Preparing for a Homeschool ConventionI well remember the first homeschool convention I attended. I was very excited to gain the insights and tips from the workshops I had selected from the brochure’s schedule. I was eager to listen to veteran homeschoolers, get some encouragement,…Sonya ShaferApril 23, 2009
When Grades Are NecessaryLast week we highlighted the four schooling methods that Charlotte Mason said to avoid. One of those methods is the practice of giving grades. We’ve received several inquiries from our readers with great questions about how avoiding grades would look…Sonya ShaferApril 18, 2009
Four Methods to Avoid in Charlotte Mason HomeschoolingThe past few weeks we’ve been talking about feeding our children’s natural curiosity and desire for knowledge by using living books and natural things. Those Charlotte Mason methods help our children form relations that result in true education. But did…Sonya ShaferApril 8, 2009
Hands-on Learning in the Charlotte Mason MethodMany people equate living books with the Charlotte Mason method. And that’s well and good. Living books are a big part of her approach, as we’ve discussed during recent posts. But a Charlotte Mason education is not based just on…Sonya ShaferApril 1, 2009
Using Living Books EffectivelyToday is grocery day at our house. And you can be sure that after last time’s post, I’m going to be picky in the produce section. But you know, bringing home that delightful food is just the first step. It’s…Sonya ShaferMarch 26, 20095 Comments
Choosing Books Like a ConnoisseurIt’s rather entertaining to watch shoppers in the produce section. Some approach a fruit stand with fear and trepidation. They know they’re supposed to be picky about which mangos they buy, but they haven’t the foggiest idea how to tell…Sonya ShaferMarch 18, 20093 Comments
I Can RelateFleece. Dyeing. Carding. Spinning. A year ago I recognized those words and could define them accurately. But in the past several months my oldest daughter has taken up dyeing and spinning as a hobby. Now when I hear someone mention…Sonya ShaferMarch 12, 20096 Comments
Outdoor Secrets Nature Stories“Once upon a time, not so very long ago, there stood in a large orchard a beautiful Apple-Tree. All through the long winter it had held out bare branches. The March sun whispered to it that spring had come. But…Sonya ShaferMarch 3, 2009
The Swedish Drill TeacherAfter our previous post, many of you contacted us to find out where you might be able to get a copy of the book we mentioned: The Swedish Drill Teacher by M. H. Spalding. Originally published in 1910, this book…Sonya ShaferFebruary 23, 2009
Homeschool Physical Education: Swedish DrillThis idea of Swedish drill that Charlotte Mason used in her schools intrigued me, so I went on a hunt for more information. Well, the wonderful inter-library loan lady at my local library found me a gem: The Swedish Drill…Sonya ShaferFebruary 12, 20091 Comment
Homeschool Physical Education: Folk DancingIt’s the middle of winter and many of us are looking for more ways to give the children exercise indoors during inclement weather. A couple of physical recreation activities that Charlotte Mason used in her schools can come to the…Sonya ShaferFebruary 4, 2009
A Book of MottoesLike many of you, I enjoy reading the Mitford books by Jan Karon. But you may be surprised to hear which one is my favorite: Patches of Godlight, a journal of quotes and mottoes that the fictional Father Tim has…Sonya ShaferJanuary 28, 2009
Masterly Inactivity Free Charlotte Mason E-BookDo you ever feel like you’re on the Mommy See-saw? “I must teach my child to obey, yet I don’t want to be a dictator.” “I want my child to enjoy his childhood, but I can’t just allow him to…Sonya ShaferJanuary 21, 2009
Top Ten SCM Blog Posts from 2008It’s January — a great time for looking back and looking ahead. We thought a fun way to look back would be to review our most popular posts for 2008. Perhaps you missed one of these topics or will find…Sonya ShaferJanuary 14, 2009
2008 SCM Event PhotosWe enjoyed getting to travel and meet many of you during 2008! And thanks to my husband John, you can take a look back over the year with us. John hauled his trusty digital camera to several of our All-Day…Sonya ShaferJanuary 7, 2009
