Keterlibatan Ayah Dan Implikasinya Terhadap Pola Asuh Anak Usia Dini Di KB Auladul Ihsan

Abstract

Father involvement in early childhood parenting remains relatively low and is often influenced by cultural constructions and work demands, which in turn affect the optimal social-emotional development of children. This study aims to analyze the forms, intensity, and quality of father involvement and its implications for parenting patterns in early childhood at KB Auladul Ihsan. This research employed a qualitative approach with a case study design. The research subjects consisted of fathers, mothers, and teachers selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation, and analyzed using an interactive model involving data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings reveal that father involvement includes direct involvement, emotional involvement, and participation in decision-making; however, it remains situational and not yet optimal. High emotional involvement significantly enhances children’s self-confidence, independence, and social skills, while low father involvement tends to result in passive behavior and lower self-confidence. Furthermore, the quality of interaction—characterized by warmth and responsiveness—has a greater impact than the frequency of presence. Father involvement is influenced by internal factors, such as awareness of parental roles, and external factors, including occupational demands and cultural norms. In conclusion, father involvement plays a strategic role in shaping quality parenting and supporting children’s social-emotional development. The implications of this study highlight the importance of enhancing the quality of father involvement through meaningful interactions, as well as the need for parenting programs that actively engage fathers in early childhood education settings and supportive policies to strengthen fathers’ roles in parenting.