As you read Helaman 1–6, you may notice a pattern in the behavior of the Nephites. When they are righteous, God blesses them, and they prosper. After a time, they become prideful and wicked, making choices that lead to destruction and suffering. Then they are humbled and inspired to repent, and God blesses them once again. The pattern repeats itself so often that some call it the “pride cycle.”
DOWNLOAD Cycle of History wheel (HERE or below – Ages 8-11)

Look for examples of this cycle as you read Helaman 1–6. Here are some questions to help you understand this pattern:

• What evidence of pride do you see among the Nephites? (see, for example, Helaman 3:33–34; 4:11–13). Do you see similar evidence of pride in yourself?

• What are the consequences of pride and wickedness? (see Helaman 4:23–26). What are the consequences of humility and repentance? (see Helaman 3:27–30, 35; 4:14–16).

• What things did Helaman want his sons to remember? (see Helaman 5:4–12). In what ways can remembering these truths help you avoid becoming prideful?

See also “Chapter 18: Beware of Pride,” Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Ezra Taft Benson (2014), 229–40; “I Need Thee Every Hour,” Hymns, no. 98.

• 

  Consider inviting your children to draw their version of the “pride cycle,” based on the diagram above.
  DOWNLOAD Cycle of History wheel (HERE or below – Ages 8-11)DOWNLOAD Cycle of History wheel (HERE or below – Ages 8-11)

• Then, as you read together Helaman 3:24, 33–34 and 4:11–15, they could point to the parts of the cycle these verses describe. How can we choose to be humble—and remain that way?

In Helaman 3, Mormon described a time of rejoicing when the Church was so blessed that even the leaders were surprised. Based on what you read in verses 24–32, what do you think led to that joyful state? Not all members continued in the joy, though. Note the differences between the people described in verses 33–35 (fast, pray often, humility). What do you learn from their example?

Reading Helaman 5:6–7 may inspire you to consider the names you have been given, including family names. What do these names mean to you? How can you honor them? Even more important, consider what it means to bear the Savior’s name (see Moroni 4:3). How do you honor that sacred name?

What does it mean to you to “build your foundation” on “the rock of our Redeemer”? (Helaman 5:12). How have you found safety from life’s storms in Jesus Christ? As you read Helaman 5:12–52, identify how Nephi and Lehi were blessed for building their faith on the rock of their Redeemer.

Some people find it helpful to visualize what they’re studying. To depict Helaman 5:12, you could build a small structure on different kinds of foundations. You could then create a “mighty storm” by spraying water on it and using a fan to create wind. What insights does this give you about building your foundation on Jesus Christ? What else do you learn from the video “A Secure Anchor”? (Gospel Library).

• Consider using a picture of a temple to start a conversation about why buildings need strong foundations. Or you could look at the foundation of your home or Church building. To emphasize the strength of a rock-solid foundation, your children could try to move a rock by blowing on it. As you read together Helaman 5:12, ask your children why Jesus Christ is “a sure foundation” for our lives. How can we build our lives on Him? (see Helaman 3:27–29, 35 and Articles of Faith 1:4).

• Invite your children to build a tower using blocks or other materials on different kinds of foundations (such as cotton balls or a flat stone). How is the solid foundation like Jesus Christ? They could add a block to the structure for each idea they share about what they can do to follow Him.

• The voice described in Helaman 5:29–30, 45–47 teaches us one way that the Holy Ghost speaks to us. To help your children understand this truth, consider reading “Chapter 37: Nephi and Lehi in Prison” (Book of Mormon Stories, 99–102). When you talk about the voice the people heard, speak in a soft voice. Repeat the story a few times, and invite the children to whisper with you. Help them think of other ways that the Holy Ghost can speak to us. To reinforce this principle, you could sing together “The Still Small Voice” (Children’s Songbook, 106–7).