What is Charlotte Mason Education?

What is Charlotte Mason education? Who is Charlotte Mason? She was a teacher living in England during the late nineteenth century. There are so many great things that people love about a Charlotte Mason education.

Achieve success in your kid’s homeschooling with the help of the best homeschool curriculum for children in different year levels.

What is a Charlotte Mason education? Her ideas focused on teaching the whole child which was unique at the time. It has now become a super popular method of homeschooling that is adopted by families all over the world.

Children were taught to work diligently, and good character traits were emphasized. A Charlotte Mason education means using living books, copy work and narration, nature studies, foreign languages, as well as art and music study.

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What is Charlotte Mason’s method of education?

There are so many great features to Charlotte Mason Education. You can easily find out if it’s the right choice for you and your family by checking out the information below.

Living Books

The use of living books brings the subject alive when learning about new ideas while textbooks are not used. Historical fiction would be an example of a living book, a subject is introduced in a story format.

In the elementary years, copywork and oral narration form the basis of language arts, using good literature or the Bible, students learn to write well through imitation. In the mid to late elementary, written narrations are added. Narration can be in the form of pictures or journals, it does not have to be a report.

Nature Studies

Science is taught through nature studies, children should spend large amounts of time outside to observe and sketch what they see. Students are encouraged to keep a nature journal to keep a record of what they’ve observed.

Spending time in nature is a great way to get the kids to love nature as well. If you love the idea of your kids being outside and soaking up the

More Ideas About the Charlotte Mason Homeschool Method

Music study focuses on a composer and his work while art study focuses on an artist and his work. The time is taken to listen and observe, the child narrates what they see or how they feel as they listen or observe the piece of art.

Foreign Language

Students are exposed to a foreign language orally first before they are required to any reading or writing.

Short Lessons

There is an emphasis on short lessons, which allow a short amount to focus on learning which is more productive than longer lessons with children dawdling.

Short lessons are a great way to keep the kids focused and simple. The last thing that you want to do is overcomplicate the homeschooling process. This type of learning is supposed to be carefree and fun – so short lessons can easily help with that.

A Charlotte Mason education is easy to implement, there are various homeschool curricula available that follow Mason’s philosophy. However, it can be as easy as picking living books and practice copy work and narration from it.

Recommended Charlotte Mason Books

Below are just a few of our favorite books about Charlotte Mason education. I’ve found that when it comes to making a decision about homeschooling, I love having a few great books and resources that I can count on.

These books answer questions or give a deeper look into the basic concept of using this learning and teaching method. Don’t forget that there are also great resources at your local library that can be a huge help as well.

I also find that asking friends and family who might be using the method can help ease any worries or struggles.

[Paperback] [Karen Andreola] A Charlotte Mason Companion: Personal Reflections on The Gentle Art of LearningA Charlotte Mason Education: A Home Schooling How-To ManualCharlotte Mason’s Original Homeschooling Series, Vol. 1: Home EducationWhen Children Love to Learn: A Practical Application of Charlotte Mason’s Philosophy for TodayThe Outdoor Life of Children: The Importance of Nature Study and Outside Activities (Charlotte Mason Topics)Modern Miss Mason: Discover How Charlotte Mason’s Revolutionary Ideas on Home Education Can Change How You and Your Children Learn and Grow Together

 

Recommended Charlotte Mason Method Activity Kits

The Charlotte Mason education is a holistic learning approach for your homeschooled kids. These recommended fun and unique activities are just a few samples of this method.

ESSENSON Outdoor Explorer Kit & Bug Catcher Kit with VestStepping Stones Painting Kit for Kids – Outdoor CraftsNATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Mosaic Arts and Crafts Kit for KidsThe Nature Connection: An Outdoor Workbook for Kids, Families, and ClassroomsSmartivity Music Machine; Mechanical Action, Science, Engineering STEM and STEAM Building Kit for KidsBig Life Journal – Second Edition: A Growth Mindset Guided Journal for Children

 

Favorite Charlotte Mason Blogs

You know that I have to give a shout-out to a few great blogs that talk about this learning method! The following are blogs that can help you understand the Charlotte Mason lessons. This can help you decide if this type of learning option is right for you.

7 Characteristics of a Charlotte Mason Education

Explore the seven key characteristics that define a Charlotte Mason education. You’ll gain insights into how this unique philosophy emphasizes the development of the whole child with unique learning activities.

Charlotte Mason Homeschool

Join the enriching world of how Charlotte Mason homeschooling works. You will discover how her educational philosophy emphasizes the importance of holistic learning in kids.

If you’re new to researching all the homeschooling ideas and ways, make certain to check out my What is Waldorf Education? post as well. The more that you can find out about a certain way of learning, the better equipped you’ll be to make the right choice for your family.

Is Charlotte Mason homeschooling right for your child?

The biggest thing to keep in mind when trying to choose a teaching and learning method for you is that you need to figure out the best way for your child to learn. Not all children learn the same way so this is important to know.

Some children are visual learners while others need to have hands-on activity during schooling time. You may also find that what works for one of your children doesn’t always work for them all.

It’s okay to slow down and figure out a plan of action that your kids can easily have a positive experience with. I’ve found that by just asking questions and communicating with them, you’ll reach a positive outcome in a much easier way and fashion.

As long as you’re open and have an open mind when it comes to the best schooling for your children, you can easily find a solution. A solution that is going to work best for them. Don’t stress out too much about it as you’re going to find a plan that will work out for everyone.

This post is a part of my 31-day series – Ultimate List of Homeschooling Questions.

More Homeschooling Tips

Here are a few more homeschooling articles from which you may find some great advice!

• Tricks for Homeschooling the Strong-willed Child
• Homeschool Planner Printables
• Fun Homeschool Holiday Activities You Have to Try
• Amazing Homeschool Gift Ideas
• How to Homeschool with Toddlers in the House by Homeschool Preschool
• How to Keep Records for Homeschool by Homeschool of 1

Embarking on a homeschooling journey using this approach can truly enrich your child’s education experience. Give it a try, and watch as your child’s mind, character, and spirit flourish. Happy homeschooling!