Family Home Evening Lesson
Symbols of Christmas
Opening Song: Have a Very Merry Christmas Children's Songbook # 51
Opening Prayer: Daddy
Lesson: Mommy
What is this? (point to your christmas tree or a picture of one) Why do we have Christmas Trees at Christmas? (enjoy their varied answers!)
The Christmas Tree is a symbol of Christmas because :
The evergreen tree means lasting light and life. The needles of the tree point upwards towards heaven. As many things die in winter but the evergreen does not, it symbolizes life in the midst of death or rebirth.
Talk about why you like to put a star or angel on the top of your tree.
Read this scripture to go with your discussion.
Luke 2:9-12 for Angel
Matthew 2:2 for Star
Activity:
Click on links for some Tree Crafts
Christmas Handprint Tree
Fun cardboard and sticker christmas tree
Closing Song: Stars were Gleaming Childrens Songbook #37
Closing Prayer: Child
Treat:
Click on links for some yummy treats
Cheese Christmas Tree
Christmas Tree Krispy Treats
Christmas Tree Sandwiches
Friday, December 4, 2009
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Christmas Symbols
Family Home Evening Lesson
Christmas Wreath
Opening Song: "Away in a Manger" Children's Songbook # 42
Opening Prayer: Daddy
Lesson: Mommy
In the weeks leading up to Christmas we are doing FHE lessons about the symbols of Christmas. Instead of doing it all at once I have chosen to focus on just one each week, keeping the lesson quick and simple.
Hold up a wreath or picture of a wreath
What is this? What does it mean? Why do we have wreaths at Christmas time?
Wreaths are like a circle. Which means no beginning 0r no ending. This symbolises eternity - the unending cirle of life. The evergreen tree (used to make wreaths) means growth and everlasting life. Holly branches have thorns. When used in a wreath it symbolises the crown of thorns put on Jesus head when he was crucified. The red berries symbolise his blood that was shed for us.
Activity:
Make a wreath
Paper plate wreath instructions found here at filth wizardry very cute.
Coat hanger wreath:
Bend a coat hanger into circle shape. Secure tinsel with tape and wrap Tinsel around and around and around. Secure end with sticky tape. Add bows, decorations as you wish.
Closing Song: "Picture a Christmas" Children's Songbook # 50
Closing Prayer: Child
Treat:
Click here for Wreath Candy using cornflakes and marshmallows.
Hard Candy Wreath found here
Christmas Wreath
Opening Song: "Away in a Manger" Children's Songbook # 42
Opening Prayer: Daddy
Lesson: Mommy
In the weeks leading up to Christmas we are doing FHE lessons about the symbols of Christmas. Instead of doing it all at once I have chosen to focus on just one each week, keeping the lesson quick and simple.
Hold up a wreath or picture of a wreath
What is this? What does it mean? Why do we have wreaths at Christmas time?
Wreaths are like a circle. Which means no beginning 0r no ending. This symbolises eternity - the unending cirle of life. The evergreen tree (used to make wreaths) means growth and everlasting life. Holly branches have thorns. When used in a wreath it symbolises the crown of thorns put on Jesus head when he was crucified. The red berries symbolise his blood that was shed for us.
Activity:
Make a wreath
Paper plate wreath instructions found here at filth wizardry very cute.
Coat hanger wreath:
Bend a coat hanger into circle shape. Secure tinsel with tape and wrap Tinsel around and around and around. Secure end with sticky tape. Add bows, decorations as you wish.
Closing Song: "Picture a Christmas" Children's Songbook # 50
Closing Prayer: Child
Treat:
Click here for Wreath Candy using cornflakes and marshmallows.
Hard Candy Wreath found here
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Satans Web
Family Home Evening Lesson
Satans Web
This lesson based on one found at Chocolate on my Cranium
Materials Needed: Spider Web,Fake Spider
Opening Prayer: Child
Opening Song: "Choose the Right Way" Childrens Songbook #160
Lesson: Mommy
Hold up a plastic spider or drawing of a spider (I got my girls to draw me a spider earlier ~ they were excited as I wouldn't tell them what I needed it for :)
What is this? What does it do? (catches prey in its web)
Hold up a picture of a web or point to web on your wall
( Halloween is a good time to pick up a cheap web. As it is not widely celebrated in Australia we made our own ~ I got my husband to make this with the girls from wool and some pins on our wall before FHE and they were so EXCITED, as I wouldnt tell them what it was for!)
What is this? What does it do? (Webs are sticky and sometimes hard to see ~ when an insect flies into it , it will be caught and the spider can eat it)
Read this quote
"Now a word of caution to all - both young and old - both male and female. We live at a time when the adversary is using every means possible to ensnare us in his web of deceit, trying desperately to take us down with him (Thomas S Monson, Ensign May 2009)
What ways does Satan always try to trick us?
(Have some prepared written or typed out answers on strips of paper)such as lying, cheating, Anger, Swearing,Laziness, Disobeying parents,Fighting, smoking, drugs, Alchol
Allow children to stick the words in the web (my girls just loved sticking these up and fought over whose turn it was constantly)
Talk about how you can avoid Satans Web
Treat/Activity:
Make Spider Pretzels found at Family Fun
Play a catch type of game
Closing Song: "Dare to do Right" Children's Songbook #158
Satans Web
This lesson based on one found at Chocolate on my Cranium
Materials Needed: Spider Web,Fake Spider
Opening Prayer: Child
Opening Song: "Choose the Right Way" Childrens Songbook #160
Lesson: Mommy
Hold up a plastic spider or drawing of a spider (I got my girls to draw me a spider earlier ~ they were excited as I wouldn't tell them what I needed it for :)
What is this? What does it do? (catches prey in its web)
Hold up a picture of a web or point to web on your wall
( Halloween is a good time to pick up a cheap web. As it is not widely celebrated in Australia we made our own ~ I got my husband to make this with the girls from wool and some pins on our wall before FHE and they were so EXCITED, as I wouldnt tell them what it was for!) What is this? What does it do? (Webs are sticky and sometimes hard to see ~ when an insect flies into it , it will be caught and the spider can eat it)
Read this quote
"Now a word of caution to all - both young and old - both male and female. We live at a time when the adversary is using every means possible to ensnare us in his web of deceit, trying desperately to take us down with him (Thomas S Monson, Ensign May 2009)
What ways does Satan always try to trick us?
(Have some prepared written or typed out answers on strips of paper)such as lying, cheating, Anger, Swearing,Laziness, Disobeying parents,Fighting, smoking, drugs, Alchol
Allow children to stick the words in the web (my girls just loved sticking these up and fought over whose turn it was constantly)
Talk about how you can avoid Satans Web
Treat/Activity:
Make Spider Pretzels found at Family Fun
Play a catch type of game
Closing Song: "Dare to do Right" Children's Songbook #158
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Warm Fuzzies
Family Home Evening Lesson
Warm Fuzzies
Opening Song: 'Give said the little stream' Childrens Songbook # 236
Opening Prayer: Child
Lesson: Mommy
Ask Child "What things do you like to do for your birthday?
Last year the prophet Pres Monson was asked the same question ~ what he would like for his birthday? He answered "Find someone who is having a hard time or is ill or lonely, and do something for him or her.”
Isn't this a very nice thing? Why should we serve/help others?
Why would the prophet be happy if we go and help others, or visit the sick or lonely?
Activity:
Some Children, after hearing Pres Monson say this started a 'warm fuzzies jar' Each time they did something good for another person they were able to put a warm fuzzy in the jar. They kept going until the jar was full.
We are going to make a warm fuzzy jar too.
Decorate Jar as you desire, have a bowl of pom poms/cotton balls for children to see.
* we decorated our with sticky foam letters that says 'fuzzies' and a ribbon*
Do a service in the house right away and place some 'warm fuzzies' in the jar to get started.
Challenge the children to do something nice for someone in the family, neighbour or friend so they can put more pom pom's in the jar
Find Video Here of President Monson's Talk "What have I done for someone today?" You could play this while you do the activity or have children watch while eating the treat.
Closing Song: ' Called to Serve ' Children's Songbook # 174
Closing Prayer: Daddy
Treat:
M&M's or any other colourful ball shaped candy
Using a cookie cutter cut circle shapes out of slice of bread. Butter and sprinkle with colourful sprinkles of your choice
* I also think this would be a nice activity to do for the month of November for Thanksgiving or December as a Christmas Service Idea for kids
Warm Fuzzies
Opening Song: 'Give said the little stream' Childrens Songbook # 236
Opening Prayer: Child
Lesson: Mommy
Ask Child "What things do you like to do for your birthday?
Last year the prophet Pres Monson was asked the same question ~ what he would like for his birthday? He answered "Find someone who is having a hard time or is ill or lonely, and do something for him or her.”
Isn't this a very nice thing? Why should we serve/help others?
Why would the prophet be happy if we go and help others, or visit the sick or lonely?
Activity:
Some Children, after hearing Pres Monson say this started a 'warm fuzzies jar' Each time they did something good for another person they were able to put a warm fuzzy in the jar. They kept going until the jar was full.
We are going to make a warm fuzzy jar too.
Decorate Jar as you desire, have a bowl of pom poms/cotton balls for children to see.
* we decorated our with sticky foam letters that says 'fuzzies' and a ribbon* Do a service in the house right away and place some 'warm fuzzies' in the jar to get started.
Challenge the children to do something nice for someone in the family, neighbour or friend so they can put more pom pom's in the jar
Find Video Here of President Monson's Talk "What have I done for someone today?" You could play this while you do the activity or have children watch while eating the treat.
Closing Song: ' Called to Serve ' Children's Songbook # 174
Closing Prayer: Daddy
Treat:
M&M's or any other colourful ball shaped candy
Using a cookie cutter cut circle shapes out of slice of bread. Butter and sprinkle with colourful sprinkles of your choice
* I also think this would be a nice activity to do for the month of November for Thanksgiving or December as a Christmas Service Idea for kids
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Watchmen on the Tower
Family Home Evening Lesson
Leaders
(This lesson based on one from Chocolate on my Cranium )
I realise this lesson may be a little late as conference has been (we have it a week later in Australia) but I plan to use it as an afterward reminder and play a short conference talk online to go with it)
Opening Song: "Follow the Prophet" Children's Songbook # 110
Opening Prayer: Child
Lesson: Mommy
Show a picture of King Benjamin on the tower or towers from Cocoa's lesson or any picture of towers.
What are these? What are towers used for? (to see far, see danger etc)
Heavenly Father has given us Watchmen on Towers to help us. They are the prophet and 12 Apostles. Just like up on a tower they have a better view of dangers and what lies ahead. They help us to be prepared and ready.
Activity:
With help from us we stuck the pictures of the Apostles to the tower as found in the lesson at Chocolate on my Cranium
We got out our 'Jenga' game and used the blocks to build various towers. Any blocks or building materials could be used.
or you could
Build a tower out of marshmallows and toothpicks
Then
Play a segment from conference for them to watch while eating their treat
Closing Song: Sixth Article of Faith Children's Songbook #126
Closing Prayer: Daddy
Treat:
Chocolate squares (bricks from a tower) or similar shaped foods
*With permission from Cocoa from Chocolate on my Cranium I will feature some her FHE lessons in the coming weeks that I have paraphrased for use with younger children. Check out her lessons - they are great! Chocolate on my Cranium FHE Lessons
Leaders
(This lesson based on one from Chocolate on my Cranium )
I realise this lesson may be a little late as conference has been (we have it a week later in Australia) but I plan to use it as an afterward reminder and play a short conference talk online to go with it)
Opening Song: "Follow the Prophet" Children's Songbook # 110
Opening Prayer: Child
Lesson: Mommy
Show a picture of King Benjamin on the tower or towers from Cocoa's lesson or any picture of towers.
What are these? What are towers used for? (to see far, see danger etc)
Heavenly Father has given us Watchmen on Towers to help us. They are the prophet and 12 Apostles. Just like up on a tower they have a better view of dangers and what lies ahead. They help us to be prepared and ready.
Activity:
With help from us we stuck the pictures of the Apostles to the tower as found in the lesson at Chocolate on my Cranium
We got out our 'Jenga' game and used the blocks to build various towers. Any blocks or building materials could be used.
or you could
Build a tower out of marshmallows and toothpicks
Then
Play a segment from conference for them to watch while eating their treat
Closing Song: Sixth Article of Faith Children's Songbook #126
Closing Prayer: Daddy
Treat:
Chocolate squares (bricks from a tower) or similar shaped foods
*With permission from Cocoa from Chocolate on my Cranium I will feature some her FHE lessons in the coming weeks that I have paraphrased for use with younger children. Check out her lessons - they are great! Chocolate on my Cranium FHE Lessons
Monday, September 14, 2009
Anger
Family Home Evening Lesson
Anger
Opening Song: "Choose the Right Way" Children's Songbook # 160
Opening Prayer: Child
Lesson: Mommy
Sometimes we are mean to those we should love the most. Do you sometimes get angry or sad at Mommy or Daddy or your brothers and sisters? Why should we try our hardest to Love our family and not get angry at them?
Using This Idea from FHE in a Snap
Using a can of cream, squeeze cheese or a travel size toothpaste - Have a member of your family squeeze some cheese or toothpaste out. Then ask him/her to put the cheese/toothpaste/cream back into the can. Of course, this is impossible. Angry words, name calling, mean comments, or hitting siblings are very easy to say/do. But it is difficult and maybe impossible to fix the damage done by angry words.
We must all try better to be happy and kind and have less anger.
Activity:
Introduce The Magic Heart Idea found at Unplug Your Kids.
When someone is angry (or sad, playing up, having a tantrum) The Magic Heart goes to whoever needs it most to remind them that they are loved. That person must keep the heart in a safe place. The recipient keeps the heart until another family member is overcome with sadness or anger, then that person passes it along to the new person in need.
Make a banging Wall. Collect various pots, pans, utensils. Tie lengths of string to each piece and attach to a wall outside. Talk about how sometimes we need some time out when we get angry. We need some space to cool off and when we are calm we can join the family again. Or if BEFORE we get angry we can remember the Banging Wall and go there for some alone time and make some music for stress relief. When someone is angry or not behaving the right way to their family - suggest some time out on the banging wall :)
Closing Song: "A Happy Family Children's Songbook # 198
Closing Prayer: Daddy
Treat:
Cheese and Crackers
Make cup and saucepan shaped treats found Here at Enchanted Kitchen Place lifesaver on each side for a saucepan shape!
Anger
Opening Song: "Choose the Right Way" Children's Songbook # 160
Opening Prayer: Child
Lesson: Mommy
Sometimes we are mean to those we should love the most. Do you sometimes get angry or sad at Mommy or Daddy or your brothers and sisters? Why should we try our hardest to Love our family and not get angry at them?
Using This Idea from FHE in a Snap
Using a can of cream, squeeze cheese or a travel size toothpaste - Have a member of your family squeeze some cheese or toothpaste out. Then ask him/her to put the cheese/toothpaste/cream back into the can. Of course, this is impossible. Angry words, name calling, mean comments, or hitting siblings are very easy to say/do. But it is difficult and maybe impossible to fix the damage done by angry words.
We must all try better to be happy and kind and have less anger.
Activity:
Introduce The Magic Heart Idea found at Unplug Your Kids.
When someone is angry (or sad, playing up, having a tantrum) The Magic Heart goes to whoever needs it most to remind them that they are loved. That person must keep the heart in a safe place. The recipient keeps the heart until another family member is overcome with sadness or anger, then that person passes it along to the new person in need.
Make a banging Wall. Collect various pots, pans, utensils. Tie lengths of string to each piece and attach to a wall outside. Talk about how sometimes we need some time out when we get angry. We need some space to cool off and when we are calm we can join the family again. Or if BEFORE we get angry we can remember the Banging Wall and go there for some alone time and make some music for stress relief. When someone is angry or not behaving the right way to their family - suggest some time out on the banging wall :)
Closing Song: "A Happy Family Children's Songbook # 198
Closing Prayer: Daddy
Treat:
Cheese and Crackers
Make cup and saucepan shaped treats found Here at Enchanted Kitchen Place lifesaver on each side for a saucepan shape!
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Pioneers
Family Home Evening Lesson
Pioneers
(Inspiration from Pratts Pioneer Resources )
Opening Song: "Little Pioneer Children" Children's Songbook # 216
Opening Prayer: Child
Lesson: Mommy
Pioneers - Gospel Art Picture Kit #412 Or show pictures of Covered wagons, Pioneers.
Who are Pioneers? What did they do that was special? What can we learn from Pioneers?
"The air was charged with excitement as the families with their wagons, oxen, sheep, and other livestock gathered at the Missouri River to start the long trek westward early in the spring of 1852.
As twelve-year-old Albert Dickson wandered among the wagons, he saw many children. He even discovered several boys his own age. It was good to know that he would have friends on the long trip ahead.
Albert was just one of thousands of children pioneers who crossed the continent in the migration to the western states in the late 1840s and early 1850s
Pioneers are generally thought of as adults, but the majority of the western pioneers were actually children like young Albert Dickson, who trekked the westward trails and settled in the valleys of the mountain west. As they grew older, they became the leaders of many thriving communities that were literally carved out of a barren and hostile land."
Find rest of story here at Children Pioneers from The Friend
Walk around the house ( or neighbourhood) pulling toy carts or carrying some things. Dress up a little with bonnets, skirts, hats, scarves if you have.
Activity:
Pioneer Children Colouring In/ Feltboard Pieces
Pretzel Log cabin!! VERY CUTE
(I couldn't find straight pretzels nor have a small milk carton so we are making flat house/log cabin shapes on plates using wafers and chocolate finger stick cookies stuck down with peanut butter)
Pioneer Children Toy and Game Ideas
Friend Magazine Pioneer Board Game
Closing Song: "The Handcart Song" Children's SongBook #220
Closing Prayer: Daddy
Treat:
Eat the Pretzels
Homemade biscuits/bread
Pioneers
(Inspiration from Pratts Pioneer Resources )
Opening Song: "Little Pioneer Children" Children's Songbook # 216
Opening Prayer: Child
Lesson: Mommy
Pioneers - Gospel Art Picture Kit #412 Or show pictures of Covered wagons, Pioneers.
Who are Pioneers? What did they do that was special? What can we learn from Pioneers?
"The air was charged with excitement as the families with their wagons, oxen, sheep, and other livestock gathered at the Missouri River to start the long trek westward early in the spring of 1852.
As twelve-year-old Albert Dickson wandered among the wagons, he saw many children. He even discovered several boys his own age. It was good to know that he would have friends on the long trip ahead.
Albert was just one of thousands of children pioneers who crossed the continent in the migration to the western states in the late 1840s and early 1850s
Pioneers are generally thought of as adults, but the majority of the western pioneers were actually children like young Albert Dickson, who trekked the westward trails and settled in the valleys of the mountain west. As they grew older, they became the leaders of many thriving communities that were literally carved out of a barren and hostile land."
Find rest of story here at Children Pioneers from The Friend
Walk around the house ( or neighbourhood) pulling toy carts or carrying some things. Dress up a little with bonnets, skirts, hats, scarves if you have.
Activity:
Pioneer Children Colouring In/ Feltboard Pieces
Pretzel Log cabin!! VERY CUTE
(I couldn't find straight pretzels nor have a small milk carton so we are making flat house/log cabin shapes on plates using wafers and chocolate finger stick cookies stuck down with peanut butter)
Pioneer Children Toy and Game Ideas
Friend Magazine Pioneer Board Game
Closing Song: "The Handcart Song" Children's SongBook #220
Closing Prayer: Daddy
Treat:
Eat the Pretzels
Homemade biscuits/bread
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Strenthening Our Family
Family Home Evening Lesson
Strengthening Our Family
My 8 and 6 year old daughters did this lesson for our family (after being taught it in Primary - some hope for parents of young children - continue with FHE and one day they will do it for you!! :)
Opening Song: "Here we are together" Children's Songbook # 261
Opening Prayer: Child
Lesson: Mommy
What ways can we make our family strong?
be nice to eachother, help around the house, prayers, scripture reading, go to church etc If you have gospel picture kit, show pictures of these things, family proclamation.
Why does our family need to work together, why does it need to be strong?
Object Lesson
Using Oranges/apples or rocks (something that won't blow away) My girls used 2 oranges and they told this lovely (if not cheesy, story they made up :)
"This is the Orange family. They have a mum and dad and 5 kids. They are all nice to eachother and like to help. They are kind and listen and go to church and read scriptures. They clean up and like to play together and love their family"
Then they got a hair dryer and blew on the orange family
When small problems come (put hairdryer on low setting) the family still stayed together. When big problems came (high setting) from THE SIN MACHINE (yes they actually called the hairdryer that - My husband and I were laughing so much!!) the family was still strong and able to work through it.
Next family is the LID family (use plastic bottle lids or something that will blow away)
"This is the Lid family. They don't listen to eachother. They seem to fight a lot and don't like to help around the house. The forget to have their scriptures and prayers and can be mean to eachother. They don't look out for each other as best they should"
When problems come, even small ones (low setting on hairdryer) their family is blown away. They do not stick together. When big problems come it is even worse.
Which family do we need to be like?
What can we do better in our family to be like the Orange family? How can we stay strong?
Activity:
Make a paper chain or something symbolic of your family being joined together
Show how the more pieces of string or sticks tied together the stronger it becomes
Closing Song: “Families can be together Forever" Children's Songbook #188
Closing Prayer: Daddy
Treat:
Eat Oranges or Apples :)
Have one big dessert and some spoons and all 'share' it together
Strengthening Our Family
My 8 and 6 year old daughters did this lesson for our family (after being taught it in Primary - some hope for parents of young children - continue with FHE and one day they will do it for you!! :)
Opening Song: "Here we are together" Children's Songbook # 261
Opening Prayer: Child
Lesson: Mommy
What ways can we make our family strong?
be nice to eachother, help around the house, prayers, scripture reading, go to church etc If you have gospel picture kit, show pictures of these things, family proclamation.
Why does our family need to work together, why does it need to be strong?
Object Lesson
Using Oranges/apples or rocks (something that won't blow away) My girls used 2 oranges and they told this lovely (if not cheesy, story they made up :)
"This is the Orange family. They have a mum and dad and 5 kids. They are all nice to eachother and like to help. They are kind and listen and go to church and read scriptures. They clean up and like to play together and love their family"
Then they got a hair dryer and blew on the orange family
When small problems come (put hairdryer on low setting) the family still stayed together. When big problems came (high setting) from THE SIN MACHINE (yes they actually called the hairdryer that - My husband and I were laughing so much!!) the family was still strong and able to work through it.
Next family is the LID family (use plastic bottle lids or something that will blow away)
"This is the Lid family. They don't listen to eachother. They seem to fight a lot and don't like to help around the house. The forget to have their scriptures and prayers and can be mean to eachother. They don't look out for each other as best they should"
When problems come, even small ones (low setting on hairdryer) their family is blown away. They do not stick together. When big problems come it is even worse.
Which family do we need to be like?
What can we do better in our family to be like the Orange family? How can we stay strong?
Activity:
Make a paper chain or something symbolic of your family being joined together
Show how the more pieces of string or sticks tied together the stronger it becomes
Closing Song: “Families can be together Forever" Children's Songbook #188
Closing Prayer: Daddy
Treat:
Eat Oranges or Apples :)
Have one big dessert and some spoons and all 'share' it together
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Liberty
Family Home Evening Lesson
“Liberty”
(Taken from “Captain Moroni and the Title of Liberty,” Friend, May 1994, 20)
Opening Song: “My Country” (Children’s Song Book # 224)
Opening Prayer: Child
Lesson: Mommy
(I am actually using the entire “Captain Moroni and the Title of Liberty” article for this lesson. Click on the link to use for your lesson. It is perfect and condenses the story better than I ever could with pictures and all.)
Talk about how the Title of Liberty it is a lot like our Flag. If we live the way were are suppose to and follow what the Lord has asked we can be blessed by the wonderful country that we live in.
You can teach your children about respecting the Flag and put “The Pledge of Allegiance” up in your home for your family to see and practice and learn.
***If you don't live in the U.S. and you aren't celebrating the 4th of July this week then instead you could as a family make your own "Title of Liberty" that you could display in your home. Talk about the things that are imprortant to your family and write a "(use your last name)'s Title of Liberty" up on a torn pice of cloth or an old t-shrit or just on a large pice of paper.***
Talk about the 4th of July and the liberty’s that we have in this country and what it means to you and your family.
Activity: Choose any of these fun 4th of July activities from Enchanted Learning.
Closing Song: “My Flag, My Flag” (Children’s Song Book # 225)
Closing Prayer: Daddy
Treat: Make red, white, and blue parfaits by layering blueberries, strawberries, and whip cream in a clear cup or by using red and blue jello with whip cream.
“Liberty”
(Taken from “Captain Moroni and the Title of Liberty,” Friend, May 1994, 20)
Opening Song: “My Country” (Children’s Song Book # 224)
Opening Prayer: Child
Lesson: Mommy
(I am actually using the entire “Captain Moroni and the Title of Liberty” article for this lesson. Click on the link to use for your lesson. It is perfect and condenses the story better than I ever could with pictures and all.)
Talk about how the Title of Liberty it is a lot like our Flag. If we live the way were are suppose to and follow what the Lord has asked we can be blessed by the wonderful country that we live in.
You can teach your children about respecting the Flag and put “The Pledge of Allegiance” up in your home for your family to see and practice and learn.
***If you don't live in the U.S. and you aren't celebrating the 4th of July this week then instead you could as a family make your own "Title of Liberty" that you could display in your home. Talk about the things that are imprortant to your family and write a "(use your last name)'s Title of Liberty" up on a torn pice of cloth or an old t-shrit or just on a large pice of paper.***
Talk about the 4th of July and the liberty’s that we have in this country and what it means to you and your family.
Activity: Choose any of these fun 4th of July activities from Enchanted Learning.
Closing Song: “My Flag, My Flag” (Children’s Song Book # 225)
Closing Prayer: Daddy
Treat: Make red, white, and blue parfaits by layering blueberries, strawberries, and whip cream in a clear cup or by using red and blue jello with whip cream.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Celebrating All Our Fathers
Celebrating All Our Fathers
(Adapted from the Every Day a Father’s Day June 1981 Friend)
Opening Song: “Daddy’s Homecoming” (Children’s Song Book # 210)
Opening Prayer: Child
Lesson: Mommy
“Celebrating All Our Fathers”
Ask your family what a Dad is and let them respond. Ask them when Father’s Day is.
Tell them that everyday a Father is a Father and it doesn’t end when Father’s Day is over with. What are some the things that your Dad does every day for your family? What is for favorite thing about your Daddy?
Who else could be considered a Father to your family? (Grandfather’s, Heavenly Father, Father of the ward, Father of our Country, and add any others that pertain to your family.)
Talk about what makes each of these Fathers everyday of the year not just on Father’s Day.
Talk about how you can make each of these Fathers happy every day.
Here are the ideas from Every Day a Father’s Day:
Heavenly Father
Learn to obey Heavenly Father’s commandments by listening to the counsel of your parents and the instructions from your teachers. Pray to Heavenly Father often. He is real and He loves you. Avoid temptation. Satan is also real, and he can entice you to do things that are wrong.
Earthly Father
Few things please a father more than having a son or daughter who is unselfish, helpful, pleasant, and kind and loving to everyone.
Learn to work hard, study hard, and play hard. When a father’s family is happy, it helps him to become a better kind of person.
Father of the Ward (Bishop)
In addition to his own family, a bishop has responsibility for the welfare of a larger family—all the members of his ward. Another big responsibility the bishop has is the care and upkeep of the meetinghouse. Some of the money paid to the bishop as a contribution to the Church is used to light and heat the building and to pay for many other necessary supplies. The bishop and custodian are especially grateful when we treat the building and all its furnishings and grounds kindly. Remember—it is really the Lord’s house, a place that can be acceptable to Him and a place where we can worship Him in peace and safety.
Father of Your Country
Just as fathers of countries hope that their people will be loyal, patriotic, considerate, and law-abiding citizens who recognize individual differences and needs, local public officials or “City Fathers” have the same hopes and concerns for their people.
If you show that you remember your fathers’ enduring love for you by the way you live, every day can truly be a Fathers’ Day.
Song: “Fathers” (Children’s Song Book # 209)
Activity: Make cards for some of the Fathers that you love and let them know just how much you love them every day of the year.
Closing Song: “My Dad” (Children’s Song Book # 211)
Closing Prayer: Daddy
For a treat make your Dad’s favorite desert.
(Adapted from the Every Day a Father’s Day June 1981 Friend)
Opening Song: “Daddy’s Homecoming” (Children’s Song Book # 210)
Opening Prayer: Child
Lesson: Mommy
“Celebrating All Our Fathers”
Ask your family what a Dad is and let them respond. Ask them when Father’s Day is.
Tell them that everyday a Father is a Father and it doesn’t end when Father’s Day is over with. What are some the things that your Dad does every day for your family? What is for favorite thing about your Daddy?
Who else could be considered a Father to your family? (Grandfather’s, Heavenly Father, Father of the ward, Father of our Country, and add any others that pertain to your family.)
Talk about what makes each of these Fathers everyday of the year not just on Father’s Day.
Talk about how you can make each of these Fathers happy every day.
Here are the ideas from Every Day a Father’s Day:
Heavenly Father
Learn to obey Heavenly Father’s commandments by listening to the counsel of your parents and the instructions from your teachers. Pray to Heavenly Father often. He is real and He loves you. Avoid temptation. Satan is also real, and he can entice you to do things that are wrong.
Earthly Father
Few things please a father more than having a son or daughter who is unselfish, helpful, pleasant, and kind and loving to everyone.
Learn to work hard, study hard, and play hard. When a father’s family is happy, it helps him to become a better kind of person.
Father of the Ward (Bishop)
In addition to his own family, a bishop has responsibility for the welfare of a larger family—all the members of his ward. Another big responsibility the bishop has is the care and upkeep of the meetinghouse. Some of the money paid to the bishop as a contribution to the Church is used to light and heat the building and to pay for many other necessary supplies. The bishop and custodian are especially grateful when we treat the building and all its furnishings and grounds kindly. Remember—it is really the Lord’s house, a place that can be acceptable to Him and a place where we can worship Him in peace and safety.
Father of Your Country
Just as fathers of countries hope that their people will be loyal, patriotic, considerate, and law-abiding citizens who recognize individual differences and needs, local public officials or “City Fathers” have the same hopes and concerns for their people.
If you show that you remember your fathers’ enduring love for you by the way you live, every day can truly be a Fathers’ Day.
Song: “Fathers” (Children’s Song Book # 209)
Activity: Make cards for some of the Fathers that you love and let them know just how much you love them every day of the year.
Closing Song: “My Dad” (Children’s Song Book # 211)
Closing Prayer: Daddy
For a treat make your Dad’s favorite desert.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Self Reliance
(Maybe it is just my part of the world - Australia - but due to world economic situations we have been receiving much counsel on Self Reliance lately. In the last month we have had a stake welfare day, combined PH and RS Welfare lesson, my husband went to regional training that focused on Self Reliance, a lesson based on Elder Hales talk from General Conference and the list could go on. I actually think it is all a little scary and my family definately needs to improve in many areas!! We were challenged on Sunday by our Bishop to do a FHE lesson on Self Reliance, and here is the one I made up )
Family Home Evening Lesson
Self Reliance
Opening Song: "I will be valiant" Children's Songbook #162
Opening Prayer: Daddy
Lesson: Mommy
I got some inspiration for this lesson from Here at Lds.families.com
Talk briefly how it is important for families to be able to look after themselves. You could mention food storage, 72 hour kits, growing a garden, knowing your scripture stories, saving money etc.
Depending on the age of your child choose as many or few activites from below to show/teach your child - This is a hands on FHE!
Spiritual ~
Share Testimonies with each other. Talk about why it is important to have/develop a testimony
Scriptures - look through scriptures and why it is important for us to know the stories therein
Money ~
Have play money (or real) and get children to put in amounts that is spent on food, house, bills, tithing, etc then show how much is left(probably not much LOL!!) - teach it is important to save some money for emergencies (like broken cars, storms, sickness, if daddy loses job etc)
Car ~
Show children where the oil or water or petrol goes in the car, get them to help you. They will enjoy looking at the engine!
Sewing ~
We all need to know how to repair clothes, sew on a button etc. Older children can sew on some scaps of material or a button, younger children could thread beads on string etc
Emotional ~
The need to be happy and be able to move on even when we are sad. Play some games like "If you're happy and you know it" "If you chance to see a frown - turn it upside down" Sit and talk about feelings etc
Food ~
Eat some food storage. Pack 72 hour kits. We have kits with little cereal boxes, muslie bars,chocolate bars, juice box, dried fruit. These go out of date every 6 months so we sit around and eat the contents and pack new ones.
Shelter ~
Build a shelter out of blankets, tarps or set up a small tent. Ask Child if they could make shelter if needed be?
Closing Song: "Dare to do right" Children's Songbook #158
Closing Prayer: Child
Treat:
Food Storage foods :)
Family Home Evening Lesson
Self Reliance
Opening Song: "I will be valiant" Children's Songbook #162
Opening Prayer: Daddy
Lesson: Mommy
I got some inspiration for this lesson from Here at Lds.families.com
Talk briefly how it is important for families to be able to look after themselves. You could mention food storage, 72 hour kits, growing a garden, knowing your scripture stories, saving money etc.
Depending on the age of your child choose as many or few activites from below to show/teach your child - This is a hands on FHE!
Spiritual ~
Share Testimonies with each other. Talk about why it is important to have/develop a testimony
Scriptures - look through scriptures and why it is important for us to know the stories therein
Money ~
Have play money (or real) and get children to put in amounts that is spent on food, house, bills, tithing, etc then show how much is left(probably not much LOL!!) - teach it is important to save some money for emergencies (like broken cars, storms, sickness, if daddy loses job etc)
Car ~
Show children where the oil or water or petrol goes in the car, get them to help you. They will enjoy looking at the engine!
Sewing ~
We all need to know how to repair clothes, sew on a button etc. Older children can sew on some scaps of material or a button, younger children could thread beads on string etc
Emotional ~
The need to be happy and be able to move on even when we are sad. Play some games like "If you're happy and you know it" "If you chance to see a frown - turn it upside down" Sit and talk about feelings etc
Food ~
Eat some food storage. Pack 72 hour kits. We have kits with little cereal boxes, muslie bars,chocolate bars, juice box, dried fruit. These go out of date every 6 months so we sit around and eat the contents and pack new ones.
Shelter ~
Build a shelter out of blankets, tarps or set up a small tent. Ask Child if they could make shelter if needed be?
Closing Song: "Dare to do right" Children's Songbook #158
Closing Prayer: Child
Treat:
Food Storage foods :)
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Speaking Kindly
Family Home Evening Lesson
“Speaking Kindly”Opening Song: “Jesus Said Love Everyone” Children's Songbook #61
Opening Prayer: Child
Lesson: Daddy
Ask your children what kindess is. Explain that kindess is being nice to people. (show a picture of Jesus) Jesus was always nice to everyone and we should try to be like Him. One way to show kindess is to speak nicely.
Object lesson: Filling Other's Jars
Have an empty clear jar or cup on display. You can have one for each child (you can tape a picture of each child on the jar/cup). Then have a bowl of marbles (or candy) and a bowl of rocks (or something the kids don't like eating). Explain that the bowl of marbles/candy represents nice words (you can tape a picture of a smiley face on the bowl) and the bowl of rocks/yucky food represent mean words (you can tape a picture of a frowny face on the bowl). Explain that every time we say something to others it is like putting something in their jar. Give an example of something said recently and put the appropriate rock or marble in the jar. (ex: child A called child B a snot face. Put a rock in child B's jar. OR child A told child B that he loved her. Put a marble in child B's jar) Do as many examples as hold their attention and make them as relevant to the phrases they use or should be using as you can. (You may want to write them down ahead of time so you can remember which ones you want to discourage or encourage)
Ask the children if they would prefer their jars to be filled with rocks or marbles? How do they feel when a rock gets put in their jar? What about when a marble gets put in their jar? Tell them that we are in charge of fillling each other's jars and we should fill them the way that we want ours filled (the golden rule). You can keep these jars on display throughout the week and add the appropriate rocks/marbles as you hear kind words or not so kind words. Make sure to reinforce kind speaking if you hear unkind words. (We are having issues with our 4 year old talking back, so we'll probably do jars for Mom and Dad as well)
Update: My 4 1/2 year old really latched on to the idea of putting rocks or marbles in people's jars. It really seemed to resonate with her and she was able to easily apply the concept. She was able to come up with many things that were considered rocks or marbles throughout the rest of the evening. My 2 1/2 year old just wanted to put the rocks or marbles in her jar, regardless of why...
Practicing Tone: Let's practice speaking in different ways. First say "No Thankyou" but in an angry voice. Now say "No Thankyou" in a happy voice. Which was a kinder tone? Now try shouting "Go get the book!" Now whisper it. Which was better? Now say "I love you" with a frown and a pouty voice, then with a smile and a sweet voice. Point out that it is much kinder to smile while saying nice things. Emphasize that to speak kindly it's not just the words that matter, but it's the way we speak- our tone, volume, expression/body language. You may want to practice more phrases depending on your children.
Suggested Activity:
Play "Kindness ball toss" by tossing a ball to someone in the family and saying something nice about that person. Prompt young children to say easy things like "Pretty eyes", "I love you", or "Nice shirt."
Craft:
Closing Song: “I'm Trying to Be Like Jesus" Children's Songbook #78
Closing Prayer: Mommy
Treat:
1. For each Goblin Tongue sandwich, spread cream cheese between the top and bottom of a mini bagel.
Help children to decorate their jars, use sequins, beads, stickers, ribbons, whatever you have on hand. (Both my girls loved this part)
Closing Song: “I'm Trying to Be Like Jesus" Children's Songbook #78
Closing Prayer: Mommy
Treat:
Goblin Tongues from FamilyFun.com (mouths and tongues to emphasize paying attention to what words are coming out of our mouths)
RECIPE INGREDIENTS: | |
 | Mini bagels |
| Cream cheese |
| Bologna slices |
2. Use a butter knife or kitchen shears to cut a tongue shape from a half slice of bologna. Then gently press the base of the tongue into the bagel hole.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Honesty
Family Home Evening Lesson
Honesty
Opening Song: "Our Primary Colors" Children's Song Book #258
Opening Prayer: Daddy
Lesson: Mommy
Using a packet of feather ask children to place feathers in different spots around the room. Tell this story - Imagine you were asked to go around the entire neighbourhood and leave a feather on the doorstep of each person.
Using a book or like blow the feathers from their original spots
The next day their assignment is to gather the feathers from the doorsteps
Explain how it would be difficult to collect the feathers as the wind would have blown the feathers away at night.
This is how satan convinces us it is easy to tell a lie or say mean things about people. It's as easy as placing a feather down. However it is very hard to gather feathers once they have been blown away. As with lying or saying mean things, they come out of our mouth easy, but it is impossible to take them back.
Activity: Place a coin (or chocolate coin) in children's shoes and tell this story from President Hinckleys life (a story his father told him or you can see the video on You Tube Mormon Messages HERE )
An older boy and his companion were walking along a road by a field. The saw an old coat and a worn pair of mens shoes. The younger boy suggested they hide the shoes, conceal themselves and watch the owner wonder where his shoes are.
The older boy, thought that would not be nice. He said the owner must be very poor. He suggested instead that they put a silver dollar in each shoe, and then hide and see what the man does when he finds the coins.
Soon the man came tried to slip on his shoes and found the silver dollars. Wonder and surprise showed in his face. He looked around but could find nobody. Then man knelt down and gave a prayer thanking Heavenly Father for whoever put the money there. The man had a sick wife and children without any bread.
The boys hid until the man was gone. The older boy said "Don't you have a good feeling? Aren't you glad we didn't try to trick the man by hiding his shoes?"
Tell the family members to look in their shoes.
Encourage them to be honest and kind to others.
Closing Song: "I believe in being Honest" Children's Songbook #149
Closing Prayer: Mommy
Treat:
Chocolate Coins
Cotton Candy (is this feathery??)
Honesty
Opening Song: "Our Primary Colors" Children's Song Book #258
Opening Prayer: Daddy
Lesson: Mommy
Using a packet of feather ask children to place feathers in different spots around the room. Tell this story - Imagine you were asked to go around the entire neighbourhood and leave a feather on the doorstep of each person.
Using a book or like blow the feathers from their original spots
The next day their assignment is to gather the feathers from the doorsteps
Explain how it would be difficult to collect the feathers as the wind would have blown the feathers away at night.
This is how satan convinces us it is easy to tell a lie or say mean things about people. It's as easy as placing a feather down. However it is very hard to gather feathers once they have been blown away. As with lying or saying mean things, they come out of our mouth easy, but it is impossible to take them back.
Activity: Place a coin (or chocolate coin) in children's shoes and tell this story from President Hinckleys life (a story his father told him or you can see the video on You Tube Mormon Messages HERE )
An older boy and his companion were walking along a road by a field. The saw an old coat and a worn pair of mens shoes. The younger boy suggested they hide the shoes, conceal themselves and watch the owner wonder where his shoes are.
The older boy, thought that would not be nice. He said the owner must be very poor. He suggested instead that they put a silver dollar in each shoe, and then hide and see what the man does when he finds the coins.
Soon the man came tried to slip on his shoes and found the silver dollars. Wonder and surprise showed in his face. He looked around but could find nobody. Then man knelt down and gave a prayer thanking Heavenly Father for whoever put the money there. The man had a sick wife and children without any bread.
The boys hid until the man was gone. The older boy said "Don't you have a good feeling? Aren't you glad we didn't try to trick the man by hiding his shoes?"
Tell the family members to look in their shoes.
Encourage them to be honest and kind to others.
Closing Song: "I believe in being Honest" Children's Songbook #149
Closing Prayer: Mommy
Treat:
Chocolate Coins
Cotton Candy (is this feathery??)
Monday, May 4, 2009
Family Home Evening Spot Button
If you are interested in adding a button to your blog for the FHE Spot, just use this code (make sure to change the ( ) to < > or it won't work):
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Thanks for all of your support!
Friday, April 24, 2009
Service
FYI: The Church has come out with a new Gospel Art Book which sells for only $3.50 in comparison to the Gospel Art Picture Kit that is $30. You can pick one up at a distribution center or order online. It would be a great resource for your Family Home Evenings!
“Service”
Opening Song: "Give, Said the Little Stream" (Children's Songbook, 236)
Opening Prayer: Child
Lesson: Mommy
Lesson: Mommy
As you begin the lesson, “accidentally” spill some crayons, papers, or other materials onto the floor. Wait a moment before picking the items up to give the children a chance to help you. (If no children volunteer, ask the children to help.)
Thank the children for helping you and compliment them for taking an opportunity to serve. Explain that when we help others without asking for something in return, it is called service. Have the children repeat the word service with you.
Talk about ways that we serve every day (cooking food for others, helping to do chores, giving cookies to someone in need). Point out specific ways that your children have served that day (helping to empty the dishwasher, getting a clean diaper for a baby sibling, throwing something away for you, etc). You can also ask them to come up with ways that they have served or service they have seen Mommy or Daddy do, if they are old enough.
Show picture of Jesus Washing the Apostles' Feet (GAPK 226). Point out that Jesus is serving the apostles by washing their dirty feet. Even Jesus served. He was a good example of service and He wants us to serve others. Jesus gave Himself by serving others. He didn’t give gifts that cost money. He blessed the sick to get well, the blind to see, the lame to walk, and the sad to feel happy.
Suggested Activity:
Have children color a picture or card to send to a grandparent or someone who is sick or in need. Explain that it is a service to send something nice to someone.
Go on a walk in your neighborhood with a couple of trashbags and clean up the trash. Explain that you are serving the earth by keeping it clean and you are serving those around you by making their surroundings beautiful.
For older children: Make three small paper hearts for each child. Tell the children that you want to start a “Service in Secret Club.” Encourage the children do secret acts of service for their family members, leaving a heart in each place they did an act of service. For example, they could make a brother or sister’s bed and leave a heart on the pillow.
Closing Song: "I Feel my Savior's Love" (verse 4) (Children's Songbook, 74)
Closing Prayer: Daddy
Treat: Make cookies or a favorite treat (rice krispy treats are quick and easy) together and deliver one plate to the neighbors. You can ding dong ditch and show the kids how fun it is to do a secret service!
Closing Prayer: Daddy
Treat: Make cookies or a favorite treat (rice krispy treats are quick and easy) together and deliver one plate to the neighbors. You can ding dong ditch and show the kids how fun it is to do a secret service!
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Resurrection Eggs
Easter
Opening Song: Did Jesus Really live again? Children's Songbook #64
Opening Prayer: Mommy
Lesson: Daddy
Each year my girls love to do resurrection eggs some time during easter. The FHE leading up to Easter is a good time to get them to start thinking about the real meaning of Easter.
This year I bought a proper set of eggs from our local christian bookstore (No LDS bookstores in Australia :( but in previous years I have always made my own from things around the house to be put into plastic eggs
Here is an example of things you can put in the 12 eggs. You could make as little or as few eggs as you desire. This list comes from Rainbow Castle.org
Allow children to choose eggs one at a time to open. Talk about what is inside. The Empty egg should be kept for last.
1. (Bread) Matthew 26:26
While they were eating Jesus took a piece of bread,
gave a prayer of thanks, broke it, and gave it to His disciples.
"Take and eat it," He said, "This is My body."
2. (Coins) Matthew 26: 14-15
Then one of the twelve disciples, named Judas Iscariot, went to
the chief priests and asked, "What will you give me if I betray
Jesus to you?" They counted out thirty silver coins and gave
them to him.
3. (Purple cloth, representing a purple robe) Mark 15:17
They put a purple robe on Jesus. . .
4. (Thorns) Matthew 27:29
Then they made a crown out of thorny branches and placed it on
His head, and put a stick on His right hand; then they knelt
before Him and made fun of Him. "Long live the King, of the
Jews!" they said.
5. (Scourge-a small piece of rope or thick string) Mark 15:15
Pilate wanted to please the crowd, so he set Barabbas free for
them. Then he had Jesus whipped and handed Him over to be
crucified.
6. (Cross) John 19: 17-18a
He went out, carrying His cross, and came to "The Place of the
Skull," as it is called. (In Hebrew it is called "Galgotha.") There
they crucified Him.
7. (Nails) John 20:25b
Thomas said to them, "Unless I see the scars of the nails in His
hands and put my finger on those scars and my hand in His
side, I will not believe."
8. (Sign) Luke 23:38
Above Him were written these words: THIS IS THE KING OF
THE JEWS.
9. (Sponge) Matthew 27:48
One of them ran up at once, took a sponge, soaked it in cheap
wine, put it on the end of a stick, and tried to make Him drink it.
10. (Spear) John 19:34
One of the soldiers plunged his spear into Jesus' side, and at
once blood and water poured out.
11. (Rock) Matthew 27:59-60
Joseph took the body, wrapped it in a new linen sheet, and
placed it in his own new tomb, which he had just recently dug
out of solid rock. Then he rolled a large stone across the
entrance to the tomb and went away.
12. (Empty) Matthew 28:6
He is not here He has risen just as He said.
Other links to resurrection egg ideas online with different ideas of what to put in the eggs
Easy Fun School
Resurrection eggs scavenger hunt
Closing Song: "He died that we might live again Children's Songbook #65
Closing Prayer: Child
Treat Ideas:
Easter Basket Cupcakes
Chocolate Easter Nests
Opening Song: Did Jesus Really live again? Children's Songbook #64
Opening Prayer: Mommy
Lesson: Daddy
Each year my girls love to do resurrection eggs some time during easter. The FHE leading up to Easter is a good time to get them to start thinking about the real meaning of Easter.
This year I bought a proper set of eggs from our local christian bookstore (No LDS bookstores in Australia :( but in previous years I have always made my own from things around the house to be put into plastic eggs
Here is an example of things you can put in the 12 eggs. You could make as little or as few eggs as you desire. This list comes from Rainbow Castle.org
Allow children to choose eggs one at a time to open. Talk about what is inside. The Empty egg should be kept for last.
1. (Bread) Matthew 26:26
While they were eating Jesus took a piece of bread,
gave a prayer of thanks, broke it, and gave it to His disciples.
"Take and eat it," He said, "This is My body."
2. (Coins) Matthew 26: 14-15
Then one of the twelve disciples, named Judas Iscariot, went to
the chief priests and asked, "What will you give me if I betray
Jesus to you?" They counted out thirty silver coins and gave
them to him.
3. (Purple cloth, representing a purple robe) Mark 15:17
They put a purple robe on Jesus. . .
4. (Thorns) Matthew 27:29
Then they made a crown out of thorny branches and placed it on
His head, and put a stick on His right hand; then they knelt
before Him and made fun of Him. "Long live the King, of the
Jews!" they said.
5. (Scourge-a small piece of rope or thick string) Mark 15:15
Pilate wanted to please the crowd, so he set Barabbas free for
them. Then he had Jesus whipped and handed Him over to be
crucified.
6. (Cross) John 19: 17-18a
He went out, carrying His cross, and came to "The Place of the
Skull," as it is called. (In Hebrew it is called "Galgotha.") There
they crucified Him.
7. (Nails) John 20:25b
Thomas said to them, "Unless I see the scars of the nails in His
hands and put my finger on those scars and my hand in His
side, I will not believe."
8. (Sign) Luke 23:38
Above Him were written these words: THIS IS THE KING OF
THE JEWS.
9. (Sponge) Matthew 27:48
One of them ran up at once, took a sponge, soaked it in cheap
wine, put it on the end of a stick, and tried to make Him drink it.
10. (Spear) John 19:34
One of the soldiers plunged his spear into Jesus' side, and at
once blood and water poured out.
11. (Rock) Matthew 27:59-60
Joseph took the body, wrapped it in a new linen sheet, and
placed it in his own new tomb, which he had just recently dug
out of solid rock. Then he rolled a large stone across the
entrance to the tomb and went away.
12. (Empty) Matthew 28:6
He is not here He has risen just as He said.
Other links to resurrection egg ideas online with different ideas of what to put in the eggs
Easy Fun School
Resurrection eggs scavenger hunt
Closing Song: "He died that we might live again Children's Songbook #65
Closing Prayer: Child
Treat Ideas:
Easter Basket Cupcakes
Chocolate Easter Nests
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Holy Ghost
Most of the ideas here came from this lesson posted on ldsfamilyfun.com visit there for more indepth view.
Family Home Evening Lesson
Feeling the Holy Ghost
Opening Song: "I know my Father Lives" Children's Songbook #5
Opening Prayer: Daddy
Lesson: Mommy
Scripture: Doctrine and Covenants 130:22
The Father has a body of flesh and bones as tangible as man's; the Son also; but the Holy Ghost has not a body of flesh and bones, but is a personage of Spirit. Were it not so, the Holy Ghost could not dwell in us
softly sing
Listen to the Still Small Voice,
Listen, Listen.
When you have to make a choice,
He will guide you, always.
Ask Children if they know what song this is? Who is it about?
The Holy Ghost is a member of the Godhead, a personage of spirit, knows all things, and is known by many names. The Holy Ghost has a variety of roles including witnessing of the Father and His Son, revealing the truth, cleansing sins, and giving us comfort and peace.
Activity:
Light activity found at Family Home Evening Blog
Inside a room, turn out all the lights. Find a single lamp to turn on and talk about how the light gives off warmth, helps us to see and provides a beacon in the darkness. This is what the Holy Ghost can do for us.
Blanket idea from ldsfamilyfun.com
Visual aid - a favourite Blankie of the children's or family's.
Sometimes children have a favorite blanket that they like to have with them when they are in a strange place, or when they feel scared. Like this special blanket, the Holy Ghost can be a comforter to us so we never need to be alone. (John 14:16)
Closing Song: “The Still Small Voice" Childrens Songbook #106
Closing Prayer: Mommy
Treat:
White foods - Marshmallows, mints, candy wrapped up with a message about the Holy Ghost
Some treats presented in a box - This is a gift.. just as the Holy Ghost is a gift to us.
Family Home Evening Lesson
Feeling the Holy Ghost
Opening Song: "I know my Father Lives" Children's Songbook #5
Opening Prayer: Daddy
Lesson: Mommy
Scripture: Doctrine and Covenants 130:22
The Father has a body of flesh and bones as tangible as man's; the Son also; but the Holy Ghost has not a body of flesh and bones, but is a personage of Spirit. Were it not so, the Holy Ghost could not dwell in us
softly sing
Listen to the Still Small Voice,
Listen, Listen.
When you have to make a choice,
He will guide you, always.
Ask Children if they know what song this is? Who is it about?
The Holy Ghost is a member of the Godhead, a personage of spirit, knows all things, and is known by many names. The Holy Ghost has a variety of roles including witnessing of the Father and His Son, revealing the truth, cleansing sins, and giving us comfort and peace.
Activity:
Light activity found at Family Home Evening Blog
Inside a room, turn out all the lights. Find a single lamp to turn on and talk about how the light gives off warmth, helps us to see and provides a beacon in the darkness. This is what the Holy Ghost can do for us.
Blanket idea from ldsfamilyfun.com
Visual aid - a favourite Blankie of the children's or family's.
Sometimes children have a favorite blanket that they like to have with them when they are in a strange place, or when they feel scared. Like this special blanket, the Holy Ghost can be a comforter to us so we never need to be alone. (John 14:16)
Closing Song: “The Still Small Voice" Childrens Songbook #106
Closing Prayer: Mommy
Treat:
White foods - Marshmallows, mints, candy wrapped up with a message about the Holy Ghost
Some treats presented in a box - This is a gift.. just as the Holy Ghost is a gift to us.
Monday, February 23, 2009
I Can Learn to Listen and Obey---(reposted from 4/16/2007)
I am sorry that I am reposting an old lesson today, but my daughter really needs this lesson again and since I really need to give this lesson tonight I figured that I would just repost for those who hadn't seen it yet. Thanks-Natalie
Family Home Evening Lesson
I Can Learn to Listen and Obey
Opening Song: “Listen, Listen” (Children’s Song Book # 107)
Opening Prayer: Daddy
Lesson: Mommy
I Can Learn to Listen and Obey
Scripture: Ephesians 6:1
Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.
Story: Use the story of the “2000 Young Warriors” or your gospel art kit picture 313 and read the story on the back.
Activity: Play a game that requires the children to listen and obey directions from the leader like “Simon Says”, or sing “Do as I’m Doing” (Children’s Song Book # 278) or some other following game. Discuss the difference between following these kinds of directions and following the directions of your parents, prophets or leaders.
Closing Song: “Quickly I’ll Obey” (Children’s Song Book # 197)
Closing Prayer: Mommy
Treat: Wacky Cake
Given by: Mom
Sift together in a 9x13 baking pan:
3 cups flour
2 cups sugar
4 Tbs. cocoa
2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
Make three holes in the dry ingredient mixture and add:
1st hole- ¾ cup oil
2nd hole- 2 Tbs. vinegar
3rd hole- 2 tsp. vanilla
Pour 2 cups cold water over the whole thing and mix well with a fork until well mixed.
Bake at 350º for 40 minutes.
Family Home Evening Lesson
I Can Learn to Listen and Obey
Opening Song: “Listen, Listen” (Children’s Song Book # 107)
Opening Prayer: Daddy
Lesson: Mommy
I Can Learn to Listen and Obey
Scripture: Ephesians 6:1
Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.
Story: Use the story of the “2000 Young Warriors” or your gospel art kit picture 313 and read the story on the back.
Activity: Play a game that requires the children to listen and obey directions from the leader like “Simon Says”, or sing “Do as I’m Doing” (Children’s Song Book # 278) or some other following game. Discuss the difference between following these kinds of directions and following the directions of your parents, prophets or leaders.
Closing Song: “Quickly I’ll Obey” (Children’s Song Book # 197)
Closing Prayer: Mommy
Treat: Wacky Cake
Given by: Mom
Sift together in a 9x13 baking pan:
3 cups flour
2 cups sugar
4 Tbs. cocoa
2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
Make three holes in the dry ingredient mixture and add:
1st hole- ¾ cup oil
2nd hole- 2 Tbs. vinegar
3rd hole- 2 tsp. vanilla
Pour 2 cups cold water over the whole thing and mix well with a fork until well mixed.
Bake at 350º for 40 minutes.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Showing Love
Family Home Evening Lesson
“Showing Love”
Opening Song: "A Happy Family" (Children's Songbook, 198a)
“Showing Love”
Opening Song: "A Happy Family" (Children's Songbook, 198a)
Opening Prayer: Child
Lesson: Daddy
With Valentines Day coming this weekend, another lesson on Love couldn't hurt! Most of this lesson comes from the "I Will Love Others" and "I Will Love my Family" lessons in the new "Behold your Little Ones Manual." It is a GREAT resource!
Closing Song: "Love One Another" (Children's Songbook, 136)
Closing Prayer: Mommy
Treat:
Lesson: Daddy
With Valentines Day coming this weekend, another lesson on Love couldn't hurt! Most of this lesson comes from the "I Will Love Others" and "I Will Love my Family" lessons in the new "Behold your Little Ones Manual." It is a GREAT resource!
Display a picture of the good Samaritan. You can use GAPK #218. Open the Bible and tell the children that you are going to share a story Jesus told about loving others. Using simple language, tell the story of the good Samaritan. Below is an example:
Sing or say the words to “Jesus Said Love Everyone” (Children’s Songbook, 61) and do the actions below. Invite the children to join you.
Jesus said love everyone; (spread arms out wide)
Treat them kindly too.
When your heart is filled with love, (put hand over heart)
Others will love you. (hug self)
Print and cut out these family figures and place them in a container. Have child pull one figure out of the container and identify what member of the family the figure is. Suggest a way they can show love for that family member (by picking up toys, sharing, smiling, and so on). Invite them to pretend to do the action. Repeat this activity with each family figure.
Add new words to the song “Fun to Do” (Children’s Songbook, 253) to teach the children some ways they can show love for their families. For example, say to the children, “Let’s show how we can love Sister.” Sing “Sharing a toy is fun to do” and do simple actions. Other words you can use are, “Picking up toys is fun to do,” “Cleaning the room is fun to do,” “Giving a smile is fun to do,” “Helping my dad is fun to do,” and so on.
Suggested Activity:
Help children make paper hearts. You can just cut them out of construction paper and help them decorate the hearts. When the hearts are done, read the following examples (or create some of your own), and ask, “Does this show love?” After each example, have the children hold up their paper hearts and say, “Love.”
When you help clean up.
When you say “please” and “thank you.”
When you share your toy.
When you help someone who is hurt.
You can also make extra hearts and throughout the week you can award a child with a heart when you see them showing love. You can tape them on the fridge to display.
Color this picture from lds.org.
You can also make these Valentine Finger Puppets.
Closing Song: "Love One Another" (Children's Songbook, 136)
Closing Prayer: Mommy
Treat:
Raspberry Hearts from Family Fun
or Conversation Hearts!
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Love
Family Home Evening Lesson
“Love”
Opening Song: "Love One Another" (Children's SongBook #136)
Opening Prayer: Child
Lesson: Mommy
With Valentines Day around the corner, now is the perfect time to be talking about Love
Cut out a large red heart and stick to floor. Have each family member stand on heart one at a time. Have the other family members say what they love about the person on the heart.
How can we have better love at home?
Jesus said we must love everyone. How can we love everyone?
In the week leading up to Valentines Day what can we do for others to show that we love them? (Make a list of things you may do as a family to show love to others)
Suggested Activity:
I love these Lollipop heart flowers from FamilyFun.com. You could make a bunch to give to neighbours, friends, family.
Make an extended family Photo Heart Garland at Sycamore Stirrings, to hang around your home
Paper Heart Animals found at The Crafty Crow
Closing Song: " Jesus said Love Everyone" (Children's SongBook # 61)
Closing Prayer: Daddy
Treat:
Healthy Hearts made from watermelon and oranges
Sweet Heart Rice Krispy Treats
“Love”
Opening Song: "Love One Another" (Children's SongBook #136)
Opening Prayer: Child
Lesson: Mommy
With Valentines Day around the corner, now is the perfect time to be talking about Love
Cut out a large red heart and stick to floor. Have each family member stand on heart one at a time. Have the other family members say what they love about the person on the heart.
How can we have better love at home?
Jesus said we must love everyone. How can we love everyone?
In the week leading up to Valentines Day what can we do for others to show that we love them? (Make a list of things you may do as a family to show love to others)
Suggested Activity:
I love these Lollipop heart flowers from FamilyFun.com. You could make a bunch to give to neighbours, friends, family.
Make an extended family Photo Heart Garland at Sycamore Stirrings, to hang around your home
Paper Heart Animals found at The Crafty Crow
Closing Song: " Jesus said Love Everyone" (Children's SongBook # 61)
Closing Prayer: Daddy
Treat:
Healthy Hearts made from watermelon and oranges
Sweet Heart Rice Krispy Treats
Sunday, January 18, 2009
How to Show Reverence
Family Home Evening Lesson
“How to Show Reverence”
Opening Song: “Father, I Will Reverent Be” Children's Songbook #29
Opening Prayer: Child
Lesson: Mommy
How to Show Reverence:
Ask your children what Reverence is. Explain that reverence is being still and quiet to show Heavenly Father that we love him.
Print this picture of body parts. Ask children how we can use each body part to show reverence.
Have children demonstrate. (Example: feet- "do we stomp our feet?"[stomp,stomp] "or do we walk quietly?" [step quietly or tip toe]. mouth- "do we talk loudly?" [use loud voice] "or do we talk quietly?" [whisper]. eyes & ears- "do we look all around the room when we are praying?" [exaggerate looking everywhere] "or do we close our eyes and listen with our ears during prayer?". arms- "do we clap our hands and touch other people with our hands?" [make busy hands] or "do we fold our arms when are walking and sitting?"[fold arms])
Practicing Reverence: Have children line up and practice quietly walking around the house with folded arms. Have them think of ways they can show reverence for the church, such as putting litter in trash (have trash on floor for them to practice), opening and shutting classroom doors quietly, whispering in the chapel when they need to talk, walking (not running). Have them practice sitting down quietly and raising their hands. Also have children practice thinking of Jesus for 30 seconds or longer (depending on age)-- it might help to show them a picture of Him.
Show picture of mouse: I had a small copy that I cut out for each of my kids. [This was my 4 year old's FAVORITE part of the lesson- she carried her mouse all over the place afterward.]
“What If … ?,” by DaLee C. James, Friend, Sep 1996, 22
If a mouse would ride to church
In your pocket on this day,
What might he tell his family
That he heard you do or say?
Would he tell them you were reverent,
And you listened to your teacher?
Or would he say he’d never seen
Such a noisy creature?
Would he tell them how he loved the songs
You sang so sweet and clear?
Or would he groan from all the talking
That entered in his ear?
Could he take a little snooze
As you walked nice and tall?
Or would he scream with panic
As you galloped down the hall?
Would the little mouse get seasick
From the tipping of your chair?
Or would he feel safe and cozy
As you quietly sat there?
Would the chapel be a reverent place?
The sacrament the same?
Now tell me, would the little mouse
Be really glad he came?
If a mouse would ride to church
In your pocket on this day,
What might he tell his family
That he heard you do or say?
We also have the book "I'm Reverent When..." by Amy Mullins. This would be good to read through with the kids for this lesson as well.
Suggested Activity:
Make this EASY mouse Finger puppet. Or print a picture of a mouse for them to put in their pockets (or tape to their dress) for church next Sunday.
Print this picture about reverent hands and have children cut out the pictures and make a little reverence booklet, gluing the pictures onto strips of paper that you staple together.
Make a Reverence Crown. Use this crown in the future by giving it to children who are being especially reverent during family prayer, scripture study or FHE.
Closing Song: “Reverently, Quietly” Children's Songbook #26
Closing Prayer: Daddy
Treat:
Strawberry Mice
1. Take large strawberries and cut them in half. Put it on the plate the flat side down.
2. Take mini chocolate chip for little eyes and nose and glue it to the strawberry using a little bit of icing.
3. For ears you can use slivered almonds.
4. Red licorice lace works perfect for the tail.
“How to Show Reverence”
Opening Song: “Father, I Will Reverent Be” Children's Songbook #29
Opening Prayer: Child
Lesson: Mommy
How to Show Reverence:
Ask your children what Reverence is. Explain that reverence is being still and quiet to show Heavenly Father that we love him.
Print this picture of body parts. Ask children how we can use each body part to show reverence.
Have children demonstrate. (Example: feet- "do we stomp our feet?"[stomp,stomp] "or do we walk quietly?" [step quietly or tip toe]. mouth- "do we talk loudly?" [use loud voice] "or do we talk quietly?" [whisper]. eyes & ears- "do we look all around the room when we are praying?" [exaggerate looking everywhere] "or do we close our eyes and listen with our ears during prayer?". arms- "do we clap our hands and touch other people with our hands?" [make busy hands] or "do we fold our arms when are walking and sitting?"[fold arms])
Practicing Reverence: Have children line up and practice quietly walking around the house with folded arms. Have them think of ways they can show reverence for the church, such as putting litter in trash (have trash on floor for them to practice), opening and shutting classroom doors quietly, whispering in the chapel when they need to talk, walking (not running). Have them practice sitting down quietly and raising their hands. Also have children practice thinking of Jesus for 30 seconds or longer (depending on age)-- it might help to show them a picture of Him.
Show picture of mouse: I had a small copy that I cut out for each of my kids. [This was my 4 year old's FAVORITE part of the lesson- she carried her mouse all over the place afterward.]
“What If … ?,” by DaLee C. James, Friend, Sep 1996, 22
If a mouse would ride to church
In your pocket on this day,
What might he tell his family
That he heard you do or say?
Would he tell them you were reverent,
And you listened to your teacher?
Or would he say he’d never seen
Such a noisy creature?
Would he tell them how he loved the songs
You sang so sweet and clear?
Or would he groan from all the talking
That entered in his ear?
Could he take a little snooze
As you walked nice and tall?
Or would he scream with panic
As you galloped down the hall?
Would the little mouse get seasick
From the tipping of your chair?
Or would he feel safe and cozy
As you quietly sat there?
Would the chapel be a reverent place?
The sacrament the same?
Now tell me, would the little mouse
Be really glad he came?
If a mouse would ride to church
In your pocket on this day,
What might he tell his family
That he heard you do or say?
We also have the book "I'm Reverent When..." by Amy Mullins. This would be good to read through with the kids for this lesson as well.
Suggested Activity:
Make this EASY mouse Finger puppet. Or print a picture of a mouse for them to put in their pockets (or tape to their dress) for church next Sunday.
Print this picture about reverent hands and have children cut out the pictures and make a little reverence booklet, gluing the pictures onto strips of paper that you staple together.
Make a Reverence Crown. Use this crown in the future by giving it to children who are being especially reverent during family prayer, scripture study or FHE.
Closing Song: “Reverently, Quietly” Children's Songbook #26
Closing Prayer: Daddy
Treat:
Strawberry Mice
1. Take large strawberries and cut them in half. Put it on the plate the flat side down.
2. Take mini chocolate chip for little eyes and nose and glue it to the strawberry using a little bit of icing.
3. For ears you can use slivered almonds.
4. Red licorice lace works perfect for the tail.
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