Does my child with a disability need to know about the gospel?

We are taught in the scriptures that “all thy children shall be taught of the Lord” (3 Nephi 22:13). The Prophet Joseph Smith explained that “all the minds and spirits that God ever sent into the world are susceptible of enlargement” (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith [2007], 210). Pray to know what you can do to help your children or loved ones with a disability learn the gospel. This may require adapting scripture study and home instruction to fit their needs. Provide them with appropriate opportunities that will help them draw closer to the Lord. For example, you might ask them to lead hymns, say prayers, or read scriptures. Invite them to share their testimonies and learn more about the gospel in a way they can understand. Teach them about their divine worth and potential.

If they communicate to you a desire to move forward along the covenant path, help them as needed to move forward. Remember, they have their agency and can choose what role the gospel will play in their life. However, the Lord has instructed that “all men are privileged the one like unto the other, and none are forbidden” (2 Nephi 26:28).

See a list of scriptures, curriculum, magazines, and other resources in Accessible Formats.

Helpful Resources

Luke 14:12–14.

Mark 16:15.

Devin G. Durrant, “Teaching in the Home—a Joyful and Sacred Responsibility,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2018, 42–45.

Teaching Children with Disabilities.

Accessible Formats.