Al-Athfal: Jurnal Pendidikan Anak
type: channel
description: Al-Athfal: Jurnal Pendidikan Anak, ISSN Print: 2477-4189; Online: 2477-4715, published by Islamic Early Childhood Education Study Program, Faculty of Tarbiyah and Education, UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta. Al-Athfal: Jurnal Pendidikan Anak aims to provide a forum for consideration of issues and for the exchange of information and ideas on research and practice in the field of children’s education in Muslim society. Al-Athfal: Jurnal Pendidikan Anak features original research in children’s education in Muslim society from around the world. With this as its main focus, it should be emphasized that the definition of education contains parenting and its multidisciplinary approach, covering all related fields, including Islamic religion, psychology, sociology, child’s health and social work. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to: - Children's education in Islamic perspective - Children's relationship with family and Muslim community - General Health and Family Practice - Cross-cultural education for children - Educational environment, curriculum and assessment - Child psychology, growth and development
publisher: Islamic Early Childhood Education Study Program, Faculty of Tarbiyah and Education, UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta
language: en
publication name: Al-Athfal: Jurnal Pendidikan Anak
issn: 2477-4189
copyright: Authors who publish with this journal agree to the following terms: Authors retain copyright and grant the journal the right of first publication with the work simultaneously licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution License that allows others to share the work with an acknowledgment of the work's authorship and initial publication in this journal. Authors can enter into separate, additional contractual arrangements for the non-exclusive distribution of the journal's published version of the work (e.g., post it to an institutional repository or publish it in a book), with an acknowledgment of its initial publication in this journal. Authors are permitted and encouraged to post their work online (e.g., in institutional repositories or on their website) before and during the submission process. It can lead to productive exchanges and earlier and greater citation of published work.
items: Islamic-Based Neuroparenting, Emotional Intelligence, and Character Development in Indonesian Muslim Diaspora Early Childhood in Australia: A Sequential Explanatory Mixed-Methods Study
items: Integrating Islamic Values and Madurese Local Wisdom in Early Childhood Financial Literacy: Evidence from a Qualitative Multi-Site Case Study
items: Between Tradition and Digitalisation: Negotiated Mediation in Early Childhood Parenting Among Kiai Families in Sumenep Indonesia
items: Hexis of the Body and the Project of Active Piety in Islamic Early Childhood Education in Solo
items: Strategies of Early Childhood Teachers in Implementing the Pancasila Student Profile through Differentiated Learning: A Case Study
items: From Ritual to Classroom: The Transposition of Islamic and Local Culture in Early Childhood Arts Education Curriculum
items: Cultural Cooking as Parenting Pedagogy: Strengthening Father–Child Attachment in Early Childhood Education
items: Screen Time vs. Active Play: How Digital Exposure Impacts the Acquisition of Fundamental Motor Skills in Early Childhood
items: Back to Surau: Redefining Early Childhood Character Education Through the Lens of Minangkabau Culture
items: Character Quest: A Mixed-Methods Study of Role-Playing Games and Self-Regulation Skill in Kindergarten
items: Screen Time vs. Speaking Time: A Qualitative Comparison of Speech Development in Toddlers with Different Gadget Use Patterns
items: Whispers of Wisdom: A Qualitative Case Study on Character Education through Dodaidi Lullabies in Aceh’s Early Childhood
items: Instilling Religious Moderation in Early Childhood at Raudhatul Athfal Ponorogo: The Role of National Insight-Based Learning
items: Implementing and Addressing Challenges of LIMASTERS Integration in Early Childhood Education: A Case Study
items: Exploring the Integration of Digital Media in Islamic Early Childhood Education: Evidence from Kindergartens in Pontianak City
items: Exploring the Impact of Digital Literacy on Cognitive Development in Early Childhood Education: A Systematic Literature Review
items: Psychosocial Effect of Grade Retention of Learners in The Foundation Phase: A South African Case Study
items: Transformative Leadership in the Sustainable Development of Early Childhood Education Teachers in South Africa: A Systematic Literature Review
items: This is How We are at Home: Typology and Shifting Parenting Authority in Early Childhood
items: Nurturing the Child's Nature: Revisiting Child Moral Education in the Thought of Ibn Jazar on the book Siyasatu shibyan wa tadbiruhum
items: Critical Reflections on the Role of Islamic Early Childhood Educators in Building Tolerance Awareness in Educational Setting
items: Community Tolerance, Habitus, and Early Childhood Education in Schools: A Phenomenological Approach
items: Islamic Child Parenting Practices and Muslim Family Resilience in Southeast Asia: A Systematic Literature Review
items: Digital Narratives and Tradition: The Role of NU Kids Animations in Early Islamic Education
items: Childhood Education and Popular Islam: Islamic Psychology as a Pattern of Early Childhood Education in the Authoritative Affinity of Popular Islam
items: Enhancing Early Childhood Educator's Digital Competencies through AI-Powered Learning Modules (AI-PEL) Training Program
items: Strategies of Kindergarten Teachers and Parents in Preparing Children's School Readiness: Academic, Social, and Emotional Perspectives
items: Maintaining Children's Mental Health: Revealing Teacher Strategies During Offline Learning for Early Childhood
items: Practice of Kangaroo Mother Care: Unveiling Implementation Among Healthcare Providers in Sokoto, North-Western Nigeria
items: An Environmental Education Learning Model for Early Childhood: Achieving Sustainable Development

Islamic-Based Neuroparenting, Emotional Intelligence, and Character Development in Indonesian Muslim Diaspora Early Childhood in Australia: A Sequential Explanatory Mixed-Methods Study
type: item
description: Purpose – This study develops and tests an Islamic-based neuroparenting framework to strengthen emotional intelligence and character formation among Indonesian Muslim diaspora children (4 to 6 years) in Australia. Design/methods/approach – A sequential explanatory mixed-method design was used. Survey data from 150 Indonesian diaspora parents across three Australian regions were analysed with SEM-PLS. Measures assessed Islamic-based neuroparenting, children’s emotional intelligence, and character development. Follow-up semi-structured interviews with 15 parents were analysed thematically to explain the statistical patterns. Findings – Mean scores were high for neuroparenting (M = 4.30), emotional intelligence (M = 4.18), and character development (M = 4.26). Islamic-based neuroparenting predicted emotional intelligence (β = 0.58, p < 0.001) and character development (β = 0.52, p < 0.001). Emotional intelligence predicted character development (β = 0.47, p < 0.001). Explanatory power was moderate to strong (R2 = 0.34 for emotional intelligence; R2 = 0.49 for character). Interviews highlighted parental self-regulation, affective closeness, and daily Islamic routines as mechanisms supporting children’s calming, empathy, and prosocial behaviour. Research implications/limitations – The study provides empirical evidence for integrating Islamic values and neuroscience in parenting models, though its generalizability is limited to Indonesian diaspora families in Australia. Future research may extend this work by comparing diaspora communities across different cultural settings or by examining longitudinal outcomes. Practical implications – The model can guide parents, early childhood educators, Muslim schools, and community organisations in designing parenting support that prioritises emotional responsiveness, developmentally appropriate stimulation, and consistent value transmission across home and school contexts. Originality/value – The study operationalises an integrativ…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Islamic-based neuroparenting
  topic: keywords
subject: Emotional intelligence
  topic: keywords
subject: Character development
  topic: keywords
subject: Indonesian diaspora
  topic: keywords
subject: Early childhood education
  topic: keywords
creator: Maulidya Ulfah
creator: Prima Suci Rohmadheny
creator: Diah Andika Sari
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Maulidya Ulfah, Prima Suci Rohmadheny, Diah Andika Sari http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-12-31
publication date: 2025-12-31
starting page: 269
ending page: 281
doi: 10.14421/al-athfal.112-02

Integrating Islamic Values and Madurese Local Wisdom in Early Childhood Financial Literacy: Evidence from a Qualitative Multi-Site Case Study
type: item
description: Purpose – Financial literacy in Indonesia remains uneven, while early childhood financial education tends to emphasize cognitive skills and marginalize religious and cultural dimensions, particularly in Muslim-majority contexts. This study examines the integration of Islamic values and Madurese local wisdom through transformative learning in early childhood financial literacy education. Design/methods/approach – This qualitative multi-site case study involved 15 participants from two Islamic kindergartens in East Java, comprising eight teachers, two principals, and five parents. Data were collected over six months through non-participatory observation, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis. Data analysis followed Braun and Clarke’s reflexive thematic analysis. Trustworthiness was enhanced through methodological triangulation, member checking, and peer debriefing. Findings – The analysis identified three interrelated themes. The first concerns a pedagogical paradigm shift from teacher-centered to student-centered learning, mediated by the use of local wisdom as experiential learning resources, through the Beyond Centers and Circle Time model. The second theme highlights experiential entrepreneurship development through activities such as cooking classes, Market Day programs featuring Madurese products, and structured charitable practices. The third theme addresses the integration of values-based financial literacy, in which Islamic economic principles, including halal–haram considerations, charity, and social responsibility, are embedded in everyday financial learning activities. Across these themes, implementation was characterized by variation in children’s understanding, ongoing teacher mediation, and developmental constraints. Research implications/limitations – The findings indicate that values-integrated transformative learning can strengthen early childhood financial literacy by connecting economic concepts with ethical and cultural meanings. Howev…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Transformative learning
  topic: keywords
subject: Financial literacy
  topic: keywords
subject: Early childhood education
  topic: keywords
subject: Islamic values
  topic: keywords
subject: Local wisdom
  topic: keywords
subject: Culturally responsive pedagogy
  topic: keywords
creator: Ria Astuti
creator: Ardhana Reswari
creator: Muammar Qadafi
creator: Fadilah
creator: Selfi Lailiyatul Iftitah
creator: Luthfatun Nisa'
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Ria Astuti, Ardhana Reswari; Muammar Qadafi, Fadilah; Selfi Lailiyatul Iftitah, Luthfatun Nisa' http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-12-31
publication date: 2025-12-31
starting page: 283
ending page: 301
doi: 10.14421/al-athfal.112-03

Between Tradition and Digitalisation: Negotiated Mediation in Early Childhood Parenting Among Kiai Families in Sumenep Indonesia
type: item
description: Purpose – This study investigates how Kiai families in Sumenep, Madura, mediate digital technology in early childhood parenting through value-based filtering grounded in Islamic traditions. Design/methods/approach – An ethnographic study with phenomenological sensitivity was conducted over four months. Data were collected through participatory observation of five kiai families and in-depth interviews with ten key informants (five kiai and five nyai). Thematic analysis was employed, involving open coding, axial coding, and interpretive synthesis to identify patterns of technology negotiation. Findings – Kiai families predominantly refused children's ownership of personal digital devices, prioritising direct parent-child interaction and physical play. Technology access was filtered through religious considerations, with children exposed only to pre-selected Islamic content under strict parental supervision. However, enforcement remained inconsistent due to practical constraints, and indirect exposure through extended family networks produced observable behavioural changes, including adoption of digital expressions, reduced participation in religious routines, and shifts from active to passive play. Nyai reported greater stress in managing boundary violations, revealing gendered dimensions of mediation labour. Interpretations of problematic change were contested across kiai, nyai, and non-kiai informants. Research implications/limitations – This study demonstrates that resistance to digital parenting reflects value-based negotiation rather than technological illiteracy, challenging dominant digital parenting frameworks widely used in scholarship worldwide. By introducing negotiated mediation, the study extends parental mediation theory by foregrounding religious authority and culturally embedded conceptions of childhood as analytically significant. Limitations include the small sample size, cultural specificity of the pesantren context in Sumenep, the four-month observ…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Negotiated mediation
  topic: keywords
subject: Digital parenting
  topic: keywords
subject: Kiai families
  topic: keywords
subject: Parly childhood
  topic: keywords
subject: Parental mediation
  topic: keywords
creator: Thorik Aziz
creator: Mahmud Arif
creator: Nurjannah Nurjannah
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Thorik Aziz, Mahmud Arif, Nurjannah Nurjannah http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-12-31
publication date: 2025-12-31
starting page: 249
ending page: 267
doi: 10.14421/al-athfal.2025.112-01

Hexis of the Body and the Project of Active Piety in Islamic Early Childhood Education in Solo
type: item
description: Purpose – This study addresses the limited scholarly attention given to the role of the body in shaping religious piety within early childhood education, particularly in Islamic-based institutions. While most studies on piety emphasize cognitive, doctrinal, or socio-political dimensions, little is known about how bodily practices contribute to the internalization of religious values from an early age. Therefore, this research aims to reveal the significant role of the body in the project of piety within Islamic-based Early Childhood Education institutions, specifically Raudlatul Athfal (RA) Ummah 5. In teaching Islam, RA Ummah 5 emphasizes the importance of bodily discipline. Design/methods/approach – This research employed an ethnographic approach. Data collection was conducted through participatory observation to capture children’s activities during both classroom and outdoor learning processes. In addition, in-depth interviews were carried out with the RA principal and teachers, and relevant documents were gathered to strengthen the findings. Through the ethnographic approach, the study explored the specific cultural patterns practiced at RA Ummah 5. Data were analyzed using Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña’s framework, which includes data collection, display, reduction, and verification/conclusion drawing. Findings – The piety project developed at RA Ummah 5 cannot be linked to the market or radicalism; instead, the institution defines its own model of piety based on foundational texts (the Qur’an and Hadith) interpreted textually. This aligns with the ideology rooted in the practices of the Prophet and the third generation of Muslims after him. Bodily practices reflect a discursive Islamic tradition connected to the past and validated by the continuity of practices transmitted across generations. In other words, RA Ummah 5 seeks to construct a future Islam that mirrors the past, distancing itself from modernity by reviving and sustaining traditional Islamic practic…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Bodily hexis
  topic: keywords
subject: Project of piety
  topic: keywords
subject: Early childhood education
  topic: keywords
creator: Nur Tanfidiyah
creator: Sangkot Sirait
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Nur Tanfidiyah, Sangkot Sirait http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-06-30
publication date: 2025-06-30
starting page: 195
ending page: 211
doi: 10.14421/al-athfal.2025.111-12

Strategies of Early Childhood Teachers in Implementing the Pancasila Student Profile through Differentiated Learning: A Case Study
type: item
description: Purpose – The COVID-19 pandemic has led to noticeable behavioural changes and negative character traits among Indonesian children, as evidenced by a decline in the national student character index. The Pancasila student profile, a framework for character and competency development within Indonesia's Merdeka Curriculum, aims to address these challenges. This study examines how the Pancasila student profile is implemented through differentiated learning in Early Childhood Education (ECE) Penggerak Schools in Banda Aceh, providing insights into effective strategies for holistic child development. Design/methods/approach – This qualitative case study was conducted in two ECE institutions (one public, one private) participating in the Penggerak School Program. Data were collected through interviews with two kindergarten teachers, classroom observations, and document analysis. Thematic analysis was applied to identify key implementation strategies. Findings – The study revealed six key strategies for integrating the Pancasila Student Profile into ECE Penggerak schools through differentiated learning: (1) internalizing Islamic values in learning materials, (2) fostering child-led activity choices, (3) employing diverse teaching methods, (4) utilizing varied learning media, (5) engaging parents and the community (Tri-Sentra Pendidikan), and (6) adapting project-based learning flow to school contexts. Research implications/limitations – While the study provides valuable insights, its findings are limited to two schools in Banda Aceh, restricting generalizability. The short duration (two weeks) and reliance on teacher perspectives may also affect depth. Future research should expand to diverse regions, incorporate longitudinal designs, and include parent/child viewpoints to strengthen validity. Practical implications – The findings suggest that ECE educators should adopt differentiated learning tailored to children's interests and readiness, strengthen parental involvement, i…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Pancasila student profile
  topic: keywords
subject: Differentiated learning
  topic: keywords
subject: Penggerak school
  topic: keywords
creator: Dewi Fitriani
creator: Teuku Zulfikar
creator: Habiburrahim Habiburrahim
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Dewi Fitriani, Teuku Zulfikar, Habiburrahim Habiburrahim http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-06-30
publication date: 2025-06-30
starting page: 171
ending page: 194
doi: 10.14421/al-athfal.2025.111-11

From Ritual to Classroom: The Transposition of Islamic and Local Culture in Early Childhood Arts Education Curriculum
type: item
description: Purpose – This study explores the integration of Islamic values and Javanese cultural rituals in early childhood arts education within the Komunitas Lima Gunung in Central Java, Indonesia. It investigates how community-based rituals—such as Merti Dusun, Sungkem Tlompak, and Jaran Papat—serve as pedagogical spaces for the development of children’s aesthetic, spiritual, and socio-cognitive capacities. Addressing a gap in formal early childhood education, which often excludes local traditions and Islamic spiritual values, this study offers an alternative model rooted in cultural continuity and lived practice. Design/methods/approach – Employing a participatory ethnographic approach, the study involved in-depth interviews, direct observation, photo documentation, and ritual participation within seven community art centers. Data were interpreted using theoretical frameworks including Vygotsky’s Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD), Funds of Knowledge, and Pedagogical Content Knowledge (PCK), to understand how children learn through culturally meaningful interaction. Findings – The study reveals that children’s engagement in ritual performance enhances their spiritual literacy, narrative cognition, and sense of belonging. These processes occur through embodied participation, intergenerational storytelling, symbolic aesthetics, and moral learning embedded in Islamic-Javanese rituals. The study also shows how the absence of formal educators is compensated by the community’s collective pedagogical roles. Research implications/limitations – This study is context-specific and based on a single ethno-regional setting. It does not measure long-term developmental outcomes or compare with other regions. However, it provides qualitative depth and cultural insight into the ways informal, non-institutional education functions effectively within Islamic and indigenous contexts. Practical implications – The findings highlight the need for integrating local Islamic cultural practices into…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Early childhood education
  topic: keywords
subject: Islamic-Javanese rituals
  topic: keywords
subject: Arts pedagogy
  topic: keywords
subject: Community-based learning
  topic: keywords
subject: Funds of knowledge
  topic: keywords
subject: Spiritual literacy
  topic: keywords
creator: Bahtiar Arbi
creator: Muhammad Jazuli
creator: Wadiyo Wadiyo
creator: Agus Cahyono
creator: Brian Trinanda Kusuma Adi
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Bahtiar Arbi, Muhammad Jazuli, Wadiyo, Agus Cahyono, Brian Trinanda Kusuma Adi http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-06-30
publication date: 2025-06-30
starting page: 235
ending page: 248
doi: 10.14421/al-athfal.2024.111-15

Cultural Cooking as Parenting Pedagogy: Strengthening Father–Child Attachment in Early Childhood Education
type: item
description: Purpose – This study explores the effectiveness of fun cooking activities using Minangkabau traditional food as a culture-based pedagogical strategy to strengthen father–child attachment in early childhood education settings. The research aims to demonstrate how local cultural practices can serve as meaningful tools for fostering emotional connection and parental engagement. Design/methods/approach – A quantitative pre-experimental design with a one-group pretest–posttest approach was employed to measure changes in attachment levels before and after the intervention. The study utilized a structured questionnaire encompassing four key indicators of attachment: frequency of interaction, emotional warmth, involvement in activity, and father–child communication. Data were collected through action-based activities, and the degree of improvement was analyzed using the N-gain formula to assess effectiveness. Findings – The findings revealed a significant increase in all four indicators of father–child attachment after participating in the fun cooking sessions. The most substantial improvements occurred in emotional warmth and involvement in the activity, suggesting that shared cooking experiences offer a highly interactive and emotionally rewarding context for strengthening familial bonds. These outcomes indicate that collaborative culinary activities not only promote affection and cooperation but also enhance communication and active participation between fathers and their young children. Research implications/limitations – The findings are context-specific to the Minangkabau community, which may limit their generalizability to other cultural settings. Future studies with larger samples and comparative designs are recommended. Practical implications – The study provides insights for educators, family practitioners, and policymakers on how local culture-based activities can be integrated into parenting programs to encourage father engagement. It underscores the significanc…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Keywords Fun cooking
  topic: keywords
subject: Minangkabau cuisine
  topic: keywords
subject: Father–child attachment
  topic: keywords
subject: Parenting
  topic: keywords
subject: Early childhood education
  topic: keywords
creator: Vivi Anggraini
creator: Rahmi Dwi Febriani
creator: Ezi Anggraini
creator: Adi Priyanto
creator: Tia Novela
creator: Yulsyofriend Yulsyofriend
creator: Dwi Septia Ochi Wahyuni
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Vivi Anggraini , Rahmi Dwi Febriani, Ezi Anggraini, Adi Priyanto, Tia Novela, Yulsyofriend Yulsyofriend, Dwi Septia Ochi Wahyuni http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-06-30
publication date: 2025-06-30
starting page: 225
ending page: 234
doi: 10.14421/al-athfal.2024.111-14

Screen Time vs. Active Play: How Digital Exposure Impacts the Acquisition of Fundamental Motor Skills in Early Childhood
type: item
description: Purpose – This study investigated the impact of daily recreational screen time and active play on the acquisition of fundamental motor skills (FMS) in preschool children in Indonesia. This study aimed to address the regional evidence gap in digital exposure and motor development. Design/methods/approach – This study investigated the impact of daily recreational screen time and active play on the acquisition of fundamental motor skills (FMS) in preschool children in Indonesia. This study aimed to address the regional evidence gap in digital exposure and motor development. A quantitative cross-sectional design with a comparative approach was used to study 120 children aged 4–6 years (57% girls) enrolled in eight kindergartens in Yogyakarta. Parents completed a validated 7-day home screen usage diary. Data collection techniques used an Observation Sheet during active play during school breaks, and a questionnaire to administer the Gross Motor Development Test-3. Analysis techniques used a multiple regression model controlling for age, gender, body mass index, and household socioeconomic status; mediation was tested with PROCESS v4.3. Findings – Average screen exposure was 114 min day¹ (SD = 46), with 42 % of children exceeding the 2 h guideline. High-screen users scored significantly lower on locomotor (M = 27.1 vs. 31.3) and object-control (M = 25.8 vs. 29.5) domains (p < .01). Each additional 30 min of active play predicted a 2.1-point increase in composite FMS (β = .34, p < .001) and partially mediated the negative screen-time effect (indirect β = –.09, 95 % CI = –.15 to –.04). Overall, screen time accounted for 18 % of the variance in FMS after covariate adjustment. Research implications/limitations – The cross-sectional approach cannot infer causality, and parent-reported diaries may under- or overestimate actual screen exposureChildcare policies should embed structured motor sessions and favour interactive, movement‑rich media over passive content. Practical impl…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Screen time
  topic: keywords
subject: Active play
  topic: keywords
subject: Fundamental motor skills
  topic: keywords
subject: Preschool
  topic: keywords
subject: Digital media
  topic: keywords
creator: Ilga Maria
creator: Mada-o Puteh
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Ilga Maria, Mada-o Puteh http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-06-30
publication date: 2025-06-30
starting page: 153
ending page: 170
doi: 10.14421/al-athfal.2025.111-10

Back to Surau: Redefining Early Childhood Character Education Through the Lens of Minangkabau Culture
type: item
description: Purpose – This study aims to explain the rationale behind the "Back to Surau" research, particularly the importance of the surau-based approach in early childhood character education. The study is motivated by concerns over the degradation of children's moral values and the belief that re-establishing the surau as a center for character education can strengthen moral and noble values in early childhood. Design/methods/approach – This study employed a qualitative phenomenological approach to explore the experiences of Quran teachers, parents, and community leaders in integrating surau values into early childhood character education. A total of 23 purposively selected participants were involved, including 5 Quran teachers, 6 parents, 2 traditional or religious leaders, and 10 early childhood children (through observation). Data were collected via semi-structured interviews, participatory observation at four selected suraus (two in regency areas and two in urban settings), and document analysis. Thematic analysis followed Miles and Huberman’s (1994) framework—data reduction, presentation, and conclusion drawing—while van Manen’s phenomenological principles guided the interpretation. Research ethics were maintained through informed consent, confidentiality, and cultural sensitivity. Findings – Six major themes emerged. First, the surau functions as a center of moral and spiritual learning for young children. Second, community involvement and local culture in the surau enrich character education. Third, integrating religious values and local wisdom into daily activities is effective in shaping positive character. Fourth, meaningful learning experiences in the surau foster empathy, discipline, and responsibility. Fifth, support from families and surau management is a key success factor for this approach. Sixth, challenges such as time constraints and modern lifestyles must be addressed when adapting surau values to the formal education context. Research implications/limit…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Character education
  topic: keywords
subject: Early childhood
  topic: keywords
subject: Local wisdom
  topic: keywords
subject: Islamic education
  topic: keywords
creator: Rina Syafrida
creator: Nancy Riana
creator: Nia Karnia
creator: Marzeni Ismail
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Rina Syafrida, Nancy Riana, Nia Karnia, Marzeni Ismail http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-06-30
publication date: 2025-06-30
starting page: 135
ending page: 152
doi: 10.14421/al-athfal.2025.111-09

Character Quest: A Mixed-Methods Study of Role-Playing Games and Self-Regulation Skill in Kindergarten
type: item
description: Purpose – This study investigates the impact of structured role-playing game (RPG) activities on the development of self-regulation skills among kindergarten children. In particular, it examines whether participation in a purpose-designed RPG module (Character Quest) enhances young learners' attention control, emotional regulation, and behavioral inhibition. Design/methods/approach – A convergent parallel mixed-methods design was employed. Quantitatively, 30 kindergarteners (aged 5–6) completed the Self-Regulation Rating Scale before and after an eight-week RPG intervention. Qualitatively, semi-structured interviews were conducted with five participating teachers, and classroom observations and children's play journals were analyzed. Quantitative data were analyzed using paired-samples t-tests and effect-size calculations; qualitative data underwent thematic coding and were integrated via a triangulation matrix. Findings – Quantitative results showed a statistically significant increase in overall self-regulation scores (pre-test M = 2.48, SD = 0.37; post-test M = 3.10, SD = 0.29; t(29) = 8.23, p < .001, Cohen's d = 1.50). Qualitative themes revealed heightened engagement, the transfer of in-game strategies to classroom tasks, and positive teacher observations of improved impulse control and peer collaboration. Integration of both data strands suggests that RPG sessions provide a motivating context for practicing self-regulatory behaviors. Research implications/limitations – While the mixed-methods approach offers robust insights, the small sample size and single-school setting limit generalizability. Future research should explore longitudinal effects across diverse cultural contexts and incorporate control-group comparisons to isolate RPG-specific effects. Practical implications – Educators and curriculum designers may incorporate structured RPG modules as a playful, low-cost strategy to foster self-regulation in early childhood settings. Training teachers to faci…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Role-playing games
  topic: keywords
subject: Self-regulation
  topic: keywords
subject: Mixed methods
  topic: keywords
subject: Early childhood education
  topic: keywords
subject: Game-based learning
  topic: keywords
creator: Rahayu Dwi Utami
creator: Ku-Ares Tawandorloh
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Rahayu Dwi Utami, Ku-Ares Tawandorloh http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-06-30
publication date: 2025-06-30
starting page: 83
ending page: 95
doi: 10.14421/al-athfal.2025.111-06

Screen Time vs. Speaking Time: A Qualitative Comparison of Speech Development in Toddlers with Different Gadget Use Patterns
type: item
description: Purpose – This study investigates how different gadget use patterns affect toddler speech develop-ment, addressing concerns about passive screen time limiting verbal interaction opportunities. Design/methods/approach – A qualitative case study design was used to gain in-depth insights into children’s behavior in their social context. Participants were selected purposively based on parental reports of gadget use. Inclusion criteria were toddlers aged 1 year 8 months to 4 years (M = 2.75 years) with typical development and no diagnosed disorders. Exclusion criteria included neurological conditions and prior speech-language therapy. The final sample consisted of 16 toddlers (7 girls, 9 boys), categorized into intensive users (frequent, prolonged exposure to non-interactive content) and limited users (gadgets used mainly for calls or video chats with relatives). Data collection included semi-structured parent interviews (30–45 minutes), naturalistic observation, and developmental screenings by a licensed child psychologist. Validity was ensured through triangulation and member checking. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis involving coding, categorization, and theme development. Findings – Thematic analysis identified three key themes: rich verbal interaction fosters early speech, passive screen exposure hinders language acquisition, and early or unsupervised gadget use disrupts developmental timing. Children with limited gadget use developed age-appropriate speech, used spontaneous verbal expressions, and required no speech therapy. In contrast, toddlers with intensive gadget use showed limited vocabulary, reduced responsiveness, and in many cases required speech therapy. These developmental disparities were closely linked to differences in caregiver interaction, content type, and exposure duration. Research implications/limitations – This study offers contextual insight from Indonesia using triangulated qualitative methods, though its small sample limits general…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Early childhood
  topic: keywords
subject: Gadget use
  topic: keywords
subject: Screen time
  topic: keywords
subject: Speech development
  topic: keywords
subject: Toddler
  topic: keywords
creator: Safiruddin Al Baqi
creator: Nur Afiah
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Safiruddin Al Baqi, Nur Afiah http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-06-26
publication date: 2025-06-26
starting page: 49
ending page: 68
doi: 10.14421/al-athfal.2025.111-04

Whispers of Wisdom: A Qualitative Case Study on Character Education through Dodaidi Lullabies in Aceh’s Early Childhood
type: item
description: Purpose – This study explores the values of local wisdom embedded in Dodaidi lullabies as perceived by caregivers in Acehnese communities, with the aim of identifying and analyzing character values expressed through this traditional oral form. Rather than evaluating outcomes in children, the study focuses on how parents and community figures view Dodaidi as a cultural medium for transmitting values in early childhood. Dodaidi represents a unique combination of musical art, oral tradition, and cultural symbolism that reflects the moral and spiritual aspirations of Acehnese society. Design/methods/approach – A qualitative case study approach was employed, with data collected through interviews, observations, and document analysis to investigate how Dodaidi is practiced and interpreted within informal family education settings. Findings – The study identified key values that are embedded in Dodaidi lyrics according to parental and community perspectives: (1) unity and faith; (2) worship and religious practice; (3) reverence for parents and teachers (takzim); (4) social empathy and manners; and (5) responsibility and a strong work ethic. Research implications/limitations – This study presents Dodaidi as a cultural expression perceived by caregivers to support informal character education. However, it does not assess its actual impact on children’s development. The study relies on adult perspectives and does not examine how abstract values like faith or responsibility are internalized by young children, especially those who may not yet comprehend the lyrics. Thus, conclusions are limited to perceived functions rather than proven effectiveness. Practical implications – Dodaidi is typically sung by parents or grandparents during bedtime, blending affectionate interaction with the transmission of values and cultural identity. Its preservation can support cultural continuity in early childhood education. Originality/value – The research contributes to discourse on culturally…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Character building
  topic: keywords
subject: Early childhood education
  topic: keywords
subject: Local wisdom
  topic: keywords
subject: Dodaidi tradition
  topic: keywords
creator: Munawwarah Munawwarah
creator: Sri Astuti
creator: Nadia Futhira
creator: Isramatur Rahmi
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Munawwarah Munawwarah, Sri Astuti, Nadia Futhira, Isramatur Rahmi http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-06-30
publication date: 2025-06-30
starting page: 97
ending page: 104
doi: 10.14421/al-athfal.2025.111-07

Instilling Religious Moderation in Early Childhood at Raudhatul Athfal Ponorogo: The Role of National Insight-Based Learning
type: item
description: Purpose – This study explores the role of national insight-based learning in fostering religious moderation among young children. It investigates how early childhood education can serve as a vehicle for instilling values of tolerance, respect, and moderation among young children, thereby contributing to developing well-rounded, socially responsible citizens. Design/methods/approach – Qualitative research with a case study approach involving five Early Childhood Education (ECE) teachers from Raudhatul Athfal (RA) Muslimat NU 007 Gandu I Ponorogo, East Java, ten parents, and 30 children. Data were collected through classroom observations, teacher interviews, and surveys with parents to understand how national insight-based learning is integrated into early childhood education using a context-sensitive instrument, the Moderation Attitude Scale for Early Childhood (MASEC) and PERAMAH framework. Thematic analysis was used to identify key patterns and insights from the data. First, all recordings were transcribed verbatim and read repeatedly to ensure familiarity. Next, an open coding process was conducted, and illustrative quotes were selected. A thematic map was created to show the relationships between themes. Findings – The findings suggest that national insight-based learning significantly promotes religious moderation in children. Children demonstrated increased awareness of religious diversity and tolerance through culturally responsive teaching methods, such as stories, activities, and discussions rooted in national identity and values. Additionally, educators noted improvements in children's ability to engage with peers from different religious backgrounds with respect and empathy. Research implications/limitations – The research highlights the potential of early childhood education to play a crucial role in shaping children's religious attitudes. However, the study is limited by its small sample size and the short-term nature of the observation period. Further, …
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Religious moderation
  topic: keywords
subject: National insight
  topic: keywords
subject: Early childhood education
  topic: keywords
subject: Pedagogy
  topic: keywords
subject: Interfaith tolerance
  topic: keywords
subject: Character development
  topic: keywords
creator: Lilis Suryani
creator: Siti Fatimah
creator: Jarudin Jarudin
creator: Mohd Aarif
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Lilis Suryani, Siti Fatimah, Jarudin, Mohd Aarif http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-06-10
publication date: 2025-06-10
starting page: 17
ending page: 34
doi: 10.14421/al-athfal.2025.111-02

Implementing and Addressing Challenges of LIMASTERS Integration in Early Childhood Education: A Case Study
type: item
description: Purpose – This study aims to explore the implementation and challenges of integrating LIMASTERS (Literacy, Mathematics, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Arts) in early childhood education within the School Mover Program in Jambi City. The research responds to the growing demand for 21st-century learning integration at the preschool level and examines how practices align with the principles of the Independent Curriculum. Design/methods/approach – A qualitative case study design was applied. Data were collected through classroom observations, in-depth interviews with teachers and the principal, and document analysis of lesson plans and children’s work. Data were analyzed thematically using the Miles and Huberman model of data reduction, display, and conclusion drawing. Findings – The study shows that literacy, mathematics, and arts are consistently integrated into daily learning, while science, technology, and engineering remain less developed. Teachers conduct initial assessments to align activities with children’s needs and interests. Key challenges include limited facilities, insufficient time, and teacher competencies. These are partly mitigated through peer collaboration, self-initiated training, and phased implementation. Research implications/limitations – The findings are context-specific and do not address long-term child development outcomes. Nonetheless, they provide valuable insights for designing integrative curricula and teacher training policies in Indonesian ECE (Early Childhood Education). Practical implications – The study offers a practical model for LIMASTERS integration through child-centered exploratory activities that emphasize interactive experiments, scaffolding, and contextualized learning. Originality/value – This research contributes a holistic framework for balancing literacy and STEAM within early childhood classrooms in a local Indonesian context, highlighting the potential of exploratory and contextual learning to advance curriculu…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Early childhood education
  topic: keywords
subject: LIMASTERS
  topic: keywords
subject: Integrative learning
  topic: keywords
subject: School mover program
  topic: keywords
subject: Contextual curriculum
  topic: keywords
subject: Teacher capacity
  topic: keywords
creator: Mastikawati Mastikawati
creator: Nazurty Nazurty
creator: Hendra Sofyan
creator: Yantoro Yantoro
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Mastikawati Mastikawati, Nazurty Nazurty, Hendra Sofyan, Yantoro Yantoro http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-06-30
publication date: 2025-06-30
starting page: 213
ending page: 224
doi: 10.14421/al-athfal.2025.111-13

Exploring the Integration of Digital Media in Islamic Early Childhood Education: Evidence from Kindergartens in Pontianak City
type: item
description: Purpose – This study aims to analyze the integration of digital media in Islamic education in early childhood in kindergarten in Pontianak City, West Kalimantan Province by highlighting that teachers currently still have challenges in using technology. Design/methods/approach – This study uses qualitative research with a case study approach through observation, interviews, and documentation. This research was conducted in the city of Pontianak, West Kalimantan Province from September 11 to September 20, 2024. Data analysis includes data collection, condensation, presentation, and conclusion. Findings – The findings of this study in integrating digital media in Islamic education are still difficult for teachers so that in classroom learning activities they still use conventional methods in educating early childhood in kindergarten. In the learning process, the educational environment does not support the use of technology in learning and play activities in kindergarten. However, there is an opportunity to realize the integration of digital media in Islamic education in kindergarten because teachers consider this integration very important in learning in kindergarten. Research implications/limitations – Technology in Islamic education has a significant impact on the learning process for early childhood in kindergarten. This study is still limited to qualitative research, so other methods are needed to add to the findings related to technology in early childhood. Practical implications – This study shows that the integration of digital media in early childhood education in kindergarten still has challenges in using technology. teachers still experience difficulties, so that in classroom learning activities they still use conventional methods in educating early childhood in kindergarten. In addition, in the learning process, the educational environment does not support the use of technology in learning and playing activities in kindergarten. Originality/value – This res…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Islamic education
  topic: keywords
subject: Digital Media
  topic: keywords
subject: Audiovisual media, language development, early childhood education, multimedia learning
  topic: keywords
creator: Laili Ramadani
creator: Juliwis Kardi
creator: Nurul Khairani Ismail
creator: Siti Salina Samaun
creator: Nur Hamzah
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Laili Ramadani, Juliwis Kardi, Nurul Khairani Ismail , Siti Salina Samaun, Nur Hamzah http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-06-14
publication date: 2025-06-14
starting page: 35
ending page: 47
doi: 10.14421/al-athfal.2025.111-03

Exploring the Impact of Digital Literacy on Cognitive Development in Early Childhood Education: A Systematic Literature Review
type: item
description: Purpose – This systematic literature review explores the development of digital literacy among children in the post-typographic era, where digital technology increasingly dominates daily life. The purpose of this study is to identify the impact of digital literacy on various dimensions of cognitive development in young children, including early numeracy, executive functioning, critical thinking, and creativity. By broadening the conceptualization of cognitive development, this study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how digital literacy contributes to children's intellectual growth in early childhood education. Design/methods/approach – Analysis of 33 studies obtained from the period between 2019 and 2024 indicates that children engage in multimodal practices, using technology for both play and learning. This highlights the importance of educators' understanding of digital literacy practices at home. Factors such as children's age, family structure, household income, and Human Development Index (HDI) significantly contribute to predicting preschool children's early digital literacy. Findings – The findings show that while children's literacy skills may benefit from access to digital resources, their mathematical skills do not demonstrate significant improvement. However, this study recommends that teachers collaborate with parents to enhance digital literacy and awareness of digital data security. Additionally, the use of interactive digital media can increase children's engagement and motivation in learning, allowing for more differentiated and inclusive learning approaches. Research implications/limitations – Future research should prioritize the development of age-appropriate, culturally relevant, and innovative digital content that can support effective teaching and learning in the digital age. Additional longitudinal studies are needed to explore the long-term cognitive and socio-emotional effects of digital media exposure in early childhood. Pra…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Digital literacy
  topic: keywords
subject: Cognitive development
  topic: keywords
subject: Early childhood
  topic: keywords
creator: Anggun Karnita
creator: Siti Aisyah
creator: Noviana Mustapa
creator: Erie Siti Syarah
creator: Della Raymena Jovanka
creator: Samihah bt Mahamud
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Anggun Karnita, Siti Aisyah, Noviana Mustapa, Erie Siti Syarah, Della Raymena Jovanka , Samihah bt Mahamud http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-06-30
publication date: 2025-06-30
starting page: 105
ending page: 134
doi: 10.14421/al-athfal.2025.111-08

Psychosocial Effect of Grade Retention of Learners in The Foundation Phase: A South African Case Study
type: item
description: Purpose – This study to explore teachers' perceptions on the impact of grade retention on the psychosocial wellbeing of Grade 1 learners in South Africa. Design/methods/approach – This study adopted a qualitative case study design within an interpretivist paradigm. It was grounded in Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Model as a theoretical framework. Data was collected through unobtrusive observation of four learners and a focus group interviews with the two teacher participants. An observation schedule was used by each teacher to record her observation and the semi-structured interview schedule was used during the focus group interview. The data was analysed using Creswell's 6 steps of data analysis using thematic approach. Through inductive process theme were identified and reported against. Ethical principles were adhered to as guided by the University of Pretoria's ethical guidelines for research. Approval for this study was obtained from the university. Findings – The findings revealed that grade retention affected young learners behaviours, emotions, social relationships and academic performance. Furthermore, retained learners exhibited signs of academic frustration, poor self-esteem, emotional outbursts and social challenges. Participants (teachers) shared ambivalent views regarding the department's retention policy. Teachers expressed mixed feelings about policy retention while other critiqued its emotional and social toll on learners. Research implications/limitations – The sample size was small with only two teachers and four learners, thus limiting the generalisability and transferability of the findings. A larger sample size with different grades may yield different result. Furthermore, geographically, the study was limited to only one province namely KwaZulu-Natal. Additionally, the study relied on teacher perspectives which may not fully represent the learner experiences or parental views. Practical implications – Some of the practical implications are polic…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Educational policy
  topic: keywords
subject: Grade 1 learners
  topic: keywords
subject: Grade retention policy
  topic: keywords
subject: Psychosocial wellbeing
  topic: keywords
creator: Roy Venketsamy
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Roy Venketsamy http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-06-26
publication date: 2025-06-26
starting page: 69
ending page: 81
doi: 10.14421/al-athfal.2025.111-05

Transformative Leadership in the Sustainable Development of Early Childhood Education Teachers in South Africa: A Systematic Literature Review
type: item
description: Purpose – This paper sought to provide an overview and arguments of prevailing South Africa’s higher education initiatives, focusing on transformative leadership’s influence on sustainable Early Childhood Development (ECD) teacher development emphasizing partnership, empowerment, and shared vision. Design/methods/approach – This paper is grounded in a systematic review approach based on the selected keywords. 180 articles written in English and published between 2007 and 2024 in DHTE, Scopus, WoS, DOAJ, and Scielo SA databases were targeted as potential sources for this study. Systematic review guidelines were used to reduce them, focusing on topics, abstracts, and issues. The selected 80 articles were analysed independently for reliability and transferability. In addition, content analysis was used to construe the influence of transformational leadership on sustainable ECD teacher development within South Africa. Findings – The findings reveal that the rationale for adopting transformative leadership in sustainable ECD teacher development in higher education is grounded in the culture of continuous learning and professional growth. This encourages reflection and self-assessment among teachers, helping them to evaluate their practices and adapt to meet students' needs better, which is crucial for sustainable development. In addition, this leadership style addresses social justice issues by advancing inclusive and equitable educational practices. It was acknowledged that this supports ECD teachers in developing their knowledge, skills and values. This enhances teachers’ teaching practices thereby contributing to sustainable ECD educational outcomes. Research implications/limitations – The review acknowledges the limitation of possible interpretive bias and recommends the need to explore further how transformative leadership can be adopted into the contemporary ECD curriculum. Practical implications – This provides insights for policymakers, curriculum developers, and…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Early childhood education teacher
  topic: keywords
subject: Sustainable development
  topic: keywords
subject: Transformative leadership
  topic: keywords
creator: Pinias Chikuvadze
creator: Claretah Makuvire
creator: Christopher Mutseekwa
creator: Joseph Zuva
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Pinias Chikuvadze, Claretah Makuvire, Christopher Mutseekwa, Joseph Zuva http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-04-26
publication date: 2025-04-26
starting page: 1
ending page: 16
doi: 10.14421/al-athfal.111-01

This is How We are at Home: Typology and Shifting Parenting Authority in Early Childhood
type: item
description: Purpose – Parenting Islamism not only makes religion a teaching material in children’s education, but more than that, religion is used as an ideology that displays Islamic symbols in parenting actions in the public sphere. The emergence of Islamism parenting practices is a response to traditional parenting practices and modern parenting practices. This study aims to explore the practice of parenting in millennial families based on the ideology of Islamism in Pontianak City. Design/methods/approach – This research method uses the Mixed Methods Research approach, which is a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods. The qualitative method in this study provides an understanding of the shifting in parenting authority carried out by millennial parents with the ideology of Islamism. Meanwhile, the quantitative is carried out to measure the variables of parenting typology objectively. Data analysis in this study was carried out; first, the data was reduced; second, data categorization; third, data preparation; fourth, data verification; fifth, the configuration of the relationship between the inference of the problem formulation; sixth, the data is analyzed with theory. Findings – The findings of this study show that millennial parents of Islamism groups use mixed parenting, which is a combination of several parenting models according to the condition of the child, be it authoritarian, authoritative, and permissive. The findings of this study also show that there is a shift in parenting authority in Islamism millennial families, which is influenced by new media so that parents idolize popular ustadz from Islamism groups. Research implications/limitations – The shift in authority in parenting has implications for parental figures or references in parenting due to the presence of new authorities on social media, namely public figures or micro-celebrities. This research is not final, and there are still many limitations in relevant cases, informants, and theories, …
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Parenting
  topic: keywords
subject: Millennial parents
  topic: keywords
subject: Islamism
  topic: keywords
subject: Early childhood
  topic: keywords
creator: Sapendi Sapendi
creator: Bayu Suratman
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Sapendi Sapendi, Bayu Suratman http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2024-12-17
publication date: 2024-12-17
starting page: 135
ending page: 149
doi: 10.14421/al-athfal.2024.102-04

Nurturing the Child's Nature: Revisiting Child Moral Education in the Thought of Ibn Jazar on the book Siyasatu shibyan wa tadbiruhum
type: item
description: Purpose – This study revisits child moral education through the lens of Ibn Jazar’s book Siyasatu shibyan wa tadbiruhum, exploring its relevance to contemporary Islamic education. The study aims to bridge the classical nature versus nurture debate in moral education, focusing on how Ibn Jazar integrates physical health with moral development. His holistic approach emphasizes that a child’s physical well-being is crucial for the effective internalization of moral values, arguing that healthy children are better prepared for moral instruction. Design/methods/approach – The research methodology employed is qualitative content analysis, with an emphasis on latent analysis to uncover hidden meanings in the text. The analysis reveals that Ibn Jazar’s work provides a comprehensive framework for addressing both physical and moral development, which is essential for shaping children’s character from an early age. Findings – The findings suggest that his emphasis on health as a foundation for morality is not only relevant for historical discourse but also offers practical solutions to current challenges in Islamic education, particularly in navigating the effects of globalization on moral development. Research implications/limitations – The study acknowledges the limitation of possible interpretative bias and recommends further research to explore how Ibn Jazar's ideas could be adapted into modern curricula. Practical implications – Practically, Ibn Jazar's approach offers guidance in the development of Islamic education curricula that focus on a balance between moral and physical instruction, while emphasizing the importance of a supportive environment for children's development. Originality/value – This research contributes to the field by highlighting a largely overlooked figure in Islamic moral education and suggesting how his interdisciplinary approach can inform the development of contemporary educational systems. Paper type Research paper
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Child moral education
  topic: keywords
subject: Holistic approach in islamic education
  topic: keywords
subject: Physical health and moral development
  topic: keywords
subject: Ibn Jazar's educational philosophy
  topic: keywords
creator: Muhammad Hanif Al-Fatih
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Muhammad Hanif Al-Fatih http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2024-12-17
publication date: 2024-12-17
starting page: 107
ending page: 119
doi: 10.14421/al-athfal.2024.102-02

Critical Reflections on the Role of Islamic Early Childhood Educators in Building Tolerance Awareness in Educational Setting
type: item
description: Purpose – This study explores the role of Islamic early childhood educators in fostering tolerance awareness in educational settings while maintaining a strong Islamic identity. It addresses the tension between promoting religious exclusivity and fostering an appreciation for diversity in a pluralistic society, with the aim to contribute to both educational practice and theory on religious tolerance in early education. Design/methods/approach – The study employs a qualitative descriptive exploratory design using content analysis. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with five teachers and observations of classroom interactions. The diversity management framework was used to analyze the approaches taken by teachers in integrating tolerance education within Islamic curricula. Findings – The research highlights various strategies Islamic educators use to promote tolerance, including storytelling, empathy training, and participatory rule-making. The findings reveal a balance between religious identity and tolerance education, with a sequential approach that prioritizes Islamic principles first, followed by the introduction of tolerance concepts. Despite challenges, such as external influences and technological distractions, the research demonstrates that these strategies positively impact children’s empathy and social behaviors. Research implications/limitations – The study is limited by the sample size and geographic scope, focusing on specific Islamic early childhood institutions. Future research could expand the sample and explore cross-cultural comparisons in different Islamic educational contexts to generalize findings. Practical implications – The findings provide valuable insights for educators, policymakers, and curriculum developers in balancing religious teachings and tolerance education. The study suggests that gradual and integrated approaches to teaching tolerance can foster social harmony and empathy in young children without compromising…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Islamic early childhood education
  topic: keywords
subject: Tolerance
  topic: keywords
subject: religious identity
  topic: keywords
subject: Empathy training
  topic: keywords
subject: Pluralism
  topic: keywords
creator: Hafidh 'Aziz
creator: Muhamad Aditya Hidayah
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Hafidh 'Aziz, Muhamad Aditya Hidayah http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2024-12-17
publication date: 2024-12-17
starting page: 151
ending page: 163
doi: 10.14421/al-athfal.2024.102-05

Community Tolerance, Habitus, and Early Childhood Education in Schools: A Phenomenological Approach
type: item
description: Purpose – This study examines how the tolerant culture of the Senggarang community, rooted in its traditions and values, influences religious tolerance education in early primary education in Tanjungpinang City, Indonesia, by utilizing Bourdieu’s theory of habitus and cultural capital to clarify the impact of cultural practices in multicultural communities on early childhood education oriented towards tolerance. Design/methods/approach – This study employs a qualitative phenomenological approach, utilizing direct observation, in-depth interviews, and document analysis to explore the influence of cultural practices on tolerance education. Field research engaged diverse informants from Senggarang, including elementary school teachers from early elementary education, local community members, and officials familiar with the area's historical and social dynamics, to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the community's tolerance-related practices. Findings – The findings reveal that the tolerant cultural practices in Senggarang, deeply rooted in historical and social contexts, significantly influence tolerance education among students. Children aged 6–7 years in early primary education adopt tolerance as part of the behaviors they learn through communal activities such as interfaith holiday celebrations and support for religious events. Cultural values that promote interfaith respect, evident in traditional interactions and mutual cooperation (gotong royong), are internalized by children through family and community engagement. These practices align with Pierre Bourdieu's concepts of habitus and cultural capital, demonstrating how inherited cultural norms and daily practices shape children's dispositions toward tolerance. Educators and the school environment further reinforce these practices by embedding tolerance education through routines and collaborative activities among diverse students. Research implications/limitations – This study provides valuable insights int…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Tolerance
  topic: keywords
subject: Cultural capital
  topic: keywords
subject: Multicultural education
  topic: keywords
subject: Early childhood education
  topic: keywords
creator: Muammar Qadafi
creator: Muhammad Alfan Sidik
creator: Zulfadhly Mukhtar
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Muammar Qadafi, Muhammad Alfan Sidik, Zulfadhly Mukhtar http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2024-12-17
publication date: 2024-12-17
starting page: 165
ending page: 178
doi: 10.14421/al-athfal.2024.102-06

Islamic Child Parenting Practices and Muslim Family Resilience in Southeast Asia: A Systematic Literature Review
type: item
description: Purpose – This study explores the integration of Islamic values in child parenting practices and its impact on family resilience within Muslim families in Southeast Asia. The necessity of this research arises from the increasing interest in how religious teachings influence family dynamics and child development, providing a unique perspective on parenting in diverse cultural contexts. Design/methods/approach – A systematic literature review methodology adhered to the PRISMA guidelines. Databases such as Scopus, Google Scholar, Emerald, PubMed, Taylor & Francis, Springer, and Semantic Scholar were searched using specific keywords related to Islamic parenting and family resilience in Southeast Asia. The study included peer-reviewed empirical research published between 2000 and 2024. From the results of the article selection, 39 articles were narrowed down and analysed to reveal various critical aspects of the research theme. Thematic analysis was conducted to identify, analyse, and report themes within the data. Findings – The review identified that integrating Islamic values into parenting practices significantly enhances family resilience, promotes interfaith tolerance, and supports children's moral development. Key themes included the implementation of wasatiyyah (moderation), character education based on Islamic teachings, and the role of community and cultural integration in parenting. However, challenges such as balancing cultural influences and addressing special needs within the context of Islamic parenting were also highlighted. Research implications/limitations – The study's limitations include the diverse cultural backgrounds of the families studied and the reliance on existing literature, which may affect the generalizability of the findings. Future research should consider longitudinal studies and examine the role of community support, religious institutions, and modern technology in parenting. Practical implications – This study provides valuable insight…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Islamic parenting
  topic: keywords
subject: Muslim family resilience
  topic: keywords
subject: Southeast Asia
  topic: keywords
subject: Child development
  topic: keywords
subject: Interfaith tolerance
  topic: keywords
subject: Systematic literature review
  topic: keywords
creator: Audrey Dwinandita
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Audrey Dwinandita http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2024-12-17
publication date: 2024-12-17
starting page: 83
ending page: 105
doi: 10.14421/al-athfal.2024.102-01

Digital Narratives and Tradition: The Role of NU Kids Animations in Early Islamic Education
type: item
description: Purpose – This study aims to analyze the impact of animated content on the NU Kids YouTube channel on traditional Islamic education for early childhood by examining viewership metrics, community engagement, behavioral changes in children, and how these animations integrate character education, appreciation for local traditions, and the formation of a moderate religious identity. Design/methods/approach – A netnographic approach was employed to observe and analyze 7 out of 13 available videos on the NU Kids Sumenep channel. These 7 videos were selected based on their thematic relevance to the research objectives, focusing on the portrayal of Nahdlatul Ulama’s history, character education, and the development of religious identity. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes in these videos, including representations of Nahdlatul Ulama history, character education, and the development of religious identity. Findings – The findings indicate that NU Kids animations successfully promote traditional Islamic values rooted in local traditions. For instance, episodes such as "The Founding of Nahdlatul Ulama" and "The Story of Kiai Hasyim Asy'ari" emphasize respect for elders, community solidarity, and the integration of Islamic principles with local customs, which resonate deeply with audiences. The channel effectively builds a strong digital community and strengthens the collective identity of the NU community in the era of globalization. Research implications/limitations – The study is limited to the community analyzed, which may be confined to those already affiliated with Nahdlatul Ulama. The research primarily relies on public data such as view counts and comments, which may not fully reflect long-term impacts. Practical implications – This study demonstrates that digital media, such as YouTube, can be an effective tool for disseminating traditional Islamic teachings to young audiences. The findings could influence the development of educational content based on l…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Traditional islam
  topic: keywords
subject: Early childhood education
  topic: keywords
subject: NU kids
  topic: keywords
creator: Mahfouda Rashid Said Al Mushaiqri
creator: Dody Sulistio
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Mahfouda Rashid Said Al Mushaiqri, Dody Sulistio http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2024-12-17
publication date: 2024-12-17
starting page: 121
ending page: 133
doi: 10.14421/al-athfal.2024.102-03

Childhood Education and Popular Islam: Islamic Psychology as a Pattern of Early Childhood Education in the Authoritative Affinity of Popular Islam
type: item
description: Purpose – This study examines how Islamic psychology contributes to early childhood education by integrating spirituality, emotional well-being, and intellectual development, while addressing the impact of globalization and popular Islam on the authenticity of Islamic teachings. Design/methods/approach – The study employs a qualitative methodology centered on conceptual analysis, utilizing systematic reviews of scholarly articles, books, and relevant media. This approach critically examines key concepts such as fitrah (innate nature), nafs (soul dynamics), and their applications in early childhood education, particularly in the context of media and cultural globalization. Findings – The findings reveal that Islamic psychology provides a robust foundation for addressing contemporary challenges in early childhood education. Key principles such as fitrah and tawhid support the development of children’s spiritual, cognitive, and emotional capacities. However, the increasing commercialization of Islamic values through popular media risks diluting these teachings into superficial symbols. The study emphasizes the need for parental and educator involvement to ensure the alignment of popular Islamic content with authentic religious values, providing a balanced approach to moral and spiritual education. Additionally, the research highlights the potential of Islamic psychological principles to offer innovative solutions to counteract identity crises in children, promoting resilience against the influences of globalization and consumer culture. Research implications/limitations – The study is limited to theoretical and conceptual analyses of Islamic psychology in early childhood education and does not include empirical data. Future research should focus on field-based studies to evaluate the practical application of these concepts in diverse cultural and educational settings. Additionally, the findings underscore the necessity for policy reforms to integrate Islamic psychologi…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Early childhood education
  topic: keywords
subject: Popular islam
  topic: keywords
subject: Islamic psychology
  topic: keywords
creator: Dimas Ahnan 'Azzam
creator: Muhammad Leany
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Muhammad Leany, Dimas Ahnan 'Azzam http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2024-12-17
publication date: 2024-12-17
starting page: 179
ending page: 190
doi: 10.14421/al-athfal.2024.102-07

Enhancing Early Childhood Educator's Digital Competencies through AI-Powered Learning Modules (AI-PEL) Training Program
type: item
description: Purpose – Digital skills among educators are becoming increasingly important and essential for creating interactive and relevant learning experiences. However, many teachers are still unprepared to fully integrate technology into their teaching and need to improve their understanding of AI technology to support the learning process. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of improving the digital skills of early childhood education (ECE) teachers through AI-Powered Learning Modules (AI-PEL) training. Design/methods/approach – This research employs a quantitative approach with a quasi-experimental method to evaluate the effectiveness of AI-Powered Learning Modules (AI-PEL) training for Early Childhood Education (ECE) teachers in the Tumpang Sub-district. Purposive sampling was used to select 80 ECE teachers who participated in the training. Data were collected through pre-tests and post-tests. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics using SPSS 17.0, including the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test for normality, Cronbach's Alpha for reliability, and Independent t-tests to compare group means. Findings – This study found a significant improvement in the digital skills of ECE teachers in the Tumpang Sub-district after the AI-PEL training. Initially, the teachers struggled with technology integration, but after the training, their skills and understanding of digital tools improved. Evidence shows that 68 out of 80 participants successfully created teaching modules and picture stories using AI technologies such as Chat GPT, Gemini, DeepL, and Bing Image Creator within the specified deadline. Research implications/limitations – This finding highlights the importance of improving digital skills among teachers, as it enhances their teaching effectiveness and positively impacts students' learning experiences and outcomes. This fosters an engaging, interactive, and effective learning environment in the 21st century. Practical implications – This research emphasizes the impo…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: AI-PEL
  topic: keywords
subject: Digital skills
  topic: keywords
subject: Early childhood education
  topic: keywords
subject: Teacher training
  topic: keywords
creator: Evania Yafie
creator: Nur Anisa
creator: Rosyi Damayani Twinsari Maningtyas
creator: Tomas Iriyanto
creator: Nurul Farhana Jumaat
creator: Rina Mukti Widiasih
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Evania Yafie, Nur Anisa, Rosyi Damayani Twinsari Maningtyas, Tomas Iriyanto, Nurul Farhana Jumaat, Rina Mukti Widiasih http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2024-06-30
publication date: 2024-06-30
starting page: 73
ending page: 82
doi: 10.14421/al-athfal.2024.101-07

Strategies of Kindergarten Teachers and Parents in Preparing Children's School Readiness: Academic, Social, and Emotional Perspectives
type: item
description: Purpose – This study aims to investigate the strategies employed by kindergarten teachers and parents in preparing children's school readiness in the Batang Angkola District, considering the local context and related social dynamics. Design/methods/approach – Utilizing a qualitative descriptive method, the research combines a descriptive approach to outline existing phenomena with a qualitative approach to explore the meanings and interpretations of the strategies used. Data were collected through direct interviews with several kindergarten teachers and parent representatives in kindergartens and surrounding areas in the Batang Angkola District. Additionally, secondary data related to supporting theories on children's school readiness were utilized. Findings – The findings reveal that both kindergarten teachers and parents are not fully prepared for children's school readiness. This is evidenced by the non-alignment of teachers' educational backgrounds with early childhood education and the parents' primary focus on academic readiness, often neglecting other critical aspects such as social and emotional development. Furthermore, the strategies implemented by kindergarten teachers and parents fail to holistically address the needs of children during the transition process. Research implications/limitations – The study is limited to the Batang Angkola District and may not be generalizable to other regions. These findings highlight areas in educational practices that require improvement and suggest the need for further research to develop more effective strategies for holistic school readiness preparation. Practical implications – The insights gained from this study provide guidance for the development of more holistic and integrated school readiness preparation programs that can better support children during their transition to school. These programs should aim to balance academic learning with social, emotional, and physical development to ensure well-rounded prepar…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Preschool teacher strategies
  topic: keywords
subject: Parental role
  topic: keywords
subject: School readiness
  topic: keywords
creator: Lisda Yuni Mardiah
creator: Sri Wulan
creator: Zarina Akbar
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Lisda Yuni Mardiah, Sri Wulan, Zarina Akbar http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2024-06-30
publication date: 2024-06-30
starting page: 61
ending page: 71
doi: 10.14421/al-athfal.2024.101-06

Maintaining Children's Mental Health: Revealing Teacher Strategies During Offline Learning for Early Childhood
type: item
description: Purpose – School preparation in response to the new government policy for face-to-face learning requires the active roles of teachers and students, particularly concerning children's mental health. The importance of addressing children's mental health during the transition from online to face-to-face learning needs more attention. The purpose of this research is to identify and describe the strategies employed by teachers in maintaining children's mental health during face-to-face learning at Playgroup Jaya Lestari in Kalinyamat Wetan Village, Tegal City. Design/methods/approach – This research adopts a qualitative method with a descriptive approach. Data collection techniques used include observation, interviews, and documentation. The subjects of this research are educators, including principals and teachers. The data analysis techniques applied are data reduction, data display, and verification. To test the validity of the data, source triangulation was used, involving teachers and students at Playgroup Jaya Lestari. Findings – The results indicate that strategies employed by teachers to maintain children's mental health during face-to-face learning include using both individual and group approaches. These strategies emphasize the roles and functions of teachers as inspirers, mentors, and more. Teachers can maintain children's mental health by organizing learning activities that involve play, ensuring children remain happy, cheerful, and free from stress or laziness. These strategies are reinforced through their direct application in teaching and learning activities. Research implications/limitations – The findings highlight the importance of increased awareness of children's mental health, which impacts developmental psychology and the learning process. This research underscores the necessity for educators to focus on mental health early in the educational environment. Practical implications – The research demonstrates the need for effective strategies for teach…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Teacher strategy
  topic: keywords
subject: Mental health
  topic: keywords
subject: Offline learning
  topic: keywords
creator: Izdihar Syifa Cahyani
creator: Agus Khunaifi
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Izdihar Syifa Cahyani, Agus Khunaifi http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2024-06-30
publication date: 2024-06-30
starting page: 1
ending page: 10
doi: 10.14421/al-athfal.2024.101-01

Practice of Kangaroo Mother Care: Unveiling Implementation Among Healthcare Providers in Sokoto, North-Western Nigeria
type: item
description: Purpose – To assess the proportion of Health Care Providers (HCPs) in Sokoto practicing Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) in their various health facilities and identify barriers to KMC practice among HCPs in Sokoto. The purpose of this research is to evaluate the extent of KMC adoption and uncover the obstacles that hinder its effective implementation. Design/methods/approach – A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 80 Health Care Providers (HCPs) who attended the World Prematurity Day celebration in 2022. The program was held at the Medical and Health Workers Union office, Tamaje, Sokoto, on December 2, 2022. A structured questionnaire comprising both open and close-ended questions was used. Data obtained were analyzed using SPSS version 25. Findings – The mean age of the HCPs was 32.9±7.6 years, with the majority, 30 (37.5%), having less than five years of working experience. Of the 80 respondents, 41 (51.3%) were nurses, 9 (11.2%) were doctors, and 16 (20.0%) were midwives. Forty-three (53.7%) of the HCPs practiced KMC. The most common barriers to implementing KMC among the HCPs were lack of privacy for the mothers (23, 28.8%), lack of space for the mothers (21, 26.3%), cultural reasons (19, 23.8%), and lack of skills on KMC (16, 20.0%). The factors associated with the practice of KMC were previous training on KMC and working in tertiary hospitals (p<0.05). Research implications/limitations – This research implies that to mitigate barriers to KMC practice in hospitals, HCPs need to be trained to acquire skills for KMC, and rooms for KMC that ensure privacy for mothers should be available in health facilities. Practical implications –By identifying and addressing the barriers to KMC, such as lack of privacy, space, and skills, health facilities can improve the adoption and effectiveness of KMC practices. Originality/value – Kangaroo Mother Care reduces morbidity and mortality in Low Birth Weight (LBW) infants, making it crucial for countries with scarce…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Kangaroo Mother Care
  topic: keywords
subject: Health Care Providers
  topic: keywords
subject: Practice
  topic: keywords
creator: Asma'u Adamu
creator: Khadijat Omeneke Isezuo
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Asma'u Adamu, Khadijat Omeneke Isezuo http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2024-06-30
publication date: 2024-06-30
starting page: 37
ending page: 47
doi: 10.14421/al-athfal.2024.101-04

An Environmental Education Learning Model for Early Childhood: Achieving Sustainable Development
type: item
description: Purpose – Educational institutions play a crucial role in addressing environmental problems through Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) for early childhood. This research aims to identify effective methods for implementing sustainable education goals in environmental learning for young children by developing an environmental learning model. Design/methods/approach – This research and development study utilized Borg & Gall's development model, simplified for efficiency in terms of energy, time, and cost. The study focused on the validation stage, with testing and dissemination planned for subsequent research. The product was designed based on an initial needs analysis. Currently, environmental learning is limited to cognitive abilities only, lacking additional skills or habits imparted to the children. The product was validated through a Forum Discussion Group with Jakarta Bisa School and Gaharu Nature School in Bandung. Findings – Validation results indicate that environmental education can begin with character development in children. Jakarta Bisa School can implement the Green Attitude, which embodies values such as Life, Love, Responsibility, the Universe, and Sustainability. Additionally, learning should involve more direct experiences, allowing children to observe the natural life cycle, environmental care, and the sustainability of natural resources. Research implications/limitations – This research requires an extended period for designing and implementing the environmental learning model. By involving multiple stakeholders, it has the potential to change teachers' and parents' perceptions in educating early childhood. Practical implications – Environmental learning is essential for fostering future change. Children will grow with a strong understanding of the importance of love and care for the universe and a sense of responsibility for life within it. This approach helps cultivate environmentally conscious individuals who are equipped to address glo…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Environmental learning
  topic: keywords
subject: Early childhood education
  topic: keywords
subject: Sustainable development education
  topic: keywords
creator: Akhmad Mukhlis
creator: Melly Elvira
creator: Sandy Tegariyani Putri Santoso
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Akhmad Mukhlis, Melly Elvira, Sandy Tegariyani Putri Santoso http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2024-06-30
publication date: 2024-06-30
starting page: 19
ending page: 35
doi: 10.14421/al-athfal.2024.101-03