Why Think?: Philosophical Play from 3-11

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• Question-board activities to stimulate daily thinking The book is visually interesting with lots of annotated sessions, drawings, photos, and ideas for resources. A must for all early years and primary practitioners.

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

About the Author :
Sara Stanley is Foundation Stage Leader and Teacher at Sparhawk Infant and Nursery School, Norwich, UK. She is a Level 1 trainer for SAPERE (The Society for the Advancement of Philosophical Enquiry and Reflection in Education) and delivers P4C (Philosophy for Children) training, workshops and keynote speeches internationally.

Review :
'Sara Stanley brings the buzz and energy of her classroom to an engaging and practical guide on P4C for early years practitioners. This book so importantly celebrates young children's thinking and provides superb examples with helpful guidance on how to deal with the complexities and challenges of philosophical dialogue.' Lizzy Lewis, Development Manager, Society for Advancing Philosophical Enquiry and Reflection in Education (SAPERE), UK 'If you are someone interested in encouraging and facilitating philosophical thinking skills in the classroom, this excellent book will tell you everything you need to know to get you started. Whatever the age of the children you work with, this accessible book gives you a step-by-step guide to the rewarding process of philosophy for children. However, the real plus is that it is written by a practicing teacher and packed full of powerful case studies that brilliantly illuminate the theory and bring the whole process to life. If you've never taught philosophy with children before, the case studies in this book with certainly motivate you to want to. Packed full of excellent practical ideas, this is a book that should be read by anyone working with children!' Ros Bayley, early years consultant, writer and storyteller, UK 'What I like with this book is that it shows that good thinking is something you can learn and train, and that although it can be hard work, it can also be fun. Sara Stanley shows the difference the teacher can make when it comes to helping students to become better thinkers and to listen to the ideas of others. Why Think? will stimulate teachers to try meaningful activities that develop children's thinking, self-esteem and their relationships with others, whilst alsoshowing that philosophy is not only enriching and fun for children, but also for teachers.' Beate Børresen, Associate Professor, Faculty of Education and International Studies, Oslo and Akershus University College, Norway