Designing of Wooden Toys as A Media to Introduce Letters and to Train Fine Motor Muscle for Early Children
Winarno(a), Hendro Aryanto(a), Nanda Nini Anggalih(a), Asidigisianti Surya Patria(a), Nova Kristiana(a), Winata Riang Saputra(b)

(a) Universitas Negeri Surabaya
Kampus Unesa Lidah Wetan Surabaya

(b) Gunung Mas Sumanco
Jl. Kalilom Lor Baru II No. 25
Surabaya

Abstract

In 2022, Indonesia successfully captured the attention of foreign nations and investments through its participation in the G20 summit. Nevertheless, the low proficiency in English, evident from its rank of 81 out of 111 countries surveyed in the 2022 English Language Proficiency Index report, indicates a challenge to global competitiveness. The Directorate General of Early Childhood Education, Elementary Schools, and Secondary Education is committed to enhancing literacy and introducing bilingual alphabets from an early age. Bilingual proficiency in international languages is crucial for the future of young children, who have the potential for rapid development. An interactive bilingual alphabet book is necessary to enhance interest and comprehension, as the early developmental phase significantly impacts a child^s intelligence. These efforts support the younger generation in facing global opportunities with better readiness and competitiveness. The objective of this design is to create an interactive wooden toy in the form of a bilingual alphabet, with the goal of providing learning about letter recognition and language, including both Indonesian and English, while also refining fine motor skills in early childhood. The design methodology employs qualitative descriptive research, utilizing data analysis through Miles and Huberman^s data triangulation. The visual design process involves design conceptualization, feasibility validation, and testing. Test results and validation by experts indicate the viability of this bilingual alphabet wooden toy.

Keywords: alphabet, bilingual, early childhood, wooden toy

Topic: Creative Design