A Mother’s Education: Summer
I can’t believe it is time for a new season of A Mother’s Education. This season we’ll be spending time pursuing the elements of a Charlotte Mason philosophy in our own lives through:
Living Books: Instead of relying solely on dry, factual textbooks, AME provides a meaningful list of "living books" – well-written, engaging literature that brings subjects to life.
Nature Walks: Mason advocated for regular time spent in nature. AME incorporates nature walks into her weekly routine, using this time not only to teach her children about the world around them but also to find peace and inspiration for herself.
Narration: A key technique in Mason’s method is narration, where children recount what they have learned in their own words. AME mothers practice narration themselves, either through journaling or discussing new insights with their family, which reinforces their understanding and retention of the material.
Notebooking: Through note booking, we will be able to enjoy aspects of a Charlotte Mason education that can sometimes feel out of reach or difficult to implement with our own children.
Handicrafts: This aspect of AME allows mothers to have permission to pursue their own interests and learn more with their hands.
Community: Engaging with a community of like-minded mothers who are also following the Charlotte Mason philosophy has been so important for AME. These interactions provide support, encouragement, and the exchange of ideas, further enhancing her educational journey.
It is a firm belief of mine that a mother’s education is not just beneficial for my own growth but significantly impacts my children. As I learn and grow, I models a love for learning, intellectual curiosity, and resilience. My children see me not only as a teacher but as a fellow student, exploring the world with wonder and enthusiasm.
Moreover, this approach has fostered a deeper connection within the family. Learning together creates shared experiences and memories, enriching the family’s collective knowledge and bonding them closer.
My time spent with the Charlotte Mason philosophy reminds me that education is not a destination but a lifelong journey. By embracing this holistic, enriching approach, mothers can cultivate their own minds and spirits, ultimately creating a more vibrant and intellectually stimulating environment for their children.
So, dear mothers, let’s immerse ourselves in the joy of learning, explore new horizons, and embrace the Charlotte Mason philosophy not just for our children’s sake, but for our own. After all, education is indeed an atmosphere, a discipline, and a life – for every member of the family.
After all Charlotte gave us permission herself.
“If mothers could learn to do for themselves what they do for their children when these are overdone, we should have happier households. Let the mother go out to play!”
