Challenges

There are always some challenges for any calling.  Sometimes those challenges involve those we teach as we all have different abilities and strengths.

If you have a child you are teaching with a disability of any kind, talk to the parents and get some help from them on how to help teach their child.  Learning to interact with all of our children is certainly worth the time.  Your interaction with them is important and will vary from child to child.  We should search, ponder and pray about ways that are positive and uplifting with each child

• Lap Weights:  One example that I have seen work is to give a child a “lap weight”.  Having  them feel needed by helping you hold on to something will often help with the younger children.  For example, something as simple as little mouse or an object that represents the songs you are singing can help the child sit a little stiller. 

• Wiggle Songs:  Spice up your wiggle songs. Always be prepared with a wiggle song and make sure to add variety.

Sometimes the older boys may be your challenge. Like any other challenge, you will need to spend time to know your boys.  Work with your Primary Presidency to come up with ideas to help involve them.

Perhaps one of the following ideas will help work for you.

·         Separate them!  Assign them each a younger class to sit with.  Use this as a tool to help strengthen you primary and not as a punishment.

 ·         Teach them harmony parts.  Often, these boys are going through the awkwardness of voice changes, and it can be extremely difficult (and embarrassing!) for them to sing the high notes.  A great solution is to teach them a simple harmony in a lower key.  They will appreciate the lower notes, and will like to hear themselves blend with the rest of your primary.

·         Incorporate things that they like to do.  In your preparation think about the boys and things they are involved in like sports or music, etc.  Appeal to their interests and watch the connection that can develop.

·         Use the brethren and YM in your ward.  A brother to sub or help teach a song works wonders. I love to bring YM in to introduce a new song.    It is a great example to the boys. Ask them to help you teach a new song.  This would be a great way for them to complete the Serving Others or Developing Talents requirements for their Faith in God.  Coordinate with their teacher to spend a class time developing a teaching strategy and allow them to prepare the props, sing in front of the other children, and help them teach the song phrase by phrase.  They will feel a huge sense of pride and accomplishment every time "their" song is sung.

·         Have a good time.  Don't take yourself too seriously. Have fun with the children.  Take interest in them.  Compliment them.  If you make a mistake, acknowledge it and let them laugh with you.  If they like you, they will respect you.  And if they respect you, they will participate.