Understanding Your Child's Mind: A Charlotte Mason Approach

Volume 6: Towards a Philosophy of Education by CM

vol 6, page 37

Understanding Your Child's Mind: A Charlotte Mason Approach

As parents, it’s easy to overlook the incredible potential of our child’s mind, especially when they reach the age for formal lessons. Charlotte Mason, a pioneer in education, reminds us that children are more than just their brains; they are whole beings with minds that need proper nourishment. Just as a piano is not music but the instrument of music, a child’s brain is not the mind but the tool the mind uses to learn, grow, and engage with the world.

The Mind vs. The Brain

In today’s world, we hear a lot about psychology and the unconscious mind, focusing on symptoms and nervous reactions. But Mason emphasizes that education should focus on the mind itself, which, unlike the brain, does not tire and can grow endlessly when fed with the right "food" – that is, ideas. The brain, like the rest of the body, needs proper rest, food, and exercise, but it is the mind that must be nurtured through education.

Why Ideas Matter

Mason believed that the true education of a child happens when their mind engages with ideas. These ideas are like living food that nourishes their intellect and imagination. When children are presented with rich ideas – whether in history, science, or literature – they naturally become curious and want to explore these ideas further. This engagement is essential for real learning.

Practical Learning in Action

For example, when a child learns about a new place in Geography, they should be encouraged to imagine themselves in that place, experiencing its sights and sounds. This imaginative engagement helps them truly "own" the knowledge, much like a new room in their mind, expanding their world and understanding.

Similarly, in subjects like history or religion, when children hear stories, they should not just learn the facts but also connect emotionally and intellectually with the people and events. This connection turns learning into a personal experience, making it more meaningful and lasting.

Trusting the Child’s Capabilities

Mason warns against underestimating children. Often, teachers and parents may try to over-explain or use unnecessary visuals, thinking it helps the child understand better. However, children naturally have a rich imagination that can fill in the gaps and make sense of what they hear or read. A child’s mind is incredibly fertile and ready to absorb and process ideas far beyond what we might expect.

Educating the Whole Child

Education should not just be about feeding the mind with facts. It should also enrich the heart and the imagination. A child should leave their schooling years with a "gallery" of beautiful images in their mind – from great works of art to stunning landscapes. These images, along with the ideas they’ve engaged with, will stay with them throughout life, expanding their capacity for imagination and understanding.

The Heart and Conscience

Beyond intellect, a child’s heart is also richly furnished. They have a natural capacity for love, kindness, fairness, and a strong sense of right and wrong. As parents and educators, it’s our role to nurture these qualities, guiding them to develop strong moral values and a sense of responsibility.

Conclusion

Charlotte Mason’s approach to education is about recognizing the immense potential in every child’s mind. It’s about providing them with a rich, nourishing education that goes beyond mere facts, feeding their imagination, intellect, and heart. By trusting in their natural abilities and providing them with the right "food" for their minds, we can help them grow into thoughtful, imaginative, and well-rounded individuals.