Hi friend,
Many families are beginning to plan for next school year, so I wanted to share a behind-the-scenes update on the Fostering Wonder history curriculum.
We are currently making thoughtful updates so that the history lessons more fully support a Charlotte Mason approach: living books, narration, map work, picture study, and meaningful connections across the year.
New updates to the history curriculum
For Grades 1 and 2, we are adding two route options:
- Route one: British History in Grade 1 and American Historical Figures in Grade 2. This follows the Charlotte Mason method of introducing British history first, since it helps children understand the roots of early American history.
- Route two: British history and American historical figures blended together across Grades 1 and 2. This option is helpful for families who need younger students to be exposed to U.S. history earlier because of state standards.
For Grade 3 History, we are adding three books alongside This Country of Ours, Volume 1 so the year has a stronger focus on the discovery of America and the Pilgrims. We are also adding a final project to the Term 3 Celebration so students can bring together what they have learned.
Picture study in the home
With permission from A Humble Place, we are adding picture study suggestions to each term of the history curriculum. These selections will connect with the time period being studied, and the curriculum information pages will include simple guidance for how to complete picture study at home.
The picture study materials from A Humble Place will need to be purchased separately through their website, and the links will be provided within the Fostering Wonder curriculum.
I love the way picture study can become a quiet part of the home. In our house, I like to display pictures from the selected artist in our dining room, where we do the bulk of our lessons. This keeps the artwork visible and lets the children naturally notice details throughout the week.
Looking ahead
In the next newsletter, I plan to share more about what a full Charlotte Mason feast can include and how families can begin gathering the pieces for next school year without feeling overwhelmed.
For now, I wanted to give you a small look at the history updates being made and the kind of support I hope these lessons will offer families.
If you are interested in a specific grade or subject, you are always welcome to reply and let me know. I would be happy to keep note of what families are looking for and share samples as updated curriculum pieces become ready.
A Charlotte Mason reminder
“We spread an abundant and delicate feast in the programmes and each small guest assimilates what he can.”
I love this reminder because it takes pressure off both mother and child. A Charlotte Mason education is not about forcing every child to master every subject perfectly in the same way. Our work is to faithfully spread a rich feast of living books, nature, art, music, history, and ideas — and then trust that each child will receive and grow from what is placed before them.
Warmly,
Scarlette
Fostering Wonder