Grandparents and the Primary program just fit, don’t they? Where else can you hear your favorite little people sing about Jesus, catch a wave that’s just for you, and use up a whole packet of tissues before lunchtime? But under all that sweetness, something real is happening: you get to hear a child’s testimony of the Savior—and you get to send a little encouragement right back their way.
The program wasn’t actually created specifically for grandparents. Its purpose is broader: children share what they have learned while helping the congregation focus on Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, and Their teachings (General Handbook, 12.1.6).
But here’s the thing: grandparents can help the Primary program last way past Sunday morning. With a little thoughtful listening and a few kind words after the meeting, what starts as a sweet memory can turn into a real gospel conversation.
Grandparents and the Primary Program: Come Ready to Learn
Grandparents show up ready to admire. Honestly, it’s practically in the grandparent job description. But what if you came ready to learn, too?
Before Sunday, ask your grandchild:
- “What’s your favorite song in the program?”
- “What does it teach you about Jesus?”
- “Is there anything you’re excited—or nervous—about?”
Keep things relaxed. This is an invitation, not a pop quiz from Grandma’s Official Department of Gospel Proficiency—if such a thing even existed.
If your grandchild feels nervous, remind them that your love isn’t based on a flawless performance. Forgetting a line won’t let you down, and speaking up isn’t what makes them valuable.
You might also offer a quiet prayer before the meeting, asking Heavenly Father to help you recognize something that will bring you closer to His Son.
That little bit of preparation changes things. You’re not just there because someone you love is up front. You’re coming to worship, and your grandchild gets to help you.
Listen for Doctrine, Not Just Your Grandchild
First, spot your grandchild. They’re probably somewhere between the tall kids and the music leader who’s giving it their all. Make eye contact. Accept the wave. Bonus points if you wave back.
Then, zoom out a little bit.
What truths are the children sharing? A song may teach that we are children of God. A short message may focus on prayer, repentance, baptism, or following Jesus Christ.
These aren’t subjects we graduate from. Adults still need to remember who they are, seek forgiveness, and learn to trust the Savior.
That’s one of the beautiful things about the Primary program. Kids might be learning a gospel truth for the very first time, while grandparents are realizing just how much they still need it, too.
A message about prayer might encourage you to pray more honestly. A song about kindness might remind you to repair a relationship. A testimony of Jesus Christ might renew hope during a difficult season.
Your grandchild might need a boost to reach the microphone. That doesn’t mean you’ve outgrown the message—not even close.
Listen to the other children, too. Every child deserves a congregation that receives their contribution with love—including children whose grandparents cannot attend.
Remember Why It Belongs in Sacrament Meeting
The Primary program isn’t just a recital that happens to be in the chapel. It’s part of our worship.
The handbook provides for the children’s presentation during all or part of the meeting after the sacrament. Because sacrament meeting is sacred, the presentation does not include visuals, costumes, or media presentations (General Handbook, 12.1.6).
That setting helps us remember how to listen. The sacrament is still the heart of the meeting, and the children’s messages help us remember the Savior—not compete for attention.
We’re not there to judge stage presence. We’re there to worship Jesus Christ. That’s the real reason we show up.
So if a child forgets a line, the spiritual purpose still goes on. If someone needs a whispered reminder, their part still matters. The goal isn’t a perfect performance. The goal is remembering Jesus.
For grandparents at the Primary program, the real question isn’t, “Did everything go perfectly?” It’s, “What helped me remember Jesus Christ today?”
Praise Something More Lasting Than Performance
- “You were wonderful!” is a lovely place to start. But consider adding something specific about the message:“Your song reminded me that Heavenly Father knows us.”
- “I appreciated what you shared about prayer.”
- “Thank you for helping me think about Jesus today.”
You can also cheer for effort without turning public speaking into the ultimate test of faith:
- “I know you felt nervous. I’m glad I could be there.”
- “I loved hearing what you’ve been learning.”
- “I love you whether you sing loudly, quietly, or need help.”
Skip the comparisons. Being the loudest or most confident speaker doesn’t mean a child has the deepest testimony. Sometimes the quietest voice, or even the one who can’t participate that day, has just as much faith.
If you felt the Spirit, say so. If you didn’t feel a big emotion, don’t force it. Honest encouragement means more than a fancy spiritual review.
Write a Note They Can Keep
A handwritten note gives your grandchild something to hold onto after the program is over.
No fancy stationery required. Your grandchild won’t turn down your encouragement just because the envelope doesn’t match.
Here’s a sample you can adapt:
Dear Ellie,
I loved being with you at the Primary program. Your song about prayer reminded me that we can turn to Heavenly Father when life feels hard. I believe He hears us, and I’m still learning to trust Him. Thank you for helping me remember that today. I love you!
Grandpa
It’s simple: a little affection, a gospel truth, and an honest bit of faith.
If you couldn’t be there, ask your grandchild what they learned and write about that. You don’t have to be in the same chapel to make a meaningful connection.
Making the Primary program meaningful
Your grandchild’s message may open a natural opportunity to share your own faith.
Keep it brief and connected to what they taught. For example:
Your message about repentance reminded me why I’m grateful for Jesus Christ. I make mistakes, too, and I’m thankful I can repent and keep trying.
That communicates something important: grandparents need the Savior, too.
You don’t have to act like you’ve mastered discipleship. You can show what it looks like to keep practicing.
For returning members, that can be especially reassuring. You don’t need polished religious vocabulary or an uninterrupted history of church attendance to speak honestly about your hope in Christ. Begin with what you sincerely believe and what you’re learning.
Then leave space for your grandchild to respond—or to ask for a snack. Both are likely outcomes.
Let the Conversation Continue Gently
You don’t need a family improvement campaign to follow up meaningfully.
A few days later, ask if your grandchild still remembers their favorite song. Or share something simple. Maybe their message about kindness helped you be a little more patient this week.
That shows children their contributions matter beyond their moment at the microphone.
But don’t pressure them to prove the family’s faith is working. The Primary program isn’t a spiritual report card for anyone. Just love them as they are, and let their understanding grow at its own pace.
Take Home More Than Happy Tears
The best part about grandparents and the Primary program isn’t just seeing your favorite kids up front. It’s getting the chance to turn toward Jesus Christ together.
Bring the tissues. Enjoy the wave. Treasure the slightly crooked tie. Bonus points if it’s a clip-on.
Then give them something that lasts longer than the moment:
“Thank you for helping me think about Jesus today.”
About Gospel Discussion and Comparisons: This website’s content is for entertainment and faith-building discussion. Any comparisons made between movies, books, current events, or other media and the Gospel of Jesus Christ are personal commentary and illustrative only[…]
I used AI to help with research, proofreading, and checking for doctrinal accuracy. This is much like how writers often work with researchers and editors to make their work clearer and more accurate. Still, all the ideas, interpretations, and the main message in this text are my own.
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