(File photo)

A kindergarten in Hangzhou, eastern China’s Zhejiang province, is planning to open philosophy courses for its students in the next year, Qianjiang Evening News reported on Nov. 16.

“Philosophy is not as profound as some people think, and children love raising lots of questions on their daily experiences,” said Gao Zhenyu, the teacher of the course, and also the director of a children philosophy research institute under Hangzhou Normal University.

For example, they asked whether ants are beneficial insects and wondered if a mother ant would be sad when another ant is stepped on after reading a story about ants, Gao noted.

Behind these questions is children’s thinking on their relations with nature, Gao said, adding that this process is what makes the philosophy course.

Experts on children philosophy believe that the courses can promote the development of children’s core competence, as well as improve their curiosity and exploring spirit.

In addition, it could also alter traditional views that children do not have the ability to think in a wise manner.

An employee of the kindergarten told Qianjiang Evening News that three different courses will be provided respectively for parents, teachers, and children.

In addition to the kindergarten, more and more schools in Hangzhou have started offering philosophy courses.

“Philosophy is the most interesting course, because I will be praised no matter how I answer the questions,” a student said.