Analysis of the Use of Loose Parts Media in Developing Fine Motor Skills in Early Childhood: Implications for Child Education
Authors
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Intan Aulia
Universitas Panca Sakti Bekasi , IndonesiaAuthor -
Benita
Universitas Panca Sakti Bekasi , IndonesiaAuthor
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Nelly Yusnita
Universitas Panca Sakti Bekasi , IndonesiaAuthor
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Linda Sitanandra
Universitas Panca Sakti Bekasi , IndonesiaAuthor
Abstract
Background: Fine motor skills are one of the aspects of early childhood development that is an important foundation for academic readiness, independence, and creativity. However, in practice, there are still many children aged 5-6 years who show delays in finger coordination, grasping stationery, scissors, and manipulating small objects. One of the media that is increasingly used in the context of game-based PAUD is loose or loose parts. Loose parts refer to materials that are exposed, unstructured, and flexibly manipulated by children such as pieces of wood, bottle caps, buttons, stones, pebbles, patchwork, and grains. Purpose: This study aims to analyze the use of free-form media in the development of fine motor skills in early childhood and examine its implications for children's educational practices. Methods: This study uses a qualitative approach with a case study design in kindergarten in children aged 5-6 years for 3 months. Data collection was carried out through participatory observation, semi-structured interviews with 4 teachers and 8 parents, photo/video documentation, and fine motor assessment rubrics. Results: The results showed that after the intervention of the loose section on a regular basis 3 times a week, there was a significant improvement in the indicators of clamp grip, grain pouring, button pressing, and cutting patterns. Children also show increased focus, creativity, and independence. Theoretically, these findings support Piaget and Vygotsky's constructivist theoretical principles of learning through exploration. Conclusion: The implications of this study confirm that the loose part is an inexpensive, contextual, and effective medium for stimulating fine motor skills without pressuring children with rigid academic targets. Teachers are advised to integrate loose parts in the playing corner, and schools need to provide teacher training on the principles of open play.
Keywords:
Early childhood education, Loose parts play, Fine motor development, preschool education, Learning through playDOI:
https://doi.org/10.68199/x6jyfd35References
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