Draft aims to increase protective measures in kindergartens

Kindergartens in China should immediately take protective measures if they discover that preschool children have been harmed, or are suspected of being harmed, according to the draft preschool education law.

The draft has been submitted to an ongoing session of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, China's top legislature, for the second reading.

Compared with the previous version, the new draft added a provision, stipulating that kindergartens planning for alteration or shutting down are supposed to report to county-level education authorities and the public six months in advance, while properly accommodating enrolled children.

The modification was suggested in response to some public claims that some kindergartens shut down suddenly and did not return paid fees or relocate enrolled children.

The draft law also added a new chapter about preschool children to protect their rights.

Additionally, it is expected to facilitate easier kindergarten admission for disabled children.

Nonprofit kindergartens should admit children with disabilities who can adapt to kindergarten life, and provide them with assistance, the draft said.

Such kindergartens should be equipped with necessary rehabilitation facilities and professional staff, it added.