<![CDATA[The introduction of colors and shapes plays an important role in early childhood cognitive development because it helps children recognize, differentiate, and classify objects around them. This study aimed to examine the validity and effectiveness of the Discussion method combined with the Talking Stick Mix Game in introducing colors and shapes to children aged 4–5 years. The novelty of this research lies in integrating active discussion with the Talking Stick game to improve conceptual understanding, confidence in expressing opinions, learning participation, and children’s social interaction. This study employed a quantitative approach with a one-group pretest-posttest design, supported by observations, interviews, and documentation. The participants consisted of 18 children from PAUD Kober Darul Huda, Tasikmalaya City. The findings showed that the learning method achieved an Aiken’s V validity score of 0.913, categorized as high. The average score increased from 60.61 in the pretest to 81.11 in the posttest, with an N-Gain score of 0.52, indicating moderate effectiveness. The Wilcoxon test revealed a significant difference between pretest and posttest results (Z = −3.729; p < 0.001). In addition, children demonstrated greater enthusiasm, participation, and confidence during learning activities. Therefore, the Discussion and Talking Stick Mix Game methods were considered valid and effective for introducing colors and shapes to early childhood learners. ABSTRAK Pengenalan warna dan bentuk berperan penting dalam perkembangan kognitif anak usia dini karena membantu anak mengenali, membedakan, dan mengelompokkan objek di sekitarnya. Penelitian ini bertujuan menguji validitas serta efektivitas metode Diskusi dan Talking Stick Mix Game dalam mengenalkan warna dan bentuk pada anak usia 4–5 tahun. Kebaruan penelitian terletak pada penggabungan diskusi aktif dengan permainan Talking Stick untuk meningkatkan pemahaman konsep, keberanian berpendapat, keaktifan belajar, dan interaksi sosial anak. Penelitian menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif dengan desain one-group pretest-posttest serta didukung observasi, wawancara, dan dokumentasi. Subjek penelitian terdiri atas 18 anak di PAUD Kober Darul Huda Kota Tasikmalaya. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan nilai validitas Aiken’s V sebesar 0,913 (kategori tinggi). Nilai rata-rata anak meningkat dari 60,61 menjadi 81,11 dengan N-Gain 0,52 (kategori sedang). Uji Wilcoxon menunjukkan perbedaan signifikan antara pretest dan posttest (Z = −3,729; p < 0,001). Selain itu, anak terlihat lebih antusias, aktif, dan berani selama pembelajaran. Dengan demikian, metode Diskusi dan Talking Stick Mix Game dinilai valid dan efektif untuk mengenalkan warna dan bentuk pada anak usia dini.]]>
