The SIGAP Parenting and Early Learning Center’s Role in East Jakarta

The Tanoto Foundation SIGAP Parenting and Early Learning Center was established in May to help support parents and their under-three-year-old children residing in the vicinity of Cipinang Pulo in Jatinegara, East Java.

The Center has employed trained facilitators, including Rini Dian Asih, to assist parents of children aged 0-3 in their child-rearing efforts. Rini feels grateful for her new assignment because she loves children and since young she dreamed to become a teacher.

Currently, Rini has taken up the role of a private tutor for several children, many of whom she is personally acquainted with. Alongside her responsibilities as a facilitator at the Center, she frequently visits the children at their homes to ensure that their parents are consistently applying the knowledge and skills they acquired at the Center.

Rini expressed that she frequently reads articles emphasizing the critical importance of the first 1000 days of a child’s life, which span from birth to age 3. During this period, the growth and development of a child’s brains are particularly sensitive to stimulation. Rini underscores the significance of providing consistent and appropriate stimulations during this window of opportunity to ensure optimal growth and development of the child.

She is proud to see the progress of children after their participation at the Center. “When the 0-3 years old children finish their program here, their growth and development are good and they are ready to go to school,” Rini explained.

Mothers are also grateful for the Tanoto Foundation’s program. “I feel better equipped to take care of my child now, after attending Ibu Rini’s sessions. I have little knowledge of parenting. Before the training I often easily feel irritated and angry with my kid,” said Elvira, a beneficiary of the Tanoto Foundation’s program.

Risma, another beneficiary, shares the same conclusion. “Facilitators like Ibu Rini are very helpful. I am glad we have the opportunity to share our experience in parenting.”

According to Irwan Gunawan, Manager SIGAP Program, the Foundation has established 25 Rumah SIGAP centers in various regions in Indonesia with the objective to provide access and facility for parents who have under three years old children. “We hope these facilities will help parents to gain access to information and resources on how to properly raise their children from 0-3 years old,” said Irwan.

Full video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T0ej850VvHs