Grace and courtesy are foundational themes in a Montessori classroom. Grace refers to how a child moves in the space, how they handle the materials and how they function overall in the room. Courtesy refers to the manner in which students speak and act with their peers and towards their teachers. There are continuous opportunities to practice grace and courtesy throughout the day, such as lining up to wash hands before lunch, lining up for recess, and sitting attentively with the whole group during circle time. Courtesy is also modeled when the children have differences among themselves. Learning how to interact with others and to engage in conflict resolution when things are not “going your way” are some of the key concepts we guide on a daily basis.
We’ve also spent some time talking about “tattling” to a teacher with the underlying intent of getting another child in trouble. Instead, we encourage our students to get out the peace rose and talk through their feelings directly with each other. The use of the peace rose is taught through our peace curriculum. Using the rose as a tool gives each child the opportunity to speak, while the other child is listening. When using the peace rose, we have taught the children to begin their dialogue with “I feel.” This instruction helps each child to identify their own feelings and to quickly recognize the emotions of the other child. Communication about how to solve the problem then takes place, with assistance from teachers if needed. When resolution is achieved, the children each hold the rose and declare “friends” or “peace.”
Reminders
Thanksgiving break is scheduled starting Wednesday, 11/25, through Friday, 11/27. School resumes on Monday, 11/30.
