How can folklore build children’s imagination: A systematic literature review

Abstract* Folklore is a cultural medium that transmits values, traditions, and collective knowledge across generations, and it is considered a powerful tool to stimulate children’s imagination as well as support their cognitive and socio-emotional development. This study aims to address the role of folklore in fostering children’s imagination, particularly within elementary school contexts. This study employed a systematic literature review following PRISMA guidelines, with relevant articles identified from Scopus and Web of Science databases using keywords related to folklore, imagination, and children. The selection process was conducted based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, focusing on empirical studies published within the last 25 years, and the selected studies were analyzed using a qualitative synthesis approach. The findings reveal that folklore contributes significantly to the development of children’s imagination through narrative engagement, symbolic representation, and exploration of cultural contexts. Folklore-based storytelling encourages children to construct mental imagery, develop creative thinking, and enhance emotional understanding, while interactive storytelling activities promote active participation and deeper comprehension among learners. In conclusion, folklore serves as an effective pedagogical tool in enhancing children’s imagination in elementary education, and its integration into classroom practices not only supports creativity but also strengthens cultural awareness and meaningful learning experiences, suggesting that educators should incorporate folklore into instructional strategies to optimize students’ imaginative development.