As parents and educators, we want our children to be wise, to make good decisions, and to grow into responsible adults. But one of the most important lessons we can teach them is how to use their reason properly, to guide their choices with both thought and conscience. Chapter 9 of Charlotte Mason's educational philosophy, "The Way of the Reason," delves into this very subject, explaining how reason works in our minds and how we can help our children use it for good.
What is Reason?
In simple terms, reason is the ability to think logically, to make sense of things, and to come to conclusions. For example, in math, reason helps us solve problems with certainty. However, when it comes to everyday decisions, moral choices, or understanding the world, reason can be influenced by our desires and emotions, which can lead us astray if we're not careful.
Think of it this way: reason can be like a skilled builder, but it needs good materials to build something strong and true. If it starts with bad materials—wrong ideas, selfish desires, or false beliefs—it might still build something that looks good on the outside, but the foundation will be weak. That's why it's so important to teach our children to not just rely on their reasoning alone but to also question where their ideas come from and whether they are good and true.
Teaching Our Children to Think
One of the greatest gifts we can give our children is the ability to reason well. This doesn't just mean teaching them to be good at debates or solving puzzles but to help them understand that not every thought or idea they have is right, even if it seems logical at first. Reason, as Mason explains, can support both good and bad ideas, depending on the initial thought behind it.
Children need to be guided to recognize when they are being led by the wrong ideas, and they should learn to pause and reflect before making decisions. Just as Macbeth, in Shakespeare’s famous tragedy, was led down a dark path by his unchecked ambition, which reasoned out a series of terrible decisions, our children might also be swayed by desires or pressures that lead them away from what is right.
On the other hand, Mason shows us examples like Florence Nightingale, whose compassionate reasoning led her to improve healthcare for thousands. Reason, when grounded in good principles, can lead to wonderful, world-changing actions.
Encouraging Right Thinking
How do we encourage our children to reason well? We start by giving them good principles and a wide range of knowledge. When they are faced with a decision or an idea, we can ask them questions like, "How did you come to that conclusion?" or "What do you think is the right thing to do?" These questions guide them to think through their actions and reflect on whether their reasoning is grounded in truth and goodness.
It's also important to let children work out their own arguments sometimes, even if they make mistakes. They learn by reasoning through their ideas, and our job is to help them see when their reasoning has gone off track.
Balancing Reason with Faith and Conscience
One key lesson from Mason’s philosophy is that while reason is a powerful tool, it is not our master. We must teach our children to see reason as a servant, helping them to understand the world and make good choices, but not as the ultimate guide. Reason must work hand-in-hand with faith, conscience, and a moral compass.
Children should understand that doing what is right is not always about finding the most convincing argument but about seeking the truth, guided by love, integrity, and faith. This helps them become not just clever thinkers but wise, compassionate individuals.
Everyday Application
In everyday life, there are countless opportunities to teach our children about the use of reason. Whether they are deciding between two games to play, choosing a book to read, or working through a math problem, we can guide them to think about their choices carefully. Ask them, "Why do you think that is the best choice?" or "What would happen if you chose differently?"
By helping them reason through small decisions, we are training them for the bigger ones they will face as they grow older—decisions about friendships, education, and even their faith. Teaching children to reason well equips them for life.
Inspiring Future Thinkers
As parents and educators, we are shaping the minds of future leaders, inventors, and problem-solvers. When we teach our children the right use of reason, we are helping them to discover the world, solve problems, and make decisions that will not only benefit themselves but others too.
Charlotte Mason's philosophy reminds us that reasoning is a tool for both good and bad. It’s up to us, as parents, to guide our children towards using their reason to seek truth and do what is right. With love, patience, and good principles, we can raise children who not only think well but live wisely.
In our journey as parents, let's remember that the right use of reason is one of the most powerful gifts we can give our children. By grounding their thoughts in truth, faith, and conscience, we equip them to navigate the challenges of life with confidence and integrity. Let's inspire our children to be thoughtful, compassionate, and wise thinkers for the future!
Comments
Post a Comment