Developed by British educator Charlotte Mason in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, this method focuses on cultivating a love of learning through engaging and meaningful experiences. At its core, the Charlotte Mason Method advocates for “living books” rather than dry textbooks. Living books are well-written, narrative-driven texts that bring subjects to life and spark the imagination. These books are often written by experts passionate about their topics, making the material more relatable and engaging for students. Alongside living books, the method incorporates nature study, encouraging children to spend time outdoors observing and appreciating the natural world, thereby fostering a sense of wonder and scientific curiosity.
Charlotte Mason crafted an educational philosophy that retained many elements reminiscent of classical education. For instance, she believed in utilizing high-quality literature sources rather than simplified, uninspiring texts. Teaching virtue was essential to Mason’s approach, which she incorporated through habit training, and she aimed to instill a love for Christian heritage in children. However, Mason’s method diverged significantly from the traditional model in several key ways. She believed educators should provide children with broad exposure to inspiring and engaging educational books, known as “living books,” instead of relying on dry textbooks. These books, written by passionate authors, bring subjects to life, making learning more enriching and enjoyable.
Mason also emphasized using nature as an essential teacher by incorporating activities like nature walks and field trips. In fact, she played a role in founding Scouts and Girl Guides to highlight the importance of outdoor experiences in education. Additionally, she advocated for short lessons to maintain high levels of attention and engagement during instruction, respecting children’s capacity for concentration without overwhelming them. Instead of traditional tests, Mason suggested non-confrontational assessment methods such as having children narrate back what they have just heard after a parent reads to them. This method encourages active listening, comprehension, and articulation skills without the stress associated with formal testing.
Explore more about the Charlotte Mason Method with our blogs.
By keeping lessons concise and focused, children maintain their attention and retain more information. This approach also leaves ample time for children to explore their interests and develop hobbies.
Art, music, and handicrafts are integral parts of the Charlotte Mason curriculum, aiming to nurture creativity and appreciation for beauty. The method encourages parents to expose their children to classical works of art and music, offering a well-rounded cultural education. Handicrafts, such as knitting, woodworking, or sewing, are included to develop fine motor skills, patience, and a sense of accomplishment from creating something with one’s hands.
Ultimately, the Charlotte Mason Method seeks to educate the whole child, balancing intellectual growth with character development. It fosters an environment where children are inspired to learn, explore, and grow into thoughtful, informed, and compassionate individuals.
Utilizes engaging “living books” that bring subjects to life and make learning enjoyable.
Integrates art, music, and handicrafts into the curriculum, fostering a well-rounded education.
Features short, focused lessons that keep students’ attention and make learning more effective.
Emphasizes moral and ethical development through thoughtful reading and discussion.
Encourages children to take ownership of their learning and develop personal responsibility.
Includes hands-on activities like handicrafts, which build practical skills and perseverance.
Exposes children to classical works of art, literature, and music, enriching their cultural knowledge and appreciation.
Tailor your child’s education to their unique needs and interests. Our flexible resources allow you to customize lessons and activities, ensuring your child’s learning journey is as unique as they are.
