Work and Purpose of Primary

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Primary is for children ages 18 months through 11 years. The Primary theme is “All thy children shall be taught of the Lord; and great shall be the peace of thy children” (3 Nephi 22:13). The purposes of Primary are to help children:

  • Feel their Heavenly Father’s love and learn about His plan of happiness.
  • Learn about Jesus Christ and His role in Heavenly Father’s plan.
  • Learn and live the gospel.
  • Feel, recognize, and act on the influence of the Holy Ghost.
  • Prepare for, make, and keep sacred covenants.
  • Participate in the work of salvation and exaltation.

Parents have the first responsibility for the spiritual and physical welfare of their children (see Doctrine and Covenants 68:25–28). The bishopric, Primary leaders, and Primary teachers support but do not replace parents in this responsibility.

General Handbook: Serving in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 12.1

As you read General Handbook, consider the landmarks (objectives) along the way:

  • Does each child feel Heavenly Father’s love for him or her?
  • Are the children developing faith in Jesus Christ and His role in Heavenly Father’s plan?
  • Are they learning and understanding the gospel?
  • Do they know how to recognize and act upon the influence of the Holy Ghost?
  • Are they preparing to make and keep sacred covenants?
  • Are they participating in simple ways in the work of salvation and exaltation?

Learn more about the purpose and objectives of Primary in General Handbook, 12.1.