In examining the role of the Conscience in our lives, Charlotte Mason observes that, while the Conscience is given to us by God and serves as judge over the human heart, it has one major fallibility: it must be instructed. Aside from the indirect instruction found in books and everyday life, she also proposed regular, weekly “short talks” for this purpose. These talks are meant to spark conversation between parents and children, outside of a time of discipline or moment of weakness. As you talk through various character qualities, like kindness and courage, you inspire their Will with the beautiful possibilities within each of us to do what is right and experience the joys of upright living.
“Give the children one thought at a time, and every time some lovely example of loving-kindness that will fire their hearts with the desire to do likewise” (1/339).
Charlotte Mason’s fourth volume, Ourselves, systematically describes many admirable qualities, described as “servants,” given to us by God for right living and service. We have arranged each of these qualities and a corresponding image into a 5×7” card that can be printed and displayed in your home throughout the week, serving as a visual reminder of what you have talked about together. Instructions for how to use the card are on the back, along with discussion questions, a corresponding Scripture verse, and a reminder to look for positive examples of that quality throughout your week.
It is our hope that this resource will help bring this simple model into your home on a consistent basis, drawing your family into rich conversations about character, duty, and the One to Whom all of these things ultimately point.
Resource includes a Parent Guide (164 pp.) and complete set of 25 Short Talks Cards (both PDF downloads).
Samples:
