Primary Time: Teaching Your Children About Tithing

by Miriam Caldwell | More from this Blogger

25 Jul 2006 08:24 PM

One important concept that you will want to teach your primary age children is the principle of tithing. Ideally this should happen as soon as they begin earning or receiving money. You may decide on an allowance or have chores that they complete in order to earn the money. You will decide what is right for your family. My husband and I start paying allowance at a young age simply so we can teach the principle of tithing. My four-year-old currently receives five dollars a month, which is not a lot, but plenty for her age.

1) Once your child begins receiving money you need to sit down and explain the principle of tithing. You should break it down into simple terms. You can use dimes to show the concept of one tenth. If your child is old enough show them how to fill out the tithing form. It is important to explain to your children that Heavenly Father gives us everything that we have, and all He asks in return is one tenth of what we have.

2) Another way to teach your children about tithing is to let your children see you pay your tithing. You may want to allow your younger children hand your tithing envelope to the bishop for you on occasion. This will teach your children through your example.

3) As you recognize blessings that you have received from tithing be sure to share them with your children. The blessings can be as simple as an increased spirituality in your home, health for family members or extra money when you need it.

As you take the time to teach this important lesson to your children they will gain a testimony of it at a young age. Tithing is a commandment with promised blessings. These blessings will help your children as they reach adulthood.

Learn more about Miriam Caldwell

Miriam is a SAHM mom of three children. She has a daughter who is seven, and two sons, four and two. She loves being a parent and spending time with her children.

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blossy (1161) 28 Jul 2006 11:51 PM

I've explained this to both my boys and thankfully they are always willing to pay their tithing when they receive their pocket money. In fact they think it is such a wonderful thing to give the Bishop their envelope. I too think its great to share with my boys the blessings we have noticed since we've been paying tithing on a regular basis. Things have just become so much better for us as a family.

Miriam Caldwell (8030) 29 Jul 2006 05:24 PM

Tithing is something I have a very strong personal testimony of. I just know the blessings are there even if I can't see them at times. I am glad that you are teaching your boys and sharing your experiences.