ISOKO TRADITIONAL GAMES AND THEIR ACADEMIC IMPACT ON KINDERGARTEN CHILDREN IN ISOKO SOUTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF DELTA STATE

ABSTRACT

This study investigated Isoko traditional games and their academic impact on kindergarten children. The descriptive research method was adopted in this research work. Four research questions were stated to guide the study were raised and answered. The population consists of all kindergarten teachers and pupils in kindergarten l schools in Isoko South Local Government Area including private and public schools. The instrument of data collection was a sixteen (16) items questionnaire and structured checklist. The objective of this study is to investigate various types Isoko traditional games and how they can impact the academic performance of kindergarten children in Isoko South Local Government Area. A stratified sampling technique was used to gather information in Isoko Local Government Area. The instrument used was a questionnaire, structured checklist, Frequency table were used for the analysis of research data. From the analysis and interpretation received through the questionnaire and structured checklist. The findings indicates that Isoko traditional games have a significant positive impact on improving the academic performance of kindergarten children, the inclusion of Isoko traditional games in a kindergarten learning has a significant positive effect on pupil’s physical, socio-emotional, cognitive/mental, and sociocultural development of kindergarten children. Isoko traditional games are highly effective in motivating pupils and enhancing learning outcomes in kindergarten school and also help in the teaching of numeracy, language, reading and communication skills to pupils. Integration of Isoko traditional games into the existing kindergarten curriculum is a practical approach to supporting effective learning. It was therefore recommended amongst others that the government should incorporate Isoko traditional game learning in early education curriculum, enhancement educator training, and professional growth that schools should provide professional development for kindergarten teachers and include parents in the educational journey.