5 Early Childhood Education Centers in Kudus Strengthen Children's Physical Activity, Support National Target of 1 Hour Per Day

The Early Childhood Education (PAUD) Physical Motor Stimulation Strengthening Program organized by the Djarum Foundation's Educational Charity since July 2024 reached its peak through the PAUD Cerdas Bergerak event held at Supersoccer Arena, Kudus. For three days, from Friday (13/12) to Sunday (15/12), the event was attended by 650 early childhood children from five PAUD institutions, namely PAUD Terpadu Kalirejo, TK PG Rendeng, RA Nurul Haq, TK Cahaya Nur, and TK Masehi. This activity is one of the concrete efforts to support the national policy that encourages increased physical activity for children in schools.

In collaboration with a team of lecturers from Semarang State University and Soegijapranata Catholic University, the Physical Motor Stimulation Strengthening program has involved 45 teachers from KB/TK and RA in Kudus. For six months, the teachers participated in intensive training and mentoring to strengthen their ability to support the physical motor development of children aged 4–6 years. They received various ideas for physical activities according to the child's developmental stage, as well as ways to manage time and conduct assessments effectively. In addition, parenting classes also equip parents to support their children's physical activities at home.

"We are proud because Kudus has become one of the first regencies in Indonesia to implement learning innovations that focus on the physical motor development of children." "This program also supports President Prabowo's target of at least 1 hour of physical activity per day in schools," said Arini Budi Utami, Head of Early Childhood Education and Community Education at the Kudus Education, Youth, and Sports Office.

Now, these 5 early childhood education centers have successfully increased the duration of motor physical activities from 2 to 4 hours per week and integrated them into daily routines, such as early morning routines before class, transitions between classes, and core learning activities. One example is that children move to the dining room by jumping along the footprints on the school floor.

The increase in hours of physical activity provides various benefits for children, one of which is improved physical fitness. The pre-post test results showed a significant positive impact on running ability, jumping, grip strength, and body balance. The majority of children who were previously in the 'very low' category have now moved up to the 'moderate' category.

"After we implemented consistent physical activities at school, we saw the children becoming healthier, fitter, and more enthusiastic about coming to school." When eating, the children also became more voracious. In addition, communication skills, empathy, and teamwork abilities have been further honed. "We truly feel the positive changes in the children," said Solihati, Principal of RA Nurul Haq, one of the early childhood education centers that received the training program.

Deputy Program Director of the Djarum Foundation's Bakti Pendidikan, Felicia Hanitio, added that many studies have shown the importance of consistent motor physical activities from an early age. "Unfortunately, many early childhood education institutions are still caught up in societal pressure to pursue cognitive development such as reading, writing, and arithmetic skills, while other developmental aspects are less attended to," explained Felicia.

"In a short span of six months, several early childhood education centers (PAUD) in Kudus have successfully integrated physical activities that support the holistic development of children. We are committed to continuing to help expand this impact to more schools in Kudus, and hopefully, it can also inspire schools outside of Kudus," he added.

Athletic Competition

The results of the training were celebrated through the PAUD Cerdas Bergerak showcase, which lasted for three days. This activity includes presentations on changes in children's fitness and health data, as well as enjoyable athletic competitions. As many as 650 early childhood education (PAUD) children participated in group games designed to hone their running, jumping, throwing, catching, and balancing skills, while also instilling values of sportsmanship, cooperation, and self-confidence from an early age.

As a conclusion, awards were given to children and teachers who excelled in several categories. These awards are expected to serve as a source of motivation for teachers, children, and parents to continue supporting and consistently implementing motor physical activities, both at school and at home.