<![CDATA[General Background Beginning literacy is a fundamental capability that first-grade elementary school students must master. Specific Background In Indonesian language learning, classroom observations reveal diverse student capabilities in recognizing alphabets and pronouncing simple syllables. Knowledge Gap Despite recognizing basic alphabets, many young learners still struggle to differentiate specific letter sounds, such as "ba" and "be," and lack the confidence to read aloud in front of their peers without engaging visual aids. Aims This implementation aims to develop the early literacy capabilities and self-assurance of first-grade students at UPTD SD Negeri Catur Swako by integrating visual learning media within a Problem-Based Learning framework. Results Following the implementation of guided discussions and card-matching activities, students successfully connected images with corresponding text, leading to increased enthusiasm and active participation. Most learners successfully recognized and accurately pronounced syllables starting with the letter "b," while overcoming their initial hesitation to speak in front of the classroom. Novelty The integration of targeted visual media within a structured Problem-Based Learning model provides a concrete, interactive approach to simultaneously address specific phonetic confusion and low self-confidence in early childhood education. Implications Educators should utilize visually engaging materials accompanied by intensive individual mentoring to accommodate diverse learning paces and create a joyful, concrete educational environment for young learners. Highlights: Young learners frequently struggle to differentiate phonetic sounds and lack confidence when pronouncing basic syllables aloud. Visual media successfully connects physical objects with alphabetic combinations to facilitate early literacy progression. The Problem-Based Learning framework combined with individualized mentoring significantly boosts student enthusiasm and active participation. Keywords: Early Literacy, Visual Learning Media, Problem Based Learning, Syllable Recognition, Indonesian Language]]>
