<p>How can we develop Sustained Shared Thinking in our classrooms? Curiosity, wonder and puzzlement are at the core of children wanting to know more. If you are aware of when and how you have encouraged periods of Sustained Shared Thinking you will be able to plan to do it again.  What is it? An episode in which two or more individuals ‘work together’ in an intellectual way to solve a problem, clarify a concept, evaluate activities, extend a narrative etc. Both parties must contribute to the thinking and it must develop and extend.  How? We need to be aware of the effect of adult interaction into play. How good are you at ‘tuning in’? Try the SOUL approach –  Silence  Observation  Understanding  Listening This gives us an opportunity to really understand what is going on within the play. It may be that at this point we make the decision that our intervention would be an intrusion and that to try to enter the play would be destructive. There are 3 main types of practitioner: 1. Manager – someone who is too intrusive and delegating. 2. Observer – not actually enjoying the imaginative play. 3. Co-player – a play partner – someone who can open doors and who extends learning. We all know which one we would like to be!  Entering the play In order that we can enter the play sensitively and unobtrusively we need to take things stage by stage – this may help: a) Play alongside b) Engage in self talk c) Initiate parallel play  Extending the play We are now in a position to facilitate the children’s learning by:  Involving ourselves in their play – show genuine interest  Discussing ideas and extending their thinking – with EAL children use gesture and non-verbal communication  Making suggestions – the child is the player – be prepared to have your ideas rejected!  Asking open ended questions – only when you really want to find an answer  Use questions sparingly.</p><p>Interaction Strategies 1. Join the children at their level. 2. Use the SOUL process. 3. Follow children’s leads and take turns with them. 4. Use comments as conversational openers. 5. Label and describe children’s actions. 6. Acknowledge what children say. 7. Encourage children to extend. 8. Ask questions sparingly. 9. Offer comfort and contact. 10.Participate in children’s play. 11.Encourage children’s problem solving.</p>