Celebrating National Children’s Day at Sekolah Global Mandiri: Playing, Moving, and Learning Together

Sekolah Global Mandiri – In celebration of National Children’s Day, Sekolah Global Mandiri organized a special program designed to give children the opportunity to play, move, socialize, and learn through enjoyable and meaningful experiences. Held on July 23, 2026, the National Children’s Day celebration for the Elementary School level was attended by 355 students from Grades 1-6. Unlike previous years, this year’s celebration was designed to be more active and engaging, involving all students in traditional games, physical activities, and entertaining programs that encouraged togetherness.

Bringing Traditional Games Back to Life

One of the highlights of this year’s celebration was the introduction and revival of traditional Indonesian games. Students participated in Engklek (hopscotch), Egrang (stilts), Grobak Sodor or Golden Ball, Bakiak (team wooden clogs), and rubber-band jumping.

These games were more than just entertainment. They provided valuable learning experiences that helped children develop their motor skills, strategic thinking, communication, teamwork, and coordination.

According to Dr. Anna Budiatmi, M.Pd., Principal of Sekolah Global Mandiri Elementary School, the program was inspired by the increasing use of digital devices among today’s children.

“Generation Alpha spends more time using gadgets today. Children need opportunities to move and play outdoors. Through traditional games, they gain new experiences and learn that playing and learning do not always have to depend on gadgets.”

Through these activities, the school aimed to provide children with opportunities to experience childhood more fully-not only through classroom activities and digital devices, but also through direct interaction with their surroundings and friends.

More Than Watching-Children Were Actively Involved

This year’s National Children’s Day celebration was designed differently from previous years. While last year’s activities focused mainly on storytelling and magic shows, this year students were encouraged to become active participants.

“This year, we designed the activities differently. The children were not simply sitting, listening, and watching. Every child was actively involved, moving and engaging all of their senses,” said Dr. Anna Budiatmi, M.Pd.