I use a lot of Ambleside Online's stuff, as well as Simply Charlotte Mason.
I'm suprised to hear some thought she was punitive, becuase I've heard her speak and I've been through her blog a zillion times and nothing's ever sent up my red flags! She usually very gentle, esp. with her autistic child.
I also use Heart of Dakota for my youngers, which is charlotte mason based.
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Darci
wife to Lester and gentle homeschooling mama to 6 boys:
Jake (20) Jesse (19) Jamie (16)
Ben (14) Greyson (11) Gabe (8)
INFP and DYT 3/2