Menu

Grace and Courtesy: Why is it so important?

Grace and Courtesy is a major part of the Practical Life curriculum from infancy through adolescence. You might overlook the Grace and Courtesy curriculum when you first visit a Montessori classroom; unlike Mathematics or Language, there usually isn’t a dedicated shelf or corner for it. However, it is nonetheless an essential part of the curriculum, with set lessons and goals; its „didactic materials“ are the teachers themselves, as well as the children’s community. Its aim is far more than simply teaching etiquette: it is to aid the self-construction of the child in their task to assume their full place in the human community.

Becoming Human

Dr. Montessori observed that children are keenly interested in social conduct and its rules; they quickly integrate and copy role models around them, often unconsciously. During the first six years, in the period of Absorbent Mind, these experiences are said to be incarnated: they become a part of the permanent foundation of the child’s self.

Most social rules and interactions must be learnt and are highly culture-specific. Think, for example, of the many varied behaviors that different cultures consider polite table manners. Now, imagine yourself “dropped” into a foreign culture and trying to navigate it, avoiding offense, without any previous preparation. Wow, it would be priceless to have an expert native guide!

All people are asked to do exactly that actually as children: hopefully with loving families and teachers for guides, we learn – some better, some less well – to act appropriately and function within our society.

The purpose of the Grace and Courtesy curriculum is to offer our children the best possible assistance on this path. Explaining and modeling clearly, we share the most harmonious ways of behaving, relating and communicating, and help children practice and master them. Step by step, from the simplest skills (like saying “excuse me” or shaking hands) children build a “vocabulary” of actions that allows them to act appropriately and feel confident in social settings.

Always learning

One of the key differences between Grace and Courtesy and, say, Mathematics, is that there are times when we as adults are not teaching math. As long as there is a child around us, however, we are always modeling how to be a human being; all we do is, on some level, processed and remembered by the child. And of course, actions always speak louder than words.

If we want the child to internalize kindness, respect and empathy, we must be kind, respectful and empathetic – always. Right, it’s that easy... It may be some relief to point out that when we make mistakes or mistreat others, at least this is the perfect opportunity to show and model other key social skills – a sincere apology and making amends.

What does Grace and Courtesy look like in practice? Read more here.

By Michaela Tučková, IMSP Toddler Teacher

Want to learn more? Read our next article:

WHAT DOES GRACE AND COURTESY LOOK LIKE IN PRACTICE?

Další články

IMSP Podcast: Meet Alumna Diana Peštová

It’s our pleasure to introduce you to this week’s guest on the IMSP podcast series: Diana Peštová. Born and raised in the Czech Republic, Diana now studies language and culture at the University of Amsterdam. Diana catches up with our host, Mariana, as she reflects on how IMSP helped her to think outside of the box. Passionate about writing, singing, and acting, Diana shares how Montessori education allowed her to explore her interests at her own pace.

Read more

IMSP Podcast: Meet Alumnus Caleb Miller

Introducing our first guest on the IMSP podcast series: Caleb Miller. After graduating from IMSP, he moved back to the United States, finishing his university degree. Caleb and our host, Mariana, chat about independence in childhood, the benefits of multi-age classrooms, and what advice he has for current IMSP Elementary students. While reflecting on his time at IMSP, Caleb looks towards the future as he pursues a career with a global focus. “That's one thing that Montessori, our school, planted in me,” Caleb tells us, “the desire to engage with the world”.

Read more

Czech and Slovak Leaders Interview with Kateřina Bečková

“I wanted to secure the best possible education for my children”

Read more

IMSP Podcast: Meet alumna Tara Svobodova

"I would really encourage you to enjoy the time you have at IMSP because it is something I look back fondly to."

Read more

Let´s pack for a trip with your Toddler

Summer is the perfect time for trips and outings. A backpack of their very own is a great gift for an older toddler or a pre-schooler:  It builds their independence and confidence as they actively participate in preparing for each trip, and then carry their necessities by themselves.

Read more
21.05.2019
Join us for an Interactive Open House Register for
Baby & Me
Register for
Toddler & Me
Virtual tour