Teachers Integration of Multimedia Tools in Teaching Kindergarten: Input to Literacy and Numeracy Enhancement

An important stage in a child's cognitive, social, and emotional development is early childhood education. This qualitative narrative study explored how kindergarten teachers integrate multimedia tools to enhance literacy and numeracy skills. Conducted in 16 schools in the Schools District of Balasan, it involved Focus Group Discussions with 9 kindergarten teachers and In-Depth Interviews with 9 teachers and 25 parents. The study investigated the types of multimedia tools used, their benefits, challenges, and impact on young learners. Results revealed that these multimedia tools, such as educational videos, TV-based programs, interactive games, songs, and digital exercises, significantly supported literacy and numeracy development. Teachers employed structured methods that combined visual, auditory, and kinesthetic strategies to improve engagement and learning outcomes. Despite facing challenges like technical issues, limited time, and scarce resources, teachers benefited from school-based training and technical support. Parents also reported positive changes, noting increased enthusiasm, focus, and improved learning behavior in their children. Based on the findings, a Resource Guide for Teachers was developed, providing practical strategies for effectively integrating multimedia in early childhood education.