PEMANFAATAN PENJEPIT BAJU DAN BIJI-BIJIAN SEBAGAI MEDIA PEMBELAJARAN UNTUK MENINGKATKAN KEMAMPUAN BERHITUNG ANAK USIA DINI DI RA DARUL MAHSUNI NW BUAL

Abstract

Early childhood numeracy at RA Darul Mahsuni NW Bual had not yet developed optimally. Some children still struggled to recognize numerals, count objects, and match numerals with quantities, while the use of learning media remained limited, leaving children easily bored. This study aimed to describe the use of clothespins and seeds as learning media, children’s responses, and the supporting and inhibiting factors. A descriptive qualitative approach was used, with teachers and Group A children as informants. Data were collected through observation, semi-structured interviews, and documentation, and analyzed using Miles and Huberman’s model (data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing). Data trustworthiness was established through source and technique triangulation. The findings show that clothespins and seeds helped children understand number concepts more concretely. Children became more active and enthusiastic through counting, grouping, and matching quantities with numerals. Supporting factors included easily obtained materials, low cost, and children’s enthusiasm, whereas inhibiting factors included limited learning time and the need for further guidance for some children. Thus, these media support the improvement of children’s numeracy through active, enjoyable, and meaningful learning