Enhancing Early Childhood Islamic Education through Creative Play-Based Learning at RA Darul Hikmah: A Classroom Action Research

Abstract

This Classroom Action Research (CAR) aims to explore the impact of creative play-based learning on enhancing early childhood Islamic education at RA Darul Hikmah. Early childhood education plays a pivotal role in shaping the foundation of children’s understanding and values, especially in the context of Islamic teachings. However, traditional methods that rely heavily on memorization and passive learning may not effectively engage young learners. This study investigates how creative, play-based activities can foster a more engaging, meaningful, and enjoyable learning experience for children while improving their understanding of Islamic values, stories, and basic religious practices.

The research was conducted in two cycles, each involving planning, action, observation, and reflection. The participants were 30 children from a kindergarten class at RA Darul Hikmah. Data were gathered through classroom observations, interviews with teachers, and assessments before and after implementing the play-based learning activities. The findings indicate that students became more engaged and enthusiastic about learning Islamic studies when activities included interactive games, role-playing, and storytelling. Additionally, children showed a deeper understanding of Islamic concepts and were able to express these ideas more confidently in daily situations.

This study demonstrates that creative play-based learning significantly enhances early childhood Islamic education by actively involving children in their learning process. The results suggest that when children are given the opportunity to learn through play, they develop not only cognitive skills but also emotional and social skills, leading to a holistic understanding of Islam. The research contributes to the ongoing efforts to modernize Islamic education in early childhood settings, offering valuable insights for educators seeking to implement more engaging and effective teaching methods.