She argued that children are capable of understanding complex philosophical concepts and that they can benefit from philosophical inquiry.
The Origins of the Debate
The debate surrounding the suitability of children for philosophy has a long history. Plato and Aristotle, two of the most influential philosophers in Western philosophy, believed that children were not yet ready for philosophical inquiry. According to Plato, children were too young and inexperienced to fully grasp the complexities of philosophical concepts. Aristotle, on the other hand, believed that children’s minds were too malleable and prone to being shaped by external influences, making it difficult for them to develop a clear and stable philosophical understanding.
The Challenge of Teaching Philosophy to Children
Despite the skepticism surrounding children’s ability to engage with philosophy, many researchers and educators have challenged this notion. Jana Mohr Lone, an American researcher and author, has spent over 20 years teaching philosophy to young children.
Step 1: Acknowledge and Validate Their Curiosity
When your child asks a profound question, it’s essential to acknowledge and validate their curiosity. This means giving them the attention and respect they deserve. Here are some ways to do this:
Step 2: Explore the Question Together
Once you’ve acknowledged and validated their curiosity, it’s time to explore the question together. Here are some ways to do this:
What is the purpose of life? What is the meaning of life? These are the questions that we will be exploring in this dialogue.
Understanding the Purpose of Life
The purpose of life is a question that has puzzled philosophers, theologians, and everyday people for centuries. It is a question that has sparked intense debates, discussions, and reflections. In this dialogue, we will explore the concept of purpose and its significance in our lives. The concept of purpose is often associated with goals and objectives. It is the reason why we do what we do, and it gives our lives direction and meaning.
Introduction
Philosophy is often misunderstood as a dry and abstract subject, but its benefits extend far beyond the classroom. Engaging in philosophical discussions with children can have a profound impact on their cognitive, social, and emotional development. In this article, we’ll delve into the ways in which philosophical dialogue can improve children’s logical reasoning, reading and math comprehension, self-esteem, and turn-taking skills.
Logical Reasoning
Philosophical discussions encourage children to think critically and develop their logical reasoning skills. By exploring complex ideas and concepts, children learn to analyze information, evaluate arguments, and form their own opinions.
These conversations can help your child develop their critical thinking skills and encourage them to explore their own thoughts and ideas.
Encouraging Critical Thinking in Children
Critical thinking is an essential skill for children to develop as it helps them navigate the complexities of the world around them. By engaging in conversations with your child, you can encourage them to think critically and make informed decisions.
The Power of Conversations
Conversations with your child can be a powerful tool in developing critical thinking skills.
By asking them to reflect, explore different perspectives and consider the bigger picture, you’ll embark on a philosophical journey that can grow into something meaningful for you both. By Ben Kilby PhD candidate in Education, Monash University
