grace & courtesy at guidepost montessori.
Our approach to social-emotional development (Respect for Others and for Self)
A benevolent, close-knit community helps young children gain positive social skills and healthy emotional regulation. And because children often spend years in the same classroom, they have the consistency they need to build lasting friendships with their peers and connections with their Guides (teachers).
At Guidepost Montessori, we go beyond creating a culture of respect and modeling polite communication and habits. We also provide children with a sequence of purposeful lessons in Grace & Courtesy—from how to greet others to politely declining another’s invitation, to respecting the work and concentration of others.
grace & courtesy supports the development of:
Self-control
More than just creating a calm environment, Grace & Courtesy lessons on how to carry materials, roll a mat, or to walk, not run, help children build a foundation of self-control and thus self-respect.
Respect
Lessons in how to communicate politely or avoid disturbing others while they work build a recognition of the needs of others while fostering a culture of mutual respect.
Peaceful conflict resolution
Grace & Courtesy lessons help children recognize and communicate their own emotions and needs, and to problem-solve solutions when conflicts arise.
Nido
In Nido, Guides help infants build the foundation of positive social interaction, by:
- Modeling gentle touches, respectful communication, and responsible classroom habits
- Clearly articulating the needs & feelings of every child, while setting kind & firm boundaries that keep everyone safe
Toddler
In our toddler program, children take their place as a positive member of the class community by receiving lessons on:
- Waiting their turn to use a material or do an activity
- Politely communicating their feelings and boundaries with their peers
- Not distracting others who are concentrating
Children’s House
In Children’s House, children learn to take initiative in their community, by:
- Heartily welcoming new students to the class
- Inviting others to collaborate on activities and classroom routines
- Noticing when something is messy and then restoring order
at guidepost montessori, we believe every child is tremendously capable.
But what’s even better, the children believe it too.
Every child at Guidepost Montessori knows they can accomplish real things and engage in real learning. Not because someone tells them so, but because they choose it, experience it, and succeed at it every single day.