In Montessori pedagogy, "Grace and Courtesy" refers to the intentional teaching of social behaviours that promote respect, kindness, and harmonious interactions within the classroom and wider community. These lessons focus on helping children develop manners, empathy, and self-control, fostering a positive and respectful social environment. Through role-playing, modelling, and practice, children learn how to greet others, express gratitude, apologise, listen attentively, and handle conflicts with care and understanding. Maria Montessori emphasised that social education is just as important as academic education, and "Grace and Courtesy" lessons provide children with the tools to navigate social interactions with confidence and dignity. These skills not only contribute to the peaceful functioning of the classroom but also prepare children to interact respectfully and thoughtfully in broader social settings, helping to cultivate a sense of community, empathy, and respect for others.

“A child has learned not only to keep silent, but when he should be silent. He has not only learned the various kinds of greetings, but he has also learned which one to use with another child, with his mother or father, with a stranger, or with one who is old and respected. In other words, he must use according to time and circumstances the many things which he has learned perfectly.” (Montessori, Maria, The Discovery of the Child, p. 95) “Children like to learn all the courtesies of social life. If one teaches them, they are interested to know how to greet, how to excuse themselves when they pass in front of other people etc.” (Montessori, Maria, Citizen of the World, p. 35)