“For Parents of Little Ones,” Friend, Apr. 2016, inside back cover

For Parents of Little Ones

Even if family home evening doesn’t always go the way you hope, it still teaches children important lessons. It teaches them that we study Jesus’s teachings at home, not just at church. They see that the gospel is a part of their family’s everyday lives. They learn that family time is a high priority to you and that you love spending time with them. Those are some pretty great blessings!

Here are some easy ways to help children gain even more from family home evening!

Let children take turns choosing the song. You could listen to some during the week they can choose from. Find songs at music.lds.org.
Your child can help show a picture to go along with the lesson, like Dallin in “Flashlight Family Night” (page FJ2).
Small children may be happier to sit still for lesson time if they have somewhere special to sit, like on a “family home evening cushion” or blanket.
Use a game as the lesson. Create a gospel-themed treasure hunt around the house to teach the rewards of following righteous directions. Teach obedience by turning “Simon Says” to “Mom and Dad Say” or “The Scriptures Say.” You can find gospel-themed puzzles and mazes, along with other teaching ideas, at lessonhelps.lds.org.
Plan a family service activity. Ask your children to think of someone who might need help, and listen to their suggestions.

Keep up the good work! Your children will soon surprise you with what they hear, learn, and remember.