The Spirit of Early Years: Exploring the Meaning of Islamic Spiritual Well-being among Muslim Early Childhood
การค้นหาความหมายสุขภาวะทางจิตวิญญาณวิถีอิสลามของเด็กปฐมวัยมุสลิม
Keywords:
Spiritual well-being, Islamic spiritual, Muslim early Childhood, Southern borderAbstract
Objective: This research aimed to find the meaning of Islamic spiritual well-being for early childhood in southern border provinces of Thailand.
Methodology: This study employed a qualitative research approach using in-depth interviews with 9 key informants. These informants were scholars and practitioners in preschool children care. Consisting of scholars and preschool children practitioners working in the five southern border provinces of Thailand Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat, and Satun. Purpose Sampling and Maximum Variation Sampling were used as sampling techniques for diverse perspectives and in-depth insights. Selection criteria included: active work within the research locale, over 3 years of relevant experience in the study area, and knowledge of and adherence to Islamic principles. Prior to interviews, granted consent, and assured of their privacy.
Research Findings: The meaning of Islamic spiritual well-being emerged in three key dimensions: Religious dimension, emphasizing faith and emotional connection with Allah, self-worth, and inner peace. Behavioral dimension, reflecting age-appropriate emotional management, goal-setting, and relationships. Educational dimension, involving age-appropriate learning processes that integrate Islamic principles into daily routines through play, storytelling, prayer, and gentle communication within an Islamic environment.
Contributions: The findings can serve as a guideline for studying or developing practices that promote Islamic spiritual well-being for Muslim early childhood children in the Thai context.
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