Optimizing Child Development Through the First Three Years: The Important of Responsive Parenting and Early Learning Stimulation

Abstract

In Indonesia, the prevalence of inappropriate childcare remains relatively high. Data from the Indonesian Early Childhood Report, in 2021, 4 out of 10 early childhood children experience inadequate childcare. Meanwhile, from 0-3 years old, the brain grows rapidly to form strong connection, thus decent childcare is important during this period. Responsive parenting and early learning are two important domains that could support children's developmental needs. Unfortunately, in Indonesia there are still not enough research have been done to explore decent parenting. This quantitative study investigates responsive parenting practices and early learning implementation for children aged 0-3 years in three Indonesian cities: DKI Jakarta, Pandeglang, and Kupang. Data collected from 1200 parents, assessed by the modified of Infant-Toddler Home Observation for Measurement of The Environment (Infant-Toddler HOME) instrument. Result shows 85% of participants are able to demonstrate responsive parenting and 82.4% can provide early learning domain. Early learning score found positively correlated with parents' educational level (.232, p<0.01), social-economy level (.269, p<0.01), and the child's age (.318, p<0.01). The availability of learning materials varies significantly between respondents residing in urban and rural areas, highlighting notable contrasts between two environments. This finding serves as a baseline for further research and intervention on families. Future intervention should be applied to support Indonesian children's optimal development.