A Needs Analysis of Parental Requirements for Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) Services in Addressing Parenting Challenges at Home in Banda Aceh, Indonesia

This study aims to identify parental needs regarding Early Childhood Education (ECE) services in Banda Aceh, Indonesia. It employs a descriptive research using a quantitative approach to systematically examine the characteristics of parents in Banda Aceh and the parenting challenges that are encountered at home. The study collected numerical data for its data collection and used statistical analysis such as percentage-based summaries to identify common parenting barriers. A total of 169 respondents participated in a more than ten multiple choices questionnaire designed to capture diverse experiences, and perceptions of parenting obstacles. Data were analyzed using SPSS, with results presented in percentages to determine the extent of parents' needs for ECE services. The findings reveal two key areas of parental needs, which were parenting support and Institutional expectations. Parenting support indicated by the need for parenting classes to enhance life and soft skills, motivation, and guidance to strengthen parental roles. Institutional expectations, on the other hand, referred to the appropriate treatment of children in accordance with Islamic values, a conducive learning environment, and well-supervised activities. Additionally, parents expressed specific reasons and expectations regarding ECE services. These findings serve as a foundation for future research aimed at developing parenting class materials and modules tailored to address home-based parenting challenges while ensuring optimal early childhood education experiences.