破解“育儿焦虑” 托育服务法草案首次审议

Core Viewpoint - The draft of the Childcare Service Law was submitted for its first review at the 19th meeting of the 14th National People's Congress Standing Committee on December 22, marking a significant step in addressing the needs of families with children under three years old and alleviating "parenting anxiety" [1][17]. Group 1: Legislative Context and Importance - The development of childcare services has been included in the national economic and social development plan during the 14th Five-Year Plan, accelerating the legislative process [2][18]. - A report from the State Council highlighted that over 30% of families with children under three have a demand for childcare services, yet the actual enrollment rate is only 7.86% [2][18]. - The average childcare fee in first-tier cities exceeds 5,500 yuan per person per month, and only 6.15% of communities have childcare service facilities [2][18]. Group 2: Legislative Framework and Structure - The draft law consists of 8 chapters and 76 articles, covering general principles, childcare institutions, personnel, service provision, support measures, supervision, legal responsibilities, and supplementary provisions [5][21]. - It emphasizes the public service nature of childcare and mandates local governments to incorporate childcare service development into their economic and social development plans [5][21]. Group 3: Distinction from Early Childhood Education - There is a fundamental difference between childcare and early childhood education, with the former focusing primarily on care rather than education [6][23]. - Current laws related to population and family planning, minor protection, women's rights, family education, and early childhood education contain only general provisions regarding childcare, highlighting the need for specialized legislation [6][22]. Group 4: Financial Support and Accessibility - Experts advocate for childcare to be recognized as a basic public service and a social welfare initiative, necessitating enhanced financial support [12][28]. - The central government has allocated 4.91 billion yuan for the construction of childcare service centers and public childcare institutions from 2021 to 2024 [14][29]. - Local governments are encouraged to explore family childcare service subsidy systems and to support the development of inclusive childcare services through various means [14][29]. Group 5: International Comparisons - International examples, such as Denmark and South Korea, demonstrate that legislative measures can effectively promote childcare development, with Denmark's government covering at least 75% of childcare costs [4][20][28]. - In South Korea, all infants are eligible for basic free childcare, with additional support for specific family situations [28].