幼儿园数量减少 两大问题需要思考

Core Insights - The 2024 National Education Development Statistical Bulletin reveals a decline in the number of kindergartens and enrolled children, indicating a significant reduction in early childhood education resources [1][2][3] Group 1: Kindergarten Statistics - In 2024, there are 253,300 kindergartens in total, with 221,000 being inclusive kindergartens, accounting for 87.26% of the total [1] - The number of enrolled preschool children is 35.84 million, with a gross enrollment rate of 92.00% [1] - Compared to 2023, the number of kindergartens has decreased by over 20,000, and the number of enrolled children has dropped by more than 5 million [1] Group 2: Challenges in Early Childhood Education - The reduction in kindergartens raises concerns about the implementation of "small class sizes" and the integration of childcare services for children under three [1][2] - Despite government intentions to promote "small class sizes," the actual decrease in kindergartens and teachers suggests a lack of policy support [2] - Public kindergartens continue to operate with the same class sizes, while some are being merged or closed, leading to increased distance and costs for families [2] Group 3: Policy Recommendations - There is a need for a comprehensive plan to address the decline in kindergartens and teachers, focusing on improving investment in early childhood education and childcare [3] - The government has proposed gradually implementing free preschool education, which is crucial but should be complemented by scientific planning for "small class sizes" and integrated childcare [3] - It is essential to establish new standards for preschool education and maintain or increase funding to prevent further reductions in early childhood education resources [3]