Thanksgiving Through a Montessori Lens
Gratitude & Grace: A Montessori Thanksgiving
Dear Guardians of Tomorrow's Heroes,
Thanksgiving is upon us—a time for gratitude, reflection, and, let’s be honest, a bit of chaos in the kitchen! But beyond the turkey and trimmings, this holiday is the perfect opportunity to teach your child one of Montessori’s core values: grace and courtesy.
Let’s make this Thanksgiving a learning moment filled with love, life skills, and plenty of smiles (even when Aunt Sally brings up politics again!).
Thankfulness in Action
Montessori parenting teaches that gratitude isn’t just something we talk about; it’s something we model and practice. Here are a few Montessori-inspired ways to embrace the spirit of Thanksgiving with your child:
Include Them in the Preparations
Let your child help with simple tasks like setting the table, folding napkins, or arranging flowers as a centerpiece. It’s a great way to instill responsibility and pride in their contribution.
Create a Gratitude Jar
Place a jar on the table and invite everyone to write (or draw) one thing they’re thankful for this year. For younger children, help them verbalize their thoughts and jot them down for them.
Teach Grace and Courtesy During Dinner
Encourage your child to practice saying "please" and "thank you" and to listen when others are speaking. Role-playing these behaviors beforehand can help.
“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.” -Maria Montessori
Explore Cultural Traditions
Share stories about Thanksgiving or other harvest celebrations from around the world. This fosters an appreciation for diversity and a broader perspective on gratitude.
Quick Tip:
When the table gets messy or the gravy boat tips over, take a deep breath and invite your child to help clean up. Mistakes are just opportunities for learning—Maria Montessori would approve!
Parent Pep Talk:
Thanksgiving isn’t about perfection; it’s about connection. Whether your child decides to “decorate” the turkey with crayons or the mashed potatoes end up on the floor, remember: these are the moments that make memories. You’re doing an amazing job building traditions and raising grateful little humans.
Resource Highlight:
Looking for more ideas to nurture gratitude and independence in your child? Check out the chapter on grace and courtesy in The Montessori Advantage for practical tips you can use every day. Learn more.
Wishing you and your family a joyful and Montessori-inspired Thanksgiving!
Warmly,
Susie Antonia
Your Parenting Partner in Gratitude