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Does a Charlotte Mason Homeschool Curriculum in a box even exist?
As a homeschooling mom, I’m always on the lookout for engaging and organized educational approaches.
One method that has captured my attention and transformed our homeschooling journey is the Charlotte Mason style of learning.
Developed by the British educator Charlotte Mason, this approach focuses on the holistic development of children, incorporating nature study, living books, foreign languages, and a wide range of subjects.
In a nutshell, Charlotte Mason based learning is using real “living” books instead of textbooks. Keeping education as organic and natural as possible.
I’ll dive into the key elements of the Charlotte Mason method and how it has become a beloved option for many homeschooling families and share my favorite Charlotte Mason “Boxed” curriculums.
Charlotte Mason Homeschool Curriculum in a Box
The Philosophy of Charlotte Mason Education
At the heart of the Charlotte Mason curriculum lies her philosophy of education, which emphasizes the “living education” of the whole person. Mason believed in nourishing a child’s mind, body, and soul through a well-rounded and diverse education.
By immersing children in the beauty of nature, the great works of literature, and various subjects, the Charlotte Mason approach seeks to cultivate a love for learning that extends beyond the confines of traditional academics.
In our homeschool, I always wanted to pull resources from a bunch of different authors so we could have a well-rounded point of view.
I never wanted my kids to learn just from one textbook written by one person. There are so many other opinions to explore.
Nature Study and Foreign Language
Nature study is an integral part of the Charlotte Mason curriculum. By exploring the natural world, children develop a deep appreciation for their environment and learn to observe and connect with the world around them.
Never underestimate the value of children playing and exploring nature.
Additionally, the curriculum encourages the inclusion of foreign language studies, fostering cultural awareness and expanding a child’s linguistic abilities.
Living Books and Language Arts
In the Charlotte Mason method, “living books” take center stage.
These are high-quality books written by authors who have a genuine passion for their subject matter, making the learning experience engaging and immersive.
Language arts, including reading, writing, spelling, and grammar, are integrated seamlessly into the curriculum through the use of living books and narration exercises.
By exposing children to rich literature, their vocabulary, writing skills, and love for reading flourish.
Grade Levels and Curriculum in a Box Options
The Charlotte Mason curriculum can be adapted to suit children of various grade levels.
Whether you have a 2nd grader or an older child, there are resources available to meet their unique educational needs.
Charlotte Mason Homeschool Curriculum in a Box:
A Gentle Feast
A Gentle Feast is a stunning curriculum that is natural and family oriented. It’s divided into history cycles (which I love) and has a grid schedule all laid out for you as a parent.
All of your subjects come out of the history topic being studied. Overall I can’t recommend this curriculum enough. It’s organic learning that is organized for the modern family. They offer a free two-week trial for your family.
My Father’s World
My Father’s World is my top favorite curriculum! You can read a full review of it here.
My full review of My Father’s World curriculum
I love the book choices, easy grid layout, family projects, and history cycles.
I’ve made so many memories using this curriculum in my own family. Just the read-alouds alone are worth it. It’s so organized and very easy to combine multiple ages at once.
Perfect for large families.
Ambleside Online
Ambleside Online is a vast website of curriculum and instruction for all ages and grades using Charlotte Mason’s approach to learning. It has a heavy emphasis on copywork and narration.
It’s parent intensive to organize in my opinion but it does provide a good education. The curriculum is entirely free online for anyone to use. You can also just choose a few subjects to follow.
Queen Homeschool
Sandi Queen from Queen Homeschool Supplies has put together simple workbooks of copywork, nature studies, language arts, and history in an organized way.
Picture studies and read-alouds play a large role in the main curriculum. I love her material for elementary but in my opinion, it may be too light for older kids.
Overall, Charlotte Mason curriculum options provide extensive teacher resources, book lists, and weekly plans, making it easier for homeschooling parents to navigate this educational approach.
The Whole Child and Fine Arts
One of the distinguishing features of Charlotte Mason’s education is its focus on the “whole child.”
Alongside traditional academic subjects, the curriculum incorporates fine arts, such as composer study and picture books, to foster creativity, imagination, and appreciation for beauty.
By exposing children to music, art, and poetry, their understanding of the world is enhanced, and their minds are opened to new possibilities.
Memory Work, Habits, and Morning Time
To develop good habits and reinforce knowledge retention, the Charlotte Mason method encourages memory work.
Through the repetition of nursery rhymes, scripture verses, poetry, and other meaningful passages, children cultivate a strong foundation of knowledge.
Morning time, also known as the morning basket, is a cherished practice in many Charlotte Mason homeschools.
It provides an opportunity for the entire family to come together to enjoy read-alouds, hymns, and discussions, fostering a sense of togetherness and shared learning.
I’ve used morning book baskets for years to help center our homeschool. There’s nothing better than snuggling on the couch with coffee while the kids gather around for bible time.
Incorporating Charlotte Mason with Classical Education
The Charlotte Mason style of education complements the classical education approach.
By combining the rich literature and living books of Charlotte Mason with the rigorous study of classical subjects like Latin, logic, and world history, homeschooling families can create a well-rounded educational experience that encompasses the best of both methods.
The Charlotte Mason curriculum offers a comprehensive and nurturing approach to homeschooling that celebrates the joys of learning and the wonders of the natural world.
By embracing this method, we’ve witnessed our children develop a deep love for reading, a curiosity about the world, and a strong foundation in various subjects.
With its emphasis on living books, nature studies, foreign languages, fine arts, and memory work, the Charlotte Mason curriculum has become a popular and effective option for many homeschooling families seeking a holistic education for their children.
So, if you’re looking for a free homeschool curriculum or exploring different options, consider delving into the world of Charlotte Mason and watch as your child’s love for learning blossoms.
