How to Start a Commonplace Notebook
Dear Mama,
Charlotte said,
“In the reading of the Bible, of poetry, of the best prose, the culling of mottoes is a delightful and most stimulating occupation, especially if a motto book be kept, perhaps under headings, perhaps not. It would not be a bad idea for children to make their own year-book, with a motto for every day of the year culled from their own reading. What an incentive to a good day it would be to read in the morning as a motto of our very own choice and selection, and not the voice of an outside mentor: ‘Keep ye the law; be swift in all obedience’!”
- School Education, p. 135
Keeping a commonplace book is an old practice where people write down words of wisdom from books, friends, TV shows, sermons, and more.
I used to keep a commonplace notebook before I even knew there was a term for that. Sadly, I didn’t keep them, and it wasn’t intentional. Now that I know more about them and the purpose behind keeping a commonplace notebook, I’m more organized and deliberate with them. I also plan to keep them for the future.
A commonplace notebook is an excellent habit for you and your child to start. Here’s how:
1) Purchase a pretty notebook. One that can be carried in a messenger bag when you’re out and about and need a book to read.
2) Read a book together. It’s much easier to teach a child how to incorporate beautiful quotes when you are reading together. That way, you can both write down inspiring quotes.
3) Make it a habit. At first, you will need to do this with your child, but later, schedule a time, perhaps during teatime, when you can write down quotes from the week and discuss what has been read during individual reading times.
The beauty of keeping a commonplace notebook is that it is not just a student assignment; it is a beautiful habit that can be cultivated by a mother as well.
Do you keep a commonplace notebook?
Warmly,
Mirley
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