Why We Teach Grace and Courtesy
An important part of the Montessori method, grace and courtesy teaches children the social, emotional and physical skills they need to live and learn harmoniously in a community (Fishtown Montessori). This a modeling type of behavior and if students see us doing this everyday it becomes natural to them. It brings respect for themselves, others and the Environment (AMI)
Examples of Grace and Courtesy in an MRA Children’s House Classroom
My first year at MRA, I had a student in my class that had a birthmark. Their parents worried about how the other children would react, because at their previous school, classmates had teased and picked on their child. However, the children in our classroom showed nothing but kindness. They looked beyond what they saw on the outside and simply welcomed a new friend. I still keep in touch with the parents, and they often tell me what a difference they noticed in the children here.
Another way we work on grace and courtesy is exploring diversity through our songs and work, and sharing what that means in us and in the world around us. We celebrate our International Day of Peace, we have a Peace Rose where they can go to talk with friends when they have a disagreement, and we have work in our classrooms that opens up discussions about other people in our world.
Continuing Grace and Courtesy as they Grow
Teaching children to be considerate and polite lays the foundation for healthy relationships. When children learn to treat others with respect, they are more likely to form positive connections with peers, teachers and family members. As children practice Grace and Courtesy, they gain a sense of accomplishment and self-assurance. It creates a peaceful learning environment, and it prepares them for the future.
