Hosting a Guest for Tea

Hosting a tea party integrates multiple grace and courtesy skills—greeting, serving, conversation, table manners, and thanking guests.

• Framework: Montessori
• Unit: Practical Life
• Learning area: Grace & Courtesy
• Level: Ages 4-6

Objectives

• Practice formal hosting skills
• Apply multiple grace and courtesy lessons
• Build social confidence

Materials

• Tea set (child-sized)
• Hot water (warm, not boiling)
• Tea bags or herbal tea
• Biscuits
• Napkins
• Tablecloth

Instructions

1. Set the table with cloth, cups, and napkins. 2. Greet your guest at the door. 3. 'Welcome! Please have a seat.' 4. Pour tea carefully (adult supervises hot water). 5. Offer biscuits: 'Would you like a biscuit?' 6. Make conversation: ask about their day. 7. Thank them for coming when they leave.

Educator tip

This is a culminating activity for grace and courtesy. Children adore the formality. Use warm herbal tea for safety.

Assessment

Child hosts a guest through the complete tea party with appropriate manners throughout.

More from Practical Life

• Writing Thank You Notes
• Peeling Carrots
• Making a Fruit Salad
• Grating Cheese
• Mixing Ingredients for Baking
• Making Butter from Cream
• Slicing Soft Fruits
• Setting the Table for a Meal