GD's new regulations on family education to take effects May 1

A comprehensive framework aimed at defining the roles and responsibilities of families, the government, and society in the education of minors in Guangdong Province will take effect. This legislation outlines essential guidelines across five key areas including family responsibilities, government promotion and legal responsibilities.

Parents and guardians are identified as the primary responsible entities tasked with providing family education that promotes the all-rounded and healthy development of minors across various aspects, including moral character, physical fitness, mental health, life skills, cultural literacy, and behavioral habits. Parents and guardians are encouraged to tailor their family education approaches according to the physiological and psychological development stages of minors. This involves paying close attention to the children's growth, respecting their rights to participate in familial decisions, and maintaining a balance of strictness and kindness in their teachings. Importantly, the regulations expressly prohibit any forms of domestic violence against minors, including physical abuse, intimidation, and verbal maltreatment.

On the legal front, the regulations empower public security agencies, procuratorates, and courts to intervene in cases where minors exhibit severe harmful behaviors. If guardians are found to be inadequately implementing family education, infringing upon the legal rights of their children, they may receive admonishments or be mandated to undergo family education guidance. In cases of severe violations, courts can issue personal protection orders or revoke guardianship qualifications based on petitions from concerned individuals or entities.

At the governmental level, the authorities are tasked with establishing a shared information service platform for family education. This initiative will include the launch of online parent schools and the integration of free online courses and resources related to family education. Local governments may also identify family education guidance institutions through service procurement or collaborations with higher education institutions and youth centers.