Tinker Thinkers

A fun introduction to logic, reasoning, arguments, and critical thinking for kids ages 8–12. Learn how to build stronger arguments, spot weak reasoning, and think for yourself.

Ah, there's nothing like a good argument!

No, we don't mean the kind of argument where you scrunch up your face, get angry, and stomp around.

We mean the kind where you share an idea, give reasons for what you think, listen to other points of view, and figure out whether the reasoning holds up.

Meet the Tinker Thinkers, a team of pint-sized ponderers equipped with the tools of logic and reason.

As they tinker their way toward better ideas, readers learn how arguments work, what makes an argument strong or weak, and how to recognize some of the sneaky ways people can make an argument seem more convincing than it really is.

Along the way, kids discover that good thinking isn't about always being right. It's about asking questions, examining reasons, noticing assumptions, considering evidence, and being willing to rethink an idea when the reasons point somewhere else.

Tinker Thinkers introduces young readers to the foundations of logic, reasoning, argumentation, and critical thinking in a colourful, engaging, and approachable way.

Because building a good argument is one of the most useful thinking skills a person can learn, and it can be fun, too!

What kids explore

• What an argument actually is

• The difference between an argument and a disagreement

• How to identify the parts of an argument

• Reasons, claims, and conclusions

• How to evaluate whether an argument is strong

• Logic and basic reasoning skills

• How to recognize weak or misleading arguments

• “Sneaky” arguments and hidden assumptions

• How to question claims and examine reasons

• How to think independently and make better-supported decisions

• Why listening to other people's ideas can make our own thinking stronger

Perfect for

• Curious kids ages 8–12

• Young philosophers and budding debaters

• Children who enjoy puzzles, reasoning, and figuring things out

• Parents looking for books that develop critical-thinking skills

• Teachers introducing logic, argumentation, and reasoning

• Philosophy-for-children programs

• Classrooms exploring debate

How about a free downloadable lesson plan bundle to go with it?

Praise for Tinker Thinkers:

“Many readers, both young and old, are sure to enjoy innovative ideas like “sneaky silent arguments” both in terms of how these can be discovered (identified) and countered. The inclusion of these “sneaky silent arguments” is not only a clever way to engage children, but also a helpful tool for anyone interested in uncovering the many ways such sneaky tricks are embedded in everyday discourse as well as performed in political and commercial advertising. Drawing our attention to such tricks of the trade is something this kids book is great at, and is certainly a lesson we adults could probably use a bit more instruction in.”

- Analytic Teaching and Philosophical Praxis

“It should matter to us that children learn to think for themselves. And in order to become adept at doing so, children need practice. Tinker Thinkers is a great place to start. Colorful, fun and engaging, the book can help foster some basic reasoning and logic skills, supporting childrens’ development into more self-reflective and proficient thinkers.”

- Philosophy Now Magazine

Ah, there’s nothing like a good argument!

No, we don’t mean the kind of argument where you scrunch up your face, get angry, and stomp around. We mean the kind of argument where you share your thoughts with others, and explain the reasons behind them.

Meet the Tinker Thinkers! Equipped with the tools of logic and reason, this team of pint-sized ponderers build their way to better ideas. Join them as they explore the parts of an argument, and learn new ways to test its strength. You’ll find that building an argument is one of the most important skills a person can learn...and it can be fun too!

Paperback

40 pages