Analysis of early childhood character development through the animation show Nussa and Rara episode 4

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the development of character values in early childhood through the Nussa and Rara animated series, Episode 4. Employing a descriptive qualitative approach, data were collected through observation, semi-structured interviews with parents and teachers, and documentation of children's behavioral responses in TK Muslimat NU 31, Group B. The findings reveal five prosocial and religious character behaviors demonstrated in the episode: greeting upon entering the home, asking permission before leaving, assisting parents with household tasks, reciting bismillah before activities, and demonstrating emotional self-regulation when peers handle belongings. Questionnaire results show variable behavioral adoption: 75% consistently greeted and 91.7% consistently asked leave, while helping parents and reciting Bismillah showed lower consistency. The study concludes that animation media alone are insufficient as the primary vehicle for character formation in early childhood; collaborative habituation among parents, teachers, and the social environment is indispensable. Grounded in social learning theory and ecological systems perspectives, these findings demonstrate that character development is a multidimensional process shaped by layered contextual factors. This study contributes to the discourse on integrating Islamic-themed digital media in early childhood character education.