Ayo Mulih! (Let’s Go Home): The Javanese Picture Book for Kindergarten Students

Ester Anggun Kusumaningtyas; Riama Maslan Sihombing

Ester Anggun Kusumaningtyas Universitas Multimedia Nusantara http://orcid.org/0009-0005-2678-1962
Riama Maslan Sihombing Institut Teknologi Bandung http://orcid.org/0000-0003-0949-7677

Abstract

Introducing Javanese vocabulary at the early age of 4–5 is crucial to help children become familiar with the language before entering primary school. However, access to learning media, supportive policies, and resources remains limited. Picture books are an engaging medium for young children, yet Javanese vocabulary-themed picture books are scarce. This research based design project develops an interactive "lift-the-flap" picture book to introduce Javanese vocabulary in an accessible and engaging way for children aged 4–5. The design process followed the Design Thinking method: empathize, define, ideate, prototype, and test. Data collection involved mixed methods, including literature review, comparative studies, interviews with language experts and teachers, parent surveys, and observations. The findings informed the design of a 20x20 cm physical picture book with 32 pages, 32 vocabulary words in krama (high–registered) and ngoko (casual), 49 lift-the-flap components, six interaction types, one coloring page, and a sticker activity. The book features animal characters, child-relevant content, and local wisdom. Visual and auditory stimuli, along with interactive flaps, enhance engagement and vocabulary retention. Key success factors include relatable content, frequent repetition, simple language, appropriate text image alignment, and a narrative that follows a clear, engaging structure. The final product aims to help children learn through play while promoting cultural heritage through language.

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Author Biographies

Ester Anggun Kusumaningtyas, Universitas Multimedia Nusantara

Ester Anggun Kusumaningtyas is a lecturer in the Visual Communication Design Study Program, Multimedia Nusantara University (UMN). She is known as an academic and illustrator who focuses on children's book illustrations, character design, and visual asset development for educational games. She is active in publishing works and research in the field of visual narratives and strengthening the relationship between art, education, and technology. With an empathetic and contextual approach, Ester presents designs that are not only aesthetic but also have educational value.

Riama Maslan Sihombing, Institut Teknologi Bandung

Dr. Riama Maslan Sihombing is a senior lecturer and researcher in Visual Communication Design at the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB), Indonesia. She has significantly contributed to the field through her research on visual literacy, interactive media for early education, and the cultural study of visual storytelling. Her academic works include visual analyses of folklore, historical visual critique, and the mapping of Indonesian children’s books from the 1970s to the 1980s. She is also actively involved in community service and educational outreach, aiming to empower children in remote areas through creative learning media. She shares her academic and creative journey through her social media under the name @salamanis.