Throughout the 25-year journey of the Yayasan Balita Sehat Indonesia (Foundation for Mother and Child Health Indonesia), many changes have occurred—from expanding programs and shifting locations to the evolving educational needs of children. However, one thing remains the foundation: the educators who choose to stay and grow alongside the Foundation. One such individual is Benedikta, affectionately known as Bu Fien, a teacher and the coordinator of the Sehat Ceria Early Childhood Education (PAUD) center.
When she first joined the PAUD in Cilandak in October 2021, Bu Fien was surprised by the school’s modest size and its exclusive focus on early childhood. She had previously taught at a kindergarten (TK) level with more comprehensive facilities.
However, within a month or two, her perspective shifted. She began to see a unique strength rarely found in other PAUDs: the consistent integration of education and health. This included monthly weigh-ins, bi-annual medical check-ups, dental exams, and specialized attention from nutritionists for children facing malnutrition or obesity. Parents were not merely passive companions; they were actively involved in nutrition and parenting education.
“In my opinion, this is an excellent program. The children’s health is prioritized, and the parents are empowered with knowledge,” she remarked.
At that moment, her conviction grew—she was in the right place.
A Space to be Trusted and to Grow
Her decision to stay was not just due to the program’s strength, but also because she was given the space to flourish. The Foundation entrusted her as the curriculum coordinator. She developed an integrative curriculum that combined academic learning, character building, and health reinforcement. In recent years, eco-friendly behaviors have also been incorporated into every school activity.
“I ended up learning again. It wasn’t just about academics, but how to create a curriculum that truly fits the needs of the children here.”
A supportive work environment and family encouragement further strengthened her resolve. To her, dedication is not about staying in a comfort zone; it is about the constant will to adapt.
Facing the Move to Bojonggede
A phase of major change arrived when the Cilandak PAUD closed, and operations shifted to Bojonggede. Bu Fien admitted feeling confused and worried. Aside from the distance from her home in Depok, she realized the children in Bojonggede had different temperaments.
“They were more difficult to manage. Perhaps because the environment and parenting styles were different,” she explained.
Nevertheless, she committed to giving herself one year to try and adapt. For the 2024–2025 academic year, she implemented a new strategy. Instead of immediately pushing academics, she prioritized behavioral development: sitting quietly, focusing, and establishing orderly learning habits.
“This change wasn’t just for the children; it was for me. I am learning over and over again.”
For her, being a teacher means being ready to adapt to any situation.
Understanding Character as a Foundation
Despite limited facilities or organizational dynamics, one principle she never compromises on is understanding a child’s character before deciding on an approach.
She allows time for the children, teachers, and parents to adjust to one another. The first three months serve as an observation period to understand learning styles, play habits, and family backgrounds.
“The most important thing is to read their character,” she said simply.
This approach has yielded results. In Bojonggede, several parents contacted her to express their gratitude because their children had become more confident and even ranked in the top 10 upon entering elementary school. For her, such moments are powerful reminders of why she chose this profession.
Dedication as a Long-Term Process
The Flores-born teacher defines dedication as the willingness to endure change and to love a process where results are not always immediate. Early childhood education, she believes, is not about speed, but consistency.
She hopes that health, nutrition, and parenting programs remain the foundation of the school’s holistic-integrative services, moving forward hand-in-hand.
In the classroom—through patience, strategy, and a thirst for learning—Bu Fien stands on the front lines, not only shaping children’s habits but building their futures.
