Urgensi Pendidikan Pra Sekolah Bagi Anak Usia Dini Di Pondok Pesantren Al-Muchtar

Abstract

Preschool education plays a strategic role in shaping the cognitive, socio-emotional, and spiritual development of early childhood. This study aims to examine the urgency of preschool education for early childhood at Al-Muchtar Islamic Boarding School and its implementation in supporting holistic child development. The research method used a descriptive qualitative approach through direct observation, interviews with caregivers, educators, and parents of students, as well as a documentation study of the institution's curriculum. The results show that preschool education at Al-Muchtar Islamic Boarding School functions not only as a basic academic foundation but also as a means of internalizing religious values ​​and character from an early age. The structured learning program, the religious environment of the Islamic boarding school, and the active involvement of educators and parents contribute significantly to children's readiness to enter the next level of education. These findings confirm that the implementation of preschool education in Islamic boarding schools is highly urgent as part of efforts to shape a generation that is moral, independent, and ready to face the changing times.