The Faculty of Psychology, Universitas Diponegoro (UNDIP), reaffirmed its commitment to promoting inclusive human development by contributing to the strengthening of early childhood caregivers’ capacity through the Taman Asuh Sayang Anak (TAMASYA) and Bina Keluarga Balita (BKB) Parenting Assistance Program, specifically involving Children with Special Needs. This event was organized by the Central Java Representative Office of the National Population and Family Planning Agency/ Badan Kependudukan dan Keluarga Berencana Nasional (BKKBN) in collaboration with PT PLN Indonesia Power UBP Semarang on Tuesday, 7 July 2026.
The training brought together TAMASYA and daycare providers, and BKB community cadres from across Central Java to enhance their knowledge and skills in providing inclusive and responsive care for young children.
In his opening remarks, Head of the Central Java Representative Office of BKKBN, Ir. Rusman Effendi, M.M., emphasized the importance of equipping caregivers and community cadres with an understanding of the characteristics and developmental needs of children with disabilities. Such knowledge, he noted, is essential for ensuring that every child receives appropriate care and support.
Representing the Faculty of Psychology UNDIP, Dr. Ika Febrian Kristiana, S.Psi., M.Psi., and Costrie Ganes Widayanti, S.Psi., M.Si.Med., Ph.D., served as speakers during the training.
Dr. Ika Febrian Kristiana delivered a session on the early identification of children with disabilities, covering developmental characteristics, signs of developmental delay, early detection and intervention strategies, as well as referral mechanisms. She highlighted the importance of collaboration among parents, caregivers, BKB cadres, and professionals to ensure timely assessment and appropriate intervention that supports children’s optimal development.
Meanwhile, Costrie Ganes Widayanti, Ph.D., presented positive and responsive parenting strategies for children with disabilities based on the Nurturing Care Framework developed by the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and the World Bank. The framework highlights that optimal early childhood development depends not only on health, but also on responsive caregiving, early learning opportunities, safety and security, and supportive environments created through collaboration between families and childcare providers.
By fostering collaboration among universities, government institutions, industry, and local communities, UNDIP remains committed to ensuring that every child, including children with special needs, has equal opportunities to grow, learn, and thrive.
