Courtesy—being polite, respectful, and considerate—is a foundational value that shapes a student’s character and interactions. Here’s how to develop courtesy in students effectively:
1. Be a Role Model
Show courtesy in your language, actions, and tone.
Students learn best by observing adults—greet them, say “please,” “thank you,” and “excuse me” regularly.
2. Teach Explicitly
Explain what courtesy means using real-life examples.
Use stories, role plays, and videos to illustrate kind vs. rude behavior.
️ 3. Practice Courtesy Daily
Start the day with morning greetings.
Encourage students to listen without interrupting, wait their turn, and respond respectfully.
Set up "Courtesy Corners" with posters and polite phrases.
4. Praise Courteous Behavior
Give positive reinforcement (verbal praise, points, or stickers).
Recognize acts of politeness in front of others to motivate peers.
5. Involve Parents
Encourage parents to practice and discuss polite behavior at home.
Share a “courtesy word of the week” to build habits together.
🧠 6. Reflect and Discuss
Have short classroom talks like:
“How do you feel when someone is rude?”
“Why is saying ‘thank you’ important?”
Encourage journaling or drawing about kind acts.
🧩 7. Create a Classroom Code of Courtesy
Let students help make a “Courtesy Code” with rules like:
We say kind words.
We wait for our turn.
We greet each other every morning.