On Tuesday, 29 September 2026, the children of TK A Al Siddiq International took part in an enjoyable learning activity in the Preparation Centre. This time, the children were invited to complete a puzzle featuring a garbage truck while also learning to recognise the numbers 1 to 5. Through learning while playing, the children were encouraged to develop a range of foundational skills in ways appropriate to their stage of development.
The activity began with a warm welcome from the teacher as the children arrived in the classroom. They then took part in attendance and an ice-breaking activity to create a cheerful and enjoyable learning atmosphere. The teacher subsequently invited the children to discuss the types of rubbish they commonly encounter in everyday life. The children were introduced to four types of waste: organic waste, paper, plastic, and hazardous and toxic waste (B3). This introduction provided an opportunity for the children to begin understanding the importance of recognising and sorting waste according to its type.
After the introduction, the children were presented with the garbage truck puzzle. They were encouraged to arrange the individual puzzle pieces until they formed a complete picture. The puzzle activity was designed to develop their thinking skills, concentration, hand-eye coordination, and problem-solving abilities. The children also learnt to be patient, try again when they encountered difficulties, and complete a task step by step.
Interestingly, the puzzle activity focused not only on completing the picture. The children also learnt to recognise the numbers 1 to 5. Each puzzle piece was arranged according to the numerical sequence, allowing the children to connect number symbols with the process of putting the picture together. In this way, numbers were introduced through a concrete and enjoyable activity, allowing the children to learn naturally without feeling as though they were simply memorising.
In addition to learning about numbers, the children were also introduced to the letters in their own names. The teacher gave them opportunities to observe and identify the letters found in their respective names. This activity helped develop their awareness of letter shapes and sounds while providing an early foundation for literacy development.
Through this activity, the TK A Al Siddiq International children experienced an integrated learning experience. In a single activity, they were able to develop their cognitive abilities, fine motor skills, language skills, and concentration. The learning also became more meaningful because it was presented through play and connected to everyday life, particularly learning about waste and the importance of keeping the environment clean.
The activity at the Preparation Centre demonstrates that early childhood learning can take place through simple, enjoyable, and meaningful experiences. With guidance from their teacher, the children were not only learning to complete a puzzle, but also learning about numbers, letters, different types of waste, and the importance of being careful, independent, and responsible.
May this enjoyable learning experience become part of the children’s journey as they discover their environment and develop essential skills from an early age.
By Inka Amalia, S.Pd