Collage Activities as an Integrated Approach to Fine Motor and Social-Emotional Development in Early Childhood

Abstract

This study examines the development of fine motor and social-emotional skills among Group B children through creative work activities, particularly collage using crepe paper. The study employed a qualitative descriptive approach involving children aged 5–6 years at RA in Bekasi. Data were collected through observations, interviews, and documentation over four weeks (eight learning sessions). The findings indicate that collage activities supported the development of both fine motor and social-emotional skills. Fine motor development was demonstrated through improved glue application, tool use, hand-eye coordination, attaching paper according to patterns, and independent task completion. Social-emotional development was reflected in children's increased ability to share materials, cooperate, help friends, wait for turns, follow rules, and take responsibility. Several indicators increased from the Beginning to Develop or Not Yet Developed categories to the Developing as Expected or Very Well Developed categories. The study concludes that creative collage activities can provide meaningful, child-centered learning experiences that integrate motor and social-emotional development. This implies that early childhood teachers can use simple, contextual, and creative activities to stimulate multiple developmental domains simultaneously.