GRACE & COURTESY
"The education of even a very small child does not aim for preparing him for school, but for life." -Maria Montessori
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Grace and courtesy is an aspect that sets the Montessori classroom apart from the others. It is the foundation of the Montessori classroom. Maria Montessori believed "Children are human beings to whom respect is due, superior to us by reason of their innocence and of the greater possibilities of their future." Respect is taught, modeled and expected in the classroom for all, students and teachers.
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Children are taught acceptance of all. We spend a lot of time learning how all human kind is special, unique, and should be respected.
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Children learn about their emotions and feelings. They are taught how to talk about their feelings and to be receptive to others feelings. When disagreements arise, children are taught how to use their words and express their feelings.​
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Grace & Courtesy examples in the classroom:
using quiet voices
greeting others
getting the attention of others
using the restroom
eating and serving food
greeting visitors
standing in line/rug time
using lessons in a respectful way
taking care of the classroom
walking in the classroom
solving disagreements
taking care of belongings​​