DOI: https://doi.org/10.14710/empati.2026.51443

A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW ON THE IMPACT OF CIRCLE TIME MUSIC AND SONG ACTIVITIES ON CHILDREN'S EXECUTIVE FUNCTION

1Magister of Early Childhood Education, Universitas Terbuka, Jalan Cabe Raya, Pondok Cabe, Pamulang, Tangerang Selatan 15437, Banten, Indonesia, Indonesia

2Magister of Early Childhood Education, Universitas Terbuka, Indonesia, Jalan Cabe Raya, Pondok Cabe, Pamulang, Tangerang Selatan 15437, Banten, Indonesia., Indonesia

3Fakultas Ilmu Pendidikan, Universitas Negeri Padang, Jalan Prof. Dr. Hamka, Air Tawar Barat, Kec. Padang Utara, 25131, Kota Padang, Sumatera Barat, Indonesia., Indonesia

4 Universitas Pancasakti. Jl. Raya Hankam No. 39 Kota Bekasi, Jawa Barat., Indonesia

5 Kulliyyah of Education, International Islamic University Malaysia, Malaysia

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Received: 7 Jun 2025; Published: 31 Aug 2026.

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Abstract

Executive function is a crucial aspect of early childhood development, playing a vital role in attention regulation, memory, and adaptability. Music and song activities during circle time are believed to effectively promote the development of these functions. This study is a systematic literature review aimed at evaluating the impact of music and song activities during circle time on young children's executive functions. Data were collected through searches of reputable databases such as Scopus, Science Direct, ERIC, and Open Knowledge Map, following specific inclusion criteria. The findings indicate that music activities during circle time positively influence executive functions, including attention, memory, and self-control. However, children's responses to these activities vary depending on individual characteristics such as temperament and learning styles. The limited number of longitudinal studies and research within specific cultural contexts highlight the need for further investigations, especially those tailored to individual needs. The results support incorporating music-based activities in early childhood education as an effective strategy to enhance executive function development.

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Keywords: circle time; executive function; music activities; child development; systematic literature review

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