The (Not So) Serious Business of Philosophy With Kids

“Philosophy” seems like a big, serious word for a big, serious practice, with all kinds of emotional and intellectual baggage attached. Even just the mention of it intimidates a lot of adults, conjuring images of ancient thinkers in togas, or academics with furrowed brows. Philosophy feels like something deep, cerebral, and even tiring.

And maybe it is…for adults.

But for younger thinkers, it doesn’t have to be, and probably shouldn’t be. We’d like to invite any big person reading this to toss their assumptions about philosophy aside for a minute and try to see it through kid goggles. When you’re a wee thinker, asking big questions isn’t such a big deal, nor is participating in a discussion about them. It’s all part of being human and becoming who you will be. For kids, philosophy is growth, empowerment, and most importantly, play! It shows up in activities like:

·      Watching a favourite cartoon, television show, or movie.

·      Drawing, singing, telling stories, or dancing.

·      Playing on a sports team.

·      Trying new foods.

·      Exploring nature at a local park.

·      Telling a funny joke.

While they’re playing their way through philosophy, they’re also learning to:

·      Follow a train of thought from one idea to another.

·      Go beyond surface information, to find deeper understanding.

·      Put their ideas into words and communicate clearly.

·      See things from new and different perspectives.

·      Relate to others and the world around them.

·      Understand themselves and why they feel and think the things they do.

So, while philosophy might not always need to be serious for kids, it is always important. When we, as adults, see only the serious side of philosophy, we tend to shy away from engaging it with our kids. When we do bring it up as strictly serious, we’re likely to keep them from embracing, becoming immersed and invested in it in a way that only kids can be.

If we’re being honest, seeing philosophy as only serious also keeps us, the bigger thinkers, from enjoying it and reaping its benefits. Admittedly, things do tend to get more serious as we get older, but there’s still room for us to play with ideas, and to enjoy making space for creativity and connection. Taking this more playful stance on philosophy with our kids may help bridge the gap between generations. The family that thinks together, grows together.

If there is a serious part of doing philosophy with kids, it’s their need for it. Kids, just like adults, need to feel that they’re part of the discussion, and that their thoughts and feelings matter. They need the openness, critical thinking, and understanding of self that are necessary to navigate the world as it is. If we introduce kids to big questions through play, when things do get serious for them, they’ll have philosophy as both a tool and a guide.