by Cindy Kelly

Charlotte Mason was a 19th Century teacher and creator of the PNEU schools in England, She was a great advocate for children and dedicated her life to giving children the best learning experience possible. She taught her teachers and parents alike the value of giving children the best materials, primarily living books and real world experience, such as nature study, connection with authors and mentors and exposure to the best in books and ideas. She knew that children were 'born persons' and not just small vessels to be filled with facts or 'to be seen and not heard'. She believed if you give children great ideas and the environment to promote them to think, learn and communicate they will develop a connection with learning and become joyful life long learners.

Her techniques include short lessons, narration, nature study, art and music study and much more. She advocates much free time for the children to take the ideas they have learned of and apply them through play and creativity. She provides the weary homeschool mom a refreshing way to explore the world of learning alongside her children and find joy in learning, laying down the burden of dry books and forced learning.

Charlotte Mason is Christian-based and her methods can be used by all, no matter what curriculum you are currently using. You may choose to continue with your chosen curriculum and use try some or all of her techniques, or you may chose to teach using only living books as she recommends. Some homeschoolers use bits and pieces of CM ideas and others convert their home entirely to Charlotte's recommendations.

We invite you to come and find out more. Homeschooling should not be a burden, but a joy! Come see how the Charlotte Mason method can add joy to your learning home.