As the sun rises over Shanghai, parents are seen ushering their children into the “Baby House” at the Jiaoji 193 Life Service Center in Wanli Street. By 9 a.m., giggles and laughter fill the air as kids interact with their teachers and peers, following a routine that includes health checks and safety protocols. Many parents are now considering the community “Baby House” as an ideal indoor play space, leading to a surge in reservations.
What makes the “Baby House” so appealing to parents? According to 68-year-old community member Xie Huilan, it’s the clean, safe environment and the attentive, professional guidance provided by the staff. “I’ve been bringing my grandchild here for nearly a year now. I’ve seen significant progress in my grandchild’s emotional and cognitive development,” she shared during an interview.
Xie, who admits to employing traditional parenting methods, decided to give the “Baby House” a try after hearing about it from a neighbor. “The place is hygienic, and the teachers really engage with the children; they kneel down to talk to them with patience and warmth. It’s something most parents find challenging to do. I’ll bring my daughter here rain or shine as long as I can book a spot through the app,” she said.
Liu Yuhong, the head of the “Baby House,” explains that the initiative was created to ease the burden on grandparents and parents alike. The facility employs trained childcare providers, including a caregiver and a health officer, who undergo monthly professional training that covers emergency procedures and illness prevention. Children are also introduced to various activities like music, storytime, art, and hands-on experiments.
Since Shanghai launched its pilot program for “Infant and Toddler Care” in 2022, the Education Commission reports there are nearly 1,900 childcare centers, providing over 100,000 spots. Notably, 70% of these services are aimed at affordability, and about 80% of local kindergartens offer classes.
When it comes to easing separation anxiety for both parents and children, Liu emphasizes the importance of building trust and providing psychological support for the kids. “Typically, after attending a few times, children adjust quite well, which also allows parents more time for themselves,” she noted.
The “Baby House” also plays a crucial role in supporting dual-income families. Liu pointed out that many local families struggle to meet their children’s growing needs, and the space allows them to engage with peers, diverting their attention from screens and facilitating healthy development. The center caters to infants and toddlers aged 1 to 3, and currently, each day sees the maximum number of families participating in activities.
Community service staff member Qin Handi mentioned, “The ‘Baby House’ has gained significant popularity. With the community’s needs in mind, we’re already preparing for a second location set to open in early November.”
Zhang Shuaiai, a 55-year-old resident who has been using the “Baby House” for over three months, finds its proximity particularly beneficial. “It’s only a five-minute walk from home. The children interact well, and it significantly aids in developing social skills while easing our parenting pressures,” she explained.
As families continue to embrace this innovative community resource, the future looks bright for the “Baby House” and the support it offers for both parents and their little ones.
