Nowadays, we see how in many marriages, both the husband and wife have booming careers that demand most of their time and attention. In cases like this, it becomes difficult for both of them to look after their kids or the household. What if the couple does not want to burden their parents with the responsibility of looking after their child?
In China, a new trend is emerging where busy, career-focused parents are hiring “professional parents” to take care of their children’s upbringing. These professionals, known as “child companions”, are not just tutors but deeply involved caregivers who focus on both the academic and emotional well-being of the children they look after, reported Deccan Herald.
These professional parents are typically highly educated, with many holding degrees from prestigious universities like Harvard, Cambridge, and Tsinghua. They are skilled in various areas, including academics, sports, and languages.
Unlike regular tutors, professional parents take on the roles usually performed by parents. They are responsible for everything – from helping with homework to taking children to the doctor to even addressing their emotional needs.
The demand for these professionals is growing, particularly among high-net-worth families who prefer to hire child companions rather than rely on grandparents to take care of their kids. These professionals are often recruited through social media platforms.
The working hours for professional parents vary, but they typically spend several hours each day with the children. For example, Song Siyu, a child companion from Chongqing, works from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM, helping children with homework, taking them outdoors for activities like football and swimming, and providing companionship.
The monthly salary for these roles ranges from 10,000 yuan to 30,000 yuan (approximately Rs 1.17 lakh to Rs 3.51 lakh), reported Moneycontrol.
Interestingly, there is a higher demand for female professional parents, especially for families looking for someone to take on a “professional mum” role. However, male companions are sometimes preferred when the focus is on athletic development. Despite this, many parents are hesitant to hire male companions, particularly for their daughters.
As this trend continues to grow, it raises important questions about the long-term effects on children. Will these professional parents be able to fulfill the emotional and psychological needs of the children they care for? Could children raised by these companions develop attachment issues or struggle with their relationships with their biological parents?
What do you think?