EXPLORING INNOVATION IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION TO STRENGTHEN RELIGIOUS VALUES: A QUALITATIVE STUDY

Abstract

Early childhood education plays a crucial role in fostering children's holistic development, including the formation of moral, spiritual, and religious values. However, learning practices in many early childhood settings remain teacher-centered and primarily emphasize cognitive achievement, limiting meaningful experiences that support religious value development. This study explores innovative educational practices and their contribution to strengthening children's religious values. A qualitative multiple case study design was employed, with data collected through classroom observations, semi-structured interviews with teachers and school principals, and document analysis. Data were analyzed thematically using an interactive analysis model. The findings indicate that innovative practices, including play-based learning, storytelling, movement and songs, Qur'anic learning, religious habituation, collaborative learning, and family involvement, foster meaningful learning experiences that facilitate the internalization of religious values. Children's active participation, positive social interactions, and contextual learning emerged as key factors supporting religious development. However, implementation remains constrained by limited teacher competence, insufficient learning resources, and the lack of comprehensive pedagogical guidelines. The study concludes that child-centered, innovative learning supported by collaboration among schools, teachers, and families is essential for strengthening religious values and promoting holistic child development.