An important aspect of Montessori education that is learned through both observation and imitation is social behavior. Montessori places deliberate emphasis on teaching social skills through a specific part of the curriculum known as Grace and Courtesy. In our classrooms, we consider these lessons just as essential as subjects like mathematics, language, or music. They help create a calm and harmonious atmosphere. Ultimately, the Montessori approach aims not only to develop intellectual ability but also to nurture the whole person in every area of growth.
Unlike other activities, which are usually shown individually, Grace and Courtesy lessons are presented to the entire class at once, since courteous behavior is inherently a group activity. At the beginning of the year, we invite the children to sit in a circle and dedicate a special moment to introduce, for example, how to quietly push in a chair, how to walk carefully around another child’s rug without disturbing their work, how to make polite requests, or how to wait patiently. We use slow and precise movements without verbal explanation so that the children can fully focus on the demonstration. These lessons are repeated throughout the year, especially when relevant situations arise.
Children also develop social skills by observing the natural interactions of others in the classroom. In our mixed-age groups, older children have the opportunity to serve as role models, exerting a positive influence on the younger ones and allowing everyone to learn by example. Our Montessori environments enable children to acquire knowledge through observation and practice, naturally developing social competence. As Maria Montessori noted, “The undisciplined child enters into discipline by working in the company of others, not by being told he is naughty” (The Absorbent Mind, 1949).
