Claim Missing Document
Check
Articles

Found 12 Documents
Search

Exploring the Role of Contextual Learning in Developing the Cognitive Abilities of Children Aged 5–6 Years Ni Wayan Siti Nurani; Fitriana Fitriana; Sita Awalunisah; Shofiyanti Nur Zuama
Indonesian Journal of Early Childhood Educational Research (IJECER) Vol. 4 No. 2 (2025)
Publisher : Universitas Islam negeri Mahmud Yunus Batusangkar

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.31958/ijecer.v4i2.15869

Abstract

This study aims to explore the role of contextual learning in developing children’s cognitive abilities. The subjects of this research were all 18 children in Group B of Pelita Hati Kindergarten, consisting of 9 boys and 9 girls. The findings revealed that contextual learning played a significant role in enhancing the cognitive development of children in Group B, particularly through the use of spinach as a learning medium. Before the learning activity began, the teacher introduced spinach, explained its parts, and encouraged the children to identify and count them. The teacher then invited the children to play a sorting game by arranging the spinach from the smallest to the largest. Through contextual learning, children were able to interact directly with concrete materials, which supported the early childhood education principle of learning through play and facilitated better understanding. Observations conducted over three weeks showed that contextual learning greatly contributed to children’s cognitive growth, particularly in three key aspects: sequencing, identifying, and counting.
The Role of Parents in Improving Early Childhood Nutritional Status Through Lunch Box Provision Andini Juniarsih; Fitriana Fitriana; Hesti Putri Setianingsih; Nurhayati Nurhayati
Indonesian Journal of Early Childhood Educational Research (IJECER) Vol. 4 No. 2 (2025)
Publisher : Universitas Islam negeri Mahmud Yunus Batusangkar

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.31958/ijecer.v4i2.15953

Abstract

Ensuring adequate nutrition for early childhood is a crucial aspect in supporting optimal growth and development. One of the efforts undertaken by parents is providing lunch boxes for children to bring to school. This study aims to analyze the role of parents in improving the nutritional status of early childhood through lunch box provision and to identify the factors influencing menu selection. The research employed a qualitative approach involving 19 children in Group B at Alkhairaat Toboli Kindergarten, along with their parents and classroom teachers. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation, and were analyzed using descriptive qualitative techniques. The findings indicate that most parents have participated in preparing lunch boxes; however, the variety and nutritional content particularly protein sources and vegetables remain limited. Factors influencing lunch box choices include parents’ nutritional knowledge, children’s eating habits, preparation time, and family economic conditions. Teachers also play a role by providing guidance and motivating children to finish their meals. The study concludes that parents play a critical role in ensuring that children’s lunch boxes contain balanced nutrition, including carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. The implications of this research highlight the need for nutrition education for parents, increased menu variation, and strengthened collaboration between schools and families to promote healthy eating habits in young children.