Sustained Shared Thinking (SST) in Early Years - Face-to-Face

Strengthening children’s thinking, language, and learning through meaningful interactions.

This course introduces you to the principles and practice of Sustained Shared Thinking (SST) — a powerful approach that supports children’s cognitive development, language skills, and problem-solving abilities through purposeful, engaging conversations.

You’ll gain a deep understanding of what SST is, why it matters, and how to apply it in everyday interactions with children, including those who are very young or non-verbal. Using real examples, practical tips, and reflection opportunities, you’ll develop the confidence to use SST as a tool to enrich learning and build strong relationships.

You will learn how to:

• Understand SST — learn what Sustained Shared Thinking means, break down each element (“sustained,” “shared,” and “thinking”), and see how it applies in early years settings.
• Recognise the practitioner’s role — discover how your responses, questions, and interactions can shape a child’s ability to think critically and creatively.
• Use key elements of SST effectively — explore how to work alongside children in a way that develops and extends their ideas.
• Support all learners — see examples of SST with younger children and those who are non-verbal, and learn strategies for adapting your approach.
• Ask better questions — Understand the importance of open-ended questions and learn practical examples to encourage deeper thinking.
• Collaborate with children — Foster curiosity, problem-solving, and exploration through joint activities and intellectual partnerships.

Why this course matters

SST is more than conversation — it’s a way of thinking with children, not for them. It builds trust, confidence, and independence while helping children to make sense of the world around them.

Who is it for?

• Early years practitioners and key workers
• Nursery managers and room leaders
• Childminders and teaching assistants
• Anyone working with young children who wants to strengthen language and learning through meaningful dialogue

Outcome

By the end of the course, you’ll be able to confidently use Sustained Shared Thinking in your daily practice, helping children explore ideas, develop language, and engage in learning at a deeper level.