The Exploring West Sumatra E-Book: Enhancing Early Reading Skills and Literacy in Early Childhood Education

Early childhood reading readiness often presents challenges, particularly in preparing children for subsequent educational stages. Thus, engaging, effective, and technologically relevant instructional media are required. This study aims to develop the e-book Exploring West Sumatra as a learning tool to enhance early reading skills and foster a love for books within the framework of the Kurikulum Merdeka. The e-book incorporates letters and vocabulary specifically designed to support literacy development in early childhood. The study employs the ADDIE development model, encompassing analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation stages. The research subjects consist of children from Taman Kanak-Kanak Islam Terpadu. Research instruments include assessments of validity, practicality, and effectiveness. Findings indicate that the Exploring West Sumatra e-book is highly valid, practical, and effective in improving early reading skills and literacy among children aged 5–6 years. Featuring topics relatable to children and leveraging their immediate environment, the e-book allows them to revisit their favorite stories repeatedly, which significantly strengthens their reading skills and boosts their confidence.