April 2011 LDS Primary Sharing Time Helps and Ideas

Image courtesy creative commons license flickr.com by angelofsweetbitter2009 March 2009

Monthly Theme: Jesus Christ Is My Savior and Redeemer.
Monthly Scripture: “We believe that through the Atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved,by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel” Articles of Faith 1:3

Week 1 Jesus Christ was chosen to be our Savior.

* Have a lock and at least 10 different keys, 1 of course being able to fit and open the lock. Have questions, songs and scriptures having to do with the premortal world corresponding to the keys. Invite a child to come up and choose a key and answer the question or read the scripture (if it's a song, sing it all together). Explain that the lock is our happiness... what is the key that will give us happiness?? Whip out of your pocket the key that fits the lock and point to a picture of the Savior, invite a child to open the lock.

"When the great War in Heaven was fought, Lucifer, the son of the morning, came forth with a plan that was rejected. The Father of us all, with love for us, His children, offered a better plan under which we would have freedom to choose the course of our lives. His Firstborn Son, our Elder Brother, was the KEY to that plan." (Gordon B. Hinckley, in Conference Report, Apr. 2002, 107)

* Which make better pets- cats or dogs? Write CATS vs. DOGS and list on the chalk board the different ideas children come up with. Is there really a right answer to which one makes a better pet? Not really. But there was an important choice in the premortal world that did have a right answer!!

"There were no neutrals in the war in heaven. All took sides wither with Christ or with Satan. Every man had his agency there..." (Smith, Doctrines of Salvation, 1:65-66)

Break into small groups and have the children draw or write down something they know about the premortal world. Then gather back together and invite them up to share their thoughts one at a time.

* Have little lambs hidden throughout the room. Have questions about the Savior and the premortal world on them. Have the following scripture written on the chalk board-

1 Peter 1:19-20 "But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you"

Invite children to find the lambs and answer the questions.

* Can anyone remember the first thing they ate as a baby besides milk? Can anyone remember the first night they came home from the hospital as a baby? Can anyone remember choosing Christ in the premortal world?

" Because we do not recall the first few years of early childhood does not mean that we didn't exist, that we didn't play, laugh, and interact with family and friends. So it is with our premortal estate!!" (Doctrines of the Gospel Student Manual, pg. 13)

* Have 2 colors of straws-red and blue. Have about 12 children come up to choose a straw. (Let's see if I'm competent mathematically. I dropped out of Calculus and got a C in Stats.... so no guarantees) Have 4 straws blue. Have the children separate according to color. This is to demonstrate that 1/3 of the host of heaven chose to follow Satan and 2/3 chose to follow Christ in the premortal world. How sad for the 1/3 that didn't get bodies and exist unhappy and miserable!! And how sad for us too, because they were our brothers and sisters!!

Week 2 Jesus Christ is the perfect example for me.

(Recycled from a previous post)

* Have a thin piece of masking tape for a child to walk across without touching any other part of the floor and then have them squeeze in between two chairs to finish. 2 Nephi 31:9, 16 " And again, it showeth unto the children of men the straitness of the path, and the narrowness of the gate, by which they should enter, he having set the example before them"

* FOR SENIOR PRIMARY! In the topical guide are 19 scripture references to Jesus Christ as our Exemplar. Hide the references and scriptures throughout the room and have the children work together to make matches!

* Have the children come up with different things they can do this week to be more like the Savior. Then have them go to Relief Society or Priesthood (or both) and sing I'm trying to be like Jesus (Children's Songbook p.78-79) and give their parents their papers.

* Bring in a mirror and a lipstick for a child to write with. Have them come up with words that have to do with how Jesus lived. (For example- love, kindness, charity, humble, helpful, nice, giving) Let them write a couple words on the mirror and then look at the reflection as you hold a picture of Christ behind them.

Alma 5:14 "And now behold, I ask of you, my brethren of the church, have ye spiritually been born of God? Have ye received his image in your countenances? Have ye experienced this mighty change in your hearts?"

As we follow the example of our Savior, we will reflect His goodness.

* Bring in a lantern. 3 Nephi 18:16 "And as I have prayed among you even so shall ye pray in my church, among my people who do repent and are baptized in my name. Behold I am the light; I have set an example for you."

Who would really want to go into a dark forest without a lantern? Not me! I still sleep with a night light! Break into groups and give the children strips of yellow paper. Have them come up with different rays/ways that Jesus taught us how to live by example. (For example- Be forgiving. Jesus forgave those that crucified Him. or Be bold. Jesus cleansed the temple.)

*Bring in a sewing pattern and something you have created from the pattern. D&C 52:14 "I will give unto you a pattern in all things, that ye may not be deceived.” Create a pattern on the board with different colored paper. Children earn the paper by singing songs, reading scriptures and answering questions based on the week's theme.

Food for thought: "When I looked for a definition of pattern, I found it had a Latin origin derived from pater or father, one who served as a model or pattern to be emulated. Our Savior Jesus Christ set the pattern and asked us to follow him. Nephi asks, “Can we follow Jesus save we shall be willing to keep the commandments of the Father?” 2 Nephi 31:10" Janette C. Hales, “A Pattern of Righteousness,” Ensign, May 1991, 83

Week 3 Through the Atonement of Christ all mankind may be saved.

Recycled from a previous post)

* SING the 3rd Article of Faith song. Have the children use their arms to raise or lower as they sing the notes. Notice how the ending of the song they must raise their arms, just like the Atonement will raise and save us in the end after all we can do!* "No doctrine in the gospel is more important than the Atonement of Jesus Christ. If the gospel were compared to a wheel, the Atonement would be the hub and all other doctrines would be the spokes emanating from the hub." (Doctrines of the Gospel Student Manual , pg. 22) Draw a picture of this on the chalk board to illustrate.

* Pass out a sheet of blank paper and some crayons. Invite the children to draw or write whatever they feel as you sing them a song. Sing Hymn #193 I Stand All Amazed. (Or have a special guest come in and sing) Invite children to finish and share their work while the piano player quietly plays the song. In between children coming up to the front and sharing, read scriptures having to do with the Atonement like 2 Nephi 9:21, Mosiah 3:7, Matthew 26:39, etc.* Have a few items on a table for a child to buy. Give them 5 tickets. All items for sale cost 100 tickets. Can they buy the items with 5? Lo siento cuate... sorry man, it's a no go! This is called falling short. And likewise we, by ourselves, will never do or have enough tickets to get into heaven.

"Each of us lives on a kind of spiritual credit. One day the account will be closed, a settlement demanded. However casually we may view it now, when that day comes and the foreclosure is imminent, we will look around in restless agony for someone, anyone, to help us. And by eternal law, mercy cannot be extended save there be one who is both willing and able to assume our debt and pay the price and arrange the terms for our redemption... But know this: Truth, glorious truth, proclaims there is such a Mediator. For there is one God, and one mediator between God and me, the man Christ Jesus. (1 Tim. 2:5)" (Boyd K. Packer, Ensign, May 1977, 55-56)

* Here is a lesson on the Atonement from the Primary 3: Choose the Right B manual.

* Here is a lesson on the Atonement from the Primary 7: New Testament manual.

* Flip through a magazine. Let children rip out a picture of a random person and stand in front holding the picture. Have them come up 2 at a time to do this. Can these strangers and random people be saved? HOW? Invite a child to recite the 3rd article of faith, emphasize ALL MANKIND.* 3 Nephi 27:19 "And no unclean thing can enter into his kingdom; therefore nothing entereth into his rest save it be those who have washed their garments in my blood, because of their faith, and the repentance of all their sins, and their faithfulness unto the end."

Have a demonstration on how to get something clean... like having a white shirt and removing stains with a bleach pen. (Do it at home first to make sure it will work!!) Let the children use the pen to remove the stains as they answer questions, sing songs and read scriptures having to do with the atonement.

* Have the pianist play Hymn #339 My Country, 'Tis of Thee. What price was paid for our freedom here in this country? How many wars have we had? How much blood has been shed for us to live the way we do? Encourage children to look for special hats of Veterans and thank them for their service to our country. Invite some Young Men in to talk about the importance of showing respect for the flag.Even a greater blood was shed for our freedom. Display a picture of Christ in Gethsemane. Even greater reverence and respect should be shown for The Merciful One who has saved us.

Have an American flag. When we see our flag, we show reverence and think about what our great country means to us. Have popsicle sticks with white paper attached. Let the children create flags to help remember the Atonement of Christ. Have them share with their families and put in a spot where it will help them remember throughout the week of Jesus and His sacrifice to save us. As we sometimes stop and stand during the raising of the American flag... do so at home every time you walk by your flag and take the moment to thank Heavenly Father in silent prayer for our Redeemer. And for other countries, please tailor to your wonderful country's flag!

Week 4 Jesus Christ was resurrected and I will be too.

(Recycled from a previous post)

* Bring in a tank of helium and 10-12 balloons. Check with priesthood on this! We don't want to blow up any church buildings, so make sure to get pre-approval. Have a list of 10-12 total questions, songs and scriptures having to do with the Resurrection. Can a balloon rise without helium? So we can't rise without Jesus Christ!! As the children answer questions, sing or read scriptures, invite them to the front, blow up the balloon and let the child let go of it so all can see it rise.

Alma 11:41 "...For behold, the day cometh that all shall rise from the dead and stand before God, and be judged according to their works."

* Click HERE and scroll down to the week 3 ideas.

* Divide into groups and give each group 10 verses each in Luke chapter 24. Have a picture of the resurrected Christ on the black board, draw lines from it as the children share what this chapter teaches us about the resurrection, and briefly summarize their thought and write it down. Ideas might include:

"Jesus Christ is a resurrected being who is able to vanish and reappear, walk, reason, stand, speak, ask questions, respond, read the mind of others, command and instruct from the scriptures.... Jesus also has a tangible body of flesh and bones that can be seen and felt by others and that can eat the food of mortals." (Jay Parry & Donald Parry, Understanding Death and the Resurrection, pg.243)

So out of all these ideas what do you look forward to most as a resurrected being?

* Have a picture of a sign "Dead End". What does this mean? Have a plastic toy bulldozer. How is Jesus Christ like a bulldozer? To some it may seem like when we die, there is no where else to go. But we know that there is more beyond the grave and Jesus has cleared the way because of His atonement and resurrection! Have the bulldozer run over the dead end sign!

* A WONDERFUL short video to show "Sunday will Come", click HERE!!

* A wonderful idea from Cheryl Esplin, Jesus Christ Is My Savior,” Friend, Apr 2009, 10–12 "Beforehand and with approval of the bishop or branch president, invite a member who has experienced the death of a loved one to bear testimony of what the Resurrection means to him or her.

Put the following GAK pictures in a pile in the following order with 227 on top: GAK 227 (Jesus Praying in Gethsemane), GAK 228 (The Betrayal of Jesus), GAK 230 (The Crucifixion), GAK 231 (Burial of Jesus), GAK 233 (Mary and the Resurrected Lord), GAK 234 (Jesus Shows His Wounds), and GAK 316 (Jesus Teaching in the Western Hemisphere).

While the pianist plays “Beautiful Savior” (pp. 62–63), have the children pass around a small stone. Tell them it is symbolic of the stone rolled in front of the opening of Christ’s tomb. When the music stops, have the child holding the stone take the picture from the top of the pile and tell about it or choose someone to help. Continue for each picture, pausing after GAK 234 to sing the second verse of “On a Golden Springtime” (p. 88) and to read Luke 24:39 in unison.

Have the children feel their hands to help them understand that after Jesus was resurrected, the Apostles could feel His hands just as the children can feel their own hands. Continue with the rest of the pictures. Teach that because of the Atonement of Jesus Christ, everyone who has ever lived on the earth will be resurrected. Have the invited guest bear testimony. Sing “Did Jesus Really Live Again?” (p. 64). At the end of the third verse, have the children stand when singing the words “Oh yes! And so shall I!”

President Monson Jeopardy- Fun FHE

I recieved President Monson's Biography- To The Rescue, for Christmas and just started reading it. I'm not a big biography fan and often times find them really dry, but for some odd reason, I've been really enjoying this book. With that said, I've used that book to fill information for the Jeopardy game. (FYI- The biography is by Heidi S. Swinton)

Jeopardy Categories:
Childhood Dreams
Family & Friends
Work, Work, Work
“Whether by My mouth or the Mouth of My Servants, It is the same...”



Childhood Dreams
100 President Monson had 2 little pets, that he gave away to help a starving family. What type of animals were these pets? (bunnies)

200 Our prophet grew up in Salt Lake City, UT near something that made a lot of noise!! Often this loud thing brought homeless people to their neighborhood. President Monson’s family always helped those strangers by feeding them. What was the loud thing they lived by? (A railroad track)

300 When President Monson was a little boy his father and him would do something special for their Uncle who was crippled. His father would carry the uncle and President Monson would always give up his seat so his uncle could see better. He always said that His dad didn’t read him the story of the good Samaritan, he showed him. What did they do for their Uncle? (Go for rides in the family car)

400 He loved this instrument very much as a little boy. He joined a Marching Corps but didn’t know how to play the instrument so he’d just pretend!! One time a child in front of him said, “You’re blowing way out of key!” President Monson replied, “No I’m not!!! I’m not even blowing!!” He received the instrument for Christmas and still doesn’t know how to play. (Bugle)

Family and Friends
100 President Monson found a mangy dog wandering in a park. It belonged to a local sheep herder. The owner told Tommy that he wouldn’t want that dog, it was part coyote. Tommy did want the dog, but the owner wouldn't give him us. Tommy settled on another that his Uncle gave him. This dog had been left in the desert and was very sick. It had a cast on one leg, a splint on another and a broken tail. Tommy loved it and they were best friends from the moment they met. What did he name his dog? (Duke)

200 President Monson had an older sister he liked to play pranks on! One day his teenage sister Marge and a couple of her friends were lying out in the warm sun by a river. He and a friend hid some live frogs in mud balls and dropped them on the stomachs of the sleeping girls. There were some teenage boys also with the girls, when the girls started screaming, what did the boys do? (They picked up the girls and tossed them in the river calling, “Swim or sink!”)

300 President Monson had 2 friends who often worked together at church. One friend, Barry, had a lovely voice, the other, Jack, was hearing impaired and spoke unclear. On one Sunday, the 2 deacons needed to do this... but the white card wasn’t anywhere to be found. Barry was very embarrassed, because he usually received many compliments on the way he spoke and did this at church. Jack quickly grabbed Barry and spoke the words in his ear. Even though he wasn't as clear or his voice wasn't as "beautiful", Jack had this memorized. It was a good lesson in humility and what's most important. What were these 2 friends doing at church? (Blessing the sacrament)

400 When President Monson was ready to ask his beautiful girlfriend, Frances, to marry him... he first brought the ring home to show his family. On that night, before they went to go out, he brought Frances home for a quick minute. While there, his 4 year old brother, Scott, shouted really happy, “Tommy has a ring for you Frances!!!” Did President Monson forgive his brother for ruining the surprise? (Yes)

Work, Work, and More Work
100 “It is not the number of hours you put in, but what you put in the hours that counts.” President Monson has said. He worked very hard in college. A college education was something that was important to him. Where did he go to college and what was his favorite subject? (University of Utah and History)

200 WWII was a very scary war, and President Monson, being a healthy young man like so many others enlisted in the military. He was with his father and 44 other young men. The time had come for him to choose where in the military he wanted to serve. He was very unsure, then a thought entered his mind almost as clear as a vision... he was to ask the military recruiters what they chose. The both chose the Naval Reserve. Tommy said, “If that was good enough for you, it’s good enough for me.” Because of the choice he ended up not having to fight in battles of WWII. How long did he serve in the Naval Reserves? (1 year)

300 President Monson worked for a newspaper called the Deseret News. He was in charge of advertisements. The paper was not doing very well and he was asked to make the paper more successful. What did he do? (He did his best!! In fact he did so well many national newspapers wanted to know how to do what he did word for word!)

400 President Monson was called as a Bishop at a very young age. He had a wife and children. He often gave up one of his hobbies to work! Whether it was work, his calling, or being a husband and father... President Monson worked!! What did he often give up that he loved to work and serve others? (Fishing)

“Whether by My mouth or the Mouth of My Servants, It is the same...”
These are all quotes from President Monson
100 "_________ are everywhere to be found when priesthood callings are magnified. When faith replaces doubt, when selfless service eliminates selfish striving, the power of God brings to pass His purposes. Whom God calls, God qualifies." (Miracles)

200 "Let us open wide the windows of our hearts, that each family member may feel welcome and 'at home.' Let us open also the doors of our very souls, that the dear ________ may enter. Remember His promise: 'Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him' (Revelation 3:20)." (Christ)

300 “Be influenced by that still, small voice. Remember that one with authority placed his hands on your head at the time of your confirmation and said, 'Receive the ________.' Open your hearts, even your very souls, to the sound of that special voice that testifies of truth." (Holy Ghost)

400 "Life's journey is not traveled on a freeway devoid of obstacles, pitfalls, and snares. Rather, it is a pathway marked by forks and turnings. Decisions are constantly before us. To make them wisely, _________ is needed: the ________ to say, 'No,' the ________to say, 'Yes,' Decisions do determine destiny. The call for _____ comes constantly to each of us. It has ever been so, and so shall it ever be."
(Courage)

Final Jeopardy Question: We are led by a living prophet today. What is something you learned about our living prophet President Thomas S. Monson?

Sunday Sharing Time Ideas for Teaching Children About Differently Abled People

Talking Silently Image courtesy creative commons license flickr.com by Vandan Desai

"Is it not possible to look beyond the canes, the wheelchairs, the braces, and the crutches into the hearts of the people who have need of these aids? They are human beings and want only to be treated as ordinary people. They may appear different, move awkwardly, and speak haltingly, but they have the same feelings. They laugh, they cry, they know discouragement and hope. They do not want to be shunned. They want to be loved for what they are inside, without any prejudice for their impairment. Can there not be more tolerance for differences—differences in capacity, differences in body and in mind?
Those who are close to the handicapped can frequently feel the nobility of the spirits who are confined in differently shaped bodies or who have crippled minds." -James E. Faust, "The Works of God", Ensign, Nov. 1984, 54

When I was 11 years I got to hold a baby for the first time in my life. My parents struggled with fertility and I was an only child. I was at a friend's home and with 6 children it was quite different from my home. At one point I ended up in a rocker holding a precious little baby. I can clearly remember how beautiful I thought she was. I held her and she went to sleep amid so much noise and chaos. I traced her face with my finger and  was just so very grateful to be holding such an amazing blessing from God. That sweet angel had Down Syndrome. She died a few years later. Her and my son actually share the same death date (not the same year). God's timing is so interesting.

From that moment in my life, I've had a deep and profound respect for God's special children. They are perfect. They can learn. They are here to teach us. So let's love.

I feel very strongly about teaching my children the value of God's special children. In fact, so much that they both went through an "Integrated Learning Preschool" with our district. It was a program designed to have "typical" children help differently abled children adjust to a school setting. At 4 years old, my daughter was hugging a little girl in a wheelchair that couldn't talk, everyday. To learn about compassion, one must actually do it. Look for situations in which you can help enrich your children's lives by having them interact with differently abled children. It is a blessing, plain and simple.
I think THIS resource is excellent from the church website, dispelling some common myths about working with people "differently-abled".

What are some ideas on how to teach primary children more compassion, love and understanding when it comes to another who is severely handicap? (Specifically in Sharing Time)

* First off, parents need to teach their children the profound respect and love that should be shown to differently abled children. If there is a severely disabled child in primary that "scares" the other children with loud abrupt noises, invite parents in to sit with their children and reassure them that there is nothing to be scared of and that we are all God's children. We must show love! Parents can have FHE's with children and encourage card making, cookie baking for those friends they might be "scared" of. Often people just don't know what to do. You can spotlight a differently abled child in a primary newsletter- perhaps they really like being read too. You can invite others to read to the child anytime! Do they love flowers? Mention it and encourage people to stop in and bring flowers anytime... dandelions are flowers as far as I'm concerned, especially when a 3 year old picks them, it doesn't have to be a boquet from Costco. Of course, the parents of the differently abled child know best. See what they think and ask them ways the children can serve their friend!!

* Sing I'll Walk With You (CS #140). Have children hold up a variety of pictures of children who are differently abled while you sing. Invite the children to share one way they can show love for someone who is like the one pictured. (If it's a blind person, they could talk to them and describe what Disneyland looks like. If it's a deaf person, they can learn something in sign language!! If it's a person in a wheel chair, they can sit and talk with them. Brainstorm as many ideas as you can together!!)

* Involve the severely disabled child, show the other children they are of worth and can help with lessons. Even if it's just taping a picture to their wheelchair, you can thank them for their help and smile at them!!! Let the children see your love for that child and they will follow. Watch for timing, if you ask a question and the severely disabled child makes a noise, roll with it! Thanks Aidan!! You must be trying to say Nephi and you're exactly right!!! We're so lucky to have Aidan share his thoughts with us! Of course you can't do this every time, but once in a while it might fit.

* Jude 1:32 "And of some have compassion, making a difference"
Bring in a toy car that's bent. Bring in a toy tow truck. Both are ways to get from one place to another, yet they each work differently. We are like the tow trucks and can help others whose bodies don't work like ours. Have a little road on the ground and come up with 7 different scriptures, questions and songs based on compassion and charity. Invite the children to move the car forward a little each time they answer a question, read a scripture, etc. At the end of the road have a picture of the Savior. Both cars worked together to make a difference, just like the Savior.

* Have about 7 paper hearts that graduate in size. Love is a wonderful thing. We can show a little bit of love or a huge amount of love in life. The greatest and grandest love we can have is that of charity.
Turn to the Bible Dictionary which says, "Charity. The highest, noblest, strongest kind of love, not merely affection; the pure love of Christ. It is never used to denote alms or deeds of benevolence, although it may be a prompting motive "

Have hearts hidden throughout the room, invite the children to find them. Have questions, songs and scriptures having to do with compassion on them. Have them order the hearts in size. At the end, perhaps you can tape the heart on a severely disabled child's wheel chair. Bear testimony that you know loving all of God's children and praying for them and helping them will make us happy. It will make our Heavenly Father happy. (Of course, speak to the differently abled child's parents first. Perhaps they don't want extra attention drawn to their child. WORK WITH PARENTS and do what is best for the child.)

* Have 7 small mystery boxes. Today we'll be talking about something very special. Something that Christ taught we should have in our lives. Invite the children to see what's under the boxes. Use 1 Corinthians 13 to fill up the boxes. For example one could have a large mountain- The Apostle Paul said "and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not.... (this??), I am nothing." Have the children guess, but don't answer right away. Another box could include a small horn. Sometimes when adults drive they get angry and honk their horn a lot. (This??)" is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil". In the end, have 7 children come up front holding the boxes, write C-H-A-R-I-T-Y (one letter per box). We've seen a couple different ways that Paul has described charity, now have the children draw pictures or write thoughts and share a couple if there is time.
1 Corinthians 13:13 "And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity."


If anyone has any other ideas, please please please feel free to share. This post is in response to an email I received. I hope it can be of some help.

And the winner is.........

In all honesty, I'm not really sure what a widget is. I do enjoy the rhyming possibilities of the word... fidget. Digit. Bridgette. Whatnot.

 

Supposedly, I could add a widget to the blog to show the random number generator results. But I don't know how to add it to a post. There. I admitted it. I'm slow.

 

But some things are better slow in life. A moped ride. A scoop of Rocky Road ice cream. A day on the beach. A dance to Unchained Melody.

 

However, traffic is not. Living in the Bay Area (Bless you motherland California) was heaven on earth... but the traffic and high prices drove us out. Now we enjoy blue skies, sagebrush and an abundance of people who find it acceptable to wear sweats in public.... which I'm almost there... almost.... almost... So is that a moot point? Not too law savvy. Also, rewinding the kiss scene in Bend it Like Beckham and playing it

slow-mo was not that great. The roomies and I in college tried it and it just lost it's magic.

 

I'm just trying to stall.... keep the suspense going...

 

...

 

Are you suspended? I used the dot dot dot...

 

...

 

Ok. I'll just announce it. It's not like it's a trip to Hawaii or anything. Then again, it is always fun to win something.

 

One time when we lived in DC during the hub's internship I was having a rough day. 1st pregnancy, 21 pounds lost because we didn't have a car, I had to walk everywhere and couldn't keep food down. We'd go to the movies and have to evacuate because of bomb scares.... I kid you not, that happened 5 times. There was lots of concrete. Mind you, there were a lot of great things, but one rough day after I'd experienced Lucky Charms twice for one meal I was out and about and happened to stumble upon some sort of fair. I don't remember the details, I do know that I won a free dunkin' doughnuts shirt with a cup of coffee on it. Anytime I need a pick me up, I wear that shirt. I think it's one of the only things I've won in life.

 

Not that I hope you're having a rough day, but I hope these books can be your Dunkin Doughnuts shirt......

 

#42 Cherrybaby said... One of my favorite kids books is "If you were my Bunny." It is a bedtime book involving new words to well known lullaby's. I also really like "My Friend Rabbit." I would love to win Squids to Squids. It sounds fun and I've never read it.

I'll email you STAT!!! Thanks everyone for your comments and participation!!! Hope you have a wonderful week!!!

Do you want a free book?

 

These are 2 of my very favorite books. Favorite doesn't even describe how much I love these books.

The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein is just all about what it means to be like Christ. I don't even think it's possible for me to read it without getting teary eyed. This book is a fine addition to any family home evening talking about Charity.

Squids will be Squids by Jon Scieszka is off the wall and just my speed. I refer often to this book when teaching my own children or if asked to do anything in Relief Society. Case in point, there was an "Organize and Revitalize" type activity and out of desperation I was asked to speak on how I organize my house. Because I will tell you flat out, our play room is clean maybe 10 times a year. (I mean really, what's a play room that isn't used?) After I laughed a good 20 minutes, I whipped out this book to the story of Duck-Billed Platypus vs. Beefsnackstik. They argue who has better the better stuff (Duc- Billed is a mammal that can lay eggs, Beefsnackstik has soy ethorobate and food coloring #42, Duck-Billed has webbed feet and fur....yada yada) and finally Beefsnackstik yells out, "OH yeah! Well I have beef lips!!" The moral of the story continues on: Just because you have a lot of stuff, don't think you're so special. Hence, I tried to make the point, clean out your garages and be at peace. I also made a big push for people to relax, if the house doesn't get clean, oh well. Whip out some Bob Marley and do it later, just make sure it gets done later. But the question is, why am I not getting to the point?

Soooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo.... I'm having a giveaway and all you have to do is leave a comment with your name, contact info. and favorite book!

These are not brand new books, but they are in excellent condition. (They are hardback) I don't buy books new, I always buy used. It's not that I'm cheap, but I am.

Monday Night, I'll pick two random winners!!! Happy Books!! Woot Woot!

March 2011 LDS Primary Sharing Time Helps and Ideas: Heavenly Father Speaks To Us Through His Prophets

Image courtesy creative commons license flickr.com by visual.dichotomy May 2009

March Monthly Theme : Heavenly Father Speaks to Us through His Prophets.
March Monthly Scripture: “What I the Lord have spoken, I have spoken, . . . whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same” D&C 1:38

Weeks 1 and 2 Prophets Speak for Heavenly Father.

* Have a list of cleaning chores around the home. Dusting, washing dishes, vacuuming, laundry, etc. Can mom do these all by herself? Sure! Would it be better if she had helpers? Heavenly Father could clean the world all by Himself, but He has prophets as His special helpers.

Have a bucket full of cleaning supplies. Invite children to come up and choose items. On the cleaning items have questions, scriptures and songs having to do with Prophets speak for Heavenly Father.
D&C 88:74 "...Yea, purify your hearts, and cleanse your hands and your feet before me, that I may make you clean"

* Exodus 4:12 "Now therefore go, and I will be with thy mouth, and teach thee what thou shalt say."
Make a simple board game of Moses and His life. Have about 25 squares starting in Egypt and leading to the promise land. Make 5 of those squares red (if landed on you sing a song about prophets) To move forward the primary has to answer questions and read scriptures on how Moses spoke for Heavenly Father.
Such questions could include:
1. How did the Lord first appear to Moses? (Burning Bush)
2. Who raised Moses? (Pharaoh's Daughter)
3. Why did the children of Israel need to leave Egypt? (They were slaves)
4. What did plagues did Moses curse Egypt because Pharaoh hardened his heart against the Lord?
( frogs, famine, blood in water, locusts, death to firstborn sons, fire hail, etc.)
4. Moses was "slow of speech", who did Heavenly Father send to help him speak to the people? (Aaron)
6. What did Israel do while Moses was getting the 10 commandments? (made a golden calf)
7. How did God punish the Israelites because they would not listen to His voice? (wandered in the wilderness 40 years)
8. What do prophets often do to hear the word of the Lord- hint: It's something we can do too!! (Pray and read scriptures)
9. Did Moses enter into the promised land? (No)
10. Read Moses 33:11. What do we learn about Jesus? (Jesus has a face and a body and speaks to us like friends!)

* Mystery Prophets: Have the children divide into small groups. Let them draw the name of a prophet from a hat. They have to draw a picture of the prophet and come up with hints for the primary to guess what prophet they had.
No matter who the prophet, they all speak for Heavenly Father!

* Luke 1:70 "As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since the world began:"
Have a giant timeline. Have small cutouts of different prophets. Let children come to the front and put them in the right spot on the timeline. Have children say a couple things they know about that prophet.

* Have a guest come in, dressed as an ancient prophet. The guest will give a short 3-5 minute presentation as Enoch. Have the guest specifically mention:
“When Enoch had heard these words, he bowed himself to the earth, before the Lord, and spake before the Lord, saying: Why is it that I have found favor in thy sight, and am but a lad, and all the people hate me; for I am slow of speech; wherefore am I thy servant?” (see Moses 6:26–31).

“And the Lord said unto Enoch: Go forth and do as I have commanded thee. … Open thy mouth, and it shall be filled, and I will give thee utterance. … Behold my Spirit is upon you, wherefore all thy words will I justify; … and thou shalt abide in me, and I in you; therefore walk with me” (Moses 6:32, 34).
Have the children then draw a picture of what they think the City of Enoch looks like!

* For Senior Primary: Have the children find something a prophet has said. Have them make up a code and write the saying in code. Have them switch with another primary child and give them a couple minutes to try to figure out what the prophet said.
1 Corinthians 2:7 "But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory:"
How are the words of the prophets in "code" to the world?

Week 3 We are led by a living Prophet today.

* Write a letter to President Monson!!

* Watch a short clip from conference or a youtube message from President Monson.

* This is a great talk to send home with children to read with their families. (M. Russell Ballard, "Special Witness: Our Living Prophet", Friend, May 2003, 7)

* Have 4 different learning stations in the room. Assign 1 teacher per station. Have 4 different stories from the life of President Monson. At each station there should be some sort of visual. Have a simple little booklet the children can put together and add a coloring page at each station. They can then take it home and teach their families all about our living prophet today!!

* HERE are some wonderful ideas from Sister Vicki F. Matsumori!! Excellent!! Excellent!! Excellent!! I really love the mobile.

Week 4 There is safety in following the prophet.

(Note: These are recycled from a previous post)

* Prophet Safety Jeopardy

Personal opinion: I never (yes…never) had competitions in Primary. I never did teams or boys vs. girls. I always had the primary work as a family of friends, getting as many points as we could all together. The world has too many divisions. I’m for being unified and working together. But to each his own, just food for thought. I’ll step off the soapbox and encourage you to alter the following any way you like. DON’T BE LAZY. DON’T CUT AND PASTE this unless you are going to study the questions, prepare, ponder and pray if this is what the Lord wants for your primary this week.

Categories and questions:

Warning!!! Danger up ahead!!!
100 This prophet warned the people and they didn’t listen. He and his family were kept safe in an arc while the earth was completely flooded.
200 Read Mosiah 17:9-10 Abinadi warned this evil King, but was stilled burned by fire. He sealed his testimony with his own blood.
300 How does following the word of wisdom, revelation given to Joseph Smith, keep us from danger?
400 Jacob warned the Nephites of “… every kind of sin, telling them the awful consequences of them.” (Jacob 3:12) Name 3 sins and the results that can happen from making those bad choices.

Hear my Words, Learn of Christ
100 Sing Samuel Tells of the Baby Jesus (CS p.36)
200 Show GAK The Prophet Isaiah Foretells Christ’s Birth. Who is this prophet?
300 Spencer W. Kimball said this quote. Fill in the blank “ The ……… prophets, from Adam to Malachi are testifying of the divinity of the Lord Jesus Christ and our Heavenly Father. Jesus Christ was the God of the ………, and it was He who conversed with Abraham and Moses.” (Ensign, May 1977, p.76) (Answer: Old Testament)
400 What does the prophet Nephi teach you about Christ? (Encourage Senior Primary to find actual scriptures!)

Stay on the Path
100 This prophet saw a strait and narrow path leading to the tree of life. Who is the prophet or prophets and what can you do to stay on the path?
200 Sing We Thank Thee O God for a Prophet (Hymns p.19)
300 Read Mosiah 2:36-37 What can we do to have the Holy Ghost with us to guide us in wisdom’s paths?
400 DOUBLE JEOPARDY! DOUBLE POINTS!!! Name your favorite prophet and something that prophet has taught you to keep you safe.

Buckle Up with Modern Day Apostles
100 President Eyring has said, “Now, here is my counsel to children. The Lord gave you a commandment with a promise: “Honor thy father and thy mother, that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.” It is the only one of the Ten Commandments with a promise.”(Ensign Nov. 2009 p.72) How can you show honor to your parents or adults in your life?
200 Show a picture of the first presidency. Name these 3 men.
300 Where do we read the words of modern day apostles?
400 Sing last verse of Follow the Prophet. (CS p. 111)

Final Jeopardy Category: Safety in Following the Prophets
Final Jeopardy Question: What is something you learned today and/or can bear testimony of?

* Bring in an umbrella stroller with a seat belt. Have a demonstration where a stuffed animal is placed inside without the safety belt and pushed. Try again with the safety belt on. Prophets keep us safe by securing us in the knowledge that Christ lives and strapping us in the strength of His revelations.

* Have a large paper drawing of a child. Hang it up and add things to make it safe like a helmet, knee pads, band aids, a coat, sunscreen, sunglasses… etc. On each of the safety items have questions, songs and scriptures having to do with prophets.

Using The Friend to Teach the Value of Diversity

(One of our favorite books on Diversity!)

I got asked a great question.... how do I teach my really young children the value of other cultures?

First, it helps if you yourself have a love and respect for other cultures. But obviously, if you want to teach your children this, you probably do. Oxymoron, right? But in all honesty, what have you done lately to appreciate what other people of the world have to offer? Do you try different foods?? (Rice bowls at Jack in the Box DO NOT COUNT) Do you listen to world music? Do you try learning different phrases in other languages? Have you read books about different countries?

Second, teach your children how to compliment others. I am often shocked that children can't come up with something nice to say on their feet. When I student taught in 5th grade, we'd always take the last 10 minutes of the day to share something we learned and a compliment for a fellow classmate. It built unity. It made children feel happy. It built friendships. It made children smile. It ended our day on a happy note. I also do this often in Primary. However, most children aren't being taught to look at each other. They are being taught to look at the TV or play a video game. So we need to take the time in our homes to teach our children to be observant and watchful. (Mormon 1:2 Talks about Amaron noticing that Mormon was a child "quick to observe") It's in the scriptures!! It's our duty. And on that note, it's not just our children.... it's us too. When is the last time you waved at a person in the car next to you at a stop light? When is the last time you told the grocery store clerk you liked their haircut? Complimenting and kindness make the world go round. By the way, have I ever told you how awesome YOU ALL ARE for even coming to my ramblings and being patient enough to read through. I love you and I don't even know you!!! You are a great listener!! Thanks!!!

Now for a FHE idea. 
Have a world map. Cut out a bunch of pictures from the "Friends in the News" section of the Friend. See what you have in common with these Primary Children. Take the time to make a couple compliments for each child. It doesn't always have to be physical! Sometimes they have statements on their information like, Sarah loves cats. A compliment could include "I'm grateful and love that Sarah is kind to God's animals." Put their picture on the map. (If you don't have a friend to cut out pictures, online they have an interactive site "One in a Million" that has video clips of a few children from around the world. It's excellent!!)

Questions for the FHE:Does everyone in the world live in one spot?
Did God create every person the same?
Where would you like to go in the world and why?
If you could meet one of the Primary Children from the Friend, who would you want to meet and why?
How are we different and how are we the same as other people all over the world?

Scriptures to include:1 John 4:7 "Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God."

Doctrine and Covenants 38:16 "And for your salvation I give unto you a commandment, for I have heard your prayers, and the poor have complained before me, and the rich have I made, and all flesh is mine, and I am no respecter of persons."

Matthew 5:45 "That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust."

Songs to include:
As I Have Loved You (Hymns #308 & CS #136)
Children All Over the World (CS #16)
We are Different (CS #263)

FHE: Black History Month

I love African American Heritage. It is a culture rich with perseverance, solid Christianity and hope.

I married a black man. He has dreadlocks. When we were first married, he had corn rows. His hair has changed more than I'd financially like to talk about.

My best friend has a rich chocolate skin color. She is Sri Lankan. In high school we were Ebony and Ivory. She's not a member but if my husband and I die we have a pack that she'll get baptized and raise my kids. There, it's in writing. Is it legal now?

My best friend from college is African American and has lighter skin than me. Her initials spell HAM and every night I'd sing Oh Holy Night to her as obnoxiously possible.

Some of the people I love most in life deal with things you and I could never possibly imagine. Has our country come a long way, you bet! However, the need for compassion and understanding is great.

Especially within the church.

Just the other week a member from a former stake presidency was making fun of my husband, and in essence really calling him a liar when he brought up a time he was unfairly pulled over. Am I bitter, no! Just irked because this happens more often than it should. He had 3 black kids in back, driving back through rural NV from Scout Camp!! The church member said, "I'm pulled over just as much as you are. Don't whine." It's simply not true. And my husband isn't a whiner. Racial profiling exists and it's wrong. My husband was called the N word by bishops on his mission in Texas. He was beat up in the church parking lot as a child by kids screaming "Get up Jamima." The list goes on and on, but my point is MORE COMPASSION!!! Why can't we just listen to each other and support each other? Why can't we say, Wow- you've been through a lot and I admire your strength and courage?

Now, praise the LORD!!! The scriptures have been revised online to take out some of the rather confusing nature of "curses" and "skins of blackness". God loves all His children. To see more click HERE.

In honor of Black History Month, here is a lesson from blacksinthescriptures.com that one could do with their family for FHE. Please pardon all my babbling. I just know how important it is to teach our families the importance of God loving all His children.

Purpose

1.To help class members understand that God is truly no respecter of person

2.To help class members understand and become prepared to teach truths regarding skin color

3.To help class members become more dependent upon continual in depth study of all scripture and reliant upon the spirit of the Lord to receive truth and help others

Note: This outline is designed to be a brief but significant introduction to the subject matter. For more thorough scriptural coverage, play segment 2 of the Blacks in the Scriptures DVD series.

Object Lesson 1

Ask for a volunteer (Caucasian) wearing a white shirt. Ask class members what color is the shirt. Ask them to now imagine a color scale with white on one end. Now ask what is on the other end. (Black) What color is in the middle of that scale? (Gray) Now ask the class what color is the volunteer’s face. They can’t say white, because there’s a stark difference between their face and the white shirt they’re wearing.

Now ask, if you were to gradually darken volunteer’s face, what color would it become? (Brown) Yes. We are all just different shades of brown. There are no actual black or white people. Those are terms of separation created by man and used to justify elevating ones self and to degrade his brother.

Now show the unity wristband and the different shades of brown and deliver its message. There are no black or white people. We are all simply various shades of brown. We are truly all one and are commanded to be of one heart, of one mind and to be one.

Alternative Object Lesson

Pass around several unity wristbands and ask class members to find the shade closest to their skin color and then pass it on to those sitting near them. Once they’ve all had a chance, explain to them that all of the colors in the wristband are in the “brown” color scale. This demonstrates that there are no black or white people, that we are all various shades of brown.

Scripture Discussion and Application

SKIN COLOR

•1 Samuel 16:7

Discuss how the Lord is teaching Samuel not to look on the outward appearance to judge one’s worthiness. And that the Lord does not see as man does, as He only looks upon the heart, but man judges by outward appearances. Ask - if the Lord is teaching the prophet Samuel not to look upon the outward appearances to judge worthiness, would it be in keeping with His own law if the Lord were to change someone’s skin color (Suggest Cain, Ham or Lamanites) encouraging man to focus on the outward appearance to judge one’s worthiness? Encourage each in attendance to think about this single gospel principal for themselves in relation to perceived skin color references in all of the standard works.

•Alma 55:4-8

Discuss how Moroni had to search among his people for a descendant of Laman because none of them stood out because of their skin color. This is much like not needing to conduct a search for African Americans in a Salt Lake City ward. There are so few and stand out so much so that searching would not be necessary. Discuss how Laman and the small number of Moroni’s men had to identify themselves as Lamanites because the Lamanites could not look at them and tell whether they were Nephites or Lamanites. Also, even in their presence, the scripture says “and they received them with joy” they could not tell that they were being deceived by Nephites posing as Lamanites.

•Jeremiah 8:21 & Jeremiah 14:2

Read, discuss and follow each footnote for the world “black” demonstrating that they refer to the spiritual state and not the literal color of skin (LDS edition of the standard King James Bible). Help class members to recognize that the footnoting of Hebrew Idiom reminds us that the Bible text is a translation from an ancient time and foreign language. That it was not given after the manner of our language, and that many times there is no direct translation from the original language. So it is critical to increase scripture study and prayer in order to come to clearer understanding. (See and read D&C 1:24)

•2 Nephi 5:21

Read and ask what is meant by “skin” in this passage? Depending on their answers, remind them of the law taught by the Lord to the prophet Samuel in 1 Samuel 16:7. Read the following quote by Bruce R. McConkie given to CES instructors in August 1978, just two months after the revelation extending priesthood to all worthy males:

“Forget everything that I have said, or what President Brigham Young or President George Q. Cannon or whoever has said in days past that is contrary to the present revelation. We spoke with a limited understanding and without the light and knowledge that now has come into the world. We get our truth and light line upon line and precept upon precept (2 Ne. 28:30; Isa. 28:9-10; D&C 98:11-12; 128:21). We have now had added a flood of intelligence and light on this particular subject, and it erases all the darkness, all the views and all the thoughts of the past.

Explain that with the additional light and knowledge, we received a new edition of the LDS scriptures 3 years later in 1981, which helped to clarify all that was misunderstood, and if they’d follow each new footnote added, that they will find that there are no loose ends, that all have been accounted for.

Follow new footnote “d” on the word “skin” to 2 Nephi 30:6. As you or a volunteer read this passage aloud, encourage the class to ask themselves individually, “what does the Lord want me to understand about “skin” that He inspired a new footnote to be put on the word and directed me to this passage?

•2 Nephi 30:6

Read and point out that before the 1981 edition, the word “pure” was actually “white”. Then point out the new footnote on the word “scales” and follow it to the bottom of the page where it states clearly that “TG darkness spiritual, TG spiritual blindness”, indicating that the “skin” being spoken of is spiritual and not a literal, physical skin color, which is consistent with everything we’ve covered thus far.

•Jacob 3:8

Read and ask – What is taking place when we are brought before the throne of God? (Judgment) After receiving verbal response, ask if the Lord is going to judge us on our physical appearance? After receiving resounding “no’s”, explain that the skins being spoken of in this passage cannot be literal then, and must be spiritual. Read passage again. Explain that this is consistent with all that we’ve read thus far.

•3 Nephi 2:15

Read and ask class members what does “skin” mean in this passage? Ask them to follow the new footnote on the word “white”, where they will find 2 Nephi 5:21, 2 Nephi 30:6 and Jacob 3:8. Explain again that there are no loose ends. All that made us believe that the Lamanites actually had a darker physical skin than the Nephites, now all have new footnoting or word changes to help us to understand that the passages are actually referring to spiritual darkness or spiritual blindness.

Special note for instructors

It’s important to be spiritually sensitive to your audience when teaching this issue. There will most likely be at least a few who struggle as they attempt to reconcile this new light in the scriptures with all that has been taught on these issues prior. You’ll want to manage your time to leave at least 10-15 minutes for this segment of the class which is design to help adjust the unrealistic expectation for church leaders to be perfect. We have found that the following help to ease their anxiety:

The Lord knew that errors would be made and that leaders would even sin. And if its ok with the Lord, who are we to judge? Christ was the only perfect one to walk the earth and all others must use the blessings of the atonement to overcome our human frailties.

D&C 1:24-28 – "Behold, I am God and have spoken it; these commandments are of me, and were given unto my servants in their weakness, after the manner of their language, that they might come to understanding. And inasmuch as they erred it might be made known; And inasmuch as they sought wisdom they might be instructed; And inasmuch as they sinned they might be chastened, that they might repent; And inasmuch as they were humble they might be made strong, and blessed from on high, and receive knowledge from time to time."

One of the difficult struggles Joseph Smith had came from Saints who were so married to their traditions, that they could not fully embrace the marriage to the Lamb of God.

“I have tried for a number of years to get the minds of the Saints prepared to receive the things of God; but we frequently see some of them, after suffering all they have for the work of God, will fly to pieces like glass as soon as anything comes that is contrary to their traditions: they cannot stand the fire at all. How many will be able to abide a celestial law, and go through and receive their exaltation, I am unable to say, as many are called, but few are chosen [see D&C 121:40].” Joseph Smith

Brigham Young had great concern about the members falling into blind obedience or failing to seek their own spiritual confirmation regarding the pronouncements of church leaders:

“What a pity it would be, if we were led by one man to utter destruction! Are you afraid of this? I am more afraid that this people have so much confidence in their leaders that they will not inquire for themselves of God whether they are led by him. I am fearful they settle down in a state of blind self-security, trusting their eternal destiny in the hands of their leaders with a reckless confidence that in itself would thwart the purposes of God in their salvation, and weaken the influence they could give to their leaders, did they know for themselves, by the revelations of Jesus, that they are led in the right way. Let every man and woman know, themselves, whether their leaders are walking in the path the Lord dictates, or not. This has been my exhortation continually.”Brigham Young, Journal of Discourses, Vol. 9, p. 150

Conclusion

Encourage each class member to study and pray about each of the passages of scripture covered today in order to receive what God would have them know and understand. Remind them of our sacred covenants to help edify those around us and to help share the joy of the gospel with others, and that as they seek the Lord to know these truths, He will fill their lamps with oil that they might light that pathway to the gospel for others. Let them know that there is a wealth of information on the Blacks in the Scriptures website that they can simply read to aid in their study.

Share your testimony of your own personal journey to understand these truths and the witness of the spirit that came to you.

February 2011 LDS Primary Sharing Time Helps and Ideas

(Gospel Art Book)

Monthly Theme: The Scriptures Teach of Heavenly Father's Plan.

Monthly Scripture: "For behold, this is my work and my glory—to bring to pass the immortality and eternal llife of man” Moses 1:39

Week 1 Heavenly Father has a plan for me.

* HERE is an Ensign Article on how the Apostles suggest we teach our children about the plan of salvation. Definitely suggest you read it and pray over what they suggest to do!

* Divide into groups and use play dough to form different parts of the plan of salvation, then have everyone share.

* Have the children make their own "life map". It's great to set goals and visualize our future. They can illustrate what they would like to do in 10-20 years! Will they get married in the temple? Where will they serve a mission? What would they like to have as a job? Will life turn out exactly like we plan?
2 Samuel 22:31 "As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the Lord is tried...."

Recycled ideas from a  previous post:
* Have a small box of Lincoln logs. Invite a child to come up and build a house. Ask them questions like, why don’t you put the green roof sticks on the bottom? Why do you put long logs on the bottom and shorter ones on the side? How will you make room for windows? How long will it take you to finish? Thank the child and ask if anyone has ever built a real home or knows what goes into building a real home? Show a picture of a real house. Do they just stop by home depot with $100 and window shop for things that look good or do you think they make a list of supplies they need? When you build a real home do you need a plan? What is a plan? What is Heavenly Father’s plan for me?At the end of the lesson, come back to the idea that you are grateful Heavenly Father took the time to carefully think out each piece of our lives (hold up Lincoln logs). He didn’t throw us together and hope for the best, but He perfectly designed (hold up a picture of the real home) a plan that would bring us happiness.

* Invite a child to come up that can read. Have 6 strips of paper of things they need to do. For example brush teeth, do homework, help neighbor mow lawn, play a board game with my sister, put away dishes/finish chores, spend time with Fish the family dog. Ask them how they would plan their day and to put the paper in the order they would feel is best for the day. Why wouldn’t they help their neighbor mow the lawn at the end of the day when it’s dark? Why would they do homework before playing? Is it good to have a plan for your day, why? What about having a plan for life? What might that include? Hold up a diagram of the plan of salvation and ask, who’s plan do you think this could be?

At the end of the lesson, come back to the idea that we can make plans to help our day go smoother. Heavenly Father has created the ultimate plan that gives happiness to each day and we should follow it with all our hearts.

*Bring in a 3-D book and pair of 3-D glasses. Ask a child to come up and look at the book and tell them what they see. Now put on the glasses. Is that pretty cool?
President Eyring has said:
“You can think of the plan of salvation as a set of eyes (hold up the 3-D glasses) that allow you to see what the natural eye does not see” (Mission Presidents’ Seminar, June 2000, 2). Is it pretty exciting to know where we have come from, where we are going and what our purpose here on earth is? The plan of salvation helps us see life as the happy and wonderful thing it is!

On the same note, with a little variation: Bring in a pair of glasses. Have a child come up and put them on for 5 seconds. Can they see? Is it blurry? Is it clear?“Some of us at one time or another let the pressures of life or the false teachings of men cloud our vision, but when we see with clarity, the difference between the plan of God and that of Satan is unmistakable” (Richard G. Scott, Ensign, Nov. 1981, 11)

Week 2 Jesus Christ created the earth for me.

* If possible, go outside with the children and have them write down or draw all the things they see. Let them share with each other what they wrote/drew once you return inside. How do they feel knowing that Jesus created the earth for them?

* Invite 4 different return missionaries or members of the ward who have lived in different places to come to primary. Have them bring items from that place and let the children ask them any questions. The earth is huge, full of lots of different places and people. Have the children share about any places they've been with a partner and where on earth they'd like to visit someday.
Psalms 115:16 "The heaven, even the heavens, are the Lord’s: but the earth hath he given to the children of men."

* Have a bag of blocks. If you shake the bag of blocks will it turn into a tower? Many people believe that the earth just kind of shook a lot and was created. We know that doesn't make sense and isn't possible. Jesus created the earth for us because He loves us! Make a rollerbox of the creation. Click HERE to see how to make a roller box.

* Do a simple acting out of Moses 1. Remember, children shouldn't play Deity, but they can hold a picture while you quote what exactly the Lord says. Most children probably do not know this story!! While it can be a little scary thinking about Satan, we need to especially remember that God protected Moses - as verse 26 says, "And lo, I am with thee, even unto the end of thy days". You can make large circle worlds for children to hold, because we know the earth isn't the only place Jesus created. Have a simple costume for Moses. Quote as much as possible from the scriptures as you tell the story!

Week 3 Families are central to Heavenly Father's plan.

* “We, the First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, solemnly proclaim that marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God and that the family is central to the Creator’s plan for the eternal destiny of His children.” From The Proclamation
Have a "safe" "kid-friendly "dart board.Invite the children up to answer questions and read scriptures on the family. Then they can take a turn throwing a "safe" dart and see how close to the center they get on the dart board.

* Take a piece of chalk and some string and attach one end to a small stick and the other end to the chalk. (Like you're making a make-shift compass) Use the stick to make a strong center and pull the string tight and go around on the black board to make a nice even circle. Invite a child to come up and draw the same size circle but without the firm and steady center. What's the difference? What is the difference in life when we have strong families as opposed to nothing?

*President Henry B. Eyring, “The family unit is fundamental … to our hope for eternal life. We begin to practice in the family, the smaller unit, what will spread to the Church and to the society in which we live in this world, which will then be what we practice in families bound together forever by covenants and by faithfulness. We can start now to ‘promote those measures designed to maintain and strengthen the family.’ I pray that we will. I pray that you will ask, ‘Father, how can I prepare?’ Tell him how much you want what he desires to give you. You will receive impressions, and if you act on them, I promise you the help of the powers of heaven” (“The Family,” Liahona, Oct. 1998, 23; Ensign, Feb. 1998, 18).

Have a tub of water and let a child drop in something. Watch the ripples. What we do in our families spreads, just like a ripple to the world as President Eyring talks about.

* Ask the children what the center core of the church is? To demonstrate, you can hold up an apple and ask if the church was an apple, what would be it's core?
"The center core of the Church is not the stake [center]; it is not the chapel. … The most sacred place on earth may not be the temple, necessarily. The chapel, the stake [center], and the temple are sacred as they contribute to the building of the most sacred institution in the Church—the home—and to the blessing of the most sacred relationships in the Church, the family” ( Elder Boyd K. Packer "That All May Be Edified” [1982], 234–35). (I HEART Boyd!!)

* Have the primary children do a simple dramatization of Adam and Eve and the first family. Have GAK 119 showing and you can even read the back if you need help coming up with the specifics of the story.

* HERE is an old Reader's Theatre on Nephi and His family.

Week 4 I will follow God's plan.

Here are a few recycled ideas from a previous post:
* Have a small box of Lincoln logs. Invite a child to come up and build a house. Ask them questions like, why don’t you put the green roof sticks on the bottom? Why do you put long logs on the bottom and shorter ones on the side? How will you make room for windows? How long will it take you to finish? Thank the child and ask if anyone has ever built a real home or knows what goes into building a real home? Show a picture of a real house. Do they just stop by home depot with $100 and window shop for things that look good or do you think they make a list of supplies they need? When you build a real home do you need a plan? What is a plan? What is Heavenly Father’s plan for me?At the end of the lesson, come back to the idea that you are grateful Heavenly Father took the time to carefully think out each piece of our lives (hold up Lincoln logs). He didn’t throw us together and hope for the best, but He perfectly designed (hold up a picture of the real home) a plan that would bring us happiness.

* Invite a child to come up that can read. Have 6 strips of paper of things they need to do. For example brush teeth, do homework, help neighbor mow lawn, play a board game with my sister, put away dishes/finish chores, spend time with Fish the family dog. Ask them how they would plan their day and to put the paper in the order they would feel is best for the day. Why wouldn’t they help their neighbor mow the lawn at the end of the day when it’s dark? Why would they do homework before playing? Is it good to have a plan for your day, why? What about having a plan for life? What might that include? Hold up a diagram of the plan of salvation and ask, who’s plan do you think this could be?

At the end of the lesson, come back to the idea that we can make plans to help our day go smoother. Heavenly Father has created the ultimate plan that gives happiness to each day and we should follow it with all our hearts.

*Bring in a 3-D book and pair of 3-D glasses. Ask a child to come up and look at the book and tell them what they see. Now put on the glasses. Is that pretty cool?

President Eyring has said: “You can think of the plan of salvation as a set of eyes (hold up the 3-D glasses) that allow you to see what the natural eye does not see” (Mission Presidents’ Seminar, June 2000, 2). Is it pretty exciting to know where we have come from, where we are going and what our purpose here on earth is? The plan of salvation helps us see life as the happy and wonderful thing it is!

On the same note, with a little variation: Bring in a pair of glasses. Have a child come up and put them on for 5 seconds. Can they see? Is it blurry? Is it clear?“Some of us at one time or another let the pressures of life or the false teachings of men cloud our vision, but when we see with clarity, the difference between the plan of God and that of Satan is unmistakable” (Richard G. Scott, Ensign, Nov. 1981, 11)

A couple new ideas:
* Write on the board the following words, Maybe, We'll see, I don't know, I guess, Uh- I'm really not sure if I want to. These are all words that are weak. Have the children come up to the board, erase a weak word and replace it with a strong word or phrase. Yes! I will! Of course!!
When it comes to following God's plan should we use weak words or strong words?

* Have a map to find something special in the primary room... was the map important?

"Not all will follow the map [Heavenly Father has given us]. They may look at it. They may think it is reasonable, perhaps even true. But they do not follow the divine directions. Many believe that any road will take them to a 'happily ever after.' Some may even become angry when others who know the way try to help and tell them. They suppose that such advice is outdated, irrelevant, out of touch with modern life. Sisters, they suppose wrong." Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "Your Happily Ever After," Ensign, May 2010, 127

I Will Follow God's Plan For Me LDS Primary Song Helps

(From Margaret Lifferth, "Sharing Time: The Plan of Happiness", Friend, Jan. 2005, 14)

* To review this song, have the different sections of the plan of salvation cut out. Click HERE for the sections pictured above. Invite a child to come to the front and arrange in the right order- and see if they can do so before the end of the song. For older children, make this more complicated by having them arrange on a table only using their chin or elbow.

* This song almost has a march sound to it. Invite a child who has been singing extra boldly to hold a picture of the plan of salvation. Have that child choose 3 primary friends who have also been singing super. They will "follow"(the 3 friends) "God's plan" (the child holding the plan of salvation), marching around the room during the chorus.

* Have pictures of the children to hold up of themselves on the words, "I" "My" and "Me". This song isn't about telling others what to do, it's about what I WILL DO!! You can also review by having everyone sitting and then holding up their picture- when you do so up front, they need to stand up by their seat and march reverently in place and start singing, so basically it will start off soft with one or two children, then add up to the whole primary singing boldly. If it isn't feasible to have pictures of the children they can sure point to themselves on those words!! Or draw an I in the air (line down and dot it!) on that word!!

* Have different objects to represent lines of the song hidden throughout the room. You have to sing that line over and over again until the object is found!! Rotate different children to find the objects while singing... but if that child who is looking stops singing, then another person gets to come up!!
For example:
My life is a gift, my life has a plan, my life has a purpose in heaven it began
- a small wrapped gift
My choice was to come to this lovely home on earth, and seek for God's light to direct me from birth
- flashlight with picture of Christ taped to it
I will follow God's plan for me, holding fast to His word and His love
- scriptures
I will work, I will pray, I will always walk in His way
- pair of shoes
Then I will be happy on earth, and in my home above
- small globe