Homeschooling was once a fringe option for educating our children, with most parents putting their children in the public schools, but in less recent history, homeschooling was often the only option.
When we look at some of history's greats, (even those in modern history) we can see the outline of a Charlotte Mason education which contributed to their creativity and depth of thinking.
“Study without desire spoils the memory, and it retains nothing that it takes in.”
― Leonardo da Vinci
― Leonardo da Vinci
Leonardo da Vinci, one of history's most brilliant minds, was also a product of an unconventional education. Born out of wedlock in 1452, Leonardo was not permitted to attend a formal school, as was typical for children of his status. Instead, he was homeschooled by his father and local scholars in the town of Vinci, Italy.
This lack of formal education did not hinder Leonardo. Instead, it allowed him to explore a broad range of subjects freely. His father provided access to scholarly texts, art supplies, and opportunities to observe nature firsthand. Leonardo’s natural environment became his classroom, where he studied everything from the anatomy of animals to the dynamics of water and light. His homeschooling nurtured a profound curiosity and a creative approach to learning, contributing to his later achievements as an artist, scientist, engineer, and inventor.
“Almost every day, instead of going to school, I made for the fields, where I spent my day.”
John James Audubon
John James Audubon, famed for his detailed and vivid paintings of North American birds, also benefited from a homeschooled education. Born in Haiti in 1785 and raised in France, Audubon’s early education was overseen by his father, a successful planter, and his stepmother. They encouraged his interest in nature and allowed him to explore the outdoors extensively.
His father, recognizing John’s affinity for wildlife, chose to educate him at home, where he could develop his artistic skills and study the natural world. Audubon’s passion for nature grew as he roamed the woods, sketching birds and other animals in their natural habitats. This deep connection with nature, cultivated through his homeschooling, ultimately led to his monumental work, "The Birds of America," which remains one of the most revered collections of wildlife art.
“The real things haven't changed. It is still best to be honest and truthful; to make the most of what we have; to be happy with simple pleasures; and have courage when things go wrong.”
― Laura Ingalls Wilder
― Laura Ingalls Wilder
Laura Ingalls Wilder, the beloved author of the "Little House on the Prairie" series, had an education rooted in the pioneer life of the American Midwest. Growing up in the late 19th century, Laura’s education was a blend of homeschooling and brief stints in one-room schoolhouses. Her mother, Caroline Ingalls, played a significant role in her education, teaching her reading, writing, and arithmetic at home.
The harsh conditions of pioneer life meant that formal schooling was not always available. However, Laura’s informal education, supplemented by her mother’s teachings and her own experiences, provided her with a rich understanding of the world around her. This foundation helped Laura to vividly capture the challenges and joys of pioneer life in her writing. Her books, based on her childhood experiences, have become classics of American literature, inspiring generations of readers with their tales of resilience and frontier life.
“By investigating God's majestic and awesome creation, science can actually be a means of worship”
Francis Collins
Dr. Francis Collins is best known for leading the Human Genome Project. But before he became a scientific trailblazer, Collins was homeschooled by his artistic parents. Living in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, far from the distractions of traditional schooling, Francis was encouraged to explore his natural curiosity.
His parents’ approach to education was unique—they didn’t adhere strictly to textbooks or standard curricula. Instead, they fostered a love for learning by integrating it into daily life. Margaret often used creative methods, such as turning household chores into science experiments. This nurturing environment allowed Collins to pursue his interests deeply, leading to a lifelong passion for science. His homeschooling experience played a pivotal role in shaping the innovative thinking that eventually contributed to his work in genetics.
Interestingly enough, each of these people shared a childhood experience that confirms the findings of a Smithsonian study on genius done in the 1960's.
1. They were given a maximum amount of free time to spend exploring, and very few places or things in the house were off limits (from banging on the piano to hammers and nails).
2. They had highly responsive parents who spent time answering any questions they had or helping them find the answers.
3. They spent a minimum amount of time with people their own age.
We might not all aspire to raise genius children, for some of us our goal may be simply to raise children who are loving, or children who are diligent, or children who are virtuous, but in any case, homeschooling with the Peaceful Press will give your children a strong foundation to do any of the above.
As you read beautiful stories together, explore nature, life skills, and projects, and leave plenty of margin for your children to pursue personal interests you are giving your children a deep education, and a broad horizon.
