Implementation of Play Methods in Early Childhood Cognitive Development

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the implementation of play methods in early childhood cognitive development in the Pembina State Kindergarten, East Jakarta. The research method used is a descriptive qualitative method with data collection techniques through observation, interviews, and documentation. The subjects of the study were 3 teachers and 30 students of group B (age 5-6 years). The results of the study showed that: (1) The implementation of the play method was carried out through sensorimotor play, role play, development play, and playing with rules; (2) Children’s cognitive development is significantly improved in aspects of problem solving, symbolic thinking, memory, and concentration; (3) Supporting factors include adequate infrastructure, teacher competence, and parental support; (4) Inhibiting factors include time constraints and differences in children’s characteristics. The conclusion of this study is that the play method has been proven to be effective in developing early childhood cognition when applied with careful planning and adjusted to the characteristics of child development.