Ministry Calls for Less Screen Time, More Real-World Play for Children's Day

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education (Kemendikdasmen) is calling on the public to encourage children to return to physical play and reduce their use of gadgets, in the spirit of commemorating this year’s National Children’s Day (HAN).

Director of Early Childhood Education (PAUD) at Kemendikdasmen, Kurniawan, stated that the 2026 HAN commemoration is not merely ceremonial, but a moment to unite the resolve of all stakeholders in providing a supportive environment for children’s growth and development.

“Fulfilling children’s rights and protection cannot be done alone. Cross-sectoral cooperation is needed so that every child is truly protected, educated, and grows up in a healthy environment,” Kurniawan said in a written statement in Jakarta on Thursday.

As part of the HAN 2026 commemoration, the ministry is presenting various activities such as nature exploration, becoming a young scientist, role-playing, and making windmills and kites, which can be participated in by students from early childhood education up to lower primary school grades.

All these activities are designed to stimulate children’s physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development through direct experiences of play, creativity, and interaction.

He further explained that the series of activities is also part of the campaign for the implementation of the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Circular Letter Number 18 of 2026 concerning the Restriction of Gadget Use in Educational Units.

Kurniawan said this policy aims to maintain children’s physical health, strengthen social skills, and support cognitive and emotional development through more meaningful interactions.

“Direct play and interaction with peers are the best ways for children to learn. Restricting gadgets in schools is not an absolute ban, but an effort to ensure children interact more in the real world, not through screens,” Kurniawan stated.

This year’s National Children’s Day commemoration is being held at the Tugu Daun Sirih Emas, Alun-alun Gurindam Tepi Laut, Tanjungpinang City, Riau Islands, with the theme “Semua Setara Riang Bersama” (All Equal, Joyful Together).

As part of the HAN activities, the ministry is showcasing Main Raya Anak Nusantara, a play space that combines traditional games, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) activities, and nature exploration as a fun learning experience.