The Accessibility, Quality, and Administration of Childcare Services for Birth to 3 Years under China’s Universal Two-child Policy

ABSTRACT

Research Findings: Driven by the universal two-child policy, the childcare services in China have stepped into a new era after 3-decade of neglect. This national study investigated the accessibility, quality, and administration of childcare services for children under age 3, by establishing a triangulation of survey, interview, and classroom observation. Altogether 28,582 parents and 2,340 teachers were surveyed, 114 classrooms were observed, and 107 service managers were interviewed. The results indicated both signs of progress and problems under the universal two-child policy. The major findings include: (1) although in high demand, childcare services are still scarce; (2) the structure quality and process quality are not high; and (3) a scientific administration should be established to regulate the services, which also need to be standardized. Practice or Policy: The findings contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of Chinese childcare services and provide implications for policymaking and practical improvement.

Acknowledgments

We are very grateful to the families, teachers and directors from childcare institutions, and administrative personnel involved for their supports and cooperation.

Disclosure Statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by Major Project of the Chinese National Social Science Foundation [grant No. 17ZDA123].