This month has been a great value to focus on, Justice and Mercy. I came across a couple of ideas to help teach forgiveness to children. I wanted to share them with you and invite you to share any other ideas you have to help in teaching this value to your family.
1. Ask a family member to make a paper airplane, or make one yourself. Tape a coin, rock, or weight to one side of the airplane. Stand on the same side of the room as your family members, and take turns letting them throw the airplane gently toward the other side of the room. Next, pick up the airplane and remove the taped object. Have the family members throw the airplane again. After your family members have done this a few times, put the airplane away, and ask the following questions: How can just one small weight keep the plane from flying correctly? Explain that taping a weight to the wing of a paper airplane is like holding a grudge. When we refuse to forgive others, we carry around a weight that can keep us from putting our best self forward. When we forgive and let go of those feelings we will feel lighter like the plane and more able to focus our energy in the right direction allowing us to feel a good spirit inside as well. (I found this idea here – http://www.sugardoodle.net/Forgiveness/index.shtml)
2. Invite a child to come to the front of the room, and place a backpack, a large cloth bag, or a large paper sack in his arms. Explain to the children that feeling resentment against another person stops us from becoming like the Savior. As you explain, fill the backpack with large rocks or bricks. Explain that carrying resentment or hard feelings is like carrying a heavy burden. When we forgive others, the Lord will forgive us and lighten that burden. Where possible, take the children outside to select a rock as a reminder. (Idea taken from the August 1996 Friend Magazine)