The Entire Zion Family Joining in Our Children’s Education

For a long time, reading was one of the greatest struggles in our home. Because both my sons needed extra support to improve their literacy, they were enrolled in after-school programs, summer school, and additional reading circles at school. Since they didn’t enjoy reading, it often felt like a daily battle at home that ended in mutual frustration. As a working mom, I carried a heavy burden of guilt. I felt like I was failing them—as though I wasn’t investing enough time or effort to help them succeed.

Then, a reading challenge began in Zion for the elementary and preschool children, using the Feed My Sheep books. At the time, my older son was seven, and my younger son was five. They began to participate slowly, without any pressure. My older son started reading the books aloud to his little brother, who would listen intently and sound out the words alongside him. As time passed, my youngest son also began reading the books on his own.

Throughout this process, what moved me most was our Zion family. So many brothers and sisters stepped in to help. The teachers listened with incredible patience, helping the boys with unfamiliar words and offering gentle encouragement. When the teachers were busy, my sons would ask other adults in Zion to listen to them read. Not once was there any hesitation or annoyance; everyone made time for them. Everyone truly cared.

In less than two years, something truly remarkable happened: my sons’ reading abilities improved to well above their grade level. Not only that, they began asking to read the Feed My Sheep books to other children, to their uncle, and even to their teachers at school. Through this, my oldest son was able to invite one of his classmates to join our family for the Sabbath Day. By reading the Feed My Sheep books together, his friend learned the difference between Sabbath worship and Sunday worship and came to understand that Christmas is not actually the birthday of Jesus.

Looking back, I clearly see that this growth was not accomplished by my effort. It was only possible because Father and Mother led us, providing a Zion family that truly feeds and nurtures even the youngest.

When I felt helpless and overwhelmed, Father and Mother stepped in. They restored my children’s confidence, strengthened their faith, and even healed my weary heart as a mother. I am eternally grateful to Heavenly Father and Heavenly Mother for always providing exactly what we need at exactly the right time.