Where should adults start with classical education? In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, we share our top book recommendations for anyone looking to begin their journey into the world of classical learning. Whether you're new to the classics or returning with fresh eyes, these books will help you understand what classical education is, why it ma…

What is the meaning of piety and how does it resonate with us today? In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, the team dives into the ancient and timeless concept of piety, exploring its role in classical literature. From the loyalty of Antigone to the sacrificial love of Aslan, we examine how this forgotten virtue shapes heroes and stories. Shop Me…

Logic — how does its study shape language, learning, and classical education? In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, the team explores the role of logic in a homeschool curriculum and why it's essential for teaching clear thinking, sound reasoning, and effective communication. From formal fallacies to material logic, we break down how students can…

Homeschool Curriculum in High School? Let's talk about it! This week's Classical Et Cetera breaks down how our Upper School education works—subject by subject. We talk about overall objectives, as well as tips, so you can provide the best possible education for your student. Shop the Memoria Press Classical Core Curriculum! https://www.memoriapress…

Most history programs follow a strict chronological timeline—but is that really the best way to teach history? This episode of Classical Et Cetera instead explores the power of teaching history through a moral, narrative framework—where the meaning of events matters more than the order. We make the case for starting with Rome, not Greece, and expla…

In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, we explore the theme of sacrifice across classic stories—from Charlotte’s Web to Anna Karenina—and how these examples shape students’ moral imagination. Discover how a well-crafted literature curriculum can help children understand true love, loss, and virtue. Whether you’re designing a literature curriculum …

In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, we explore the foundations of teaching the Bible through a classical Christian education. The team discusses how Memoria Press’ classical Christian curriculum ensures students gain a deep Bible education, moving beyond stories to understanding Scripture’s historical and spiritual significance. From Bible memo…

This week on Classical Et Cetera, we dive into our Grammar School Curriculum! Memoria Press Grades 3-6 builds a strong educational foundation, and our cast breaks down each subject. Join us for an inside look at Latin, Literature, Classical Studies, Christian Studies, Science, English Grammar, and more! Shop our Classical Core Curriculum right here…

The greatest public speakers in American history delivered speeches that shook the world and shaped the nation we know today. In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, we explore the famous American speeches that defined key moments in time, from political movements to cultural shifts. These influential words—some of the greatest speeches of all time…

This week's Classical Et Cetera dives into Ancient Roman history with a fast-paced overview of key facts about Rome — all explained in a 101 flashcard-style format. Plus, we start out the episode with a listener question from Australia! Think you know your Roman emperors, battles, and quotes? Put your knowledge to the test with us. Shop Famous Men …

This week's Classical Et Cetera tackles the common myths about learning Latin, shedding light on how a Memoria Press Classical Education makes Latin more accessible than you might think. From fluency fears to misconceptions about the grammar approach, we break down the real reasons Latin is a valuable language to learn. Whether you're a homeschool …

From homeschool education to classical classrooms, teaching writing skills has always been essential for shaping great thinkers. But what is the best writing course for students? In this week's Classical Et Cetera, we explore the classical composition techniques that have been used for centuries, tracing them back to the ancient writing systems tha…

In this week’s Classical Et Cetera, we explore the value of simple living through an agrarian lens. Drawing inspiration from _Farmer Boy_ , Wendell Berry, and more classic novels and authors, we discuss how embracing agrarian principles can enrich our lives and education. Join us as we reflect on the importance of connecting with nature and cultiva…

From homeschool curriculum to brick-and-mortar education, artificial intelligence challenges our abilities in raising educated thinkers. This week's Classical Et Cetera examines the very nature of knowledge and what it means to educate, especially in the context of classical education. From foundational principles to the challenges of preparing stu…

Starting kindergarten is a big step for any child, and the right preparation can make all the difference. In this week's Classical Et Cetera, we take a closer look at what makes a classical kindergarten program stand out. From the key skills your child will need to thrive, to the unique benefits of a classical education in those early years, we exp…

In Part 3 of our Charlotte Mason series, the panel dives deeper into the connections between Mason’s philosophy and Classical Education. Charlotte Mason’s focus on habit training, nature study, and living books has inspired countless homeschoolers and educators—so where do we agree and disagree? This week, we discuss the balance between cultivating…

Looking at starting a classical, Christian school? Look no further than Memoria Press! This week's Classical Et Cetera explores the challenges and opportunities in starting and growing classical schools. Our discussion emphasizes flexibility, creativity, and the importance of a coherent curriculum when it comes to new schools. Always remember: Smal…

Classical Et Cetera returns for its first episode of 2025! This week, we're answering a listener question: What is the objective of Memoria Press curriculum in the primary grades? And what are some practical tips for making everything work well? From phonics and recitation, to the advantages that homeschooling provides with learning and pacing, our…

Merry Christmas from Memoria Press and Classical Et Cetera! This week, the core four exchange books—stick around to see if Martin’s gift comes straight from the trunk of his car! Learn more about _O Come, O Come: Daily Christmas Readings_ on our website: https://www.memoriapress.com/curriculum/literature-and-poetry/o-come-o-come/ As always, email u…

In Part 2 of our series on Charlotte Mason, the panel unpacks more nuances of her educational philosophy and its place in today’s homeschooling landscape. We explore how her principles both align with and sometimes clash with the rigor and discipline emphasized in Classical Education. This week, we tackle questions like: What defines a “living book…

Charlotte Mason homeschool curriculum takes center stage this week on Classical Et Cetera as we explore her philosophy and its comparison to Classical Education. Known for her emphasis on child-led learning, natural environments, and narration, Mason’s ideas have shaped how many families educate their children. But how do her principles align—or co…

Is beauty objective or subjective? It's not an easy question, but Classical Et Cetera aims for an answer this week! Our discussion delves into the nature of beauty, its role in shaping the human soul, and why it is not merely subjective. From examples in art and literature to the philosophical foundations of beauty, we examine how an objective unde…

This week on Classical Et Cetera, we dive into the philosophy behind the Socratic Method and its relevance in teaching critical thinking through questions and dialogue. From the art of questioning and debate to using a real-world example, our conversation explores how this ancient approach fosters meaningful learning. We discuss its origins, its in…

This week's Classical Et Cetera features a discussion on politics and civic engagement. From the common good approach in ethics to the philosophy of leadership in ancient Greek political thought, we have a pretty wide-ranging conversation! Our main topic is civic engagement but quickly expands to Aristotle, Roman citizenship, the difference between…

This week on Classical Et Cetera, we dive into the intricacies of teaching classical languages, focusing on Latin. In a world where memorization of ancient tongues often seems daunting, we explore effective strategies that make learning accessible and rewarding. Teaching classical languages bring profound benefits and understanding to literature, h…

Election Day is coming up, so we’re cooling things down with a fun pop quiz! In this week’s Classical Et Cetera, host Jessica Gardner challenges three Memoria Press educators with questions from _200 Questions About American History_ —the same flashcards used by our 7th graders! Can our team handle these foundational facts, dates, and quotes from A…

As a publisher in the world of classical education, Memoria Press is often asked: Why do you write new books and guides rather than directly utilizing ancient sources? This is an important question we aim to answer with this week's Classical Et Cetera. Among the many misconceptions about classical education, it’s essential to discuss the limitation…

This week on Classical Et Cetera, we dive into Chaim Potok’s The Chosen—a thought-provoking story about friendship, faith, and the clash between tradition and modernity. Join us as we explore the complex relationship between Danny and his father, and how Danny’s struggles with his religious inheritance shape his path. We’ll discuss the impact of si…

This week on Classical Et Cetera, we tackle a question many parents face: Are you really qualified to homeschool your children? The answer lies in the unique bond you share with your child. While homeschooling can be challenging, no one knows or loves your student like you do. On this episode we share our own homeschooling experiences and explain w…

This week's Classical Et Cetera dives into the world of math, exploring the full journey from arithmetic to calculus through the lens classical education. Whether you're teaching or learning, it’s never too late to master math with the right approach! Math is not just about solving equations—it’s about understanding the world around us. A classical…

In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, we explore the essential reading habits that can transform your intellectual life! Join us as we discuss practical strategies for cultivating a love of reading and the importance of choosing diverse and challenging texts. Our core cast share their personal experiences and insights into how reading can shape c…

Need some tips or encouragement for starting your homeschool year strong? Classical Et Cetera is here with some advice! For a Mom or Dad teaching their student at home, whether beginners or not, first days can be tough. There might be a lot of books and guidelines and lesson plans to sift through, or multiple children that you have to teach at the …

Memoria Press offers curriculum, support, and structure in education. But how does our method compare to the countless other ways of educating your child? This week's Classical Et Cetera aims to compare Memoria Press curriculum to the many modern systems of education. How are we different than other homeschool curriculum providers? What sets us apa…

This week's Classical Et Cetera is all about the "how" of Latin 101! Whether you are learning or teaching the language as a beginner, it is never too late to master the basics on your own. Paul, Tanya, and Martin have years of experience teaching Latin in a classical education. It's not always easy, but their stories prove that anyone can do it! Fr…

This week's Classical Et Cetera addresses an important question about traditional education: What is the difference between teaching children *how* to think and *what* to think? Martin Cothran defends his stance that teachers in classical education prioritize teaching students how to think and what to do, contrasting it with modern and public educa…

These week's *Classical Et Cetera* discusses Imitation and Emulation — What are the differences between these educational methods of teaching? How do these methods lead to the creation of free thinkers? And why does Modern Education see this differently than Classical Education? The distinction between imitation and emulation is a nuanced one. In e…

Today's *Classical Et Cetera* is all about rhetoric! What is rhetoric? What is eloquence? And what was it about *Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address* that made it so brilliant? Both rhetoric and eloquence involve the art of persuasion, which goes back over 2000 years to ancient Greece and the philosopher Aristotle. It's important for students to d…

On this episode of *Classical Et Cetera,* the gang sits down to discuss the benefits of reading books that you disagree with—and how engaging with diverse perspectives in literature is essential for intellectual and personal growth. The importance of an education where you read difficult books cannot be understated. Why? Understanding opposing view…

Today, Andrew Pudewa, from the Institute for Excellence in Writing joins the table to talk about the current state of the world of Classical Christian Education! With advancements in technology, changes in public school curriculum, and classroom evolution happening around us, it's always helpful to return to our grounding points, to the tenants of …

We see you parents and teachers. The struggle for your children's time in a world that capitalizes on their attention is an ever-present reality. So, what do we do about it? On this episode of Classical Et Cetera we dive into how to find the causes and solutions for this global problem and how to improve student's engagement with teaching, reading,…

In today's episode of Classical Et Cetera, the table sits down to talk about memorization in its place in the framework of a classical Christian education. Does memorization actually help? Or are we just wasting our time "forcing kids to memorize everything"? Is it true that drills kill the enchantment and wonder of learning? We don't think so. We …

In this insightful episode, Jessica, Paul, Tanya, and special guest Jeremy Breland explore how to intentionally shape students' character within and beyond the classroom walls: • How morning meditations and formation talks set the tone for the day. • The surprising impact of subjects like math and literature on character development. • Real-life st…

In the Spring 2024 issue of The Classical Teacher, Martin wrote about 12 great Christian novels. In this episode, we dive deeper into these 12 novels, why Martin picked them, and why you should read them. You'll hear about themes of redemption, morality, and the providential world. And, you'll discover the diverse ways these themes are explored by …

Summer is here which means Memoria Press Conference week is right around the corner! In this episode of the Classical Et Cetera podcast we are breaking down the entire week and giving you the top reasons why mom and dad should attend! The Sodalitas, Teacher Training, and Memoria College Conferences are great opportunities for homeschooling parents,…

School is out for the summer! There's a lot of ways to spend a day this summer and a lot of ideas on how to make the most of your vacation plans, bucket list, and continuing education for the summer months. In this episode Classical Et Cetera sits down to offer some ideas that you can throw into your schedule that your classical homeschool students…

What makes a great teacher? What essential qualities, skills, attitudes, and perspectives turn good teachers into amazing educators? Today, on Classical Et Cetera, the table shares their experience as teachers, memories of great teachers who have impacted them, and helpful skills to cultivate for becoming a better teacher. Becoming a teacher, at ho…

In this episode, we're talking about setting clear expectations in the classroom and in homeschool contexts. The table sits down with Tara Luse to talk about tips, advice, and strategies for cultivating a successful learning environment. Homeschoolers know that classroom management is a daily task, and one that with the right prep, can push your st…

On this episode of the Classical et Cetera podcast, the table sits down to talk about what the world might look like if everyone could benefit from a classical Christian education. What if our society celebrated critical thinking, philosophical analysis, and engaging with matters of the head and the heart? What if everyone started their careers, bu…

On today's episode of Classical Et Cetera, the table sits down to talk about parent involvement in education. What tools do parents need to confidently engage with their children's education? How can parents feel more equipped to help their children succeed in their educational journey? What is the parent's role in children's education, why is pare…

Professor Carol is back in this episode of Classical Et Cetera to talk about the importance of studying the fine arts and music and its role in a classical education. In small ways we have lost the integral parts of the fine arts in our modern culture. And in our neglect, the fine arts have drifted to the backs of our collective consciousness to th…