sun shone bright around, As Joseph knelt in fervent prayer, As Joseph knelt in fervent prayer Upon that sacred ground.

The Father and the Son appeared. They spoke to him as with one voice. Their message answered all his fears, Their message answered all his fears And made his heart rejoice.

My Own Sacred Grove

Friend January 2025 “My Own Sacred Grove” I Can Play It

Joseph Smith went to a grove full of trees; Seeking Gods wisdom, he fell to his knees. As he pled with the heavens, the sky filled with light, And the Father appeared with His Son, Jesus Christ, Standing above in the air Coming to answer his prayer.

Chorus: I will find my own sacred grove. Away from all of the noise in the world. I will turn to prayer, For I know He’s there I will find my own sacred grove.

So many choices with so much at stake. Life’s full of pathways, but which should I take? If I lift up in prayer in the name of the Son, Through the pow’r of the Holy Ghost answers will come. Heavenly Father is there, Ready to answer my prayer.

Historical Sites of the First Vision

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.

Jan 5 2022

Genesis 1–2; Moses 2–3; Abraham 4–5

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Pearl of Great Price Coloring Book “Planning the Creation”

Jesus Christ Created the Earth Under the Direction of Heavenly Father.

Moses 2

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 1–2; Moses 2–3; Abraham 4–5” Knowing about the Creation can help the children feel God’s love and increase their appreciation for the world. How can you make learning about the Creation inspiring?

  • Show the children pictures of things that represent different periods of the Creation (as described in Moses 2; see also “The Creation of the Earth” in Old Testament Stories), and help the children think of actions to go along with the pictures. For instance, they could make a fist to represent dry land or wave their arms like waves of water (see Moses 2:9–10). Share your testimony that Jesus Christ made these things because He and Heavenly Father love us.
  • Sing a song about things Jesus Christ created for us, such as “The World Is So Lovely” (Children’s Songbook, 233). Ask the children to draw pictures of the creations described in the song.

  • Help the children think of times when they made something by following another person’s directions. For example, maybe they have made a recipe with a parent or sibling guiding them. Write Who created the earth? on the board, and invite the children to find the answer in Moses 2:1. Testify that Jesus Christ created the earth under the direction of Heavenly Father.
  • Assign each child verses in Moses 2 related to one of the days of creation, and ask him or her to draw a picture of the things Heavenly Father and Jesus created on that day. Ask the children to hold their pictures and stand in the order of the days of Creation, and then invite each child to teach the rest of the children what happened on the day they were assigned. What do we learn about Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ from the story of the Creation?

Old Testament Stories “The Creation of the Earth” Images and Video

Latter Day Kids “The Creation” Lesson ideas

Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “The Creation” Lesson ideas

Creation Lesson for Little Ones – Teaching the creation story using flannel figures.

 Friend March 2002 “For Little Friends”  Place the correct picture and label on the chart according to which “day” it took place in the creation (one square will get two pictures). Check your answers in Genesis 1:1-27, and move pieces to their correct position as needed (Visuals: Black and white game board. Note: Color cardstock can be used for the game boards.)

Old Testament Coloring Book “The Creation”

Pearl of Great Price Coloring Book “The Creation”

Liahona January 2022 “The Creation”

The earth was created by Jesus Christ under Heavenly Father’s direction so that we could have a place to live, learn, and use our agency to make good choices (see Abraham 3:24–26).

The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that to “create … does not mean to create out of nothing; it means to organize, the same as a man would organize materials and build a ship.”1 The Hebrew word for “create” means to shape, fashion, organize, and form (see Genesis 1:1; Abraham 3:24).

President Russell M. Nelson explained that “the physical Creation itself was staged through ordered periods of time,” not calendar days. “Whether termed a day, a time, or an age, each phase [of the Creation] was a period between two identifiable events—a division of eternity.”2

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 1–2; Moses 2–3; Abraham 4–5”

While there’s a lot we don’t know about exactly how the world was created, ponder what you learn about the Creation from what God has revealed in Genesis 1:1–25; Moses 2:1–25; and Abraham 4:1–25. What do you notice in these accounts that is similar? What do you notice that is different?

How can you make learning about the Creation fun for your family? You could take your family on a search outside for the kinds of things that were made during each period of the Creation story, such as stars, trees, or animals. You might also show pictures of things created in each period and invite family members to put the pictures in order after reading one of the accounts of the Creation together. What do these creations teach us about Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ?Genesis 1; Moses 2; Abraham 4.

One way to approach the Creation story is to invite your family to find how many times in Genesis 1 or Moses 2 God calls the things that he made “good.” What does this suggest about how we should treat God’s creations—including ourselves? What do we learn from the way these events are worded in Abraham 4?

Genesis 1:28; Moses 2:28; Abraham 4:28. What does it mean to “have dominion … over every living thing that moveth upon the earth”? (see also Doctrine and Covenants 59:16–21). How can our family fulfill our responsibility to care for the earth?

Friend January 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Thankful Memory Game

Story: Heavenly Father told Jesus Christ to create the earth for us to live on (see Genesis 1–2). Jesus created plants and animals for us to take care of. We can be thankful for the earth.

Song: “My Heavenly Father Loves Me” (Children’s Songbook,228–29)

Activity: Now play a game! The first person says, “I am thankful for …” and then says something Heavenly Father and Jesus created. The next person repeats it and then adds something new. Keep going around in a circle as long as you can.

Liahona January 2022 “God’s Plan Is for You: Come, Follow Me Family Fun”

Stewards over the Earth: Moses 2:28 explains that humankind was given dominion over all living things. President Russell M. Nelson said, “We should care for the earth, be wise stewards over it, and preserve it for future generations” (“The Creation,” Liahona, July 2000, 104).

  1. Go on a short walk around the area you live in or look at pictures and videos of beautiful landscapes.
  2. Point out different parts of the environment that you notice. This could be plants, animals, or landforms.
  3. Notice each living thing and discuss specific ways we can take care of them and the environment around them.

Discussion: In what ways do Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ take care of us? How can we follow Their examples as we take care of the living things around us? In what ways can our actions show our gratitude for God’s creations? (Submitted by Mitzi Schoneman)

Creation Charades: President Russell M. Nelson taught: “Grand as it is, planet Earth is part of something even grander—that great plan of God. Simply summarized, the earth was created that families might be” (“The Creation,” Liahona, July 2000, 104).

  1. Study the days of Creation with your family (found in Genesis 1–2; Moses 2–3; or Abraham 4–5). See “The Creation” from this issue for a summary.
  2. Each person can take a turn acting out a day or part of the Creation.
  3. The rest of the family members guess the day or the part of Creation that was chosen.

Discussion: Follow up by reading Abraham 3:22–27 together. How can knowing God’s purpose for creating the earth affect our daily lives? How can we better show appreciation for God’s creations?(Submitted by Brenda Slade)

Additional Resources

Teaching Children the Gospel: Creation & Resources for Teaching Children “Creation”

I Was Created in God’s Image.

Moses 2:26–27

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 1–2; Moses 2–3; Abraham 4–5” When children understand that they were created in God’s image, they can develop a sense of reverence and respect for their own and others’ bodies.

  • Help the children repeat “I, God, created man in mine own image” several times (Moses 2:27). Explain that Heavenly Father created our bodies to look like His. Invite the children to point to parts of their bodies as you name them, or sing a song about our bodies, such as “Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes” (Children’s Songbook, 275).
  • Invite the children to act out things they can do with their bodies, while the other children guess what they are doing. Invite the children to share why they are grateful for their bodies.
  • Draw an outline of a body on paper, and make a puzzle by cutting it into parts. Pass the parts out, and let the children work together to put them together to form a body. Ask the children to share the things they can do with each of the parts. Share your testimony that our bodies are created in God’s image.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 129-132”

  • [Using the picture below invite the children] to point to His eyes, mouth, and other parts of His body. Then invite them to stand and point to those same parts of their own bodies. Read from Doctrine and Covenants 130:22: “The Father has a body of flesh and bones … ; the Son also.” Testify that our bodies are like Heavenly Father’s and Jesus’s bodies.
Friend August 2016
Friend August 2016

Friend November 2020 “Like Him”

LessonPix “Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes” Song idea. Print the pictures, cut them apart into cards, and then use them to sing the song. To make the song more interesting, have the children mix up the pictures on the top two rows and/or the bottom two rows and then have them do the actions and sing the words in their mixed up order.

Head Shoulders Knees & Toes

Visual support to sing Head Shoulders Knees & Toes.

Friend May 2017 “At the Playground” Emilie uses different parts of her body while at the playground.

Friend August 2019 ” My Body”  An action rhyme about the things “my body” can do.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 1–2; Moses 2–3; Abraham 4–5” The world will give children many false messages about their bodies. The doctrine in Moses 2:26–27 is powerful motivation to respect and care for our bodies.

  • Read together Moses 2:26–27. What do these verses teach us about our bodies? Show the video “God’s Greatest Creation” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org), or play the game “Your Body Is a Temple” (Friend, Aug. 2019, 24–25). You could also read together related quotations from President Russell M. Nelson’s message “Your Body: A Magnificent Gift to Cherish” (New Era, Aug. 2019, 2–7) that will help the children feel gratitude to Heavenly Father for their bodies.
  • Draw a figure of a body on the board, and invite the children to choose a part of the body and write next to it why they are thankful for it. Express your gratitude for your body, and testify that we were created in God’s image.

Friend August 2019 “Your Body is a Temple” Activity comparing how the body is like a temple.

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 1–2; Moses 2–3; Abraham 4–5” Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ are Creators. They can transform us into the beautiful creations we were meant to be. That’s part of what it means to be created in God’s image, after His likeness (see Genesis 1:26). We have the potential to become like Him: exalted, glorified, celestial beings.

For additional teaching ideas see Teaching Children the Gospel “Body” and Resources for Teaching Children “Body”

The Sabbath Day is Holy.

Moses 3:2–3

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 1–2; Moses 2–3; Abraham 4–5” Children who develop a habit of keeping the Sabbath day holy when they are young are more likely to keep this commandment when life becomes busier and more demanding.

  • Read Moses 3:2–3, and ask the children to listen for what God did on the seventh day. Bring pictures (or make simple drawings) of things we do on Sunday to make it a holy day and things we do on other days. Let the children sort the pictures into two piles, one for Sunday and one for other days. Testify of why it is important to keep the Sabbath day holy.
  • A few days before class, invite one of the children and his or her parents to come prepared to share things they do in their family to keep the Sabbath day holy. Invite the other children to share what their families do.

Teaching Children the Gospel “Sabbath Day: Lesson Item 4” Chart activity

Come Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 1–2; Moses 2–3; Abraham 4–5” Children may have to explain to their friends why they treat Sunday different from other days. Genesis 2:2–3 teaches why the Sabbath day is a holy day. What can you do to help the children better understand and explain this doctrine?

  • How does keeping the Sabbath day holy show our love and respect for Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ? Help the children role-play scenarios in which they explain to a friend why they choose to do things on Sunday that honor Heavenly Father and Jesus. Suggest that they use Genesis 2:2–3 in their explanations.
  • Give the children a few minutes to write a list of as many things as they can think of that they can do to make the Sabbath a holy day. Invite the children to share their lists, and encourage them to add to their lists as others share suggestions they didn’t think of. Suggest that the children take the lists home with them and refer to them when they need ideas of good things to do on the Sabbath.

For additional teaching ideas see Teaching Children the Gospel “Sabbath Day” and Resources for Teaching Children “Sabbath Day”

Jan 2 2022

Covenants & Promises: Stories

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Friend February 1987 Lesson ideas about covenants and promises, and the story about the promise of pythias to return to prison and save his friend who had volunteered to take his place. Trustworthy

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Friend April 2021 “Trouble at the Creek” Brian doesn’t keep his promise to his mom to stay away from the creek after the storm. He crosses it on a fallen log and gets his foot stuck.

Friend May 2020 “Ali’s Head Start” Ali learns that when she is baptized she will be covenanting (promising) to bear one another’s burdens, (or in other words, she will be promising to help those who are going through a hard time). Ali decides to get a head start on her covenants when she sees children without hair as she walked through the hospital to go visit a friend. She decides to donate some of her long hair so those children can have wigs. 

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Friend May 2017 “Cracking the Code” Darren and Byron crack the code to notes left in their beds that represent  the words “Covenant Keepers.” At FHE they learn ways they have been covenant keepers.

Friend March 1988 “Keeping the Covenants…” Stories about children keeping their baptismal covenants.

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.

Baptism Covenants

Friend August 2019 “Ready to Be Baptized” Story with idea on how to remember baptism covenants. Also includes a bookmark with the memory aid acronym for baptismal covenants.

Friend December 2021 “Elder Soares Speaks to Children” Video About keeping baptismal covenants

Jan 2 2022

Articles of Faith

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Articles of Faith: Lesson Ideas

Articles of Faith: Activities & Games

Article of Faith: Songs

1st Article of Faith

2nd Article of Faith

3rd Article of Faith

4th Article of Faith

5th Article of Faith

6th Article of Faith

7th Article of Faith

8th Article of Faith

9th Article of Faith

10th Article of Faith

11th Article of Faith

12th Article of Faith

13th Article of Faith

Jan 2 2022

Jesus Christ: Stories

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Table of Contents

Love for Jesus

Friend May 2021 “A Statue of Jesus” Siblings ask their mom if they can go see the statue of Jesus. They can’t wait to see Jesus someday for real.

The Scriptures Teach Us About Jesus

Friend February 2021 “Feeling Christ’s Love” When Elder Takashi Wada Of the Seventy was young he read the Bible in school and wanted to know more about Jesus. Then he met the missionaries and they gave him a Book of Mormon and her learned more about Jesus. He wanted to be baptized and follow Jesus.

Jesus is Our Brother and Loves Us

Friend July 2021 “River Rock Rescue” When Elder Juan Pablo Villar of the Seventy was a boy he got stuck between two rocks! His knees were pressed against his chest and he couldn’t breathe or move. He was starting to black out when his brother reached down and pulled him out. Jesus is our older brother and he will always there to give us a hand in life.

Friend July 2021 Cover up the questions below and study the picture for one minute. Then have someone ask you the questions to see what you remember without looking! Make up some new questions to play again.

Friend February 2020 “Keep Going, Josie” Josie had been sick and was tired, but she needed to run in the big race with her teammates. She was worried about letting them down. In her first race, others kept passing her and she felt like giving up.  But as her teammates passed her they encouraged her to keep going. Their words gave her strength and she was able to finish the race. She realized that Jesus does the same for her. He encourages her to keep going spiritually in life, and is there to help her if she needs it.

Friend October 2016 “A New Picture for May” In Primary class May is sad because she doesn’t know how her family shows love for each other, but her friend adds May’s picture to her family chain with Jesus. May knows Jesus loves her. (We are all brothers and sisters and Jesus is our elder brother.)

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Sharing About Jesus

Friend April 2021 “I Know a Song about That!” Annie goes to a Catholic School in Ireland. One day, when the teacher was talking about Jesus walking on the water, Annie remembered a song about the story she had learned in Primary. She was invited to share the song with the class.

Jesus Took Upon Him Our Sorrows

Friend December 2021 “Carrying Spotty” Abbie got a new puppy. She helped him feel safe when he was scared. She carried him when he was tired. In Primary, Abbie learned that Jesus suffered for us and took upon him our sorrows. He can carry us through our trials. She realized that Jesus helps her kind of like she helps her puppy. He helped her feel safe when she was afraid of the dark. He helped her feel stronger when she was worried.

Jan 1 2022

Moses 1; Abraham 3

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Tell the children that this year they will be studying the gospel mostly from the Old Testament and Pearl of Great Price. Show the children a copy of each of these books, or if they have their own set of scriptures, have them locate each of these books. Explain that the Old Testament is the history of God’s dealings with his people from the creation of the earth until about four hundred years before Jesus Christ was born. The Pearl of Great Price contains sacred writings by several prophets, including two Old Testament prophets, Moses and Abraham. They tell about our premortal life, the early history of the world, Heavenly Father’s plan for us, and the restoration of the gospel. Lesson 1: Heavenly Father’s Plan for Us,” Primary 6: Old Testament

Come Follow Me for Living Scriptures “I Am a Child of God” Lesson ideas

Old Testament Scripture Stories “About the Old Testament” Images and Video

Friend January 2022 “I Can Read the Old Testament”

Moses 1

God reveals Himself to Moses—Moses is transfigured—He is confronted by Satan—Moses sees many inhabited worlds—Worlds without number were created by the Son—God’s work and glory is to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man.

Abraham 3

Abraham learns about the sun, moon, and stars by means of the Urim and Thummim—The Lord reveals to him the eternal nature of spirits—He learns of pre-earth life, foreordination, the Creation, the choosing of a Redeemer, and the second estate of man.

New Testament Stories “Our Heavenly Father’s Plan”

Friend January 2022 “Before We Came to Earth”

Old Testament Scripture Stories “Before the Old Testament”

Pearl of Great Price Coloring Book “Responses to Heavenly Father’s Plan”

I Am a Child of God, and He Wants to Help Me Return to Him.

Moses 1:1–4, 6, 30, 37–39; Abraham 3:22–28

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Moses 1; Abraham 3”

For younger children:

  • Read to the children what God said to Moses: “Thou art my son” (Moses 1:4). Invite a child to the front of the room, and ask the children to repeat with you, “[Child’s name], you are a child of God.” Repeat the phrase for each child in the class.
  • Show several pictures of children, and ask the class if these children are all children of God. Emphasize that everyone is a child of God. Let the children take turns looking in a mirror, and testify that they are children of God too.
  • Sing “I Am a Child of God” (Children’s Songbook, 2–3) with the children. Let them color this week’s activity page, and use it to review the truths this song teaches.

For older kids:

  • Read with the children Moses 1:4, 37–39 and Abraham 3:24–25. Give them opportunities to ask questions and share favorite words or phrases from these verses. What do we learn from these verses about Heavenly Father? about ourselves?
  • Show the children pictures of some of Heavenly Father’s many creations. Read Moses 1:30, and explain that Moses asked God about the purpose of these creations. Help the children search in verse 39 to find God’s answer. Testify that God’s purpose is to help each child gain eternal life.
  • Help the children think of situations in which they have to choose whether or not to “do all things whatsoever the Lord their God shall command” (Abraham 3:25). Let them practice or discuss possible responses to those situations. How can the Savior help us when we make a wrong choice?

Lesson Ideas

Primary 1 (Sunbeams) “Lesson One: I Am a Child of God”

We lived in Heaven: (Click on the below picture. Print the picture, or show it on an electronic device.) Explain that before we were born on earth we lived in heaven with Heavenly Father.

Friend April 2015

We were spirits there. A spirit is what is inside of us that makes us alive. When we were spirits, we didn’t have flesh and bones like our bodies have now, but we looked the same.

(Use these puppets to demonstrate what it means to be a spirit. See here for assembly instructions.) 

Show the first picture again and explain that Heavenly Father is the father of our spirits, and we are his spirit children

Sing: I Am a Child of God. Tell the children they are going to sing the song “I Am a Child of God.” Explain that God is another name for Heavenly Father. (I like the Red Headed Hostess visual aids for the first verse of this song, but it does cost money. Jolly Jen has a flip chart that would work too, or you could use the below visual s from the Nursery Manual. Also see lds.org for the music)

Who is a child of God?  Toss a beanbag or soft object to a child as you say the words “I know a child of God named_____ .” Have the child say his or her own name and give the beanbag back to you. Repeat the activity until everyone has had a turn.

Print and cut out this activity. Show the pictures one at a time and ask the following:

Is a policeman a child of God?

Is someone who lives in a different country or culture

Is a bishop

Is a grandmother or grandfather

Is a soldier

Is someone who doesn’t go to our church

Is a mailman or missionaries

Is a mom or dad

Have the children take turns posting each picture under the title “Child of God.” The title can be written on the board or in a file folder or display board.  You can also bring up people they know such as a neighbor.

Help the children understand that everyone is a child of God even though we may be different in age, hair color, what we do, where we live, skin color, or the church we attend, we are all children of God.

We can be like Heavenly Father 

(Print and cut out these images pdf.) Use the following questions with the images. They could also be made into a matching game.

  • What is a baby dog called?
  • What will that puppy grow up to be?
  • What is a baby chicken called?
  • What will that chick grow up to be?

Explain that just as animals grow up to be like their parents, we will grow up to be like our parents.

Friend January 2017 “Kylie’s Parents” Kylie is like her earthly parents, and she is also like her Heavenly Parents. PDF version

Heavenly Father is the father of our spirits, so we can grow to be like him. Heavenly Father is loving, good, and kind. When we are loving, good, and kind, we are being like Heavenly Father.  We should try to become more like Heavenly Father every day.

Have children tell or act out ways they can be loving, good, or kind.

(The images for the activity “Who is a Child of God?” are from the Friend magazine. Soldier 6/16, Bishop 1/16, etc.The images for the animals are from Pixabay: Free Images)

I Lived with Heavenly Father Before I Was Born.

Abraham 3:22–28

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Moses 1; Abraham 3” These verses describing Abraham’s vision of our premortal life can help the children answer the questions “Where did I come from?” and “Why am I here?” How can you help them find answers?

  • Use “About the Old Testament” (in Old Testament Stories) to teach the children about our premortal life. Afterward, invite the children to tell the story back to you. Why did Heavenly Father send us here to earth? Help the children discover an answer as you read to them Abraham 3:25.
  • Sing with the children a song about God’s plan for us (such as “I Will Follow God’s Plan” [Children’s Songbook,164–65]). Help them understand eternal truths taught in the lyrics.
  • On the board, write questions related to Abraham 3:22–28, such as What happened in our life before birth? Who was there? Why was the earth created? Invite the children to read these verses to find answers.
  • If there is a new baby in the ward, invite the parents to bring him or her to class and share their feelings about welcoming this child into the world. (You could also show a picture of a newborn baby.) Talk with the children about where this baby’s spirit was before he or she came to earth. Why is it important for this baby to learn that he or she is a child of God?
  • Sing songs about God’s plan for us, such as “I Know My Father Lives” or “I Will Follow God’s Plan” (Children’s Songbook, 5, 164–65). Invite the children to draw pictures that go with the words. Let them use their pictures to teach each other truths from the songs.

Abraham 3:24–26.

You could give family members a fun but challenging task that allows them to prove they can follow instructions, such as folding a paper airplane or following a recipe. How is this activity similar to the purpose of our mortal life as described in these verses? (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Moses 1; Abraham 3”)

See also Resources for Teaching Children “Plan of Salvation / Plan of Happiness”

Heavenly Father Wants Me to Live with Him Again.

Moses 1:39

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Moses 1; Abraham 3” How have the truths in Moses 1:39 blessed your life? What can you do to help the children experience those blessings too?

  • Point out the phrases “this is my work” and “eternal life” in Moses 1:39, and help the children repeat the phrases. Tell the children about the work you do each day. Teach them that Heavenly Father’s work is to help us gain eternal life, which means becoming like Him and living with Him again.
  • Invite a parent to come to class and talk about how he or she feels when a child returns home after being away (for example, at school or on a mission), or share feelings you’ve had during these experiences. Use this example to teach the children how much Heavenly Father wants us to return to Him.

Moses 1:4, 30–39.

Would your family enjoy looking at some of “the workmanship of [God’s] hands”? (verse 4). Maybe you could read these verses in a park or under the stars at night. You could then talk about why God created the world and about how we participate in His “work and [His] glory” (verse 39). (Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Old Testament 2022 “Moses 1; Abraham 3”)

Pearl of Great Price Coloring Book “Planning the Creation”

Latter Day Kids “This is My Work and My Glory” Lesson ideas

  1. Read and discuss Abraham 3:23 with the children.

I Can Resist Satan’s Temptations.

Moses 1:12–26

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Moses 1; Abraham 3”

As you study Moses 1:12–26, look for things Moses did to resist Satan. How might Moses’s example help the children when they face temptations?

  • Summarize Moses’s experience in Moses 1:12–26 in your own words, or ask one of the children to do so (see also the video “I Am a Son of God” [ChurchofJesusChrist.org]). Invite the children to search these verses to learn how Moses was able to overcome Satan. (If they need help, point them to verses 13, 15, 18, 20–22, 26.) (Remember you are a son or daughter of God, listen to the Spirit, think of Jesus, and pray for strength.)
  • Bring a box of tools (or pictures of tools), and label each tool with a way we can resist temptation (such as praying, singing a hymn, reading the scriptures, or serving others). Let each child pick a tool and talk about a situation when the action written on that tool’s label could help us resist temptation. Read together verses 25–26, and testify that God will help us when we face temptation.

Pearl of Great Price Coloring Book “Moses Beheld the Earth”

Moses 1:18.

What advice can we share to help each other “judge between” God and Satan? (See also Moroni 7:12–18; Doctrine and Covenants 50:23–24.)

13 But behold, that which is of God inviteth and enticeth to do agood continually; wherefore, every thing which inviteth and benticeth to do cgood, and to love God, and to serve him, is dinspired of God.

17 But whatsoever thing persuadeth men to do aevil, and believe not in Christ, and deny him, and serve not God, then ye may know with a perfect knowledge it is of the devil; for after this manner doth the devil work, for he persuadeth no man to do good, no, not one; neither do his angels; neither do they who subject themselves unto him.

Additional Resources

Plan of Salvation Teaching Children the Gospel

Lesson 1: Heavenly Father’s Plan for Us,” Primary 6: Old Testament

Lesson 2: Jesus Christ Was Chosen to Be Our Savior,” Primary 6: Old Testament