Analysis of Father Involvement Programs in Early Childhood Education Units in Bangkalan

Abstract

The importance of fathers' involvement in children's education is known to improve children's academic performance, self-confidence, and the relationship between parents and teachers. However, father involvement is still low due to the social paradigm that considers children's education to be the mother's job and lack of time due to work. This study aims to analyse father involvement programs in early childhood education (ECED) in Bangkalan district. The method used in this research is descriptive qualitative approach. Data collection techniques were conducted by interviewing school principals and fathers on father involvement programs in a number of three Early Childhood Education in Bangkalan District. Data analysis used the Miles and Huberman data analysis technique which includes the stages of interviews, observation and documentation. The findings show, first, the forms of father involvement programs include: ecoprint activities, Independence Day, Father's Day celebrations, batik, inspiration and parenting classes, and go green. Second, the school's efforts to involve fathers in this program through whatsapp groups, direct media, and carrying out activities that fathers like and carried out on weekends. Third, there are challenges in implementing the father involvement program, namely, the lack of father's time availability to participate in activities due to work.