Our philosophy on teaching history is rooted in familiarity. This is one of the main reasons we do not advocate teaching children a chronological sequence starting the youngest students at the very beginning of history. There are many contributing factors to our decision to begin with American history.

First, the literature choices are much better for younger students than on any other time period. It is very difficult to find excellent ancient literature for students in grades K-3, whereas there is an abundant wealth of excellent literature available on early American history. As this is fundamental to a Charlotte Mason approach in building your curriculum around the best children's books available, it makes sense to be guided by the literature.

Secondly, we believe that youngsters find the history of their country more relatable. They have a familiarity with the Pilgrims, George Washington, and Abraham Lincoln. Students can take field trips to experience the history of their area, where as for most families a trip to Cairo is simply impossible. By building on the familiar, you can create a curiosity that will extend beyond the student's immediate experience. Some argue that beginning with American history can lead to a close-minded view of the world, but our experience has been much the opposite. By encouraging a student's natural curiosity of the world around her and providing her with well-written and beautifully illustrated literature, her inquisitive nature will be fostered and as her experience grows, she will have the tools and abilities to seek out the world beyond her own borders.

Each one of our studies is designed for a grade range, rather than a specific grade level. For example, our Early American Primary study can be used by students from Kindergarten through 3rd grade. This provides families the benefit of using one course with multiple children and the flexibility to cater to their specific learning environment. We believe that educational choices should be driven by factors outside of what a curriculum company prescribes as the best and proper order or sequence. These factors include student ability and interest, family structure, teaching style, and many others. 

The courses of study available are appropriate for each level listed. The best sequence is determined by each student’s individual abilities and interests. Each study generally takes one school year to complete, with the following exceptions. The Early American History for the primary level can be used over two years when taught in the early elementary grades. Geography Through Literature for 4-6th grade is designed as a semester program but can be stretched out over an entire year, if desired.

To read more about our philosophy, click here. You can also read an article by Rea Berg on when to teach ancient history by clicking here.