Arab Educational Information Network

The current study aimed at identifying the effectiveness of a program using puppet theater in developing cultural identity among kindergarten children with learning disabilities. The research sample comprised eight children of the second level in the Kindergarten of Science and Faith. For this purpose, the researcher utilized the quasi-experimental approach of one group design after controlling the variables of intelligence, age, gender, and learning disabilities. For data collection, the researcher applied the cultural identity test for kindergarten children with learning disabilities (prepared by the researcher), for kindergarten children with learning disabilities, and the puppet theater program to develop cultural identity for kindergarten children with learning disabilities (prepared by the researcher). To verify the research results, many statistical methods were used as rank correlation coefficient, Cronbach's alpha. Results revealed the effectiveness of a program using puppet theater in developing cultural identity and some language skills among kindergarten children with learning disabilities. The study concluded with many recommendations including the need to reconsider the kindergarten curricula to focus on the components of culture identity (religion, language, history, folklore) in proportion to its significance and accordance with the nature and characteristics of this age group, especially the folklore and pride of Arabic Language besides. (Published abstract)