PLATO

Children ask big philosophical questions – Are numbers real? Can dogs think? But often their thoughts and questions are not taken seriously.

Winner of the 2023 APA/PDC Prize for Excellence and Innovation in Philosophy Programs, PLATO creates opportunities for young people to explore, in rigorous and meaningful conversations, life’s deeper questions – nurturing their curiosity and helping them to learn to think clearly and reason well.

We offer an array of in-person and online programs about philosophy for children and teens, as well as a wealth of open-access resources for use in schools and homes, serving thousands of students, teachers, families, and community members nationally and internationally. 

As part of the expansion of our work, PLATO has recently developed the New England Consortium to foster and suppprt collaborate around the region. We plan to start similar groups in other regions of the country.

Our mission is based on the conviction that every child’s voice matters, and that philosophy helps young people to express their own ideas and questions confidently and well.