Implementation of Character Education in Elementary Schools

   Character education is very important to discuss considering the moral condition of the nation which is increasingly worrying day by day. Education has a big role and responsibility in solving all the nation's problems, especially problems related to the character of the nation itself. Therefore, character education must be able to become the spirit of the overall educational mission and must continue to be developed in the nation's earliest generations.
   

   There needs to be inspiration for us teacher as well as educators to maximize character and manners education as early as possible. The hope is none other than that our students will grow into intelligent individuals not only intellectually but also morally and socially.How consistent is teacher's planning,implementation,and assessment in character education?

   Let's discuss the implementation of character education in elementary schools and how this can shape the younger generation in the future

   As children enter elementary school, their cognitive abilities also experience rapid development. Because by entering school, it means that the child's world and interests expand, and with the expansion of interests, the understanding of humans and objects that previously had little meaning for the child also increases.

   In an effort to understand the natural surroundings, children no longer rely on information originating from the five senses, because they begin to have the ability to differentiate what is visible to the eye from actual reality, and between what is temporary and what is permanent.

   For example, they will know that if water in a large, short glass is moved into a small, tall glass, the amount will remain the same because not a single drop of water is spilled. This is because they no longer rely on their visual perception, but are able to use logic. They can measure, weigh, and calculate quantities, so that obvious differences do not "fool" them.

   So that character education can touch the core of a child's personality and can guide them to become complete individuals.

   For example, programs such as scouts, debate clubs or social activities give students the opportunity to practice values such as responsibility, leadership and solidarity.

   For this reason, teachers need to pay attention to the character of each student so that this nation's education does not lose the spirit of its true purpose as mandated by UUD 45 article 31 paragraph 3, namely increasing faith and piety as well as noble morals in order to educate the life of the nation.