Charlotte Mason (1842-1923) was a British educator and author who developed a philosophy of education emphasizing the importance of treating children as whole persons. Her method aims to nourish children’s minds, hearts, and spirits through a broad curriculum of “living books” through meeting mind-to-mind with beautiful authors. During this experience the importance of training in habit is always a focus.

Mason believed that education should be a living, vital process that engages the child's mind and heart, and that a child's education should be based on exposure to a wide range of ideas. She believed that children should be given the opportunity to learn through engaging with ideas rather than just through textbooks, worksheets, and lectures.

Mason's approach to education is holistic and it is the student’s work to make connections and take joy in beautiful ideas. The curriculum includes subjects such as literature, history, science, art, music, foreign language, and mathematics, and is designed to encourage children to make connections between different subjects and develop a lifelong love of learning.

Mason also emphasized the importance of cultivating good habits and character development, teaching children to be respectful, responsible, and self-disciplined. She believed that developing good habits would help children to develop a strong moral compass and lead to a life of purpose and meaning.