5 Top Recommendations for Child Psychologists and How to Choose the Right One

The differences between the 2013 curriculum and the Merdeka curriculum today have become an essential topic for parents to understand. This shift in educational approach is more than just a name change. It directly affects how children learn in school. With the right understanding, parents can better support their children’s learning process at home. The 2013 curriculum has been used for over a decade. However, ongoing evaluations showed a need for a more flexible and student-centered approach. This led to the introduction of the Merdeka curriculum as a major refresh to the national education system. So, what are the real differences between the 2013 curriculum and the Merdeka curriculum today? Below are nine key differences that parents need to know and how they impact children's education. 1. Curriculum Goals The 2013 curriculum aims to balance character, knowledge, and skills. In contrast, the Merdeka curriculum focuses more on developing each student's unique potential based on their interests and talents. This is one of the main differences between the 2013 curriculum and the Merdeka curriculum today in terms of how educational goals are designed and delivered in the classroom. 2. Learning Structure In the 2013 curriculum, all learning content is determined centrally, leaving teachers with limited flexibility. The Merdeka curriculum gives schools more freedom to adapt the structure based on local context and student needs. This flexibility is one of the most appreciated differences between the 2013 curriculum and the Merdeka curriculum today. 3. Learning Approach The 2013 curriculum uses a scientific approach that involves observation, questioning, data collection, analysis, and communication. Meanwhile, the Merdeka curriculum adopts a differentiated approach, allowing teachers to adjust teaching methods based on each student’s learning style and needs. 4. Lesson Content Another clear difference between the 2013 curriculum and the Merdeka curriculum today is the amount of learning material. The Merdeka curriculum simplifies content so students aren’t overwhelmed. It focuses on mastering key concepts instead of covering a large volume of topics, allowing for deeper understanding. 5. Assessment Method The 2013 curriculum relies heavily on administrative and quantitative assessments, which many teachers find complex and time-consuming. On the other hand, the Merdeka curriculum promotes formative assessments that help track a student’s progress and improve the learning process. 6. Role of Teachers Teachers in the 2013 curriculum function mainly as content deliverers. In the Merdeka curriculum, they take on the role of facilitators, guiding students through their learning journey. This shift in teaching roles is another major difference between the 2013 curriculum and the Merdeka curriculum today, reflecting a more student-centered learning experience. 7. Pancasila Student Profile Projects (P5) The 2013 curriculum didn’t include thematic projects. The Merdeka curriculum introduces P5 activities that help build student character through relevant themes like collaboration, creativity, and global diversity. This is one of the most visible differences between the 2013 curriculum and the Merdeka curriculum today in daily school activities. 8. Flexibility in Time and Learning Activities The 2013 curriculum tends to have rigid and packed schedules. In contrast, the Merdeka curriculum allows schools to organize learning time more flexibly. Lessons can happen outside the classroom through experiments, discussions, or even community-based learning. 9. Readiness for the Future The Merdeka curriculum is designed to meet 21st-century demands. It emphasizes critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and digital literacy. One of the most forward-looking differences between the 2013 curriculum and the Merdeka curriculum today is its focus on preparing students for technological and societal changes. The Role of Parents in the Merdeka Curriculum Era Parents are not just supporters but active partners in the Merdeka curriculum. Children need consistent support and involvement from home. One meaningful way to align with the spirit of this curriculum is by introducing your child to positive, skill-based activities like learning coding. Try a Free Coding Class at Timedoor Academy Timedoor Academy offers free trial coding classes specifically designed for kids based on their age and interests. These classes go beyond teaching technology. They help build logical thinking, creativity, and self-confidence. Each lesson is project-based, perfectly in line with the Merdeka curriculum. Kids will create games, animations, or basic apps while developing problem-solving skills and collaboration. With the support of experienced mentors, learning becomes fun, interactive, and meaningful. Let your child experience the joy of coding and build a stronger foundation for the future starting today.

Karangasem, April 27, 2025 – To support IT education for underprivileged children in Indonesia, PT Bank JTrust Indonesia Tbk (J Trust Bank) has partnered with Timedoor Academy, a tech education startup, to launch a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative. The program, titled "IT Education for Underprivileged Children and Orphans" took place in Seraya Timur Village, Karangasem District, Bali, and reached 15 children aged 7–18 from orphaned and economically disadvantaged backgrounds. This initiative addresses the urgent need for IT education for underprivileged children who often face significant barriers such as poverty, limited educational infrastructure, and minimal access to technology. By equipping them with essential digital skills, J Trust Bank and Timedoor Academy aim to prepare these children for a brighter, more equitable future. Program Focus: IT Education for Underprivileged Children As part of their commitment to IT education for underprivileged children, J Trust Bank and Timedoor Academy designed the program around three key pillars: 1. Training of Trainers (ToT): This component equips local educators with both technical and teaching skills, enabling them to support and sustain tech education for potential youth in their communities. 2. Learning Management System (LMS) Access: Students gain access to a digital platform offering curriculum-aligned learning materials for elementary to high school levels, helping to provide structured IT education for underprivileged children that meets their developmental needs. 3. Ongoing In-Person Training: The children undergo 12 months of hands-on learning in coding and basic tech skills. This extended period reinforces the foundational goals of IT education for underprivileged children, building their confidence and digital literacy over time. J Trust Bank’s Commitment to Inclusive Digital Learning Ritsuo Fukadai, President Director of J Trust Bank, highlighted the importance of expanding IT education for underprivileged children to foster social equity. “As a Japanese company operating in Indonesia, we believe technological education must be accessible to all. This program is our step toward opening doors for orphans and underprivileged youth to reach their full potential,” Fukadai explained. This initiative is part of the bank’s broader mission to support sustainable, tech-driven social development in underserved areas. Timedoor Academy’s Role in Delivering IT Education for Underprivileged Children Timedoor Academy plays a vital role by offering a user-friendly LMS and relevant digital learning content tailored to the children’s educational levels. The academy also conducted training for local teachers to ensure continuity of IT education for underprivileged children even after the formal program concludes. Beyond delivering technical knowledge, Timedoor Academy encourages creative thinking, problem-solving, and independence—core values that enrich IT education for underprivileged children in today’s digital age. Positive Community Impact in Karangasem The response to the program was overwhelmingly positive. Children showed excitement and curiosity as they learned coding and created simple apps. Teachers who completed the ToT training appreciated the new methods and approaches offered by the program, enhancing their ability to deliver IT education for underprivileged children using technology. With the shared vision of “Creating a Bright Future for the Next Generation with IT Education,” this collaboration sets a precedent for future efforts in IT education for underprivileged children across Indonesia. It proves that meaningful change is possible when education and opportunity are made accessible to all.

In recent years, the rapid growth of social media has given rise to countless influencers with millions of followers. It has become increasingly common for these influencers to feature their children in content to gain more attention, likes, and financial benefits. However, this trend does not always have a positive impact. Child exploitation has become a growing concern, especially when children are used as tools to boost popularity or generate income online. This article takes a deeper look at the phenomenon of child exploitation by influencers, the potential effects on children's development, and the important roles of parents and society in addressing this issue. What Is Child Exploitation in the Digital World? Child exploitation in the digital era refers to situations where children are excessively used for content creation, economic gain, or popularity, without regard for their rights, comfort, or future. In the influencer world, child exploitation often appears in the following ways: Children are made the main stars in family content, pranks, or toy unboxing videos. Children’s private lives are continuously exposed to the public, sometimes including sensitive moments like anger, sadness, or other personal experiences. Children are asked to promote products, do endorsements, or follow trends that may not be appropriate for their age. The profits generated from this content are not used for the benefit of the child, or the child is never given a voice in these decisions. Why Is Child Exploitation by Influencers Such a Serious Problem? There are several reasons why child exploitation by influencers is a serious issue: Violation of Children’s RightsEvery child has the right to privacy, to grow and develop healthily, and not to be treated as a commercial object. When child exploitation happens on social media, these rights are often ignored in pursuit of popularity. Mental Health RisksExcessive exposure to the public eye can make children feel pressured, unsafe, or even anxious. Negative comments, online bullying, and the expectation to always be perfect can impact a child’s psychological development. Lost ChildhoodChildren who are constantly on camera, have to act for content, or are heavily involved in content production are at risk of losing out on natural moments of play and age-appropriate learning. Long-Term ConsequencesChild exploitation can affect a person well into adulthood. They may struggle to form their own identity, suffer from low self-esteem, or regret their digital footprint that has already spread widely. Warning Signs of Child Exploitation by Influencers Parents and society need to be vigilant about these warning signs: The child looks uncomfortable, forced, or often cries during filming. The child is made to do things that are not age-appropriate for the sake of content. All of the child’s activities are documented and shared publicly without limits. Parents seem more focused on views, likes, and comments than the child’s well-being. The child is never asked for their opinion about their participation in content. The Role of Parents: Setting Boundaries, Ethics, and Responsibility Parents play the most important role in preventing child exploitation in the digital world. Here are some steps that can be taken: Respect Privacy BoundariesNot every moment of a child’s life needs to be shared publicly. Respect their privacy, especially if they show reluctance or discomfort. Prioritize Mental HealthMake sure children do not feel pressured, are not overexposed, and have space to be themselves off-camera. Involve Children in DecisionsTalk to your child before making content together. Listen to their wishes and feelings. Educate About Digital RisksHelp your child understand the consequences of digital footprints, cyberbullying, and the long-term impact of online content. Focus on the Child’s NeedsIf content generates income, ensure the child’s rights are protected. Prioritize education, comfort, and development, not just popularity. Society and Policy Makers Have a Role Too Beyond parental responsibilities, society and policy makers must work together to address child exploitation. Governments need to strengthen regulations on child protection in the digital world, including rules on commercial content involving children, transparency in managing a child’s earnings, and education for both influencers and parents. The public can also help by raising awareness or speaking up when they see content that involves child exploitation. A supportive environment is crucial to ensure this trend is not normalized or justified as mere entertainment. Teaching Children Boundaries in the Digital Era It is also important for parents to help children understand their own rights and boundaries online. Include them in discussions about what is appropriate to share on social media, and encourage them to say no if they ever feel uncomfortable. This helps children grow up with confidence and a healthy sense of self-protection from an early age. Protect Children Wisely and Build Digital Skills Child exploitation by influencers is a real challenge in the digital age that cannot be ignored. Parents, society, and policy makers need to work together to protect children from excessive exposure and pressure online. Always put children’s rights, well-being, and future first. In addition to limiting children’s exposure on social media, parents can equip their children with positive skills that are relevant for the digital era, such as learning to code. By joining coding classes at Timedoor Academy, kids can nurture their creativity, develop logical thinking, and explore technology in a fun and safe way, without needing to be in front of the camera. Sign your child up for a free trial class at Timedoor Academy so they can experience engaging, educational coding lessons that build confidence. Let’s make social media a platform for education and creativity, not a tool for child exploitation in the name of popularity.