This response to Janet's take-away question began as a "comment," and after I realized how long it was, I thought I would just post it -
I came away from Saturday morning thankful to have "connected" with a not-so-distant member of the CM family, one challenging us to continue the conversation which began years and years ago -
As I reviewed my less than conclusive notes when I returned home, I was further encouraged to read the article in consideration (The Home School by Charlotte Mason) which causes me to now walk with thanks and a deeper understanding of the following four thoughts:
- Once we're in a learning groove, we stop questioning what is good/bad, worthy/unworthy, education/ not education, food/not food. dangerous place. God, show us the way so we can walk in it.
- Bible teaching is perhaps the most valuable instrument of education. Susan asked me on our way home from the meeting what that looks like in my day. "We read scripture at breakfast, and . ? ." was my reply. She had me searching for what else Mason said about it (nice detail in the article, also greater depth found in Home Education Volume 1, pgs.247-253.) very encouraging.
- 5 of the 13 waking hours should be given to a child as their own, 3 of those outside. My students in public school. grade 6. felt this need for time, space, and nature as it would completely make their day when given an "extra recess." you know, the whole 20 minutes of extra. truly.
- Ambleside Online's Nature Study Schedule has a much more laid back take on hours spent outside: So good reading the varieties of "ways of being," then deciding what is in us to do. I am certain Charlotte Mason is not set to induce guilt but challenge us to live a life closer to nature: more hands-off. - or is that more hands-on? Hmm. Whose hands?
- Finally, Nancy's 4 kinds of "paradigm glue" hit all kinds of nerves in me. So, in conclusion, I will share.
- be a part of a Charlotte Mason community (attending regular support meetings if possible.)
- read Charlotte Mason's original works (there is no substitute)
- admiration, hope, and love (could spur a potentially unending conversation)
- use the internet sparingly . . . and with that, I say, "goodnight."
Peace to you as you thank God for His beauty in your day and ask Him to lead you, your family, and your dreams for this day, this month, this year.
