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Early childhood (0–6 years) is a critical period in human development, often referred to as the golden age, during which all aspects of development, including language and vocabulary, grow rapidly. However, based on preliminary observations at TK Merpati, Simpang Sungai Rengas District, the vocabulary skills of children aged 4–5 years were still relatively low. This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of papercraft puppet media in improving the vocabulary skills of children aged 4–5 years at TK Merpati, Simpang Sungai Rengas District. The research employed a classroom action research design conducted in three cycles. The subjects consisted of 17 children aged 4–5 years. Data were collected through observation sheets, and data analysis was carried out by comparing the percentage of children’s vocabulary achievement before and after the implementation of the papercraft puppet media in each cycle. The results indicated a significant improvement in children’s vocabulary skills. In the pre-action stage, children’s achievement was categorized as Not Yet Developed (NYD) with a percentage of 30%. In Cycle I, the percentage increased to 50% (Beginning to Develop). In Cycle II, it further improved to 76% (Developed as Expected). In Cycle III, the results reached 95% (Very Well Developed). These findings demonstrate that papercraft puppet media is effective in enhancing vocabulary development in early childhood.

The purpose of this study was to examine how problem-based mathematics learning affected the learning interest of 5- to 6-year-old students at the Ki Hajar Dewantara State Kindergarten in South Jakarta. To compare problem-based mathematics learning and conventional learning, this study used a quantitative method and a quasi-experimental design. Problem-based learning is intended to use mathematical problems in children's daily lives. Children in group B were divided into experimental and control groups. To collect data, structured observations were conducted on elements of children's interest in learning. These included enjoyment, focus, activity, and willingness to participate in learning activities. To determine the difference in the level of interest in learning between the two groups, the data obtained was analyzed statistically. The results showed that, compared to conventional learning, problem-based mathematics learning had a significant effect on increasing children's interest in learning. Children showed more enthusiasm, better concentration, active involvement in activities, and critical thinking skills in solving mathematical problems. The results showed that effective problem-based mathematics learning made learning meaningful, enjoyable, and appropriate for the characteristics of early childhood development.

The purpose of this study was to determine how puzzle games affect the problem-solving abilities of early childhood children. This study used quantitative methods and a quasi-experimental design. The study involved children aged 4 to 6 years from various early childhood education institutions (PAUD). Purposive sampling was used to collect samples. Data were collected through pre-tests and post-tests of problem-solving abilities and observations of children's behavior while playing puzzles. Logical thinking, creativity, concentration, focus, use of problem-solving strategies, and willingness to learn were all metrics used for assessment. To determine the differences in abilities before and after treatment, the collected data were analyzed statistically. The results of the study showed that puzzle game intervention improved children's problem-solving abilities. Children learned to identify problems, make plans for solutions, and work independently. In addition, it was proven that puzzle games as a learning medium were more effective with the help and guidance of teachers and parents. According to this study, puzzle games are an effective tool for developing the cognitive, social, and emotional abilities of early childhood.

This study investigates how puzzle games affect the fine motor development of young children. This study uses a quantitative approach and a quasi-experimental design. The study involved 30 children aged between 4 and 6 years who were divided into two groups: an experimental group and a control group. The experimental group received an intervention in the form of puzzle-playing activities for four weeks, with an interval of two to three times a week. On the other hand, the control group did not receive any special treatment for routine learning activities. To collect data, standardized fine motor skills test instruments were used. These included eye-hand coordination, finger movement control, precision, and the ability to assemble and copy shapes. A t-test was used to analyze the data to determine the difference in results between the two groups. The results of the study showed that the experimental group and the control group differed significantly. Compared to children who did not receive treatment, children who were involved in puzzle-playing activities showed greater improvement in all fine motor indicators. The results show that puzzle games can be used effectively as a learning tool to help the fine motor development of early childhood develop well.

This study aims to examine the biblical foundation in the learning of Bible-based preschool children with a contextual learning approach. The research method used is topical research, which focuses on developing education and learning that is relevant to daily life so that children more easily absorb material according to learning goals. The learning process starts from simple things to more complex things, according to the stage of early childhood development. The results of the study show that Bible-based preschool learning includes various activities, including: educating children with a biblical foundation, introducing the Bible through number ordering, arranging the biblical alphabet, combining letters into words, arranging words into biblical phrases, reading Bible texts, memorizing short golden verses, and learning activities such as coloring and listening to Bible stories. These findings confirm that Bible-based learning with a contextual approach can be an effective strategy in shaping the spiritual, cognitive, and character foundations of preschoolers, while instilling faith values from an early age.

Toddler age is often called the golden period because during this period brain nerve development occurs, especially myelination, as well as a critical period. The golden period can be achieved if toddlers' nutritional needs are optimally met. On the other hand, if babies and toddlers do not get the food they need, the golden period will change into a critical period, thus disrupting their growth and development. The level of education of parents will affect the health and well-being of children, because this is inseparable from the nutritional status of children. Mothers with a high level of education will have a clearer opportunity to absorb information compared to mothers with less or no education. With a good level of education, it is hoped that a mother will be willing and able to behave well in order to improve her child's nutritional status. This Community Service activity aims to provide health education on balanced nutrition to reduce stunting in the community, especially mothers with toddlers in Desa Cangguk, Kecamatan Tanah Pasir, Kabupaten Aceh Utara. This activity used a participatory approach involving lecturers, students, health workers, and the community. The results showed an increase in public understanding and awareness of stunting prevention. It is hoped that this activity will raise public awareness about balanced nutrition for children

This parenting seminar was designed to increase parents' capacity to understand and implement integrative holistic parenting, encompassing education, health, nutrition, and psychosocial aspects of children. An integrative holistic approach is considered important because child growth and development are influenced not only by formal education but also by health conditions, adequate nutrition, and emotional and social support from the family environment. This activity aims to provide comprehensive education to parents so they can carry out their parenting role optimally and sustainably. The activity was implemented using an interactive seminar method involving the delivery of material by competent speakers in the fields of childcare, education, and health, accompanied by discussions and a question-and-answer session that encouraged active participant participation. The material presented focused on understanding the concept of integrative holistic parenting, strategies for implementing positive parenting patterns, and the role of parents in supporting children's physical, emotional, social, and cognitive development. The results of the activity showed a significant increase in parents' knowledge, understanding, and attitudes regarding the importance of comprehensive and integrated parenting. Parents became more aware of their role as key figures in shaping character and optimizing children's potential from an early age. This seminar made a real contribution in equipping parents to be able to create a healthy, safe, and supportive parenting environment. This activity is expected to become a model for developing parental capacity in a sustainable manner with an integrative holistic approach as the key to successful child growth and development.

This community service project aims to develop children's potential through the art of coloring as an effective educational tool to enhance social and cultural understanding. The activity was held at Jl. Binalatung, RT 11, Pantai Amal, Tarakan Timur, a coastal area that is also a border region. The background for this project is the limited access of children in this area to creative activities that could support their personal development and awareness of social and cultural diversity. A coloring competition was chosen as the approach, involving 30 participants from kindergarten to elementary school age, many of whom do not continue to formal education.Using a participatory method, children were not only invited to color but were also given an understanding of the meanings and cultural values embedded in each image. Furthermore, the activity was designed to foster a sense of togetherness, sportsmanship, and self-confidence. The results showed very high enthusiasm from the participants. They were not only able to produce beautiful artworks but also demonstrated an increased understanding of the importance of appreciating differences and cultural diversity. This report proves that the art of coloring plays a crucial role as a tool to bridge the knowledge gap and foster cultural awareness, especially for children in remote and border areas who have limited access to education and educational entertainment. Therefore, it is recommended that similar programs be continued with more varied materials to support the holistic development of children in coastal regions.

This community service aims to enhance the visual creativity of early childhood children through collage art activities at SMAN 3 Medan. In the current digital era, children are often exposed to passive visual media, which can hinder the development of their active creativity. Through the collage art approach, students are given the freedom to create using various materials such as colored paper, origami, and glue, which stimulate fine motor skills and visual creativity. The research method used involved direct guidance in creating collages, followed by the presentation of material about collage art and the steps for creating it. The results of the community service show that collage activities can improve students' creativity, visual expression, and fine motor skills. Additionally, these activities can also boost students' self-confidence in expressing themselves freely and creatively. These findings suggest that collage art can serve as an effective medium in art education at the elementary school level and is highly beneficial for fostering children's creativity from an early age.

This Community Service Program aims to enhance the understanding of parents, Madrasah Tsanawiyah students, and the community of Karangbong Village regarding the history of developmental psychology and major child development theories. The program was initiated due to the community’s limited knowledge of developmental concepts, which affects the quality of parenting practices. Using a descriptive qualitative approach through observation, interviews, educational sessions, and discussions, the program presented essential materials covering the history of developmental psychology, Piaget’s cognitive development theory, Erikson’s psychosocial stages, and Vygotsky’s sociocultural theory. The results indicate a significant improvement in participants’ comprehension of developmental stages and their ability to apply appropriate parenting strategies. The program also reinforced the awareness that child development is a responsibility and divine trust that must be nurtured optimally. Overall, this activity contributes to the development of informed, adaptive, and development-oriented parenting within the community.

Bullying in secondary schools is a serious issue that affects students’ psychosocial well-being and academic achievement, and significantly disrupts the learning climate and the quality of social relationships among students. This community service activity aimed to implement the Child-Friendly School Program through anti-bullying socialization at SMA N 1 Kersana in order to enhance the understanding and commitment of all school members in creating a safe, inclusive, and sustainable learning environment. The method employed a participatory approach, including needs assessment, interactive socialization sessions, focus group discussions, case simulations, and structured evaluation using pre-test and post-test instruments. The results indicated a 23% increase in participants’ understanding based on the comparison of scores before and after the intensive implementation of the program. Furthermore, a “Bullying-Free School” declaration was established along with a plan to strengthen the Violence Prevention and Handling Team as a more systematic sustainability strategy. These findings confirm that participatory-based socialization effectively reinforces the implementation of the Child-Friendly School Program and fosters a safe, inclusive, sustainable, and responsive school culture that supports students’ positive character development.

Humans, as creations of Allah SWT, are entrusted with the mandate to prosper the earth; therefore, divine revelations were sent down, culminating in the Qur’an as the ultimate guide for life. Islam, as a universal religion, emphasizes education as a means to achieve a complete and meaningful life. Islamic education, as defined by scholars such as al-Syaebani, Zakiah Drajat, and Muhaimin, is a process of transforming human behavior in personal, social, and environmental contexts based on Islamic values. This study employs a library research method with a thematic tafsir (maudhu’i) approach to examine the Qur’anic foundations of Islamic education. The findings indicate that verses such as QS. Al-‘Alaq [96]:1–5 highlight the importance of literacy as the starting point of education, QS. Al-Mujadalah [58]:11 affirms the elevated status of the learned, QS. An-Nahl [16]:78 emphasizes human innate potential, QS. Luqman [31]:12–19 stresses character education, and QS. Ali Imran [3]:190–191 underscores the integration of spirituality and intellect. Thus, the Qur’anic foundation provides theological, philosophical, and practical bases for the development of Islamic education aimed at forming insan kamil—individuals who are knowledgeable, faithful, and morally upright. QS. Luqman: 13–19 highlights education based on monotheism and morals, where Luqman advises his children to have faith, do good deeds and be patient. QS. Al-Māidah: 67 emphasizes trust and courage in conveying knowledge, as Allah commanded the Prophet to convey revelation without fear

Parents act as early educators entrusted with guiding, nurturing, and caring for their children. Their influence is crucial from the outset, as they substantially shape their children's character and disposition. The way parents parent their children can significantly enhance their overall development, as their methods significantly influence their children's social and emotional maturity. To foster healthy maturation and ensure their children's social integration, parents need to thoroughly understand the intricacies of their children's social and emotional development. Parents are the first teachers responsible for teaching, nurturing, and raising their children. Parental involvement is crucial. This study aims to examine the significance of parenting strategies employed by mothers and fathers and the extent to which these strategies shape their children's social and emotional development. The results of this study identified three distinct categories of parenting tactics commonly employed by mothers and fathers in raising their children: indulgent, dictatorial, and collaborative. Each of these parenting approaches exerts a unique influence on children's social and emotional maturation. The main difference lies in the observation that dictatorial and indulgent parenting approaches typically produce less beneficial results than collaborative parenting approaches, which typically produce more beneficial results. Therefore, it is recommended that mothers and fathers adopt a collaborative parenting approach when raising their children.

Early English mastery is a long-term educational investment that should be supported by instructional approaches aligned with children’s developmental characteristics. This community service program aimed to systematically implement the *English Through Play* approach, enhance English learning interest, and create positive learning experiences for children aged 4–6 years at Samantha English Course. The program was conducted participatorily through preparation, implementation, and evaluation stages over eight weeks. The *English Through Play* approach was applied through various activities, including action songs, flashcard games, storytelling with gestures, and simple role play. Evaluation was carried out descriptively through observation of participation, verbal responses, children’s expressions, and simple oral tests to measure basic vocabulary mastery. The results showed that more than 80% of the children were actively engaged during the learning sessions. Approximately 70–85% demonstrated increased learning interest, as reflected in their enthusiasm, verbal participation, and positive responses to English instructions. In addition, most children were able to recognize and pronounce 5–10 basic vocabulary items based on the learning themes and perform simple self-introductions. The program also produced a play-based learning guide that can be sustainably implemented by the partner institution. In conclusion, the *English Through Play* approach proved effective in enhancing young learners’ interest and participation in early English learning. This model can serve as a practical and replicable alternative for similar non-formal educational institutions.

The rapid development of digital technology in the past decade has transformed Christian Religious Education (PAK) through synchronous–asynchronous models, Learning Management Systems (LMS), and blended learning, thereby expanding access and enriching both cognitive and spiritual learning experiences. However, this digital shift also introduces new risks related to child protection in online environments. National regulations mandate schools and higher education institutions, including PAK, to embed safeguarding principles into digital learning practices. Recent literature identifies three main research streams: the effectiveness of technology-enhanced learning, Christian ethics and digital spirituality, and faith-based digital literacy. Nonetheless, three research gaps remain: (1) limited integration of legal norms into technology-driven pedagogy, (2) absence of a safeguarding-by-design framework tailored for PAK, and (3) insufficient evaluation instruments to measure child protection outcomes in digital learning environments. This study aims to: (a) analyze the juridical implications of child protection regulations for the design, implementation, and evaluation of technology-based PAK strategies, (b) develop a “child-safe technology-based PAK framework” that integrates theological-pedagogical formation with regulatory compliance. The scientific contribution of this study lies in offering a PAK strategy that is not only pedagogically effective but also legally compliant, ethically grounded, and pastorally responsive thereby fostering a safe, inclusive, and child- centered learning ecosystem in the digital era.

This Community Service Program (PkM) aims to enhance character, life skills, and family capacity in supporting youth development in Parangloe District, Gowa Regency, South Sulawesi. The family entrepreneurship training activity was conducted through an educational approach, skills training, family workshops, and structured mentoring by involving youth as agents of change. Implementation methods included material presentations on the dangers of drugs, socialization of youth-family collaboration, exposition of entrepreneurship concepts, and hands-on practice in making handicrafts (mini brooches from felt fabric). The activity results demonstrated increased knowledge and understanding among youth regarding positive character values such as discipline, responsibility, and effective communication. Skills training had a significant impact on youth abilities in critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity development. Family empowerment through parenting pattern workshops yielded positive outcomes in parent-child relationships. This program is expected to serve as a model for human resource development at the local level and can be replicated in other regions to create a young generation with excellent character and competitive edge.

This study aims to evaluate the implementation and impact of an English training workshop for early childhood education teachers in Surakarta. The study employed a program evaluation design using a qualitative descriptive approach involving twenty playgroup and kindergarten teachers. The workshop was conducted over four days and was designed based on a needs analysis obtained through a pre-test and preliminary interviews. Data were collected through pre-test and post-test results, reflective questionnaires, and semi-structured interviews. The qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings indicate that the workshop had a positive impact on participants’ English proficiency as well as their affective aspects, particularly their confidence in using English in the classroom. The thematic analysis identified three main themes: emotional responses, understanding of the material, and collaboration. Participants demonstrated increased enthusiasm, reduced anxiety, and improved self-confidence. Contextual and practical materials helped participants connect theoretical concepts with classroom practice. Furthermore, interactive activities and collaborative discussions strengthened professional engagement and peer learning. These findings confirm that structured and needs-based training is effective in supporting the sustainable professional development of early childhood education teachers and contributes to improving the quality of English instruction in the classroom.

This study aims to describe teachers' strategies in developing early childhood language skills at the AS-SA'ADAH Early Childhood Education Centre. It is known that strategies are importantThis appears to be part of a larger context, likely related to educational development teachers must have ideas on how to design and implement these strategies using a descriptive qualitative approach with data collected through direct observation of learning activities, interviews, and documentation. The analysis was conducted using the Miles and Huberman model, which includes the stages of reduction, presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results of the study show that teachers develop children's language skills through storytelling, interactive conversations, singing, and the use of self-made pictures and simple teaching aids. Based on interviews, these strategies not only enrich the vocabulary of early childhood language but also encourage children to be more active in speaking and interacting with their peers and teachers. Language learning associated with educational play activities has been proven to be more interesting for children in the learning process so that it seems natural, because most children tend to get bored with monotonous learning processes. Thus, children's language skills can grow and develop optimally if a teacher is creative, patient, and communicative learning environment.

This Community Service Program aims to enhance the understanding of parents, Madrasah Tsanawiyah students, and the community of Karangbong Village regarding the history of developmental psychology and major child development theories. The program was initiated due to the community’s limited knowledge of developmental concepts, which affects the quality of parenting practices. Using a descriptive qualitative approach through observation, interviews, educational sessions, and discussions, the program presented essential materials covering the history of developmental psychology, Piaget’s cognitive development theory, Erikson’s psychosocial stages, and Vygotsky’s sociocultural theory. The results indicate a significant improvement in participants’ comprehension of developmental stages and their ability to apply appropriate parenting strategies. The program also reinforced the awareness that child development is a responsibility and divine trust that must be nurtured optimally. Overall, this activity contributes to the development of informed, adaptive, and development-oriented parenting within the community.

Heritage language loss among immigrant and diaspora communities represents a critical challenge to cultural identity, intergenerational communication, and cognitive diversity. Traditional heritage language maintenance approaches face significant barriers including limited resources, lack of qualified instructors, geographic dispersion, and competing demands of dominant language acquisition. This study investigates the effectiveness of bilingual digital story applications as innovative tools for heritage language maintenance among children aged 4-12 years. Through a 24-month longitudinal mixed-methods study involving 1,843 families across eight language communities (Spanish, Mandarin, Arabic, Korean, Tagalog, Vietnamese, Hindi, and Polish), we examined language proficiency development, cultural identity formation, family engagement patterns, and app usage behaviors. Quantitative analysis of pre- and post-intervention language assessments revealed statistically significant improvements in heritage language vocabulary (effect size d=0.68), listening comprehension (d=0.54), and oral production (d=0.47) among children using bilingual story apps for at least 20 minutes daily. Qualitative findings from parent interviews and child focus groups highlighted the apps' role in making heritage language learning enjoyable, facilitating parent-child interaction, connecting children to cultural narratives, and normalizing bilingualism. However, effectiveness varied substantially based on app design features, with interactive elements, culturally authentic content, parent involvement scaffolds, and adaptive difficulty showing strongest associations with outcomes. This research demonstrates that thoughtfully designed bilingual story apps can serve as accessible, scalable tools for heritage language maintenance, though they function most effectively as complements to rather than substitutes for rich home language environments and community connections. The study contributes empirical evidence to inform app development, family language planning, and policies supporting linguistic diversity in increasingly globalized societies.