Child directors are a vital part of child protection services. They shoulder the important responsibility of caring for and safeguarding children and often become the closest adult figures to children outside their families and schools. According to the latest data, there are currently 667,000 child directors across China, covering most villages and communities, providing more comprehensive care and support for children.
01Trusted Guardians for Children
In Jinghan Village, Longchuan County, Dehong Dai and Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, Ban Xiaolian is a highly respected figure. She proudly refers to herself as the “child director,” devoted to caring for and supporting the village’s 1,000 children. Having served in this role for over 13 years, she has formed deep bonds with the children.
In addition to regularly organizing parent-child activities, she is responsible for managing the information of all children aged 0 to 18 in the village, safeguarding their rights, and assisting them in applying for aid.
There are 77 dedicated child directors like Ban Xiaolian across Longchuan County, each working tirelessly to ensure that every village committee and community is fully covered and that no child is left without care and support.
02The Child Director System
The child director system was implemented to address the challenges faced by rural left-behind children and children in difficult circumstances.In 2010, Longchuan County was selected as a pilot area for the child director model. Local villagers were selected and trained to adapt to this new role. After passing exams and training sessions, these individuals officially took up their posts, tasked with providing care and support to children in their communities.
The role of a child director is not only to collect information about the children but also to provide long-term follow-up services. They regularly visit families to assess the living conditions of children, providing timely support and assistance whenever challenges or difficulties arise, ensuring the well-being and growth of each child.For example, when Director Rui Ying discovered a child facing financial hardship, she applied for aid and subsidies for the family and conducted regular home visits to ensure continued support.Their work goes beyond material aid, enriching children’s lives by organizing monthly parent-child activities that children eagerly look forward to.
03The Services of Child Directors
The impact of child directors’ work is remarkable.Thanks to their efforts, very few children drop out of school, and most are able to complete their education successfully. Some have even been admitted to universities, becoming a source of pride for their villages.
Moreover, many children who once benefited from the support of child directors have grown up and returned to their hometowns to participate in children’s activities, giving back to their communities and serving as role models and mentors for the next generation.
The implementation of the child director system has gained nationwide recognition and promotion.To date, China has appointed 667,000 child directors, achieving almost full coverage across villages and communities.
Governments at all levels have increased training and support for child directors, further strengthening the child welfare system and providing more comprehensive services and care for rural left-behind and disadvantaged children.
Conclusion
These child directors are not only trusted guardians for the children but also a shining light in their lives.Through their professional dedication and sustained care, they ensure that every child feels the warmth and strength of society throughout their growth.The implementation of child director programs has already yielded significant results, helping many children overcome hardships and realize their dreams.
Looking ahead, we believe child directors will continue to stride forward with even greater determination, bringing more hope and opportunities to rural left-behind and disadvantaged children.
Let us work together to create a brighter future for every child!
