Integrating Modern Theology into Early Childhood Faith Education: A Literature Review

Authors

  • Roi Panggabean Bethel Church Sihanoukville, Cambodia
  • Permon Asso Bethel Church Poipet, Cambodia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.53547/shyd0q66

Keywords:

early childhood, faith education for children, Godly Play, literature review, modern theology

Abstract

This study is a literature review that aims to analyze the integration of modern Christian theological thought with early childhood faith education (PAKAUD). Modern Christian theology, through its contextual approach to biblical texts and its response to socio-cultural dynamics, provides new perspectives for designing relevant faith-learning strategies in the digital era. The research method used is a literature review, examining recent books, journal articles, and academic sources, both national and international, focusing on early childhood Christian education. The analysis shows that integrating modern theology with holistic pedagogy such as Godly Play, storytelling, and experience-based learning enriches the process of faith formation from an early age. Practical implications include the development of contextual curricula, training for early childhood Christian teachers, creating child-friendly learning environments, and strengthening collaboration among families, churches, and schools. Therefore, this study contributes to building a model of children’s faith education that is responsive to modern challenges while maintaining a solid theological foundation.

Keywords: early childhood; faith education for children; Godly Play; literature review; modern theology

Abstrak

Penelitian ini merupakan kajian pustaka yang bertujuan untuk menganalisis integrasi pemikiran teologi Kristen modern dengan praktik pendidikan iman anak usia dini (PAKAUD). Teologi Kristen modern, melalui pendekatan kontekstual terhadap teks Alkitab dan responsnya terhadap dinamika sosial-budaya, memberikan perspektif baru dalam merancang strategi pembelajaran iman yang relevan di era digital. Metode penelitian menggunakan studi literatur dengan menelaah buku, artikel jurnal, dan sumber akademik terkini, baik nasional maupun internasional, yang berfokus pada pendidikan Kristen anak usia dini. Hasil analisis menunjukkan bahwa integrasi teologi modern dengan pedagogi holistik, seperti penggunaan metode Godly Play, storytelling, serta pembelajaran berbasis pengalaman dapat memperkaya proses pembentukan iman anak sejak dini. Implikasi praktisnya meliputi pengembangan kurikulum kontekstual, pelatihan guru PAK AUD, penciptaan lingkungan belajar ramah anak, serta kolaborasi antara keluarga, gereja, dan sekolah. Dengan demikian, penelitian ini memberikan kontribusi dalam membangun model pendidikan iman anak yang relevan dengan tantangan zaman modern tanpa kehilangan fondasi teologis yang kokoh.

Kata kunci: anak usia dini; Godly Play; kajian pustaka; pendidikan iman anak; teologi modern

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Published

2025-09-30

Issue

Vol. 4 No. 1: September 2025

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How to Cite

Integrating Modern Theology into Early Childhood Faith Education: A Literature Review. (2025). Real Kiddos: Jurnal Pendidikan Anak Usia Dini, 4(1), 65-81. https://doi.org/10.53547/shyd0q66