UPAYA MENINGKATKAN KEMANDIRIAN PADA ANAK USIA DINI MELALUI KEGIATAN ROLE PLAY DI KB PKK KASIH IBU KEDUNGREJO

Abstract

Independence is one of the essential developmental aspects that should be fostered during early childhood because it supports children's ability to manage daily activities, make simple decisions, and take responsibility for their actions. Initial observations conducted at KB PKK Kasih Ibu Kedungrejo indicated that most children still relied heavily on teachers when choosing learning activities, preparing play materials, completing assigned tasks, and tidying up learning equipment after use. This study aimed to describe the implementation of role-play activities and examine their effectiveness in improving children's independence. The research employed Classroom Action Research (CAR) based on the Kemmis and McTaggart model, consisting of planning, action, observation, and reflection. The participants were 13 children aged 3–4 years. Data were collected through observations, interviews, and documentation, and analyzed using qualitative descriptive techniques supported by quantitative data in the form of learning mastery percentages. The findings revealed a continuous improvement in children's independence after the implementation of role-play activities. Learning mastery increased from 0% during the pre-cycle to 53.85% in Cycle I and reached 84.62% in Cycle II. Improvements were reflected in children's confidence to choose roles, prepare and organize learning materials independently, complete assigned activities, communicate with peers, and take responsibility for their tasks. These findings indicate that role-play activities provide meaningful learning experiences that effectively promote independence among early childhood learners at KB PKK Kasih Ibu Kedungrejo