Mindful of Grace

Polli Soholt (2015) elegantly describes the word grace and its significance in the classroom:

"The dictionary definition of grace is…elegance or beauty of form, manner, motion, or action.  It is clear that grace requires refinement of movement and, with repetition; the children acquire grace by eliminating all superfluous movements.  The presentation [of a lesson] offers an introduction for the children, and practice allows the children to become proficient with the particular movements required of the skill.

Grace in integrated into all of our presentations for the children.  We demonstrate in the way we carry materials, demonstrate materials, and move in the environment.  Many of the preliminary exercises assist in the development of grace.  Standing, rolling a rug, carrying a chair, all require the development of grace.  Maria Montessori observed the important role that movement plays in the children's development.  In addition, she writes about the connection between the movements of the body and the activity of the mind.  In the Absorbent Mind she states,

'To give them their right place, man's movements must be co-ordinated with the centre - with the brain.  Not only are thought and action two parts of the same occurrence, but it is through movement that the higher life expresses itself'" (p. 56).

Soholt, Polli.  (2015).  The NAMTA journal: The art of Montessori grace and courtesy.  Living grace and courtesy in primary, 40(1), 51-61.