Resources

We all like cute ideas. But sometimes we develop the mindset that we must entertain the children.  We search for the most captivating ideas and we're always looking for a better one for next week. We wish we were more creative, we wish we were talented, we wish our voice sounded better, we worry when the Stake Primary Presidency visits that they will think we are boring, we worry that our children will not learn fast enough and be "prepared" to sing. If we could truly understand how our Heavenly Father loves to hear his children sing, and switch to a mindset where we simply try to create an opportunity for worship, I believe the Spirit will be there. 

There are a number of resources you can use but above all, remember to pray and let the spirit help you choose the best way to teach a song to His children. “And if I listen with my heart I hear the Savior’s voice.”  What a beautiful message.

1.       Teaching, No Greater Call: is a great resource to improve our abilities. There is so much to think about and ponder in this manual. As you read it ask yourself It might seem that the content is really focused on classroom teachers, but I don't find that to be true. As I consistently ask myself "How does this apply to my calling as chorister?" I always find the information to be of value to me. Sometimes it seems that we choristers cannot control many of the variables that affect us, like discipline and environment, that are suggested in this manual. But I find that I just need to think a bit out of the box and take some proactive measures like enlisting the help of the primary presidency.

• The Children’s  Songbook, pg 300 .
• Lds.org “How to Teach a Song”   and  “Teaching Children to Sing" Video Segment
• Friend Magazine
• Internet 

“There can be no failure in the work of the Lord when [we] do [our] best. We are but instruments; this is the Lord’s work. This is His church, His gospel plan. These are His children we are working with. He will not permit us to fail if we do our part. He will magnify us even beyond our own talents and abilities when necessary. This I know. I am sure many of you have experienced it as I have. It is one of the sweetest experiences that can come to a human being” (Ezra Taft Benson, Teaching No Great Call, 20).

“The Lord can do remarkable miracles with a person of ordinary ability who is humble, faithful, and diligent in serving the Lord and seeks to improve himself. This is because God is the ultimate source of power.” President James E. Faust: