HEIDELBERG, Germany - Where do a parent's responsibilities end and their child's begin' Who is the most responsible person you know'

Kathy Tone tells her students, mostly middle school-age kids, "Philosophy doesn't have to be a serious, grown-up topic."

These types of questions often extend into a thoughtful discussion in Tone's philosophy class for kids, Big Ideas."This class is self-defense for the mind," said Tone, who also works as a member of the Heidelberg and Mannheim Parent to Parent team. "Kids learn to express themselves and give their opinions."

The course, which is held once a week at the Schools of Knowledge, Inspiration, Exploration and Skills - SKIES - building on Patrick Henry Village in Heidelberg, explores topics and issues many of her students identify with.

They're introduced to philosophers whose works and ideas deal with issues that cover everything from compassion and empathy to values and beliefs.

"Some of the topics are very personal," said Tone. "This teaches them to discuss these issues in a civil, respectful manner and that talking about ideas can be exciting."

Tone began teaching the class in 2007 at her son's elementary school after being fascinated by a book about children's philosophy, "Little Big Minds" by Marietta McCarty.

"I became inspired by this book and my class is based on that," she said. "So it's not deep conceptual philosophy that I'm teaching."

She expanded her course the following year after many of her students wanted to take the class again.

Will Miller, an eighth grade student at Heidelberg Middle School, signed up for Big Ideas and said he enjoyed learning to "think outside the box."

"Some of the things that were discussed really made me think more about what certain things really mean," said the 14-year-old.

Miller, who has an appreciation for philosophy, said other class members contributed to discussions and that made for more interesting sessions.

"The class exceeded my expectations," he said. "Some of the things put forth by the younger members of the class showed a lot of maturity and intelligence."

Besides self-confidence, philosophy teaches kids flexibility, tolerance and empathy "at an age when individual personalities are beginning to develop," Tone said.

Big Ideas is split in two six-week sessions and is available through Child Youth and School Services in Heidelberg.