"We must teach the children the elements of social behavior ... In this way, these little people who, before, only knew vaguely and half consciously what to do in any particular social situation, now have a clear and vivid idea how to react when the particular occasion arises. ... (T)he essential thing is that he should know how to perform these actions of courtesy when his little heart prompts him to do so, as part of a social life which develops naturally from moment to moment."
—E.M. Standing, Maria Montessori, Her Life and Work
Maria Montessori noticed that children between the ages of two and six years are particularly drawn to learning the Practical Life skills that help them develop control over their physical actions. You may have noticed that your young child wants to do things the "right" way, taking particular pleasure in being able to "do it myself." This is also the age when children most easily learn what we might call "good manners."
The lessons of Grace and Courtesy are included in the Montessori Practical Life curriculum: how to carry a chair and put it down quietly, how to greet a visitor to the classroom and offer refreshments, how to walk and talk quietly, how to wait for help without interrupting, etc. The Montessori teacher greets each child individually in the morning and also personalizes the farewells.
Children take great pride in being able to behave in ways we adults often expect, but may have forgotten to teach them. How often have you wiped your child's face or nose without thinking, rather than helping her learn how to do it? In The Secret of Childhood, Montessori wrote about the children's response to a lesson she gave them:
One day I decided to give the children a slightly humorous lesson on how to blow their noses. After I had shown them different ways to use a handkerchief ...they broke out into applause. ... I had no idea that such small children would applaud so enthusiastically. ...I had perhaps touched a sensitive spot in their little social world. Children have a particular difficulty in blowing their noses. Since they are constantly being scolded on this score, they are sensitive about it. ... But no one really teaches them how they should blow their noses.
Not only is it important to teach manners, but practicing your own courteous behavior helps to reinforce the lessons. Your tone of voice, your attitude, and method of delivery will be imitated by your children...the reminders may be humorous or astonishing as you hear your own words "out of the mouths of babes."
Dr. Montessori's primary message to both teachers and parents was to "respect the child." This seemingly simple rule, when incorporated into the life of homes and schools, can foster peace and congeniality at home, in the larger community, and, ultimately, in the world.
Today, because of our busy schedules and other priorities, we sometimes forget even the most simple courtesies. It's easy to include these basics in your home routine:
Children in a Montessori class learn ways to resolve conflict and hurt feelings. At home, similar methods can be implemented. Teach your children to be verbal rather than physical in these situations. For example, "Your brother knocked down your blocks? Look in his eyes and tell him how you feel."
Your children can learn how to resolve disagreements without you. In some schools and families, the offended child begins by presenting the other child with a "peace rose, " signaling the need to resolve the hurt feelings. Then they take turns stating what happened and how they feel. The goal is to understand and feel friendly again. You might use some designated token in your home such as an artificial flower or heart paperweight just for this purpose.
When conflicts arise, ask children to "work it out among yourselves." If they are unable to do so, rather than take sides, set appropriate limits. For example, you might temporarily separate the children and put the blocks away for the rest of the day.
Learning basic polite behavior makes everyone feel good. Good manners make day-to-day routines more pleasant. Your home's atmosphere of love and respect creates kind, generous, and caring people. It really is simple: When you treat children with respect, they learn respect.
"Children in Montessori schools are usually exceptionally well behaved (though under no coercion to be so), as countless visitors have testified. Their hospitality is so charming just because it is so spontaneous. But without the lessons of grace and courtesy given previously, and without the freedom to express themselves spontaneously, most of these little flowers of courtesy would never have blossomed at all."
—E.M. Standing, Maria Montessori, Her Life and Work
—by Jane M. Jacobs, M.A., Montessori Educational Consultant at Montessori Services. She is a trained primary Montessori directress and also a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She has taught children aged 2 to 7 years in Montessori schools, Headstart, and also in a preschool for children with developmental challenges. In her counseling practice, she helps individuals, couples, and families.
—Originally Published 2015
