Peran Permainan Tradisional dalam Mempertahankan Identitas Budaya pada Anak- Anak di Desa Siantar Tonga-Tonga II Kecamatan Siantar Narumonda Kabupaten Toba

Abstract

This research aims to examine the role of traditional games in maintaining cultural identity among children in Siantar Tonga-Tonga II Village, Siantar Narumonda District, Toba Regency. Traditional games in the era of modernization and development of digital technology are starting to decline in popularity. Nevertheless, this game still holds important cultural values in society. This research uses qualitative methods with observation and interview approaches. Data was collected through direct observation of traditional games that were still played by children in the village as well as in-depth interviews with key informants, including local communities and parents. The results of the research showed that several traditional games such as Marsapele-sapele, Markasti, Marsigala, Maroda- roda, and Marsiada are still played by children in Siantar Tonga-Tonga II Village. These games not only function as a means of entertainment but also as a learning medium to preserve cultural values, such as mutual cooperation, hard work, sportsmanship and harmony. Traditional games have been proven to help shape children's character and maintain their local cultural identity in the midst of modernization.These findings indicate that although modernization and digital games are increasingly popular, traditional games still have an important role in maintaining cultural identity. Through this game, children can internalize the social and cultural values inherited from previous generations. Therefore, efforts to preserve traditional games need to continue so that these values are not lost and remain relevant in children's lives in this digital era.