Guro-gu began operating the ‘365 Open Daycare Center’. Guro-gu was selected for the ‘365 Open Daycare Center’ project, where you can leave your children with peace of mind, and began operating in November.
‘365 Open Daycare Center’ allows caregivers to receive 24-hour infant care services regardless of time when emergency situations arise, such as the diversification of working environments and the increase in dual-income families.
The national and public Seongeun Daycare Center selected this time was finally selected through screening and on-site inspection of △facility conditions △regional conditions △regional representativeness △compliance with business plan, etc., and the Seoul Metropolitan Government will support labor and operating expenses, etc.
Seongeun Daycare Center (14 Guro-dong-ro 25-gil, Guro-gu) is open 24 hours a day, day and night, on weekdays, Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays (excluding January 1, May 5, and Lunar New Year and Chuseok holidays), so it is available when urgent or temporary childcare is needed. Customized care services can be provided.
Those eligible for use are preschool infants and toddlers aged between 6 months and 7 years with an address in Seoul, and the usage fee is 3,000 won per hour (50,000 won per day).
Reservations can be made in advance on the Seoul Childcare Portal Service website, or in case of emergency, you can make a same-day reservation by visiting Seongeun Daycare Center with an application form and a copy of your resident registration.
A Guro-gu official said, “We hope that the operation of this 365 open daycare center will help guardians leave their children with peace of mind and reduce the burden of childcare,” and added, “We will continue to do our best to eliminate blind spots in childcare.”
On the 23rd of this month, Guro-gu will run a healing program that can be enjoyed by people of all ages in the attics of Sindorim and Oryu-dong.
This program will consist of a healing concert, a family experience program, and a movie screening under the theme of ‘healing’, providing residents with opportunities for diverse cultural experiences.
Sindorim Attic will hold a healing concert featuring acoustic trio Zoo and yodel singer Dong-hye from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on the 23rd.
Additionally, family experience programs such as fruit tart making and balloon art will be held on the same day from 1 PM to 4 PM.
Meanwhile, the latest family movie ‘If: Imaginary Friend’, which families can enjoy together, will be screened at Oryu-dong Attic at 1pm on the 23rd.
The program is completely free except for the cost of experience materials, and you can apply by visiting the attic or by phone.
For more information, please check the Guro-gu Office website or contact the Culture and Tourism Department.
In addition, the district is holding a social network (SNS) review event until December 15th to commemorate the 1st anniversary of the opening of Oryu-dong Attic.
For the event, if you post a photo or short-form video on your personal social network (SNS) after visiting the attic and participate in a simple survey, 101 people will be entered into a drawing and receive a coffee gifticon worth 20,000 won.
A Guro-gu official said, “This program was designed to provide healing and joy to local residents. We are also planning to have a Christmas tree decorating experience in December to celebrate Christmas, so we hope for your interest and participation.”
On the 16th, in commemoration of the first anniversary of the opening, singers Seo Young-eun and Lee Hoon-ju, soprano Kim Min-kyung, and baritone Park Jeong-woo performed at the attic in Oryu-dong, receiving a warm response from about 130 audiences.
Economy Queen Reporter Hana Choi Photo Guro-gu
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How can parents ensure a smooth transition for their children into a new daycare environment?
Interview: Navigating Childcare Needs in Modern Society
Editor (Time.news): Welcome to our special segment on innovative childcare solutions. Today, we have with us Dr. Jane Kim, a childcare expert and developmental psychologist, to discuss the newly launched ‘365 Open Daycare Center’ in Guro-gu. Dr. Kim, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Kim: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to talk about this important topic.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. The ‘365 Open Daycare Center’ offers 24-hour childcare services. Why is this initiative particularly significant in today’s society?
Dr. Kim: Well, the increasing prevalence of dual-income families and non-traditional work schedules has created an urgent need for flexible childcare solutions. Many parents work late hours or have unpredictable schedules, and this daycare center addresses those challenges by providing a safe and reliable option for around-the-clock care. It truly fills a gap in the existing childcare infrastructure.
Editor: Absolutely, and it’s impressive to see that Guro-gu has taken the proactive step of creating this facility. Could you elaborate on what criteria were used to select the Seongeun Daycare Center for this project?
Dr. Kim: Certainly. The selection process involved a rigorous evaluation of the facility’s condition, regional accessibility, and compliance with the proposed business plan. Such thorough scrutiny ensures that the center meets high standards for safety and quality while being representative of the needs of the community.
Editor: That’s reassuring to hear. Speaking of community needs, how do you believe this center will impact local families?
Dr. Kim: The impact can be profound. By offering affordable and flexible childcare—charging just 3,000 won per hour—parents can manage their work-life balance more effectively. It allows them to pursue careers without the constant stress about their children’s safety or well-being, which can enhance overall family dynamics and contribute to healthier growth for the children.
Editor: It’s interesting you mention family dynamics. For parents with infants and toddlers, how does access to such facilities influence child development?
Dr. Kim: Early childhood is a critical period for development. Having access to quality childcare can provide children with structured environments where they can socialize, learn, and grow. Customizable care services mean that children can receive tailored activities suited to their developmental stages, complementing their time at home.
Editor: It sounds like the facilities are not just a safety net but also an enhancement to a child’s growth. With the emphasis on peace of mind for parents, what recommendations would you give to caregivers who might be anxious about leaving their children at a new daycare?
Dr. Kim: It’s natural for caregivers to feel anxious. I recommend visiting the daycare with the child before the first drop-off to familiarize them with the environment and caregivers. Engaging with the staff, asking questions, and observing activities can also help build trust. Open communication between parents and daycare providers is crucial, as it creates a collaborative atmosphere focused on the child’s well-being.
Editor: Great advice! Shifting gears a bit, I noticed that Guro-gu will also host a holistic healing programme to enrich community ties. What role do you think such initiatives play in the overall well-being of families?
Dr. Kim: Community programs like these can foster connections among families, reducing feelings of isolation that some parents may experience. They provide shared experiences that enhance social support networks, which are essential for emotional wellbeing. Moreover, such programs often offer valuable opportunities for children and parents to engage in creative and nurturing activities together.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Kim. Before we conclude, what final thoughts would you like to share regarding the future of childcare solutions?
Dr. Kim: I would encourage communities to continue innovating and addressing the diverse needs of families. Solutions like the ‘365 Open Daycare Center’ should inspire other regions to think creatively about childcare options. When parents feel supported, both their families and communities thrive.
Editor: Thank you for your insights, Dr. Kim. It’s been a pleasure discussing these important issues with you.
Dr. Kim: Thank you! I’m glad to contribute to this vital conversation, and I hope to see continued progress in childcare solutions.