In the digital era, gadgets have become an inseparable part of children’s lives. While they provide easy access to information, excessive gadget use can have negative impacts, such as reduced social interaction, weakened concentration, and the risk of physical and mental health problems. This situation has prompted the need for alternative educational spaces that can guide children towards creative and healthy activities.
To address this challenge, Semarang State University (UNNES) students participating in the GIAT 12 Community Service Program (KKN) presented the Omah Bocah x GIAT 12 UNNES 2025 activity at the Terban Village Hall in late July 2025. This activity demonstrates the UNNES students’ commitment to weaning children off gadget dependency and fostering a creative, healthy, and independent generation.
More than just entertainment, Omah Bocah is designed as an alternative learning space outside the classroom that emphasizes social interaction, creativity, and independence in children. In his remarks, the activity leader emphasized the importance of creating a healthy and educational play environment as a solution to the increasing tendency of children to spend time on gadgets.
“Through physical activities, art, and group work, children can learn many things they can’t get from screens,” said one of the GIAT 12 committee members.
The event opened with the singing of the Indonesian national anthem (Indonesia Raya) and the reading of the Pancasila text, followed by morning exercise. Students then presented three game stations designed with an educational approach, including:
- Station 1: Balancing a Ping-Pong Ball
Guided by Jonathan, the children used chopsticks to balance a ping-pong ball for two minutes. This favorite game trains concentration, patience, and fine motor coordination. - Station 2: Ecoprinting Natural Works
Under Nadia’s guidance, the children created works using dried leaves and local grains such as mung beans and black glutinous rice. This activity enriched their imaginations while fostering awareness of the biodiversity around them. - Station 3: Rubber in a Glass Relay
Salma led the game, which emphasized teamwork, strategy, and physical dexterity. In addition to fostering a spirit of healthy competition, this activity strengthened social bonds among the participants.
In closing, the children collectively created handprints on large pieces of paper using watercolors. This activity symbolized their courage to express themselves, collaboration, and memories they will cherish forever.
The participants’ enthusiasm was evident. Many children were happy to be able to learn and play together without having to hold a device all day.
“It’s so much fun, being able to play with friends and not have a phone all day,” said one participant enthusiastically.
Through this activity, UNNES students demonstrated that community-based education remains relevant as an answer to the challenges of digitalization. Omah Bocah is a concrete step towards developing a healthy, creative, and character-driven generation through hands-on experience, not just from a screen.
