Developing Creative Thinking Skills in Early Childhood Through Exploration-Based Learning

Creative thinking is a fundamental skill that needs to be developed since early childhood to prepare children for facing complex challenges in the future. This research aims to analyze the development of creative thinking skills in early childhood through exploration-based learning. The research method used is a systematic literature review with a qualitative descriptive approach, examining 25 national journal articles published in the last ten years. The results of the study show that exploration-based learning is significantly effective in developing dimensions of creative thinking including fluency, flexibility, originality, and elaboration in children aged 4-6 years. Learning activities that facilitate direct exploration of the environment, use of varied open- ended materials, and give children freedom to experiment without fear of making mistakes make a major contribution to the growth of creative thinking. In addition, the teacher's role as a facilitator and the creation of a supportive learning environment are key factors in the success of exploration-based learning. This research recommendations that early childhood education institutions integrate exploration-based learning models into daily learning programs to optimally support the development of children's creative thinking.