Philosophy for children

Philosophical discussions over a meal are part of the human condition here in France. There, teachers have recognised the value of using philosophy to help students understand the complex world. While philosophy in primary school is new, it has been part of secondary education and universities since Napoleon introduced the baccalauréat.

Helping children to ask questions

Philosophy teachers in France have pushed to make the subject more accessible to younger children, with classes and courses in schools and local libraries. Philosophical discussion is important in France - and in the rest of the world. Learning philosophy at an early age gives you a broader perspective on the world. Philosophy is about life. According to Paris-based child psychologist Cécile Viénot, learning philosophy helps children to ask questions, develop empathy and a collective consciousness.

Cure for excessive self-absorption

A 2015 UK study by the Education Endowment Foundation shows that children who study philosophy perform better in maths and reading than those who do not. In a world dominated by self-centred personalities, there may be something to be said for delving into Socratic philosophy in a simplified lesson at an early age. Philosophising makes us better at asking important existential questions. And if there's one thing children are good at, it's asking natural questions about life. Perhaps this could be the cure to prevent the young from becoming too self-absorbed as they grow older?

Socrates at school

Children benefit from exploring bigger questions alongside creative subjects. Inquiry can be encouraged and motivated in a constructive direction. Asking ethical questions allows us to reflect on how our actions affect others.Let them think freely, push them but not too hard. One or more philosophical questions require children to think carefully about themselves, others and the world, and to try to understand them better. A simple lesson on looking outwards is a valuable ethical value that will make the world more emphatic and committed to improvement. We need this on a large scale.