I was reminded of another difference between Charlotte Mason and another popular teaching method. I was chatting with a group of friends about our community, Truth, Beauty, Goodness – a co-op of sorts, but one modeled on the Mason model as found in her works. I was telling them that when people come to observe our group (which we love!), they don’t get to just observe or take notes or record what they are seeing. They get to participate in this way of life and learning. They get to sit with us, look at art with us, sing with us, narrate with us, paint with us, listen with us, eat with us, observe with us, be still with us…
My friends mentioned that in this other method, if you wish to observe, you actually have to sit to the side in a chair and be “invisible”. What does this teach the children? Would this fit in with “education is a life”? The following quote is one of my favorites from Miss Mason and it sums up why we do things this way.
A student teacher arrived at Ambleside and was asked for what reason she had come. She replied, “I have come to learn to teach.” Then Miss Mason said, “My dear, you have come here to learn to live.” (The Story of Charlotte Mason, p. 69)
From joy to joy,
Nancy
Lovely post and beautiful pictures. I would so enjoy visiting your group! Thank you for sharing.
~Allison
lovely. 🙂
Oh how I wished my family lived closer so we could take part in "living" with Truth, Beauty, Goodness. I am praying that I will find a similar "co-op of sorts" near us… or I guess I will be starting one! 🙂
You would do such a great job, Karen! Keep that idea alive!
From joy to joy,
Nancy
It thrills my heart to remember these moments of living in our community. It is very wonderful! Sally
Mine too, Sally. Thank you for being a part of it!
From joy to joy,
Nancy
It sure doesn't feel like school when you are living. I love the knitting pictures! Pamela has almost got the garter stitch and it is such joy to watch her knit!
I know you understand exactly what I'm saying here, Tammy!
From joy to joy,
Nancy
Oh Nancy, this looks like such a wonderful place to be! The boys and I still talk about coming down to "do school" (do life??!) with you for a day. Some day….Happy Spring!
Spring blessings to you, too, Tina! Yes, I do hope you and the boys can participate with us someday, preferably not during another snowstorm!
From joy to joy,
Nancy