Lawmakers considering ban on putting minors under academic burden

Chinese lawmakers are considering banning parents from putting too much academic burden on minor children.

The draft law on family education promotion stipulates that parents and other guardians should properly arrange the time for minors to study, rest, play and do physical exercise.

The draft law on family education promotion was presented to the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress on Tuesday for a third reading at the ongoing session of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress from Tuesday to Saturday.

A draft generally becomes law after being reviewed by the top legislature for three times.

The draft also asks parents to prevent their children from developing internet addiction.

County-level and higher levels of government should take measures to reduce the homework and after-school tutoring workload of students in primary and middle schools, the draft said, adding that they should facilitate the communication channel between schools and families to promote coordination of family and school education.

A central guideline issued by general offices of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the State Council in late July included a number of strict measures to reduce primary and middle school students' excessive burden in doing homework and attending after-school tutoring courses.

Meanwhile, a notice issued by the National Press and Publication Administration on Aug 30 said online game providers can only offer one-hour services to minors from 8 pm to 9 pm on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays.