China's childcare subsidy program and phased free preschool education policy have been steadily implemented nationwide, effectively easing the financial burden on families.
China has introduced a nationwide childcare subsidy program starting in 2025, as part of broader efforts to support families and encourage childbirth. The program offers families 3,600 yuan (about 504 U.S. dollars) per year for each child under the age of three.
Applications for these subsidies are now accessible through both online and offline channels.
"The government is providing real financial support. My second child receives a monthly subsidy of 300 yuan, which is truly helpful," said Wen Xingying, a resident of Beichuan Qiang Autonomous County in Mianyang City of southwest China's Sichuan Province.
In addition to the subsidy program, the government has recently announced a phased exemption of care and education fees for children in their final year of kindergarten.
The policy will cover all children in their final year of kindergartens nationwide, benefiting around 12 million people this autumn semester. "We have received a reduction of 2,100 yuan for one semester, totaling 4,200 yuan for two semesters. This has significantly eased our financial burden," said Zhou Yan, resident of Wangjiang County in Anqing City of east China's Anhui Province.
As for the money saved from these education expenses, many families said they will reinvest them into their children's development.
"With the childcare fee for the final year of kindergarten no longer required, our family costs have decreased. The money saved allows me to purchase more picture books and educational toys for my child," said Yang Xue, a resident of Quxian County in Dazhou City of southwest China's Sichuan Province.
To address the reduction in kindergarten income due to these policy changes, the financial authorities will collaborate with the education department to provide subsidies to kindergartens, taking into account the factors such as the number of enrolled children and the actual per capita childcare fees in each area.
China's childcare subsides, phased free preschool education ease financial burden on families
