First Steps Into Charlotte Mason Education
An 8-week online introduction to the timeless principles of a true Charlotte Mason education.
Grounded in Charlotte Mason’s original writings, First Steps offers a clear introduction to the essential principles of her educational philosophy. Through carefully selected readings, reflection, and practical application, each week builds upon the last, helping you establish a faithful foundation for your home and your children’s education.
Everywhere you look, you can find information about Charlotte Mason education—living books, narration, nature study, short lessons, habit training. But how does it all come together? What are the principles beneath these practices, and how do they help us understand the education as a whole?
First Steps is designed to help you see that whole. Over eight weeks, you will work through one foundational idea at a time, seeing how each connects with the others and supports the whole education Charlotte Mason envisioned. The goal is not simply to give you another list of Charlotte Mason “shoulds,” but to help you understand the principles well enough to make thoughtful choices about curriculum, lessons, habits, and the daily life of your home.
Most parents begin homeschooling because they are convinced there is something better for their children. Yet beginning often brings uncertainty as well. Questions about curriculum, philosophy, daily routines, and even one’s own ability can quickly become overwhelming. It can be difficult to know where to begin.
For many parents, the early years of homeschooling bring the same questions and uncertainties. First Steps grew out of years of helping families work through those questions. Rather than offering another collection of methods or opinions, it introduces the central principles of Charlotte Mason’s philosophy in a careful, orderly way, helping parents understand not only what to do, but why.
Inside the Online Course
Over eight weeks, you’ll work through the foundational ideas that shape Charlotte Mason’s philosophy of education. Each lesson combines explanation, readings from Mason’s own writings, reflection, and practical application so they can be understood and applied in the ordinary life of your home.
What You’ll Explore
- Week 1: Children Are Persons
- Week 2: Education Is the Science of Relations
- Week 3: Authority & Docility
- Week 4: The Three Instruments of Education: Atmosphere, Discipline, Life
- Week 5: Nature Study: Putting Children in Relation with the Living World
- Week 6: Habit, Will, and Character
- Week 7: Narration: Owning Ideas Through Words
- Week 8: Planning a Living Term
Take a Look Inside First Steps
Explore a substantial excerpt from Week One, Children are Persons, and see actual pages from the accompanying course journal.
Is First Steps for You?
You’re new to Charlotte Mason education and want a faithful, clear place to begin. You’re seeking to understand the philosophy before choosing curriculum. You feel pulled in different directions by online advice and need grounding. You want to build a lasting, living education rooted in truth and relationship. You’ve read about Charlotte Mason but aren’t sure where to begin.
A Faithful Beginning
Grounded in Charlotte Mason’s original writings, First Steps offers a clear and comprehensive introduction to the principles that shape a living education.
First Steps for Groups
Bringing First Steps to your group or co-op? Groups of 5 or more receive a discounted rate, and the group leader’s seat is free.
Frequently Asked Questions
What format is the course?
First Steps is made up of thoughtfully written lessons with readings, real-life examples, and reflection questions. Each lesson is read online on this site, with a progress bar marking completed lessons, and each week is paired with the downloadable course journal.
How much time does it take each week?
About an hour of reading each week, plus time applying the ideas at home: observing your child, practicing methods, and getting outdoors.
Do the weeks unlock one at a time?
No. All eight weeks are open from the start. Some take one week at a time over two months, and others read straight through and then return to each week as they apply it at home. Either way works.
How long will I have access?
Lifetime access. The lessons and the course journal stay available to return to.
What is included?
All eight lessons and the downloadable course journal. Each lesson combines explanation, readings from Mason’s own writings, reflection, and practical application. The journal gives readings, questions for reflection, and practical exercises for each week.
Who is it for?
Parents who are new to Charlotte Mason and want a faithful, clear place to begin. It also suits those who want to understand the philosophy before choosing curriculum, who feel pulled in different directions by online advice, or who have read about Charlotte Mason but are not sure where to begin.
Is the course written from a Christian perspective?
Charlotte Mason’s philosophy was rooted in her Christian faith, and the course takes her at her word. Week One begins with the child as a whole person, created in the image of God. The Week One preview shows the tone of the whole course.
Can it be used with a group?
Yes. Facilitators can email admin@charlottemasoneducation.org to ask about group rates.
What if it is not a good fit?
If you are not satisfied, a full refund is available within 14 days of purchase. Email admin@charlottemasoneducation.org.
Can I see it before buying?
Yes. Week One, Children Are Persons, can be previewed free, including pages from the course journal.