Soapbox: Art, Winning and Self Expression

Title: First Steps (after Millet, detail), c.1890 by Vincent Van Gogh

Today I had an interesting day, and when I say interesting I mean I was almost ready to take a paint brush and paint a woman's forehead. Not really. Ok, maybe. In my mind it sounded good.

Will this have anything to do with primary? Yes. But patience my friend, patience. I need to build up the emotions and anticipation.

We go to the library for a free painting activity. Background, I love art. My girls have been to many a museum and have done many a project. I am a firm believer in art as an expression not a science, especially for little ones. Art should be enjoyable not something where the adult does it for them or criticizes their technique. So here's when the drama started, the art teacher took the paint brush out of my child's hand and said, "No. It's an OK sun but I want the whole paper yellow."- to which she then painted over my daughter's exceptional (not merely OK) sun. Well, mama bear came out, and believe me, I'm a laid back person. It takes a lot to get me to the point where I'll go postal. I listen to Bob Marley and dance to 80's music with my girls on a daily basis, we're free lovin' spirits.

The pointer finger and hand on the hip came out as I told the eccentric that Christina's art is her art, not the teachers. She is allowed to do it herself, how she wants. Because art is subjective, the beauty of art is different to everyone. The teacher told me that my daughter would never win any competitions if she didn't learn how to paint with technique. (Gagging sounds, anyone? Anyone?) She suggested I make her paint with one color, then let it dry for 10 minutes, have her come back and paint with a different color, then let dry for 10 minutes, repeat, blah blah blah etc. I guess I should add the fact my child is 5. Doesn't that sound really fun for a 5 year old to do? She just sat for 10 minutes of "talking at" and now she's going to sit some more! And be told how winning is just so important in life!

Where do we get off telling kids not to discover or learn for themselves?
Who are we to answer questions that kids can answer for themselves?

CHILDREN ARE CAPABLE!!!!
What was that?
CHILDREN ARE CAPABLE!!!!

We should never take a paint brush from a child and paint over their masterpiece. Sheesh, and here comes the connection now.... Just like we should not talk over children in sharing time. I would like to state clearly, Sharing Time is a time where children should be allowed to express themselves and enjoy feeling the spirit. They have so much to share and we need to facilitate opportunities for them to do so!

My pet peeve in life is when people gab. Children don't need 10-20 minute long explanations or talking at's. They learn quickly and they do so best when they aren't sitting bored out of their gourd.

Children can write their own talks, as early as they learn how to speak! Let them discover early on what it's like to pray, receive inspiration and then teach others by the spirit. I mean really, Mormon was 10 years old when he was told to witness the downfall of the Nephites and then record it on the plates later on down the road. Really? I'm convinced we have tons of little 10 year old Mormon's around us, but we're not giving them the opportunity to speak, because we're speaking over them.


POINT: LESS TALK, MORE CHILDREN.

Jeremiah 1:6-7 " Then said I, Ah, Lord God! behold, I cannot speak: for I am a child.

But the Lord said unto me, Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak."

Now before I get some off the wall comment, yes I realize there needs to be balance. We talk and teach, bear testimony etc. I'm just redirecting our attention to the fact it's called "Sharing Time" not "Adult Lecture Series" time. And in life too- are you really listening to children? Are you hearing what they are saying and trying to talk with them not at them?

Van Gogh was never fully appreciated until after he was dead.
Let's discover the color, the life and the unique expression of each of our dear sweet children so they don't end up one day hacking off their ear.

Can I get an amen?
Amen, sista.
Amen.

** And as I was talking with my brilliant little star about how the teacher was bonkers, how winning is not what is most important about art, but finding the joy in creating- she said, quote "I know mommy. We need to go back and tell the lady I already won a coloring competition. And I won by coloring how I wanted to color not by how she told me to do it."

Way to make a point child, way to make a point.

August 2010 LDS Primary Sharing Time Ideas and Helps

California Quail Image courtesy creative commons license flickr.com by Peter Baer March 21,2009
I don't know why, but this bird reminds me of me. The dove led the glorious life and the quail was used, well, for dinner. At least I don't feel like a crow. Perhaps I feel like I resemble a quail because secretly I long for the poof bangs of the 90's to return to style.

August Theme: Jesus Christ is the Son of God, and He is a God of miracles.
August Scripture: "For behold, I am God; and I am a God of miracles;...and I work not among the children of men save it be according to their faith." 2 Nephi 27:23

Week 1: Jesus Christ is a God of Miracles.

* Have a small box of feathers with a picture of a quail on front. Briefly ask the children if they know why quails are miracles?

"The book of Exodus reports that quail were miraculously provided to feed the hungry people of ancient Israel (see Ex. 16:13; Num. 11:32; Ps. 105:40). The pioneers had an equivalent experience. After the last of them had been driven out of Nauvoo, many were sick and some had died. Their provisions were meager. On the river bottoms near Montrose, Iowa, on 9 October 1846, many quail miraculously flew into camp. The quail were cooked and fed to some 640 destitute people (see Stanley B. Kimball, "Nauvoo West: The Mormons of the Iowa Shore," BYU Studies, winter 1978, 142)." Russell M. Nelson, "The Exodus Repeated," Ensign, July 1999, 9

Have about 10-12 TOTAL questions, scriptures and songs having to do with Jesus Christ and His many miracles on little scraps of paper. Put these in the feathers and invite the children to come up and pick a paper. For children that have been extra helpful, let them choose a feather to take home!

* Play Miracle charades! Break into groups, give each group a miracle Christ did, have them come up with actions and then come to the front to let the primary guess away! The groups can come up with 3 hints also if our primary friends need help.

* Pin the Pointer on the Liahona: Have a poster board with a large liahona drawn on it. Have 15 black arrows for the children to "pin" on with tape. Have a blindfold and spin them. BUT BEFORE you do this, they have to tell a story from the scriptures or from their own life about how Jesus is a God of miracles. If the younger kids need help, have them choose an older child to come up front to help them tell a story. I would also have a variety of different Gospel Art Kit pictures posted all around to help jog their memory.

Alma 37:38-40 "And now, my son, I have somewhat to say concerning the thing which our fathers call a ball, or director—or our fathers called it Liahona, which is, being interpreted, a compass; and the Lord prepared it. And behold, there cannot any man work after the manner of so curious a workmanship. And behold, it was prepared to show unto our fathers the course which they should travel in the wilderness. And it did work for them according to their faith in God; therefore, if they had faith to believe that God could cause that those spindles should point the way they should go, behold, it was done; therefore they had this miracle, and also many other miracles wrought by the power of God, day by day."

* As a visual- Have an apple. Ask the children if this apple will just up and change into a banana. Let's watch it for 10 seconds, just in case. Nope, not changing! Maybe if a primary friend holds it, it might change? Hmmm.... Kind of like Heavenly Father and Jesus, they don't just up and change out of the blue!!

Mormon 9:17-19 "Who shall say that it was not a miracle that by his word the heaven and the earth should be; and by the power of his word man was created of the dust of the earth; and by the power of his word have miracles been wrought?And who shall say that Jesus Christ did not do many mighty miracles? And there were many mighty miracles wrought by the hands of the apostles. And if there were miracles wrought then, why has God ceased to be a God of miracles and yet be an unchangeable Being? And behold, I say unto you he changeth not; if so he would cease to be God; and he ceaseth not to be God, and is a God of miracles.

* During Singing Time, have a child come to the front and wear and overly large t-shirt. Have their hands barely sticking out. As you sing a song, have the child move their arm out (lengthened) or in (shortened) and correspond with a way to sing. (They might have to do this by pulling up the sleeve or letting it down depending on the size of the shirt) For example, if the arm is outstretched, sing boldly, if it's shortened sing softly. They will have to watch their primary friend carefully! Boy, talk about miracles, what beautiful singing!!!

D&C 35:8 "For I am God, and mine arm is not shortened; and I will show miracles, signs, and wonders, unto all those who believe on my name"

* For Senior Primary: Have copies of this talk by Elder Dallin H. Oaks for each child. Have them break into pairs or small groups and read together. Have highlighters for them to mark anything that sticks out to them. After reading let the children share how they know Jesus Christ is a God of miracles or any thoughts they had about the article.

Week 2: Jesus Christ can heal the sick.

* Have a poster board of an outline of a person. Time to break out the quarters and splurge for a box of band aids at the $1 store. Let the children come up and add band aids to the paper person as they answer questions, sing songs and read scriptures having to do with Jesus healing the sick. We're going to do this for a FHE!

* Have a first aid kit with different scripture stories of Jesus healing the sick attached to the items inside it. Have children pick out an item and discuss the story in groups, then rotate the items.

* Have different stations with special guests! Is there anyone in your ward with a medical background? Have any doctors or nurses come into primary and share with the children stories of Christ healing the sick. Perhaps they could even bring in something they use at work to help others feel better for the children to look at! Make sure each station has a picture to go with the story or a flannel board. Kindly remind guests to be enthusiastic and encourage primary friends to share any knowledge they have of the different stories! I would do probably 3 stations, rotate and then finish with the guests bearing testimony of Christ as our Divine Healer.

* Here is a lesson from the Choose the Right A manual. The enrichments are great for little ones.

* Here is another lesson from Primary 7 manual. I especially like the attention activity with the coat.

* Here is a great crossword of Jesus healing the lepers (from The Friend)

* For FHE play the game operation! Put a gospel twist on it by reviewing stories of Christ healing and singing songs on faith to earn the opportunity to perform surgery! End with the fact that Jesus is the doctor of all doctors! He heals!

Jeremiah 17:14 "Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved: for thou art my praise."

Week 3: Jesus Christ has power over death.

*Reader's Theatre HERE . Did you notice the tip in the outline "As children act out scripture stories, they are able to remember and understand them better."
Excellent.

Week 4: Miracles come to those who have faith.

Be prepared- miracles accompany the faithful, but even the faithful are tried and tested and sometimes don't get the miracle they want no matter how very faithful they are! God knows what's best when it comes to the "when" and "who" of miracles. Make sure the children understand sometimes they will receive miracles and sometimes not, and that's OK because Heavenly Father and Jesus know what They are doing! The key is to trust them and pray to develop a testimony of Their wisdom and mercy.

* "...Faith precedes the miracle. It has ever been so and shall ever be. It was not raining when Noah was commanded to build an ark. There was no visible ram in the thicket when Abraham prepared to sacrifice his son Isaac. Two heavenly personages were not yet seen when Joseph knelt and prayed. First came the test of faith—and then the miracle."Thomas S. Monson, “The Call to Serve,” Liahona, Jan 2001, 57–60

Have different scripture stories and pictures on faith and miracles. Click HERE for the different books that you can then choose specific stories from. Print out the stories, cut apart and put into envelopes. Have the children divide into groups and sequence the stories in the right order. What came first? What came last? Have them share with the Primary.

* Ether 12:12 "For if there be no faith, among the children of men God can do no miracle among them; wherefore, he showed not himself until after their faith."

Have about 6 different items hidden under 6 different small blankets. These items should have to do with stories from the scriptures having to do with faith and miracles. Have different clues to help the children guess what is hidden. They can come up to the front to read different clues.

For example, I would have small crystal rocks under the blanket. Clues: This miracle takes place in the Book Of Mormon. This miracle only happened because of a very faithful man. This man had a really long name. He prayed very faithfully and often to know what God wanted him to do. This miracle helped the man and his family and friends cross the dark and deep ocean with light. This miracle had to do with a people that rhymes with Marednites. Show a picture clues from the GAK 318. The brother of Jared and the sixteen stones!

* Have the names Stephen, Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas written on the board. Does anybody know who on earth these people are? What do our primary friends think about these names? Tell the children, to find out more, we're going to go back in time. Have the children pat their laps twice and put their thumbs back in the air. Keep on doing this rhythm as an invited guest comes in, dressed in ancient robes. Great job friends, we've made it back in time and it's my pleasure to introduce you to.... (Then using chalk circle the name Stephen). Have your special guest give children scriptures to look up to learn more about him. (Acts 6:4, Acts 6:8, Acts 6:9-10, Acts 7:54-60) Have Stephen answer any questions and talk about how he was the first martyr after the death of Christ. While he was faithful and performed miracles, he still was stoned. We might not understand the "why's" of life, but that's OK because

Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all thy heart, and lean not unto thy own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."

* Have a large map of the world. Have small flags from different countries around the world that you can attach to the map.

2 Nephi 26:13 " And that he manifesteth himself unto all those who believe in him, by the power of the Holy Ghost; yea, unto every nation, kindred, tongue, and people, working mighty miracles,

signs, and wonders, among the children of men according to their faith."

Have questions, scriptures and songs on miracles and faith corresponding to the different flags and as they answer, let them place on the map where it belongs.

* Why do missionaries serve missions? Where do you want to go on a mission? Invite the missionaries in to ENERGETICALLY talk about faith for A COUPLE MINUTES (AS IN A COUPLE MINUTES, 2 MINUTES). Can you really be a missionary without faith? Is serving a mission a miracle? According to our apostle President Boyd K. Packer (I heart Boyd) Yes!!

Tip: Read slowly as some of the words are big. "What kind of miraculous persuasion is it that would have a young man, vigorous, active, interested in life itself- at the one time when he, by virtue of normal appraisal, ought to be more interested in material things- be willing to respond to a call to serve on a mission, pay his own way, give a tithing of his life, 2 years, preaching the gospel? Miracle? Oh, yes; but we have over 25,000 of them." Boyd K. Packer, "Called of God by Prophecy," New Era, Sep 1978, 33

Then take the time to write letters and draw pictures for the faithful missionaries/miracles serving from your ward!

*What is one of the greatest miracles that has happened in the past 200 years? What example of faith led to the only recorded time in history that God the Father and His Son miraculously appeared? Show a church video of the account of Joseph Smith and the first vision. (Remember you only have about 10-13 minutes to do so as you need to incorporate singing and time for them to share their thoughts.)

LDS Primary Sacrament Meeting Presentation 2010

Image courtesy imagingtheheavens.co.uk

With billions and billions of people on the earth, who am I?
How is it even remotely possible that God will answer my prayers and help me receive revelation? Where does He find the time to help everyone?
Why do I even matter?

Woah people... we're getting a bit deep and I wish I knew that answers, but I don't.

Time to step out on the porch, sip some Mug's and look at the stars.
Relax.
It doesn't matter that we don't know the "hows" or "huh's?".

All that matters is this:
Did you know there was a topical guide topic of God-Access to??
Now, in this section of the study helps, we find 44 different references to the fact that
God is there for us.
4. Bam. 4.

What does this mean? You don't need to worry, you don't need to stress! Take another swig of that root beer, wink at the stars and take it to the Big Man. Primary Program here we come!

For first time Primary Sacrament Meeting writers, here is my advice: Get ready for a treat!! Get ready for an experience of true happiness!! Get ready to be closer to your maker.

Tips:

1. First things first- Make sure your spirit is healthy. Read those scriptures, pray and attend the temple. Do the standards and the standard will be unfolded unto you. I really have no clue what I meant by the last sentence. It sounds like a Mountain Dew* commercial gone awry. Most important of all, pray, pray, pray, pray, pray for guidance and that the Holy Ghost will guide you.

2. Know your children! Who is shy, who is not? Who is a confident reader, who needs special attention? Who could write their own part? Plan parts that are appropriate for each child. Sunbeams (for the most part) do best with 1-3 sentences. Older children should be given a time frame on what they are expected to fill.

3. Give the children plenty of time to practice their parts at home. (At the very least 2 weeks) If they are able to memorize, fantastic!

4. See here for some more of my ramblings. Details of a practice run in the chapel.

5. Take the Sharing Time Outline and use the weekly topics as basis for your parts. Use parts of the children's talks they've given. Use the scriptures in the outline. Have the children tell stories from the scriptures. Group your program into different topics followed by a song that emphasizes that topic. And if that doesn't work for you, that's OK! Do your thang and just be open to what Heavenly Father has in mind for His primary and children.


Still nervous? See here for even more of my ramblings.

Best of wishes as you realize the truth of this scripture: "And that he manifesteth himself unto all those who believe in him, by the power of the Holy Ghost; yea, unto every nation, kindred, tongue, and people, working mighty miracles, signs, and wonders, among the children of men according to their faith." 2 Nephi 26:13

* Despite my 3 references to soda, I rarely drink it. I feel like you really just can't beat water.

Puffed Up With Pride- A Visual

I love to do this for a simple Sabbath Day Activity or Family Home Evening Visual.

Ask: What is pride?

Take a balloon and start puffing/blowing it up. As you do so, talk about some different examples from the scriptures of people "puffed up with pride". Use pictures from GAK (Gospel Art Kit) if possible.

*Laman and Lemuel

*King Noah

*The Nephites over and over and over again!!

*Oliver Cowdery

*Satan and what he did in the pre-mortal world

Scriptures: (Pick and Choose depending on the age of your children)

2 Nephi 28:12-13, 15

Alma 5:53

Alma 31:27

3 Nephi 6:15

What happens when there is too much pride? Keep on puffing up!

POP.

When's the last time you've read this? Beware of pride indeed!

July 2010 LDS Primary Sharing Time Helps and Ideas

British Artist Ford Madox Brown Jesus Washing Peter's feet at the Last Supper (1835)

July Theme: I can Follow Jesus Christ's Example.
July Scripture: Jesus said, "Come, follow me" (Luke 18:22)

Week 1 Jesus Christ always obeyed Heavenly Father.

* See Reader's Theater here. Hey, ever wonder why I post so many reader's theaters? Me too. Not really though. I like reader's theater because it involves a lot of kids and gets them completely involved in the learning process.

Week 2 Jesus Christ went about doing good.

* Have a bunch of words/pictures of things we can do with our time. Playing video games, watching TV, eating, reading a book, playing soccer... Ask the children to come to the front and share with the primary something they can do. Sing Do as I'm Doing (CS p. 276) and Fun to Do (CS p.253). What was a special word that was the same in both songs? DO! There are lots of things we can do with our time, but we should DO what Christ did. Have the children come up with stories and experiences from our Savior's life to replace the things we can "do" on the board with the things we should do.

* Sing Tell Me the Stories of Jesus (CS p.57). Show the children Elder Andersen's recent talk at conference... what is the name of His talk? How important is it that we know what Jesus Christ did? Very! Make books of the different stories of Jesus and how He went about doing good. Give the children different GAK (gospel art kit) pictures and have them draw out the stories. Staple and share! This is a good way to have the older and younger work together as the little ones will draw pictures and the older children can write the words. Teachers can help also! Have them write verbatim what the children can recall of the things Jesus did here on this earth.

* Have the children look at the Bible Maps!! Especially Map 11 The Holy Land in New Testament Times. Here is a nice link to show and give in detail all the different places Christ went about doing good. Don't forget a map of the America's too! Have the children create their own maps not with places, but different things they can remember about the life of Christ... different things He did to help others. Make sure to let children share their work!

* "Do" drops. Take a turkey baster and let the children fill up a glass of water one or two "do" drops at a time. To earn a "do" drop they have to sing a song about Jesus, read a scripture or identify a GAK picture of something Jesus did in His life.

John 4:13-15 "Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life. The woman saith unto him, Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw"

Let us always remember Jesus, our living waters who always went about doing good!!

Weeks 3 and 4: Jesus Christ's example teaches me how to live.

* 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

* This handout from The Friend would be wonderful to send home with children to do with their family!!!

Come, Follow Me (Hymns 116) LDS Primary Song Helps

Path image courtesy creative commons license flickr.com by immarkcz march 2008

Come, Follow Me (Hymns 116)

* Have a beautiful path drawn. Have a primary child cut out with a magnet attatched. Have another magnet to be able to move the child down the path to a picture of the Savior at the end. Let a child move the magnet as you sing!

* Have a 12 different footprints cut out. As you sing and review the song, have a few children who've been singing nice and bold come up and choose a footprint. Have 1 picture of the Savior under 1 footprint, if they choose that one they get a sticker! We can follow lots of different people and paths in the world but the most important is , Matthew 16:24 "Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me."

* Matthew 4:19 "And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." This would be a good opportunity to show the children that with the songs are scriptures! Let the children fish out different parts of the song. Have a blue sheet, fishing pole and fishes with pictures to learn the words of the different verses.

* Sing the song with a child up at front, using their hand to reverently draw a path in the air. The primary will sing also, mirroring and following the child's path in front with their hands. (It will look a lot like conducting)

*Have a string of yarn throughout the room, in a maze, leading to a picture of the Savior. As you sing, invite a child to reverently start at one end of the string and try to follow it (walking nicely) to get to Jesus. At the end of the song if the child hasn't made it, you can have them choose another child to come where they left off and continue and you sing again!

July 2010 LDS Primary Helps and Ideas: Week 1 Reader's Theater Jesus Christ always obeyed Heavenly Father.

Image courtesy http://jesuschrist.lds.org/SonOfGod/eng/faith-in-jesus-christ

This reader's theater is STRONGLY based on "Chapter 3: Jesus Christ, Our Chosen Leader and Savior,” Gospel Principles, (2009),13–16 and “Chapter 11: The Life of Christ,” Gospel Principles, (2009),50–58"

See Here for tips about doing a reader's theater.

Shining Stars of Obedience
by Sofia Lykes

Speaking Parts
Camper #1 Camper #2 Camper #3

Angel #1 Angel #2

Mary John the Baptist

Leper Centurian Man of the Company Blind Man

Elder Whitney

Possible Non Speaking Parts
A couple children can be bushes by the campers
A couple children can be non-speaking angels
A couple children can hold up stars above their heads and be stars

Props
!!!!Simple!!!!! Costumes
Sticks with marshmallows
Scriptures

Camper #1: Please toss me another marshmallow! Yummy! I'm so excited to be camping.

Camper #2: Me too! This summer weather is perfect and my s'more is almost done!

Camper #3: While the treats are pretty awesome, my favorite part is looking into the night sky and seeing all the beautiful stars. It makes me feel so special knowing Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ made all of it for us.

Camper #2: (Looking up) It's so big up there! It makes me feel so small!

Camper #1: We may be small, but we can do big things with our lives! All we have to do is follow the Savior. He gave us the perfect example, as well as His life.

Camper #3: Jesus Christ always obeyed Heavenly Father.

Camper #2: Always?

Camper #1 and #3: Always!!

Camper #1: Remember the pre-existence?

Angel #1: I can't hear what Heavenly Father just said!!!

Angel #2: Shh!!! Whisper!! He just said “Whom shall I send?”1

Angel #1: Well... what else!?! I can't see anything with all these people. Not to mention my ears are still ringing from everyone shouting for joy at the plan of salvation!2

Angel #1: Ok, Ok... I think I got it. Jehovah...

Angel #2: You mean Jesus?

Angel #1: Yes, Jehovah is one of His many names. So Jehovah just said, "Here I am, send me...Father, thy will be done, and the glory be thine forever"3

Camper #3: Even before we were born on earth, Jesus obeyed Heavenly Father.

Camper #2: Hey I remember! Jesus obeyed Heavenly Father as a child too!

Mary: "Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing."4

Camper #2: And Jesus replied thoughtfully to His mother, "How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business?"5

Camper #1: I would have been so scared to be lost!!

Camper #3: Mary and Joseph might have thought Jesus was lost, but He wasn't at all. He was being obedient and teaching truth. His Father's truth. Jesus was diligent and obedient as a child, and also throughout His entire life on earth.

Camper #2: Remember when Jesus was baptized?

Camper #1: He was perfect and had no sin, His baptism wasn't to cleanse him but to show He would do anything Heavenly Father asked Him to. John the baptist didn't even want to baptize Him at first because he knew Jesus was perfect.

John the Baptist: "I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?"6

Camper #3: Yet John baptized Him and a dove came down from heaven as well as Heavenly Father's voice when He said, "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."

Camper #1: No wonder Heavenly Father was pleased, Jesus always listened and did what needed to be done.

Leper: "Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean."7

Centurion: "Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed."8

Man of the company: " Master, I beseech thee, look upon my son: for he is mine only child. And, lo, a spirit taketh him, and he suddenly crieth out; and it teareth him that he foameth again, and bruising him hardly departeth from him. And I besought thy disciples to cast him out; and they could not"9

Blind Man: "A man that is called Jesus made clay, and anointed mine eyes, and said unto me, Go to the pool of Siloam, and wash: and I went and washed, and I received sight."10

Camper #3: Jesus healed the sick, cast out devils and helped all those around him. One of my favorite scriptures is John 6:38 where Jesus Himself says, "For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me."

Camper #1: I wonder if on the night of the atonement our Savior saw as many stars as we see tonight. A latter day apostle, Elder Orsen F. Whitney had a vision of the Garden of Gethsemane and on seeing Jesus weep he said...

Elder Whitney: “I was so moved at the sight that I also wept, out of pure sympathy. My whole heart went out to Him; I loved Him with all my soul, and longed to be with Him as I longed for nothing else”11

Camper #2: Even as He was suffering so much, and in so much pain, we see His total obedience to Heavenly Father when Jesus said, "O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt"12

Camper #3: Jesus Christ always obeyed Heavenly Father. I can follow in His footsteps and do my best too!

ALL: We will be obedient like our Savior!

Camper #2: I can do all I need to do! I look at the stars above me and know that while I'm small, I shine big by my obedience to Heavenly Father.

ALL: We will do Heavenly Father's will always!

Camper #1: In the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

____________________________________________________
1 Abraham 3:27
2 Job 38:7
3 Moses 4:1-2
4 Luke 2:48
5 Luke 2:49
6 Matthew 3:14
7 Matthew 8:2
8 Matthew 8:8
9 Luke 9:38-40
10 John 9:11
11 “The Divinity of Jesus Christ,” Improvement Era, Jan. 1926, 224–25; see also Ensign, Dec. 2003, 10
12 Matthew 26:39

My Dad - My Hero... A Father's Day Idea for LDS Primary

Super Hero Image courtesy creative commons license flickr.com by kagey b 6/25/2007
I am in no way endorsing marvel comics by posting this image. Just wish I could look so cool in spandex.

Feel free to use the following and change (to uncle, brother or grandpa... know your children's needs!):
(By Sofia Lykes 2010)

Oh Yes my daddy is my hero!
He's a super kind of guy-
Amazing and fantastic,
Quite the apple of my eye!

He lifts me up and loves me,
He helps me reach the sky.
Everything is perfect
when I stick by his side!

Following the Savior,
in His footsteps all the while-
I'm grateful for my Father
who can always makes me smile!

Activity: Have a hero sandwich station!! Let the children choose from a variety of different ingredients to make their dad a special treat! (Not enough in the budget? Have the children make special coupons for their dad to cash in at home...a lunchtime picnic where the children are in charge!)

Song Helps "The Holy Ghost" (Children's Songbook page 105)

Image flickr.com courtesy creative commons license by qusic march 2010

* Make the song into a paper quilt (comforter) with pictures/words. Let the children put the quilt together as they learn the song, then as it has sunk in, you can hold up different quilt squares and review different parts of the song randomly. Or if you're super ambitious, a real quilt with iron on pictures in the different sections. Then the children can wear it at the front as you learn the words! I bet they'd get excited about that!

* When singing, stand and then have the children get small (close to the ground) on the words whisper and still small voice.

* Have a paper dove attached to a stick and invite children who are trying hard to sing, come up and lead the song with the stick.

* Since the Holy Ghost teaches us the truth of all things, write/or sing the phrases in the song either correct or incorrect. Have the children give thumbs up if it's true or thumbs down if false. Change all false parts into the right and true words of the song. Have the children sing the true words.
(For example: When Christ was on the earth, He didn't promise he would send, the Holy Ghost to comfort us, our true eternal angel. False! )

*Invite 5 men with the Melchizedek Priesthood to come in and sing this song. Invite the children to guess why you wanted men to sing this song? Because it is by the laying on of hands that we receive the gift of the Holy Ghost!!!

June 2010 LDS Primary Sharing Time Helps and Ideas

Image flickr.com courtesy creative commons license by knowhimonline July 2007

June Theme: The Holy Ghost testifies of the Truth of all things.

June Scripture: “By the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know he truth of all things.” Moroni 10:5

Week 1 The Holy Ghost is the third member of the Godhead.

* Play Holy Ghost Win-Guess-and Draw! Have little sheets of paper for the children to draw out of a sack. On the paper have the following words written separately:

Brain (Moroni 10:5)

Heart

Body (“The Holy Ghost is the third member of the Godhead. He is a Spirit in the form of a man. The Holy Ghost is a personage of Spirit, and has a spirit body only. His mission is to bear witness of the Father and the Son and of all truth. As a Spirit personage the Holy Ghost has size and dimensions. He does not fill the immensity of space, and cannot be everywhere present in person at the same time. He is also called the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of God, the Spirit of the Lord, the Spirit of Truth, and the Comforter” (Joseph F. Smith, Doctrines of Salvation, 1:38)

Blanket (Comforter)

Teacher

Father and Son

Glue (The Holy Ghost seals upon worthy individuals the promises of God)

Have the children draw on the board with chalk and give the whole primary an opportunity to guess. No shouting out though! You have to raise your hand! Whoever can guess the picture gets to come up and draw the next one! Talk about each picture and how it relates to the Holy Ghost. Ask the children questions and have a couple scriptures or songs to go along with certain words/pictures.

* Have a large sheet of paper, some stamps and stamp pads. Have an official document where you can show the children what a seal is.

“The Holy Spirit of Promise is the Holy Ghost who places the stamp of approval upon every ordinance: baptism, confirmation, ordination, marriage. The promise is that the blessings will be received through faithfulness. Every ordinance is sealed with a promise of a reward based upon faithfulness. The Holy Spirit withdraws the stamp of approval where covenants are broken.”

Have questions, songs and scriptures having to do with the Holy Ghost. Invite a child to answer and then stamp the paper on the board. As children leave, you can stamp their hands to help them remember to be faithful so the Holy Spirit can seal our good choices!

* Pass 3 bean bags around 3 different circles (1 per circle) while you sing “Listen, Listen” (CS p. 107) or other songs about the Holy Ghost. Whoever has the beanbag when the song ends, stands, answers a question, reads a scripture or can contribute any thought/experience they have had with the Holy Ghost. Ask the children why the #3 is important, thinking about the gospel. Like the sharing time outline says, have the children memorize the first article of faith by standing up in their groups as you say each phrase.

* Have a birthday invitation. How would you know if someone was having a party if there wasn’t an invitation? Food for thought: how will the Holy Ghost know he’s invited in our lives and daily choices if we don’t pray and invite Him to be with us?

*A medley of great ideas: Margaret Lifferth, “Sharing Time: The Gift of the Holy Ghost,” Friend, Aug 2005, 15

Highly recommend making the handout for the children to do at home with their family! You’ll need to give them a small box or bag also.

Week 2 The Holy Ghost speaks in a still, small voice.

*Time to break out the grapes and jalapenos! Ok, maybe not jalapenos… maybe lemons? “The inspiring influence of the Holy Spirit can be overcome or masked by strong emotions, such as anger, hate, passion, fear, or pride. When such influences are present, it is like trying to savor the delicate flavor of a grape while eating a jalapeño pepper. Both flavors are present, but one completely overpowers the other. In like manner, strong emotions overcome the delicate promptings of the Holy Spirit." Richard G. Scott, "To Acquire Spiritual Guidance," Ensign, Nov. 2009, 8

* Act out the story of Elijah!! (1 Kings 19) Act out the story of Nephi building a ship and emphasize his response to Laman and Lemuel (1 Nephi 17: 45 “Ye are swift to do iniquity but slow to remember the Lord your God. Ye have seen an angel, and he spake unto you; yea, ye have heard his voice from time to time; and he hath spoken unto you in a still small voice, but ye were past feeling, that ye could not feel his words; wherefore, he has spoken unto you like unto the voice of thunder, which did cause the earth to shake as if it were to divide asunder.”)

* Joseph Smith described the Holy Ghost as such, D&C 85:6 “Yea, thus saith the still small voice, which whispereth through and pierceth all things, and often times it maketh my bones to quake while it maketh manifest…” Sometimes small things can have a big impact!!! Take a balloon and a small pin, poke the balloon.

*Put on your listening ears, go outside and see what sounds you can hear. Have children close their eyes and volunteer what they heard. Explain sometimes, the Holy Ghost can speak to us, other times it might be more of a feeling. How might the Holy Ghost feel?

"That sweet, quiet voice of inspiration comes more as a feeling than it does as a sound. Pure intelligence can be spoken into the mind. The Holy Ghost communicates with our spirits through the mind more than through the physical senses. This guidance comes as thoughts, as feelings through promptings and impressions. We may feel the words of spiritual communication more than hear them and see with spiritual rather than with mortal eyes." Boyd K. Packer,, "Prayer and Promptings,"Ensign, Nov. 2009, 44

*Another great medley of ideas. Always goes to show you, when you want the best ideas, just head to lds.org. Elizabeth Ricks, “Listen to the Still, Small Voice,” Friend, Aug 2007, 10–12

Week 3 The Holy Ghost can guide and protect us.

*The Sharing Time Outline has the best idea for this week! Very awesome!

* "The gift of the Holy Ghost operates equally with men, women, and even little children. It is within this wondrous gift and power that the spiritual remedy to any problem can be found. 'And now, he imparteth his word by angels unto men, yea, not only men but women also. Now this is not all; little children do have words given unto them many times, which confound the wise and the learned' (Alma 32:23)." Boyd K. Packer, "Prayer and Promptings," Ensign, Nov. 2009, 45

Have a first aid kit. Invite the children to come up and choose items from the kit that have questions, songs and scriptures about the Holy Ghost on them.

* Have the word “Holy Ghost” written in about 10 different languages on the board.

“In every language, the Spirit of God—the Holy Ghost—guides, or can guide, every member of the Church.” Boyd K. Packer, "The Cloven Tongues of Fire,” Ensign, May 2000, 7

Have a globe with small numbers attached. Invite a child to come up and spin the globe, using their finger to stop it. Have the numbers correspond to questions, songs and scriptures having to do with the Holy Ghost.

* The story of Sara Jane is one of our favorites. I let my girls drop rocks when they hear the right part. Scroll down to how the Holy Ghost can Guide and Warn us HERE from the Primary 2 Manual.

* Great ideas by Karen Ashton, “Sharing Time: The Holy Ghost Can Help Me,” Friend, Jul 1997, 36

Week 4 By the power of the Holy Ghost, we may know the truth of all things.

* Have the door shut. If the Holy Ghost were on the other side of the door, what gospel principle opens the door to the Holy Ghost? “Obedience opens the door to the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost. And the spiritual gifts and abilities activated by the power of the Holy Ghost enable us to avoid deception—and to see, to feel, to know, to understand, and to remember things as they really are.” David A. Bednar, “Things as They Really Are,” CES fireside for young adults, May 3, 2009

* This might be a little easier for the Senior Primary to grasp…. How does a radio work? Little waves we can’t see carry the music to our radios. Bring in a radio and play something from a classical station. Pretty amazing! Even more amazing is this, the Holy Ghost!!! “He is broadcasting all eternal truth out into all immensity all the time” (Bruce R. McConkie, The Promised Messiah 16)

* “Explain that the Holy Ghost can help us know when something is true or real. Show the children a bag with an object in it. Tell the children that there is something in the bag, but do not show them the object. Is there something in this bag? Explain that even though the children cannot see the object in the bag, they know it is there because you told them it was there. Even though few people ever see Heavenly Father and Jesus, the Holy Ghost can help us know that Heavenly Father and Jesus are real and that they love us. Explain that this knowledge is called a testimony. Sometimes people bear their testimonies in Church meetings and tell us that they know that Jesus lives. The Holy Ghost has helped them know this is true.” Lesson 7: The Holy Ghost Helps Me,” Primary 1: I Am a Child of God, 19

* Have children write down their testimonies on a piece of paper. (Fulfilling a Faith in God Requirement) How do they know what they know? Because of 3 simple words… The Holy Ghost. “No man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost” (1 Corinthians 12:3)

* Have a small white board and write with permanent marker on it, “By the power of the Holy Ghost, we may know the truth of all things.” Have a child come up and try to erase it. Invite a couple more to try.

“When a man has the manifestation from the Holy Ghost, it leaves an indelible impression on his soul, one that is not easily erased. It is Spirit speaking to spirit, and it comes with convincing force. A manifestation of an angel, or even of the Son of God himself, would impress the eye and mind, and eventually become dimmed, but the impressions of the Holy Ghost sink deeper into the soul and are more difficult to erase” (Answers to Gospel Questions, comp. Joseph Fielding Smith Jr., 5 vols. [1957–66], 2:151). (And just so you know, you can go over the permanent marker with a dry erase after church and it should come back off with an eraser)

* President Smith also said, “Through the Holy Ghost the truth is woven into the very fibre and sinews of the body so that it cannot be forgotten” (Doctrines of Salvation, comp. Bruce R. McConkie, 3 vols. [1954–56], 1:48).

Have the children make paper weaves. Let them write words or phrases of things they know are true on the strips of paper. Have teachers and children help each other. See HERE on how to make a paper weave. Invite the pianist to play soft music as they work. Have children share their work when done. (This will be too hard for most sunbeams and 4 year olds, you can try to adapt by making less slits and wider strips to weave)

Thoughts on Reverence

Image from Google search, no accredited source

I have a friend who recently wrote:

"I am in a Primary Presidency in MA and absolutely love all your ideas. Our primary is about 80 kids which naturally brings a lot of enthusiasm and energy. Our reverence, while never fantastic, has recently plummeted. I am trying to find ideas or techniques and tools that might help us bring a little more reverence into Primary so the kids have more opportunities to feel the Spirit. I have found a few ideas online but the majority involve bribing the kids. Our kids already get candy--and lots of it--from their teachers (despite requests to limit it). I don't think providing them with more sugar would be too helpful. I am okay bribing them with experiences or privileges but don't want to do more treats. On the other hand, since it is something I would hope that we could have more routinely than not, setting up the expectation for benefits for polite behavior gives me pause.
Anyway, I wondered if you would feel like doing a post about any reverence thoughts you have. Thanks."

Sigh. Reverence.

Can you relate?

I pray for the spirit to guide me.

Let me preface first with this, if you are struggling and sometimes come home after church with a headache and feelings nothing short of frustration and sorrow... I want you to know you are doing a great job and everything will work out. If we had star trek technology I'd beam on over and give you a big hug and kiss on the cheek. Maybe split some watermelon and just relax together listening to Bob Marley. But more importantly, the Savior knows you and is ready to give you a big hug and tell you the exact same thing and help out however you let Him. Perhaps, sans Bobby.


I was struck with this quote from Robert D. Hales, “Our Duty to God: The Mission of Parents and Leaders to the Rising Generation,” Ensign, May 2010, 95–98"


" For our interactions with youth to truly touch their hearts, we have to pay attention to them just as we would pay attention to a trusted adult colleague or close friend. Most important is asking them questions, letting them talk, and then being willing to listen—yes, listen and listen some more—even hearken with spiritual ears! Several years ago I was reading the newspaper when one of my young grandsons snuggled up to me. As I read, I was delighted to hear his sweet voice chattering on in the background. Imagine my surprise when, a few moments later, he pushed himself between me and the paper. Taking my face in his hands and pressing his nose up to mine, he asked, “Grandpa! Are you in there?”.... Being there means understanding the hearts of our youth and connecting with them. And connecting with them means not just conversing with them but doing things with them too."


I bring up that quote in connection to reverence in that sometimes we are the ones with the lesson to learn. Jesus, our Savior, said "Suffer little children, forbid them not, to come unto me: for such is the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 19:14) Our children are perfect, so it's up to us to "pay attention" and alter our teaching to accommodate maximum learning by the Spirit.

Best ways to establish reverence:

1. Pray to Heavenly Father for help.
Sometimes we forget, as terrible as it is to say. But if there is a problem, the best solution is the Big Man Himself.


2. Know the primary children!!
Have a solid relationship with them where they know YOU care about THEM.

* Become friends! Call children up on the phone to see how their day was and thank them for such a wonderful talk last week, go to school musical performances, stop by a baseball game to cheer, say hi to children by name as they enter the room, pat a child on the back and say "I'm so glad you are here to today!".... We will get more out of our callings if we put in more.
* Do you spend more time talking to your counselors and teachers or the children?
* Do you smile at the children and make them feel welcome?


3. Plan lessons that involve the children, get them moving and are age appropriate.
I'm going to say something and it might not sit well, but it's true: 95% of the time, if sharing time doesn't go well it's the adult's fault.

* No one likes to be talked at. Children should talk more than you do! It's called Sharing Time, not Lecture Series of the Gospel for 5 year olds.

* Children shouldn't have to sit still (especially Junior Primary) the entire time. They should be allowed to wiggle and use their bodies in the learning process.
* If you are going to get the children moving, there will be noise... BUT SET EXPECTATIONS CLEARLY (see #4)... Please share your answer with your neighbor and remember! I should hear mouse voices, NOT lion voices!!
* Give warnings before you want to wrap things up... Ok my friends, 30 more seconds and everyone should be in their own seat! I'll know you're ready when I see your arms folded and smiles on your faces. Thank you!
* Do you follow the sharing time outline and really think about the 2 questions that are repeated at the top EVERY MONTH - "What will the children DO to learn, and how can I help them feel the spirit?"


4. Set your expectations high and make them very clear.
Church is the place where we come to worship and learn about our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. It's OK to have fun, but boundaries need to be set... and they need to be clear to the children.

* Hands need to be raised, we need to listen to each other respectfully, keep all body parts to ourselves.
* Follow through on things you say, if you've warned Johnny about kicking Billy and told him you're going to take him to mom if he does that again... take him to mom! Primary needs to be a place where children feel safe, it's OK to go over rules with children often... just do so in a manner where they are engaged. Can you show me with your hands what we do during sharing time? What about with our feet? Can you blink your eyes very fast if you think we should listen to others while they share answers? Or with older children, Can someone tell me something Laman and Lemuel would do during primary? What about Nephi?
* If you want the children to listen to you when you talk, then listen to them when they talk. DON'T TALK OVER CHILDREN. If they can't hear you, then they need to quiet down. What you have to say is important, so wait until you have FULL ATTENTION. You don't have to be overly stern about it either, "My friends, I love you. I have an important Duty to God to be a good teacher. You also have an important Duty to God, and that is to learn of Him. Neither you or I can do our duty unless we have on our listening ears and our mouths wait their turn to speak. Please take out your pencils (fingers) and write in the air, I can do my duty! Exclamation mark! Thank you. Now pencils down, eyes on me, by raise of hand who can tell me..."


5. Be Energetic!!
I'm not talking spazzy cheerleader energetic... just a hint of enthusiasm, moderate volume, happy to be at primary energetic. I know it might seem contradictory to be upbeat when you might want more of a calm atmosphere, but if you can grab their attention and keep it, you'll have your window of opportunity to share what is most important.

* In all honesty, how do you learn? Do you learn best from talks at Sacrament that are dry, lifeless and monotone... or do you learn from talks that are peppy, to the point and positive?



*******Now, going back to my friend... you've mentioned a few things that have red flags popping in my mind:


1. You are absolutely right to NOT want to give the children candy. They don't need it. Hello, thank you Jaime Oliver and Food Revolution. Not to mention the handbook which the PROPHETS have given us states for us to not have food in primary!! As for teachers that are not following the handbook, if you've asked them to stop and they're not, take it up with the Bishop. It really is a serious matter and again, you're right... sugar will not help the matter.

And before I get some crazy comment, here it is "What is the policy for food in Primary? Food should only be provided when it is included as part of a lesson or as a snack for the children in the nursery class. Be sure to consult with the parents of each child about any dietary restrictions that may be caused by conditions such as diabetes or allergies (see Church Handbook of Instructions, Book 2, 239)." Don't get upset with me, take it up with the Prophet.


2. Bribing children.... no thank you!!! They are perfect, despite what we may be thinking as they spend 4 minutes straight picking a booger and then eating it. Yum.

There is a big difference between bribing and rewarding good behavior.

I prefer the spontaneous positive reinforcement... "Oh my! You all are being such great listeners! Thank you so much, you know what... Sister So and So can you please go get a member of the bishopric and bring him here so I can tell him what a lucky ward we are to have such fantastic children who listen so well! And then do so!! Or tell the children, wow... everyone has participated so nicely, raised their hands politely and helped out our lessons so well that I'm just going to have to call your parents!! I'm going to go home and surprise 3 wonderful primary friends with a phone call!!! Thank you!! Thank you!!!


I also liked choosing sticks for a reverent superstar of the day. You want to keep it positive,so tell the primary they were all so helpful and wonderful you can't choose one yourself- you have to draw sticks! (Like popsicle sticks with all the children's names on it in a can) It makes them feel special and you're using the fairness of a can.... make sure everyone gives themselves a big pat on the back though because primary wouldn't be primary without ALL their happy and reverent shining spirits! And never use this to threaten the children, like I'm going to take your stick out so you can't be chosen. Keep primary a happy place, children don't need downers and grumps in their lives... they need loving, supportive and patient leaders.

Draw a mystery picture or phrase on the board. Say the only way to figure out the mystery is to have good manners and listening in primary. Reverence is the key to unlock! Then as you go throughout the lesson, thank children and state what they have done right and draw a piece of your picture. Tell them how proud you are that they could earn their whole picture at the end by being so great!


Reverence-O-Meter! Right on! Draw a thermometer on the board, then fill in with chalk as you notice the children participating and showing good manners. Make sure to tell them what they did right as you fill in, "Oh Sara! You are so helpful, thank you for raising your hand to share your answer, and I'm going to fill in a little more on this because the class behind you was listening very carefully and showing you respect while you spoke. Thank you!!"

Bring our Savior into the matter. "You guys, do you see what picture I'm standing next to? Who is this? Jesus, yes!! You have been holding your feet so still, and singing so nicely during the songs and thinking so hard for all our questions... how do you think you've made our Savior feel? I bet you're right, I think Jesus is smiling a really big smile because you've made Him so happy with your good manners. Thank you so much!"


I also wanted to bring up when you use good manners with children, you'll get it back. Don't expect thank you's, please's and excuse me's when you yourself aren't using them... I think I'm starting to ramble now, so time to get back on point. There is no need to "bribe" children. We don't want to be the reason behind tomorrow's future political failures.

3. Always make sure as the children come in, that the proper tone for the sharing time is set. Prelude music should be playing, there should be soft voices... you can have a child that is being reverent come up to the front and hold a picture of Christ, then choose another child to hold it and have the other one sit down as everyone files in. The room should already be set up (if possible). When you have a good start, that makes things easier.

You can click HERE to see what the church has to say on teaching and expecting appropriate behavior.

You can also click HERE to hear me babble some more on behavior in primary.

If I may end by repeating again this phrase from Elder Hales, "Most important is asking them questions, letting them talk, and then being willing to listen—yes, listen and listen some more—even hearken with spiritual ears! " Prepare good lessons way ahead of time, pray to Father for guidance, and get to know those whom you teach. These are the keys to having a happy Primary, and when you have a happy Primary- reverence is sure to follow. Lastly, REFLECT. Think about what is working and what is not. Take whatever you are struggling with to the Big Man and He will lead you.

I encourage anyone else out there to share ideas that have worked for them too! This is a very common issue, one that every primary has to deal with at one time or another. Don't stress about it, Jesus is awesome... it will all work out. Much love to you my friend in the Bay State... hooray for outlawing greyhound racing! And thanks for your kind words and for writing!

Happy Mother's Day!!! LDS Primary Mother's Day Gift Idea

Wow. Really Sofia. The Wednesday before Mother's Day.... and you're just posting now?

I'm sorry.
I hope this can be of help to someone who perhaps may be in a last minute pickle.

Materials Needed: Paper, cotton swabs, yellow ribbon to tie around paper and lemon juice (small containers/paper cups for the lemon juice)

In primary have the children use the lemon juice and swabs to write a secret message/ secret picture to their special lady. Have them roll it as a scroll and tie with ribbon. Explain that they will need to go home with their special lady (mother, grandma, aunt, sister... whoever :) ) and put it by a toaster*********(See update) or candle flame to see the message! Make a practice one for them to see!

Have lemon bars or a lemon cupcake with the following poem for the children to take home for their special lady....

(By yours truly, Sofia Lykes... feel free to use, just don't sell to a publisher or say you wrote it because when we're in heaven I will ask/hint at Heavenly Father to use a taser on you as your punishment . Also notice it doesn't say mother, I just always go the safe route because I'd never want any little ones to feel bad if they don't have a mother at home)

A special surprise for the one I love,
The message is quite out of sight...
But add some warmth and soon you'll see
A small treasure for your delight!

It really is no secret,
You are the best around!
You make each day a joyful one,
Our blessings do abound!

Thank you for being the woman you are!
For turning life's lemons to sweet.
You fill my soul, you light up my life....
You make our home complete!

Or click HERE for last year's idea involving a date and some M&M's....


***********UPDATE*********** The toaster barely will work!!! The children and special lady will need to hold it carefully over a candle flame or use an iron!!!! Click HERE to see an example of what will happen. Sorry for the not so clear explanation!!!!