Efforts to Develop Gross Motor Skills Through Traditional Games

Traditional games are increasingly recognized as an effective method for developing gross motor skills in early childhood education settings. These games, which often involve running, jumping, balancing, and throwing, provide natural opportunities for children to strengthen their physical abilities. Educators highlight that traditional games not only support physical growth but also preserve cultural heritage, making them highly valuable in PAUD environments.

Many early childhood institutions integrate traditional games such as engklek, gobak sodor, and ular naga into their daily learning routines. These games require coordinated body movements that stimulate muscle development and enhance children's spatial awareness. For example, engklek helps improve balance and leg strength, while gobak sodor encourages agility and quick reflexes. Through consistent practice, children can build stronger gross motor foundations.

Teachers play an essential role in facilitating these activities safely and effectively. They ensure that the playing area is secure and provide clear instructions to help children understand the rules. By offering guidance and encouragement, teachers help even the more hesitant children participate confidently. Their supportive presence allows children to explore movement in a structured yet enjoyable environment.

Traditional games also promote valuable social skills alongside motor development. Most of these games involve teamwork, turn-taking, and communication, creating opportunities for children to interact positively with their peers. These interactions help build cooperation and emotional regulation, as children learn to win with humility and lose with resilience. Thus, the games support holistic development beyond the physical domain.

With their cultural richness and developmental benefits, traditional games remain a powerful tool for supporting gross motor growth in PAUD. Schools are encouraged to integrate them regularly into learning activities and adapt them to suit the needs of diverse learners. By preserving these games, educators not only enrich children’s physical development but also strengthen their connection to cultural traditions, ensuring a well-rounded early childhood experience.