The Impact of Busy Work on Parents' Role in Early Childhood Education

This research aims to explore the extent to which work affects parents' contribution to children's development at home. Family life has undergone many changes, one of which is the increasing number of parents who both work, so their time to be involved in children's learning activities at home and at school is limited. This study involved three parents of young children (4-5 years old) in Central Island who work as farmers, traders and field labourers. They were purposively selected because they have busy jobs, making it relevant to uncover the influence of work on their role in children's education. Participants were willing to be interviewed and observed to explore their experiences of assisting children in the midst of their busy lives. This research used a qualitative approach with a case study method. Data collection techniques were interviews, observation and documentation, and data analysis was done descriptively and qualitatively. The results show that workload affects parents' participation in their children's education process. For example, farmers have limited time because they have to adjust to the season and weather, traders lose morning time due to trading, and field workers experience physical fatigue after work. This research is expected to provide an understanding of the impact of work activities on parental contributions and offer alternatives so that parents can make informed decisions about their children's education.