Games and Play: Making Philosophy Fun
Want to make your kids think like little philosophers? Let's turn it into a fun game! Here's how you can make thinking and questioning as exciting as playtime.
Fun Games to Try
The Question Game
Take turns asking "why" questions about everyday things. For example, "Why do we have to share toys?" or "Why do we need friends?" There are no wrong answers - just keep the questions flowing.
What Would You Do?
Make up silly situations and ask your kids what they would do. Like "What if your teddy bear could talk?" or "What if ice cream fell from the sky?" This helps them think creatively and solve problems.
Agree or Disagree Corner
Make two corners in a room - one for "agree" and one for "disagree." Say something like "Pizza is the best food ever" and let kids run to their chosen corner. Then let them explain why they picked that side.
Simple Activities
Story Time Questions
When reading bedtime stories, pause and ask questions: "Was the character right to do that?" or "What would you have done differently?" This makes reading more interactive and thought-provoking.
Drawing Thoughts
Ask your child to draw things like "happiness" or "friendship." Then talk about their drawing. It's amazing what kids can teach us about big ideas through their art.
Making It Work
Keep these tips in mind:
Make it short and sweet, 10-15 minutes is plenty
Praise their ideas, even the silly ones
Join in the fun yourself
Keep the language simple
Laugh and be playful
Remember, when kids have fun while thinking, they learn to love using their minds. They become better at solving problems and understanding others' points of view. Plus, they're having so much fun, they won't even realize they're doing philosophy!
These games help kids:
Think better
Speak up more
Make smarter choices
Work well with friends
Feel more confident
The best part? You don't need any special tools or toys - just your imagination and willingness to play along. Turn everyday moments into chances to think and wonder together.