Philosophy for Children

Philosophy for Children (P4C) is a wonderful way of bringing together a class community to discuss things that really matter to them! The key principle is for children to experience rational and reasonable dialogue and work together in a ‘community of enquiry’. Successful sessions lead to children not wanting to ‘win’ an argument but to become clearer, more accurate, less self-contradictory and more aware of other arguments and values before reaching a conclusion. Children’s thinking and communication skills are developed throughout and self – esteem is boosted by the community valuing and appreciating all contributions.

The sessions begin with a stimulus such as a video clip, image or story. The children are encouraged themselves (guided by the adult facilitating) to come up with engaging, ‘big’, philosophical questions. Through a democratic vote, the children choose the question they would like to discuss and begin exploring in depth. The teacher guides the children, in an age appropriate way, to think deeply and philosophically whilst explicitly developing the 4Cs of P4C – critical, creative, collaborative and caring thinking.