Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the "3:30 problem" faced by parents in Guangzhou, where children finish school at 3 or 4 PM, creating challenges for parents who are still at work. It emphasizes the need for collaborative solutions to ensure children's safety and development during this time [1]. Group 1: School After-School Services - The Ministry of Education has mandated a "5+2" model for after-school services, requiring schools to provide these services five days a week for at least two hours each day, aligning with local working hours [1]. - Schools are encouraged to enhance the quality of after-school services by utilizing internal teaching staff and external resources to offer diverse courses, transforming after-school time from mere supervision to a developmental opportunity for students [1]. Group 2: Community and Social Involvement - The article highlights the importance of community involvement in addressing the "3:30 problem," including initiatives such as public transportation for students, community-run after-school care programs, and neighborly support [1]. - The overarching goal is to ensure that children are supervised and engaged in meaningful activities after school, promoting a positive experience during this time [1].

Core Viewpoint - The "3:30 problem" highlights the structural mismatch between parents' work hours and children's school hours, necessitating collaborative solutions from schools, society, and families to address this pressing issue [1][2][3] Group 1: Role of Schools - Schools should enhance after-school services beyond mere supervision, focusing on quality and variety by offering diverse activities such as science, arts, sports, and interest groups [2] - In Shanghai's Baoshan District, all 97 public and private primary schools provide comprehensive after-school services, including homework guidance and specialized courses to meet diverse student needs [2] - Harbin's Huayuan Primary School offers over 100 unique "seed" courses during after-school hours, demonstrating the shift from mere supervision to empowering students [2] Group 2: Role of Society - Social institutions play a crucial role in alleviating the "3:30 problem" by providing rich resources and facilities for after-school care [2] - Initiatives like summer programs at youth cultural centers can be expanded to offer regular community-based courses, enhancing the supply of after-school services [2] - Collaboration with public cultural and sports institutions can introduce more engaging activities for children, ensuring they remain active and interested in learning [2] Group 3: Role of Parents - Parents are essential participants in solving the "3:30 problem" and should engage in school communication, actively choosing and providing feedback on after-school services [3] - Forming "mutual aid groups" with neighboring families can help share childcare responsibilities and organize activities [3] - The goal is not to fill every moment with structured activities but to create a safe and enriching after-school environment, addressing safety concerns and educational gaps [3]