The Implementation of Shadow Movement Games in Islamic Early Childhood Education for Developing Gross Motor Skills

Abstract

Gross motor development is a crucial aspect of early childhood growth related to the ability to perform physical movements such as coordination, balance, and agility. One approach that can be used to stimulate these skills is through movement-based games that directly involve visual experiences and physical activity. This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of shadow movement games in developing gross motor skills in young children. This study employed a qualitative method using a case study approach. Data were collected from 15 children in Group B at an Islamic kindergarten through observation, interviews with classroom teachers, and documentation of learning activities. Research subjects were selected purposively, considering the children’s engagement in learning activities. The data obtained were analyzed using Miles and Huberman’s interactive analysis technique to identify the children’s gross motor development. The results of the study indicate that the use of shadow movement games enhances children’s engagement and active participation in learning. Children demonstrated higher enthusiasm in imitating movements through body shadows, which positively contributes to gross motor development, particularly in the aspects of coordination, balance, and agility. The implications of this study suggest that shadow movement games can be utilized by early childhood educators as an innovative learning strategy to increase children’s physical activity in a targeted manner and to develop multisensory learning models that are more adaptable to the needs and learning characteristics of young children.