top of page

Nurturing Growth Beyond the Classroom:The Gift of Afterschool Learning

Writer's picture: Shanna SansomShanna Sansom

At Charlotte Mason Community School, we believe that education is a life, and learning should not be confined to the hours spent in a classroom. It is with great joy that we announce our MiLeap grant award, a gift that allows us to extend the beauty of learning into the afternoon hours through our enrichment-based afterschool program.


In the same way that a child delights in the living ideas of a great book or the wonders of nature, we hope to cultivate an atmosphere where children continue to explore, create, and grow long after the final school bell has rung. These funds will support our efforts in providing a thoughtful and engaging program—one that nourishes both mind and spirit, allowing students to experience the richness of knowledge, the joy of meaningful work, and the delight of discovering new skills.


The Beauty and Necessity of Afterschool Learning

The hours after school are often overlooked in their potential. Yet, these are the golden hours—times of quiet reflection, deep conversation, and the freedom to pursue learning in a more natural and unhurried way. It is here that children can develop habits of attention, imagination, and self-discipline in a way that feels both natural and joyful.


Afterschool programs offer more than just supervision—they provide an environment where children flourish, where they can strengthen relationships, practice new skills, and cultivate the love of learning in a way that is meaningful and personal. Our aim is not to merely fill the time but to enrich it, offering children an experience that is as life-giving as the education we strive to provide during the school day.



A Gentle and Inspiring Atmosphere for Growth

Our CMCS Afterschool Program is built upon three key elements that reflect the Charlotte Mason philosophy:


  1. Time for Nourishment & Reflection: Each afternoon begins with snack time and homework support, offering children a space to rest, refuel, and prepare for the meaningful work ahead. To encourage curiosity and conversation, we invite students to bring a fun fact to share—whether it be about history, nature, literature, or something unexpected! This small habit cultivates the joy of discovery and builds a habit of noticing the world with interest and wonder.


  2. Creativity through Living Ideas: The heart of our program is rich, meaningful experiences that expand the mind and deepen understanding. Our first rotation, Creative, invites children to step into the world of stories, poetry, drama, and creative expression. These are not just activities—they are invitations to engage with beauty, language, and imagination in a way that sparks wonder and creativity.


  3. Time for the Body & Mind: Just as we nourish the mind with living ideas, we must also care for the body. Our second rotation, Physical Activity, encourages movement and skill-building. Through these activities, children develop coordination, perseverance, and teamwork, all while experiencing the joy of movement.


  4. Cultivating Curiosity & Thoughtful Engagement: The final rotation, Brain Builders, provides students with thoughtful challenges that encourage critical thinking and problem-solving. Whether they are engaged in logic games, puzzles, or strategy-based activities, children are practicing the habit of attentiveness, reasoning, and careful observation—all skills that will serve them in life.



An Atmosphere of Authenticity

At the heart of our program is a desire to cultivate authenticity—a space where children feel comfortable being exactly who they are, growing in confidence and character, and learning to extend grace and acceptance to others. In a world that often pushes conformity, we believe it is essential for children to discover and embrace their God-given identity and to be surrounded by peers who will encourage them to flourish in who they were created to be.

This is not simply an afterschool program—it is an extension of our mission to provide a rich, life-giving education that nurtures the whole child: mind, heart, and body.



Looking Ahead

The past three weeks have already been a beautiful unfolding of learning, laughter, and growth. From storytelling to soccer, from quiet moments of reflection to the joyful energy of play, we have seen firsthand the beauty of education that extends beyond the classroom.

We look forward to continuing this journey—building habits of truth, goodness, and beauty in the afternoon hours and offering children an experience that will shape both their minds and their hearts.



If you feel led to be a part of this work—whether as a program instructor, volunteer, or supporter—we welcome you to reach out. Education is a community effort, and together, we can provide a place of nourishment, discovery, and growth for the children entrusted to us.



1 view0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


Commenting has been turned off.
Charlotte Mason Community School Logo

CHARLOTTE MASON
COMMUNITY SCHOOL

17400 Second Ave

Detroit, MI 48203

Tel: (313) 338-3481

Fax: ‪(313) 338-9026‬

office@charlottemasoncs.org

  • Instagram
  • Facebook

Founded in 2002, Charlotte Mason Community School (CMCS) is a K-8 private school located in Detroit, Michigan. Rooted in Charlotte Mason's educational philosophy, CMCS is dedicated to providing a nurturing environment where children can grow in mind, body, and spirit. We aim to develop individuals of character and integrity, equipped with the skills and abilities to make positive contributions to their communities. Our diverse community fosters a love of learning that extends beyond the classroom, preparing students to be thoughtful, compassionate leaders.

Asset-4_4x-8-1-1024x97.png

© 2023 CMCS

bottom of page