Developing Early Childhood Problem-Solving Skills through "Bagaimana Caranya" Storybooks

Abstract

Problem-solving skills are an important aspect of early childhood cognitive development, as they form the basis for children to think critically, creatively, and independently in facing everyday situations. This study aims to develop early childhood problem-solving skills through reading a storybook entitled "How to Do It" implemented in the home environment. The research method used a descriptive qualitative approach with five children aged 5–6 years as subjects. Data were obtained through observation, interviews, and documentation during reading activities and discussions. The results showed that regular storybook reading activities can improve children's abilities to identify problems, propose solution ideas, and evaluate appropriate actions. Children become more open in expressing opinions and show empathy towards the story characters. In addition, the "How to Do It" book helps children understand simple problem-solving steps such as recognizing situations, making choices, and trying alternative solutions. This study concludes that storybooks can be an effective medium in developing early childhood problem-solving skills at home, when accompanied by reflective dialogue activities. It is recommended that educators use thematic storybooks relevant to children's experiences to foster critical and creative thinking skills from an early age.