The Utilization of Traditional Games for Early Childhood Development

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to understand and describe the roles of traditional games in facilitating children's development. In this modern era, many parents and teachers as early childhood educators are not aware of the importance of traditional gamesto optimize the growth and development of early childhood. In fact, traditional games are a good and affordable means for children to grow and develop. In this paper, theresearchersattempted to discuss the roles of traditional Bugis games as a medium for early childhood growth and development.This research was qualitative in nature because the researchers wanted to produce descriptive data (written or spoken) about people and observable behaviors during the play that can help the growth and development of children.To collect the data, the researchers used several instruments, namely observation, interviews, and documentation. Data multiplication was carried out based on the characteristics of the instrument. The results showed that traditional South Sulawesi Bugis games, with or without equipment, act asmedia for children's physical, social-emotional, language and cognitive development. The games becomean important means for children to socialize,learn to become a society member, andlearn to respectthe society's rules. In the game-and-play situations, children can alsodevelopmathematical abilities and reasoning.

Enculturation of Bugis Sidenreng Rappang Local Wisdom through Ethnopedagogy of Traditional Games

“…Each youngster can experience a range of feelings during the game, including happiness, satisfaction, and delight. Children are given pretraining opportunities to learn the game's rules, adhere to conventions and guidelines, and behave honorably and loyally (Owen et al, 2020;Usman & Yusuf, 2022).…”

Exploring the feasibility of outdoor indigenous games and songs to enhance play-based pedagogy in early childhood education

“…Indigenous outdoor games have long been an essential aspect of human culture, providing entertainment, education, and fostering a sense of belongingness. For centuries, indigenous outdoor games have been treated as an institution for organised socialisation and leisure time (Petrovska et al, 2013;Usman & Yusuf, 2021). These games have been transmitted from generation to generation, cherished, used, and perfected (Khalid, 2008;Petrovska et al, 2013).…”

“…Additionally, indigenous games preserve the folk tradition central to national heritage. Khalid (2008) states that through engaging in indigenous games, children learn about the rules and values of their culture (Usman & Yusuf, 2021). These games also have spiritual value as well as social and historical relevance.…”

“…In the context of ECE, outdoor indigenous games hold enormous benefits as they foster holistic development, physical fitness, and cultural awareness (Usman & Yusuf, 2021). Indigenous outdoor games enhance gross and fine motor skills, balance, eye-hand coordination, increased spatial awareness and more significant social skills (Khalid, 2008).…”

“…Marginalisation of indigenous outdoor games in the ECE setting may be attributed to several factors. Usman and Yusuf (2021) contend that in today's technologically driven society, many ECE educators may be less knowledgeable about outdoor indigenous games and their value in promoting early childhood development. A qualitative study by Davies (1997) found that although teachers were aware of the value of outdoor play for children's development, they lacked the necessary knowledge and motivation to promote it as a pedagogical strategy.…”