Why Think?: Philosophical Play From 3 11

Description

This is a practical guide to teaching philosophical thinking through play, questioning and dialogic activities to develop children's deeper understanding of life's big questions. We live in an ever demanding world where independent, creative thinking is highly prized. We want the children of the future to have the skills and confidence to form their own ideas, and have the confidence and resilience to speak up for what they believe in. "Why Think?" will enable practitioners of children aged 3-11 to confidently turn their classrooms into spaces where thinking, challenging and reasoning become as natural as play. In this book, the author of "But Why?" explores how to maximise philosophical play through activities, games and parental engagement. "Why Think?" includes: inspirational case studies; facilitation techniques and information on philosophical concepts; a list of recommended books and resources, online quizzes, thinking games and useful web links; and, question-board activities to stimulate daily thinking. The book is visually interesting with lots of annotated sessions, drawings, photos, and ideas for resources. This is a must for all early years and primary practitioners.

Author description

Sara Stanley is an Advanced Skills teacher, specialising in philosophy, role play and literary in the Early Years. She is on Norfolk LEA's working party for early years publications in literacy and role play, and has contributed to the Conram Institute's Listening to Young Children project. Having studied under Karin Murris, Roger Sutcliffe and Joanna Haynes, Sara has practiced philosophy for children for many years and now delivers training with colleague Maria Cornish. Together they set up the East Anglian branch of the Society for the Advancement of Philosophical Enquiry and Reflection in Education (SAPERE).

Table of contents

1. Introduction to Philosophy in Schools; 2. Starting with Play; 3. Creating Philosophical Thinkers; 4. Big Thinking about Big Ideas; 5. Think Again; 6. Philosophical Journeys - Case studies; 7. Using books and Resources; 8. Putting it all Together - Thinking for Life; Index.