Character-Based Numeracy Learning Through Fractions, Collage, and the “Seblak Stall” Activity
SECOND MEETING – Character-Based Numeracy Learning (Fractions, Collage, and the “Seblak Stall” Activity)
Day/Date: Sunday, May 17, 2026
Time: 3:30 PM – 4:35 PM WIB
Location: Pijar Tambak Mayor, Surabaya
Activity: Pijar Volunteer Batch 2 Group 39
The second day of activities began with an opening session, morning exercise, group division, and a prayer before the learning activities started. Some children arrived feeling sleepy, but after participating in light exercises, they became more energized and ready to learn. The atmosphere felt much warmer and friendlier as the children had already become familiar with the volunteers. They were no longer shy and immediately approached us, greeting us with smiles and friendly waves. Some children even enthusiastically shared stories about their school activities without being prompted. This growing sense of familiarity created a more relaxed and enjoyable learning environment.
The younger group (Egg and Caterpillar classes) learned basic mathematics through addition and subtraction activities while also creating geometric shape collages. During this activity, the children learned to share scissors and glue by taking turns. This experience helped develop patience, cooperation, and consideration for others. At first, some children competed for the materials, but after volunteers demonstrated the importance of waiting patiently, they gradually became more orderly. After completing their collages, the children worked together to count how many circle shapes appeared on the roof of the house in their artwork.
Meanwhile, the older group (Cocoon and Butterfly classes) learned fractions through an interactive activity called the “Seblak Stall.” Children were asked to solve fraction problems attached to various seblak toppings. The questions ranged from easy to more challenging levels, allowing each child to participate according to their ability. Whenever they encountered difficulties, volunteers were available to provide guidance and support. The Seblak Stall activity also became an opportunity for children to practice queuing and taking turns while selecting toppings. One of the most rewarding moments was seeing the children realize on their own the importance of being patient while waiting for their turn.
The advocacy message delivered during this meeting focused on the values of fairness and equality. Volunteers explained that every child has the right to receive equal treatment regardless of their academic ability, personality, or learning pace. No child should be favored or excluded. The children were also reminded that sharing learning materials and waiting patiently for their turn are practical ways of respecting the rights of others.
After the learning activities, volunteers conducted a review session covering addition, subtraction, collage-making, and fraction concepts learned through the Seblak Stall activity. Despite the late afternoon schedule, the children remained enthusiastic and actively participated in answering review questions. The session concluded with a closing prayer as a gesture of gratitude for a successful day of learning, followed by a group photo session for documentation purposes. Several children proudly posed while holding their completed collage projects, their faces filled with joy and accomplishment.
This second meeting became a meaningful experience as noticeable positive changes began to emerge in the children's behavior. Those who previously competed for materials started learning to share and wait their turn, while quieter children became more confident in raising their hands and answering questions. Although the advocacy message about fairness and equality may not be fully understood in a single day, simple habits such as sharing and queuing serve as important first steps. We believe that character development is a gradual process, and the positive values introduced during childhood will continue to shape children as they grow.
