Using Please and Thank You

Please and thank you are foundational courtesies that open doors in social interaction and build a habit of gratitude.

• Framework: Montessori
• Unit: Practical Life
• Learning area: Grace & Courtesy
• Level: Ages 3-4

Objectives

• Build polite language habits
• Practice gratitude expression
• Develop social awareness

Materials

• Role-play scenarios
• Thank you cards (optional)

Instructions

1. Model requesting with 'please': 'May I please have the blue crayon?' 2. Model receiving with 'thank you': 'Thank you for sharing.' 3. Role-play: sharing snack, borrowing materials, receiving help. 4. Practice throughout the day. 5. Notice and appreciate when others say it.

Educator tip

Model constantly rather than correcting. Say 'What's the magic word?' less; instead, rephrase: 'You could say, May I please...'

Assessment

Child consistently uses please when requesting and thank you when receiving.

More from Practical Life

• Walking Indoors vs Outdoors
• Excusing Yourself Politely
• Table Manners During Meals
• Sharing Materials Gracefully
• Listening When Someone is Speaking
• Receiving a Gift or Compliment
• Walking Around Someone's Work
• Answering the Phone or Door