<![CDATA[Basic arithmetic operation skills are an important component of early childhood numeracy development because they involve number recognition, counting, addition, and subtraction in meaningful contexts. Preliminary observations at KB Al-Latif, Cikulur District, indicated that several children experienced difficulties in connecting number symbols with quantities, counting sequentially, and solving simple addition and subtraction tasks. This study aimed to improve the basic arithmetic operation skills of children aged 5–6 years through a modified Snakes and Ladders game as a play-based learning medium. The study employed Classroom Action Research consisting of two cycles, with each cycle involving planning, action, observation, and reflection. The participants were 10 children, consisting of seven boys and three girls. Data were collected through observation, documentation, and field notes and analyzed using descriptive quantitative and qualitative techniques. The findings showed an improvement in the children's average achievement from 28.61% in the pre-cycle to 41.11% in Cycle I and 86.11% in Cycle II. The mean score increased from 10.30 to 14.80 and subsequently to 31.00. The game provided concrete learning experiences through rolling dice, counting spaces, moving forward and backward, and solving simple addition and subtraction tasks. Therefore, the modified Snakes and Ladders game can serve as an alternative play-based learning medium for developing basic arithmetic operation skills among children aged 5–6 years.]]>
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