Even young children can listen for a specific word or two as you read a verse". More information on this teaching technique can be found in Teaching No Greater Call, p 55. The section is "Teaching From the Scriptures: Use "Look for" and "Listen for" Approaches". Having children focused on a specific idea as a scripture is read involves both the reader and the listener. Before a scripture is read, ask the children to "Look for" or "Listen for" an answer to a question. Younger children may be directed to listen for factual details while older children can look for conceptual or application connections.
This "Look for" method of teaching from the scriptures can be used throughout Primary; during classes, sharing time gospel instruction, and sharing time music. Engaging the students in the scriptures by asking "Look for" and "Listen for" questions will not only improve learning, but also teach children a life-long skill of looking for answers as they read the scriptures.
One more scripture use tip: Children, and many adults, have difficulty finding a scripture when only given the standard reference such as Deuteronomy 6:6-7. Give enough information to make finding the scripture easy, especially the page number. Example giving specific information and waiting until everyone is ready before the next direction is given:
- Let's get the Bible and look in the Old Testament. That is in the first part of the book.
- Now let's look in Deuteronomy, chapter 6. That is on page 263.
- While you read verse 6 look for what should be in your heart. . . .(discuss answer)
- Now, turn the page and read verse 7 looking for who we should share this with. (Just in case you want to do it even easier while you are reading this post go to http://scriptures.lds.org/en/deut/6).
"Inviting children to learn from the scriptures will help them develop a lifelong love for the word of God. Plan ways each week to invite the children to use and learn from their scriptures" 2010 Outline for Sharing Time, Introduction.
