ECE Teachers’ Roles of Developing Numeracy Literacy in Special Needs Children
Authors: Diana  , Tasu’ah Neneng , Zulfikasari Sony , Martika Tias 
Published: January 2024

Special needs ECE children should be prepared with early literacy and numeracy skills to strengthen their competencies during the transitional phase to primary school. To help this transitional phase, teachers can provide a variety of diverse play activities. This study aims to explore and evaluate the pedagogical strategies employed by teachers in reinforcing special needs children's literacy and numeracy, as a support to their transition process from ECE to primary year. The research applied a qualitative method with data collection techniques through interviews, observations, and documentation. The sample selection applied purposive sampling based on the criteria and objectives of this study. The sample consisted of inclusive classroom teachers from ten ECE institutions in five regions of Central Java, including Semarang City, Pekalongan City, Surakarta City, Wonosobo District, and Jepara District. The study concludes that ECE teachers still see several limitations in dealing with special needs children. Therefore, teachers should modify plans and play activities to strengthen literacy and numeracy skills for special needs children to help them embark on primary school. Teachers expect necessary support for their improvement through training and guidance in dealing with special needs children, especially in developing their literacy and numeracy.

Keywords: literacy and numeracy, special needs children, ECE-primary school transition

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