Improving Children's Gross Motor Skills Through Traditional Ball Relay Games Among Children Aged 4–5 Years

Abstract

This study aimed to improve the gross motor skills of children through the traditional ball relay game among children aged 4–5 years at PAUD Kasih Ibu, Selinsingan Village, Seluma Regency. The study was motivated by the low level of children's gross motor skills, particularly in performing coordinated running movements, anticipatory movements, coordinating the movements of the eyes, feet, hands, and head, and demonstrating proficiency in using both the right and left hands. This study employed the Classroom Action Research (CAR) method using the John Elliot model, which was implemented in two cycles consisting of planning, action, observation, and reflection. The research subjects were 15 children, comprising 8 boys and 7 girls. Data were collected through observation, documentation, and field notes. The data were analyzed using descriptive quantitative and descriptive qualitative techniques. The results indicated that the traditional ball relay game effectively improved the gross motor skills of children aged 4–5 years. The Expected Percentage Score (NP) reached 70% in Cycle I, categorized as Developing as Expected, and increased to 95% in Cycle II, categorized as Very Well Developed. Therefore, the traditional ball relay game proved to be effective in improving children's gross motor skills and can be used as an innovative, active, and enjoyable learning strategy in Early Childhood Education.