Charlotte Mason, known as the founder of the homeschooling movement, wanted all children to develop a love for lifelong learning. As a child she was homeschooled by her parents in England. She made education her life's work after being orphaned at sixteen years of age. As an adult she wrote a six-volume set titled Home Education. She opened many schools for children throughout England and worked with homeschool families through correspondence.
The Mason method incorporates all core subjects, with a strong focal point on the humanities-classic literature, noble poetry, fine arts, crafts, and classical music. Charlotte Mason used the best books, the best music, and the best art possible. A variety of classical literature books are used--she called them "living books". Living books are books of high quality that often include stories of real-life characters a child can easily connect with. Mason spoke highly of the importance of poetry, the enforcing of good habits, the importance of nature diaries and the value of dictation and spelling. She believed that the development of good character and good habits was essential. As the parent models these integral traits and makes use of all teachable moments, the child will develop completely. This method is supports the child's own learning style and abilities.
The structured academic lessons are short and interesting, and last for about an hour a day. When lessons are complete, the child goes out into nature to draw what he observes in what Mason called a "nature diary". By interacting with nature, the child gains a sense of respect for the environment around him. Since the Mason method involves developing a passionate awareness of literature, the young child is read to daily. After reading short excerpts from living books, the child is asked to narrate or tell the adult what they have learned, giving back the information that was just read to them. Narration is casual and natural. It begins as early as age six and by age ten the child is expected be able to write her narrations in her nature notebooks. Narration puts the emphasis on what the child knows, not on what she might have missed. As soon as the child can rename or recite it, she observably knows it. After lessons are complete, the child is given the free time to pursue any and all interests.
This method was developed by a homeschooled student specifically for homeschool students. There is no curriculum to buy; books are available at the public library. It can be used on its own, or it can be used as a supplement to other educational methods.
- Narration - An explanation to a key component to the Mason method by Catherine Levison.
- Homeschool.Com - A brief description of the Mason method with FAQ's, resources and recommendation
- Charlotte Mason Study Guide- Introduces you to the educational approach developed by Charlotte Mason with books for purchase.
- Introducing Charlotte Mason - FAQ's about Charlotte Mason and her approach.
- Charlotte Mason Research and Supply Company - A website containing information, books and supplies for the Charlotte Mason method by Dave & Karen Andreola.
- Living Books List - A large list with classical Christian books.
- A Charlotte Mason Education - A brief introduction and overview of Charlotte Mason and her method, along with some quotes.
- Charlotte Mason High School Study Guide - Study notes written from a group's discussion of High School the CM Way. Along with schedules and some useful links for High School in general.
- The Charlotte Mason Approach to Poetry - Answers to the question, What is the Charlotte Mason approach to the study of poetry?
- A Charlotte Mason Education - A wealth of information that includes articles, newsletters and periodicals, resources, training and school lists.