The double-reduction policy introduced by the Chinese authorities in 2021 has caused a wide resonance both inside and outside the country. The move was recognised as an important step in supporting the health and well-being of children, who are under tremendous pressure and stress due to school assignments, especially in the period of preparation for final exams.
How schools meet children halfway
For many students in China, especially those who strive for success and care about their studies, homework and extracurricular activities often cause insomnia, anxiety, and even depression. During the period of preparation for the main exam - gaokao - the number of suicides among schoolchildren increases due to stress. Therefore, scientists and psychologists recommend reducing the school load and giving children the opportunity to enjoy childhood, spend time with family and friends, play sports and hobbies.
Under the new rules, schools across the country are experimenting with various methods to reduce homework and limit extracurricular activities. For example, in one of the schools in the city of Nanning, it was decided that students are forbidden to complete tasks after 21:30 (!) so that they have enough time to rest and recuperate. Teachers promise that they will not lower grades and will not scold for uncompleted tasks in order to protect children from overwork and stress.
But not everyone likes this decision either
The idea was not approved by parents, who believe that negligent students will take advantage of such a loophole and stop doing homework. And others even accused teachers of creating a similar situation when children do not have time to do their homework! However, this concern for the mental health of children and adolescents is an important direction in the development of education in China and can serve as an example for other countries with similar problems. After all, a healthy and happy child has a better chance of success and well-being in the future than an exhausted and overloaded school child.
It is important to remember that education should not only be effective, but also humane, and care for the health and well-being of children should be a priority for every country.
