School readiness is one of the key objectives of early childhood education for children aged 5–6 years (hereafter referred to as PAUD 5–6). It is expected to serve as a foundation for building children’s readiness to learn in primary school. School readiness is regulated under Minister of Education and Culture Regulation (Permendikbud) No. 146 of 2014 and is considered crucial due to its long-term impact (UNICEF, 2019; OECD, 2017; Heckman, 2013), both in developing cognitive and non-cognitive skills—such as social-emotional competencies and lifelong learning abilities, often referred to as soft skills.

Many countries use school readiness indicators to assess the benefits of early childhood education (OECD, 2017; UNICEF, 2012). Target 4.2 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) also emphasizes the importance of readiness for transition to primary school, with participation rates in organized learning programs (one year before the official primary school entry age) serving as a key indicator of children’s preparation for formal education.

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