At Express CAMP, kids dive into big questions in a way that’s creative, thoughtful, and fun. Rooted in Philosophy for Children methodologies developed by philosophers Thomas Wartenberg and Gareth Matthews among others, and built around the Prindle Institute’s nationally recognized Teaching Children Philosophy resources, the program helps young campers explore ideas like fairness, empathy, honesty, and identity. From there, campers create, reflect, and express what they think through hands-on art, collaborative games, and guided discussions.
About the Program
Express CAMP 2026
In partnership with the Putnam County YMCA, the Prindle Institute will host YMCA summer campers for several pop-up Express CAMP days throughout the summer. Led by Institute staff, these on-site visits bring first- through seventh-graders out to the DePauw Nature Park for a day of philosophical exploration, with discussions about bravery, pride, kindness, and more woven through creative and collaborative activities. It’s Express CAMP’s signature approach to big questions, delivered in a format that meets kids where they are.
We’re also taking Express CAMP on the road. As we pilot Mobile Express CAMP this summer, Institute staff will travel to summer programs around Indiana to bring Express CAMP-style lessons directly to their campers. We’re excited to extend the tools for respectful disagreement, positive dialogue, and creative inquiry that have defined Express CAMP to young people throughout the state.
Information about future Express CAMP programming will be released as it becomes available. For questions or partnership inquiries, contact us at prindleinstitute@depauw.edu.