Improving Cognitive Development Through the Use of Block Media Among Children Aged 4–5 Years at Pelita Bunda Early Childhood Education Center, Arang Sapat Village, Lubuk Sandi District, Seluma Regency

Abstract

This study aimed to improve the cognitive development of children aged 4–5 years through the use of block media at PAUD Pelita Bunda, Arang Sapat Village, Lubuk Sandi District, Seluma Regency. The study was motivated by the low level of children's cognitive development, particularly in their ability to recognize differences based on shape, classify objects according to color, and arrange objects by size from the smallest to the largest. This study employed the Classroom Action Research (CAR) method using the John Elliot model, which was conducted in two cycles consisting of planning, action implementation, observation, and reflection. The research subjects consisted of 15 children. Data were collected through observation, documentation, and field notes. The data were analyzed using descriptive quantitative and descriptive qualitative techniques. The results showed that the use of block media was able to improve the cognitive development of children aged 4–5 years. The Expected Percentage Score (NP) in Cycle I reached 73%, categorized as Developing as Expected, and increased to 96% in Cycle II, categorized as Developing Very Well. Thus, block media proved to be effective in improving children's ability to recognize differences in shapes, classify objects based on color, and arrange objects according to size. Therefore, block media can be used as an innovative, active, and enjoyable learning medium to support the cognitive development of early childhood.