Two mothers raised in a non-digital age realized their own children needed to be familiarized with proper courtesy and decency. After searching without success for a Daniel Island program to address social norms like grace, etiquette and manners, they decided to form their own.
The refined modern manners youth program known as Grace. Etiquette. Manners. (GEM) is formally introducing itself on Daniel's Island and is opening its doors to local children seeking proper guidance and instruction with everyday behavioral conduct.
“GEM is designed to provide support for families who want to raise polite, kind, and ethical children,” said program director Allie Clay. “In today’s digitized world, there is a real need for a practical, modern approach to the teaching of good old fashioned manners.”
GEM is tailored toward students in fourth through eighth grade and distinguishes itself from traditional Cotillion classes locally offered. There are seven classes annually with seven universal themes, each grade level course addressing different topics within these themes: First Impressions, Public Courtesies, Gifts and Gratitude, Table Manners, Friends, Families, and Relationships, Civility and Citizenship, and Ladies and Gentlemen.
“What puts this program in a category all by itself is our emphasis on hands on learning for our students. I know from experience how meaningful learning can be when children are given genuine experiences and individualized attention,” said Rindy Ryan, director and former elementary teacher. “We also recognize that in fourth through eighth-graders it's the positive peer pressure that can have more of an impact on behavior than anything else.”
GEM was built on the construct that children who are able to show civility and empathy become more confident, successful and happier adults. Their mission is to develop a sense of competence and esteem in their students as they learn how to navigate the real social expectations and situations of the world, according to Clay and Ryan.
"We really feel that a focus on what kids encounter everyday and how to approach manners, courtesy and kindness in everyday situations will help them to make it a habit so it is a part of the fabric of who they are," Ryan added.
“Our ultimate goal is to make the learning of manners and etiquette truly engaging and fun for our students. We believe the skills our students will practice will lead to greater confidence and success throughout their lives,” Clay added.
GEM's course pricing is offered in a four course menu style. Special sessions for small groups, younger students and older students are available upon request. Small group topics may include but are not limited to: interview skills, leadership, conflict management, public speaking and making friends.
To compliment GEM's program, the cuisine for their course meals will be catered by Laura Alberts kitchen and staff.
GEM classes will be held at The Island Park Room at Laura Alberts at 819 Island Park Dr. Daniel Island, S.C. and offered each month beginning in September and concluding in February. For more information about Grace. Etiquette. Manners. and to enroll in upcoming class dates visit www.graceetiquettemanners.com or contact grace.etiquette.manners@gmail.com or call 843-437-0156.