Edukasi Lingkungan dan Kesehatan Gigi bagi Anak Usia Dini melalui Program KKN

Abstract

Environmental and health education in early childhood plays an important role in fostering environmental awareness and healthy self-care habits. This community service activity aimed to introduce environmental awareness through the reuse of plastic bottles and to provide oral and dental health education for students at TK Matholi'ul Anwar, Tambak Beras Village, Cerme District, Gresik Regency. The activities were conducted by Universitas Gresik Community Service Program (KKN) students using an educational-participatory approach through two programs: Eco Kids, involving 25 students, and oral and dental health education, involving 17 students. The Eco Kids program involved decorating used plastic bottles as plant pots and planting mung beans, while oral health education was delivered through simple explanations, question-and-answer sessions, and toothbrushing practice. The activities demonstrated active participation among the students and received positive responses from the school. These activities indicate that practice-based learning can provide a contextual and enjoyable educational approach for young children. Collaboration between university students and schools has the potential to support early learning that promotes environmental awareness and oral health maintenance.