Handbook 2:
Administering the Church

11. Primary

The Primary is an auxiliary to the priesthood. All auxiliaries exist to help Church members grow in their testimonies of Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, and the restored gospel. Through the work of the auxiliaries, members receive instruction, encouragement, and support as they strive to live according to gospel principles.
 

11.1 Theme and Purposes of Primary

    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:
  1. 1.

    Feel Heavenly Father’s love for them.

  2. 2.

    Learn and understand the gospel of Jesus Christ.

  3. 3.

    Feel and recognize the influence of the Holy Ghost.

  4. 4.

    Prepare to make and keep sacred covenants.

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