As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we are deeply rooted in our belief in the sanctity of life. It is our privilege and responsibility to instill these values in our children of all ages, empowering them to cherish and protect life at every stage.
But we know that, for a lot of parents, it might seem uncomfortable to have that conversation. When is the right age? What’s the right approach?
Good news!
This list makes it easier than ever for Latter-day Saint parents to teach their kids about being pro-life—with ideas for children of any age!
Try out our free home evening guides! These guides are open-and-go, and we have options for families and children of all ages!
Teaching Young Children
Share Your Family’s Story:
Begin by sharing stories within your own family about pregnancy, adoption, or fostering experiences. Highlight how each of these paths brought love and unity into your family, demonstrating that families can be formed in various beautiful ways.
Explore the Plan of Salvation:
Discuss God’s plan for His children in simple terms. Help children understand that each person is a beloved child of God with a purpose on earth and a divine destiny. Emphasize how this plan underscores the importance of cherishing and nurturing life.
Emphasize God’s Love:
Teach children about God’s unconditional love and His atonement, which extends to all His children. Encourage them to show compassion and kindness to others, reflecting God’s love in their actions and attitudes.
Discuss the Family: Proclamation to the World:
Introduce principles from “The Family: A Proclamation to the World”, emphasizing the sacredness of marriage, children, and the responsibilities and blessings associated with family life.
Remember Loved Ones Lost Early:
Share tender stories of family members lost in pregnancy or infancy, teaching children about the eternal nature of families and the hope we have in the resurrection.
Show Your Support in the Pro-Life Movement:
Be an example! Discuss your involvement in the pro-life movement and how you contribute to protecting and nurturing life. Encourage children to participate in age-appropriate ways, such as attending family-friendly events or creating pro-life artwork.
Guiding Older Kids
Explore Fetal Development:
Delve into the miraculous process of fetal development with your children. Use age-appropriate resources to explain the stages of growth and development, fostering a sense of wonder and respect for life.
Discuss Family Values and God’s Perspective:
Engage in deeper conversations about the values your family holds dear, particularly the sanctity of life as understood through God’s teachings and scriptures. Help them see how these values guide our choices and actions.
Introduce Age-Appropriate Pro-Life Media:
Share inspiring stories, documentaries, or articles that demonstrate the importance of respecting life from conception to natural end. Encourage critical thinking and empathy as they engage with these materials.
Volunteer Together:
If your child expresses interest, invite them to join you in volunteering for pro-life causes. This shared experience not only strengthens your bond but also helps them learn responsibility and compassion for children not yet born. (Look for a local pregnancy resource center, or find more ideas with this blog post.)
Empowering Teenagers and Adult Children
Engage in Discussions on Common Arguments:
Equip older children with thoughtful responses to common questions and arguments surrounding the pro-life message. Foster critical thinking skills and encourage respectful dialogue on complex issues.
Explore the Realities of Abortion:
Provide a sensitive and factual understanding of what happens during an abortion procedure. Help them grasp the impact on individuals and society, encouraging empathy and a deeper awareness.
Discover Abortion Survivor Stories:
Share powerful narratives of individuals who have survived abortion attempts, highlighting their resilience and the intrinsic value of every life. These stories inspire hope and affirm the sanctity of life.
Celebrate Stories of Support and Transformation:
Read or watch testimonies of people who have been supported in choosing life or who have found healing after challenging circumstances. Emphasize stories of positive transformation and the healing power of love and support.
Change Your Family, Change the World
By embracing a pro-life perspective within your family, you can cultivate a deep respect for life and a commitment to protecting it . Through open communication, education, and personal example, you can empower your children to uphold these principles in their own lives and communities. Continue to teach with love, guided by faith, and united in the cause of preserving and cherishing life as our Father in Heaven does.
We trust these ideas will help you get started with confidence, but please remember to seek personal revelation on how best to teach and guide your family! Adapt these ideas and add more to best suit the needs of your children.
We make it easier than ever to get started with our free home evening guides! No matter what your family looks like, we have an open-and-go guide perfect for you!
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