THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE TRADITIONAL ENGKLEK GAME IN IMPROVING SENSORY INTEGRATION SKILLS IN CHILDREN WITH AUTISM

Abstract

Children with autism often experience obstacles in sensory integration, especially in the tactile aspect, which is characterized by an avoidant response to touch stimuli. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of the traditional hopscotch game modified with a textured surface as an intervention to improve tactile sensory integration skills in children with autism. This study used the Single Subject Research (SSR) method with an A–B–A design consisting of a baseline phase (A1), intervention (B), and baseline (A2), which was carried out in 12 sessions with one research subject. Data collection was carried out through structured observations of children's abilities in stepping on textured surfaces and maintaining foot contact for a certain duration. Data were analyzed using visual analytic techniques to examine changes in direction, level, and stability between phases. The results showed a gradual increase in tactile sensory integration abilities during the intervention phase, with scores reaching 83.3 % and exceeding the minimum criterion of 70%. Although there was a decline in the final baseline phase, abilities did not return to baseline, indicating a sustained intervention effect. These findings indicate that the traditional textured hopscotch game is effective in improving tactile sensory integration abilities through a combination of sensory stimulation and meaningful and enjoyable motor activities. This research contributes to the development of culturally relevant, contextually relevant, and applicable play-based sensory interventions for children with autism.