Fine Motor Development in Early Childhood: A Descriptive Study in Kindergartens

Abstract

Fine motor development is a fundamental aspect of early childhood education because it is directly related to children's readiness to learn, independence, and ability to perform daily activities. This study aims to describe the fine motor development of 5-6-year-old children in kindergarten through practice-based learning activities, particularly Cooking Class activities. The study used a descriptive quantitative approach with subjects aged 5–6 years at RA Baitul Ibadah, West Binjai District. Data were collected through fine motor development observation sheets covering aspects of strength, coordination, and flexibility of finger movements. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics in the form of mean values, achievement percentages, and development categories. The results showed that the children's fine motor development was in the moderate category, with hand-eye coordination indicators showing better achievement than strength and finger flexibility. These findings indicate that learning activities involving direct manipulation of objects, such as cooking classes, have the potential to support children's fine motor stimulation more optimally. This study recommends that early childhood educators integrate contextual practice-based activities as part of their learning strategies to support the fine motor development of young children.