On Reading Aloud and A Literature Rich Homeschool
If there’s one thing that can be said about the Charlotte Mason philosophy is that it is literature rich. Often curriculums are packed full with multiple books, reading lists, and schedules (mine included). This is wonderful, a homeschool built around rich literature has a number of benefits.
Reading out loud is necessary during the early years when children are the benefits of it are numerous.
“Children between six and eight must for the most part have their books read to them” (Vol. 3, p. 214).
1. Exposure to Quality Literature
Mason believed that children should be exposed to "living books" rather than dry, factual textbooks. Living books are well-written, engaging, and full of ideas that spark imagination and thought. Reading aloud allows parents and educators to introduce children to these high-quality texts, enriching their minds and hearts.
2. Development of Language Skills
Reading aloud helps children develop their vocabulary, comprehension, and listening skills. Mason emphasized the importance of children hearing beautiful and well-constructed language. This exposure not only enhances their linguistic abilities but also instills an appreciation for the beauty of the written word.
3. Cultivating Attention and Concentration
Mason stressed the value of cultivating good habits, including the habit of attention. Reading aloud to children requires them to listen attentively and concentrate on the story. This practice helps develop their ability to focus and sustain attention, which are essential skills for all areas of learning.
4. Engagement with Ideas
According to Mason, education is about the "science of relations," meaning that children should form connections with a wide array of subjects and ideas. Reading aloud exposes children to diverse themes, cultures, and perspectives, fostering their intellectual and moral development. It encourages them to think critically and engage with the material on a deeper level.
5. Emotional and Moral Growth
Through stories, children encounter various characters, situations, and moral dilemmas. Mason believed that literature has the power to shape character and values. Reading aloud provides opportunities for children to empathize with characters, understand different viewpoints, and reflect on ethical issues, thereby contributing to their emotional and moral growth.
6. Creating a Bond Between Reader and Listener
Mason also recognized the relational aspect of reading aloud. It is a shared experience that strengthens the bond between the reader and the listener. This emotional connection makes the learning experience more enjoyable and memorable for children.
7. Encouraging Independent Reading
Finally, Mason advocated for reading aloud as a way to inspire children to read independently. When children develop a love for stories and literature through read-aloud sessions, they are more likely to seek out books on their own. This intrinsic motivation is key to lifelong learning and literacy.
There is an essential part of a literature rich education that is missing, especially in the early years. Having eyes on the page. Literature rich education works best when each reader is able to have their eyes on the text. By having a copy of the book, a child is able to start to make connections between the auditory story and written word on the text.
One area of challenge with a literature rich education is that it often falls on the mother-teacher to be responsible for reading out loud. This is a habit that becomes trained in the homeschool culture and often extends beyond what Mason would have recommended.
“A child has not begun his education until he has acquired the habit of reading to himself, with interest and pleasure, books fully on a level with his intelligence.” “Once the habit of reading his lesson-books with delight is set up in a child, his education is–not complete–but ensured” (Vol. 1, p 229).
How to Accomplish This:
-Give each child a copy of the book: If you’re able, purchase two copies of the book for your child who is currently reading or a fluent reader. Another option is to download a free version or kindle copy to use on a tablet for you to read while your child has the book in their hands.
-Share the book in-between you: If space or money limits you from purchasing two copies of each book consider sharing the book in-between you. Have your child sit next to you and track in the text while you read to them.
-Make a reading wand: A simple stick or popsicle stick with beads glued on can help your children track the words on the page.
These options are building your child up to reading independently so they’re able to take on reading for themselves around the ages of 9 or 10. At this point, reading aloud becomes a treat rather than the bulk of your child’s education.
“It is a delight to older people to read aloud to children, but this should be only an occasional treat and indulgence, allowed before bedtime, for example” (Vol. 1, p 228).
In essence, Charlotte Mason viewed reading aloud as an integral part of a child's education. It is not merely an activity to pass the time, but a deliberate and thoughtful practice that contributes to the holistic development of the child—intellectually, emotionally, and morally. By reading aloud to children, we open doors to rich worlds of ideas and nurture their growth in profound and lasting ways.
But we must attempt to have our children put their eyes on the page.
