Grace and Courtesy

Manners

saying hello and goodbye politely: looking in the eye and smiling (shaking hands)
 

welcoming a visitor:  looking in the eye and smiling, being hospitable

 

introducing people to each other

 

Please and Thank you

 

being silent, listening

 

being calm, speaking softly in the classroom

 

offering and helping others

 

table manners

Interrupting

waiting for a pause, attract attention, "Excuse me"

Opening doors

opening with care, using handle properly, closing gently

Moving quietly

moving around the classroom without disruption

 

giving way to others at a doorway

 

walking the line (increase concentration by carrying a bell, glass of water etc)

Using mats

defining personal workspace with a mat or carpet, rolling and carrying mats

 

walking around a mat

Carrying

mats

 

trays - initially empty, then with objects, then liquids

 

returning activities to the shelf

 

scissors and pointed items on a tray preferably, or held downwards

 

delicate items

 

heavier items

Chairs

how to carry, stack and sit

Books

how to handle books with care

Telephone

how to answer a call

Gift

wrapping

 

Click here to see our range of Practical Life equipment.

A huge thank you to everyone who has contributed to our ideas bank.
We take no responsibility for the safety of these suggestions - please always assess the risks of activities you present to children.

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