PENERAPAN BUDAYA LITERASI DALAM MENGEMBANGKAN KEMAMPUAN BAHASA ANAK USIA DINI DI RA TANWIRUL FURQAN INDRASARI

Abstract

Language ability is one of the most essential aspects of early childhood development, as it serves as the foundation for communication, thinking, and social interaction. One effective strategy to foster children's language development is the implementation of a literacy culture within the school environment. This study aimed to describe the implementation of a literacy culture in developing the language skills of early childhood learners at RA Tanwirul Furqan Indrasari. This study employed a qualitative approach with a descriptive research design. The research participants consisted of the principal, teachers, and students of RA Tanwirul Furqan Indrasari. Data were collected through observations, semi-structured interviews, and documentation. The data were analyzed using the interactive model of Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña, which includes data condensation, data display, and conclusion drawing and verification. The findings revealed that the literacy culture was implemented through various activities, including read-aloud sessions, storytelling, classroom discussions, language games, the use of illustrated storybooks, word and letter cards, and the provision of reading corners in each classroom. The implementation of the literacy culture positively contributed to the development of children's language skills, as indicated by improvements in listening ability, speaking skills, vocabulary acquisition, communication confidence, and the ability to retell stories using their own words. However, the study also identified several challenges, including the limited availability of reading materials and the insufficient involvement of parents in promoting literacy activities at home. Therefore, the findings suggest that a literacy culture is an effective learning strategy for enhancing early childhood language development and should be supported through strong collaboration among schools, families, and the community to ensure its sustainability.