Recess Squads: Socratic Discussions

Explore the big questions, together

Build confidence, communication skills, and mental agility through weekly conversations about moral dilemmas, ethical conundrums, and philosophical what-ifs.

This squad is hosted by a Recess guide but driven by your voice. Whether you love talking through controversial questions, defending a side you disagree with, or just listening to different points of view, this is your space.

What You'll Do

Engage in thoughtful, open-ended discussions
Discuss ideas and explore multiple sides of tough questions
Use Socratic questioning to push your thinking
Practice persuasive speaking and respectful disagreement
Take on roles in moral dilemmas and hypothetical scenarios
Get better at explaining your reasoning and hearing others out

What You'll Learn

Verbal Confidence: Get better at speaking up, listening well, and holding your ground
Persuasive Thinking: Learn how to construct arguments and respond to tough critiques
Perspective-Taking: Hear viewpoints different from your own and grow from them
Emotional Intelligence: Learn to disagree without arguing and think clearly even when topics get tricky
Philosophy Basics: Explore justice, fairness, identity, freedom, and more

Who It's For

Ages 12 and up
Curious thinkers and respectful debaters
Anyone who loves conversation and big ideas
If enough younger Recessians are interested, we will open a version for under-12 too!

A Note on Worldview and Discussion Guidelines

These squads are a space for exploring big questions, not for prescribing answers. Our goal is to foster respectful, open-ended conversations where all worldviews are welcomed and no single perspective is promoted.

We believe kids grow by hearing many viewpoints, learning to articulate their own, and challenging themselves to consider ideas they may not agree with. Guides are trained to facilitate with neutrality, ensure no one dominates the conversation, and encourage perspective-taking from all sides.

Whether your family holds specific values or simply wants assurance that the space is balanced and thoughtful, know that we take that trust seriously. Parents are always welcome to reach out with questions or concerns and a follow up with main points of each discussion will be shared at the end of each session.

What You’ll Need

A working mic and camera (Camera on is a requirement)
Willingness to listen, speak, and explore ideas with care

Meet the guides

Expert guides leading this course

Christopher B.
Recess Guide
Recess Community Director, Recess Guide, here for the vibes 😎. Ask me about Caspian!

Pick a time

EDT
Age ranges are just suggestions! You can register for any cohort.

2 cohorts are full

Cohort Full
13+ yrs

None of these work?
Tell us what time works best for you!

$20 per week

1x / week

60 mins