Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the significant decline in the number of kindergartens in China, driven by a decreasing birth rate, leading to a "shutdown wave" in the kindergarten sector. This has prompted educators to explore various survival strategies, including transitioning to other industries such as live streaming and elder care [3][5][19]. Summary by Sections Kindergarten Shutdown and Industry Changes - In 2024, the number of kindergartens in China decreased by 21,100 compared to 2023, marking the most significant decline in recent years [3][19]. - The decline in kindergarten numbers is attributed to a shrinking birth rate, resulting in fewer children to enroll, particularly affecting private kindergartens [3][19]. - Educators are adapting by diversifying into areas like live streaming, e-commerce, and elder care services [3][5][12]. Transition to Elder Care - Some kindergartens are transforming into community elder care centers or inclusive facilities that cater to both children and the elderly [4][16]. - The aging population in China, with 297 million people aged 60 and above, presents a growing demand for elder care services [14][15]. - Initiatives like "elder-child co-care" are being explored, although concerns exist regarding the adequacy of services for both demographics [17][28]. Financial Struggles and Debt - Many educators, like Jing Yazhen, have faced severe financial difficulties, accumulating debts exceeding 20 million yuan due to the operational challenges of kindergartens [11][12]. - The shift to alternative income sources, such as live streaming sales, reflects a broader trend among educators seeking to sustain their livelihoods [12][25]. Statistical Insights - The total number of kindergartens in China is projected to be 253,300 in 2024, down from 274,400 in 2023, with a corresponding drop in enrolled children by approximately 5.09 million [19][24]. - The number of private kindergartens has also seen a significant decline, from 168,000 in 2020 to 135,500 in 2024 [20]. Future Outlook - Experts predict that the kindergarten sector will continue to undergo deep adjustments over the next three years, with a potential increase in market concentration favoring institutions that offer differentiated services [5][28]. - The article emphasizes the need for a strategic approach to address the challenges in early childhood education, advocating for smaller class sizes and improved educational standards [29][30].

Core Insights - The number of kindergartens in China has significantly decreased, with a reduction of 21,100 kindergartens in 2024 compared to 2023, marking the most severe decline in recent years [1][12] - The decline in kindergartens is attributed to a decreasing birth rate, leading to a shrinking student population and directly impacting enrollment [2][12] - The early childhood education sector is undergoing a transformation, with many educators exploring alternative career paths such as live streaming, e-commerce, and transitioning to elder care services [2][5][9] Industry Trends - The early childhood education industry is expected to continue facing deep adjustments over the next three years, with market concentration likely to increase, favoring institutions with differentiated service capabilities [3] - The number of private kindergartens has been on a downward trend since 2020, dropping from 168,000 in 2020 to 135,500 in 2024 [13] - The total number of kindergartens in China is projected to decrease further, with a current total of 253,300 kindergartens and 35.84 million children enrolled, a decrease of 5.09 million from the previous year [12][20] Employment and Workforce Changes - The number of preschool education teachers has also declined, with 283,190 teachers reported in 2024, a drop of over 240,000 from 2023 [18] - Many former educators are transitioning to new roles, reflecting a broader trend of "creative transformations" within the industry [19] Policy and Future Outlook - The Chinese government is focusing on improving early childhood education and elder care services, with plans to enhance infrastructure and service levels by 2025 [10][11] - Experts suggest that the reduction in kindergartens does not equate to a decrease in demand for early childhood education, advocating for smaller, higher-quality educational settings [20][22] - There is a call for better policy support for early childhood education, including the implementation of "small class sizes" and integrated care models to optimize resource allocation [23]

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]