Internalizing Love for The Country Through Batik Making Activities for Early Childhood In Kartini Biru Kindergarten

Abstract

This study aims to describe the process of internalizing the value of patriotism (love for the homeland) in early childhood through batik-making activities at TK Kartini Biru Karang Anyar, Jati Agung District, South Lampung Regency, Academic Year 2024/2025. The background of this study is based on the importance of instilling national values from an early age through culture-based learning approaches. This research employed a descriptive qualitative method with data collection techniques including observation, interviews, and documentation. The research subjects consisted of teachers and children aged 5–6 years. The results show that the internalization process of patriotism values is carried out through stages of understanding, direct experience, habituation, and value reinforcement in batik-making activities. Teachers utilize batik as a learning medium to introduce traditional Indonesian batik motifs, explain their symbolic meanings, and instill awareness of preserving national cultural heritage. The learning process is systematically designed through planning, implementation, and evaluation stages while considering children's developmental characteristics. Children are actively involved in the process, from creating simple patterns, coloring motifs, to understanding the meaning behind batik designs. This activity not only improves fine motor skills but also fosters a sense of pride in national culture. The evaluation results indicate improvements in cultural knowledge, appreciation of national culture, and children's interest in cultural activities. Therefore, batik-making activities are proven to be an effective strategy for internalizing patriotism values in early childhood education.