authority

In Part 1, we discussed discipline (discipling) as a chief function of parenting. Next we’re going to look at the topic of obedience and habits in the early years. In Vol. 3, on p.18 Charlotte Mason makes the distinction between ‘mechanical’ and ‘reasonable’ obedience. She describes mechanical obedience as one that is automatic; habitual, and reasonable

I often find that when the topic of discipline comes up in a Charlotte Mason context, the conversation typically turns to habit training and the importance of good habits. While I agree that habit training is substantial and worthy of our focus, I do believe we benefit more by viewing it within the context of