Ideas for Teaching Children
I can repent and be forgiven.
We all sometimes feel “condemned for [our] weakness and imperfections,” as Joseph Smith did. You and your children could study Joseph Smith—History 1:29 together, looking for what Joseph did when he felt that way. What can we learn from his example that can help us when we make mistakes? Why is it important to know that Joseph was called by God even though he was not perfect?
I usually like to sit on the floor with my students, the pieces aren't really big enough for a chalk board. But here is what it looks like assembled.
Heavenly Father called Joseph Smith to help Him do His work.
Your children might have fun pretending to be Joseph Smith as you tell the account of Moroni’s visits in Joseph Smith—History 1:27–54 or “Chapter 3: The Angel Moroni and the Gold Plates” (in Doctrine and Covenants Stories, 13–17, or the corresponding video in Gospel Library). For example, they could fold their arms like they are praying or pretend to climb the Hill Cumorah, and so on. Then you could ask them to talk about what God called Joseph Smith to do and how we are blessed as a result. For example, how have we been blessed because Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon? How has his work helped us come closer to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ?
Here are some fun puppets that kids can pretend with. Attach brads to the arms so Joseph can pray and eyes slide so he can sleep and pray. For younger students use these puppets to review the video.
This one is a bit longer, if you have really young students, I suggest watching one and then doing some movement or a hands on activity.
This video shows how to assemble the coloring book.
Heavenly Father wants families to be sealed in the temple.
Perhaps you and your children would enjoy looking at some pictures of your family, possibly including a picture of your family at a temple (or see Gospel Art Book, no. 120). You could then read Doctrine and Covenants 2 and share with each other your thoughts about why we have temples and why Heavenly Father wants families to be together forever. Consider singing together “Families Can Be Together Forever” (Children’s Songbook, 188). What does this song say we can do to be with our family forever?
Here is printable envelope that just teaches D&C 2 in a more visual way.
Download HERE
Learning about my ancestors can bring me joy.
Children can become excited about and feel the joy of family history. To help them, you could share stories or pictures of your ancestors. Talk with your children about what life was like for their ancestors when they were children. Your children could also enjoy some of the family history activities on FamilySearch.org/discovery.
Here is an idea from Mitzi at Comefollowmekid.com she is very knowledgeable when it come to the church magazines and found a similar idea in the Friend.
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