Lesson 5: Partnering with Parents and Caregivers

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs in Primary

INTRODUCTION

When Primary leaders build trusting relationships with parents and caregivers, children are more likely to feel safe, supported, and spiritually nurtured. Partnering with families is about connection, listening, and working together in love.

Many learning needs can be supported through small adaptations in the classroom — but understanding what a child needs often starts with a simple, caring relationship between leaders and parents.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

By the end of this lesson, participants will:

Understand the importance of proactive, trust-based relationships with parents and caregivers.
Learn practical ways to build these relationships through everyday moments.
Recognise the difference between casual conversations and private support-focused discussions (covered in Lesson 6).
Prepare spiritually to minister to parents with empathy, not just manage programmes.

HOW TO USE THIS LESSON

Personal Learning (5-10 min)

Best for individual reflection. Skim the Core Principles and review the Try This in Primary suggestions. Reflect briefly using the Ask Yourself prompt.

Training Spot (10-20 min)

Best for presidency or council meeting discussions. Read the Core Principles aloud. Then, as a group, discuss one or two questions from the Reflect and Act section.

Group Workshop (30-40 min)

Best for a full training session or deeper group learning. Read the content together, invite open discussion, and use the Reflect and Act prompts as a group to identify key needs and create an action plan for your Primary.

DOCTRINAL INSIGHT

As Primary leaders, we support — not replace — the sacred role of parents. Our calling includes ministering with kindness and humility, creating space for shared learning and trust.

“Parents have a sacred duty to rear their children in love and righteousness… and to teach them to love and serve one another.” (The Family: A Proclamation to the World)

CORE PRINCIPLES

Connect Through Everyday Moments

Use ordinary interactions—like greetings, messages, or casual updates—to help parents feel seen and valued. These small moments build trust over time.

Let Parents Lead with Insight

Parents know their children best. Show genuine interest in their knowledge, cultural background, and what works for their child at home, church or school.

Minister with a Listening Heart

Seek to understand before offering advice. A warm and listening presence can invite inspiration from the Holy Ghost, and can open doors for future support and make difficult conversations easier later.

Pray Before Reaching Out

Before talking with a parent or caregiver, take a moment to pray. A simple, heartfelt prayer can invite the Spirit and help you approach the conversation with empathy, humility, and love. Trust that Heavenly Father knows each family and will help you minister in the right way.

Know When to Go Deeper

Some conversations should be saved for private settings — especially those involving a child’s learning needs, behaviours, or emotional wellbeing. (See Lesson 6).

TRY THIS IN PRIMARY

1. Use gentle phrases: “How is [child’s name] doing in Primary lately? We want to make sure we’re supporting him (or her) well.”

2. Be strengths-based and strengths-focused: Start conversations by sharing something you appreciate about the child.

3. If needed, escalate sensitively: If safety is a concern (e.g., allergies or aggressive behaviour), respectfully ask if there’s anything the family would like leaders to know.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

VIDEO: A Mother’s Perspective

REFLECT AND ACT

Reflection Questions

Consider the following questions:

Why is compassionate communication with parents so important?
What boundaries should leaders be aware of when discussing learning or behaviou r concerns?
What respectful language can be used to raise sensitive topics?
How can we help Primary leaders and teachers feel more confident in these conversations?

Action Steps

Consider the following action steps:

Reflect on one conversation with a parent that went well — what made it effective?
Review and revise how you might open a conversation about a child’s needs in a more respectful or compassionate way.
Share this lesson with a new Primary teacher or presidency member as part of orientation.

ASK YOURSELF

How can I help parents feel like partners in supporting their child, rather than feel judged or overwhelmed?

DOWNLOADS

Download a printable version of this lesson here: View Lesson 5