Exploring Big Ideas to Stimulate Critical Thinking

Often, education emphasises rote learning and standardised testing, but a quiet new movement is taking place – the introduction of philosophy for kids. At first glance, it might seem incongruous to introduce philosophical concepts to young minds, but delve a little deeper, and you’ll uncover a treasure trove of benefits that philosophy brings to children’s intellectual and emotional development.

Why teach Philosophy to kids?

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of nurturing critical thinking skills in children from an early age. Philosophy provides the perfect playground for such development. It encourages children to ask big questions, to ponder the nature of existence, morality, truth, and knowledge. By engaging in philosophical discussions, children learn to think logically, to articulate their thoughts clearly, and to consider multiple perspectives – essential skills for success in an increasingly complex world.

Key Research

In the United Kingdom, the benefits of introducing philosophy into children’s education have been increasingly recognized and supported by research. A notable study conducted by the Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) in collaboration with the Philosophy Foundation explored the impact of philosophy sessions on primary school students. The research found that regular philosophical inquiries not only improved students’ critical thinking skills but also enhanced their ability to construct cogent arguments and engage in respectful dialogue with their peers. Furthermore, the study highlighted the positive effects of philosophy on students’ academic attainment across various subjects, indicating that philosophical engagement can serve as a catalyst for broader educational development. This research underscores the value of incorporating philosophy into the curriculum as a means of nurturing well-rounded and intellectually curious individuals in the UK educational landscape.

How to Introduce Philosophy

But how does one go about teaching philosophy to children? Of course, this can happen within a school context but that’s also where specialised tuition agencies can come into play. These tuition providers, staffed with trained educators passionate about philosophy, design engaging and age-appropriate tutorials to introduce children to philosophical concepts in a fun and accessible way.

One of the key principles guiding the teaching of philosophy to children is the belief in their innate curiosity and capacity for deep thinking. Children are natural philosophers – they are constantly questioning the world around them, seeking to make sense of their experiences. Philosophy lessons harness this natural inclination, providing children with a structured framework within which to explore their questions and ideas.

At the heart of philosophy for kids is the concept of the community of inquiry. In a philosophy session, children can sit together in a circle, facilitated by a trained educator, and engage in open-ended discussions around a particular topic. The educator acts as a guide, gently steering the conversation, asking probing questions, and encouraging children to think critically and reflectively.

What topics are covered and why?

The topics covered in philosophy sessions can be as varied as the minds of the children themselves. From discussions about fairness and justice to debates about the nature of reality and the existence of God, few subjects are off-limits in the philosophy classroom. What’s important is not necessarily reaching a definitive answer but rather the process of exploration and inquiry itself.

One of the great strengths of philosophy for kids is its ability to foster empathy and tolerance. By encouraging children to consider different points of view and to respect the opinions of others, philosophy lessons help to create a culture of open-mindedness and inclusivity. In an age where polarisation and division seem to be on the rise, teaching children to listen to and learn from one another is more important than ever.

But perhaps the most compelling argument for introducing philosophy into the curriculum and to children at an earlier age is its potential to cultivate a lifelong love of learning. By engaging with big ideas and grappling with complex concepts from a young age, children develop a curiosity and thirst for knowledge that will serve them well throughout their lives. Philosophy teaches children that it’s okay not to have all the answers, that uncertainty and ambiguity are a natural part of the human condition. And in a world where change is the only constant, this ability to embrace ambiguity and adapt is perhaps the most valuable lesson of all.

How Can Tutors help?

As we’ve touched upon already, tutors can play a crucial practical role in facilitating philosophy sessions for children over and above classroom philosophy lessons.  They can provide guidance, structure, and encouragement throughout the learning process. A skilled tutor can navigate the tutorials to suit the individual needs and interests of their students, ensuring that philosophical concepts are presented in a way that is accessible and engaging. Additionally, tutors create a safe and supportive environment where children feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and exploring ideas freely. Through one-on-one interactions and small group discussions, tutors can deepen students’ understanding of philosophical concepts, challenge their assumptions, and help them develop their critical thinking skills. In addition, if an older child is working towards an exam or test in Philosophy, a tutor can prepare them by going over content and exam techniques.  More widely, by fostering a collaborative and inquiry-based approach to learning, tutors are able to empower children to become confident, independent thinkers who are equipped to navigate the complexities of the world around them.

Summary

Philosophy for kids offers a unique and valuable opportunity to stimulate critical thinking and foster intellectual and emotional development. By engaging children in open-ended discussions about big ideas, educators can provide a nurturing environment where young minds can flourish. As both educators and parents, it is our responsibility to ensure that our children are not just memorising facts but are developing the skills they need to navigate an ever-changing world with confidence and resilience. And what better way to do that than by inviting them to join us on a journey of philosophical discovery?