Sometimes, after reading so much goodness out of Charlotte Mason’s 6 volumes, I just want to write about the beauty and simplicity of her decidedly unique and innovative philosophy. You know what I mean? As when the most simple definition that you’ve read a dozen times before suddenly reveals a depth of meaning previously unrealized in your life? That’s what this post is about.
It comes from Volume 6, p. 157 where she is describing the curriculum and who the curriculum is to serve. And if every homeschool parent or teacher were to grapple with this concept, this idea, I think that many people might go about the education of children in a different way.
Mason talks about how a curriculum shouldn’t be written and executed in order to fit only privileged children and their future roles in society (gentlemen). Probably not an issue for most of us these days. If we focus on just the 3 R’s, that would not be affirming their personhood and most likely be too utilitarian. Vocational training? Too narrow. Test prep or latest educational fad? No. Just no.
So who should it be written for? Mason says the following:
Doesn’t every parent hope to give this to their child? If you are curriculum shopping, take this little list with you. You may end up somewhere that you never dreamed of. I know I did.
Warmly,
Nancy
You are very welcome. I'm glad it brought you some peace. Blessing to you to you as you plan for next year.
Fondly,
Nancy
I just wanted to take a minute to thank you…for sharing your thoughts and ideas with this cyber world. I have been reading your blog for a while, but I don't usually comment. This specific post I have saved "as new" in my inbox since you posted…I have read it multiple times and just pondered it slowly. It has been what I needed to hear. This is the time of year that I get geared up for planning my boys next school year (and next year I will add to that a 4th grade class at a CM school- yay!). Reading this post has helped protect my mind, has brought a level of peace to my processing, and I just wanted to say Thank you!!
I'm not sure if it's because of the good news I just heard about my dd or what, but this post brought me to tears. One, you wrote it beautifully, from the heart and secondly, it's true. I'm glad so many years ago I ended up with this dream of a Christ led, wide curriculum which Mason guides us too. And I'm grateful for you Nancy. xo
Yes, that certainly was fantastic news! I didn't mean to make you tear up, friend. Thank you for your sweet comments.
Warmly,
Nancy
That's beautiful, Nancy! I love the way you laid this out…just seems so DOABLE, in a sense, instead of like this HUGE thing. I mean, yeah, it's a responsibility, but with the Holy Spirit's help, it CAN be done, and it is light yoke not so heavy that I make it out to be. 🙂 Bless your week! Amy
Thank you, Amy! You are so right about the Holy Spirit and it not being a heavy yoke!
Warmly,
Nancy