Key #1 - Classics, Not Textbooks

The idea behind the first key, classics - not textbooks, is to expose a child to classic works in all fields. Oliver Demille stated:

'No one can deny the value of a great idea well-communicated. The inspiration, innovation and ingenuity inherent in great ideas elevate those who study them. Great ideas are most effectively learned directly from the greatest thinkers, historians, artists, philosophers and prophets, and their original works. Great works inspire greatness, just as mediocre or poor works usually inspire mediocre and poor achievement. The great accomplishments of humanity are the key to quality education. This first key means that in pursuit of a transformational education, in preference to second- or third-generation interpretations we study original sources—the intellectual and creative works of the world’s great thinkers, artists, scientists, etc., in the form they were produced (Demille, The Seven Keys of Great Teaching).'

The concept of classics, not textbooks was a critical component in our decision to homeschool. Having the opportunity to expose our children to greatness throughout the ages instead of the watered down, often times politically slanted version they were getting was tremendously exciting.

How will we be implementing this in our home?

Books, books and more books. Each aspect of our foundation will be literature based - even our math and science. For example, when Madi and I are studying Europe in geography this year, we will spend a great deal of time reading European age appropriate classics such as fairy tales from the Brothers Grimm, or the magical stories of Hans Christan Anderson. As John explores the Northeastern United States we will spend time with The Courage of Sarah Noble, when he explores the Southwest we will spend time with Sing Down the Moon.

We will be exploring American History almost exclusively through classic children's literature as well as both the Childhood of Famous Americans series and The American Girl series. In math and science we will be exploring the lives of those who created the classics in those fields - Pythagoras, Newton, Einstein. (We're not quite ready to read their classic works yet!)

Classics certainly aren't limited to literature. There are fabulous, age appropriate resources to help explore the art and music of the masters, not to mention all of the great museums and concerts we have at our fingertips here.

This is probably the key that I am most excited to implement. Because, let's be honest here, my favorite thing in the world is to read to my children. And the thought of having the opportunity to put aside the textbooks and read classic children's literature to them even more, well, that is just down right lovely.