Why I Chose the Charlotte Mason Method as a Catholic Mom

When I first began exploring our homeschooling options, I felt very overwhelmed by the number of methods, philosophies, and curriculums available. I wanted something that would nurture my children’s minds and hearts—something that would honor our Catholic faith and the dignity of their souls. That search led me to the Charlotte Mason method, and it has been a gift to our family ever since.

What is the Charlotte Mason Method?

Charlotte Mason was a British educator from the 19th-century who believed that children are born persons and should be educated as whole beings—not just trained to pass tests or memorize facts. Her method emphasizes:

• Living books as opposed to dry textbooks

• Nature study and time outdoors instead of the modern screen obsession

• Short, focused lessons to foster attention and delight

• Habit training as a foundation for character

• Art, music, and poetry appreciation to nurture the person as a whole

• A deep respect for the child’s mind and soul

  
  

But as a Catholic mom, what drew me most was how naturally her philosophy aligns with our faith.

Why the Charlotte Mason Method Resonated with My Catholic Heart

Charlotte Mason wasn’t Catholic, but her method is incredibly compatible with a Catholic worldview:

*A Reverence for the Child as a Whole Person

Mason’s first principle is that children are born persons—not blank slates, but souls made in the image and likeness of God. This deeply resonates with our belief in the dignity of the human person from conception onward. Her approach treats education as a form of discipleship, not just a mere information transfer.

*A Rich Feast of Truth, Beauty, and Goodness

The Charlotte Mason method offers a broad and generous curriculum, filled with Scripture, classic literature, beautiful art, and music. These things help form not only the intellect but the moral imagination. As Catholics, we believe that beauty can lift the soul to God—and this method cultivates that.

*A Lifestyle of Learning Rooted in Wonder

Instead of just “doing school,” Mason encourages a lifestyle of learning, where children observe nature, ponder big ideas, and develop habits of attention and gratitude. This slower, more intentional rhythm aligns so well with our desire to live liturgically—to create a home where faith and learning are intertwined.

Why I Created The Little Way Academy

As I dug deeper into the Charlotte Mason method, I saw its potential to bless Catholic families—but I also saw a gap. Much of the available content wasn't specifically Catholic -or it had many things I wanted to add or change. I wanted something that seamlessly wove in saints, sacraments, Scripture, and the Church calendar into the Charlotte Mason framework.

That’s why I created The Little Way Academy: A Catholic Charlotte Mason-inspired homeschool that honors the wisdom of both Charlotte Mason and the Church. It's rooted in the simplicity of The Little Way of St. Thérèse of Lisieux and inspired by the motto Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam—for the Greater Glory of God.

This is the place where I research many curriculums and Church teachings; gather material and recommend products; and where I create my own framework, learning resources; and easy-to-use curriculum for my family -and, of course, it is a place where I get to share it all with you!

Choosing to homeschool the little way

Choosing a homeschool method is a deeply personal decision. For our family, the Charlotte Mason philosophy has been a life-giving, faith-filled concept that has proven to be the right one for our homeschooling journey. It has helped me see my role not just as a teacher, but as a guide walking alongside my children toward truth, beauty, and goodness: just like God intended.

If you're a Catholic mom seeking a method that nurtures both soul and intellect, I encourage you to explore Charlotte Mason’s philosophy. And if you’d like support applying it in a uniquely Catholic way, I’d love to walk that journey with you through The Little Way Academy.

🌿 Watch the Video

If you haven’t already, be sure to check out my YouTube video: Why I Chose the Charlotte Mason Method as a Catholic Mom for a deeper look into our family’s story.

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💻 Learn More

Visit The Little Way Academy to explore our curriculum and philosophy.