The principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ are simple enough for a child to understand, yet usually take a lifetime to master.
Many members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are first introduced to these principles in their childhood. Gospel truths taught in the Church’s Primary organization are simple and succinct. As Church members grow in faith, it becomes increasingly obvious that the most essential gospel truths are often learned in Primary.
1. Choose the Right.
… when a choice is placed before you. In the right, the Holy Spirit guides.
2. Kindness begins with me.
Both in the Church and out of it, both during Primary and after, both in the home and throughout the world, kindness is desperately needed and highly valued.
3. Be reverent.
Reverence for God, respect for others and self-discipline will take you far. All three are valued in Primary.
4. Follow the prophet.
This simple truth taught in Primary can carry a child safely through troubled times well into adulthood.
5. Be grateful.
Gratitude to God, to family members, to coworkers and to friends will help a child grow into a respectful and loving adult.
6. Love one another.
“By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” (John 13:35)
7. I am a child of God.
A Gospel Topics page on LDS.org states, “We are all literally children of God, spiritually begotten in the premortal life. As His children, we can be assured that we have divine, eternal potential and that He will help us in our sincere efforts to reach that potential.”
8. Families can be together forever.
“Behold Your Little Ones,” the Church’s curriculum for nursery-aged children (18 months to 3 years), teaches this truth simply: “Heavenly Father has made it possible for family relationships to continue after this life. If family members are sealed in the temple and faithfully keep the commandments, they can be united as a family eternally and live in Heavenly Father’s presence.”
9. When we’re helping, we’re happy.
Service to others is an important principle in the gospel and is one way true Christians are often identified. Primary children sing a song about the joy of service: “When we’re helping, we’re happy, And we sing as we go.”
10. A smile is like the sunshine.
“A smile is like the sunshine; It brightens up the day. It gives the eye a twinkle, And chases frowns away.” Primary children who understand the value of a smile can help make a difference in many people’s lives.