Charlotte Mason’s 5th & 6th Principles
By Dr. Shannon Whiteside
Charlotte Mason's Principle 5 & 6 states: (5) Therefore, we are limited to three educational instruments--the atmosphere of environment, the discipline of habit, and the presentation of living ideas. The P.N.E.U. Motto is: "Education is an atmosphere, a discipline, and a life." (6) When we say that "education is an atmosphere," we do not mean that a child should be isolated in what may be called a 'child-environment' especially adapted and prepared, but that we should take into account the educational value of his natural home atmosphere, both as regards persons and things, and should let him live freely among his proper conditions. It stultifies a child to bring down his world to the child's level.
What can we do as educators to help our students flourish intellectually, spiritually, physically and emotionally? We shouldn’t interfere with the sacredness of their personality by using manipulation, force, or even direct fear or love. We must find ways that allow students into the learning process as co-learners who feel a sense of autonomy and agency while understanding the importance of authority and docility (willing obedience).
Mason said we are limited to atmosphere, discipline or habits, and living ideas. When most people talk about education, they are usually referring to the teaching methods, the curriculum, and perhaps classroom management. However, Mason wants us to see that education is not limited to the curriculum or to lesson time. Children learn from the atmosphere around them. The point is not to create a “Goldilocks” atmosphere where everything is just right. In fact, Mason warns against artificial, child-centered environments that don’t allow children to face reality or encounter challenges. Children develop resilience and strength by dealing with the realities of family life and the challenges of academics.
As educators at home or in the classroom, we can’t just create an atmosphere by hanging up art prints and playing classical music. First, we need to be aware of the way we are affecting the atmosphere through our words, our routines, and our example. Second, we need to see how our students are affecting the atmosphere in their attitudes, their responses, and their work ethic. Then, as co-learners we can help them lean into the realities we all face each day and build the habits and frame of mind that can help us handle each day with grace and patience.
Join us for Office Hours on February 19th at 3:30 PM (ET) as we dive deeper into looking at Principles 5 &6 and discuss the practical ways we can practice this principle in parenting or teaching relationally. We’d love for you to join us!
Notes:
- Bingo Challenge: Are you playing along? Complete 4 squares to earn a free sticker. A blackout earns you a chance to win a 2026 conference ticket.
- 2026 CMI Conference: In a distracted age, we are gathering to slow down, pay attention, and be faithfully present. Join us July 23–25, 2026, in Lookout Mountain, Georgia. Learn more here!
- Office Hours: Join us for an Office Hours on Thursday, February 19th at 3:30 pm EST to discuss Charlotte Mason's 5th and 6th principles. RSVP here.
- In the Company of Ideas: Join us over in the Hive during the month of February as we discuss Word Made Fresh: An Invitation to Poetry for the Church. We plan to have a recorded discussion with the author toward the end of the month so submit any questions you have for the author!
