Philokids in Monaco: Philosophy Workshops for Children Aged 7 to 11 at the Médiathèque Caroline

Philosophy is not just for adults. Children, too, can explore life’s big questions, exchange ideas and learn to develop independent thinking. This is the inspiration behind Philokids – Les jeunes philosophent, an educational programme organised by the Rencontres Philosophiques de Monaco and designed for children aged 7 to 11.

Held on selected Wednesday afternoons at the Médiathèque Caroline in Monaco, these workshops offer young participants a welcoming space in which to reflect together, listen to others and express their own opinions.

The sessions are led by Alicia Polzella Gauduel, a practising philosopher, and often explore themes connected to those discussed during the Thursday evening meetings of the Rencontres Philosophiques de Monaco at the Théâtre Princesse Grace.

The aim is to introduce children to philosophy through an enjoyable and accessible experience, turning everyday questions into opportunities to reflect, develop arguments and discover different points of view. Participation is free, with advance booking available through the Médiathèque Caroline website.

Philokids Monaco: November 4 Workshop Explores What It Means to Be a Dad

The next workshop will take place on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at 2 pm, at the Médiathèque Caroline, located on Promenade Honoré II in Monaco.

Entitled “C’est qui papa?” (“Who Is Dad?”), the session will invite children to reflect on the meaning of fatherhood, family relationships and the different forms that bonds between parents and children can take.

At first glance, everyone seems to know what a dad is. But a closer look reveals that the answer may be far more complex than it initially appears.

Is a father necessarily the person who gave a child life? Is he always the person who raises, protects, cares for and loves them? Can a child have more than one dad? Is it possible to grow up without a father figure, or can another person take on that role?

These are some of the questions that will guide the discussion, encouraging children to explore the meaning of fatherhood beyond conventional definitions.

Love, Responsibility and Stereotypes: Rethinking the Role of a Father

The workshop will also encourage children to examine the images and stereotypes traditionally associated with fatherhood.

Dads are often portrayed as strong, courageous, protective or authoritative figures. But do these characteristics necessarily apply to every father? Are there different ways of being a dad? Can someone be a father figure even if they do not live with their child?

The discussion will explore important themes such as presence and absence, love, responsibility and care, without looking for a single predetermined answer.

Each child will be encouraged to contribute through personal experiences, questions and individual perspectives. The aim is not to establish a universal definition of fatherhood, but to explore together what makes a relationship meaningful and what creates a lasting family bond.

What Is a Philosophy Workshop for Children?

Philokids sessions are not traditional lessons and require no previous knowledge of philosophy. They are group discussions in which children are encouraged to think about a concept or question, sometimes using a film or a work of art as a starting point.

There is no single correct answer. Every participant is invited to develop their own ideas, support them with arguments, listen to others and, when necessary, reconsider what they previously believed to be true.

This approach encourages children’s natural curiosity and their ability to question things that adults often take for granted.

Through dialogue and discussion, philosophy becomes a valuable tool for developing critical thinking, listening skills and respect for other people’s opinions.

The November 4 workshop will therefore provide an opportunity to explore a subject close to children’s everyday lives, showing how even a seemingly simple question can lead to deeper reflections on human relationships and emotional bonds.

Practical Information: Philokids – Les jeunes philosophent

• Event: Philokids – Les jeunes philosophent.

• Topic: “C’est qui papa?” (Who Is Dad?).
• Date: Wednesday, November 4, 2026.
• Time: 2 pm.
• Age group: Children aged 7 to 11.
• Venue: Médiathèque Caroline.
• Address: Promenade Honoré II, Monaco.
• Workshop leader: Alicia Polzella Gauduel, practising philosopher.
• Organiser: Rencontres Philosophiques de Monaco.
• Admission: Free.
• Reservations: Through the official Médiathèque Caroline website.

An afternoon dedicated to discovering that philosophy is above all about learning to ask questions, listen, exchange ideas and think independently – even when you are just seven years old.