SIDECAR 01
Wait for the idea
Pause long enough to notice what a child is testing before adding language or materials.
WHĀNAU SIDECAR
Adults alongside, children in the lead
Ten practices help adults remain attentive, responsive and useful without taking over an open-ended play inquiry.
SIDECAR 02
Describe, do not quiz
Offer a genuine observation instead of repeatedly testing for a known answer.
SIDECAR 03
Offer one change
Choose the smallest useful addition so the original idea remains visible.
SIDECAR 04
Share the lead
Allow children to lead, follow, watch or return later without forcing equal participation.
SIDECAR 05
Name the effort
Notice a strategy, revision or return instead of praising only a finished object.
SIDECAR 06
Make room for repeat
Repeated pouring, building or movement may be the inquiry itself.
SIDECAR 07
Invite home language
Gesture, sound and the languages used by whānau all belong in shared meaning-making.
SIDECAR 08
Follow a quiet signal
Distance, watching or covering ears can communicate useful information about pace and sensory load.
SIDECAR 09
Help without finishing
Stabilise or clarify only the part that needs an adult hand while preserving ownership.
SIDECAR 10
Close with recall
Connect the experience with a possible future return without judging an outcome.