Multicultural Education Based on North Sumatera Folkloreas a Source of Character Building in Early Childhood

. Early age is a golden age in child development. Therefore, it is ideal to shape
children characteristics by introducing them to various folklores. North Sumatera is
known as a source of ethnic diversity as well as the stories of its people. North Sumatera
folklore is also a multicultural learning medium that is important for early childhood.
This study aims to reveal: (1) the values of character and multicultural education
contained in the folklore of North Sumatera; (2) the role of North Sumatera folklore
which has been reconstructed as a medium for character building as well as a source of
learning for multicultural education. The research design uses qualitative research
methods with an ethnographic approach by taking various informants, including early
education teachers, traditional leaders who understand North Sumatera folklore and early
age experts. Research techniques use interviews, observation, literature studies and
documentation. The results of this study are that there are several values of character
education. The value of multicultural education that can be embedded in children
includes the value of diversity, religious tolerance, mutual respect and being able to work
together. The value of the character education that is formed can also play a role as a
learning media for multicultural education.