Improving Children’s Fine Motor Skills Through Playing with Clay to Form Numbers at Pembina Public Kindergarten in Seluma Regency

Abstract

This study aimed to improve the fine motor development of children through clay play activities involving number formation at TK Negeri Pembina Seluma Regency. The study employed a Classroom Action Research (CAR) method based on the John Elliott model, conducted in two cycles consisting of planning, action, observation, and reflection. The subjects were 15 children in Group B. Data were collected through observation, documentation, and field notes and were analyzed using descriptive quantitative and qualitative techniques. The results showed a gradual improvement in the children's fine motor development. The percentage of children who achieved the Developing as Expected (BSH) and Very Well Developed (BSB) categories increased from 33.33%, to 60% in Cycle I, and reached 86.67% in Cycle II. The improvement was reflected in the children's ability to use their fingers and hands, coordinate their eyes and hands, follow number patterns, control movements, and complete activities independently. These findings indicate that clay play activities involving number formation are effective in improving the fine motor development of Group B children at TK Negeri Pembina Seluma Regency.