In China, affluent couples who are focused on their careers are increasingly turning to "professional child companions" to help meet their parental obligations.
These "professional parents" are not only responsible for a child's academic success but also prioritize their mental health and daily needs.
According to the South China Morning Post (SCMP), many of these professionals are highly educated, with degrees from prestigious universities such as Harvard, Cambridge, Tsinghua, and Peking University. Many hold advanced degrees, are multilingual, excel in sports, and possess specialized knowledge in child psychology.
These child companions take an active role in children's daily lives, managing tasks typically associated with parents. Their responsibilities include taking children to medical appointments, helping with homework, accompanying them on trips, and addressing their emotional well-being. The working hours and arrangements vary by family, with some professionals offering on-site or live-in services.
The SCMP reported that the monthly salary for a "professional parent" typically ranges from $1,400 to $4,100 (approximately Rs 1,17,000 to Rs 3,43,000).
These professionals are often recruited directly from social media platforms, bypassing the regulation and oversight provided by agencies. Their clients are usually high-net-worth individuals with assets exceeding $1.4 million.
In a society where many parents are busy with their careers and seek the best education for their children, hiring these professionals is preferred over relying on grandparents for childcare.
The industry is predominantly made up of "professional mums," as child-rearing remains largely viewed as a mother's responsibility. Consequently, there is less demand for "professional dads." Some families opt for male child companions to enhance their children's athletic development, but concerns about men caring for girls have limited their presence in the field.
Despite the growing trend, a family education expert emphasized that these child companions cannot replace genuine parental involvement. "A child's healthy development, both physical and mental, requires the love and support of their parents. High-quality family education is a process of mutual growth between parents and children," the expert told the Post.