Philosophy with children (PwC) as a rights-based pedagogical practice is an educational approach that empowers children as active participants in their own learning and promotes their agency, critical thinking, and voice. Rooted in the principles of democracy, equity, and inclusion, PwC aligns closely with the idea of education as a fundamental right and is particularly relevant in the context of frameworks such as the UNCRC. Notably Article 12 UNCRC states that children have ‘the right to express their views freely in all matters affecting [them]’ (United Nations, 1989, 5). PwC is rooted in the tradition of Pragmatism found in the work of Charles Saunders Pierce and John Dewey whose communities of inquiry concept interested Lipman (Cam, 2018; Cassidy & Christie, 2013). To participate in a community of philosophical enquiry involves participants engaging in practical philosophy to construct and gain philosophical insights that lead to a new sense of understanding (Lipman, 2003; Cassidy & Christie, 2013). By participating in dialogue learners extend and develop, challenge and consolidate their thinking in a collaborative and co-operative way that can lead to shared meaning making. By thinking of community in this way, children are encouraged to think of themselves in relation to others and the world in which they live (Cassidy & Lone, 2022). This paper looks at the potential of PwC as a way of empowering children and young people. By engaging in philosophical inquiry, children are treated as active participants in their education rather than passive recipients of knowledge. This fosters a sense of agency and encourages them to take ownership of their learning in a thoughtful and participative way. It supports the development of reflective thinking, allowing children to examine their own assumptions and consider ethical and social issues. Through philosophical dialogue, children explore concepts such as fairness, justice, and responsibility, helping them understand their own rights and the rights of others. It prepares children to navigate complex ethical and social issues, equipping them with the tools to engage with sustainability, climate justice, and global challenges (Cassidy, 2017). The UNCRC advocates for education that supports children’s cognitive, social, emotional, and moral development. PwC aligns with this by engaging children in discussions that stimulate intellectual curiosity and emotional growth. By fostering participation, agency, and critical thinking, it not only enriches children’s educational experiences but also equips them to be thoughtful, responsible, and engaged citizens in an increasingly complex world.

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