Early Childhood Education Makes Children Happy

While children are doing activities on the floor, suddenly a loud voice causes the children to leave their activities.

“How is the way to stand?” a teacher asks.

Quickly and efficiently the students of Tuah Kamuda preschool stand and say, “Here is the way to stand!"

Later the students and teacher sing in mutual response, showing motions according to the words they speak.

They clap their hands while doing the interesting activities, making the atmosphere lively at Tuah Kamuda Early Childhood Care for Development (ECCD) Centre in Bebatung village, Landak district, in West Kalimantan province.

Although it is relatively new and has just graduated two classes of students, children and parents welcome the presence of Tuah Kamuda preschool because it is the only preschool in the village.
At an early age, children need special attention from parents because it is a golden age, the best period to build the child’s character.

Many children, especially those who live in remote area, do not have the privilege to enjoy early education. A few years ago, Bebatung village did not have ECCD either. Realising the importance of early childhood education to build the children’s character, Wahana Visi Indonesia partnered with community people and local government to establish one in Bebatung village. Wahana Visi is special partner of World Vision Indonesia.

Right now, Tuah Kamuda ECCD has two classes: class A is for children aged 3-4, while class B is for children age 5.

The presence of this early education centre is very important to prepare children to enter elementary school. Elementary school children who were previously registered in the ECCD have proven to be more ready than other students.

The ECCD activity takes place in a local government building, while the facilitators come from the community who work voluntarily. Previously, Wahana Visi intensively trained the facilitators. A total of 40 students are registered in the ECCD.

“I am interested to teach students voluntarily. If I am not interested [in teaching them], I would not be here,” says Anik, one of the Tuah Kamuda facilitators.

Putri, 21, mother of Elisia Anastasia, 5, says that her daughter has improved after attending the preschool.

“Previously she was reluctant to play but now she is willing to play with other children." 

Fortunas Kesi Stoner says she is very glad to have a chance to learn and play in the preschool, “I like to play toy house,” explaining why she comes every day.

Parents pay a small monthly fee of 5,000 rupiahs (0.45 US dollars) for their children to learn and play at the centre.

*written by Bartolomeus Marsudihardjo, 2013