The Charlotte Mason Teaching Method

The Charlotte Mason Teaching Method Overview

The Charlotte Mason teaching method is based on the experiences philosophies and detailed written works of a late 1800's educator, Charlotte Mason. Mrs. Mason had a strong faith in Christ and a passion and adoration for children.

A central theme of the Charlotte Mason philosophy is all children deserve respect and learn best through real-life experience. This is not unlike the philosophies found in Unschooling, Montessori, and Waldorf

A major part of implementing this particular method is to avoid "twaddle books;" in other words, to avoid literature that is "dumbed down," disengaging and lacking complex vocabulary and sentence structure. To the contrary, Charlotte Mason followers advocate "living books" or literature which is well written, engaging and capable of drawing the reader into an imaginary world.

In this way, regarding the use of quality literature, the Charlotte Mason method closely resembles the Classical Approach to teaching.

The Charlotte Mason Method covers many topics of learning and encourages good study and work habits. Teachers focus on helping the children absorb and retain the information through repetition, practice, writing and journals (Nature Diary). They use the Nature Diary to record their personal experiences and encounters outdoors, such as bird and flower sketches. Children also make handmade books.

Another characteristic of the Charlotte Mason Method is the narrative discussions, where children recite back what they have read to their parents. Narration is practiced and repeated throughout the education of the children, and takes the place of tests and quizzes. In all circumstances, parents place emphasis on what the children know, rather than what is not known.

In addition, parents actively engage children, adapt length of lessons, include dictation and spelling, and incorporate the fine arts. The afternoons are usually a time of play, creation and discovery in and outdoors.

Mason's Method Organized into Four Steps

Penny Gardner's Website

Another informational website

Charlotte Mason Research and Supply

For For the Children's Sake by Susan Schaeffer Macaulay


A Charlotte Mason Education by Catherine Levison


The Catherine Levinson's Website

Here is a book I read in March of 2009 I would highly recommend: Charlotte Mason Companionby Karen Andreola

Heart of Wisdom

Queen Homeschool

Winter Promise

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