<![CDATA[This study aims to explore the use of natural materials as learning media to enhance the cognitive abilities of early childhood students at TK Cahaya Hati Glagah. It employs a qualitative, descriptive approach and involves both teachers and students at the school. Data collection was conducted through observation, interviews, and documentation, while data analysis followed an interactive process comprising data condensation, data display, and conclusion drawing and verification. Data validity was ensured through technique triangulation, source triangulation, and member checking. The findings indicate that utilizing natural materials—such as leaves, stones, sand, soil, seeds, twigs, and water—creates learning experiences that are concrete, contextual, active, and enjoyable for children. Learning with natural materials fosters cognitive skills such as observing, comparing, counting, classifying, sequencing, and solving simple problems. Children gain opportunities for direct interaction with their environment through activities involving touching, observing, experimenting, manipulating, and exploring objects. Teachers play a crucial role in optimizing the use of natural materials by providing guiding questions, offering support, and designing activities appropriate for the children's developmental stages. Furthermore, natural materials offer distinct advantages: they are easily accessible, cost-effective, contextual, and support eco-friendly learning practices. Consequently, natural materials serve as an excellent alternative for learning media, as they enhance cognitive abilities and provide meaningful learning experiences for young children.]]>
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