The next section in the “For the Strength of Youth” manual is “Physical Health.” This is a great topic to cover in family home evening. You can talk about the Word of Wisdom as well as good exercise, sleep and eating habits.
You can begin the lesson by reading Doctrine and Covenants 89: 18-20. Discuss the different blessings promised with your family. Ask your family what the benefits of having these blessings might be. Read the section “Physical Health” as a family. You may also want to read the Word of Wisdom, which is found in Doctrine and Covenants 89. As a family discuss the guidance and promises that come by following these principles. If there are areas in your family which would you could improve (exercise or the food you eat or the sleep you get) then discuss those specific areas with your family. You may want to set up a family fitness program with your family. You can learn suggestions and guidelines for one here. If you are teaching teenagers you may want to use this FYI about exercise and this Mormonad about the Word of Wisdom. “The Message: Not for the Body” is a great talk to use as well. To close you should read Daniel 1:3-20. This is the story of Daniel standing up to the king to eat healthy food. You can discuss the advantages that Daniel and his friends gained by taking care of their bodies.
If you have Primary age children you may want to use the flannel board figures for the story of Daniel. This will help illustrate the story. You may want to make the lesson a bit simpler. Here are some additional ways to teach the Word of Wisdom from a Sharing Time. This includes a coloring sheet for the children to complete.
If you are teaching adults you may want to follow the same basic outline. You may want to use “Move More Stress Less” and “The Word of Wisdom: A Principle with a Promise” to supplement your discussion. You may also have an expert come and give suggestions on how to exercise and eat well.
“The Word of Wisdom” p 154 of the “Children’s Songbook” is a great song to sing with lesson. For your other song use a favorite song or hymn. Don’t forget to have an activity with this lesson. A walk or hike would fit in great with the theme of the lesson. Don’t forget to have refreshments!