“Thank you, Charlotte Mason.”
From Melissa Ferguson, CMI Director of Operations
My favorite Charlotte Mason quote is only four words long. In honor of the 100th anniversary of Charlotte Mason’s passing (January 16, 1923), I’d like to share it with you. The quote is recorded on page 203 of In Memoriam - a collection of tributes to Mason written after her death. (You can read the book free online or purchase a copy from Amazon.) One former student recalled the following:
“Perhaps this principle was specially evident during Criticism lessons on Thursday mornings when Miss Mason would criticize a student for doing what was, apparently, precisely the thing another student has been criticized for not doing the previous Thursday, thus reducing us to despair. For what were we to do? And when we asked for the precise recipe we were told to ‘mix it with brains’. Every lesson needs a special giving and the method is based upon broad principles which leave the teacher all the exercise of her own ingenuity.”
“Mix it with brains.” I like to think Mason had a twinkle in her eye when she revealed this secret ingredient. What does it mean to me? That Mason’s principles are true, effective, and timeless, but not formulaic. I must mix them with brains (my knowledge of my children and myself, my ingenuity, my family’s giftings, and the leading of the Holy Spirit) for them to be effective. There isn’t a “precise recipe” (as much as I might wish for one at times!) However, there is incredible freedom and beauty in mixing her principles with brains.
In honor of Charlotte Mason, share your favorite Mason quote with us in this Hive post.
Notes
1. New name, new look: The Buzz got a refresh. We hope you enjoy the new email look with the same wonderful content.
2. Online Study Groups: Read Home Education with others for a greater understanding of Mason’s philosophy, practical tips, accountability, encouragement, and support!
Learn more and register. 25% off for Alveary members with code: ALVEARY
3. Alveary Viewbook: Please share the link with anyone who might be interested in Alveary, and take a peek at our refreshed 2023-24 lesson plan format.
4. CORE Teacher Training: Invest in your own growth and energy as a teacher with this 8-week interactive class on Charlotte Mason’s philosophy and methods.
- Spring Cohort: Feb. 7th - April 3rd (Registration now open!)
5. 2023-24 Publication Dates:
February 1:
- Programs for Grades 1-12 (includes book lists)
- Scheduling resources
- Reflective Practice Plan Book
- Alveary Hive access
April 1:
- "Our Work" student booklets
- Supply lists
June 1:
- Lesson plans for all subjects for Grades 1-12
6. #howwealveary: CMI Board member Sara To created this video–a great way to share Alveary with friends.
