Alveary Foundations - Mother Culture Update
We're excited to share another update in our Foundations course. We’ve added a new section under Relational Methods on Mother Culture. The phrase “Mother Culture” is not found in any of Charlotte Mason's own writings, but was coined in an 1892 article in the Parents Review:
“There is no sadder sight in life than a mother, who has so used herself up in her children's childhood, that she has nothing to give them in their youth. When babyhood is over and school begins, how often children take to proving that their mother is wrong. Do you as often see a child proving to its father that he is wrong? I think not. For the father is growing far more often than the mother. He is gaining experience year by year, but she is standing still. Then, when her children come to that most difficult time between childhood and full development she is nonplussed; and, though she may do much for her children, she cannot do all she might, if she, as they, were growing! Is there not some need for 'mother culture'?”
What you'll find inside:
- A further reading list: A list of books to nourish your own mind and soul.
- Multiple Video Resources: Including a talk from Amber O'Neal Johnston challenging us to make the time and effort to prioritize mother culture, even when time feels scarce. Check that video out below:
We hope this section reminds you that growing alongside your children is a vital part of the work. As you plan for a new school year, take some time to dig into the Mother Culture section of the Alveary Foundations Course. We hope it's encouraging, and we look forward to sharing more updates with you next week!
Spotlight: As a reminder, all 2025–26 memberships will end on June 30. To maintain uninterrupted access to all resources, please plan to renew before that date. If you will not finish your lessons by June 30, you may download your lesson plans before your membership expires. Any downloaded lesson plan links will remain active.
Notes:
- Office Hours: Have a question? Need help grouping students? Running into a tech issue? Join us for informal Office Hours on June 22nd and connect with the Alveary team. We're here to help.
- Printing: The print shop through Humble Heart is now open. Order your lesson plans today and enjoy convenient flat-rate shipping right to your doorstep.
- Alveary Shop: Know someone who would love Alveary? The updated Alveary Shop makes it easier to share individual courses with friends who may not be ready for a full membership. Every course includes samples, so families can explore the content and find what fits their needs.
- Friends & Fellow Labourers: Join us for a conversation on self-education, personal growth, and cultivating a rich intellectual life alongside your children. Alveary members who joined in April can use their complimentary code to attend for free. Cultivating Self-Education As A Mother-Educator, Saturday 27 June 2026 from 3:00 pm to 4:30 pm Learn more here.
- Faithfully Present: Join us July 23-25 at Covenant College for a weekend of thoughtful speakers, meaningful conversations and practical encouragement. Prices increase June 22. Invite your friends and take advantage of our best rate: groups of 4+ register for just $249 per person.
- Modern Language: We know many of you are eager to receive the Spanish lesson plans. We're happy to share that they will be available on Monday. Thank you for your patience.
Have a wonderful weekend!
