Teachers’ Strategies In Developing Children’s Creativity To Form Islamic Character in RA Wasifah Medan Polonia

Abstract

This study aims to describe teachers’ strategies in developing children’s creativity to foster Islamic character at RA Wasifah Medan Polonia. The focus is directed towards the implementation of various creative strategies, such as activities based on Islamic themes, collaborative group work, structured tasks, appreciation of students’ work, activities inspired by exemplary stories, creative projects to remind children of acts of worship, and collaboration with parents. This research employed a qualitative method with a descriptive approach. Primary data were obtained through observation and documentation of classroom activities, while secondary data were sourced from relevant literature. Data analysis followed the Miles, Huberman, and Saldana model, comprising data condensation, data display, and verification, with data validity ensured through triangulation. The findings reveal that teachers’ creative strategies have a significant impact on the development of seven indicators of Islamic character in children, namely trustworthiness (amanah), discipline, cooperation (ta’awun), excellence (ihsan), cleanliness as part of faith, polite interaction, and independence. Each indicator is reflected in children’s classroom behaviours, such as completing tasks on time, maintaining workspace neatness, helping peers, improving their work, cleaning up after activities, engaging in courteous communication, and independently completing tasks. This study affirms that creative strategies integrated with Islamic values can serve as an effective medium for developing creativity while simultaneously instilling noble character in early childhood education.