Author Spotlight: Mo Willems

Mo Willems: you either already know and love this author, or you know and love this author’s work and just don’t know him by name.  Best known for his creation of an ornery but lovable pigeon, Willems has written far too many books for us to list all of them individually here.  So, if you and your family are looking for a new author/illustrator to love, look no further! Click on the book images to go to that book’s page on Amazon.

The Pigeon Series

It’s rare to meet a parent who is not familiar with this character, but if you’re not, you’re in luck!  Pigeon (like many children) has strong feelings about what he wants to do in life.  He also has a keen sense of fairness, and often thinks life isn’t fair for him.  Children relate joyfully to this small blue bird who just wants to experience the world on his own terms but is often told he cannot.  There are nine books in this series, but we will highlight a couple of our favorites here:

Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! by Mo Willems

After a bus driver parks and needs to step away for a few minutes, our friend the pigeon begs the reader to let him drive.  He pleads, bargains, and tries every strategy he can think of to sway our minds (obviously without any luck).

The Duckling Gets a Cookie!? by Mo Willems

Sweet, charming Duckling is given a cookie as a treat.  Pigeon, of course, is exceedingly jealous and is quite vocal in expressing his feelings.  Duckling patiently lets Pigeon speak, and near the end of the story offers to give the cookie to Pigeon (though not for the reason you might think!).

The Knuffle Bunny Series 

Many children have a stuffed animal that is special to them, and Trixie is no different.  The child in the stories is named after Willems’ own daughter, Trixie, who adores her stuffed rabbit: Knuffle Bunny.  This three-book series grows along with Trixie, but you might want to start with the first book:

Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Tale by Mo Willems

Trixie is a toddler who has not yet started to talk.  Waving goodbye to Mom, she and her dad take a walk to the local laundromat.  It is here that Trixie’s dad mistakenly tosses Knuffle Bunny, Trixie’s beloved stuffed rabbit, into a washing machine.  She doesn’t have the words to tell him what’s wrong, so she expresses her strong feelings like any toddler would: with increasing intensity!  The pair arrive home and Mom notices the missing Knuffle Bunny, which sends Trixie and Dad back to the laundromat.  The ending is what you might expect, but with a fun twist!

The Elephant and Piggie Series

Piggie and Elephant Gerald are the best of friends.  In this 25-book series, the pair dialogue their way through exactly the types of scenarios children are faced with each day.  Here are just a few:

Are You Ready to Play Outside? by Mo Willems

Gerald and Piggie have big plans for a day of playing outside.  As Piggie imagines all they might do and they go to head out, raindrops begin to fall.  Luckily, elephants are good friends who have a knack for making rainy days fun.

Should I Share My Ice Cream? by Mo Willems

While he is alone one hot day, Gerald buys himself an ice cream cone.  Just as he is about to take his first bite, he wonders if he should find Piggie to share it with her.  This sets off a chain of thoughts in his mind, alternating between generous and self-serving.  As with many of Willems’ books, the ending is not what readers might expect!

Waiting is Not Easy! by Mo Willems

Piggie has a special surprise to share with Gerald.  Unfortunately, patience is not a characteristic Gerald has fully developed just yet.  Piggie is gentle and encouraging as the two wait for time to pass and the surprise to reveal itself.

Cat the Cat Series

These books are perfect for new readers or for babies and toddlers who love being read to.  Simple text, simple illustrations, and loveable characters grace the pages of these four books.  Here are a couple we enjoy:

Cat the Cat, Who Is That? by Mo Willems

In this introductory book we are introduced to Cat the cat and all her animal friends.  Their names are quite predictable as one might imagine, and young children love the patterned text.

Time to Sleep, Sheep the Sheep! by Mo Willems

With minimal text and adorable illustrations, Cat the cat and her friends get ready for bedtime.  They smile joyfully as Cat reminds them to get ready, and respond by brushing their teeth, taking a bath, gathering bedding, and so on.

Solo Books

Willems has lots of non-series books as well.  While, again, there are far too many to list here, check out these favorites!

Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed by Mo Willems

In Naked Mole Rat’s world, everyone is naked all the time.  Secretly, he adores wearing clothes of all kinds.  When the other mole rats discover this, the whole community is faced with change.

Goldilocks and the Three Dinosaurs by Mo Willems

In this ridiculous twist on the classic Goldilocks tale, the dinosaurs are intentionally trying to lure a tasty child into their home.  Luckily, this (pluckier version of ) Goldilocks figures out their plan in the nick of time.

That Is NOT a Good Idea! by Mo Willems

A mischievous fox invites an innocent goose to dinner.  Written and illustrated in a style similar to an old silent film, our goose heroine proves she’s not nearly as naive as we feared.

Nanette’s Baguette by Mo Willems

If your child loves fresh bread, independence, or words that rhyme with baguette, this one is for them!  Nanette’s mother sends her off to the bakery for first time by herself to buy a baguette, but who among us can resist the delectable smell of a freshly baked loaf? (Certainly not Nanette!)

***Special insider’s secret: The Pigeon appears in every single one of Mo Willems’ books.  Sometimes you have to look very closely, but it can be quite a fun game for children!  Enjoy!

5 Simple Ways to Show Her You Care on Mother’s Day

Everyone loves to feel appreciated.  With Mother’s Day coming up next Sunday, it’s a great time to think of how you might show the moms in your life what they mean to you.  We offer five simple ideas to celebrate and care for the woman who cares for everyone.

1. Remember to have a card ready.

You could absolutely buy a Mother’s Day card; there are plenty of great ones out there.  Another option (that is free and will likely be treasured forever) is to have your children make a card.  Be sure to write the date inside!  Some quick ideas for children of all ages:

Infants - Paint those chubby little hands and/or feet to make a print on the front of the card.  On the inside you could write a few reasons why you think she’s great, or use one of these beautiful poems: 

“Home” by Carl Sandburg

Here is a thing my heart wishes the world had more of:
I heard it in the air of one night when I listened
To a mother singing softly to a child restless and angry in the darkness.

“Mother, A Cradle to Hold Me” by Maya Angelou

It is true
I was created in you.
It is also true
That you were created for me.
It owned your voice.
It was shaped and tuned to soothe me.
Your arms were molded
Into a cradle to hold me, to rock me.
The scent of your body was the air
Perfumed for me to breathe.

Full poem here: https://adoption-beyond.org/mother-a-cradle-to-hold-me-by-maya-angelou/

Toddlers - Let them draw a picture on the cover, then interview them!  Ask them fun questions and record their answers inside the card.  A toddler’s perspective of the world is sure to make their mother laugh (and perhaps melt her heart).  Some ideas:

• What is your mom’s name?

• What is your favorite thing about mom?

• What is mom’s favorite thing to do?

• What is mom’s favorite food?

• How do you know mom loves you?

Preschoolers - Whether they like to draw or paint, let young kids decorate the card themselves.  On the inside, have them tell you three reasons they love their mom for you to write down.  If they have started learning to write their own name, have them sign the card.

Elementary-aged children and older children - Encourage your old kids to write a letter to their mom.  If they seem hesitant, it’s okay to brainstorm ideas with them.  Ask them to think about what’s special about their mom, what they love about her, or a time she did something really nice for them.  If they love art, they can find a special way to incorporate that, too.

2. Take your time and enjoy brunch.

You have two options here: go out to eat or make a meal at home.  Think about what she would love best!  If you choose the former, think ahead: many popular brunch spots require reservations on Mother’s Day.

If you’d like to tackle making brunch at home, you can make it special without it being complicated.  Some ideas:

• Place fresh flowers and a couple candles on the table.

• Make her a fun drink.  Think herbal tea, flavored coffee, or a mimosa!

• Try a new recipe.  This one for crepes is sure to be a hit: https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/16383/basic-crepes/

• Have the kids help!  They can assist you in cooking, setting the table, serving Mom, or even cleaning up afterward.

3. Get some fresh air together.

Hopefully the weather will cooperate and you can enjoy a gorgeous spring day together.  Consider a spot near your home that will be low-key and fun for everyone.  Would she enjoy a stroll in the park?  A short hike?  A visit to a nature preserve?

To make the experience extra-special, make sure to do all the planning and prep work.  It’s not easy getting young children out of the house!  Gather water bottles, diaper bags, and snacks.  Get the children’s shoes on, buckle them into their car seats, and do whatever else you can to give her a minute or two extra with that cup of coffee.  These gestures will not go unnoticed!

4. Pamper her.

We would like to re-emphasize that this does not need to be complicated.  Just like with brunch, you have two options: outsourcing or doing it yourself.  

Does the mom in your life enjoy spending time at spas, getting manicures, or treating herself to a massage?  If so feel free to book her an appointment or even give her a gift certificate to her favorite spot.  

Is she the type of mom who never seems to have time for herself?  If so, make sure to build some into the day.  Some simple ideas:

• Draw her a bubble bath.

• Make her a face mask!  Here are some recipes that use ingredients you’re very likely to have in your kitchen already: https://www.elle.com/uk/beauty/skin/articles/a38190/homemade-diy-face-mask-recipes/

• Depending on their ages, some children would do a great job painting their mom’s nails, giving her a shoulder rub, or even just brushing her hair.  

5. Give her something sweet.

One thing that is sure to bring a smile to her face?  A sweet treat!  For most moms, you can’t go wrong with chocolate, but think about her individual tastes.  Whether she’s into cheesecake, candy, croissants, or ice cream, make sure you have some on hand.  As with many of the other ideas we have mentioned, this special Mother’s Day dessert can be store-bought or homemade.  

Mothers give so much because they love their families.  No matter how you decide to celebrate, she is sure to appreciate the time, effort, and love you shower her with.  Enjoy!

Math on the Go!

You already know that reading aloud to your child daily can have a huge impact on their literacy development.  Did you know that doing math together at home is also important?  By integrating math into your daily lives at home, you as parents are teaching your child not only that math really is applicable to our daily lives, but that you value it as an area of study.  Finding a variety of ways to work through problems together prevents children from developing the self-narrative of “I’m not good at math” before it ever starts.  

Looking for tips to get started?

In the Kitchen

While there are likely nights you need to whip up a quick dinner, get everyone fed and off to bed, it can be nice to find ways to invite your children to cook with you sometimes.  Doing so has a host of benefits, including the development of practical life skills, confidence building, and family bonding, but there are also plenty of opportunities to learn about and practice math skills.

Consider what it takes to make a meal.  From reading a recipe, to combining ingredients, thinking about cooking temperatures, and even how long to cook a meal, there are a wide variety of skills your child can experience first-hand: 

• Reading written fractions in recipes

• Comparing differences in volume while adding measured ingredients

• Adding fractions or utilizing fraction equivalencies

• Using multiplication or division when halving or doubling a recipe

• Calculating elapsed time while waiting for a treat to bake

• Understanding units of measurement concerning temperature

At the Store

Shopping is one of those frequent life necessities, and we often have our children in tow.  Turn this family chore into a fun learning experience by incorporating math.  Here are some ideas for a variety of ages:

• Counting specific items

• Identifying numbers on signs

• Estimating costs of items

• Rounding costs of items to the nearest dollar and adding mentally

• Identifying coins and their values

• Comparing price and quantity to determine product value

• Weigh produce on the scale

• Use addition or multiplication to determine cost when buying multiples on an item

• Determine how much change will be received from the cashier

In the Car

Whether you’re making the quick drive to school in the morning or settling in for a lengthy family road trip, it’s possible to incorporate math skills along the journey.  The key is to make it fun and not work!

• Notice numbers on signs.  Talk about place value.

• Similar to the alphabet game, play the number game.  Look for numbers outside and call them out in order.  “I see a 1 on that sign!’  “I spotted a 2 on that license plate!”

• Play a shape-finding game.

• Clue kids into mileage information.  Have them figure out how far you’ve traveled or how much further you have to go.

• Keep track of time.  Solve problems similar to the mileage ones.

• Make your real-life word problems multi-step: ask your child how their answers might change if you need to drive a certain number of miles or minutes out of the way to make a stop.

• Estimate fuel costs, both before you arrive at the pump, and guessing how much the tank will need to fill.

• Skip count together in silly voices.  Count by 2s, 5s, 10s, and more!

The Backyard

Believe it or not, your own backyard is likely full of real-life math opportunities.  Whether you’re gardening, making repairs, or building something together, keep an eye out for things like:

• Size comparisons: which tree is taller? Wider?

• Notice the temperature.  If you’re really motivated, keep track over a week and make a graph.

• Measure everything!  Younger children can stick to non-standard units.  “How many ‘mommy feet’ long do you think this piece of wood is?  Now let’s try your feet!”

• Kids love to use adult tools, so show them the correct way to use a measuring tape.  Start with length, and explore perimeter and area with older children.

• Kids always seem to be collecting small objects.  Use these rocks, acorns, or sticks to count, add, or subtract.

• With older children, use seeds for math before planting.  Show them an array and how it relates to multiplication and division.

• Estimation opportunities are everywhere.  How many leaves are on that branch?  How many insects might we find under this log?  How many dandelions are blooming right now

No matter where you are or what you’re doing, your children love just spending time with you.  Finding simple ways to incorporate mathematical thinking can be a fun way to squeeze a little bit of learning out of an already enjoyable experience

Remember to ask your child lots of questions, but don’t feel like you need to give them the answers right away.  When we discover something for ourselves, the information is so much more powerful.  Of course, if they seem confused or ask for help, it’s okay to model and teach!

Let us know what you learn together!

Chores: They’re Good for Your Kids!

Chores: the word has such a negative connotation.  But does it need to be that way?

Do you remember doing chores when you were growing up?  For some of us, we remember them as a negative consequence.  For others, we never had them and it took us a while to learn how to do them as adults.  Still others remember helping out around the house but not thinking it was a big deal.

It’s all in how we, as parents, frame it for children.

How we present the concepts of chores makes all the difference.  Having kids pitch in isn’t just helpful for us (because, let’s face it, it’s often more work for us on the front end), it’s really good for them, too!

What are the benefits?

There are so many important reasons to incorporate regular chores into your children’s routines at home.  Here are just a few:

Developing independence

As Montessorians, we see great value in teaching kids to do things for themselves.  It feels incredibly empowering to master a task and be able to complete it by oneself.  Young children are at the perfect age to begin this work, as they are constantly looking for ways to do things independently.  

Fostering a sense of belonging

By giving children ways to contribute to maintaining the home environment, you are effectively letting them know they are a valued, important member of the family.  Besides, working side by side to tidy up is bonus time spent together, and couldn’t we all use a little more of that?

Learning practical life skills

We all need to learn how to do our laundry, wash our dishes, and pick up after ourselves.  Just like children need guidance when learning how to read or add, they need the same with basic life skills.  When we get down to their level and show them how to do the job, we are setting them up for a future of success as adults.

Options for all ages!

Well, we can let the infants take a pass here.  Even young toddlers, however, are perfectly capable of learning some basic chores.  The following is a collection of suggestions.  It would likely be far too much to implement all at once, or even for one child to be wholly responsible for an entire list.  Think of it as potential inspiration, or guidelines to help you determine what your child is developmentally capable of.  

Toddlers (yes, toddlers!)

Even little ones have a lot to offer around the house.  Start small and offer child-sized tools.

• On the floor beside where your child eats, use painter’s tape to create a small square.  Using a small dustpan and brush, show your child how to sweep the crumbs into the square, then into the dustpan.  It can be fun to keep the dustpan available on a nearby hook, beside a small container of colorful pom poms or the like.  Your toddler will love practicing!

• Teach your child how to fold napkins.  Keep a small basket with napkins in it available for them to practice.

• Let them help set the table.  Watch their tiny face light up at being given such an important task.  Resist the urge to straighten things out when they’re done!

• Teach them to put their own toys away and be consistent about having them clean up as soon as they are finished playing.  They may need some help, but they are capable of putting toys back into a bin or on a shelf.

Preschoolers

This is a great age for children to learn chores. They are able to do more than we often think they can, and they are so excited to help! 

• Clear the table.  They will probably need to make multiple trips to avoid breaking dishes, but they will delight in collecting plates and cutlery to bring to the kitchen.

• Teach them to wash the table.  First, show them how to carefully brush crumbs off into their hands (you can also buy a special crumb set here if it’s easier: https://www.forsmallhands.com/small-crumb-set ).  Next, show them how to wash the table with whatever method you prefer.  It can help to have a small bucket of soapy water with a sponge and dry cloth.  They will need lots of modeling (remember to emphasize wringing out that sponge!).

• All that sweeping practice they had when they are toddlers?  It can continue now, and they can also learn to mop.  Remember that child sized tools make it easier for them to get the job done.

• Kids this age can feed pets, although they may need you nearby.

• Give preschoolers the task of choosing and laying out their own clothing.  In the beginning they will need guidance as to what is weather-appropriate.  Be prepared for some outfits you will perceive as wacky but take that moment to appreciate their blossoming independence and sense of personal style.

• Show them how to care for plants.  Chances are, they’re already doing this in their classrooms at school to some extent.  Teach them how to water and talk about how we know when plants need water.

Young children

As the child gets older they are capable of so much more.  Children ages 5 through about 8 are very competent, though they may be a bit less enthusiastic than they once were.  Building chores into the family routine will make this easier for everyone.

• Children at this age can fold and put away laundry.  Start small: a full load of laundry to put away by themselves the first time will only set them up for frustration.  Sit together and teach them how to fold various items.  Sort through clothes and let them choose a category the first few times.  For example, they may fold all the shirts while you work on the rest.  Slowly increase their responsibilities as they gain the skills necessary to complete the task.

• Kids who are eating lunch at school can help pack it themselves.  Teach them how to make a sandwich, chop vegetables, and even how to select a balanced variety of foods.  Remember that choice and independence are very empowering.

• Let them empty the dishwasher.  If they can’t reach a particular shelf, keep a step stool nearby.

• Chores that are tedious for adults, like dusting or washing the baseboards, are great fun for kids.  If it gives them the sense that you trust them with an ‘adult’ task, they will likely be thrilled to give new tasks a try.

• Depending on their size, let them vacuum rugs.  

Older children

Again, as certain children get older you may be met with initial resistance whenever introducing a new chore.  Try to keep it light and fun, and present it as a positive: as we get older we may have more responsibilities, but we gain new freedom and privileges.

• Weeding the garden is a great task for older children, but they’ll likely enjoy it more if you’re weeding alongside them.

• They are now old enough to do the laundry.  Start small and set the expectation that they do their own laundry.  They will need reminders, but having a system (a basket of their own and perhaps a sticky note with how-to reminders) will help get the job done.

• Again, depending upon the child’s size, they are likely able to take out the trash and recyclables.  

• You may consider increasing their responsibilities in regards to pet care.  They may be able to walk the dog, clean dirty cages, and do some basic grooming.

• If they haven’t already learned, now is a great time to teach them how to make their own bed.  This includes learning how to change the sheets.

• If your child has been attending a Montessori school, they’ve been learning how to prepare their own food since they were 3 years old.  Take advantage of that knowledge base and let them make lunch for the family once in a while.  They may even want to try more cooking or baking on their own (but with supervision).

Teenagers

Teenagers are able to do most, if not all, of the chores we do as adults.  Remember, we are not suggesting they do all of these chores all the time, but reinforcing the idea that they are capable of any of them will help set them up for success.  Sitting down together and agreeing on a schedule or rotation might be a good starting point.  Here are just a few ideas:

• Let them mow the lawn or rake the leaves.

• Have them wash the dishes.

• Give them a chance to watch younger siblings while you run errands or go to an appointment.

• Teenagers can do some more thorough cleaning, like wiping down counters or washing the bathroom.

• Let them cook dinner.  Instead of viewing this as a chore, they may enjoy the opportunity to choose the recipe and help shop for the ingredients themselves.

When giving a child of any age chores to do, the key is to find balance.  Chores are so important for their development, but so are things like play, reading, time together as a family, and time with friends.  Be aware that children can often do more than we think they can, but also be aware of the big picture that is their life.  

Looking for more ways to cultivate independence?  Montessori may be the answer.  Call us today to learn more.

How to Build a Better Lunch

Lunch.  It’s something we enjoy every day, and if your child is at school you’re likely helping your child pack one.  We’re here to help you turn this often mundane chore into a fun, healthy, eco-friendly, Montessori-style part of your child’s day.

Pack it up!

As you likely know, Montessori schools rely on the use of natural materials.  In our classrooms we tend to use materials made of wood, glass, and natural fibers.  Although it’s not always possible, we think it’s great when families find ways to incorporate the same approach into lunches.

Let’s start with the lunch bag itself.  You can pick one of these up almost anywhere, and it’s a great idea to have your child reuse the same one from year to year.  Find something durable.  Some families pack the types of lunches that would benefit from having an insulated bag, so consider that as well.

Are you crafty?  Want to create something really unique?  Check out this tutorial that will teach you how to sew a paper bag-inspired reusable lunch bag:

Whatever bag you choose, it’s helpful to have some reusable containers that fit inside.  Many families find stainless steel to be an ideal option for their children, as it’s more eco-friendly than plastic, but a lot less likely to break than glass!  Here are some models that have worked great:

• LunchBots offer a wide array of shapes, sizes, and configurations.  Choosing a couple different boxes to pack together allows you space for a sandwich on one box, and fruits, veggies, and whatever else in another.

• PlanetBox provides an all-in-one solution.  The stainless container opens to reveal multiple compartments for different foods.  They come in various sizes, and kids love choosing the customizable magnets that decorate the outside.

• Multi-tiered bento boxes, like this one, are another great option.  The metal clamps pull off to release 2-3 layers.  This makes it easy to pack different types of food in a small space without everything getting mixed up.

What’s inside?

The actual contents of the lunch are the most important part.  Involve your child in the planning process as much as possible and you will find them much more likely to eat what you pack.  Keep these tips in mind when you get ready to shop:

• Ask your child what vegetables they would like for the week.

• Chop vegetables up on Sunday night so you can grab a handful daily.

• Always keep favorites on hand.  Does your child love peanut butter and jelly?  Make it your go-to and have plenty of everything you need.

• Use leftovers: dinner can become lunch!

• Buy lots of fruit.  Kids love it!

• Think about extra protein options that will keep your child’s energy up throughout the afternoon.

These lists may be helpful if you’re looking for inspiration.

Note: It is very important to know about allergy policies for your child’s classroom.  Some of the items on this list may not be safe for every child.

Fruits

Banana

Apple

Pear

Grape

Melon

Pineapple

Kiwi

Berries

Mango

Orange

Apricots

Peaches

Plums

Pomegranate

Guava

Papaya

Cherries

Vegetables

Cucumbers

Bell peppers

Celery

Carrots 

Fennel

String beans

Broccoli

Cauliflower

Salad greens

Tomatoes

Pumpkin

Seaweed

Squash

Asparagus

Sweet potato

Jicama

Proteins

Meats 

Fish

Dairy 

• Yogurt

• Cheese

• Milk

Eggs

Legumes

• Chickpeas

• Beans

• Peas

• Lentils

• Lupins

Tofu

Seeds

• Pumpkin (pepitas)

• Sunflower

• Sesame 

Nuts (*Be aware of classroom allergies*)

• Almond

• Cashew

• Macadamia

• Pistachio

• Walnut

Grains

Quinoa

Rice

Oats

Corn 

Pasta

Cereals

Bread 

• Whole wheat

• Tortilla

• Bagel

• English muffin

• Baguette

• Pita

• Naan

• Pizza dough

• Biscuit

• Corn bread

• Lavash

• Pretzels

• Croutons

• Challah

Don’t forget…

Please pack a small cloth napkin and placemat for your child to use.  It’s okay to pack two cloth napkins with the intention that one will be used as a placemat.  When groups of children sit together at lunch, there isn’t room for a full-sized placemat.  You can use whatever you already have at home or find them just about anywhere.  

If the food you pack requires cutlery, please pack some of the reusable variety.  You can use what you already have at home, but if you are looking for a nice child-sized option, these are lovely: 

https://www.forsmallhands.com/cooking/serving-clean-up/children-s-hammered-flatware-set

Some classrooms have cups for children to drink from, but it can be nice to pack them a reusable water bottle for lunch as well.  

Most lunches won’t require an ice pack, but in case you include something that may spoil it doesn’t hurt to have one or two small ones in the freezer.

Do you have any lunch tips or ideas to share with us?  Let us know!

Montessori Basics: What is Grace and Courtesy?

If you are just beginning to learn about Montessori education, you’ve probably heard the phrase grace and courtesy.  You may be wondering what that means in a Montessori classroom, and why we go out of our way to identify it as something special.

Simply put, grace and courtesy is all about helping children to understand polite social norms.  

As a Montessori school, we understand that even very young children are capable of much more than is traditionally expected of them.  For example, you might picture a preschool classroom in which children are running around or shouting loudly if they are excited.  After all, children of 3 or 4 years of age can’t be expected to have mastered such behaviors yet, right?  

If you were to observe children of the same age in a Montessori classroom, this would not be the case.  Just as with any other skill, Montessori children are taught how to behave appropriately.  This is not to say that they are never allowed to run around and be loud; outdoor playtime is a perfectly suitable environment for those behaviors.  They have simply learned that the classroom is an environment dedicated to learning and concentration, and they must do their part.

Modeling

Grace and courtesy starts with intentional modeling.  Guides, as well as other adults in the building, are very careful about how they behave in front of the children.  When interacting with one another, or when interacting with a child, they are always thinking about showing the children what they hope to see mirrored.  

For example, when a guide sees a child as they arrive at school in the morning, the guide will crouch down to be at the child’s level, look the child in the eye, and say, “Good morning (child),” with a pleasant smile.  

If the guide expects the children not to shout across the classroom, she will not do so herself.  When managing a classroom full of children this can be challenging at times, but we understand that the children are always watching us and learning from our behaviors.

Adults in a Montessori school are always very careful not to interrupt a child’s work.  They have a deep respect for the child’s autonomy, but they are also aware of the power of their modeling.  When adults refuse to interrupt a child’s work, the children learn the importance of doing the same.

Lessons

Aside from modeling, Montessori guides give lessons to explicitly teach grace and courtesy.  They will show the child step by step how a certain behavior or activity is done.  Here are just a few of these types of lessons a child might receive:

• How to greet one another

• How to welcome a visitor

• How to get a teacher’s attention without interrupting

• How to participate in a group discussion without interrupting

• How to listen in a conversation

• How to walk carefully around the classroom

• How to follow directions

• How to resolve a social conflict

• How to unobtrusively observe another’s work

• How to hold a door for someone

• How to use polite words such as please, thank you, excuse me, etc.

Older children

As children get older, they may have mastered many of the basics of polite behavior, but they still have plenty more to learn.  There are two main differences as children move into the elementary years:

1. Most (but certainly not all) of the grace and courtesy needs are related to friendships and social interactions.

2. They have developed a sense of humor and tend to respond well when guides teach what not to do in a silly manner.

For example, a guide may notice children entering the classroom for lunch in a manner that is less than ideal.  One day during a class meeting, she will address the issue by wondering aloud how we might enter the class for lunch.  She may then act out a variety of scenarios, asking the children if she is going about the task in the right way, including:

• Running breathlessly through the door to grab the desired seat.

• Flinging a lunch bag across the room to the desired table.

• Weaving in and out of other children to get where she wants more quickly.

This is sure to bring on the laughter, because the children likely already know these are not the correct behaviors.  Before the conclusion of the lesson, the children will contribute their ideas and tips for the teacher to try, who will then model the ideal behaviors.  Ideally this exercise would be done just before lunch, giving the children a chance to practice right away.

Throughout the course of the school year, a guide at any level may notice certain behaviors that the children seem not to have learned yet.  Guides consider these teachable opportunities and take the time to give the children lessons.  We find that children are eager to copy our behaviors and follow our lead, we need only to give them the opportunity.

Curious to learn more?  Want to see grace and courtesy in action?  Call us today to schedule a tour.