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Charlotte Mason's idea was that once children are 9 and can read fluently that they should start reading to learn. So when my kids hit 9 (or really when they get into Bigger Hearts, whenever that is because all of mine have been able to read well by then) they start working on reading their science (it's in general easier). I'll have them read a page and then I'll finish it. Throughout the Bigger book, by the end, they are capable of reading their science and history and getting the important information out of it. I still read it to them some and they read it some. It just depends on the day and if they want to wait for me to be able to read to them. Then once they are in preparing, they take over the independent history and science (as they are supposed to according to the guide) and then throughout that year we get it to where they can also do the readings and narrations, etc for the history box. That way when they get to the next guide they don't have to work towards the independence, but already have it.

As far as how to go about preparing her for CTC I'd just have her read and narrate to you daily from history and science. Then once you get into CTC I'd make sure she knows that the "I" boxes mean she is supposed to read the directions and do what they say, the "T" boxes are where you teach her, and the "S" boxes are for you to teach and her to complete. Then just do it

Could you get some of it early and start looking through? It's hard for me to say, not knowing them, what your kids might be ready for and what they might not be. If there is some growing into it that's fine, that's why I think you should start off slowly and expect it to take more time and attention from you at the start then it will once you get it going. It's all in training them to do what you expect and then letting them do it (and heaping on praise when they do a good job!) If there are any supplemental books or if you can find books at the library on similar topics to what you are reading for history, check those out and have your older one read them (in portions) and narrate to you about what she reads. Really work on following step-by-step instructions and paying attention to the details. HOD is excellent at teaching this to kids by having things all laid out for them to do independently. So cook with her and have her read the directions and figure out how to carry it out without a lot of input from you. It is so hard to stand by and keep quiet sometimes! But it is helpful to them to learn that skill. Or make a list of something you want her to complete and then let her do it on her own and see how she does.

We also talk a lot about good work habits, working diligently, and getting work done before we play. They get lots of praise and sometimes reward if they do their work diligently with a good attitude. At the very least I try to point out that there is more time for fun and personal pursuits when we work this way.

There is also scripture memory included in the program. If you haven't done a lot of that now might be a good time to start. Pick a passage all of you can memorize together. We usually do this over breakfast or lunch, as it helps us to have something to discuss anyway otherwise chaos can reign at meal times.

Those are just some thoughts.