Socio-emotional development of ECD learners with disabilities has tripped off due to lack of inclusive cultural games in early childhood settings. Early Childhood Education aims to promote development in all ECD learners including those with disabilities. The use of Inclusive cultural games will aid the development of socio-emotional skills such as self-confidence, autonomy, building positive relationships, empathy, socio-emotional intelligence and resilience at an early stage. This qualitative case study was done in Mzilikazi District in Bulawayo. A sample of six purposefully selected ECD teachers was used. ECD teachers were interviewed to solicit information about their personal experiences on the use of inclusive cultural games to develop socio-emotional skills in learners. Additionally, the participants were observed to witness the strategies they used to mitigate challenges of using inclusive cultural games to promote socio-emotional development in ECD learners with disabilities in regular classrooms. A thematic approach was used to identify patterns and analyse data. This study revealed that ECD teachers rarely used inclusive cultural games during the teaching and learning process in mainstream classrooms. Furthermore, it was found that they have a negative attitude towards the use of inclusive cultural games hence lamented over the shortage of materials and time constraints due to congested timetables. The study proposed that in-service programs be done to equip ECD teachers with skills to integrate inclusive cultural games and facilitate the development of socio-emotional skills in ECD learners with disabilities. The study also recommended collaboration between schools and the community to support inclusive cultural games.

Authors:
Sifiso Everelly Ncube, University of the Free State, South Africa
Sikhangele Mcelelwa, University of the Free State, South Africa
Isaac Hlatshwayo, University of the Free State, South Africa

About the Presenter(s)
My name is Sifiso Everelly Ncube. I am a PhD student at the University of the Free State in South Africa doing Doctor of Philosophy with specialisation in Early Childhood Development and Learning. I have interest in conducting research in ECD

See this presentation on the full schedule – Saturday Schedule

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