Gifts

Children love to tell what they received for Christmas.  This activity allows the children to share a favorite gift they received for Christmas, then ask them to either share a gift that Christ has given them or a gift they can give to Christ.  Example:

• I got a very special art set that I have wanted for a long time.
• Christ has given me a loving family.
• I can share my testimony with someone.

If you have a large primary, time will not permit to have each child share, so choose names from a jar as time allows.  After a child shares his thoughts, ask another child to choose her favorite song from the past year and sing it.  Or you can have a list of songs that you know are favorites and sing one.

Events of Christ's Birth

Gather 5 or more pictures of Christ's birth - Samuel predicting His birth, Mary and Joseph traveling to Bethlehem, the stable, shepherds, kings, angels, etc.  Choose songs that go with each picture.  Mix up the pictures and place them on the board.  Ask the children to put them in order.  Choose one child to find the first picture (Samuel).  Sing Samuel Tells of Baby Jesus.  Continue putting the pictures in order and singing a song to go with the picture.  (Choose songs that the children are familiar with.)  Be sure to watch your times so you can complete the activity in your allotted time.

God's Christmas Gift

Every month The Friend magazine has great stories and ideas for talks, sharing time and singing time.  This month, on p. 21, there is a beautiful Christmas song, God's Christmas Gift.  It has two short verses and a chorus.  Below is an idea for teaching this song.

You will need a picture of:
First verse:

•  baby Jesus
• Bethlehem
• a gift/present
• Christ

Second verse

• a Wreath - optional: Christmastime written below the wreath
• Christmas tree with presents beneath
• a different picture of Christ
• a gift/present

Chorus

• Christ on a cross
• Children doing service
• a heart
• a gift/present
• Jesus with children

Use colored paper (red and green) or Christmas wrapping paper to cover each picture.  Arrange the pictures in order: 1st verse, chorus, 2nd verse then tape them to the board and cover them with the colored paper or wrapping paper.

Have the pianist play through the song while you recite the words.  Ask a child to uncover the first "gift".  Sing the phrase 2 or 3 times.  Do the same thing with the rest of the song uncovering the picture and singing the phrase a few times.  As you add a phrase, be sure to sing from the beginning until you come to the next new phrase.  This helps the children hear the continuity of the song and it's great repetition which is how children learn.

*Note: You can use this idea for any Christmas song.

Compare Songs

Sing the following songs (you may have to sing them more than once) and list all the things that tell about Christ's birth.

Away in a Manger p. 42
Mary's Lullaby  p. 44
Who Is the Child?  p. 46
Sleep, Little Jesus  p. 47

Compare the things that are the same and the differences.  For instance: Do they all tell about the manger, shepherds, the animals, Mary and Joseph, etc.  This is a great way for children to learn and understand what they are singing about.

Christmas Pageant

This year we will be preparing a Christmas Pageant that we will sing during Primary singing and sharing time at the end of this month. It's just for us in the Primary so it's not a big fanfare.  By singing about Christ's birth, the children learn about and come to love the true meaning of Christmas.  The following is a list of the songs that we will be singing that talk about the birth of Christ.

• O, Hush Thee, My Baby  p. 48
• Samuel Tells of the Baby Jesus p. 36
• When Joseph Went to Bethlehem  p. 38
• Stars Were Gleaming  p. 37
• Once Within a Lowly Stable  p. 41
• Mary's Lullaby  p. 44
• Picture a Christmas  p. 50
• Christmas Bells  p.54

We will gradually put up a manger scene after each song.  The children will tell about Christ's birth in their own words as we sing each song.  The only thing that we will rehearse will be the songs during singing time throughout this month.

There are other Christmas activities in earlier posts for more ideas.

Pick a Thankful Activity

I have posted several Thanksgiving singing time activities over the years.  I have listed below links to some "Thankful" posts for your convenience. Every year, the Sunday before Thanksgiving, I use my "Turkey" activity.  The children begin asking for it at the first of November.  I either have the children "pluck" the feathers or put them on the turkey.  The feathers all have song titles on the back of each. The children love either one. 

Thanksgiving Turkey
The Thankful Chain
The Thankful Tree
The Thankful Turkey
I Am Glad for Many Things
Gratitude

The Thankful Chain

We've all made paper chains for Christmas whether it be for decorations or a count-down chain.  How about a "Thankful" chain?!?

Cut 25 1" strips of fall colored paper 8 1/2" long.  Write the titles of the songs you would like to sing during singing time - 5 or 6 songs.  On the rest of the strips write "I am thankful for __________."  Mix the songs with the other strips and make a paper chain.

 Hang the chain on the chalkboard, podium, piano, several chairs, any place where the children can see and reach it.  Tell the children that on each chain there is a song or an "I am thankful for __________." sentence.  If the link has a song on it, the primary will sing it.  If it has "I am thankful for __________.", the child will tell something that he or she is thankful for.

Encourage the children to make their own "Thankful" chain at home with their family and see how long they can make it by writing things that they are thankful for.

The "Thankful" Tree

Whether your are reviewing or learning a new song, this activity will help children think of what they are thankful for.

• Cut out enough autumn leaves for everyone in your primary.  (all different colors)  Die cutting is fast and school supply stores have them already cut into packages of 25 or more.
• On a poster board, draw a tree with branches (no leaves)
• pencils

Every time  you sing a song (or phrase if it is a new song) have a child write something that they are thankful for on a leaf and tape it to the tree. 

If you are using this "Thankful" tree activity for the entire month, keep track of who has put up a leaf and
continue throughout the month.  By the end of November the tree should be covered with "thankful" leaves!

If you are doing this activity one or two weeks, ask several children to write on a leaf after each song so that the tree is covered by the end of singing time.

The Reverence Thermometer

Reverence has been and will continue to be a challenge forever.  When I feel that it's time to do something about it, I put my creative mind in gear.  There are many ideas out there to encourage reverence, which is "more than just quietly sitting."

The following is an oldie but goodie.
The Reverence Thermometer
You will need the following:

• one heavy piece of cardboard or foam core board
• two colors of ribbon (contrasting colors) about 24" long
• markers - 2 colors

1. Sew or safety pin one end of one color ribbon to the other color ribbon.  (Sewing is preferable so the ribbon will slide easier.)
2. Draw a thermometer - see picture below
3. Cut a slit at the bottom and top of the thermometer for the ribbon to slide in
4. Measure the ribbon so both colors are even and are both the length of the thermometer
5. I sewed a piece of velcro on the ends of each piece of ribbon so it can be fastened to each other on the back side of the thermometer (a safety pin will work, too)
6. Thread the ribbon in the slits and fasten in the back
7. Move the ribbon up and down to measure the children's reverence

Decorate a Pumpkin!

Decorate a pumpkin! 

• Cut a large pumpkin shape from orange paper - use construction paper or poster-board
• cut out a green or brown stem 
• cut several curly vines and a few leaves
• cut two eyes, one nose, a mouth and two eyebrows from bright yellow paper

Put the orange pumpkin up on a board.  On the back of the stem, vines, leaves, eyes, noes, etc. write a page number of the songs you would like to sing during singing time.  Encourage reverent singing.  Choose children that sing and are reverently singing to help decorate the pumpkin after each song.  You can ask teachers to help you choose the children.  Use enough items to decorate with as you have songs.  Make sure you get the face completed by the end of singing time.

Singing Time Apron

This is a fun way to teach, review or have choosing time.  You will need an apron.  If you want to make one, sew 8 or more pockets on it.  If you don't make one, any apron will do and you will need 8 or more large safety pins.

On slips of paper, write the titles of songs you would like to review or songs the children love to sing including action songs.  If you are teaching a new song, write one phrase per slip of paper. 

If your apron has several pockets, fold the slips of paper and put them in the pockets.  If your apron has no pockets, fold each slip of paper and with a safety pin, pin each piece on to the apron.

Put the apron on and explain to the children that you are wearing your "singing time" apron.  Choose a child to pick a pocket or unpin a paper.  Sing the song or phrase.  Continue until all the papers have been chosen - or you run out of time.

If you have a holiday apron, use it at that time of year.  A Christmas apron is especially fun for the holidays and Christmas songs.

Prophet Quiz

We are preparing for General Conference this week through singing time.  This activity is quite revealing as to how much we know about our prophet.  Encourage the teachers to help the children.

Choose ten pictures of prophets throughout time and include a couple of latter-day prophets.  Tape them on the board so all can see them.  Leave room next to or under each picture to tally how much they know about each.  Choose 10 songs, some that you would like to review, a few action songs and prophet songs.  Put the class names in a jar- Sunbeams, 4 - 5 year-olds, etc.  Put the titles of the songs in another jar.  Choose a child to pick a song.  Sing it.  You pick from the class jar and ask the class to tell one thin about one of the prophets on the board.  Put a tally mark under each picture that the children know something about.  The hope is that there is a mark under each picture by the end of singing time.

Possible questions to help them start thinking:

• Why do you remember him?
• What story do you remember about him?
• How did he serve the Lord?
• What book of scripture do we read about him?
• What do we learn from him?

*Make sure that you have some hints or uncommon facts about each prophet so you can help the children.

Performance Tips

As Primary Sacrament Meeting Programs draw closer, here are a few "performance" tips that will help the children focus and look good.

• smile - make an 6 to 8 inch yellow circle and draw a smiley face on it.  Hold it up when you see only a few smiles.
• Show the children a "perfect" stance - shoulders back, hands to your side, head up just like a soldier.  You can make a soldier figure and hold it up during practices to help children remember.
• Eyes on you - don't begin a song until eyes are on you.  During practice take the time to wait for their eyes.
• Practice sitting and standing quietly.
• Remind the children that each of them are helping to invite Heavenly Father's spirit to be in the meeting.  Reverence is critical!

Remember the Fun Songs

Our Primary Sacrament Meeting Program is tomorrow and I'm glad to be able to sing some other songs . . . and so are the children.  Now is a good time to sing the Autumn songs: p. 247, 246 and 241 (use leaves instead of rain).  The 7th section in the Children's Songbook has many action songs that all the children love to sing. 

Choose some favorites and put the titles on the back of autumn-colored leaves.  Draw a tree on the board and tape the leaves to the tree.  Ask a child to pick a leaf, then sing the song.  Continue until you are out of time.  It never hurts to have extra songs in case you need them.  Also, the tree looks fuller.

Remember to end singing time with a reverent song to create a calm atmosphere.

What Is the Message to Me?

Don't let them become bored!  As we draw near to the Primary Sacrament Program, do your best to help the children love the songs, not become bored.

• Make a list of all the classes on a chart or blackboard - sunbeams, 4-5 year-olds, etc.
• Write the name of each song for the program on a small piece of paper:
• Place the song titles in a basket, bag or similar container

Ask a child to draw a piece of paper.  Write the first song chosen next to the first class, the second song drawn to the next class until all the songs have been drawn. If you run out of songs, have two classes do the same song.

Now explain that each song has a special message for each of us that will help us in some way, for instance:

• "I Am a Child of God" - Who am I? Why am I here? Where did I come from?
• "Heavenly Father Loves Me" - Helps me to be thankful for everything around me
• "I Can Be Valiant" - Gives me courage to stand up for what I believe.

Ask each class to tell what the song chosen for their class means to them. Teachers may help. Sing the song.
Allow the classes time to think of their response - 2 or 3 minutes.  Each song can have several messages, so if two classes do the same song, their responses should be different.

Back-to-School Review

You will need the following items or a picture of the items:

• pencil
• box of crayons
• eraser
• notebook
• backpack
• lunch box or sack
• apple or orange (healthy snack)
• a picture of a happy face (my happy face should always go to school)

Tape the title of each song that you need to review on each object. (There are 8 songs in the Primary Sacrament Meeting Program.) Place all of the items in the backpack, then put the backpack into a large bag.

Tell the children that all students need to be prepared for school each year. And, each year we need to be prepared for the Primary Sacrament Meeting Program. In this bag are things that we might need to be ready for school and a song is taped on each item to help us be prepared for our program.

Ask one child to pull out what is in the bag. Sing the song taped onto the backpack. Now ask on child to pick an item out of the backpack.  Sing that song.  Continue until all the songs have been sung.

Optional:

• pillow - we need plenty of sleep
• pencil box
• box of markers
• hand sanitizer
• box tissue
• picture of a healthy breakfast - gives us energy to start the day
• Scriptures - read them every day so we can hear the whispering of the Holy Ghost
• umberella
• rain boots/coat
• jacket
• gym shoes or weights - to get plenty of exercise

If you would like to reward the children, a new pencil for each of them is a great reward.

Stump the Class

Reviewing songs can become a little boring, so it is our job to liven it up.  Choose one sentence or phrase from each song to be reviewed and write it on a slip of paper.  Fold them up and put them into a container.  Choose a child to pick a paper from the container.  You and the child (and of course the pianist) will know the phrase.  On the board, draw a short line for each letter in the phrase.  Choose 5 children, one at a time, to guess a letter.  If it is in the phrase, write the letter wherever it appears in the phrase.  Hopefully, by the time the 5th child chooses a letter they can guess the phrase.

_ _  _ _ _  _ _ _ _  _ _  _ _ _ _
   e               e            e     e    e
             s   s
h      h                            h
                           t
                                m

he h_s se_ t   me  he_e
he has sent me here

With the help of teachers, this should be a fun review.  Sing the song once the children have guessed the phrase.

Word Test

One of the best ways to check to see how well children (and adults) know a song is to use 4 signs while you sing a song.

• Sing
• Hum
• Mouth Words
• No Singing (silent)

1. Cut 4 large circles out of card stock - about 8 to 10 inches in diameter. (Different colors)
2. In large letters, write each word or phrase on each circle.
3. Tape or glue two circles together (words on outside) with a large craft stick or paint stirring stick taped or glued in the middle of the two circles.
4. Now you have two two-sided signs that you can use or have a child turn them.  Obviously, only one sign should be up at a time

Great for reviewing any song!

Review in a Cup

Choose how many songs you would like to review, for instance:  I will be reviewing 6 songs.  I will need 6 paper cups plus 3 more, 9 in all.  Place cups on a table in the front of the room.  Make strips of paper with a review song on each.  On three extra strips write "Fun to Do."  Place one strip of paper  under each cup .  Choose on child to pick a cup and read the song.  Sing the song.  If they choose "Fun to Do," they must do something that would have been done during the Book of Mormon times.  Everyone sings and does the action. 
Example:

• Building a ship is fun to do
• Writing on plates is fun to do
• Hunting for food is fun to do

The children will have some great ideas.
Continue until all the cups have been chosen.

Judge that Song!

Add some fun to your reviewing by having a panel of judges.  Number 10 half sheets of paper - one number on each, 1 through 10.  Make three sets.  Make two "tally" sheets and put them on clip boards so it's easy to write.  List all the songs you wish to review on the chalk board and on the tally sheets.  Choose 3 "judges" for the first song.  Choose two older children to be "score keepers."  Explain to the children that the judges will hold up a number after we sing a song.  A score of "10" will be the very best and "1" will mean that we really need to work on that song.

You can change judges and score keepers after every song in order to give more people a chance.  It's fun to add a teacher to the mix, too.

Tally up the scores at the end of singing time and see which songs need work and which ones are awesome.

Pioneer Trek

Pioneer history helps all of us to understand hardships and sacrifice.  This is a great activity for choosing/reviewing songs, as well as sharing a little pioneer history.

You will need:

• a cutout of a covered wagon or handcart that you can move across the board
• a long piece of string or yarn to represent the trail from Nauvoo to Salt Lake  (you can draw a path on the board with chalk instead)
• 10 - 12 campfire cutouts (pattern below) to tape on the path along the way

Prepare the board with the trail (draw the trail or tape the yarn up and down on the board to represent the trail the pioneers traveled - much like what you see on a map - preferably not a straight line.)  Write the names of the songs you would like to review on stripes of paper and tape them to the back of the campfires.  On the remaining fires write the word "sacrifice."   Tape the campfires along the trail spaced out from beginning to end. 

Explain to the children that pioneers sacrificed many things to come to the Salt Lake Valley.  Ask a child to move the wagon or handcart to the first campfire.  Ask another child to read what is on the back of the fire.  Sing the song.  If it says "sacrifice," ask the child to tell one thing that the pioneers may have had to sacrifice to walk across the plains.  Answers could include: homes, clothes, certain foods, toys, friends, sleep, etc. Continue in this pattern until you reach the Salt Lake Valley.

Integrating Ages

Integrating all ages in Primary is not an easy feat!  Whether it be in sharing time or singing time, a nine-year age span is a challenge.  There is the difference in attention span, readers and non-readers, back row/front row, not to mention tired and sometimes disinterested teachers.  What to do as a music leader?!?!

Enthusiasm and genuine happiness is contagious.  And, as I have stated in previous posts, be prepared, then be prepared for a little more.  Here are a few ideas on how to help the young children learn songs and the older ones to maintain attention.

• Ask some of the older children to sit among the younger ones.  They become examples to those 4, 5 and 6 year-olds.  
• When using word charts, try to have a few pictures that go along with the song and have the younger children hold them.
• Write words on the board and have an older child help a younger one erase a word or phrase while teaching or memorizing a song.
• Divide the room in half and half sing a phrase or verse and the other half sing the next phrase or verse.  Make sure that ages on each side are equal.
• Mix things up and have the boys sit on one side and the girls on the other for singing time.
• Ask a younger child to hold a sign up with "soft" on one side and "loud" on the other.  Let them turn it as the primary sings.  (other signs could be: hum/words, smile/frown, mouth words/sing words, etc.)

These are just a few ideas.  Remember to be positive and happy!

Be Prepared!

Recently, I was asked how to maintain reverence among energetic children.  My best answer is BE PREPARED!!!  Many primaries have singing time for about 15 to 20 minutes.  Some incorporate singing with sharing time.  I, personally like the block of time because we can sing a song several times, work on sections or have time to play a singing game.  But, whatever time you have, you must be prepared!  Here is a list of helps for a music leader:

• Know the song or songs - memorized.  When you have the songs memorized, you can keep an eye on everyone.  You can see if the children are understanding the words, singing them correctly and if they are "zoning out."
• Have a plan.  When you have a plan as to how you are going to use your time, things will run more smoothly -- note: I didn't say perfectly - that rarely happens.
• Choose activities that will help the children learn and memorize the songs.  Keep them age appropriate.  Remember, not all children in primary can read.
• ALWAYS have a contingency plan.  If the children aren't responding well to your "plan A,"  your safety net is "plan B."  Also, you may have a little extra time and it's nice to have a little extra planned.
• Be energetic.  If you love what you do and love the children, they will know and respond back.  The reverse is true, as well.
• Sing more than you talk.  If everyone is singing, there is less chance of children loosing interest.  Singing time is just that -- SING!
• If you use visual aids, make sure that they are big enough so the back row can see.
• It's a good idea to talk with the primary president and ask that the presidency and teachers sing during singing time rather than visit.  Example is powerful!
• Enjoy yourself - it's contagious!

A Child's Prayer

The song for this month is "A Child's Prayer," p. 12.  This has been a favorite of mine since it was published some 30 years ago.  It has been used in several Primary Sacrament Meeting programs, as well.  If your primary is just learning it, here are some helps.

Every time you sing "Heavenly Father, Father, pray or prayer," fold your arms or place palms together as if praying.
"Do you hear and answer . . ."  put your hand to your ear as if listening
". . . heaven is far away"  place open hand above eyes as if looking far away
"I remember now"  point to your mind
"Jesus told disciples . . ."  use a picture of Jesus and his disciples
"Suffer the children . . ."  picture of Christ with children

I don't always like the children to do all the actions during a performance, so as they become more familiar with the words, take out one action at a time until they can sing it without any prompts.

Make sure that you sing this verse through more than 3 times so that it will "stick" in their minds.  Repetition is one of the best learning tools!

Tip: Review this year's program songs by singing them for opening and closing songs.

Picture Review

Here is a list of the songs for the 2013 Primary Sacrament Meeting Program.  Two of them were your choice so you may not be using the two listed below.  There are 6 songs to review.

Make a word strip of each song title, fold it and put it in a basket, paper bag or jar.  Find one picture to represent each song.  I've put a suggestion after each song below.  Ask a child to draw a paper from the jar and read the title.  Then ask the children to match the title to the picture.  Sing the song.  (Sing it twice if it needs a little more review.)

Songs for 2013 program

I Am a Child of God p. 2  

     picture of a child or children with Christ

My Heavenly Father Loves Me p. 228  

     picture of a bird

If the Savior Stood Beside Me   

     picture of the 10 commandments

I Will Be Valiant p. 162  (your choice)  

     picture of missionaries or Army of  Helaman

We Thank Thee, O God, for a Prophet # 19 (your choice)   

     picture of Joseph Smith or Pres. Monson

When I Am Baptized p. 103  

     picture of a rainbow or a child being baptized

Families Can Be Together Forever p. 188  (July)

A Child's Prayer p. 12  (August)

When I Am Baptized - Review

Here is a fun review for "When I Am Baptized."  You will need:

• a picture or drawing of eyes or glasses and word strip of LOOK
• a picture or drawing of a rainbow and word strip of RAINBOW
• a picture or drawing of rain and word strip of RAIN
• a word strip of  PONDER, BEAUTY, EARTH and CLEAN
• a picture or drawing of the earth

2nd verse

• a picture or drawing of a child being baptized and word strip of BAPTIZED
• a picture or drawing of running water and word strip of WRONGS and WASHED
• a word strip of  FORGIVEN, IMPROVE

Use this picture for the chorus:

• a picture of Christ

On the board, jumble up all the pictures and words, however, keep the words with the pictures that they match.  Not all words have a picture.  The pictures are for the non-readers so they can participate, also.
Tell the children that we are going to review a song.  Their job is to put the pictures and words in the order that they are sung.  Play the first line of the song.  Ask the children what comes first in the song.  If needed sing the first line or phrase.  Make sure that you choose non-readers when there is a picture.  It's possible that you could sing this song several times -- great review!

Note:  In the interest of time, I sing the 1st and 2nd verses then the chorus once.

Father's Toolbox

Gather several tools that a dad would have or use.  If you can find a tool belt or tool box to put the tools in, that would be even better.  Label each tool (strip of paper taped on the tool) with attributes of a father, such as, helpful, good listener, good example, kind, hard worker, fun to play with, homework-helper, great chef.  Feel free to use your own ideas.   Have the children choose a tool and read the attribute.  Sing a Father's Day song or choose songs you want to review.  After singing the song, ask the children if there was an attribute in the song that a dad could have.
Examples:
I Can Be Valiant -- Dads are valiant, they serve others, etc.
I Am a Child of God  --  Dads help us find our way back to Heavenly Father
When Grandpa Comes -- Grandpas are kind and say kind things, they brighten our day

After each song choose another tool.  If time permits, have the children tell how their father has that attribute.

Fathers of Us All

We all have many fathers.  Of course our own fathers and grandfathers are very important, but there are many men that make a difference in our lives.  A few that we might not think about are uncles, home teachers, our bishop, stake president, neighbors, teachers, etc. are some great ones who have influenced us.  What about men in history who have made a difference in our lives. 

On the board, put several pictures of men in the scriptures.  Below are a list of some examples.  Have the children tell about each man and what they have done for us.  Then sing a song about fathers.  Choose songs that you may want to review.

Joseph Smith, Nephi, Helaman, Lehi, Jesus, Moses, Abraham, Noah, Adam, Isaiah, Pres. Monson

Fishing Review for Father's Day

We are planning on singing a medley of songs for Father's Day in two weeks.  Our medley consists of:

• When Grandpa Comes  p. 201
• My Dad   p. 211
• Daddy's Homecoming  p. 210
• We'll Bring the World His Truth  p. 172

This week, we will do a "fishing" review of these songs.  Cut out 8 fish from colored paper.  Choose 2 words or phrases from each song and make word strips to tape on the back of each fish.  Put a large paper clip on the "nose" or tail of each fish.  You can use a real fishing pole or any stick (yardstick, dowel rod. etc.) will do.  Tie a string onto the pole.  On the end of the string, tie a magnet.  Place the fish in a bucket or tub or on the floor.  Choose children to "fish" for "review" fish.  Sing the song that the word or phrase comes from.

Example of words or phrases from the above songs:

• When Grandpa Comes "it's always fun"    "wrinkly"
• My Dad  "favorite pal"   "honesty"
• Daddy's Homecoming  "Shout"    "knee"
• We'll Bring the World His Truth  "Goodly parents"   "Nephi"

Pick-a-Prophet

Determine how many phrases of a song you need to review ("We Thank Thee, O God, For a Prophet" or another one you may have taught this month) or how many songs you would like to review.  Choose several pictures of prophets throughout history to equal how many phrases or songs you will be singing.  If possible have 3 to 5 extra pictures of prophets.  On strips of paper, write the phrases of your review song or the titles of the songs you will be reviewing.  Tape them behind the pictures on the board.  Have the children choose a picture and tell who it is or a quick story about him.  Then sing the phrase or song.  Continue choosing pictures.  If nothing is behind the picture, ask the child to tell why it is important to follow the prophet.

Review With Word Strips

If you used the idea from last week's post, this week will be easy.  Place the word strips from "We Thank Thee, O God, for a Prophet" in a scrambled order on one side of the board.  If you have a wall or door close to the board, that would be a great place to put the scrambled word strips.  Ask the children to listen to the music as the pianist plays through the hymn.  After, ask one or two children to find the first phrase of the hymn and put it on the board leaving room for the rest of the phrases.  Now sing  the hymn with the children and continue having them put the phrases in order.

This is a great activity to "cement" the words into the the minds of the children.

Mother's Day Heart Tree

Cut out several hearts - I like to use a rainbow of colors.  On the back, write songs you wish to review or sing for Mother's Day.  Leave several blank.  Place all the hearts in a basket.  Draw a tree on the board - no leaves, branches only.  Start by singing "I Am a Child of God."  Place a heart on a branch of the tree and tell the children why you love your mom or a quick story about how she took care of you as a child.  Have the children take turns picking a heart and placing it on the tree on the board.  If the heart has a song on it, sing it.  If it is blank, ask the child to tell why they love their mom.  The goal is to cover the tree with hearts.

We Thanks Thee, O God, for a Prophet

The theme for primary this month, May, is "Prophets Teach Us to Live the Restored Gospel."  There is no suggested song for the month.  If you choose to learn hymn # 19, "We Thank Thee, O God, for a Prophet," there is a great idea in the 2013 Sharing Time Outline on page 11.  (You can access the outline on the Church website.)  Using the colored paper helps the non-readers as well as the rest of us.  We learned this hymn for the 2008 Sacrament Meeting Program, so hopefully a few of the older classes will remember it or at least pick it up quickly.

Remember to review songs learned in previous months by singing them for opening or closing songs in primary.

Blossom Tree

This is a great "Spring" choosing time.  Cut out several flowers - all different colors.  Draw a large tree on the board (you can cut one out of brown paper if you choose).  In a basket, place all the flowers with songs on the back.  On some of the flowers put a question mark.  Have children choose a blossom to put on the tree.  If it has a song on it, sing it.  If it has a question mark, ask them to tell what Heavenly Father blesses us with, particularly in the Spring.  You can also have some blossoms to give to reverent children to place on the tree.  Try to cover the tree with flowers by the end of singing time.

Mother, Tell Me a Story

"Mother, Tell Me a Story," p. 204, is perfect in adding a variety if you are planning a little Mother's Day program.  Teaching children this song can be quite easy by using your hands and arms as you sing.  Every time you sing "love," put both hands over your heart.

• Mother, tell me a story - act like you are holding a book with your hands
• that I love (hands over your heart) to hear - point to ear
• Tell me of heaven - point up
• and why I came here - both hands point to the children
• Mother, tell how you love me - hands over your heart then point to yourself
• and gently speak - put one finger to your lips as if to say "shhhhhh"
• and then I will go to sleep - put both hands to the side of your face as if a pillow and shut your eyes

Ask all the female teachers to learn the "Mother" part or ask a soloist to sing the second part with the children.  I have the children sing first by themselves then sing it again with the second part (Mother part).  A flutist  or violinist could also play the second part as the children sing.

I Often Go Walking

Mother's Day is a month away.  If you need to teach or review some Mother's day songs, now is the time.  One of my favorites is "I Often Go Walking" on p.202.  I have several "prompts" for phrases that help the children.
First verse:
  1st line - cut-out of a green clover 
  2nd line - several stems of artificial or paper blue flowers
  3rd line - act like you are picking flowers
  4th line - point to flowers and then point to the children

Second verse:
  1st line - cut out a few hearts with love written on them and put them on a stick to look like a flower
  2nd line - a bottle of perfume or smell a flower
  3rd line - use a picture of a field of flowers
  4th line - show a picture of a mother

The first verse is beautiful but the second verse tells about the heart and soul of loving a mother.  There is also a post on this same song last year.  You may choose to use those ideas, as well.

Easter Pageant

This is a great "Easter Pageant!" If you sing all 4 verses of "I Am a Child of God" it will take about 15 minutes. I like to use pictures for each song and tell a little about Easter celebration. With the narration, it will take longer.

I Am a Child of God p. 2     picture of Christ with little children
He Sent His Son p. 34    picture of baby Jesus
Did Jesus Really Live Again p. 64    picture of the resurrected Christ
Easter Hosanna p. 68     picture of Samuel prophesying on the wall
Hosanna p. 66     picture of Christ visiting the Americas
My Heavenly Father Loves Me p. 228     picture of nature
If the Savior Stood Beside Me     picture showing kindness
I Will Be Valiant p. 162     picture of missionaries

Easter Egg Choosing Time

One of my favorites -- and probably the children's, too, is the "Easter Egg" singing time.  You will need several (12 -24) plastic Easter eggs that open.  On slips of paper, write the titles of songs that you would like to sing/review.  My list is:

My Heavenly Father Loves Me p. 228

I Am a Child of God p. 2

Did Jesus Really Live Again p. 64

I Will Be Valiant p. 162

Fun to Do p. 253

If the Savior Stood Beside Me 

Hosanna p. 66

Easter Hosanna p. 68

He Sent His Son  p. 34

On a few other slips of paper, write a few questions about Easter.

Why do we celebrate Easter?

How was Jesus crucified?

What was placed on Jesus' head?

Where did Jesus pray before he was crucified?

Where did they put Jesus' body?

What happened in 3 days?

Who did Jesus see first after He was resurrected?

Who did he visit after His resurrection? 

Use only enough songs and questions that you will have time for in singing time.  Place slips of paper in each egg.  You can hide them in the primary room or I prefer to have them in a basket and choose children to open the eggs. 

Eastertime

Easter is 4 weeks away (counting this week).  There are several Easter songs listed in the index of the Children's Songbook.  I like to add a few "springtime" songs as well.  "Heavenly Father Loves Me," p. 228  fits into this genre so you could review it with the children so they keep it up for the Sacrament Meeting Program. 

This year our primary will have an "Easter Pageant" during singing time.  It isn't a "big" program, just a little different from what we usually do during that time.  I will be reviewing the Easter songs and springtime songs with the children - two or three songs a week.  We will also continue learning the rest of "If the Savior Stood Beside Me" this month.

As you review or learn the Easter songs, ask questions about this event that are answered in the songs.  Questions for "Did Jesus Really Live Again" could be:
What day was Jesus risen?  "Yes, when the third day came."
Who did He see first?   Mary
What did He eat?   Fish and honeycomb
What was in His hands?   nail prints
What was in His side?   spear wound
Is Jesus the only one who will be resurrected?  No, "and so shall I."

"If the Savior Stood Beside Me"

"If the Savior Stood Beside Me" is the song for March.  The music is printed in the 2013 Sacrament Meeting Program.  It was used in the 2008 Sacrament Meeting Program, as well.  There is a great idea on page 26 for teaching this song.  On the church website, the entire song is printed out with a question mark in the back ground.  I love the pictures that were chosen to go with the questions, however, I couldn't find them all.  Instead of using modern day pictures, I am using pictures from the scriptures such as for the phrase, "would I do the things I do," the picture of Nephi subduing his rebellious brothers or the conversion of Alma the Younger, would be appropriate and a little more difficult to match.  I like to have easy pictures that match the words for the younger children and pictures that the older ones need to think about.

Place the words in order on the board.  Put the pictures on the sides of the board.  Sing the first phrase and have the children find the picture that goes with the phrase.  If they choose the "wrong" picture, put it under the question anyway and go to the next phrase.  Hopefully they will see the mistake as more pictures are chosen.  Be sure to sing the phrases several times. 

This activity may take the entire singing time.  You could teach the second and third verse the next 2 weeks the same way.  Be sure to sprinkle in an active song such as "Do as I'm Doing," "Fun to Do," "Popcorn Popping...," etc. help with keeping wiggles under control.

It's always a good idea to review a verse or two of a previously learned song.

Reviewing Is Fun

Primary is once a week and many of the children don't practice/sing the songs outside of primary so reviewing new songs is critical.  I want the children to know the songs so well that they hum or sing them while they are playing or working -- that's when the songs become apart of them.

Pass out the pictures that were used to teach "My Heavenly Father Love Me" to several children.  You could also use words or phrases from both verses printed on a strip of paper along with the pictures.  As you sing the song, ask the children to stand when their phrase or picture is sung.

If time permits, review "I Am a Child of God" by asking the pianist to play one phrase (preferably not in order).  Ask the children to sing that phrase from each verse.
Example: And He has sent me here
               And so my needs are great
               Rich blessings are in store
               His promises are sure

This activity helps the children think about the words and the melody.

The Blizzard

Cut out 25 or more snowflakes.  Snowflakes have 6 points.  If you cut circles, fold the circle in half then in thirds, it will be an "authentic" snowflake.  With it folded, snip a few slits on each side, then open it and you have a snowflake.  You will be an expert after you cut out 25.  You can also make square ones, as well.  Choose several songs you would like to review. 

Tell the children that you would like to create a "blizzard" on the board.  As the children sing, you will be watching for super singers, reverent singers, happy singers.  You will give several children a snowflake as they sing.  At the end of the song or verse, ask the children with snowflakes to put theirs up on the board.  By the end of singing time the board will be covered with snowflakes.

This activity keeps the children focused, reverent and singing.  It is best if you can have enough snowflakes for each child to put one on the board, however, this may not be possible if you have a large primary.

Valentine Singing Time

Children love holidays, as do I.  Valentine's Day is this week so hearts will be the theme for this week's singing time.  Cut out several hearts out of red, pink, white, purple paper.  They need to be about as big as your hand.  I will be using about 25 hearts.  On the back of some of the hearts (8 to10), write one phrase from a song that you are learning.  You could use phrases from "I Am a Child of God," "My Heavenly Father Loves Me," or any other favorite song.

On the board, tape all the hearts in the shape of one big heart.  Make sure the blank hearts are mixed in with the ones with phrases.  In the middle, place a large picture of Jesus (there are many to choose from).  Have one child pick a heart.  If it has a phrase on it, figure out which song and verse it comes from.  Sing the song/verse.  If they choose a blank heart, they need to tell how they can show love to Jesus (or family members, teachers, etc., all of which show our love for Jesus).  Continue as time permits.

My Heavenly Father Loves Me

There are several places to look for pictures on the internet.  The easiest is to draw them yourself but if you are not an artist, here are a few ideas.  There is a wonderful site, www.sugardoodle.net that has some great ideas and pictures.  

The primary song for February this year is "My Heavenly Father Loves Me."  Many children already know this song.  Both verses lend themselves to pictures.  

An activity that involves all primary children is to ask the children to draw a picture of one thing that we sing about in this song.  The following are words and phrases that are found in the song that children could draw a picture of.

song of a bird

blue sky

rain

wind

velvet rose

lilac tree

beautiful world

eyes - butterfly wings

ears – magical sound

life

mind

heart

Heavenly Father Loves me

If you would like the pictures before Primary, call several children and assign them one phrase or word.  Ask them to bring it to Primary or gather them prior to Primary.  You could also ask the children to bring pictures about the song all during February and display them in the primary room or hallway.  What a great way to visually see how our Heavenly Father loves us!

Snowman Review

The more children (and adults for that matter) sing a song, the more it becomes apart of them.  The trick in reviewing one song is to keep the children focused on an activity so they don't realize that they are singing the song several times.

Cut out 3 circles out of white paper - one large, one medium and one small for the head of the snowman.  Cut a hat out out of black or another color.  Cut out several black circles for eyes and mouth, and a few for the buttons down the front of the snowman.  An orange carrot for the nose and a colorful scarf will be needed.  Sticks for the arms and a shovel or broom for him to hold are optional.  Choose several phrases from the 4 verses of  "I Am a Child of God" and print them on individual slips of paper. 

Tell the children that they are going to build a snowman.  Have a child pick a slip of paper and read the phrase.  Decide what verse it comes from, then sing that verse.  Choose another child to put up a piece of the snowman.  If you only have time for singing each verse once, make sure there are only 4 pieces to the snowman or put up a few pieces to the snowman to ensure he is complete by the end of singing/sharing time..  You can sing only the verse and save the chorus to sing at the end.  That way you will have more time to sing the verses several times and use more pieces to the snowman.

I Am A Child of God - 3rd verse

Sing through the first 2 verses of "I Am   Child of God."  Ask the children what each verse is talking about.

• 1st verse - Who I am, where and to whom I was sent from heaven - child of God, sent to earth to parents kind and dear.
• 2nd verse - Who I am, I have needs, what I need to understand.

The third verse talks about blessings that are mine if learn what Heavenly Father wants me to learn.  Ask the children to share several blessings that we will receive if we follow the teachings of Jesus.  The list could be short or long. 

Sing the third verse.  Have the children sing with you.  Help them sing it 3 times and then sing the chorus.  Ask them what phrase each verse begins with.  (I Am Child of God.)  Why is it important to know who we are.  The children may ave several responses.  Sing the first 3 verses with chorus each time.

I Am a Child of God - verses 3 and 4

Write all the rhyming words on strips of paper.  Tape them to the board in scattered order.  Sing the 3rd verse and have the children help put the words in order.  Sing the 3rd verse.  Do the same with the 4th verse.  Be sure to sing all verses as a review.

I Am a Child of God - verse 1 and 2

The theme for 2013 is "I Am a Child of God."  Most children know this song.  I am going to challenge the children to learn all 4 verses in sign language and the descant.  The sign language for this song is on the church website.  As a music leader, you must be fluent in the sign language before you teach it to the children.  If sign language is not something you want to do, try teaching them all 4 verses and the descant.

This week, sing the first verse.  Ask the children to answer the following questions using the words or phrases from the song.

• Who are you?   "I am a child of God."
• What has God done for you?  1. "He has sent me here." 2. "Has given me an earthly home,"  3. "Parents, kind and dear."
• What do we need from Him?  1. "lead me," 2. "guide me,"  3."walk beside me,"  4."help me find the way,"  5. "teach me all that I must do to live with Him some day."

Sing the first verse again.
If time permits, do the same thing with the second verse.

• What are your needs?  (have the children list some of the things we need from God such as good health, knowledge, scriptures, understanding, etc.)

• Why do we need this now - "before it grows too late"

Sing the second verse and chorus.  Tell them that the chorus is the same after each verse.  Sing both verses and chorus.