The Role of Cartoons in Preschool Education: An Analyses in Terms of Self-Care Skills

Abstract

This study aims to examine how and to what extent self-care skills—targeted for development in early childhood—are presented in two locally produced animated series broadcast on TRT Kid: Niloya and Elif and Friends. A qualitative research design was employed using the document analysis method. Criterion sampling, a purposive sampling technique, was used to select episodes whose titles suggested inclusion of self-care themes, based on the 2013 Turkish Ministry of National Education Preschool Curriculum. A total of 14 episodes (7 from each series) were selected. Data analysis was conducted using Dawson’s (2009) Descriptive Analysis Stages. Recurring patterns, key expressions, and ideas related to self-care were coded and categorized by two independent experts. Inter-coder reliability, calculated using Cohen’s Kappa, was found to be 94% for Niloya and 79% for Elif and Friends, exceeding the 70% threshold suggested by the literature (Miles & Huberman, 1994). Findings indicate that both series present self-care behaviours in a developmentally appropriate manner using visual and auditory elements. Specific behaviours such as tooth brushing, hand washing, dressing appropriately for the season, organizing one’s room, balanced nutrition, rest, using hygiene tools, safety precautions, and health maintenance are embedded naturally within daily routines. These practices are modelled through the characters rather than delivered as direct instructions. In conclusion, Niloya and Elif and Friends offer content that effectively supports the acquisition of self-care skills in early childhood and can be considered valuable visual educational tools in preschool settings.

Keywords

• cartoons
• early childhood
• learning outcomes
• self care skills

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