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How do I help my older students develop their composition abilities if they've not been narrating from the beginning? How can I keep up with all the many narrations my children need to tell and write each day? How do I know that they're getting the facts right in their narrations? We're addressing these questions and more as we wrap up our Composition series on the podcast today. Charlotte Mason, Volume 6 (Amazon) (Living Book Press - use code DELECTABLE for 10% off!) ADE Vol 6, Chapt 10 Reading List ADE Composition Planner ADE Exam Planner ADE Teacher Resource: A Point or Two of Correction and Critique ADE on YouTube
Editor's Note, by Art Middlekauff Agnes Drury (1874–1958) was “brought up … on lines very similar to those advised by Charlotte Mason.” We are told this about her mother: She loved flowers and out-of-door things; she was skilful with her hands, teaching the children to bind their books and encouraging a sense of colour which … The post The Value of Handicrafts in Education first appeared on Charlotte Mason Poetry.
Tessa Carman joins Davis Carman for a discussion on all things Charlotte Mason.
Finally, in the highest forms, grades 10 through 12, Charlotte Mason allowed that students do need some definite instruction in Composition. We'll be sharing what this looks like on the podcast today. Charlotte Mason, Volume 6 (Amazon) (Living Book Press - use code DELECTABLE for 10% off!) ADE Vol 6, Chapt 10 Reading List ADE Composition Planner ADE on YouTube
On today's episode of The New Mason Jar Podcast, Cindy and Dawn welcome Emily Raible back to the podcast, this time to share her own self-education journey as part of our Morning Time for Moms series How Emily first found out about Charlotte Mason and her principles Emily's education as a child and books she remembers loving once she found her way to enjoy reading When did Emily realize the importance of continuing her own education, even after her formal schooling had come to an end? What sorts of gifts and talents does Emily seek to cultivate? What is the value of reading slowly? What are Emily's possible future plans for her education? Be sure to check out all the show notes for this episode on our website at https://thenewmasonjar.com/134.
Editor's Note, by Art Middlekauff When H. W. Household first introduced the Charlotte Mason method to the schools of Gloucestershire, he began with five schools in 1917. Miss F. M. Clark was a teacher at one of those schools. She spoke briefly about her experiences at a teacher conference in 1920, and her words may … The post Some Difficulties Overcome first appeared on Charlotte Mason Poetry.
Let’s Chat About The Winter Homeschool Slump It’s the winter homeschool slump. The holidays are long gone, spring still feels impossibly far away, and you’ve repeated your weekly homeschool routine approximately 25 times since September. You’ve done an estimated 125 loads of laundry. And somewhere in the middle of all of it — you stopped factoring yourself in. In this episode, Teresa gets honest about what this season actually costs homeschool mamas — emotionally, physically, and practically. She talks about Seasonal Affective Disorder, the winter blues, the boredom few admit to, and the unrealistic expectations that make the slump hit harder than it needs to. She also brings in the voices of real homeschool mamas sharing what actually helps them get through February — from mud walks and maple sugaring to chocolate stores, kitchen cooking lessons, and Perler beads. And she introduces the free Homeschool Mama Mini-Retreat — a self-paced guided space to pause, breathe, and remember who you are beyond the role you play every day. Whether you’re listening before or after the episode — this one is for the mama who’s doing everything for everyone else and quietly wondering when someone is going to show up for her. What This Episode Is About: Key Takeaways • The winter homeschool slump is real — and it has a season. January through March is genuinely hard for many, and struggling doesn’t mean you’re failing. • Seasonal Affective Disorder and winter blues are clinically real and common during the winter homeschool slump. Low light, low energy, and low motivation are not personal weaknesses. • Since September you’ve repeated your weekly routine 25 times and done approximately 125 loads of laundry. The math explains the depletion. • Most homeschool overwhelm isn’t about curriculum — it’s about expectations that were never realistic to begin with. • You almost never factored yourself into your original vision for homeschooling. That’s worth sitting with. • Charlotte Mason taught that atmosphere is one of the chief instruments of education. You are the atmosphere. Taking care of yourself is part of the lesson plan. • The retreat Teresa created was born in March 2020 — because even devoted, experienced homeschool mamas need somewhere to land. • You don’t need a 47-step self-care overhaul. You need one small, doable thing that actually fits your life. Questions to Sit With Teresa paused during this episode and asked these questions directly. If you haven’t answered them yet — here’s your space. What were your expectations when you first began homeschooling? What surprised you about the reality of it? Or what part of homeschool life makes you question yourself the most? When did you last ask yourself what you actually need? If nothing changes — what stays the same? From the Confident Homeschool Mom Community Real homeschool mamas shared what actually gets them through the winter homeschool slump. Teresa read these in the episode — here they are to keep. On getting outside and leaning into the season: “We try to get outdoors as much as possible, even when it means being covered head to toe in rainy, cold mud. This time of year is great for witnessing lamb births, ice skating, husky races, snow shoeing, maple sugaring. Good time to visit science museums and do more tangible things with our hands. And last but not least — chocolate. That’s what February is for.“ On letting the kitchen be the classroom: “Just stop. Play educational games. Get to planning, preparing, cooking, and serving a nutritional meal. Learn how to set a proper table. Every subject is addressed in the kitchen. Dramatic reading out loud — that can dissolve into laughter and build confidence at the same time.“ On mixing things up: Schedule indoor field trips as often as possible. Learn a new subject — we’re currently learning about Black women in history. Cuddle with a warm blanket and read books aloud. Take on a new project — coding tutorials, Perler beads. Bond: play board games, have a dance party, cook together. From Colleen — who is the one being homeschooled: I can definitely relate to February slump month — except I am on the other end of the spectrum. I am the one being homeschooled, and I would not change it for the world. What Mamas Are Saying About the Retreat “I told you at our first session that I was looking for hope — and the tools in this retreat gave me exactly that. I hope all of your retreats bear fruit into deflated women like me, changing their defeat into delight again.” — Cheri, Homeschool Mom of 4 “Teresa is the real deal. Her ability to hold space for difficult feelings makes her no-small-talk approach so effective. I trust her completely.” — Carrie, Homeschool Mom of 2 “Teresa is a gift. I am so blown away by the care she takes to really get to know who she’s talking with. It’s so rare these days.” — Brynn, Homeschool Mom of 3 Free Homeschool Mama Mini-Retreat If this episode stirred something in you — this is your next step. The Homeschool Mama Mini-Retreat is a free, self-paced guided experience built for exactly this moment. Five short audio modules. A journal. One simple, doable plan — just for you. Step 1 — Sign up. One click. Instant access. No strings. Step 2 — Show up for yourself. Move through five short audio modules at your own pace. Step 3 — Leave with a real plan. Not an overhaul. One small thing that fits your life. Get instant free access. GRAB THE FREE MINI-RETREAT HERE If You’re Experiencing the Winter Homeschool Slump, Are You Ready to Go Deeper? The retreat is the beginning. Coaching is where the transformation becomes your new normal. If you finish the retreat and find yourself wanting real support — not just a moment of clarity, but sustained change — Teresa would love to walk alongside you. She works with homeschool mamas who are overwhelmed, burnt out, and quietly wondering if they’re enough. She’s been exactly where you are. And she knows the way through. Book a conversation with Teresa Book a conversation with Teresa More Resources on Homeschool Mama Retreats If this episode resonated, you'll find these posts by Teresa helpful as you explore what a homeschool mama retreat can look like for you. Each one goes deeper on rest, renewal, and showing up on purpose — especially during the winter homeschool slump. Join the Homeschool Mama Retreat: Refresh, Renew, and Reimagine Feeling like your homeschool needs a reset? This post walks you through what it really means to refresh your vision, renew your energy, and reimagine the homeschool life you actually want to be living — a great first stop if you're not sure what you need, only that you need something. How to Show Up Better in Your Homeschool with a Retreat The way you show up in your homeschool is directly connected to how well you're caring for yourself. This post explores the practical link between taking a retreat and becoming more present, patient, and purposeful with your kids — without overhauling your entire life. A Clarifying, Energizing (& Free) Homeschool Mini-Retreat for You! Yes, it's free. Yes, it's self-paced. And yes, it's genuinely clarifying. This post introduces the Mini-Retreat and explains what you'll get from it — not in a salesy way, but in a “here's what shifted for the mamas who took it” way. 5 Popular Retreats for Homeschool Moms: Renewal and Rest Not sure what kind of retreat is right for you? This post rounds up five of the most popular retreat options for homeschool moms — from virtual to in-person, solo to group — so you can find the one that fits your season, your budget, and your energy right now. An Energizing Homeschool Mom Retreat for Your Heart Sometimes the depletion isn't about your schedule or your curriculum. It's about your heart. This post speaks to the mama who has been giving from an empty place — and offers a gentle, honest path toward feeling like herself again. The Most Useful Guide to a Virtual Homeschool Mom Retreat You don't have to go anywhere. This comprehensive guide breaks down exactly how a virtual homeschool mom retreat works, what to expect, how to prepare, and how to make the most of it — even from your kitchen table while the kids are napping. Share This Episode Know a homeschool mom who needs to hear this? Send her this episode. Facebook Instagram Pinterest Linkedin YouTube Latest episodes you might also enjoy: “You’re Not Falling Apart. You’re in the Winter Homeschool Slump.” March 10, 2026 The Lies Homeschool Moms Believe That Makes Everything Harder March 2, 2026 You’re Not Failing. You’re Caught In An Inner Critic Loop. Here’s How to Get Out February 24, 2026 How to Stop People-Pleasing as a Homeschool Mom (One Mom’s Story) February 17, 2026 How to Stop the Inner Critic as a Homeschool Mom: The Charmed Life I Was Chasing (& the Pattern I Didn’t Know I Was Living) February 10, 2026 The Most Important Way to Take Care of Yourself as an Overwhelmed Homeschool Mom February 2, 2026 How to Do Kindergarten in Your Homeschool: A Fun & Effective Guide January 29, 2026 The Real Reason You’re Overwhelmed (It’s Not the Curriculum) January 26, 2026 Unexpected Feelings When Your Homeschooler Gets Accepted to University January 22, 2026 How to Stop Being a Hostage to Homeschool Pressure (& What to Do Instead) January 19, 2026 The Truth About Finding Your Homeschool Rhythm January 13, 2026 The Confident Homeschool Mom Podcast: Introducing the 1% Pivot January 6, 2026 Purpose-Driven Homeschool Planning for 2026: How to Recalibrate the Year with Clarity December 23, 2025 1% Shift to a Calm Homeschool Life December 23, 2025 12 Things I've Learned About Homeschool Moms: Self-Care Tips for Overwhelmed Homeschool Moms December 10, 2025 12-Day Homeschool Mom Self-Care Challenge to Come Back to Yourself December 2, 2025 What is the Reimagine Your Homeschool Group Coaching? November 18, 2025 Not Just a Homeschool Mom — Why You’re Disappearing (And How to Come Back) November 11, 2025 Teaching World War to a Homeschooled Eight Year Old November 10, 2025 Reimagine Your Homeschool: Feel Free, Inspire Curiosity and Do What Works November 5, 2025 the role of imagination in a home education November 4, 2025 Helping Our Kids Live Their Lives on Purpose: A Practical Guide for Homeschool Moms October 28, 2025 How to Set Realistic High School Expectations? Learn Human Development October 20, 2025 How to Build Homeschool Routines that Support YOU October 14, 2025 Why Deschooling? To Feel Confident, Certain & Good Enough October 7, 2025 The Ultimate Guide to Building Boundaries and Healthy Relationships for Homeschool Moms September 23, 2025 Ultimate Homeschool Overwhelm Quiz That Reveals Your Hidden Stress Triggers in 5 Minutes September 15, 2025 Start Homeschooling in British Columbia: How to Decide September 9, 2025 How to Create an Effective Homeschool Routine that Works for You September 2, 2025 Interest-Led Homeschool for Confident Moms: An Enneagram 8 Mom's Story of Growth August 28, 2025 How Do I Unschool My Child? 5 Simple Steps to Spark Natural Learning August 19, 2025 9 Mistakes That Make Your 1st Homeschool Year Stressful (& How to Avoid Them) August 13, 2025 Top Tips for New Homeschool Moms in Season 3 August 11, 2025 5 Challenges Working Homeschool Moms Face—And How to Overcome Them August 5, 2025 How to Manage Overstimulation as a Homeschool Mom July 30, 2025 Reclaim You: Rediscover Life Beyond the Homeschool Mom Role July 22, 2025 A Summer Reset for Homeschool Moms: The Secret to a More Peaceful Year Ahead July 15, 2025 How to Help Reluctant Writers: Julie Bogart on Homeschool Writing July 7, 2025 7 Ways Brené Rescued Me from One of those Homeschool Days June 30, 2025 Morning Affirmations for Homeschool Mama: A Simple Practice for You to Parent with Intention June 24, 2025 5 Overlooked Mistakes That Are Stressing You Out as a Homeschool Mom (& How to Fix Them) June 18, 2025 The Soul School Way: Books as Mirrors, Windows, and Voices for Homeschool Families June 3, 2025 Sibling Bickering in Homeschool Families: What's Normal & How to Handle It May 27, 2025 Homeschool Mom Boundaries: 6 Truths That Will Set You Free May 20, 2025 How the Mother Wound Affects Homeschool Moms—and How to Break Free May 12, 2025 Homeschool Mom Boundary Issues? You’re Not Doing This… May 6, 2025 How to Deschool as a Homeschool Mom and Rediscover Your Identity April 30, 2025 How my story of deschooling brought more freedom & purpose April 22, 2025 How to Know if Deschooling is Right for You: 7 Signs you Need to Deschool April 13, 2025 Why Do You Want to Deschool? Understanding Why it Matters April 11, 2025 Subscribe to the Homeschool Mama Self-Care podcast YouTube Apple Audible Spotify (function(m,a,i,l,e,r){ m['MailerLiteObject']=e;function f(){ var c={ a:arguments,q:[]};var r=this.push(c);return "number"!=typeof r?r:f.bind(c.q);} f.q=f.q||[];m[e]=m[e]||f.bind(f.q);m[e].q=m[e].q||f.q;r=a.createElement(i); var _=a.getElementsByTagName(i)[0];r.async=1;r.src=l+'?v'+(~~(new Date().getTime()/1000000)); _.parentNode.insertBefore(r,_);})(window, document, 'script', 'https://static.mailerlite.com/js/universal.js', 'ml'); var ml_account = ml('accounts', '1815912', 'p9n9c0c7s5', 'load');
Poem IX from Charlotte Mason's The Saviour of the World Volume I Book I.
As our children move into middle and high school, we can ask them to write in various styles and genres. Join us on today's podcast to learn what we can do as teachers to support them in their composition lessons while not diminishing their unique voices. Charlotte Mason, Volume 6 (Amazon) (Living Book Press - use code DELECTABLE for 10% off!) ADE Vol 6, Chapt 10 Reading List ADE Poetry Scansion Lessons ADE Poetry Scansion Additional Exercises ADE Composition Planner ADE Exam Planner ADE on YouTube
Sonya sits down with Katie Thacker to share the story behind the new curriculum from Simply Charlotte Mason. The Story Behind Simply Charlotte Mason's New Curriculum originally appeared on Simply Charlotte Mason.
Sonya sits down with Katie Thacker to share the story behind the new curriculum from Simply Charlotte Mason. The Story Behind Simply Charlotte Mason's New Curriculum originally appeared on Simply Charlotte Mason.
Poem VIII from Charlotte Mason's The Saviour of the World Volume I Book I, with the corresponding Scripture reading.
Why don't children love to learn anymore? Is it because of the subject matter or the WAY we are teaching?
How do we help our children learn to write down their thoughts? What should we expect as our students transition from oral to written narration? Join us today on the podcast as we look at composition in Form 2, grades 4 through 6. Charlotte Mason, Volume 6 (Amazon) (Living Book Press - use code DELECTABLE for 10% off!) ADE Vol 6, Chapt 10 Reading List Composition Planner ADE on YouTube
This week on The Literary Life podcast, we are excited to bring back a special episode from the vault: The Literary Life of Charlotte Mason! Along with Angelina, Thomas, and Cindy, we also have Donna-Jean Breckenridge and Karen Glass of the AmblesideOnline Advisory. They start the conversation by sharing who Charlotte Mason was and what her background was. Karen also talks about how and why Mason developed her practices and philosophy and her educational foundation, the PNEU. Donna-Jean mentions the interesting ephemera belonging to Charlotte Mason housed at the Armitt Museum in Ambleside. Finally, the talk turns to how widely Miss Mason read and how important books were to her throughout her whole life. You can check out all the latest offerings of mini-classes and webinars, both upcoming and recorded in the past, at HouseofHumaneLetters.com. Registration is also opening on a rolling basis for Year-Long Classes over the next several weeks, so pop over there now to see what is coming up! Find the full show notes for this episode at https://theliterary.life/317 for all the book links, poem, and commonplace quotes!
Poem VII from Charlotte Mason's “The Saviour of the World” Volume I Book I, with the corresponding Scripture reading.
Charlotte Mason called narration an art, something that is inherent in every person that needs not to be taught. But how can we help our child develop and hone their abilities to tell? We'll be discussing this in today's podcast as we look at composition in Form 1, grades 1 through 3. Charlotte Mason, Volume 6 (Amazon) (Living Book Press - use code DELECTABLE for 10% off!) ADE Vol 6, Chapt 10 Reading List ADE on YouTube
Introduction: "Pain has a way of interrupting purpose. And when pain lasts long enough, survival replaces growth." This devastating reality defines most of the systems we've built—medical, educational, even in the church. We've become really good at helping people survive, but we've stopped dreaming about helping them flourish. Today we're exploring the difference between empire dreams (optimizing within broken systems) and kingdom dreams (believing God has designed something better than we can imagine). You're in the right place if: You've settled into helping your kids just cope with life when deep down you wonder if there's supposed to be more than surviving You keep asking "what's wrong with my kid?" instead of "what's wrong with how my kid is experiencing childhood?" You've been told "this is as good as it gets" and you've started to believe it You're tired of building better coping mechanisms when what you really want is healing and wholeness Imagine a car manufacturer where 60% of vehicles break down. Instead of redesigning the car, they just get better at repairs. No factory would do this—but this is exactly what we're doing with our children. Sixty percent of kids struggle with mental health issues, yet we're building better coping mechanisms instead of asking what's breaking them. Three False Traditions: The Medical System - Dr. Ben Edwards discovered that much of our medical system is built on theories proven false, with exaggerated pharmaceutical claims and almost no advice about nutrition, peace, movement, and hydration. The false tradition: "Manage your symptoms with medication." The kingdom dream: "What if your body was designed to heal?" The Neuroscience System - Dr. Lee Warren (Episode #170) says the idea that you're stuck with the brain you have is just a theory—and it's not true. Neuroplasticity proves that when you take every thought captive, you literally build a different brain: new neural pathways, different hormones, new cells. The kingdom dream: "Transformation by renewing your mind is literal biology." The Education System - Janet shares her journey from traditional education (modifications and accommodations) to Charlotte Mason's philosophy at Ambleside School. Same children, radically different results—they flourished. The kingdom dream: "What if children are designed for transformation, not transaction?" Empire Dreams vs. Kingdom Dreams: Empire dreams optimize within broken systems—outcome-driven, asking "How do I acquire power in the current system?" They focus on treatment and management. Dreams have a ceiling. Kingdom dreams pursue transformation itself—trust-driven, asking "What if God has designed something better than I can imagine?" They focus on prevention, restoration, and flourishing. Dreams are supernatural. Key Takeaways: What am I dreaming about? Am I optimizing within the current system, or dreaming about transformation? Get honest about whether your dreams have a ceiling or are kingdom-sized. What false traditions have I accepted? Where have I settled for "this is as good as it gets"? Name one area where you've stopped asking questions and started just coping. What would I dream if I believed God could give me a bigger thought than I could have by myself? What if the pain isn't chronic? What if healing is possible? Ask God to give you His dream. Where do I see the 60% problem in my world? Where are systems producing broken results, but we keep building the same way? This week, ask God one kingdom question about something you've accepted as unchangeable. Listen, write down what He shows you, and share it with one trusted person. Remember: When pain disrupts purpose and survival replaces growth, we need dreams bigger than coping mechanisms. We need kingdom dreams. God is already dreaming them—we just need to ask Him what He sees. Resources Mentioned: Education by Design, Not Default by Janet Newberry: https://a.co/d/aGuYDfx Substack article "D is for Dreams, Not False Traditions": https://open.substack.com/pub/janetnewberry/p/d-is-for-dreams-not-false-traditions You're The Cure podcast with Dr. Ben Edwards: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/youre-the-cure-w-dr-ben-edwards/id1266700954 Dr. Lee Warren: https://wleewarrenmd.com/ Join the Conversation: Register for our monthly AMA (Ask Me Anything) on the first Thursday night of each month by visiting john15academy.com/services Together, there is great hope.
Editor's Note, by Art Middlekauff Today we continue our Helen Wix series. Last week we saw that Miss Wix was widely recognized for her ability to teach the Charlotte Mason method to professional teachers. This was no easy task, as Wix herself pointed out in a 1927 letter: Indeed, the training of a [university] graduate … The post Education Is a Life first appeared on Charlotte Mason Poetry.
Did you know Charlotte Mason believed that composition didn't need to be taught? In fact, she thought we would diminish children's natural gifts by too much instruction in this subject. Join us on today's podcast to learn more. Charlotte Mason, Volume 6 (Amazon) (Living Book Press - use code DELECTABLE for 10% off!) ADE Vol 6, Chapt 10 Reading List Episode 8: Narration 2.0, the Act of Knowing Episode 9: Narration Q&A 2.0 Episode 159: Composition Instruction Episode 237: Writing Grammar and Composition ADE on YouTube
Welcome to a brand new season of Homeschool Better Together—and a new voice behind the mic! I'm your new host, Laney Homan, and today I'm joined by our HBT community manager (and Charlotte Mason wisdom guru), Dawn Garrett, for a conversation that's near and dear to both our hearts: Community-Based Learning.Truth be told, I've never been much for formal, lockstep co-ops (raise your hand if you're allergic to group projects with rigid requirements and committee meetings that last for-e-ver
Editor's Note, by Art Middlekauff One of the most dramatic chapters in the story of Charlotte Mason's life is the adoption of her methods by a large number of state schools. The logistical challenge alone must have been staggering. Imagine trying to convince hundreds of teachers to teach in a new way and then finding … The post A Few Roots first appeared on Charlotte Mason Poetry.
Poem V from Charlotte Mason's “The Saviour of the World” Vol I Book I.
As we close our series on citizenship, we hope you'll join us on today's podcast for a discussion of practical questions we often hear. Charlotte Mason, Volume 6 (Amazon) (Living Book Press - use code DELECTABLE for 10% off!) ADE Vol 6, Chapt 10 Reading List ADE on YouTube
Healthy habits are one of the greatest gifts we can give our children because habits quietly shape what they love and who they become. In this episode, Davies Owens is joined by Jeff Hendricks, headmaster at Providence Christian School of Texas, for a practical conversation about how formation happens through repeated, everyday actions.Jeff defines a habit as a repeated action that becomes instinctive. It begins with conscious effort, but over time it becomes automatic, like driving a car. That matters because the virtues we hope to see in adulthood, generosity, courage, hospitality, do not appear overnight. They are built through small faithful practices.A key theme throughout the conversation is that there is no neutral setting. Every child is learning habits of one kind or another, intentionally or passively. Jeff also addresses a common misconception: habit formation can sound harsh or overly strict, but discipline on the front end leads to freedom later. Like musicians and athletes, children gain joyful confidence when foundational skills become second nature.Jeff shares several “best of” habits Providence emphasizes with families:Prayer and reading God's Word: not necessarily formal or elaborate, sometimes simply reading Scripture together and praying. The point is consistency and priority.Attention: children cannot learn without it. Jeff offers practical ways to train attention at home, including multi-step instructions, narration, picture study, and observation exercises.Obedience: responding right away and all the way, with the understanding that respectful questions can happen at the right time. This trains children to relate rightly to God-given authority.Neatness and orderliness: restoring order to a space and to routines, even when it takes more time than doing it yourself.Serving others: training children to defer preferences and practice small acts of service that slowly reorient the heart away from self.Working hard and doing your best: building a “work before play” rhythm, teaching excellence without overwork, and helping children grow into wise self-management.In closing, Jeff encourages educators to keep habits simple and intentional, and he encourages parents that it is never too late to begin. Start where you are, choose one habit, and keep it steady. Often the best change is the one you quietly begin and faithfully continue.Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible:The Herzog FoundationThe Champion GroupWisephone by TechlessZipCastWilson Hill Academy Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at info@basecamplive.comDon't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.
What do you do when you're walking with God but your spouse isn't? Erin Cox shares her powerful testimony of marriage restoration that started in a living room encounter with Jesus and led to a complete transformation of her family.✅ Why "Christianese" was actually pushing her atheist husband further away ✅The 1 book that changed how she loved her unbelieving spouse ✅ How 1 Peter 3 became her daily prayer strategy ✅The moment the Holy Spirit told her exactly what to say after years of silence ✅ Why God can save anyone—even in a living room with no one else aroundReady to discover hope for your marriage?Grab the resources mentioned in this episode below!Resources MentionedGet your FREE Basic Pass to Life Skills Leadership Summit 2026 to give you confidence that your kids will be ready for adult life: https://HowToHomeschoolMyChild.com/lsls26I Don't Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist, by Norman GeislerSacred Influence, by Gary ThomasErin Cox is a seasoned homeschooling mom of four, ranging from elementary age to young adult. Alongside her husband Danny, she serves over 100,000 homeschool families through publishing Charlotte Mason and Classical education curricula, all from their homestead in central Alabama. When Erin isn't wrangling sheep, Australian shepherds, two rambunctious boys, or her energetic grandbaby, she enjoys audiobooks, podcasts, and the occasional quiet moment with embroidery. Connect with her at ShopGentleClassical.com and LifeAbundantlyBlog.com. You can find her on Instagram and Facebook.
Poem IV from Charlotte Mason's “The Saviour of the World” Volume I Book I, with the corresponding Scripture reading.
What do high school Citizenship lessons look like in the Charlotte Mason method? How do these lessons prepare children for the rest of their lives? On today's podcast, we're discussing these questions and more, so stay tuned. Charlotte Mason, Volume 6 (Amazon) (Living Book Press - use code DELECTABLE for 10% off!) ADE Vol 6, Chapt 10 Reading List Ourselves by Charlotte Mason (Riverbend Press softcover or Amazon - Vol. 1 and Vol. 2) ADE on YouTube *Video for this particular episode was lost, so on YouTube it is an audio recording only. Thank you for understanding; we will be back on video next week!
About the GuestsMELODY FOWLER: Roots Farm Education Founder, Director, Form III Instructor Ages 10-12Melody is a happy wife of 28 years, a proud mother of three and now an over-the-moon grandma of four grandchildren. She was born in El Paso, Texas, and moved to Redding when she was five years old. She loved learning as a child and her favorite pastime was to play school in her garage with younger siblings and neighborhood friends on vintage desks her father bought at local yard sales.After receiving her Bachelor's Degree in Liberal Studies and teaching credential from Simpson University, Melody taught a self-contained fifth grade classroom for 11 years before moving on to the 8th grade teaching English and U.S. History for four years. She finds it essential to teach the next generation to revere and protect the rich inheritance of liberty they have been gifted. She also completed her administrative credential in Educational Leadership and wrote her Master's paper on Charlotte Mason.She participated in the Northern California Arts Project, the Shasta County Math Grant, and a three-year ELL grammar program teaching English as a second language. Melody was involved in her site's leadership team, acted as a site council member, and successfully advocated for funding creative problem-solving programs like Odyssey of the Mind for the gifted and talented. She also volunteered to coach other activities like student government, softball, and cheer. In her free time, she enjoys learning about education, philosophy, economics, history, gardening, and spending time with her family and six dogs.CHAD FOWLER: Roots Farm Education Founder, Director, and Form II Instructor Ages 8-9Chad was born and raised in Shasta County. He and his wife Melody have three children with the youngest almost 16. From an early age, Chad had an interest in gardening and animals and participated in Shasta County 4-H. Chad worked his family business as well as other working retail management for many years. After helping in his son's kindergarten class and coming from a family of teachers, Chad decided his place needed to be in the classroom and he went back to school. He received his BA in Liberal Studies and teaching credential through Simpson University. He later completed his administrative credential and Masters degree in Educational Leadership through National University. He has been a public school educator since 2008 and served as a Master Teacher, Teacher in Charge, Activities Director and Lead Teacher. He has participated in the Shasta County Math Grant, the Northern California Arts Project for teachers, Gates Literacy Grant and other teacher development trainings since 2008. Chad enjoys time in the garden growing vegetables, fruits and flowers, camping with his family and spending time with his Nigerian Dwarf Goats and chickens. Roots Farm Education In the year 2020 they started with 57 students and now have nearly 100 students. They are building slow with in-depth training for their teachers and mission alignment with the incoming families. Their mission states: Roots Farm Education provides home-educated families with a learning environment that integrates agriculture and academics. Stemming from a Christ-centered, Charlotte Mason education, the curriculum embodies western thought with the instruction that pursues truth, promotes wisdom and beauty, creates a pathway to responsibility, and fosters individual initiative and ingenuity. With the land as the laboratory and assistance from experts within the community, factual knowledge in math and science will be hands-on along with essential life skills such as: producing, processing, and marketing food, animal husbandry, sewing, and basic construction. Roots aim is to cultivate a generation of children ready to succeed in higher education, career, and life, while positively impacting the world around them and preserving the lost art of self-reliance. Show NotesTwo seasoned teachers from the public school system decided to break away and start a school that would focus on agriculture and a Christian classical pedagogy. This inspiring episode of challenges, faith, and vision tells their story. Some topics covered include:Practical advise on how to start a new school: how to create a clear vision, realistic expectations, and acceptance of trialsHow to hire the right teachersHow did the first year go and where are you now?What struggles did you face during the planning process?How Temple Grandin helped them develop a purpose for agriculture studiesHow Charlotte Mason's philosophy influenced their approach and purposeVisit Ambleside EnglandJoys of learning and Focus on education in faithForms for classes and their flexibilityWhat a generous curriculum according to Charlotte Mason really looks like in practiceAdvice to Classical Education and Faith based SchoolsClassroom teachers and how they adaptedBible StudyNot using Chromebooks and studies that prove why notHerzog Foundation support for faith based schools: the Business sideResources and People MentionedCharlotte MasonKaren GlassClassical Education Facebook Group and Beautiful Teaching with Adrienne FreasBenjamin Lyda The Herzog FoundationJohn HeitzenraterMaria MontessoriLisa Ector, Board of Directors for CMIBooks and Curriculum MentionedLittle House on the Prairie by Laura Ingles WilderCharlotte Mason volumesGuide to Working With Farm Animals by Temple GrandinDark Enough to See the Stars in a Jamestown Sky by Connie LapalloRightStart MathMicroscopic World by Rosie DickinsOctopus Scientist by Sy MontgomeryIsland of Surtsey: Iceland's Upstart Island by Loree Griffin BurnsRobin Hood by Howard PyleMere Christianity by C.S. Lewis and the Study GuideMarco Polo: his travels and adventures by George Makepeace TowleCanterbury Tales book and videosChris Hall on Common ArtsBooks about damaging use of ChromebooksJamestown books; Dark Enough to See the Stars in a Jamestown Sky by Connie Lapallo and Blood on the River by Elisa CarboneIsland of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'DellAlfie Kohn books on educationSchools they visited in DallasMount St. Michael Catholic School in DallasJohn Heitzenrater's school (He was the headmaster of Founders Classical in Corinth Texas when Chad and Melody visited. Now he is the headmaster of Chrysostom Academy in PA).St. George Classical Academy in Denton, TX founded by Benjamin Lyda, author of Scriptorium Writing and Living Classical. _____________________________________This podcast is produced by Beautiful Teaching, LLC.Support this podcast:
With the Charlotte Mason method of living books and narration, history comes to life for your homeschool students. How to Teach History the Charlotte Mason Way originally appeared on Simply Charlotte Mason.
With the Charlotte Mason method of living books and narration, history comes to life for your homeschool students. How to Teach History the Charlotte Mason Way originally appeared on Simply Charlotte Mason.
On this episode of LiberatED, host Kerry McDonald sits down with Emily Barnitz, founder of Zoe Learning House, a fast-growing hybrid homeschool program in New Orleans, Louisiana. Emily shares her journey from being homeschooled herself to becoming a public school teacher—and ultimately launching Zoe Learning House in fall 2024 with just 10 students in her living room. Eighteen months later, the program now serves 50 students across kindergarten through fourth grade, with plans to expand to fifth grade while maintaining small class sizes and an 8:1 student-teacher ratio. The conversation explores Zoe's Charlotte Mason–inspired, hands-on learning model; flexible enrollment options for families; and the intentional decision to prioritize educational quality over rapid scaling. Emily also offers practical insights for aspiring education entrepreneurs—on starting small, building visibility through word-of-mouth and SEO, navigating state homeschool regulations, and staying grounded in your "why" as your program grows. This episode is a must-listen for educators, homeschoolers, and founders interested in hybrid learning models that are both sustainable and deeply student-centered. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly email newsletter on education trends at edentrepreneur.org. Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!
Poem III from Charlotte Mason's “The Saviour of the World” Volume I Book I, with the corresponding Scripture reading.
In this episode, I'm chatting to Charlotte Mason-Curl, who is the founder of No Crap Parties and the Kids Party Pact campaign. Charlotte has a background in marketing and comms, and not only does this help to explain how she's done such a bloody great job with getting her message out there, also means she's written herself a really good bio. I had to write myself a bio when The Sustainable(ish) Living Guide was published, and I found it really cringe-inducingly difficult, but Charlotte's done a fab job, so I'm just going to copy and paste her words as an intro:Charlotte Mason-Curl is a marketing and comms consultant and the person behind The Kids Party Pact. She believes children's parties are overlooked as a place to spark change. What started as a few Instagram posts has grown into a campaign that's reached millions of parents. Thousands have now changed how they approach gifts and party bags, sending ripples through their communities. The campaign has secured National Lottery funding and featured in The Times, BBC Newsround, Positive News and more. With 13 years of marketing experience and a sharp understanding of behaviour change, Charlotte builds campaigns that cut through. Powered by strategy, creativity, and a fierce commitment to leaving the world less of a mess for her kids.How is that for kick-ass! In the first episode of the re-boot, I dived into the debate around individual change vs system change, and how it can feel really hard as an individual to feel like you can change 'the system;,whatever that really is, and what it means. And then in the last episode I was chtting to the fabulous Nick Oldridge who is going all out for getting MPs on board with the urgency of aciton on the climate crisis, to effect system change from the government, which is ultaimtely what is needed. But for systems to change, we need people to recognise where things are broken, and to do something differently, which starts to shift social norms. This is somethign that Charlotte is doing brilliantly. She saw that not only was there an issue around kids parties in terms of plastic tat, and waste, and ultiamtely I guess, excessive consumptiuon, but that most parents aren't really that comfortable with it, but well feel like everyone else must be on baord with it, so we don't say anything. Charlotte says at one point in the podcast, that it's 'just a few party bags', but it's absolutely not. What Charlotte has done, really cleverly, is tapped into her knowledge of behaviour change and comms, and utilised it brilliantly, to help make it really visible that it's not just you, and that you're not alone, and that thousands of other parents would love to do kids parties differently. And if you're not a parent, or if your kids are out of the party phase, there is still so much in this episode for you - so much of what Charlotte has done can (and should be!) applied to other campaigns and movements, so while you're listening have a think about what social norm you would love to challenge, and what you might be able to replicate from what Charlotte is doing. Enjoy!Charlotte Mason-Curl LISTEN... USEFUL LINKS:No Crap Parties- Website- Instagram- Facebook- Sign the Kids Party Pact- Email templates to share the Party Pact- Sustainable Party Bag alternatives- How to host a toy swapParty Kit Network- Podcast ep with Isabel Mack - founder of The Party Kit Network If you've got young kids, have you signed the Pact? What are your plans for the next kids party in your household? Do let me know! […]
Is Plutarch all there is to Citizenship? Not at all. Middle school students in Forms 3-4 take up the definite study of their local, state, and national government, as well as turn their attention upon themselves to learn how they are capable of engaging the world and their neighbors. Tune in to the podcast today to hear more. Charlotte Mason, Volume 6 (Amazon) (Living Book Press - use code DELECTABLE for 10% off!) ADE Vol 6, Chapt 10 Reading List Plutarch's Lives of the Noble Grecians and Romans, trans. by Thomas North* Anne White's Plutarch Project (Amazon or free on AmblesideOnline.com) Ourselves by Charlotte Mason (Riverbend Press softcover or Amazon - Vol. 1 and Vol. 2) Atlases (discussed in Episode 324): Ancient and Classical Geography* Rand McNally's Atlas of the Ancient World, ed. by RR Palmer* Muir's Historical Atlas of Ancient Medieval and Modern* Digital map resources at Grammaticus.co Episode 27: Plutarch Episode 178: Plutarch Immersion ADE on YouTube *for out of print - OOP - or difficult to find books, try BookFinder.com
Geography lessons in a Charlotte Mason home school are much more than facts about population and GDP! Find out how you can introduce your students to the people and places of our world. How to Teach Geography the Charlotte Mason Way originally appeared on Simply Charlotte Mason.
Geography lessons in a Charlotte Mason home school are much more than facts about population and GDP! Find out how you can introduce your students to the people and places of our world. How to Teach Geography the Charlotte Mason Way originally appeared on Simply Charlotte Mason.
In this episode, Renee and Karen answer a question from a listener about ADHD. They offer advice from their own experiences and from the principles of Charlotte Mason and Classical Education: keep lessons short, get outside, train habits, limit devices, and remember your child isn't a problem to be solved. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Poem II from Charlotte Mason's “The Saviour of the World” Volume I Book I, with the corresponding Scripture reading.
What in the world is a Plutarch lesson, and why is Plutarch an important part of a Charlotte Mason curriculum? Join us in today's podcast episode to learn about upper elementary Citizenship lessons and learn why this ancient biographer plays a crucial role. Charlotte Mason, Volume 6 (Amazon) (Living Book Press - use code DELECTABLE for 10% off!) ADE Vol 6, Chapt 10 Reading List Stories from the History of Rome by Beesly Plutarch's Lives of the Noble Grecians and Romans, trans. by Thomas North* Anne White's Plutarch Project (Amazon or free on AmblesideOnline.com) Atlases mentioned: Ancient and Classical Geography* Rand McNally's Atlas of the Ancient World, ed. by RR Palmer* Muir's Historical Atlas of Ancient Medieval and Modern* Digital map resources at Grammaticus.co Episode 27: Plutarch Episode 178: Plutarch Immersion ADE on YouTube *for out of print - OOP - or difficult to find books, try BookFinder.com
Getting your students into the Word of God is the most important thing you can do in your home school. How to Teach Bible the Charlotte Mason Way originally appeared on Simply Charlotte Mason.
Getting your students into the Word of God is the most important thing you can do in your home school. How to Teach Bible the Charlotte Mason Way originally appeared on Simply Charlotte Mason.
Editor's Note, by Art Middlekauff Rose Amy Pennethorne was Organising Secretary of the PNEU from 1921 to 1940. In her first year in office, she contributed two articles on the teaching of Scripture to The Parents' Review. The first article was published in March and the second in November. Charlotte Mason celebrated Pennethorne's work with … The post The Teaching of Scripture in the Parents' Union School first appeared on Charlotte Mason Poetry.
The study of Plutarch's lives is a distinctive part of a Charlotte Mason curriculum. But why did she insist on reading these verbose biographies of ancient Greek and Roman leaders? In today's podcast we'll discuss the principles of the subject of Citizenship and learn why Plutarch is relevant for today's students. Charlotte Mason, Volume 6 (Amazon) (Living Book Press - use code DELECTABLE for 10% off!) ADE Vol 6, Chapt 10 Reading List Episode 27: Plutarch Episode 29: Citizenship - Everyday Morals & Economics ADE on YouTube
On the first episode of Season 10 of The New Mason Jar, we bring you a conversation Cindy and Dawn had with Lani Siciliano, veteran homeschool mom and a member of the AmblesideOnline Auxiliary How Lani first learned about homeschooling and Charlotte Mason What is the difference between the AO Advisory and the Auxiliary? How did you prepare transcripts for your students to get into the military and college? Did Lani feel like she had to change a lot of things when she started homeschooling high school? How the practice of narration prepared Lani's students for higher education Did Lani encounter any hiccups along the way or have any regrets? How Lani applies a Charlotte Mason education to her own life as she has graduated most of her children A few more words of wisdom from moms farther down the road
Sonya is joined by her daughter Ruth to chat about how growing up being taught the Charlotte Mason way and how using CM in her own homeschool has been a benefit. An Interview with a Second Generation Charlotte Mason Homeschool Mom originally appeared on Simply Charlotte Mason.
Sonya is joined by her daughter Ruth to chat about how growing up being taught the Charlotte Mason way and how using CM in her own homeschool has been a benefit. An Interview with a Second Generation Charlotte Mason Homeschool Mom originally appeared on Simply Charlotte Mason.
Get Ginny's Top 10 Books of 2025 list for FREE here Get your free 2026 tracker sheet here Check out the 1000 Hours Outside Mega Bundle that includes the 2026 Kick-Off Pack here Ginny Yurich, founder of 1000 Hours Outside, starts 2026 in the most Ginny way possible: a rare, slightly-uncomfortable solo episode chosen on purpose, because New Year's Day landed on episode 666, and she decided to “fall on the sword” herself. From there, she pulls you into the real origin story of 1000 Hours Outside: a young mom in over her head, three little kids, no sleep, and the first truly good day she'd had in years, September 2011 at a Michigan park, when four to six hours outside (a Charlotte Mason idea she initially thought was ridiculous) changed everything. This episode is a rally cry for families who want more peace, more play, more courage, and less screen-shaped childhood, plus practical ways to start tracking, building a life with “not enough time for screens,” and letting nature become the place where kids grow up incrementally… and parents learn to trust them. Along the way, Ginny shares her top 10 most meaningful books of 2025 (out of 210 books read during the year!), the quotes that steadied her this year, and why reading, walking, and outside time are “time-protection” habits in a world designed to co-opt attention. She also reads the marketing language from Replika AI out loud, because it genuinely alarms her, and makes a clear, compassionate case for choosing the real thing: real friends, real discomfort, real growth, real life. The episode closes with hope for listeners carrying heavy burdens into the new year, and ends with “Beautiful World,” a song and musical collaboration featuring Ginny's daughters because the whole point is this: childhood isn't meant to be performed on a screen. It's meant to be lived. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On The New Mason Jar Podcast this week, we bring you a conversation Cindy and Dawn had with Sheila Carroll, founder of Living Books Press How Sheila first heard about Charlotte Mason's philosophy How Sheila started developing the curriculum and resources that became Living Books Press What is narration, and what makes it such a powerful practice? How do we keep the idea of a child's personhood from steering us toward a child-centered education? Sheila's advice for beginning narration and dealing with pushback from your child How to prepare young children who are not yet school age for narrating later Why is nature study so important for today's children? How do nature study and living books work together for a full education? How is composition taught in the Charlotte Mason paradigm? To view the full show notes for this episode, including resources mentioned, please visit our website at https://thenewmasonjar.com/128.
Today's podcast episode is part of our occasional series, Voices from the Conference. We will be sharing with you Morgan Conner's talk from this past year's ADE @ Home Virtual Conference on reading Charlotte Mason's volumes. Enjoy! Charlotte Mason volumes reading schedule