Exploring the Charlotte Mason Method: A Gentle Approach to Homeschooling

•2 min read
Charlotte Masongentle learningliving booksnature studyart appreciation

What is the Charlotte Mason Method?

The Charlotte Mason method, named after the revolutionary 19th-century English educator, is a gentle and holistic approach to homeschooling that emphasizes living books, nature study, art appreciation, and good habits. As Charlotte Mason herself said, "Education is an atmosphere, a discipline, a life."

This philosophy centers around the belief that children are born persons and should be respected as such. The goal is to cultivate a love for learning by exposing children to great ideas through living books, rather than dry textbooks or worksheets.

Key Principles of the Charlotte Mason Method

  1. Living Books: Children learn best through "living books" written by passionate authors, rather than textbooks.
  2. Narration: Children retell or write about what they've learned in their own words to solidify understanding.
  3. Short Lessons: Lessons are kept short to maintain attention and interest.
  4. Nature Study: Regular time is spent outdoors observing and appreciating nature.
  5. Art and Music Appreciation: Children are exposed to great works of art and music.
  6. Good Habits: Cultivating positive habits like attention, self-discipline, and kindness is essential.

"We must allow children to have a direct relationship with God, the universe, and humanity through the living books and real-life experiences Charlotte Mason recommended." - Catherine Levison, A Charlotte Mason Education

How to Implement the Charlotte Mason Method

Incorporating the Charlotte Mason method into your homeschool may seem daunting at first, but by following these simple steps, you can create a rich and engaging learning atmosphere for your children:

  1. Choose Living Books: Select high-quality literature, biographies, and non-fiction books that bring subjects to life.
  2. Practice Narration: After reading, have your child retell the story or share what they learned in their own words.
  3. Keep Lessons Short: Aim for short, focused lessons that respect your child's attention span.
  4. Make Time for Nature: Schedule regular nature walks and encourage your child to keep a nature journal.
  5. Incorporate Art and Music: Expose your children to great works of art and music through picture study and composer study.
  6. Focus on Habits: Emphasize the development of positive habits like attention, self-discipline, and kindness.

Remember, the Charlotte Mason method is a gentle approach that allows children to learn at their own pace. As you implement these principles, trust the process and Follow Your Wonder.

Sources

  1. https://simplycharlottemason.com/what-is-the-charlotte-mason-method/
  2. https://www.amazon.com/Charlotte-Mason-Education-Schooling-How/dp/1891400169
  3. https://www.cminst.org/about/about-charlotte-mason