Core Viewpoint - The establishment of the Infant Development and Health Management major aims to address the increasing demand for childcare services in China, particularly for dual-income families facing challenges in infant care [2][5][10]. Group 1: Industry Demand and Challenges - There is a significant demand for childcare services, with approximately 30% of families with infants under three years old seeking such services [2]. - The infant care industry is experiencing a structural talent shortage, with only 500,000 certified caregivers nationwide, and less than 10% holding a bachelor's degree [3]. - The current workforce lacks comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in infant development assessment and family nurturing guidance [3]. Group 2: Educational Initiatives - The Ministry of Education has included the Infant Development and Health Management major in the 2025 undergraduate program directory, with Shandong Women's University and Shaanxi Preschool Normal University being the first institutions to offer this program [1][4]. - The new major focuses on cultivating professionals who can provide quality infant care and education, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary knowledge in medicine, education, management, and psychology [7][10]. Group 3: Curriculum and Training - The curriculum includes essential courses such as infant physiology, psychology, nutrition, and disease prevention, aiming to develop comprehensive caregiving and assessment skills [8]. - The program's core objectives are to ensure graduates can care for infants, assess their development, guide families, manage childcare institutions, and engage in lifelong learning [8][9]. Group 4: Employment Opportunities - Graduates of the new major will find employment opportunities in various sectors, including childcare service centers, kindergartens, early education centers, and community health services [10]. - The industry is expected to grow significantly, with increasing recognition of the professional value of childcare workers and improved career prospects and income levels [10][11].

Core Viewpoint - The establishment of the Infant Development and Health Management major aims to address the increasing demand for childcare services in China, particularly for dual-income families facing challenges in finding reliable care for their children during work hours [4][5][6]. Group 1: Industry Demand and Challenges - There are approximately 30 million infants under the age of three in China, with over 30% of families expressing a need for childcare services [5]. - The childcare industry is experiencing a structural talent shortage, with only 500,000 certified caregivers nationwide, and less than 10% holding a bachelor's degree [6]. - Existing childcare workers often lack systematic knowledge and practical skills in infant development assessment and family nurturing guidance [6]. Group 2: Educational Initiatives - The Ministry of Education has included the Infant Development and Health Management major in the 2025 undergraduate program directory, with Shandong Women's University and Shaanxi Preschool Normal University being the first institutions to offer this program [4][8]. - The new major aims to cultivate professionals who possess comprehensive skills in infant care, family education support, and management of childcare institutions [8][10]. Group 3: Professional Development and Career Opportunities - Graduates of the Infant Development and Health Management major will have diverse employment opportunities in childcare service centers, kindergartens, early education centers, and community health services [10][11]. - The industry is expected to see increased recognition of professional value and improved career development pathways, along with better income prospects for childcare workers [11]. Group 4: Skills and Qualities for Success - Candidates for the major should have a genuine love for children and possess patience, as working with infants requires understanding their unique needs and behaviors [12]. - The program emphasizes the importance of systematic professional training and the ability to provide individualized support for each child's development [12].