The Program.--The program must be varied, because self control is weak,
and attention will be given to one thing only so long as interest is
active. Music should have a prominent place, provided it is meaningful,
choice, and suggestive of the thought desired, in music as well as
words. Since this is the rhythmic and imitative period of life, motion
songs can be occasionally used, provided the motions are not mechanical
and artificial. The foot notes which say that at I the hands should be
clasped, at 2 they should wave, and at 3 be raindrops, miss the point of
a motion song. Unless the child spontaneously expresses the thought
which the song suggests to him, the motions have no value, aside from a
rest exercise.

The entire program should be planned around the thought of leading the
child into a genuine love for God. Nature is beautiful, but its place in
Sunday School is subordinate to Him. The most exquisite song that ends
with birds and flowers falls below the highest nurture. Love must be
both aroused and expressed during the hour's session. Music, Scripture,
the enumeration of His blessings, the joy over birthdays and new
scholars He has sent, the lesson, the carefully selected pictures and
stories of what His love has done for other boys and girls unlike them,
an atmosphere of gladness and reverence will kindle it; the offering
service, the prayer, Scripture and music will express it. The suggestion
from teacher, place, program and lesson combined, should be a great,
wonderful God who loves little children, as well as a Christ who took
the children in His arms.

The Lesson.--The course known as "The Two Years' Course for Beginners"
affords the best subject matter for the lessons for the following
reasons: