Grace and Courtesy (Montessori)

From Montepedia

In Montessori education, Grace and Courtesy refers to an integral aspect of Practical Life. This involves lessons that demonstrate positive social behavior, which assist the young child in adapting to a group setting and equip them with the knowledge of socially acceptable behavior. This knowledge is practical and useful both in and out of school.[1]

Montessori Quotes

  • "Our aim is not merely to make the child understand, and still less to force him to memorize, but so to touch his imagination as to enthuse him to his innermost core."[2]
  • "Manners are the expression of dignity and also of independence."[3]

Research and Critiques

  • Pros: The teaching of grace and courtesy in Montessori education fosters social-emotional learning, promotes respectful interactions, and supports the child in becoming a conscientious and respectful member of a community.[4]
  • Cons: Critics argue that the focus on grace and courtesy might overshadow other important aspects of social-emotional learning, such as conflict resolution, empathy, or navigating complex emotions.[5]

Comparisons to Other Methods

While traditional education models often include character education or social skills training, Montessori education integrates grace and courtesy into everyday practices, making them an integral part of the child's experience.[6]

See Also

Glossary of Montessori Terms

The Glossary of Montessori Terms is a collection of specific terms and vocabulary that are related to the Montessori method of education, primarily focusing on the theory and practice for children aged 3 to 6. The jargon used by Montessori educators offers a unique insight into child development as discussed by Maria Montessori. The 'Montepedia Glossary of Montessori Terms' originated from a glossary that was compiled by the late Annette Haines from the Montessori Training Centre of St. Louis, at the request of Molly O'Shaughnessy from the Montessori Centre of Minnesota. The reason behind the creation of this glossary was to supplement O'Shaughnessy's lecture at the Joint Annual Refresher Course that took place in Tampa, Florida, in February 2001.[7] The glossary has since been expanded and updated with additional 'Montessori Terms'.


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References

  1. Montessori, M. (1966). The Secret of Childhood. Ballantine Books.
  2. Montessori, M. (1912). The Montessori Method. Frederick A. Stokes Company.
  3. Montessori, M. (1949). The Absorbent Mind. Clio Press.
  4. Lillard, A. (2017). Montessori: The Science Behind the Genius. Oxford University Press.
  5. Elias, M. J. (2006). The connection between social-emotional learning and learning disabilities: Implications for intervention. Learning Disability Quarterly, 29(1), 63-73.
  6. Mooney, C. (2013). Theories of Childhood, Second Edition: An Introduction to Dewey, Montessori, Erikson, Piaget & Vygotsky. Redleaf Press.
  7. Haines, A. (2001). Glossary of Montessori Terms. Montessori Training Centre of St. Louis.