In well-functioning Montessori classrooms, kids aren’t forced to be “nice”—because that’s not how they learn manners. No fake apologies. No manipulation. No saying “please” on a loop until you get what you want. Our goal is to nurture generous, empathetic children who truly care for others. And we can do that by modeling kindness ourselves, offering grace and courtesy lessons, and setting up a “peace table” where children can resolve their differences (with help from a guide). Being nice is one