Improving Gospel Teaching in Primary

From the Primary General Presidency

Children need to learn of the Savior and the doctrines of His gospel to be able to fully exercise their agency in righteousness. For this reason, parents, leaders, and teachers have a sacred responsibility and opportunity to teach children the gospel of Jesus Christ. As we teach diligently, the Lord has promised, “My grace shall attend you” (D&C 88:78).

Children want to hear gospel truths. They are curious; they want answers. How can we become better teachers of children? We will improve as we do the following:

Humbly and prayerfully study the Savior’s life and teachings to learn to teach as He taught.
Love children. They usually respond when they feel loved.
Teach by the Spirit. Bearing testimony invites the Spirit to witness to the children of the truth of gospel principles.
Set an example. The best way to teach about praying regularly, searching the scriptures, and listening for the still, small voice is to pray, search, and listen ourselves.
Improve teaching skills. Teacher improvement can be a regular part of Primary leadership meetings. Teachers who take advantage of these meetings will improve their teaching skills. The Church has also provided the following new resource materials to help all become better teachers: “Gospel Teaching and Leadership,” section 16 of the Church Handbook of Instructions, Book 2: Priesthood and Auxiliary Leaders; Improving Gospel Teaching: A Leader’s Guide; and Teaching, No Greater Call: A Resource Guide for Gospel Teaching.
Bear testimony of Jesus Christ often.

President James E. Faust, Second Counselor in the First Presidency, has said: “The Lord can do remarkable miracles with a person of ordinary ability who is humble, faithful, and diligent in serving the Lord and seeks to improve himself. This is because God is the ultimate source of power” (“Acting for Ourselves and Not Being Acted Upon,” Ensign, Nov. 1995, 47).

Teachers are encouraged to continue presenting well-prepared, warm, varied, and enthusiastic gospel lessons that help prepare children to make righteous decisions based on gospel principles.