The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Saints has announced refinements to its Children and Youth program intended to take effect in January 2027, moving toward a model focused on helping members believe in, belong to, and become more like Jesus Christ. The announcement follows the program's original implementation in January 2020.
Redefining Program Pillars
The refinements to the program aim to shift the focus from defining specific pillars to defining them by the outcomes they achieve. The current pillars of gospel learning, service and activities, and personal development will be redefined as "Believe in Christ," "Belong with Christ," and "Become more like Christ," according to the Church.
Shifting Toward Outcomes
During a Church News podcast published Nov. 3, 2026, Young Women General President Emily Belle Freeman explained that the shift includes moving away from the four quadrants previously used for personal development goals. Instead, personal development will now focus on whether an individual is becoming a "Builder of Faith, a Messenger of Hope, a Gatherer of Light and to enter into the Relief Society."
Previous and Future Changes
Additional refinements were previously introduced in early 2026 through new age-group names for young women, while the Sunday youth curriculum was refined in September. The upcoming January 2027 changes will include new curriculum and tools available via the Gospel Library app and the Youth Tool Kit.
New Learning Patterns
For children, the program will incorporate a new pattern where they learn about one principle of the Savior's gospel each fast Sunday, following the concept "Jesus did this, and so can I." Starting at age 8, children will be invited to choose one simple monthly goal based on these lessons and write down their experiences regarding how Jesus Christ is helping them.
Role of Parents and Leaders
The Church's guidelines for parents emphasize their primary role in helping children grow as disciples. Parents are encouraged to talk with children about their learning and help those ages 8 to 11 as they prayerfully choose monthly goals. To support this, the Primary presidency plans to hold an annual Celebration of Growth event to recognize how children have grown as followers of the Savior.
Resources for Families
The Church also announced that new physical copies of the Parent and Leader guide will be available in the January 2027 Friend magazine. This follows the earlier release of the Youth Tool Kit, which can be found in the Gospel Library app or within the January magazine.
Broader Utah Context: Media and Industry
The religious program's evolution occurs amid broader cultural discussions in Utah. For example, City Cast Salt Lake has explored various local topics, including the impact of data centers on community health and the rising visibility of Utahans in national media.
